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.

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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“We’ve Got Some Difficult Days Ahead”: Work, Dignity, & Holding America to Its Promise

I am not typically a publicly religious man. That is a deliberate choice, rooted in respect for others and an understanding that faith, belief, and meaning take many forms. For me, religion is not a banner to wave or a justification for action. It is a private framework—one that helps me draw boundaries. It helps […]

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Rethinking Where Construction Innovation Happens

Last week I came across an article that reminded me how important it is to remember that Innovation in our industry is everyone’s responsibility. The construction industry does not grow without ideas, and it certainly does not grow without your ideas. We have said this before, and it is still true today. Over the past few […]

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Building the Future of Construction: Demographics, Economics, and Impact

NHCA was built on a simple belief: if you invest in people, build real capacity, and create clear pathways to opportunity, the construction industry gets stronger. In 2025, that belief was tested—and proven. Over the past year, NHCA emerged as a fast-growing construction alliance by doing what the industry actually needs. We connected contractors to […]

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