Austin Construction News November 2017

Covering the Industry’s News

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www.constructionnews.net H (210) 308-5800 H Volume 14 H Number 11 H NOVEMBER 2017

A vision carved in stone

Charged for 50 more years

Continental Cut Stone owner, Rob Teel, and his wife and CCS marketing director, Katherine.

Charlie Collier and his dog, Marley

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ob Teel, owner and founder of Continental Cut Stone, admits he had no vision for the milling company he purchased 30 years ago, but he did have a childhood dream of living in the country and owning a business. “Be careful what you ask for because a lot of times, God will give it to you. He plucked me up and dropped me here, and this is where I belong,” Teel says.

Teel lives in Florence, a rural community about 30 miles north of Austin, where he mills raw stone into architecturally striking columns, balustrades, treads and risers and mantles.

The company recently celebrated its 30th anniversary – twice: first with an employee bash and then with a customer appreciation party.

In 1985, Teel got into the stone business when he opened a stone yard in Austin for a group out of Dallas. From there, he went to work selling sandstone and block landscape materials in Lometa. In 1986, CCS came on the market as a foreclosure property named Double R Cut Stone. “I had not seen a stone mill before this facility came up for sale,” he says.

With his father as co-signatory on a $10,000 loan, 27-year-old Teel joined with two partners to purchase and, ultimately, take possession of the property in the first week of September 1987.

However, six months later there was a disagreement between the three owners as to the direction of the company. “With some help from my father, again as the cocontinued on Page 14

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here’s something “very cool” about maintaining a legacy into the third generation, says Charlie Collier, logistics coordinator and safety officer for his family’s business, Leland Collier Electric Co.

While this year is the company’s 10th anniversary in their Hutto location, it was 54 years ago that Collier’s grandfather set up shop in Waco.

Collier is both proud and delighted by his grandparents, Leland and Ray Ann Collier, and their entrepreneurial spunk.

Leland learned the electrical trade during the Korean War. When he returned home, he started Collier Electric in a backyard shed. Ray Ann kept up with inventory while Leland went house-tohouse underbidding estimates by other electricians. A friend also helped him get

additional jobs with motels and apartment buildings.

Leland died in 2008, but Ray Ann is 87-years-old and still lives in Waco. Their company continues, now specializing in school and education facilities electrical construction.

“How we got down here was through the Hutto schools. We started doing Hutto elementary schools and, for the first year to 18 months, crews drove from Waco every morning,” Collier said.

The company then got another job, and the decision was made to send young Collier to scout out property for what became their third location. In addition to their Waco facility, they also have an office in Red Oak. continued on Page 14

A place of space to explore

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his fall Pflugerville ISD has opened Weiss High School, its newest secondary education campus in which students will have 375,000sf to explore and discover their interests, passions and purpose, make friends and, maybe, play a little ball.

An $89.6 million project, financing for the facility was part of a 2014 bond package that passed with nearly 70 percent support.

The result is a school that accommodates a population of 2,500 within 55 general classrooms, 20 science labs, three art rooms plus continuing technical education pods for business labs, computer science, health science, wood/metal shop, engineering and horticulture.

And like many public high schools, WHS would be incomplete without athletic amenities; therefore plans also provided for the construction of a new 3,000seat football stadium, a 700-seat baseball

Weiss High School’s front entrance. (Photo by Brian Mihealsick)

stadium, a 700-seat softball stadium and a 1,895-seat competition gym.

Interior materials used in the project are a combination of painted gypsum, masonry and ceramic wall tile. The floors include luxury plank flooring, carpet and polished concrete. Wood slats, a lay-in acoustical ceiling and acoustical wall panels complete the auditorium.

Exterior materials include a mix of stucco, natural stone, metal wall panels and brick.

The project took two years to complete.

Daniel Lind, the project manager for American Constructors, explains a couple of its unusual features as well as several challenges incurred by the project team.

Two unique features are the extensive use of ground source heat pumps throughout the school, which reduces operational costs of the heating and cooling system, and an abundance of polished continued on Page 14

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Austin Construction News • November 2017

Lake Conroe fishing tournament

Graves Winlectric held their fifth annual fishing tournament at Stow-Away Marina on Lake Conroe. Jacob Talbert from Lancaster Electric won first place and was presented with a plaque by Scott Hudson from Graves Winlectric. - te

From remodeling to role modeling

Conversions Remodeling owner, Keith James (in front), is joined by his staff (l-r) Jeremy Johnson, Livi Hernandez, Andrew Dolan, Kimberly James, John Zapata and Kent Johnson.

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here have been things in Keith James’ life that might have sidelined others. For instance, he grew up without a father and lived on the streets a “long time.”

“Day-to-day was strictly survival. But early on, I thought if that guy can make it, so can I,” James says.

Today, he is a remodeling services contractor and owner of Conversions Remodeling. However, he believes his work is about more than redesigning space.

“The name, Conversions, started with spiritual aspects from scripture about old things being made new,” James says. Adding to that, he wanted to be a role model to others in the industry.

Even without a role model of his own, as a young man, James discovered he enjoyed working with his hands. He found construction jobs and eventually became a production manager with a contractor for a mental health services provider.

His most challenging experience would be a broken sprinkler in a common wall between one of the clinics and an Internal Revenue Service office.

While repairing the IRS office, security was tight, and James had to get permission just to move a ladder 10ft. The 2-day job took two weeks. But, James says he realized how easily he adapted to avoid disrupting the client’s business.

Hence, he opened Conversions Remodeling four years ago and is averaging 110-125 projects a year. With six employees, he oversees structural renovations daily while finding additional gratification.

“I take great pleasure in knowing that because of what God has given us the ability to do, it helps our employees take care of their families. And, I’m very humbled by that,” he says.

Conversions Remodeling is a commercial/residential contractor in Round Rock and greater N. Austin.-ke

He saw the signs

Rusty Russell and Ben Naughton greet customers at Austin Sign Company.

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usty Russell has always embraced technology, and in 2007 he learned some internet marketing tricks using search engine optimization (SEO), and customers begin to call his sign company and place orders.

Then, they found out his office was near Dripping Springs. “I could make sales happen using internet marketing, but I couldn’t get Austin folks to drive out and pick up stuff,” he says.

So, Russell came to them.

Ready for a fresh start, he sold his company and equipment and moved to the city where he and his wife, Belia, regrouped and opened Austin Sign Company. “That whole SEO thing turned the tide. It enabled me to get the calls I needed to produce enough volume to make a decent living,” he says.

But it wasn’t Russell’s first leap at applying technology to business.

When he worked in his father’s sign shop, he bought his dad a computer. “He

paid me back for it, but he didn’t think it was the way to go. Then, the products were inferior. But products get better; technology gets better,” Russell says.

In fact, recently Austin Sign Co. acquired one of the biggest printers in the city. It is 104 in. wide and prints large, one-piece banners. “In the past, we seamed two panels together,” Russell notes.

Russell has tried other careers but always came back to the sign business. His customers are happy, and it allows him family-time, he says.

And although his father didn’t encourage technology, he did inspire Russell with one big idea. “My dad instilled in me that this could be a better business than what the average sign shop was,” he says.

Austin Sign Company produces custom signs and banners, including sandblasted signs and trade show displays. - ke

Austin Construction News • November 2017

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A Classic way to work

Surveyors seeking a relationship

Shayne Vinlove and his father, Fred.

B&G Surveying staff members include (L-R) Jose Riojas, Jennifer Aldaco, Jason Garza, director of business development/general manager, Tonya Jones, Juan Enriquez, Anthony Silva, Victor Garza, president, Al Wylie, Amy Bartosh, Michael Lancaster.

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red Vinlove has been working since he was four, and his father paid him 10¢ for every project he helped with at the elder’s garage door business.

Similarly, Fred employed his son, Shayne Vinlove, at six.

Fred says, “My dad taught me how to work hard.”

And Shayne comments, “Even as a little kid, I was very business-minded.”

Early on, each learned a way to operate and now they run Classic Plumbing.

However, their professional partnership was unplanned.

In 2010, Shayne worked for a construction company where things slowed, and he was laid off. Fred’s business was also slow; he considered closing.

But Shayne’s strategic thinking skills kicked-in, and he suggested his father let him rebuild the business. Fred agreed, and for his part, he stabilized family finances by taking a job elsewhere.

Shayne began by transitioning the

company into more commercial work.

Also, he raised rates and discontinued unprofitable relationships. Within a year, Fred was back in his shop, offering the trustworthy service that he says always made them successful.

Today, they are building a new 1,800sf warehouse, with tactical aspirations for a 6,000sf facility and, ultimately, satellite offices.

