Building PA Podcast: Recent Episodes
Chris Martin
The Building PA Podcast serves the construction industry throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in brief, downloadable segments. Hosted by Chris Martin, President of Atlas Marketing, and Jon O’Brien, Executive Director for the Keystone Contractors Association, the Building PA Podcast covers topics such as safety, workforce development, insurance, legal, legislation, business development and much more.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin delve into a critical and timely topic: mental health in the construction industry. Joined by two esteemed guests from Minnesota, Tim Worke from AGC Minnesota and Cheri Quinn from Mercury Creative Group, the discussion centers around the innovative Minnesota Construction Mental Health Alliance.
We kick off the episode by acknowledging the growing importance of mental health awareness within the construction sector, a topic that has gained traction across the country. Tim and Cheri introduce the concept of the Minnesota Construction Mental Health Alliance, emphasizing that this initiative is not just another program but a collaborative effort aimed at systemic change. The term "alliance" is pivotal, as it signifies a partnership among industry leaders to address mental health challenges from a leadership perspective, rather than merely providing resources or awareness.
Tim elaborates on the unique three-legged stool approach of the alliance, which includes project owners, contractors, and labor representatives. This model seeks to engage project owners—often overlooked in discussions about mental health—by highlighting their role in creating project conditions that can lead to stress and mental health issues among workers. The conversation reveals a stark reality: individuals entering the construction workforce today are five times more likely to die by suicide than from job site accidents, underscoring the urgent need for cultural change within the industry.
As the discussion unfolds, we explore the challenges of bringing diverse stakeholders to the table and fostering a shared vision. Tim and Cheri share insights on the initial hurdles of overcoming blame and finger-pointing among different parties, ultimately leading to a collective commitment to change. They highlight the importance of creating a culture where mental health is valued equally alongside physical safety, drawing parallels to the evolution of safety standards in the industry.
The episode also touches on the practical steps being taken to fund and support this initiative, including the establishment of a 501c6 organization to manage resources and a recent grant that will help implement mental health training programs. Tim and Cheri express their hope that this model can serve as a blueprint for other states and organizations looking to address similar issues.
As we wrap up, Jon and Chris reflect on the inspiring work being done in Minnesota and the potential for broader impact across the construction industry. They invite listeners to engage with Tim and Cheri for further discussion and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of collective action in tackling mental health challenges.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin dive into an inspiring conversation with Marcus Vega, the 2026 KCA Labor Champion and recipient of the Thomas George Memorial Community Service Award. Recorded live from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, the episode highlights Marcus's remarkable journey in the construction industry, spanning nearly 35 years.
We kick off the episode with a light-hearted banter between Jon and Chris, setting a friendly tone before introducing Marcus. Jon shares a brief overview of Marcus's impressive background, which includes starting in basement waterproofing, transitioning to drywall and framing, and ultimately moving into construction management with Alexander, a family-owned company.
Throughout the episode, we explore the significance of the Thomas George Award, which recognizes labor leaders who contribute positively to their communities. Marcus expresses his gratitude for the award, emphasizing that his actions stem from a genuine desire to make a difference rather than seeking recognition. His humility and dedication to being a positive role model resonate deeply, showcasing the values that underpin the construction industry.
Join us for this uplifting episode that not only celebrates Marcus's achievements but also highlights the vital role of mentorship and community service in the construction industry. Don't forget to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook, and visit buildingpapodcast.com to subscribe for more inspiring stories from the world of construction.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien welcome Ben Connors, the president of the General Building Contractors Association (GBCA), to discuss the current trends and challenges in the construction industry, particularly in the Philadelphia market.
We kick off the episode with a warm introduction, highlighting the exciting atmosphere in Philadelphia as the city prepares for the World Cup and celebrates its 250th anniversary of democracy. Ben shares his insights on how these events are energizing the local economy and influencing construction trends.
Diving into the construction landscape, Ben notes that the market is experiencing a downtrend, marking the third consecutive year of decreased activity. He explains that historical patterns suggest a potential bottoming out by 2026, with hopes for a rebound in 2027-2028. A significant focus of the conversation is on the rising demand for data centers in the region, which are driving construction activity, particularly in areas surrounding Philadelphia. Ben discusses the challenges posed by the overwhelming demand for power to support these data centers, which has doubled in recent years.
As we explore the current projects and market trends, Ben highlights the shift away from commercial office space construction, largely due to the rise of remote work. He emphasizes the importance of specialized work in the industry, noting that contractors with expertise in this area are finding more opportunities. Exciting developments on the horizon include a new arena for the Philadelphia 76ers, a major investment from a Korean shipbuilder at the Navy Yard, and the transformation of the old Philadelphia gas refinery into the Bellwether District, an industrial park.
We also discuss the challenges facing GBCA members, including increased competition and thin profit margins in a down market. Ben points out the ongoing struggle against commoditization in construction, particularly in the residential sector, where out-of-town developers are cutting costs.
The conversation shifts to technology and the impact of AI on the construction industry. Ben shares how GBCA is embracing AI to enhance member engagement and improve safety outcomes. He highlights the growing interest in AI applications, from estimating to safety chatbots, and the potential for these technologies to revolutionize the industry.
As we wrap up the episode, Ben provides insights into ongoing projects in healthcare and education, including the expansion of Children's Hospital and the conversion of the historic Wanamaker building into mixed-use space. He emphasizes the importance of safety in construction and the value of union contractors in delivering high-quality work.
This episode is packed with valuable information and insights into the evolving construction landscape in Philadelphia. We thank Ben for joining us and look forward to having him back in the future to continue the conversation.
We’re back with another one—and this time, we’re talking all things building the next generation of the construction workforce.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, Jon and Chris sit down with Amanda McIsaac from Slippery Rock University to dig into SRU’s brand-new Construction Management program. But first… a little catch-up (yes, Chris finally took a vacation, and yes, we had to give him a hard time about it).
Amanda brings over 20 years of industry experience (shoutout CDM Smith) into the classroom, and she walks us through what it actually takes to launch a program from the ground up. We’re talking curriculum that goes beyond the textbook—real-world skills, industry insight, and making sure students are actually ready to hit the jobsite on day one.
We get into how the program is structured, why having an industry-driven advisory board matters, and how SRU is blending safety, business, and field experience into one well-rounded degree. Plus, Amanda shares how they’re keeping students engaged with hands-on learning—think site visits, guest speakers, and real connections to the field.
One thing that really stood out? Communication. Amanda breaks down why it’s one of the biggest gaps employers are seeing—and how she’s making it a priority to fix that before students graduate.
Of course, we also talk safety (because you can’t not), including OSHA training built right into the program, and why that foundation matters for every role in construction.
Amanda’s passion for mentoring and developing students is contagious, and if you’ve ever thought about getting into construction—or helping shape the future workforce—you’ll want to hear this. She also gives us a preview of what’s next, including plans for a Bachelor of Applied Science designed for students coming from the trades.
Bottom line: this is what it looks like when education and industry actually work together.
If you’re interested in getting involved—guest speaking, internships, partnerships—this is your sign to connect. Let’s keep building.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin dive into the world of metal construction with special guest Lee Ann Slattery, the first female board president of the Metal Construction Association (MCA) and a leader at ATAS International.
Lee Ann shares her journey within the MCA, highlighting the importance of metal as a sustainable building material and its growing popularity in construction. The discussion covers various types of metal products, including roofing and wall cladding, and the innovative projects the MCA is currently working on, such as installation videos and educational events for architects.
Jon and Chris also explore the challenges facing the construction industry, including workforce development and recruitment, and how organizations like the MCA are addressing these issues. Lee Ann emphasizes the value the MCA provides to both the design and contracting communities, showcasing the expertise available through its councils and committees.
Listeners will gain insights into the upcoming MetalCon trade show, where industry professionals can learn more about metal construction and its applications. Join us for an informative and engaging conversation that highlights the significance of metal in the construction industry and the strides being made towards inclusivity and education.
Don't forget to check out the MCA at metalconstruction.org and learn more about ATAS International!
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome back Michael Metz-Topodas, a familiar voice from the early days of the podcast. As they celebrate six years and nearly 300 episodes, the trio dives into significant updates regarding OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and its evolving role in the construction industry.
Michael begins by discussing the recent appointment of David Keeling as the head of OSHA, highlighting the positive changes he anticipates under Keeling's leadership. With a focus on worker safety, Keeling's administration is set to address pressing issues, particularly the enforcement of heat hazard regulations as the warmer months approach. Michael explains that while a formal heat hazard regulation is still pending, OSHA has introduced a National Emphasis Program to prioritize heat hazards during inspections. This program emphasizes the need for employers to have a heat hazard plan in place, monitor temperatures, and ensure that workers receive adequate breaks and training.
Jon and Chris engage with Michael on the practical implications of these changes for construction companies. They discuss the importance of having a comprehensive heat hazard plan and the necessity of documenting compliance efforts. Michael emphasizes that while OSHA may not have a formal regulation in place yet, employers can still face scrutiny under the General Duty Clause, which mandates a safe working environment.
The conversation shifts to the broader landscape of OSHA inspections and violations. Michael shares insights into the current enforcement climate, noting that Keeling's collaborative approach aims to balance safety and compliance without overly punitive measures. He introduces the Safety Champions Program, which recognizes employers with robust safety programs, and discusses the potential for OSHA to assist employers in remedying violations on-site.
As the episode progresses, the trio explores the role of technology and AI in enhancing safety practices within the industry. Michael envisions a future where OSHA inspectors utilize tablets for real-time data collection, benefiting both inspectors and employers by streamlining the documentation process.
Throughout the discussion, Jon, Chris, and Michael emphasize the importance of proactive safety measures and the need for construction companies to prioritize worker safety. They encourage listeners to view compliance not as a burden but as an opportunity to foster a safer work environment. This episode serves as a timely reminder of the evolving landscape of workplace safety and the critical role that effective communication and planning play in protecting workers.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin delve into the critical topic of crisis communications within the construction industry. As they navigate the often tumultuous landscape of construction-related incidents, they emphasize the importance of preparedness and effective communication strategies when faced with emergencies.
The episode opens with a somber acknowledgment of recent accidents in Pennsylvania, including a garage collapse in Philadelphia and trenching mishaps that have resulted in fatalities. Jon and Chris reflect on the emotional toll these incidents take on the industry and the necessity of prioritizing safety. They stress that one of the most vital components of safety is having a robust crisis communication plan in place.
Chris, who has extensive experience in crisis management and communications, shares insights on the common pitfalls companies face when responding to incidents. He highlights the detrimental impact of the phrase "no comment," urging listeners to adopt a more transparent approach by acknowledging situations and committing to follow up with information. The discussion also touches on the importance of having a designated spokesperson to ensure consistent messaging during a crisis.
Throughout the episode, Jon and Chris address frequently asked questions about crisis communication plans, including how long it takes to develop one and the level of detail required. They emphasize that the specifics of a plan should be tailored to the unique challenges faced by different types of contractors.
Listeners will gain valuable knowledge about the significance of crisis communication in maintaining trust and credibility, not only with the media but also with stakeholders such as subcontractors and project owners. The episode concludes with a reminder of the potential cost savings associated with having a crisis communication plan, as some insurance policies may offer coverage for crisis management services.
Join Jon and Chris as they equip you with the tools and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of crisis communications in the construction industry, ensuring that you are prepared for whatever challenges may arise. Tune in to the Building PA Podcast for this essential conversation and more!
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Jessica Warren, the Environmental Health and Safety Training Manager at Pennoni. Jessica shares her insights on the critical connection between psychological safety and physical safety in the workplace.
The conversation delves into the importance of fostering open communication and building relationships among team members to create a safe work environment. Jessica emphasizes that safety is not just about following protocols but also about being able to express concerns and support one another emotionally.
Listeners will learn practical strategies for cultivating a culture of safety, including the value of simple check-ins and the significance of sharing personal experiences. The episode highlights how leaders can model these behaviors to encourage a more connected and supportive workplace.
Join us as we explore how prioritizing mental health and open dialogue can lead to a safer and more productive construction industry. Tune in for valuable insights that can help transform your team's approach to safety and well-being.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien take a heartfelt dive into a topic that resonates deeply within the construction industry: mental health and suicide prevention. We focus on the upcoming second annual Pennsylvania Construction Hike for Hope, organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Chris opens the episode by introducing the unique twist for today’s discussion, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness in our industry. Jon follows up with details about the Hike for Hope, which will take place on May 16th at two locations: Settlers Ridge in Pittsburgh and Memorial Lake State Park in Lebanon County. He shares that this event is part of a nationwide initiative aimed at raising awareness and funds for suicide prevention, specifically tailored to the construction community.
As the conversation unfolds, Jon recounts his experiences from last year’s inaugural hike, humorously noting the challenges posed by inclement weather that turned the trails into a muddy mess. He highlights the community aspect of the event, mentioning food trucks, vendor tables, and the opportunity for families to come together in support of a critical cause.
The hosts discuss the significance of participation, encouraging companies to sign up teams and individuals to join in the hike. Jon reveals that last year’s event raised nearly $90,000, with all funds remaining in Pennsylvania to support local outreach programs tailored for the construction industry. This financial transparency is a key point, as it ensures that contributions directly benefit those in our community.
The episode takes a poignant turn as Jon shares a personal story about a friend from his youth, Tommy Arkarik, who tragically lost his life to suicide. This emotional narrative underscores the importance of the Hike for Hope and the need for open conversations about mental health. Jon reflects on how Tommy’s support during a difficult time in his life had a lasting impact, emphasizing the role of community and connection in preventing such tragedies.
As the episode wraps up, Chris and Jon reiterate the importance of mental health awareness and encourage listeners to reach out for help if they or someone they know is struggling. They remind everyone that the Hike for Hope is not just an event but a movement to foster understanding and support within the construction industry and beyond.
Listeners are invited to participate in the hike, support the cause, and remember that help is always available through resources like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988). The episode concludes with a heartfelt thank you to the audience for tuning in and a reminder to stay connected through social media and the podcast’s website.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Monique Lewis, the founder and CEO of Next2Native Inc. Monique specializes in language learning and risk mitigation in the construction industry. The discussion focuses on the importance of effective communication on job sites, especially in light of the growing number of Spanish-speaking workers.
Monique highlights that about one in three construction workers are Spanish-speaking, which can create safety and mental health challenges if communication barriers exist. She explains that misunderstandings can lead to accidents and that cultural differences can affect how safety procedures are perceived and followed.
The conversation also touches on the need for companies to address language barriers in their safety training and onboarding processes. Monique emphasizes that simply translating materials is not enough; companies must engage workers in a way that fosters understanding and trust. She shares a story about a company that tried to boost morale by inviting workers' families to an event, but the lack of language comprehension led to a disconnect.
Monique advocates for a dual approach to language learning, where both workers and management learn each other's languages focused on construction. This not only improves communication but also builds a sense of camaraderie and care among team members.
The episode concludes with Monique offering advice to young professionals entering the construction industry. She encourages them to embrace cultural differences, learn new languages, and view construction as a respected career path. The discussion underscores the importance of addressing mental health and communication in creating a safe and productive work environment.
Listeners are encouraged to consider the implications of language and culture on job sites and to take proactive steps to improve communication and safety.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome back Michael Kline, a seasoned marketing expert and AI enthusiast, to discuss the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on various industries, including construction.
We kick off the episode with some light-hearted banter about Chris's decision to stay with the podcast for its sixth season, dispelling rumors of his departure. Jon then introduces Mike, reminiscing about their long-standing professional relationship that dates back to the early 2000s when they worked together at the Steel Structures Painting Council.
Mike dives into the core topic of the episode: understanding AI and its implications for businesses. He provides a clear definition of artificial intelligence, likening it to a sophisticated calculator that processes vast amounts of human knowledge. This analogy helps demystify AI, emphasizing that it is not about inventing new concepts but rather about leveraging existing information in innovative ways.
As the conversation unfolds, we address common fears surrounding AI, particularly the concern that it will replace jobs. Mike reassures listeners that while AI will enhance efficiency in certain roles, particularly in marketing and software development, it will not eliminate jobs in the trades, which remain essential and irreplaceable.
We explore practical applications of AI in business, with Mike sharing his own experiences of using AI tools to streamline processes, such as generating meeting notes and creating proposals. He emphasizes the importance of identifying specific business challenges before diving into AI solutions, encouraging business owners to evaluate where AI can provide the most value.
Throughout the episode, Mike highlights various AI platforms, including Cloud AI and Chip AI, which allow users to build custom applications without extensive coding knowledge. He shares insights on how he has utilized these tools to create agents that assist him in legal, marketing, and writing tasks, effectively substituting for a full team.
As we wrap up, Mike encourages listeners to embrace AI, suggesting that they start by identifying their pain points and experimenting with AI tools to find solutions. He also touches on the future of AI, predicting that while we are currently in a "Wild West" phase, regulation and consolidation will eventually shape the landscape.
This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to understand and leverage AI in their business. We invite our audience to reach out to Mike for further guidance and to keep an eye out for his upcoming AI 101 presentation.
Join us as we navigate the exciting world of AI and its potential to revolutionize the construction industry and beyond!
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, we sit down with Tina Wolff, the Director of Strategic Development for Kokosing Industrial. Tina shares her extensive experience in the construction industry, focusing on the critical differences between procurement and contract methods.
We explore various approaches, such as design-build and progressive design-build, and discuss how these methods can impact project outcomes. Tina emphasizes the importance of understanding project-specific risks and the role of relationships and trust among all parties involved in ensuring success.
Her insights provide valuable guidance for both small and large contracting firms looking to navigate the complexities of contract management. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the construction industry seeking to enhance their understanding of procurement strategies and foster collaboration for better project results.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Lauren Maggi, a third-year architectural engineering student at Penn State University, who is currently interning on the exciting Beaver Stadium renovation project.
Lauren shares her journey into the field of construction management, highlighting her unique minor in engineering leadership development, which emphasizes the importance of interpersonal skills in engineering roles. As a project engineer intern with Alexander Building Construction, she discusses her responsibilities, including working on submittal documentation, creating RFIs, and participating in quality control and meetings.
The conversation delves into the competitive nature of securing internships in construction, with Lauren expressing her excitement upon learning she would be working on the high-profile Beaver Stadium project. She reflects on how her experience has changed her perspective on the stadium, allowing her to see it through a more critical lens as she recognizes her contributions to the project.
Lauren also emphasizes the value of hands-on experience in education, noting how her internship has enhanced her understanding of technical concepts learned in the classroom. As she looks ahead, she plans to continue her internship and is excited about the opportunity to study abroad in Rome next summer, further enriching her architectural education.
Overall, this episode provides a fresh perspective on the construction industry through the eyes of a future leader, showcasing the importance of internships and real-world experience in shaping the next generation of professionals.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien dive into the important topic of risk management in the construction industry. They are joined by experts Joe Poliafico and Skip Parry, who share their insights on how effective risk management can significantly impact a company's bottom line.
The conversation kicks off with a light-hearted discussion about the changing landscape of Pennsylvania sports, but quickly shifts to the serious business of risk management. Skip provides a comprehensive definition of risk management, emphasizing its financial implications and the moral responsibility of keeping workers safe. Joe adds to the discussion by highlighting the evolving role of safety professionals and the importance of integrating safety into every aspect of a project, from estimating to project closeout.
Listeners will learn about the competitive advantages of sharing risk with subcontractors and how innovative insurance products, like subcontractor default insurance and wrap-up policies, can benefit all parties involved. The episode also touches on the need for better education and training in risk management, encouraging younger professionals to embrace this vital aspect of the construction industry.
Join us for this engaging and informative episode that not only sheds light on the complexities of risk management but also inspires a new generation of safety professionals. Don't miss out on the valuable insights shared by our guests—tune in now to the Building PA Podcast!
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin dive into an engaging discussion about safety education in the construction industry with special guest Tracey Cekada, the chair of the Safety Sciences and Environmental Engineering Department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP).
We kick off the episode with a light-hearted introduction, where Chris and Jon share their excitement about the topic and the importance of safety in construction. Jon highlights the Keystone Contractors Association's scholarship program, which recently awarded its first scholarship to Mackenzie Daniel, a student in IUP's safety program. This sets the stage for our conversation about the significance of safety education and the opportunities available for students in this field.
Tracey Cekada joins the conversation to provide insights into IUP's safety program, which offers a Bachelor of Science in Safety, Health, and Environmental Applied Sciences, as well as a Master's and PhD in Safety Sciences. Tracey explains the recent merger of two departments into one, emphasizing the growing importance of safety education in various industries, including construction, oil and gas, and even sports.
Throughout the episode, we discuss the common questions incoming students and their parents have about the job market and career prospects in safety. Tracey reassures listeners that the demand for safety professionals is high, with many medium to large companies employing safety experts. She shares inspiring stories of graduates who have found success in diverse fields, including a student working for Fox Sports, overseeing safety at major events.
As we delve deeper into the educational experience at IUP, Tracey outlines what first-year students can expect, including foundational courses and hands-on laboratory experiences. She emphasizes the importance of internships and co-op opportunities, which are integral to the program, ensuring that students graduate with real-world experience.
We also touch on the significance of communication skills for safety professionals, as Tracey explains how effective communication can make a difference in promoting safety culture within organizations. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the resources available for those looking to enter the safety field, including certification options and the potential for an associate's degree aimed at smaller contractors.
Overall, this episode is a valuable resource for anyone interested in pursuing a career in safety, particularly within the construction industry. Tracey's insights and the experiences shared by Jon and Chris highlight the importance of safety education and the myriad of opportunities available for students in this vital field. Tune in to learn more about how safety professionals are making a difference and how you can get involved!
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Kara McCaffrey, a construction industry rock star and chief wellness officer at Houck Group. Kara shares her journey from healthcare IT back to construction, driven by her passion for mental health and suicide prevention, especially after losing her brother to suicide.
The conversation delves into the importance of mental health awareness in the construction industry, highlighting the progress made over the years and the need to transition from awareness to actionable solutions. Kara emphasizes the significance of toolbox talks focused on mental health, training programs like Mental Health First Aid, and the role of resources such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and the national 988 crisis hotline.
Kara discusses her involvement with various organizations, including the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention and Construction Suicide Prevention Week, which aim to provide resources and support for mental health in the industry. She also shares insights on how to approach conversations about mental health with colleagues, stressing the importance of showing care and understanding.
As the episode wraps up, Kara reflects on the incremental progress being made in the industry, noting that while suicide rates remain a concern, more individuals are seeking help and utilizing available resources. The hosts express their gratitude for Kara's contributions and the vital work being done to foster a supportive environment in construction.
Join us for this enlightening discussion that underscores the importance of mental health awareness and the collective efforts to create a healthier construction industry.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin dive into the critical topic of connected construction workflows with our guest, Joe Hasson from Empower Business Solutions. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the importance of integrating technology into everyday operations cannot be overstated.
We kick off the episode with a light-hearted introduction, where Chris sets the stage for an engaging discussion. Joe, a seasoned expert in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, shares his extensive background in the field, highlighting his transition to cloud-based solutions and the significance of real-time data in construction management.
The conversation quickly shifts to the concept of connected construction workflows. Joe explains how modern ERP systems, like Acumatica, streamline processes from take-offs to job planning, ensuring that all aspects of a project are interconnected. He emphasizes the importance of having a single version of the truth, which allows project managers to access real-time data and make informed decisions that can significantly impact job profitability.
We delve into specific tools like Stack, a digital takeoff software that digitizes blueprints and estimates, and how it integrates with job planning software to enhance project management. Joe discusses the challenges construction companies face when upgrading their systems, particularly the resistance to change from employees accustomed to outdated processes. He stresses the need for buy-in from all levels of the organization to ensure a successful transition to modern technology.
As we explore the role of AI in construction, Joe shares his vision for the future, where AI can analyze data from ERP systems to provide predictive insights, helping companies forecast job profitability and make proactive decisions. He also touches on the importance of incorporating Building Information Modeling (BIM) into these systems for even greater efficiency.
Throughout the episode, we highlight the common challenges companies face when adopting new technology, including the need for proper training and the commitment required from staff. Joe provides valuable insights into the ROI of modernizing systems and the impact it can have on employee satisfaction and retention.
As we wrap up, we announce an exciting upcoming three-part webinar series featuring Joe, where he will guide listeners through the intricacies of Stack, job planning, and Acumatica Construction Edition. This episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice that will resonate with construction professionals looking to enhance their operations through technology.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin celebrate five years of podcasting while diving into a critical topic: opioid awareness and pain management in the context of surgery. They are joined by Brand Newland, the CEO and co-founder of Goldfinch Health, who brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective on how to navigate the challenges associated with opioid prescriptions following surgery.
