Recent Articles from Mike Salsgiver
OP-ED: How owners, contractors can address price increases, supply chain interruptions
Many of the current problems result from the extreme economic disruptions caused by the pandemic and subsequent labor shortages. These supply/demand imbalances will take time to work out.
OP-ED: A day in the life of a carpenter … in the midst of COVID-19
Hi, my name is Dave and I am a carpenter. I have been one since I can remember. Let me tell you about a typical day for me.
OP-ED: To continue construction, companies must commit to safety
The construction industry has long had an unwavering commitment to the safety and health of every worker. It’s vital that companies do their part to push for additional safety measures.
OP-ED: Taxes and spending: Oregon’s total cost of citizenship
At some point, taxpayers will reach their financial limit in terms of what they are willing and able to pay to fund government programs and services.
OP-ED: Cap and trade: consequences for the construction industry
As the debate has unfolded, a number of issues are emerging as private industry’s biggest concerns with the proposed cap-and-trade program.
OP-ED: The danger posed by Oregon’s short legislative sessions
The legislative process is supposed to work slowly so stakeholders can fully understand proposals, support them if they can, and oppose them if they must.
OP-ED: Workforce development: apprenticeships and more
Recently, several events featuring employers, training programs, associations and schools took place to raise awareness of the vast opportunities within construction.
OP-ED: Trip to Washington, D.C., offers opportunity to build connections
A contingent representing AGC's Oregon-Columbia chapter recently attended an annual leadership conference and visited with congresspeople and staff.
OP-ED: Suicide in construction an unspoken crisis
To help stem the prevalence of suicide in construction, companies must acknowledge the problem and make prevention a part of their health and safety culture.
OP-ED: A stormy 2019: the Oregon legislative session in review
Oregon’s commercial construction industry will undoubtedly be affected by a host of bills passed by the state Legislature in 2019.
OP-ED: Safe driving through work zones is good for everybody
Summer has arrived, and the road construction season is upon us. Orange barrels, safety cones, warning signs, and of course, traffic congestion. There is a small window of acceptable weather […]
OP-ED: Extreme measures needed to improve safety in construction
The construction industry is booming. There are a lot of projects ready to move forward right now, and contractors are frantically looking high and low for workers to build them. […]
News
- Multnomah County commits up to $101.6M for Moda Center
- Portland code changes to take effect in November
- Los Colibris project approved for Portland’s OMSI District
- Pacific Northwest projects totaling $9.9 million in top bidders | Aug. 7, 2026
- Oregon opens infrastructure grant program
- Ex-TV host claps back at Detroit officials in blight case
- 31-unit multifamily project in Portland land use review intakes | Aug. 3, 2026
- $2.4 million office renovation in Portland building permits | Aug. 3, 2026
- Transportation commission weighs ODOT budget cuts
- Lam Research planning $1.7 billion investment in Tualatin
- Pacific Northwest projects totaling $10.6 million in top bidders | July 31, 2026
- Many Oregon counties struggling to maintain their fairgrounds
Commentary
- Beware of when the debt collector comes calling | Opinion
- Assembly of a future workforce begins with an invitation | Opinion
- Beware of overlooking legal requirements for remote workers | Opinion
- Become a critical thinker and transform a workplace | Opinion
- Managing construction risks with international suppliers | Opinion
- A rally with many engines: the lesson of 2026’s first half | Opinion
- Oregon housing challenges persist despite sound and fury | Opinion
- When does an employee’s bullying become harassment? | Opinion
- Ditch disorganization — the cost of deferred decisions | Opinion
- Consider 10 common risks for healthcare construction projects | Opinion
- Clarifying the reach of a law regarding prevailing wage | Opinion
- Adjust to legal changes now to ensure compliance later | Opinion