Fred supports Shayne’s vision but notes the importance of service and excellent employment practices. Shayne agrees.

He adds, “To create something as large as I’m planning would be rewarding. To know we offer a good place to work, where we can pay people well and treat them nicely - it’s a win-win.”

Classic Plumbing located in Cedar Park is a subcontractor specializing in school renovation, office buildings, restaurants and new construction. – ke

KIM ESTES, Editor Austin Construction News (512) 807-8010 AustinEditor@ConstructionNews.net If you are a construction-related company in the Austin area and would like an article about your company and personnel, call Kim for an interview in person or over the phone.

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ason Garza is “all in” for marketing B&G Surveying, even if it’s a far different vocation from his studies for the Theater Arts degree he holds.

Garza, B&G’s business development/ general manager, says, “Theater is very different, but my ability to speak in public and give presentations helps because I’m constantly meeting people and building relationships.”

Garza and his father, Victor, B&G’s president, appreciate relationships. For example, the company retains the last initial of its co-founder, Dewey Burris, although he has retired.

Just as important to them are the 35 staff members B&G currently employs, some of whom have been with the company for more than 10 years. “I think that says something about what we’re doing that employees come back every day,” Garza says.

“Having people here that long who know the way we do things is why we’re

so good at what we do,” he adds.

Garza anticipates B&G’s relationships growing even deeper as he hopes his brother, a civil engineering student, will join the company to expand their scope of services after he receives his professional license.

In the meantime, Garza works diligently to continue another important relationship – the company’s 28-year association with Central Texas.

Many surveyors have moved into the area in the past eight years, creating a highly competitive market.

Garza says the new or relocated companies lack local experience compared to B&G. “We’re very familiar with the area. I joke that if we haven’t surveyed the lot you’re ordering we’ve probably surveyed the one to the left or right of it,” he says.

B&G Surveying, Austin, is a full-service land surveying company serving the Central Texas market. - ke

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Austin Construction News • November 2017

Potential payroll pitfalls

Game of drones

Leann Ussery, CPA, Tax Manager Armstrong, Vaughan & Associates, P.C. Universal City, TX

Lauren Allen, Vice President-Sales BrookStone Insurance Group Dallas, TX

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our focus is your company’s growth, but you might be jeopardizing that growth if you’re not aware of various payroll pitfalls. Voluntary compliance with IRS regulations can save hours of time and thousands of dollars in penalties and assessments in the event of an audit, so it’s important to understand how to avoid these issues before that happens.

Contractor vs. Employee

Be sure to properly classify your employees and contract laborers. Work responsibilities vary significantly from company to company, so there is no clear definition of who is an employee and who isn’t, but there are some general guidelines.

• Contract Laborers are hired by the job, not the hour, with no expectation of on-going employment. They generally have their own tools and frequently have other employment.

• In contrast, employees are subject to more control by the employer in terms of when and how they work; tools are generally provided by the employer; and they receive benefits such as paid time off, training, job evaluations, and/or expense reimbursements.

• The IRS is suspicious of classifications showing any individual as both an employee and an independent contractor, so avoid this red flag whenever possible.

• Payroll reporting is a hassle, yes, but filing Forms 1099 to your employees is not a substitute. An employer who misclassifies employees as independent contractors bears the risk of employment taxes, penalties and interest.

• To correct classification errors, the Voluntary Classification Settlement Program is available to offer some relief. Eligible participants pay just 10% of applicable payroll taxes without penalties or interest and are no longer subject to employment tax audits regarding reclassified employees on any prior years.

Partnership Compensation

If your business files as a partnership, partners should not receive traditional wages except in rare cases but could receive guaranteed payments as outlined in a written partnership agreement.

• Guaranteed payments are compensation to partners for services or use of capital or property. Amounts of these payments are determined without regard to partnership income and are generally fixed. Payments should not include any payroll withholding but will be taxed as self-employment income on the partner’s individual income tax return.

• Cash payments to partners designated as distributions of earnings are not deductions for the partnership, nor do they increase taxable income to the partner.

S Corporation Owner Wages If your business files as an S Corp, your shareholder-employee compensation is of great interest to the IRS since it is the only portion of your income that is subject to the self-employment tax.

• Under-paying yourself may be considered unjustified tax avoidance if the shareholder-employee is also taking taxfree distributions of earnings.

Shareholder wages are paid in the same way other employee wages are paid, net of applicable withholding.

• If S Corp income is significant and shareholder wages are not comparable, the IRS may recharacterize any distributions and levy payroll taxes and penalties. To reduce risk, use industry standards to determine shareholder wage rates.

Auto Allowance and Other Taxable Fringe Benefits Providing an auto allowance to employees for business use of their personal vehicles is a fringe benefit that provides incentives to employees and a tax deduction for the company. Other taxable fringe benefits include adoption assistance, dependent care assistance in excess of federal limits, unsubstantiated expense reimbursements, and educational or mileage reimbursements in excess of standard federal rates.

These fringe benefits paid to owners or employees should be treated as additional compensation to the employee, subject to payroll tax. If paid to independent contractors, the total amount paid including fringes should be reported on Form 1099.

Classification issues, owner-compensation, and taxable fringe benefit reporting are just a few of the potential dangers of payroll, so contact your payroll professional for help in navigating payroll tax compliance and reporting.

Leann Ussery, CPA is tax manager of corporate/partnership returns and focuses on the tax needs of small-to-mid sized entities, including entities with multi-state tax issues. Leann joined Armstrong, Vaughan & Associates, PC in 2008 after graduating from Angelo State University with an MBA in Accounting. She can be reached at 210658-6229.

hat do the U.S. military, Super Bowl LI, Texas Dept. of Public Safety, Austin City Limits Music Festival and the construction industry have in common? All have utilized drones to enhance the activity at hand.

From search and rescue operations to documenting artistic performances to monitoring projects for safety and quality control, commercial drones (also known as “unmanned aircraft systems”) are becoming an increasingly predominant tool to ensure operational success.

While the use of drones in the construction industry may not seem like an everyday occurrence, the FAA estimates that by 2018, over 7,500 small commercial drones will be used by general contractors and tradespeople, with most of the usage occurring on construction sites. Think about the benefits: surveying large project sites, inspecting dangerous or difficult to reach locations, creating aerial maps, and providing live video feeds of the job site to ensure adherence to safety protocol. Drones have the capability of completing certain tasks with significantly less risk than a human.

But practical and cost benefits aside, it is imperative to consider the full gamut of risks associated with drone usage. Incidents of a drone running out of power, the operator losing control, or in some cases reckless operation can lead to destruction of property and/or medical injury to others. While not as prevalent, hackers have developed tools to interfere with GPS systems, which could lead to liability issues. And one of the most concerning issues when operating drones on a construction site is the type of imagery drones may capture when flying close to the borders of private property, which can lead to claims of invasion of privacy. To be protected, the proper amount of insurance coverage must be in place, and likely your current commercial general liability policy contains an exclusion that prohibits aviation coverage (yes, the FAA now includes drones in its definition of “aircraft”). Therefore, do not assume that your company is covered for drone activities.

In its efforts to quickly adapt to the increased usage of drones, the Insurance Services Office (ISO) has issued endorsements to better clarify the coverage applicable to commercial drone use: the Unmanned Aircraft Exclusion (CG 21 09) and the Limited Coverage for Designated Unmanned Aircraft (CG 24 50). These endorsements, which focus on bodily injury, property damage, and personal and advertising injury, allow the insurance market to either exclude or include coverage for drone activities. Additionally,

several insurance carriers have stepped up to the plate and now offer drone-specific policies with varying degrees of coverage, including both “owned drone” and “non-owned drone” coverage.

When determining whether drone usage is right for your company, consider a few of the FAA’s regulations: • The drone must be registered with and approved for commercial use by the FAA; • Drone operators must be at least 16 years old, pass an initial aeronautical knowledge test/obtain a remote pilot airman certificate, and be vetted by the TSA; • The drone must weigh less than 55lbs and adhere to FAA regulations, including maintenance regulations; and • Drone operation must occur during daylight or during twilight hours, assuming there are running lights on the drone, and the drone must be in the visual line of sight of the operator.

As the insurance world adapts to the integration of drones into the construction industry, it is important to establish and implement risk management strategies for drone activities. Always vet drone operators regarding their training and qualifications, and establish specific flight plans for drone usage on job sites.

These tactics can both assist in mitigating the risks associated with commercial drone use and make the company more desirable in the insurance marketplace.

The use of drones in the construction industry can lead to exciting new ventures and business successes. Ensure that your company is properly protected with the right insurance coverage and policy limits to safeguard your risks.

