MERIT SHOP M E S S A G E Winter 2020-2021
EXCELLENCE in a NEW REALITY A global health crisis is no reason to sacrifice quality, safety and innovation.
Photo Credits: Barriere Construction
MERIT SHOP MESSAGE Winter 2020-2021
1 Letter from the Chair 3 Governmental Relations Guest Column 4 Food Drive 5 Toy Drive 6 NCCER Leadership Visit 8 From the President 9 2020 Trends in Construction Conference 14 Legal Update 16 Cover Story 25 Louisiana State Fire Marshal Update 27 LWCC Safety Update 30 BRTC Update 31 SWTC Update 33 Membership Update 35 2020 Year in Review 36 Meet the 2021 Executive Committee and Board of Directors 37 New Members 39 Chapter Staff Directory
A LETTER FROM THE CHAIR
REFLECT ON 2020 & A LOOK INTO 2021 BY: SHAWN WORHSAM, WORLEY
As 2020 ends and 2021 begins, I’m sure we have all reflected on the profound impact the year 2020 has had on our lives. I cannot remember a year that so many wanted to see come to an end. I believe it’s fair to say, the challenges we’ve faced personally, within our families and communities, as an association, as a state, as a country and as citizens of the world are well understood. While at times these challenges have undoubtedly been difficult and perhaps even overwhelming, I am lifted by what we have achieved and have been able to overcome. Not since the tragedy of 9/11 has an event impacted the United States and the world in such a profound manner as COVID-19. As we approach the 20th anniversary of 9/11 later this year, I remind myself that recent college graduates have no appreciable memory of this event. About a year ago as I was boarding a plane one of my young colleagues commented on how nice it was to use TSA precheck. It was the first time that he had used it and was the first time he was not required to remove his shoes and simply walk through a metal detector. I smiled at him and simply said that this was the way everyone boarded planes prior to 9/11. I could tell that he had never realized the impact that certain pivotal events have on our everyday lives. It makes me wonder about what impacts the pivotal event of COVID-19 will have on our lives. With every new year we are refreshed with the optimism of what the future holds. Many speak of the “new normal” and how business and life will be different as we move forward. While there are certain to be changes, I and others believe that some things will not change. The strength found in the bonds of family, friends and communities will remain. The desire to be dealt with fairly in life and in professional pursuits will remain a cornerstone for many and for this association. Trust, honesty, integrity and a sense of fair play are not antiquated beliefs. They are the bedrock of well-regulated communities, associations and business pursuits. Not everything old is obsolete and not everything new is better. They say that change is the only constant. As such we must evolve with the times or be left behind, but we should never lose sight of our fundamental beliefs and core values. Over a decade ago, a young lady was complaining about the United States being referred to as “exceptional” given the many shortcomings that she saw when comparing our country to others. Rather than being drawn into a political discussion, I challenge her to put a different emphasis on the syllables of the word and view the U.S. as an “exception”. 1 abcpelican.org/newsletter
A LETTER FROM THE CHAIR CONTINUED We were not the first democracy or republic, but we were the first to say that people as individuals had certain basic rights granted by their creator. These rights were not granted by a King, a government, or even a religious organization but instead were ours for simply existing. This is what makes the United States an exception and therefore exceptional. As I reflected on this story it occurred to me how much our association mirrors our country. We believe in dealing with individuals and companies based on their merits. Any person can succeed with the right approach, attitude and perseverance. While personal connections may give you an advantage in getting an initial opportunity, you cannot succeed long term unless you deliver on your promises. If a person has a better idea or develops a better way to execute a service, they will have every opportunity to succeed. Ford did not invent the assembly line or automobile, Apple did not invent the computer, and Amazon did not invent online shopping or at home delivery. These visionaries had an idea and the intelligence to implement these ideas. They were rewarded accordingly. This opportunity to succeed in a fair marketplace is one of the exceptional qualities of the U.S. and why many still come to our shores. Helping to maintain fair opportunities for our industry and member companies as well as arming our students with the knowledge and skills to better their lives are hallmarks of our association and key reasons that drew me to service. As we reflect and look to the future, I wanted to repeat some key efforts shared in the last ABC Pelican newsletter. With your help, I have no doubt that our best days are ahead, but we must continue working side by side with our members to: - Ensure this industry continues its essential work during the national health crisis. - Advance the cause of open and fair competition. - Create invaluable and innovative opportunities for our members to connect and sustain strong business relationships. - Develop and educate the next generation of craft professionals. - Prioritize the safety and health of the most valuable asset of our member companies: its workforce. I am honored to face the challenges this year brings to our industry and association as your 2021 Chairman of the ABC Pelican Chapter.
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GOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS GUEST COLUMN
SAD, SPEECHLESS & SPENT BY: STEPHEN WAGUESPACK, PRESIDENT, LOUISIANA ASSOCIATION OF BUSINESS & INDUSTRY
Ridiculous. Unbelievable. Heartbreaking. These words, and many more that should not be uttered by a gentleman, are the words that came to mind this week as images of our Nation’s Capitol being treated like a frat house on a drunken weekend came across the airwaves. America, a country that has long been the world’s admirable torch bearer for bedrock pillars such as democracy, freedom, morality and justice, showed that unfortunately we also have another uninspiring side of ourselves that we hate to acknowledge. The world sees that we are a nation going through some version of a mid-life crisis, currently having trouble living daily by the very principles we so proudly espouse. This must change. We all must get back to being that shining city on a hill. But that will not happen without every single American taking a good, long look in the mirror. Our current President, rather than running on a strong economic record of job creation, has relied more on incendiary rhetoric to provoke furor and rage against those who disagree with his positions. Our incoming President promises to replace our foundational free enterprise economic system with one that more closely resembles the failed socialist structures of the past, many of which were found in countries we bravely fought to reform generations ago. Many elected officials from competing political parties can barely stand the sight of each other, much less have the rapport to work out complicated compromises on some of our most pressing issues. Our independent media has lost their independence and for many citizens they have been replaced by an unfettered social media system that is overflowing with hateful rhetoric, faceless agitators, manipulative liars and unlimited manufactured entities meant to deceive and sow discontent. Our election process is archaic, inconsistent and untrusted. Spending is high, taxes are likely to go up, our schools are falling behind, our cities have burned, law enforcement has been undermined, minorities feel unprotected, businesses have been shut down, unemployment has spiked and our churches have been closed for roughly a year. Our children are watching all of this in real time, the consequences of which we shall one day have to deal with. If the 244 years since our country’s independence were a marriage, this year would at best be called a “rough patch.” Perhaps a little marriage counseling is in order. Disagreement in a free society is expected and, in many ways actually encouraged, because it is what constantly forces a collective body to have the introspective moments needed to grow, evolve, mature and develop. But we have lost the ability to listen and learn… to disagree with honor, respect and substantive discourse and we desperately need to find a way to get it back. Disagreements these days more closely resemble a Jerry Springer episode rather than a debate between Hamilton and Jefferson. On January 20th, a new President will take the oath of office. I did not vote for him. As a fiscal conservative, my personal politics do not align
with his. I am deeply concerned with the policies I expect him to pursue. I am equally concerned with the new Congress he will have to work with and desperately hope they will not collectively become an unstoppable political juggernaut that will shift America’s approach to a more socialist and liberal direction. I think that would be a grave mistake for our great nation. Having said that, I understand other Americans disagree with me. And I respect that disagreement. Because I trust they love this country as much as I do, they just view it from a different perspective shaped by different life experiences. Make no mistake, I will do my part during the hotly contested policy and political battles to come, to ensure the path to a more socialist society is stopped and that conservative principles will win the day more than not. But I will also pray along the way for all my fellow countrymen, even those with whom I have opposing positions, and hope the united bond we all have as Americans will always be held in higher esteem than the differences we have as Republicans, Democrats and Independents. My favorite American President was Ronald Reagan. He once said, “In a world wracked by hatred, economic crisis and political tension, America remains mankind’s best hope.” I fundamentally agree with him on this point. We have forgotten who we are, and its time get our mojo back. We are that shining city on a hill. We are the beacon for the world to follow. We have been through challenging times before and we have overcome them time and time again. Sure, these headwinds of today are strong, but we have conquered tougher storms than this. We can persevere by getting back to what we have always done best: Putting country first. Loving our fellow man. Prioritizing God in our lives. Standing on principle. Disagreeing with honor and substantive discourse. Teaching our children about the greatness of America AND the goodness of its people through our words and our actions. Reagan also once said, “One of the worst mistakes anybody can make is to bet against America.” Damn right. Let’s prove the world wrong. Let’s all come together and get back to being America again.
