Construction Global Magazine - March 2015

www.constructionglobal.com • March 2015

T O Pru C ons t 10

Trend c tion s 2 01 5

How to attract

Generation Z to the sector

BUSINESSFRIEND Helping to build your network

THE BIGGEST THING WE MOVE IS TIME

When it comes to lifting, transporting, installing and decommis-

tailor-made solutions for engineered heavy logistics. If you are

sioning large structures, we believe your biggest challenges

facing challenges in decommissioning, give us a call. Time may

aren’t about size. They’re about time. Uptime, turnaround time

not be set in concrete or forged in steel. It isn’t even all that

and time to market. In case of decommissioning, where no two

heavy. And yet, it’s the biggest thing we can move for you.

structures are the same, time spent on careful planning and creative engineering results in a solution with an optimal balance

For more information, please call Jelle Lanting, general manager

between time, cost and capacity for each operation.

Decommissioning: +31 6 46 60 25 55. Or send him an email:

With offices on every other continent and a fleet of equipment

jelle.lanting@mammoet.com

that is unparalleled in size and capacity, Mammoet provides

Discover more on mammoet.com

EDITOR’S COMMENT

Building for the future A V E R Y W A R M welcome to the March

edition of Construction Global magazine.

This month our front cover story looks at how to attract the next generation of talent to the construction sector. This new wave of individuals are called generation z and they will be needing to plug the upcoming skills shortage that is threatening to happen when the aging 19 percent of the construction workforce retire in the next decade.

We also tell you about businessfriend, which is a new platform that can help you build valuable connections while consolidating all your existing apps and documents in one easy to use interface.

Last but not least the Top 10 industry trends are covered for 2015 in our third front of book feature.

Enjoy the issue!

Sam Jermy Editor sam.jermy@wdmgroup.com 3

CONTENTS

Features MANAGEMENT/PLANNING

How To Attract The Next Generation To The Construction Sector

8

TECHNOLOGY

Building Valuable Connections In The Construction Sector Via businessfriend

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26 TOP 10

Construction Trends for 2015 5

© 2014 Citigroup Inc. Citi and Citi with Arc Design are registered service marks of Citigroup Inc.

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Walsh – Zoo 100 Interchange Project

82

CONTENTS

28

VALORCON S.A.

ETINAR S.A.

36

Company Profiles AMERICA LATINA 28 VALORCON S.A. 36 ETINAR S.A.

CANADA 48 Integrity Post Structures 60 Flintstones Masonry

Integrity Post Structures N orth American Construction Group

68

90 De Coon Services

48 60

Flintstones Masonry

68 North American Construction Group 76 Association: PPP Canada

USA 82 Walsh – Zoo 100 Interchange Project 90 Association: Carolinas AGC

TECHNOLOGY

Building valuable connections in the construction sector via businessfriend Wr i t t e n by: AB I GA I L PH I LI PS

THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR today is highly connected, tech driven and focused on innovation. Gone are the days when building sites are planned using a pen and paper, intensive labour and cumbersome machinery; in fact construction sites today are often equipped with the latest technology and software, and planned with sustainability in mind.

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March 2015

More and more, brute strength is being swapped for sophisticated data and this change brings with it a greater need for connectivity.

Until now, construction firms have relied on expensive bespoke tools to share data, information and documentation, but this is about to change. At CES 2015 a new, innovative social network called businessfriend

(businessfriend.com) was launched to the world – its USP being that it can offer what no other social network can in terms of total collaboration. businessfriend acts as a business utility with a social identity. Instead of using multiple different applications to accomplish one goal, businessfriend allows you to seamlessly execute all business affairs in one powerful,

mobile-first platform with a simple and attractive interface, allowing you to connect and share socially and professionally in a whole new way. For example, businessfriend would allow project managers and senior execs to share documentation, discuss strategy, make calls and record vital data in one place. “On any given day, the typical 9

TECHNOLOGY young professional can have as many as five platforms open to get them through their day,” said Glen White, Founder and CEO of businessfriend.

“We offer one complete forum that enables constant connectivity for optimal business communications.

One mobile app, one desktop, any

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March 2015

device - no more juggling apps.”

Key features of businessfriend include video chat, IM, and free VoIP calls, up to two gigs of free Cloud storage, use of its Digidex contact management system, document downloading and sharing, social feed, connectivity

BUSINESSFRIEND

to colleagues and peers without sharing personal contact information, easy sign-up and much more.

“We like to say businessfriend is the channel for professionals that are suffering from S.C.S. (scattered communications syndrome),” said Freddie Pierce, VP of Product and co-creator of the app. “We’re providing one place to consolidate all of your current communications, mediums and channels into one easy to use application. You’ll never have to say ‘I didn’t get that email’ or ‘where did that document go’ again.”

Construction executives, project managers and decision makers often have to juggle many suppliers, vendors and internal documentation – businessfriend can help by providing a platform to stay connected with the people and professionals that matter most to business operations.

Redefining how you interact with your professional and social network, businessfriend makes collaborating with colleagues and peers a whole lot simpler. Instead of using several different apps to accomplish one goal, businessfriend allows you to seamlessly execute all business affairs in one, user-friendly platform.

‘We offer one complete forum that enables constant connectivity for optimal business communications.

One mobile app, one desktop, any device – no more juggling apps’ – Glen White, Founder and CEO of businessfriend

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MANAGEMENT/PLANNING

How to attract the next generation to the

construction sector Help your construction company bridge the skills gap by appealing to Generation-Z writted by: WES SIMMONS

13

MANAGEMENT/PLANNING GENERATION Z ARE the young people who were born after the millennials; those who are unlikely to remember a time without the internet. Very few of Generation Z’s members are pursuing a career in the construction industry and this is likely to affect the recruitment strategy in your construction company.

Skills shortages Skill shortages are a prominent issue in construction. Results from the Construction News Barometer for Q4 2014 stated that more than 9 out of 10 construction companies said a Construction firms need to allow employees flexibility when it comes to technology

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March 2015

lack of skills or staff was among their greatest concerns over the next 12 months. Further to this, data from the Office for National Statistics shows the number of people completing a construction apprenticeship halved between 2008 and 2013, to just 7,280.

The rapid spread of skill shortages means construction companies looking to acquire talent aren’t just competing with each other but across engineering, technology, manufacturing and other sectors.

Three-out-of-four construction industry leaders fear skills shortages will slam the brakes on the country’s economic recovery.

Construction’s struggle against university The construction industry, with its huge demand for technical and craft skills, is also suffering from the obsession of successive governments to push young people into university. Back in 1999, the business and education communities welcomed Labour’s Tony Blair when he suggested 50 percent of our young people should enter higher education.

“In today’s world, there is no such thing as ‘too clever’. The more

AT T R A C T I N G T H E N E X T G E N E R AT I O N T O C O N S T R U C T I O N

‘With 19 percent of the construction industry set to retire in the next 5-10 years, the construction industry needs to do as much as possible to attract members of Generation Z to their businesses.’

you know, the further you will go,” he said, but whilst his observation was correct, his solution wasn’t.

While many young people go to university, some have entered the construction industry to become joiners, for example. Developing a particular skill, such as refurbishing homes, has meant that they have built a property portfolio, earned more money quickly and are now set to retire early. With 19 percent of the construction industry set to retire in the next 5-10 years, the construction

15

Photo credit: ©Peter White

A Barratt Green House

MANAGEMENT/PLANNING industry needs to do as much as possible to attract members of Generation Z to their businesses.

