MERIT SHOP E S S A G E
Pelican Chapter Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc.
Photo courtsey of The White House
White House honors ABC Pelican craft graduates Learn how two BRTC students were invited to the White House to celebrate the president’s Pledge to America’s Workers; pg 26
Newsletter highlights: NextOp Workshop.................................9 BR & SW Crawfish Boils.............12 & 45 LegCon 2019.......................................14 High School Craft Championships......16 Training Center Graduations...............21 ABC of LA Fishing Rodeo...................35 2019 ABC of LA Convention...............47
Summer 2019
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MERIT SHOP MESSAGE SUMME R 201 9 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Chair Donn Peterson GROUP Industries, LLC Incoming Chair Carlos Guidry Turner Industries Group, LLC Secretary Shawn Worsham Jacobs Treasurer Ryan Girouard Hancock Whitney Vice Chair Governmental Affairs Glen Redd Triad Electric & Controls, Inc. Vice Chair Membership Growth Keith Coleman Beard Construction Group, LLC
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Donnie Braud L.S. Womack, Inc.
LE TTE R FRO M THE CHAIR ABC PELICAN’S HUMBLE BEGINNINGS BY DONN PETERSON, GROUP INDUSTRIES, LLC
Ben Brown Turner Industries Group, LLC Scott Callaway Cajun Industries, Inc. Donnie David ISC Constructors, LLC John Freeman Brown & Root Industrial Services Beau Leitner Doyle Electric, Inc. Scott McKnight BXS Insurance Matt Shoriak EXCEL Group
In the beginning…….
Vice Chair Member Services Jeff Plauche Boh Brothers Construction Co., LLC
BOARD ALTERNATES
Vice Chair Education Josh Rounds Performance Contractors, Inc.
Josh Zumo Cajun Industries, LLC
In 1980, a handful of courageous men banded together to form the Pelican Chapter of ABC. Hays Town, Lane Grigsby, Richard Gill, Rick Picou, Bob Leitner and many others knew that our area of industry needed to be represented differently than the Greater New Orleans area, so they planted our Pelican chapter here in Baton Rouge. From humble beginnings, these men had a profound vision -one day we would look very similar to how we do today at the Pelican Chapter. Nelson Dupuy discovered the property on Highland Road, thus our training center roots began to grow deep and wide. Since that discovery, we’ve educated more than 25,000 craft professionals between our Baton Rouge and Southwest Training Center. All of us who work in the local construction industry have these founding fathers to thank for their many sacrifices and for their tireless efforts….
Vice Chair Outlying Areas Wes Mincin Triad Electric & Controls, Inc. Immediate Past Chair Trey Crawford Grady Crawford Construction Co., LLC
Lance Arvel GROUP Industries, LLC
LEGAL COUNSEL Murphy J. Foster, III Breazeale Sachse & Wilson, LLP
MERIT SHOP MESSAGE: Summer 2019 EDITORIAL/DESIGN: Erika Walter EDITORIAL / SUBSCRIPTION / ADVERTISING INQUIRIES ewalter@abcpelican.com | 225.448.3348 This is a publication of the Pelican Chapter, Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc. ABC is a national trade association representing the merit shop construction industry. The Pelican Chapter represents nearly 400 contractors, subcontractors, suppliers and industry professionals and covers 52 parishes in Louisiana. The Merit Shop Message is produced quarterly and distributed digitally to members.
Long before that beginning, Governor McKeithen helped pass “Right to Profit” and our region saw an incredible expansion from only Standard Oil and Dow to many, many other facilities. From 1966 – 1974, picture this in your mind; many new facilities looked like Sasol x 2!! WOW!! The early formation of GBRIA happened as well and our CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
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LE T T E R F ROM T H E C H A I R c o n T I NUE D local construction companies were beginning to put into place the machination of merit shop craft training existing today. LABI was formed in 1973 and in 1976 “Right to Work” was passed. What a momentous time this was for our industry and our community! Many of our companies today were around then under different names; to name just a few…… HE Wiese, which later became Jacobs (today Worley), Nichols which morphed into the powerhouse of Turner Industries and Homer Knost….wait for it! The next listing of incredible companies came from Homer Knost; Lane Grigsby started what is today Cajun Industries, Art Favre formed Performance Contractors, Pala Interstate with Rick Tarajano was borne, the aforementioned Nelson Dupuy started with Pala then formed his own company which became United Crafts and today is absorbed into Shaw/ CB&I/Brown and Root. The early formation of today’s version of MMR was around, under Mathews, McCracken, Rutland. ISC broke away as did Excel to become the behemoths they are today! Southern Instruments Instrumentation Company was formed back then, which is now
Newtron and Triad! I hope you get the picture I’m trying to frame for you. Oh, and let me briefly mention one other thing! After a construction worker was shot and killed at Jupiter Chemicals in Lake Charles, some of our founding leaders decided to fight the unions and give us what today is our Merit Shop right to free enterprise. Lane Grigsby took on many a union fight and came out victorious every time. Bert Turner was approached by a local industry giant and was asked to form a company that would become known as Harmony, now Turner. I could go on and on and on about how our construction forefathers have helped us be who we are today. If you are reading this while sitting at a computer, using a smart phone or tablet, or some other electronic means, you’re doing so because of these fine men and their incredible sacrifices! ………..with a constant eye on the future! Today, as a chapter we continue to go through the process of aligning our by-laws with our strategic plan. Look for an exciting announcement soon, where we will host a Town Hall/State of the Merit
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LE T T E R F ROM T H E C H A I R c o n T IN UE D shop membership meeting. This meeting will allow for input, by any member in good standing, to the implementation of our strategic plan for the next three to five years. The event will be held on our Pelican Chapter campus sometime in October. Thank you, Stevie Toups, for the incredible idea.
industry partner, SLCUC, Pelican has contracted CSRS as Program Manager to move this process along. Soon, we will be sending out RFQ’s to architects and the design process will begin. We are hopeful this long journey to a new facility will begin to take shape by year’s end.
Our Young Professionals Committee continues to seek ways to impact our community through outreach and innovation. Keeping a constant eye on developing our future leaders through diversity, through engagement of women within our organizations, through embracing technology as it embeds in our construction process are a few of the tenants of our YP. Josh Zumo and John Freeman, partnered with many others, are leading our YP Committee through exciting growth.
The future of our beloved Pelican Chapter looks incredibly bright. Yet, it wouldn’t have happened without those men who came before. Let me leave you with this, as many of them have imparted…….”Get into Politics or get out of business.” Our Governor’s race and the upcoming Presidential elections are vital to our continued success! Get on the stomp for Eddie Rispone and President Trump!
Our Pelican Chapter continues to explore the possibility of a new skills enhancement and craft training center in Lake Charles. Our current facilities have just about reached the end of their life cycle, as many of you know. With the help of our Lake Charles
Our tomorrow’s owe our yesterday’s much gratitude. Let’s live our today’s in the same manner. God Bless you, God Bless ABC and God Bless the United States of America, Donn Peterson, 2019 ABC Pelican Chairman
LOUISIANA Alexandria • Baton Rouge Covington • Kenner • Lafayette Lake Charles • Monroe • Shreveport
TEXAS Beaumont • Bryan • Corpus Christi Houston • Longview • Lufkin San Juan • Tyler • Victoria
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s UM MER 2 0 1 9 Do you have a story suggestion? Share it with Erika at ewalter@abcpelican.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS FEATURES
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE 02 Letter from the Chair
06 Build Your Future Info 08 Legislative Update 10 ICC Breakfast feat Scott Woodward 13 Fall Golf Classic Info
LEGISLATIVE WEEK COVER STORY
ABC Pelican Baton Rouge Training Center graduates meet with President Trump, Vice President Pence and Ivanka Trump
ABC Pelican shares with D.C. how we are defending the merit shop construction industry and open and equal competition.
19 Young Professionals Update 24 Legal Update 25 ABC National Updates 29 Legislative Day 31 & 33 Training Center Updates 37 Membership Update 39 Membership Discounts
SERVING OUR VETS BRTC & SWTC GRADUATIONS 320 Louisiana craft workers now have an even more valuable skill set to use in their careers and in life.
Members recently joined NextOp to host an employment readiness workshop for local military and veterans seeking career opportunities.
40 Welcome New Members 43 Safety Update 47 Membership Directory Update 51 Discount Programs 52 Letter from the President 54 2019 Events Calendar
2019 STATE CONVENTION
ABC of Louisiana cruisers set sail with ABC for the 41st annual state convention, and yes, ABC Pelican brought home the volleyball tournament trophy!
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT TOUR
200 students recently learned about careers in construction at the BRTC.
Connect with @abcpelican
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55 Postponed Fishing Tournament Info 56 Staff Contact Info and Upcoming Committee Meetings
Save the date
To celebrate Careers in Construction Month, the New Orleans/Bayou Chapter and Pelican Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. invites high school students from across Louisiana to learn from industrial professionals about the countless career opportunities available in the construction industry. WHEN:
Thursday, October 24, 2019
2 0 1 9
WHERE:
Lamar Dixon Expo Center, Gonzales, LA MORE INFO:
Contact Danielle at 225.752.0088 or dlabbe@abcpelican.com
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CH2M is now Jacobs.
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GOV E RN M E NTA L R EL A T I O N S U PDA TE
“JUST AS IMPORTANT AS HOW WE VOTE IS THAT WE VOTE” – RONALD REAGAN BY JOHN WALTERS, ABC OF LOUISIANA
ELECTIONS The 2019 Louisiana Elections are just around the corner. Every statewide office is up for election as well as the 144 Louisiana Legislative seats. While the Louisiana gubernatorial election has been getting most of the publicity so far this cycle, the legislative seats are just as important. The final phase of legislative term limits kicks in this year, meaning more than one-third of the seats in the Louisiana House of Representatives and the Louisiana Senate will be open this year due to legislative term limits. Candidate qualifying for these races ends on August 8. The Primary Election is set for October 12, with the General Election set for November 16. VOTING The last day to register to vote in the October 12 primary election is September 11. The last day to register to vote for the November 16, 2019 general election is October 16. Don’t for get to let your voice be heard this year. This election is the best chance for you, as an ABC Member, to “GET INTO POLITICS OR GET OUT OF BUSINESS.” You can register online here: www.sos.la.gov/ ElectionsAndVoting/Pages/OnlineVoterRegistration.aspx ABC PELICAN PAC You can now support the ABC Pelican PAC by contributing ONLINE at: www.abcpelicanpac.com The ABC Pelican PAC is organized to: •Support candidates for an elective state or local office within the state of Louisiana, who embrace the basic demographic principles of our American system of government, and the free enterprise system. By doing so, we play our part in securing a more prosperous economy and a higher standard of living for the people of Louisiana through a program that fosters the growth of the construction industry in Louisiana and its respective business interests. •Support or oppose statewide, regional or local propositions, referendums, constitutional amendments, bond or tax elections, or any other political cause or issue as may be directed by the ABC Pelican PAC Board. •Solicit, receive, hold, administer and disburse funds for political purposes as directed by the ABC Pelican PAC
Board. •Provide financial support for candidates as approved by the ABC Pelican PAC Board who embrace or express support for the basic purposes for which this organization is established and for issues supported by the ABC Pelican PAC Board. Financial support may also be used to reimburse such candidates or causes for expenses previously incurred in connection with a political campaign or other political issues. CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTORS REMAIN CONFIDENT U.S. construction industry leaders remained upbeat regarding nonresidential construction’s near-term prospects in May 2019, according to the Construction Confidence Index (CCI) released recently by Associated Builders and Contractors. While contractors were slightly less upbeat regarding profit margins and staffing levels compared to April, all three principal components measured by the survey— sales, profit margins and staffing levels—remain well above the diffusion index threshold of 50 in May. Nearly 73% of contractors expect sales to rise during the next six months and 68% expect staffing levels to increase further. ·The CCI for sales expectations increased from 68.4 to 70.0 in May. · The CCI for profit margin expectations fell slightly from 63.0 to 62.8. · The CCI for staffing levels fell from 67.4 to 66.8. “While there continues to be considerable chatter regarding a slowing economy, the need for federal rate cuts and the damaging effects of ongoing trade disputes involving the United States, China, the European Union and India, among others, nonresidential firm leaders continue to expect further construction spending growth,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu. “Recent data regarding job growth and consumer spending indicate that any economic slowing to date has been mild and that the expansion is set to endure for the next few quarters.” www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
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NEXT OP E M P L OY M EN T R EA D I N ESS W O RKS H O P
SERVING THOSE WHO SERVE OUR COUNTRY
June 6, Baton Rouge Training Center
ABC Pelican believes it’s important that we equip our military for long-term career opportunities as they transition back to the workforce, which is one of the reasons we joined NextOp to host an employment readiness workshop for local military and veterans seeking meaningful career opportunities. Our Member contractors participated by first sharing with military and veterans a brief overview of their company, of the services they provide, the type of work they do, and the type of employee they look for. NextOp then offered resume and networking tips during the career seeker presentation. These tips included ways to connect on LinkedIn, methods in practicing the elevator pitch and when to use that pitch, and different mechanics to emphasize their hard and soft skills to recruiters. “The resume is about fleshing yourself out as a professional,” Ben Armstrong with NextOp shared with the group. The vets and military then participated in three or four interviews with our contractors, practicing their networking skills. These mock interviews, held by our contractor members, provided the participants with valuable, professional input on their personal presentation and feedback on resumes. “My resume needs to be tailored more to what I want to do, specifically in the areas of safety,” one veteran remarked as a follow-up reflection to his interview with ISC Constructors. Chad Pierce with EXCEL Group remarked how he appreciated his interviewee who was precise about his expectations in a career. This workshop was a great way for our contractor members to help those who serve our country and we’d like to thank Performance Contractors, The Lemoine Company, Primoris Services Corporation, JM Test Systems and Brown & Root Industrial Services for participating. 9
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2 019 BAT ON R O U G E C R A W F I S H B O IL
LET ME TELL YOU ‘BOUT THIS CRAWFISH BOIL
BY LINDSEY RUSS, DIRECTOR OF MEMBER SERVICES
If you’ve never been to a crawfish boil in a monsoon, are you really from Louisiana?
