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A special build
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with the Embree Group, a full house sponsor with HFHWC. Embree volunteers will be on site at 204 Valley Street, Georgetown, during the build on Wednesdays and Saturdays through the middle of August, to complete the Torres/ Quirino home. “Working with Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County and McCoy’s Building Supply on this endeavor is truly an honor for Embree Group,” said Philip Annis, Embree president. “The opportunity to build a house for the family where they can establish roots and create a home is a two-fold blessing. It reminds us that we are blessed with the opportunity to give back, while providing
Volume 15
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Number 7
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JULY 2016
Fur-works, not fireworks
First nail in with Elda Quirino, Philip Annis (Embree), Dylan Torres, Frank Krenec (Embree), and Rocky Hardin (Embree).
n May 14, more than 65 employees of Embree Group of Companies joined forces with Habitat for Humanity of Williamson County (HFHWC) to build the panels for a Habitat home on May 14 at the McCoy’s parking lot in Georgetown. By noon, the walls were put together and the framed house was standing in the parking lot. The home is for Dylan Torres and Elda Quirino and their two children. The panel build event offered volunteers the opportunity to add a personal touch by writing their names or messages to the homeowners on the 2x4s that will become permanent parts of the home. The event kicked off a 12-week new home construction build in Georgetown
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Plenty of people gathered in Dripping Springs for the annual crawfish boil.
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he aging fireworks warehouse had been standing at the corner of Hudson Bend Road and FM 620 for over a decade. Today, this warehouse is an example of adaptive reuse, after Polkinghorn Group Architects Inc. (PGA) designed a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital. “Our client was wanting to build a new animal hospital after we discovered that it was going to be too expensive to renovate the existing one,” says Lindsay Works, president of PGA. Founded in 1972 by James Polkinghorn, PGA currently has 10 employees and specializes in healthcare, with projects in more than 12 states.
Audrey Wernecke is also a partner in the firm. “In the beginning, we were involved in many types of projects,” Works says. “Now we specialize in healthcare and have completed several veterinary hospitals as a sub-specialty of our practice.” The firm also handles commercial, educational and institutional facilities. Located in the southwest area of Austin, Works says PGA takes care of its clients, as well as its employees. “It is our policy to keep principals involved in every project from start to finish,” he explains. “The goal is to bring projects in on budget and on time. So far, continued on Page 17
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Unique ‘village’ offers unique park
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obert Mueller Municipal Airport opened for service in Austin in 1936. After 63 years, however, the airport was officially closed in 1999 – but that wasn’t the end of the story. The City of Austin, along with some visionary thinkers, already had plans beginning for a unique, mixed-use urban village, aptly named Mueller, on the 700acre site. The first commercial projects, including Dell Children’s Hospital, opened in Mueller in 2007, the same year construction began on the first single family home. Now, with single and multi-family homes, plus retail stores and hospitals, the area is home to approximately 13,000 people – and people need parks to play in. Enter Fazzone Construction Company, which has built two of the parks in the 140 acres of green space in the Mueller community. John Gaines Park – Mueller Southeast
Children of all ages will find something to love about Mueller’s newest park.
Swim Center was a three-phase $3.8 million project started in January 2015 and finished in May 2016. The park is 3.6 acres and features many architectural, landscape and hardscape elements, including: a community garden with 132 garden plots, covered work area, compost bins and tool shed; a community pool with separate children’s wading pool; a pool house with green roof, water harvesting, and solar shade structure; a children’s play area with climbing net, hills, tunnels and swing set; and picnic areas and large open lawns for field games. “The pool house was designed with special architectural features, including open air courtyards, built-in rain water cisterns, xeriscaped green roofs designed by the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in collaboration with Stanley continued on Page 17
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Austin Construction News • July 2016
Austin Construction News • July 2016
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Submitted to Construction News
Open for business
Girl power!
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oughly 200 people came to celebrate the grand opening of ACES A/C Supply Inc. newest location in Austin at 1810 Rutherford on May 20. Talented employees cooked up fajitas to serve to the hungry crowd. Debbie Voss is vice president of the Southwest Division, which covers Austin, San Antonio and Corpus Christi. According to David Collins, vice president of sales, there are eight ACES locations in Texas. –cw
National Association of Women in Construction Austin Chapter (NAWIC) was invited to judge a presentation on May 14 by the 10th grade students currently enrolled in the Engineering Pathway program at The Ann Richards School. They recently renovated their courtyard in an effort to create a peaceful place for students to eat and study. NAWIC member Sandra Johnson says they did a fantastic job with the construction portion as well as the presentation. Pictured in the middle, Toni Osberry of AGC, Austin Chapter vice president; Sandra Johnson, Edge Electric, Austin Chapter director; and Chaundra Callaway, Equipment Depot, Austin Chapter president. –cw
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The cooks made sure nobody went away hungry.
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Austin Construction News • July 2016
My mother died in 2005 and my father died in 1992.
Glyn Landrum General Manager and former owner Current Electric Inc. San Marcos
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lyn Landrum left his hometown of Rockport to attend Southwest Texas State University (now Texas State University) in San Marcos and never left. He received a degree in biology in 1977 and attended graduate school for a couple of years before leaving to go to work for what was then M&N Electric in 1980. After years of working for the company, Landrum bought it in 1994 from Eddie Mutschlechner, after Mutschlechner had sold the business once and had to buy it back. Landrum sold Current Electric in 2014 to Paul Siglinger and Clif Mitchell, but has remained on as general manager – a post he plans to retire from in about five years. I don’t think I’ve seen Glyn spelled that way before. Where does that spelling come from? My mother did that to me! I didn’t know until I was in college that it is the feminine spelling of the Old English name. The male spelling is Glynn. I was in an English class and the professor was handing back papers and he started calling “Mrs. Landrum”. He is the one who informed me my name was the feminine spelling! Are your family’s roots in England? We are a mix of all kinds of things. My mother was German, her name was Loyce Shults. Her mother named her Lois, but she changed it to Loyce. She marched to the beat of her own drum. I look like her but my personality is more like my dads. My father was Robert “Bobby” W. Landrum. I have his skin.
Tell me what your parents taught you. My mom taught me to have faith. She had a kind heart and was always for the underdog. I grew up in the church but strayed away from it. Later in life I realized the principles she taught me and rejoined Westover Baptist Church in San Marcos to practice my faith in Jesus Christ. People here say I’m a good guy. I feel that she helped me learn how to be grounded. My dad worked for Ashland Chemical in a carbon black plant as a shipping manager and in the lab. He had a great work ethic – what I learned from him is to show up on time, which means 15 minutes early. He always worked. When his job became an 8-5 job, he sold cars on the side. In 1970, he bought a 1956 Chevy and restored it. That’s what he drove and everybody knew him. He was for the underdog, too. He was on the board of the Navigation District for many years. Both of my parents were involved in the community. Tell me about your siblings. I have one brother, Robert Linden “Linny” Landrum. Linny retired and moved to San Marcos and now he is an employee at Current. I said, rather than sit around, come work for me and he’s been here ever since. My sister Mellinee is deceased. Tell me about Current Electric. Eddie changed the name in 1986 when he bought the company back. Eddie and Ted Breihan trained many of the electricians in the San Marcos area. Ted still has a shop, Ted Breihan Electric, and he’s still working. We work together to help each other. We trade experiences and borrow men from each other. It keeps the employees busy in slow times. When I bought the business, my wife, Pamela, was president and James “Jimmy” Bolton was vice president. Pamela was a teacher but she retired in 1999 and came over here. We applied for HUB certification and got it in six months. That was really good for us, particularly for work at Texas State University. There is a workplace shortage now. We used to fill a little niche here but now we go anywhere. The new owners have three electrical companies and they use employees from all three companies across the state.
Glyn and Linny Landrum are close brothers and work together at Current Electric.