How to attract Generation Z Construction companies should be using social media to raise their profile, because if you’re looking to reach young people you must be in the channels they rely on for their view of the world. Online platforms that particularly appeal to Generation Z include Twitter, which is particularly sociable, and LinkedIn, which is used by young professionals.

Your construction company should

be prepared to adapt its business and recruitment strategy to meet the technological expectation that Generation Z will have, including remote working and working on their own devices. Mobiles are becoming increasingly important and so you will need to ensure that employees

‘Away from technology, it is imporatant to give Generation Z a taste of life in construction work.’

Attracting top talent is key to success

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March 2015

AT T R A C T I N G T H E N E X T G E N E R AT I O N T O C O N S T R U C T I O N

The skills gap is the biggest threat to the construction sector can access everything they require through their smartphones. In addition to this, you should also utilise popular apps used by Generation Z, including FaceTime and WhatsApp. Away from technology, it is important to give Generation Z a taste of life in construction work. This can be achieved through apprenticeships, but for SMEs who face finding alternative funding for apprenticeships, this can be achieved through offering voluntary work experience placements.

REMEMBER • The skills crisis is real and growing with 43 different sectors now suffering its impact.

• Creating a positive image of construction is down to you and nobody else.

• Bright tech-savvy young people want employers who embrace their view of the world.

• Firms that wait for industry-led solutions to tackle skill shortages won’t survive.

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TTOO P P 11 00

Construction Trends for 2015 Construction trends taking the global construction industry by storm in 2015 Written by: Alfredo Jaime & Rodolfo Farber

1 19

TOP 10

The field of construction management is ever changing. Construction management companies are constantly trying to stay up to date with the latest technologies while keeping projects on budget and on track. Now that the industry is seeing the light at the end of the recession tunnel, construction has seen a shift, modernising the process to make it more efficient and collaborative. Below are a few trends taking the industry by storm in 2015.

Performance and quality control audit

Bringing in a third party to assess the performance and quality is an importa aspect of construction management. want to make sure the audit gets the q it deserves by bringing in a third party at the performance and quality of the being done. This provides peace of m ensures that expectations are being m

2 0 March 2015

CONSTRUCTION TRENDS FOR 2015

Incorporation of new with old Don’t hide all the historic elements of a building! Using key pieces of a building during a renovation keeps the style and history of the location while maintaining its design and features. Jaime Partners transformed San Diego’s Historic Old Police Headquarters into a full-service restaurant this past year, and had to leave a staircase and entire wall untouched due to specific restrictions and codes.

Ultimately, the historical aspects of these types of projects are what make them so unique and distinct.

Design assist In regards to collaboration, one of the best ways to bring the team together is by offering design assist services.

Bringing the contractor in at the beginning stages and allowing for the contribution in design to start on the ground floor enhances the vision for the project and keeps the focus on the end result.

project’s ant You quality y to look work mind and met.

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TOP 10

Concrete flooring

Landlord, Construction Manager, and Tenant coordination Another way to get everyone’s ideas on board is to encourage collaboration between the landlord, construction manager and tenant. Construction Managers should serve as a liaison between the tenant and landlord, finding a way to make sure that everyone is in agreement and on the same page. Approved renovations need to go through the landlord while still achieving the tenant’s main objective. The best way to make sure your project will finish on time is to encourage collaboration and coordination.

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March 2015

A great example of sustainable materials is concrete flooring, which is definitely showing an increase in popularity this year.

Polished concrete is easy to maintain, more affordable than other common flooring options, and eliminates the need to wax the floors regularly. Concrete floors can come in a variety of colours, matching almost any design aesthetic and can provide a more modern, industrial look.

CONSTRUCTION TRENDS FOR 2015

Bringing the outside in

Energy conservation

No one wants to feel like they are trapped inside a building. Connect the outside with the inside using custom design elements, such as steel fabricated doors, instead of a typical aluminum storefront.

Natural light is another great way to bring in some light from the outside instead of constantly running fluorescent lighting. Colour can only go so far, but finding a way to include elements of the outdoors in the design adds for another layer of complexity in the finished project.

Depending on your state and region, there may be different laws and codes to follow for energy conservation. In California, we have Title 24, which has saved $74 billion in reduced electricity bills since 1977. Energy conservation is big in California specifically, so we’re used to complying with strict regulations, but this trend is spreading nationally.

A couple of great ways to save energy include LED lights and maximising natural light.

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TOP 10

Incorporating mechanical features Though this can be tedious for contractors, incorporating and combining mechanical features can pay off in a big way. Open kitchens are a great example of this trend.

People want to see where their food is coming from and display kitchens are a great conversation piece in terms of design. Plumbing needs to be incorporated but still look flawless, which is where great attention to detail from the contractor comes into play.

Adding a rustic look, like exposed plumbing or light bulbs instead of

floodlights, can have a refined and industrial effect without looking incomplete.

The construction industry is by no means tapped out in terms of ideas and innovation. The incorporation of technology in construction and the collaboration between contractor, client and design team are great examples of the ways that construction will continue to shift. By bringing ideas together and creating a more cohesive team, construction will continue to find new ways to push the envelope and create beautiful spaces for people to live, work and play in.

CONSTRUCTION TRENDS FOR 2015

Green walls Living walls or vertical gardens are a great way to incorporate nature into the design. Jaime Partners has incorporated this aspect in a few different projects, including Común Kitchen & Tavern. Común is located in the middle of San

Diego’s Downtown scene, but the owner, Chef Chad White, wanted to incorporate elements of nature and artistry that come with being outside. Green walls on the exterior of buildings are a great way to achieve that look, and are becoming more widespread across the US. 25

TOP 10

Sustainable products Going “green� is a big part of the construction field right now, and construction managers are putting an emphasis on incorporating sustainable products into the project whenever possible. The materials used to renovate and build homes and commercial properties must always be considered. Be aware of the energy that goes into building the material, product contents, and the lifespan of the product in mind when suggesting new materials on site.

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CONSTRUCTION TRENDS FOR 2015

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VALORCON S.A., Improving Colombia’s Infrastructure

Leaders in the construction of civil works in Colombia.

Written by: Rebecca Castrejon Produced by: Jassen Pintado Interviewee: Jaime Massard, General Manager of VALORCON S.A.

VA L O R C O N S . A .

T

Aerial view of the construction process

Valorcon: integrated system Transmilenio

he construction company Valores y Contratos SA, better known as VALORCON, has stood out for participating in important public works in Colombia. The undertakings run the gamut from managing international projects with construction giants, to investing in the future through infrastructure developments.

VALORCON has nearly five decades of experience in the Colombian construction sector.

The company is now consolidated as a reference point for civil works, infrastructure design, and engineering with high standards. Additionally, each process is based on global best practices in terms of sustainability and the adequate use of technology and latest machinery.

As part of its quality standards, VALORCON has the ISO 9001: 2008 quality certification for its high competitiveness in the production of cement, asphalt mixtures and concrete; and for its distinguished labor in the construction of roads, water infrastructure, bridges, utility networks and public spaces.

Leading Services They include engineering and construction of buildings up to 10 floors high, urbanization projects, public health works, environment and transportation structures, industrial plants, road concessions, water and sewage works, maintenance and repair of old developments, among many others.