Lauren Allen is a licensed attorney in the State of Texas and the Vice President of Sales at BrookStone Insurance Group. She focuses on collaborating, innovating and delivering risk management plans tailored to her clients’ specific needs. She can be reached at 214-301-3333 or lallen@brookstone-group.com

JOB SIGHTS

Cedar Park Electrical Contractors’ employees, (L-R) Eddie Ramirez and Esteban Rocha, work to bring services to the new Bubble Clean Express Car Wash on Ranch Road 620 in North Austin. - ke

(L-R) Chepilo Barcenas and Josh Josey with Joe Bland Construction are on site of the upcoming Caliza Apartments on Ridgeline Drive in Cedar Park. -ke

Austin Construction News • November 2017

Page 5

Celebrating 50 years Taking cover after the storm Angela A.L. Connor, Associate/Houston office Peckar & Abramson Austin, TX

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his hurricane season is on track to be one of the most active seasons of record. Hurricane Harvey hit a vast portion of the Texas coast and affected numerous construction projects. A hurricane of this magnitude results in delays and added costs to projects. As projects get back on track after Harvey, contractors should re-review their contracts to ensure compliance with all notice and documentation requirements, if there is a time and/or cost impact caused by the storm.

A hurricane and other “acts of God” are usually known as force majeure events. A force majeure event is an unavoidable circumstance beyond a contractor’s control. Depending on the contract language, if a force majeure event occurs, a contractor may be entitled to additional time and/or costs.

Notice In a typical construction contract, there are notice requirements to receive time and money for delays not caused by the contractor. It is critical for contractors to immediately review the contract’s notice requirements to ensure compliance.

Contractors should also check the contract to make sure the notice is sent in the correct form, to all required recipients, and contains all necessary content.

The notice should explain the cause for the delay and reserve rights for time and money. It is important to note that time delay is not only the actual period of the storm. Contractors need to take into account the limited access to the project site, changes conditions at the project site (e.g. muddy conditions), and demobilization and remobilization time. Additionally, contractors should consult with their subcontractors and suppliers. A shortage of labor, materials and/or equipment would likely cause more delay than the actual storm.

By now, contractors likely know the full effect of the storm’s aftermath to their project schedule and costs. Contractors will now need to send a supplemental notice detailing the additional time and costs. Under the AIA Document A201TM – 2007 General Conditions (“A201”), an extension of time and additional costs are altered by a change order.1 This means documentation is required.

Documentation

To be entitled to time under the A201, the contractor must show there was a delay or delays to the project’s critical path. If time is requested due to adverse weather conditions, the contractor must also submit “data substantiating the weather was abnormal for the period of time, could not have been reasonably anticipated and had an adverse effect on the scheduled construction.” Examples of backup would include NOAA reports and other data showing the actual rainfall at the project site and flooding in the area. A revised schedule should also be submitted along with the adverse weather data.

To receive additional cost under the A201, the contractor must submit a complete itemization of costs, labor and materials. A contractor should submit time sheets, payroll records, source documents for costs, and have their subcontractors submit the same itemized documentation. The more documentation a contractor can include the better chance they have of getting additional time and money.

Lastly, there are usually time limits to submit the documentation for change orders. It is imperative for contractors to scrutinize their contracts and determine the applicable time period to submit the documentation.

While hopefully we will never see another storm like Harvey again, there will be future force majeure events. Complying with all notice requirements and submitting detailed documentation will help prevent a disaster to your bottom line.

Angela Connor is a construction lawyer in Peckar & Abramson, P.C.’s Houston office. She represents a wide range of construction industry clients and focuses her practice on construction-related disputes and contract negotiations and drafting.

Angela can be contacted at aconnor@ pecklaw.com or 281.953.7705.

AIA recently released the 2017 version of the AIA Documents. This article focuses on the 2007 version because most ongoing projects are contracted under the 2007 version.

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L-R: Joeris General Contractors leadership team Burton Hackney, director of operations; Trey Swor, business development; and Curtlis Cline, director of reconstruction

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eo Joeris got his foot in the construction door when he went to work for his brother Joe after the war. After getting some valuable experience he became an acoustical ceiling contractor before going back into the general construction side of working for William Matera Construction.

Leo and Raymond Klaus along with a handful of people worked for William Matera Construction until Matera was killed in a plane crash. “After his death, Dad finished up all their work and started bidding work as Joeris & Klaus Construction Company,” says Gary Joeris, CEO of Joeris General Contractors. “My dad and Raymond Klaus started the company in 1967 focusing on some private work, but mostly school work, churches and public work.”

Working through the summers during high school and college, Gary worked for the company as a carpenter, helping out in the office, running errands and estimating. He joined the company fulltime in 1978 after graduating college as a project manager.

By the early ‘80s, when Klaus decided to go out on their own, Joeris continued on as Joeris General Contractors and Gary was named vice president of the company. He would continue in that capacity until 1990 when he took on the role as president. His father continued to support and guide him until he retired in 2000. “Dad was pretty good about relinquishing control and, of course, I went to him for advice. We were a good team. He was always open to my opinions and suggestions and I certainly listened to his opinions and suggestions.”

The biggest changes for the company came 17 years ago, when Joeris started the strategic planning process for the company. “My aspirations were to grow

the company. You have to keep it growing in some form or fashion to be relevant in this market. We started this strategic planning process and identified goals for the next two to three years. We set goals for getting better; goals for the kind of manpower we would need, what positions we would need people in, and we worked very deliberately in making those goals happen.

“I could not have achieved any success without our people. They are the key ingredients. My best blessing was having some really good people to start with from my dad, and we continue to be bring in high quality, high caliber folks with good character.”

Celebrating 50 years in business, Joeris General Contractors has been celebrating all year by hosting quarterly fundraising events to give back to the community they love so much. “We hosted a clothing drive to benefit CAM Ministries.

We also hosted a can food drive for the San Antonio Food Bank and in August we hosted a school supply drive to benefit CASA, the advocates for San Antonio’s foster children. And just this past weekend we did the Light the Night Walk for the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society with John Casstevens, our president, as chairman. In conjunction with the Light the Night Walk we are also doing a teddy bear drive for young leukemia patients in the hospital,” says Angela Cardwell, chief marketing officer.

The company commissioned a painting to honor their workers at their 40year mark and will have a sculpture commissioned in their honor for the company’s 50th anniversary.

Joeris General Contractors is a general contactor headquartered in San Antonio with offices in Austin, Dallas and Houston. - cmw

Construction News ON LOCATION

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What’s in style?

Ready to supply

James Covian says roller shades are currently popular with commercial companies choosing window treatments for their projects and offices. Covian and his wife, Claudia, own DECO Window Fashions on Research Boulevard in North Austin. They have been in business for 14 years. - ke

The staff at Builders Gypsum Supply on Chisholm Trail in Round Rock stands ready with acoustical materials, insulation and drywall supplies. L-R: Anselmo Sifuentes, Wayne Hollier, Joyce Crutchfield, Jose Corona, Sharise Beck (manager), Brian Watts, Tito Sierra, Jesus Arriaga, Jim Marino, Sarah Alvarez. - ke

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Austin Construction News • November 2017

We had two sons – Soren, who is one of my foremen, and Erik, who doesn’t work for me now. And I have a grandson, Jack, who is the light of my life. He is 9 years old.

Cristy Hansen Owner Nu-Tech Tile, Inc. Austin, TX

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re you originally from Austin?

I’m from Beeville.

My girlfriend, Mary, who was my best friend growing up and who got me started in this business, is from Beeville, too. We’re still best friends.

Are you married, and do you have children?

My husband passed away two weeks before 9/11. I thought the sky was falling.

We were married for 30 years. His name was Glenn, and he was an artist and a restaurant manager at Jeffrey’s.

Then, he opened a wine shop.

He was not involved with my business, except he did my books. When he died, I didn’t know how to do e-mail.

(Luckily, I had friends who helped me out.)

We were alter egos. It was terrible when he got sick; he had melanoma.

I miss him.

I understand you opened Nu-Tech 27 years ago. Is that correct?

I started my business on my birthday, August 17, in 1990.

Mary does this in California. She had been doing it for a few years, and she said I should learn how and start one in Texas.

That’s how we began.

Why did you do it?

I was not happy with the work I was doing. I was in banquets at the Hyatt and not going anywhere, so I went to California and worked with Mary.

My husband said he was going to “divorce” me. I had left him with two boys! But I said, “I’m going to do this. I need to do something else.”

And it was hard. That first five years were so hard because every floor is different.

What is Nu-Tech Tile, Inc.?

What I do is very specialized.

We do restoration, preservation and maintenance. I take a floor that’s beat-up, messed up and abused, and make it beautiful. But you also have to make it functional because floors get abused more than any other surface.

