San Antonio Construction News July 2019

Covering the Industry’s News

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H Volume 22 H

Number 7

H JULY 2019

Metal fabricator

Family floors

Malcolm Clayton, owner of Malcolm’s Custom Welding

General manager Carl and owner Wayne Hoffmann, of Hoffmann Floors

es, Malcolm Clayton is a welder.

His business is Malcolm’s Custom Welding. But he is more than a guy who slaps two metal pieces together.

“People ask me if I like being a welder,” he said. “I say, ‘No, I’m a fabricator.’” Clayton makes things, with welding as his medium.

Clayton has been welding since a child on the farm in east Texas. If something needing fixing, he and his dad had to fix it. He used an old welding machine to teach himself how to weld. “It just kind of caught on and that’s what I’ve been doing ever since,” he explained.

Then, by going to a vocational school, Clayton got proficient in every aspect of welding. “I’m certified in everything,” he said.

After working at a metal building com-

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H (210) 308-5800

pany for a couple of years, Clayton realized that: (a) there is a good demand for welders; and, (b) he could make more money on his own. Thus, he took the plunge and branched out on his own in February 2015.

“I learned there’s a lot higher demand for welders in south Texas,” he said.

Going from the worker to business owner had its own challenges. “I went from a welder to a business owner real quick,” he laughs. “I didn’t realize all the stress that came with it. I was doing everything by myself. I was bidding the jobs. I was doing the jobs and all the paperwork.” Fortunately, Clayton has help now. His mother helps with the paperwork and a tax expert does all that part of the business. Clayton also has two guys continued on Page 21

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he Hoffmann family has been laying the floors down in the New Braunfels area since 1981. Brothers Wayne and Stanley Hoffman pooled their backgrounds in construction and flooring, respectively, to form Hoffmann Floors.

“The brothers just got together and said, ‘Hey, let’s do this,’” general manager (and Wayne’s son) Carl Hoffmann said.

When Stanley passed away several years ago, Wayne bought his half of the company from his widow and is now the sole owner of Hoffmann Floors.

Carl grew up and spent plenty of time helping his dad and uncle with their flooring operation. In those early days, it ran out of a duplex store front, but soon outgrew it and started acquiring more

and more storage units to house all their materials. “The next thing we knew,” Carl said, “we had about 15 of them!”

With many other family members contributing to the cause, Carl wanted to branch out on his own. He went to Texas A & M and spent many years working in business and software. But with Wayne progressing in years, Carl decided to move on back.

“I actually just came back to join my father here about three years ago,” he said. “I joined to kind of help him retire but he’s still here, teaching us all!”

Carl mentioned that his cousin, Lisa Goodson, and Robert Richardson are part of the management team at Hoffmann Floors. As the GM, Carl oversees continued on Page 21

Campus pays homage to its history

he Alamo Colleges District’s Support Operations campus is one of Skanska USA’s most exciting projects in San Antonio because it has so many unique features, starting with the rich history of the site. During construction, Skanska found artifacts tracing the land’s history back to when it was inhabited by Native Americans, all the way up to the 1960’s – 1970’s, when San Antonio’s beloved Playland Park, located on the property, was at the height of its popularity.

The campus pays homage to its history through the landscape design, which highlights the portion of the Acequia Madre de Valero that runs through the site. A rock garden marks the underground path of the Acequia, an ancient tributary water source that is believed to extend all the way to the Alamo.

In addition to the land’s historical significance, the campus offers users and guests unobstructed views of the iconic

Front elevation, Alamo College District’s Support Campus

San Antonio skyline, including the prominent Tower of the Americas. Users also benefit from being within walking distance to The Pearl, which is the epicenter of the economic revitalization taking place along Broadway. Urban living residential options, upscale retail, chef-driven restaurants, entertainment, museums, Riverwalk access and more are all located within close proximity to the campus.

From a construction and design standpoint, the glue-laminated timber roof structure made this a distinctive project. Timber is not only a beautiful and sustainable element but incorporating it into this project is a smart practice since the timber can be replanted to replace materials used on the roof structure. Additionally, the use of timber is a growing trend in the built environment, and it’s a great way to achieve carbon neutrality.

This project entailed the new construction of a 156,000sf, three-story concontinued on Page 21

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San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

Calling SA home

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or 25 years, Consulting Engineering Services (CES) has been providing MEP, FP engineering services for design, energy assessments, commissioning and construction administration projects. The 10-person firm, headquartered in Middletown, CT is divided into manageable teams consisting of five to eight engineers with five satellite offices in New York City; Norwood, MA; Fort Lauderdale, FL; Bozeman, MT and most recently, San Antonio, TX.

CES works in multidisciplinary teams of well-rounded, experienced engineers representing each spe- L-R: George Keithan, Jr., Vish Hariharaputran and Russ Knuth. cialty trade and are overseen by a project manager and firm ovation for a local bakery called Sweet & principal. The firm’s company-wide col- Salty and a medical office building fit-out laborative atmosphere extends from in Boerne. Other projects are in the branch to branch with continuous open works. These include a day spa, numerlines of communication, ensuring all of ous restaurants and bars in Austin as well their clients are completely supported as private residences in Llano, Boerne and have the best in design and custom- and Fredericksburg.

The firm proudly employs college er service needed for every project.

Founding Principal, George Keithan students through the company’s internstated, “The decision to expand our pres- ship program each summer, striving to ence to the thriving Texas market place educate and mentor each student was a logical step to better serve our cli- through hands-on and field experience ents. The thriving culture in San Antonio with the firm’s senior level staff. and its surrounding areas is magnetic The new San Antonio location is loand we’re drawn to the possibilities that cated just south of Loop 1604 on Blanco Road. lie ahead.”

Consulting Engineering Services (CES)

Hitting the ground running, the firm successfully completed a restaurant ren- is a MEP engineering firm. -cmw

Renovation to open house

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iss, Janey, Elstner Associates (WJE) held a client open house for their renovated space in San Antonio on May 17.

Guests enjoyed food and refreshments, games of beanbag and mini-golf, and

lively discussions about historical restoration work in San Antonio.

The newly renovated suite used to be the administration offices of the San Antonio branch of International Harvester. -cmw

The Wiss, Janey, Elstner Associates’ team gather for a group photo at the firm’s new renovated office and open house.

Jean Willie Salas examining project boards displayed during open house.

San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

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Golfing for the wounded

Real gone, man

o help change the lives of over one million injured warriors, caregivers and family members, Baker Triangle hosted their 12th Annual Charity Golf Tournament benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project. The event was held on May 24 at the SilverHorn Golf Club. Photos courtesy of Mary C. Haskin Photography. - cmw

1st Place: StructureTone Southwest

The BakerTriangle team.

Racing WICs

The San Antonio Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) shared this photo from their participation in the 28th Annual Susan G. Komen Race for a Cure on May 4. -cmw

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Matthew O’Leary (president) and ace worker James Anderson of GTT Fabrication, working on the Medina County Library

he initials “GTT” stood for the phrase “Gone to Texas,” used by many who did so in the 1800s. Those who upped and left their homes (many times to escape if they were in debt) simply wrote “GTT” on their doors to signify they were out of there to start a new life in the Lone Star State.

The same is true for the O’Leary boys, who wandered the world as Air Force dependents. Their father retired out of Beale Air Force Base near Sacramento. With the cost of living and business prospects being so good in Texas, brothers Matthew and Kevin did the GTT thing and started GTT Fabrication in 2016.

“We decided to start a fabrication shop out of the welding equipment that we had and the construction knowledge that we had,” oldest brother Patrick said.

Matthew is the president and Patrick the vice president. Patrick still resides in northern California running O’Leary Exploratory Services (based in Idaho – don’t ask), but commutes to Texas every month to meet with clients and help out any way he can. From his west coast digs, Patrick keeps the books and does the estimating and makes all the phone calls.

Even though the family moved all over the world with the Air Force (Patrick graduated from high school in Berlin), all things construction is built into everyone’s DNA. “Reading a set of plans is like breathing for us,” Patrick said.

Dad got the boys involved with being mechanical and working on cars early on.

Not only did Dad move to family to Alaska for an assignment, he built their house up there as well. Patrick recalls working with an uncle in his construction business in Montana. Even though no one really has any formal training in the construction trades, Patrick said “It’s in the blood” for

the whole family. Further, they’ve worked with various contractors all their lives.

“We like building stuff,” he added.

“We’ve always been hands-on, getdown-in-the-dirt king of guys.” Thus, starting a fabrication business was a smooth transition for the boys. “A lot of our clients were begging us to do so,” Patrick explained.

GTT Fabrication has three main divisions: a shop fabrication for items like connector plates for beams (GTT does a lot for in-town companies as well as shipping them out of state); pre-fab metal buildings; and structural steel that’s also shipped out.

GTT picked Castroville because it has plenty of room and the land is inexpensive. Good thing, too, because the O’Learys want to expand on their existing shop. The San Antonio building boom has been very good to GTT Fabrication.

“We want to grow,” Patrick said.”

Currently, there are seven men on the GTT payroll.

Matthew and Kevin are the main welders and run the operations in Texas.

Matthew’s wife is an architectural student at UTSA and does all the shop drawings for GTT. If Patrick needs help with an estimate, he dispatches Matthew to look into it. Otherwise, being remote hasn’t posed a problem for him. Having said that, once Patrick’s daughter graduates from high school, he too will paint “GTT” on his garage or front door in northern California and make the trek that so many before him have done and will join up with his two brothers.

“It’s just better doing business in Texas,” Patrick said, stating the bottom line. After years of traveling around the world, the O’Learys have FSH: Finally Stopped Here.

GTT Fabrication makes custom metal products, based in Castroville. -dsz

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San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

And sonsssssss

The next chapter

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ndy Rodriguez of Mechanical Reps will be retiring at the end of June and will be greatly missed in the industry. Rodriguez has been with Mechanical Reps for more than 35 years doing estimating and some sales. Prior to Mechanical Reps, Rodriguez was with Hornor & Co. and served in the US Army. Rodriguez is a graduate of Central Catholic HS and recently attended his 50-year high school reunion.

Rodriguez was honored at the June MCA-SMACNA meeting for his many years of service and dedication to MCA-SMACNA of San Antonio and the San Antonio mechanical industry. -cmw

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L-R: Andy Rodriguez and John Gargott, MCA-SMACNA President

Roger Tellez, owner of Tellez & Sons Painting

oger Tellez is the “Tellez” in Tellez & Sons Painting. The “Sons” is Roger’s son Isaac. Tellez inherited the business from his father in 1992. So, before 1992, Roger was the “Sons” to his father’s “Tellez.” When Roger leaves the business to Isaac in several years, Isaac will become the “Tellez” and his son will be the “Sons.” This will result in four generations of painters from one family leaving their marks on San Antonio.

Right now, Roger does about 80 percent residential work to about 20 percent commercial. But in his lengthy painting history, some of that commercial includes San Antonio landmarks Six Flags Fiesta Texas and Sea World. To paint some of the rides in both places, Roger used lifts or even a rope and pulley to reach some non-standard places.

Before those two places were built, Roger remembers the day when the only thing west of town on I-10 was pretty much Camp Bullis. He has been painting with his father since his high school days.

Roger has done his share of historical homes in San Antonio as well, matching

San Antonio

the original paint schemes.

Being the boss now means he has to be the lead bidder and estimator. That comes with the territory. What Roger really loves doing is painting. “I like to work,” he said. “I just love it. It makes my day go faster.”

During his years of painting, Roger remembers the lots of yellow and hunter green and country blue phases. But if there’s one constant for Roger, it’s what his father once told him: “Every day you learn something new about painting.”

Roger has undoubtedly shared with Isaac about the days when a business had to advertise in (hang on for this one) the Yellow Pages. Isaac will tell his son about doing a Google search in his day. Whichever means is used, Tellez & Sons has a lot of repeat customers. In fact, Roger is repainting his father’s customers’ houses now.

“Every day you learn something different,” Roger said, repeating his father’s wisdom. Maybe someday a Tellez son will paint the new Eight Flags Fiesta Texas.

Tellez & Sons Painting is a painting contractor in San Antonio. -dsz

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San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

A real shady guy

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1. David Quinn, founder and owner of Shade.

small tree puts out just a little bit of shade, but as it gets bigger, the amount of relief from the sun grows and grows.

