Rick Donovan
Editorial byline
Rick Donovan is an editorial byline for AllTradesJournal, with a focus on Trades, Industry Practices, Construction Tech. Biographical credentials and external profiles are published only after verification.
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Coverage Areas
Latest Articles
Williams Safety & Rescue Completes Acquisition of Frandson Safety, Expanding Wyoming Operations
Williams Safety & Rescue has acquired Frandson Safety, expanding its operational footprint into Wyoming with new offices in Worland and Gillette. This strategic move integrates Frandson's established local presence with Williams' broader safety services, training, and technology for the Rocky Mountain region.
Oct 20, 2026 · 3 min read
The Promise and Pitfalls of Reusing Construction Materials
Reusing construction materials offers substantial environmental and economic benefits, but its widespread adoption is hindered by systemic challenges including logistical hurdles, supply/demand mismatches, and a lack of standardized policies. Overcoming these barriers requires policy reform, industry education, and technological innovation to foster a circular economy in the built environment.
Oct 9, 2026 · 5 min read
Kenya Certifies 3,727 Artisans, Launches Digital Portal to Connect Workers with Jobs
Kenya has certified 3,727 artisans through the Recognition of Prior Learning program, formalizing skills gained through experience. A new digital platform, Fundi Locator, has been launched to connect these verified professionals with job opportunities and customers nationwide.
Oct 9, 2026 · 4 min read
How States and Cities Are Tackling Embodied Carbon: A Look at 'Buy Clean' and Building Code Policies
State and local governments are implementing policies to reduce embodied carbon in construction, focusing on two main strategies: 'Buy Clean' procurement standards and building code amendments. These approaches leverage public purchasing power and direct regulation, respectively, to drive the use of lower-carbon materials like concrete.
Oct 8, 2026 · 5 min read
A Practical Guide to Smart Safety Tech and the Hazards They Prevent
Modern safety technology is transforming workplaces by shifting from reactive accident response to proactive prevention. This guide explores worker-worn devices and site-based systems that use data and AI to mitigate common workplace hazards.
Oct 7, 2026 · 4 min read
A Lifecycle Guide to Circular Construction: Key Strategies for Reducing Waste
Circular construction principles offer a clear path toward reducing waste and maximizing resource efficiency by focusing on reuse, recycling, and recovery of materials throughout a building's life. Key strategies involve designing for longevity, adaptability, disassembly, and prioritizing material reuse and recycled content.
Oct 7, 2026 · 3 min read
How to Choose the Right Safety Eyewear for Any Job Site Hazard
Selecting the proper eye protection for any job site involves understanding distinct hazards and ANSI Z87.1 ratings. Match your specific work risks to certified safety glasses, goggles, or face shields for adequate shielding.
Oct 3, 2026 · 4 min read
5 Critical Safety Practices for Operating Common Power Saws
Operating power saws requires strict adherence to safety practices to prevent serious injuries from hazards like kickback and debris. Implementing five critical safety measures, including proper PPE and workpiece securing, is essential for workshop safety.
Oct 1, 2026 · 5 min read
AfDB FAST Programme Certifies 572 Young Nigerians in Construction Trades
The AfDB FAST Programme has successfully certified 572 young Nigerians in essential construction trades, achieving a 98% pass rate and equipping them with industry-recognized skills. This initiative aims to bridge the nation's skills gap and boost employment opportunities in the growing construction sector.
Sep 29, 2026 · 4 min read
Soaring Diesel and Material Costs Halt U.S. Construction Projects
Soaring diesel and material costs, driven by tariffs and global conflicts, are forcing U.S. commercial construction projects to be canceled, scaled back, or significantly altered. Escalating expenses are making projects financially unviable, impacting billions in private development.
Sep 28, 2026 · 2 min read
Google.org Grant Boosts HBI's Skilled Trades Training for Veterans
The Home Builders Institute (HBI) has received a grant from Google.org to significantly expand its skilled trades training programs for transitioning military service members, veterans, military spouses, and their families. This funding will enhance HBI's existing program, increasing training capacity and job placement support to help military-connected individuals transition into civilian careers.
Sep 25, 2026 · 2 min read
Young workers increasingly choose skilled trades
Enrollment in vocational-focused community colleges recently surged by 16%, according to The Advocate , signaling a significant shift in post-high school aspirations among young workers.
Sep 20, 2026 · 3 min read
German machine tool orders surge globally, but domestic production shrinks
In the first half of 2026, incoming orders for German machine tools surged by 14%, even as domestic production plummeted by 7%.
Sep 20, 2026 · 10 min read
Archer City Approves 2026 Budget, Eliminates Cleaning Services
Archer City's tentative budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27 eliminates public cleaning services and reduces staff by 1.
Sep 19, 2026 · 4 min read
US Expands Skilled Trades Training Programs Amidst Growing Demand
Wages in the skilled trades have surged by 30% since 2022, signaling a dramatic shift in the value and appeal of hands-on careers.
Sep 19, 2026 · 4 min read
SC Coastal Pools: Unpredictable Pricing and Service Terms
Despite the promise of hassle-free pool maintenance, customers signing up with SC Coastal Pools could see their final bill fluctuate significantly based on 'actual pool condition' or face immediate se
Sep 18, 2026 · 3 min read
Southern Nevada Tools for Trades drive boosts skilled labor support
In 2025, the Southern Nevada Tools for Trades drive collected nearly 1,000 tools and $800, directly equipping future construction and skilled trades professionals.
Sep 18, 2026 · 4 min read
Piraeus municipality adds new vehicles to its cleaning fleet
Piraeus municipality just unveiled a massive new cleaning fleet, including 70 garbage collection trucks and 34 street-sweeping vehicles, purchased entirely with its own revenues, according to Ekathime
Sep 17, 2026 · 3 min read
US construction firms grapple with demand for skilled trades workers
Construction firms across the U.
Sep 17, 2026 · 3 min read
AGC Georgia Skills Challenge Rome Set for Oct. 22, 2026
The next AGC Georgia Skills Challenge is set for October 22, 2026, at The Forum River Center.
Sep 16, 2026 · 2 min read