Why did you sell the business? It was time. I signed up with International Business Exchange and that’s how we came to find Paul and Clif. It’s worked out well. They became interested July 2014 and we worked out all the details in October 2014. I kept the property and they bought the business. I had some health problems and the running of the business was causing too much worry. I can sleep at night now! I want the business to succeed but I don’t have near the amount of stress. So, now you are looking forward to retiring in five years? Yes. There are three of us. Myself, Jimmy and Clay Mutschlechner, Eddie’s son. Jimmy has been here since 1980 (he left and came back in 1986) and Clay has been here since 1978.
school, but I didn’t really know her. She also came to San Marcos for college and that’s when we really met. We got married in 1976 and we have two children, Todd, 38, who is a journeyman electrician but is now a stay-at-home dad and Sarah, 34, a historian for the Texas Historical Commission. We have five grandchildren. They call me Buddy. Do you and Pamela like to travel? She likes to go to Cozumel, so we usually go and stay for four to six days. We also like to take our RV and go to Concan and Leakey. May 22 was our anniversary. We are going to Colorado in August. We like to go to Estes Park. There is a cabin there we like to rent.
What will happen when the three of you retire? We have some good young electricians in their late 30s and early 40s here. They can do the latest technology. In October 2015, we were hiring – we had so much work. These excellent electricians just walked in the door. I think the good Lord was looking after me. Pamela works two days a week and helps out a lot in the HR department. She did all the bookwork for 16 years.
What do you two do for hobbies? I terraced my backyard and I like to sit back there. I like to do nothing! I think I wore myself out! Pamela likes to work in the garden and entertain the grandkids. She’s always moving. I went hunting last year before Thanksgiving. Supposedly I’m a hunter, but really, I just like to go out there and enjoy nature. In college and after, I got a deer every year. I like it more now for the relaxing aspect.
Tell me about Pamela. Pamela (Rowan) also grew up in Rockport. I knew who she was in high
Who would you buy a coke for? My brother, Linny. We are very close. –cw
Get reel
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he Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) held its 13th annual Fishing Tournament at Woody’s Sports Center in Port Aransas in May. Roofing contractors and suppliers from across the state attended the event. A captain’s party took place at The Back Porch Bar. Trout Trucking provided fajitas and sausage wraps to participants. –ab
First Place Heaviest Stringer: Team Atlas - Al Casteneda, Brad Jones, David Culbreth and Dan Whitford.
Austin Construction News • July 2016
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Investing in the future
Photo by Steve Huedepohl Among HOLT’s leadership and members of the local government present for a significant moment in HOLT CAT history were L-R: Dave Harris, president and COO, HOLT CAT; Tommy Calvert, Bexar County Commissioner; San Antonio Councilwoman Rebecca Villagran, Dist. 3; Hazel Holt, Peter’s older daughter; Peter J. Holt, executive vice president and general manager, HOLT CAT; Penny Holt, Peter’s younger daughter; Lauren Kate Holt; San Antonio Mayor Ivy Taylor; Judge Nelson Wolff; Holt Richter, Corinna’s son; Corinna Holt Richter, executive vice president and chief administrative officer; J.B. Richter
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ith state, county and local dignitaries in attendance, HOLT CAT hosted a groundbreaking ceremony Jun. 14 for a new state-of-the-art headquarters building at its San Antonio campus. The expansion represents more than a $20 million property investment. Dave Harris, HOLT president and COO; Peter J. Holt, HOLT executive vice president and general manager; and San Antonio’s Mayor Ivy Taylor were among the speakers who addressed more than 200 attendees at the groundbreaking. The three-story, 84,000-sf building will include integrated technology, traditional offices and multi-functional conference facilities. RVK Architects designed the new headquarters, and Joeris General Contractors is the GC for the project. The new building will also feature a large lunchroom with a fresh food vending area and a connected outdoor patio, and an employee fitness center with full locker rooms and shower facilities. Ex-
pected to open in the third quarter of 2017, once completed, the new headquarters building will consolidate administrative and corporate functions. With 39 locations across North, Northeast, Central and South Texas and more than 2,300 employees, the San Antonio campus is home to more than 700 of the company’s employees. While the heavy equipment and Caterpillar dealer has a presence statewide, HOLT is based in San Antonio. “The HOLT organization has been part of San Antonio since 1933, and this groundbreaking ceremony was in celebration of the last 83 years,” says Joe Carreon, corporate marketing manager for HOLT CAT. “Our investment in this new facility marks the company’s commitment to the community and to the southeast side of San Antonio. We are very excited about this new facility, as it will include state-of-the-art amenities to accommodate the needs of our employees and our customers.”–mh
Sunshine support
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Huckabee, Austin
hen Mansfield Independent School District asked Huckabee CEO Christopher Huckabee if his architecture and planning firm would participate in their “Colors for Caring Day” on May 2nd, Huckabee didn’t hesitate. The initiative, started by Mansfield ISD superintendent and cancer survivor Dr. Jim Vaszauskas, encourages the community to wear a color that represents a cancer affecting a loved one. Despite the short notice, Huckabee rallied his entire team in the company’s Dallas, Fort Worth, Austin, Houston, San Antonio and Waco offices to wear a color for his 12-year-old niece, Ellie Fetner, who is battling cancer. The color he picked? A lively orange! The employees combed their closets for all things tangerine-ish. Because
many of the staff members are Texas Tech Red Raiders or Texas A&M Aggies, the color was a little hard for some to find in their wardrobes. Fortunately, Huckabee ordered orange shirts to fill in the gaps. The staff also made signs with the hashtag #EllieStrong to show support for Ellie. The staff’s outpouring of support is no surprise to those who work for the company. “Huckabee is a very close-knit company who would do anything for each other,” Huckabee’s Courtney Foster says. “We call ourselves a ‘Huckafamily.’ Rallying behind our CEO and his family to show our support was a no brainer, but the opportunity to show support for one of our clients on top of that made it that much better.” –mjm
Construction News ON LOCATION
Fasten up
Winning experience
Robert Van Hoove and Trey Brannen, owner of Brannen’s Inc., supply fasteners and other supplies to the construction industry. –cw
Felicia Foster was recently recognized with four awards from the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin.
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elicia Foster, principal of Barron Custom Design, is a thirdgeneration Austinite and proud of it. Her roots go deep in Austin culture, and her grandfather was the first threetime All American at the University of Texas in the 1940s. Although Foster established Barron Custom Design in 2003, she has more than 27 years of experience in real estate, landscape, architecture, design and construction. Currently, her firm handles residential design, small commercial design, large-scale remodel additions and consulting. “It’s my job to shepherd people through the process, and design something that is truly a reflection of them from step one,” Foster says. “It’s also my responsibility and pleasure to choose things that are in-line with their budget and meet their needs. Everyone deserves a well-designed house.” Foster relates a funny story that happened one day when she received a
call from a potential customer who was looking for someone to remodel her house. “She was a referral, and it turned out after discussing the house, that it was one that I drew back in 1990,” Foster says. “Luckily, I hadn’t designed it, but I had been working for an architect at the time. Now we’re great friends and it has led to multiple other projects. Being in business for as long as I have, I truly believe it is the relationships that you build in the business that matter the most.” On Apr. 12, Foster was recognized for her success by earning four MAX Awards for Best Custom Home Product Design by the Home Builders Association of Greater Austin (HBA). “I love living and working in Austin,” she said. “It is such a fantastic city and the people are what make it such a great place to live. My business is always evolving as the city does, and I can’t wait to see what happens next!” –cw
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Austin Construction News • July 2016
Heat-related illness
Internal fraud and controls
Wes Pitts USI Southwest Austin, TX
Cari Takao, shareholder Fisher Herbst & Kemble PC San Antonio, TX
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ummer heat can be more than uncomfortable; it can be DEADLY. Every year thousands of workers become sick or worse from heat exposure. Heat illness is preventable, and many corporate safety policies and/or employee manuals do not address heat related illness.
