Academia USG, the first Training Center specialized in lightweight construction systems, has professionally developed more than 9,000 individuals in Mexico, said the company in a press release.
Through a series of training sessions conducted across various states, Academia USG seeks to hone the skills of installers, while also improving their overall quality of life and working conditions.
The institutions’ primary goal is to “elevate the knowledge and skills of a diverse range of construction enthusiasts, including professionals, students, architects, engineers, academics, and commercial partners.” According to Academia USG, the approach is holistic in nature, aimed at cultivating a community of individuals who possess a deep understanding of contemporary construction practices. As the parent company of Academia USG, USG is globally recognized as a pioneer in lightweight and dry construction systems.
At Academia USG, students benefit from access to state-of-the-art facilities that cater to both theoretical and practical training needs. The institution offers two distinct training formats, ensuring flexibility for its diverse student base. Courses are available in two variations: in-person sessions, ranging from one to three days, and online courses lasting from 1.5 to 6 hours.
The institution has formed strategic alliances with an array of industry leaders, including the Mexican Chamber of the Construction Industry (CMIC)
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and the College of Architects of Mexico City (CAM-SAM). The academy’s partnerships also extend to the academic arena, with affiliations with universities like UNAM and IPN.
Upon successful completion of their chosen workshop, graduates earn recognition or certification and become part of a community of expert installers. Their names are listed and made available for potential clients seeking top-tier construction professionals.
In addition to its existing facilities, Academia USG is preparing to launch two new training centers, with the first set to open in Monterrey in 2024.
USG (United States Gypsum) is a global company that has pioneered the production of lightweight and dry construction systems. Its solutions serve a variety of sectors, including residential, corporate, tourism, healthcare, commercial, and entertainment. In Mexico, USG operates five plants situated in Puebla, Monterrey, San Luis Potosi, Colima, and Saltillo, with a network of 1500 sales outlets throughout the country.
In a previous interview with MBN, on behalf of USG Latin America, Ariadna Pérez, Human Resources Manager, celebrated the ability to contribute to the construction of this new space for education. “As a socially responsible company, we share a very important purpose with our allies, which is to improve quality of life through the construction of exceptional spaces. Therefore, adding to this goal and contributing from our experience as leaders in construction, technical advice, and training will always be an honor, whether in the field or through the USG Academy.”
A New Home in Just Two Weeks? Yes, Using New Solution, Says USG
Is it possible to build a completely new home in just two weeks? According to world-leading construction manufacturer USG, the answer is yes. The company said in a new release that homes built 100% using light USG construction systems, a world first, have taken the market by storm.
By employing the USG STRUCTO-STEEL® system it is possible to build, on average, a 110m2 custom home in just two weeks, USG said. The innovation not only offers great efficiencies for the residential home construction market but could also be a solution to Mexico’s housing deficit.
“Thanks to our legacy of innovation and sustainability of more than a hundred years, housing developers have already started projects in Mexico using this very system,” said Fernando Fernández, USG’s director general for Latin America.
USG, a manufacturer of light weight construction systems and the creators of TABLAROCA® brand, said this latest offering demonstrates its continued ability to offer innovative solutions in the construction sector. With over 120 years of experience, the company decided to take the extra step and contribute to the residential market.
USG STRUCTO-STEEL® is an innovation for the construction of horizontal housing, made with 100% light systems, both at the structural and envelope levels
The system, which is already being marketed in Mexico thanks to the approval of housing developers, will be manufactured at the USG Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, plant and promises to break all construction paradigms in innovation, sustainability, and costsavings. According to Fernández, it is possible to build a custom house in just two weeks, combining the strongest resistance and performance — and without using water.
The system was presented at Expo CIHAC, showcased in a two-story home. Fernández said the first pilot home was built in Monterrey in coordination with the USG Innovation Center in Libertyville, Illinois.
Luis González Novoa, USG commercial director, said the structure of the system is made up of galvanized steel. This solution combines calculation software and manufacturing equipment aimed at creating load-bearing structures using STRUCTO-CRETE® board, in addition to integrating other leading products for interior and exterior walls, such as TABLAROCA®, DUROCK® AND SECUROCK®.
By employing this method, a fast, accurate, and resistant construction process is achieved for homes, extensions (second floors) or businesses, such as convenience stores and industrial warehouses. USG’s main objective, however, is centered on the residential sector, mainly for horizontal housing.