ABC Pelican’s Members are, hands down, the most dedicated and supportive of our chapter and our programs and events. Spring 2019 brought our state some pretty intense rain, and one of those storms began right at the top of our annual Baton Rouge Crawfish Boil. But that didn’t stop our Members and their guests from having an unforgettable time in the beautiful LSU Botanical Gardens, right in the heart of the city. “This crawfish boil was definitely a unique experience!” said Bethany Tircuit of The Workforce Group, LLC. Bethany serves on the Program & Events Committee. “It’s truly a shame that the weather was so bad, because I know that so many people worked so hard to plan and put everything together. I was surprised though by how many people braved the torrential downpour, and I think those who made it out still had a great time despite the weather. The band was tons of fun, and the crawfish, food, and cocktails were delicious! More than a dozen tents, most massive, surrounded the Gardens pavilion, providing our Members and their guests with enough coverage from the elements, and space to network, eat some quality Cajun cuisine, and enjoy and vote on their favorite cocktails, provided by our generous station sponsors. Long tables and high boys, covered in red, white and crawfish, were
filled with our Members and their guests as they enjoyed the crawfish; some attendees said that these were the largest craw-dads they had seen all season. A big thank you to Catering Cajun and 24Hour Safety for ensuring our attendees were well-fed! The band, Ampersand, interacted with the crowd and kept the energy up from beginning to end! They played a spectrum of genres, including country, rock, Cajun, the 70s, special requests… you name it! We had tons of requests for them to play at future Pelican events. Thank you to Maginnis Construction for supplying this event with some great live music! In a Baton Rouge Crawfish Boil first, we hosted a cocktail competition for our station sponsors. Trade Construction Company took home the inaugural prize with their medley of Moscow Mules. Congrats y’all! The trophy was well earned and deserved. We are grateful that our dedicated Members flooded the Burden Gardens in early May, even in the intense rain. Mother Nature was no match for the delicious crawfish and jambalaya, fantastic band, cocktail competition and Member turnout. Thank you to every single Member, guest, sponsor and friend of ABC Pelican that joined for our annual Baton Rouge Crawfish Boil. It was by far the most memorable crawfish boil in ABC history.
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ABC N at iona l L eg i s l at i v e W ee k 20 19
LOUISIANA’S MERIT SHOP IN OUR NATION’S CAPITAL
JUNE 23-27, WASHINGTON, D.C.
Each year, ABC Members from across the country join together in Washington, D.C. to educate lawmakers about the issues that affect your businesses and to showcase the opportunity and diversity that ABC Members contribute to our industry and the economy. From June 23-27, ABC Legislative Week 2019 took place in our nation’s capital and fulfilled the mission of the annual get together by ensuring our Senators and Representatives know how ABC is strengthening and defending the merit shop construction industry and open and equal competition. The week also offered seminars, summits and symposiums to better our Members understanding of how policy and our industry intersect. An overarching theme of Legislative Week 2019 is that ABC is most affective when the voices of those across the country, the voters and job creators, are singing off the same song sheet. At the fifth annual Diversity & Inclusion Summit, Members learned that harnessing innovation by demonstrating diversity is a key driver of success. Industry leaders and stakeholders also shared how they are coming up with solutions-based recommendations to help our members build diverse workplaces.
remarks at the YP Symposium. “Mentorship is the key to success in this industry.” Arvel went on to share his career pathway and journey in the industry, emphasizing that “ABC is an integral part of your success in this industry.” He wrapped his remarks with some keys to his own success in his career and life: 1️. Set goals for yourself and put a timeline on it 2️. Trust your instincts. If you think it’s the right thing to do, you should do it. 3️. Surround yourself with good people. Anytime you’re successful, someone behind the scenes has helped you get there. 4️. Work hard when no one is watching. It’s merit, one of our founding principles.
At the Young Professionals Symposium, Chris Tuck, Senate Floor Assistant, shared with YPs from across the country that there are “no shortcuts in the federal government,” as he explained how a bill makes it through the complex process of becoming a law. “Build support in the committee first, preferably through a bipartisan approach, because it only takes one person to hold things up in the Senate.” Our own Lance Arvel, ABC National’s Young Professional of the Year with GROUP Industries, gave www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
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ABC N at iona l L eg i s l at i v e W ee k 20 19 co n TIN UE D On Tuesday evening, Congressman Garret Graves gave a one-of-a-kind night tour of the U.S. Capitol to our members and many other Louisianians. He gave in-depth history on the Capitol Rotunda, Speaker’s Balcony and the House Floor. Legislative Day, which was Wednesday, began with an upbeat breakfast. National leadership encourage ABC Members ahead of visiting with their respective lawmakers, sharing “nothing happens in this country without construction.” Mercedes Schlapp, who serves as White House Director of Strategic Communications, then provided Members with a White House briefing, explaining how this administration is standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the merit shop construction industry. Congressman Crenshaw of Texas then inspired the room with his passion for our country and free enterprise values. “The best social program is a job.” Personal responsibility was a topic of Rep. Crenshaw’s remarks, describing it as “the bedrock of our culture.” “If you want someone to succeed, you teach that person the importance of personal responsibility.” Rep Crenshaw’s remarks earned him a standing ovation. Following the breakfast, Milton Graugnard of Cajun Industries and part of ABC National’s executive committee, had the opportunity to talk workforce development and prison re-entry programs at the White House.
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Later that day, and through ABC of Louisiana, our Members hosted a luncheon to honor Louisiana lawmakers to honor them for being friends of Louisiana’s construction industry and defenders of free enterprise. We were excited to present an ABC Eagle Award, which is awarded to members of congress who score above a 70% on ABC’s legislative scorecard and who support ABC’s legislative positions on Davis Bacon and PLAs, to all of Louisiana’s Republican lawmakers. Whip Steve Scalise shared with our members: “I’m proud to serve a right to work state,” and Congressman Mike Johnson said: “I fight for yall’s interests because I believe in it.” The Congressional Baseball Game was a first for many of our ABC Pelican Members, and a wonderful way to wrap Legislative Week 2019 in DC. Since 1909, this game has been an annual bipartisan event enjoyed by thousands that brings together members of Congress from each party to play America’s sport: baseball. Kudos to ABC National for bringing chapters from across the nation together as a unified voice on behalf of Merit Shop Construction. We’re already looking forward to next year!
2 01 9 H igh S c h o o l C r a ft C h a m pio n s h ips
CROWNING CHAMPIONS 108 students from six different parishes compete in ABC Pelican’s annual high school craft championships
BY ERIKA WALTER, COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
For more than two decades, ABC Pelican is proud to have hosted a craft championship for local 11th and 12th grade students at the Baton Rouge Training Center. On Thursday, April 11, we hosted more than 100 competitors who showcased their talents in welding, carpentry and electrical to vie for the winning trophy, impressive prizes donated by our generous Members and [of course] bragging rights. Students from Ascension, Livingston, East Baton Rouge, West Feliciana, Assumption and Point Coupee participated in the annual competition, which consisted of a classroom test and a hands-on component. Competitors were either nominated by their teachers or won an internal competition amongst peers, so they had to earn their place at the championships. Allison Coleman teaches Electrical Level 1 and Level 2 at Central High School and was at the championships to support her three students competing in the electrical category. Her students placed third as a team in the competition. “They like showing off their skills,” Coleman commented as she watched her student begin the hands-on component of the electrical competition. “This competition offers the students real world experience and it lets them interact with industry.” Coleman said it’s good to see an
industry that cares about educating its future craft professionals. One future craft professional to compete was Tristan Acosta, a Senior at St. Amant High School and welding student at ABC Pelican. His welding team took home first place and he took home second place in the individual welding category. “I weld at school during the day and at ABC Pelican at night. I feel at home at ABC Pelican,” Acosta said after he wrapped his test and welding components. “I didn’t know much about welding when I came here, but the instructors taught me so much here at ABC Pelican. Now, I’ve got a good knack for it and my instructors say I’m pretty good at it.” Anthony Mason is another welder who competed on April 11. The Senior at Albany High School gave credit to his dad for helping him develop the skill set he brought to today’s competition. “I’m here to win and I think I’ve got what it takes,” Mason said after the hands-on component. “Opportunities like this will help me find a job, make my resume better
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2 01 9 High S c h o o l C r a ft C h a m pio n s h ips c o n tin ue d and make me a better welder.” A welding instructor present at the competition was Billy Doiron, who has been teaching at Live Oak High School for 18 years. Three of his students competed in welding and three competed in electrical. Live Oak’s welding team placed third and the school’s electrical team placed first this year. “The key to these crafts is practice,” Doiron said as he watched the electrical and carpentry students. “ABC Pelican not only recognizes the importance of the future of the workforce, but also provides the necessary resources and tools to ensure they are equipped to have a career in this industry.” A first-time carpentry team from Belaire High School said their necessary resource at ABC Pelican’s annual competition was teamwork. Carpentry Junior Jose Villanueva described in detail the building process. “They gave us plywood and the instructions and then we got to work.” “Our teamwork is great, we are all equal,” Villanueva remarked. “We wouldn’t have completed the job without each other.” Erren LaRose, Senior Carpenter at Belaire, agreed with Villanueva: “Through teamwork and trusting each other, we got it done.” Here are the winning individuals and teams of the 2019 ABC Pelican High School Craft Championships: Carpentry Teams: 1st – West Feliciana High School 17
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2nd – Holden High School 3rd – Central High School Electrical Teams: 1st – Live Oak High School 2nd – West Feliciana High School 3rd – Central High School Electrical Individuals: 1st – Dylan George – West Feliciana High School 2nd – Mason Stephens – Live Oak High School 3rd – Logan Scuderi – Maurepas High School Welding Individuals: 1st – Brennan Oubre – Livonia High School 2nd – Tristan Acosta – St. Amant High School 3rd – Trey Hebert – St. Amant High School Welding Teams: 1st – St. Amant High School 2nd -- Livonia High School 3rd – Live Oak High School We are grateful for each Member who donated their time, talents and expertise to ensure this event was a true success. From judging, to mentoring, to sponsoring, to donating prizes, you are one of the main reasons we can offer events like these to young craft professionals. These students are the future of our workforce, and their skills are worth encouraging and stories are worth knowing.
YOUN G P ROF E S S I O N A LS G R O U P UPDA TE
SERVING LOUISIANA’S FUTURE WORKFORCE JULY 19, 2019 Our YP’s and Baton Rouge Training Center recently had the opportunity to service Louisiana’s future workforce by hosting Youth Workforce Development participants. This program builds skills and mindsets in an effort to prepare youth for career opportunities as adults. The tour of the training center involved Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in various fields, such as carpentry, pipefitting and electrical. The SMEs showed the students what they do day-to-day, talked about their own career paths and answer questions. The YPs guided the students through the tour, shared the ABC Pelican story, handed out “swag bags” and cold waters, and lead the effort in scheduling, setting up and taking down for the event. The group of approximately 200 students ranged from the age 16 to 24, and it was Great to share our story, and explain different careers, projects and salary levels in these crafts to these young students. By participating in the program, we are ensuring these youths are aware of the many opportunities a career in construction has to offer.
