U.S. Concrete Has Trouble Finding Workers, Says CEO

The transcript discusses the potential impact of a China deal on business, emphasizing the need for consistent commodity pricing. It explores the effects of infrastructure investment on employment, highlighting challenges in finding qualified workers and the need for higher wages. The conversation shifts to managing rising costs through strategic project selection and passing on costs. Finally, it addresses the need for infrastructure investment, considering funding mechanisms and the economic implications of borrowing.

How might a deal with China indirectly benefit domestic businesses?

• By reducing competition

• By increasing labor costs

• By stabilizing raw material costs

• By decreasing demand for exports

What is one of the main challenges faced by the construction industry in terms of employment?

• Lack of construction projects

• Excessive government regulations

• Difficulty in finding qualified workers

• High competition from international firms

What strategy is being used to improve productivity in the construction business?

• Reducing the number of projects

• Outsourcing work to other countries

• Increasing manual labor

• Implementing new technology and tools

Why do some companies choose to compete on high-end projects?

• They have fewer competitors

• They require less investment

• They have lower profit margins

• They are easier to complete

What percentage of revenues comes from transportation and infrastructure projects for the business discussed?

• 18%

• 75%

• 30%

• 50%

What is a proposed method to fund infrastructure without borrowing?

• Raising income taxes

• Reducing government spending

• Implementing a user fee funding mechanism

• Increasing property taxes

What is the potential downside of borrowing more money for infrastructure?

• Higher interest rates

• Decreased consumer confidence

• Lower employment rates

• Reduced infrastructure quality