Self-climbing system reduces crane dependency, accelerates schedules and improves safety

Las Vegas, NV – March 3, 2026 – Doka, a world leader in formwork and shoring solutions, today announced the US launch of Shear Wall Climber SCP with FormDrive, an advanced self-climbing
construction system that accelerates schedules, enhances safety and reduces crane dependency on high-rise projects.

The system combines a crane-independent climbing platform with FormDrive, a mobile steering and control panel, allowing entire levels of formwork, platforms and concrete placing equipment to be raised and adjusted at the push of a button. With real-time monitoring, automated notifications and remote troubleshooting capabilities, Shear Wall Climber SCP with FormDrive helps streamline climbing sequences, increase safety and reduce downtime.

“Contractors today face unprecedented schedule pressures, labor shortages and safety expectations,” said Michael Kennedy, executive vice president of Doka Americas and CEO of Doka USA. “Shear Wall Climber SCP with FormDrive is already proving its value on marquee projects, including One Harbor Shore Drive in Boston and major developments in Las Vegas. With this system, we are taking a significant step forward in automated formwork operations and reshaping how high-rise cores are built.”

Smart, Crane-Independent Climbing with Performance and Safety Built In
Designed for demanding high-rise environments, Shear Wall Climber SCP with FormDrive supports forming heights up to 20 feet and enables fast, controlled repositioning without relying on crane time. The hydraulic system delivers 90 kips of lifting capacity and can reposition a typical 500 kips core in minutes, helping project teams maintain consistent cycle performance.

At One Harbor Shore Drive in Boston’s Fan Pier district, the system is supporting an aggressive schedule while improving working conditions by providing larger working areas and more controlled climbing.

Wide platforms give crews more space to work at height, while permanent anchoring and self- leveling hydraulic cylinders help maintain alignment and stability throughout each cycle.

Modular system components are designed for repeated use across multiple projects, for a longer lifespan that reduces material waste and supports sustainable construction practices. By automating climbing and simplifying formwork repositioning, the system reduces manual effort, lowers labor requirements and shortens setup time, enabling crews to work more efficiently and with greater confidence.

Scalable for Multiple Applications
While optimized for high-rise construction, the system’s modular design and compatibility with standard Doka components make it suitable for a range of applications, including towers and tanks. This flexibility supports broader industry adoption and allows contractors to adjust system configurations to meet project-specific needs.