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YOUN G P ROF E S S I O N A LS G R O U P UPDA TE c o n tin ue d
ISC’S THAD RISPONE INSPIRES ABC PELICAN’S YP GROUP WITH FOUR PIECES OF ADVICE BY: KATIE ROUTH, DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION The evening of Wednesday, May 1, after ABC of Louisiana’s Legislative Day at the Capitol, ABC Pelican’s YPs who took time out of their day to defend the Merit Shop Construction Industry at the Louisiana State Capitol made their way to the Bengal Tap Room. ABC Pelican strives to bring outstanding professionals in our industry in front of our ABC Pelican Young Professionals group to share their wealth of knowledge, wisdom and advice. Each new speaker brings a unique perspective of professional and personal life and our most recent speaker provided just that, with a healthy dose of inspiration for the nearly forty young professionals. After drinks and conversation at the establishment on 3rd Street in Downtown Baton Rouge, ABC Pelican YPs were thrilled to listen to Thad Rispone with ISC Constructors share his inspiring career journey and one-of-a-kind story that shaped who he is today. Thad’s perspective showcased his leadership, at home and in business. To Thad, he was sharing advice on work-life balance and how ABC membership has impacted his career, but to those listening – he was sharing advice on what it looks like to be a strong leader. 19
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When asked what advice he found most important to share with the group, he started with: Be honest. The number one piece of advice from the Vice President of ISC Constructors was; Be honest. Thad then went on to add three more powerful tips: Surround yourself with good people, grow where you are planted, and work hard – YOU are in charge of how hard you work. The good people Thad surrounds himself with include his “starting five;” the title he has given his wife and four daughters. Though he may not be able to split his time evenly for the sought-after work-life balance, Thad shared that it is most important to be present and make the time with your “starting five” count. Not only does Thad exemplify strong leadership in the construction industry, but as he expressed to the group, it all begins at home.
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B RTC and S W T C G r a d u at i o n s
320 CRAFT PROFESSIONALS GRADUATE FROM ABC PELICAN’S TRAINING CENTERS JUNE 20, L’AUBERGE BATON ROUGE JUNE 27, WEST CAL EVENT CENTER
Some images courtesy of Eye Wander Photo
ABC Pelican is proud to educate the skilled and technical employees that are necessary to sustain professionals across the state and Gulf Coast region with bachelor’s or post-graduate degrees. Workforce development has been a pillar of our chapter since 1984, when our first training center was chartered. Now, we teach about 3,000 students a year in craft trades throughout 20 parishes in Louisiana. Our craft students are educated through hands-on training, in the classroom and through online testing. We then wrap the semester or school year with a graduation ceremony. “These credentials do not appear out of thin air, but result from countless hours of grit, dedication, focus and sacrifice,” said David Helveston, ABC Pelican President and CEO. “I am honored these graduates chose ABC Pelican to be part of their story and career pathway, and I congratulate each individual on the skills they have cultivated with us. Whether these craft professionals utilize these skills on a job site, in a shop or to teach future craft workers, they are building our community stronger, brighter and better.” At our Baton Rouge Training Center graduation, 174 craft professionals who completed course work in the Spring 2019 semester celebrated with family and friends at the L’Auberge Baton Rouge. The class consisted of 18 electricians, 11 heavy equipment operators, 11 millwrights, 19 mobile crane operators, 16 instrumentation technicians, 7 pipefitters, 19 project supervisors, 12 site safety technicians and 68 welders. An impressive six welders graduated having completed two levels of welding credentials within one semester. We caught up with Reginald Major, a level four pipefitting graduate, moments before the ceremony began. A veteran, he looks forward to using his education to support his family as he transitions back in to the workforce. 21
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“ABC Pelican provided me with a great opportunity, quality training, and a chance to make myself better,” Major said. “The instructors are always there when you need them.” Former ABC Pelican and ABC National Chair and gubernatorial candidate Eddie Rispone with ISC Constructors provided keynote remarks at the graduation, applauding the diversity in the room. “You’re out there to better yourself, to grow your skill set and to secure your family’s future. This is what Louisiana looks like,” Rispone said. “We have incredible, talented, diverse people in this state.” Rispone, who has been in construction for 40 years, said he is confident the talent of our craft professionals can compete anywhere in the United States. “You’re helping the economy of Louisiana. You’re growing Louisiana. You’re setting a powerful example, and I want to thank you for making Louisiana better, for making your life better.” At our Southwest Training Center graduation, 146 craft professionals who completed course work in the Fall 2018 and Spring 2019 semesters celebrated with family and friends at the West Cal Event Center with a ceremony and dinner. The class consisted of 25 electricians, 37 heavy equipment operators, 14 millwrights, 7 instrumentation technicians, 8 pipefitters, 7 site safety technicians and 48 welders. David Nixon, Maintenance and Reliability Manager for Lyondell Basell, gave keynote remarks that inspired and encouraged the graduates. While 320 is an impressive number, each craft professional has a story, and ABC Pelican is now part of that story.
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BR T C an d S W T C G r a d u at i o n s CO N TIN UE D One such craft professional is Dameon Jackson, an agriscience and carpentry teacher at Northeast High School in Pride, LA. Jackson, 43, completed four levels of electrical course work with ABC Pelican over the past two years, while teaching ninth through twelfth grade students. Jackson believes the best teachers are lifelong students, and he hopes to teach his students electrical courses in the future. “The earlier you can start your career, the better you will be,” is a piece of wisdom that Jackson, a Greensburg native and father of three, continuously shares with his students. “Why wait until your 30s when you can start thinking about a career in high school?” In his 16 years of teaching, Jackson has learned that “everyone comes from different backgrounds, and these kids are dealing with real challenges at home.” Reflecting on his education through ABC, Jackson found that “the instructors shared many personal stories, with regards to family and home life, as well as their careers in construction.” Since his time with ABC Pelican, Jackson strives daily to be more open with his students and share more of his personal stories.
“The ABC Pelican instructors are patient and understanding towards their students. They treated us all equally, and that set a strong example for me,” Jackson said. “The instructors also offered a plethora of knowledge, and the program’s environment was always welcoming and safe.” Tim Gros also graduated in June with both electrical and instrumentation credentials. “Like anything, what you get out of something is what you put in to it. Work hard at this program and it will pay off.”
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BR T C an d S W T C G r a d u at i o n s CO N TIN UE D Juggling night classes, a full-time job and a family was a challenge, he said, “but for a moment.” Gros, an ISC Constructors employee, made a conscious decision to daily focus on the positive because this training will help him take that next step in his career. “There were moments when I thought about giving up with a demanding job and intense craft training, but I didn’t,” Gros said. “Work hard and finish strong.” This Spring, Gros represented ABC Pelican in instrumentation at the National Craft Championships in California. Gros said he was thankful for the opportunity because “it gave me a confidence that I can take with me throughout my career.” Gros also represented ABC Pelican at the White House in late July. He was invited by the president to celebrate the one-year mark of the Pledge to America’s Workers because of his inspiring story. You can read more about Tim’s first trip to Washington, D.C. in our cover story.
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LE GAL up dat e
DON’T IGNORE PRELITIGATION DEMANDS THAT MENTION ARBITRATION BY: JERRY L. STOVALL, JR. , BREAZEALE, SACHSE & WILSON, L.L.P. Most of you have probably received prelitigation letters from attorneys claiming to represent a former employee who believes that you have done them wrong. The letters traditionally demand that you pay up or get sued. Quite often these letters end up in the circular, metal container near your desk. Sometimes the former employees actually sue, most of the time they go away. Unfortunately, some enterprising plaintiff’s attorneys in Texas are using the tendency of most employers to ignore these letters as a way to void otherwise enforceable arbitration agreements. This is how the scheme played out in a Texas state court earlier this year: The plaintiff’s attorney sent a pre-litigation letter to the employer asking whether the employer had an arbitration agreement with the former employee. The letter also demanded that the employer produce any such agreement within thirty days, and stated that failure to do so would constitute an agreement not to arbitrate the claims. The employer never responded, and the former employee filed his lawsuit instead of initiating arbitration. The employer did not demand arbitration and proceeded with the litigation. In discovery the employer produced a signed arbitration agreement. The plaintiff decided that he would rather be in arbitration than the Texas court and moved the court to submit the case to arbitration based on the newly discovered arbitration agreement. The trial court and the Texas Court of Appeals held that the Plaintiff could not move the case to arbitration. This is where
the case really gets odd: the Court of Appeals held that the letter from the plaintiff’s attorney, combined with the employer’s failure to produce the arbitration agreement within thirty days as demanded in the letter, constituted a subsequent, enforceable agreement between Plaintiff and the employer to rescind the arbitration agreement. Think about this, ignoring the letter, to which the employer had no legal obligation to respond, constituted a binding agreement to rescind the arbitration agreement. As wrong as it sounds, this ruling, if it is not overturned on appeal, is the law of the land in the Fourth Court of Appeals of Texas. Although most of you probably do not do business in the Fourth Court of Appeals of Texas (in and around San Antonio), you can rest assured that plaintiff’s counsel around the country will hear of this decision and copy these tactics in the hopes that other courts will follow suit and rescind otherwise binding arbitration agreements. The take away for employers is that if you have an arbitration provision in place and you want the ability to enforce it, it would probably be a good idea to respond to a pre-litigation demand letter by at least stating that you do have an arbitration agreement in place and that you intend to enforce it.
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Up dat e s f ro m A B C N A T I O N A L JUNE CONSTRUCTION UNEMPLOYMENT RATES DOWN IN 40 STATES YEAR OVER YEAR WASHINGTON, D.C., July 31—In June, estimated not seasonally adjusted construction unemployment rates fell nationally and in 40 states and increased in 10 on a year-over-year basis, according to an analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data released today by Associated Builders and Contractors. For the second month in a row, all 50 states posted construction unemployment rates of less than 10%. The construction industry employed 200,000 more workers nationally compared to June 2018, dropping the June 2019 national NSA construction unemployment rate 0.7%, from 4.7% to 4%, according to BLS numbers. “While severe weather, particularly in the Midwest and parts of the East, disrupted construction activity to some extent, the June construction employment numbers remained strong,” said Bernard M. Markstein, Ph.D., president and chief economist of Markstein Advisors, who conducted the analysis for ABC. “Construction employment opportunities continue to grow for job seekers, with skilled workers particularly in high demand. June seasonally adjusted average hourly earnings in construction increased by 3.2% on a year-overyear basis. At $30.73, average hourly earnings for construction are 10% higher than average hourly earnings for all private-sector employees.” The Top Five States: The states with the lowest estimated NSA construction unemployment rates in order from lowest to highest were: 1. Vermont, 1% 2. South Dakota, 1.1% 3. North Dakota, 1.5% 4. Maine, 1.6% 5. Idaho, 2% The Bottom Five States: The states with the highest estimated NSA construction unemployment rates in order from lowest to highest were: 46. Connecticut and Louisiana (tie), 6.2% 47. Missouri, 6.4% 48. New Mexico, 7.3% 49. Kentucky, 8.4% 50. Mississippi, 8.6% 25 www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
ABC STUDENTS ATTEND WHITE HOUSE PLEDGE TO AMERICA’S WORKERS EVENT WASHINGTON, D.C., July 30—Two graduates of ABC Pelican’s Baton Rouge Training Center and one from the ABC Heart of America apprenticeship program were in Washington last week to attend the one-year anniversary celebration of President Trump’s Pledge to America’s Workers at the White House. Last year, ABC pledged to educate and upskill at least 500,000 construction workers over the next five years during the kick-off event. Representing ABC at the White House was Tim Gros, an ISC Constructors employee and graduate of the ABC Pelican’s Baton Rouge Training Center, who spent the past two years earning more electrical and instrumentation credentials to take the next step in his career, which increased his salary by 24%. Gros, who shared his personal story with presidential advisor Ivanka Trump before the event, was interviewed about his construction career and experience at the White House on Varney and Co., Fox and Friends First and NBC4i. Another graduate of the Baton Rouge Training Center in attendance was Sharon Ramsey, who previously worked as a nurse and accountant, and completed her instrumentation education at the age of 62. She currently tutors students going through similar craft training programs and wants her story to be an example of how women can succeed in a male-dominated field. Representing the ABC Heart of America apprenticeship program was Jeff Hawk, who enrolled as an electrical apprentice in September 2018. Hawk worked as a front desk clerk in a hotel and wanted to expand his career opportunities by becoming an electrician. In 2018 alone, ABC members invested $1.6 billion in craft, leadership and safety education, up from $1.1 billion in 2013, according to a recent survey. The 45% increase in spending resulted in nearly twice as many course attendees—more than 980,000—
receiving education to advance their careers in commercial and industrial construction. Since President Trump signed the executive order to establish the National Council for the American Worker on July 19, 2018, more than 200 companies and organizations have signed the Pledge to America’s Worker, committing to offering more than 9.9 million new education opportunities for workers over the next five years. OSHA OFFERS RESOURCES FOR WORKING IN DANGEROUS WEATHER CONDITIONS WASHINGTON, D.C., July 24– The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has published several resources to protect workers from various hazards related to summertime weather, such as hot weather and hurricanes. The agency recently released an OSHA Alert with the latest information and a list of safety practices to use when working in high temperatures and humid conditions. Additionally, the alert includes links to OSHA’s “Water. Rest. Shade.” and “Occupational Heat Exposure” webpages. With hurricane season lasting from June 1 to Nov. 30, OSHA urges employers to be prepared to keep their workers safe during these extreme weather events. As part of this effort, the agency’s Emergency Preparedness and Response page provides information on protecting workers before and after hurricanes strike. The webpage provides workers with links to the agency’s Preparedness page, which outlines the warnings and watches used for hurricanes, and Response/Recovery page, which features information on hazard exposures and risk assessments for hurricane response and recovery work. Additional resources for hurricane preparedness can be found at the following websites: FEMA.gov Ready.gov/hurricanes National Weather Service’s Hurricane Preparedness Page
COV E R S T ORY S U M M ER 20 1 9
ABC PELICAN GRADUATES HONORED BY PRESIDENT TRUMP, VICE PRESIDENT PENCE AND IVANKA TRUMP
JULY 25, WASHINGTON, D.C.