”We are very proud to present this construction solution for the first time in Mexico. We are convinced it will represent an added-value solution to the housing deficit that exists in the country. Our goal is to improve quality of life while creating safe, more resistant, comfortable and sustainable spaces,” said González Novoa.
Some of the advantages of the system are:
+ Lower weight, which eliminates a deep construction foundation.
+ Design flexibility allows greater spans and open areas.
+ Construction speed and cost-savings, obtaining a greater financial flow.
+ Sustainable, since it does not use water and it is recyclable.
+ Resistant and provides an excellent seismic performance.
+ Greater energy and acoustic efficiency.
+ Reduces the amount of labor and waste of construction materials. Read the complete article
Reconstruction Spurred by Innovation, Social Impact
Luis Gonzalez
Commercial and Marketing Director at USG | USG Mexico
Acapulco, in the state of Guerrero, stands out as a renowned tourist destination, attracting local, and international visitors, including celebrities. However, it suffered devastation following the onslaught of Category 5 Hurricane Otis in October 2023. At a recent morning conference, the governor of Guerrero presented significant advances that have been made since then, highlighting the reactivation of 68% of the hotel supply with the opening of 180 hotels in various areas of the municipality, 85% progress in the rehabilitation of the airport, and the comprehensive restoration of the telecommunications sector, including mobile and fixed communication, internet, broadcasting, and satellite connectivity. These achievements reflect not only the reconstruction effort, but also Acapulco’s resilience in the face of adversity. In this context, it is essential to examine the initial challenges faced in the reconstruction of this city.
Material and Labor Shortages
The shortage of construction materials has added to the challenges that the reconstruction of Acapulco has faced in the aftermath of Hurricane Otis. The high demand for products such as cement, rebar and other essential materials has led distributors to schedule deliveries up to two months in advance.
Another challenge is the increase in the demand for workers in the construction sector; a month ago, it was mentioned that the municipality requires 80% more labor force than it currently has to advance in the reconstruction work. It has been mentioned that part of the strategy to face this labor shortage is the DIY (do it yourself) construction system; however, if people are not advised or do not have the necessary knowledge to perform this work, the quality and construction of the work cannot be guaranteed.
No Time or Financing
The previous challenges hinder the speed of reconstruction in the area, as the increase in material and labor costs delays construction times and increases prices, causing people to seek more financing, either by obtaining credit, which is not granted easily or quickly, or by migrating to other states to obtain stable work.
In the damage assessment, it was found that more than 80% of the hotel infrastructure was damaged after the incident. It was also estimated that it would take two years and MX$300,000 million to rebuild the municipality. Different supports were deployed both to the families and to the hotel industry.
Innovation Is the Key
For a tourist destination like Acapulco, on which thousands of families depend, it was necessary to prioritize a safe and fast reconstruction. Lightweight construction systems emerged as the answer to this need, as they can be installed up to six times faster than a traditional wall, reducing installation time by up to 70% compared to traditional systems.
The first step was to find the right solution for this project, starting with the detection of needs, including both geographical requirements and the current regulatory framework for construction. Subsequently, innovation in lightweight construction materials was what guaranteed the best solution.
In this sense, the use of STRUCTO-STEEL® stands out, a more advanced galvanized construction system with technology that combines calculation software and manufacturing equipment to elaborate structures with thermal envelope, using USG solutions. This allowed the use of tailor-made, fast and resistant processes, because it does not require water in its construction process. In addition, its high performance allows the construction of houses of 120 square meters in only two weeks and can withstand wind thrust of more than 300km/h.
The use of this technology has allowed a reconstruction with the best quality, resistance and in record time to host emblematic tourism projects, such as the Abierto Mexicano of Tennis that takes place annually in the region, leaving a great economic benefit.
Social Approach
Moreover, innovation is not only about the use of technology, but can also be applied to social projects. Due to the growing demand for construction workers in Acapulco, public-private partnerships were established for reconstruction. One example is the USG Academy, the first training center focused on the theoretical and practical knowledge of lightweight construction systems, which with the support of the state government, allowed the free training of the public in general in the region. Skilled labor will be key to meet the demand of hotels, restaurants and the residential sector that need to build their businesses quickly and safely.
Lightweight construction systems play a key role in the reactivation of and social contribution in Acapulco after Hurricane Otis. The report presented by the governor of Guerrero shows significant progress in reconstruction, highlighting the resilience of the community in the face of adversity. However, challenges that hinder the speed of the reconstruction process remain. It is imperative that these collaborative efforts continue to accelerate reconstruction and ensure a prosperous future for the region.
