Houston Construction News April 2016 by Construction News

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Volume 13

Number 4

APRIL 2016

Insulation station

Friends open doors

L-R: Kenneth Mantooth, Francis Beasley and Michael Clark

L-R: Robert Ford and Gary Combs met in first grade.

resident and owner Kenneth Mantooth says Humble-based Star Insulation has picked up more school work in Houston in 2016. “The Houston Independent School District is trying to create more class room space,” he said. “We are working on three schools in Houston right now.” After working for large insulation companies in the area, Mantooth founded Star Insulation 14 years ago. “In the beginning it was just me and my stepfather, a retired engineer,” he said. “He was a estimator and I did all the work. I hired my first employee after about two months. Today we employ 46 people. “My nephew, Michael Clark, is our

vice president. He got out of the military about 12 years ago and went to work with me. My aunt, Francis Beasley, is the office manager.” Mantooth says the key to success in the insulation business is to work 70 hours a week. “In the early days, I worked from sunup to sundown to build the company,” he said. “I learned it is very important to have a good reputation in this business.” According to Mantooth, the company made it through the economic downturn in 2008 by staying determined to work hard. “At one point, all of the office guys and I had to put on our tools and go back

hildhood friends and owners Gary Combs and Robert Ford established Agape Overhead Doors in 1989 when they saw a need in the Houston market for quality garage door repair services. Combs and Ford became best friends in first grade more than 50 years ago. They played outside and participated on baseball and football teams together during their school days. “It seems like we have been friends our whole life,” Combs said. “We have done this type of work together for a long time. “When we were younger, we were broke and we needed to make money. We decided to find a good trade and stick

continued on Page 18

with it.” Combs and Ford started the company with one truck and worked out of a garage in the early days. “In the beginning, Robert answered the phones and I worked in the field,” Combs said. “Over the years we added more employees. Now we have 13 employees. Lawanda White, office manager, has worked with us for 14 years. She does a great job running the office.” Combs says business has been good so far in 2016. The company has seen an increase in commercial jobs in the past few months. “We have also had more apartment jobs this year,” he said. “I am still working continued on Page 18

Church bells ring

omball-based 1st Choice Roofing & Construction has completed a $2 million dollar renovation for Spring Cypress Presbyterian Church in Spring. The project included interior and exterior renovations and the construction of a new building on the campus. “The exterior of the church was refinished and the roof replaced to give it a new, hill-country inspired design per the client's request,” said Martin Morales, 1st Choice Roofing & Construction coowner. “We opened up the back and sides of the main worship building and added onto the existing structure to allow for more seating, a large sound booth, and a large atrium where members can socialize and mingle.” Morales says he is most proud of the stained wood ceilings and natural stone facade in the sanctuary. “It's really stunning,” he said.

Spring Cypress Presbyterian Church

According to Morales, the interior remodel involved the expansion of the main worship building to add new restrooms, a comfortable “cry room” where parents with babies can view the service, a larger library, a state-of-the-art sound booth with new audio/visual equipment and a renovated stage area. The construction team also installed new ceilings, flooring, seating, lighting, walls and windows. Chris Rochester, 1st Choice Roofing & Construction co-owner, says the exterior of the church also received extensive remodeling. The construction team built on an expansive porte-cochère, several covered porches and walkways, installed a completely new exterior facade, a new roof and also provided a new parking lot. “The result is that we took ‘70s era construction and transformed it into continued on Page 18

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Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Correction

In a front page story in the Houston Construction News March issue about All About Plumbing, an incorrect photo was used. The photo that should have been used, pictured above, is of All About Plumbing’s owners, Noah and Crystal Espinoza. Pictured below, the photo that was used in the story incorrectly identified the people in the photo. The people are Vidal Espinoza and Crystal Espinoza. Vidal is Crystal’s brother-in-law. Construction News regrets the error. –cw

Terracon acquires BES

erracon recently announced it has acquired Building Exterior Solutions LLC (BES) of Texas. Terracon is a provider of environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials engineering services with many locations throughout Texas. Terracon will retain BES’ 20-plus employees and offices in Houston, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio areas. Founded in 2008, with the experience of professionals from architectural, engineering, and construction industries, BES provides investigation, evaluation, and construction solutions for exterior building systems. BES’ experience resolving existing building enclosure problems and developing new integrated building enclosure designs reinforces Terracon’s facilities capabilities and strengthens the firm’s ability to service clients across the country. “BES adds significant bench strength to our building enclosure practice and we are excited to have them join Terracon’s Facilities Division,” said David Gaboury, PE, president and CEO of Terracon. “The depth of their expertise allows us to further demonstrate our commitment to bringing even greater value to our clients.” The BES staff includes licensed engineers and certified roof and waterproofing consultants who provide design for new facilities or rehabilitation of existing building enclosures that exhibit distress, deterioration, and air and/or water infiltration. BES clients include owners, developers, architects, contractors, and organizations such as Kirksey, Memorial Hermann, Lincoln Properties, and Gensler. BES operates as Building Exterior Solutions, A Terracon Company, as of the Jan. 31 closing.

David Gaboury

“Terracon is well-known in the marketplace and gives BES clients the benefit of an expanded network of resources and capabilities,” said Jerry Abendroth, BES president. “The facilities services capabilities of our firms align perfectly, enhancing our ability to serve clients across the country.” The acquisition strengthens Terracon’s Texas presence as BES joins a network of more than a dozen offices in the state. Engineering News-Record ranks Terracon as the third largest General Building design firm in Texas and Louisiana, and 11th on the Top Texas Design Firms list. Terracon is an employee-owned engineering consulting firm with more than 3,500 employees providing environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services from more than 150 offices in 42 states. Terracon currently ranks 35th on Engineering News-Record’s list of Top 500 Design Firms. –cw

Stewards of a legacy

Brother and sister team Peter John Holt and Corinna Holt Richter have stepped into new executive leadership roles at HOLT CAT, taking up the next phase of the succession plan in their family’s company.

epresenting the fifth generation of the HOLT CAT family tree, Corinna Holt Richter and Peter John Holt have taken the next step in the succession plan towards their ownership of the heavy equipment dealer. In her new role as executive vice president/chief administrative officer, Holt Richter will be responsible for the administrative divisions, including HR, safety, IT, organizational development, facilities management, continuous improvement, environmental, legal, marketing and strategy, and transportation. In his new role as executive vice president/general manager, Holt will be responsible for all enterprise operating divisions, including HOLT CAT, HOLT AgriBusiness, Texas First Rentals, HOLT Crane & Equipment and Sitech Tejas. Both of them joined the HOLT CAT team in 2011 and note that in those five years, they have learned a lot from their experience and ascension through the ranks. They also emphasize the significance of starting on the product support

side of the business, which Holt Richter says, “is really what we see as the heart of what a dealer does.” Holt, who bears the name of their father, Peter M. Holt, owner and CEO of HOLT CAT, says, “This is truly a formal step for my sister and I to move into being owners of the business and head operators of the business in our partnership. So, this is a really important time in HOLT’s past, present and future in the fact that we’re moving into roles that we will stay in for our entire careers. So, it’s vitally important for us to build and grow our teams, and then use a balanced approach to continue on our operations excellence journey, but also to find areas for growth and diversification.” Holt Richter adds, “It’s really humbling to be a part of this legacy that my family’s built. We’ve outlined what our sibling partnership mission statement is, and it’s essentially to be a steward of that legacy and to grow the business. We’re really excited about the future.” –mh

Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Page 3

Celebrating women in construction

he Houston Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) had a fun-filled Women in Construction (WIC) Week Mar. 6-12. The ladies kicked off WIC Week with an organized walk in Memorial Park. A networking event took place at 024 Grille Mar. 7. On Mar. 9, NAWIC members gathered at Top Golf for an annual fundraiser event. Next, the ladies networked and toured Karbach Brewing Co. Mar. 10. On Mar. 11, Fluor hosted the annual Lunch & Learn about the benefits of a career in construction at all levels and ages with NAWIC Houston, NCCER and Girls Inc. To end the week, NAWIC members hosted a Women Helping Women workshop at a local Home Depot Mar. 12. –ab NAWIC members take a walk in Memorial Park.

Laurie Jimenez (center) and friends have lunch after walking together.

Construction News ON LOCATION

Break for lunch

L-R: Kevin Brown, Jonathan Herring, Noe Nunez and Mike Rothe, NES Rentals, enjoy the spring-like temperatures outside. –ab

Houston

CONSTRUCTION NEWS

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The Houston Construction News (ISSN 15477630) is published monthly by Construction News LTD., dba Houston Construction News, and distributed by mail to constructionrelated companies in Houston and surrounding counties. All submissions should be mailed to our editorial offices. We reserve the right to edit any materials submitted. No fees for materials, copy or photographs submitted will be due unless agreed upon in advance in writing. Submissions will be published at our discretion on a space available basis. Construction News, Ltd. , dba Houston Construction News, will not be liable for errors in copy or in advertisements beyond the actual cost of space occupied by the error. Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement at any time.

NAWIC members have fun at a mixer.

NAWIC members had a successful WIC week.

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Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

College in Irving and at Murray State College in Tishomingo, OK. I studied both business and accounting during college. I served as the parliamentary to the student senate and I was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Delta Thi Omega. I had great time in college!

Milt Court

What is your background in the construction industry? I began working in construction when I was 12. My father owned 232 rental properties so I learned how to take care of properties at an early age.

Managing Partner/Owner, Lonestar Contracting Services

Describe your first job. I did maintenance work at my dad’s rental properties. He also owned service stations, so I grew up pumping gas for customers.

t is rewarding to Milt Court to have the opportunity to help people overcome the challenges when they have had storm damages. Prior to his current business, he was the vice president of sales for a large insurance restoration company. His responsibilities were overseeing operations in the southwest United States. “I spent over 200 nights in hotels while I traveled for work during the time,” Court said. “Next, I got involved as a managing partner at Hail or Wind and Lonestar Contracting in 2012. “Houston always has lots of new construction projects going on. We never have a dull moment in this market. We currently build about 50 roofs a month.” Court says the PABCO Roofing Products recently honored the company as Contractor of the Month. Founded in 2008, Hail or Wind is a full service insurance restoration company and Lonestar Contracting Services is a commercial and residential full-service roofing company serving the north Houston area. The company has offices in Houston and Conroe, as well as in Arizona, Oklahoma, Colorado, Washington and Vancouver.

What did you do after college? I eventually began working in industrial construction as an adult. I joined Deer Park Construction in Deer Park. I started out as a field hand and worked my way up to the business development and management side of the business. One of the highlights of my career was working on several projects a few weeks after Hurricane Rita. This experience put me on a different path in my career. At one time, I served on the Houston Business Roundtable as a safety auditor.

