COLA Will Boost Social Security Pay by 2.8% Next Year
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Amazon Testing New Warehouse Robots and AI Tools for Workers By Sean McLain
Artificial intelligence that makes humans more efficient and robots that make them less necessary. The retail giant unveiled a trio of new technologies Wednesday that it is testing or preparing to deploy in its warehouses and delivery vans. They include a robot arm called Blue Jay, designed to sort packages; an artificial-intelligence agent called Eluna, intended to help human managers deploy workers and avoid bottlenecks; and augmented-reality glasses to be worn by delivery drivers in the field. Analysts expect Amazon to see billions of dollars in cost savings every year as it automates more of the logistics process, both through increased efficiency and reduced need for humans. Amazon says its goal is to improve safety and unload mundane tasks onto AI and robots. Amazon Testing New Warehouse Robots and AI Tools for Workers – WSJ m.wsj.net/video-atmo/20250627/f50aec12-b610-4104-805f-27966da3fb05/1/amazonrobotsbleed1_1000.mp4
Data is a New Currency for Electrical Contractor Operations by Jim Romeo
Construction runs on decisions, and better data helps to make better decisions. When field measurements, schedules, costs and submittals data converge, managerial confidence is strengthened. Foremen spot risks early, and managers spot problems before they occur. Real-time telemetry from equipment, automated progress capture and clean cost codes transform guesswork into measurable productivity. The payoff is fewer delays, tighter change control, safer sites and predictable closeout—turning data into days saved and margins protected. Wipfli, a national accounting and business consulting firm, published a 2025 State of Technology in Construction report, which surveyed 308 executives. It shows there is an appetite for technology and the data it yields. Firms that turn field data into shared insight—securely and in real time—will move from tools to tangible labor savings, safer job sites and faster closeout. What does this mean for projects and job site management? – Data is a New Currency for Electrical Contractor Operations – Electrical Contractor Magazine
Orion Announces Three-Year Renewal of LED Lighting Preventative Maintenance Contract Valued at $42M-$45M
The partnership involves the maintenance of LED lighting systems at approximately 2,050 locations nationwide. The three-year renewal of Orion as the maintenance provider by this Fortune 100 enterprise customer was earned by Orion’s multi-year success in organizing, managing and communicating large-scale projects involving multiple vendors across all 50 states. The customer said that its partnership with Orion served to achieve substantial reductions in overhead dedicated to maintaining its lighting systems. Orion’s proactive maintenance program and prompt response to maintenance requests has ensured minimal disruptions to store operations and provides a seamless lighting experience for this major retailer’s customers. (MY OPINION IS THAT THE RETAILER IS HOME DEPOT) https://www.ledinside.com/news/2025/10/2025_10_22_03
US and Australia Sign Critical-Minerals Agreement
President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed a critical-minerals deal at the White Houseon Monday as the U.S. eyes the continent’s rich rare-earth resources at a time when China is imposing tougher rules on exporting its own critical minerals abroad. The two leaders described the agreement as an $8.5 billion deal between the allies. Trump said it had been negotiated over several months. Earlier this month, Beijing announced that it will require foreign companies to get approval from the Chinese government to export magnets containing even trace amounts of rare-earth materials that originated from China or were produced with Chinese technology. The Trump administration says this gives China broad power over the global economy by controlling the tech supply chain. US and Australia Sign Critical-Minerals Agreement – electrifiED
AMP SECURE™ Adjustable Wall Flood Light (120-277V)
The AMP SECURE™ Adjustable Wall Flood Light is a versatile, modern solution for both residential and commercial security lighting. Built to enhance safety and adaptability, this flood light offers contractors a highly configurable option with advanced features tailored to meet specific project requirements. DLC certified, this adjustable flood light provides versatile security lighting with selectable wattage, CCT, and an integrated dusk-to-dawn photocontrol. Durable die-cast aluminum construction and universal 120-277V compatibility make it ideal for residential and commercial applications. 5-Year Warranty. Features at: Adjustable Wall Flood Light | AMP SECURE™ | AMP Lighting
LEDVANCE Showcases Bremen’s Weserstadion with New Lighting Design and Iconic Floodlight Towers
The floodlights at Bremen Germany’s Weserstadion are shining in a whole new light: LEDVANCE has equipped the iconic stadium on the Osterdeich with a cutting-edge LED The new installation meets the highest UEFA standards and creates a spectacular atmosphere for players, fans, and TV audiences alike. A total of 264 FL Arena Quattro luminaires were installed – 140 on the towers and 124 beneath the roof. Each tower was also fitted with ten green FL Arena singlebeam spotlights to create striking visual accents. To comply with the UEFA Elite Class A requirements, additional fixtures had to be mounted on load-bearing structures. The surrounding lighting was also renewed and now shines in warm white light without dazzling the residents in the neighborhood. The new system doesn’t just impress with outstanding light quality; it is also highly energy efficient. LEDVANCE showcases Bremen’s Weserstadion with new lighting design and iconic floodlight towers – now more energy efficient than ever | LEDVANCE
Consortium Acquires Aligned Data Centers in $40B Deal by Michelle Chapman
A group including BlackRock, Nvidia, and Microsoft is buying Aligned Data Centers in an approximately $40 billion deal in an effort to expand next-generation cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure. The acquisition comes amid a flurry of deals in recent months involving top AI developers that are flooding the booming AI sector with resources and money, and addressing resources — such as electricity and infrastructure — needed to support such technology. Last month, OpenAI and Nvidia announced a $100 billion partnership that will add at least 10 gigawatts of data center computing power. Consortium Acquires Aligned Data Centers in $40B Deal – electrifiED
Google Invests $9B to Expand AI Infrastructure in South Carolina
Google is announcing a new $9 billion investment in South Carolina through 2027. This funding will expand Google’s Berkeley County data center campus and support the continued construction of two new sites in Dorchester County, strengthening the state’s role as a critical hub for American infrastructure. As we deepen our roots in the Palmetto State, we’re creating new jobs, helping to power the state’s digital economy for years to come, and advancing the U.S. as a world leader in AI innovation. Google Invests $9B to Expand AI Infrastructure in South Carolina – electrifiED
NEMA Make It American™ Certification Program
NEMA Make It American™ Certification helps demonstrate your company’s commitment to domestic content standards and streamline federal compliance efforts. This third-party audit certifies your supply chain evaluation process, ensuring you offer products that meet BABA requirements. Learn more about the program and start your journey to certification.