USG Strengths Leadership in Innovation
USG, a world leader in the manufacturing of lightweight construction systems, ratified its leadership of the industry with its participation in Expo CIHAC 2024.
At its spectacular two-level stand for this edition of the Expo, the company, renowned for its creation of flagship brands such as TABLAROCA® (drywall) and DUROCK FORTE®, presented its most innovative construction solutions that are already making their mark on the evolution of the key industrial, residential and commercial sectors driving Mexico’s economic development.
“We want to continue creating value for our customers in these sectors that nowadays require new construction technologies to meet strict sustainability and quality criteria, shorten construction times and, above all, result in improved spaces and a better quality of life,” explained Luis González, USG’s chief commercial and marketing officer.
The company, which was founded over 120 years ago, is presenting projects that have, for the first time, been built using 100% lightweight construction systems. Even though its brands are already known throughout the world for their high performance as inside walls, outside walls and ceilings, it is now offering structural systems that combine the strength of steel and the resistance of concrete in USG STRUCTO-STEEL®.
“These are fitted spaces with all the advantages of our solutions, where safety is primordial, as shown by their resistance, seismic, acoustic, and thermal performance and fire retardancy; in other words, we are at the forefront of innovation,” added González.
The most innovative solutions include USG STRUCTO-STEEL®, the most advanced galvanized steel construction system that operates as a load system supported by a concrete panel; USG STRUCTO-CRETE® and products for inside and outside walls, such as TABLAROCA®, DUROCK FORTE® and SECUROCK®, that adapt to each project’s needs.
“Our participation in Expo CIHAC 2024 has allowed us to show how we are redefining the standards of construction in Mexico and the world of today, where we can offer a broad portfolio of products for every sector,” said González.
He also emphasized that there is a great opportunity for the company to provide the best solution for Mexico’s existing demand for housing as well as for commercial and mixed-use developments and convenience stores, which can be built in just three weeks.
The reduction of construction times from three months to three weeks implies a significant return on investment for developers. This is also the case for the industrial sector, which is experiencing a major boom brought about by nearshoring and the growing demand for large-scale infrastructure, such as
industrial bays and logistics centers that are required to meet strict criteria for sustainability and long-term guarantees.
The company’s innovations have earned the trust of developers and architects who have at last found the ideal solution for getting top quality construction in record time. Read the complete article More about this topic
USG Corporation Earns Great Place to Work® Certification
CHICAGO—March 11, 2025—USG Corporation (“USG”), a leading manufacturer of high-quality building materials and innovative solutions, announces that it earned Great Place toWork Certification for its operations in the United States (U.S.), Canada and Mexico. This marks the first time USG has achieved this recognition in the U.S. and Canada, and the third consecutive year in Mexico.
The prestigious certification is based on direct feedback from current employees about their experience working at USG, using Great Place to Work's research-backed employee experience survey. This year, 75 percent of employees said USG is a great place to work, which is nearly 20 percent higher than the average U.S. company and is a testament to USG’s ongoing dedication to its people and safety culture.
“Receiving the Great Place to Work certification highlights our commitment to developing and keeping our employees safe across our 71 locations in North America,” said Shelly Green, Chief People Officer at USG. “We believe that investing in our people strengthens our workplace culture and drives the innovation and efficiency that is building the future of the construction industry.”
USG remains focused on being a great employer for its employees.USG creates a safe and team-oriented environment where employees can build their career starting on day one. The company offers ongoing training and opportunities for growth, competitive pay, a comprehensive benefits package and prioritizes the safety and well-being of its employees above all else.
To explore opportunities and learn more about a career with USG, visit USG.com/Careers.
About USG Corporation
USG Corporation, an industry-leading manufacturer of building products and innovative solutions, is the parent company of CGC and USG LATAM. Headquartered in Chicago, we serve construction markets around the world with wall, ceiling, flooring, sheathing and roofing products that enable our customers to build the outstanding spaces where people live, work and play. For additional information, visit usg.com.
The Knauf Group is the parent company of USG. As a global manufacturer of building materials and construction systems, Knauf employs more than 42,000 employees across 300+ production facilities and sales organizations in 90+ countries. For more information, visit: knauf.com/en.