Where are you originally from, Milt? My family is from Rockport, TX. I spent a lot of time at the Texas Coast when I was a kid. I have lived in the Houston area for 25 years. Where did you go to school? My family and I moved to Denton when I was still in high school. I attended Denton High School. I was in an automobile accident when I was 15. I took a GED and then I signed up for classes at the University of North Texas. I also studied at North Lake

What advice would you give a high school student interested in working in the construction industry? My advice to a high school student is go to work for a reputable contractor after graduation. Learn your way from the beginning to the end. You really do have to start at the bottom and work your way up in this industry. What is the key to success in your business? Always try to satisfy customers. My father taught me a lesson that I carry on today. He said, “It is not what you do when things go right, it is what you do when things go wrong.” It is how you act, how you behave and what you do to correct it. My father used to tell me a Winston Churchill quote, “Success is going from failure to failure with undiminished enthusiasm.” When I was 12, my father said at the end of the day I was the only person that was going to sort something out so I didn’t need to know the word, “can’t” or “won’t”. You have to be the person with the

Milt Court and the Lonestar Contracting team participate in a program called Angels on the Roof.

is graduating high school and going on to college.

solution. Do you still do a lot of traveling these days? Yes, I do travel between the offices during the year. I spend most of my time here in Texas. I enjoy meeting challenges in different environments. I have to stay on top of the weather and know the ins and outs of the industry. What do you like to do in your free time? We are involved in a program called Angels on the Roof. A group of like-minded guys get together to help people in the community who need a new roof. We recently built a roof on a 140-year-old church in Richmond/ Rosenberg. We are about to build a roof for a schoolteacher who is having some challenges. Her home was falling apart and she has a special needs child. We try to be in the right places at the right time to help people with their roofs. We look around to see where we can do some good in the community. A shingle manufacturer recently donated shingles to us and we will put them to good use. We have helped build six roofs so far this year for people in need. Do you have any company events during the year? In the past, we took the guys to Las Vegas before we got busy. A roofing manufacturer funded the trip. Are you married? Yes I married my wife Latricia nine years ago. Latricia helps out in the office at the company. Half of my staff is related to me or part of my family. Do you have any children? Yes, I have three boys. One son is about to return home from the U.S. Navy. One son in the Army Reserve and is about to be deployed. My youngest son

What are your favorite hobbies? I like to go scuba diving when I have time off. I go on several scuba trips a year. I am also a Corvette enthusiast in my free time. I have liked Corvettes my whole life. I have owned five Corvettes in my lifetime. I currently own a little red convertible. In addition, I like to ride Harley Davidsons on the weekend. There is nothing like the open road! Where have you been scuba diving lately? In the past 12 months, I have been scuba diving in Saba, a Caribbean Island near St. Maarten. My wife and I loved it! I also recently went scuba diving in Hawaii near Oahu and also the Big Island. Where is a place you have always wanted to go scuba diving? I look forward to going on a scuba diving trip to Cozumel with my wife in May. I have always wanted to explore the area. We are excited about the trip. How long have you been scuba diving? I became interested in scuba diving during a trip to Hawaii about 25 years ago. I have enjoyed it ever since. I am always learning something new. Where do you like to ride your Harley Davidson? I have ridden my Harley Davidson from Conroe to Sturgis three times. On one particular trip, a group of friends and I rode all the way to Canada. We rode to the Badlands, Sturgis, the Black Hills and up to Canada. We crossed Canada and came back through Glacier National Park in the Rocky Mountains. We rode 5,000 miles in 10 days. What are your plans for the future? In the future, I want to continue to put God first, help people in need and keep expanding the company. –ab

Construction News ON LOCATION

Up, up and away

Inside track

L-R: Brady Colton, Shaun Manos and David Solomon go out to the yard to see the new Hydraulic Crawler at H&E Equipment Services – Crane Division in Houston. –ab

L-R: Viviana Ramirez and Tiffany Young share their knowledge about hardware at Decor Builders Hardware Inc. –ab

Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

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Your company up front and in the spotlight

hen our readers pick up Construction News, there are a few articles and sections about which they often ask, “How do they decide who is profiled in this article?” and “How can I be featured in one of these?” In this article, we’ll answer those questions regarding two of our primary features, our Front Page GC and Spotlight articles. Front Page GC Every month, we feature a general contractor’s recent project on the front page. The size and scope of the project range from small tenant finish out or renovations to large ground up construction. If you are a general contractor with an office located within our coverage area for that city and its surrounding counties, you are eligible to have one of your projects featured on the front page of that paper. The project should be one that has been completed within the last year and is located within our local paper’s coverage area. We will need any information about the build that you can share including but not limited to the project duration, square footage, approximate cost, design team and subcontractors on the job, and details about the build and building process. We will also need a few photos, exterior and interior. Can your company be featured in this article multiple times? Yes, but when you are featured as our Front Page GC, you must wait five years from the publication date of that article to have another

Leap of faith

project featured on our front page. This is to ensure the opportunity for general contractors of all sizes and markets to appear on the front page. Spotlight Another monthly feature in our paper is a profile of the head of a company that we call Spotlight. This article is an indepth interview with the person who serves at the very top of a company as its owner, president, principal or CEO. The company can be a general contractor, subcontractor, supplier, architecture or engineering firm, equipment dealer or service provider of any size or specialty. To qualify for a Spotlight article, the featured person’s company must have an office located within the coverage area for the paper in which he or she would appear. The Spotlight can only run in the city in which this person is based. We only do a Spotlight once per individual and per company. The Spotlight focuses on the individual, not the company. The profile covers the interviewee’s background, career, family, community involvement, hobbies and interests, and other personal details. The interview is presented in a question and answer format along with a photo of the person being featured. If you feel you qualify for one of these articles and would like to be featured in a future Front Page GC or Spotlight, please contact your Houston editor, Abby BeMent, at houstoneditor@constructionnews.net or 832-595-0091. –mh

Construction News JOB SIGHT

L-R: Doug, Misty, Logan and Marissa Provazek

oug Provazek began Logan’s Roofing & Exteriors LLC three years ago. He was the only employee in the early days. “I had savings and I went out on a limb to achieve my dream to operate my own company,” he said. “Before I started, I interviewed lots of installers. I wanted make sure I found the right guys to work with me.” According to Provazek, in the past six months, the company has gone from doing 10 roofs a month to doing 20 or 30 roofs a month. He recently hired a new sales representative Kelly Brown and Rebecca Garza works in the office part time. “Kelly is doing great in sales,” he said. “He recently reached his sales goal. He has exceeded my expectations. I want to get him to a certain level where I can increase his commission.” Provazek says he has worked so hard in the past three years he hasn’t had

much time to play. He loves spending time outdoors with his wife and their children ages 5 and 7 and 6-month-old twins. “Hunting in Junction, TX and fishing in Rockport and Galveston are my passions,” he said. Provazek looks forward to having a great year and he is excited about working on future projects in Fort Bend County. “I love working in the roofing business,” he said. “The main reason is when I am up on a roof I feel like I am on top of the world! It is a great feeling.” The company won the 2015 Best of Missouri City Award in the Business Services category. The annual awards program honors the achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the Missouri City area. Logan’s Roofing & Exteriors provides commercial and residential roofing, sheetrock, gutters, painting and siding services. –ab

Stepping up Submitted to Construction News

Tour de plant

Pedro, Tenant Construction, does exterior construction work at an office building remodeling project in Friendswood. –ab The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Houston Branch younger members recently attended a technical tour of the Rinker Materials plant in Houston. Rinker Materials is a supplier to the construction and building materials industry. –ab

Submitted to Construction News

Fast play

Submitted to Construction News

Elements of construction

The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Houston Chapter hosted a Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament at Marek Brother Systems Feb 18. Attendees enjoyed food, beverages and connecting with friends. –ab

Becky Khan (left) represented the Woman Contractors Association (WCA) at the Greater Houston Business Procurement Breakfast held at Houston Community College – Southwest in March. –ab

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Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

10 things every construction company should do to control their E-Mod

What you need to know about compilations, reviews and audits to obtain a loan or line of credit

Tom Spencer, Construction Practice Leader INSURICA San Antonio, TX

PKF Texas Houston, TX Chris Hatten, CPA,

Sam Razmandi, CPA

any business owners looking for their first loan or line of credit face the daunting task of picking the right financial institution and subsequent credit agreement that best fits their current and future needs. Unfortunately, this can be a challenge for many owners who do not have experience in finance or accounting. Signing a loan that is not properly negotiated can cost tens of thousands of dollars per year, while choosing the incorrect loan can be an expensive mistake that cuts into your bottom line for years. Most loans or lines of credit come with different covenants, and many require the borrower to provide yearly financial statements. These range from internally prepared financial statements to compilations, reviews or audits. Many first-time borrowers don’t understand the differences or the costs of producing these reports. Financial statements prepared by a CPA firm assist with the assurance banks look for when they issue a loan. Typically, the larger the loan, the more assurance the bank will require. Some loans only require a compilation, which technically provides no assurance, while loans which appear riskier to the bank may require a financial statement audit. Compilation A compilation is a financial report put together by a CPA firm that follows AICPA guidelines to assure the financial statements are presented in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) or other standards recognized by the AICPA. This is a relatively inexpensive report, compared a review or audit, but it also provides no assurance. Review A review is the next step up and provides limited assurance. This report must be done by a qualified CPA firm, but unlike a compilation, the firm must be independent; meaning, the firm has no financial interests in the business, relations with owners or elected members of management, or with the area of the business it reviews. A review is typically two or three times more expensive than a compilation, with an increase in the level of work for the review process, and the increased risk the accounting firm assesses in preparing the reports. Reviews are like compilations, in that they are the representation of

management and not the CPA firm, and follows standards set by the AICPA. Audit This is typically a much more involved process and provides reasonable assurance the financials are presented fairly, in all material respects, and are in accordance with the stated financial framework, such as U.S. GAAP or International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Audit procedures include an examination, substantive analytics, confirmations, and for some companies, the testing of internal controls. Audits can be two or three times the cost of a review and can even get into the six figures, depending on the company, its size and the complexity of the transaction involved. There can be a major price difference between the procedures banks may require, so it is important to note, like other aspects of your loan, these requirements can be negotiated. As with interest rates, collateral and other important factors of a loan, the financial reporting requirements are just as substantial. At times, a bank may be asking for an audit when a review might suffice and be a better fit for your business needs. Yet, after obtaining a loan or line of credit, it can be a painful lesson to learn of the costs associated with preparing the required financial statements, and the subsequent charges incurred by the CPA firm. It takes proper planning to prepare for a compilation, review or audit, which adds to the costs incurred if the company is not ready for the process. Most business owners do not like surprises. Always read the fine print and make sure you understand all of the covenants and reporting requirements that come with a debt obligation. Discuss these items with your banker and CPA to ensure you understand and can meet them. In addition, find out if any of the three can be interchanged from one year to the next. For example, getting a review one year and an audit the next can save time and money and may still be able to satisfy the financial institution and allow the business owner to grow into the reporting process. Chris Hatten, CPA, and Sam Razmandi, CPA, at PKF Texas can be reached at chatten@pkftexas.com or srazmandi@ pkftexas.com.