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L AT I N A M E R I C A

Some of VALORCON’s main projects are: 1. Project Villa Olimpica in Galapa.

2. Concession Via de Carga in Atlántico/Bolívar.

3. Thermal Power-Plant Termoflores in Barranquilla, with gas turbines and capacity of approximately 450 megawatts.

4. Thermal Power-Plant Termobarranquilla 3 and 4.

5. Metropolitan Stadium Roberto Melendez Barranquilla. This stadium holds 60,000 spectators 6. Integrated System Transmilenio in Bogota.

7. Paving the national platform of Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport in Barranquilla.

Key People

Jaime Massard General Manager of VALORCON S.A. Jaime Massard is a civil engineer, graduated from the University of Cartagena in 1969. After finishing his studies he immediately joined the firm Julio Gerlein Echeverria and Compania Limitada, and then work with Odebrecht Colombia.

Over the years Massard returned to Gerlein, but now under the name GERCON SA, now known as Valores y Contratos S.A. (VALORCON SA) where Massard is the current General Manager.

Recounting his business history, Massard has been part of VALORCON since November 1969.

New machinery for the pavement of roads w w w. v a l o rc o n s a . c o m

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VA L O R C O N S . A .

Machinery and Technology Being at the vanguard of the construction industry in Latin America, VALORCON has incorporated its own equipment, composed of 200 dump trucks, 4 asphalt production plants, 11 production plants of concrete with mixer trucks, as well as the ability to auto-supply asphalt cement and concrete.

Asphalt Plant

Valorcon: Concession Road “Via de Carga”

“We have paved around 1.5 million square meters of flooring in the last five years,” said Jaime Massard, General Manager of VALORCON and civil engineer. Massard has been linked to the company for more than 45 years.

Current Operations VALORCON S.A. has emerged as a leader in civil works, developing government water and sewage projects, and constructing storage tanks up to 5,000 cubic meters in volume.

In 2015, one of its biggest projects will be the construction of 7,500 homes for a social housing initiative. The company will also participate in the “Nordeste” concession, a five-year project where 145 kilometers of road and 96 bridges will be created in Antioquia.

Another concession is “Vía de las Americas,” one of the largest, which will modernize roads in Choco, Cordoba, Cesar and Antioquia.

Environmental Management

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L AT I N A M E R I C A

VALORCON’s department of environmental control ensures that all management plans continue its conservation standards, from the use of global best practices in the management of industrial resources to respecting all communities.

“We are always respecting the environment and it is a requirement that we have with all citizens,” said Massard.

Social Activities As part of VALORCON’s commitment to improving the quality of life in Colombia, the company has stimulated the surrounding communities through social programs and environmental sponsorships. Furthermore, its human resources department is always incorporating and training local personnel, forming specialized technicians for major development endeavors.

“Our key differentiators are our dedication to an extreme degree, our investment in equipment and our specialized staff at a technical level” – Jaime Massard, General Manager of VALORCON S.A.

Suppliers Better known as “allies,” its suppliers are one of VALORCON’s main resources, known for providing quality material and complying with established delivery times.

“We’ve had great support from our suppliers.

With timely delivery and with the provided credit,” said the general manager.

w w w. v a l o rc o n s a . c o m

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VA L O R C O N S . A .

VALORCON in Five Years Colombia has digitized its procurement system.

This has increased long term concessions for construction companies such as the ZaragozaGuerrero concession, a bridge over Rio Magdalena, and Ernesto Cortissoz Airport, both in Barranquilla.

Management Certificate ISO 9001: 2008

“The construction industry in Colombia is one of the main drivers of success, providing jobs for thousands of people which efficiently develop the country. The government will continue to invest

L AT I N A M E R I C A

to innovate roads, to have better communication between the center and the coast to upgrade competitiveness on imports and exports,” said Massard.

Company Information NAME

VALORCON S.A.

“Dr. Julio Echeverria, founder and president of the company, has been working very

INDUSTRY

Construction HEADQUARTERS

Carrera 64D, #86-134, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia FOUNDED

hard, highlighting the company’s presence,

1967 – November 5, 1992 (merger) EMPLOYEES

1.300 – 1.500 REVENUE

and putting much effort

USD $180 - $250 million

at the foot of all jobs in

www.valorconsa.com

WEBSITE

VALORCON” – Jaime Massard, Gerente General de VALORCON S.A. w w w. v a l o rc o n s a . c o m

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Behind Ecuador’s Greatest Developments ETINAR is celebrating 40 years of operations in the Ecuadorian construction market. Founder and current CEO Jose Macchiavello recalls some of the most important projects and infrastructure developments since 1973.

Written by: Rebecca Castrejon Produced by: Jassen Pintado Interviewee: Jose Macchiavello, CEO of ETINAR S.A.

ETINAR S.A. Refined Over Time

J

ose Macchiavello Almeida, Jose Nunez Cristiansen and Angel Proano Briones founded the construction company in the city of Guayaquil, Ecuador on September 21st, 1973; with the common vision of transforming the country’s infrastructure, both in the commercial and rural areas.

Participation in the construction of pier “Malecon 2000” in Guayaquil

The construction company has been noted for working with the highest standards in more than 1,000 infrastructure developments over the last 40 years. Some of these memorable works have been in the construction of multi-family and social interest housing communities in Entrerios and Salinas, luxury condos and hotels in Salinas, as well as recreational areas, parks, bridges, commercial buildings (McDonalds, Silos Brewery, Supermaxi), and significant urban projects in Guayaquil and the surrounding areas.

As a leading construction company in Ecuador, ETINAR created the Ecuadorian Green Building Council (Consejo Ecuatoriano de Edificacion Sustentable), seeking to ensure the best practices in the industry by promoting an environmental commitment.

Human Resources The company’s human resource department has been listed as the most important source in

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L AT I N A M E R I C A

construction. All workers are trained with the most modern techniques, and some of them have been part of ETINAR’s family for almost 37 years.

Key People

From the administrative staff, managers, engineers to the construction workers, all of them make a uniform team of people, responsible for implementing global guidelines and policies to project the best result for the country.

Industrial Technology The use of modern technology is important in the development of projects for ETINAR. The company constantly buys and updates design software, internal control systems and administrative mobile applications as a way to evolve with the industry.

Jose Macchiavello CEO of ETINAR S.A. Jose Macchiavello is an Ecuadorian businessman, industrial engineer and the current CEO of ETINAR His education began in the Private Institute Abdon Calderon, where he finished his primary base. He then attended high school at Colegio Americano de Guayaquil, and high school at the Military Academy Juan Gomez Rendon.

Took civil engineering as his college career at the Catholic University of Guayaquil in 1970.

Macchiavello added to his international engineering career, courses at Berkeley (California, USA), Gainesville (Florida), Lima (Peru), Panama and San Jose (Costa Rica).

Condominiums Carabelas de Colon w w w . e t i n a r. c o m

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ETINAR S.A.

With a network of agencies nationwide, supported by leading companies in the global reinsurance market and an important customer portfolio, clearly speaks about our soundness and solvency.

FOLLOW US ON:

L AT I N A M E R I C A

PROJECTS Current Operations: 1. Centro Comercial Terminal Milagro. This concession in the municipality of Milagro, seeking to satisfy the growing demand for mass transportation to major cities. It will also include a shopping center that will generate additional revenue to the community. Currently in progress (80 percent).