We also seal installations and provide clients proper cleaning and general care information.

I use top of the line chemicals, and I stay up with what’s going on in the chemical industry.

But, I have the biggest bag of tricks.

People ask me, “What are you going to do?” Well, I’m going to do whatever works.

I’m good at what I do. I am. And so are my employees.

And this year, we’ve started laying tile too.

As a woman who broke into the construction industry almost 30 years ago, you were a “pioneer,” weren’t you?

When I started, it was not easy being a woman in construction. But, I believe, I gained the respect of the community, of my peers and also my clientele. I have customers that have been with me over 20 years. I’m proud of that.

Cristy Hansen in front of a painting by her late husband, Glen.

Do you have any stories from your ex-

Cristy Hansen with her grandson, Jack.

perience as a woman in a male-dominated industry?

One thing I didn’t, and don’t have much of, is competition. I didn’t lay tile starting out. Things might have been different if I had done that. I started out doing restoration.

But, it was just people’s attitudes.

Some people would say, “You do that yourself?” And I said, “Yes.” It’s hard work! Most of it’s done on your hands and knees, and a lot of toxic chemicals are involved.

It’s detailed, too. That’s why I have women working for me as well as men.

Women are more detail-oriented as a rule. Not always, but for the most part, they are more conscious of their surroundings.

Lindsey Anseman is one of my foremen, too. She runs crews.

I love the girls who work for me.

They have families and have to be home by 2:00 for their kids and that works well for all of us.

Why have you stayed with it for so long?

I’m just not a quitter.

What are some of the challenges you incur?

The challenging thing is meeting the expectation of the client. You have to know your limits. I never promise my customers the sun and the moon.

It’s restoration; it’s not an exact science. I do the best I can do with every piece of knowledge I’ve gained over the years, and it usually comes out just fine.

The challenge is that and making sure you get in at the job site at the right time.

Other contractors often don’t respect floors.

Technology is challenging too. My worst days are when I’m in the office. I’d much rather be on the job or talking to somebody about tile. It’s my passion, and I’m excited to be doing it.

Why is tile your passion?

Because I’m good at it. It’s what I do, and I get to see results. I get to see the ugly go away. I get to see happy customers who have been with me over 20 years.

It’s a good feeling.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?

Yoga. I’ve been doing it for 25 years.

It’s good for your body and good for your soul. It’s important to find your “yoga.”

Otherwise, you get sucked into the unimportant things.

I also go to the lake.

And I have two dogs, two cats and an old parrot named Harley. I have had him for over 20 years. He’s a red-lored Amazon. All of them are rescues. Animals come to me.

What will happen to Nu-Tech when you retire, and what will you do?

It’s hard for me to let go. I care about what happens to my business, and you can’t really sell a business like this because you can’t sell knowledge and expertise.

I want it to go on. It’s my legacy.

Glenn died, but he will live forever in his art. Nu-Tech can live forever, too. It’s my art.

I’m hoping Soren will continue with the restoration part of it, and that our foreman, Chamberlain Dennis, will stay with the tile, and that they will keep the other employees to help with both things giving them all paychecks.

I’m 67. You never know what’s down the road. But, as long as I’m able to work, I’m going to. I’m not going to strip floors, but I’m going to be there to watch and advise.

Nu-Tech Tile, Inc. is a subcontractor that provides tile sealing, restoration, maintenance and installation in Austin and surrounding communities. – ke

Dynamic foursome

Dynamic Systems’ team won first place in the Austin chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) 2017 Golf Tournament on September 19 at Star Ranch Gold Club in Hutto. L-R: Darrell Yates, Scott Rostro, Mark Prather and Bubba White. -ke

Austin Construction News • November 2017

Page 7

will be offering wade fishing trips in both the upper and lower Laguna Madre.

These trips will be primarily targeting trophy trout with artificial lures while wading. As most of you know, these are the best months for targeting big sow trout for the wall. If you’re looking for a single day trip or a multiple day trip I can accommodate either. The Port Mansfield trip will include accommodations in a luxurious five-bedroom house that will sleep up to 10 fishermen. The Laguna house has all comforts of home with a large outdoor deck and cooking area to entertain clients and guests. A two-day minimum is required for the Lower Laguna Madre trips. If you are interested in either of the winter wade fishing packages don’t hesitate to give me a call to discuss rates and packages.

Don’t overlook winter fishing

by Capt. Steve Schultz Sponsored by: Waypoint Marine, Majek Boats, Evinrude Outboards, Fishing Tackle Unlimited, E-Z Bel Construction, Costa Sunglasses, Diawa Reels, Power Pole Shallow Water Anchor, Aggregate Haulers, ForEverlast Fishing Products, Interstate Batteries, MirrOlure, and AFTCO Clothing

B

y the time you read this article, I am hoping we will be in some sort of fall weather pattern. These hot days are getting old and this writer is ready for some cooler weather. The last few months have been a struggle for everyone in the Coastal Bend as we are still trying to get on our feet after Hurricane Harvey. I’m looking forward to some winter wade fishing for trophy trout in the upper and lower Laguna Madre.

David Biesenbach of San Antonio had a stellar day fishing last month with Steve Schultz Outdoors. David managed to catch his limit of trout up to 27 in. and a limit of slot redfish.

Our fishing report lately has been rather sporadic with the extreme high tides we’ve had for several weeks. Water levels have been elevated at least two feet above average and that makes fishing not so consistent. Everyday seems to be a challenge staying on fish because they are so scattered throughout our bay system. What you do one day may not necessarily work on the next day, even though all conditions remain the same.

Needless to say, we are covering a lot of water each day, including water that typically we could not get to earlier in the year. Trout and redfish are still our primary target fish and black drum when they are available. I’m hoping for some colder weather so we can possibly target some flounder also. Bull reds are still being caught with schools of 100-200 fish in the 34 to 48-inch range. These schools when found can test your equipment and stamina as there is no giving up in these fish. Recently, we boated 16 bull reds in a morning before my clients threw in the towel.

Looking into the winter months, and I’m talking about January and February, I

Don’t forget to send us your company Halloween photos Email to AustinEditor@ ConstructionNews.net Send photo and caption

I still have several open dates for the 2017 season, and my 2018 calendar is also open for bookings. Don’t hesitate in booking your fishing trips because my dates usually go pretty quick, especially during the more popular months. I’m also offering some trophy and management deer hunts in South Texas if you are interested. Please call me for specifics and pricing. To schedule your next bay fishing trip or hunting trip give Capt.

Steve Schultz a call 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 • November 2017

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 the radio as follows: The Great Outdoors: 5-8 am Saturday on 1300, The Zone, Austin and The Great Outdoors: 5-7 am Saturday on 1200 WOAI San Antonio The Sunday Sportsman: 6-8 am Sunday on 1300, The Zone, Austin All on iHeart Radio

Fall & Winter Fishing

by Max Milam

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ooling water temperatures start a feeding frenzy. The fish are starting to develop eggs and need to eat more to get ready for the spring spawn. In terms of striper and white bass this means huge schools of feeding fish slowly migrating towards their spring spawning areas. With a little experience and some good electronics a fisherman can capitalize on some of the best and most overlooked fishing of the year. I know it’s also time to be out in the field hunting Buckzilla, but what can beat spending a Friday night in the hunting camp frying up some fresh fish with good company?

Fall striper fishing is some of the most exciting fishing, hands down. The cold fronts can make it a little tricky to get a comfortable day on the water, but can also trigger some of the best feeding frenzies of the year. The cooling waters and ample forage fish from the spring and summer bait spawns create some of the best schooling top water action the year has to offer. I have seen schools up to three acres feeding on the surface in late October into mid-November. The stripers are usually easy to find this time of year, even when not feeding on top.

The easiest way is to find a windblown bank. Then look for a submerged structure that offers an ambush point for the fish to take advantage of – remember they are predators. I like to look for ledges, humps, and long points with fast drops. Anything that offers a fast change in depth has the potential to hold both quality fish and large numbers of fish. If you don’t want to spend the time needed to locate the fish, and you just want to spend some time on the water, just call your favorite fishing guide.

White bass are one of the most popular fish in our area, but they are often not targeted much in the fall and winter.

Spring time is not the best time to catch white bass. Winter white bass fishing is one of my favorite types of fishing. On any given day from November through February I can typically take the boat out for an hour or two and have a limit of nice fat white bass. They are easy to find and tend to follow similar patterns to the

stripers, but they usually are found further up the river system than the stripers.

They tend to stage around the mouth of the rivers they spawn in during the spring, and can be found using electronics. My favorite way to catch white bass is to drop jigging spoons to the depth that the fish are holding at, and then hang on.