Submitted to Construction News

t is a beast that goes by many names: Experience Modification Rating (EMR), Experience Modification Factor (EMF), experience modifier, and many others. I call it the “e-mod.” Many people in the construction industry are judged by their e-mod, but most owners and operators think their rating is out of their control. Here are 10 tried and true ways anyone in the construction industry can take back control: 1. Understand how your e-mod is calculated. Understanding how your e-mod is calculated is the foundation for building a plan to control it. Once a basic understanding is achieved, all efforts with loss control, claims control, and safety planning can be specifically targeted to have the biggest impact on your bottom line. 2. Understand the financial impact of your claims. When you understand how individual claims affect your e-mod (and ultimately, your Workers’ Comp premium), it is easier to allocate resources where they can be most helpful. Claims trends can be analyzed to understand the impact of specific types of claims. This information can then be used to foresee problems before they get out of control. 3. Invest in your company’s safety culture. Creating a strong safety culture is an investment in the future success of your operations. It is well documented that a strong safety culture has far-reaching benefits, including increasing employee retention, increasing employee morale, creating a team atmosphere, and drastically reducing workplace injuries. 4. Make Return-to-Work work for you. Early Return-to-Work, or “light-duty,” programs have been shown to have tremendous benefits, when implemented correctly. While some employers have mixed feelings about Return-to-Work, nearly every best-in-class construction company has some form of a Return-toWork program—and for good reasons. 5. Work with loss control and risk management experts. Loss control and risk management experts can do more than keep you in compliance with OSHA requirements. A skilled professional can assess your current operations and make recommendations based upon best-in-class status. Pro tip: check with your insurance carrier to see if they offer free loss control services to policyholders. 6. Help control the cost of claims. Controlling the cost of claims goes beyond timely claim reporting. Develop a procedure for injured employees to follow, and work with your insurance carrier to communicate with injured employees. Routine claims

reviews can keep you up-to-date on claims before they spiral out of control. Claims costs are directly related to how your e-mod is calculated, and the lower your claims costs are, the lower your e-mod will be. 7. Communicate with your insurance carrier. Develop relationships with the claims managers and adjusters at your insurance carrier. Most carriers have a limited number of claims people, so it is common to work with the same people over many years on multiple claims. Let them know you take your safety culture very seriously, and communicate with them about resources at your disposal, such as your Return-to-Work program. 8. Hire the right people. Construction is hard work. Ensuring that capable, skilled workers are being hired is one of the easiest ways to prevent fraudulent claims and control overall claims costs. Best-in-class companies utilize pre-employment screenings and physicals in order to avoid potentially problematic hires. Additional resources available include reference checks, motor vehicle record checks, criminal background checks, and integrity testing. 9. Create safety goals. Having employees buy in to your safety culture is paramount for your success. Creating achievable short- and long-term goals is a way to engage employees and give them ownership in the safety process. 10. Celebrate safety success. Adding to number nine, it is important to celebrate team safety successes. Many companies choose to do monthly catered lunches for loss-free months, while others provide things like new work boots to their employees to reward successes. Regardless of what your specific incentive program consists of, it is important that the message is well-communicated and all mid-level managers support all safety goals and celebrations. Tom Spencer is the Construction Practice Leader for INSURICA’s Texas offices. His experience as a life-long construction insurance professional gives him a unique understanding of managing the risks facing the construction industry. Tom can be contacted at TSpencer@INSURICA.com or by phone at 210.805.5901.

The sky’s the limit

Roof in a booth

Houston Engineers Week, Feb. 21-27, recognized the profession of engineering as a social and economic influence vital to the local community. The Engineer of the Year Gala took place at the Omni Houston Hotel Feb. 26. Nathelyne Kennedy, PE, 2016 Houston Engineer of the Year, (seated) was honored at the event. –ab

H&S Roofing’s Valery Budworth and Anthony Ford traveled from their Houston office to Big D to exhibit at the Dallas Build Expo, held Mar. 9-10 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. –mjm

Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Page 7

Assignment issues in construction contracts

What Is Work-Related Asthma? Joann Natarajan Compliance Assistance Specialist OSHA Austin, TX

Ben Wheatley , Title Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr Austin, TX

s construction, design and real estate professionals (and their lawyers) know, the following clause is found in most standard AIA contracts: Neither Owner nor Architect [or Contractor] shall assign this Agreement as a whole without the written consent of the other, except that Owner may assign this Agreement to an institutional lender providing financing for the Project. Because the only explicit exception to the consent prerequisite in the AIA Contract is for institutional lenders, courts have questioned whether this provision actually prevents the assignment of contract performance or related causes of action. For example, design and construction professionals want the right to choose who they work for. On the other hand, a developer may have a difficult time selling a newly completed project if the design and construction teams cannot be held accountable for defects that are discovered after a sale. In addressing this question, courts generally interpret this provision to prohibit the assignment of contract performance, but not the assignment of a postperformance cause of action relating to that performance. The primary purpose of clauses prohibiting the assignment of contract rights without permission is to allow the party to select the persons with whom he [or she] deals. When a contract is performed prior to the assignment of a breach of contract claim arising therefrom, assignment of the claim does not require consent because a general anti-assignment clause, one aimed at prohibiting the assignment of a contractual performance, does not necessarily prohibit the assignment of a breach of contract cause of action. The legal distinction between the “right to assign performance under a contract and the right to receive damages for its breach” is the right to assign performance of the executory contract. There are two reasons for this distinction: First, is the general rule that causes of action are freely assignable Second, references not only the distinction between executory and non-executory contracts, but between contracts pre- and post-breach Even though an executory contract may be non-assignable because of its personal nature, after an event that gives rise to a liability on a contract, the reason for the rule disappears and the cause of action arising under the contract is assignable. Thus, claims for money due under a contract, which is non-assignable because of its personal nature, may be assigned to a third person and enforced by the assignee. Courts have traditionally made this

distinction between an assignment of a right or thing before a loss or breach has occurred, and an assignment of a right or thing after a loss or breach has occurred. This is because pre-breach assignments involve the potential creation of new contractual relationships, which could materially increase the risk of the nonconsenting party, whereas the postbreach assignment is supported by the law concerning the free alienability of causes of action that do not materially increase the risk of the non-consenting party because, in theory, that risk has been fixed by the breach or loss. Last, when the anti-assignment clause prohibits assignment “as a whole,” assignment of the right to sue only constitutes a partial assignment. The AIA language above will not prevent the assignment of a contract, even while executory. Rather, a party seeking to enforce the anti-assignment provision will simply have a breach of contract claim for damages arising from the breach. If a party wants to prevent assignment while a contract is executory, it should include language in the clause noting that any assignment without consent is void and unenforceable. Finally, when reviewing a design or construction contract, which contains an anti-assignment provision, carefully consider the long term implications of such a clause, in the context of your project role as a designer, builder or owner. Each project constituent will have a different view on what it actually wants as a result of such a provision, and ensure that the language plainly states your ultimate goal. Ben Wheatley has more than 23 years of experience litigating complex construction and environmental matters, negotiating and drafting construction and design contracts, serving as in-house counsel for an international A/E firm, and working on issues concerning the practice of architecture, engineering, and project construction in all 50 states, Mexico and South America. In addition to construction law matters, Ben handles administrative matters related to the construction and design industry, as well as environmental and commercial litigation. bwheatley@munsch.com www. munsch.com

Construction News ON LOCATION

Fast as a deere

L-R: Sales representatives Craig Robilio and Benjamin Lopez talk with customers about John Deere equipment at the Brookside Equipment Sales Inc. Houston location. –ab

ork-related asthma is a lung disease caused or made worse by exposures to substances in the workplace. Common exposures include chemicals, dust, mold, animals, and plants. Exposure can occur from both inhalation (breathing) and skin contact. Asthma symptoms may start at work or within several hours after leaving work and may occur with no clear pattern. People who never had asthma can develop asthma due to workplace exposures. People who have had asthma for years may find that their condition worsens due to workplace exposures. Both of these situations are considered work-related asthma. A group of chemicals called isocyanates are one of the most common chemical causes of work-related asthma. OSHA is working to reduce exposures to isocyanates and has identified their use in numerous workplaces. See table below for common products (both at home and work) and common jobs where exposure to isocyanates may occur. Common Products • Polyurethane foam • Paints, lacquers, ink, varnishes, sealants, finishes • Insulation materials • Polyurethane rubber • Glues and adhesives Common Jobs and Job Processes • Car manufacture and repair • Building construction (plaster, insulation) • Foam blowing and cutting • Painting • Truck bed liner application • Foundry work (casting) • Textile, rubber & plastic manufacturing • Printing • Furniture manufacturing • Electric cable insulation Why You Should Care About WorkRelated Asthma Work-related asthma may result in longterm lung damage, loss of work days, disability, or even death. The good news is

that early diagnosis and treatment of work-related asthma can lead to a better health outcome. What To Do If You Think You Have WorkRelated Asthma If you think that you may have work-related asthma, see your doctor as soon as possible. Take a copy of the safety data sheet for the product you suspect of causing the asthma with you to your doctor. Work-Related Asthma Quick Facts • Work-related asthma can develop over ANY period of time (days to years). • Work-related asthma may occur with changes in work exposures, jobs, or processes. • It is possible to develop work-related asthma even if your workplace has protective equipment, such as exhaust ventilation or respirators. • Work-related asthma can continue to cause symptoms even when the exposure stops. • Before working with isocyanates or any other asthma-causing substances, ask your employer for training, as required under OSHA’s Hazard Communication standard. For more information on isocyanates, visit OSHA’s web page: http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/isocyanates/ index.html natarajan.joann@dol.gov 512-374-0271 x232

Industry FOLKS Monica Gonzales Counter Sales Representative Mustang CAT

onica Gonzales joined Mustang CAT a year ago. Prior to working at the company, she ordered parts and inventory in the military. “I gained great experience in the military,” she said. “My background doing this type of work helps me in my position today.” Gonzales has a variety of daily responsibilities such as answering phone calls, going through reports, counting parts and dispersing different parts to mechanics. Once a month, she does an inventory count. Growing up in Deer Park, Gonzales attended Deer Park High School. Next, she joined the military and moved to Fort Hood for seven years. “I came back to Houston because the job market is good,” Gonzales said. “I like working at Mustang CAT. My favorite part of my job is interacting with customers, whether it is face to face or on the phone. “ If a young person wants to work in parts sales, she says always have an open mind. “You are going to have customers who may not like the answer that you give him or her,” she said. “Be polite. Just treat people how you want to be treated.

