Whoever said the construction industry can't be social media savvy? We brought you our first list of 10 Twitter accounts to follow last year. However, there are dozens of quality accounts out there, so we're offering an update this year with 10 new ones. From industry analysis to humorous takes on the news, these people and companies deserve to be added to your Twitter feed (in addition to our own @Constructdive, of course).
1. @ArupGroup
Description: "Designers, planners, engineers, consultants & technical specialists shaping a better world."
Why you should follow: Among the largest engineering firms in the country, global AEC firm Arup takes to social media to promote its research on topics like sustainability, technology and urban planning. Follow along as they share breakthroughs from the cutting edge of the industry.
2. @LauraKusisto
Description: "U.S. housing reporter @WSJ"
Why you should follow: Laura Kusisto of The Wall Street Journal covers everything from the latest housing market reports to in-depth investigative pieces. She tweets out her articles as well as economic news and interesting pieces from other industry sources. For on-point residential analysis, be sure to check her out.
3. @AECOMBuildPlace
Description: "We’re built to deliver a better world."
Why you should follow: Engineering behemoth AECOM is vocal about sharing its work and insights across the AEC sector. The company recently broke its Twitter presence into separate handles that represent its business involvement. Buildings + Places shares the company’s work in the commercial construction sector.
4. @EdZarenski
Description: "Construction Economic Analyst/Author, Instructor @WPI. 30yr estimator, past runner, still skier, forever dad, teach kids astronomy. Blog http://edzarenski.com"
Why you should follow: Ed Zarenski is a knowledgeable construction economist. He tweets out his takes on the latest industry reports as well as economic analysis. Be sure to follow him for in-depth looks at construction spending, employment and other crucial industry reports.
5. @SmokeonHousing
Description: "Realtor.com chief economist, focused on residential real estate market, local market conditions, and consumer demand for apartments and homes."
Why you should follow: Jonathan Smoke of Realtor.com is one of the most well-known housing economists in the game. His Twitter account follows the latest residential market news and shares his takes on the biggest emerging trends in housing.
6. @ConstructConnx
Description: "ConstructConnect’s collaborative network empowers the construction industry to be more successful w/access to relevant information through easy-2-use technology"
Why you should follow: We included CMD Group in our list last year, so we thought it was only fair to feature the rebranded ConstructConnect — which merged CMD, iSqFt and other data providers — in this year's roundup. The name might be different, but this account still has one of the best Twitter presences out there. Follow along for comedic takes on quirky construction stories as well as hard-hitting news pieces.
7. @BuildingLaw
Description: "Follow us for updates, articles, and information relating to all aspects of Construction Law, as written by leading attorneys and law firms. A @JDSupra feed."
Why you should follow: The legal landscape for construction is complex, and Construction Law helps readers cut through the red tape and understand the key impact of new legislation. The site, from content marketing agency JD Supra, shares legal analysis from practicing attorneys, firms and students.
8. @Bobborson
Description: "I am a Dallas Architect and write Lifeofanarchitect.com - I'm AIA, Leed AP, NCARB certified, & previous Dallas AIA Young Architect of the Year."
Why you should follow: Curious what life’s like as an architect? Follow along as Dallas-based architect Bob Borson shares his thoughts on the field as expressed in his blog, Life of an Architect, which frankly documents his project work and office culture, and offers practical advice on architecture as a career for emerging professionals.
9. @RosaSheng
Description: "Architect/Innovator/Maker/Equity Champion/AIA SF Board Treasurer / Chair @EquityxDesign / TigerMama"
Why you should follow: Life as a pioneer for gender and racial equity in the AEC profession can be as challenging as it is rewarding, and Rosa Sheng, an architect in San Francisco, uses Twitter to document and promote the movement. She now leads Equity by Design, a committee of the American Institute of Architects San Francisco chapter that brings professionals together and shares data to improve workplace hiring practices.
10. @SkanskaUSA
Description: "Leading provider of construction and development services. Find news and views from Skanska here."
Why you should follow: Construction giant Skanska USA understands more than just major projects — it also keeps up a strong Twitter presence. The company doesn't limit its tweeting to its own project and research news, but also features stories from a wide range of sources and topics. Follow this account for a steady stream of entertaining and useful industry news.