Brand begins by addressing the opioid crisis, emphasizing the need for a shift in how we approach pain management, particularly in surgical settings. He shares insights from his experience as a pharmacist and discusses the founding of Goldfinch Health in 2018, which aims to improve the surgical experience by advocating for better pain management practices that reduce reliance on opioids.
The conversation highlights the importance of multimodal pain management strategies, which include using non-opioid medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, as well as innovative approaches such as the TLC method (Tylenol, Lyrica, and Celebrex) to manage pain effectively before and after surgery. Brand explains how these methods can lead to quicker recovery times and fewer complications, ultimately allowing patients to return to work sooner—an average of 35 days faster than national benchmarks.
Jon and Chris share their personal experiences with opioid prescriptions, illustrating the common issue of being prescribed excessive amounts of pain medication post-surgery. Brand reassures listeners that there are alternatives and encourages them to advocate for themselves and their loved ones when it comes to pain management.
The episode also touches on the financial implications of better pain management practices, with Brand discussing a recent study that shows a significant return on investment for employers who implement Goldfinch's programs. This is particularly relevant for those in the construction industry, where physical labor is a daily reality, and managing pain effectively can lead to improved productivity and overall well-being.
As the discussion progresses, Brand introduces the concept of enhanced recovery protocols and the importance of preparing for surgery in a way that minimizes pain and anxiety. He shares practical tips, such as staying hydrated and consuming clear liquids before surgery, which can help improve recovery outcomes.
Towards the end of the episode, Brand discusses Goldfinch's new initiative, the Billion Pill Fudge Program, aimed at reducing the number of leftover opioid pills after surgery. He emphasizes the importance of safe disposal methods to prevent accidental poisoning, particularly among children.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin dive into a significant legal case that has captured the attention of the construction industry in Pennsylvania, the Clearfield County Jail case. Joined by legal expert Mike Pascoe from Ice Miller, the discussion centers around the implications of a legal doctrine known as "nullum tempus" and its potential application to the statute of repose in construction law.
The episode begins with Jon and Chris introducing Mike Pascoe, who provides a brief overview of his background in construction litigation. Mike explains that the Clearfield County case involves a renovation of a jail built 40 years ago, during which it was discovered that critical structural elements were missing. The county is now facing an estimated $4 million in costs to rectify these issues. Traditionally, contractors and design professionals would not be held liable for problems arising after such a long period, but the county is arguing that the nullum tempus doctrine should allow them to pursue legal action indefinitely.
As the conversation unfolds, Mike elaborates on the differences between the statute of limitations and the statute of repose, emphasizing that the latter provides a definitive end date for legal claims. The Clearfield County case is significant because it challenges the long-standing understanding of these legal principles, potentially allowing public entities to sue contractors and designers long after the completion of a project.
Jon and Chris express their concerns about the ramifications of this case for the construction industry, particularly regarding the burden it could place on contractors who may be held liable for work completed decades ago. They discuss the practical implications of maintaining extensive documentation for projects that could be scrutinized many years later, highlighting the challenges of record-keeping in an industry where practices have evolved significantly over the decades.
The episode also touches on the financial implications of storing project data over long periods, with Mike providing eye-opening statistics on the costs associated with data management. The discussion underscores the importance of finality in construction contracts and the potential chaos that could ensue if public entities are allowed to pursue claims indefinitely.
As the episode wraps up, Mike shares insights into the current status of the case, including the timeline for briefs and the potential for oral arguments before the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. The co-hosts express their commitment to keeping their audience informed about the developments in this case, recognizing its far-reaching impact on the construction industry.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin dive into an often-overlooked aspect of the construction industry: physical health. Joined by nurse practitioner and founder of Construction Care Solutions, Linde Collingwood, the conversation explores the unique health challenges faced by blue-collar workers, particularly in the construction sector.
Linde shares her extensive experience working on-site with pipeline construction crews, where she provided on-the-job medical care and developed a strong rapport with the workers. With a staggering 88% of her patients presenting with high blood pressure, she emphasizes the importance of addressing physical health alongside mental health, a topic that has been a focus of the podcast in the past.
The discussion highlights the cultural barriers that prevent workers from seeking medical care, including the stigma around self-care and the fear of job loss. Linde advocates for a shift in mindset, encouraging workers to prioritize their health without feeling weak.
Listeners will gain insights into the innovative telehealth services Linde offers, making healthcare accessible for those who often feel invisible in the system. This episode is a call to action for both workers and employers to recognize the importance of physical well-being in maintaining a healthy workforce.
Tune in to learn more about how Linde is making a difference in the lives of construction workers and how you can support this vital aspect of the industry.
In this exciting episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Brent Darnell, a renowned keynote speaker in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. As we celebrate the unique appearance of a Lego R2-D2 in the background, we dive into a thought-provoking discussion about the importance of emotional intelligence and people skills in the construction sector.
Brent shares his extensive experience of over 25 years, emphasizing the shift in the industry towards recognizing the value of mental, physical, and emotional performance. He highlights how collaborative project delivery methods are becoming essential for success, moving away from traditional hard-bid approaches. The conversation touches on the critical role of communication and relationships in project outcomes, with Brent explaining that most project issues stem from people, not processes.
We explore the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and the necessity of human connection in the workplace. Brent discusses how isolation during the pandemic exacerbated existing challenges and stresses the need for ongoing efforts to foster relationships among team members. He advocates for a cultural shift in the industry, where empathy and communication are prioritized to improve project success and overall well-being.
As the episode comes to a close, Brent shares valuable insights into his coaching methodologies, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and accountability in building emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills—far beyond one-time training sessions. He also offers listeners free resources, including emotional intelligence tests and nutrition surveys available on his website, encouraging proactive steps toward personal growth and well-being. Those resources can be found here: https://www.brentdarnell.com/leadership-program
Join us for this enlightening conversation that not only sheds light on the evolving landscape of the construction industry but also inspires us to prioritize human connection and emotional intelligence in our professional lives.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien delve into a significant topic affecting the construction industry in Pennsylvania: the Separations Act. With a history spanning over a century, the Separations Act mandates that public construction projects at the state and local levels must hire at least four separate prime contractors—specifically for general trades, electrical, HVAC, and plumbing.
Jon, who has extensive knowledge of the Act, explains its origins, enacted on May 1, 1913, in response to rampant corruption in public contracting, particularly highlighted by the over-budget Pennsylvania State Capitol project. The discussion touches on the historical context of the Act, including early efforts to repeal it and the political dynamics surrounding it, with both major political parties having attempted to modernize or repeal the law over the years.
The hosts explore the implications of the Separations Act on modern construction practices, noting that while it was perhaps necessary in its time, the construction landscape has evolved significantly. They discuss how the requirement for multiple prime contractors can hinder collaboration and efficiency in project delivery, contrasting it with more modern methods like design-build and construction management at risk.
Throughout the episode, Chris and Jon emphasize that they are not taking a political stance on the issue but rather aim to educate listeners about the Act's history and its current relevance. They highlight the need for increased awareness and education among legislators and industry professionals, particularly younger project managers who may not be familiar with the Act.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien welcome Pennsylvania State House Majority Leader Matt Bradford for an engaging discussion on leadership within the context of a divided government.
Matt shares his background, growing up in Chester County and his journey through law school at Villanova, where he also met his wife. He reflects on his political career, having been elected to the legislature in 2008 and serving in various capacities, including as the chair of the appropriations committee and now as majority leader with a slim one-seat majority.
The conversation delves into the challenges of leading a caucus in a hyper-partisan environment, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, compromise, and candid communication. Matt highlights the need for legislators to set aside personal ideologies to effectively govern and get things done for the people of Pennsylvania. He draws parallels between politics and sports, discussing the necessity of making adjustments and being pragmatic while maintaining a clear vision.
Throughout the episode, Matt also shares his admiration for notable coaches like Jay Wright and Charlie Manuel, emphasizing the value of having a strong team and the role of candor in leadership. The hosts appreciate his insights and the candid nature of the discussion, which underscores the importance of honest communication in navigating the complexities of governance.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Michelle Tarquino from the Office of Transformation and Opportunity (OTO) to discuss the initiatives aimed at making Pennsylvania a more business-friendly state. Michelle, who serves as the transportation coordinator, shares insights into the challenges businesses face, particularly regarding the permitting process.
The conversation highlights the creation of the OTO under Governor Shapiro's administration, which aims to streamline processes and improve transparency in permitting. Michelle discusses the PA Payback Program, designed to address delays in permit approvals, and the importance of feedback from businesses to enhance operations.
Listeners learn about the PA Fast Track Program, which facilitates collaboration between various agencies to expedite project approvals, ensuring that developers and municipalities can navigate the permitting landscape more efficiently. Michelle emphasizes the need for businesses to voice their concerns and engage with the OTO to foster a more supportive environment.
Throughout the episode, the hosts and Michelle explore the significance of transparency, communication, and collaboration in overcoming bureaucratic hurdles. The discussion underscores the OTO's commitment to breaking down silos within government agencies to better serve the business community in Pennsylvania.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Tom Scott, the Director of Safety at McClure Company, to discuss the critical topic of safety culture within the construction industry. The episode marks the fifth season of the podcast, which has a strong focus on safety, and highlights the importance of fostering a safety-first environment on job sites.
Jon kicks off the conversation by acknowledging the significant changes the construction industry faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of safety professionals like Tom in developing effective safety protocols. Tom shares his extensive experience in the field, having been with McClure Company for over 20 years, and expresses gratitude for the company's commitment to safety, which has allowed him to thrive in his role.
The discussion delves into the challenges of establishing a safety culture, particularly the necessity of support from upper management. Tom recounts a past experience where he faced resistance to safety initiatives, illustrating the importance of having a leadership team that values safety as a core component of the business. He emphasizes that a successful safety culture requires time, effort, and a collective commitment from all levels of the organization.
Listeners learn about McClure's unique approach to safety training, which includes requiring all new employees, regardless of their role, to complete OSHA 10-hour training. This initiative not only provides a foundational understanding of safety but also fosters open communication and camaraderie among employees.
As the conversation progresses, Tom highlights the positive changes he has observed in the industry, such as the increasing presence of site safety professionals on job sites. He notes that collaboration among safety personnel from different trades enhances the overall safety culture and helps prevent accidents, which can halt productivity and impact morale.
The episode also touches on the evolving mindset of younger workers entering the industry, who are more safety-conscious and willing to engage in conversations about their well-being. Tom discusses the implementation of stop work policies, empowering workers to pause operations if they feel unsafe, which contributes to a culture of safety and accountability.
While wrapping up the episode, Jon and Chris reflect on the key takeaways, emphasizing the dual approach of top-down support and bottom-up involvement in creating a robust safety culture. Tom's insights provide valuable lessons for industry professionals looking to enhance safety practices within their organizations.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin delve into the Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) scholarship program, now in its fourth year. Jon, representing the KCA, discusses the unique structure of the scholarship, which offers recurring financial support for up to four years to Pennsylvania residents pursuing construction-related degrees at Pennsylvania colleges. This year, the KCA is committed to awarding $40,000 in scholarships, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with scholarship recipients.
The conversation highlights the program's growth, with applicants from 15 different colleges, including new institutions like Thaddeus Stevens College and Shippensburg University. Jon shares insights on how the KCA connects students with industry professionals, providing valuable networking opportunities even for those who do not win the scholarship.
Additionally, the episode announces the exciting launch of a KCA student chapter at Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport. This initiative aims to further engage students with the construction industry by facilitating monthly events featuring various companies and professionals.
Listeners are encouraged to reach out to Jon through the KCA website for more information or to get involved. The episode concludes with a call to action for future collaborations and the potential for on-campus podcast recordings, showcasing the vibrant connection between education and the construction industry in Pennsylvania.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin discuss the upcoming BD Boot Camp, an exciting initiative by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC). Scheduled for April 8, 2025, during the AGC convention in Columbus, Ohio, the boot camp aims to enhance business development skills within the construction industry.
Chris, who will be the chair of the AGC's business development committee, shares insights about the event, highlighting various topics and speakers. Notable presentations will include Tanya Bird from Gilbane discussing the development of a go/no-go process, Angela Crawford from the Builders Association in Kansas City on creating a marketing budget, and Glenn Thompson and Omar Valez on pursuit management and lead generation. Additionally, Chris will present on developing a compelling value proposition to help companies stand out in a competitive market.
The episode emphasizes the diverse perspectives attendees will gain from experts across the country, making it a valuable opportunity for professionals in the construction industry. With already 45 to 50 registrants, the boot camp is poised to make a significant impact. Chris expresses enthusiasm for the event and the potential for future collaborations, while John encourages listeners to register and participate.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-host Jon O'Brien takes the reins as he interviews his fellow co-host, Chris Martin, who is the president and owner of Atlas Marketing. The episode dives deep into the critical topic of crisis management, a subject that has been requested by listeners and industry members alike.
Chris shares his experiences from recent discussions with industry professionals, revealing that many organizations are reacting to crises rather than proactively preparing for them. He notes that common issues include misinformation, cybersecurity attacks, and even tragic incidents like fatalities on job sites. The episode stresses the importance of defining what constitutes a crisis, as it can vary widely from one organization to another.
As the discussion progresses, Chris outlines the necessary steps for effective crisis planning, including establishing clear roles and responsibilities within a crisis management team. He emphasizes the need for organizations to tailor their crisis plans to their specific size and circumstances, rather than relying on generic templates that may not be applicable.
The episode also touches on the significance of communication during a crisis, with Chris introducing the concept of a "packaged answer" for media interactions. This approach involves delivering a key message supported by facts and closing with a reiteration of that message to ensure clarity and prevent misinformation.
Listeners are encouraged to visit Atlas Marketing's website, where they can access a guide on preventing crises, further enhancing their understanding of this vital topic. The episode wraps up with Jon and Chris reflecting on the importance of being prepared for the unexpected and the value of listening to their audience's needs.
Join us for this insightful episode as we explore the complexities of crisis management in the construction industry and equip yourself with the knowledge to navigate potential challenges effectively.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien welcome two prominent figures in Pennsylvania's construction policy: Senator Devlin Robinson and Senator John Kane. Both senators bring unique backgrounds to the table—Robinson as a U.S. Marine veteran and Kane as a former business manager for Plumbers Local 690.
The discussion kicks off with a light-hearted banter about the weather in Pittsburgh before diving into the serious topics of construction policy and the challenges facing the industry. The senators highlight their recent legislative efforts, including bills aimed at tightening existing laws, addressing workplace misclassification, and establishing licensure for electricians. They also emphasize the importance of opioid awareness in the construction sector, sharing personal stories that underscore the impact of addiction and mental health issues on workers.
As the conversation progresses, the senators discuss the importance of collaboration across party lines, emphasizing that despite political differences, their shared goal is to improve the lives of Pennsylvania's workers. They encourage construction companies and workers to communicate directly with legislators about policy concerns, rather than resorting to social media outbursts.
The episode wraps up with a light-hearted exchange about sports, particularly the rivalry between Pittsburgh and Philadelphia teams, and a nod to the legendary boxer Fritzie Zivic, showcasing the rich cultural history of Pennsylvania. Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into the current state of construction policy in Pennsylvania and the ongoing efforts to support the industry and its workers.
In this episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the impactful initiative known as the "Hike for Hope," a movement aimed at raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention, particularly within the construction industry. I had the pleasure of speaking with Rob Labbe, a highly respected construction professional based in New York, who has been instrumental in launching this initiative.
We kick off the episode by introducing Rob and his extensive background in heavy civil work, where he has served as a superintendent and project manager. Rob shares his passion for improving safety in the workplace, not just in terms of physical safety but also mental well-being. This sets the stage for our discussion about the Hike for Hope, which Rob first learned about from Dr. Vince Hefeli in Florida. The event aims to connect communities, raise awareness, and provide information about various mental health resources.
Rob recounts the success of last year's hikes, which took place in multiple states, including Florida, Georgia, New York, and Arizona. He emphasizes the importance of leadership in this initiative, as many leaders are stepping up to share their personal experiences and support the cause financially. We discuss the challenges of organizing such events and the significance of community involvement.
Rob opens up about his personal connection to the issue of suicide, sharing a poignant story about his family's loss due to suicide and the ongoing struggles of his best friend with mental health challenges. This personal narrative underscores the urgency of addressing mental health in our communities, especially in high-stress industries like construction, where suicide rates are alarmingly high.
As we delve deeper into the conversation, Rob highlights the importance of conversation starters, such as the "Hope Coins" and hard hat stickers that promote mental health awareness. He shares how these tokens have sparked discussions and encouraged people to reach out for help or check in on their friends and colleagues.
Towards the end of the episode, we discuss the upcoming Hike for Hope events in Pennsylvania, scheduled for April 26th, where we will have two hikes led by local organizations. The excitement and positive response from the community are palpable, and Rob expresses his hope that these events will make a significant impact.
Overall, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of the Hike for Hope initiative, the importance of mental health awareness, and the power of community support. Rob's insights and personal stories serve as a reminder that we all have a role to play in addressing mental health challenges and supporting one another. Join us as we continue this vital conversation and work towards making a difference in our industry and beyond.
In this exciting episode of the Building PA podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Kathy Freeman, the Senior Director of Operations at Amphibious Medics. Kathy brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in safety management, and we dive deep into the critical topic of managing injuries in the construction industry.
From the outset, Jon and Chris express their enthusiasm for the conversation, highlighting the importance of safety in ensuring that workers return home safely to their families. Kathy shares her passion for safety and her commitment to creating a culture that prioritizes the well-being of employees. She emphasizes that the goal of safety programs should not only be to achieve zero injuries but also to sustain that success over time.
Kathy recounts her impressive track record at Mortenson, where she played a pivotal role in breaking safety records and fostering a culture of accountability and trust. She explains that building strong relationships with team members is essential for a successful safety program, as it encourages open communication about injuries rather than hiding them out of fear.
The discussion shifts to the evolution of injury management in the industry. Kathy reflects on how the approach has changed from a reactive mindset—where injuries were often dismissed or treated with medication—to a more holistic view that prioritizes employee care and well-being. She shares a compelling story about a superintendent who benefited from alternative treatments like massage therapy and yoga, illustrating the positive impact of a caring approach to injury management.
As the conversation progresses, Kathy offers valuable advice for smaller companies looking to implement effective injury management programs. She encourages them to leverage resources from their insurance brokers and to foster a culture of trust by being present in the field and understanding their employees' needs.
Kathy also discusses the importance of measuring the success of injury management programs, noting that a key indicator is when employees feel comfortable reporting injuries without fear of repercussions. This trust leads to proactive communication and ultimately contributes to a safer work environment.
In closing, Kathy expresses her excitement about her new role at Amphibious Medics and the opportunity to make a broader impact on injury management across the nation. She is eager to share her philosophy and work with a team that aligns with her values.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the construction industry, as it sheds light on the often-overlooked aspect of managing injuries and emphasizes the importance of creating a culture of safety and care. Join us for this insightful conversation that not only highlights the challenges but also offers practical solutions for improving safety in the workplace.
In this exciting episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien celebrate the culmination of their fourth season by announcing the winners of the inaugural 2024 Podcast Awards. With a focus on recognizing outstanding contributions within the construction industry, the hosts reflect on the journey of the podcast since its inception in the spring of 2020.
The hosts dive into the details of the awards, which were determined by listener votes across three categories: Most Interesting Topic, Best Advice for the Industry, and Best Community Impact.
- Most Interesting Topic: The award goes to Steve Powers from Novingers for his episode on prefab construction, which garnered 42% of the votes. Chris and Jon reminisce about their field trip to Novingers, where they witnessed the impressive prefab process firsthand. They highlight the significance of prefab construction in enhancing efficiency and productivity in the industry.
- Best Advice for the Industry: Darren Rech from Alexander Building Construction Company takes home this award for his insightful discussion on improving toolbox talk delivery. The hosts emphasize the importance of engaging workers during these talks and how Darren's advice can revitalize this essential practice in the construction field.
- Best Community Impact: Sonya Bohmann from the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention is recognized for her impactful episode addressing mental health and suicide prevention in the construction industry. Chris and Jon commend the relevance of this topic and share the behind-the-scenes effort that went into recording this episode, especially the quick turnaround to ensure it aired during Suicide Prevention Week.
Chris and Jon also announce the Listener of the Year award, which goes to Chris Lalevee from Operating Engineers Local Union 825. We celebrate Chris's dedication to promoting the podcast and engaging with the content, highlighting the importance of community involvement in the industry.
Throughout the episode, Chris and Jon express their gratitude to all nominees and guests, reinforcing their commitment to delivering valuable content that resonates with listeners. We encourage everyone to explore the extensive catalog of over 200 episodes available on our website, buildingpapodcast.com, and invite potential guests to reach out with topics of interest.
Congratulations to our winners and thank you to our followers for being part of our podcast community - here's to 2025!
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Ryan Parrish, a liaison with Pennsylvania 811, to discuss the critical topic of excavation safety. As we dive into the conversation, Ryan shares his role as a middleman between underground utility companies, designers, engineers, and the One Call center, emphasizing the importance of education and awareness in preventing accidents during excavation projects.
Ryan highlights the significance of calling before you dig, a well-known mantra in the industry, but he also elaborates on the various educational initiatives he leads, including the PA1 Call Safety Days. These events bring together municipal officials, engineers, and excavators to discuss their obligations and best practices for safe excavation. With five events scheduled across Pennsylvania, Ryan encourages listeners to participate and stay informed.
The discussion shifts to current trends in excavation safety, with Ryan pointing out that proper design is crucial for successful and safe excavation projects. He stresses that designers must provide accurate and up-to-date plans to excavators to avoid hitting underground utilities, which can lead to costly damages and legal disputes. Ryan also addresses the responsibilities of project owners, urging them to ensure that their designers have the necessary information to create safe excavation plans.
As the conversation progresses, we touch on recent legislative changes affecting excavation safety and the importance of compliance with PA One Call laws. Ryan explains the role of the Public Utilities Commission in enforcing these regulations and the necessity for project owners to be aware of their obligations regarding underground utilities.
One of the standout topics of this episode is the introduction of Coordinate PA, a new application designed to facilitate communication among project stakeholders. Ryan explains how this tool helps coordinate large projects, ensuring that all parties are on the same page and can collaborate effectively to avoid unnecessary disruptions and costs.
Throughout the episode, Ryan emphasizes the importance of safety and communication in the excavation industry. He encourages excavators to take their time on job sites, re-notify 811 if they notice any issues, and utilize the resources available to them, including the free services offered to homeowners.
In closing, we reflect on the need to spread awareness about the importance of calling 811 before any excavation work, whether for professional contractors or homeowners. Ryan's insights provide valuable information for anyone involved in construction and excavation, making this episode a must-listen for industry professionals and the general public alike.
Join us as we continue to explore the vital aspects of safety in the construction industry, and don't forget to visit buildingpapodcast.com for more resources and past episodes!
Welcome to a special year-end episode of the Building PA Podcast! As we wrap up another incredible year in the construction industry, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin take a moment to reflect on the highlights from 2024. With over 200 episodes and 25,000 downloads under our belt, we are thrilled to share some of our favorite moments, guests, and topics from the past year.
In this episode, we dive into three main categories and we invite our listeners to participate by voting for their favorites. We encourage you to visit our website at buildingpapodcast.com/vote to cast your votes and help us recognize the standout episodes of the year.
Most Interesting Topic/Trend
We kick off the discussion by highlighting some of the most intriguing topics we covered this year. Our first nominee is an episode featuring Steve Powell from Novinger Interior Construction Company, where we explored the evolution of exterior panel construction and its impact on efficiency and safety. Next, we recount our visit to the Carpenters Dive Training School in New Jersey, where we learned about the unique training for commercial divers from instructor Don Gibbons. Finally, we discuss our enlightening conversation with Matt Curry and Chad Stokes from Cleveland Brothers Equipment Company, who shared innovative approaches to workforce development through technology and gaming.
Best Advice for Builders
In this category, we focus on the invaluable advice shared by our guests. Ryan Angland, author of "Hire Better People Faster," emphasizes the importance of storytelling in the hiring process. We also feature Frank Baxter, who provided insights on building a successful safety program, stressing the need for management buy-in and a strong safety culture. Lastly, Darren Rech from Alexander Building Construction Company shares his strategies for enhancing toolbox talks, and making safety training engaging and effective.