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH
THE REASON FOR THE SEASON
BY: MACIE MORGAN, MEMBERSHIP & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR
2020 Food Drive In a year with so much unrest and uncertainty, one thing is certain, our Pelican Chapter members always go above and beyond for our community. In October we partnered with the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank to collect canned goods and other non-perishables for the community during the holiday season. Since 1984 the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank has served East Baton Rouge and surrounding parishes by providing food and educational outreach through faithbased and other community partners. This year, with increasing unemployment numbers and, seemingly, never ending school closures the Food Bank needed more help than ever. Because of our generous ABC Pelican members and staff we were able to donate 225 canned goods and non-perishables to the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. Thank you to everyone who donated and helped our community!
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH CONTINUED
THE MOST COMPLETE
2020 Toy Drive The Pelican Chapter decided to continue the “reason for the season” motto into the Christmas season by partnering with Baton Rouge Marine Corps Toys for Tots campaign. We hosted a Toy Drive in our office the month of December. Once again, our members proved just how generous they are by filling up three boxes. Thank you to Beard Construction Group, Brecheen Pipe and Steel, Scafom North America, Bottom Line Equipment, United Rentals, RES and others for their donations to our 2020 Toy Drive.
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NCCER LEADERSHIP VISIT
INNOVATING CRAFT CURRICULUM TO CONTINUE TO UPSKILL THE WORKFORCE NOVEMBER 6, BATON ROUGE TRAINING CENTER Despite the many trials thrown our way in 2020, the construction and industrial service industries continue to build our communities and our economy in Louisiana. One way to ensure that our workforce is equipped as we recover is to provide that workforce with the best education possible. The National Center for Construction Education and Research, the leader in construction training, education, workforce development and accreditation, provides our craft students with the curriculum needed to pair with the hands-on training we offer at our training centers. Innovation has been the name of the game in 2020 for this nonprofit as they, like countless other educational institutions, had their education model flipped upside down in March 2020. On Friday, November 6th, NCCER leadership briefed our staff, members and key partners about these curriculum changes. NCCER President and CEO, Boyd Worsham, emphasized that even with these changes, his team’s prioritization on partnerships with likeminded organizations like ABC Pelican would not change. “Partnerships are what we are founded on and what we will continue to focus on in the future,” Worsham shared as he explained the organization changes that would accompany the curriculum changes to accommodate for remote learning. NCCER’s partnerships are expanding to: •Increase subject matter expert involvement •Expand NCCER presence and recognition in the construction space •Facilitate mutually beneficial connections between suppliers and craft professionals •Collaborate with likeminded partners to achieve mutual goals Those in attendance to hear about these changes included ABC New Orleans/Bayou, Brown and Root Industrial Services, Cajun Industries, EXCEL Group, GBRIA, ISC Constructors, LLC, LCTCS, The Newtron Group, Turner Industries, and Worley.
Katrina Kersch, NCCER’s Chief Operations Officer briefed attendees on the changes to NCCER’s curriculum, which include: •Enhancing rigor because students are more sophisticated learners now •Leveraging technology such as simulation •Connecting the community to a talent pipeline To conclude the meeting, NCCER leadership and our staff, members and key partners had a productive dialogue about these changes. ABC Pelican asked that NCCER quickly expand digital platforms so that our craft students can participate in self-paced learning in all the crafts we offer. Members encouraged NCCER to offer multiple demonstrative videos online or in an app for students to reference in the field or while studying for an exam. “The classroom setting isn’t the norm for our students anymore,” said Camille Connaway of LCTCS. ABC Pelican looks forward to partnering with NCCER to ensure our workforce is equipped for the future.
NCCER is also quickly evolving and updating their curriculum to not only accommodate remote learning, but also to change the stigma around construction. “Construction builds communities, hospitals and schools,” said Jennifer Wilkinson, Senior Director of Innovation & Advancement. “NCCER is setting out to change the thinking that construction is much more than building the house next door.”