Such was the case with David Quinn of Shade. “I started out in my garage and operated out of my garage for about two years,” he said. “We slowly built the business.”

Owning a custom awning and canopy business was not Quinn’s first job direction; it’s at least his third. His pursuit of a law degree at Baylor didn’t work out. He then spent at least 16 years working in the oil exploration and drilling business.

At one point Quinn was one of those oil well blowout control folks, being connected with the famous Red Adair.

Quinn would spend long periods of time out on rigs in the water. It was great money and good experiences for a single guy, not so much for a married man with small kids.

“It was not about me anymore,” he said, “but my young children. I did it [got out of the oil rig business] so I could watch my daughter in a play.” Quinn said his father spent a good deal of time away from the family for his career and he didn’t want to duplicate that for his kids.

Thus, Quinn started Shade in 1986. In the very early days, Shade did small canopies, then eventually added fabric and canvas to its repertoire.

Despite being small and working out of his garage (he did have to eventually move out when his wife complained about the noise he was making in there), Quinn landed some good gigs, like Sea World and Fiesta Texas when they were being built. “That kind of gave us our start,” he said.

“We are predominantly in the commercial arena,” Quinn said, “but at the same time we will do residential work if a client calls us.” It usually works this way: Shade will do a business, then the owner of that business will say he’d like Quinn to do something at his house. Or, Quinn will do something at someone’s house, and that person will say he’d like some work done at his business. Sweet.

“The bottom line is if you strive to serve and produce a quality product, people are going to seek you out,” Quinn said.

After working out of his garage, Quinn moved the company to a couple of other locations, but eventually growing out of them. Shade has finally settled to a place on San Antonio’s south side, where Quinn says business is “very brisk.”

Shade generally works with the GC

or contractor to make and install what the design calls for. Shade does a lot of name-brand restaurants and store fronts.

“We’re just another sub in the lineup, which is fine,” Quinn explained. For a smaller, privately-owned establishment, Shade will assist in the design and engineering of whatever is being requested.

“We can take orders or give orders with equal dexterity,” he said.

Quinn’s largest residential project was a fully-computerized, 16-screen automated system on 30-ft high windows.

Shade’s canopies are designed to withstand 115 mph winds. “Most of our products wear out; they don’t tear apart,” Quinn proudly said.

“I can’t say enough about having dedicated, hard-working, clean-thinking people in my organization,” he said.” It can’t be stressed enough.”

From Shade’s early days to now, Quinn said, “Our industry has grown leaps and bounds.” Textiles are so much better. We have stronger products that hold their color and integrity better. Our graphic application techniques have improved.”

Quinn works with his son Justin and daughter Ashley but has no plans on stepping back. “I enjoy what I do,” he said. “I’ve found a product that I’m good at. I love driving down the street and seeing products that are 15-20 years old and still look good. That gives me a lot of satisfaction and joy. “

That, and being able to be there for his kids’ sports and growing up. Guess Quinn isn’t so shady after all. -dsz

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San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

Are you fully utilizing your financial statements?

Active shooter events: Simple actions can save lives

Lance Trammell, CPA, Partner, Assurance Services Lane Gorman Trubitt LLC Dallas, TX

Jim Greaves, Associate Partner & Risk Management Experience Director Catto & Catto LLP San Antonio, TX

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ow effectively are you using your financial statements when making decisions? At the project level, contractors know just how important planning, and job monitoring is when it comes to the performance of the project. Plans and project estimates are carefully prepared prior to the start of a project and are continuously monitored throughout the term. Monitoring helps ensure that timely decisions can be made with regards to scope and the profitability of the project. If we step back to look at the big picture, are we doing the same thing for our company as a whole? Are we taking the information in our financial statements and using it to effectively plan and monitor our financial success?

It is not just about cash in the bank and the bottom line…

As decision makers, we cannot make sound decisions by just looking at the first line of the balance sheet and the last line of the income statement. The entire set of financial statements provide key insight into what we have to look forward to. For instance, our receivable and payable balances can help forecast some of our major cash inflows and outflows for future periods. As contractors, the cost/billing in excess accounts are indicators of how well we are estimating and billing out our contracts in process. The income statement provides us information on our current performance with regards to profitability and being able to cover our expenses; while the statement of cash flow shows us how we have generated and used our cash resources.

Performance analysis/benchmarking

Ratio analysis and benchmarking are great tools to incorporate into your financial statement analysis. Growth indicators such as month to month or year over year comparisons are good performance measurables. Comparisons of month to month can help us spot trends throughout the year so that we can better plan for cash flow in future periods.

Simple analytics such as calculating general and administrative (G&A) expense categories as a percentage of contract revenue or gross profit can help identify what non-contract related expenses are consuming our profit dollars, as well as having a significant impact on the bottom line. We should also be calculating ratios that are used by our external users such as liquidity, profitability, and leverage ratios.

Performing these calculations alone is should not be the endpoint of our analysis. We need to make sure that we are interpreting the results and that they are in-line with expectations. Additionally, taking the results and performing benchmarking allows us to see how we measure up against others in our industry and can clue us in on the efficiency

and effectiveness of our operations.

In conclusion

Financial statements provide a roadmap of where the company has been and a good indicator of where the company is going. Establishing performance measures and monitoring them is integral to staying on top of company performance.

Your financials are trying to tell you something, so make sure you are listening.

Contact your CPA, whenever you need assistance in understanding or setting up any analysis that will enhance your measurables within your financial statements.

About Lance:

Lance Trammell joined Lane Gorman Trubitt, LLC (LGT) in 1999 and has nearly two decades of experience working with a diverse portfolio of clients, particularly in the construction, real estate, and manufacturing/distribution sectors. A specialist in large-scale project management, Lance oversees the delivery of quality service to clients needing assurance, review, and compilation solutions by supervising staff on engagements, reviewing documentation, and preparing financial statements. Lance’s insight is frequently sought by members of the construction industry, and he has been involved in expert witness preparation and testimony for construction-related disputes. Lance is also well versed in compliance and HUD-related matters, and frequently presents on topics unique to the construction industry.

Lane Gorman Trubitt, LLC 2626 Howell Street, Suite 700 Dallas, TX 75204-4064 Phone: (214) 871-7500 Fax: (214) 871-0011 Email: askus@lgt-cpa.com Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Share on Twitter

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t seems like we cannot turn on the television, read the newspaper or go online without hearing about another tragic mass shooting. With a majority of active shooter events occurring in the workplace, safety professionals are looking for guidance in helping their organizations plan for, respond to, and recover from them. Construction job sites have not been a major target for active shooter events, but the number of incidents has risen dramatically in the United States in recent years.

The Department of Homeland Security defines an active shooter as an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area. Unlike most safety hazards, active shooters cannot always be identified through a simple assessment, even though warning signs may be recognizable in some cases. They come from every occupation, industry, economic situation, education level, background, and race.

What can be done to help an organization assess and control the active shooter risk?

Safety professionals should conduct a Threat Assessment to identify areas of opportunity and implement the steps needed to fill any gaps in preparation or response.

A thorough Threat Assessment involves an evaluation of areas such as: • Risk & Vulnerabilities – Review any prior assessments – Current involvement with law enforcement – Number of building exits and monitored status – Criminal activity in the area

and more • Emergency Action Plan – Is there a plan in place?

– Do you conduct drills?

– Does your plan address active shooter?

– Does your plan address construc- tion sites?

• Prevention – Do you know what the law enforce- ment response times are in the areas of your construction jobsites?

– What are your contractor controls?

– What are your perimeter and access controls?

– Training and Education While not an all-inclusive list, the following are some additional tips worth your consideration: • Give law enforcement as much heads up as possible. In addition to preevent planning, on-scene information about the facility is critical. Employers can place lock boxes in the front entrance containing blueprints and key cards for additional responders.

• Plan for reunification of workers, keeping in mind that law enforcement may have occupied usual emergency gathering spots. How do your workers contact their employer to let their employer know that they are safe? Do you have a call in number?

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• In addition, prepare for family members and media personnel to be present on scene. While law enforcement may handle access control, employers can plan in advance and make the process more effective.

• Create a reunification location where family members can reunite with their loved ones away from the shooting scene. Also prepare and have a plan in place for family notification so that they know to head to the reunification location.

• Let law enforcement speak to media early on in the event. The organization’s communications team should work with law enforcement. In any emergency situation, it helps to have a policy indicating that media communication should come from assigned company representatives; employees should be instructed to defer to those representatives.

• Once a law enforcement investigation is complete, media communications will transition to the organization. In the meantime, internal communications to workers should come from the organization.

• Have a plan for getting work done.

Because law enforcement will essentially close the building for days after an event, it’s important for employers to have a contingency plan, keeping in mind that many employees will have quickly left the scene without computers and other items needed for work.

• Plan for post-incident counseling.

The goal is to normalize emotions, helping workers get back to a routine. Provide HR staff with appropriate training so they are able to assist, and bring in trained professionals to provide counseling.

• Training for employees must include options instead of just traditional lockdown procedures. Use Department of Homeland Security’s “Run, hide, fight.”

Law enforcement recognizes that many employers are not comfortable telling workers to fight. However, if employees can fight back, even with something as simple as throwing a book or yelling, the action can disrupt the shooter enough that stronger measures can be taken.

Remember prior planning and simple actions can have a significant impact on all involved in the event of an active shooter situation.

As a working Director for Catto & Catto, Jim Greaves handles risk management and safety programs for non-profit, social service, educational and healthcare related businesses throughout the state of Texas. He is closely involved with the Risk Management team members to ensure that clients receive exceptional risk management, safety and claims consultation services.

Jim Greaves Catto & Catto LLP 210.222.2161 x 239 jgreaves@catto.com

INSURANCE • RISK MANAGEMENT • SURETY BENEFITS • WELLNESS

San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

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Artificial intelligence: Poised to benefit the construction industry J.D. Holzheauser, Associate Peckar & Abramson Austin, TX

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enerally speaking, artificial intelligence (“AI”) is the use of machines to imitate human learning and problem-solving skills with algorithms and data. The algorithms process data input into the system and considers all potential outcomes through trial and error. Ideally, it will recognize the best course of action based on the data provided.

There are many ways in which the construction industry will utilize AI. Some examples include:

• AI could predict constructability issues for a project

• More efficiently manage materials and inventory

• Optimize scheduling, or identify safety risks and provide real time solutions These are only a few of the ways AI will be used in the construction industry.

But what about the use of AI in construction from a legal perspective? In what ways could AI be used on a legal front, and what new issues may arise because of increased AI in construction?

One of the ways a construction company could benefit from AI is in contract review and analysis. A contract is full of obligations, rights, contingencies, and other requirements. And for most large projects, the size of the contract documents can make it impossible to review and understand without the assistance of a lawyer. But AI document review technology that allows for patterns in contracts to be recognized enabling a user to understand the context and content of a document is a real possibility. Also, the ability to review a contract and identify the rights, obligations, and liabilities of the contracting parties is possible using AI. These types of tools can be used by contractors to identify variations in contract documents that are largely the same from project to project and compose a comprehensive list of the contractual requirements. The information gathered from AI document review can then assist contractors when they seek the assistance of an attorney. It will also assist the attorney to provide a better contract negotiation/liability assessment for the contractor.

AI could also assist in document review for a construction project when it comes to dispute resolution. If a project gets to the point where the parties resort to arbitration or litigation, AI could assist in providing the company’s attorney with the information necessary for proper representation. Traditionally, the attorney would have to review the contract documents and correspondence to get to that point. The application of AI could cut out a significant portion of review time by using algorithms to identify relevant information and cull out the rest. This document review application of AI would also be useful in the litigation discovery process for the same purpose.

based on search terms, and AI, is that AI has the ability to learn as the process runs. While the document review process will still need a human element to assure the results of review and address problems or other issues, the use of AI in document review has the ability to ease the time requirements for document review.

While the utilization of AI in construction can be beneficial, there are still unknown aspects as to how AI will affect issues of liability and how legislative and regulatory bodies will address AI. A paramount concern is how insurance liability could be affected by introducing AI into aspects and phases of construction that traditionally relied on people. Also, as a construction company relies more on AI for pre-construction, scheduling, quality control, etc., it will expose itself to a higher risk of online attacks against the AI systems controlling those tasks. This could be a problem, especially if proprietary or confidential data is used to feed those AI algorithms.