Best Community Impact/Inspiring Story
We conclude with a powerful selection of inspiring stories that highlight the positive impact individuals and organizations are making in the construction industry. Makenzie Daniel, a scholarship recipient from IUP, shares her journey and aspirations in construction safety management. We also hear from Dona File, a retired safety professional, who reflects on her groundbreaking career and her commitment to mentoring young women in the industry. Additionally, we discuss the important work of Sonja Bowman from the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention, who addresses mental health challenges in the construction sector. Finally, we spotlight the Bethel Village project by the JEM Group, which aims to transform the Harrisburg community through quality housing.
As we wrap up this episode, we express our gratitude to you, our listeners, and our guests for their support throughout the year. We invite you to participate in the voting process and help us celebrate the achievements and stories that have shaped our podcast in 2024. Voting will remain open until January 15th, 2025, and we look forward to announcing the winners in a future episode.
Thank you for joining us on this journey, and here's to another year of building connections and sharing stories in the construction industry!
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Robert Hargrove, an acclaimed author known as the "CEO Whisperer," to discuss the essential steps for building a high-performance team in the construction industry.
We kick off the conversation by emphasizing the importance of character in team building. Robert shares his insights on how many organizations often overlook character skills in favor of credentials, leading to teams filled with mediocre talent. He advocates for hiring individuals based on their character traits—such as proactivity, determination, and the ability to build a shared vision—rather than merely checking boxes on a resume.
Robert introduces the concept of creating a "noble and mighty purpose." He draws parallels between sports teams and construction projects, highlighting how a shared vision can unite team members and help them work together towards a common goal. He challenges our listeners to consider whether they are merely focused on deadlines or if they are also embracing the deeper purpose behind their projects.
The discussion then shifts to the role of leadership, where Robert encourages leaders to transition from a "cop" mentality to that of a "coach." He emphasizes the importance of mentorship and the master-apprentice dynamic, suggesting that true learning happens through hands-on experience rather than traditional classroom settings. Robert shares anecdotes from his experiences, illustrating how great leaders can inspire their teams to achieve more than they thought possible.
Throughout the episode, we explore the significance of communication and collaboration within teams, stressing that effective leaders must not only set the direction but also teach their teams how to work together harmoniously. Robert's insights are both practical and thought-provoking, offering a fresh perspective on leadership in the construction industry.
As we wrap up, Robert reflects on the American dream and the noble purpose of construction work, reminding us that what we build is not just physical structures but also a sense of community and self-actualization.
This episode promises to inspire and empower those in the construction industry to rethink their approach to team building and leadership!
Listeners can check out Robert's books, "Masterful Coaching" and "Mastering the Art of Collaboration," for further insights into effective team building and leadership.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts John O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Gabriel Luber, co-owner of Lancaster Gift Box Company, to discuss the unique intersection of corporate gifting and relationship building within the construction industry.
Gabriel shares the origin story of Lancaster Gift Box, which began as a fresh grocery delivery service during the pandemic but pivoted to focus on highly customized corporate gifting and appreciation programs. He emphasizes the importance of using locally sourced, handcrafted products from Pennsylvania to create meaningful gift boxes that resonate with clients and employees alike.
Throughout the conversation, Gabriel highlights the significance of nurturing relationships in business, particularly in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) sectors. He notes a shift from a relationship-based industry to a more transactional one over the past two decades, prompting a discussion on the need for businesses to invest in client retention strategies. Gabriel presents compelling statistics that illustrate the financial benefits of retaining clients, including the potential for increased profitability and the higher revenue generated from repeat business and referrals.
The hosts and Gabriel delve into the concept of "tactical generosity," which Gabriel defines as the strategic and thoughtful use of gestures of appreciation to transform interactions into lasting relationships. He outlines various touchpoints in the client and employee journey where businesses can show appreciation, such as during onboarding, follow-ups, and life events.
Gabriel also shares insights on how Lancaster Gift Box collaborates with corporate clients to create tailored gifting programs that align with their brand values. He emphasizes that showing appreciation should be viewed as a strategic investment rather than an expense, fostering a culture of generosity within organizations.
As the episode wraps up, Gabriel shares a testimonial from a satisfied client, highlighting the positive impact of their gifting programs. He invites listeners to connect with him on LinkedIn to continue the conversation about building meaningful relationships in business.
Join us for this enlightening discussion that not only explores the art of corporate gifting but also underscores the importance of intentional relationship-building in the construction industry.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome back Andy Gaslevich and Ben Miller from Cleveland Brothers for part two of their engaging discussion on the rapidly evolving technology in the construction equipment industry.
Following up on the previous episode, we explore the advancements in construction technology, particularly focusing on how these innovations can enhance productivity, safety, and efficiency on job sites.
Ben leads the conversation by highlighting the importance of utilizing technology beyond just the machines themselves. He discusses the benefits of two-way data transfer, which allows for real-time communication between the office and the job site. This capability can significantly reduce the need for physical travel, saving time and resources. We delve into specific technologies like Caterpillar's VisionLink and ProductLink, which provide remote monitoring of equipment, allowing operators and managers to track machine health, location, and maintenance needs efficiently.
Andy elaborates on the functionalities of ProductLink and VisionLink, explaining how they work together to optimize machine performance and reduce downtime. He emphasizes that while many users are aware of basic features like location tracking and hour logging, there is a wealth of data available that can further enhance operational efficiency if fully utilized.
As the discussion progresses, we touch on the role of operators in this technological landscape. We consider how timely access to updated information can empower operators to make informed decisions, ultimately leading to less rework and increased job satisfaction.
We also address the challenge of keeping clients informed about the latest technological advancements. Both Andy and Ben share insights into their strategies for educating customers, including hands-on demonstrations and training sessions. They emphasize the importance of tailoring their approach to accommodate varying levels of technological familiarity among clients.
The episode wraps up with a fascinating look at the future of construction technology, including the use of drones for site measurements and onboard scales for trucks, which streamline operations and provide immediate data. Jon and Chris express their excitement about the potential for live demonstrations and future collaborations, hinting at the possibility of a third episode to continue this important conversation.
Overall, this episode serves as an eye-opening exploration of how technology is transforming the construction industry, making it more efficient and productive while enhancing the operator's experience on the job site. We invite our listeners to stay tuned for more insights and developments in the world of construction technology.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, we welcome Andy Gaslevich and Ben Miller from Cleveland Brothers, a leading Caterpillar construction equipment dealership. The discussion centers around the integration of technology in the construction industry, particularly how it relates to equipment utilization, safety, productivity, and addressing the skilled labor shortage.
We kick off the episode with an introduction to Cleveland Brothers, celebrating their 75 years in the business and their extensive coverage across Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and parts of Maryland. Andy and Ben share insights into how the company has evolved to meet the growing demand for technology in construction, emphasizing the dual goals of increasing productivity and enhancing safety.
The conversation delves into the various technological advancements in construction equipment, such as sensors, backup cameras, and remote control technology. Andy highlights the importance of safety features that prevent accidents, such as cab avoidance systems and remote operation capabilities, which allow operators to work in hazardous environments without being physically present.
As we explore the intersection of safety and productivity, Ben explains how these technologies not only protect workers but also streamline operations. The hosts and guests discuss the training required for operators to effectively use these advanced systems, noting that Cleveland Brothers provides comprehensive training tailored to the needs of their customers.
The episode also touches on the generational shift in the workforce, with younger operators being more comfortable with technology due to their familiarity with smartphones and digital interfaces. Ben elaborates on how GPS technology has transformed job site operations, allowing for real-time data on cuts and fills, which significantly enhances efficiency and reduces fatigue for operators.
Looking to the future, Andy and Ben discuss the potential for autonomous machinery in construction, drawing parallels with advancements already seen in mining operations. They express excitement about the ongoing developments in machine control technology and the gradual move towards greater autonomy in construction equipment.
In conclusion, this episode provides a comprehensive overview of how technology is reshaping the construction industry, making it safer, more efficient, and more appealing to the next generation of workers. We encourage our listeners to check out Cleveland Brothers for more information on their offerings and to stay tuned for future episodes in this series. Thank you for joining us on the Building PA Podcast!
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome back Odie Parkins, the owner of Four Tree Solutions, for an engaging discussion about his journey and the evolution of his work in the construction industry. Odie, who previously worked with the Carpenters Contractors Trust (CCT), shares insights from his transition to consulting and his focus on leadership and professional development within heavy industry.
As we dive into the conversation, Odie reflects on his extensive background in the labor movement, starting as an apprentice carpenter and eventually becoming an international trainer. He emphasizes his passion for helping people improve their skills and the importance of fostering a positive workplace culture. Odie highlights the challenges many companies face, such as high turnover rates and poor retention, often stemming from toxic workplace environments. He advocates for a shift in mindset, encouraging employers to create a culture where workers feel valued and supported.
The discussion also touches on Odie's innovative approach to training, which includes retreats designed to build trust and values among construction professionals. He describes the unique experience of these retreats, where participants engage in deep conversations about leadership and personal growth while surrounded by nature. Odie's emphasis on vulnerability and authenticity resonates throughout the episode, as he shares stories of how these retreats have transformed the way leaders connect with their teams.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of trust in leadership, the need for a collaborative work environment, and the impact of personal development on professional success. Odie's journey from West Virginia to Seattle serves as an inspiring backdrop for this thought-provoking conversation, reminding us all of the power of genuine connection in the workplace.
Join us for this enlightening episode as we explore the intersection of construction, leadership, and personal growth with Odie Parkins. Don't forget to check out our website for more resources and to stay updated on future episodes!
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome back Cal Beyer, a passionate advocate for addiction awareness and recovery in the construction industry. Cal, who recently joined SAFE Project as the Senior Director for Safe Workplaces, shares his journey and insights into the critical intersection of addiction, mental health, and workplace safety.
The episode kicks off with a warm introduction, highlighting Cal's previous appearance on the podcast and his new role at SAFE Project, a national non-profit organization dedicated to combating the addiction epidemic. Cal recounts his experiences collaborating with SAFE Project over the past three years and how his involvement deepened after attending their Collegiate Recovery Leadership Academy. He emphasizes the importance of supporting individuals in recovery and the potential for these individuals to contribute positively to the construction workforce.
As the conversation unfolds, Cal discusses the alarming statistics surrounding addiction in the construction industry, including high rates of substance misuse and the challenges faced by workers. He reflects on the industry's historical reliance on drug testing and the need for a more proactive approach to support employees struggling with addiction. Cal advocates for a shift in perspective, urging employers to focus on recovery solutions rather than merely punitive measures.
The group discusses the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health, noting the progress made in recent years. Cal shares his observations on how attitudes have shifted, with more people recognizing addiction as a chronic health condition rather than a moral failing. He highlights the importance of normalizing conversations about mental health and addiction in the workplace, encouraging employers to provide resources and support for their employees.
Throughout the episode, Cal emphasizes the need for community-based recovery organizations and the role they can play in helping individuals navigate their recovery journeys. He encourages employers to build partnerships with these organizations and to create a culture of support within their workplaces. The hosts discuss the importance of education and awareness, particularly in addressing the needs of employees and their families.
As the episode draws to a close, Cal expresses his gratitude for the opportunity to share his insights and the importance of collaboration in tackling addiction in the construction industry. He leaves listeners with a call to action: to prioritize human capital and to foster an inclusive workplace that supports recovery.
This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact that addiction can have on individuals and the construction industry as a whole. It serves as a rallying cry for employers to take proactive steps in supporting their workforce and to embrace a culture of recovery and understanding. Join us for this enlightening conversation that sheds light on a critical issue facing our industry today.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin visit the Bethel Village project in downtown Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where they engage with the team from the JEM Group, the general contractor for this significant affordable housing development.
The project, which is being constructed on the site of the former Bethel AME Church, represents a $20 million investment aimed at providing quality housing for individuals and families earning between 60-80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). The hosts and guests discuss the common misconceptions surrounding affordable housing, emphasizing that it is not merely subsidized living but rather a well-planned investment that requires residents to meet specific financial criteria.
Throughout the episode, the JEM Group team - including Andrew Noto-Francesco (Vice President of Operations), Josh Wine (Project Manager), Ben Green (Assistant Project Manager), and Clayton Lutz (Senior Project Manager) - highlights the importance of energy efficiency and quality construction, noting that each apartment is designed as its own sealed envelope to enhance energy performance. They explain the rigorous air sealing and testing processes involved, which are not typically seen in standard construction projects. The discussion also touches on the community's positive reception of the project, with a significant number of applications expected from interested residents.
The hosts learn about the outreach efforts made to engage the local community, including hosting meetings to connect local individuals with job opportunities in construction. The JEM Group emphasizes its commitment to hiring locally and providing wraparound services to support residents.
This episode sheds light on the complexities and benefits of affordable housing projects, the importance of quality construction, and the positive impact these developments can have on local communities.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin dive into the exciting world of electric vehicles and their impact on the construction industry. We are thrilled to welcome back Eido Almog, the Director of Strategy and Business Development for S&B USA, a global infrastructure and construction company.
Eido shares insights from S&B USA's recent pilot program focused on electrifying their fleet, which includes both on-road vehicles and off-road construction equipment. He discusses the motivations behind this initiative, highlighting the dual goals of reducing emissions for environmental sustainability and staying at the forefront of technological advancements in construction.
Throughout the episode, Eido provides a detailed overview of the data collection process that informed their decisions, revealing surprising findings about where the majority of emissions were coming from—primarily from on-road vehicles rather than heavy machinery. He emphasizes the importance of aligning the pilot program with capital expenditure plans to gain leadership buy-in, making it easier to transition to electric vehicles as older models are retired.
Listeners will learn about the specific electric vehicles S&B USA has integrated into their fleet, including two Ford F-150 Lightnings, and the infrastructure they are developing to support these vehicles, such as strategically placed chargers at job sites and employee homes. Eido also shares valuable lessons learned during the pilot, including the significance of vehicle range and the user experience, as well as the decision to maintain a traditional corporate branding approach for the electric trucks to avoid any stigma associated with driving an electric vehicle on job sites.
As the conversation unfolds, we explore the broader implications of electrification in construction, including potential cost savings and the innovative solutions that can arise from integrating electric technology into traditional practices. Eido also touches on the future of S&B USA's electrification efforts, with plans to expand their electric vehicle fleet and further develop their infrastructure.
This episode is packed with insights for construction professionals interested in sustainability and innovation. Join us as we uncover the challenges and opportunities that come with transitioning to electric fleets in the construction industry. Don't miss this engaging discussion that promises to inspire and inform!
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien welcome Jessica McKinney from P.J. Dick Trumbull Lindy to discuss the intricacies of proposal management in the construction industry. With over 25 years of experience, Jessica shares her insights on the importance of tailoring proposals to meet client needs, emphasizing that successful proposals are not just boilerplate documents but rather personalized narratives that reflect the client's unique requirements.
Jessica highlights the significance of kickoff meetings to gather essential information and the role of effective communication in the proposal process. She also discusses the challenges of working with field personnel who may not be accustomed to presenting in formal settings, offering strategies to help them feel more comfortable during interviews.
The conversation delves into best practices for maintaining schedules during the proposal process, the importance of collaboration with technical staff, and the need for succinct yet impactful writing. Jessica shares her experiences with various project types, including government proposals, and the necessity of providing proof statements to back up claims.
As the episode progresses, Jessica discusses the evolving landscape of proposal writing, including the integration of technology and the potential future of video proposals. She also identifies trends in the construction industry, such as the ongoing demand for multifamily housing and laboratory renovations.
This episode provides valuable insights for anyone involved in proposal management. It offers practical advice and a glimpse into the dynamic world of construction proposals.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Matt Curry and Chad Stokes from Cleveland Brothers Equipment Company. The discussion centers around workforce development and the innovative approaches Cleveland Brothers takes to recruit and train the next generation of technicians.
Matt, the Technical Training and Development Manager, and Chad, the Corporate Technical Recruiter, share insights into their recruitment strategies, focusing on high school career technology centers. They emphasize the importance of reaching out to young people and providing them with various pathways into the industry, including entry-level positions and apprenticeship programs.
The Cleveland Brothers Apprentice Program, launched last year, is highlighted as a key initiative. This 15-month program allows participants to gain hands-on experience while being paid, allowing them to explore different business segments within the company. Matt and Chad explain how this program not only fills the technician gap but also fosters a culture of growth and development within the organization.
Throughout the episode, the hosts and guests discuss the evolving nature of the industry, particularly the increasing role of technology in equipment maintenance and repair. They stress the importance of having a solid foundation in electronics and troubleshooting skills, as these are critical for success in today's technical landscape.
The episode concludes with a call to action for those interested in applying to the apprenticeship program or exploring career opportunities within the company.
Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into workforce development in the construction industry and showcases Cleveland Brothers' commitment to building a skilled workforce for the future.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Salomon Moreno-Rosa, the Managing Director of Strategy and Philanthropy at Envoy. The discussion centers around the concept of "Recovery Ready Workplaces" and the importance of fair chance employment, particularly in the construction industry.
Salomon explains that fair chance employment initiatives aim to create inclusive hiring practices that support individuals from the reentry community and those navigating recovery from substance use disorders. He highlights the significance of community-based partnerships, which can help employers tap into new talent pools while providing essential wraparound services such as transportation, housing, and childcare.
The episode delves into the Recovery Ready Workplace series, a program designed to equip employers with the tools and resources needed to foster a supportive work environment. Salomon outlines the structure of the series, which includes virtual modules, downloadable toolkits, and opportunities for one-on-one consultations with HR professionals. The series aims to reduce stigma, improve employee wellness, and ultimately enhance productivity and retention within companies.
Listeners are encouraged to consider the benefits of participating in the series, which is free and accessible to employers across Pennsylvania. Solomon emphasizes that the initiative not only supports employees in recovery but also helps companies reduce turnover and improve workplace morale.
As the episode wraps up, Jon and Chris express their gratitude to Salomon for sharing valuable insights and resources that can help employers navigate workforce development challenges while making a positive impact on their communities.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin tackle a critical and often overlooked issue in the construction industry: suicide prevention. They are joined by Sonya Bohmann, the Executive Director of the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention (CIASP), who brings her expertise and personal experience to the conversation.
Sonya discusses the significant stigma surrounding mental health in the construction sector, which often prevents workers from seeking help. She emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment where individuals feel safe to express their struggles. The conversation highlights the alarming statistics related to suicide in the industry, with one in nine construction workers knowing someone who has attempted or died by suicide.
The hosts and Sonya delve into the resources available through CIASP, including a new initiative aimed at helping companies develop mental health and wellness programs. They also discuss the importance of community and connection, encouraging listeners to reach out to colleagues and check in on their well-being.
Throughout the episode, Sonya shares valuable insights on recognizing warning signs of mental distress and the importance of open conversations about mental health. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to utilize the resources provided by CIASP and to foster a culture of support within their workplaces.
This episode serves as a powerful reminder that addressing mental health and suicide prevention is not just a personal issue but a collective responsibility within the construction industry.
In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien interview Alexander Papson from Schneider Downs about the Secure Act 2.0. Papson, an investment advisor specializing in retirement plans, discusses how the legislation aims to improve private retirement plans and outlines key provisions, including tax credits for employers and automatic enrollment options. They delve into challenges employers face, such as complying with new rules for long-term part-time employees, and offer resources for both employers and employees interested in understanding the implications of the Secure Act 2.0.
Today’s podcast discusses the experiences and insights of Dona File, a seasoned construction safety expert, who reflects on her career journey and the evolution of safety practices in the construction industry. She highlights the critical role of communication and collaboration during the COVID-19 pandemic, where safety protocols were rapidly developed and implemented to keep construction sites operational. The pandemic, despite its challenges, led to a significant improvement in hygiene standards and opened up more effective dialogue between trades and contractors about safety practices. Dona also discusses the founding of the Mid-Atlantic Construction Safety Council and the ongoing challenges in ensuring consistent safety communication across different trades.
In this podcast episode, Lorelee Isbell, Associate Vice President for Career and Workforce Development at Shippensburg University, and Laura Potthof, Director of Business Development from F&M Trust Bank, discuss a collaborative workforce development initiative aimed at addressing the labor shortage in the construction industry in South Central Pennsylvania. They highlight the creation of a short-term, non-credit construction program designed for unemployed and underemployed individuals, which provides hands-on training, industry certifications like OSHA 10, and direct engagement with employers. The program is unique due to its inclusive ecosystem approach, involving local employers, social service organizations, and community partners to ensure participants are well-prepared and connected to job opportunities.
This week’s podcast discusses the KCA's scholarship program, highlighting its success in fostering the next generation of construction leaders in Pennsylvania. James Fretz, a scholarship recipient and construction management student at Penn College, shares his journey from a high school carpentry program to his current internship experiences. He emphasizes the valuable mentorship and hands-on learning he's received, which have prepared him well for a future in the construction industry. James also discusses the importance of evolving industry practices, such as lean construction and integrated project delivery, and the blend of traditional knowledge with new methodologies.
In this week’s podcast episode, Jon and Chris chat with Ryan Englin, author of “Hire Better People Faster!” – an Amazon best-seller that reimagines hiring philosophies. Englin has been dedicated to helping service contractors and construction companies hire better people for over a decade. His passion stems from observing his father's struggles as an owner-operator in the construction industry. Englin identified a gap in the industry: a lack of knowledge on how to hire and retain good employees. He developed a system to address this, teaching companies across the country how to build effective teams. Englin shares his insights and emphasizes the importance of creating a positive work culture and adapting to new ways of thinking to attract and retain talent in the construction industry.
In this week’s podcast episode, Jon and Chris chat about the evolution and impact of their long-running podcast, particularly their popular safety episodes. To keep the educational safety content from June’s National Safety Month going, the pair brought in Darren Rech to discuss even more safety resources. They emphasize the importance of toolbox talks and informal safety discussions covering a range of topics essential for maintaining safety awareness on job sites. Darren Rech, the Safety Director for Alexander Building Construction, shares insights into how toolbox talks are conducted, highlighting their flexibility, the necessity of relevant content, and the significance of fostering open communication within smaller crews. The conversation also touches on best practices for safety communication and the role of technology in facilitating these talks.
In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien interview Makenzie Daniel, a sophomore safety science major at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Makenzie shares her journey into the construction industry, highlighting her experiences and successes, including making the Dean's list and obtaining her OSHA 30 card. She discusses her motivations for pursuing safety science, inspired by her family's involvement in the industry and a desire to ensure worker safety. Despite initial nerves about being in a male-dominated field, Makenzie expresses confidence and gratitude for the supportive environment at IUP.
In the latest episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien interview Will Foret, co-host of the Building Scale podcast, renowned in the architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Will emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity, making it relevant and accessible to all. He breaks down the costs of cyber threats, stresses the need for proactive measures like risk assessments and employee training, and highlights emerging trends like AI-driven attacks. Despite the daunting nature of cybersecurity, Will offers reassurance that with the right strategies, companies can effectively protect themselves in the digital landscape industry.
The latest Building PA Podcast episode featured guest Jimmy Christianson, VP of Government Relations for AGC, who shared crucial legislative updates. They emphasized the urgent need for workforce development and immigration reform to address labor shortages in the construction industry. Additionally, innovative approaches like partnerships with community colleges and targeted digital recruiting campaigns were highlighted as effective strategies. Despite looming political tensions, bipartisan efforts are underway to address critical issues such as transportation funding and infrastructure investment, signaling hope amidst uncertain times.
In the latest episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien sit down with Justin Neagle from the Building Scale podcast, exploring the keys to scaling businesses and fostering a strong organizational culture.
Neagle emphasizes the importance of people, processes, and technology as the pillars of business growth. Drawing from his extensive interviews with industry leaders, Neagle highlights the critical role of leadership in prioritizing employee well-being and creating a conducive work environment. He stresses the need for authentic core values and candid communication, noting their impact on company culture and employee morale.
The discussion also delves into the evolving attitudes towards mental health in the AEC industry, signaling a positive shift towards greater openness and support.
In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien interview Larissa Llewellyn from Pioneer Construction about trenching and excavation. Larissa shares insights into the importance of background checks before digging and discusses the challenges and safety measures involved in the industry. They delve into the evolving training and safety protocols over the years, highlighting the need for prevention training in trenching accidents, especially in residential projects. Larissa's expertise sheds light on the complexities and safety concerns within the excavation field, offering valuable perspectives for listeners.
In the latest episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien sit down with Rich Barcaskey from the Constructors Association of Western Pennsylvania to discuss work zone safety awareness.