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FROM THE PRESIDENT
REBUILDING IN 2021 BY: DAVID HELVESTON, PRESIDENT
Almost everyone can say with unfortunate confidence that we have never experienced a year like 2020. A pandemic has taken the lives of more than 1 million people worldwide. Countless have been stuck at home, many without work or a source of income. Our education system has flipped on its head as schools scramble to teach in a virtual or hybrid format. The stock market has been an epic rollercoaster ride. Protestors took to the streets and social media to stand against racial injustice. Multiple natural disasters, from hurricanes to tornadoes, fires and floods, pummeled our country’s landscape, our communities and our homes. And the oil and gas industry took such a nosedive that multiple industries, such as petrochemical, have taken a steep downturn. Where do we go from here? How does our industry build upon a draining year like 2020 and look ahead with hope and vigor in 2021 and beyond? The work has already begun. Since spring, ABC member companies have taken innovative, adaptive and safe approaches to continue to win work, prioritize workforce development, serve communities and rebuild our economy. Industry along the Gulf Coast region has remained essential, because the services we provide are vital and necessary for everyday life. The priority of safety has not wavered for ABC. Safety is in the DNA of our industry because people are our companies’ most valuable assets. Throughout 2020, I saw ABC companies address this pandemic with a strong safety plan and procedures that prioritized employees, while providing great customer service to owners. I saw employers adhere to federal and local guidance and plans that often changed with little notice to keep their employees safe. Whether the safety concern was a hurricane or COVID-19, companies incorporated the additional variables needed to plan accordingly while prioritizing the health and well-being of their employees. Now is not the time to let our foot off the gas in the area of safety. Continue to revise and revisit your safety procedures and remain diligent and reasonable as you take the necessary steps to protect employees. Industry has harnessed the power of technology to continue to get the job done with excellence. Our world went remote in the first quarter of 2020, and the acronym “WFH” (working from home) became commonplace. Tools such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, webinars, GoToMeeting, integrated project delivery systems, smart contracts and cloud hosting have allowed
communication and knowledge sharing amongst our workforce to continue. Technology has launched our industry forward in health tracking. ABC companies have improved site services in terms of safety, such as geofencing and wearable technologies, and harnessed the power of tablets on jobsites. I encourage you to embrace these innovative trends this year; we are encountering new landscapes and new client needs that technology will help us address. Two tools for ABC member companies include people and culture. I am proud to say we exceled at using these two tools last year, and we are counting on people to propel us forward in 2021. Our reality is evolving quickly, and I have witnessed ABC companies evaluate equity in the industry and their own companies and assess how we can make it stronger. Do not get complacent in ensuring the workplace culture in your company is vibrant. To the leaders of our industry: Be consistent in your leadership and practice what you preach. Tackle problems head on and do not just tolerate them. Empower employees to not only lead but embrace the culture you’re creating. Building upon a year like 2020 will be hard. It will be challenging and take grit. I can say with absolute certainty that the construction industry is up for the task, and the workforce of our industry was made for such a time as this. As we start 2021, I encourage you to mentally revisit those hard lessons learned, impossible moments and valleys of 2020, and remember building is what we do. We build, and then we rebuild. We begin with ideas, incorporate ingenuity and make something from that. Now is the time for our industry to do what it does best. We are the builders of this great nation, and now is the time to build ourselves stronger than we were in 2020.
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2020 TRENDS IN CONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE
“THIS IS A HEALTHCARE CRISIS NOT AN ECONOMIC CRISIS” NOVEMBER 19
As a sign of the times, CFMA’s South Central Louisiana Chapter took their annual Trends in Construction Conference virtual this year and ABC of Louisiana was proud to serve again as an event sponsor. Each year through this conference, attendees get a firsthand look at the economic forecast for the year ahead. ABC Pelican Member Jay Montalbano, a partner at Hannis T. Bourgeois, kicked off the annual conference by welcoming attendees and introducing keynote speaker, Dr. Elliot Eisenberg. Dr. Eisenberg’s research has been featured in Bloomberg Businessweek, Bureau of National Affairs, Forbes and Fortune, so you can imagine his presentation covered a broad swath of topics, industries and factors.
to the virus and don’t tell us the entire story.” For example, consumers have dipped into savings to purchases vehicles and renovate their homes. “Consumer spending is still incomplete, and we are still seeing a mild decline in consumer confidence, obviously attributable to the virus,” explained Dr. Eisenberg.
As he began the presentation around the topic, “Understanding the Economic Forecast as it Relates to the Construction Industry,” Dr. Eisenberg was quick to point out “the economy is improving,” and that he was hopeful to “see some physical stimulus from Washington, D.C.” Attendees then took a trip down memory lane with an Econ 101 lesson: the components of GDP and why we must pay attention to each as our economy recovers: GDP=C[onsumption] + I[nvestment] + G[overnment Spending] + NX (exports-imports)
Speaking of the virus, Dr. Eisenberg said it is too soon to have the “wait for the virus” mindset. “We have a way to go, and we must keep in mind that our economy is still suffering from a pandemic.”
“Certain parts of the economy are performing remarkably well, not well, but remarkably well,” said Dr. Eisenberg. He explained that housing is performing the best out of all industries and that new home sales are “exploding.” Dr. Eisenberg went on to highlight other booming industries, including vehicle and retail: “We’ve made tremendous progress from where we were in April. Housing has done a tremendous job but it’s not going to improve anymore and will level off now…Vehicle purchases have rebounded as much as it can...Retail sales have done terrifically well.” As with most things in life, there is a catch to the industries currently booming: these data are all “contaminated from coronavirus. These three items are a behavioral response 9 abcpelican.org/newsletter
2020 TRENDS IN CONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE CONTINUED Shifting gears to an industry that is not doing so well, Dr. Eisenberg explained that restaurant sales keep going up and down. “This decline is not good.”
While economic progress is being made, we are “by no means out of the woods” said Dr. Eisenberg. “Don’t confuse happiness with overall success. Firms are happy because they are spending money on new goods and investing in new equipment to garner more business. That is good but it’s not long-term investments.” What could be good for long-term investments, Dr. Eisenberg pointed the progress we have seen in oil. “The number we’ve gained in barrels of oil is going up.” What could be good for long-term investments, Dr. Eisenberg pointed the progress we have seen in oil. “The number we’ve gained in barrels of oil is going up.”
Dr. Eisenberg posed the question: Has oil already peaked? With an emphatic “We may be getting incredibly close to it.”
Continuing with the presentation, our keynote speaker said that COVID-19 has caused the budget deficit to explode because of COVID-related relief legislation. “The dollar has weakened somewhat…GDP cannot grow fast!” Similarly to the importance of the dollar, labor markets have been tight in the midst of the pandemic. “We’ve lost 10 million jobs,” said Dr. Eisenberg. “The vaccine tells us that the end-zone is not far away, but we are not there yet.”
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2020 TRENDS IN CONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE CONTINUED In his opinion, gyms, restaurants and bars should be closed and all schools should re-open so children can get back to normal education and women can return to the workforce.
The remainder of the presentation focused on construction.