Symptoms vary in intensity but can include: • Dizziness, weakness, nausea, headache, and possibly vomiting • Blurry vision • Body temperature rising to 100 to 104.9°F • Sweaty skin • Feeling hot and thirsty • Difficulty speaking A person suffering from heat exhaustion must move to a cool place and drink plenty of water. Heat Stroke Heat stroke is the result of untreated heat exhaustion. Symptoms include: • Ceasing of sweating • Body temperature rising rapidly to above 104.9°F • Confusion or delirium • Loss of consciousness, seizure Call 911 or seek medical professionals. Keep the person cool until help arrives. Place cold compresses on the neck, armpits and groin (where blood vessels run close to the skin). If the person is awake and able to swallow, administer fluids. Normally, the main source of heat is generated internally by your body. The body exchanges heat with its surroundings mainly through radiation, convection, and evaporation of sweat. Radiation is the process by which the body gains heat from surrounding hot objects, such as hot metal, furnaces, or steam pipes, and loses heat to cold objects, such as chilled metallic surfaces, without contact with them. Convection is the process by which the body exchanges heat with the surrounding air. The body gains heat from hot air and loses heat to cold air, which comes in contact with the skin. Evaporation of sweat from the skin cools the body. Evaporation occurs more quickly, and the cooling effect is more noticeable with high wind speeds and low relative humidity. In hot and humid workplaces, the cooling of the body, due to sweat evaporation, is limited because the air cannot accept more moisture. In hot and dry workplaces, the cooling, due to sweat evaporation, is limited by the amount of sweat produced by the body. Heat related illnesses occur when atrisk workers build up metabolic heat faster than their bodies can release it and
cool down. In a limited study of 20 cases investigated by OSHA, in which 13 deaths occurred, it was found that four of the deaths occurred on the first day of work in a new job, or after returning from time away from the job. Three deaths occurred on the second day, and two on the third day (9 deaths within the first three days). Long-term workers made up the other 4 deaths. In cases that involved heat illness but not death, the number of days on the job did not appear to have an effect. Studies have found that the failure to support acclimatization appears to be the most common deficiency for employers that have employees at-risk, and the factor most clearly associated with death. Employers need to provide time for workers to acclimate when they have been absent from work more than a few days (for new workers or workers returning to a job, where exposure to heat related illness may occur). Important elements for employers to consider when addressing heat related illness include assigning a responsible person for developing and executing a heat related illness prevention program within the company. Goals for the program should include plans for: 1. Gradual acclimatizing of workers; 2. Monitoring the temperature (e.g., heat index and wet bulb globe temperature) of their worksite; 3. Worker hydration (water) before, during, and after work; 4. Providing shaded and cool areas for rest breaks; 5. Modifying work schedules to reduce workers’ exposure to heat; 6. Training workers on the signs and symptoms of heat illness; 7. Monitoring workers for signs of heat stress; 8. Planning for emergencies and response; and 9. Documenting the above with Safety Training Sign-In Log Discuss ideas with your agent about creating a customizable Heat Illness Prevention Program that can be easily incorporated into your safety and employee manual. Wes Pitts is a Sr. vice president and Southwest Regional Construction Practice Leader for USI Southwest - Austin, TX, USA. Wes can be contacted at 512-651-4107 or Wesley.pitts@usi.com
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h what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive. But once we’ve practiced for a while, oh my, how we have improved our style.” – Unknown perpetrator Occupational fraud is a deception deliberately practiced in order to secure unfair or unlawful gain by employees, managers and/or executives/owners. The main ingredients for fraud is best illustrated as a triangle with three sides known as opportunity, pressure and rationalization. Some common mistakes an owner or manager make in relation to fraud: • Trusting an employee implicitly with no oversight of their activities; • Not requiring approval on significant transactions; • Having an over reliance on outside auditors or tax accountants to catch fraud; and/or • Giving complete control with no segregation of duties or review processes put in place. Most fraudsters are long time employees that are well trusted, well liked and have had no prior criminal history. Anyone can commit fraud! No business is immune to fraud! Some common types of fraud to be on the lookout for: • Skimming (taking money and never recording) • Check-tampering (forgery) • Billing schemes (creating and paying fictitious vendors) • Payroll schemes (paying fictitious employees or giving unauthorized pay rates) • Inappropriate expense reimbursements • Non-cash and other schemes (stealing tangible equipment or inventory) • Collusion or management override So you know why, how and who, now what can you do? Opportunity is the only thing a business owner or management can control in the fraud triangle. However, they should try to be alert for pressures and perceived rationalizations an employee might be experiencing. Opportunity is mainly controlled through internal and compensating controls. Owners should understand the perception of deterrence and prevention. Controls are developed to deter fraud and to keep honest people honest! Remember power perceived is power achieved. Controls should be implemented at any size organization. Internal Controls are defined as the process by which management structures an organization to provide assurance that an entity operates effectively and efficiently, has a reliable financial reporting system and complies with applicable laws and regulations. A successful system of internal control is not built
overnight, but is an ongoing process of fine tuning the inner workings of an organization. Many organizations summarize internal control systems in operational handbooks and manuals so it can be an easy referral point. A system of internal control is necessary to help employees and other partners understand the attitude and objectives of the organization as a whole. Internal controls provide reasonable assurance to customers and other parties that transactions are recorded properly in a timely manner. Internal controls help provide a “trust but verify” environment. Some basic controls that should be considered are as follows: • Establish communications on the importance of controls starting at the top; • Conduct monthly reviews of bank statements (with images) by owner or governance group ensuring timely bank reconciliations are completed; • Establish employee educational programs and incentives to proactively reduce fraud by: Establishing a “fraud hotline” using a professional service firm; and having a Code of Conduct policy with all employees required to adhere to the requirements therein. • Ensure computer access controls are implemented on the accounting system and bank cash management system at a minimum. Administrative rights should be limited to just a few. • Conduct background checks prior to starting work for all employees in sensitive positions (controller, CFO, high level managers, etc.); • Conduct analytical reviews of financial reports by owner/governance group within 30 days of the month end selected searching for anomalies or unexpected budget variances; • Conduct monthly reviews of manual adjustments to financial records by an independent person; • Ensure segregation between preparer and signer of checks/payments. Additionally, upon check signing, the signer should review invoices for reasonableness in relation to the business; and • Ensure segregation between deposit money into the bank and recording the receipts in the accounting system. Hopefully, this gives you some simple and efficient ways to manage the opportunity that is present in your company. Cari Takao, CPA is an assurance shareholder for FHK. Contact her at 210-477-2712 or at ctakao@fhkcpa.com
Submitted to Construction News
Tee spree
SpawGlass’s Doug Worrell, Jeff Eubank, Michael Connell and Ron Wylie (not pictured) were the first place winners at the Associated Builders & Contractor Central Texas Chapter (ABC) annual Spring Golf Tournament. –cw
Austin Construction News • July 2016
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Wired! Are attorneys’ fees still recoverable in successful contract actions? Bethany F. Thompson, shareholder Gardner Law San Antonio, TX
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onstruction lawyers in Texas have been relying on certain statutes to recover attorney fees and expenses for their clients in contract claims for decades. However, within the last couple of years two courts have issued decisions that substantially narrow the application of one of the most frequently used attorney fee recovery statutes regarding contract claims. The first of the two cases is Fleming & Assocs. LLP v. Barton, 425 S.W.3d 560 (Tex. App.—Houston [14th Dist.] 2014) and the second case is Hoffman v. L&M Arts LLC, 3:10-CV-0953-D, 2015 WL 1000838, (N.D. Tex. Mar. 6, 2015). This shift is significant, as an important part of the decision by subcontractors and suppliers on whether to pursue legal action is whether or not they can recoup their attorneys’ fees. In Texas, a party cannot recover their attorneys’ fees unless a statute or contract expressly gives them that right. Many times, parties rely on Section 38.001 of the Civil Practice and Remedies Code which states that if there is a recovery of a claim based on an oral or written contract, “a person may recover reasonable attorneys’ fees from an individual or corporation.” Previously, the statute referred to “any person or corporation” where “person” is defined to include “partnerships, among others.” See section 1.002 of the TCPRC providing the Code Construction Act applies to the TCPRC. However, the word “person” was changed to “individual” in 1985 when the statute was recodified. Both of these recent cases turn on the use of the word “individual” as opposed to “person.” In the Fleming case, the court considered whether 38.001 allowed for recovery of fees against a limited partnership. Unlike the previous term, “person,” the court noted the term “individual” is not defined in the Code Construction Act and determined the ordinary meaning did not include a limited partnership. Based on this, the appellate court concluded the trial court erred in awarding attorneys’ fees. In the Hoffman case, the court considered whether 38.001 allowed for recovery of fees against an LLC. Defendants challenged the application of this
statute based on their status as an LLC, as opposed to a corporation. The terms “individual” and “corporation” are undefined within the statute. After considering the legislative history of the statute and various applicable arguments, the Court concluded an LLC is an “other legal entity” not within the scope of Section 38.001 and denied the request for fees. In the 2015 legislative session HB 230 was introduced and passed by the Texas House of Representatives which would have modified the statute to include the terms “or other legal entity” however the bill did not make it through the Senate. As a practice point, construction industry parties need to remember that attorneys’ fees in Texas can also be recovered if a contract provision allows for them. Parties who typically furnish labor or materials pursuant to contracts, should be especially vigilant to always include terms allowing for the prevailing party to recover their fees. Bethany F. Thompson is a Shareholder with Gardner Law in San Antonio, Texas, and her practice focuses on construction litigation. In a time when many cases settle before trial, she has first chair state court jury trial experience, arbitration experience, and bench trial experience in federal court. Ms. Thompson represents general contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers on a variety of issues including contract drafting and negotiation, lien and bond payment claims, delay and defect claims, and contract default and terminations. She has presented seminars for a variety of organizations throughout the state, guest lectured on construction contracts at Texas A&M, and is active in both her local chapter of the American Subcontractors Association and the Attorney Council for the national level of ASA. Contact: bthompson@ gardnertx.com.