Sanctuary Via La Costa, finalized in 2011

2. Torre Baro. Residential complex with four apartment towers overlooking the mangrove community of Terranostra.

3. Vista Lagos. Six residential condominiums that extend in an area of 10,000 square meters.

Its architecture includes luxury finishes and recreational areas (gym, pool and tennis area).

4. UNASUR. New headquarters for the Union of South American Nations in the city of Quito.

This smart building contains the largest flown structure in Latin America (52 meters), with an investment of USD $40 million and the collaboration of 1,200 workers (labor, national and foreign experts) who examined all industrial applications and technological implements within. Its opening ceremony had the presence of political personalities such as Rafael Correa (president of Ecuador), Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner (president of Argentina), Dilma Rousseff w w w . e t i n a r. c o m

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MAIN DEVELOPMENTS SINCE 1973:

Urbanization Terranostra in Guayaquil

Pier “Malecon 2000” in Guayaquil

New headquarters for UNASUR in Quito

Hotel Colon Miramar in Salinas

Del Bombero Avenue in Guayaquil

Condominiums “las Carabelas de Colon” in Playas

Millennium building in Samborondon

Housing project “Caracol” in Guayaquil

Mall del Sur in Guayaquil

Overpass in Machala

L AT I N A M E R I C A

(president of Brazil) and Juan Manuel Santos (President of Colombia).

Startup and Near Completion Projects: Building Quo in Guayaquil, building Mare Nostrum in Salinas, Building Tenis Plaza in Samborondon, urbanization Santa Ines in Machala, urbanization Terranostra in Guayaquil, Adelca production plant, industrial development PIADY in Yaguachi, building “Plaza Constitucion” in Guayaquil, urban project Bali in Daule, flooding control project in Bulu Bulu stream, artisanal port Anconcito in Santa Elena, expansion of Hotel Colon Barcelo in Salinas, new industrial plant for Resgasa in Guayaquil, Inter-hospital project, housing “El Fortin”, urbanization at Mocoli and condos in Vista Lagos.

“We expect to maintain our current development level in 2015, and we will limit our participation in public works” – Jose Macchiavello, CEO of ETINAR S.A.

Four Decades Building Ecuador At the top of ETINAR is the CEO and founder, Jose Macchiavello, who has been part of the company’s progressive developments for the past 41 years. The Civil Engineer recalled the most important projects of ETINAR’s 40 years history; these milestones have positioned ETINAR as a leading company in the construction sector.

THE INTERVIEW BRAL: In celebration of the company’s 40 years of operations, which have been some of ETINAR’s biggest business milestones? w w w . e t i n a r. c o m

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ETINAR S.A. JM: Our major milestones have always been those related to innovation, and works that are now icons of certain cities, such as:

Project for the port of Santa Ana in Guayaquil, finalized in 2007

• Caracol. The first social housing project with an access control gate and private recreational areas.

• El Alamo. The first housing project with communal areas, transportation services and a private club in Entrerios.

• Construction Terranostra. The most important in terms of private investments. The development has security control, a clubhouse and mixed-use areas for future developments.

L AT I N A M E R I C A

• El Oasis. The first housing project for lowermiddle class families in Salinas. It has a common area that includes a pool, BBQ zone and a playground. • Las Carabelas de Colon. The first residential building with an integrated sports area, heated pool with the use of solar panels, waterfalls and recreational areas close to the beach General Villamil.

New headquarters of UNASUR in Quito

We also participated in the first stage of pier Malecon 2000, and in the first construction stage of port Santa Ana, and in the mass housing development in Machala (Santa Ines).

Recently, we were part of the construction team for the new headquarters of South American Nations (UNASUR), which contains the longest flown in the southern hemisphere.

It is also the first building with seismic sinks in the history of Ecuador.

BRAL: Does the company plan to provide its construction services to new industries in the near future?

JM: Our mission is to be builders, general contractors, and under this scheme we look forward to building more infrastructures such as hydroelectric projects, roads, bridges, institutional and private buildings, overpasses, etc. w w w . e t i n a r. c o m

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ETINAR S.A.

Urbanization Laguna Dorada in Samborondoon, finalized in 1990

BRAL: Is ETINAR looking to manage international projects?

JM: We are venturing with a project in Lima, Peru.

BRAL: What are some of ETINAR’s environmental initiatives?

Iconic building “Plaza de la Administración” in Guayaquil, completed in 2000

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March 2015

JM: We are dabbling into a project we hope to qualify as Leed in Samborondon, in the Mocolí Island. Where the company is going to develop seismic sinks, a glass chamber, acoustic and thermal insulation with LED lighting, solar panels for water heating, waste water recycling, etc.

L AT I N A M E R I C A

BRAL: What is the role of your suppliers in the success of ETINAR? JM: They are vital; our suppliers are part of the financial support in the growth of our company.

BRAL: What are your growth projections for the next five years?

Company Information NAME

ETINAR S.A. (Estudio Tecnico Ingenieria Arquitectura S.A.) INDUSTRY

JM: We expect to maintain our current development level in 2015, and we will limit our participation in public works.

“Our major milestones have always been those related to innovation, and works that are now icons of certain cities”

Construction HEADQUARTERS

Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador FOUNDED

1973 EMPLOYEES

2,500 WEBSITE

www.etinar.com

– Jose Macchiavello, CEO of ETINAR S.A.

w w w . e t i n a r. c o m

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Integrity Post Structures Integrity Post Structures: Where Innovation and Experience Meet Why Integrity Post Structures is head and shoulders above the competition Written by: Ian Hanner & Tomas Lucero

Produced by: Rich Gentile

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C O M PA N Y N A M E

“For me, Integrity Post Structures is more than just a company—we are a team. Our goal is not to maximize share price, but rather to give the best building and service out there” – says Williams

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March 2015

I

ntegrity is more than just a word to Integrity Post Structures, one of Western Canada’s leading post frame contractors. To them, it’s the guiding principle behind their entre business.

Founded in 2008 by Al Williams and Jerry Myer, Integrity Post Structures (Integrity) is the culmination of the years of experience in construction and sales that the two partners brought to the table. Williams worked hard out of his truck and Myers from home to sell 75 buildings

CONSTRUCTION

their first year, according to Williams.

Today that number is up to 300 each year.

“In the early years, we used to do it all,” Williams said. “Everything from selling to building to service. Today everybody has their roles and I have learned to place responsibilities onto the shoulders of our very capable team.”

Leveraging Technology Integrity has a lot of things going for it. They’ve learned to use technology to optimize their business, using only the best raw materials in the industry.

“We have a very simple recipe,” Williams said. “We use the best products from the best suppliers.

We only use quality metal. We use

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Our mission is to provide superior products and to make a positive dif

Structural Truss Systems is a family owned business which has been manufacturing quality trusses since 1981. Beginning as a small operation near Fort Macleod’s Historic downtown the company has steadily grown and now operates from our modern 38,000 sq ft. manufacturing plant. Since then our operations have experienced continual upgrades to equipment and processes to ensure we achieve the best possible efficiencies.

STS is also a member of the Western Wood Truss Association of Alberta which requires us to adhere to “A Code of Standard Practice.”