“Private residential is doing well,” said Dr. Eisenberg. “The rest of construction is weakening, but this will not be the case forever… Per ABC, the book of business is weaker than it was in the past.” Dr. Eisenberg concluded with the most positive news: this recession isn’t nearly as bad as the last. “The recovery should be much quicker because this is a health care crisis, not an economic crisis. The key here is the overall health of the economy is improving, just slowly.” 12 abcpelican.org/newsletter
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LEGAL UPDATE
CONFLICT IN THE COURTS OVER PROMPT PAYMENT ON PUBLIC PROJECTS BY: JACOB ROUSSEL, BREAZEALE, SACHSE & WILSON, L.L.P La. R.S. 38:2191 mandates that “[a]ll public entities shall promptly pay all obligations arising under public contracts when the obligations become due and payable under the contract.” The statute also authorizes a mandamus action, a form of summary proceeding without the delays associated with an ordinary lawsuit, when a public entity fails to make payment due to a contractor. However, Louisiana appellate court decisions conflict with respect to the interpretation and application of the statute as it pertains to the resolution of a public entity’s claim for offsets against a contractor. In April 2018, the Louisiana Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal (based in New Orleans) rendered a decision which applied La. R.S. 38:2191 in a manner significantly benefiting general contractors by requiring a public entity to make final payment to a contractor despite the existence of claims against the contractor. In Woodrow Wilson Construction. LLC v. Orleans Parish School Board, 2017-0936 (La. App. 4 Cir. 4/18/18), 245 So. 3d 1, a public entity withheld from payment the entirety of the retainage on a project, claiming that liquidated damages for delays, although contested by the contractor, exceeded the retainage due under the contract. In doing so, the public entity relied upon a provision in the contract which permitted the collection of liquidated damages in any manner available, including the withholding of final payment. However, citing to language within La. R.S. 38:2191 that “[t]he provisions of this Section shall not be subject to waiver by contract”, the Louisiana Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal concluded that the contractual provision relied upon by the public entity could not serve to waive the contractor’s right to final payment. As such, the decision held that a public entity can be compelled to make final payment to a contractor by way of a summary mandamus action despite the existence of claims against the contractor, although that public entity may thereafter pursue it claims against the contractor by way of an ordinary lawsuit. In October 2018, the Louisiana Supreme Court denied writs, meaning that the Court declined to address the case.
In March 2020, however, the Louisiana First Circuit Court of Appeal (based in Baton Rouge) rendered a decision with a differing interpretation of La. R.S. 38:2191. The case of Law Industries, LLC v. Board of Supervisors of Louisiana State University, 2018-1756 (La. App. 1 Cir. 3/2/20), 300 So. 3d 21 also involved a contractor seeking final payment from a public entity by way of a summary mandamus action, which payment was withheld due to the assessment of liquidated damages as authorized by the parties’ contract. In deciding the case, the Louisiana First Circuit Court of Appeal expressly stated that it “respectfully choose not to follow” the ruling of the Louisiana Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal in Woodrow Wilson. Rather than holding that that the public entity was required to render payment to the contractor and that its liquidated damages claim must be resolved in a separate ordinary proceeding consistent with the ruling in Woodrow Wilson, the Court opined that “[i]f the plaintiff elects to use a mandamus proceeding, the trial court must determine in a summary proceeding what sum is owed under the parties’ contract, including the amount of liquidated damages payable under the contract’s provisions.” Dissenting to the decision, one of the appellate judges acknowledged that “[t]he majority’s holding creates a split between the First and Fourth Circuit Courts of Appeal regarding the interpretation of La. R.S. 38:2191—a legal question—which needs to be resolved by the Louisiana Supreme Court.” Nonetheless, in October 2020, the Louisiana Supreme Court declined to address the case.
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LEGAL UPDATE CONTINUED In June 2020, the Louisiana First Circuit Court of Appeal again addressed a case involving the pursuit of final payment by a contractor by way of the summary mandamus action provided by La. R.S. 38:2191, which payment was withheld by a public entity due to the assessment of liquidated damages.In Coast 2 Coast Construction, L.L.C. v. Parish of St. Tammany, 2019-1311 (La. App. 1 Cir. 6/16/20) 2020 WL 3249307, a different panel of judges than those which decided Law Industries concluded that the “identical issue” was recently addressed by the Court. Accordingly, the Court adhered to the interpretation of La. R.S. 38:2191 as set forth in Law Industries. In October 2020, the Louisiana Supreme Court also declined to address the Coast 2 Coast case.
declined to address the case by denying writs. In summary, while the Louisiana Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal has held that a contractor can obtain payment through the summary proceeding and that the owner’s claim for offsets must be resolved separately by way of an ordinary proceeding, the Louisiana First Circuit Court of Appeal has held that the contractor’s payment claim and the owner’s claim for offsets must be resolved concurrently if a summary mandamus action is invoked. Thus, for now, Louisiana appellate decisions remain in conflict regarding the interpretation and application of La. R.S. 38:2191, which should be resolved either by the Louisiana Supreme Court or legislatively.
Most recently, in July 2020, the Louisiana First Circuit Court of Appeal affirmed the dismissal of a contractor’s summary mandamus action brought under La. R.S. 38:2191 in Stevens Construction & Design, L.L.C. v. St. Tammany Fire Protection District No. 1, 2019-0955 (La. App. 1 Cir. 7/8/20), 2020 WL 3840899, concluding that the amounts sought were not due under the terms of the parties’ contract. In November 2020, the Louisiana Supreme Court
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COVER STORY
EXCELLENCE IN A NEW REALITY DECEMBER 2020
BY: MACIE MORGAN, MEMBERSHIP & COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Excellence in Construction is the premier competition within the construction industry that recognizes outstanding construction projects across the nation. This year, the ABC Pelican Chapter received 32 project submissions. Of the 32 submissions, 25 projects were awarded either an excellence or merit award. Thirteen projects from eight different companies received an excellence award and 12 projects from 10 different companies received a merit award.
2020 ABC Pelican EIC Categories & Winners: GENERAL CONTRACTOR > COMMERCIAL > $5 TO $10 MILLION MERIT: MAPP, LLC: @Highland The project included the design assist construction of a three-story, 51,000-square-feet class “A” multi-tenant office building. The project included site clearing and grubbing of approximately seven acres and initial site surcharge of the existing site to get it above the existing flood plain. GENERAL CONTRACTOR > FEDERAL GOVERNMENT / MILITARY > $10 TO $100 MILLION MERIT: APC Construction, LLC: New Orleans to Venice, Woodpark Floodwalls NOV-NF-W-06B.1 APC completed approximately a half-mile of critical floodwater structure for the United States Army Corp of Engineers located in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana. Highlights in the scope of work include a static load test pile program, installation of open-ended steel pipe piles and steel sheet piles, installation of pre-load levee embankments, and construction of 53 floodwall monoliths. GENERAL CONTRACTOR > INDUSTRIAL > $15 TO $25 MILLION EXCELLENCE: Cajun Industries: Shintech - SPP3 Utilities Civil The project is the third largest unit and final piece of the civil puzzle to be constructed at the new Shintech SPP3 site in Plaquemine, Louisiana. The utilities unit consists of several large and intricate aboveground water retaining concrete structures. The project, which logged more than 180,000 incident-free manhours, consisted of more than 15,000-cubic-yards of concrete, 1,100 tons of reinforcing steel, and 8,000 tons of limestone. 16 abcpelican.org/newsletter
COVER STORY CONTINUED MERIT: Beard Construction Group: South Texas Gateway Terminal Buckeye Partners, L.P. contracted Beard to perform site grading, drainage, fire protection systems, and tank pad preparation at the South Texas Gateway Terminal in Ingleside, Texas. Beard’s work with Buckeye was crucial in expanding their footprint in providing more terminal, storage and processing capabilities. Beard constructed 22 oil storage tanks, measuring 225-feet in diameter with a height of 70-feet. GENERAL CONTRACTOR > INDUSTRIAL > $5 TO $15 MILLION EXCELLENCE: GROUP Industries LLC: DOW S1300 Mosaic Project The $7.5 million civil project at DOW Chemical wasn’t difficult on paper, but the number of obstacles thrown in the project team’s path turned molehills into mountains. The project laid the groundwork for a proprietary unit in the middle of the DOW facility. Challenges included underground water issues, numerous discoveries and the COVID-19 pandemic. In the end, the team successfully installed 243 steel pipe piles filled with concrete, 2,000-linear-feet of underground firewater line, 5,000-cubicyards of structural concrete, 150-linear-feet of 55-foot sheet piles and a limestone roadway.