You will know when you’ve got the right bait at the right depth. Once again if you don’t have time, between work and chasing Buckzilla, then give your favorite fishing guide a call and they can do the leg work for you.

Fall Sunrise at Lake Buchanan

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

Austin Construction News • November 2017

Horses, planes and doors

Pilots arrive at Schweiss Doors Friday for fun, food and a Schweiss factory tour.

Page 9

M

ike Schweiss is one focused individual. Rather than devoting time and energy to a wide variety of activities and undertakings, he finds fulfillment in two areas of interest - doors and horses. From his point of view, everything else is pretty much a diversion. It's been that way for much of his adult life.

Doors are Schweiss’ first passion. “I just can’t stop thinking about them. From the time I get up in the morning until I go to bed at night, doors are on my mind.”

This obsession is a good thing. He’s the founder of Schweiss Doors, one of the world’s premier manufacturers of bi-fold and hydraulic doors.

Doors weren’t on his radar screen in his early working life. After graduat-

ing high school, he worked on the family dairy located about two hours west of Minneapolis/St. Paul. Over the next several years he began manufacturing numerous farm and ag-related products.

The moment that changed his life forever came in 1980 when a friend told him he was good at making things and why not make a bi-fold door. Schweiss replied,“What’s a bi-fold door?” He couldn’t stop thinking about this idea.

A few months later, he designed his first door, a 14-ft x 14-ft for a utility shed owned by the local county highway department. Through the 1980s, he zeroed in on making bi-fold doors for farms and agricultural-related businesses. And the rest is history.

Schweiss designed a system that relies on nylon straps rather than cables for operation. He developed new markets over the next two-plus decades, to include aviation. In addition to bi-fold doors, he developed hydraulic doors. One of the larger doors is a 94-ft x 62-ft for SpaceX at Cape Canaveral in Florida.

Schweiss’ most recent success story is Hurricane Harvey’s havoc on the South Texas Coast. The aftermath of the hurricane at the Aransas County Airport in Rockport, TX was devastating, hangers were destroyed. That is, except for the hangers that had the Schweiss doors which helped to support the buildings.

Those were still standing according to Mike Geer, Airport Manager.

Geer chose to ride out the storm in the airport terminal, a probable staging ground for relief and recovery efforts. He wanted to be there to assist first responders. “It was like having a 747 with parking brakes on a full throttle just outside the door; it was incredibly loud. We had hurricane force winds for 13 hours,” said Geer.

Creating tremendous interest within the construction and architectural industry is the Schweiss Hydraulics. Builders like the clean and trending styles, yet rugged design of these products. Heavyduty hydraulic cylinders provide super stability. As one builder commented, "Hydraulic doors with the Schweiss name, it doesn't get any better." -rd

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Austin Construction News • November 2017

Austin Construction News • November 2017

Page 11

THIS TH MON Jan: Construction Forecast Mar: Construction Education May: Concrete Industry July: Electrical Industry Feb: Construction Safety Apr: Women in Construction Jun: HVAC & Plumbing Aug: Service Providers

Opportunities are up in architecture Michael Malone, FAIA Past President, Texas Society of Architects Austin, TX

Founding Principal Malone Maxwell Borson Architects Dallas, TX

H

ow would you describe the state of the construction industry in general terms?

It’s wonderful! The level of activity and optimism is fueling tremendous opportunities.

offer them better benefits and upgrade our office environment and technology. It has made us more selective about the work we undertake, demonstrated in more appropriate fees and more satisfactory business relationships.

Has the architectural industry seen an increase in business or a slowdown?

There’s a palpable increase since the recession, and it’s understandable in terms of increased projects, challenges finding qualified staff in a strong job market and the ability to build backlog and security.

What are the “hot button” issues in your industry?

With all of this growth, there are negatives: lack of available qualified staff, higher construction costs and the impact on the environment and quality of life this much building represents.

What factors are driving this increase?

For our firm and clients, the primary driver seems to be the attractiveness of Texas, and Dallas specifically. The continued influx of people has created opportunities for growth in virtually every sector of professional services.

What have been the major changes in the architectural industry in recent years?

The continuing impact of technology in the way we practice and the inherent ways it allows services to be commoditized are the main changes we see. This has been an ongoing issue, and we don’t know yet if the result is less thoughtful and less-carefully made buildings.

How has this increase affected the industry and how you conduct business?

It has allowed us to expand our staff,

Architecture & Engineering

Sept: Green Building Nov: Architecture & Engineering Oct: Specialty Contractors Dec: Construction Equipment

What is the most significant challenge your industry faces?

I believe it’s the commoditization of professional services, the idea that everyone does the same thing and offers the same product. Differentiating yourself and your firm in the present environment is very challenging but increasingly necessary.

What are the costs increases related to your industry?

Salaries go up in strong construction markets, but beyond that, the largest costs continue to be in the areas of staff support and benefits.

How are you dealing with these challenges?

As a firm, we’re committed to a certain level of salary and reasonably generous benefits for all our staff. We build our business plan for the year with these costs (and associated overhead) as the basis for what we need to do and how we need to perform. Once we know we have these costs covered, we’re able to plan for profitability and additional expenses. We invest heavily in technology when we’re busy knowing we can’t afford this when times are leaner.

What changes are on the horizon for your industry?

We’re always sensitive to changes in the economy and ready for it to retrench or slow down. Regardless, we feel certain Texas will do as well or better than the rest of the country, and that gives us comfort.

We do wish the state were more focused on issues of educational quality and appropriately funding it for the long-term benefits it promises. We see this lack of coherent educational policy and the disparities in funding and outcomes as a potential long-term issue for the state, perhaps the greatest issue.

What is rewarding about working in your industry?

Creating the built environment is a gift and a privilege. To work with clients and contractors to create and build something is the most rewarding thing in the world.

The Texas Society of Architects, with 15 regional chapters and 7,000 members, is one of the nation’s largest organizations for the architectural profession. It is headquartered in Austin. - ke

Bringing engineering home David Eastwood, President

Geotech Engineering & Testing Houston, TX

H

ow would you describe the state of the construction industry in general terms? Have you experienced an increase in business? Slowdown?

In our experience, the construction industry started off slow, but started to stabilize towards the second half of the year.

What factors are driving this slowdown?

One of the most notable factors for us relating to a decrease in business is the Petrochemical Industry slowdown.

How has this slowdown affected your company and how you conduct business?

Some of our major clientele include homebuilders and land development companies. With oil and gas being so vital to our city’s economy, if there is a slowdown, the result is less people moving to Houston, which in turn means less houses are being built.

What are the “hot button” issues in your industry?

The “hot button” issues in our industry mainly consist of qualifications and speed in which we can deliver our services to the client.

What are the major changes in the industry in recent years relating to the type of work you do?

A high increase in new companies entering the Houston market would probably be the major change in our industry. This makes it so much more competitive in attracting business.

What is the most significant challenge your industry faces? Labor shortages?

Cost increases?

The most significant challenge for this industry is still the constant fluctua-

Industry FOLKS Nash Welling General Manager Tradesmen International

tion of our economy.

What are the cost increases relating to your industry?

Cost increases include the cost of labor, and parts and maintenance for our rigs has constantly increased over the years.

How are you dealing with these challenges?

Vetting of suppliers is a common practice of ours now, as well as the consideration for vendors with pricing becoming so stringent.

What is on the horizon for your industry?

Multiple advances in drilling equipment and engineering software has helped expedite our processes and procedures.

Incoming changes in qualification requirements for city jobs will also help in selecting a more broad variety of companies.

What are the rewards of the industry?

The feeling of assurance that people’s foundation will be well designed and the soil will be accounted for.

What are keys to being successful in the industry?

I think it is most important to focus on various sector markets to explore, as well as keeping up with our company’s reputation of working adequately, quickly, and affordably.

Geotech Engineering & Testing specializes in geotechnical, materials testing, environmental, and forensic engineering services. - te

W

hen Nash Welling is looking for peace, he goes to the water. When he’s looking for purpose, he goes to work.

As the general manager for Tradesmen International, a construction industry staffing service, Welling says, ”There is no greater feeling to me than putting people to work. The only thing that comes close is watching some of our clients grow their business and the implication that has on their bottom line and their families.”

He does enjoy his free time though by pursuing a variety of interests. “I find my peace on the water. I love to fish, surf, sail and scuba dive,” Welling says.

He also wants to have a welding shop one day, and he’s about to begin a glassblowing apprenticeship and, a year ago, he married Kaitlin.

“She is the most brilliant and beautiful soul I’ve ever encountered,” he says.

Welling was born in Portland, Maine but moved with his family to Austin when he was 10. He attended Murchison Middle School, Anderson High School and the University of Texas.