As AI becomes more prevalent within the construction industry it will become imperative for contractors to focus on cybersecurity to ensure safety of Personal Identifiable Information (PII) and the integrity and/or security of their data systems. Also, for public projects it will be necessary to consult legal counsel regarding governmental cybersecurity requirements before implementing any AI program.

There are unlimited ways in which AI can be utilized by the construction industry in the future to make construction more efficient and profitable for all parties. Using AI to assist in better assessing contractual risks so those risks can be recognized, accounted for, and minimized, is just one way that AI can be used by contractors to provide a benefit throughout the life of any project.

Construction Attorney J.D. Holzheauser is an associate in the Austin office of the national construction law firm of Peckar & Abramson, P.C. He represents contractors, subcontractors, owners, developers, and suppliers on a diverse range of construction matters, including dispute resolution. He may be reached at: jdholzheauser@pecklaw.com.

The difference between traditional document review programs that are

Happy

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Evacuation and Shelter-in-Place Joann Natarajan Compliance Assistance Specialist OSHA Austin, TX

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mergency Evacuation is the immediate and urgent movement of people away from a threat or actual occurrence of a hazard. These threats may include explosions, earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, hazardous/toxic material releases, radiological and biological accidents, civil disturbances and workplace violence.

Deciding whether to shelter-in-place or evacuate to safety (i.e., get away from a threat or hazard) is among the most important decisions that must be made during an emergency. Employers should understand and plan for both scenarios.

Many disasters are no-notice events, meaning that there is no warning before they occur. These types of events do not allow time for people to gather even the most basic necessities. Therefore, preplanning is critical. Workers may need to be trained to respond differently to different threats. For example, workers may be required to assemble in one area inside the workplace if threatened by a tornado or on an adjacent highway if threatened by a chemical spill. Moreover, a fire may require workers to evacuate to a pre-determined exterior location.

When developing an emergency action plan, it is important to determine: • Conditions under which an evacuation would be necessary • Conditions under which it may be better to shelter-in-place • A clear chain of command and designation of the person in the workplace authorized to order an evacuation or shutdown • Specific evacuation procedures, including routes and exits • Specific evacuation procedures for workers in buildings (including high-rise buildings) • Specific evacuation procedures and responsibilities for employers in buildings (including high-rise buildings) Specific evacuation procedures on construction sites or non-fixed facilities

• Procedures for assisting visitors and workers to evacuate • Designation of which, if any, workers will remain after the evacuation alarm to shut down critical operations or perform other duties before evacuating • A means of accounting for workers after an evacuation • Special equipment for workers, such as appropriate respiratory protection An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is a written document required by some OSHA standards to help facilitate and organize employer and employee actions during workplace emergencies. See https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/evacuation/checklists/eap.html for more assistance in developing an EAP. • Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) • Procedures that address special needs workers, such as those that may have physical limitations • Any special actions for evacuation during an active shooter or other dangerous intruder situation The emergency evacuation plan should identify thexxxxxxxxxxxxxx different types of situations that will require an evacuation of the workplace. As mentioned before, these may include explosions; earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, and other natural disasters; releases of chemical, radioactive, or biological agents; and civil disturbances and workplace violence. The extent of evacuation may be different for different types of hazards. natarajan.joann@dol.gov 512-374-0271 x232

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San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

Stan Hegener President Cedar Eaters Comfort, TX

I

t wasn’t until Stan Hegener faced his own 150 acres of cedar that he realized that he couldn’t see anything for the trees. With his wife Pam, he created Cedar Eaters, a land restoration business that not only cleared his own land but has gone on to clear the land of many in the Hill Country.

Share about your background and your introduction to the construction industry.

Both my wife, Pam, and I are from Nebraska, so we went to school in Nebraska. I played football for the University of Nebraska and majored in construction management back in the ‘70s. They didn’t have cedars in Nebraska then, but they do now!

After graduating, I went to work for an oil company in Oklahoma and then ultimately got transferred to Louisiana to work in the Conoco plants there. After about seven or eight years with them, we started our own non-union construction company through a union contractor in 1983 and built that company up; we had $62 million worth of work, did refinery and pipeline work and had 600 to 700 employees. My wife became the HR manager, and we did that until we moved to the Hill Country in 2001.

How did you become involved in the land restoration business?

We bought 150 acres when we moved here, and it was full of cedar.

When we came over and saw how invasive cedar was, we basically figured that there had to be a way to clear it.

In my life, before they had machines that would clear the right-of-ways for the pipelines that fit on excavators, they mulched the pine trees in east Texas and south Louisiana. We would cut them down and mulch them up like we do now but with an excavator. I found a mulching head on a different kind of a drive unit

and researched that, and we kind of evolved from there. We actually had a friend of mine next door who owned 5,000 acres, so we took that process and while we were still working in Louisiana, we would clear his property and measure how long it took to do a thick, thin, rocky area or hilly area; we did that for a year so we knew how long it took. After we figured that out, we tried to start the company to see if it was marketable because at that time, there weren’t many companies that did it. It has evolved for 18 years.

I like the name Cedar Eaters for your company!

Actually, our real name started as Legacy Homestead Development. Then about three or four years into it, there was a guy who had trademarked the name Cedar Eaters. We bought his name and the trademark and that’s how we became Cedar Eaters. So the actual name of the company is Legacy Homestead Development DBA Cedar Eaters of Texas.

How has the business evolved?

Our original thought was that we were going to retire and be a mom-andpop business. I would have one operator and one machine. I would go out and find the business and the operator would do the work. One thing led to another and we got more business than one machine could handle, so we bought a second machine. I kept two machines busy, and so we bought a third machine.

At that point, my son Spence had graduated from Baylor and was looking for a job, so we asked if he wanted to come and work with us. He did; he was an operator, ran the machines and eventually started estimating and finding work like I was doing. We had three or four machines for operators and crew.

We just developed it that way. Now, we have seven mulchers and an excavator that we use to pull mesquite trees out with.

What do you enjoy about the work you do?

Helping people is instant gratification. To take a piece of property that is overgrown and within hours and days, transforming it from something you can’t see to views [is satisfying].

It’s also an environmentally-friendly process; we mulch the trees up and the mulch stays on the ground; it helps the ground, helps with erosion control, helps retain moisture for root systems, and so on. We don’t use dozers, we do everything strictly with mulchers and we do everything in an environmentally-friendly way instead of pushing it over with a dozer and burning it and putting smoke in the air and all of the things that go with it.

That’s our process; there are other people that do it the other way and there is

Cedar Eaters owners, Pam and Stan Hegener, with son Spence Hegener (left)

nothing wrong with that, but we have branded ourselves as the environmentally-friendly way to do that with a nice look and being able to help with erosion control.

It’s a never-ending job. Trees will continue to grow; we’ll never get rid of all of them by ourselves. They grow as fast as we can cut them down.

What do you hope the future of the company holds?

We’re a woman-owned company; my wife, Pam, is the CEO and I’m the president. We’re in the process of transferring ownership to Spence; he’s actually buying me out first so that we can maintain the company’s minorityowned status and then he’ll probably buy her out. He’ll own the majority of it at some point.

Pam and I have worked together 35 years. She knows the management end of it, and then I do the field stuff. We both, as a team, manage the whole operation and bounce ideas off of each other. Now that Spence is involved, he has pretty much taken over a lot of it. He wants to grow it. I’m 67, and Pam is 65 so we are trying to retire and let him grow it. He’ll probably be more aggressive than we are in trying to find more ways to do the work and to expand the brand.

We have a good core team. We’ve developed that. We went through an EOS program and developed our core values.

We have 23 employees and we all simplified the core values, so that is what we look for when we are trying to expand and hire new people. It was all developed by the employees, so everybody had to buy in. We have a great group of employees that all help to build this.

They’ll be able to move it forward. We’ll still be involved, though.

What do you enjoy doing when you aren’t at work?

I don’t really have hobbies – work is

my hobby! I like looking for new ways of doing things and new ideas.

We do travel, mostly to Colorado. In a year from May, we are going to the British Isles on a Viking Cruise for 21 days. We’ll go different places. We have best friends in Key West and New Orleans. We lived in Louisiana for 20 years and have been here for 18 so we like to go back for crawfish.

Share a little about your family.

I have a daughter, Tricia Carr, and son-in-law Ben who actually live in Texas now. Spence is in Waco with his wife Sara; we opened up a northern division, so he is actually in Waco trying to get that off of the ground.

Tricia and Ben and Spence and Sarah have a boy and a girl; the two girls are the same age within six months and the two boys are the same age within about nine months. Now that they live closer, we’re taking all of them on a trip to Colorado for 12 days and then on a road trip with the two dogs and the four grandkids.

Do you love being a granddad?

Yeah, you get to do whatever you want to do and there is nothing the parents can do about it! I get to do stuff with them that they don’t get to do normally and I can buy them stuff they don’t normally get. I get to spoil them and then give them back!

What do you hope the future personally holds for you?

Pam and I bought a 40-acre ranch in Colorado in Gunnison so our goal is to live in Gunnison for six months in the summer and then here for six months in the winter. We bought two Bernese mountain dogs that go with us out there.

Land restoration subcontractor Cedar Eaters in Comfort and Waco specializes in cedar and brush mulching, mesquite grubbing and hand crew cutting and chipping. –mjm

Construction News ON LOCATION

Face of the company

Longtime employee Robert Gayle with KMAC Construction Services poses for a photo during a recent visit by Construction News. -cmw

San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

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San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

Page 11

Summer fishing at its best

by Capt. Steve Schultz Sponsored by: Waypoint Marine, Shoalwater Boats, Evinrude Outboards, Fishing Tackle Unlimited, Shimano Reels, E-Z Bel Construction, Costa Sunglasses, Simms Fishing, ForEverlast Fishing Products, PowerPro, Interstate Batteries, MirrOlure, JL Marines Power-Pole, AFW and AFTCO Clothing

The Sharron family brought their A-Game with them on a fishing excursion with Steve Schultz Outdoors. No limits but a solid box of fish for sure.

S

ummer has arrived in the Coastal Bend, and this means our waters are fixing to get crowded. As many of you fishermen know, the weekends are the most popular days on the water. Saturdays are the worst!! Starting early morning on any given Saturday you can expect long lines at the boat ramp, bait stands and a mad rush getting to your favorite fishing spot. You can cut the tension at the dock with a fillet knife as you arrive and see the crowds trying to find their guide while others scramble to get their bait, ice and last minute necessities for their day on the water. As you ease out of the marina, your anxiety level drops as you lower the throttle on your outboard and the cool morning breeze hits your face. A slight smile comes across your face thinking everything is gonna be alright when you start fishing. Then that anxiety reappears when someone is already sitting in your favorite fishing spot catching fish. Go to plan B and final-

ly start fishing and catching a few fish.

“BOOM,” some yo-yo just ran across your fishing lines and here we go again. That’s just a little taste of what happens on the water on any given Saturday on our bay.

Here are some tips and ideas to help plan your day when fishing on those

crowded day. First of all, try to pick a day other than Saturday. I rarely fish on Saturdays unless it’s early spring or late in the fall. Most tournaments are held that day and every Saturday throughout the summer there’s at least two or three going on. Sundays make for a much less crowded bay and you can still get off the water earlier enough to get back home and cook your catch. Pick fishing areas that leave other boaters no choice to run behind you. If wading, position your boat to block the waters you intend to fish. Other ideas is run further from the crowd.

Most fishermen like to stay close to the marinas and don’t like burning excess

fuel. Fishermen that make the long runs typically are savvy on boat and fishing etiquette. Last but not least, make sure you do all of your preparing the evening before and leave early.

Lately, the bite has been early in the morning, so we have been leaving the dock in the dark. Limits of trout have been a daily norm while redfish seem to be a little more challenging. Live croakers are the go-to bait but I’ve seen several good boxes of fish hit the dock with live shrimp and soft plastics. Whatever your preference is, the fishing is on fire along the Coastal Bend and summer is in full swing.

There are a few holes in the remainder of my summer months, so don’t hesitate in booking your fishing trips. Here are some open dates available in July 22 & 29 and August 9, 15,19,20,21,22,29.