“Absorb as much information as you can and ask questions. Enjoy what you do!” After work, Gonzales says she spends lots of time with her children, ages 19, 15, 13, and she travels every chance she gets. “I like to travel to local places as well as out of state,” she said. “I enjoy going to festivals and concerts during the year too. Houston has a good live music scene these days.” On the weekend, Gonzales says she does anything outdoors with her children. “We like to go to free events around the Houston area,” she said. “I think it is important to open my children’s eyes to different things that Houston has to offer.” Gonzales says in May she looks forward to driving to Florida and relaxing at the beach with her children for a few days. “I am excited to continue working at Mustang CAT and assisting customers in the future,” she said. “I have a fun job!” -ab

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Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Regal eagles

Just like family

Participants at the 2016 EIC Awards enjoyed a variety of events during the celebration.

ouston companies won national awards during Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) 26th annual Excellence in Construction (EIC) Awards celebration in Fort Lauderdale, FL in early March. The EIC Awards program honored innovative and high-quality merit shop construction projects with Eagle Awards presented to the top project in each category. ABC also honored member companies for their achievement in safety and diversity during the event. – ab Congrats to the winners! National Excellence in Construction Eagle Award Winners: Historical - Less than $10 Million: SpawGlass Construction Corp., Port Arthur Savings Renovation Industrial - $25 to $100 Million: Performance Contractors Inc., Baytown Lubes Expansion Project All Other Exterior Finishes: Haley-Greer Inc.,The Treehouse Other Specialty Construction-Industrial -Less than $25 Million: Standard Constructors Inc., LHC-9 Concrete Piling Installation National Excellence in Construction Pyramid Award Winners: Commercial - $10 to $25 Million: E.E. Reed

Construction LP, Sierra Pines Phase II Mega-Projects/$100 Million-$199 Million: S&B Engineers and Constructors Ltd., Energy Transfer Partners Mariner South Export Frac Renovation $4 to $10 Million: Satterfield & Pontikes Construction Inc., Francis Hall Renovation Multi-family and Condominium Projects up to $100 Million: Hoar Construction, LLC, One Lakes Edge Mechanical: TDIndustries, ExxonMobil Campus Project Other Specialty Construction- Commercial - Less than $1 Million: Aggregate Technologies Inc., Lakewood Church 5th Floor Modifications National Safety Excellence Award Winners: Pinnacle Award Winner: D.E. Harvey Builders Inc. Excellence Award Winner: CB&I Excellence Award Winner: Mobley Industrial Services LLC Excellence Award Winner: Standard Constructors Inc. Excellence Award Winner: PCL Industrial Construction Co. Merit Award Winner: Aggregate Technologies Inc. Merit Award Winner: S&B Engineers and Constructors Ltd.

L-R: Jason Ramirez, Natasha Pitts and Austin Hill

exas Roofing Supply is the brainchild of CEO and owner Brian Slay. Before he started the company, he gained experience as a commercial and residential roofing contractor. Throughout his career, Slay developed positive relationships with suppliers and customers. Austin Hill, owner and CFO, had a career in the United States Army as a finance officer and he also spent time as a sales engineer in the HVAC industry. Seeing an opportunity in the Houston market, Slay and Hill incorporated the Stafford-based company in Jan. 2014. “We wanted to provide high-quality roofing products with an emphasis on customer service,” Hill said. “We found a great space near the Southwest Freeway for our office and warehouse. The building used to be a Sam’s Club.” Natasha Pitts is the territory manager, Ray Sosa is the warehouse manag-

er, Aaron Moore is a salesman and Jason Ramirez is the assistant branch manager. “We are a tight-knit group,” Hill said. “We have a family atmosphere. We communicate with each other all the time.” Hill says the company hosted a Christmas party at the Stafford location and they all have lunch about once a week. “It’s been tough to slow down our growth,” Hill said. “We will grow as big as we can but never at the expense of our customers, vendor-partners or employees. We plan to open a second and third branch in the near future.” Hobbies employees enjoy are participating in fantasy football, playing pool and hunting. “We want to continue to grow the company in the future,” Hill said. “One day we would like to add a second branch in northwest Houston.” Texas Roofing Supply is an independent roofing supplier. –ab

Finessing a technique

ocal carpenters and woodworkers gathered at The Woodworker Show –Houston held at the Pasadena Convention Center Feb. 26-28. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about different tools, took part in free seminars and watched demonstrations from woodworking's latest technologies. Now in its 33rd year, the show visits 13 cities across New England, Mid-Atlantic, South and Midwest. –ab Bosch

TrueTrac

360 Woodworking

Carter Products

Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Page 9

setting and rising times, two of the best fishing times will be missed every day! Other Considerations When planning your fishing by moon phase, there are certain other factors that should also be considered. Weath e r : Severe weather changes have an impact on the way fish feed. When a storm’s brewing, or just after one has passed, is a good time. If this happens while you’re in place, you’ll be in for a treat! However, if there’s a cold front approaching, the fish are likely to move deeper into the water and become inactive.

Using the moon to your advantage by Capt. Steve Schultz Sponsored by: Waypoint Marine, Majek Boats, Evinrude Outboards, E-Z Bel Construction, Power Pole Shallow Water Anchor, Aggregate Haulers, ForEverlast Hunting and Fishing Products MirrOlure, and Columbia Sportswear

very fisherman knows that the best fishing times are when the fish are feeding. This tends to be during dawn and dusk, but what often goes unnoticed are the two periods elsewhere in the day - moonrise and moonset. Because the moon has an effect on a variety of factors surrounding the fish, these periods, combined with the moon’s phase, are what trigger feeding. By understanding this, and choosing times when sunrise/sunset and moonrise/moonset coin-

Got a chance to bring my son Carson on a charter with Mike Kaiman and his daughter Kelsey. Here are the kids with a couple of Baffin Bay redfish that were caught during the break.

cide with new or full moon phases, you’ll increase you chance of a good fishing catch. Assuming there are fish in the area, of course. Choosing The Best Fishing Times There really is nothing complicated about this at all; it’s just a matter of knowing ahead of time exactly when the sun and moon will rise and set. Fish are most active during 90-minute windows surrounding each of these four daily events; that’s 45 minutes before and after these four daily points. Fishing during these four periods will help increase your fishing catch, but if you plan wisely so as to ensure you’re at

Journey west

wner Billy McDonald, Southwest Equipment Rentals Inc., shared a few of his photos he took during a trip to Nevada and Utah. When he isn’t working, McDonald enjoys traveling and photography. –ab

Fire Canyon Arch and The Eroded Sandstone Slickrock of Fire Valley in Nevada

Twin Lakes Reservoir and Evergreen Mountain, Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest in Utah

Season: Most fish are more likely to bite willingly during seasonal transitions with the transition from winter to spring and summer to fall being the two best fishing times

the water’s edge on the days of new or full moon, you can use these ‘windows’ to reel in a catch like you’ve never done before. If you have to choose between sunrise/set and moonrise/set, always go with the moon as the moon is the stronger influence.

Now that you know that moon phase fishing really works, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t utilize this knowledge to increase your own fishing catch by being at the ready with your rod during the best fishing times available. It’s easy and it works!

Hunters have always known that fish and game are most active at dawn and dusk - sunrise and sunset - but their activity surrounding moonrise and moonset is less noticeable because these events are likely to occur without a f fecting any change in the perceived light. The rise and set of a new moon is invisible anyway, and overcast weather often hides the moon. Without prior knowledge of

My summer schedule is filling quick. Don’t wait till all the good dates are gone! To schedule your next bay fishing trip give Capt. Steve Schultz a call at 361-8133716 or 361-334-3105 or e-mail him at SteveSchultzOutdoors @ gmail.com. Good luck and Good Fishing.

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Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Ken Milam’s Fishing Line Since 1981, Ken Milam has been guiding fishing trips for striped bass on Lake Buchanan in the Texas Hill Country,. You can hear Ken on radio on Saturday and Sunday mornings, 6-8 AM on AM 1300, The Zone – Austin, or http://www.am1300the zone.com

Liquid Resurrection!

just saw a sweet sight. Three generations of my neighbors just slipped down to the boat dock to wet a hook and see if they could catch a mess of crappie. Now you might think that would be a routine thing if you weren’t from around here. The amazing thing is that the kids of the group are just getting acquainted with the lake because it has been dry for most if not all their lives. It’s like that old West Texas joke about drought that says a three year old kid would think the sky was falling if it rained because it never had in his life time. After being over 34 feet low at its worst the level of Lake Buchanan has risen to just a little over 4 feet low! It has taken several rises on the Colorado River since July of last year to get the water back, but it is finally here! Years of drought left thousands of acres of lake bottom dry and exposed to the sun. The rich silt grew all kinds of heavy brush and trees. Now all of that structure is mostly hidden beneath the waves again and the fish have already moved in, just in time to spawn and raise their young. Buchanan is poised to become a destination fishing lake once again! All around the lake the lights are coming on as people come back to enjoy their lake houses and rediscover their favorite resorts and fishing camps. We are hearing not only from fishermen that had been displaced by this drought, but from long lost friends and customers from up to 30 years ago. Everyone seems to just want to check in on the return of the water and recapture the good times they’ve had here and we are happy to welcome them. We can’t seem to stop looking at the lake either! I can’t explain how good it is to hear soft conversation on the cabin porches over coffee, and smell bacon sizzling as the sun comes up, children playing on the beach with splashing dogs and fishing boats idling in and out of the docks in the cool morning air or the scent of fish and taters frying as the sun goes down. It

is so nice to have everyone around again. It was too quiet for a long time around here. Already we have plenty of bait fish that have moved back in. For the first time in several years the white bass have been able to make it all the way up to the head of the lake at Colorado Bend State Park for their spawning run. Stripers and hybrids are back to their old spring migration patterns like nothing ever happened. Largemouth bass are starting to find themselves good spots to nest and the crappie are loving all the brush to hide in. Everything seems to be settling back into place I know this same scenario is being played out all over the state with the other lakes that are returning. We are in for a fine fishing season this year. Don’t miss out on going back to the waterfront; after all we have learned just how precious our water is and how quick it can be gone.

Submitted to Construction News

Half or Full Day Fishing Trips

Road trip!

All Bait, Tackle & Equipment Furnished Your catch Filleted and Bagged for You

Ken Milam Guide Service (325) 379-2051 www.striperfever.com

Furnish your TPWD Fishing License & Refreshments, and WE DO THE REST!