The turnout for this year’s event surpassed last years.
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he Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) of Central Texas hosted its annual Trade Show and Wire Off at Norris Conference Center in Austin on
May 31. Despite heavy rains, the turnout was larger than last years, with lots of vendors and raffle drawings. –cw
All the competitors received gifts from Milwaukee manufacturer and Klein Tools.
And they’re off! Competitors, got down to show off their skills.
L-R: Eric Peralez, training director, David Johnson and Lyndall Groos, instructor First place winner
L-R: IEC’s Edith Rodriguez and Erica Waiser were the center of attention for the raffle drawing.
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Austin Construction News • July 2016
The doors of opportunity
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t’s been a long and winding road since the inception of Schweiss Doors in 1980. But during that span of over 35 years, many doors “literally” have opened for the start-up company. Owner Mike Schweiss relates how he got started in the door business. "It was 1980,” he says. “I was at a wedding dance. A friend commented, ‘Mike, you build lots of different things. Why not a door that folds up?’“ At that time, Schweiss and his three employees were manufacturing things like farrowing crates for sows, snowblowers, farm trailers, tile plows and something called the Schweiss Chicken Plucker! "It was the Chicken Plucker that gave us name recognition and, in fact, got us going financially," Schweiss laughs. His first bi-fold door measured 12 x 12 ft., and was installed on a Renville County highway shed, 10 miles from Schweiss' country factory location between Fairfax and Hector, MN. The door is still in operation. Custom quality During years of manufacturing doors of all sizes and shapes, requests kept coming in from customers who wanted Schweiss Doors to help them with their own personal door project to specifically fit their application. Schweiss listened and answered the challenge to design or make alterations to their door. “Bingo, that’s when the fun began to spread,” says Pat Schmidt, promotions director. “We hit a few home runs and saw the need and requests for unique custom-made doors. That’s how our “Designer Doors” got their name.” Schweiss says this line has become global. “We have completed and installed many beautiful and elegant, off-the-wall
given new meaning to the term "hangar home." The structure is 50' wide x 60' deep x 30' tall, all metal. “However, a 45' x 15' Schweiss hydraulic door sporting a wrap-around porch with decorator railing, table and chairs, a walk through" door with stylish window, and veranda roof gets your attention,” Schweiss says. More recently, the company started a sideline enterprise to retrofit 40-foot steel shipping containers with designer doors on the front and sidewalls. The units can be used for a variety of purposes ranging from home and construction offices to hunting cabins.
Mike Schweiss standing in front of a Schweiss bifold liftstrap door.
designer doors resulting in making many end-users very happy,” he says. “We delivered them a real factory showpiece they could be proud to show off. The designer doors have become a strong market for us. Architects and designers are calling from around the globe. We are now designing and manufacturing hydraulic and bifold doors from hangars to storefronts and residences that are mouthwateringly beautiful. They dream it; we build it!” More than one to make a team Schweiss Doors is a family run business. “I am acutely aware that a successful company is only as good as the people who work there,” Schweiss says. “I realized early on that to be the best you have to have highly skilled employees.” Coming up with new and better products is an ongoing challenge for Sch-
weiss and his 60-70 employees. Really big doors to unique apps Last year, Schweiss fulfilled orders from SpaceX for rocket development facility doors installed on a new steel hangar at Cape Canaveral. The largest of the two is a Bifold Liftstrap door, 90 ft. wide x 61 ft. tall. The second door on that shipment is 40 ft. wide x 69 ft. tall. Each of the doors is equipped with automatic latches and is windrated to 150 mph. After they arrived at the site they were clad in 26-guage sheeting and have 4-inch blanket insulation. Bottom-drive 480 volt, 3 phase motors and patented Schweiss liftstraps do the lifting of these doors that exceed 53,000 lbs. The Hydraulic lifting porch hangar door, a classic Florida hangar home Schweiss wall/porch door, has drawn national attention by television networks. It has
It’s art When customers request something, Schweiss employees look forward to taking on the challenge of satisfying them. “We are passionate and serious about manufacturing doors and try each and every day trying to manufacture a better door. In 1998, we invented our current patented liftstrap design that uses straps instead of cables. Liftstraps are stronger, maintenance-free, safer and lift doors faster; it was a real game changer in the bifold door world,” noted Schweiss. Schweiss office personal have stepped up just to handle the designer door requests and love working on these one-of-a-kind custom doors. Many hours of design and engineering goes into these special doors. “It’s really rewarding to be able to participate in someone’s dreams and Schweiss provides years of door knowledge to enhance each and every designer door — it’s more than a door, it’s a piece of art. Adding beauty to a structure is what Schweiss Doors does with each and every style door we manufacture,” Schweiss says. –cw
What’s the last thing you splurged on? We splurged and upgraded everyone to a 24” monitor. My son convinced me that it would improve productivity and moral. Everyone loved it. Chris Strand, Stan’s Heating and Air Conditioning, Austin We are taking a weekend vacation to Galveston and we splurged on renting a car for the trip instead of using our cars. That way the trip there feels like a vaca-
tion as well. Richard Weiss, Weiss Architecture Inc., Austin Dessert for an employee’s birthday party (Diane Johnson). We enjoyed a Nothing Bunt Cake. Wow, it was worth the splurge DJ Anderson, New Stone Concepts, Austin Finally had some down time by taking an out of town weekend trip! It rained part of the weekend but it didn’t matter… David Matula, 360 Electrical Contractors Inc., Austin We are taking a trip to Colorado in August. Glyn Landrum, Current Electric, San Marcos Our daughter is getting married on Oct. 1, so that is a splurge. I’m not sure we had a choice in it though! Robin Wurzell, Wurzell Builders I splurged on a pair of Luchese crocodile handmade boots and a trip to Vegas! Daniel Sauceda, Hull Supply Co., Austin I splurged on retooling the people in the company by bringing in new, young talent, while still valuing our long-term employees. Mike Nazar, Austin Canyon Corporation, Austin I splurged on a trip to Seattle with the family. Stacy Johnson, Austin Canyon Corporation, Austin I want to splurge on a new propane grill, really badly. I almost had myself talked into it for my birthday, but lost my nerve. Cyndi Wright, Austin Construction News editor
Austin Construction News • July 2016
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I am sharing this info with you so that everyone that fishes or is exposed to the water in ours or any bay system need to be aware of the dangers that can occur. This infection probably started with a wading boot that rubbed my skin raw and infection set in after that. Things can progress so quickly, you really have to keep an eye on any open cut or wound you have. If there is the slightest sign of irritation, don’t hesitate getting it checked out by your physician.
Cautions while wading 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.