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COVER STORY CONTINUED MERIT: RES Contractors LLC: Oleflex Upgrade Project, Honeywell The $6.6 million expansion and revamp of Honeywell’s number two catalyst production line in Shreveport, Louisiana was a complex endeavor burdened by incomplete designs, unexpected underground obstructions and significant rework. The new and improved production line was needed to increase production of Honeywell’s proprietary brand of catalysts. GENERAL CONTRACTOR > INDUSTRIAL > LESS THAN $5 MILLION EXCELLENCE: Cajun Industries: ExxonMobil BIOX Floating Sludge Mitigation Project Cajun completed the improvement of ExxonMobil’s effluent facilities in the Baton Rouge Refinery. The project included an above ground concrete mixing tank, large excavations for underground pipe, erection of steel, installation of mechanical rotating equipment and electrical and instrument work. The foremost challenge was the intricate accessibility to the construction zone, which warranted attention and ingenuity. Cajun worked alongside ExxonMobil’s project team to sequence critical cutover plans to minimize production impacts during a successful startup. MERIT: Performance Contractors, Inc.: Total Petrochemicals – Effluent Piping Replacement Project Performance used experience, foresight and creative solutions to reduce the project’s duration and exceed the client’s expectations. The project’s success depended on extensive coordination with Louisiana DOTD, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Coastguard and the owner, Total Petrochemicals. The project team innovated a solution to minimize the barge crane costs by utilizing a newly invented “Bobby Jack” that was installed on the pipe rack to then be able to install pipe rollers. GENERAL CONTRACTOR > INSTITUTIONAL > $10 - $25 MILLION EXCELLENCE: The Lemoine Company, LLC: Our Savior’s Church Opelousas The project included the construction of a more than 43,000-square-foot sanctuary, youth ministry facility, and cafe along with 247,279-square-feet of asphalt pavement and associated earthwork.
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COVER STORY CONTINUED Cajun’s unique GC/ EPC service offering provides multi-discipline engineering and directhire construction under one roof.
GC/EPC SERVICES
This construction-driven approach delivers engineering packages which ultimately result in measurable cost savings, enhanced safety performance, and the quality and productivity you have come to expect from Cajun.
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COVER STORY CONTINUED MERIT: Arkel Constructors: Catholic High School Student Center The project is a 32,000-square-foot, two-story structural steel building composed of materials that complimented the look and feel of the existing campus but with a contemporary updated design. In order to complete the project a month ahead of the contract date, Arkel quickly implemented COVID-19 safety protocols and closely coordinated with all subcontractors. GENERAL CONTRACTOR > MEGA-PROJECTS > MORE THAN $100 MILLION EXCELLENCE: EXCEL Group: Exxon / XTO Energy Cowboy CDP Project EXCEL successfully completed the construction of a $378 million grassroots cryogenic gas plant located in an isolated area of New Mexico. The project encompassed three million manhours and EXCEL overcame numerous obstacles, including novel hindrances posed by COVID-19. GENERAL CONTRACTOR > PRE-ENGINEERED BUILDING > UP TO $100 MILLION MERIT: Arkel Constructors: Highway Transport Service and Training Center This facility, located in Geismar, Louisiana, was designed as a one-stop shop for all of Highway Transport’s Gulf Coast Fleet. Arkel worked alongside the design team to identify cost saving options and create an expedited schedule to ensure a smooth transition from design to construction. GENERAL CONTRACTOR > RESIDENTIAL > MULTIFAMILY AND CONDOMINIUM EXCELLENCE: The Lemoine Company, LLC: The Heritage at Cajun Village Located on the University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s Campus, this upper-classmen apartment community consists of five residential buildings that create a pedestrianfriendly living environment with direct connection to the core of the campus.
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COVER STORY CONTINUED GENERAL CONTRACTOR > SPECIAL PROJECTS > $2 TO $100 MILLION EXCELLENCE: Barriere Construction Co. LLC: St. Charles Parish Railyard Expansion The $11.6M project involved the successful fulfillment of contingencies in a lease-to-own agreement between the Port of South Louisiana land and a DOW Chemical company subsidiary that owns and operates DOW’s manufacturing plant in Hahnville, Louisiana. The mission was to construct a new rail yard for storage and maintenance of DOW’s rail cars and related infrastructure on 16 acres of port land adjacent to DOW’s existing facility and to connect the new facility to a DOW-owned rail spur. SPECIALTY CONTRACTOR > ELECTRICAL: INDUSTRIAL > $2 TO $10 MILLION EXCELLENCE: MMR Constructors, Inc.: Gray Wolf Compressor Station MMR performed the electrical and instrumentation portion of construction for the Greenfield Gray Wolf Compressor Station in Douglas, Wyoming. Much of the project took place in sub-zero temperatures in a remote location with numerous engineering challenges due to the complex design of the systems. These challenges were overcome with zero safety-related incidents during the more than 17,000 work hours needed to finish the project. MERIT: Westgate, LLC: Dow Chemical Glycol II Sub West & Sub 9 E&I Pre-work and Outage Located at the DOW Chemical Plant in Plaquemine, Louisiana, the project was a large undertaking for Westgate, which was broken into more than nine different job tasks. Working through the threat of COVID-19, Westgate went above and beyond by keeping the focus on crew safety and completing the work. SPECIALTY CONTRACTOR > ELECTRICAL: INDUSTRIAL > LESS THAN $2 MILLION EXCELLENCE: MMR Constructors, Inc.: GSU 1,2 & 3 Bus Duct Replacement Project MMR demoed existing bus ducts from three GSU units and replaced them with a cable system. A temporary transformer was required for GSU-1 due to worldwide delays in shipping and production for key components. MMR worked diligently and strategically while facing multiple hurdles due to the coronavirus pandemic. New and innovative safety measures were developed to ensure the crews health and safety.