The conversation touches on the implementation of automated work zone speed enforcement programs, highlighting effectiveness in reducing speeding and accidents in construction zones. Rich explains the importance of such initiatives in safeguarding both workers and the general public, emphasizing that the primary goal is to promote safety rather than generate revenue.
Additionally, the episode touches on the bipartisan support behind these efforts and the role of various stakeholders in advocating for worker safety legislation. With anecdotes and insights, the discussion sheds light on the critical need for vigilance and adherence to safety measures in work zones, ensuring the well-being of all involved.
In the latest episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien interview Frank Baxter from Construction Risk Partners, about taking safety programs to the next level. Baxter emphasizes the importance of top management's commitment to safety, highlighting the need for leaders to lead by example, engage in the process, and develop essential soft skills. He discusses the significance of culture, communication, and attention to detail, sharing anecdotes that underscore the fundamental role of leadership in fostering a safe and productive work environment. Baxter's insights illuminate the path toward enhancing safety programs and ultimately improving organizational performance in the construction industry.
In the latest episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien engage in an insightful conversation with Christopher Smith from NFP brokerage insurance. They delve into the significance of project-based insurance coverage in commercial construction, particularly in Pennsylvania. Smith, drawing on over three decades of experience, elucidates how project-specific insurance offers owners greater control over coverage and extends beyond traditional policies, safeguarding against risks like faulty workmanship. He emphasizes the transformative potential of this approach for builders, advocating for its adoption to enhance safety, quality, and financial benefits. For those seeking guidance on navigating the complexities of construction insurance, NFP emerges as a knowledgeable resource, offering practical insights and expertise.
In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien sit down with Haggai Dror of Shikun & Binui to discuss the intricacies of fleet electrification. Dror explains that fleet electrification involves converting traditional internal combustion engine vehicles into electric vehicles, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach beyond just purchasing new vehicles. They talk about the challenges and opportunities of fleet electrification, including the importance of charging infrastructure, energy management, and financing solutions. Dror highlights surprising benefits such as cost savings and user satisfaction, while also addressing potential roadblocks like geography and weather considerations for certain vehicle types like school buses. Overall, the conversation underscores the multifaceted nature of transitioning fleets to electric power and the critical role of strategic planning and implementation.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin share a recording from their field trip to Sicklerville, New Jersey, to explore the training initiatives in the carpentry industry.
Chris and Jon are joined by Phil Diaz, the training director for the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters located in New Jersey. Diaz shares insights into the leadership's foresight, the recently acquired GWO certification, and the diverse training programs available, including specialized courses for wind farms and hands-on experiences for pile drivers.
Tune in to discover how the carpentry industry is evolving and creating opportunities for growth and expertise.
In today’s installment of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin continue their fascinating field trip to the Eastern Atlantic State's Regional Council of Carpenters Dive School in Sicklerville, New Jersey. Positioned on a serene lake, the hosts are joined by Dave Iannucci, the Special Projects Coordinator for the EAS Carpenters.
They delve into the school's unique offerings and recent certifications, exploring its evolution from the Philadelphia Carpenters JAC and the Northeast Carpenters Apprenticeship Training Fund to the newly formed EAS CTC.
The episode unfolds with a discussion about the school's commitment to eliminating apprenticeship stigma and its groundbreaking plans for accreditation and degree conferment in the future, among several other topics.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien take a field trip to Novinger's in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. They are joined by Steve Powers, the Vice President of Sales at Novinger's, who is hailed as the cleanup hitter and the go-to person for all things related to panel construction and exterior panels. Steve shares insights into the evolution of prefabrication, from a curious construction method to a financial necessity driving project efficiency. The episode promises a fascinating exploration of the history, challenges, and advancements in prefabrication, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the industry with a seasoned expert.
In this podcast episode, Brian Skripac, the Director for Virtual Design and Construction with the Design Build Institute of America, shares insights into the evolving landscape of construction technology.
Having transitioned from architecture to the realm of BIM leadership, Skripac discusses the excitement of leveraging new technologies to enhance productivity and efficiency in construction. He emphasizes the need for professionals in the industry, from contractors to architects and engineers, to tell their stories in the face of declining media coverage. Skripac also delves into the strategic integration of technology into project management, highlighting the benefits of a collaborative design-build approach.
The conversation concludes with a glimpse into the future, exploring the potential impact of augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and machine learning on the construction industry.
Stay tuned for a dynamic discussion on the ever-evolving intersection of technology and construction practices!
Dive into the depths of underwater construction with the latest Building PA Podcast episode in our field trip series featuring guest Don Gibbons, a Commercial Dive Instructor at the EAS Commercial Dive School.
Explore the unique skillset of commercial divers who undertake tasks like underwater inspections, and learn about the extensive training and education opportunities at the EAS Commercial Dive School in Sicklerville, NJ. From offshore wind farm maintenance to high-risk environments, discover the strength, determination, and persistence required for this profession. Don also discusses the various training and ongoing education opportunities available at EAS Carpenters to get paid training and accreditation by the Association of Diving Contractors.
This episode is guaranteed to teach you something new about the vast and diverse needs within the construction industry.
In the latest installment of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin conclude their field trip series with a visit to Novinger's in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Accompanied by Jim Novinger, the owner of Novinger's, the hosts delve into the company's evolution and extensive expertise in panelization dating back to the 1920s. Jim shares captivating insights into Novinger's history, emphasizing its shift to panelization in the 1970s and its unwavering commitment to quality and innovation.
The conversation takes an intriguing turn as the hosts recount a chance encounter with a building featuring Novinger's panels near Rowan University in Glassboro, New Jersey. Jim elaborates on the unique architectural challenges they've embraced, such as a building shaped like a question mark with curved panels, showcasing the company's dedication to realizing architects' imaginative visions.
The episode further explores Novinger's national footprint, spanning projects from New Jersey to Arizona, and delves into the complexities and strategies associated with managing projects across diverse geographical locations.
Join Jon, Chris, and Jim for a compelling discussion on Novinger's rich history, diverse projects, and innovative solutions within the realm of exterior panels.
Join Chris and Jon as they welcome 2024 with a reflection of the past year. Our co-hosts discuss the impact Building PA Podcast has had within the PA construction community and beyond, and also touch on their favorite interviews of the year. No lookback would be complete without also looking ahead at the future, so listeners can expect to hear about plans for the upcoming year as well.
Thank you for another exciting year at Building PA Podcast and stay tuned for even more in 2024. Listen to our 2023 recap, out now!
In this episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin embark on a field trip to Novinger’s in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania – a leading specialty contractor specializing in unitized exterior wall panels, fireproofing, structural framing, drywall installation, and ceiling work – to delve into the world of prefabrication.
A lively discussion unfolds as they explore Novinger’s' shop, joined by Dan Myers, Project Manager from Alexander Building Construction Company. This episode provides a unique perspective on prefab and design assist, shedding light on the collaborative relationship between Alexander and Novinger.
Listeners can anticipate an engaging conversation on the intricacies of prefabrication, the value of early involvement, and the innovative approaches to streamline construction processes, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of the topic with our knowledgeable guest.
In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin bring the audience to Sicklerville, New Jersey, to explore the fascinating setting of the Carpenters Dive School.
As they share insights from this unique location, including humorous moments and unexpected turns, they're joined by Ollie Olsen, the council rep for the Pile Drivers, Divers, and Dock Workers for the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters. The episode offers a firsthand look into the innovative initiatives led by the Eastern Atlantic State Regional Council of Carpenters under the visionary leadership of Executive Secretary-Treasurer, William Sproule.
Listeners can anticipate a captivating discussion on the progressive approaches to training, recruiting, and addressing industry challenges, demonstrating the council's commitment to excellence and the well-being of its members.
In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien set the stage for an engaging discussion on how to strengthen sales.
This week we introduce an exciting guest, Steve Heroux, Founder and CEO of The Sales Collective, offering a sneak peek into Steve's unconventional journey from a guy in Boston with a unique upbringing to becoming the number one seller of Cutco knives in the country.
Tune in for a captivating conversation about sales, the sales revolution, and the unfiltered truth about Steve's experiences that shaped his approach to the industry.
In this Building PA Podcast episode, Chris and Jon interview Lorenzo Tabb, owner of Tabb Construction LLC in Reading, PA.
Lorenzo shares insights from his fourth-year apprenticeship with the Carpenters Union, details his shift to commercial contracts, and discusses managing large projects like the State Police Barracks in Hershey. The episode covers Lorenzo's experiences, the importance of certifications, and the challenges of being a business owner in the evolving construction industry. Topics include union partnerships, the role of Lorenzo's mother in the company, and Tabb Construction's certifications as a woman-owned business. The focus on interior systems projects, challenges in estimating jobs, staff expansion, and the company's exciting prospects are also explored.
Bridget Austin, a junior studying Civil Engineering at Penn State University shares her summer internship experience at Mascaro Construction.
Austin talks about her positive journey this summer and some of the challenges she faced that naturally come along with being a newcomer to construction. Like learning industry-specific terminology and software programs. She also highlights the importance of communication and person-to-person contact in her role.
Bridget discusses her positive experiences working with female engineers and project managers at Mascaro Construction, emphasizing the value of mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals.
The podcast delves into Bridget's aspirations for the future, her desire to find a company that values her skills and offers growth opportunities and her excitement about the evolving construction management program at Penn State.
Overall, the episode showcases Bridget Austin's enthusiasm for the construction industry and her determination to pursue a successful construction and construction management career.
Lorenzo Tabb from Reading, PA, and owner of Tabb Construction, joins us on the podcast to discuss his journey as a fourth-year apprentice with the Carpenters Union and his transition into commercial contracting.
Tabb shared his experiences, challenges, and the certifications his company holds, such as EDWOSB (federal) and minority business certifications.
He emphasized he is currently focused on interior systems projects, including framing, drywall, doors, and hardware.
Tabb also highlighted the support and encouragement he has received from the industry and expressed his determination to succeed. The conversation concluded with optimism about Tabb Construction's future and its growth within the commercial sector.
What makes your insurance broker invaluable? One that knows the construction safety side and the insurance risk side and uses that knowledge to find solutions for construction clients.
We sat down with the Director of Construction Risk Partners, Joe Poliafico, an industry veteran with over 30 years of experience in construction risk management. Joe shares insights into his journey from the contractor side of the construction business to his current role at Construction Risk Partners (CRP). He provides a glimpse into CRP's unique approach to insurance brokerage, focusing primarily on the contracting space and helping contractors enhance their businesses through a risk-oriented lens.
Joe's storytelling takes us through the pivotal moments of his career, highlighting the importance of safety and risk management in the construction industry. He emphasizes how safety isn't just about following textbook guidelines but also about practical implementation in the field.
Joe candidly recounts his early experiences, where safety was viewed as a mere formality to secure insurance coverage, and how he turned that perspective around to become an integral part of the organization's success.
The conversation delves into Joe's journey from being a figurehead for insurance compliance to a genuine advocate for safety and risk reduction. He shares anecdotes and challenges he faced along the way, showcasing his dedication to improving safety standards in the industry. Joe's passion for helping contractors succeed shines through as he discusses CRP's construction-centric approach and its commitment to understanding and enhancing clients' businesses.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the construction industry or those interested in the intersection of safety, risk management, and business growth. Joe's insights offer valuable lessons on how safety and success can go hand in hand, making it a compelling and informative conversation.
This podcast highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues, especially in the construction industry.
The conversation with Marko Kaar, director of safety operations at BBE Incorporated, emphasized the need for open communication, resources, and support.
Kaar touches on the nationwide prevalence of mental health challenges in the industry and encourages people to seek help through the 988 helpline.
Kaar shared his personal journey of recovery from alcoholism and early exposure to suicide, highlighting the need for compassion and understanding.
The challenges in Connecticut, including the opioid crisis and workplace stressors, were discussed. "While progress has been made in raising awareness, there is still work to be done to reduce occupational exposures and suicides," said Kaar.
The importance of communication at all levels of the industry was emphasized to effectively address mental health challenges.
To further acknowledge Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, we reached out to Chris Lalevee, a business agent affiliated with the Operating Engineers Local 825. In an exclusive one-on-one interview, Chris opened up about a period in his life when he faced significant challenges, including anxiety, depression, and resorting to self-medication as a means of coping.
Lalevee recognized that at that time when he turned to his health plan for resources in psychiatry and for mental health nothing existed.
Fast forward to today, Lalevee shares how he turned his personal struggles into a personal mission to help fellow Operators and people in construction find the help they need.
We're inspired by the support he's received from his union and the initiatives Lalevee has been able to put into place so others do not have to feel the burden or struggle Lalevee felt over a decade ago.
Share this episode with a fellow co-worker or friend.
If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988.
In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, we have a well-respected thought leader in the mental health and wellness space, Senior Director of the National Stigma Initiative at Shatterproof, Rachel Cooper.
This episode its all about stigma and how it is one of the key drivers and main barriers to treatment and recovery.
The national nonprofit organization Shatterproof was founded over 10 years ago. The organization is focused and is grounded on three main components:
- Increasing access to and quality addiction treatment services.
- Engaging, mobilizing, and empowering the community.
- Addressing addiction stigma.
Cooper notes "Stigma means different things to different people." We delve deeper into the conversation of substance misuse, mental health, and how they are connected.
This powerful episode gives each of us tools we can use to help reduce stigma not only in the world of construction but in the world around us.
Click on the link to learn more about Shatterproof.
In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month, The Building PA Podcast is sharing a powerful podcast replay with one of the construction industry's most notable individuals and advocates for mental health in construction, Mandi Kime, Safety Director for AGC of Washington.
This podcast replay is worth sharing not only with those in the construction industry but also anyone in a stressful job or personal situation. Share your comments to let us know what you are doing to recognize National Suicide and Prevention Month! Be sure to listen to the The Building PA Podcast each week throughout the month of September for new podcasts on mental health and wellness. Take care!
Original Content:
According to the CDC, men working in construction have one of the highest rates of suicide compared to all other industries. A shocking statistic, but one not that can not be ignored.
Today's podcast is all about shining a light on mental health and wellness in construction. We're kicking off this month with a candid conversation with the Director of Safety for the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Washington,Mandi Kime.
Kime is an accomplished safety professional and leader within the construction industry on the topic of mental health & wellness.
This podcast conversation is candid, bold, and thought-provoking. To learn that men are two and a half times more likely to die by suicide than homicide is jaw-dropping. That statistic is worth repeating, MEN ARE 2 1/2 TIMES MORE LIKELY TO DIE BY SUICIDE THAN HOMICIDE, and the only way to move the needle on this statistic is to talk, engage, educate, and build awareness.
This podcast is filled with tips to help recognize the signs of depression or distress. We've included resources and links to help you gain access to private mental assessments.
If you are in the construction industry, take a moment to listen to this episode. Do it for yourself, your staff, a coworker, or a friend.
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, text or call the Suicide and Crisis hotline at 988.Check out mantherapy.org for a private mental health assessment. This is a great resource and starting point if you are dealing with anxiety, depression, and/or substance abuse.
On the road again...
Co-hosts John O'Brien and Chris Martin took the show on the road. This time their field trip landed them at the Carpenter's Dive School in Sicklerville, NJ.
After touring the facility they sat down with Tim Waring, the training coordinator at the Sicklerville Dive School. This school is the first UBC (United Brotherhood of Carpenters) dive center.
Waring explains that commercial diving involves tasks such as welding, burning, and piling underwater. It's like being an underwater pile driver, where the skills used in above-ground construction are transferred to underwater projects.
The Dive School allows for the training of both divers and pile drivers. It's seen as an additional skill to enhance a pile driver's capabilities, providing more opportunities for work.
Listen to learn more about what the school has to offer young individuals interested in becoming carpenters or pile drivers.
To learn more about the partnering opportunity heard at the beginning of the episode, Brand Builders, email Tracy@AtlasStories.com for more information.
We invited co-founders Kristen Fallon and Jon Lattin to the Building PA Podcast to share more about Let's Build of Lehigh Valley. This unique hands-on experience for girls aged 12-18 opens up the world of AEC.
The mission of Let’s Build Construction Camp for Girls was founded with a goal to ignite the spark within girls to explore the built environment through architecture, engineering, construction, and building materials manufacturing (AECM) related careers.
Listen and share this podcast with the young females in your life. Click on the link to learn more about Let's Build!
The primary goal of the WELL Building Standard is to prioritize the health and well-being of occupants. By incorporating features that enhance indoor air quality, lighting, acoustics, and ergonomic design, buildings can create environments that support physical and mental health, productivity, and overall comfort.
This podcast replay with guest Chip Desmone, CEO of Desmone Architects is the epitome of WELL Building which is expressed through his business practices, WELL Gold Certified Building , and commitment to the WELL Building process.
Original Content:
WELL Building. What is it? How does it differ from Lead building and is this the wave of the construction future? These questions and many more are answered by Chip Desmone, CEO of Desmone Architects*.
Desmone and his team of architects designed the first WELL Gold Certified Building in Pittsburgh, PA. They are one of just six WELL certified spaces in Pennsylvania.
Listen and learn how WELL intersects design with human health. Desmone shares his journey through WELL certification and the continued commitment, and dedication it takes to maintain this certification status.
Desmone comments that their “accidental brilliance” has led them to have a healthy, productive workspace environment focused on their employee’s mental health, fitness, and positive workplace culture.*
The Constructors of Western Pennsylvania (CAWP) and the Master Builder's Association of Western Pennsylvania (MBA) have partnered to bring a new mental health initiative to the construction industry in western PA called Yinz Good?
Jason Koss, director of industry relations for the CAWP, and Bob McCall, director of safety for the MBA are the co-founders of this initiative in partnership with Youturn Health. Jason and Bob joined us on the podcast to discuss the importance of this campaign and why now was the right time for it.
When asked how Yinz Good? came to be, McCall commented that the rising rate of suicide among men in construction and the demand from their members for a program on mental health and wellness was a driving factor in the MBA's motivation to develop a program like this. Koss was on board noting that their members, unions, and other safety professionals recognized the need to help the construction industry in an open and non-threatening way. To do this, Yinz Good? centers its initiative on a central website, YinzGood.com.
YinzGood.com houses free information on topics like:
- stress management
- substance misuse
- how to have tough conversations and more.
The digital library of resources include materials such as:
- videos
- blogs
- webinars
- assessments
- toolbox talks
YinzGood.com can be accessed anonymously and is available now for anyone to visit. The website was designed for construction employers, individuals, loved ones of those in the industry, and YOU.
Tune in to this episode to learn more and help us start the conversation around mental health and wellness in construction by asking one simple question: "Yinz Good?"
Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date on the latest news. You can find us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
In this episode, we tap into the mind of the Vice President of Innovation for Wohlsen Construction, Ed McCauley to discuss innovation in the construction industry.
Our co-hosts explore the role of technology and IT in construction. McCauley shares his thoughts on virtual design in construction. McCauley explains how they use innovative tools and technologies to improve project management, coordination, and efficiency.
Various innovations in the construction industry are highlighted, including image recognition for quality and safety observations, robotics for demolition and progress monitoring, and exoskeletons for enhancing worker capabilities and reducing strain.
They also touch on the potential of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in construction, especially in maintenance and operations.
The conversation further delves into the application of LEAN principles in the construction process, emphasizing continuous improvement and collaboration to identify and solve challenges.
The trio also touches on the cyclical nature of technology innovation, expecting future tangible advancements that directly impact construction professionals in the field.
McCauley believes that there will be continual advancements in drone usage and 3D modeling positioning this technology at the forefront of innovation for now and in the future.
To learn more about Wohlsen visit their website wohlsenconstruction.com.
The Building PA Podcast recently had a sit-down interview with Paul Hoback, the Executive Vice President, and Chief Development Officer for the Allegheny County Airport Authority. Hoback is currently overseeing the Terminal Modernization Program for the Pittsburgh International Airport.
During the podcast, Hoback made an important announcement for all contractors and sub-contractors. On Thursday, August 10, from 3 PM to 5 PM, at the Carpenters Union Hall in Collier Township, the Allegheny County Airport Authority will be revealing opportunities for upcoming projects worth over $50 million.
There are numerous opportunities for contractors to participate in this project, with several bid packages set to be awarded this fall. While registration is not mandatory, interested contractors and subcontractors are encouraged to register by emailing TMPinfo@flypittsburgh.com.
The event will provide detailed information about four critical bid packages associated with the projects, which include:
- New offices/facilities for U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
- Relocation of the Allegheny County Police Department.
- Airline fit-outs.
- Landscaping.
It's essential to note that this is just the beginning, as more projects are planned to follow in the future.
Make sure to tune in to the podcast to learn more about these exciting current project opportunities and the airport's planned growth plans.
Give yourself the chance to be inspired by Retired Major General John Gronski by listening to this enlightening podcast replay.
The question of whether there are natural-born leaders or if leadership skills can be learned is a topic of debate. However, the truth is that both perspectives hold truth. It is undeniable that some individuals possess inherent qualities that make them effective leaders from an early age. On the other hand, anyone can acquire and enhance leadership abilities through learning and practice.
Draw inspiration from Major General Gronski's experiences and expertise. His insights and anecdotes are likely to ignite your own leadership potential, motivating you to learn, grow, and improve your own leadership skills.
*Original Content
Sometimes you record a podcast that leaves you feeling uplifted, inspired, and motivated. It's filled with practical advice that can be applied to your professional career and your personal life. That's what you will hear in this episode of the Building PA podcast.
Our special guest, Ret. Major General John Gronski is a world-renowned author and motivational speaker. Gronski speaks about leadership and what it takes to become a good leader.
His advice to others is "have the courage to make a decision" and recognize that an all-in, optimistic attitude can make all the difference in the outcome and the perception of those you lead.
John Gronski is the author of The Ride of Our Lives and Iron-Sharpened Leadership.*
In this podcast episode we talk with Edna Howard, the president of Voices of Encouragement, a training and development company focused on empowering the workforce.
The discussion is around the importance of employee wellness, safety concerns, and workforce challenges.
Howard shares her passion for leadership development and helping leaders have "light bulb" moments of understanding.
This episode addresses mental health topics and issues, particularly in the construction industry, which has been affected by addiction and suicide problems.
Howard advises companies to start by conducting a needs assessment and creating a supportive culture that promotes open communication, work-life balance, and healthy behaviors. Providing resources and support such as counseling, mental health workshops, stress management training, and employee assistance programs is crucial.
The podcast emphasizes the significance of reducing the stigma around mental health by promoting awareness and education. The importance of self-care and meeting individuals where they are on their wellness journey, acknowledging their unique circumstances, and tailoring support accordingly.
Overall, the goal is to improve employees' mental health and well-being through a multifaceted approach that prioritizes culture, support, and education.
Edna Howard is the author of Mindset Reset: Three Powerful Principles to Transform Your Thinking. Click on the link to buy directly from Amazon. You can also learn more about Voices of Encouragement by clicking on the link attached.
This is a throwback podcast from 2020. Co-hosts Jon and Chris talk safety culture in the construction industry with Owner and President Clayton Leibold from Leibold Inc. Leibold is a mechanical contractor based in Pottsville, Pennsylvania.
Leibold shares the biggest challenge for the construction industry regarding safety is overcoming job site hurdles and the pressure to complete work within shorter timelines. While the industry is facing a worker shortage, Leibold mentions that as a union mechanical construction company, they have a good source of competent and well-trained individuals from their apprenticeship programs.
They focus on molding their key employees into effective safety leaders, combining field expertise with safety knowledge.
Onboarding new hires can be a challenge, especially if they lack field experience or previous exposure to safety protocols.
Leibold emphasizes the importance of educating and providing the necessary information and protocols to ensure new employees understand and abide by safety standards. It is crucial to instill a safety culture and not compromise on safety, even if it means taking longer or facing initial resistance.
He advises other companies to emphasize safety as a priority and avoid compromising safety for shortcuts. Leibold mentions that more and more clients are prioritizing safety in their projects.
Many clients demand a high safety standard, especially in sensitive facilities, and not meeting those standards could result in losing future work. The industry as a whole has placed a significant emphasis on safety in recent years, and Leibold believes that it is crucial to continue moving forward with a strong focus on safety to shape a positive perception of the industry.
The discussion covers various aspects of safety culture in the construction industry, including the importance of education, buy-in from employees and clients, and the need to prioritize safety even when faced with challenges and tight timelines.
Leibold Inc. has won two safety awards from the KCA for being the safest subcontractor under 50,000 man-hours worked with zero injuries for two consecutive years.
In this episode, Vice President of Aims Construction, Mike Tarle, gets in-depth on the topic of how the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry can better deal with local government. Tarle, who serves as the town council president of McCandless Township, shares his insights from both his professional experience in the construction industry and his role in local government.