Have you explored any places in Texas lately? Send us your photos and we’ll include them in the next issue. Email photos to Abby at houstoneditor@constructionnews.net. –ab

Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

uns have been a debated topic for as long as I can remember. It seems you are either for them or against them and not much is in between. The fastest growing group of handgun shooters appears to be females between 30 and 60 years old. We wanted to find the reason for this dramatic increase so we headed up to Ballistic Therapy LLC just outside of Boerne for some answers. Sandy and Wes Barnett opened the facility in August 2015, but are not newcomers to the industry. The facility includes an indoor range, gun shop and a classroom for License to Carry and other training. “We first went through the process to receive our FFL (Federal Firearms License) and started selling firearms. Ladies would buy a firearm and didn’t know anything about it and that led to training,” said Sandy. “About four to five years ago we started thinking about our own shop. I really enjoy training women. This range became vacant so we met up with a partner and took it over.” How did she get started shooting I asked. Her big smile and quick response was that daddy had no boys so he turned his three girls into tomboys. She is the oldest and started shooting at 9. I turned the focus of my questions to the driving force behind the increase in women learning to shoot and carry a firearm for protection. “In the last five years it has really gone up. I think it’s the world we live in now. That’s what I hear from a lot of ladies. They don’t want to have to rely on their boyfriend or husband. They want to feel protected when they are in or out of their home. Forty percent of our business is women,” continued Sandy. Wes explained that formal training appeals to people, as well. “Husbands are also bringing their spouses in to have them trained as opposed to training them themselves,” he said. “Also, after the wives learn to shoot they can come in together. Shooting as a sport has drawn countless number of women.” Women who walk in the range may be uncertain, Sandy says. “Probably one half the ladies that walk in this door are somewhat afraid of a gun,” she said. It’s the unknown. They don’t know what to expect or if they will even want to shoot. They also worry about if they will shoot well.” Is it better for a lady to be trained by a male or female was my next question and how does she get a new shooter over that initial fear? Also, what is the difference between the sexes when it comes to learning about guns and safety? “They come in and say ‘I want to learn from a female because I feel more comfortable.’ I work with them one on one using a nice easy approach. Safety is

Page 11

Protect yourself but be safe

Receiving formal training before picking up this new skill is a good idea. Pictured, L-R: Dana Calonge, and Sandy and Wes Barnett, owners of Ballistic Therapy LLC.

Beginner’s luck? Not according to Wes Barnett, who say women are more focused when learning to shoot.

first, hands down. It’s the first thing I start with and no matter what we are talking about, we go back to safety. Over and over again we talk about safety,” stated Sandy. “They come in and are usually a little nervous. After we go though the steps and some training sessions they are more comfortable and their confidence is building. Confidence plays a big part.” According to Wes, women have different strengths than men. “Women seem to multitask a little better than men do,” says Wes. “They seem to follow the process better when they step into the lane. They do the same thing in sequence all the time. They are very deliberate in what they are doing. Guys don’t necessarily do that.”

Sandy Barnett spends time with Dana Calonge in the classroom before hitting the range.

Sandy says she has a specific plan in place for training women shooters. “There is a strategy in the training,” said Sandy. “When I get them in here we take it step by step by step. Women will spend more time in the class than the males hands down. They ask more questions. They want to know and make sure they get it right. “Also we go through the process even before we go into the range so I am comfortable they know how to dry fire, stance, hand placement and all of that.” I brought Dana Calonge our new Construction News account manager to the interview since she had shown interest in learning more about guns. She had never shot a handgun so a first train-

ing session seemed like a good idea. Sandy began going through the basics with Dana and I could tell very quickly that safety is the number one topic in this classroom, along with lots and lots of basics. After this phase was complete we headed to the range and, here again, the first thing out of Sandy’s mouth was safety rules. It was interesting to watch Dana and her initial apprehension about what she was about to do. She was carefully guided step by step. Load one round of 22 long rifle into the pistol. Assume the proper stance, proper grip, proper aim and gently squeeze the trigger. After that first shot she said, “I wasn’t aiming there.” Her first shot was in the 8. Now load up three more rounds and go again. This time each of the shots hit close to the X circle. Beginners luck, I said to myself. Next was the step up to a Sig Sauer P238 and six more rounds. This sweet little .380 was going to be Dana’s first experience with a little bit more recoil. All six landed in the X circle and now I really believe in first time luck. The gal is now hooked on something new. Back to the classroom and a little more conversation and I had to ask. “Are the ladies really better shots than men?” Sandy says yes, but then puts in a, “I don’t know why,” but Wes may have the answer. “When guys get guns our first thoughts are, “I can’t wait to go shoot” and wanting to shoot off a lot of rounds. With the women, they are not so much about that. They are about hitting that X and seem to be more focused, I think.” Proper training and fit seems to be the key word at Ballistic Therapy and I asked Sandy for her final comments. “I want women to know when they come into this range it’s different than anything you have experienced before hands down,” she said. “Wes and I are proud to say that. If they have never shot before we suggest a shooting course to get the basics down then we can go into other classes. We tell them if they are going to carry they need to train. If you don’t train, then maybe you shouldn’t have a gun with you. “Buying a gun is a personal fit like buying a pair of shoes or a purse. It has to be what you are comfortable with and that’s why we have try before you buy. And safety is always first.” Buddy Doebbler Publisher P.S. After Dana left, I went to the range and shot a box with terrible results. I asked Wes to hide the evidence (target) in the trash. P.S.S. Next day I had an eye appointment and found out my prescription really needed to be changed. I knew there was a reason.

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Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Staying diversified

Submitted to Construction News

No pinching here

Agustin Gomez (right) loves what he does today because he is able to provide work opportunities for others and he enjoys the challenges that every project brings.

ocusing on residential work, Solid Construction Solutions LLC entered the Houston market in 2009. “We began doing renovation work on homes that had damage from Hurricane Ike in 2009,” said Owner Agustin Gomez. “Since the early days, we have expanded to handle commercial renovations and new construction projects. Today we have a crew of five to seven people and self-perform civil concrete work.” According to Gomez, the company has also completed work outside of Houston in Louisiana. Gomez says that if a young person wants to work in the construction industry, his advice is to have them complete an internship with a reputable company. “Field experience is very important when you are first starting out in the industry,” Gomez said. “Get involved with a trade you really enjoy and learn all you can.”

In his free time, Gomez enjoys spending time with his three boys. They like to deer hunt together during hunting season. He also likes to read on the weekend. “I love playing sports with my children,” he said. “The boys and I play lots of basketball and football every opportunity we get. I also enjoy coaching T-ball for Channelview Little League.” Looking towards the future, Gomez looks forward to expanding his client base in the commercial sector- specifically in the construction of churches, restaurants, satellite clinics, retail shops and offices. “Our goal is to continue to grow the business by 10 to 15 percent this year,” he said. “In the next five years, I’d like to purchase land and build our own building.” Based in Channelview, Solid Construction Solutions is a full-service general contractor. The company provides turnkey construction services for the commercial and industrial sectors. –ab

Employees at the Morrison Supply Co. Greengrass Drive location wore green for St. Patrick’s Day. –ab

Submitted to Construction News

Finding solutions

Vice president of sales Michael Luck works in the precast division at Locke Solutions in Houston. He has 25 years experience in the construction industry. –ab

Construction News JOB SIGHT

Steel the one

The MC Industrial project team self-performs an integrated structural and mechanical scope of work for the construction of a new ship terminal at the Houston Ship Channel. MCI is currently executing this work in an open shop environment with skilled craft supplied through Local 211 Pipe Fitters and Local 84 Ironworkers. –ab

Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Page 13

What was your favorite TV show growing up? I remember I liked watching the show called Bonanza with my family when I was a kid. The western series set around the 1860s was on TV from 1959-1973. The series starred Lorne Greene, Dan Blocker, Michael Landon and Pernell Roberts. Eddie Gilbreath CMC Scaffolding Contractors My favorite show to watch growing up was Smallville. It is still one of my all time favorites. I have nine seasons of Smallville on DVD today. It is a TV series based on the DC Comics character Superman. The show ended after the 10th season in 2010. It was a really good show! Casey Rich, AC Plumbing Supply Inc. I watched basketball games on TV! I still

do today. Jason Kwak, K-1 Tools Co. Inc. I always liked the Dukes of Hazzard as a kid. The show was on CBS from about 1979 to 1985. Cal Trevino, Master Craft Woodworks I didn’t watch many TV shows growing up, but I did like to watch baseball games on TV with my father. My all time favorite team to watch on TV was the Atlanta Braves. Jorge Vazquez Bravo U-Bolts & Fasteners Inc. I spent more time outside playing soccer than watching TV shows Juan Hernandez, C & E Stone Supply

Submitted to Construction News

Texan pride

Texas-sized acquisitions

ith two acquisitions, Stantec has doubled its size in Texas. The North American design firm acquired both the Infrastructure Americas Division of KBR last December and multidisciplinary firm Bury Inc. in March. With Texas offices in Dallas, Austin and Houston as well as an office in Alabama, Infrastructure Americas has added 180 professionals (120 which are in Texas) with transportation, water/wastewater and aviation project experience to the Stantec team. The acquisition of the division will strengthen Stantec’s presence in Texas and enhance its infrastructure design capabilities in the Gulf region. Austin-based Bury Inc. boasts 300-employees in offices in Dallas, Houston and San Antonio, as well as locations in Arizona and Florida. The firm, which has been in business for more than 30 years, offers infrastructure and buildings design services to private and public sector clients. Bury Inc. focuses on civil, mechanical, electrical, plumbing design and structural engineering, as well as surveying, land planning and landscape architecture. The Bury acquisition will help Stantec gain a foothold in the transportation, water and architectural markets, as well as contribute to staff growth. Stantec plans to benefit from Bury’s wealth of experience in community development, as well as the experience of Bury’s staff. Bury officially becomes “Stantec” in September, but will be referenced as “Bury, now Stantec” in the interim, and will continue to operate in Bury’s current offices. Fermin A. Diaz, Stantec’s Regional Gulf Leader, believes both acquisitions promise to be a good fit for Stantec.

Stantec’s Regional Gulf Leader Fermin A. Diaz

“The asset purchase in December 2015 of KBR’s Infrastructure Americas Division, coupled with the recent Bury Inc. acquisition, reflects Stantec’s commitment to provide a comprehensive and diverse level of services to meet the challenges and needs of our clients,” Diaz says. “Both firms complement Stantec’s philosophy to ‘design with community in mind.’ The addition of this talent to our current Texas team provides us the opportunity to expand multi-disciplined services and offer a full suite of professional services from local, trusted partners.” Stantec offers professional consulting in planning, engineering, architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, surveying, environmental sciences, project management and project economics. –mjm

The E.E. Reed Construction Houston staff had fun on Go Texan Day in late February. –ab

Construction News ON LOCATION

Tools for success

Taking supply orders

L-R: Tim Piggott and Edgar Benitez man the counter at Johnson Supply in Humble. –ab

Construction News ON LOCATION

Everything in the right place

L-R: Julio Arevalo and Ysidro Martinez organize the showroom at Solar Supply in Humble. –ab

Jason Kwak says it is an exciting time to be a part of the Houston construction industry.