To schedule your next bay fishing trip or hunting trip give Capt. Steve Schultz a call at 361-813-3716 or e-mail him me at SteveSchultzOutdoors@gmail. com. Good luck and Good Fishing.

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San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

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

Well finally!

T

he topsy-turvy, weird and wild weather has started letting us get some fishing done!

As far as weather goes in Texas, no two years are alike. This year has really been a challenge for anybody needing to work outdoors. We have had late cool fronts, lots of rain, crazy wind and wild storms that ran us off the water lots of days this spring, but now summer’s here we are getting on some really good fishing trips. In general, it seems most of the state is reporting that the seasonal patterns for most fish are running about a month later than usual because it has stayed a little cooler and we’ve had lots of rain.

The arrival of good weather is just in time too. School is out and the kids have some free time to share with you. I hope you can find a way to help your kids spend some good time in the outdoors this summer, and not just on the ball fields. Each year it seems like we are seeing fewer and fewer kids getting to come fishing. It is concerning to us not just because they are our future charter customers, but they will be buying the fishing licenses and supporting the hunting and fishing industries that will help to nurture and protect our outdoor resources in the coming years. If we drop the ball and don’t find the time to help them experience the world outdoors, who will care about the well-being of the parks that are there for us to explore?

Will they have the experience to safely spend time on the lakes? Will they even notice when animal species we cherish and protect now start to disap-

pear. For all of our sakes, I hope they will.

We owe it to them to give them the gift of the world outside, if for no other reason than to have a place to go to slow the pace of life and find some peace in our noisy, clamoring world.

Now the hope is that we don’t get too much hot weather too fast. I hope we can keep seeing some cloudy days with light winds and a few rain showers here and there to keep our water temperatures down enough to keep the stripers active. We will have to wait and see I guess, but then there are always catfish to be caught, and Lake Buchanan is raising some really nice blue cats and we are seeing more yellow catfish coming in again. Of course, there is a lot of fun to be had just jerking perch on a hot summer day. Those little jewels have fearsome appetites and can be just as much fun on a creek bank or stock tank or lake. They give you fast action that keeps kids coming back for more!

I hope you have a great summer this year! Don’t put off having some summer fun too long now. Get moving before you get caught in the end of summer panic with everyone else!

Half or Full Day Fishing Trips All Bait, Tackle & Equipment Furnished Your catch Filleted and Bagged for You Furnish your TPWD Fishing License & Refreshments, and WE DO THE REST!

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

GOOD NEWS!

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Call us for a Company Profile (210) 308-5800

San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

Page 13

Linking up the industry

Good things, all

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C

Carol Warkoczewski, founder of (I-LinCP)

arol Warkoczewski, MSOLE, AIA compares the Institute for Leadership in Capital Projects (I-LinCP) to Switzerland. That’s because her nonprofit organization dedicated to building leadership, excellence and predictability in capital project planning, design, delivery and operations isn’t biased.

“We link people together, hold this neutral position in our industry and hold everybody as equal partners,” Warkoczewski, I-LinCP’s founder and chief vision officer, explains. “For a project in which we are facilitating, we bring together all key project stakeholders, designers, architects and engineers, the end user, the project owner and the contractor. We discuss communication, team values, project goals, mission, lessons learned and rocks in the road. We hold this special position in the middle and help to bring all of these groups together.”

Warkoczewski developed the idea for I-LinCP (pronounced “I Link Up”) in 2008 while facilitating project partnering and team building through her business Synergy Builders. In February 2009, the first leadership and capital projects forum was held in Austin to such positive response that she formed I-LinCP and held two more conferences that year.

“I had this really strong background and desire to help project teams be successful, and from an organizational development side as well,” Warkoczewski, who also is a City Architect for the City of San Antonio, says. She has since established an I-LinCP team, including executive direc-tor Carla Bingaman and Mike Lackey, who has been instrumental in program coordination. San Antonio, Austin, Houston and Dallas chapters have formed, and I-LinCP hosts a retreat and networking events. I-LinCP also started “Circles of Excellence, which provides opportunities for smaller teams to focus on particular areas of interest.

“Something I am very proud of that I think will continue to grow and gain momentum is our ‘Circle of Excellence’ called ‘Invest in Women,’ which has an annual women’s forum and is helping to put together a leadership certification program called ‘Leadership in Collaborative Project Delivery.’ It is open to all genders, but we include topics around effective communication, equity, and diversity in the workplace.

“Looking forward, providing good programs is one of the things that we will continue to do, and we have really good ideas that we want to implement in different circles,” she adds. “One thing we will do to help I-LinCP be sustainable is grow Circles through the financial investment of major underwriters. We have one major underwriter, SKANSKA,

that supports the ‘Invest in Women Circle.’ Their donation helps fund this program’s curriculum development.”

One I-LinCP event, a Texas Public Owners Conference with the theme “The Bridge Over Troubled Waters: From Project Delivery to Operations,” is Aug. 8 and 9 at Sheraton Fort Worth Downtown Hotel. She says the conference is “an opportunity for facility owners and public owners to share information with other public owners, but we also bring in other partners, designers, architects, engineers and contractors. It’s an opportunity to learn from each other.”

I-LinCP has met such a need in the industry that Warkoczewski has received requests to start chapters beyond Texas.

“My goal for five to ten years is to have chapters outside of the U.S. I believe that the values, goals, mission and vision that I-LinCP has is something that can be taken internationally. The construction industry can show people in other countries and industries that we have to work together in spite of contracts that put us at odds. If we can do it, anybody can do this,” she says.

I-LinCP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that aims to transform the capital projects industry for optimized leadership, delivery and performance. –mjm

Melanie Geist, Managing Partner

wo months ago, Melanie Geist was named as the new managing partner at certified public accounting firm Ridout Barrett & Co PC. While some might expect Geist to implement sweeping changes with her advancement, Geist knows to leave good things as they are.

“I want to continue to shepherd Ridout Barrett into what it already is and enjoy that we are one of the larger local firms left on the landscape of South Texas,” Geist says.

Leaving good things as they are is one reason Geist has been in the accounting industry for nearly 20 years when she initially had other plans. After earning her undergrad degree from the University of Alabama, she went to Nicaragua for the Peace Corps in 1998.

Three years later, she moved to San Antonio and worked at accounting firm Steve Porter PC, ultimately becoming business partners with Porter. After buying out her partner in 2014, she merged with Ridout Barrett.

“I came out here thinking I’m going to grad school at UTSA to get my master’s, get the CPA exam out of the way and then I’m going to do something else,” she says. “Eighteen years later, I’m still here and still going strong.”

Her new role comes at a time when Geist is experiencing other huge life changes, such as getting married and moving into a new house. One thing that won’t be changing is her last name, which she has had throughout her career – again, Geist is leaving good things as they are.

Also not changing is the firm’s quality

service, something Tony Ridout and Milton Barrett established when they created the firm 33 years ago.

“I am excited about where we’re positioned,” she says. “The most exciting thing for me about this firm is we are local. We are not a national firm. We are owned by local people, we are local people, and we have local people working for us.”

Ridout Barrett & Co PC has teams in Austin and San Antonio, and Geist has been overwhelmed with both teams’ response to her advancement.

“It’s been very well-received. It’s humbling because they trust me and I appreciate that,” Geist says. “I try to lead with my heart.

“I’m enthusiastic about my position. I enjoy what I do. It’s what makes me tick.

It’s just part of who I am,” Geist continues. “My niche is entrepreneurs. I like to work with businessowners; [the entrepreneurial spirit is] in their blood. They are not going to work for somebody else.

They are good at what they do and just need a good team around them to get them moving in the right direction and that is why I have enjoyed working in San Antonio for as long as I have. It has been a good fit for me because this is a city of entrepreneurs, a city of people who like to get things done for themselves and later enjoy the fruits of their labor. That just fits; it’s right for my personality. I’m in the right place at the right time.”

Specializing on a construction platform, Ridout Barrett & Co PC is a certified public accountant serving San Antonio and Austin. –mjm

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San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

One tree, one dog at a time

J

Jason Benedict, owner of Yellow Dog Services, next to his Bobcat UTV and a pile of cedar mulch.

ason Benedict is all for saving things.

Back in Alabama, he was an EMT for a while. But back in Texas with his family on their ranch, he is saving the land and lots of dogs.

As owner (along with his father John) of Yellow Dog Services, Benedict doesn’t take his heavy equipment and just clear land, even though that’s appropriate at times. In fact, he said he could make more money doing that but chooses not to.

“We actually turn away work,” he said.

“We don’t want to go out and rake the land.”

Benedict got his start in the landclearing business while he was in college and his real estate broker mother needed the land cleaned up around her properties. For payment and tax purposes, Benedict had to call himself something.

Since the family raised Labrador retrievers, he chose the name Yellow Dog Services in 1997.

“I just migrated into it and 22 years later I stay really busy,” he said.

Even though he was a business major in college, Benedict’s calling is outside. He has learned about running a business pretty much “through the school of hard knocks,” he said. Looking back, Benedict would have preferred to have followed the Mike Rowe path of a trade school.

Be that as it may, Benedict said, of his Yellow Dog work, “I used to go all over, but I’ve gotten so busy in the last 10 years that I hardly leave my county anymore.

I’m pretty much in Bandera County all the time.”

Benedict does a lot of cedar clearing, most of which gets turned into mulch for the various ranch and land owners to use in a variety of ways, such as road surface if it isn’t paved.

“I do about 30 percent mulching, 30 percent land-clearing using a tree sheer, and the rest of it is dirt work and excavation,” he said.

Through it all, proper respect for the land and conservation is Benedict’s top priority. “Any time you can recycle stuff, we’re all for that,” he said. When he clears trees, that wood is sometimes used for controlling erosion, water run-off and keeping sediment out of creeks.

“I mostly work for people who have bought a piece of property,” Benedict said. Some of his customers go back 1520 years. As their needs change, Benedict is called upon to assist.

Benedict says that when the rain is particularly heavy, he stays very busy.

“I was one of the early entries into mulching in Texas. For a while, I had the largest chipper in south Texas,” he said.

Cedar mulch is very good for landscaping, he explained.

The self-taught Benedict wants to complete what he needs to in order to be licensed for pest control and be an arborist. He is concerned about being able to retard the spread of oak wilt and other tree diseases.

Benedict’s other passion is dog rescue. He currently has five rescue Labs, while his mother has six and his daughter four. When one ages out, they get another one. One of his dogs was abandoned on a street as a six-week old puppy.

Whether it is a diseased tree that can be cured or cut down if need be, or a trusting canine that needs someone to love on it, Benedict is ready with his Bobcat and other gear to do that which is good. Turning a cedar tree into usable mulch gives it a second opportunity to be used for a definite purpose. Giving a rescued puppy a loving home gives it a good life. Seems clear that Yellow Dog services is not only aptly named, but is making a difference, one tree and one dog at a time.

Yellow Dog Services provides efficient land-clearing with an emphasis on recycling, located in Bandera County. -dsz

Alterman golf

The 2nd Annual Alterman Golf Classic was a huge success with 200 players, raising right at $40,000! The proceeds from the event went towards the Alterman Foundation benefiting the American Heart Association and several other local charities. -cmw

San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

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Page 15

Getting out of the heat!

here’s nothing like a shindig to cool things off during the hot days of summer. Members from Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC), American Subcontractors Association (ASA), Mechanical and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (MCA-SMACNA) and Texas Air Conditioning Cooling Contractors Associ-

Runaway into construction

ation (TACCA) along with the great folks of AmeriCRANE Rentals LP joined forces and gathered together at Blue Bonnet Palace for the 2019 Summer Shindig. The event was held on Jun. 13 with a great showing. AmeriCRANE displayed several new cranes for spectators to view and check out the crane’s new technology. -cmw

G ABC, ASA, MCA-SMACNA and TACCA members at the Blue Bonnet Palace for the Summer Shingdig

Big City Access

L-R: Craig Noto, Quality Fence & Welding; Lindsey Sutherland, GD Interior Construction, Jon Marek, MAREK and Jon Randolph, Baker Triangle

L-R: Ruby Trejo, Red Hawk Contracting and Dana Hickman, TDIndustries

Ramiro’s Roofing, Siding and Repairs owner, Ramiro Sepulveda

rowing up in Eagle Pass, TX, Ramiro Sepulveda outgrew the small town as early as his teenage years.