They delve into the importance of developing personal relationships with government officials, meeting the concerns of neighbors and stakeholders, and addressing challenges such as stormwater management and outdated zoning codes.
The conversation highlights the significance of communication and collaboration between the AEC industry and local government for successful development projects.
Building with confidence and navigating risk in construction: Insights from NFP, the Global Insurance Broker.
In this episode, the Building PA Podcast and guest Ivan Usero sheds light on the critical role of NFP, a global insurance broker, in helping construction companies mitigate risks. Ivan Usero provides valuable insights into risk management strategies, the importance of technology, and various types of risks in the construction industry.
By understanding and addressing these risks, contractors can protect their projects, enhance safety measures, and ensure a smoother claims process.
Usero highlights the concept of outsourced risk management, where NFP assumes the responsibility of handling commercial insurance and risk-related matters on behalf of their clients. They assist in program design, risk transfer, consultation, and other aspects to minimize exposures and positively impact clients' bottom line.
The hosts and Usero discuss the significance of mitigating risk in the construction industry. They explore different types of risk, including environmental, force majeure, and supply chain risks. Asano stresses that risk mitigation is crucial because construction risks can be costly, often ranging from 10% to 15% of project value, especially in cities like New York and Chicago.
They also touch on vandalism and theft, contractural transfer and trends, and future considerations.
Usero shares insights into emerging trends in the insurance industry. He emphasizes the need for contractors to be proactive and innovative in adopting technology and managing risks. Additionally, he advises paying attention to market updates, such as changes in construction insurance policies, inflation's impact on costs, and potential penalties associated with coinsurance.
NFP is a massive global insurance broker, generating close to $2 billion in revenue. They offer services in various areas, including employee benefits, property and casualty, retirement planning, and more. Usero describes NFP as an agile and adaptable entity, capable of navigating the complex insurance landscape for their clients.
Ensuring a healthy work environment and fostering a positive work culture have become paramount for numerous companies. The advantages of prioritizing these aspects far exceed any associated costs.
In this podcast replay, we delve into the strategies employed by a company that places utmost importance on the well-being of its employees. The episode outlines how this organization prioritizes the health and welfare of its workforce, showcasing the significant benefits that result from such a commitment.
*Original Content:
The Building PA Podcast in partnership with Barry Isett and Associates brings you another podcast in the Healthy Work Environments Series.
This episode is with PJ Dick - Trumbull - Lindy Group's Vice President of Human Resources, Lisa Nakamura.
Nakamura expands on the high importance they place on their employees. She'll share details of how looking at the total employee helps guide them on the types of programs their company puts into place to assist with mental health and wellness initiatives.
You'll hear how their forward-thinking help attracts and retain talent. Nakamura shares that an investment or lack of investment in our employees directly affects the bottom line concluding that one dollar can provide a $3 to $5 return. Nakamura states it's well worth the investment.
Nakamura offers training tips on how to recognize signs of distress and despair in employees. And with the holidays right around the corner, the information in this podcast may offer some help and guidance to you, a friend, or a co-worker.*If you need to talk to or know someone who may need help, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. There's someone available 24 hours a day.
Josh Strickler, the COO of Diplomat Demolition, has been employing workers through worker re-entry programs for almost 20 years.
Diplomat Demolition employs workers who have gone through re-entry programs, with 70 out of 70 workers having some form of re-entry background. Approximately 20-30 workers have come directly from re-entry programs, while another 20 have criminal backgrounds.
Diplomat Demolition has incorporated worker re-entry programs into its growth strategy. This initiative started when they had a large project and hired a project manager who was a veteran. This led them to explore worker re-entry in work release programs, and they began hiring individuals from such programs after evaluating their performance.
Diplomat Demolition shared they find real value in work release because of the availability of a reliable labor force, especially for seasonal work. The company aims to focus on hiring individuals when they are released from these programs. They have obtained OSHA 10 certification and are working on the logistics, including hiring a driver.
Hiring workers from re-entry programs involves dealing with more red tape, especially post-COVID. There are differences in the hiring process compared to hiring from prisons. Diplomat Demolition is currently working on refining its process by partnering with organizations like IMPACT. They have also faced challenges related to transportation and tools reaching job sites, especially when most of their employees are in Philadelphia and Delaware.
Diplomat Demolition has successfully integrated worker re-entry programs into its operations, capitalizing on the available labor force and contributing to the reintegration of individuals into society. They have faced challenges in logistics, transportation, and bureaucracy but continue to expand and grow while maintaining a positive reputation in the industry.
In this podcast episode, the host introduces Josh Strickler, the Chief Operations Officer at Diplomat Demolition. The discussion centers around worker re-entry, a topic that has been increasingly discussed in recent years but has not been covered on the podcast before.
Strickler shares his experiences and insights on employing veterans and individuals who are reentering the workforce after incarceration. He talks about how Diplomat Demolition started working with organizations like Impact Services and the Montgomery County correctional facility to hire individuals from these backgrounds.
Strickler emphasizes the positive impact these individuals have had on the company, their strong work ethic, and the low turnover rate. Strickler also discusses the benefits of having a consistent labor force through work release programs and the value of re-entry programs in providing support and training for individuals transitioning back into society.
Work release programs provide a consistent labor force for companies with seasonal fluctuations.
In this episode, we have a special guest, Kerry Smith, a freelance writer and expert in media relations. We dive into the topic of storytelling and the interview process, exploring what makes a good story.
Our enthusiastic hosts are excited to learn from Smith's wisdom and experience.
Smith introduces herself as a serial entrepreneur however, she clarifies that her innovation lies in various writing forms, ranging from news publications to websites, ghostwriting, and now podcasts.
Smith reflects on the evolving landscape of the industry, particularly the impact on journalism and editorial content. She highlights the shift from traditional print advertising to digital platforms, which has significantly affected revenue streams.
The conversation delves deeper into the implications for professionals in the construction industry. Smith emphasizes the importance of contractors, architects, engineers, and the supply chain in telling their own stories, as there is a decline in business reporters covering their work. With limited media attention, companies must proactively share their achievements and projects. Smith's construction magazine, Saint Louis Construction News, plays a vital role in reaching out to these industry players and providing a platform for them to showcase their work.
In this podcast episode, the focus is once again on safety. The discussion revolves around strategies that construction businesses can employ to create safer work environments, aiming for zero injuries and reducing OSHA recordable incidents.
Original Content:
The HR and Safety Director of Kalkreuth Roofing and Sheet Metal, Seth Abraham, stopped by the Building PA Podcast to discuss labor relations and safety. Listen in as Seth discusses his thoughts on workforce development and the value relationships bring to creating a safety culture across five offices and seven states.
Seth shared that at Kalkreuth, the company sees HR and safety as a combination that ties labor together. His challenge is to encourage his team to focus on zero tolerance and incidents while balancing relationships. Seth discussed why relationships are so important in this industry because “you quickly learn who to rely on internally and that is not only in the field but in the office as well.”
This positive and powerful podcast addresses a topic that the Building PA Podcast, can not talk enough about - workplace mental health and suicide prevention.
Our guest, Cal Beyer, Vice President of Workforce Risk and Worker Wellbeing for Holmes and Murphy is sharing his personal and professional journey of communicating, educating, and informing individuals in the field of construction.
Our co-hosts dig deep with Beyer to learn how companies can jump-start tough conversations with the office and field. You'll learn practical ways to break down barriers and start communicating.
Take a minute, or 20, and listen to a podcast that could change your life or the life of someone else.
If you or someone you know needs help, text or call 988 to talk to someone.
Construction safety is an ongoing conversation. This podcast replay with Bob McCall, safety director for the MBA shares insight into job site safety and how safety is compromised when we aren't focused on the root cause which is often stress and mental health and wellness.
On the heels of Construction Safety Week, we thought this podcast was a good refresher for everyone working in the construction industry.
*Original Content
In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with the Director of Safety, Bob McCall of the Master Builders' Association. McCall is a seasoned professional in safety-related matters and candidly spoke about COVID, mental health, and the need for more programs that help construction workers.
McCall shared that COVID placed a greater reliance on safety and the need for companies to plan their work. The pandemic brought personal lives into the workplace. Workers and their families who were affected by the pandemic had a greater level of stress on the job. It's a different level of impairment and one that brought the issue of mental health and awareness of construction workers front and center.
McCall shares that it's time to start having real conversations about mental health and share resources for workers in construction.
Please listen to this podcast and share it with your family, friends, and coworkers.
If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 988.*
Our topic today, lowering OSHA recordables, may very well become the most popular download of the year. Why? Because we hear time and time again and have learned that the construction industry as a whole starts and ends the day with safety in mind.
It's one of the most talked about topics in construction. Companies strive for a good safety rating. They wear in like a badge of honor.
Our guest, Greg Johnson, president and CEO of SRS Group in Mechanicsburg, PA offers 24/7 medical triage of work-related injuries. If you call you are guaranteed to talk to a registered nurse who can help facilitate next steps. In addition to lowering OSHA recordables this program can help lower medical and indemnity costs and expedite return to work.
This podcast is guaranteed to make you think about how you handle work-related injuries.
For more information on the SRS Group visit thesrsgroup.net
The construction industry is a dynamic industry and fiercely competitive.
Now more than ever, project presentation and how you sell and communicate your company's unique strengths to the owner, board, and decision-makers is critical.
Long gone are the days when you can win a job by simply selling safe, on time, and on budget. These things are expected by owners. It's time to take the next step in selling and start to sell by telling your story.
Every company has a story, or unique value proposition that sets them apart from the competition.
This podcast touches on the communication tools you need to break through the chatter and elevate your message so owners want to hear more and help you close the deal.
If you're in business development, marketing, or part of any pitch team this podcast is for you. Take a listen and give us your feedback at Tracy@AtlasStories.com.
To learn more about how to craft your story, go to atlasstories.com
In recognition of National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 17-21, we thought it was the perfect opportunity to share a podcast replay with Rich Barcaskey of the Constructors Association of Western Pennsylvania (CAWP). He shares some great advice. As drivers, follow work zone signs, slow down, and save lives!
Take a listen to this podcast replay. It's a great reminder of the small things we can do to keep our highways safer.
*Original Content:
We've all been there, you're in your car on your way to your annual family vacation destination or just making your daily trip to work, and you're stopped or slowed down because of traffic due to road construction. It seems like road construction and repair are everywhere, and you're right, it is! And whether you believe it or not, it's a good thing.
With the recent Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, road construction and repair of bridges and highways are booming and making our infrastructure in PA better and safer.
We invited the Executive Director of CAWP (The Constructors of Western Pennsylvania), Rich Barcaskey to give us some insight into heavy highway repair, construction, and the importance of being a patient and responsible driver when you are driving through construction zones.
One of the most important, if not the most important concern for the CAWP is the safety of their workers. As drivers, we can do our part by obeying the speed limit, minimizing distractions, and staying alert while driving through construction areas.
This summer CAWP developed a new initiative to recognize the hard-working men and women working in heavy highway and construction. The program is called CAWP Cares and includes a bag packed with essentials for workers to help them take care of themselves— sunscreen, a cooling towel, a tick-removal kit, and many more useful items to have on the job. CAWP has also included a printed brochure with daily tips to help them with their mental health and physical well-being.
To learn more about the Constructors of Western Pennsylvania check out CAWP.org.*
For this episode, we invited our friends Mackenzie Carolan and Todd Zdunkewicz with Linbeck Construction to join the podcast and share their seller/doer model of success.
Our seller is Mackenzie Carolan, vice president, of business development at Linbeck in Dallas, TX. Our doer is Todd Zdunkewicz, project manager with Linbeck Construction in Houston, TX.
We know a lot of our listeners use this method of selling, but Linbeck gave us an interesting perspective on their approach.
Learn why they believe seller/doer is a culture, not just a practice.
Well, it looks like prefabrication IS here to stay. It's been over a year since we aired this podcast and supply chain issues continue to remain a headache for the construction industry.
This podcast is worth another listen. Why? Because there are some great tips and stories of how prefabricated products are solving problems and helping to get jobs done without delay.
Original Content -
Jim Gabriel, president of MODLOGIQ shed light on why prefabrication is trending across the construction industry.
Owners, general contractors, designers, and architects are turning to modular construction for several reasons. One of the biggest reasons is that the world is changing. Gabriel speaks openly about the pandemic and how modular construction has helped contractors and projects continue to move ahead even when job sites are shut down. This is due in part, to 80% of modular construction being constructed off-site. When MODLOGIQ finishes a project, it’s set and ready to be shipped and installed without the headache of on-site construction.
We also will put to rest some of the myths about modular construction and prefabrication. The perception is that modular construction is cheaper. Gabriel comments, “it’s not cheaper, it provides more cost certainty for their clients and helps reduce cost escalation.”
You’ll also hear more about the unique ways modular construction is being used. Gabriel talks about “pushing the envelope” in their industry. Prefabrication and modularization are pushing to do more than just affordable housing or single-family homes. MODLOGIQ is trying to bring their business up to standards that designers and owners expect from traditional builds.
We know our listeners always want to hear the take on safety as it relates to our topics. We asked Gabriel how prefabrication translates to a safer job site. He shares his thoughts, insights, and more in this next episode of the Building PA Podcast.
The podcast has had the privilege of interviewing many prominent architects in Pennsylvania. But today's guest is a different kind of architect. He's not building buildings, he's building and inspiring wellness.
David Whitesock is the founder of Commonly Well and the architect of Recovery Capital Index®. RCI provides a comprehensive picture of a person's whole being using an online automated survey. The RCI is person-centered. The program is scientifically validated to reliably measure addiction wellness.
Unfortunately, substance abuse and addiction have skyrocketed post-COVID. According to the CDC, construction workers are the highest mortality rates for drug overdose and death.
Whitesock shares his personal story and what helped him stay on a path to recovery and what inspired him to give back.
This podcast is bursting with truth, honesty, and humility. It's a podcast story to share with your friends, coworkers, and industry professionals.
In honor of Women's History Month, we thought we would entertain our audiences with one of our most interesting and popular podcast interviews with a female guest. Tonya Byrd, business development manager for Gilbane Building Company, shares her insights on construction business development, building relationships, and life in general.
This podcast replay is guaranteed to make you think a little bit about strategies for growing your business and building relationships...for life.
Original Content -
If you asked 100 construction professionals to define business development you would get 100 similar answers that sound something like this—When it comes to organizational growth, business development acts as the thread that ties together all of a company's functions or departments, helping a business expand and improve its sales, revenues, product offerings, talent, customer service, and brand awareness.
But we weren't looking for the same old answers. We wanted a new and fresh perspective on business development which is why we invited Business Development Manager for Gilbane Building Company, Tonya Byrd to share her definition of business development her way.
Byrd has been in the space of business development for 18 years and believes there are three keys that bring success to her role in the industry, one, you must love people, two, you must love problem-solving and three you must love people. You'll learn why Byrd lists one and three as the same.
This is an episode that is filled with wit, humor, insight, and reality. Download this episode to listen to Byrd's candid messaging and learn why her LinkedIn profile reads, "Building relationships is my jam."
Take our word for it. This is a 30-minute podcast you won't want to miss!
Our special guest, Executive Training Director at Eastern Atlantic States Technical College, and long-time Carpenter, Rob Smith, took some time to talk about recruitment efforts specifically in the underserved communities in Pennsylvania.
Smith expanded on the statewide Carpenters Apprentice Ready Program (CARP). CARP is a Pennsylvania state-certified pre-apprentice initiative designed to open doors for people who may not have been exposed to the trades in the past. The goal is to create opportunities and pathways for their future.
Check out CARP and learn more about this growing program and how it can help advance young adults looking to get into the trades.
This podcast replay focuses on the groundbreaking technology and work that CNX is doing and features one of the most down-to-earth environmentally-conscious "Yinzers" in the business, Nick Deiuliis.
Read all the details in this news release on the Pittsburgh Airport project.
Original Content:
Everyone loves a good comeback story and there's no better story to tell than how the city of Pittsburgh turned from a depressed coal miner's town into a thriving city and suburb filled with environmentally conscious businesses and people.
Lifelong Pittsburger, or "Yinzer," Nick Deiuliis, president and chief executive officer for CNX shares his view of watching the city change and now working on the Pittsburgh Airport renovation on its way to becoming the first self-sustaining airport in the United States.
Deiuliis shares details about the project and the innovation behind the work being done. He also talks about the strategies to reduce emissions and costs for transportation and other industries.
For our listeners who want to hear a story of innovation, technology, and how a project of this size will help reduce carbon footprint, this podcast is for you.
Download now and share with your co-workers and colleagues.
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, we talked with Joe Bucci, counsel at JacksonKelly PLLC who shares his unique education and career path - from trades to attorney.
Bucci starts college, switches into the trades, goes back to college, earns his law degree, and is now an attorney for JacksonKelly PLLC practicing construction law.
This podcast sheds light on the positive aspects of two very different paths for high school students - college or trades. Bucci contributes his ability to connect with his construction clients to his experience as a laborer and apprentice steamfitter who worked in the field and office, learning all aspects of the construction business.
This podcast is great for high school students deciding on their path for the future.
February marks career and technical education (CTE) month. There's no better podcast replay to share than our recording with the President of the National ACE Mentor Program, Diana Eidenshink. This program is a fantastic opportunity for students and businesses. Students benefit and learn from mentors and mentors help educate young adults about architecture, construction, and engineering.
Original Content
Are you a professional in the field of architecture, construction, or engineering and feel like you have experience and knowledge to share?
Do you have the desire to provide insight into your profession and help mentor students? The ACE Mentor program may be the right fit for you. Diana Eidenshink, national president of the ACE Mentor program talks with Chris and Jon about all aspects of the ACE program and how industry professionals can become volunteer mentors for future generations.
There are benefits to being a mentor and a mentee. The ACE Mentor program is a free, award-winning after-school program unified across 37 states. Experienced industry leaders share their insight and time with students who are considering a profession in the construction industry related to contractors, architects and engineers. In addition to insight and experience, mentors discuss best practices and how to excel in the industry. “We utilize technology to address mentees' needs. In addition, we focus on green projects because that is a big ask of the students,” said Eidenshink. She shares examples of projects that students work on and how to become a mentee. Learn more at acementor.org.
Our guest on this episode of the Building PA Podcast is David Callahan, president of the Marcellus Shale Coalition® (MSC).
The MSCs mission is to work with exploration and production, midstream, and supply chain partners in the Appalachian Basin and across the country to address issues regarding the production of clean, job-creating American natural gas from the Marcellus and Utica Shale plays.
The MSC wants to provide as much information to the public, policymakers, regulators, and other public stakeholders about the positive effects responsible natural gas production is having on families, businesses, and communities in the region.
This episode is sure to get you thinking about natural gas extraction differently.
Visit Marcellus Shale Coalition for more information.
Sarah Knehr, senior project manager at Quandel Construction group, is one of those professionals in the construction industry with so much drive and energy it's contagious. She's involved with the KCA's emerging leaders initiative and is a resource for anyone looking to get into the construction profession.
There's a reason she was nominated as the top young leader by the KCA in 2021. She's so inspiring to young professionals we felt that her podcast was worth a replay.
If you know a high school student or young professional interested in construction, share this episode.
Original content:
In today's podcast, co-hosts, Jon and Chris are joined by a special guest, senior project manager for Quandel Construction Group, Sarah Knehr—KCA’s 2021 Top Young Leader Award winner.
Knehr was chosen as the winner because of her outstanding performance on the job and in the community.
*You'll hear Knehr's insight on the importance of embracing young students, both high school and college-aged, and exposing them to the construction profession. She shares the value of job shadowing and learning about “the day in the life,” of an architect, project manager, or engineer. It’s hard for students to answer the question, “what do you want to be or do with your life,” if they aren’t given examples or exposure to different occupations.
Knehr supports and volunteers with the ACE Mentor Program and is dedicated to the education of young adults considering a profession in construction.*
A senior project manager at Quandel Construction Group, Inc. Knehr has been with the company for almost a decade. Knehr started her career early in the construction industry as a co-op student in high school splitting her days between school at work at Quandel.
Knehr is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati and holds a Bachelor of Science in architecture.
Quote:
I am passionate about my career and this industry. It shows in my work, in my leadership, and how I'm trying to be more active in the community.
- Sarah Knehr
The saying "jack of all trades, master of none" does not apply to this podcast guest and the company he represents.
Greg Heddaeus, vice president of Carl Walker Construction, shares the company's focus and area of expertise — building parking garages.
We wanted to learn and share with our listeners how specializing benefits their business goals and mission. Heddaeus notes, "we know the importance of staying in our lane. Our main focus is building parking garages, but we recognize the economic climate in construction is always changing, which is why we have two additional divisions that provide complimentary work to help support our team through tough economic times."
Listen to hear more about how Carl Walker Construction approached workforce development and how they maintain low employee turnover.
To connect with Carl Walker Construction, visit their website or email info@carlwalkerconstruction.com.
In 2023 the Building PA Podcast will be bringing our listeners some podcasts worth a replay. Enjoy the October 2021 podcast with Kevin Trout on the benefits of a strong company culture.
*Original content -
Join the Building PA Podcast to listen to Kevin Trout share his insights into the benefits a strong culture will have on your company. Kevin joins us as a former owner and CEO of a medical supply company and current Vistage chair and facilitator for CEO groups.
In the discussion, Trout emphasizes the importance of establishing a strong culture as part of the hiring, onboarding, and operations process. Trout said the process of creating a strong culture begins when companies “think of their company values as nouns with the second step focusing on creating verbs to support the nouns.” This two-step process defines the behaviors you expect and encourages team members to focus on action toward those behaviors.
Listen in as Trout shares his four stages of growth. Within these stages lies the secret to a strong and robust culture, which includes:
• First gear – owner wears all the hats and begins acquiring clients
• Second gear – employees are hired and all report to the owner. Profits in this stage are high.
• Third gear – owner begins investing in the company and hires professional managers. Profits in this stage shrink due to additional employees.
• Fourth gear – owner becomes the face of the company and profits grow exponentially as the company grows.*
This podcast replay was recorded in January 2022 with President, Pedro Rivera of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. The podcast remains relevant in our current state of workforce development. Take another listen.
Original Content -
Listen as President Rivera shares insight into industry trends related to workforce development beyond traditional construction-related skills such as career counseling, heavy equipment training, and professional career paths that will have significant impact. It's vital to the success of any workforce development programs they rely on training to address the entire student to ensure that future workforces are prepared to positively address future needs. Rivera shares several stories of his experiences.
President Rivera discusses future programs necessary to support the state’s future needs, such as civil engineering specific to water treatment and sewage related to planned infrastructure investments.
Thaddeus Stevens College has various programs to include contractors and owners in meeting industry needs such as advisory panels, internships, externships, and soft skills counseling. If interested in learning more about opportunities, visit Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology.
More about President Pedro Rivera:
•Rivera is the former Secretary of Education.
•Appointed by Governor Wolf to that position in 2015.
•Previously served as superintendent to the School District of Lancaster.
•Served in the Philadelphia school district for 13 years
•Undergraduate degree from Penn State University
•M.A. from Cheyney University of PA
•Rivera became President of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, in October 2021
Read more about this topic in the interview that President Rivera gave for the upcoming January 2022 issue of the Keystone Contractor Magazine.
The Building PA Podcast continues its quest in 2023, tackling some of the industry's most talked-about topics. In 2022, much of the construction industry was focused on worker shortage. In 2023, the conversation will likely continue to be a high-priority topic.
In our continued effort to bring answers and solutions to our listeners, we reconnected with one of the nation's most popular high school programs, the ACE Mentor Program of America.
Our guest, Northeast Regional Director, Darius Johnson, shares more about the program's growth, how businesses can get involved with the program, and how high school students benefit from working one-on-one with professional mentors.
The businesses that partner with the ACE Mentor Program agree they get more out of the program than they could have imagined. It's an investment in the future - our workforce's future.
To learn more about the ACE Mentor Program visit https://www.acementor.org/.
During 2022 the Building PA Podcast has had the pleasure to interview some extraordinary individuals. Architects, engineers, economists, construction professionals, attorneys, legislators, state and local authorities, authors, insurance agents, CEOs, construction specialists and mental health and wellness experts, and association presidents.
Of the 50-plus individuals we've interviewed, we want to recognize each one of them for their expertise and willingness to share their industry knowledge with our podcast audience.
While we would love to call out all of the special moments, one-liners, and quotes from each podcast we went through the difficult task of narrowing it down to a few standouts.
Take a listen and let us know what your favorite podcast episode was from 2022.