I Fort Macleod, Alberta T0L 0Z0 I

443 - 12th Street Email: admin@stsltd.ca

I

Ph: 403-553-3306

To view our company video visit our website www.stsltd.ca

s and services, to build lasting relationships, fference in the community.

ECOnOmICAL LONG LASTING QUALITY ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY Since establishment in 1992, Forma Steel has been manufacturing quality steel panels and distributing related accessories. Our focus on quality and service has helped us grow into our current 26,000ft² facility offering 5 panel options and trims up to 21’ long. Continuous improvements in both equipment and processes result in our ability to offer the best possible efficiency and value.

I Fort Macleod, Alberta T0L 0Z0 I Ph: 403-553-3309 contact@formasteel.ca I To view our company video visit our website www.formasteel.ca 408 - 12th Street

Email:

STEEL ROOFING STEEL SIDING SLIDING DOORS FLASHING ACCESSORIES

SUPPLIER PROFILE

STRUCTURAL TRUSS SYSTEMS / FORMA STEEL

Employees: 60 Established: 1981 Industry: Residential, commercial, agricultural, oil field, post frame, multi-family Services: Engineered wood roof and open web floor truss systems, wood I-joist, LVL beams and associated hardware. Cut to length steel panels for roof, walls and liners. Associated trims up to 21’, sliding doors and all associated accessories.

Key to success: Quality, service, lean principled manufacturing, continuous improvement Management: Frans Feyter, President James Coast, General Manager Website: www.stsltd.ca www.formasteel.ca

INTEGRITY POST STRUCTURES quality trusses from our truss supplier. Our doors are just very high quality and doors that don’t require very much maintenance. So for us that’s what makes us the best.”

He added, “We have the confidence to back our buildings with the best warranty in the industry.

We also have a service crew that provides immediate response to any problems that we have. We work hard every day. We look at our shortfalls and make decisions that have impacts on making our process better.”

Today they’re the Western Canadian distributors of the Perma-Column, a product that has shifted the market. Perma-Column introduced its signature product by the same name.

According to the company’s website, “PermaColumns are five foot precast concrete columns that keep wood out of the ground, ensuring [a] building’s foundation will never rot. They are the first product to combine the economy of post frame construction with the durability of a concrete foundation.”

The Perma-Column is simple to install and doesn’t require waiting on concrete trucks or treating wood for soil introduction.

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Machine sheds help prolong the life of your valuable farm equipment.

“We are not driven by how quickly we move from one project to the next, but by doing the best job and paying detailed attention to each aspect of the building” – says, Williams w w w. i n t e g r i t y p o s t f r a m e . c o m

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INTEGRITY POST STRUCTURES According to Williams, the PermaColumn has been a real gamechanger for Integrity’s business.

“It helps us compete in a different market, which is stick-frame buildings,” he said. “Some people would never build on a post frame model because of the fact that there’s wood on the ground and wood rots. The fact that our post is concrete really helps us sell buildings and provide added value to our buildings over our competitors.”

Integrity’s Approach to Every Job It’s important not to credit too much of Integrity’s success to the Perma-Column, as the company is one that prides itself on continually improving its own operations. On its own website, Integrity assures each and every prospective client that it will bring the best experience and innovation to every job site.

“With a team that includes innovators like Al Williams and Jerry Myer, combined with the experience

CONSTRUCTION

of Post Frame pioneer Irvin Goodon, our team is unmatchable in giving you the best product and service for your dollar.”

A pillar of Integrity’s success is its communication system. Integrity’s communication begins with an intricately detailed drawing of each project they are commissioned to complete. From there, each stakeholder uses the drawing as the central point of reference from start to finish. This avoids confusion and crystallizes vision. Things were not always this way.

“A lot of miscommunications within our industry happened because we would have construction crews building differently than we had sold the building or put together the package from the building,” Williams said.

“Today, we have a detailed drawing that creates a take-off. Having a centralized communication system in the form of a detailed drawing works very, very well for us.”

The handy work of the sketcher that creates their drawings is augmented by technology.

Integrity has a “fantastic” dashboard module that allows

them to give real time quoting with five sales representatives. The firm uses the full spectrum of modern communication tools, from Dropbox to texting to social media. As a whole, their communication system lets them work at the speed of business.

“Quoting and responding to issues: it makes our immediate responses, punctual quoting and our ability to follow up on quotes very efficient,” Williams said.

Recognition In recognition of his hard work and business acumen, partner Jerry Myer was recently selected as a finalist for the Alberta Business Awards of Distinction in the Young Entrepreneur of Distinction category.

The coveted award recognizes young professionals who are successfully approaching businesses in genuinely innovative ways.

“I am honoured to be selected as a finalist in by the Alberta Chambers,” said Myer. “We are privileged to be based in Alberta where we have been able to tap into the many opportunities our province offers. As a company, I believe we are poised for great success in the coming years

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INTEGRITY POST STRUCTURES

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and I am excited about the opportunities that surround us.”

According to the company’s website, the final award decision will be announced at a gala dinner on Feb. 27 at the Renaissance Hotel in Edmonton, after going to print.

This award is just one of many indicators that Integrity’s reputation precedes them. Wordof-mouth is a major source of their business referrals. When Integrity builds something in an area, the neighbors flock to their business.

“We find ourselves building clusters,” Williams said. “We track our buildings on Google Earth and we find that our buildings come in clusters. We build one building and then we build three other buildings around that particular customer.”

The leadership style of Williams and Myer has kept pace with the dynamism of the partners’ company, whilst ensuring the contributions of the rank and file at the company are appropriately valued.

“Although myself and Jerry are the owners of the company, we could not do what we do without the commitment and role ownership that we have in our team,” Williams said. “I would attribute the success of our company not only to the 20 staff that we have here at our headquarters in Okotoks, but too our early rising sales team and sixteen hard working crews that we have out in the field.”

Company Information INDUSTRY

Construction HEADQUARTERS

48223 338 Ave. East Okotoks, Alberta, Canada, T1S 1A8 FOUNDED

2008 EMPLOYEES

~20 REVENUE

Not Disclosed

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Home Improvements & Project Management &

Flintstones Masonry

“Do It Once, Do It Right�

See how Flintstones Masonry is setting the standard of efficiency and excellence on Vancouver Island.

Written by: Laura Close

Produced by: Rich Gentile

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Modern day castle stone work

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lintstones Masonry is a renovation company based out of Victoria that focuses on masonry, waterproofing, home renovations and landscape design and build for all sorts of homes and price ranges. The high-quality work is completed to code with a zero-liability guarantee by hardworking tradesmen.

The company started with a focus on bricklaying as chimney and fireplaces require significant upkeep and repair due to water

SECTOR

damage in the wet Victoria climate. The company’s expansion into other construction markets was prompted by a desire from customers for a trustworthy service provider.

“People were looking for a well-managed construction company,” shared Mike De Palma, owner. “It can be difficult to find high-quality tradesmen that are reliable and show up to work every day. People knew we provided such a crew in bricklaying, and as we did more jobs, people

“People knew we provided [excellence] in bricklaying, and as we did more jobs people began asking, ‘can you take care of this for us?”

– Mike De Palma, owner

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F L I N T S T O N E S M A S O N RY began asking, ‘can you take care of this for us?’

“As time went on, I asked myself why I was sending this work to other companies when we could control the quality and manage the entire process ourselves.”