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ummertime has arrived folks, and you will start to see larger crowds on the water through Labor Day weekend. Fishing has remained consistent throughout the month of May even with all the rains and inconsistent wind directions throughout the month. June finds us continuing with the same weather patterns we had last month, even with a little more bizarre weather patterns. I always welcome Texas summer rains, but it seems this season we’ve had more than our share, especially central and northern parts of the state. I would like to share an incident that happen to me the last week of May while wade fishing with some clients. I woke up on a Saturday morning with a burning sensation on a spot near my ankle after a day of wading the King Ranch shoreline a few days prior. Thinking it was a spider bite or some other insect bite, I dismissed the irritated foot and went on my day’s charter with my clients. Shortly into the morning I started to feel chilled and aching all over my body. I knew something was not right but was determined to finish my day with my clients. As the day progressed, so did the pain in my leg until I had had enough. By the time I got back to the dock, my leg was swollen and the redness had spread from my ankle to my calf. That afternoon I went to the Physicians Premier ER to get checked out. After explaining to the doctor that I had been wading in the Laguna Madre, he didn’t take any chances and started me on an IV antibiotic. He then informed me that I was being transferred to the hospi-
Flounder have been showing up in good numbers. Randy Wyatt of San Antonio caught this 5 lb. flounder last month while fishing with Steve Schultz Outdoors.
tal. Later that evening I went to Bay Area Hospital where they continued with the antibiotics intravenously. Doctors were not sure where the infection started because I had no open wounds on my leg and I was sure that I had not been poked by a fish or anything else. After a few days in the hospital with continuous antibotics being run through my body, they determined that it was a bad case of “Cellulitis”. Cellulitis is a common but potentially serious bacterial (streptococcus or staphylococcus) infection of the skin and underlying skin tissue. Cellulitis develops when bacteria invade the skin, often when skin is broken or open. When bacteria spread under the skin and into the soft tissues, the body reacts by creating inflammation. I was released after four nights in the hospital and put on oral ABX. After several days I went to see my family physician and he immediately took one look and admitted me back to the hospital. Long story short, I spend a total of 12 days in the hospital continuously receiving ABX through an IV. What started as a small irritation on my leg turned into a major infection in my leg that I wouldn’t wish on my worse enemy.
Summer schedule is filling quickly but fall dates are still available. Don’t wait until the last minute to book your dates. To schedule your next bay fishing trip give Capt. Steve Schultz a call or text at 361-813-3716 or 361-334-3105 or e-mail him at SteveSchultzOutdoors@gmail. com. Good luck and Good Fishing.
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Austin Construction News • July 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 D&W Painting
I can dependably find my favorite places, but that is balanced by knowing that if it fails for any reason, all I have to do is look around me and get home the low tech way like my grandpa did. I never used to take my cell phone fishing because I didn’t want the distraction. Now I always have my phone on me. I like to be able to pull up real time weather radar when I need it, but it doesn’t replace the good weather sense passed down to me by my Dad from his father. Now days my son Max runs the charter trips. He has added a big trolling motor with gps that can keep up with where you are, put you where you want to be and hold your spot without having to throw an anchor. That sure beats hauling in anchor lines, but you couldn’t appreciate how nice it is unless you’d done it the hard way! I love how far we’ve come, but it’s nice to always know the way back!
Technology and the fisherman
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ere I sit in my lawn chair with my toes in the water at the edge of the lake trying to type this in. Fishing is all done for the day. I have a cold beverage at hand, the beginning of a nice sunset before me and a cool breeze on my face. My little laptop computer is waiting on my thoughts and all I can think about is I hope some mad little nesting perch doesn’t take a swipe at my toes and make me jump, upsetting the whole apple cart. Such is the relationship of a sportsman and his electronics. Our whole way of looking at the outdoors we love so much can be greatly enhanced by our new technology…as long as we can keep it working. Don’t drop it, wet it, run over it or forget where you left it (Heaven help you if it was camo colored!). Most importantly though, don’t become overly dependent on whatever the gizmo is. When I started striper guiding on Lake Buchanan in 1981, my first piece of electronic fishing equipment was a Lowrance X-15 chart recorder. For the first time in my whole fishing life I could finally see beneath the waves, look at the contours of the lake bottom and even see fish! (Even if they didn’t really look like fish!) Next were the electronic downriggers and learning the process of combining the downriggers ability to deliver the baits to the fish I could see down there without getting all tangled in the treetops the fish love to lurk in. I still think there was no better way to learn the bottom of the lake you fish because every time you make a mistake and get hung up, it costs you money in lost tackle and lost time. I still remember the first time I watched a big fish make a run at my bait! I really resisted giving up my X-15s with all their rolls of paper and stylus replacements. I finally changed over to the new fish-finders with display screens and gps. I never looked back because now I could see things in color and with more detail. No more on the water maintenance of the graph and no more having to remember my fishing spots by visually triangulating with landmarks. I love that
Ferguson
Submitted to Construction News
That’s how you do it!
Submitted to Construction News
Beach building
According to Kurt Goll, architect with Journeyman Company, this is what happens when an architect takes his son to the beach. Looks like Kurt’s son, Miles Goll, 17, got into the spirit of beach building. According to Kurt, Miles plans to be an architect and builder just like his dad. –cw
Kevin Charboneau, ELK Electric field superintendent, and Johnny Torrance, Crawford Electric salesman, landed a big catch at Port O Conner recently. –cw
Submitted to Construction News
That’s the way to party!
360 Electrical Contractors, Austin, threw a party/picnic/BBQ for its employees on Jun. 4 at Emma Long Park at Lake Austin. –cw
Austin Construction News • July 2016
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Outlook: Successful!
DJ Anderson, partner at New Stone Concepts in Austin, took this low fence deer, above, last fall in Coryell County while hunting with his dad and brother. On the right, DJ, Eric Arredondo and Graham Reid went fishing with special guest, Mr. Heineken! –cw
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Austin Construction News • July 2016
Electrical Industry Dealing with challenges in electrical industry John M. Grau, CEO National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Milwaukee, WI
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s the voice of the $130 billion electrical construction industry that brings power, light, and communication technology to buildings and communities across the U.S., the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) is tasked with finding solutions to the problems facing the industry. There are always challenges to address, but we’ve managed to make tremendous progress on several fronts in the past year. I’m optimistic NECA will continue to be a leader moving forward. Two of the biggest issues impacting the industry today are dealing with the shortage of workers at both the craftsperson and management levels and keeping up with technology. NECA has made inroads in both areas. First, we’re addressing the shortage of workers in several ways. Through the jointly sponsored National Labor Management Cooperation Committee (NLMCC), NECA and the International
Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, there has been more than $1.75 million committed in the past 16 months to the manpower development effort through job fairs and recruiting events. The Electrical Training ALLIANCE, a joint training program sponsored by NECA and the IBEW, has been ramping up its efforts at the local level in both growing and diversifying its student population. This year alone, NECA employers have brought in more than 8,000 new employees (more than a 30% increase) from outside the construction industry into apprentice and other entry-level programs. NECA and the IBEW contribute almost $180 million annually to deliver training through their local joint apprentice programs. The NECA/IBEW partnership is currently training more than 30,000 apprentices nationwide. NECA is reaching out to two groups in particular: young people and women.