Some images courtesy of The White House
One afternoon in late July in our nation’s capital, two Louisiana craft professionals who had recently graduated from the Baton Rouge Training Center, Timothy Gros (35) and Sharon Ramsey (62), represented our chapter and Louisiana’s construction industry at a White House event to celebrate America’s workers with President Trump, Vice President Pence and Ivanka Trump. These two students will be the first to tell you that this experience is now one of the highlights of their lives. This was also their first visits to D.C. Tim and Sharon were invited by the White House CONTINUED ON PAGE 27
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COVE R S T ORy S U M M ER 20 1 9 C ON TIN UE D to join the President as he celebrated the one-year mark of his Pledge to America’s Workers. This initiative began in July 2018 to encourage companies and associations to invest in their workforce and provide career opportunities. ABC National signed on to this pledge, with the commitment to skill and upskill 500,000 Americans over the next five years. ABC Pelican passed along Tim and Sharon’s inspiring stories of their education experiences at the Baton Rouge Training Center to ABC National, who then passed along their stories to the White House. Tim and Sharon’s stories clearly made a positive impression. Tim Gros, an ISC Constructors employee who lives in Springfield, shared with national media, the President, Vice President and Ivanka Trump his craft training story and the importance of earn-while-learn education programs. The new dad and Patterson native juggled four, 16-hour days each week for the past two years to complete his education with us, and he now has more electrical and instrumentation credentials and a 24 percent increase in salary. “‘Honored’ doesn’t even begin to describe the experience of sharing my story with the country,” Gros said the evening of July 25. “My hope is that my story reveals the importance of earn-while-learn education programs and inspires other hard-working Louisianians to pursue a career in construction. By investing in myself and working hard, I was able to advance my career without taking time off from earning a pay check.” Gros chose ABC Pelican’s craft training program to “fill in the gaps” and to deepen his understanding of the trades. “The education through ABC Pelican furthered my knowledge and strengthened my skill set,” he said. “The programs shaped my future by teaching me the fundamentals of my trade.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 28 27 www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
COVE R S T ORY S U M M ER 20 1 9 c on tin ue d “But for a moment,” is the phrase that inspired Gros while he earned his credentials because he knew they would help him take that next step in his career. “There were moments when I thought about giving up with a demanding job and intense craft training, but I didn’t,” Gros said. “Work hard and finish strong.” Sharon Ramsey graduated last fall in instrumentation at the age of 62. The New Orleans native traveled 120 miles each day, two days a week, after work, for three semesters to complete her education with ABC Pelican. Sharon currently tutors students going through similar craft training programs and considers herself part of the construction industry and a role model for women in the field.
“Tim and Sharon are just two examples of those in Louisiana and across America who can benefit from an earn-while-you learn educational program,” said David Helveston, chapter president and CEO for ABC Pelican. Anyone is capable of joining the construction industry if they are willing to work hard and put the time in, just like Tim and Sharon. We could not be more proud of how well this chapter was represented on a national stage.
“Representing women in the construction industry and my state at the White House is one of the highlights of my life,” Ramsey said. “I’m proud that women in craft professional roles are on the rise, but that number could be higher. I hope that my experiences in this upskilling program with ABC Pelican will encourage other women to consider a construction vocation.” Prior to ABC Pelican, Sharon worked in careers such as nursing and accounting. After Hurricane Katrina, Sharon volunteered with People Building Communities to help rebuild her hometown. Through her volunteer efforts, Sharon joined ABC, and because one of her goals is to help other women “level up” through continued education, she jumped on the opportunity to learn a new skill set. While she is “not done yet,” Sharon considers herself part of the construction industry and a role model for women in the field. “I tell the women in my circle of influence: don’t be intimidated,” Ramsey said. “If this was available when I was younger, I would have taken this route” because “this industry is so big right now.” www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
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ABC of L ouis i a n a L eg i s l at i v e Day a n d Le gis lativ e Re ce ptio n
THE FACES OF THE MERIT SHOP CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY IN LOUISIANA VISIT THE LOUISIANA STATE CAPITOL
MAY 1 2019, Downtown Baton Rouge
As a Member of ABC Pelican, you and your companies support our mission: defending and strengthening the merit shop construction philosophy. What is that philosophy? It encourages open competition and a free enterprise approach that awards contracts based solely on merit. One vital way that we uphold this profound philosophy is through political advocacy. On Wednesday, May 1, we held our annual Legislative Day at the Louisiana State Capitol for members in both the Pelican Chapter and the New Orleans/Bayou Chapter. The afternoon began with a tour of and discussion in both the House and Senate chambers. The ABC of Louisiana Members saw firsthand how policies and laws that affect our day-to-day are enacted. They learned about how bills are introduced, the legislative process in each chamber, committee structures, voting procedures and amendment introductions. The Members then went to the very top of the State Capitol for the best view of Downtown Baton Rouge and the Mighty Mississippi. The “windblown” looks were sported in several pictures. The day wrapped with listening sessions and Q&A’s with representatives, state officials and John Walters, ABC of Louisiana’s Vice President of Governmental Relations. “If you’re in business, you’ve got to be involved in politics,” ISC’s Thad Rispone shared with many of the Pelican and Bayou Young Professionals that attended Legislative Day at the Capitol. Later that same day, we held our 2019 ABC of 29
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Louisiana Legislative Reception, which was once again a big hit with a great turnout of both ABC Members and elected officials. Pelican and Bayou Members spoke with legislators and officials about the bills that influence the construction industry and thanked them for their service to our state. This reception is consistently one of the premiere events of the legislative session. For those of you who sponsored and/or attended: thanks for showing your support for ABC and the Merit Shop Construction Industry. Our Members’ knowledge and involvement did not go unnoticed by the legislators, elected officials, candidates, and policy makers who came out to visit with you during our reception.
PELICAN CHAPTER, ASSOCIATED BUILDERS & CONTRACTORS, INC.
ABC PELICAN IS YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR CONSTRUCTION EDUCATION In addition to training the next generation of craft professionals, ABC Pelican is a one-stop shop for all of your construction education needs. We offer customized training, assessments, practicals, certifications, room rentals and more.
Call 225.752.0088 for more information
NCCER ASSESSMENTS
NCCER MOBILE CRANE, RIGGER OR SIGNAL PERSON CERTIFICATIONS
ADDITIONAL OFFERINGS
•Computer-based, journey-level assessments are delivered Thursdays at 9a or 1:30p. All crafts available that NCCER offers.
•Assessment must be scheduled and passed first.
•Assessment costs must be paid at time of scheduling. Only money orders, credit/debit cards and PO’s accepted as payment. No personal checks or cash.
•Practical exam scheduled upon passing
•Must be scheduled by COB the Wednesday before. •No-shows will be charged for the assessment. •Additional assessment times can be scheduled with 72-hour notice for groups of six or more.
19251 Highland Road Baton Rouge, LA 70809
•For Mobile Crane – ABC Pelican has a 15-ton fixed and a 28-ton rotating crane at our location available for testing. If a different crane is necessary for certification, accommodations can be arranged to have an examiner come to your location.
•Rigger – Basic, Intermediate or Advanced
•Room Rentals – Any of the BRTC classrooms and meeting spaces can be reserved pending availability. Water, soft drinks and coffee available for an additional charge. •Hydroblasting Training & Certification –threeday course scheduled on an on-going basis 15-person class minimum. •Upgrade Training – Boilermaking, Carpentry, Electrical, Insulating, Millwright, Painting, Pipefitting and Scaffolding – weekend training for existing craft professionals. •Customized training to meet your company’s needs.
Hours of Operation: Monday - Thursday, 7:30a to 6:00p
225.752.0088
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BA T ON ROUGE t r a i n i n g c en t e r update
CRAFT TRAINING DOESN’T TAKE A SUMMER BREAK
BY KELLY CARPENTER, DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION Many exciting events have taken place at the BRTC over the past few months, each of which are brightening the future Louisiana’s merit shop construction industry. Danielle Labbe’ and Richard Laird, Crane and Rigging instructor traveled to Chalmette, LA for Chalmette Refinery during the last two weeks of May. Richard provided basic rigging and carry deck training for some of the plant’s maintenance technicians. At the end of the training, individuals took the corresponding NCCER assessment and practical exam to earn certifications. Our Summer Day Jumpstart Training Classes began on May 30, in pipefitting with 25 students. This program is a partnership with Ascension Parish School District, Central School District and Propel America. The students participated in field trips to fab shops and demonstrations provided by member vendors. There were 20 students who completed level one on June 28. We anticipate 10 of these students will participate in the level 2 classes for high school course choice program and three in the evening program. GBRIA Joint Task meeting was held at the training center on June 4 with three plant representatives and two contractors. The focus was on realigning the objectives for the group and creating clear goals to address on an annual basis. Leadership suggested hiring a facilitator to assist ABC and GBRIA to help execute the process. Chair of Education & Manpower and ABC Board appointed representatives will attend these meetings in the future. Connie Fabre with GBRIA has asked ABC staff to take a much more active role in working with plant owners on collecting 31
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the cents per manhour. On June 12 David Helveston, Kelly Carpenter and Kacie Blanchard met with Connie Fabre, Sue Ledger and Jessica Pranjic to work on the steps to manage and make sure we collect man hours that may have fallen due to change over in staff in the plants. Kacie Blanchard will work at the GBRIA office two days per week and assist with reaching out to plant owners and site managers to provide information about the partnership between GBRIA and ABC. Having Kacie work at GBRIA has revitalized the partnership and she has collected $15,000 from a plant that would have otherwise been overlooked. The process will give us an opportunity to discuss the training opportunities at ABC and establish a better relationship with the plant owners. Kacie Blanchard, Danielle Labbe’ and Kelly Carpenter met with assistant principals and the technical supervisor at Ascension Parish School District. The meeting addressed any concerns from the previous school year amongst the group. In addition, the group reviewed the student policies and procedures for any omission or changes that need to be made. ABC is looking forward to another successful school year. Danielle Labbé has been participating on an NCCER Workforce Development subcommittee to address the lack of standardization for tracking times on a PV. The subcommittee is first working on identifying a specific amount of time per task on the pipefitting PV. From there, the subcommittee will work on other PVs to ensure time is a factor in evaluation and an appropriate standard is set.
BA T ON ROUGE t r a i n i n g c en t er update CO N TIN UE D NCCER released a survey to the group for current pipefitting performance evaluators to complete. Spring 2019 graduation took place on June 20 at the L’Auberge with 96 graduates attending. The ceremony began at 6:30 pm. Eddie Rispone was the guest speaker and addressed the group regarding the future of Louisiana. Immediately following the ceremony, the graduates enjoyed a reception with family and friends. ABC offered Boilermaker Upgrade Training in June with 11 participants. The upgrade classes continue to gain momentum and prove to be advantageous to the overall knowledge verification process. The next group of upgrade training sessions are scheduled for later this summer during the last weekend of July and the first weekend of August. ABC hosted NextOp on June 6 at the training center. Mr. Ben Armstrong gave a brief overview of the company and presentation on career seekers. Member contractors held mock interviews with 22 veterans and provided feedback. The organizations participating were Performance Contractors Inc., The Lemoine Company LLC, Primoris Services Corporation, JM Testing System Inc., Brown & Root, ISC Constructors, Excel, Worley, Associated Terminals, Responsible Safety Staffing and Amazon Distribution Center.
experience in July and August using Grant’s crane course that he has created behind Building C. Dow Chemical, Performance Contractors and Turner industries will donate cranes to ABC for training. We thank all of you for the support. The Training Center has also hosted the third hydroblasting training and certification sessions of this year. We had a total of 12 students participate with eight from Turner and four from TMA. There were 10 students receiving full NCCER Certification for the class. This brings the total up to 49 students completing the class for the year. Incumbent Worker Training Program Grants have been signed and waiting approval for Turner and Performance to be used at ABC. The popularity and use of these training grants are really gaining momentum. This year Worley formally known as Jacobs is expected to utilize the IWTP grant funds. Currently, Turner, Performance and Cajun have taken advantage of the funding resource for craft and specialty classes in the upcoming semester. Turner has used IWTP funds for hydroblasting, crane classes and skills upgrade training. Performance Contractors is using these funds to do craft classes and specialty training.
