WASHINGTON, D.C. — The American Rental Association (ARA) highlighted the role of rental at the Celebration of Construction on the National Mall event in Washington, D.C. The ARA was one of 17 partnering organizations that joined forces to tell the construction industry story.

In partnership with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM), ARA leadership, members, and construction companies from across the nation joined together to bring construction equipment to the nation’s capital and speak with federal representatives about what is important to the construction industry.

“Representing ARA members at AEM’s Celebration of Construction on the National Mall event helps the rental industry solidify its place as part of the broader construction industry for federal legislators,” said Josh Nickell, ARA Vice President, Equipment Segment. “This is critical now that more than 50 percent of equipment on a construction job site is rented versus owned.

“It also allows us to speak about issues impacting our members, remind legislators that we are a more sustainable solution than ownership, and help the construction industry better react to market cycles like we are currently experiencing.”

To bring awareness to the industry’s sustainability initiatives, participating AEM members showcased innovations, including alternative powered equipment, autonomous systems with live demonstrations, and an array of other tools that are enabling the industry to sustainably build the infrastructure that makes modern society possible. Exhibits were open to the public and focused on workforce development, worker safety, sustainable materials, and environmental stewardship.

Through participation in the event, ARA leadership was able to engage with members of Congress, regulators, and staff about the importance of the construction sector, innovation, and sustainability impacts and the sector’s positive effect on the American economy.