Happy New Year!
In an industry that often embraces a "race to the bottom" pricing mentality, we wanted to pivot the conversation slightly and focus on how construction companies can bring value to their clients.
Our guest, John Hayden, has been in the construction industry for 37 years. Much of John's experience lives in the world of performance construction. The energy component Hayden uses to help his clients with cost savings does not take dollars off the bottom line at first, but provides long-term solutions and savings for years to come.
This approach - especially in renovation projects - has become more popular in the green building space. Hayden reveals trending topics on the energy side of building and renovating, and gives examples of how he saves his clients money. He also discusses how long-term savings earns his clients tax rebates that can help them experience a greener way of building.
John Hayden is the director of Engineering at Quandel Energy Solutions.
On the Building PA Podcast, we often talk about large, expansive projects and the orchestration of managing a 50 to 100-million-dollar project from the ground up.
In this episode, we are swinging the pendulum and talking about small projects, and the unique challenges that come along with a project in the five million dollars or less category.
Katie Walsh, project manager and architect with the SmithGroup in Pittsburgh, PA, shares what she has learned working on small projects. There are benefits to being involved in all aspects of a project and many architects that work on larger projects don't get the experience of dealing with contractors, owners, and subcontractors. On a smaller project, you do.
This is a great podcast for young architects navigating their way through their careers. There is a lot of knowledge to be gained by working on smaller tenant fit-outs, renovations, and workplace repositioning projects.
Workforce issues aren't a new topic for the construction industry. COVID only enhanced the problem, which forced some companies to look for new ways to fill positions and help solve worker shortage.
We have had many business owners and executives on the podcast share steps they are taking in their businesses to help minimize this problem. In this episode, we wanted to bring our listeners an individual who deals with finding solutions to this problem on a daily basis.
Director of the Apprenticeship and Training Office for the Commonwealth of PA, Tara Loew believes our state has a resource right under our nose that is being underutilized - registered apprenticeship programs.
Loew talks about how companies can benefit by looking into these programs as a workforce resource.
If your company is experiencing difficulties finding employees and keeping employees this podcast offers suggestions on how to think beyond traditional job fairs and job postings. These are steps you can take to make an investment in your company and work personnel.
The Building PA Podcast has great respect for the men and women that have served and continue to serve to protect our country and freedom. To all of you, we thank you.
In recognition of Veterans Day, November 11th, 2022, we are honored to interview Ralph Galati, a fellow Veteran that has dedicated his life to helping Veterans receive the benefits they deserve and find jobs they need.
Galati's combined experience in the military, academics, and business are key components in helping vets find employment and meaningful careers.
Galati works closely with Vetjobs.org to help in every aspect of life where a Veteran may need assistance.
This podcast is a great resource for Veterans and those who know Veterans struggling to find work or gain access to the benefits they deserve.
Everyone loves a good comeback story and there's no better story to tell than how the city of Pittsburgh turned from a depressed coal miner's town into a thriving city and suburb filled with environmentally conscious businesses and people.
Lifelong Pittsburger, or "Yinzer," Nick Deiuliis, president and chief executive officer for CNX shares his view of watching the city change and now working on the Pittsburgh Airport renovation on its way to becoming the first self-sustaining airport in the United States.
Deiuliis shares details about the project and the innovation behind the work being done. He also talks about the strategies to reduce emissions and costs for transportation and other industries.
For our listeners who want to hear a story of innovation, technology, and how a project of this size will help reduce carbon footprint, this podcast is for you.
Download now and share with your co-workers and colleagues.
This Fall Pennsylvania will be a focal point for people across the country as they watch the very highly publicized race for Governor and Senate.
In recognition of the upcoming November 8 election, we wanted to share with our listeners the importance of the election and the issues facing owners, and individuals that work in or with the construction industry.
Our guest Steve Massaro, is the chairman of the General Contractors Association of Pennsylvania, GCAP, and president of Massaro Corporation. Massaro in his position at GCAP and as a business owner along with the Building PA Podcast want to be clear that we do not endorse candidates we endorse issues.
You'll hear about the numerous issues that continue to plague the construction industry and what we, as construction professionals, need to stay alert to.
Download this episode and share the link with your friends and co-workers.
And last but not least, DON'T FORGET TO VOTE!
Click here to find your polling place.
Frank Howard from Howard Concrete Pumping, knows a thing or two about abandoned mine land reclamation.
Their company has completed more mine reclamation projects than our competitors combined in the regions we serve. Howard has completed nearly 30,000 injection holes for over 2,000,000 feet of drilling and 1,100,00 cubic yards of grout in the past ten years.
Abandoned Mine Land reclamation (AML), serves an important part in restoring the environment in Pennsylvania and surrounding states. Companies like Howard Concrete Pumping that work in AML reclamation help resolve mine fires, mine subsidence, dangerous high walls, open shafts and portals, mining-impacted water supplies, and other hazards resulting from past coal mining.
The infrastructure and jobs act has helped fund the continued work on AML.
Tune in to listen to the fascinating stories of how this work will make Pennsylvania safer and healthier.
The dynamic podcast duo, Chris Martin and Jon O’Brien are on the road and will be appearing in person at the GOSH Conference, Monday, October 31 from 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM to speak about “New Methods for Delivering Safety Information.”
COVID has forced many safety professionals to seek new communication methods or vehicles to tell the safety story. The advent of the remote worker has also placed strains on the importance of safety on the job. In this presentation, audience members will learn about new methods for delivering safety information via social media, podcasts, and traditional print magazines.
Listen to a preview of what the Building PA Podcast team plans to discuss.
To attend this year’s GOSH conference and to Chris and Jon speak, you can register at pasafetyconference.com.
If you asked 100 construction professionals to define business development you would get 100 similar answers that sound something like this—When it comes to organizational growth, business development acts as the thread that ties together all of a company's functions or departments, helping a business expand and improve its sales, revenues, product offerings, talent, customer service, and brand awareness.
But we weren't looking for the same old answers. We wanted a new and fresh perspective on business development which is why we invited Business Development Manager for Gilbane Building Company, Tonya Byrd to share her definition of business development her way.
Byrd has been in the space of business development for 18 years and believes there are three keys that bring success to her role in the industry, one, you must love people, two, you must love problem-solving and three you must love people. You'll learn why Byrd list one and three as the same.
This is an episode that is filled with wit, humor, insight, and reality. Download this episode to listen to Byrd's candid messaging and learn why her LinkedIn profile reads, "Building relationships is my jam."
Take our word for it. This is a 30-minute podcast you won't want to miss!
While the hazards faced in construction are in some ways similar to those in other industries, there are some unique issues that safety professionals and contractors must consider.
In our ongoing pursuit to educate and inform professionals in the construction industry about safety on the job site and in the office we are hosting Risk Manager and Certified Safety Professional, Brent Gates with Strickler Agency.
As the leader of the risk management program within his company, Gates works with clients to assess their risk management needs and how he can assist them in risk control. Many times small to mid-sized construction companies won't have a dedicated safety professional on staff so Gates and his company offer this value-added service for their clients to help with compliance and safety assessments.
If clients "don't know what they don't know," Gates is there to help them put safety plans in place, train field workers and office personnel to heighten their safety IQ, and minimize injuries on the job.
Gates will be speaking at this year's GOSH conference at the Hershey Lodge, on October 31-November 1. The topic is Managing Subcontractor Safety- How General Contractors Can Mitigate Their Risk.
To learn more about the Governor's Occupational Safety & Health Conference, GOSH, or sign up to attend go to pasafetyconference.com.
If you are a professional working in a job that requires you to stay up to date on all things related to safety, then you need to listen to this podcast.
Chris and Jon invited Paula Loht, corporate director of safety for Gannett Fleming and PA Governor’s Occupational Safety & Health Conference, GOSH, committee member to talk about this year's upcoming GOSH conference, October 31-November 1 at the Hershey Lodge.
The GOSH conference is where safety, innovation, education, and best practices come together.
Over the past ninety-five years, the GOSH Committee has educated and empowered safety professionals, employers, and employees throughout the Commonwealth. More than 80,000 safety professionals have come together to learn, share best practices, and network to make Pennsylvania a safer place to work.
Loht shares why topics like "active shooter" are gaining in attendance. Informative speakers and sessions like this are why this year looks to be one of the most highly attended events by safety professionals in all fields. There's so much to learn about safety at the GOSH conference.
Go to pasafetyconference.com to register and learn more about the topics and speakers for this year's event.
This episode of the Building PA Podcast continues our commitment to talking about mental health and wellness and suicide prevention.
September 4-11 marked the one week set aside to highlight suicide prevention on a national level however, it's a topic that needs to continue to be at the forefront of conversation among all professions, especially in the construction industry.
This month we've thrown out a lot of statistics about suicide in the construction industry and the number of deaths by suicide is staggering. Recognizing the warning signs is a great first step in helping to move the needle on this national crisis.
Our guest today, Rich Jones, clinical therapist, a recovering addict, and chief clinical officer with YouTurn Health talks openly about his addiction and the importance of recognizing the signs that someone may need help.
Jones says, "It can start with a simple question, are you OK?" Jones believes the solution is in peer-to-peer conversations and humans supporting humans. He encourages people to set aside their old ways of thinking and the stigma associated with not being ok and slowly start to open up and engage co-workers, friends, and family who are showing signs that they may need help.
YouTurn Health is a virtual program that provides comprehensive addiction recovery and education and support. You can learn more at youtrunhealth.com.
If you or someone you know needs immediate help or support, call or text the national suicide crisis hotline, 988.
Today's podcast continues the conversation about suicide prevention and mental health and wellness in the construction workplace.
Our guest, Mark St. Cyr, carpenter, union member, and construction superintendent openly shares his story of abuse and mental health issues that led him down a path of addiction at a very early age.
St. Cyr is 15 years sober and has dedicated his life to helping men and women in construction struggling with substance abuse disorders. As a superintendent, he runs a job with an open door policy making it known to his workers that they can come to him with any problem or concern at any time and that they will be received with an open mind and no judgment.
As the President and Treasurer of the nonprofit, Club Serenity, St. Cyr is actively fulfilling his life's mission to help those who haven't yet found their way to the path of sobriety.
Club Serenity is a recovery group located in Charleroi, PA. The mission is to continuously work toward a drug-free society; one individual, one family, one community at a time.
If you or someone you know needs help text or call the national crisis hotline, 988.
According to the CDC, men working in construction have one of the highest rates of suicide compared to all other industries. A shocking statistic, but one not that can not be ignored.
Today's podcast is all about shining a light on mental health and wellness in construction. We're kicking off this month with a candid conversation with the Director of Safety for the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Washington, Mandi Kime.
Kime is an accomplished safety professional and leader within the construction industry on the topic of mental health & wellness.
This podcast conversation is candid, bold, and thought-provoking. To learn that men are two and a half times more likely to die by suicide than homicide is jaw-dropping. That's statistic is worth repeating, MEN ARE 2 1/2 TIMES MORE LIKELY TO DIE BY SUICIDE THAN HOMICIDE, and the only way to move the needle on this statistic is to talk, engage, educate and build awareness.
This podcast is filled with tips to help recognize the signs of depression or distress. We've included resources and links to help you gain assess to private mental assessments.
If you are in the construction industry, take a moment to listen to this episode. Do it for yourself, your staff, a coworker, or a friend.
**If you or someone you know needs immediate help, text or call the Suicide and Crisis hotline 988.
C**heck out mantherapy.org and take a private mental health assessment. This is a great resource and starting point if you are dealing with anxiety, depression, and/or substance abuse.
Workforce development is a topic that we've talked about a lot on the podcast and written about repeatedly in The Keystone Contractor. When we open up the topic for discussion, we're often left with more questions than answers.
There's no doubt that the construction industry is facing significant worker shortages. So rather than talking about the same grim statistics, we want to share a story of positivity and hope through one business owner's eyes. Neal Rivers, executive vice president of Easley & Rivers in Pittsburgh shares his positive perspective on workforce development and how fortunate he feels to be insulated from what much of the construction industry is experiencing.
As a union contractor Rivers shares that they have been fortunate and haven't had to deal with the workforce issues others may be feeling. He credits the trades and their efforts in getting quality people into the industry. Rivers also feels that his geography, western PA, and his clients have also had a strong and positive impact on limiting the issues of workforce development.
This episode is an uplifting story that we feel brings hope for what the future holds for the construction industry.
Easley & Rivers is a specialty sub-contractor working in interior construction, interior systems, and interior furniture.
For 27 years, Pennsylvania has had the highest non-graduated tax in the United States. This tax rate of 9.9% has limited Pennsylvania's ability to be competitive in bringing new businesses to the Keystone state. With the corporate net income tax reduction, that's about to change.
To talk more about the tax reduction bill we invited the President of The Greater Pittsburgh Chamber of Commerce, Matt Smith to be our guest. Smith is part of a team of dedicated business leaders, state officials, and legislators who worked diligently for many years to get this rate reduced.
Smith talks about the advantages and growth opportunities for businesses in PA and how this will help stimulate the economy within the Keystone state.
The tax reduction will start at the beginning of 2023.
In this podcast, we've broken down the details of this bill to give business owners and the business community some positive news about growth and opportunity that will happen in the not-so-distant future.
We'd like to continue the conversation. Be sure to share your questions in the comments section of our social media.
On the Building PA Podcast, we've talked a lot about workforce development and realize there's more to add to this conversation. Many businesses, not just in construction, are faced with workforce issues daily. So we've asked the question, where are all of the workers?
We decided to bring an expert to the show with knowledge about workforce issues and solutions for businesses that find themselves unable to solve this dilemma day in and day out.
Jesse McCree, CEO of SCPa Works is bringing us some updates on current initiatives in place in PA and resources for employers. SCPa Works is a regional workforce development board that serves eight counties in south central PA. This workforce board is made up of public-private partnerships that serve to connect employers and job seekers. SCPa Works acts as an intermediary and provides funding, training, education, and programs to connect job seekers and learners to jobs that are available.
This episode touches on many different aspects of the workforce issue. Learn what McCree means when he talks about the "demographic drought" and why he believes this is a structural issue not cyclical.
This episode will not disappoint those trying to navigate their way through the evolving workforce development dilemma. Be sure to share with your peers and coworkers in the industry.
For more information about SCPa Works, you can visit their website https://scpaworks.org/contact/.
On today's show, we invited the Co-Founder and CSO of Vertical, Aaron Priest to talk more about how technology can affect the bottom line for construction companies.
Vertical is a software platform that solves problems around construction compliance and documentation. In other words, Vertical has found a way to get contractors paid FASTER.
We started the conversation off by asking how Vertical is impacting their client's bottom line. Priest commented that Vertical's particular focus started with lean waivers and sworn statements which is the last mile of documentation that can cause a lot of headaches in the final stages of the construction process when contractors are trying to get paid. Verticals product helps solve that problem.
Construction companies are always looking for ways to increase their bottom line. We know that embracing technology is a big part of it. Statistically speaking the construction industry is playing a little bit of catchup in technology, advancement, and adoption. Particularly because what they've been doing has been working. But with the onset of Covid and workforce development issues, technology is the one element that will need to be embraced to help construction companies run leaner and more efficiently.
You can learn more about increasing your bottom line by listening to today's podcast. Be sure to check out Vertical and their software product at verticalmade.com.
Note about today's guest and their company. Vertical is the winner of the 2021 IGI (Industrial Grade Innovation) Startup Battle presented by TAUC (The Association of Union Contractors).
We've all been there, you're in your car on your way to your annual family vacation destination or just making your daily trip to work, and you're stopped or slowed down because of traffic due to road construction. It seems like road construction and repair are everywhere, and you're right, it is! And whether you believe it or not, it's a good thing.
With the recent Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, road construction and repair of bridges and highways are booming and making our infrastructure in PA better and safer.
We invited the Executive Director of CAWP (The Constructors of Western Pennsylvania), Rich Barcaskey to give us some insight into heavy highway repair, construction, and the importance of being a patient and responsible driver when you are driving through construction zones.
One of the most important, if not the most important concern for the CAWP is the safety of their workers. As drivers, we can do our part by obeying the speed limit, minimizing distractions, and staying alert while driving through construction areas.
This summer CAWP developed a new initiative to recognize the hard-working men and women working in heavy highway and construction. The program is called CAWP Cares and includes a bag packed with essentials for workers to help them take care of themselves— sunscreen, a cooling towel, a tick-removal kit, and many more useful items to have on the job. CAWP has also included a printed brochure with daily tips to help them with their mental health and physical well-being.
To learn more about the Constructors of Western Pennsylvania check out CAWP.org.
Today's guest returns to the podcast to talk about the popularity and growing demand in the multi-family housing and student housing industries for sustainable design. CEO and founder of ROCKiT Architects, Brian DiPietro shares his career experience and some favorite projects that emulate his expertise in sustainable design.
Over the past decade, sustainable design has gained in popularity because the premise behind the concept is that the design "seeks to reduce negative impacts on the environment, and the health and comfort of building occupants, thereby improving building performance." The basic objectives of sustainability are to reduce the consumption of non-renewable resources, minimize waste, and create healthy, productive environments.
DiPietro was part of a team that designed the first net-zero-energy-ready dormitory in the SUNY system.
Learn more about the design solutions being used in apartment living, post-covid, where the live-work component is the focus of some unique design concepts. These innovative ideas are allowing professionals to work from home but have the amenities of meeting spaces and coffee shops all within the comfort of their living community.
Download this episode now, to hear more.
Now more than ever companies realize the importance of providing a healthy workspace environment for their employees. This concept has been heightened post-COVID and will continue to be a priority for owners and their employees.
With the growing interest in this topic, we decided to talk with an expert on healthy workspaces and learn how people and their environment interface and how the health of the workplace and employees can help systems and processes positively affect the bottom line.
Our guest, Fran Dean-Bishop, President & CEO of Aerobodies has been working with companies, large and small to help make positive change in the workplace for over 20 years.
Bishop shared her experience in health, wellness, and process improvement solutions in this episode. If you are looking for some tips to help improve your work environment for your company and employees download this episode to begin the journey,
If your journey to a healthier workplace environment has already begun, share this episode with your network.
Thank you to Barry Isett & Associates for making this episode possible as the sponsor of the Healthy Work Environment Series.
COVID, workforce development, supply chain issues, this list goes on and on for the daily challenges faced by small businesses. It's probably safe to say that it has been a rough two years for business in general. So what does the future hold?
Recognizing that 48% of people work for small businesses, we decided to check in with Pennsylvania State Director, Greg Moreland of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) to talk about the challenges small businesses are currently facing and what NFIB is doing to help advocate for their members in Pennsylvania.
Moreland commented that their members are at a "record high in negative business optimism." Not surprising knowing that owners struggle daily to find workers to fill open positions leaving more of the workload to fall on the shoulders of business owners, sometimes doubling or tripling their responsibilities.
Part of what the NFIB does for small businesses is to stay on top of current legislative topics that might affect business owners. If it's something that will result negatively on small businesses the NFIB helps to advocate on their behalf. Moreland recommends every small business owner connect with their local legislators and build strong relationships.
Moreland shares some great recommendations for small business owners and what it will take for them to survive in our current economy.
In business, leadership is one of the most talked about topics among business professionals, owners, and executives.
In this episode, we decided to take the discussion beyond the boardroom and into the world of nonprofits and associations.
Our guest Elisa Brewer Pratt is the CEO of Brewer Pratt Solutions. Pratt is a chief strategist who specializes in organizational effectiveness. She consults with nonprofit organizations in the construction and trades association space and advises on growth and engagement as well as leadership development.
Pratt shares that "there are leaders at all levels," and everyone has the ability to become a leader by just making the conscious choice to get involved, and sometimes the "scariest thing about leadership is just getting started. "
If you are looking for practical advice and tips to help yourself, an employee or an organization grow and build leaders, then take a listen to the full episode.
Take the time to invest in yourself and learn how to "live leadership."
"Construction workers are statistically at higher risk for mental health issues than virtually any other profession." This is according to the Center for Disease Control.
This statistic was true prior to COVID and even more so now. Growing mental health concerns exist in the construction industry because it ranks second highest in suicide rates among major industries.
This topic ranks high in importance on the Building PA podcast. We are dedicated to addressing and continuing the conversation about mental health and wellness by bringing experts on the podcast to talk about this topic who can share helpful information and resources for those in need or for those who just want to learn more.
Today's guest, CEO, Matthew Stefanko is with Manual, a digital health company focused on men's health. Steffanko is the former vice president of, the National Stigma Initiative for Shatterproof.
Steffanako's focus on men's health is based on a need to help men in the construction industry. This is a national crisis and the time has come to make the resources available and accessible for construction workers and to continue the dialogue to raise awareness about mental health not only for men but for construction industry professionals working in all facets of construction.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression and you would like to help them take the next step in their mental health call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255. This is the first step in helping yourself, a coworker, or someone you know is hurting.
Sometimes you record a podcast that leaves you feeling uplifted, inspired, and motivated. It's filled with practical advice that can be applied to your professional career and your personal life. That's what you will hear in this episode of the Building PA podcast.
Our special guest, Ret. Major General John Gronski is a world-renowned author and motivational speaker. Gronski speaks about leadership and what it takes to become a good leader.
His advice to others is "have the courage to make a decision" and recognize that an all-in, optimistic attitude can make all the difference in the outcome and the perception of those you lead.
John Gronski is the author of The Ride of our Lives and Iron-Sharpened Leadership.
In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with the Director of Safety, Bob McCall of the Master Builders' Association. McCall is a seasoned professional in safety-related matters and candidly spoke about COVID, mental health, and the need for more programs that help construction workers.
McCall shared that COVID placed a greater reliance on safety and the need for companies to plan their work. The pandemic brought personal lives into the workplace. Workers and their families who were affected by the pandemic had a greater level of stress on the job. It's a different level of impairment and one that brought the issue of mental health and awareness of construction workers front and center.
McCall shares that it's time to start having real conversations about mental health and share resources for workers in construction.
Please listen to this podcast and share it with your family, friends, and coworkers.
If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 800-273-8255.
No one likes a field trip more than our co-hosts, Chris and Jon. In this episode, the guys share their unique on-site visit to the Barry Isett and Associates Mechanicsburg field testing facility. They were joined by Isett team members Nick Bauer, project manager, and Erin Burke, marketing director who showed them about construction materials testing, the importance of testing, why it's necessary for projects, and what they do daily to help to make the job site and projects safer overall.
Bauer, who has his degree in geology and environmental geo-sciences conducted a tour of the testing facility and the guys were able to see actual testing taking place.
As Burke stated, there’s no better experience than hands-on experience to understand what Barry Isett and Associates do.
Listen to the episode to learn about the materials they test and why. You’ll also learn about slump and swing tests and the impact these tests have on a project.
Barry Isett has been serving the Pennsylvania market for over 45 years. They consider themselves part of the construction team. They are a full-service multi-discipline engineering and consulting firm headquartered in Lehigh Valley with seven regional offices serving eastern and central Pennsylvania.
The Building PA Podcast would also like to recognize our partnership with Barry Isett and Associates as the sponsor of the Healthy Work Environments Series.
We wanted to know more about what a B Corp is and what is fueling the desire to become B Corp certified.
Our guest on this episode is passionate about their B Corp certification and took the time to share with us a broad overview of what it takes to achieve this status.
Beth Peiffer, owner and president of Ralph E. Jones, a painting, wallcovering, and special coatings contractor in Harrisburg, shares her company's experience around becoming B Corp certified.
Peiffer believes being a B Corp is the wave of the future.
The philosophy behind this certification is to make your company focus less on your product or service and more on the prioritization of employees and their well-being, your environmental footprint, community impact, your governance structure, and your relationship with customers and suppliers.
Listen to this latest podcast episode to hear more about Peiffer's journey to becoming B Corp certified and how this decision has changed the way they do business.
Peiffer is proud to say, "Ralph E. Jones, painting a better community!"
WELL Building. What is it? How does it differ from Lead building and is this the wave of the construction future? These questions and many more are answered by "Charles" Chip Desmone, CEO of Desmone Architects.
Desmone and his team of architects designed the first WELL Gold Certified Building in Pittsburgh, PA. They are one of just six WELL certified spaces in Pennsylvania.
Listen and learn how WELL intersects design with human health. Desmone shares his journey through WELL certification and the continued commitment, and dedication it takes to maintain this certification status.
Desmone comments that their "accidental brilliance" has led them to have a healthy, productive workspace focused on their employees' mental health, fitness, and positive workplace culture.
This podcast is sponsored by Barry Isett & Associates Healthy Work Environment Series.