He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Business and Government in 2010, but at the time, the economy was in a slump, so many of his college peers enrolled in law schools or graduate schools as they waited for things to change.

He says, “I was on the cusp of going to law school, but I had some friends from high school who were into metal working.” He followed their lead, as he was more interested in earning income than accruing debt.

“It was kind of serendipitous, getting a high paying gig that introduced me to trades. I fell in love with building things and became a welder, a millwright and an ironworker in the next several years,” he says.

In 2015, he started with Tradesmen International as a sales representative and this past April he was named general manager of the Austin office where he oversees all sales and recruitment activity. It’s a challenging position that has become his primary focus, he says.

He and Kaitlin continue to squeeze in fishing trips when they can. “My goal is to get a boat, maybe next year,” he says.

He wants to get that welding shop going next year, too. “I’d like to get a welder, do some sculpting and stay sharp on my skills. I enjoying making smokers,” he says.

“Yes, I have a lot of interests,” he admits adding, “I’m all over the place. I wish there were more hours in a day.” - ke

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Austin Construction News • November 2017

NEXT TH MON Kidd Roofing

Construction Equipment

If you would like to represent your company in an upcoming FOCUS, contact your Austin Editor for an Interview Kim Estes (512) 807-8010 AustinEditor@ConstructionNews.net

“Robust environment of work” Rob Welker, President and Partner Hoefer Wysocki Architecture Dallas, TX

W

hat are the “hot button” issues in your industry?

• The client profile – Each client requires a different type of service from our firm. This demands that we be flexible and adaptable to meet stringent requirements on the government side, tight budgets on the private sector, and a performance driven environment at an institutional level.

What are the “hot button” issues in your industry?

• Beyond the building – Architecture is our craft, but it is not all about building. As a result of our strategic approach on performance, we are looking for ways to create value for our clients. This complex process culminates into inspiring and engaging environments that affect our quality of life.

• Economy – We are at a great point where there is great opportunity for designing and constructing new facilities. It is also a good time to focus our energy into meaningful and impactful engagements. For this reason, we provide a fully integrated service for each of our clients, which allows them to make the most educated decision that will allow them to be successful while creating graceful architecture that reflects their ambition.

• Work force – The ability of skilled workers, because of economic demand, has created a robust environment of work. This leads to confor-

mity and over inflation in delivery of projects. Our focus on performance identifies key driving issues that help our projects navigate the complexity of the construction environment.

• Construction cost escalation – Difficult to control costs, AE fees are at risk • Urbanism – More people are moving to the city unlike their parents. The younger work force are interested in city living and the amenities. This will continue putting pressure on how we provide enough supply of housing/ schools/retail to the increasing pollution of the urban core. Public transportation is a must.

What are the major changes in recent years relating to the type of work that you do?

Implementation of technology and more accurate digital models have allowed the opportunity for more robust communication at the conception of a project all the way to construction administration of a project. As we make early decisions of design, we can now look in real-time the impact on energy consumption, budget,

Promises in design Aaron Dahl, Co-founder & Partner Acuform Architecture San Antonio, TX

C

elebrating ten years in practice, Acuform Architecture prides themselves on referrals and repeat clientele, assisting clients with all aspects of private sector commercial work and aiding in the process from initial site selections and securing governmental approvals through getting doors open and processing warranty claims. The hallmarks of their service include their candid, sometimes blunt, communications, and their ability to remain accessible to their clients throughout the entire design and build process.

Describing the construction industry as healthy, Dahl says “San Antonio has been well-positioned to take advantage of the growth specifically with regards to military, medical, and housing. I am confident that the recent growth in this market will domino into other areas of construction and we will have several years to come of steady continued work. ​ “Business activities have increased over the past twelve months. The growth has been good for businesses bottom line, but general contractors are having an extremely difficult time getting subcontractors to even look at projects. Subcontractors are unable to find talented workers, leading to increased construction costs and less-than-perfect construction. ​ “The business community, like Wall Street, is bullish about the future. The environment in Washington is more favorable for businesses small and large and

organizations that were holding steady for the longest time are now moving forward with plans for expansion. Another factor we’re starting to see is some new faces emerge as decision makers in key markets as the Baby Boomer generation continues to move into retirement. This younger generation is more willing to take on capital debt to secure a better future than their predecessors.”

Maintaining the level of service and quality that their clients have come to expect has been challenging. Owners are putting more pressure on design professionals and contractors to get things done faster - the QA/QC tends to take a back burner in the interest of getting the doors open. “My partner, Shawn Willis, and I find ourselves spending our weekends redlining drawings, reading field reports and prioritizing tasks for the coming week.”

The “hot button” issue in the architec-

timeline and overall experience.

Predictive analytics has allowed us to test in real-time that potential outcome of functional decisions in planning and design. We are seeing a shift from an evidence-based design approach to a results-driven approach that takes into account current and relevant data that is customizable and unique on geographical location.

Public/Private/Partnerships (P3) are gaining acceptance to fund for revenue generating projects.

What are the most significant challenges your industry faces?

One challenge is integration in project delivery to assure functional and performance results that add value to our clients.

A growing list of threats happening nationally and internationally – from the wrath of Mother Nature to local and global sponsored terrorism, is causing a void of much-needed regional suppliers to the new/immediate buyers.

Labor shortage of skilled workers in the construction industry is impacting cost and timely building turnover. The construction industry is reaching out to educational institutions like high schools and community colleges to create partnerships with them to ensure future supply of skilled labor.

What is on the horizon for your industry?

• Rearrangement and reorganization of financial approach to project delivery.

Partnering with industry leaders to advance healthcare delivery, creating better educational models that meet today’s demands and think big when it comes to urban design to reassure social equity and resilience.

tural/engineering industry is sustainability. “Unfortunately, this term has been commandeered by the green building people, but it’s more than just selecting efficient mechanical systems and renewable materials. Clients expect their buildings to last 70-80 years. Clients who already own and operate existing facilities are keenly aware of how much it costs to operate and maintain an older building.

We are constantly trying to remain abreast of current technologies in order to provide our clients a durable, low maintenance facility for not just years, but generations to come,” adds Dahl.

Major changes in the industry, in recent years are the rapid adoption of sustainable design principles. This has driven design like never before. Many items that used to be part of the LEED(R) requirements have been adopted by the International Code Council and are now required by law. It seems like every three years designers have a whole new layer of sustainable design elements that are required by code. Design professionals and contractors are continuously educating clients who are always seeking a good value.​ Some elements with a short payback period are defensible, but there are a lot of things required by code that don’t make much sense for most owners.

In addition, labor shortages continue to be the most significant challenges in the industry. “Clients are willing to pay for what they need, but across the design and build industries we simply cannot find the right talent to fill the positions out

• Filling the gap between the millennials’ wants to the baby boomers’ needs. Designing and delivering flexible spaces and finding creative ways to give everyone flexibility.

How does this affect how you conduct business?

First and most of all it affects our people by creating an emphasis on intellectual capacity more so than production. It also makes sure that our studio structure is a catalyst for good ideas and a vehicle for our stellar design leaders to make an impact in their communities and our business.

What factors do you feel are driving this?

Technological advancement in rapid prefab, 3-D printing and augmented reality will continue to impact how buildings are designed and built. With the rise in labor cost and shortage of skilled labor, these technologies will be the future.

Right now, we are reaching the tipping point to move more into the highly automated building construction industry.

Increasing pressure to reduce energy consumption and impact on the environment will shape how buildings are designed and built. More strict regulation will force the construction industry to reinvent itself.

Hoefer Wysocki Architecture is a full-service architecture, planning and interior design firm with offices in Dallas and Kansas City. The firm focuses on healthcare, commercial, retail, hospitality/entertainment/multifamily, government, judicial, education and urban and master planning projects. –mjm

there,” say Dahl.

Designers are starting to see some influences of the sharing economy on design. For years, clients have been looking for adaptable spaces, but now even large organizations are recognizing the value a small portion of their building may have for other organizations or small businesses. Much as houses are now being designed with Airbnb suites, “owneroccupied” buildings are considering ways to partially separate new facilities to accommodate small tenants. ​ All design professionals must offer a value proposition to their clients in the form of a better-built environment at a lower upfront and ongoing cost. “We achieve this through creative design solutions tailored to our clients’ specific needs that utilize practical and cost effective construction systems. The trademarks of our service are working as a team with the Owner and the Contractor in order to produce the most successful result possible.”