-1 Tools Co. Inc. opened in Houston in 1983. Jason Kwak is the general manager and his father Sung founded the company. Diversifying to serve more commercial construction customers, Kwak says the company has had a better year in 2016 than previous years. “The commercial side of the business has really picked up over the years,” he said. “We have many more displays at our store with different items.” Kwak enjoys meeting many folks in the construction industry, such as masonry and concrete contractors, on a daily basis. Kwak says he started out working at the company after school and on the weekends as a kid. Today, his responsibilities are making purchase orders for companies and helping customers find tools.

“My hobbies in my spare time are working on cars and watching basketball,” he said. “I am a Houston Rockets fan.” Kwak also plays the drums on a praise team at the Korean Presbyterian Church. “In addition, I like watching soccer games on television,” he said. “My father enjoys going fishing when he gets the time on the weekends. He goes out to the jetties in Freeport to catch flounder trout and redfish.” Kwak says he plans to continue running the company for years to come. “We want to keep doing what we have always done,” he said. “We look forward to helping more commercial construction customers in the future.” K-1 Tools Co. Inc. provides hand and power tools to the construction industry. – ab

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Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Hitting the target

50 years of subcontractors

L-R: George Kissimiss, MAREK; Ron LaRicci, Camarata Masonry; John Burkhart and Bud Walters, Pieper Houston Electric; Darlene East, Holes Inc.; Rick Kloss, Pieper Houston; Shannon MacArthur, MEMCO; Jennifer Whiting, Fast Track Specialties and Brianna Wright, ASA Houston

1st Place: Building Concrete Solutions LP

ontractors headed out to the Greater Houston Gun Club for the Advocacy Sporting Clays Tournament Feb 22. Twenty seven teams had a fun morning of clay shooting. After the tournament, attendees awaited their scores and settled down with some barbecue from Goode Co.

The Associated General Contractors (AGC) Houston Chapter held the event. –ab Congrats to the winners! 2nd Place: Bundren Painting 3rd Place: Holes Inc.

Construction News ON LOCATION

Power trio

he American Subcontractors Association (ASA) held its national convention, SubExcel, Mar. 3-5 at the Hyatt Regency in Miami, FL. The annual conference also celebrated the 50th anniversary of the association, for which the association created an anniversary book detailing its history. Ten individuals from ASA Houston Chapter member companies attended the event. During the event, ASA presented its prestigious Excellence in Ethics Awards to three Houston member companies: Haley-Greer Inc. and Holes Incorporated and MAREK. Shannon MacArthur, MEMCO, chair of the ASA Task Force on Ethics in the Construction Industry, announced the awards. Event highlights included the president’s welcome reception, a city tour of Miami and an outing to the Vizcaya Mu-

seum & Gardens for spouses, the ASAPolitical Action Committee’s South Beach Culinary Walking Tour, a tour of Little Havana for executive directors, and the Biscayne Lady Dinner Cruise 50th Anniversary Celebration with a reception, banquet and awards gala on the final night. The three-day event also offered many educational programs. At the opening general session, “The Economist Who Loved Me,” Anirban Basu provided data on the performance of the global, national and relevant regional economy, focusing on trends in financial, real estate, energy and labor markets. Other education programs included “Outpacing Technology, Trends and Rising Expectations in the Trades,” an “Ask an Attorney” workshop with the ASA Attorney’s Council, “To Manage Stress, Rekindle Your Spirit,” and a workshop on compliance communications. –mh/ab

Industry FOLKS Angela Cotie Project Executive Gilbane Building Co.

L-R: Luke Townsend, Velltrice Martin Black and Victor Borjas accomplish their daily goals at Bobcat of Houston. –ab

ight out of college, Angela Cotie came to Houston to build the Astro’s Stadium. She has worked from Texas to Pennsylvania on every type of project from historic preservation, zoo projects, to schools and even a Spongebob Theater. “I had always dreamed of being an architect – I loved old buildings and the idea of turning them into something new,” Cotie said. “I decided to study architectural engineering at Penn State University, and it is there that I discovered construction management.” Cotie says she loved the idea of solving problems and putting together the puzzle and logistics of a project. “There are very few careers that let you be part of something great, and construction lets you do that every day,” she said. “You change neighborhoods, sky lines and make people’s dreams come true. A building is something that will last for generations.” Cotie says she enjoys the fact that no two days are ever the same. “Every day is something new as the project grows, and you never stop learning,” she said. If a young women wants to pursue a construction career, Cotie says don’t let anyone stop or discourage you. “Be confident and be yourself,” she said. “Find experts that you trust on construction jobs and ask them ques-

tions. No one expects you to know everything, but make sure you keep asking.” Cotie is a LEED Accredited Professional as well as a Certified Interior Decorator. She is currently the chairman for the Houston ACE Mentor Program and is currently working on a team to support the building playhouse program for Girls Inc. in Houston. In addition, Cotie volunteers her time with other local community organizations throughout the year, including Galveston Career Connect and the Boy Scouts Bay Area Council. “Construction is one industry where a great deal of experience can take you very far, which is an excellent thing, however I feel strongly that everyone needs to learn a skill,” she said. “With a skill that you are excited and passionate about, the opportunities are endless.” –ab

Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Page 15

Women in Construction Blazing a trail Alexandra Wilstrom, Project Manager McCarthy Building Companies Houston TX

hat is your background in the construction industry? After graduating from college, I started working for a heavy civil general contractor (The Conti Group) based in New Jersey and New York City that focused on transportation projects for NJDOT and federal projects with the USACE. During this time, I worked on a variety of different projects, with everything from highway and bridgework, marine work, homeland security upgrades, and superfund site remediation. I also worked for about a year in New Orleans with the USACE on several hurricane protections to expand the levees, floodwalls and floodgates after Katrina. I worked for Conti for almost five years before accepting a position with McCarthy Building Companies in Texas. Since coming to Texas, I have worked with McCarthy’s Marine Group to construct a new layberth facility for MARAD and reconstruct a container yard at the Port of Houston. Currently I am the project manager on the Harrisburg Overpass project for

METRO, which expands the light rail service to Houston’s East End. Why did you choose a career in the construction industry? In college I started off as a mechanical engineer but after freshman year changed my major to civil engineering. I always enjoyed the practical hands on application of civil engineering and knew I wanted to be outside and not sitting at a desk all day doing design work. I also enjoyed the challenge of planning and executing the process of building something, so I decided to apply my civil engineering background to the construction industry. What are the benefits of a woman pursuing a construction career? The construction industry needs more gender diversity, and woman have all the necessary skills to be successful in the industry (particularly our ability to multi-task). Until more recently, I don’t think engineering and construction were career choices that were really presented to

More opportunities for women than ever Sandra Johnson, president Edge Electric, Driftwood, TX

hat is your background in the construction industry? My parents have owned a construction company for nearly 20 years so I grew up learning the ins and outs of the industry. However, I only started working within the industry in 2009, when Edge was incorporated. Why did you choose a career in the construction industry? Construction chose me! I was supposed to be a real estate agent, actually I still am, I just haven’t sold anything in six years! I got my license to sell real estate the same year my husband and I incorporated Edge. I didn’t think the company would grow as quickly as it did but it began to require my presence and attention more and more often. I honestly believe there was a time frame in which I worked every waking second, A/P and A/R 7am to 4pm and showing houses in the evening and weekends - leaving no time for my family or myself. I had a tough decision to make - Real Estate or Construction??? Obviously, I chose the latter and I’m glad I did because it has been an amazing experience building a successful business with my husband by my side. Do you have a mentor? Please explain. Common sense tells me that if you strive to be successful your best bet is to learn from those who are already successful. And if you find someone who is willing to share their knowledge for suc-

cess you should listen! But the key is to actually use the advice they give. My business advisor doesn’t always tell me what I want to hear - even so, I follow his instructions. For example, a couple years ago we were offered a $2 million project in Louisiana - literally just needed to sign the dotted line. Our advisor, with good reasoning, suggested we turn it down. And abiding by the law of common sense and listening to words of the wise we reluctantly declined the contract. What are the benefits of women pursuing a construction career? Women are emotional creatures by nature - so the fact that you are able to be a part of something bigger, like building a city, is pretty fulfilling. I was born and raised in Austin so being involved with the growth of my hometown makes me so proud! Almost every corner you turn downtown, I could point out a building where we’ve worked. What do you enjoy most? I’ve worked in offices where the tension was so thick you could cut it with a

women as an option. Now women are more exposed to construction as a career choice, particularly during school, and they are realizing that construction can provide an exciting, challenging and rewarding career. What do you enjoy most about your career? I enjoy the challenge of problem solving that is required on a daily basis when running a construction project. No two days or projects are ever the same and you are constantly learning something new or a better way of doing something. Working in construction, I enjoy the balance between the technical side and working with the design engineers, and the logistics of planning and executing the work in the field. In your experience, are more opportunities opening up for women in construction? Yes, I definitely think that more opportunities are becoming available for women in construction and more women are considering construction as a career while they are in college. Many companies are increasing their focus on recruiting more woman now, especially new hires straight out of school. Construction is still very much a male dominated profession but there is no reason that driven women cannot be just as

knife - I woke up every morning dreading the day ahead of me. So when we opened our company it was very important to me that we create a peaceful and inviting environment for our employees and in return I walk into an amazing atmosphere every morning. I love my job and the people I work with! What specific challenges have you faced? There’s really nothing easy about building a business from the ground up. But I have to say that one of my biggest challenges have involved growth. Unless you had a rich uncle kick the bucket and leave you a small fortune you should be prepared for the long haul. Rapid growth requires substantial capital, if you don’t have the capital you can simply grow your business slow and organically. How did you overcome those challenges? We didn’t have the “rich uncle capital” so we grew it slow, reinvesting every penny of profit for several years. We set annual goals considering the strain of growth on cash flow and our labor force - taking on only as much work as necessary to meet our goals while remaining profitable. Typically we grow 20%-30% per year. In your experience, are more opportunities opening up for women? Definitely! What areas do you see the most increase in jobs for women? There’s really NOTHING a women can’t do in our industry! I see women of all ages with a wide range of skill sets within the construction industry. Business owners, upper management positions, wom-