The Builders Council will meet on July 17. The group will discuss the success and future of the commercial electrical classes and the need to create a self-funding revenue stream to insure the continued success of the program. The training center will run these classes and will maintain the same instructor requirements as the industrial classes. The group also discussed the opportunity for carpentry and HVAC training and other benefits ABC can offer or facilitate for commercial contractors. The mobile crane level 2 class completed practical exams the weekends of June 7 and 14 to complete their NCCER certifications. Grant Chustz with Worley helped facilitate a crane donation from Scott Equipment that helped the students utilize a rotating crane commonly used in industry. It is anticipated that students will continue to gain more seat time www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
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so ut h w e st t r a i n i n g c en t er update
EDUCATING 1,000 STUDENTS IN SWLA THIS FALL BY BLAISE THEARD, WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST, SWTC The 2018-2019 academic year ended June 20 for the ABC Southwest Training Center. Between the Fall and Spring semesters, an impressive total of 1512 levels were completed. A career fair was held June 20, providing an opportunity for ABC SWTC students to explore potential careers with our contractor members; a sincere ‘thank you’ to each of our contractor members who attended. Graduation was held on June 24 to recognize this year’s 160 graduates. We appreciated our guest speaker, David Nixon with LyondellBasell, for addressing the graduates and their families. Also thank you to all contractor members who offered their support by attending the ceremony. Our Dual Enrollment Course Choice Program thrived this year. Our growing partnership with six parishes in southwest Louisiana is continuing to provide high school students high quality craft training and a head start to future careers in the industrial construction industry. ABC SWTC is excited to say that 321 students earned industrybased credits toward their high school transcripts. This dual enrollment program is exposing the next generation to industrial crafts while building the workforce for many years to come. As we transition to the Fall 2019 semester, enrollment numbers are on pace for another great semester. The 24 week accelerated classes began June 24. The crafts offered are heavy equipment, instrumentation, electrical, and welding. Among all accelerated classes, a total of 93 students are enrolled. Our night classes will begin August 5 and we estimate to have about 500 students enrolled. The crafts being offered at night are core, pipefitting, electrical, instrumentation, heavy equipment, welding, and millwright. Our dual 33
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enrollment classes for high school students will begin late August. Throughout the six parishes of SWLA, the ABC SWTC will offer core, welding, pipefitting, and electrical classes to those high school students interested in pursuing a future in the industrial construction industry. Combining all aspects of our training, we are projecting to have around 1000 students for the Fall 2019 semester. As the industrial construction industry is ever evolving, the ABC SWTC is eager to follow the trend. We are always exploring innovative ideas to improve and advance the quality of training for current and future craftsmen and women. The ABC SWTC is very thankful for the continuous support of our members and look forward to going above and beyond their needs.
PELICAN CHAPTER, ASSOCIATED BUILDERS & CONTRACTORS, INC.
PERFECT YOUR TRADE THROUGH CRAFT TRAINING IN SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA Established in 1980, ABC Pelican has trained more than 25,000 craft professionals, provided a variety of professional continuing education offerings, and promoted construction as a career to tens of thousands. Perfect your trade through nationally accredited curricula developed for the construction industry with us!
Questions? Contact: Kirby Bruchhaus, Director of Education (kbruchhaus@abcpelican.com | 337.882.0204) Blaise Theard, Workforce Development Specialist (btheard@abcpelican.com | 337.882.0204)
• NCCER Core Classroom • NCCER Scaffolding Level 1 • NCCER Electrical Levels 1-4 • NCCER Millwright Levels 1-5
CRAFT COURSES
• NCCER Heavy Equipment Levels 1-2
• AWS Welding Levels 1- 3 (afternoon & evening)
• NCCER Instrumentation Levels 1-4
• NCCER CSST Safety 100 Hours
• NCCER Pipefitting Levels 1-4
NCCER Accredited Assessment Center
About ABC Pelican Pelican Chapter, Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnic origin, religion, sex, handicap, union affiliation or veteran status. Persons who enroll in ABC Training Center courses acknowledge that they are physically fit to participate in these courses. In the event of an accident or injury, participants will hold harmless from all liability and/or loss or damage, the Pelican Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. or its agents. This information is subject to change without notice due to enrollment numbers and requirements. Completion of all or part of a training program does not guarantee employment. While it is our goal to train for the construction/maintenance industry, our primary purpose is to train our members’ employees.
222 Walcot Road Westlake, LA 70669
Fall 2019 Dates
Spring 2020 Dates
Early Registration: April 1 – 30 (current students only)
Early Registration: October 1- 31 (current students only)
Contract Employee Registration: May 1 – 30 Open Registration: June 3 - 27
Contract Employee Registration: November 4 - 28 Open Registration: December 2 - 19
Late Registration: July 1 – 31 (current students only)
Late Registration: December 1 – 31 (current students only)
Semester Begins: August 5, 2019 Hours of Operation: Monday - Thursday, 7:30a to 6:00p
337.882.0204
Semester Begins: January 6, 2020 abcpelican.org
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ABC of l ouis i a n a f i s h i n g r o d eo 20 19 NOT OUR FIRST RODEO AND CERTAINLY NOT OUR LAST MAY 16-18, GRAND ISLE
Since 1993, ABC Bayou/New Orleans and ABC Pelican Members have made the trip to Grand Isle before Memorial Day weekend for the annual ABC of Louisiana Fishing Rodeo. This three-day event not only supports the political advocacy efforts of ABC of Louisiana, but it’s also a great way for our Members and their clients to enjoy one of Louisiana’s finest gems: our state’s abundance of outdoor resources. Louisiana’s multitude of bayous, swamps, wetlands and coastal marshes provide ideal fishing and wildlife opportunities, and many of our Members and staff share a deep appreciation for these rich natural resources. Most of the time our hospitality station at the Sand Dollar Marina, which is filled with snacks and drinks, was relatively empty. Those who’ve attended this Member favorite know that a pretty empty pavilion is a good thing because it means the fish are biting! Many of our anglers who ventured out Thursday and Friday hit their limit in trout, and brought home multiple ice chests full of fillets of fresh fish. In other words, the weather was a ten out of ten! Thursday’s Captain’s Party at Artie’s was a great way to begin the rodeo. Members watched a beautiful sunset over the Gulf Coast on the patio, registered their teams, picked up their shirts, enjoyed dinner and drinks, and caught up with friends and colleagues. The music and 70-something, minimal-humidity evening kept the Party at Artie’s going well past 10 PM. Thanks to Bottom Line Equipment for sponsoring the kick-off.
enjoying a beautiful sunrise and minimal wind from their boats. At the weigh-in that afternoon, we saw Redfish, trout, flounder, catfish, grouper, cobia, drum and many other types of fish. “Participating in the ABC Fishing rodeo is always a quality time for our team,” said Teddy Twigg, VP/Owner of Business Development for Patriot Construction and Industrial, LLC. “The combination of good people who enjoy fishing as much as we do AND good fishing makes for a good day and a day well lived.” Friday evening, Members wandered over to the 11th Annual Beach Bash, hosted by BXS Insurance. A live band, great giveaways, dinner and drinks were enjoyed by Anglers and their guests. Members exchanged stories about what they caught (the fish got bigger and bigger as the night progressed!) that day, and where they planned to fish the next day. This party is always a great way to continue the celebration. Another early morning began our last day of the 2019 rodeo. While the wind whipped a bit more on Saturday, our Anglers were still enjoying comradery on the boats and all the glory that makes Louisiana a sportsman’s paradise. All anglers and their guests gathered for the final weigh in, a dinner and the presentation of awards and raffles. Glen Elrod with ACE Enterprises who served as this year’s Fishing Rodeo chair, thanked each individual for taking the time to join us and shared that the 2019 Fishing Rodeo hosted 275+ Anglers, our largest crowd to date.
A few hours later (think 4 AM alarm clocks), Members From a 60-pound grouper, to a 30-pound redfish, to a were off to the races to catch the biggest fish, all while 34-pound drum, to a 47-pound wahoo, to a 78-pound 35
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CONTINUED ON PAGE 36
ABC of l ouis i a n a f i s h i n g r o de o 20 19 CO N TIN UE D
snapper, our anglers had some impressive catches throughout the course of the rodeo. Beard Construction enjoyed catching fish and winning raffles throughout the weekend.
“We utilize the ABC Fishing Rodeo for our employees to enjoy a little ‘R&R,’” said Keith Coleman, Executive Vice President of Beard. “To fish and relax in Sportsman’s Paradise all while experiencing the benefits of ABC is invaluable. We also enjoy great networking opportunities, all while knowing the funds raised will help support and advocate for ABC of Louisiana. The fishing rodeo is always a sound investment for Beard.” A big thank you to every single sponsor that made this event possible and enjoyable for each of our Member attendees. Congratulations to our award and raffle winners too! We’re already counting down the days to the 2020 rodeo.
BIG GAME
2019 Fishing Rodeo Leader Board
1st Place
2nd Place
Almaco Jack
John Augustine
Amberjack
CLOSED
Barracuda
Spooky Chenier
10.00 Spooky Chenier
Blackfin Tuna
John Augustine
24.40
Bonita
Jimmy Poole
15.78 Cody Stroud
Cobia
15.60 John Augustine 0.00
0
0
0.00
0
7.8 Spooky Chenier
1st Place
2nd Place
3rd Place
6.28
Black Drum
Trey Rountree
0.00
Flounder
David Ford
2.00 Robbie Melancon
1.76 Todd Novak
6.14
Gafftop Catfish
Robbie Melancon
6.82 Davie Martin
5.72 Bennett Chermaie
34.22 Brice Marks
21.44 Spooky Chenier
13.06 1.5 5.50
21.08
Mangrove Snapper
Luke Trahan
15.06 Danny Campbell
14.20
Bull Redfish (= or > 27")
Jared Fontent
33.50 Chad Cheramie
33.14 Sean Suhre
33.12
Redfish (16" but < 27")
Pete Denham
9.06 Ronnie Lambert
8.26 Steve Price
7.64
Sheepshead
Ronnie Lambert
5.26 Taeger Gisclair
4.74 Braden Jones
4.64
2.34 Joe Ballard
1.72
4.18 Randy Guffey
3.42
0
0.00
SHORELINE
3rd Place
6.36 Chance Gaudet
0.00 Jimmy Poole
0
6.86 Luke Trahan
0 Cody Stroud
33.04
Dolphin
Cody Law
24.32 Monty Carlton
17.18 Mandy Miller
9.78
Grouper
Steve Price
60.22 Carlos Guidry
44.58 Danny Campbell
10.36
Spanish Mackeral
Taeger Gisclair
Jack Crevalle
Spooky Chenier
32.00 Spooky Chenier
28.76 Spooky Chenier
28.28
Speckled Trout
Brian Deschamp
4.46 Brian Brown 0.58 Adam Guillory
6.74 Carlos Guidry
2.5 Brady Turk
3.58
King Mackeral
0
0.00
0
0
0
0
White Trout
Adam Guillory
Misc. Snapper
0
0.00
0
0
0
0
Best 5-Trout (Day 1)
Stuart Maginnis
13.66 Brian Deschamp
12.68 Kurt Mire
12.66
0.00
0
0
0
0
Best 5-Trout (Day 2)
Carlos Guidry
15.76 Ronnie Lambert
13.66 Spooky Chenier
13.06
Redfish - Most Spots
Jared Fontent
11 Bubba Pharis
Triggerfish
CLOSED
Wahoo
Micah Murchie
Yellowfin Tuna
47.54 Katie Verbois 0
0.00
36.44 Cody Law 0
0
22.78 0
Master Angler
0
Master Angler Spooky Chenier Best Boat Triad
KAYAK
1st Place
Flounder
0
Redfish
Mike McMullen
Trout
0
Master Angler Female
TAG & RELEASE
Blue Marlin White Marlin Tarpon
Kati Verbois
2nd Place 0 2.98 Mike McMullen
Master Angler Mike McMullen
Sailfish
Best Boat
0 Mike McMullen
0
SPEARFISHING
3rd Place 0
0
0
Almaco Jack
1.62
0
0
Amberjack
0.78
Barracuda
1.5 Mike McMullen
0.5 Randy Giroir
0.46
9 Mike McMullen
5
Luke Trahan K&B Healthwork
1st Place
2nd Place
3rd Place
0.00
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cobia
0
0.00
0
0.00
0
0
Grouper
0
0
0
0
0
0
Jack Crevalle
0
0
0
0
0
0.00
Mangrove Snapper Misc. Snapper
0 CLOSED
0 John Enquist
Sheepshead Triggerfish
King Spearfisherman Best Boat
0 CLOSED
0
0
0
0
0
78.10
0
0.00
0
0.00
0
0
0.00
0
0.00
0
0
0
0
0
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36
John Enquist H & E Equipment
MEM BE RS H IP U PDA T E
MAKE A DIFFERENCE JOIN AN ABC COMMITTEE BY ANNA ZEBEAU, DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP Have you ever considered joining a committee? When you choose to serve on a volunteer committee, you open up a world of possibilities for networking, professional growth, and career opportunities. Becoming involved in a committee is one of the best ways to build relationships and derive value from membership. ABC member firms and volunteers are the backbone and lifeblood of this Association. ABC’s strength comes from the participation of its members’ representatives. They serve as a forum for exchange of information and help develop guidelines and standards. Your input works towards positive change and forward direction. Committee membership is open to all ABC Chapter member firms and their employees. If you would like to take part in facilitating the many issues and activities of the Pelican Chapter and sign up for a committee(s), please contact me at (225) 753.2541 or azebeau@ abcpelican.com. You are also welcomed to contact the Chapter Staff person, as listed below, to find out more information about the committee’s goals. Also, for those members who are located in the Southwest part of the state, have branch locations or territorial coverage in southwest Louisiana, we have committees at our ABC Southwest Training Center located in Westlake, Louisiana that you can participate on. Baton Rouge Committees AmBassador Club Promote membership retention through development and implementation of member involvement programs. Meets monthly at various locations ABC Contact: Anna (azebeau@abcpelican.com) Budget & Finance Committee Responsible for providing an analysis of the expenditures of the previous fiscal period, preparing a budget for the succeeding fiscal year and making recommendations to the Board of Directors in updating the current budget. Meets Third Tuesday of each month @ 4:00 PM ABC Contact: Janie (jarceneaux@abcpelican.com) Governmental Relations Committee Responsible for maintaining records of all legislative 37
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and legal matters of concern to the growth and promotion of merit shop, the dissemination of this information to the general membership as required and encouraging action on the part of the general membership in legislative matters. Meets when needed ABC Contact: John (jwalters@abcpelican.com) Membership Growth Committee Responsible for recruiting, retaining, welcoming and involving members of this association by employing new and innovative ideas and programs. Meets Third Wednesday Every Month; 8:00 AM in ABC Board Room ABC Contact: Anna (azebeau@abcpelican.com) Programs & Events Committee Responsible for planning the general membership events hosted by the chapter. Meets Second Wednesday of Every Month; 8:00 AM in ABC Board Room ABC Contact: Lindsey (lruss@abcpelican.com) Safety Committee This committee is responsible for continually updating the membership on any new or revised standards and regulations, to provide oversight and review on all Pelican Chapter safety training and to promote the ABC National S.T.E.P. Awards program. Meets Second Thursday of Every Month; 7:30 AM in ABC Training Center ABC Contact: Kacie (kblanchard@abcpelican.com) Education & Manpower – Only available to ICC Members and GBRIA Members. Meets Second Thursday of Every Month; 2:00 PM in ABC Training Center ABC Contact: Kacie (kblanchard@abcpelican.com) Young Professionals (Baton Rouge & Southwest) Program aims to shape the future of our industry by supporting the growth of the young professional under 40 years old that are employed by ABC contractor member companies. The program is $100 per year and creates opportunities for young leaders to build relationships, expand
MEM BE RS H IP U PDA T E c o n t i n u e d their skills and advance their careers while continuing to promote open competition and the merit shop philosophy. Meets 6 times a year at various locations ABC Contact: Katie (krouth@abcpelican. com) Southwest Committees Safety Committee To identify general and specific safety concerns and training opportunities to support a safe industry workforce. The Safety Committee promotes communication and respect between contractors and owners through open exchange of best practices, learning opportunities, and successes in the industry. Meets 1st Tuesday of Month at 11:30 a.m. ABC Contact: Kirby (kbruchhaus@ abcpelican.com) Steering Committee Responsible for the growth and promotion of the merit philosophy in the Southwest Louisiana area, including programs, events, legislative matters and training opportunities. Meets 2nd Tuesday of month at 11:30 a.m. ABC Contact: Kirby (kbruchhaus@ abcpelican.com) SLCUC Training Committee This committee is made up of SLCUC members and ABC Contractors members. They work jointly in making recommendations and decisions to be presented to the SLCUC Coordinating Committee for final approval, mainly funding and training issues.Meets 2nd Thursday of month at 11:30 a.m. ABC Contact: Kirby (kbruchhaus@ abcpelican.com)
The numbers speak for themselves 1,108,935
training units in 2018
1,800+
current member companies
258,773
students trained in 2018
60+
yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience
By putting our tools, technology, safety training and support to work, companies across the U.S. and abroad are working safer and smarter. Learn more about our foundational programs or talk to us about building a customized workforce development plan.