In conclusion, Dahl says, “The greatest reward is a referral from a client we worked with five or ten years ago. It’s a testament to our skills and foresight ​that a client from several years ago continues to appreciate their facility and recognizes the role that Acuform played in getting it built.” ​ Acuform Architecture is a full-service design firm focused on private sector commercial work. –cmw

Austin Construction News • November 2017

Page 13

Association Calendar

Employees with a vision

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

Nov. 2: OSHA Safety Rodeo (OSHA Partnership), VFW Post 8787, 500 VFW Rd. For more info, call 512-719-5263 ACEA Austin Contractors and Engineers Assn.

Nov. 9: “Human Resources from the trenches – Mistakes that can prove costly for contractors,” 11:30am-1pm, Dave & Busters, 9333 Research Blvd., Austin. For more information, call 512-893-7067.

AIA - Austin American Institute of Architects

Nov. 14: 2017 Annual Meeting with speaker, Beili Liu, 11:30am-1pm, Mercury Hall, 615 Cardinal Ln., Austin. For more information, call 512-452-4332.

Nov. 16: Small Firms Roundtable, 11:45am1pm, Austin Center for Architecture, 801 W. 12th St., Austin. For more information, call 512-452-4332.

ASCE G-I American Society of Civil Engineers, Geo-Institute

Nov. 12-15: The Second Pan-American Conference on Unsaturated Soils (PANAMUNSAT), Intercontinental Dallas, Addison.

For more information, call 703-295-6300.

ASCE American Society of Civil Engineers Texas Section, Austin Branch

Nov. 4: Hurricane Harvey Brewery Fundraiser, noon-3pm, 2 Wheels Brewery, 535 South Loop 4, Buda. For more information, call 512-279-5437.

CCT Cement Council of Texas

Nov. 7: Soil-Cement/RCC Seminar, 8am4:30pm, Georgetown Chamber of Commerce, 1 Chamber Way, Georgetown. For

more information, call 817-540-4437.

CENTEX IEC Central Texas Chapter Independent Electrical Contractors

Nov 29: Annual Business Meeting, 11:30am1pm. For information, call 512-832-1333.

CTSA Central Texas Subcontractor Assn.

Nov. 14: Lunch and Learn, 11:30am-1pm, Maggiano’s, The Domain. For more information, call 512-255-6373.

NARI National Assn. of the Remodeling Industry

Nov. 3: The Best Night Ever: 2017 Contractor of the Year (COTY) Awards + Celebration, 7-11:30pm, The Mansion, 2312 San Gabriel St., Austin. For more information, call 512375-2601.

NAWIC National Assn. of Women in Construction

Nov. 1: Chapter Meeting, 5:30 pm, Big Daddy’s Burger & Bar, 9070 Research Blvd., Austin. For more information, call 512-447-7887.

TACCA Texas Air Conditioning Contractors Assn.

Nov. 1: TACCA Greater Austin Sporting Clay Shoot, Capital City Clays, 8707 Lindell Lane.

For more info, call 512-320-0952 or email services@tacca.org TxA Texas Society of Architects

Nov. 9-11: Threshold, Bridges/Boundaries, 78th Annual Convention and Design Expo, Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez St., Austin. For more information, call 512-478-7386.

(Center) Branch manager, Robbie Ketch, gives the “thumbs up” for his Lasco team.

I

magine 265 employees who have bought into a vision to satisfy customers, grow a company and support each other. Lasco Austin is where you will find these sorts of employees, says Robbie Ketch, branch manager.

He believes this is what gives Lasco a distinctive edge. “Our team completely buys into our company vision to satisfy our customers, gratify our employees and amplify our assets,” he says.

The Austin Lasco branch opened in 2000. There are now three offices in Texas and one in Oklahoma, all of which are served by more than 800 employees.

Jeff Thomas founded Lasco in the Dallas-Fort Worth area in 1987 with a small loan from a family member.

Ketch joined the business in 2004 when he and his father mutually decided to close their general contracting service.

“Jeff and I knew each other, and he asked if I wanted to come work with him. I took him up on the opportunity and have

been a part of the team ever since,” Ketch says.

Lasco Austin has participated in “some pretty neat” projects, Ketch notes, including the Austonian Tower and the Seaholm Residential Tower.

But it’s the people he works with who make Ketch’s job enjoyable.

He says, “I love the construction industry because it is a people-driven industry, and I enjoy interacting with people.”

Camaraderie is encouraged at Lasco.

Foremen are invited to quarterly luncheons and, in the summer, outings for all employees may include a trip to Dell Diamond for a baseball game or to the coast for fishing.

“For customers, we try to represent trust and hassle-free service, and in doing this we create great relationships,” Ketch says.

Lasco is a commercial drywall, framing and acoustical subcontractor. -ke

Texas Disposal Systems: Nate Peterson and Connie Wood

Mike Olien, Ram Tool Construction Supply Co.; Caleb Dickerson, Ryan Companies

Alterman, Inc.: Shawn Driskill and Tony Weathers

Capital Strategies: Karen Garrison and Karey Lyn Williams

Compliance Resources, Inc.: Misti Shafer-Webb and Destiny Bozeman

Hull Supply Co., Inc.: Tonia Sherman, Tina Davila, Joe Davila, Carrie Hunt

Equipment Depot: Michael Demine, Mark Bush, Chaundra Callaway, Bobby Wilkes

Texas State Univ. Construction Student Assn.: Garrett Whitaker, Sam Haynie, Daniel Hesse

Where the wild things are

T

exas Disposal Systems was host to members of the Associated General Contractors (AGC) Austin Chapter for their Annual Fish Fry on Oct. 5.

TDS is home to an exotic game ranch, and members and their guests were invited on a bus tour of the property that is home to 115 species of wildlife.

The evening also featured both a live and silent auction, from which a portion of the proceeds will fund two scholarships. - ke Landon Wolf, Solis Constructors, and his family, Jeanne and Benjamin

Winner of this armadillo race was, center, Jason Puckett with Patriot Erectors. Other contenders were (left) Eric Herzog, also with Patriot Erectors, and Michael Demine, Equipment Depot.

Kendra Wakefield, Ryan Companies, and her daughter, Camille

(Right) Elizabeth Casarez, Solis Construction, and guests (L-R) Whitney Olness and Samantha Stewart Chasco Constructors: Brent Wood, Jack Richards, Dave Mireles, Ryan Wolf

NAWIC: Bethany Hicks, Taryn Ritchie, Cathy Schernik, Misti Shafer-Webb, Ann Koziol, Linda Cudmore, Chaundra Callaway, Toni Osberry, Cindy Richter, Jamie Denton

FireTron, Inc.: Katie Findahl, Anitra Young, John Marshall, Billy Arnold, Kevin Eudy, Roger D. Burroughs, Jr.

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Austin Construction News • November 2017

Swinerton serves subcontractors

M

ore than 100 attended the 2nd Annual Subcontractor Appreciation Oktoberfest, or Swintoberfest, on Sept. 29 at Swinerton Builders in Austin. Guests dined on German food, beer and, an Austin original, Amy’s Ice Cream. - ke

L-R: Kathy Web and Isabel Flores greeted Robby Tefft, TD Industries and presented him a traditional felt Bavarian hat.

continued from Page 1 — A vision carved in stone signatory, and a bank in Dallas, we bought them out,” Teel recalls.

“My parents helped me out at first.

After about 2½ years, my dad finally said, ‘Son, either you’re going to make it, or you’re not.” Teel stayed the course.

The path has been rocky and full of pitfalls, but he not only found a way to make it work he also found a vision.

“I love what I do. I believe this is where I’m supposed to be.

“We started out very small. I told our guys from the beginning that if we lose our quality, then we’ve got nothing over our competitors. We had to distinguish ourselves somehow, and quality and services were all we had,” recalls Teel.

Today, he has much more.

In addition to CCS, which has expanded from 5,000 to 15,000sq ft., he owns two quarries.

He employs about 65 people, including his wife, Katherine, who is CCS marketing director. (He treats them all to a deep-sea fishing trip in Port Aransas every year.)

Also, Teel’s resume includes a list of notable projects.

“The Bexar County Justice Center is probably the hardest thing we’ve ever done. We were really green at the time,

and for us, it was a huge project,” Teel says.

Others are the University of Texas Dell Medical School Administration Building and the George W. Bush Library in Dallas.

“We got the Library because we have the quarry that has been the primary source of Cordova cream and Shellstone limestone in Texas for 100-plus years. A lot of the old Texas courthouses were built with cream limestone,” Teel says.

Which leads to the company’s next specialty, restoration. They have participated in the refurbishment of several Texas courthouses as well as work on the state Capitol.

Regardless of the project, Teel finds each one to be a challenge. “We never do the same thing twice. We truly are a custom fabrication facility, so there’s no standard product. I see the same elements over-and-over, but each project has its personality and unique character. I think that may be the thing that keeps my interest,” he says.

Continental Cut Stone is a sub-contractor specializing in limestone construction and restoration for both commercial and high-end residential projects. – ke

continued from Page 1 — Charged for 50 more years

L-R: Mark and Brandy Broderick, owners of Capital City Tile and Stone

L-R: Calondra Yarbrough and Alex Schauer, Workplace Resource LLC; and Megan McCray, DIRTT

NAWIC elects Ritchie as president

A

ustin’s chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has elected Taryn Ritchie as its president.

Ritchie, a Ryan Companies’ pre-construction engineer, got her start in the industry 17 years ago as a mechanical contractor’s receptionist.

At one time, she explored other occupational options; however, she eventually came back to construction. “It’s a good industry,” she says.

Eager to promote women in construction, Ritchie says as NAWIC president she plans to continue to support continuing technical education programs at Austin’s Crockett and Lanier early college high schools as well as NAWIC’s work with the University of Texas and its annual Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day. “Last year, 8,000 showed up. I took my daughter,” she says.

Ritchie also wants to enhance outreach. “So many people don’t know about NAWIC and what we do,” she says. - ke

“I opened this office. We remodeled the whole inside, and it’s totally different than when we got it,” says Collier, speaking with both a sense of ownership and responsibility.

“Right now,” he notes, “we’re in the second generation with my dad, Leland, Jr., as president of the business. He and the men that have been working with him will be retiring in five years or so, and it will be on us.” Collier has a brother, Leland, III, who is a master electrician working in the Waco office.

“It’s a cool thing – working with your family and trying to keep the company going. And not just going, but working to make it even better for our future and our children’s future,” he says. Collier and his wife, Ashlee, have two sons, 3-year-old Cole and 1-year-old Reeve.

Although Collier opted to pursue a business degree (from Texas Tech University) versus studies specific to the electrical trade, he is pleased to fill a role within the industry.

“I like it. These are the hardest working guys ever. They do whatever it takes to get the job done,” he says.

He recalls the summer of 2016 when crews worked every Saturday and Sun-

day to complete a school on schedule.

“Schools have to be open, so guys sacrifice their weekends,” he says.

It is this work ethic that Collier wants to maintain regardless of inevitable changes in the industry. “My grandfather used to bid jobs with a ruler and a legal pad. Now we use AutoCAD. We adapt to new technology, but we want to keep what has made us unique, and that’s the grit, the men, the doing whatever it takes to get the job done,” Collier says.

As a reminder, however, of their legacy, in back of the company’s Waco office stands the shed where it all started.

“They built a big HEB where my grandparent’s house was.

“My grandmother was not going to sell, partly, because of the sentimental value of it all. We told her, ‘Your house is going to be in the middle of an HEB parking lot. You’ve got to sell.’ Everybody else had sold except for her.

“Finally, she did, but we moved the shed behind the warehouse - just for the memories,” Collier says.

Leland Collier Electric Co. is a subcontractor for all types of construction with an emphasis on public schools and education facilities in Central and North Texas. - ke

continued from Page 1 — A place of space to explore Taryn Ritchie

Construction News ON LOCATION

Ferguson in Pflugerville

Working in the front office for Ferguson Fire & Fabricaton Inc. are (front to back) Elvia Valdez, Michael Geydos and, branch manager, Tim Goodwin. - ke

concrete flooring.

Lind says, “One of our challenges was keeping these floors from being damaged. In high-profile areas, we poured slab below the floor-level prior to wall construction. Then we poured a topping slab after construction to prevent damage to the final flooring.”

Additional challenges included limited space for a large volume of above-ceiling mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, which the project teams addressed by using Navisworks to run clash detection and by holding numerous preplanning and coordination meetings to eliminate as many conflicts as possible.

Also, early on, crews found on-site groundwater, so the building was moved to another location on the 150-acre tract where water was less prevalent.

And finally, highly expansive soil required removal of 12 ft. of existing material and the importing of select fill.

Dan Horan, the senior project manager, says, “Because this project was built under the construction manager at risk delivery method, we were involved during the early stages of design. We developed strong relationships with the school district administration, the architect and the engineers resulting in a collaborative work environment, mutual respect for each

team member’s expertise and good communication throughout the duration of the project.”

Team members included Horan, Lind and project superintendent, Colt Balthazor, as well as PBK Architects and structural engineers, Dunaway Associates, Inc., civil engineers, Gil Engineering Associates, Inc. and mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineers, MEP Engineering.

American Constructors has built 145 school projects since it was founded in 1982 by Bill Heine, who now serves as chairman of the board.

It also has been involved in a diverse mix of other projects in manufacturing, commercial, health care, industrial, religious and high-tech markets. Projects have ranged from $800,000 to about $120 million in new construction, additions and expansions and renovations in both the public and the private sector.

“We excel in providing design input and support on projects that require a builder with detailed technical expertise and accurate estimating services,” says Marty Burger, CEO.

American Constructors is a general contractor located in Cedar Park. It serves the greater Austin area and Central Texas. - ke

Austin Construction News • November 2017

Page 15

Recognition and reward

T

he Central Texas Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors gathered on Oct. 11 at the J.W. Marriott in Austin for its annual Excellence in Construction Awards Banquet and Ceremony.

One highlight of the evening was the Bob and Peggy Duda Chairman’s Award presented to Jesse Beckett with Beckett Electrical Services.

Presentations also included Chapter Safety Training and Evaluation Program (STEP) Awards, National STEP Awards, Best of the Best Safety Awards, Merit Awards, Excellence Awards and Best of the Best Award. - ke Safety Award of Excellence Winners: Airco Mechanical American Constructors Baker Drywall Austin Ltd. BCS Concrete DPR Construction EBCO F.L. Crane & Sons Intertech Flooring McKinney Drilling Seretta Construction Texas LLC Titus Electrical Contracting LLC Best of the Best Safety Winners Subcontractors Category: Slater Painting Company Lasco Acoustics & Drywall Inc.

Beckett Electrical TDIndustries Best of the Best Safety Winners General Contractors Category: Harvey-Cleary Builders White Construction Company Flintco Inc. Lee Lewis Construction Inc.

BETCO Scaffolds Marek Brothers Systems Inc. McKinney Drilling Rogers-O’Brien Construction Company Titus Electrical Contracting LP Tradesmen International Platinum STEP Winners: Austin Commercial LP Baker Triangle Austin DPR Construction Joeris General Contractors Lasco Acoustics & Drywall Inc. SpawGlass Contractors Inc. White Construction Company

Silver STEP Winners: Airco Mechanical Inc. Austin Sales & Scaffold Bartlett Cocke General Contactors Inc.

Diamond STEP Winners: American Constructors Inc. Cadence McShane Construction Co. Ltd. EBCO General Contractor Ltd. F.L. Crane & Sons Inc. Harvey-Cleary Builders Slater Painting Company Inc.

Gold STEP Winners: Beckett Elctrical Services LLC

Excellence in Construction Merit Award Winners:

Mega Projects over $100 Million: DPR Construction; University of Texas System Building Commercial $10–25 Million: Harvey-Cleary Builders; YETI Coolers Headquarters Commercial $10-25 Million: SpawGlass Contractors Inc.; Pioneer Bank Commercial $25-100 Million: Rogers-O’Brien Construction; Domain 8 Mulit-Family Up to $100 Million: Rogers-O’Brienc Construction; University House Other Construction $2-100 Million: Joeris General Contractors; Round Rock Multipurpose Complex, Ph. A Electrical Commercial $2-10 Million: Titus Electrical Contracting; University House Mechanical Commercial Less than $2 Million: TDIndustries; University of Texas Football Locker Room Sitework/Landscape/Hardscape: Choate USA; Judge Guy Herman Center

Best of the Best General Contractor White Construction Company The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd Institutional: $10-$25 million

Lasco Acoustics & Drywall UT Dell Medical School Stage B Research Building Interiors: Acoustical, drywall, millwork or plaster

Bob and Peggy Duda Chairman’s Award Jesse Beckett, Beckett Electrical Services

Airco Mechanical 2700 La Frontera / HMH Mechanical: Commercial - Less than $2 Million

White Construction Company Toyota of Cedar Park Commercial: $10-$25 Million

Airco Mechanical Round Rock ISD Middle School No. 11 Mechanical: Commercial - $2-$10 Million

Best of the Best Specialty Contractor Airco Mechanical Round Rock ISD Middle School No. 11 Mechanical: Commercial - $2-$10 Million

White Construction Company The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd Institutional: $10-$25 Million

White Construction Company The Parke Commercial: $25-$100 Million

Free Enterprise Award White Construction Company The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd Institutional: $10-$25 million

Ryan Companies: The Reserve at Springdale Residential Multi-Family up to $100 Million

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Austin Construction News • November 2017

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