Welcome to the SXSW of Concrete

Long-form journalism, exploring the politics and culture of the US construction industry.

It’s a cold January afternoon outside the Las Vegas Convention Center. I’m leaning over the barriers of what appears to be a glossy black ice rink. Gliding across its shiny surface are the offspring of a La-Z-Boy recliner and a hovercraft. In the driving seats, men clad in heavy jeans and khaki sweaters effortlessly steer the humming machines around in smooth, swinging circles. Judging by the couple next to me who have been staring quietly at the display for several minutes, I’m not the only person who finds it hypnotic, even soothing.

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