The topic of captive insurance has gained in popularity. We want to know, why? So we invited Tim Ziegler, vice president, principal, and head of the construction division at McConkey Insurance to join us on the podcast to talk about captive programs and answer some questions, we’re hearing in the industry.
Ziegler brings clarity to what captive programs are and shares the three biggest advantages of being part of a captive group, why it is gaining in popularity, and who benefits the most.
McConkey Insurance and the Keystone Contractors Association are hosting a hybrid event titled, Is A Captive Program Right For My Company? Click on the link to sign up. The event is free to members. In-person lunch starts at 11:30. The presentation starts at 12 PM.
In today's podcast, co-hosts, Jon and Chris are joined by a special guest, senior project manager for Quandel Construction Group, Sarah Knehr—KCA’s 2021 Top Young Leader Award winner.
Knehr was chosen as the winner because of her outstanding performance on the job and in the community.
You'll hear Knehr's insight on the importance of embracing young students, both high school and college-aged, and exposing them to the construction profession. She shares the value of job shadowing and learning about “the day in the life,” of an architect, project manager, or engineer. It’s hard for students to answer the question, “what do you want to be or do with your life,” if they aren’t given examples or exposure to different occupations.
Knehr supports and volunteers with the ACE Mentor Program and is dedicated to the education of young adults considering a profession in construction.
A senior project manager at Quandel Construction Group, Inc. Knehr has been with the company for almost a decade. Knehr started her career early in the construction industry as a co-op student in high school splitting her days between school at work at Quandel.
Knehr is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati and holds a Bachelor of Science in architecture.
Quote:
I am passionate for my career and this industry. It shows in my work, in my leadership, and how I'm trying to be more active in the community.
- Sarah Knehr
Michael Metz-Topodas, partner with Cohen Seglias Greenhall & Furman PC returns to the Building PA Podcast to talk about contract management. In this episode, Topodas shares insight about contract management and how it relates to change management.
Topodas sees the contract as an equation; the contractor will do work and in exchange, they will receive money or payment. This is balance. The imbalance occurs when something happens on a job that requires extra work and additional money is owed to the contractor. Change occurs in a contract to help restore balance for everyone involved.
Hear more about what it takes to be a great client and how contractors can save money through organization and communication.
Marc Mondor, principal, architect, and co-founder of evolveEA is our latest guest to talk about sustainable design.
Mondor shares how their company approaches a project to ensure the structure has a "lesser, lighter environmental impact." Mondor commented that the word "sustainability" is used a lot more in recent years and is sometimes overused.
He puts this thought into context when he talks about what they refer to as the triple bottom line of sustainability or the three "e's" of the built environment.
Listen and learn more about Mondor's thoughts on sustainable design and how they are striving to build a healthier world.
Mondor is a former president of the AIA. evolveEA has over 100 certifications and has earned many awards for their work in sustainable design.
No one knows communication and organization better than Bob Dresser of Strategic Executive Consulting. In this fourth episode in the Better Project Outcomes Series, Bob addresses a key component in the success of construction companies, projects, and profitability—change management.
In this episode, Bob highlights the key components needed to set the stage for a successful project. Communications, file structure, and sharing of information can solidify client relationships and continued work for the future.
To learn more about change management visit strategicexecconsult.com.
In today’s podcast, Maria Elliott, attorney/partner for Barley Snyder talks about contracts and risk management.
Maria shares her insight about the changes being made in contracts since COVID. Maria commented that before COVID, owners and general contractors were focused on force majeure, which is the unforeseeable circumstances that prevent someone from fulfilling a contract. Since COVID, the shift has been on price escalation. With supply chain issues, owners and general contractors are faced with the concerns of material prices rising. Maria helps write contracts to make sure that there is consideration across the board to account for price increases and decreases on a project.
Listen to the complete podcast to hear more about escalation and de-escalation clauses in contracts.
Maria Di Stravalo Elliott is a member of Barley Snyder's Real Estate Practice Group. Elliott counsels international, national, regional, and local businesses and individuals on complex real estate and construction transactions.
Jim Gabriel, president of MODLOGIQ shed light on why prefabrication is trending across the construction industry.
Owners, general contractors, designers, and architects are turning to modular construction for several reasons. One of the biggest reasons is that the world is changing. Gabriel speaks openly about the pandemic and how modular construction has helped contractors and projects continue to move ahead even when job sites are shut down. This is due in part, to 80% of modular construction being constructed off-site. When MODLOGIQ finishes a project, it’s set and ready to be shipped and installed without the headache of on-site construction.
We also will put to rest some of the myths about modular construction and prefabrication. The perception is that modular construction is cheaper. Gabriel comments, “it’s not cheaper, it provides more cost certainty for their clients and helps reduce cost escalation.”
You’ll also hear more about the unique ways modular construction is being used. Gabriel talks about “pushing the envelope” in their industry. Prefabrication and modularization are pushing to do more than just affordable housing or single-family homes. MODLOGIQ is trying to bring their business up to standards that designers and owners expect from traditional builds.
We know our listeners always want to hear the take on safety as it relates to our topics. We asked Gabriel how prefabrication translates to a safer job site. He shares his thoughts, insights, and more in this next episode of the Building PA Podcast.
Dr. Anirban Basu shares his 2022 forecast for the Pennsylvania construction industry. According to Dr. Basu, various segments of the industry should expect strong growth in data centers, fulfillment centers, and public works projects, based on multiple infrastructure investments from the Federal government. He also shares which segments may have negative impacts. Office and commercial construction, hotels, and retail will see challenges as we move forward in 2022.
In addition to Dr. Basu’s input, Jon shares results from the annual KCA industry survey.
Within the episode, Dr. Basu discusses the various categories impacted by the workforce shortage and will continue to affect construction growth in certain industry sectors including senior living. He also shares statistics that highlight the combined workforce shortage and supply chain impacts that will slow certain areas of construction spending in 2022. The good news is that Dr. Basu anticipates price normalcy will return in 2022 and will help strengthen the industry as a whole.
The retirement gap and current Pennsylvania business climate is also discussed. Dr. Basu points out the impact of not having shop classes within our education system and how it has affected the industry. Additionally, he shares how the business climate in the state has impacted construction. You can read more about Dr. Basu’s thoughts and industry perspectives in the January issue of The Keystone Contractor Magazine.
Dr. Basu also shares his insight on the economy as a whole, the impact we will face in the future, and what we can expect in the coming years.
Listen as President Rivera shares insight into industry trends related to workforce development beyond traditional construction-related skills such as career counseling, heavy equipment training, and professional career paths that will have significant impact. It's vital to the success of any workforce development programs they rely on training to address the entire student to ensure that future workforces are prepared to positively address future needs. Rivera shares several stories of his experiences.
President Rivera discusses future programs necessary to support the state’s future needs, such as civil engineering specific to water treatment and sewage related to planned infrastructure investments.
Thaddeus Stevens College has various programs to include contractors and owners in meeting industry needs such as advisory panels, internships, externships, and soft skills counseling. If interested in learning more about opportunities, visit Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology.
More about President Pedro Rivera:
•Rivera is the former Secretary of Education.
•Appointed by Governor Wolf to that position in 2015.
•Previously served as superintendent to the School District of Lancaster.
•Served in the Philadelphia school district for 13 years
•Undergraduate degree from Penn State University
•M.A. from Cheyney University of PA
•Rivera became President of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, October 2021
Read more about this topic in the interview that President Rivera gave for the upcoming January 2022 issue of the Keystone Contractor Magazine.
2021 proved to be an unconventional year – we battled a pandemic, did our best to manage an erratic supply chain, and watched many businesses grow at an exponential rate. With 2021 behind us, Chris and Jon wanted to take a moment and reflect on several highlights from some inspiring guests they interviewed throughout the year.
During this episode, Chris and Jon discuss their favorite podcasts and topics that continue to impact the industry. The two co-hosts discussed:
· The Business Leadership Series
· A site visit to the Steamfitters Local 449
· The Better Project Outcome Series
· A day in the life of a Union Political Director
· Workforce development and its ongoing impact on the industry
· Lean construction
The conversation included the mission of the Building PA Podcast and its sister publication, The Keystone Contractor Magazine. Chris and Jon shared their pride in bringing the podcast to the Pennsylvania construction industry and the growth that occurred in 2021 - 57 episodes produced and over 7,500 downloads.
Listen to past episodes and more at BuildingPAPodcast.com and follow the podcast on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Are you a professional in the field of architecture, construction or engineering and feel like you have experience and knowledge to share?
Do you have a desire to provide insight into your profession and help mentor students? The ACE Mentor program may be the right fit for you. Diana Eidenshink, national president of ACE Mentor program talks with Chris and Jon about all aspects of the ACE program and how industry professionals can become volunteer mentors for future generations.
There are benefits to being a mentor and a mentee. The ACE Mentor program is a free, award-winning after school program unified across 37 states. Experienced industry leaders share their insight and time with students who are considering a profession in the construction industry related to contractors, architects and engineers. In addition to insight and experience, mentors discuss best practices and how to excel in the industry. “We utilize technology to address mentees' needs. In addition, we focus on green projects because that is a big ask of the students,” said Eidenshink. She shares examples of projects that students work on and how to become a mentee. Learn more at acementor.org.
Listen as Jamey Bednez, vice president of Stalwart Insurance Group talks with us as we discuss the impact of wellness on insurance premiums. Bednez shares that wellness initiatives help employers identify inefficiencies. For example, he states that 61 percent of employees surveyed say that their workplace causes stress, which leads to over $300 billion in healthcare costs.
To improve your costs, Bednez encourages you to ask:
• What is the driving factor for a premium increase?
• Are the benchmarks driving your insurance costs tied into your specific industry?
• Are the reports being used to review your premium focused on your specific industry?
Most important, Bednez says, ‘75 percent of a company’s insurance spend is based on life choices of employees.’ This requires construction companies to encourage employees to lead healthy lifestyles. The costs are not based on challenges facing the industry, but more focused on lifestyle. Additionally, Bednez provides tips that industry startups can adopt to help keep insurance costs down.
The HR and Safety Director of Kalkreuth Roofing and Sheet Metal, Seth Abraham, stopped by the Building PA Podcast to discuss labor relations and safety. Listen in as Seth discusses his thoughts on workforce development and the value relationships bring to creating a safety culture across five offices and seven states.
Seth shared that at Kalkreuth, the company sees HR and safety as a combination that ties labor together. His challenge is to encourage his team to focus on zero tolerance and incidents while balancing relationships. Seth discussed why relationships are so important in this industry because “you quickly learn who to rely on internally and that is not only in the field but in the office as well.”
Michael Klein joins us from the law offices of Blumling & Gusky, LLP to share his expertise on building materials and the impact they have on contracts. With the pandemic slowing down (or picking up, depending on where you live) the supply chain has impacted the construction industry around the globe. Today, we talk about this growing trend and how contractors can protect themselves legally.
Klein shared with Jon and Chris several tips for contractors, including understanding the current risk factors, identifying problems as soon as possible, communicating those issues effectively, and calming expectations during this time. Klein was very straightforward when he said, “it is the responsibility of the contractor to discuss any cost escalations or time delays with the owner to partner in solving these challenges.”
David McGlennen, culture coach and leadership expert, stopped by the Building PA Podcast to share his wisdom related to culture and its impact on the industry. David understands the construction industry, so much so that in the first segment of the show, he suggests utilizing toolbox talk time to discuss and expand on the rituals that make up your culture. He was quick to caution that creating a strong culture takes leadership. According to David, “the behavior of the leader establishes the rituals that will help your company grow and run safely.”
To achieve a strong culture, several steps should be taken, such as:
· Teach your team accepted behaviors
· Identify behaviors for desired outcomes
· Hold conversations to build rituals
· Develop rituals that lead to success
Within the conversation, David also shared various resources (podcasts, websites, books, etc.) necessary to build the strong culture that you desire.
David’s podcast – In the Growth Space
Simon Sinek – The Infinite Game
Joel Manby – Love Works: Seven Timeless Principles for Effective Leaders
Daniel Coyle – The Culture Code: The Secrets of Highly Effective Groups
Matthew Kelly – The Culture Solution: A Practical Guide to Building A Dynamic Culture
Patrick Lencioni – The Advantage: Why Organizational Health Trumps Everything Else in Business
When discussing the impact of virtual meetings on sales efforts, Sandler Sales Training expert Steve Kelly told the Building PA Podcast co-hosts a simple truth, “the things that were done previously changed very quickly and most people didn’t adapt.”
Listen as Steve Kelly shares best practices for improving your sales efforts in a virtual world. Steve discusses methods for changing your technique and volume related to outreach, which has been forced to adapt to virtual meetings. A key takeaway from Steve’s conversation includes an emphasis on intention in your message. This, he says, is vital to connect and communicate professionally.
Additionally, Steve shared with our listeners access to his website that provides information on improving your sales efforts in our virtual world. Visit http://exsellyst.sandler.com/sell to learn more.
Jessica Meyers, owner and president of JEM Group, based in Harrisburg, joins co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O’Brien on the latest episode to discuss her leadership style, the future of JEM Group, and how the company is focusing on professional development among her team. During the episode, Meyers tells how she came to work in the construction industry and some of the obstacles she overcame to become an industry leader. Meyers says, “I don’t try to be a perfect leader. I think it is important to come across as humble and this makes a leader more relatable.”
A topic that is very high on her priorities is, recruitment and talent acquisition. She shares the focus of the JEM Group’s recruitment efforts, which includes an individual development plan for both professional and personal aspects, use of the Gallup Strength Finder, Q12, and ongoing training offered to meet the individual’s development plan. Learn more about the future of JEM Group at https://www.jemgroup.net/ This episode is part of the Business Leadership Series brought to you by McQueen Building Company.
Have you ever asked yourself what it takes to work with legislators? Have no fear, John Wanner is here to share his dos and don’ts for government relations. Wanner, the founder of Wanner Associates and a registered lobbyist stops by to speak with Chris and Jon. During the conversation we learned the dos of lobbying:
• Be professional
• Create leave-behinds or briefs
• Make an appointment
• Prepare
Wanner also discussed the challenges facing this important segment of the industry. Those challenges include advances in issues management, continually involving association members, and the need to keep messages simple when speaking with elected officials. His don’t list is simple – don’t fight and storm out, relationships matter.
Tori Shriver, political director for the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (EAS Carpenters) joins Chris and Jon to discuss a day in the life of a union political director.
Shriver discusses her role in promoting and educating legislators and the public on policies that affect the EAS Carpenter membership, her team of ‘political nerds’, and the challenges she faces as the youngest female in a leadership role. During the discussion Shriver acknowledges two mentors who have guided her on her successful path – Bill Waterkotte and Bill Sproule – both, she says, have encouraged her to stand up and take action.
Shriver shares the challenges and issues facing the EAS Carpenters, which include misclassification of workers, right-to-work laws, and prevailing wage legislation. These issues are being addressed across the six states and two territories that the EAS Carpenters represent.
As the former international president of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and a current adjunct professor of architecture at Carnegie Mellon University, William Bates joined the Building PA Podcast to discuss the future of architecture. Before we discuss the future, Bates shared insight into his tenure with the AIA and discussed best practices from his time traveling the world to promote the architecture industry. As an industry leader, Bates has seen his fair share of change and challenges, but as a professor, he discusses his success tips, which include taking pride in the work, following trends, understanding the estimating and construction management process, and acknowledging how these components are assembled to complete a successful project.
Bates also shared his recommendations for future generations of architects. Bates strongly encourages the next generation to work in construction during the summer months of college to understand the skills and training that are required. He said, “future architects need to understand how a contractor not only builds but how the pre-construction phase impacts a project.”
Listen in as Bates talks about the future of the industry related to retail space, general building, and the technologies he anticipates will become indispensable.
Join the Building PA Podcast to listen to Kevin Trout share his insights into the benefits a strong culture will have on your company. Kevin joins us as a former owner and CEO of a medical supply company and current Vistage chair and facilitator for CEO groups.
In the discussion, Trout emphasizes the importance of establishing a strong culture as part of the hiring, onboarding, and operations process. Trout said the process of creating a strong culture begins when companies “think of their company values as nouns with the second step focuses on creating verbs to support the nouns.” This two-step process defines the behaviors you expect and encourages team members to focus on action toward those behaviors.
Listen in as Trout shares his four stages of growth. Within these stages lies the secret to a strong and robust culture, which includes:
• First gear – owner wears all the hats and begins acquiring clients
• Second gear – employees are hired and all report to the owner. Profits in this stage are high.
• Third gear – owner begins investing in the company and hires professional managers. Profits in this stage shrink due to additional employees.
• Fourth gear – owner becomes the face of the company and profits grow exponentially as the company grows.
Customer service is a part of our everyday lives, said DJ Craven of The Gildea Group. During this episode on the impact customer service has on project outcomes, Craven shares his approach and explains a new approach to relationships now known as the Craven V. In addition, you will hear how customer service as a core value has helped The Gildea Group grow and remain in business for over 60 years.
Within this episode, you will learn several tips necessary to avoid customer service mistakes including:
• A lack of communication
• Accepting your ego
• The use of bad judgment
The Laborers may be one of the largest building trades unions in the country and we had the pleasure of speaking with Eric Remetta, Training Director, Laborers District Council of Eastern PA to learn more. In our conversation, Eric shares the requirements of becoming a Laborer including the time needed to become a journeyman. It’s 4000 hours and you can achieve that by balancing work on sites and in facilities throughout Pennsylvania with eight weeks of classes. Additionally, Eric lets Chris and Jon know of some of the challenges that a training director has faced in the past year including how the organization managed COVID-19.
In advance of becoming a Laborers’ apprentice, you can test your mettle at LaborersEastPA.org. On that site, they have posted a sample test for review and preparation.
Listen as Nick Vuono, a Steamfitter apprentice shares his personal insight into what it means to be a Steamfitter.
Listen in as Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin share insight on the upcoming issue of the Keystone Contractor Magazine.
The latest issue will focus on the importance of culture and how a structured program to establish improved morale, focus, and vision will benefit your company. Additionally, the magazine staff has created supporting articles that detail the connection between lean construction and culture, steps to improve morale and awards. Each of these elements strengthens your company's culture.
Elements of the magazine will remain including the Opening Word, Insights from the Executive Director, a calendar of upcoming KCA events, and a KCA committee spotlight.
In this issue, we are also introducing a new section titled Young Professional Q & A. For each future issue, we will reach out to KCA member companies to recommend a young professional to answer questions curated by the magazine staff and Jon O'Brien. If interested in submitting a young professional for future issues email Chris Martin at Chris@AtlasStories.com.
According to Bob Dresser of Strategic Executive Consulting, workface planning creates opportunities for work schedules for a one-week period. This includes preparing all tools, materials, and drawings for that timeframe. In our conversation, you can hear Bob share how this element of project planning improves work retention and decreases talent loss. Bob mentions that the best time to embrace workface planning is in the design phase as the key to best practices. In support of best practices, you will learn how to engineer work packages, specify the geographic package for the project, the necessary software to identify the correct sequence of work to be completed, and how to streamline the field support required for success.
This episode is part of the Building PA Podcast Building Better Project Outcomes Series brought to you by Strategic Executive Consulting.
Do you know what it takes to be an apprentice Steamfitter? Listen in as Tom Doran, apprenticeship coordinator for Steamfitters Local 449 joins Chris and Jon to discuss the program and the requirements. Tom shares that each apprentice comes out of the program with certifications that ensure each person is ready for work in the field. The skills learned are focused on welding, Hydronics, drawing, qualified course instruments, rigging, and more related to the mechanical aspect of the industry. Those interested can apply in August and start their career with the Steamfitters.
Have you considered what is needed to develop a strong on-site project culture? Listen as Eric Pascucci, Director of Estimating and Pre-Construction for PJ Dick, and Tom Price, Principal with Strada Architecture share lessons learned and practical recommendations for building a strong relationship between contractor and architect. Both agree that collaboration is key, along with a heavy reliance on comfort and trust. Admittedly, each of those characteristics requires time to build. In this episode you will learn:
- The steps to building trust
- How to communicate before, during, and after a project
- What the most important aspect of a strong project culture is
- How to manage owner expectations as a team
In addition, our guests address the generational gap that exists in the industry today. Eric and Tom discuss how to encourage mindset change among younger team members, the importance of establishing accountability without ramifications, and the advantage of coaching younger professionals within this process.
Link Business’s Chris Caldwell joins the podcast to discuss business valuation and the steps necessary to sell your business. Caldwell mentions that to determine what a business is worth owners must set realistic goals, plan accordingly and communicate with those they are considering selling to. He also highlights the value of defining what you plan to sell as part of this process. Listen to a very useful discussion for any component of the construction industry.
Learn about BIM and its impact on 3D scanning and drafting along with the variety of projects that are impacted by this technology from John Brown and Tim Libman of DJM. Not only does BIM improve accuracy within the design process, but ongoing building records, assessments, and renovation work can be enhanced or improved. Additionally, Brown and Libman share the positive impact on pre-construction with the adoption of BIM. Our guests share the benefits of the technology, such as strengthened engagement of sub-contractors, streamline of process flow, and how visual collaboration enhances the design process.
Listen as Bob Dresser shares guidelines for improving morale through job site culture, productivity expectations, site-wide purpose, and need of a project team. Dresser emphasizes the need to communicate the purpose for the project team to improve productivity.
Learn how Dresser’s approach showcases the benefits of improved morale such as:
· Staff retention,
· Quality improvements such as reject rates, and
· Project-wide efficiencies
This episode is part of the Better Project Outcome Series brought to you by Strategic Executive Consulting, Inc.
Listen to George Stark and William DesRosiers of Cabot Oil and Gas talk of the trends within the oil and gas industry and the looming investments that will aid the construction industry in the coming years. These investments include job and economic opportunities, increased diversification, and a Pennsylvania workforce that comes from within the state and not other states or regions. The dynamic duo also discusses the impact Act 66 will have on both industries in an energetic conversation.
This episode is part of the Business Leadership Series brought to you by McQueen Building Company. Listen as Brandon Mendoza of NAIOP Pittsburgh joins the Building PA Podcast to discuss his leadership style. As the voice of the 400 + leaders in the commercial building community, Mendoza balances old-school approaches with young mindsets to achieve solid returns. Among the discussion, he also discusses trends impacting the industry, how he sees the development and construction industry working together, and the benefit of an emerging digital presence to communicate among the various members.
As an added bonus, listen to NAIOP's MIC DROP podcast on any podcast platform.
Joel Berg of BizNewsPA joined our co-hosts to share insight from a journalistic perspective to grow the industry. During the discussion, Berg talked about the benefits of interacting with the media, how contractors can use perceived bad situations as opportunities, and the impact the media can play on community interaction and company success.
In this episode, we go on location to the Steamfitters Technology Center in Harmony, PA, where we meet Steamfitters Local No. 449 Business Manager Ken Broadbent. During our visit, Ken discusses training, expanded certifications, and his vision for the future of the trade. He specifically shares his personal approach to success, which lies in self-determination and motivation to accomplish goals. The passion that Broadbent brings to the job after 20 plus years in various leadership roles with the Steamfitters is evident throughout our conversation. Ken reinforces the need for training and how his team of instructors are building the next generation of steamfitters throughout the region.
Gordon Denlinger of the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB) stops by to discuss the various resources available to the countless small businesses within our industry. During the discussion, Denlinger shares the biggest challenges facing small business owners including state and federal budget issues, regulatory relief, and taxes. More importantly, he provides tips on how the NFIB is helping small businesses to succeed and grow.
Occupop is an HR platform that has been designed for in-house HR managers specifically for the construction industry. The Dublin, Ireland-based company is planning to enter the US market and has created a platform that accesses candidates while helping managers oversee the application process more efficiently. Listen as Ted Campbell shares more detail of the technology and the company’s plans to support the Pennsylvania construction industry. Reach out to Ted at Ted@occupop.com.
Join us as Desmone Architects President Eric Booth joins co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O’Brien to discuss the growing trend of WELL design. Booth tells our co-hosts that the goal of WELL design is to design buildings and spaces that positively impact our health. As the world returns to some post-pandemic normalcy, WELL design has tremendous interest and impacts on the education, health and multi-family communities. In addition, this design trend could present real benefits to HR operations as well as maintenance and facility management.
Case Technologies’ own Mark Deitrich joins the podcast to talk about how BIM represents a digital repository of project information that extends the life cycle of the project and ultimately the building. He shares his thoughts regarding planning and integration of the technology on various construction projects as well.