NEXT MONTH IN FOCUS

successful in this industry as men. What advice can you offer women who want to pursue a construction career? To be successful in the construction industry you have to be willing to work hard and prove yourself, which is true for anyone but even more so for women. Women who are successful in this industry have to be driven, have self-confidence, earn people’s respect, and not be afraid to blaze their own trail at times. Which is more important for a construction career - education or experience? In construction, education gives you a technical background but experience is invaluable. You learn how to put work in place and solve problems by spending time in the field. It’s not something that can be taught in a class room. Construction is still an industry where you can work hard and, with desire and leadership skills, you can move up to a management position without a formal education. Regardless of how someone gets their start in construction, experience is still most important and something that cannot be rushed. You have to put your time in. –ab

en with trade certifications, etc. What advice can you offer women who want to pursue a construction career? This isn’t my quote but I like it, “You can’t force someone to respect you, but you can refuse to be disrespected.” –unknown. I used to think that just because I signed someone’s paycheck they should naturally respect me but I’ve learned that respect must be earned (that applies to men, too). But as a woman in a predominately male industry we have to maintain confidence and consistence in our work to earn the respect of our colleagues and customers. Which is more important for a construction career – education, or experience? I believe experience is more important - I know lots of successful women in our industry with no more than a high school education. From a woman’s perspective, has the construction industry changed over the years? Things have changed dramatically in the last 10 years - women aren’t just running the office anymore - they own the office, they run the field, they design and engineer projects, women are assets to successful businesses! What are your goals for the future in the construction industry? A perpetual goal of mine is to maintain a healthy business. We’re looking forward to another 20 percent in growth for 2016. –cw

Concrete Industry May 2016

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Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Women in Construction Living and learning as a woman in construction Hilda Ochoa, Vice President 8A Electric San Antonio, TX

ike many women in the construction industry, Hilda Ochoa balances several roles in her life. She is a mother, the vice president of 8A Electric, a director of the Associated General Contractors (AGC) San Antonio Chapter, and chair of the AGC’s Construction Leadership Forum (CLF). She’s also on the association’s Education Committee. “I have to say that I am a mother first and foremost and that will never change,” says Ochoa. “My daughter will always come first.” She observes that a pivotal key to balancing these roles is having a support system, which includes her father, her mother and other family members. One of the reasons she entered the construction industry was because her position has allowed her to be a mother to Iza, who turns 5 years old this month, while working for her father, the president of 8A. She adds that friends and colleagues serving with her on the committees are also very supportive. They rally around each other, and they understand and appreciate the importance of her role as a mother. She brings her daughter with her to industry events and functions, and the

people at the AGC know Iza. “I think the construction industry offers a lot of opportunities for women that women don’t know are there, because it has been viewed historically as a maledominated industry,” she explains, noting that though it is still heavily male, she believes more women have been introduced to the industry through various education programs. As part of the Education Committee, Ochoa helps to expose women and minorities to opportunities in the construction industry. She says that construction requires skills in areas where women naturally excel, strengths such as organization, planning and scheduling. “I think that project management roles are ideal for women,” she says. “Yet a lot of women don’t know that. That

Plenty of opportunity for women in construction Riki F. Lovejoy, President National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) San Antonio, TX

hat is your background in the construction industry? I have been in the industry since 1985, starting as a receptionist for a national general contractor. By the time the company had a layoff I was a project manager. At this point, in 1990, with a male partner, we opened a carpentry/ concrete/miscellaneous specialties company. By day I worked in the field alongside our crew on commercial projects; by night, I was president of the company and all that entailed. Due to personal issues, both for my family and my partner’s, we closed the business in 1992. From there, I went back to work with any city’s history and/or footprint. a couple of local general contractors and Do you have a mentor? I don’t think I can honestly say I have finished my education. In August 2001, I opened RFL Consulting Solutions in Or- had A mentor, and certainly not for this lando, FL. We are a construction man- industry. What I will say is that the supagement consulting firm specializing in port I received from the ladies in the Naowner and lender representation on tional Association of Women in Construccommercial projects and moved to the tion (NAWIC) was probably the biggest San Antonio area in October 2012. factor in staying in construction and conWhy did you choose a career in the tinuing to pursue career goals. And to be construction-related industry? perfectly frank, I really did not realize the Prior to 1985, I had worked both in knowledge and leadership skills I had rethe hospitality and insurance industries ceived from being an active member unbut knew that neither of these was to be til 20 years after becoming a member and a life-long career for me. I had also becoming a part of the national board. worked as a part-time secretary/book- Not that I want to shamelessly plug keeper for a masonry subcontractor. The NAWIC, but I truly believe I would not VP of the company would take the office have had the ‘moxie’ to pursue the startstaff on ‘field trips’ to visit the various ing of my companies, working in the field projects we had going. From these field with little skill but learning as I went trips I found it fascinating to watch a along, co-authoring in women’s issues building literally rise from the ground. I books, doing workshops and other prerealized that this was a very ‘tangibly’ re- sentations, or even becoming the presiwarding career opportunity. I also real- dent of NAWIC. ized that I could make better money to What are the benefits of women pursupport myself (and later, others) nicely. I suing a construction career? love the fact that 10 years or more later, I There are sooooo many avenues in could drive by a building that I had a part the construction industry that can be in and realize that the building is a part of pursued. When someone first says ‘con-

doesn’t mean that we don’t make good workers out in the actual field, because I think that we do. I think that there are a lot of opportunities there as well, but I think it’s about exposure at this point and just letting women know that these jobs and careers are available to them.” Emphasizing the value of education, for men and women, as the key to advancing in anything a person does, Ochoa notes that she always continues to learn “as a mother, a VP, as everything and anything.” One thing she has learned while working in the industry is that some of the adversity she has felt isn’t necessarily because she’s a woman, but because of the nature of the business. When asked if she felt that it took more time for her to be accepted or that she has had to earn being seen as an equal a little more, she responded that in some instances – not always – that she has felt she has to work a little bit harder, but she sees a different reason. “The construction industry is a highrisk industry, and the folks that you do business with want to know who they’re doing business with. So, a lot of the time, I think that maybe I have put that undue pressure on myself that ‘Oh, it’s because I’m a woman.’ Well, I don’t know. “Now that I’ve been involved with the industry a little bit more, I think it has more to do with the jobs that we do as an industry and the risks that we take on in

every single aspect of the job. It has more to do with the risk in the industry than the fact that I am a woman. So, I have to reel myself back in when I put myself in that frame of mind, because I have to definitely coach myself and say, ‘Hey, remember the job that you’re doing. It’s about the job. It’s not about you.’” While education helps to combat some of the preconceptions women have about working in the construction industry, Ochoa thinks that women hold themselves back from pursuing opportunities in the industry because of stereotypes. “I definitely think that the biggest impediment to women in the industry are women ourselves,” she observes. “I think that a lot of these programs that are out there are doing a good job of tearing down these stereotypes, but we need to do a better job. I think there is a double standard that we impose on ourselves. And I think that we can definitely overcome that by having more female role models in the industry trying to pull in other women.” Ochoa notes that Katherine Willis, T.H. Willis, was the one who encouraged her to join the board of directors at the AGC. Also crediting Doug McMurry for being an advocate of women having a voice and presence in the association and industry, Ochoa says it is crucial that women in the industry bring other women to the table to be heard too. –mh

struction career’, the first thought is the field/trades people, which I’ll get back to. Architects, engineers, contractors, business owners, developers, are next in line. But because of the very nature of construction, attorneys, CPA’s, bookkeepers, insurance/bonding agents – all must have knowledge specific to construction. With all this said, women can find themselves in any aspect of construction to be able to support themselves and their families very well. What specific challenges have you faced in your career? Early on in my career, being taken serious that I knew what was going on with a project and wasn’t ‘the secretary’ was very frustrating for me. Also, with the first GC that I worked with, I was actually passed over for a PM position for a guy that had literally just got out of college and I was asked to ‘train him’. In the field, I did have to work twice as hard to prove that I could do the work as well the guys and there were some uncomfortable moments with being approached by guys with perhaps another agenda for my being in the field. And I think the worst challenge is the port-apotties! Uggghhh! How did you overcome those challenges? In the case of the PM pass-over – I let the boss know in no uncertain terms that this was not a fair decision. I did have support of a couple of the other PM’s in the office so after I let loose on them and calmed down, with their advice, I talked to the VP (who had hired me in the first place and knew I was looking to rise in the company). Two things happened shortly after this conversation – first ‘the guy/PM’ really proved himself to be near worthless… and, because I was still covering his butt, I finally got the promotion. I’m pretty sure the pay scale was not the same, but I still felt accomplished. The field work – I con-

tinued to work hard, kept up with the crew, and, in fact, found out later that my partner used me as a benchmark for hiring and staying employed with us. He told all new hires, first, can’t have a problem with working with a woman in the field and second, ‘gotta keep up with her’. For the uncomfortable moments, I basically just had to face the issues head on, probably taking on a little more ‘male attitude’ and then just staying cautious about being alone with any of the troublesome workers (none on my crew – these would be from the other subs on the project). And, the port-a-potties – well, just had to hold my nose and get through it the best I could! What advice can you offer women? Talk to women that are currently in the field of choice. If a woman thinks she wants to pursue the trades, talk to tradeswomen about the challenges they face in the field. Which is more important – education, or experience? Obviously, it really depends on career choice, but in general, I think experience is the greatest education. For tradespeople, although there is an amount of education needed, to acquire skill it is experience. But being of the contractor persuasion, I have also always said that architects and engineers should have an internship period of actually working in the field. I have had both, but I learned more from the experience. What are your goals for the future in the construction industry? To not have to have this discussion about women in the construction industry. For not only women to realize the benefits of choosing a construction career but for the industry as a whole to understand the importance of having women and their influence in making this industry a career of choice for everyone! –cw

Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Page 17

Round-Up

Taking the bronze

Skanska USA has promoted Josue Reyes to vice president/account manager. Reyes has more than 17 years of experience in the construction industry. He joined Skanska in 2007 and has served as a project executive on large-scale projects in the higher education, healthcare and government sectors. Reyes holds a bachelor’s degree in Construction Science from Texas A&M University. He recently relocated from San Antonio to Houston.

Project Control, a subsidiary of Raba Kistner Inc., has promoted of Paul G. Hawryluk, PE, to regional vice president. He will serve as the company’s representative in the Bryan-College Station and Houston markets and surrounding areas. He will be responsible for operations, leadership, construction project management and business development. Hawryluk holds two B.S. degrees from Texas A&M University.

The KCI Technologies Inc. Houston office has hired mechanical practice leader Christopher W. Qualls, PE, CEM. His responsibilities include facilitating client relationships, quality control and geographic expansion as well as mentoring young engineers and managing design standards and tools. Qualls holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Arkansas State University.