Stone stairway

Do It Once, Do It Right Flintstones’ motto of “Do it once, do it right,” is what all customers working with contractors want to hear. But Flintstones truly delivers on this.

Owner De Palma shared that his team has had to take over on multiple projects that have been halfway completed—or completely finished—that have been done wrong. Many of these projects

682 Ark Road, Malahat B.C. V0R 2L0

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would have to be started over again costing the customer even more money.

“You may spend more money upfront on our services, but the quality will be superior, and you will save money in the long run because you’ll only pay to have the work done once,” explains De Palma.

To live up to their motto, management at Flintstones meets with their crews each day to discuss the intricacies of the projects, as well as to lay out a plan of action. Flintstones is constantly improving their techniques, widening their scope of services and growing their staff, so management maintains that communication is a priority amongst the teams so as to ensure that each individual is well informed and knowledgeable about the project.

Attracting Talent For a company that has as high of standards as Flintstones’ does, it can prove challenging to find the right people for the job.

“It can be difficult to find good people, especially in specialized trade,” shared De Palma.

“People who can do a good job, that show up every day, that care about their work, that can work as a team, and that really just want to see a good product at the end.” Fortunately, through strong internal efforts Flintstones has found just these people.

“Once you get that team, it really separates a company from their competition. We’ve got a big team of people who are all on the same page

Exposed aggregate driveway with decorative border

“We’ve got a big team of people who are all on the same page with what we want to accomplish.

We’ve got 40 people, many of them with over 20 to 30 years of experience. There’s no one else in our industry on Vancouver Island that has that.”

– Mike De Palma, owner

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F L I N T S T O N E S M A S O N RY

Custom outdoor living space

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with what we want to accomplish. We’ve got 40 people, many of them with over 20 to 30 years of experience. There’s no one else in our industry on Vancouver Island that has that.”

De Palma knows that the company’s work speaks for itself: the better work they do, the higher caliber of worker the company can attract.

Employees are well paid and appreciate the craftsmanship they are involved in, creating an energetic and productive work environment.

For the Future When asked to comment on the future of the industry on the island, De Palma shared that high safety standards are becoming imperative.

“Safety procedures are going to become [extremely] important. It’s going to really separate the companies like us who put a huge amount of resources and effort into working safely on our job sites from others.

“A lot of the smaller companies are not in the same position. But as more and more companies become up-to-date on safety, the playing field will be leveled and business will change. It’s more work than one might think to do things safely.”

With the success that comes with an exceptionally strong team and high quality safety and construction standards, Flintstones has an eye towards expansion, especially beyond Vancouver Island.

“We’re only limited by our imagination and how hard we want to work.”

Company Information INDUSTRY

Construction HEADQUARTERS

520 Ardersier Road Victoria British Columbia Canada V8Z 1C7 FOUNDED

1969 EMPLOYEES

50 REVENUE

$10m

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North American Construction Group

Bigger is Always Better

With one of the largest equipment fleets in all of Canada, North American Construction Group is looking to expand into emerging markets and carve out a name for itself Written by: Robert Spence Produced by: Michael Magno

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n the heavy construction and mining industries, massive amounts of land must be cut out to make room for new projects. When it comes to the equipment needed to move this land effectively and efficiently, the term “bigger is better� certainly applies.

North American Construction Group is one of the largest providers of heavy construction and mining services in Canada. Founded in 1953, NACG specializes in the resource industries like oil, gold, diamonds, coal with an expertise in hard rock and oil sands mining, overburden removal, 70

March 2015

dam construction, roadworks, underground utilities, mine site development, and mine reclamation.

Coupled with an unmatched commitment to safety and training, the company has earned a reliable and trustworthy reputation by blending its knowledge and experience that clients seek with a fleet of equipment that match project needs.

Best of the best NACG has a proven ability to meet customer requirements from consultation to completion. The company is able to do so because

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it employs one of the strongest workforces in all of Canada. With a staff of over 1,500 (sometimes exceeding more than 2000 at peak times), the company has earned a reputation for acquiring some of the best talent in the industry. It’s one of the main reasons clients continue to work with NACG. “We do a lot of prescreening, fitness for work test, drug and alcohol testing, and police record checks,” says Lambert. “We try and use as many tools as we can to make sure the person we’re hiring matches the skills and physical requirements of the job.”

In addition to matching the right workforce to the job, NACG employs a robust safety regime that is second to none in their field. The company’s motto – Everyone Gets Home Safe – is integrated through a healthy work environment

“We try and use as many tools as we can to make sure the person we’re hiring matches the skills and physical requirements of the job” – Joe Lambert, Chief Operating Officer, NACG

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Contractor Management Software Customizable Practical

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info@cqnetwork.com www.cqnetwork.com 1-888-449-5545

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as well as extensive training and leadership programs.

“From the top to the bottom of our business, we see safety as a core value,” says Joe Lambert, chief operating officer at North American Construction Group. “In the markets we work in and the clients we have, safety is a license to operate. It’s a moral obligation to our employees besides just making good business sense.”

The company is committed to developing and maintaining the strongest safety systems and

training programs available. A shining example would be its Leadership for Safety Excellence program.

“The Leadership program works to improve skills and leadership throughout the company with particular focus on front line supervision,” says Lambert. “Front line supervision has a tremendous amount of influence on the overall safety of the company. So, investing in the development of those people and safety programs is core for us.”

The difference between North

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American Construction Group and others is simple: they have the corporate expertise to help companies meet their goals, and the right employees and equipment to get the job done on time, on budget, and safely.

Big, bigger, biggest If that wasn’t enough, NACG maintains one of the largest independently owned equipment fleets in the region. The fleet includes over 400 pieces of modern equipment, including haul trucks, shovels, excavators, dozers, graders, loaders and related earthworks machinery.

“Our fleet is one of the largest in Canada. There aren’t a lot of other companies that can compete at that scale of equipment,” says Lambert.

“Our mining equipment gives us an advantage, especially with high volumes of earthmoving.”

The company’s diverse collection of equipment gives it the ability to respond quickly to changing client requirements, while also providing clients with the most efficient, timely and cost effective blend of equipment possible.

“We keep a balance of small and large equipment. There’s seasonality and changes, and so we might have a lot of smaller civil works in the summer and more bulk earthworks in the winter,” says Lambert. “It’s just a balance of keeping everything busy.”

In addition to being one of the largest fleets in Canada, it’s also one of the most advanced. The company integrates a wealth of technological w w w. n a c g . c a / h o m e

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components to ensure equipment is as efficient as possible.

“We have real-time monitoring on all equipment that allows us to receive notifications of what’s occurring in the machine,” says 74

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Lambert. “It helps us in measuring and monitoring equipment performance and the mechanical capabilities.”

According to Lambert, the company heavily invests in

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equipment failure analysis.

“We have major components that can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. When a component fails early, we have reliability teams and maintenance technical experts that can identify those failure mechanisms and work with our vendors and suppliers to get design changes.”

Expanding markets The future of North American Construction Group will see the company expand into new markets, including hydro-electric, infrastructure, and civil.

“When we look to diversify whether roadworks or infrastructure jobs, we’re looking for areas that have a large volume of earthworks,” says Lambert. “We offer a competitive advantage in that area compared to most.”

Along with diversifying their portfolio and positioning themselves across multiple regions in Canada, North American Construction Group is going to continue doing what’s it’s been doing for the last 60 years – being a heavy civil and mining contractor.

