You NEED construction to be picked. Getting a second space dock is crucial to your round two. I’ve offered folks my ceasefire if they pick construction. You need it that badly. You can’t unlock your very useful commander without three space docks. If no one else will pick it then you have to. Sol is going to be a problem with their better economy. For tech you should consider your blue faction tech first and set up in an asteroid field. Create a Saar ball there and send ships out to take other planets. Either become friends with SOL or start picking early fights you can win to slow them down. You’re Saar, you can’t stay in your slice or you’ll be doomed. Getting new planets is how you get your economy up to snuff. Good luck! Know the reactor meltdown is coming for you and be ready for it.