PICO Y PALA

Insights, Innovation & Advocacy for Hispanic Construction

Step into Pico y Pala, the National Hispanic Construction Alliance (NHCA) blog where we break ground on critical conversations and innovative ideas shaping the construction industry. Named after the pick and shovel that start every project, our blog is dedicated to cultivating a space for growth, empowerment, and advocacy. Here, we share unique perspectives, practical insights, and connect our diverse community – from every laborer to every engineer – committed to advancing Hispanic representation and success in construction.

Who Builds Icons?

The Workforce Behind Landmark Projects When Foster + Partners unveiled the redesign of Two World Trade Center for American Express, the headlines centered on architecture, corporate commitment, and the next evolution of Lower Manhattan’s skyline.But landmark announcements invite a more grounded question:WHO BUILDS THESE ICONS?Towers of this magnitude are not just feats of design. They […]

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Beyond the Booths: The Real Conversation at IBS 2026

Last week I had the opportunity to attend the International Builders’ Show (IBS) in Orlando, and beyond the scale and energy that always define this event, what stood out most was a noticeable shift in tone among attendees. The conversations felt different this year, more candid, more pragmatic, and in many cases, more urgent. First, […]

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Beyond the Jobsite: NHCA Present at IBS

This week, I’ll be attending the International Builders’ Show (IBS), February 17–19, proudly representing NHCA. As the largest annual residential construction trade show in the world, IBS is where industry leaders gather to shape the future of housing, launching innovations, forming partnerships, and identifying market trends. Our presence reflects NHCA’s commitment to being active in the conversations that […]

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It’s Not a Math Problem. It’s a Color Problem — And We Need to Do Better

As the son of immigrants, I find it nauseating to watch people across this country justify the current wave of immigration enforcement while continuing to depend on the very same people they’re targeting. Because this isn’t abstract. The same households calling for crackdowns are often the same ones hiring immigrants to build their homes, remodel […]

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Setting the Stage for 2026: Business, Data, and Policy in Action

As we move into 2026, the National Hispanic Construction Alliance (NHCA) is approaching the year with intention, focused on business development, data-driven advocacy, and meaningful engagement at the national policy level. The months ahead represent a critical sequence of moments that will help shape the future of construction, housing, and workforce development. Our year begins […]

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Construction Is Slowing Down. Here’s What That Means for Hispanic Contractors

Last week, I came across an article from the American Institute of Architects that aims to forecast at what construction may look like in 2026, just like we all are trying to do. At first, this might sound like something only accountants or finance teams care about, but understanding this kind of information is actually […]

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