Ep. 127: Talking the State of Construction with Nick Drew

On this very special second episode of the podcast, Taylor welcomes Nick Drew, the man behind the infamous 'Digger Man Blog’, to talk about his early start in construction, his late blooming blogging skills, the realities of the construction industry, and, of course, CONEXPO. Nick opens up the episode by fondly remembering his childhood and the days he used to spend with his father at his job working on construction sites. It wasn’t until he was much older and more seasoned in the construction industry, however, that Drew got his start in his true calling, construction journalism.   In 2008, Drew got his big break and hasn’t looked back since. As an illustrious construction blogger, he now gets approached to travel the world and report on the newest machinery, construction news, and conventions, like CONEXPO, which Taylor and Nick are both looking forward to. They go on to explain how special the convention is, noting that nowhere else can you find so many leaders and friends in the field that put you in contact with new machinery and communities. And in the wake of the COVID-19 construction boom with new developments popping up overnight and product demand rapidly increasing, that’s now more important than ever.     Episode overview: Drew’s early start in construction Tilt rotator technology Shifting the narrative around construction work Journalism in the construction industry Drew’s blogging career The future of diesel alternatives North American and European machinery The COVID-19 construction boom Quotes:  “We need to show people that necessarily wouldn't want to be exposed or work in the construction, blue collar industry– show them what it's like, and show them how it can be. I think a part of that is also a lot of businesses and construction companies need to make it a place that these young people want to come and work for.” ”At the time, there wasn't anyone else doing it.” “Yeah, well, you know, the blog, by its nature, is a host of various topics. I don't try to focus on anything special in particular, you know, I like to keep it very interesting.” “There's a lot of interesting people there and machinery and technology. And it's a really good place for people to showcase that. But also, I feel like just putting a face to people as well.” “You'll meet industry leaders and friends. And you're also going to build new relationships in the community. And you'll find the equipment, services, and people within your construction field.”   Links:  Taylor White on LinkedIn Earth Movers Magazine Digger Man Blog on Twitter Digger Man Blog on Instagram To learn more about the 2023 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Show and to register, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience