Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/1546085
Nuts and Bolts News Continued from page 31 A living, working museum The HCEA prides itself on being interactive. Its collection isn't just for display — it runs. "It's a working show. We're not a park and shine. Every- thing here operates," Walker explained. That philosophy comes alive during the organization's shows, where visitors can see — and sometimes even operate — vintage construction equipment. From earthmovers to rock crushers, machines are put to work in live demonstrations that highlight their original purpose. Board member Kenny Walker shows a 1927 Austin Grader powered by a McCormick-Deering 10- 20 industrial tractor. "That's what sets us apart," he said. "We have all the eye candy to look at, but we also have a working side that says, 'Come out and play.'" National recognition and massive archives Beyond the machines, the HCEA is also home to one of the most extensive archives of construction-related materials in the country. The collection includes documents, photos, and records that chronicle decades of industry development. "We are nationally rec- ognized as the historical database for construc- tion equipment," Walk- er said. "Even federal archives refer people to us." This archival work is increasingly moving into the digital space, as the organization works to modernize and make its resources more ac- cessible to researchers and the public. Nuts and Bolts continued on pg 35 33 IDA Universal Q3 2026 Source: David McElwee @www.pexels.com