According to Lambert, the company will continue doing what it’s been doing for the last 60 years despite the lower-than-expected oil prices.

“In our business, being safety focused, cost-conscious and driving efficiencies is something we do every year, whether boom or bust in the oil pricing.”

Company Information INDUSTRY

Mining and construction HEADQUARTERS

Zone 3, Acheson Industrial Area 2-53016 - Hwy 60 , Acheson, Alberta, Canada FOUNDED

1953 EMPLOYEES

1,500 PRODUCTS/ SERVICES

Not Disclosed

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PPP Canada

PPP Canada Delivering Maximum Value to Taxpayer How one unique approach to infrastructure is overhauling Canada Written by: Ian Hanner Produced: Association

rs

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PPP CANADA

A

s the world moves further into the 21st century, much the infrastructure of the last 100 years will need replacement or upgrades, and in Canada taxpayers will know for certain that these projects are being completed with value in mind.

Founded in 2008 as a whollyowned corporation of the Canadian federal government, PPP Canada exists with one mission in mind: to assess the P3 viability of largescale infrastructural projects throughout Canada and to deliver the maximum value on each project to the taxpayers. John McBride, chief executive officer and the first employee of PPP Canada, has the task of steering the company along as it demonstrates the benefits of the P3 model.

“We work with all levels of government in Canada to make sure that P3s are used in a wise and effective way,” McBride said.

“When we work with provinces and municipalities, we have a fund that we can commit to good P3 projects to encourage their use at the provincial and municipal levels. And 78

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we work with the federal government to screen, structure and execute P3 projects.”

How a P3 Works Short for “public-private partnership,” the P3 model transfers a significant amount of risk away from the public to the private sector by structuring payments to a developer out over the useful lifespan of a project, optimizing efficiency, reducing costs and attracting the best talent from around the world.

McBride describes the P3 model as an excellent solution for infrastructural projects that meet a few certain criteria. First, they need to carry a price tag for taxpayers of more than $50 million—though probably more than $100 million— to make the P3 model financially viable while attracting companies to the bidding process. Second, the organization attracting bids for a project needs to be able to specify performance standards over the lifespan of the development, only paying the remaining amount owed after the long-term obligations are

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SRO Dowtown Eastside Vancouver_BC Housing

fulfilled. Finally, successful P3s adopt a whole life-cycle approach, transferring the risks of some, or all, of the components (design, build, finance, operation and/or maintenance) of a project to the private sector and deliver positive Value for Money.

“Part of the advantage of a P3 is that you’re getting the best skill set on the planet with a certain type of expertise to come and help you,” McBride said. “If you’re building a hospital—a community doesn’t normally build a new hospital more than once in a generation. So there usually isn’t expertise built into the institution about how to build a new hospital.”

He added, “It’s kind of like building your own house. By the time you get to your third house, you’ve learned a lot of lessons, but if you’re doing it yourself you’re going to pay the cost of your own inexperience.”

P3s at Work in Canada While a relatively young organization at just five years in business, PPP Canada has an impressive portfolio of large-scale projects under its belt.

Perhaps its most significant project right now, PPP Canada is acting as the lead P3 advisor on the procurement of a bridge to replace the aging Champlain Bridge in Montreal as part of the St. Lawrence project.

According to McBride, PPP w w w. p 3 c a n a d a . c a

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Evan-Thomas Water and Wastewater Treatment Facility project Kananaskis Country, Alberta

Canada is actively working with Infrastructure Canada “to complete a study to support their procurement process. PPP Canada 80

March 2015

is similarly involved with Transport Canada and Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority in the development of the Detroit River International Crossing.�

ENERGY

With a long list of other ongoing projects, it would seem the private sector is eager to do business in the sector despite the risk that the P3 model transfers to them.

“These are business opportunities for them,” McBride said. “They are experts in their field and they’re experts in knowing how to assess and manage these types of projects and risks.

They’re certainly doing it because they see it as a profitable enterprise for them. And there’s value for taxpayers because they’re better at doing it than the public sector is. So it’s a win-win situation. They can earn business revenues and profits and the governments can reduce risk and get better value.”

A far cry from the days of five years ago when the organization was new and McBride was the only employee— there are now around 60— McBride’s main focus now that PPP Canada is staffed by experts is to raise awareness of the benefits of the P3 model throughout Canada. While the organization’s successes are many, McBride is looking to the future.

“I’m hopeful that by the end of the next five years, all jurisdictions in Canada will be participating in P3s,” he said. “And that we will have made entries into new sectors of infrastructure. I think that in the next five years people are going to be starting to see more and more of the good results of P3s— on-time and on-budget.

Company Information INDUSTRY

Federal Crown corporation HEADQUARTERS

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada FOUNDED

2008 The Government of Canada has committed to supporting innovative public infrastructure projects, using the Public-Private Partnership (P3) model that deliver maximum value for Canadians, stimulate the economy, create jobs and support long-term prosperity.

To this end, it created PPP Canada, a federal Crown corporation, with an independent Board of Directors reporting through the Minister of Finance to Parliament.

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Walsh Construction – Zoo Interchange Project

How Walsh Construction Helped Restore the Oldest Roadway in Wisconsin A strong management team and an unwavering commitment to safety have helped Walsh complete two high-profile projects for the Zoo Interchange ReConstruction Project.

Written by: Laura Close

Produced by: Tom Venturo

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alsh Construction’s strong management team and dedication to safety has guided this Chicago, Illinois company to success since 1898. The company— with experience in a wide variety of building, civil and transportation sector jobs—has two current projects within the Zoo Interchange Program, the oldest and currently the busiest interchange in the state of Wisconsin.

Walsh’s Involvement on the Zoo Interchange Project The reconstruction of the interchange, which forms the junction of I-94, I-894 and US 45, will take place over five years, with between $1.6 and $1.8 billion invested in the program. Walsh has won two contracts for projects: 76th Street Bridge 84

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valued at $31 million, the other I-94 UPRR/STH 100 at $73 million.

The 76th Street Bridge Project was substantially complete on Nov 7, 2014 and the I-94 UPRR/ STH 100 Project completed Dec 19th, 2014. The scope of work was very diverse, including nearly 6 million pounds of structural steel, 2.5 million pounds of steel reinforcement bar, 11,000 cubic yards of structural concrete, 200,000 cubic yards of earthwork, as well as 65 fully cased drilled shafts—eight of which were pier shafts for the railroad. The company was one of only three contractors that were pre-qualified to perform this work for the State of Wisconsin on the Zoo Interchange Project.

“The drilled shafts required a considerable amount of testing,” said Phil Griffith, project

“We’re going to continue to pursue Projects in Wisconsin, we believe it to be a strong construction market with many opportunities, in fact there are several future projects that are currently on our radar” – Griffith concluded

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WA L S H C O N S T R U C T I O N – Z O O I N T E R C H A N G E P R O J E manager. “We had to provide test shafts to the owner for both of diameters to prove means and methods. The acceptance of the test shafts as well production shafts included CSL testing, or crosshole sonic logging, TIP testing which consists of a thermal integrity profile of the shaft and base grouting was required for the pier shafts. All this under the very strict requirements of the railroad and the State DOT.” This project also included the installation of nearly a mile of 96” inch storm sewer along the right-of-way for I-94. The plans actually called for the storm sewer to be 90 inch, however we approached the state to increase the size of the pipe

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to a standard pipe size of 90 inch, thereby increasing production speed and decreasing costs.