It is a small town, but it was a much smaller town back then. He knew there was more for him and even left school.

Sepulveda’s father wanted to persuade him to go back to school and show that school is more of a luxury than the working life. His father sent Sepulveda to work for a friend of the family in San Antonio, TX who owns a construction company. This plan somehow backfired because Sepulveda loved the construction life! As a young teen, he was acknowledged and praised early on for his work ethic.

Realizing his skillful abilities, Sepulveda was motivated to keep on going.

Even at a young age, he was able to keep up with the rest of the guys. Throughout the years, he became more experienced as he was promoted from worker to lead to supervisor. Sepulveda credits the family friend who took him under his wing as a young teen and taught him a great deal. He is now retired, but Sepulveda still remains close and sometimes takes him along for projects.

After decades of experience, it was time for Sepulveda to do it on his own.

Ramiro’s Roofing, Siding and Repairs started about eight years ago in San Antonio, TX. Working for various companies, Sepulveda experienced firsthand poor quality service from management and peers. He witnessed customers being ripped off and lied to. It bothered him so much that he knew he needed to step up and make a positive difference. He refuses to overcharge customers and has already earned the trust of many.

In the past when Sepulveda was a

worker for a company, he also noticed there was never a foreman or supervisor present for projects. As the owner of Ramiro’s Roofing, Siding and Repairs, he is out there working at job sites. He is extremely involved with all projects and client relations, saying, “I am hands on and at the same time monitoring my team for top quality service all the way through.”

Having experience in many areas in construction, Sepulveda is well rounded in construction trades. The company’s name, which includes “Roofing and Siding,” expresses his type of work, although he also does patios, room additions and windows.

He finds himself consistently busy because of his variety of offered services.

Sepulveda has earned a reputation of a trustworthy contractor. In fact 90% of his business is straight from referrals. Recently he repaired a full siding for a customer. This customer had already gone through many companies for repairs.

What was different about Sepulveda is that he did the job right and at a wonderful price. The owner was so pleased that he wanted more projects done, “The owner trusted me to have full discretion to do what I knew needed to be repaired.

I am an honest guy. I don’t ever sell what they do not need.”

Running a construction business is not just about labor, but is about the people too. Sepulveda believes that customers deserve to know and understand the process. He is more than happy to educate and inform his clients through all phases. Ramiro’s Roofing, Siding and Repairs continues to receive his customers’ trust and smiles.

Ramiro’s Roofing, Siding and Repairs is an installation and repair contractor in San Antonio, TX. -tnp

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San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

Patriotic pavement

What is your biggest pet peeve?

My biggest pet peeve is inconsideration.

People being inconsiderate of your time.

Being late with no notice or courtesy call, not doing what they say they are going to do… That sort of thing.

Ginger Ramirez, Precision Contracting Saturdays that I have to work. I hate it when I have to drive when it’s five or six.

Roger Tellez, Tellez & Sons Painting Driving slow in the fast lane!

Justin Vendola, Trane I’ve got a lot of them.

Malcolm Clayton, Malcolm’s Custom Welding

My biggest pet peeve is a man or a woman who does not strive to do their very best every day. You only have one of each day: You get up in the morning, and what are you going to do to contribute to the people around you and better yourself?

David Quinn, Shade People who are driving and don’t merge like they mean it.

Vince Jimenez, Mitsubishi Electric Cooling & Heating People who scrape their teeth against the fork when they are eating.

Liz Kelly, Staff Zone People not taking responsibility for anything. We donate a lot of time and money

to a dog rescue. I trace it to people who are just irresponsible. It makes me angry when people move and just leave their dog. We live in a society where people don’t even take care of their own children; it’s hard to expect that they’ll take care of their pets.

Jason Benedict, Yellow Dog Services My biggest pet peeve is people who chew with their mouth open and smack their gums. You ask anybody that knows me, and they’ll tell you that’s my biggest pet peeve. I don’t need to hear you processing your food before you swallow.

Derrick Thompson, J.J. Madison’s Painting Resistance of any kind.

Mark Jones, Intertech Flooring People that don’t use their blinkers.

Ruby Trejo, Red Hawk Contracting My biggest pet peeve is being interrupted when I’m trying to explain something when somebody asks me a question.

Dan “Dilly” Dillinger, Midco Sling of San Antonio I don’t have any!

Randy Harris, CraneWorks My biggest pet peeve is when people go “uhm.”

Melissa Sandavol, Trane Chewing with your mouth open.

Trevon Tate, Big City Access People who say they are going to do something and don’t it.

Heather Osbourne, MEMCO Traffic!

Lindsey Sutherland, GD Interior Construction

I really hate it when someone asks me a question and I respond to the question, hopefully with the right answer, and they they respond “yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, I get it.”

Mike Grindell, Midco Sling of San Antonio People who play music on their phones in public places. I don’t want to hear your music. It drives me insane.

Meghan Wilson, Trane Liars! I just want to be told the truth.

Shannon Cadena, PeopleReady

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Kris Rodgers, owner of Stars & Stripes of Texas, with his eagle friend

uring his 20 years in the heavy equipment business, Kris Rodgers kept hearing the same thing: the guy’s asphalt was in bad shape or needed to get it repainted.

“I just saw the need there, a niche,” he concluded. Plus, Rodgers didn’t observe a lot of entries in this track meet. He therefore started doing pavement power washing on the side.

As he was doing power washing, his clients were asking if he did striping. So, Rodgers bought equipment to do striping. Then, he was asked if he did asphalt sealing. Once again, he bought the gear he needed to do sealing.

Rodgers took the full plunge and started Stars & Stripes of Texas in April 2016, and, “It took off from there,” he said.

“Through strong relationships in the past with people in this industry,” he said, “I had a hand up immediately.” Rodgers’ contacts knew of his work ethic and attention to detail which brought him work. “We’re prompt, we’re courteous and we’re clean,” he said.

After doing this all by himself, Rodgers hired a man for a runway job in Corpus Christi who is very good. This man found working for Rodgers appealing, and the two linked up.

“I’ve got some of the best guys in San Antonio,” Rodgers said. “This is highly skilled labor.” This is critical for a trade that has zero tolerance for error. “Unfortunately, you notice every mistake.”

HEB doesn’t hire slackers for paving their stores. Stars & Stripes of Texas does a lot of HEBs, along with Walmarts, Lowe’s and Burlington Coat Factories. Ever notice the huge IKEA on I-35? Rodgers and his team did that parking lot too.

Rodgers was doing all the work solo

for the first couple of years, but now has a crew of nine sharp guys who do the jobs, of which striping is the number one service they do.

For privately-owned businesses, Stars & Stripes can do any color, any pattern. They use a company for those pavement stencils that are unique to that company’s request.

“We’ll go pretty much anywhere,” Rodgers said. The gang recently did 10 Sonics in Missouri. They do a lot of work in growing Corpus Christi, along with schools in the NEISD and MANY colleges.

Rodgers uses oil-based paint for his markings, as it lasts two-three times longer than water-based. A key issue in the restriping world is liability. If someone parks in a handicapped space unaware because the paint has faded beyond suitable visibility, and subsequently gets ticketed or towed, the issue becomes who pays for it? If the person can make the claim that the establishment was negligent in having clear ADA-compliant markings, he can get out of the fine.

Plus, a consumer’s first impression of a business is its parking lot/spaces. A well-marked lot with good paint gives a good impression to the consumer.

“We don’t over promise,” Rodgers said, “we over deliver.”

In the future, Rodgers would like to get into full-blown paving. An entrepreneur, he has other businesses, like a camouflaged clothing line for hunters, and will soon open up a coffee shop in New Braunfels.

It’s probably a safe bet to conclude which striping company will get that contract.

Stars & Stripes of Texas is an asphalt sealer, striping and repairing contractor in New Braunfels. -dsz

San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

Page 17

Reassurance in disaster

W hat’s Trending in Lighting & Controls

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Ubaldo Parra, General Manager LED Electric + Lighting Contractors

echnology moves forward at a blazing pace. We interact everyday with hardware devices and apps that make our lives easier. As consumers we have grown increasingly accustomed to having everything at our fingertips. In the past not much thought was given to how we interacted with the buildings we occupy at work or the residences we live in. Everything has now changed.

More and more customers are now inquiring about how to interact and manage the lighting systems of the buildings they come in contact with. Hardware devices such as occupancy sensors have been around for years and they certainly bring convenience to our lives. It is much easier to walk into your office for example and have the lights automatically come on than to physically turn on a switch.

However, more than just convenience is the fact that those same sensors can now be networked and provide data analytics about building usage and allow us to more efficiently use spaces.

Networked Lighting Controls

The days of the simple toggle switch that can be purchased at a local hardware store are fast approaching an end.

Today’s switches come in a wide variety of colors, finishes and options such as push button controls, touchscreens and even integrate motion sensing technology.

What’s more fascinating is that no longer is a 120V or 277V connection required.

New technologies such as computer cable, CAT5e or even wireless control are now options to consider!

The logical next step for these devices in a building to talk to each other. They can each have an individual IP address just like your computer has and can respond to commands from a remote location.

Automated Lighting Controls

Is it possible to have lighting systems learn our patterns and automatically anticipate when and how long lights should stay on? This certainly is something capable of being designed and implemented on a small or large scale. Networked lighting controls allow the user to manage a software and set certain parameters then let the system take care of the rest. With minimal effort a system can make more efficient use of the energy and also report back if there are any problems or lights out. Time and personnel can now be more efficiently deployed to address other maintenance

issues in a building.

Color Changing Technologies No doubt we have all attended a concert and have been mesmerized by the light show and production. This is a big factor that adds to our enjoyment of the event. This same type of technology that allows stage lights to change color is now available to the consumer. Relaxing one evening sipping on a glass of wine is not quite the same experience under bright white lights.

Enjoying a Friday night football game and cheering for your favorite team as they make a last minute touchdown would just not be the same if it was played under dim yellow lights.

Lighting intensity affects our mood.

Studies have shown that it also affects our productivity, learning abilities and recuperation. Healthcare and education are two big areas where this is being implemented. Don’t be surprised if next time you’re in the classroom or hospital lighting changes it’s hues according to the time of the day!

Going Green Resources on earth are not infinite.

Will we be good stewards of these resources? This is the question that must be answered with regards to energy.

Certainly a lot of natural light is available everyday to help us with our daily tasks.

Natural light also inherently has a lot of benefits over artificial light. While it is true that LED’s bring us a lot closer to natural light than traditional incandescent lighting, nothing can ever replace what nature provides. Who can disagree that we all wish we had a corner office with a big window? This is where daylight harvesting sensors play a vital role. These devices can help us automatically dim down the amount of artificial lighting we need conserving energy and maximizing the amount of natural light we use.

The Sky is the Limit The above mentioned technologies and trends are not all inclusive of all the products currently available on the market. As mentioned at the beginning of this article, technology moves forward at a blazing pace and we can all agree it will continue to move forward. In the next few years we can be assured that more and more technology will permeate our lives and the buildings and living spaces will continue to become smarter. The Internet Of Things is here to stay!

13119 Lookout Ridge San Antonio, TX 78233 210.802.8320 San Antonio 956.568.4330 Laredo

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AR General Contracting owner, Adam Richards

dam Richards had his start in the construction field building custom homes. He worked his way up to building for large commercial developments. His boss at the time purchased another restoration company and assigned Richards to manage that business.

With both residential and commercial development experience, Richards was more than ready to start his own company, AR General Contracting, in 2017.

In San Antonio, TX, the business focuses on new construction as well as remodeling and restoration services. The company receives calls straight from insurance carriers after a processed claim or from the clients themselves wanting help to file a claim. AR General Contracting consists of four structured divisions: roofing, new construction, retail/remodel, and the majority of completed work, insurance restoration.

What is important to Richards is being able to provide assistance when people are at their lowest point experiencing property damage. After water or fire damage, owners are frustrated on what to do next. The company helps home and business owners through the initial process of estimating and dealing with insurance adjusters. Working with every insurance carrier, the company makes it possible for people to get the payout that they deserve and have their property damage fully paid for. Richards is gladly there to aid when life goes south, “I get satisfaction from helping these people get back on their feet. I give them hope after a disaster and turn a bad situation into a great one. We are able to restore their property better

than it was originally.”