By 2019, it is estimated that the projected shortage of skilled workers in the U.S. will number 1.5 million, and part of that gap can be made up by bringing more qualified women and young people into the fold. Women In NECA, also known as WIN, was established in 2009 to provide a collaborative forum for women affiliated with NECA-member companies, chapters and LMCCs. WIN works to make NECA – and the industry as a whole – stronger by advancing women’s goals for professional growth. NECA also supports student chapters at universities that that promote working in electrical contracting, and we regularly host Industry Nights for job seekers as well. Our apprentices – and apprentices across the board – have embraced the technological advances occurring in recent years. We see members starting to adopt many new technologies, such as drones, and experimenting with augmented reality devices, tracking devices and 3D printing. The construction industry is being greatly impacted by augmented reality with real-time visualization of projects, better collaboration and communication, increased safety, greater implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM), and projects being delivered on time and within budget. Augmented reality technology and research is providing exciting solutions to improve overall construction quality and efficiency. Cloud-based document
management for improved real-time communication and mobile solutions for punch lists and subcontractor management are being enhanced by augmented reality overlays. Technology in this area is enhancing the world of construction in many ways. As integrating technology into business operations is one our members’ major concerns, we have launched NECA Technology, the Project for Applied and Disruptive Technology, as a new initiative. It explores the world of technology and keeps members informed of what is happening today and what will be launched in the not-too-distant future. It is spearheaded by Joey Shorter, NECA director of research, who has an extensive background in education and experience in translating the work of academics into understandable, practical ideas. NECA remains focused on finding the nation’s top talent for the electrical contracting industry and equipping them with the skills they need to succeed. Technology will always be a part of the equation, and I look forward to opportunities that allow us to expand our reach and continue to grow. Mr. Grau became NECA’s chief staff officer in April 1986. Previously, he was executive vice president of the Milwaukee Chapter, NECA, and served as a field representative associate with the NECA Western Region. –cw
Austin Construction News • July 2016
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Electrical Industry High tech, customer savings in electrical industry Tyler Cannon, Branch Manager City Electric Supply Kyle, TX
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second annual survey by Klein Tools that found higher percentages of electricians who prefer to work on high-tech installations, and home technology remains the most widely viewed residential trend by electricians. The survey included results from 400 union and non-union electricians. Tyler Cannon, branch manager of a local Klein dealer, City Electric Supply, says the trend is reflected in sales. “We’ve seen an increase of 30 percent in sales over the last 12 months,” Cannon says. He attributes that to the economy and the current construction climate in the Austin area, with hotels and gear and lighting packages. “The construction environment has had an impact on sales,” he said. “But our product line has pretty much stayed the same.” The Klein Tools’ State of the Industry survey found preferences towards working on industrial projects, office buildings and commercial properties have stayed relatively the same since last year. There was a noticeable increase, however, in the number of union electricians, and electricians with 10 to 19 years’ experience, indicating they prefer to work on high-tech installations. · This year, 42 percent of union electricians say they prefer working on hightech installations, up from 31 percent in 2015. · The survey also found 51 percent of electricians with 10 to 19 years of industry experience said they prefer working on high-tech installations, a significant increase from 24 percent in 2015. In comparison, 29 percent of electricians with less than 10 years’ experience said they prefer working on high-tech installations, and only 24 percent of electricians with more than 20 years’ experience said they prefer working on high-tech installations. “We’re seeing increased interest from younger electricians and apprentices in high-tech systems. They see opportunities to work on the latest technology
as a way to gain experience in an area of future growth and like the challenge associated with learning a complicated skill,” said Mark Klein, president of Klein Tools. “It’s great to also learn many experienced electricians are taking a fondness to more advanced systems and want to keep up-to-date on their craft. This allows electricians with varying levels of expertise to learn from each other on the
jobsite and advance the entire industry as technology continues changing the way we operate.” The Klein Tools’ State of the Industry survey also found electricians are seeing more smart or “connected” homes in residential areas. Technology in homes is the most popular trend viewed amongst electricians - over open living spaces, home additions and multi-family homes. However, multi-family homes have significantly increased since 2015. · Nearly one-half of electricians, 48 percent, are seeing more smart or connected homes in the residential area— just slightly down from 56 percent in 2015. One-third of electricians, or 31 percent, are seeing more multi-family homes in the residential area, up significantly from 25 percent in 2015. “This tech-focused residential data aligns with what we’re seeing in the industry,” Klein says. “Contractors are calling for more technicians who are skilled in newer, more digital-tech focused sys-
tems, and technicians are doing their best to keep up with this developing trend. Klein Tools is working with its partners to ensure younger electricians are trained in the old and new news models so they are prepared for all types of scenarios on the job site.” Cannon, who has been with City Electric Service for four years, says one change is in LED lighting. “LED has been around for 15 years, but it really started taking off in the last three to four years,” he says. He says the benefits of working in the electrical supply business include seeing the end result of the electrical materials supplied and seeing people save money on LED lighting and other hightech installations. City Electric Supply is a family-owned electrical wholesale business dedicated to providing service and support for customers in the residential, commercial, and industrial markets since 1983. –cw
Picnic kick
K
oetter Fire Protection of Austin LLC annual employee picnic was enjoyed by all – even some who accidentally got a little wet! More than 100 people attended the event, held Jun. 5 at Reunion Ranch. Ca-
noe races, tug-of-war, Bingo and all the fun things offered by Reunion Ranch kept kids of all ages engaged. Food included barbecue, watermelon and ice cream. Headquartered in Dallas, with affiliated offices in seven other major Texas cities,
General manager Jason Ferguson, his daughter Jaycee and other attendees posed for an annual photo
Koetter Fire Protection is a full-service, specialty fire protection systems contractor. Services include sales and maintenance of a full line of portable and fixed system fire ex-
tinguishers, sprinkler systems, engineered fire suppression systems, fire alarm systems, and fire detection and control products and systems. –cw
Steve and Lynn Konze “decided” it was a nice day for a swim!
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Austin Construction News • July 2016
Architect effects
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he AIA Austin Awards Celebration, held May 12 at Saengerrunde Hall, attracted more than 300 people who came to see Chet Garner, host of the PBS show ‘The Daytripper’ and cheer for the winners. The after party, sponsored by Datum Engineers, featured the tunes of architect Richard Weiss’ band, the Recovering – and bowling! Congrats to the winners! –cw Honor Awards Firm Achievement Award Michael Hsu Office of Architecture John V. Nyfeler, FAIA Community Service Award Philip Keil, AIA Emerging Professional Award Jamie Crawley, AIA Associate Member of the Year Award R. Wilson Hanks, Assoc. AIA The Edwin Waller Award for Public Architecture Jill and Stephen Wilkinson Community Vision Award Community First Village! Mobile Loaves and Fishes
E6 Restaurant by A Parallel Architecture (Photographer: Casey Dunn)
Cuernavaca Residence by alterstudio architecture (Photographer: Casey Dunn)
The Cotton Gin at the CO-OP District by Antenora Architects LLP (Photographer: Brian Mihealsick)
Nutrabolt by Beck Architecture LLC with Standard Architects (Photographer: Casey Dunn)
Hillmont Studio by FAB Architecture (Photographer: Andrea Calo)
Canopy by Michael Hsu Office of Architecture (Photographer: Jody Horton)
Boardwalk on Lady Bird Lake by Limbacher & Godfrey Architects (Photographer: Jeffrey P Buehner)
South Congress Hotel by Michael Hsu Office of Architecture with Dick Clark + Associates and Studio MAI (Photographer: Nick Simonite)
South 3rd Street Residence by alterstudio architecture (Photographer: Casey Dunn)
Las Casitas by Jobe Corral Architects (Photographer: Maite Nino)
Juniper by Sanders Architecture PLLC (Photographer: Ryann Ford)
Lady Bird Loo by Mell Lawrence Architects (Photographer: Whit Preston)
The University of Texas at San Antonio North Paseo Building by Page (Photographer: Dror Baldinger)
The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley Academic Performing Arts Complex by Page (Photographer: Dror Baldinger)
1 Hillside by Tim Cuppett Architects (Photographer: Whit Preston)
Austin Construction News • July 2016
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Going by the book
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he Blue Book hosted its Who’s Who Central Texas Showcase & Seminar Jun. 2 at the Embassy Suites in San Marcos. With 91 exhibitors at the expo and 863 event attendees, construction industry members and companies were represented from the San Antonio and Austin areas. –mh
New Orleans NAWIC he National Association of Women in Construction Austin Chapter (NAWIC) had a winning presence at the South Central Region Forum in New Orleans! –cw
Hensel-Phelps
Cindy Richter of Vanguard Fire & Security, Austin Chapter immediate past president, accepting, for the second consecutive year, Vanguard’s 2016 Regional Safety Excellence Award, 1st place!
Chaundra Callaway, Equipment Depot, Austin Chapter president, accepting Austin Chapter’s Membership High Marks Award
Jamail & Smith Silver Bullet Construction
Ryan Companies Gala Burns of EFG&M Benefits, Austin Chapter director, presenting the “Inspiration.” Cen-Tex Spiral Pipe
Sabre Commercial
Ingenium Construction
Wurzel Builders
4E Construction Services
Bartlett Cocke
Austin Chapter attendees, back, L-R: Jamie Denton, Aimee Busby, Jamie Leonard, Gala Burns and Cindy Richter; front, L-R: Priscilla Avilez, Chaundra Callaway and Toni Osberry
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Austin Construction News • July 2016
And they’re on their way!
Musical fusion
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t the recent American Institute of Architects Austin Chapter (AIA) awards gala, guests were treated to live music by architect Richard Weiss’ band, Recovering. Weiss, president of Weiss Architecture, says music and architecture are two branches of the same creative plant – and as a kid, he dreamed of being both a rock star and an architect. “I feel like any creative endeavor fosters all of your other creative endeavors,” Weiss says. He graduated from Rice University with a Bachelor of Arts in 1992 and a Bachelors of Architecture in 1999. During this time, he played music and toured the country in a 1981 Ford Econoline van, playing in four official SXSW showcases and winning awards. Weiss moved to Austin straight out of college to become a professional musician, but the dream didn’t turn out like he thought. “I didn’t love the lifestyle,” he says. “I loved playing music, but I put it on the shelf to concentrate on my practice and family.” In 2003, he started Weiss Architecture and received a Master’s from the University of Texas in Community and Regional Panning in 2004. He got married and has two daughters. “After a 17-year hiatus, I started playing music again in 2014, fronting a Hedwig and the Angry Inch tribute band called the Sideways Grimace,” Weiss says.