The project on Highway 100 was a complete demolition and reconstruction effort. The fourspan bridge was reconstructed as a five-span bridge. The south end of the bridge was moved back approximately 100 feet. Several different retaining walls were utilized throughout construction and in the finished product, including drilled secant pile, MSE, temporary wire walls, soldier pile and lagging with cast-in-place facing, steel sheeting, temporary soldier pile and lagging (both cantilevered and with tiebacks), gabion walls .

Although Walsh is a general

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construction company that does the majority of its own work, Walsh subcontracted much of the structural work to Zenith Tech, Inc. and the earthwork to C.W. Purpero with the idea of partnering with strong local Contractors on this fast paced and challenging construction project “We looked around, talked to several different companies: companies that we went with provided competitive pricing and we recognized that they had a strong local workforce in the Milwaukee area,” said Griffith. “They had familiarity with the work and the DOT and had management, crews and equipment ready to go, which was important on a Project this w w w. w a l s h g ro u p . c o m

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size and schedule. We thought that they would help on a project of this size and time frame. Overall it was a good relationship, we were satisfied with the quality of work they did, we had no issues with their safety culture and they were able to maintain the aggressive schedule.

Severe weather, specifically during the winter of 2013 into 2014, created a big challenge for the Project. “[The bad weather] actually delayed the starting of the steel fabrication, the steel was ordered 88

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in October and November,” shared Griffith. “The job was bid in late September and the heavy snow in northwest Indiana and throughout the region combined with the bitter cold delayed in making it to the fabricator shop. The steel was actually sitting on railroad cars for six to eight weeks in some instances unable to be unloaded or delivered because of high snowfall amounts and cold weather.”

The Importance of Safety Safety on any project this size is

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paramount, and Walsh Construction understood this from the get-go. Prior to starting each activity the Project team completes a Work Plan which includes aspects of scope of work, materials, tools, equipment, safety and quality. In addition, daily meetings to discuss the work for the day allowed the project team to cover the safety requirements.

“This gives everyone a chance to ask questions about what they’re supposed to be doing, and to make sure they have the right equipment and tools for the job and to make sure they are completing their goals safely,” shared Griffith.

Once a week, members of the entire Walsh project team meet (management and field personnel) on the jobsite to discuss the safety topic of the week as well as the quality focus and any upcoming major activities. A separate event, Safety Week, allowed everyone at Walsh as well as subcontractors to participate in training, relevant safety discussions and to win safety awards.

In the Future |Walsh’s completion of these two projects showcases the company’s capabilities for future projects, and the company isn’t planning on slowing down anytime soon.

“We’re going to continue to pursue Projects in Wisconsin, we believe it to be a strong construction market with many opportunities, in fact there are several future projects that are currently on our radar” Griffith concluded.

Company Information INDUSTRY

Construction HEADQUARTERS

929 West Adams, Chicago, Illinois, US, 60607 FOUNDED

XXXX EMPLOYEES

XXXX REVENUE

Xxxxxxx PRODUCTS/ SERVICES

Xxxxxxxxxxxx

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Carolinas AGC CAGC Author: Lori McGovern

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Pinnacle Awards

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he rebounding construction industry in North and South Carolina has already seen some major investments in infrastructure, such as the recently completed Raleigh-Durham International Airport terminal modernization, a $68 million project. A recently completed 20year South Carolina Department of Transportation Commission study found a $29.54 billion gap in funding for transit needs over the next 20 years, making future funding for infrastructure projects an even greater emphasis for the industry.

The Carolinas Associated General Contractors (CAGC) lobbies for funding of building, highway and 92

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utility construction projects, and supports its members through tools and resources to help the industry thrive. Since 1920, CAGC has worked to help members influence, plan, grow and connect to other contractors in the Carolinas and beyond. CAGC is a trade association for general contractors, specialty contractors, suppliers and service providers who work in the commercial construction industry throughout North Carolina and South Carolina.

Lobbying On Our Members’ Behalf CAGC has four full-time staff lobbyists who, along with members’

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assistance, lobby on behalf of the commercial construction industry.

In North Carolina, CAGC led efforts to enact legislation that resulted in a legislative study of the multibillion-dollar need for public building and utility construction work and permanent funding sources through the year 2025, as well as a new law that takes North Carolina from one of the weakest states to perhaps the strongest state concerning underground safety and damage prevention involving construction.

In the upcoming North Carolina legislative session beginning in March 2015, CAGC will work with the transportation coalition it cofounded, NC Go!, to secure longneeded additional transportation funding revenue to support a sustainable North Carolina Department of Transportation program of delivering needed transportation projects and associated maintenance activities.

In South Carolina, CAGC was instrumental in the passage of a $600 million road funding package, which includes $50 million in recurring funds allocated to the State Infrastructure Bank to be

bonded for $500 million, $50 million in one-time funds to be used for bridge repair, and moves half of the sales tax on automobiles to the Highway Fund on a recurring basis, generating approximately $41 million annually-- the first increase in highway funds in 20 years!

Carolinas Construction Projects Other exciting construction projects that have been completed or are nearing completion include the I-485 turbine interchange in Charlotte, the I-77 toll road from Charlotte to Lake Norman, and major investments from Duke Energy in North Carolina and Boeing in South Carolina.

Projects like these are making a big impact on the industry. But more funding and projects need to be planned to ensure prevention of ailing infrastructure in the future.

Carolinas AGC will continue its crusade to bring positive impact to the Carolinas for its members and the entire construction industry.

Recognition of Members’ Good Work In recognition of the great work by members, CAGC honors stellar w w w. c a g c . o r g

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construction projects with the CAGC Pinnacle Awards, the most prestigious recognition in the Carolinas construction industry.

The awards honor the work of general contractors and their partners, and projects are awarded in the building, highway, and utility construction categories. A panel of CAGC member representatives evaluates the work of their peers

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and winning projects are celebrated at CAGC’s Annual Convention each year. Along with the Best Building Project Award, the Best Utility Project Award, and the Best Highway Project Award, CAGC also recognizes the contributions of a non-contractor individual for his or her role in advancing the construction industry and the overall Carolinas economic welfare. This

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distinguished Build With The Best Award honors individuals from outside the industry altogether or from a Carolinas AGC supplier/service company member. In 2013, this honor was bestowed on North Carolina Representative Mike Hager, who led efforts to rewrite the state’s underground safety/damage prevention laws.

Together with members, Carolinas AGC provides a strong voice in the legislature, advances construction companies, unifies the industry and fuels its future. With 30 volunteerled committees and five Divisions (representing building, utility, highway, and specialty contractors and supplier/service providers), CAGC provides many opportunities to directly impact the direction of the construction industry in the Carolinas. The CAGC Foundation, Inc. supports the future of the industry through workforce development programs as well as safety, leadership and craftworker education and training. Preparing a qualified workforce continues to be a focus of the Foundation, as a recent Associated General Contractors of America study found that 83 percent of construction firms report having trouble finding qualified workers to meet the growing demand for construction services.

Hear about the latest CAGC initiatives or learn more about membership at www.cagc.org.

Company Information INDUSTRY

Construction HEADQUARTERS

Charlotte, NC

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