877-345-1253 alliancesafetycouncil.org
Membership Growth & Experience Committee Responsible for recruiting, retaining, welcoming and involving members of this association by employing new and innovative ideas and programs. Also involved with planning and making events in SWLA successful. Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10:00 a.m. ABC Contact: Anna (azebeau@abcpelican. com) www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
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PELICAN CHAPTER, ASSOCIATED BUILDERS & CONTRAC TORS, INC.
15OF MEMBERSHIP MONTHS FOR THE PRICE OF
12 MONTHS Become an ABC Pelican Chapter member now and enjoy 15 MONTHS OF MEMBERSHIP FOR THE PRICE OF 12 MONTHS! Any company that joins effective October 1, 2019 will receive the remainder of 2019 and all of 2020 for the price of 12 months of membership. WHY BECOME AN ABC MEMBER? • Business development opportunities • Governmental relations representation nationally & locally • Access to craft training for employees • Members only discount programs
Start enjoying all of the benefits ABC membership can offer today! *Membership application and payment must be submitted to ABC by September 16, 2019*
For more information, contact Anna Zebeau at azebeau@abcpelican.com or 225-753-2541. 39
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MEM BE RS H IP C O N T I N U ED
GET TO KNOW OUR NEW MEMBERS Investar Bank Troy Hebert 10500 Coursey Boulevard, 2nd Floor, Baton Rouge, LA 70816 225.921.6747 www.investarbank.com Joined: May 2019 Industry Professional: Business Services, Banking Sponsor: David Roberts, EXCEL Group About Investar Bank: Whether you are financing the home of your dreams or managing the dayto-day operations of your business, Investar Bank can support your financial future. Investar is a full-service community bank that offers a superior level of products and services to individuals and businesses of all size. This includes specialty accounts, bill paying services, cash management, electronic transactions and a wide variety of loan services.
Trillium Construction John McCord 14452 Airline Highway, Suite 102, Baton Rouge, LA 70817 225.424.6116 www.trilliumconstruction.net Joined: May 2019 Industry Professional: Employment, Skilled Labor Staffing, Contract Labor Sponsor: Jeremiah Johnson, Bottom Line Equipment About Trillium Construction: Recognized as a national leader among construction staffing agencies, Trillium Construction provides the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most skilled commercial and industrial tradesmen and tradeswomen in a variety of trades including, but not limited to, commercial, industrial, petro chemical, renewable energy and oil and gas. Angelle Materials Justin Ardoin 9918 South Perdue Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70814 225.665.6103 www.angellematerials.com
Joined: May 2019 Supplier: Concrete, Construction Materials Sponsor: Taylor Bennett, MESH, LLC About Angelle Materials: Angelle Materials has been the leading concrete and construction materials company since 1946. They pride themselves in being the only regional company that offers front-discharge trucks, portable concrete plants, Smart Concrete, SuperSlurry, Integral-colored concrete and company owned cement trucks with the best spread drivers in the region. Angelle Materials currently has seven strategically located batch plants with in house quality control teams, American Concrete Institute-certified testing technicians and fulltime safety managers. Superheat FGH Services, Inc. Angelle Jeansonne 1801 S. Sonny Avenue, Gonzales, LA 70737 225.664.8917 www.superheat.com Joined: June 2019 Contractor: Industrial Heat Treatment Services, ASME Division 1 Pressure Vessels Sponsor: Jerome Mabile, Performance Contractors, Inc. About Superheat FGH Services: With over 30 facilities worldwide, Superheat is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most responsive and innovative heat treatment provider. Superheat uses controlled heat treatment to alter the physical and mechanical properties of materials that are molecularly changed during installation, repair or manufacture. Addressing these undesirable and sometimes dangerous molecular changes can keep your workforce and work process safe and cost-efficient. Linxwiler Electric, LLC Blake Linxwiler 11918 Joor Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70818 225.261.4583 www.linxwilerelectric.com Joined: June 2019 Contractor: Basic Electrical Materials and www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
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MEM BE RS H IP C O N T i n u ed
GET TO KNOW OUR NEW MEMBERS Methods, Electrical Contractor, Industrial Electrical Work Sponsor: Carlos Guidry, Turner Industries About Linxwiler Electric: Since 2003 Linxwiler has served the commercial, industrial and residential sectors of the electrical industry offering services, such as, electrical audits, repairs, installations, build outs, commercial, residential, industrial, service calls and generator sales, installations and maintenance. Linxwiler is committed to quality work and customer service with a goal to always exceed expectations. Cort Business Services Danielle Berthelot-Miller 4810 Constitution Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70808 225.927.5160 www.cort.com Joined: June 2019 Supplier: Furniture, Furniture Systems, Furniture Accessories Sponsor: Brad Roberts, EXCEL Group About Cort Business Services: As the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading provider of transition services, including furniture rentals, event furnishings, destination services, apartment locating and more the Cort Business Service team takes pride in offering world-class service in a very personal and customized way. Price LeBlanc Nissan Mike Sherron 14295 Airline Highway, Gonzales, LA 70737 225.743.8100 www.priceleblancnissan.com Joined: June 2019 Supplier: Auto Dealership Sponsor: Sarah Taylor, R.N., Gulf Coast Occupational Medicine, Inc. About Price LeBlanc Nissan: When you need a Nissan Altima, Rogue or Titan in South Louisiana, Price LeBlanc Nissan is the place to go. As an award-winning member of the community, this new and used car dealership is committed to 41
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providing excellent customer service during the entire buying experience. Abatix Corp Tami Fuchs 8184 Highway 44, Suite 101, Gonzales, LA 70737 225.412.7180 www.abatix.com Joined: June 2019 Supplier: Safety Apparel Sponsor: Blake Granier, APTIM, LLC About Abatix Corp: With over 30 years of experience and 13 locations in the U.S. Abatix has grown into a nationally recognized supplier of products for the General Construction, Industrial Safety, Petrochemical, Energy, and Environmental industries supporting customers across the nation. These products include but are not limited to; safety supplies, personal protective equipment, disaster response equipment, environmental equipment, protective clothing, fall protection and much more. Abatix is also known for their nationally recognized, government and industry group regulated, certification classes. Industrial Fabrics, Inc. Cody Colvin 510 Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neal Lane Extension, Baton Rouge, LA 70819 225.273.9600 www.industrialfabricsinc.com Joined: June 2019 Supplier: Site Work, Geosynthetics, Dewatering, Precast Concrete Specialties, Brick Masonry Supplies, Geotextiles, Geogrids, Erosion Control Blankets Sponsor: Clint Renard & Teddy Twigg, Patriot Construction About Industrial Fabrics: Industrial Fabrics has provided clients in the construction, industrial and residential industries, with the best products to preserve and sustain our environment, for over 30 years. Their team members are fully prepared to support your project from engineering to material logistics, to on-site technical assistance
MEM BE RS H IP C O N T i n u ed
GET TO KNOW OUR NEW MEMBERS while offering services that include engineering, fabrication, installation, training and technical support. No project is too big or too small for Industrial Fabrics.
over 25 services to you or your business.
CSRS, Inc. Tim Barfield 6767 Perkins Rd. Suite 200, Baton Rouge, LA The Feld Weinstein Group at Morgan Stanley 70806 Ira Feld 225.769.0546 400 Convention Street, Suite 400, Baton Rouge, LA www.csrsinc.com 70802 Joined: August 2019 225.237.3135 Industry Professional: Engineering Services, www.morganstanleyfa.com/thefeldweinsteingroup Engineer, Architect, Construction Surveying, Joined: July 2019 Topographic & Hydrographic Survey Industry Professional: Consulting, Business Sponsors: Scott McKnight, BXS Insurance and Services, Insurance, Employee Benefits Programs, Ryan Girouard, Hancock Whitney Bank 401K About CSRS: CSRS focuses on building stronger, Sponsor: Trey Crawford, Grady Crawford smarter communities that are built upon solid Construction Company, Inc. infrastructure, efficient facilities and purposeful About The Feld Weinstein Group at Morgan development. CSRS helps you to plan, design, Stanley: With over 90 years of combined wealth fund, and implement sustainable projects, recover management experience, the Feld Weinstein from disaster with more resilience and navigate Group at Morgan Stanley offers a variety of political bureaucracy to achieve your goals. CSRS services that include financial planning, retirement offers services such as, project management, planning, executive financial services, 401K disaster recovery/resilience, owner representation rollovers, trust services, stock plan services, and grant management. corporate retirement plans, alternative investments and endowments and foundations. Titan Power Services, LLC Justin Ribes Post Office Box 66436, Baton Rouge, LA 70896 225.281.3624 www.titanpowerbr.com Joined: August 2019 Contractor: Basic Electrical Materials and Methods, Electrical Contractor, Site Electrical Distribution Sponsor: Sammy DiVincenti, Arkel Constructors About Titan Power Services: Titan power services is a locally owned and licensed electrical contracting company servicing Baton Rouge through commercial and residential construction and remodels. Their services range from installation of high-efficiency systems to implementation of custom designs in family homes and much more. Titan Power Services is a professional and reliable company that can provide www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
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SA F E T Y UP DA T E
HOW HO SP I TA L P R O T O C O L S A R E M A K I N G OU R C OM M U N I T Y A N D I N D U ST RY S A F E R a shelf. We also heard inspiring stories of burn victims that
MAY 9, BATON ROUGE GENERAL
ABC Pelican celebrated Construction Safety Week from May 6 through May 10 by highlighting the different ways our Members and local community leaders prioritize an uncompromising commitment to safety in the construction industry. In honor of Construction Safety Week, ABC Pelican’s Safety Committee and Board of Directors met with leaders at the Baton Rouge General Medical Center for a safety breakfast and tour. They learned and saw firsthand how this hospital makes our community safer and healthier. “We want people to be safe, to be injury free, and would hope that they never need to set foot in a hospital at all,” leaders at the Baton Rouge General shared with our Members as they enjoyed a “clean breakfast,” selected by the hospital’s chief nutritionist. “We think in terms of health across a total lifeline.” After the breakfast wrapped, our Members toured some of the Baton Rouge General’s facilities, including the trauma center, burn unit, ER and cath lab. They met with doctors, social workers, nurses, directors and other safety specialists to see and learn firsthand about the safety protocols that are in place at the hospital. While our hope is that every single ABC Pelican Member goes home in the same—or better—condition than when they arrived on the jobsite or at the office, these particular facilities are good to know about, in the event of an injury or emergency. The first stop of the tour was the Burn Center. Here, Dr .Tracee Short shared how far burn treatments have come with innovations such as spray skin and skin on 43
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are now back to full health. We then saw the Emergency Department, where Dr. Johnny Jones and Andrew Bolton discussed the process of ED patients while our Members saw the trauma room and HazMat decontamination space. We wrapped the tour at the Electrophysiology Lab. Here, Ben Schuler, Director of Cath Lab, explained the efficiency of treatment of cardiac patients with the door to treatment time process, as well as life changing procedures for patients requiring the intake of blood thinner medication. Stevie Toups, President of Turner Industries, summed up why our Members joined together for events like this: “Safety is so paramount, and if this industry isn’t good at safety, we’re falling short. We must paint the vision of the mission of safety.”