This year’s graduates are, L-R: Jesus Olivares, Gilberto Sandoval, Diego Lopez and Jose Leyva.
Austin architect Richard Weiss is guitarist and lead vocalist for two bands.
“I also play with Recovering, a group of musicians that compiled a list of our favorite records and play a different album at each performance. So I am happily living as a ‘rockstarchitect’ in the midst of the best midlife crisis I can imagine.” The firm is truly embedded in the Austin culture, with projects that include Alamo Drafthouse, Kerbey Lane Cafe and a new mixed-use project with an emphasis on sustainability. –cw.
Crawfish expertise
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very month, TimberTown Austin hosts “Shawn Allen’s Roadhouse,” a “meat” and greet where they provide free grilled or smoked food. On Apr. 27, they decided to change things up and had their first authentic crawfish boil. Calling on the experts, TimberTown reached out to Louisiana lumber distributor Gaiennie Lumber. Gaiennie brought almost 300 lbs. of farm-raised crawfish, along with the corn, potatoes, onions, and sausage for a true Cajun experience. Timbertown’s Ben Roberts says “it was no surprise we had one of our biggest Shawn’s Roadhouse turnouts of the year; the crawfish boil was such a success we may have to make it an annual event.” –cw
J
im Stricklin started Austin’s Crockett High School’s one-of-a-kind Austin Construction Technology program eight years ago. On May 25, another four aspiring industry students graduated from the program. According to program director Duane Lardon, while working on projects, students learn through experience how to work in teams, both as team leaders and team members. They use algebra and geometry to solve construction problems and learn green building techniques. All classes emphasize safety, including OSHA requirements, while learning construction skills. During the one-semester introductory course, students learn to use power tools safely and build projects such as picnic tables, bookcases and studentchosen projects. “In their second year, the students are more advanced and they study blue-
print reading, framing and roofing,” Lardon says. “For the last three years the classes have completed projects for the Crockett campus and vertical teams. “This year, along with their National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER studies), the second year students constructed a storage shed for the Bailey Middle School football program.” The three-year program gives the students the opportunity of earning 23 hours of articulated credit at Austin Community College (ACC), Certification with NCCER and OSHA certification. According to Lardon, out of the two graduating classes he has led, students have gone on to Texas State to study construction management, one is at ACC pursuing architecture, and one is an OSHA trainee. Of this year’s grads, all four have summer jobs and plan to attend college in the fall, with two going to Texas State in the project manager program. –cw
Fox smart
Gaiennie Lumber distributor Michael Rowland’s son is serious about his crawfish.
L-R: George Stuckey, Ryan Schooler, Larry Koch and Robert Nagel
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About 40 people showed up to partake in Louisiana excellence.
Oh yeah! Everybody was coming back for more!
stablished in 1972 by Curt Fox, Fox Service Co. is a commercial and residential HVAC, plumbing, electrical, refrigeration and process piping company headquartered in Austin. According to George Stuckey, vice president, in the 1980s the company was involved in other endeavors as well, including land care, pools and spas. “We were all over the place,” he says. Stuckey laughs when he remembers how Fox employees used to joke that they did everything at 7-11 stores except pump the gas and run the cash registers. That “hands in many pies” philosophy changed, however, in the 90s, when Fox started narrowed its focus to the industry it now encompasses. Between the three locations, (Austin, San Antonio and Temple) Fox employs roughly 185 employees and has 135 trucks on the road. “We believe in helping our people grow, learn and take on added responsi-
bility,” Stuckey says. “We support factory training and pay employees to go there, as well as pay for the training. It’s fair to say we are more concerned about training employees well and losing them to the competition than not training them.” Safety is a big priority with the company, Stuckey says. “We have monthly safety meetings by division,” he said. “If we are doing something unique or special, we will have tailgate meetings at job sites.” The training and safety aspects have an impact on the company’s customer philosophy. “Through our dedication to constant training, our customers will be the beneficiary of our employee’s knowledge and hard work.” Fox Service Co. is currently led by president and CEO Robert Nagel. The company is active in charitable events, as well as activities for employees. –cw
Austin Construction News • July 2016
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continued from Page 1 — A special build this deserving family the hope of a brighter future in a stable home to grow and thrive.” Headquartered in Georgetown, Embree specializes in development, design/build, general construction, program management, and capital markets for retail, financial, automotive, restaurant, pharmacy, and medical facilities. Embree employees work in their communities as EmbreeTEAM (Together Embree Employees Assisting Many). “Embree employees are as
passionate about building better communities as we are about building business,” Annis says. “We give our time, talents, and physical resources to service our neighbors in need. This is the legacy of our company. Embree Group’s TEAM Program encourages and recognizes Embree employees’ volunteer efforts within the communities we live, work, and play. Service opportunities are sought out by Embree employees and advertised throughout the company; this practice aligns service work with employees’ interests and passions.”
More than 65 Embree employees gathered to start building a Habitat for Humanity home.
continued from Page 1 — Fur-works, not fireworks we’ve been successful in this strategy.” Works says clients and employees also enjoy spending time together away from work. “One of the big things we do is an Annual Crawfish Boil,” Works says. “This year we held this event (our 11th annual) at the Pound House in Dripping Springs. We run our business like a family and this
is just one way of showing our appreciation.” The firm has been busy and expects to grow. Works says they look for talented architectural interns just out of school. “It’s our job to nurture and train them and watch them grow with the firm,” he says. –cw
continued from Page 1 — Unique ‘village’ offers unique park Studio and a shade trellis covered with solar panels,” says Fazzone Owner Joseph Fazzone. “The project is designed to achieve a four star rating from Austin Energy’s acclaimed Green Building program.” The pool house building is primarily a concrete and steel Local residents with a green thumb can grow their own fresh vegetables at John Gaines Park. structure. “One of the unique architectural partnership with the City of Austin. features of the pool house are the poured Project managers were Bob Evans and Whetstone and project in place concrete walls which are design Paul to have the appearance of rammed superintendents were Sidney Brooks earth,” Fazzone says. “To achieve this and Gene Davis. Project architect was look, the walls of the pool house were Stanley Studio and landscape architect formed and cast in separate 8” lifts of was Pharis Design. Fazzone Construction Co. was founded varying concrete mixtures over a period in 1957 by Domenico Fazzone, three years of time that span several months.” Substantial collaboration throughout after he emigrated from Italy. He started the project was necessary between the the company in upstate New York and later Fazzone team, owner, architects as well relocated to Austin in 1977. His hard work ethic, integrity, and strive for excellence has as subcontractors and artisans “The group worked effectively to remained as the cornerstone of the develop workable solutions to construct company’s core values. The family-owned the multiple unique project components company is now lead by Joseph Fazzone, and achieve the overall design intent,” who has been its president since 1998. Fazzone Construction Co. has offices in Fazzone explains. “The unique character of John Gaines Park captures the spirit of Austin and San Antonio with a combined the community and the city. The John 50 employees. Referrals and repeat clients Gaines Park is the second park that make up a majority of the company’s work. Fazzone Construction has built at the The company has completed a variety of Mueller site. Fazzone also completed the public and private commercial building projects and specializes in constructing site Paggi Square Pocket Park in May 2013.” Master developer of Mueller is amenities, parks and specialty hardscape Catellus Development Corp. in a joint features. –cw
Round-Up Bartlett Cocke General Contractors has promoted Leonard “Fritz” Price to field operations manager for Central Texas. Price has been with BCGC for 10 years and has more than 41 years of experience in the construction industry. Price will oversee management of project teams in this region. Bautex Systems announced these recent additions to its team: Chris Noone has been named vice president of sales and business development. He joins the company after more than a decade in senior sales management roles at Oldcastle, Inc. Noone brings experience leading sales efforts across a four-state region including Texas, serving architects, engineers, contractors and building owners via direct and indirect sales. He holds a Bachelor of Sciences degree from Kansas State University and is certified by the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) and Interlocking Concrete Paving Institute (ICPI). Ben Glassner has joined as its Architectural Sales representative, Central Texas region. He has more than 15 years of sales experience in the building industry. Glassner joins Bautex after four years at DuPont in its Building Innovations division where he earned global recognition in receiving the DuPont Achieving Customer Excellence Award. He understands well the market pressure on architects, general contractors and building materials manufacturers to produce building products that are energy efficient and promote a healthy environment. LNV announces that Marcus Naiser, PE, will serve as vice president of its Austin office. His professional experience includes more than 17 years of planning, design and management of civil engineering projects in the central and south Texas region. DCA Construction in Austin welcomes two new members to its team. Haven Seward is the new assistant office manager. She has worked for seven years in the tech industry focusing on crisis management and contract relations. She has two years of administrative accounting experience. Seward graduated from Texas State University. When not working she spends time enjoying the many parks, restaurants, and venues in Austin. Kenny Nordell has joined as a project manager and estimator. With nine years of experience and a family history in the industry, his experience ranges from the formation of conceptual estimates to turning over facilities for full use, including management and performance of work in between.