Brad Kriel and Dan Obriot of SB Monitoring join co-host Chris Martin and Jon O’Brien to discuss technological operations improvements on job sites throughout Pennsylvania. Operational improvements include security cameras that help enforce safety policies along with equipment tracing on project sites that require security or remote supervision.
Join us as we kick off the Better Project Outcomes Series sponsored by Strategic Executive Consulting (SEC). In our inaugural series episode, listen as Bob Dresser, president of Strategic Executive Consulting discusses mobilization readiness. In this episode we learn about project success based on preparedness as Dresser shares the SEC mobilization process, discusses the impact contracts have on mobilization readiness and the various steps within the SEC process.
A key takeaway from the conversation was the emphasis on risk avoidance and the impact risk has on a successful project.
This episode is part of the Better Project Outcome Series sponsored by Strategic Executive Consulting. Visit their website at strategicexecconsult.com.
Listen in as Casey Schlaegle talks about owning a small business in the construction industry. Schlaegle has a diverse background within the industry and has worked as an architect, carpenter and now owns and leads his own architectural woodworking firm. He discusses the need to find a reliable team that has the right mindset and skills to complement each other. He also shares how vital it is to have a sound legal and accounting team to help grow a business within the construction industry.
Odie Parkins of the Eastern Atlantic States Council of Regional Carpenters joins the podcast to talk about the Carpenters training program. Parkins talks of the tools and technical support each apprentice receives along with the emphasis on behavior and attitude. He also shed light on the Carpenters 300 Hitters program and how the international union utilizes its Las Vegas training center.
As president of Alexander Building Company, Seitz oversaw the growth of the general contractor’s Central Pennsylvania region. Who better to learn from? Listen as Seitz shares how he addresses growth for a general contractor and the importance of establishing a vision. In our conversation, he also discusses the importance of communication, its impact on your company’s vision, and future trends anticipated within the industry.
This episode is part of the Business Leadership Series brought to you by McQueen Building Company.
Listen as Jennifer Berrier, the Secretary of the Pennsylvania Labor and Industry department meets with co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O’Brien. Berrier discusses the challenges her department overcame during the COVID pandemic, mentors she has relied on throughout her career, the impact communication has on effectively governing, and the challenges she anticipates among her team at L and I.
This episode is part of the Business Leadership Series brought to you by McQueen Building Company.
The PA Chamber's Allen Norton visits the Quandel Studio to discuss career awareness with Jon and Chris. Norton is leading the charge to help job seekers and students learn of opportunities throughout the state. Via multiple websites - starttheconversationhere.com and BringingPABack.com - those interested can learn more of the multitude of opportunities available.
85% of military veterans have no experience in construction, yet the industry is a perfect fit for those who have dutifully served their country. Dan Breslin of Helmets to Hardhats talks about the program, the impact it has on veterans and the construction industry, and how to gain entry to construction through the national program.
Don Eldridge, training coordinator for Plumbers and Pipefitters, Local 520 shares his insight for becoming an apprentice plumber or pipefitter. During the discussion with Jon and Chris, Don explains the requirements for becoming an apprentice, expectations of the program, and the ongoing future training this Building Trades union provides.
Listen as Bryan Cutler (R), Speaker of the PA House of Representatives, shares his thoughts and learnings from years in the legislation and healthcare industries. Specifically, Cutler shares the guidance his father imparted on him; the mentors who steered him; the morale building skills that shaped him; and the importance relationships are as a leader. Most important to Cutler, as a leader, is to have a clearly defined vision and the need to articulate that vision to ensure work is completed efficiently and effectively. This episode is part of the Business Leadership Series brought to you by McQueen Building Company.
The Building PA podcast celebrates women in construction. In this episode, listen in as Roxanne Harpster, Sheet Metal Workers Local 19, and Meghan White, Plumbers Local 520, share the best aspects of their jobs, what it takes be successful, and what the future holds within the construction industry. Harpster and White, who recently worked for McClure Company on the Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center project, also discuss the need for more women in construction and how they have come to embrace their careers.
Listen as Andrew Conley, project superintendent with Alexander Building discusses the impact prefabrication has on project success. Although the trend is not new, implementing the approach created efficiencies along with improved productivity that went beyond project expectations. Conley shares the process and impact of off-site fabrication of bathroom pods on a new construction project. Positive impacts on the project included labor hour reduction and improved fabrication staff management. Conley also discusses the co-location aspect and impact of lean principles have on the project.
To celebrate Engineers Week, Michael Cherock of AE Works joins the Building PA Podcast to talk about the professional services component of the construction industry. AE Works is a 45-person firm with 3 offices and Cherock discusses how the company has embraced technology to review drawings and documents, the advantages of virtual work, how vital collaboration is for productivity, and the many expectations on professional services within the industry. He also spends time talking about the role of real estate in the industry and the need to re-evaluate or re-imagine the physical building stockpile among cities and towns.
Listen as co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O’Brien discuss construction marketing. Martin shares his insight on why contractors and others in the construction industry need to begin adapting their marketing messages. He shares why safe, on time, and under budget is the WRONG message and how these ‘traditional marketing pillars’ continue to cause damage to the industry and businesses. Martin offers alternatives to these marketing pillars why shedding light on the need to develop your company’s story to help future customers make the decision to hire those within the industry.
Gene Barr, president of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry joins us to discuss leading in challenging times. Barr shares insight on addressing business challenges, balancing work and life, and ramifications that COVID will have on the business community and construction industry. This episode is part of the Business Leadership Series brought to you by McQueen Building Company.
Tom Williams of Reager & Adler stops by to talk with us about contract resolution. During the discussion, Williams shares the various methods of resolution along with specific negotiation provisions that construction contracts should include.
LISTEN IN as PA Senator Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R), PA 35th District provides welcoming comments. As Chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, Senator Langerholc has great insight into the upcoming transportation construction season.
Legislative Insiders Provide Insights to the 2021/22 PA General Assembly Session
If you're wondering what may happen in Harrisburg during this upcoming legislative session, then download this exciting episode. Listen to respected capital insiders as they share their opinions on the upcoming legislative session.
This event features Stephen Caruso of PA Capital-Star, Alex Halper of PA Chamber of Business & Industry, Jan Murphy of PennLive/ Patriot-News, John Wanner of Wanner Associates, and moderated by Jon O'Brien of KCA.
The Building PA Podcast is on the road today visiting the Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center job site. Steve Lee and Dan Flickinger join us to talk about Lean Construction approaches and the benefit of co-location. Dan provides background on the project and how the medical facility came out of the ground. Steve shares the impact that Lean Construction principles have helped bring this project to market quickly.
Listen as Zac Wolpert of Providence Engineering shares his take on the business development aspects of the industry. Wolpert discusses not only the importance of the role, but the differences between contractors, engineers, and architects may face when pursuing business growth opportunities. Our conversation focuses on research and a diligent focus on the potential customers and he shares additional skills needed for success.
Listen to the passion and deliberate efforts Geoff McQueen applies to his company. His passion focuses on culture and how he gives trust to his employees and customers for a problem-free experience. This episode is part of the Business Leadership Series brought to you by McQueen Building Company.
Universities are facing various challenges and design is one resource that is being relied on to meet the competitive demands. Join Jon and Chris as they speak with Sean Sheffler of LGA Partners to learn more about the college and university's future design needs. In this episode, Sheffler shares how architecture and design can help improve living spaces, learning environments, and the overall campus design. One trend we discuss is adaptive reuse and how technology is impacting the student needs. During the conversation, Sheffler shared that, “colleges are learning to do more with what they have making adaptive reuse a continuing trend.” Join us to learn more about future design trends on college campuses.
DRONES! In this episode, Seth Zora of aerdia, a veteran-owned drone service provider shares with Jon and Chris the challenges of starting a business and how aerdia has grown to meet the drone needs of the construction industry.
Listen as Becker joins Jon and Chris to share information on Remote Assist, a technology that Haller Enterprises is using to improve their customers' lives. The technology - a direct video connection via a customers' device - creates opportunities to save time and improve safety while addressing issues created in both residential and commercial settings.
Emily Lowe of Alexander Construction Group joins the Building PA Podcast. Our co-hosts set out on a road trip of sorts and visit the job site of the Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center in Enola, PA as guests of Alexander. During this episode, Emily discusses how vital communications is in the Lean Construction concept; the principles behind the approach; and the impact of the process on the job site.
Learn more about Coatings Pro Magazine from Editor in chief Stephanie Chizik. Chizik joins Jon and Chris to discuss how the publication aids the coatings industry, shares trends, the impact of COVID on the supply chain, and the environmental impact on those working in the industry (Silica and Berelium). She also shares the broad impact of the coatings industry and the benefit of working in this segment of construction.
Listen to past episodes and more at BuildingPAPodcast.com and follow the podcast on Facebook and LinkedIn.
This episode is brought to you by PJ Dick, a full-service general contractor with design/build, construction management, and consulting services across the Mid-Atlantic region.
State Representative Greg Rothman stopped by the Quandel Studios to discuss the future of the City of Harrisburg school district and the potential impact receivership may have on the city and the state related to workforce development and education.
Listen to past episodes and more at BuildingPAPodcast.com and follow the podcast on Facebook and LinkedIn.
This episode is brought to you by PJ Dick, a full-service general contractor with design/build, construction management, and consulting services across the Mid-Atlantic region.
Listen as Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin share their favorite moments and topics from the first season of the Building PA Podcast. Topics reviewed include:
- Season One successes - we don't use scripts
- Crisis communications
- Successful tips for growing your business
- Continuing education in construction
- Co-location trend across the state
- And so much more ...
Listen to past episodes and more at BuildingPAPodcast.com and follow the podcast on Facebook and LinkedIn.
This episode is brought to you by PJ Dick, a full-service general contractor with design/build, construction management, and consulting services across the Mid-Atlantic region.
Kate Jackson of Serrano Search, discusses with Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin the changes in the labor relations market and the professionals who work as Labor Relations Managers and Directors.
Listen as Jackson shares input on trends in the labor relations market, how the industry has rebounded from COVID-19 and what companies seek when looking for a labor relations manager.
A takeaway from the discussion is the industry is facing a labor relations shortage in the coming years and Jackson encourages young professionals to consider labor relations as a career option. Jackson said, "most young professionals are focusing on the human resources side of the industry, but specializing in labor relations presents the opportunity to build a long career in an industry that is very rewarding."
Listen as Noble ‘Bud’ Quandel shares insight into growing a construction business. Bud shares his thoughts related to diversification and experience from his time at the helm of Quandel Construction. Co-hosts Jon O’Brien and Chris Martin dive into what Bud looks for in employees, retention of team members and how to build a team in this industry. To stand out in the industry, Bud says:
- Take a longer view of training
- Know where you are going
- Combine intelligence with experience
- Educate yourself while you live the job
“It pays to be a learning organization. Learn from mistakes and learn from adapting to the industry and the world,” said Bud Quandel when speaking with Jon and Chris of the importance of growing a business. Quandel also shares his experience with Vistage, a CEO peer-to-peer group that serves as a resource for leadership and self-improvement.
Co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin speak with Kerry Zettlemoyer, business manager of the Ironworkers Local No. 404 in Harrisburg, PA. Kerry shares insights into the 17 building trades groups throughout the Commonwealth and the structure of the Ironworkers.
In this episode, Zettlemoyer talks about the changes that have been implemented to improve the apprenticeship program, how the local has restructured and how safety has changed the industry. Zettlemoyer shared, "when I got in if you were over 30 you didn't stand a chance, but now, we are seeing older apprentices come in and are doing very well," when asked about the ages of apprentices in the Ironworkers Apprenticeship Program.
Listen as Zettlemoyer shares advice for joining the industry and the trades and the training program that ensures ironworkers are ready to erect steel across the state.
Don Tracy of Quandel provides a safety stand down talk for construction workers. KCA encourages all construction companies to participate in an opioid stand down talk at least once a year and the 2020 Construction Opioid Awareness Week is an excellent opportunity. Held the last full week of July, this hot temperature time of year is considered the middle of the construction season and it's an ideal time to remind our workers about pain medication use/abuse.
Rachael Cooper of the National Safety Council provides a safety stand down talk that addresses stigmas associated with drug addictions. Due to labels, fears, punishment, etc. that some feel may come with an addiction, those suffering from addiction may be slow to seek help, or not seek help at all. This mindset needs to change and our workforce needs to know that they can speak up and where to get the help that they need.
Many employers want to do the right thing and get help for their workers but the system is not always set up for employers to do the right thing. Listen as one construction contractor expresses his issues when he tries to help workers. The responses from Rachael Cooper of the National Safety Council and Carl Heinlein of the American Contractors Insurance Group are helpful, but also an indication that we have more work to do.
Carl Heinlein of American Contractors Insurance Group shares a story about a construction worker who did everything the right way, but then found himself addicted to pain medications and illegal drugs. It's a road that unfortunately one too many from our workforce have traveled down. It's a story that we need to share so that we can help the next Chris before it's too late.
Heading into 2020, the construction industry was making strides in the battle against the opioid epidemic, but then the COVID-19 pandemic arrived. Major concerns became apparent and we started trending in the wrong direction. As an industry, let's all do our part to raise awareness and provide the education needed to help our people. Listen to this introduction on the 2020 Construction Opioid Awareness Week that features resources for employers.
Join Brian Fraley of Fraley Construction Marketing as he speaks with Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien about social media use among contractors. Topics include how to allocate marketing dollars, use of social media to grow businesses and brands and how the industry has evolved with digital platforms.
As much as digital is being embraced across the industry, there are a variety of trends that reinforce digital as a useful resource. In the discussion, Fraley reinforced the need to establish your objective before building a social following. Additionally, he shares several tips for expanding your social presence by:
- Determine who your audience is
- Confirm that your audience is where you are
- Use the correct social platform
- Define the content you want to share and be known for
- Establish the correct standards for posting
Listen in as the Building PA Podcast lays the foundation for social media use for the construction industry.
Holly Lubart, Director of Government Affairs for the Pennsylvania News Media Association shares information about Pennsylvania's Right to Know laws on the Building PA Podcast. The focus of the discussion centers on the value of right to know for contractors and how access to public information can be useful for proposals and other useful business development uses.
Co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin ask questions relevant to the legislation to help listeners understand how to utilize these laws - Open Records Law and the Sunshine Law. "The legislation was based on the public's distrust of the Pennsylvania legislature and the law helped promote a transparent government especially at the state and local level," said Lubart. "Without access to government information there is no way to hold government officials accountable."
In today's business climate and managing the post COVID-19 world makes this law a valuable resource to the construction industry. For example, contractors can use the law to gain an understanding on construction project documents. Conversely, project documentation for public projects are accessible via this law allowing the general population and competitors to gain insight into your business. The Building PA Podcast encourages all contractors to know and understand this law.
John Sebastian, director of Construction Management Program at the University of Pittsburgh joins co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien to discuss how students are learning. Sebastian shared how the program has evolved. He also shares what students at the University of Pittsburgh are learning and engaging with industry professionals.
Sebastian adds, "the key is to get involved early and engage with our students and the program to learn more of the opportunities that these students bring from the program." He is always looking for opportunities to engage with industry professionals, contractors, architects and engineers. In fact, the university has announced two programs allowing personal development opportunities - certification program and a Master's degree.
Sebastian is leading and helping grow the future of the industry.
Join co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin as we discuss succession planning for the construction industry with representatives from CLA. "It's really about what your goals are and how to design a plan to make those goals a reality," said Emily Gunther of CLA. Her definition of what succession planning is helps those preparing for the next step in business management. Listen in as Emily and her colleague Nicole Shook share information that is helpful not only for the construction industry, but all businesses.
Some guidelines the CLA team provided in this episode include:
- Talk with your accountant, attorney and your bonding company
- Include all stakeholders to ensure your plan is well thought out
- Rely on an experienced team to guide the process
- Define the separation of emotions, especially for family members Nicole shared that "80-90% of an owners' personal assets are tied into the business." Knowing that such wealth and personal assets are tied into a business requires planning so that the years of hard work pay off for everyone involved. Listen to gain insight into the initial stages of succession planning.
The Building PA Podcast profiles one of the newest healthcare projects in the Central Pennsylvania region - The UPMC Pinnacle York Memorial Hospital. Co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin speak with Greg Quandel, President and CEO of Quandel Construction and Joe Chicora, Senior Project Manager at Quandel Construction. The two Quandel leaders share insight into the award winning healthcare project and detail the efforts the company placed on safety and coordination to build this regional healthcare facility.
Follow us on LinkedIn or listen to previous episodes at BuildingPAPodcast.com.
The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) conducted a virtual meeting to review and discuss the current state of the Separations Act. The legislation addresses the contractual delivery method for multi prime projects throughout the Commonwealth.
During this episode join KCA members as they discuss the Act and current pieces of legislation that will modernize the legislation.
Listen to past episodes and engage with our hosts at BuildingPAPodcast.com.
Join your Building PA Podcast co-hosts, Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien as they speak with attorney Matthew Jameson, co-chair of Burns White construction law practice as we discuss the impact the COVID-19 pandemic may present to construction contracts. In the conversation, Jameson shares insight for owners and contractors related to the topic.
"The more problematic question for contracts and its impact on contractors focus on costs related to the pandemic," said Jameson. In addition, he suggests that "owners should consider providing allowances to deal with COVD-19 issues such as testing and PPE use."
Listen to past episodes and engage with our hosts at BuildingPAPodcast.com.
Dale Glacken, from OSHA, joins Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin in the Building PA Podcast studios to discuss the increasing summer heat and the impact it has on construction jobsites throughout the Commonwealth. Listen in as Glacken shares tips for remaining cool, hydrated and protected when following OSHA's Water, Rest, Shade guidance.
The key, according to Glacken is to "understand how the body is affected by heat and how to manage heat stress during the summer."
In support of the ongoing re-opening challenges facing our industry, the Keystone Contractors Association asked several leading construction law experts to meet virtually and share their insight into the very fluid COVID-19 situation.
Join Matt Jameson of Burns White, Tom Williams of Reager Adler, David White of Babst Calland and Michael Metz-Topodas of Cohen Seglias as they share insight and guidance to contract and site specific requirements related to the current situation.
Tim Jones of Massaro Corporation joins Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin to discuss a unique shared space topic currently being reviewed and discussed across construction sites throughout Pennsylvania. Listen as Jones discusses the benefits of co-location on multiple prime projects. The idea, according to Jones, is to co-locate all prime contractors in the same shared space to maximize communications, meetings and productivity.
According to Stephen Ford, MorganStanley Wealth Management, "forward thinking contractors who focus on the management of employees, have the ability to apply technology and make structural changes to their organization will succeed," as the pandemic evolves.
Listen to Ford and Chad Houser, both of MorganStanley Wealth Management as they share financial insight to those contractors who are expecting changes to modify their businesses during the recent Keystone Contractors Association virtual financial discussion related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
As our industry re-opens amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Katie Spear and Jeff Graves, of i+iconUSA come by the studio to talk about their company’s implementation of technology to ensure the safety of their job sites and offices. Join us as the duo shares their organizational values and how a quickly developed app has helped ensure data is shared among their sites and offices to reduce redundant testing while improving productivity.
Jeff Graves talks about applying some basic app technology to track employee movement to reduce redundant testing. i+iconUSA is working to make it easier for employees and those visiting their offices and sites to conduct business rather than be faced with ongoing testing due to the virus protection guidelines.
The industry re-opened on May 1 and as GCs and subcontractors adjust to various requirements, the Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) conducted a virtual meeting to review and discuss the current CDC guidelines and protocols. During this episode join the KCA Safety Panel to learn more. Our experts include Dale Glacken, OSHA, Tom Scott, McClure Company, Darren Rech, Alexander Building and Don Tracy, Quandel Construction.
Listen in as the panel shares best practices as the construction industry in Pennsylvania returns to work safely.
Chuck Parker, of Stantec joins our co-hosts, Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin in the studio to talk of the impact the COVID-19 virus will have on the design industry. Parker shares his insight based on his 45-year career focusing on designs for the healthcare industry and commented that the COVID-19 pandemic will impact the design industry just as 9/11 impacted the airline industry.
Listen as Parker shares his thoughts on how many of the current design features such as automatic doors are being re-applied to ensure the safety of people no matter which industry you are in.
Howard Bernstein of Penn Installation shares his thoughts and recommendations for safely returning to the job site. Bernstein shares several stories of best practices along with the impact of personal decisions for safely returning home from job sites across the Commonwealth.
"It takes my breath away thinking about the sacrifices the men and women (of the construction industry) have made since the outbreak began," said Bernstein.
Join Jon & Chris as they discuss the vital role that personal decisions play daily.
Cybersecurity is typically not the first thought for contractors, but maybe it should be. Protecting your company from a variety of perspectives only improves your bottom line. Join Mike Brodzinski, of Lockton Companies as he discusses cybersecurity risk reduction.
Mike has spent the past 15 years serving the construction industry as a risk management advisor in national roles at global professional services firms. He works directly with contractors, trades, design firms, and project owners to help them reduce costs, increase capital, and enhance coverage certainty through developing a thorough understanding of his clients unique risk profiles and providing solutions that add value to their business.
How has Rocky Bleier, owner of Rocky Bleier Construction Group built a safety culture at his firm? Listen in to hear the Steelers legend talk about how the military and his football career impacted his leadership style as he developed a winning safety culture.
As an award-winning contractor, Bleier is proud of the relationships he and his team have developed along with a track record of quality projects throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions. Each of these relationships are built upon the safety culture he discusses on the latest episode of Building PA Podcast.
Jennifer Landau, Landau Building talks with Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien on the Building PA Podcast about the value of continuing education among the Pennsylvania construction industry.
Dave Plutt, Apprenticeship Coordinator with the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters discusses the requirements and outcomes of the building trades union's apprenticeship program with Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien on the Building PA Podcast.
Irwin Aronson, Partner at Willig, Williams and Davidson shares with Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien of the Building PA Podcast, the many benefits of becoming a member of one of the 16 regional and 15 International building trades organizations throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Joshua Moore of the Sheet Metal Workers Local No. 12 and what it takes to become a sheet metal worker in the western Pennsylvania region. Moore joins Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien of the Building PA Podcast to enlighten listeners and those interested in becoming a member of the sheet metal workers union.
Michael Metz-Topodas, of Cohen Seglias details information pertaining to the CASPA (Contractor and Subcontractor Payment Act) law that impacts the Pennsylvania construction industry. Metz-Topodas shares his insight with Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien on the Building PA Podcast.
Allison Hanna, RLA of Snyder, Secary & Associates, LLC shares her story relating to the ACE Mentoring program. Hanna provides a unique experience from her perspective of graduating from the program as well as her current role as leader of the Central Pennsylvania chapter of the ACE Mentor program. She shares her experiences and insight with Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien of the Building PA Podcast.
Bill Sproule, Executive Secretary, Treasurer (EST) of the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters introduces himself to the Commonwealth and discusses his vision for the building trades union organization. Sproule talks with Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien of the Building PA Podcast.
Patricia Robinson of Evolve Training shares the details of her company and how it impacts the School District of Harrisburg with Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien on the Building PA Podcast. Her company's workforce training skills benefit the construction industry through hard and soft skills along with various methods of self-improvement.
Sandra Palone of Sandra Palone & Associates shares her experiences as a small business owner with Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien of the Building PA Podcast.
Clayton Leibold of Leibold, Inc. joins Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien on the Building PA Podcast to discuss safety and its impact on the industry, his business and his employees.
Rachael Cooper, Senior Program Manager and Subject Matter Expert - Substance Use Harm Prevention at National Safety Council, joins Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien of the Building PA Podcast to shed light on the ongoing impact of opioids to the Pennsylvania construction industry.
Ron Stefaniak, Apprenticeship Program Director for the Operative Plasterers’ & Cement Masons International Association (OPCMIA), Cement Masons Local 526 shares his insight on becoming a union cement mason and the impact this decision has had on his life with Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien on the Building PA Podcast.
Darren Rech of Alexander Building and Construction discusses safety from his company's perspective. He joins Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien of the Building PA Podcast to address one of the industry's ongoing challenges and how Alexander successfully manages their safety program.
Jon O'Brien, Executive Director of the Keystone Contractor Association recaps efforts made amongst various industry organizations and building trades groups to navigate the current COVID-19 situation. O'Brien also shares details regarding the safety plan which was developed by various industry leaders to return the commercial construction industry to pre-pandemic status.
Jon O'Brien interviews Chris Martin regarding crisis communications for general contractors. Chris emphasizes creating a crisis communications plan along with understanding the media's role in a crisis. The information is timely and impacts every construction related business.