A big thanks to Turner Industries for sponsoring this safety breakfast, and for connecting our Members to leaders at the Baton Rouge General for showing us the safety protocols that are in place at the ER, Burn Center and Electrocardiography Lab.
TURNAROUNDS CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION SPECIALTY SERVICES
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repcon.com info@repcon.com 800-383-8681
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SO UT H W E ST C R A W F I S H B O I L
TA I L S [ A N D C L AWS ] O F T H E S O U T H W E S T C R AW F I SH B O I L April 11, West Cal Arena This history of enjoying Cajun crawfish dates back to 1755, when our Acadian ancestors arrived in Louisiana. The origin of a crawfish boil points to 1960, after Breaux Bridge was named “the Crawfish Capitol of the world” and held the first Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival. We’re grateful for this rich history and for Spring time, because both mean we get to host our Southwest Crawfish Boil at the West Cal Arena and Events Center in Sulphur. On April 11, nearly 450 ABC Pelican Members, their guests and clients supported and joined us for the annual boil. Live music by Mammoet’s Lucas Dupree filled the arena as attendees mingled at sponsor tents, drank cold beer, margaritas and sodas, and enjoyed crawfish, potatoes and corn at long, red and white tables. What we have heard from our Members is that this was some of the best mud bugs and live music we’ve had in a while. Cody Stroud of Triad Electrics & Controls is our Southwest Programs and Events Committee Chair. He was impressed with the turnout and networking. “The Southwest Crawfish Boil was, as always, a wonderful event this year!” said Cody Stroud, Business Development Manager in Lake Charles for Triad Electric & Controls. Cody also serves as the Membership Growth and Experience Chair in Southwest. “There are not a lot of things better in SWLA than great crawfish, a few drinks, and being surrounded by wonderful people. That sums 45
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this event up in a nutshell. ABC SW Members always look forward to this event because it never disappoints. Looking forward to next year!” Traditions and events like these are not possible without our generous sponsors. Thank you to Five-S for providing the crawfish, Mammoet for providing the live music and to Braun Intertec, Enterprise Fleet Management, FallTech, Maverick Testing Laboratories, McDermott, the Safety Council of Southwest Louisiana, Triad Electrics & Controls, NTR Rents and Ringer Gloves. Louisiana crawfish account for more than 90 percent of the country’s total crawfish, are part of an annual state harvest of 150 million pounds, and are responsible for an annual $300 million economic impact. While these stats are impressive, we believe crawfish give the ABC Pelican family a great reason to get together, catch up on business and life and enjoy some good eats. Smithsonian Magazine calls crawfish Louisiana’s culinary gift to the nation. We couldn’t agree more.
mem be rs h ip d i r ec t o ry u p date
HO T O F F T H E P R E S S - 2 0 1 9 A B C O F L O U I SIA NA M E M B E R SH I P D I R E C T O RY During the month of August, each ABC Pelican Chapter and Bayou/New Orleans Chapter member should receive the 2019 ABC of Louisiana Membership Directory. I encourage you to take a few minutes to review your company listing and check for accuracy. If you have a change or correction in your company listing, please contact me. The directory is user-friendly to give you quick and easy access to members divided by Chapter Rosters, Primary Contact Names and Buyer’s Guide. The General Information Section contains letters from the Chairmen, listing of the 2019 Board of Directors and staff rosters of Bayou and Pelican Chapters, listing of the 69 ABC Chapters across the United States, the State Legislature information (House and Senate) and the U.S. Representatives and Senate listings. The Buyer’s Guide will assist you with the listing of all member companies organized by industry category. The
listing of each member company includes the company name along with the primary contact person and phone number. As you peruse the directory you will notice a multitude of advertisements placed by some member companies. We greatly appreciate those member companies that placed an ad. You can also access membership information / listings at www.abcpelican.org / Membership Tab / Find a Member / Pelican Chapter Members. Login: 2010 Password: abcpride If you would like additional copies of the ABC of Louisiana Membership Directory, please feel free to contact me at 225.753.2541 or azebeau@abcpelican.com.
WE BREAK NEW GROUND EVERY DAY IN EXTRAORDINARY WAYS Highlighting our unique differences often lead to uncommon results. Though this may feel counter-intuitive, highlighting something interesting or different about yourself or sharing an experience that is uniquely dissimilar tends to be a multiplier that drives others to support lofty goals. At APTIM, we open up and allow ourselves to be real and approachable, building the rapport and trust necessary to be effective leaders, builders of our clients’ facilities, and stewards of our communities.
Expect the Extraordinary. APTIM.com
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2 01 9 ABC - L A S tat e C o n ven t i on
C RU I SI N ’ T H R OU G H T H E 4 1 S T A N N UA L A B C - L A C O N V E N T IO N
JULY 24-27, SANDESTIN, FLORIDA
ABC Pelican and ABC Bayou, the two state chapters that make up ABC of Louisiana, meet at the Hilton Sandestin each summer to connect with colleagues and friends; discuss and learn about updates in legislation, economy, and business; spend time with their families; relax and celebrate the successes of the merit shop construction industry. This year, ABC of Louisiana Members “Set Sail with ABC” aboard The Free Enterprise for the 41st annual convention. Denise Wood of ISC Constructors served as the chair of the 2019 state convention planning committee. “Shortly after last year’s convention, a survey was sent out to determine what the members were looking for in their convention,” Wood said. “The planning committee took each response and laid the foundation for this year. Our goal was to really listen to what our members wanted as ‘take aways’ from this 3-day experience. Wood went on to say that we “added more educational sessions, introduced a networking workshop, gathered a panel of our founding fathers, provided insight from industry professionals, learned more about our State Treasurer, and took our members to various ports of call on a visual and culinary cruise to exotic locations. The committee executed our vision flawlessly and provided the members a convention tailor-made for them. It was my honor to serve as chair for the past year, and I am truly blessed to have made lifelong friends. My hat goes off to our committee and to the ABC staff! Well done!” Aboard the Free Enterprise, ABC of Louisiana cruisers received multiple legislative and chapter chair updates, took part in four educational seminars, experienced a keynote address from Louisiana State Treasurer John Schroder, had fun 47
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2 01 9 ABC - L A S tat e C o n ven t i on c o n tin ue d with the family at our annual beach bash, family night, glow party, firework show, and aboard a buccaneer pirate cruise and enjoyed a Port of Call dinner and the return of Casino Night and the Piano Bar. From start to finish, Free Enterprise cruisers took part in events to further the merit shop philosophy and enjoy time with their family and friends. After cruisers picked up their beach bag filled with sponsor swag, they attended their first educational seminar with Emergent Method: Not Another Networking Event. ABC-LA Members learned how to make solid professional contacts the non-sleezy way from Julie Laperouse and Seth Irby. Regular convention goers and first timers both received easy tips on navigating awkward networking situations, making a strong first impression, and maintaining a solid professional network. “It’s not just what you know; it’s who you know,” Emergent Method shared. “More specifically - it’s who likes you, trusts you, and recommends you. Even as social networking has encroached into every facet of our lives, people still prefer to do business with people they actually know.” After the networking session wrapped, cruisers entered the welcome reception, which featured legislative updates from John Walters, Vice President of Government Relations for ABC of Louisiana, and the State Treasurer. They shared the importance of the Fall 2019 elections and emphasized the importance of voting. Many cruisers caught up with old friends at the reception and grabbed dinner after the reception wrapped. Instead of beginning the morning with the keynote breakfast, Free Enterprise cruisers attended our second educational seminar: ABC of Louisiana Founders Panel, which included ABC-LA founders Steve Cory of Cory, Tucker & Larrowe, Senator Jack Donahue of DonahueFavret Contractors and Lane Grigsby of Cajun Industries sharing the story of this association together with Milton Graugnard, who moderated the panel. ABC of Louisiana represents more than 600 construction and construction related businesses www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
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2 01 9 ABC - L A S tat e C o n ven t i on c o n tin ue d
throughout Louisiana and helps our members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically, profitably and for the betterment of our communities. ABC is also the leading voice promoting and defending Merit Shop Construction in Louisiana. But how did we come to be? Cruisers listened to these founding fathers recount the early struggles we faced and how that’s made our industry stronger.
“My father taught that hard workers can be successful,” Schroder said. “My family didn’t measure our success with money, but what we gave back to our community.”
Grigsby shared why merit shop and open shop were two reasons why ABC Members stand out in construction and industrial services.
Our third educational seminar featured a construction law, finance and insurance panel, which was made of up Murphy Foster with Breazeale, Sachse & Wilson; Michael Bush with Chaffe McCall; Steve Cory of Cory, Tucker & Larrowe, and Jeff Gould with Hancock Whitney. Jay Montalbano with Hannis T. Bourgeois moderated the panel. These experts weigh in on the trends they were seeing that will benefit the merit shop construction industry in finance, insurance and law.
Cory went on to discuss the profound and positive impact of his company being involved in ABC, and he encouraged attendees to do the same. “We accept the fact that we should be at the bottom of the list, but we have just as much talent and resources as Texas,” he said. “ABC does give you a vehicle and get involved and make a difference.” Senator Donahue gave his political insights during the conversation. “If you are successful in your business, someone will try to change that through legislation,” he explained. “Legislation will change your entire life. We need the Members in this room to sit at the table in the capital and weigh in on the legislation that’s brought up. You need to be there to protect your industry.” Graugnard wrapped the conversation with this profound thought: “The major players in the industrial market are from Baton Rouge and that’s due in part to the ABC of Louisiana founders emphasis on workforce development,” he explained. “To date, ABC Pelican has educated more than 25,000 craft professionals.” Thursday morning’s breakfast aboard the Free Enterprise gave attendees a look at the state of the ABC Bayou, ABC Pelican and ABC Louisiana, then hosted State Treasurer John Schroder for keynote remarks. 49
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As State Treasurer and a business developer, he complimented our members on their hard work, common sense, and managing their budgets in a conservative way.