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COVER STORY CONTINUED MERIT: MMR Constructors Inc.: Project Eddie MMR was contracted by Southern Ionics to provide construction management, execution and commissioning assistance for the electrical and instrumentation portion of their new greenfield addition in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. MMR performed approximately 98% of the scope of work, and ABC members encompassed 80% of the volume of items purchased or rented by MMR. Additionally, the piling contractor, civil contractor, and structural steel contractors were all fellow ABC members. SPECIALTY CONTRACTOR > EXTERIORS EXCELLENCE: Classic Industrial Services: Sofidel America: Autumn II Gray Construction built a new integrated paper production plant for a manufacturer in Inola, Oklahoma. The plant consists of five buildings, covering more than 60 acres, and Classic Industrial Services erected the exterior cladding out of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The owner requested 17 different panel types, which included fire-rated panels, complex color transitions, custom curved panels, horizontal and vertical exterior panels and interior insulated metal panels.
Proudly serving the chemical, petrochemical and refining industries in Louisiana for more than twenty years. Projects | Operations | Consulting Baton Rouge | Houma | Lafayette
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COVER STORY CONTINUED SPECIALTY CONTRACTOR > SPECIALTY CONSTRUCTION - COMMERCIAL > LESS THAN $10 MILLION EXCELLENCE: Cajun Industries: Entergy Churchill Substation Cajun installed 468 concrete piles, designed and installed 100 helical piles with seven large concrete foundations, installed 48 timber piles, and set two permanent air bridges for a new substation by utilizing Cajun’s vast and diverse capabilities in all piling disciplines. Cajun’s crews overcame extreme weather and site conditions and a global pandemic to complete this project with zero safety incidents and within schedule. SPECIALTY CONTRACTOR > SPECIALTY CONSTRUCTION - INDUSTRIAL > LESS THAN $10 MILLION EXCELLENCE: Cajun Industries: CF Industries - Nitric Acid Storage Tank & Suction Chiller Project Cajun’s detailed test pile program provided an economical pile design that met all the client’s needs. This design build project had a tight schedule and required two rigs installing DDP piles simultaneously. MERIT: Sealevel Construction, Inc.: Koch Methanol Piling Project Sealevel was subcontracted by Brown and Root Industrial Services to install numerous pilings and drilled shafts at a new Koch Methanol Facility along the Mississippi River. Once galvanized, Sealevel’s fabrication division spliced all pipe piles before delivering them to the job site. The scheduling of the project was a process that everyone had to contribute to, including the suppliers, general contractor and Sealevel’s fabrication, trucking and installation teams. SPECIALTY CONTRACTOR > SPECIALTY CONSTRUCTION - INDUSTRIAL > MORE THAN $10 MILLION EXCELLENCE: Moore Industries: ExxonMobil Occupied Buildings- BRCP CPMO & Lab Hardening Moore Industries was awarded this $15 MM contract from ExxonMobil to harden an existing 50-year-old 104,000-square foot, four-story main office building and twostory laboratory by installing a structural steel exoskeleton. Moore self-performed 80,000 of the 154,000 project manhours. The project was completed without a single first aid or recordable incident.
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LOUISIANA STATE FIRE MARSHAL UPDATE
NEW YEAR, NEW RULES FOR FIRE-RESISTANT MATERIALS BY: ASHLEY RODRIGUE, STATE FIRE MARSHAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS DIRECTOR
As with every new year, many of us make new personal goals. At the same time, the change on the calendar often results in the changing of rules and laws in the state of Louisiana and 2021 is no exception. One new law of interest to the construction industry is RS 40:1603, passed via Act No. 114 of the 2019 Regular Legislative Session, relative to fire-resistant material applicators. Fire-resistant materials are designed to resist burning and withstand heat. Fire-resistant material applicators are responsible for ensuring that commercial construction materials are properly rendered fire-resistant in accordance with applicable safety codes, further ensuring people have time to escape during a structure fire. This is especially important in the commercial environment as commercial buildings tend to have larger occupancy loads than residential, and because of that, there is a greater need for efficient and increased means of egress. As for the new law, in summary, it requires that individuals who engage in the application of fire-resistant materials in commercial structures must be annually registered with the Office of State Fire Marshal (SFM). In addition, applictors must obtain training and certifications in the proper application of fire-resistant materials, from the manufacturers of those materials, before they are eligible to receive a registration certificate from the SFM. Applicators who fail to register are subject to a fine of $250 per violation. To be clear, the law does not apply to firms that employ individuals who conduct these types of application activities. It only applies to the individual applicators.
The SFM has enacted administrative rules (L.A.C. 55:V:3401–3429), via emergency declaration, outlining the registration process, the training and certification(s) accepted, and the regulatory enforcement and investigative authority of the SFM. To review Act 114 in its entirety, visit https://www.legis.la.gov/Legis/ViewDocument. aspx?d=1143556. This change was made as this type of important activity was considered a critical life safety element of structures, and therefore, was needed to be applied more appropriately under the SFM’s oversight and regulation. This will better ensure the protection and safety of the public by establishing proficiency concerning heat and flame protection. We hope 2021 can be a fresh start for everyone, personally and professionally, and that changes like this law lead to a much safer environment for all in this new, and hopefully better, year.
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LOUISIANA WORKERS’ COMPENSATION CORPORATION UPDATE MAKING 2021
Your Safest Year Yet A safe workplace is a more productive and profitable workplace. A comprehensive safety plan is the best tool to ensure workplace safety goals are being met. LWCC’s Consultants on Call, a team of safety experts who evaluate risks and implement safety procedures in partnership with policyholders, recommends focusing on your company’s safety plan at the start of each year. Here are 5 considerations for developing or updating a safety plan:
1.
2.
3. 4. 5.
Inspect and improve your worksite. Review your facilities and/or all job sites for any potential hazards that require attention and determine best practices to remedy them. Conduct a job safety analysis. Review all job procedures carefully and incorporate safety practices into every role, including subs and contract workers. Put it in writing. Create safety guidelines that detail proper processes and expectations, define policies, and establish a culture of safety through responsibility and accountability. Train employees. Offer on-site training tools and safety resources as a means to educate employees on how to minimize and eliminate accidents. Analyze accidents. Investigate how and why an incident occurred, making proper adjustments to reduce the possibility of it happening again.
A safety plan will help establish a culture of safety for your employees and vendor partners. Don’t wait until an accident happens. Put safety first by building or evaluating your company’s safety plan as you kick off the new year.
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BATON ROUGE TRAINING CENTER UPDATE
BATON ROUGE TRAINING CENTER UPDATE BY: KELLY CARPENTER, DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION Commercial Electrical training program leaders met on Friday, November 20th to discuss continuing the electrical apprenticeship classes in January 2021. The group agreed that due to low enrollment, the current students could enroll in evening classes as there is still availability. The students will also meet an additional 7 sessions throughout the spring semester to focus on commercial electrical topics and to meet apprenticeship guidelines for classroom-based training. The group will reconvene during the 1st quarter of 2021 to discuss options for the 2021-2022 apprenticeship year.
procedure of the training center, staff created short video clips for the instructors to share with their classes. These clips will be added to the library that will soon be available through our student portal as we move towards transitioning to some virtual training opportunities.