After Hurricane Harvey hit the Texas coast in 2017, AR General Contracting set up shop in Port Aransas for a little over a year to aid in restoring damaged properties. The company was able to restore over 40 condominiums and many homes and roofs. Richards recalls a particular homeowner whose beautiful home was damaged inside and out. This particular insurance carrier offered the owner $43,000 for restorations. However, Richards was able to negotiate and bump it up to $185,000.

The business usually serves within a 30mile radius of San Antonio, but AR General Contracting knew it was their duty to help devastated locals.

A large completed commercial project in San Antonio was at Michael Edwards Custom Cabinetry. It was an entire buildout where they built an office space, show room, factory and production area. The 100,000 sq. ft. main building was gutted. A 10,000 sq. ft. office and showroom built, along with 80,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing space. The finishing and painting addition was built of 20,000 sq. ft.

Richards has a team filled with full time employees and trusted subcontractors. The team is certified in many areas, like IICRC and HAAG certifications. The company has earned number one in San Antonio for Owen’s Corning Preferred Roofing Contractors. Richards’s wife, Carly, is in charge of public relations and marketing. Away from work, they enjoy camping and boating. They love to go fishing.

AR General Contracting is a restoration and new construction contractor in San Antonio, TX. -tnp

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San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

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

Enjoying the ride Mike Varnum, General Manager Good Electric LTD. President, Independent Electrical Contractors San Antonio, TX

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or 33 years Good Electric LTD has been operating and serving the San Antonio market. “We strive for success for our employees and customers. Honesty and integrity are of great importance to us. Our motto, ‘ Dedicated To Excellence’ truly means what we try and achieve,” says Varnum.

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

The construction industry is strong right now. Companies and industries are moving into more government friendly environments.

Have you experienced an increase or a slowdown in business?

I definitely experienced an increase in business over the last couple of years.

What factors are driving this increase/ slowdown?

Lower taxes and the relief of a lot of restrictive regulations have contributed to increased investment and construction.

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

Changes in technology, code compliance enforcement and lack of a skilled workforce are the “hot button” issues in the electrical industry.

What is the most significant challenge the electrical industry is facing? (I.e. labor shortage, other) Making sure other trade crafts are not overlapping into electrical work like HVAC contractors, maintenance personnel and appliance installers.

Labor shortages for specific skilled trades continues to be a challenge. We have come to learn that we will have to build a workforce with green personnel and bring them up through the trade in order to start filling the voids we are experiencing.

Do you see an increase in the number of

Resurrecting HS training Keith Bell, State Representative Dist. 4 CEO/President Intex Electrical Contractors Inc. Forney, TX

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4th generation Texan, State Representative Keith Bell resides in Forney, TX. Before being elected to represent House District 4 in November 2018, Bell served as a trustee on the Forney ISD School Board for 20 years; elected as president 14 times. He has been in the electrical field since 1976 and founded Intex Electrical Contractors Inc. in November 1983 and serves as CEO/President. A serial entrepreneur, he has owned and operated numerous businesses in several industries including KB Land and Cattle Company LLC. How would you describe the state of the construction industry in general terms?

The construction industry is on pace with 2018 revenues, though tariff related issues seem to have put a damper on some of the private commercial, industrial and residential projects. Labor shortages and tariffs are having inflationary pressures on construction costs.

Have you experienced an increase or a slowdown in business?

Only in the high-end residential sector due to delayed starts have we seen a slowdown. This is due to the wet weather. We’re very diversified, so these weather-related slowdowns have been offset by increases in other divisions.

What factors are driving this increase/ slowdown?

Our area has been booming for several years, beginning with a very business friendly tax structure which has led to businesses relocating to our area. Additionally, many of these employees and their families have followed these jobs.

It’s led to growth in all sectors of construction in office/warehouse, office, institutional and residential projects.

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

Tariffs have been a huge concern for the last year. The uncertainty has been keeping some projects on the sidelines due to inflationary pressures. The risk to subcontractors is trying to curb margin

erosion due to rising wages and material costs on long term projects.

What is the most significant challenge the electrical industry is facing? (i.e. labor shortage, other) Currently, our biggest challenge is finding enough qualified electricians. We abandoned HS trades programs and have pushed high school graduates toward college for years. This created a significant workforce development disconnect in the skilled trades. Fortunately, this has been recognized and these programs are being resurrected. We are working to recruit people to the construction industry through the IEC Apprenticeship Program, partnerships with high school CTE programs, military outreach and internships, all part of our Intex University.

Do you see an increase in the number of outside contractors coming to the area?

We’ve seen several new contractors come to the area because of the demand.

However, this industry is relationship driven! We have maintained longstanding relationships from years of consistent quality service and creating value for our customers.

What are cost increases affecting the electrical industry?

Rising labor costs and salaries. Copper and steel are constant factors causing fluctuations in commodity prices. Additionally, the tariff threats have caused some lighting manufacturers to implement structured price increases.

ELECTRICAL INDUSTRY

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

outside contractors coming to the area?

Yes. We see outside contractors when market and industry building is in demand. We are also seeing a lot of new, up start small businesses. This can also drive up wages and can promote poaching of employees from other companies. This is good for them until the economy takes a negative turn, and it will again, then it creates some real problems for employers and small businesses that can no longer afford the high labor costs when work starts drying up. When the outside contractors have moved on to the next boom town it can leave employees and employers with some real hard choices.

we in the electrical industry welcome the challenges. With these challenges come new, innovative tools and equipment to help us do our jobs. I know most of our field personnel love seeing the latest and greatest tools for our trade and saving up to get the best as they are introduced.

What are cost increases affecting the electrical industry?

I would have to say insurance costs, from workers comp to health insurance.

Insurance costs increase every year and are a real challenge for businesses to keep up with these costs. Also, stated previously, inflated wage rates due to the economic boom. I am all for paying the best wages and offering the best benefits possible, but if economy has a down turn employees can struggle to maintain life styles going forward after such booms.

What are keys to being successful?

Reinvest in your business. Always be diligent and keep a sense of urgency.

Communicate with your customers and employees. Do what you say you will do.

Save a little for that downward time. Take care of your employees. Practice integrity and fairness at all times. Prioritize by adverse consequences. Maintain and practice with mutual respect.

“Good Electric LTD has been in operation for 33 years now. We strive for success for our employees and customers.

Honesty and integrity are of great importance to us. Our motto, ‘ Dedicated To Excellence’ truly means what we try and achieve,” says Varnum. -cmw

What is on the horizon for the electrical industry? (Changes in technology; equipment; other) Technology is always changing and What is on the horizon for the electrical industry?

With the rollout of LED lighting and Power over Ethernet, there have been numerous changes that affect electrical wiring and installation. Because digital electricity is not currently governed by the National Electrical Code and Class 1, 2 and 3 signaling circuits are exempted from the Texas Electrical Safety and Licensing Act – there is a risk that unqualified Individuals can perform these installations without the knowledge to properly size wiring and over current protection based on connected loads.

Are there any significant code changes / regulations in the past year affect-

Are there any significant code changes / regulations in the past year affecting the electrical industry?

There are not too many code changes that I think had a real impact, but some local government choices, like the “paid leave act” will have a big impact on all companies doing business in San Antonio.

ing the electrical industry?

The NEC has a three-year cycle and it is my hope digital electricity is addressed in the next revision.

What are keys to being successful?

Our keys to being successful are focusing on employee satisfaction, maintaining the diversity of our markets, a keen focus on customer service and prudent risk management. We are constantly striving to stay at the top of our game; learning and growing continually while putting that to work to create value and solutions for our customers.

Intex Electrical Contractors Inc. is a fullservice electrical contractor. -cmw

Electrical contractors positioned to thrive David Long, Chief Executive Officer National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) Bethesda, MD

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lectrical contractors are well positioned to thrive in today’s economy, but there are additional challenges to overcome in the years ahead. An overarching issue facing the electrical construction industry is a protracted worker shortage at all levels due to market demands. Challenges of innovation and generational change are forcing contractors to adjust to a shifting landscape.

As a result, they have employed a variety of approaches to minimize their impact, including increased recruitment, pre-fab, technology adoption, pre-apprentice programs, college partnerships and training programs around specific skill sets. I am proud that the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) plays a pivotal role in the growth of contractors every day.

First and foremost, safety is of paramount interest to our thousands of electrical contractors and their employees across the country. NECA participates with many federal agencies and consensus organizations in the development and implementation of safety-related requirements. They include the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Advisory Committee on Con-

struction Occupational Safety and Health (ACCOSH), the Small Business Administration Safety Roundtable, the American National Standards Institute’s (ANSI) A-10 Committee on Construction and Demolition Operations, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s (NIOSH) National Occupation Research Agenda (NORA) committee. We are also a key partner on the Electrical Transmission and Distribution (ET&D) OSHA Strategic Partnership (OSP). This partnership consists of utility contractors, trade associations, labor organizations, electrical utilities, and OSHA representatives. It is the oldest and only national OSP that OSHA has in place.

NECA also delivers continuing education both locally and nationally throughout the year. We stage the largest continued on Page 20

San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

Page 19

NEXT TH MON

SERVICE PROVIDERS

To represent your company in an upcoming FOCUS, contact SAeditor@ConstructionNews.net 210-308-5800

More efficient energy practices Matt Rokovich, President

Allied Electrical Contractors of Houston Inc.

Houston, TX

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llied Electric in Beaumont was formed in 1975. When Matt Rokovich was 16 years old, he went to work there and started out as a shop/delivery driver. Allied Electric later branched out to the Houston market. Rokovich became a co-owner alongside the person that trained him who passed away in a tragic helicopter accident in 2012.

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

So far in 2019 there has been modest growth in varying sectors of the construction industry with increases anywhere from 1 to 4 percent but overall, I believe when the dust settles on 2019 it will be a mirror image to 2018 with not much of increase or decrease.

Have you experienced an increase or a slowdown in business?

I have seen work staying constant from 2018 through 2019.

What factors are driving this increase/ slowdown?

From 2012 to 2018, there have been great increases but with interest rates

and material costs rising versus the US economy overall it has counter balanced out which has been the reason for the status quo for 2019 from what I have seen.

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

The “hot button” is that the great majority of our youth coming out of grade school are not interested in doing trade work as a career anymore and it creates a shortage of workforce. I have to continue to improve the skills of my existing workforce and couple it with attracting new talent. I train from within, preach, and teach the National Electrical Code. I employ and empower electricians that understand what they are installing, how it works, not just having them as pre-fab installers.

Parking downtown Sandra Johnson, President Edge Electric Inc. Buda, TX

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ncorporated in 2009 by two native Austinites, Edge Electric Inc. is proud to take part in the growth of their eccentric city. Over the past 10 years, they have taken time to build a structured environment and invest in a quality team, which has afforded them the capability to complete high profile projects within required budgets and timelines. Maintaining the “quality over quantity” mindset has allowed Edge Electric to build strong customer relations, creating an exceptional reputation for themselves in Central Texas.

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

Running a construction business in one of the fastest growing cities in the country is hectic, overwhelming… and a little brutal sometimes. It’s dog eat dog out here!

Have you experienced an increase or a slowdown in business?

We’ve definitely seen an influx in business. We’ve grown by 50 percent since this time last year with margins reflecting the same 50 percent growth. Obviously, this means 50 percent more headaches to go along with it, ha!

What factors are driving this increase/ slowdown?

What’s the statistic? 55,000 people are moving to Austin each year. Unfortunately, Austin hasn’t been able to stand by the “build and they will come” motto.

We’re overwhelmed with new residents who need places to work and live. Investors and business owners are jumping on this opportunity to serve the newcomers.

For us, this means get it done and get it done FAST! The majority of our projects have a strict 12-week deadline.

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

Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) governs electrical licensing. A long-lasting rule has been that

on a job site each electrician must have a valid electrician’s license in their possession. Furthermore, for every five apprentice electricians on a construction site, there must be at least one master or journeyman electrician on site. Failing to abide by this rule puts businesses at risk for expensive fines. Repeat offenders can face suspension or revocation of their Texas Electrical Contractors License, which is required to run an electrical contracting business in Texas. TDLR has recently initiated a “sting”, sweeping jobsites all over Austin looking for this kind of exposure.