The fourth and final educational seminar of convention featured Emergent Method’s take on surviving the multi-generational workplace. There’s no denying the underlying frustration in many workplaces over the differences among generations. For the first time in history, five different generations (such as traditionalists, baby boomers, generation x, millennials and generation Z) are working side by side – on the worksite, in open-concept offices, and even around the executive table. Clearly, these differences stem from work ethic or work styles, so Emergent Method provided actionable takeaways. Attendees walked away knowing how to have the right conversations and create an environment where they and their colleagues look at differences as an opportunity to learn. The rest of the day was filled with family fun. Beach Bash featured some sand-sational sandcastles, a mullet toss, nine square in the air, other field day games and cold drinks. ABC Pelican’s volleyball team, co-coached by Fred McManus of Brown & Root and Thad Rispone of ISC, brought home the trophy by winning [hands
2 01 9 ABC - L A S tat e C o n ven t i on c o n tin ue d down] the first two games of the tournament. “It’s a great time competing with our fellow Members in the Bayou Chapter,” co-coach Fred McManus shared. “But obviously, the victory made that fellowship time with our sister chapter that much sweeter for ABC Pelican. Networking with contractors, professionals and suppliers while taking part in friendly competition is always a quality combination.” We capped Thursday with family night: delicious food, drink and fun music and games (thank you Chad Pierce with EXCEL!) were a great way to refuel after a day on the beach and spend time with family. Cruisers then wandered out to the deck for a glow party, more great music, and an impressive firework display. Friday, our final day aboard the Free Enterprise, began with either an adventure on the high seas aboard a buccaneer pirate cruise or touring a local brewery. Cruisers who took part in the excursions gave two thumbs up to these events! Friday evening’s Port of Call dinner welcomed cruisers with a massive sail that stretched from floor to ceiling, a photo booth, anchors and life preservers. They had the option of “visiting” Mexico, Cuba, the Bahamas or Jamaica to enjoy culinary specialties from each country. We then brought back casino night and the piano bar for our members to enjoy! We capped “Set Sail with ABC” with the raffle drawing of casino night winners with most vied for prizes being a Dyson hairdryer and a BBQ Guys Traeger Pellet Grill. Scott McKnight of BXS Insurance served as the co-chair of the 2019 state convention and gave closing remarks while handing out casino night prizes. McKnight will serve as the 2020 chair for our annual convention. “We had a wonderful annual convention because of the fantastic planning and execution of the staff and committee and leadership of Denise,” McKnight said. “I look forward to continuing the great traditions of state convention as we evolve and improve each year. I’m grateful for our sponsoring and member companies for making the investment in ABC of Louisiana and the convention; without you stepping up, we could not be able to hold this event every year.” www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
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TWO OF MANY SUCCESS STORIES BY: DAVID HELVESTON, PELICAN CHAPTER, ABC “You, sir, are a success story” That’s how Stuart Varney concluded his interview with recent ABC Pelican graduate Tim Gros on Fox Business Network in late July. Tim, who is an instrument fitter with ISC Constructors, had just told his story of persevering and investing in himself to a national TV audience. Juggling four, 16-hour days each week for the past two years to complete his education with ABC Pelican in both electrical and instrumentation, Tim also balanced the duties of being a new dad. Tim’s appearance on the Varney & Co. TV show was one of several highlights from Tim’s whirlwind trip to Washington D.C. that included a meeting with the President, Vice President and Ivanka Trump to tell his story and highlight the importance of earn-while-you-learn education programs. Tim represented ABC Pelican well as he conducted interviews on the front lawn of the White House and on Fox News Channel. Joining Tim at the White House was another recent ABC Pelican graduate: Sharon Ramsey, who graduated last fall in instrumentation at the age of 62. She traveled from New Orleans to Baton Rouge and back (that’s 120 miles roundtrip for those of you doing the math) after work two days a week to complete her education with us. Sharon currently tutors students going through similar craft training programs and considers herself a role model for women in the field. Tim and Sharon joined a select group of individuals in celebrating the one-year anniversary of the Trump Administration’s Pledge to America’s Workers, which encourages companies and associations to invest in their workforce and provide career opportunities that educate, train, and reskill American workers from high-school
age to near-retirement. As part of Associated Builders and Contractors, ABC Pelican signed on to this pledge with the commitment to upskill thousands of construction workers in the next five years. While Tim and Sharon’s stories were compelling enough to merit visits to the White House and national TV interviews, their situations and accomplishments are relatively common among our students at ABC Pelican. Each year, we educate around 3,000 craft professionals, many of whom are making great sacrifices to attend class each night after a full day on the job site. These students (and our member companies) are investing in themselves and their futures. I hope that stories like those of Tim, Sharon, and so many of our students inspire you to do the same. School is back, and while the next generation settles into a new school year’s rhythm, it’s imperative that we as professionals ask ourselves, what are we doing to continue learning and growing our knowledge base? How are we investing in our future workforce? Each of us faces countless opportunities to learn each day, whether in a classroom or lab, on the jobsite, in the boardroom, at the office desk or traveling. I encourage you to view your world, your day-to-day routine, as a classroom. Make learning a practice in your everyday life and consider how your company can promote and invest in the continued education of your people. As ABC Pelican pledged to the President, we will do our part to educate the next generation of craft professionals, or as Varney put it to Tim, the next “success stories.” www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
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53 www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
January 10: Installation Banquet (invitation only) 24: BRTC Fall Graduation February 18-21: BRTC Blood Drive 21: Young Professionals Kick-Off 21-22: Critical Issues Summit 28: SWTC FFA District Competition 28: Merit Mixer: TOPGOLF March 12: BRTC Open House 14: SWTC FFA District Competition & Jambalaya Cookoff 14: Free STEP Lunch & Learn 15: Spring Golf Tournament 23: Touch A Truck 24-28: ABC National Convention (EIC Awards Gala, National Craft Competition) April 03: Membership/ICC Breakfast 10: YP Lunch 11: BRTC HS Craft Competition 11: SW Crawfish Boil May 01: ABC of LA Legislative Reception 09: BR Crawfish Boil 16-18: ABC of LA Fishing Rodeo
June 20: BRTC Spring Graduation 26: ABC Legislative Day – DC 27: SWTC Spring Graduation July 24-26: ABC of LA State Convention August 08: BRTC Safety Seminar 15: Uncommon Leadership Kickoff 21: Membership/ICC Breakfast 23: SW Fishing Tournament (new date) September XX: SW Merit Mixer XX: BRTC Program Partners Signing Day 16-19: BRTC Blood Drive 30: Fall Golf Classic October 02: Update on Labor & Employment Law 11: Annual Clay Shoot 24: BRTC Build Your Future Day XX: SWTC BYF Day November XX: CFMA/ABC Construction Forum XX: Gumbo/Jambalaya Cookoff XX: BRTC Craft Competition XX: BR Merit Mixer December XX: Excellence in Construction Awards
19251 Highland Road • Baton Rouge, LA 70809 • 225.752.1415 • 225.751.9470 222 Walcot Road • Westlake, LA 70669 • 337.882-0204 • 337.882.6757
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PELICAN CHAPTER, ASSOCIATED BUILDERS & CONTRACTORS, INC.
ed n o p t s o p il unt 23 st u g au
MEMBERS & INVITED GUESTS ONLY
2019
Southwest
Tournament
Calcasieu point landing
PREREGISTRATION REQUIRED; NO LATE ENTRIES ACCEPTED ON DAY OF TOURNAMENT
BOUNDARIES: Calcasieu Lake, Louisiana | Sabine Lake to the Gulf jetties to catfish locks on Mermentau River | Public areas only | Licensed anglers must launch and fish on LA side
NEW DATE: FRIDAY, AUGUST 23 FISHING TIMES: 5:30a - 3:00p WEIGH IN:11:00a - 3:00p (anglers must weigh in or be in line by 3p) LOCATION: Calcasieu Point Landing (3955 Henry Pugh Blvd, Lake Charles, LA 70605) NEW CAPTAIN’S MEETING & HAPPY HOUR DATE: THURSDAY, AUGUST 22, 6P-8P, at Bill's Bar & Burger outside of the Golden Nugget Casino and Hotel
All anglers must check-in with ABC staff at the meeting to be eligible to place in tournament.
SPONSORSHIPS: $750 Captain’s Meeting Sponsor (exclusive) $400 Leader board Sponsor (two available) $400 Cooking Sponsor (two available) $300 Beverage Sponsor (two available) 55 www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
ENTRY FEE: $100/Angler Includes: lunch, drinks and long-sleeve UV fishing shirt. ANNUAL SPONSOR PRICING: Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze Sponsors receive three angler registrations DIVISIONS: Redfish (16-27 inches) Bull Redfish (<27 inches) Speckled Trout Speckled Trout- 5 Stringer Redfish (Most spots) Misc. Fish (any inshore fish species other than listed above)
REGISTER AT ABCPELICAN.COM QUESTIONS? CONTACT LINDSEY AT LRUSS@ABCPELICAN.COM OR 225.753.2497
PELICAN CHAPTER STAFF CHAPTER OPERATIONS (225) 752-1415
20 19 UPCO MIN G C O MMITTE E MEETINGS Aug ust
David Helveston President dhelveston@abcpelican. com
Lindsey Russ Director of Member Services lruss@abcpelican.com
SWLA Safety Tuesday, August 6 11:30 a.m. SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com
Macie Morgan Administrative Assistant mmorgan@abcpelican. com
Erika Walter Director of Communications ewalter@abcpelican.com
BR Safety Thursday, August 8 7:30 a.m. BR Training Center kblanchard@abcpelican.com
Katie Routh Director of Administration krouth@abcpelican.com
Anna Zebeau Director of Membership azebeau@abcpelican.com
Education & Manpower Thursday, August 8 2:00 p.m. BR Training Center kblanchard@abcpelican.com
FINANCE (225) 752-1415 Janie Arceneaux Director of Finance jarceneaux@abcpelican. com
Kathy Serwan Senior Accountant kswerwan@abcpelican. com
Mikah Armstrong Finance Assistant marmstrong@abcpelican. com
BATON ROUGE TRAINING CENTER (225) 752-0088 Kacie Blanchard Associate Director of Workforce Support kblanchard@abcpelican. com
Danielle Labbe Director of Workforce Development dbirney@abcpelican.com
Alexis Montelius Tiffany Buuck Training Center Training Center Administration Administration amontelius@abcpelican. tbuuck@abcpelican.com com
SOUTHWEST TRAINING CENTER (337) 882-0204
Christina Frederick Training Center Administration cfrederick@abcpelican. com Ivelynn Fuselier Training Center Administration ifuselier@abcpelican.com
SW Membership Growth Tuesday, August 13 12:30 p.m. SW Training Center azebeau@abcpelican.com SW Building Tuesday, August 20 10:00 a.m. SW Training Center krouth@abcpelican.com SW Training Tuesday, August 20 11:30 a.m. SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com Budget & Finance Tuesday, August 20 4:00 p.m. ABC Board Room jarceneaux@abcpelican.com BR Membership Growth Wednesday, August 21 8:00 a.m. ABC Board Room azebeau@abcpelican.com
Kelly Carpenter Director of Education kcarpenter@abcpelican. com
Kirby Bruchhaus Director of Education kbruchhaus@abcpelican. com
SW Steering Tuesday, August 13 11:30 a.m. SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com
Ray Harris Facilities Management rharris@abcpelican.com Blaise Theard Workforce Development Coordinator btheard@abcpelican.com
Builders Council Wednesday, August 21 11:30 a.m. BR Training Center dlabbe@abcpelican.com ABC Pelican BOD Meeting Tuesday, August 27 3:30 p.m. ABC Board Room krouth@abcpelican.com
S e pte mb e r
SW Safety Tuesday, September 3 11:30 a.m. SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com SW Steering Tuesday, September 10 11:30 a.m.
SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com SW Membership Growth Tuesday, September 10 12:30 p.m. SW Training Center azebeau@abcpelican.com BR Safety Thursday, September 12 7:30 a.m. BR Training Center kblanchard@abcpelican.com SW Training Tuesday, September 17 11:30 a.m. SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com Budget & Finance Tuesday, September 17 4:00 p.m. ABC Board Room jarceneaux@abcpelican.com BR Membership Growth Wednesday, September 18 8:00 a.m. ABC Board Room azebeau@abcpelican.com ICC Steering Monday, September 23 12:00 p.m. ABC Board Room kblanchard@abcpelican.com ABC Pelican BOD Meeting Tuesday, September 24 3:30 p.m. ABC Board Room krouth@abcpelican.com
Oc tob e r
SW Safety Tuesday, October 1 11:30 a.m. SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com SW Steering Tuesday, October 8 11:30 a.m. SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com SW Membership Growth Tuesday, October 8 12:30 p.m. SW Training Center azebeau@abcpelican.com BR Safety Thursday, October 10 7:30 a.m. BR Training Center Kblanchard@abcpelican. com SW Training Tuesday, October 15 11:30 a.m. SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com Budget & Finance Tuesday, October 15
4:00 p.m. ABC Board Room Jarceneaux@abcpelican.com BR Membership Growth Wednesday, October 16 8:00 a.m. ABC Board Room azebeau@abcpelican.com ICC Steering Monday, October 21 12:00 p.m. ABC Board Room kblanchard@abcpelican.com ABC Pelican BOD Meeting Tuesday, October 22 3:30 p.m. ABC Board Room krouth@abcpelican.com
N ove m ber
SW Safety Tuesday, November 5 11:30 a.m. SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com SW Steering Tuesday, November 12 9:00 a.m. SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com SW Membership Growth Tuesday, November 12 11:30 a.m. SW Training Center azebeau@abcpelican.com BR Safety Thursday, November 14 7:30 a.m. BR Training Center kblanchard@abcpelican.com Education & Manpower Thursday, November 14 2:00 p.m. BR Training Center kblanchard@abcpelican.com SW Training Tuesday, November 19 11:30 a.m. SW Training Center ifuselier@abcpelican.com Budget & Finance Tuesday, November 19 4:00 p.m. ABC Board Rom jarceneaux@abcpelican.com BR Membership Growth Wednesday, November 20 8:00 a.m. ABC Board Room azebeau@abcpelican.com ICC Steering Monday, November 25 8:45 a.m. ABC Board Room Kblanchard@abcpelican. com www.abcpelican.org/newsletter
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Pelican Chapter, Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. 19251 Highland Road Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Connect with @abcpelican
MERIT SHOP MESSAGE Summer 2019
19251 Highland Road Baton Rouge, LA 70809
225.752.0088
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