Byron Bevers, PE, has recently joined the Lockwood, Andrews & Newmand Inc. (LAN) Montgomery County office. Bevers will be responsible for the office’s business development efforts.

competitors will play an important role in the future of merit shop construction.” The National Craft Championships featured a field of more than 200 craft professionals from 32 states competing for top honors in 15 competitions across 13 crafts. Competitors first took an intense, two-hour written exam and then competed in daylong hands-on practical performance test. The competition was developed in 1987 to help celebrate and recognize craft training in construction careers. Each year the competition draws some of the nation’s most talented craft professionals and highlights the important role that craft skills training plays in the construction industry. The National Craft Championships Committee, which is composed of leading merit shop construction firms, plans all year for the twoday competition. –ab

Association Calendar

Submissions

he (ABC) 29th annual National Craft Championships took place in Fort Lauderdale, FL In early March. Jacob Henson, RPM Services Inc., won the bronze medal in the millwright competition event. Henson was presented with the award during ABC’s Careers in Construction awards ceremony on March 4. Henson is currently finishing his training program at ABC’s Texas Gulf Coast Chapter. In addition to the medal, he also received a cash award of $350 from ABC, tools from Hilti and Klein and a pair of boots from Keen. “The dedication to top-notch construction, quality craftsmanship and world-class safety exhibited by this year’s champions is truly impressive,” said 2016 ABC national chair David Chapin. “With the workforce shortage facing the construction industry, each of this year’s

Round-Up

Jacob Henson, RPM Services Inc., won the bronze medal.

This is a monthly section for brief company announcements of new or recently promoted personnel, free of charge, as space allows. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Email (w/digital photo, if available) by the 15th of any month, for the next month’s issue (published 1st of each month). Email info to appropriate city issue, with “Round-Up” in the subject line: –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– San Antonio: saeditor@constructionnews.net Austin: austineditor@constructionnews.net Dallas/Ft. Worth: dfweditor@constructionnews.net Houston: houstoneditor@constructionnews.net South Texas: STeditor@constructionnews.net

Content submitted by Associations to Construction News ABC Associated Builders & Contractors

Apr. 2: YPC Community Garden Project Apr. 6: Blueprint Boot Camp Apr. 18: Spring Clay Shoot For more information call 713-523-6222

AGC Associated General Contractors

Apr. 1-2: 25th annual Barbecue Cook-Off & Fair, Sam Houston Race Park’s West parking Apr. 25: AGC/AIA Golf Tournament, Champions Golf Club For more information call 713-843-3700

AIA American Institute of Architects

Apr. 28: Gulf Coast Green, Midtown Arts and Theater Center Houston (MATCH), 3400 Main St. For more information: www.aiahouston. org

Construction News ON LOCATION Gaskins (McIntosh Group) and Jeremy Murphy (ACI)CDT Exam Cram For more information go to http://scr.csinet.org/ or email holly.jordan@hok.com

FPA Foundation Performance Association

Apr. 13: Monthly meeting, 5pm, The HESS Club For more information: www.foundationperformance.org

IEC Independent Electrical Contractors

Apr. 20: Monthly meeting For more information call 713-869-1976

MCA Mechanical Contractors Association

Apr.13: Membership meeting, 11:45am, HESS Club For more information call 281-440-4380

NECA

ASA

National Electrical Contractor Assn.

American Subcontractors Association

Mar. 30 – Apr. 1: Future Leaders Conference Apr. 7: Coastal Sabine Division meeting Apr. 14: TXGC Division meeting Apr. 14: TXGCLMP meeting Apr. 18: Houston Affiliate Golf Tournament Apr. 26: Houston Division meeting Apr. 27-28: SWHBF meeting For more information call 713-977-2522

Apr. 8: Golf Tournament, 10:30am, Longwood Golf Club Apr. 21: General Lunch meeting, 11:30am May 3: Houston Fall Prevention Safety Day, noon-4pm For more information call 281- 679-1877

ASCE American Society of Civil Engineers

Apr. 7-9: Texas Section Student Symposium in Lubbock at the United Supermarkets Arena. Concrete Canoe Races, Steel Bridge Building, Career Fair. Call 512-4728905 for more info

CSI Construction Specifications Institute

Apr. 14 – 16: South Central Region Spring Conference and Trade Show, Hilton Houston Post Oak Conference Center, 2001 Post Oak Blvd., Houston, Continuing Education:Leadership Education with Heath SuddlesonAccessibility with Brad

Friendly disposition

TSPE Texas Society of Professional Engineers

Apr. 8: Monthly meeting, 11:30am, The HESS Club For more information: www.tspe.org

WCA Women Contractors Association

Apr. 7: Luncheon, 11:30am, Maggiano’s Little Italy, 2019 Post Oak Blvd. Apr. 21: Boots & Bling, 6pm, Redneck Country Club, 1110 W. Airport, For more information: www.womencontractors.org

Branch manager Ernie Hernandez looks up information about HVAC equipment and supplies at Insco Distributing Inc. –ab

Page 18

Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Grand gathering in Alamo City

he Associated General Contractors (AGC) held its National Convention Mar. 9-11 at the Grand Hyatt in San Antonio. Approximately 2,300 people attended the three-day event. The convention coincided with the AGC Charities Operation Opening Doors extreme build project, Morgan’s Inspiration Island, which will be the first-ever ultra-accessible water park when it opens in spring 2017. While in San Antonio for the convention, national officers visited the Inspiration Island jobsite, where 31 local member companies were working on the most ambitious community service project in the history of AGC. A video about the project was shown at the convention’s opening session. The AGC Technology and Construction Solutions Expo, which was open all three days, hosted breakfast and lunch for attendees. Some of the notable events were a contractor’s prayer breakfast, a luncheon for AGC spouses and guests, an AGC PRO & Glenfiddich VIP Event, a first-time attendee reception, the Construction Safety Excellence Awards and the Alliant Build America Awards Luncheon. Among the educational sessions offered were “How Do Owner’s Define Value in Their Construction Projects? A Lean Perspective,” “Future Forecast: How

Drones, Sensors and Integrated Apps Are Rewriting All the Rules,” and “Are Your New Hires Ready to Work?” The AGC also offered its own version of TED Talks, ConstrucTED Talks, including “Meeting Diversity Hiring Goals in your Trade Workforce” for the association’s Federal and Heavy Construction Division, and “Understanding Multigenerational Perspectives: The Key to Developing Enduring Organizations. Congratulations to AGC Houston Chapter members SpawGlass Construction Corp., Tellepsen, Anslow Bryant Construction, Ltd., and Satterfield & Pontikes Construction Inc. for winning awards. In the Building Division, Tellepsen won 1st Place in the 400,000-600,000 work hours category and SpawGlass Construction Corp. picked up a 1st Place for 200,000-300,000 work hours category. In Construction Management, Satterfield & Pontikes Construction won 3rd Place in the 200,000-900,000 work hours category and Anslow Bryant Construction captured 3rd Place in the under 200,000 work hours category. Satterfield & Pontikes Construction also won the 2016 Alliant Build America Award for the Texas A & M University Francis Hall Renovation. The project won in the Building Renovation, Under $10 million category. –mh/ab

continued from Page 1 — Insulation station to work in the field until things picked back up again,” he said. “Right now, construction is doing very well.” In his free time, Mantooth started a machine shop as a second business. “As the price of oil goes up, the shop will get busy,” he said. “I am building up the company now. The manufacturing machine shop provides CNC machine work.” His hobbies are racing Corvettes and riding four wheelers with his son, attending his son’s soccer games and spending time with his daughter, 2.

“My son is showing interest in the insulation business,” Mantooth said. “He is familiar with the equipment. He loves to visit jobsites with me. “My future plans are to grow the insulation business and also work on the machine shop. Our phone keeps ringing because we do what we say we are going to do.” Star Insulation provides industrial and commercial insulation work in the Houston area. –ab

continued from Page 1 — Friends open doors out in the field these days. We do whatever we have to do to provide unparalleled customer service.” According to Combs, the garage door repair business has become more advanced in recent years with computers and cell phones. “We have more emails and texts coming in every day,” he said. “There is constant communication. It is crazy!” When Combs and Ford aren’t doing garage door repair work, they love going hunting and fishing with friends and family. “We go fishing at a lake outside of Dallas,” he said. “We like to catch bass and crappe.

“During hunting season we go deer hunting at a property in East Texas. We always look forward to attending Whispering Pines Baptist Church on Sundays.” Combs and Ford plan to operate the company for about five more years until it is time to retire. “We are going to turn the company over to the young guys and we are going to move on,” Combs said. “The guys are getting good experience right now. We want to teach the younger guys if you put Christ first and work hard, you will make it!” Agape Overhead Doors provides residential and commercial garage door sales, installation, service and repairs. –ab

continued from Page 1 — Church bells ring

Submitted to Construction News

Trophy carrying golfers

The sanctuary

Congrats to the Tubelite team for winning the 1st Place Gross category at the Houston Area Glass Association (HAGA) Golf Tournament at the Houston National Golf Club Mar. 10. –ab

beautiful hill-country style architecture,” Rochester said. The client, David Muntsinger, senior pastor of Spring Cypress Presbyterian Church, says it was a pleasure working with Rochester, Morales and the 1st Choice Roofing & Construction team from start to finish.

“It is our prayer that this renovation will make the church more accessible and more beautiful to the community of Spring,” Muntsinger said. “Our new sanctuary is a tangible expression of God’s grace and beauty.” Locally owned and operated, 1st Choice Roofing & Construction is a commercial and residential general contractor and roofing company, specializing in both commercial and residential renovations, new construction projects and roofing. The company serves the greater North Houston area. –ab

Houston Construction News • Apr 2016

Page 19

Cheers for 10 years

Submitted to Construction News

Performance matters

Attendees from many companies dressed up in costumes.

he Balfour Beatty Construction Houston office celebrated their 10th annual Charity Barbecue in February. In partnership with their clients and trade partners, the event raised over $30,000 to support Texas Children’s Hospital. Guests enjoyed a plate of tasty barbecue and cheered for their favorite booth and costumes. Balfour Beatty Construction provides general contracting, at-risk construction management and design-build services. –ab

Spirit Winner: Karsten Interiors 1st Place Dessert: Agile Ofis

Brandon Mabile focuses on business development at Performance Contractors Inc. Established in 1979, the company provides all phases of industrial construction. –ab

1st Place Open Meat: Iron Access 1st Place: Chicken: East Texas Precast 1st Place Ribs: Suncoast

Submitted to Construction News

Going to the top

1st Place Brisket: BMF Solutions

Satterfield & Pontikes Construction (S&P) celebrated the completion of steel erection on Klein Independent School District’s new high school by hosting a traditional toppingout ceremony in late February. –ab Big City Access

Way Engineering

Submitted to Construction News

Backed by science

Gonzales Commercial Electric Inc.

Shepley Bulfinch Houston office representatives attended the University of Houston Health & Biomedical Sciences Center groundbreaking ceremony Feb. 29. The 300,000-sf building is scheduled for completion in late 2017. –ab

Submitted to Construction News

A day in the life of an architect

Gregory-Edwards

Attendees gather for a barbecue lunch.

VLK Architects hosted five students from Klein Collins High School for Job Shadow Day at the Houston office in February. This mentorship event, started by Klein Collins Administration and Career Counseling Departments, provided students with the opportunity to learn about the professional world through connection with professionals that are experts in their fields of interest. –ab

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Houston Construction News â&#x20AC;˘ Apr 2016