Ken McCrory, ABC Facility and Maintenance Coordinator with the help of Ryan Labbe, ABC E&I Instructor, Andy Arceneaux, ABC Pelican Welding Specialist and Ethan Richardson, ABC Pelican Welding Specialist worked on some facility repairs needed prior to class starting. The welding shop ventilation duct work was repaired and new overhead exhaust vents installed. Old outside cutting and grinding stations were replaced. Equipment donated to the training center last May from Fluor was assembled and improvements were made to the Electrical & Instrumentation, Millwright and Pipefitting Labs. Instructors worked together to organize the labs to incorporate new hands-on practical exercises. The training center held its first Advanced Millwright training class in November. The primarily hands-on class focused on various alignment practices including; conventional, reverse and laser alignment. Eleven Turner employees completed the 40 hour class. The Pelican Chapter is hoping to continue to offer this class a few times a year to help address the skills gaps observed in millwrights. Also, Shell showed their support for the Advanced Millwright training class and donated 10 Laser Alignment machines to the training center for instructors and students to utilize during the class. On January 11, 2021 the instructors, contractors and staff welcomed students back for the kick-off of the spring semester. The opening night went smoothly with continued COVID-19 safety screening precautions upon entry to class. To help ensure students understand the policies and 30 abcpelican.org/newsletter
SOUTHWEST TRAINING CENTER UPDATE
SOUTHWEST TRAINING CENTER UPDATE
BY: BLAISE THEARD, WORKFORCE SPECIALIST The ABC Pelican Southwest Training Center is thoroughly excited to have classes back in session once again. After completing enough repairs to create a safe learning environment, we were able to resume classes in December. Impacted by COVID-19 and Hurricanes Laura and Delta, an accelerated electrical class was able to complete level 4 before Christmas. A second accelerated electrical class completed level 2. The Spring 2021 semester started January 11th for the SWTC. The accelerated electrical class started level 3 and a new accelerated electrical class started level 1. We welcomed back our evening craft classes that include Core, Electrical, Heavy Equipment, Millwright, and Pipefitting. Our on-campus welding program will begin January 25th. The start date for welding was delayed a couple weeks as we are working diligently on installing new welding machines and lighting in the welding shop.
hurricanes, Calcasieu Schools were not able to participate in the Fall welding semester. We are glad to have Calcasieu Parish schools now enrolled and active in the satellite welding program. Hurricanes Laura and Delta left a path of destruction through Southwest Louisiana. While repairs are made every day in SWLA, the devastation is still very dense throughout the area. Our students are eager to be back in the classrooms and labs. The ABC Pelican team is thrilled to have students back on campus and we are all anxious for a fantastic 2021.
The dual enrollment program has also continued with the Spring 2021 semester. Our welding programs in Acadia, Allen, and Beauregard Parish are back in session. Due to the LOUISIANA Alexandria • Baton Rouge Covington • Kenner • Lafayette Lake Charles • Monroe • Shreveport
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NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION JOIN AN ABC COMMITTEE!
MEMBERSHIP UPDATE
BY: ANNA ZEBEAU, MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR I know that everyone is happy to see 2021 arrive and some of you have made a few resolutions. Hopefully getting more involved in ABC Pelican Chapter made your list. I can assist you with that resolution by encouraging you to join a committee. When you choose to serve as a volunteer on a committee, you open a world of possibilities for networking and professional growth. Becoming involved on 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 to support the merit shop philosophy. Your input works towards positive change and forward direction. Committee membership is open to all ABC 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 Liason, as listed on the next page, to find out more information about the committee and to enroll. For those contractor members who are 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.
Everything that we do is based on our performance; it’s our namesake and our crowning jewel. We hang our hat on a good, safe day’s work and our ability to execute jobs at the highest level. By raising the bar and driving the standard of our industry forward, we’ve made a career out of changing what it means to be an industrial contractor.
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MEMBERSHIP UPDATE CONTINUED Pelican Chapter of Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc.
COMMITTEES AMBASSADOR CLUB
Promote membership retention through development and implementation of member involvement programs.
Staff Liaison: Anna Zebeau (Meets at various locations)
BUDGET & FINANCE 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.
Staff Liaison: Janie Arceneaux (Meets on 3rd Wednesday at 4 PM)
BUILDERS COUNCIL Responsible for developing and promoting activities of interest to Merit Shop builders.
Staff Liaison: Danielle Labbe (Meets once a quarter)
EDUCATION & MANPOWER
Only available to ICC members and GBRIA members.
Initiate and maintain the highest level of training and assessment for apprenticeship and craft training programs, with emphasis on safety, cost-effectiveness, workforce development and ensuring that local site owners, contractor members, schools and the community have access to a skilled workforce.
Staff Liaison: Kacie Blanchard (Meets on 2nd Thursday at 2 PM)
GOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS Responsible for defending the merit shop and free enterprise rights of members in order to assume equal opportunity regardless of affiliation with other entities. Keeps ABC members abreast of legal and regulatory issues relative to Louisiana’s construction industry and support grassroots efforts that promote the merit shop philosophy.
Staff Liaison: John Walters (Meets as needed and holds quarterly conference calls)
HEALTH, SAFETY, ENVIRO ONMENT 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 STEP Awards Program.
Staff Liaison: Kacie Blanchard (Meets on 2nd Thursday at 7:30 AM)
MEMBERSHIP GROWTH
Responsible for recruiting, retaining, welcoming and involving members of this association by employing new and innovative ideas and programs.
Staff Liaison: Anna Zebeau (Meets on 3rd Wednesday at 8 AM)
MEMBER SERVICES Responsible for developing and promoting activities of interest to all member classifications.
Staff Liaison: Lindsey Russ (Meets on 2nd Wednesday at 9 AM)
SOUTHWEST STEERING Responsible for the growth and promotion of the Merit Shop philosophy in Southwest Louisiana, including programs, events, legislative matters and training opportunities. This committee can create subcommittees and task forces to assist with membership growth and member experience.
Staff Liaison: Kirby Bruchhaus (Meets on 2nd Tuesday at 11:30 AM)
SOUTHW WEST TRAINING
Only available to SLCUC members and ABC contractor members.
This committee is made up of SLCUC members and ABC contractor 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.
Staff Liaison: Kirby Bruchhaus (Meets on 3rd Tuesday at 11:30 AM)
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS The Young Professionals program aims to shape the future of our industry by supporting the growth of the young professionals under 40 years old that are employed by ABC member companies.