What is the most significant challenge the electrical industry is facing? (i.e. labor shortage, other) Austin’s construction in progress far out-weighs the number of skilled tradesman available. This creates high demand, which calls for premium labor rates and yet another challenge for obtaining and retaining employees.

A secondary and much less troublesome issue is parking downtown. About three years ago we started seeing a decrease in margins and higher than expected labor hours… after much research I came to find that my employees were spending, on average, one-plus hour per day making trips to their car to replenish the parking meter. In some instances, there is a three-hour time limit on parking, so employees must find another spot to park. The time spent mak-

Do you see an increase in the number of outside contractors coming to the area?

I have seen an increase in electrical contractors traveling outside of their area ever since the licensing changed from regional to statewide in 2003. It is fairer this way and not political as it was before 2003 but yes, that was when the tide changed, and the number of travelers has increased year to year.

What are cost increases affecting the electrical industry?

The trade war with China is our biggest obstacle right now. Different parts of LED’s that are manufactured in China affect our budgets and estimates that have been submitted to our clients. We have had to rush order light fixtures to curtail these threats of price increases.

What is on the horizon for the electrical industry? (Changes in technology; equipment; other) The trend will continue to shift to more energy efficient practices. More jobs will require knowledge of installing renewable energy technology and other alternative power sources. I predict this industry will be used in the future to retrofit existing buildings and to improve their energy efficiency. There will be

ing these trips to the meter cost our company nearly $175,000 in non-productive labor expenses in just ONE YEAR, plus $45K in parking fees.

Discovering this, I started purchasing garage and surface lot parking permits, $265/month (on average). This was perfect! They always had a spot available and there was no wasted time clocked for replenishing meters. However, as of late 2018, garages and lots stopped accepting us. I have reached out to City of Austin Small Business Development, City Council and Parking Enforcement to propose a plan with no positive response. I feel there is a simple solution, but I can’t seem to get it in front of the people who matter. Allow businesses in the construction industry to purchase parking permits that allow the construction vehicle to be parked at any meter or designated area between 5am and 5pm. I would be willing to pay $200-$300 per month for each permit. Just from my business alone this would bring in $60,000 - $90,000 per year rather than collecting $45,000 in meter fees per year. The additional money could be used to offer rebates to large businesses who shuttle in their employees from outside of downtown. It would be a win /win/win for all parties. There must be a solution – we just have to find it!

Do you see an increase in the number of

more and more complex, integrated electrical and communication systems. I also see a need for more charging stations in homes and businesses for electric vehicles.

Are there any significant code changes / regulations in the past year affecting the electrical industry?

NFPA received 4,012 public inputs recommending code change and 1,235 first revisions resulted. There were 1,513 public comments submitted, with 559 second revisions. Nine new articles were proposed, and five new articles published in the 2017 NEC. The changes were diverse. However, the most significant change to me is the listing of “elementary and preschool facilities” as needing the requirement for tamper resistant receptacles for all 15 and 20 amp, 125 and 250volt receptacles.

What are keys to being successful?

Do not oversell and overextend your company’s resources and sacrifice quality to achieve quantity.

Allied Electrical Contractors of Houston Inc. is a full-service electrical contractor.

-cmw

outside contractors coming to the area?

I have seen more electrical contractors go out of business in the last year than I have seen in the last 10 years. The blessing of the booming Austin market is a double-edged sword for new or small businesses. There is SO MUCH work available, it’s hard to turn down. But taking on more work than you can handle is a surefire way to drown.

What are cost increases affecting the electrical industry?

Although for a good cause, tariffs have been a trigger for increased costs.

Luckily, that increase impacts us all so competitively speaking it doesn’t have much effect when it comes to bidding.

Also, as previously mentioned, there is a shortage of skilled tradesman, which has caused a labor rate increase. Technology is expensive as well, but consumers are happy to pay the price for the latest and greatest. Almost all lighting packages we install now come with comprehensive controls for efficiency, security or simply ambiance.

What are keys to being successful?

Don’t ask me! Just kidding! After 10 years in business, the best advice I could give is to find what you’re best at and focus on it, be prepared for the long haul and don’t bite off more than you can chew. -cmw

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San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

continued continued from Page 18 — Electrical contractors positioned to thrive convention and trade show of its kind for the industry every fall. We will hold our annual event this September in Las Vegas, where in-depth education covers topics such as technology, leadership, communications, business development, and succession planning. Whether it’s learning about code changes or implementing a safety update, NECA provides support to members at every level of the industry. The new NECA Learning Center offers a wide range of educational programs to help NECA’s contractors grow, such as state-approved code courses for CEUs as well as courses in project management, project controls and project contracts, general business, and line foremanship fundamentals.

Advocacy is a central part of NECA’s mission. To help ensure a climate that is conducive to business growth, NECA has a strong presence in Washington, D.C. We represent the electrical industry on Capitol Hill and the White House and interact with policymakers on both sides of the pollical aisle. NECA supports the passage of a significant infrastructure investment package, the permanency of tax code changes enacted in 2017, and the modernization of the multiemployer pension system. One of NECA’s top legislative priorities, allowing 529 savings plans to be used in apprenticeship programs, passed through the House of Representatives in May and is now before the Senate for consideration.

NECA’s focus on advocacy extends to industry codes and standards. Since the founding of NECA in 1901, we have had direct involvement in the development of requirements in the National Electrical Code (NEC). The NECA Codes and Standards Committee provides effective representation of electrical contractors in the

rulemaking process. Many changes in the 2020 edition of the NEC address new and emerging technology and industry trends while maintaining effective relevance of the NEC each three-year code development cycle. A few revisions that have a broader impact on electrical construction and system installation will cover installations providing shore power to watercraft in marinas and boatyards, including monitoring leakage current and installations used to export power from electric vehicles to premises wiring. In addition, the 2017 edition of the NEC has been revised globally to specifically include rules related to the use of reconditioned equipment.

Lastly, a key area of focus is business development. Our goal is to help NECA contractors get more work from current and prospective customers through programs like the NECA Service Network.

They help members prepare for opportunities in new markets such as renewable energy, smart cities, electric vehicle, and the Internet of Things (IoT) through programs like NECA’s Energy and Conservation Performance (ECAP) platform. Of course, we are always trying to draw attention to the cutting-edge work our members do every day, and that’s why we are proud to present our annual NECA Project Excellence Awards to best-inclass projects in 12 different categories.

Changes in the electrical industry have affected every aspect of contractors’ work from technology and workforce development to budgeting, estimating, project management and much more. NECA helps members understand and embrace disruptions in a manner that aids them in becoming the source that brings value to their customers. -cmw

The eagle has returned

S

New in New Braunfels

tephane Chevrier has been around the block a time or two – and around the nation’s border as well.

Born and raised in Montreal, Canada, Chevrier planned to attend college but decided instead to pursue an electrical trade after helping a friend on a job site when Chevrier was 17.

He eventually moved to Florida to stay with his father who had a home there, and then Chevrier moved to California.

In 2001, Chevrier established an electrical service company, ASL Electric Inc., with his new bride Linda. Even through the recession of 2008, the couple built a business in which they took pride. After 17 years, the couple decided to sell the business and move to Texas, but not before personally saying goodbye to each of TX Electric owner, Stephane Chevrier the many customers who had become their friends over the years. concentrate on what he feels is the most Once they settled in New Braunfels, important aspect of his business.

Chevrier passed his master license test “I would like to stay small and maybe and established a new electric services have two or three employees,” Chevirer company, TX Electric, of February of this says. “I want to start with the relationship year. In almost every way, Chevrier is truly part of the business.” starting from scratch, but he feels Chevrier is happy to have a skill and excitement rather than hesitation. work that easily connects him to others, “We are starting this business not no matter where he calls home, and he knowing anyone,” Chevrier says. “The hopes to continue to do the work he only people I know are my customers, my loves for famously friendly Texans. wife and my stepson. We don’t know “I enjoy helping people,” Chevrier anybody else in New Braunfels.” says. “I teach people about their electrical

Despite the new beginnings, Chevrier system. On a typical day, I use my tools wants to stick with what is familiar. for about an hour a day. The rest of the

“We are starting by doing service, and day, I am talking to people about how we’re going to move back into construction, their electrical system works, figuring out similar to what we did in Orange County,” what is wrong with their electrical system he says. “We’d like to specialize in electrical and explaining what works to them. service, small construction, remodels and Above all, we value customers, customer new construction.” safety, the safety of their home, and the

Having had the experience of employ- customer relationship.” ing up to seven at his former company, Electrical subcontractor TX Electric is Chevrier wants to get back to basics and located in New Braunfels. – mjm

Construction News ON LOCATION

When CN pops in

SpawGlass Contractors received the prestigious Eagle Award at the Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) National Convention for their work on the Confluence Park project in the category of Other Construction Less Than $10 Million. L-R: ABC National Chairman Tony Rader, Wayne Ambrose, Jorge Estello and Garrett Farris. -cmw

KenconConstructors/Construction Managers Ltd. offer a welcoming smile.

L-R: Clayton Kennedy, Laurence Garcia, Tricia Glenn, Barry Osborne (hiding), Alan Norwood, Julia Moore, Liz Mendiola and Maria Alarcon. -cmw

Construction News ON LOCATION

A ‘dwy’ sunny day

Owner of Dwyer Restoration, Dan Dwyer, exhibiting the Dwyer shop. -tnp

San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

Page 21

continued from Page 1 — Skanska USA solidated office building on 12 acres. This new facility houses more than 580 of the Alamo Colleges District’s support staff.

The project includes a new board room that can host up to 300 people, an outdoor auditorium space and cyber café, and includes a rock garden that represents the Acequia Madre de Valero.

Primary construction materials used included corrugated tilt wall panels, exterior metal panels, glulam beams and decking roof structure and DIRTT modular wall systems. The approximate cost to construct the Alamo Colleges District Support Operations Complex is $55 Million and took the Skanska team 21 short months to complete.

Consolidating the Alamo Colleges District’s Support Operations into a single campus required robust telecommunications, audio visual and video surveillance systems to enhance engagement and coordination among teams that have not previously worked within the same facility. However, Skanska encountered the unanticipated challenge of installing these systems while also installing the building finishes due to a change in the scope of work.

Initially, Skanska bid, conducted post bid interviews and provided recommendations for the telecommunications, audio visual and video surveillance systems

to expedite the buyout of this equipment based on recommendations from the Alamo Colleges’ low voltage consultant.

Upon review of the recommendations, the Alamo Colleges realized the consultant’s recommendations were cost prohibitive. The client first tried to value engineer several items through a process that took several months, and ultimately decided to directly procure the scope of work. By the time this process was completed, Skanska was already installing the building finishes.

Skanska met with the new vendors and helped them create a flow of activities that would enable the vendors to get into spaces where finishes were not in progress, as well as minimize damages and repairs to spaces that were already completed. Bi-weekly meetings were also conducted with the low voltage vendors to help them prioritize their work ahead of pending finishes and to proactively address any additional issues.

For more than a decade, Skanska’s had the privilege of working with the Alamo Colleges District on projects to expand and enhance multiple campuses, and it’s been a special honor to deliver on the vision that former Chancellor Dr. Bruce Leslie had for the District Support Operations campus prior to his retirement. “We firmly believe that this con-

continued from Page 1 — Malcolm’s Custom Welding in the shop with him and two others who help out in the field.

Clayton does 85 percent of his work in the shop, while the in-the-field work is mostly installation. The shop work is his bread and butter. At the present time, his shop is at his home and is “a decent size.”

The plan for the future is to move it to a more visible location and enlarge it.

Like many welder/fabricators, Clayton will do the routine job. But he really likes that which he can sink his teeth into and has to think about. Recently, he made custom wine racks for a home designer that took him a while to figure out and design.

“I do like a challenge,” he said. “I can build a gate with my eyes closed. I like something that keeps me on my toes.” Clayton said of this wine rack that it was “the most detailed job I’ve ever done.”

Clayton used to pay someone to use their CNC plasma table for the intricate metal work. It dawned on him that for the money he was paying out, he could buy his own machine, which he did in 2017.

Now, other welders will pay him to use his CNC. The computer programming on the CNC allows Clayton to take pictures customers send him and cut out precisely

what the customer wants.