STG Design Austin announces the following recent promotions and new team members: Kelly Henson is promoted to associate. Since her start at STG, she has worked on a variety of projects, including the recent award-winning Seaholm Power Plant Renovation. Henson has been with the firm since 2011 and a licensed architect since 2015. Yuki Gottschaldt re-joins the firm as a project architect/ project manager after a three-year hiatus of living overseas with her family. She holds a Diploma of Architecture from the Technical University of Berlin as well as an MA of Architectural History & Theory from the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London. Gottschaldt has more than 15 years of experience in the architecture and design field. James Hadden joins as the director of operations. He holds a BS in Art and Design from MIT and an MBA from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University. Hadden has 20 years of experience in architecture, having practiced in both Austin and Boston. He brings a passion for the business of design and for making architecture both fun and profitable. Mariya Khezri joins as a designer. She is a recent graduate from Maryville University and spent the past few years interning for firms in Missouri. While in school, Khezri founded a USGBC Student Chapter and attended national sustainability conferences such as Greenbuild on full scholarship. Upon graduation, she was awarded the Growing Green Award as an Emerging Leader and is currently pursuing her LEED accreditation. Mara Schwartz joins as a designer. Born and raised in South Florida, she attended Florida State University and graduated with a BS in Interior Design with part of her studies in Florence, Italy and The Ringling College of Art and Design. While her design experience has been focused on residential work, she is thrilled to pursue her dream of hospitality and multi-family design. She couldn’t be happier living in Austin.
Round-Up Submissions 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. 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
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Austin Construction News • July 2016
O
n Friday, Jun. 10, Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) Central Texas Chapter celebrated 40 years in Austin with a beach theme at Aussie’s Bar & Grill. Guests enjoyed great food and watching teams from Harvey Cleary and Zapalac Reed Construction Company battle it out on the volleyball court. –cw
Birthday bash
Harvey Cleary and Zapalac Reed Construction Company teams
L-R: Jesse Beckett, Beckett Electrical Services and Shad Zapalac, Zapalac Reed Construction Company, were there to celebrate and cheer on their teams.
Dee Stephens, Acton Mobile; Maddie Williams, MEMCO; Stephanie Nelson, ABC; Trish Broz, Wurzell Builders; Cheryl Fredrick, Harvey Cleary
Jay Metcalf, Rew Materials; Jesus Reyes, LASCO; Juan Mendoza, LASCO; Andrew Miller, ClarkDietrich Building Systems
Sara Burnett, Skillpoint Alliance, and Daniel Sauceda, Hull Supply Co.
Robin Wurzell and Trish Broz, Wurzell Builders
Dutch Dehart, LASCO, and Jason Beers, Harvey Cleary
Construction News JOB SIGHT
Top of the world
Ryan Eaks, Skillforce Alliance, and David Smith, TDIndustries
David Smith, TDIndustries, and Daniel Stein, M Tech Comfort Systems
J.C. Telamantes, project manager, at Zapalac Reed Construction Company, serves it up.
Travis Roofing Supply employee Jose shows enthusiasm for being at the top of the world. Not to worry, he is wearing a safety harness! –cw
Association Calendar
Content submitted by Associations to Construction News ASCE
NAWIC
American Society of Civil Engineers
Nat’l Assn. of Women in Construction
Jul. 12: Webinar: Corpus Christi’s Mary Rhodes Phase 2 Pipeline, TexASCE.org, noon Jul. 16: Leadership Training, Omni Barton Creek, Austin, Call Annemarie Gasser at 512-472-8905 for more information on these events.
Jul. 6: Chapter meeting at Big Daddy’s Burger Bar. NAWIC 101 Jeopardy-style game, plus decorating mason jars so participants can take fresh flowers home or to the office.
ECAT Earthmoving Contractors Assn. of Texas
Jul. 15-16: 58th Annual Membership meeting; The Hilton Garden, Duncanville; event will include annual skeet and trap shoot contest, Cummins Diesel Engine Plant tour, summary of past and next state legislative session coming in January, the ECAT-BITCO Safety Insurance Program, and the annual meeting awards and banquet; 2nd quarter board meeting will be on Jul. 16 in the Cedar Hill meeting room, open to all members, and anyone having business with the board should contact the office to get on the agenda; for more info, visit www.earthmovingcontractors.com; late registration can be submitted by phone to the ECAT office by Jul. 8; to register, call 830-629-1620
RCAT Roofing Contractors Assn. of Texas
Jul. 20-22: Quarterly Membership meeting/Licensing Boot Camp, Exams; Hotel Indigo, 325 N. Kansas St., El Paso; licensing boot camp, Border Chapter networking event, educational seminars and RCAT licensing exams; to reserve, call 915-532-5200; for more info, visit www. rooftex.com
TAB Texas Association of Builders
Aug. 3-4: Sunbelt Builders Show™, Gaylord Texan, Grapevine, TX; SunbeltBuildersShow.com
TSPS Texas Society of Professional Surveyors
Aug. 5: Annual Strategic Planning meeting, Canyon of the Eagles in Burnet, TX.
Austin Construction News • July 2016
Page 19
Fresh waters
Submitted to Construction News
Blue crew
On May 25, Halff Associates Inc. employees in the Austin location wore blue to support Texas Flood Awareness Week. –cw
Submitted to Construction News
Purely awesome
The 3rd annual The Beck Group Scramble on May 16 at Barton Creek Country Club benefitted Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas medical camp endowment. All 192 golfers had a great time, despite the rainy weather. The tournament raised $141,755 that will help send children to summer camp with their whole medical team coming along. Pictured, L-R, Ryan Therrel, The Beck Group business development; Casey Copley; and Dr. Mark Shen, president of Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas –cw
T
he call came in at 4am from a concerned passerby. The new build at the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity was pouring water from the third floor down to the ground – like “a waterfall.” After calling the posted number on the job site that went to the architect, Larry Connolly, Connolly & Associates, who happened to be in Philadelphia, frantic calls ensued to track down the general contractor, Austin Canyon Corporation. But the owner of Austin Canyon Corporation, Mike Nazar, was vacationing at the coast. But after some investigation, Nazar wasn’t upset at all. It turns out Austin Canyon’s Corp. superintendent, Don Cemper, and the foreman for Graystone Concrete Contractors, were A passerby spotted this water falling out of the third story of a building under construction – but it turns out it was just doing something that meant to be. the company has already been getting a name for – repurposing After pouring concrete on the third existing elements to help build an aware- floor, Cemper and crew simply redirected the water to wet cure the concrete. Later, ness for environmental concerns. As part of the new building, an un- they plan to repurpose the water again derground parking garage was being for the masonry work. constructed. Excavation had gone down “I just love the idea that they repurposed the storm water,” Nazar said. 14 ft. “The groundwater presence was go- Nazar said recent re-engineering of ing to be more than we anticipated,” Na- the 30-year-old company by hiring a younger generation who comes with an zar said. With the pre-construction boring awareness for the environment is paying done, the presence of groundwater was off. determined to be an issue, so a storage “When it comes to something like tank was planned in order to handle the this, it’s just a cherry on top,” he said. –cw tens of thousands of gallons flowing below.
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Austin Construction News • July 2016