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There Is Only One Proof of Ability: Action

Unpacking Marie Ebner Eschenbach's Powerful Message for Leaders Today

Marie Ebner-Eschenbach once said, "There is only one proof of ability: action." This profound statement challenges us to rethink how we assess talent and competence. In leadership, getting caught up in titles, credentials, and promises is easy. But do these truly reflect someone's ability?

Consider the leaders who inspire us most they are doers. They don't just strategize; they implement. Their actions speak louder than any résumé. This idea pushes us to evaluate ourselves: Are we merely discussing our goals or actively pursuing them?

In today's fast-paced world, action is more critical than ever. Theories and plans have their place, but without execution, they remain intangible. How often do we delay action, waiting for the "perfect" moment, only to miss opportunities?

Let's open a dialogue: How can we shift from planners to doers? What barriers prevent us from taking action, and how can we overcome them? Is it fear of failure, lack of resources, or simply complacency?

By embracing action as the true measure of ability, we not only prove our competence but also inspire others to do the same. Leadership is not about what we say we'll do; it's about what we accomplish.

In the spirit of Ebner-Eschenbach's words, let's challenge ourselves and our teams to prioritize action. After all, it's through doing that we truly demonstrate our capabilities and drive meaningful change.

From Underground to Mainstream

How Staking University and Planet Underground Are Shaping the Future of Utility Safety and Damage Prevention

In an industry where safety and precision are paramount, Staking University and Planet Underground are making significant strides in transforming utility locating and damage prevention. Founded in 1999, Staking University emerged as the first fixed-based pipe and cable locate training program offering year-round scheduled classes. With over 600 client companies across the U.S., including utilities, municipalities, and private organizations, they have become a cornerstone in training utility locators from novices to experts.

Located in Manteno, Illinois, Staking University boasts a campus equipped with over 50 locating instruments for student use. They conduct multiple 5-day classes and 2-day Locator Certification Seminars annually, not just at their home base but also across various states from Delaware to California. Their reach extends internationally with affiliate programs in the U.K. and Australia, emphasizing their global impact on utility safety education.

Planet Underground, formed through the merger of Staking University and the magazine American Locator, has further amplified its mission. The magazine, originally founded in 1986 as Underground Focus, aimed to help excavators and locators understand their vital role in preventing job site damage. In 2016, it was renamed American Locator to highlight the critical importance of utility location awareness in damage prevention.

By combining hands-on training with real-world stories and media outreach, Planet Underground strives to push the boundaries of education in the industry. They host annual events like The Roundtable of experts, fostering unique opportunities for professionals to engage and share insights. Their core belief is that the excavator's voice is key to effective damage prevention, advocating for continuous efforts to improve safety beyond just calling 811.

As utility infrastructure continues to grow and evolve, the role of organizations like Staking University and Planet Underground becomes increasingly significant. They not only educate but also provoke important conversations about safety, responsibility, and innovation in utility locating.

What are your thoughts on the impact of such educational initiatives on the industry? How can we further enhance safety and efficiency in utility locating and damage prevention?

America’s Infrastructure at a Crossroads

Can Resilient, Sustainable Investments Secure Our Future Amid Climate and Economic Challenges?

America's infrastructure faces a pivotal moment, and its future depends on the choices we make today. With bridges, roads, and utilities aged and stressed, experts warn that neglect could cost us more than just taxpayer dollars it could compromise public safety, economic security, and environmental health. Major infrastructure investments last occurred nearly a century ago, and the U.S. has since overlooked crucial maintenance and modern upgrades, leading to an "old age crisis" for our foundational structures.

Enter the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), whose Infrastructure Report Card tracks the state of 17 major infrastructure categories. In 2021, the average score nudged up from a “D” to a “C-,” a sign of progress but far from satisfactory. But this small improvement has sparked awareness and action. Following the report’s call, record-breaking funding through federal laws, including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, marks a renewed commitment to resilience and sustainability.

While funding is underway, the challenge is ensuring these investments create an infrastructure that lasts. Past structures like the Brooklyn Bridge have proven durable through consistent maintenance and rigorous standards, but newer projects may falter without similar commitment. As climate disasters and rising demands stretch our infrastructure, Maria Lehman of the ASCE emphasizes the need to integrate resilience into every stage of infrastructure planning, from financial to operational.

The recent "CROSSROADS" report by GHD, surveying 13,000 people worldwide, highlights the need for infrastructure that serves both present and future generations. Multigenerational input, it argues, can drive better decisions, creating assets that not only stand the test of time but also adapt to climate change and evolving societal demands.