About Great Place to Work Certification™
Great Place to Work® Certification™ is the most definitive “employer-of-choice” recognition that companies aspire to achieve. It is the only recognition based entirely on what employees report about their workplace experience –specifically, how consistently they experience a high-trust
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workplace. Great Place to Work Certification is recognized worldwide by employees and employers alike and is the global benchmark for identifying and recognizing outstanding employee experience. Every year, more than 10,000 companies across 60 countries apply to get Great Place To Work-Certified.
About Great Place to Work®
As the global authority on workplace culture, Great Place to Work® brings 30 years of groundbreaking research and data to help every place become a great place to work for all.
Their proprietary platform and For All™ Model helps companies evaluate the experience of every employee, with exemplary workplaces becoming Great Place To Work Certified™ or receiving recognition on a coveted Best Workplaces™ List.
Learn more at greatplacetowork.com.
USG celebrates 55 years in Mexico and reaffirms its leadership
+ USG Corporation CEO Christopher Griffin highlighted Mexico’s strategic position in the evolution of sustainable construction, as well as its relevance to expansion and growth in Latin America.
+ Residential homes, industrial warehouses, and convenience stores are projects already being built structurally and 100% using USG lightweight systems in Mexico, setting trends in sustainability criteria in the industry, reducing construction times, and maximizing investment returns.
USG Corporation (USG), a leading manufacturer of lightweight construction systems, recently celebrated the 55th anniversary of its arrival in Mexico, reaffirming USG’s trust in the country, Mexico’s relevance as a strategic platform for expansion into new markets, and the evolution of construction toward a more sustainable future.
USG Corporation CEO and President Christopher Griffin and USG Latin America President Fernando Fernández celebrated this accomplishment in Puebla, the state where the company opened its first manufacturing plant 55 years ago, when it introduced a new category to the market for the first time with its flagship brand USG TABLAROCA®.
“Mexico has been a vital partner for our company. We trust in the value of its people, and it is a strategic platform for the manufacturing and export of solutions that respond to the challenges our industry faces in pursuing a more sustainable future,” said Griffin.
During this time, the company has invested in five manufacturing plants, gypsum mines, distribution centers, three training academies, and has successfully integrated the industry’s most professional distribution network in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
As part of Mexico’s construction evolution, the company, which was founded more than 120 years ago in Chicago, is developing projects for the first time in the region built entirely with lightweight construction systems. While its brands are recognized worldwide for their high performance for interior and exterior walls and ceilings, today it has integrated structural systems into its offering, combining the strength of steel and the durability of concrete through the USG STRUCTOSTEEL® solution.
This is an innovative construction system that integrates strong and durable building materials, with the world’s first concrete deck with structural steel in its framework, making it possible to build a 110-square-meter house — custom-made for each project — in just 15 days.
Innovation and High Performance
Griffin highlighted the significant opportunity for emerging economies to have the best solution available to meet the existing demand for housing, primarily in Mexico, as well as for commercial, industrial, mixed-use, and convenience store development, whose construction time can be reduced by more
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than 50%, thus generating significant ROI benefits.The company also continually innovates its product offering and develops new solutions that increase the speed and efficiency of construction. This year, USG opened an Innovation Center in Mexico – the LATAM Technical Center – to address the specific needs of this market, providing better spaces that improve the quality of life of its clients.
USG continues to expand its capabilities throughout the sector, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community development as it prepares to face the challenges of the future with innovative and sustainable solutions.
About USG Corporation
USG Corporation, a leading manufacturer of lightweight building systems and innovative solutions, is the parent company of CGC and USG LATAM. Headquartered in Chicago, USG serves construction markets worldwide with interior and exterior wall, ceiling, flooring, siding, and covering products that enable its customers to create exceptional spaces where people live, work, and play. For more information, visit usg.com.
USG is part of the Knauf Group, a leading manufacturer of construction materials and building systems. It has more than 42,000 employees, over 300 manufacturing plants, and a presence in 90 countries. For more information, visit: knauf.com/en.
About USG LATAM
USG LATAM is a business division of USG Corporation, with a presence in Mexico, Miami, Central America, and the Caribbean. It was established in Mexico 55 years ago and operates five manufacturing plants, located in Puebla, Monterrey, Colima, Coahuila, and Honduras, as well as gypsum mines and distribution centers, where it manufactures and exports to more than 35 countries. It is a socially responsible company with more than 1,300 employees and the creator of flagship brands such as USG TABLAROCA®, USG DUROCK®, and USG STRUCTO-STEEL® www.usg.com.