Staff Liaison: Lindsey Russ (Meets 6 times a year at varying locations) Pelican Chapter Administration & Baton Rouge Training Center | 19251 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA | 225.752.1415 Pelican Chapter Southwest Training Center | 222 Walcot Road, Westlake, LA | 337.882.0204
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2021 ABC PELICAN BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEET THE 2021 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Shawn Worsham
Scott Callaway
Chair Worley
Vice Chair Membership Growth Cajun Industries
Josh Rounds
Beau Leitner
Chair Elect Performance Contractors
Vice Chair Member Services Doyle Electric
Bryan Knost
John Cassagne
Secretary Wood Group
Vice Chair Governmental Relations MMR Group
Ryan Girouard
Donnie Braud
Treasurer Hancock Whitney Bank
Vice Chair Outlying Area L.S. Womack
Wes Mincin
Carlos Guidry
Vice Chair Education Triad Electric & Controls
Immediate Past Chair Turner Industries
MEET THE 2021 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ben Brown Turner Industries Group
Matt Shoriak EXCEL group
Tammy Corripio Primoris Services Corporation
Andrew Thompson ISC Constructors
John Freeman Brown & Root Industrial Services
Seth Lemoine The Lemoine Company
Adam Landry Great River Industries
Alternate Board Members: Danny Campbell Triad Electric & Controls
Scott McKnight BXS Insurance
Ben Fromenthal Beard Construction Group
Aaron Patrich ISC Constructors 36 abcpelican.org/newsletter
WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS
GET TO KNOW OUR NEW MEMBERS Dove Group Brett Dove 38398 Highway 30, Gonzales, LA 70737 (225) 644-3643 www.dovegroupmep.com Contractor: Mechanical Contractor Sponsor: Jay Dykes, Dykes Electric Dove Group is a mechanical and electrical contractor and service provider based in Gonzales, Louisiana. They are a family owned business that takes pride in developing longterm relationships with clients and suppliers. Priority Floors Patrick Rooney 5403 Powell Street, Harahan, LA 70123 (504) 733-8188 www.priorityfloors.com Contractor: Tile, Terrazzo, Wood, Carpet Sponsor: Beau Wolfe, MAPP, LLC Priority Floors began as commercial flooring company in 1986. In 2006, under new ownership, the company has grown in geographic reach and service capabilities. In addition to multifamily flooring Priority Floors has also become a premier flooring contractor. Wesley Construction Bryan Wesley 19019 West Piney Point Avenue, Baton Rouge, LA 70817 (225) 753-5600 www.wesleyusa.com Contractor: General Contractor- Commercial Sponsor: Josh Rounds, Performance Contractors Their 35 years of experience and hundreds of successful projects in over 25 states speak for themselves. They are devoted to customer service. Their commitment to excellence is what sets them apart from other contractors. BAY LTD David Sammonds 385 Degravelle Road, Morgan City, LA 70380 (225) 939-9533 www.bayltd.com Contractor: General Contractor – Industrial Sponsor: Bryan Knost, Wood Group USA For 65 years Bay Ltd has prided their company on honesty and integrity. Because of these traits their company has continued to grow over the 65 years they have been in
business. They are committed to safety and customer service and prove this with their unparalleled safety record and service. ECS Southeast, LLP Corey Nees 11115 Industriplex Blvd, Suite 200, Baton Rouge, LA 70809 (225) 224-2583 www.ecslimited.com Contractor – Engineering Services Sponsor: Steve Allison, BXS Insurance Since 1988 ECS has been a leader in geotechnical, construction materials, environmental and facilities engineering. Their continued and steady growth comes from the belief in developing the people systems and expertise required to focus on client needs. Transformyx, Inc. Ned Fasullo 6867 Bluebonnet Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70810 (225) 761-0088 www.transformyx.com Supplier: Computer Systems, Consulting Sponsor: Jeremiah Johnson, Bottom Line Equipment Transformyx is dedicated to creating customized solutions for their customer’s toughest problems. Remote site connectivity, securing mobile workers and cloud and virtual desktops are just a few things they specialize in. Three Six Zero Industries, LLC Jim McDowell 3035 Rue D Orleans, Baton Rouge, LA 70810 (225) 445-1036 www.360-industries.com Industry Professional: Construction Management Services Sponsor: Donn Peterson, Turner Industries Three Six Zero creates relationships with clients in order to support them through all business ventures. Combined years of experience in engineering, procurement, construction management, risk mitigation, business development, strategic communication and public relations allow their advisors to offer expert solutions to all of their clients.
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WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS CONTINUED W-Industries, Inc. David Breaux 7620 Johnston Street, Maurice, LA 70555 (337) 993-7425 www.w-industries.com Contractor: General Contractor – Industrial Sponsor: Guy Rogers, FallTech For more than three decades W-Industries has provided the energy industry with automation and control, process design, and system packaging solutions that optimize production and ensure operational continuity. Christensen Building Group Jamey Bueche 10144 Patriot Drive, Suite A, Baton Rouge, LA 70816 (225) 465-3389 www.christensenbuilding.com Contractor: General Contractor – Industrial Sponsor: Jeremiah Johnson, Bottom Line Equipment Christensen Building Group has an innovative way of safely and in a timely manner, delivering new, effective and advanced concepts for the construction industry. They are helping change the industry in the South by delivering these innovative concepts. AG-CON, LLC Silas LaHaye 1101 E. Ardoin Street, Eunice, LA 70535 (337) 466-7242 www.ag-con.net Contractor: General Contractor – Heavy Equipment Sponsor: Neal Choppin, BXS Insurance AG-CON provides superior infrastructure services to the industrial, commercial, residential and oilfield market segments, primarily across Southern U.S. – Louisiana and Texas.
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PELICAN CHAPTER STAFFF CHAPTER OPERATIONS (225) 752-1415 David Helveston President & CEO dhelveston@abcpelican.com
Danielle Labbe Workforce Development Director dlabbe@abcpelican.com
Macie Morgan Membership & Communications Coordinator mmorgan@abcpelican.com
Kacie Blanchard Workforce Support Associate Director kblanchard@abcpelican.com
Lindsey Russ Member Services Director lruss@abcpelican.com
Alexis Montelius Training Center Coordinator amontelius@abcpelican.com
Anna Zebeau Membership Director azebeau@abcpelican.com
SOUTHWEST TRAINING CENTER (337) 882-0204 Kirby Bruchhaus Education Director kbruchhaus@abcpelican.com
FINANCE (225) 752-1415 Janie Arceneaux Finance Director jarceneaux@abcpelican.com Mikah Armstrong Finance Assistant marmstrong@abcpelican.com BATON ROUGE TRAINING CENTER (225) 752-0088 Kelly Carpenter Education Director kcarpenter@abcpelican.com
Blaise Theard Workforce Development Specialist btheard@abcpelican.com Administration: Christina Domingue cdomingue@abcpelican.com
Ivelynn Fuselier ifuselier@abcpelican.com
OVER 1400 MACHINES AND OVER 400 ATTACHMENTS FOR RENT OR FOR SALE WWW.BOTTOMLINEEQUIPMENT.COM 39 abcpelican.org/newsletter
Pelican Chapter, Associated Builders and Contractors 19251 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Connect with @abcpelican
19251 Highland Road Baton Rouge, LA 70809
225.752.1415
abcpelican.org/newsletter