To change the trajectory, industry leaders argue for a “business case” approach that justifies resilient infrastructure as a sound financial choice. For example, by adopting standardized sustainable practices, infrastructure projects can lower long-term risks and attract better financing options. The ASCE’s emerging standards, including the ASCE 73-23, aim to help communities make informed, cost-effective decisions.

With over a trillion dollars allocated to infrastructure improvement, there’s an unprecedented opportunity to rebuild America’s backbone in a future-ready way. But to avoid another "crisis," we need to balance innovation, resilience, and sustainability today.

From Dream to Dilemma

How Soaring Home Prices Over the Past Decade Have Turned the ‘American Dream’ into an Economic Hurdle

The journey to homeownership has become a steeper climb over the past ten years, as average home prices have skyrocketed, raising questions about affordability, market stability, and future trends. In 2014, the typical U.S. home cost $347,700, but today’s price tags are breaking records, hovering near $540,000. Adjusted for inflation, this trajectory reveals more than just a housing market boom; it underscores fundamental changes in the economy that have left many aspiring homeowners on the sidelines.

2014–2016: Post-Recession Rebound Fuels Price Growth

The decade began with a rebound from the Great Recession, as job growth surged, and low unemployment fueled demand. By 2016, home prices reached $360,900, reflecting an economic high spurred by consumer confidence and optimism about future growth.

2017–2019: Political Turbulence and Market Fluctuations

Political events, like the election of President Trump, set new highs in both consumer confidence and the stock market. However, turbulence within the administration saw housing prices drop slightly by 2019, amidst concerns over policy shifts and an impeachment inquiry. Despite this, home prices remained high in real terms, creating limited relief for buyers.

2020–2021: Pandemic Panic and the Housing Surge

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the market. Lockdowns and remote work encouraged people to seek larger spaces, causing demand to spike and home prices to soar. By 2021, the average home price had climbed to $464,200, with limited inventory and strong competition intensifying the trend.

2022–2023: Inflation, Shortages, and Cooling Markets

In 2022, inflation and high costs of living added pressure to an already strained market. Home prices reached $540,000, driven by a scarcity of new homes. Even as the Federal Reserve raised interest rates in 2023 to cool inflation, prices remained prohibitive, with an average of $513,800.

The Cost of Entry

With high interest rates and housing shortages, the dream of homeownership now requires a greater income and financial stability than ever before. For many, the “American Dream” has shifted from a goal within reach to an elusive target. Real estate has always been an investment, but the question today is whether the investment will pay off for the millions of Americans striving for a home they can afford.

As we look to the future, this decade-long trend challenges both policymakers and citizens to consider: What can we do to make homeownership achievable again, and how can we stabilize the housing market for future generations?

The Importance of Communication on Construction Sites

Introduction

Good morning, Team! Today, we’re discussing one of the most crucial aspects of safety: effective communication. On a construction site, clear communication ensures that everyone understands their tasks, is aware of potential hazards, and knows how to work together safely. Miscommunication can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. Keeping open lines of communication is essential to protect ourselves and each other.

Preventing Accidents: The Role of Communication

Accidents often happen when workers are unaware of changes, hazards, or actions of others nearby. By communicating clearly and regularly, we reduce misunderstandings, keep everyone informed, and create a safer work environment.

Strategies for Effective Communication

• Conduct Daily Safety Meetings: Start each shift with a brief meeting to discuss the day’s tasks, potential hazards, and any changes in the work environment. This helps everyone stay informed and prepared for the day ahead.

• Use Hand Signals and Radios as Needed: When working with heavy machinery or in noisy environments, hand signals and two-way radios are essential for clear communication. Make sure everyone understands standard hand signals and carries a radio if necessary.

• Report Hazards Immediately: If you notice any hazard—like an exposed wire, loose scaffolding, or a spill—report it right away. Don’t assume someone else will take care of it. Prompt reporting can prevent injuries.

• Establish a Clear Line of Command: Ensure everyone knows who to report to with questions or concerns. Knowing the chain of command streamlines communication and keeps everyone accountable.

• Use Clear and Simple Language: Avoid jargon or technical terms that might confuse others. Speak clearly and make sure that directions or warnings are easy to understand, especially when communicating with team members who may speak different languages.

Discussion Questions

1. Have you experienced any communication breakdowns on the job? What happened, and how could it have been prevented?

2. What communication tools or practices do you find most helpful in staying connected with the team?

3. How can we improve our communication practices to ensure everyone is informed and safe?

Conclusion

Clear communication is vital for a safe and effective construction site. By conducting daily safety meetings, using hand signals and radios, reporting hazards immediately, establishing a clear line of command, and using simple language, we can minimize misunderstandings and prevent accidents. Let’s all commit to communicating openly and effectively to keep our job site safe and efficient.

Talk clearly, and work safely!