Another area of growth is for Clayton to get his own powder-coating paint booth, so he doesn’t have to farm this out. “The powder coating, you just can’t beat it,” he said, for looks and durability.

Also on the horizon is Clayton getting some big contracts, such as a job with an airplane refurbishing outfit. As of now, he does roughly 70 percent residential/commissioned work to 30 percent commercial.

If he can land some bigger contracts, that split will go to 80-20 percent commercial.

Clayton just completed his latest growth idea by coming up with a new website, highlighting many of his works in a more professional way. He has plans on making it more interactive and customer-friendly and easier to request custom pieces.

Clayton himself has the image of a welder being a pipeline, industrial kind of guy out in the oil fields. Yes, he is a welder – he’s been doing it since he was a kid – but he uses this skill to construct meaningful metal projects for his customers.

Malcolm’s Custom Welding is a construction service and supply company in La Vernia. -dsz

continued from Page 1 — Hoffmann Floors the day-to-day operations: sales, administration, payroll, insurance, etc. Lisa has been with the company for 35 years.

Hoffmann Floors has grown from the original two members to 25 now, to include seven sales personnel and 14 floor installers. (The correct term is “Floor Mechanic.”)

“What makes us unique from other floor retailers,” Carl explained, “is the number of full-time floor mechanics that we actually have on staff here to do jobs.

Many of those installers have been with us for 20 and 30 years.”

Further, “I have an incredible amount of experience and knowledge that gets in those vans and goes out to jobs and work in people’s homes every day,” he said.

In addition to homes, Carl said Hoffmann Floors has relationships with many schools in the county that have gone back for years. They do a small amount of commercial work.

“The biggest part of our work is remodeling work,” he said. Hoffmann Floors doesn’t do subdivision work, but Carl said that in about 8 to 10 years, he’ll be redoing many of those house’s floors.

It gives Carl great satisfaction that Hoffmann Floors is redoing floors now that it redid many years ago. This is part of being connected to this community.

New Braunfels is experiencing the same expansion that is happening all throughout Texas. “There’s growth in ev-

ery direction,” Carl said. Hoffmann Floors also works with those custom home builders who will do six to eight homes a year.

When Wayne and Stanley first started out, the only two flooring options were pretty much carpet and vinyl tile. Now, there is luxury vinyl tile and ceramic tile that looks just like wood. “Nobody even thought about that way back when,” Carl said.

Because of the advent of materials like these, the demand for real hardwood floors has decreased. Tile that looks like wood “is a very significant part of our tile business,” he said. “Some of those looks are so good I have to bend over and feel it to see what it is,” he added.

With New Braunfels booming, Hoffmann Floors has plenty of work to do in about an hour’s drive out. If a valued customer has a second home further out and asks for them, they will go.

Carl’s two daughters have chosen their career paths from their studies at A & M, but his high school son hasn’t decided yet. Since returning to flooring, Carl has shared an office with Wayne to learn the business. Carl’s son may one day join the business, but jokingly said he doesn’t want to share an office with his dad. In the meantime, the Hoffmanns continue to lay it on down.

Hoffmann Floors is a flooring contractor in New Braunfels. -dsz

solidated office space will help the Alamo Colleges meet the needs of its students, faculty and staff, while also serving as a valuable asset to the community,” says Project Manager Blake Beran.

“This particular project strengthened our existing relationships with the Alamo Colleges and helped establish new ones, as Skanska worked closely with Associate Vice Chancellor of Facilities John Strybos and Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration Dr. Diane Snyder,” adds Senior Superintendent Shane Spry. Skanska also had the opportunity to work with the new Chancellor, Dr. Mike Flores, and the team is excited about his vision for the future of the Alamo Colleges District. Skanska especially enjoyed fostering strong relationships with Ford, Powell & Carson and

West East Design Group, the project architects, and is already leveraging their synergy with both design firms on new projects.

Skanska USA is a full-service general contractor. -cmw

Reception area

Association Calendar

Content submitted by Associations to Construction News ABC

Associated Builders & Contractors Inc.

Jul. 20: Apprentice Graduation, Dave & Busters, 440 Crossroads Blvd.,10am.

Jul. 25: Happy Hour, Location TBD. 4:30pm. For more info, contact Jennifer Rocha at Jennifer@abcsouthtexas.org or 210-342-1994 AGC

Associated General Contractors

Jul. 13: CLC Night at the Missions, Nelson Wolff Stadium, 5757 US Hwy. 90.

Jul. 24: Lean Coffee, AGC Offices, 10806 Gulfdale, 7-9:30am. For more info, call 210-349-4921 Jul. 28: CLC Law Forum & Mixer, AGC Offices, 10806 Gulfdale, 4:30-6:30pm. For info, call Kelly Wilson at 210-349-4921 AIA

American Institute of Architects

Jul. 11: Mega Mixer, The Well, 5539 UTSA Blvd., 5-7pm.

Jul. 26: Salsa Competition, Olmos Softball Fields, 5200 McCullough Ave., 6-9pm.

For more info, email info@aiasa.org ASA

American Subcontractors Assn.

Jul. 23: Lunch & Learn, Petroleum Club, 8620 N. New Braunfels, 11:30am. For more info, contact Jennifer Swinney at 210-349-2105 ECAT

Earthmoving Contractors Assn. of Texas

Jul. 18-24: Annual Meeting, Holiday Inn Northwest at Sea World, 10135 SH 151, San Antonio, TX. For more info, visit www. earthmovingcontractors.com or call 325340-8370 or 325-977-8372.

HCA de SA

Hispanic Contractors Assn. de San Antonio

Jul. 19: 10th Annual Diversity Awards Gala, Phoenician Ballroom, 6070 Babcock Rd., 6:30-11pm.

Jul. 23-34: Contractor Development, HCAdeSA Offices, 2391 NE Loop 410 #206, 4-7pm.

Jul. 30-31: Contractor Development, HCA de SA Offices, 2391 NE Loop 410 #206, 4-7pm. For more info, call Dave Sanchez at 210-444-1100 or go to www.hcadesa.org IEC

Independent Electrical Contractors

Jul. 25-28: IEC of Texas State Confer-

ence, Lake Tahoe, UT. For more info, contact Julie Tucker at 210-431-9861 or email jtucker@iecsanantonio.com I-LinCP

Institute for Leadership in Capital Projects

Aug. 8-9: Texas Public Owners Conf. The Bridge Over Troubled Waters – Project Delivery to Operations. For info, contact Charli Valadez at 512-263-5521 or go to www.i-lincp.org MCA

Mechanical Contractors Assn.

Jul. 24-28: Annual Meeting & Products Show, J.W. Marriott Hill Country Resort, 23808 Resort Pkwy., San Antonio, TX. For more info, call 281-440-4380 MCA-SMACNA INC

Mechanical and Sheet Metal Contractors Assn.

Jul. 24: Joint Industry Fund Meeting, MCA-SMACNA office, 12500 Network Blvd., #410, 11:30am. For more info, call Sandee Morgan at 210-822-3763 NARI

National Assn. of the Remodeling Industry

Jul. 13: Missions Game, Nelson Wolff Stadium, 5757 US Hwy. 90 W, 7pm, $10. For more info, contact Angela Parks at angelas@southwestexteriors.com PHCC

Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors

Jul. 11: Membership Mixer, The Petroleum Club, Jul. 16: PHCC-SA DOL Approved Plumbing Apprentice School Application Deadline.

Jul. 30-31: PHCC-SA DOL Plumbing Apprenticeship Interviews. For more info, call Heidi Trimble at 210-824-7422 SAMCA

San Antonio Masonry Contractors Assn.

Jul. 12-13: Annual Fishing Tournament, Redfish Bay Boathouse, 322 Huff St., Aransas Pass; $300 per boat w/4 anglers.

For more info, contact Debi Solis at 210347-2423 TACCA

Texas Air Conditioning Contractors Assn.

Greater San Antonio

Jul. 18: Member Mixer, Walk Ons, 1400 Panteon Way. For more info, call Dawn Thompson at 210-901-4222

Page 22

I

San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

Hang loose, y’all!

t was rock-a-hula baby time at SpawGlass’ 22nd annual luau appreciation event, held May 16 at the Blue Bonnet Palace. With island music playing and the buffet line open, SpawGlass treated its guest to prize drawings, a hula hoop contest and best Hawaiian dressed contest. The real winner of this tropical fandango was Chosen from New Braunfels, a foster care and adoption agency that gives children much needed support in life.

Over 600 toys were collected for the kids. -dsz

Two hang-loose kind of guys at the bar.

Yes, but is doing it this way legal?

Jason Smith, president of SpawGlass, San Antonio division, greets the folks.

And the winnahs!

Okay, so which one is the real Tiki god?

Rock a hulu-hoop baby

“Okay, so does drinking a beer make me a better hula-hooper?”

No beer—better hula hooper!

www.constructionnews.net publishing the industry’s news

Texas Style

H H H H

San Antonio Austin Dallas/Fort Worth Houston

San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019

Page 23

Shooting fun

T

he Associated General Contractors (AGC) held their annual Fun Shoot and Mixer on May 17. The fun-filled event was held at the National Shoot complex. Everyone in attendance had a great time enjoying friendships and fabulous food and drink. Photos courtesy of Mary C. Haskin Photography. -cmw Red Course Class A Winners: 2nd Place: Tommi Shurley, Labor Finders – score 97 3rd Place: Steve Thode, Howell Crane – score 96 Red Course Class B Winners: 1st Place: Kyle Wisniewski, Alterman Inc. – score 79

2nd Place: Jim Welch, Pape Dawson Engineers Inc. – score 79 3rd Place: Justin Hiller, RDO Equipment Co. – score 78

T

Tiny homes

he National Association of Women in Construction and Lone Star Construction Trades Training were judges in the Construction Career Academy (CCA) Tiny Homes Competition. The event was held on May 7.

Yellow Course Class A Winners: 2nd Place: Jacob Sireno, Baker Triangle – score 91 3rd Place: Lonnie Knight, Guido Construction – score 90 Yellow Course Class B Winners: 1st Place: Wade Winters, Big State Electric Ltd. – score 70 2nd Place: Philip Miller, Chubb Surety – score 69 3rd Place: Albert Gutierrez, Guido Construction – score 69

1st Place: – L-R: Ricardo Longoria, David Juarez, Jonathan Perez and Henry Esparza.

Best Overall Score: David Thode, Howell Crane – score 99

1st Place Red Course Class A: Austin Luchak, F.A. Nunnelly General Contractor – score 98

1st Place Yellow Course Class A: Wade Mayfield, Joeris General Contractors – score 93

A “precision” niche

O

L-R: Joe Dubbles, Ginger Ramirez and Rosco

riginally from New Jersey, Joe Dubbles left the Garden State to serve in the U.S. Navy. He had the great fortune to be stationed in Hawaii, a tropical paradise. It seems he has a passion for mesmerizing places.

Knowing that he did not want to return to New Jersey, after leaving the navy, Dubbles settled in another mesmerizing city and bought a bar in the beautiful, historic city of San Antonio.

Dubbles owned three bars and restaurants when he met his wife and knew working into the wee hours would not a happy marriage make. He got out of the bar business and went to work for a roofing contractor before moving on. He would eventually go to work for a general contractor and later an interior contractor where he found his calling.

Dubbles started his own interior finish out company and sold it three years ago to start Precision Contracting, an interior demolition and construction company. As a result of the sale, Dubbles had a three-year non-complete and could not perform commercial work and

focused on residential work.

Dubbles started Precision Contracting with just himself and a couple of field guys flipping houses. From there he got calls asking him to re-do a bathroom, kitchen and other interior renovations.

With the expiration of his three-year non-compete, Dubbles and Precision Contracting are back in the fast lane of commercial interior finish out. “We have our niche. We are really good at TI work.

We are going to keep our residential side going as we have a pretty good client base and lots of referrals,” says Dubbles.

Ginger Ramirez is Precision’s commercial project manager. Overseeing the residential side is Sheryle Leal.

“I think what makes Precision Contracting different is that we are very service oriented. I know that is cliché, but it is true. We really try hard to get the job done the way it is supposed to be done with no hassles.”

Precision Contracting is an interior demolition and construction general contractor in San Antonio, TX. -cmw

Judges examine the winning tiny home.

Page 24

San Antonio Construction News • JUL 2019