Today was Construction Industry Day! What a sight it was! Located in Squires Plaza, there was all sorts of machinery, tools, machine operators, and logistical people. While by far the most popular attracting was driving a real crane, there was a simulator for simulating working on a front bucket loader. With no training at all, I did "adequately" according to American Infrastructure technician. He worked with me to help me load virtual dirt into a dump truck and well as place a virtual trench support to prevent cave-ins within a trench. I learned that operating such equipment does require certain talent for being able to guess distances and weight locations. But, with enough practice, I am confident that anyone would be able to operate that piece of machinery. I also learned that a good communication bases is needed in the field. When working with loud and dangerous equipment, it is essential to be able to communicate clearly and efficiently. Also, the guys who work for Chandler Concrete made that point very valid when they described to me a situation where their brand new cement truck did not have an engine compressor installed and so when they when down a steep grade, they nearly burnt out the breaks! How essential good communication skills are needed with this industry.