Austin Construction News August 2019

Covering the Industry’s News

Texas Style

P.O. Box 791290 San Antonio, Texas 78279-1290

PRSRT. STD. U.S. POSTAGE PAID DALLAS, TX PERMIT #1451

Change Service Requested

San Antonio H Austin Dallas/Fort Worth H Houston

Austin

CONSTRUCTION

™

The Industry’s Newspaper www.constructionnews.net H (210) 308-5800 H Volume 19 H Number 8 H AUGUST 2019

J

Now u can do 2

Hearts of glass

Jason Bauder, owner of Can Do Plumbing

Aubrey and Summer Dougherty, owners of Capital Glass Distributor

ason Bauder is one of those guys who didn’t have the Aha! moment or lightning bolt down from the heavens to tell him to get into plumbing. When he was younger, he needed a job and a place to stay. He worked at a golf course and then by an HVAC/plumbing outfit.

“I didn’t know if this is what I’m going to do,” Bauder said of plumbing. “I just kept doing it.”

He kept doing it. While working for this HVAC/plumbing business, Bauden said he had gotten his apprentice license but wasn’t getting his hours logged. “There was no defined career path,” he said.

All the while, “I kept hearing these old people say, ‘Man, if you get your license, you’ll make something of yourself,’” he said.

F

ounded in 1967 by Leo Joeris in San Antonio, TX, Joeris General Contractors has built a reputation in the commercial construction industry on the foundation that Joeris laid that everything depends on trust.

Joeris General Contractors built both Phase 1 (Elementary) and Phase 2 of Austin Achieve (High School). The two-story elementary school features 77,000sf of space for students to learn, create and play. The school has 30 classrooms, multiple science labs, a music room, student union, and a college-ready center to prepare students for college. The school has two playgrounds and a full-size soccer and football field as well as a multi-purpose space.

Phase 2 of the Austin Achieve School New Campus project includes construction of a new secondary school building on the campus site. The building is approximately 56,500sf on two floors. The work included various components for

Bauden climbed the plumbing ladder. “I wanted more so I kept going.” He eventually got his masters license in 2006. “That year, I was the youngest master plumber in Austin,” he said.

Bauden’s first plumbing company was Cut Above Plumbing, but he sold it in 2009 and moved to Michigan for a while.

Upon coming back to Texas, the Cedar Park native started Can Do Plumbing. His wife Jessica does all the paperwork and office work. Bauden is a oneman show when it comes to the handson plumbing. “The only thing I haven’t done,” he said, “is a hospital and a private complex hotel.

However, Bauden is wanting to phase out being the hands-on, servicecontinued on Page 14

B

roken glass isn’t usually a good thing, but in the case of Capital Glass Distributor, it was because CGD was born out of another glass company’s demise.

The husband and wife team of Aubrey and Summer Dougherty have had more than one business venture prior to CGD. “We’ve owned a roofing company; we’ve owned a construction company,” Aubrey said, “and my wife said to me, ‘Pick something,’ instead of doing all these different things.”

The Doughertys knew of another couple that owned a glass distribution business that was going to cease to exist for personal reasons. Aubrey, heeding Summer’s advice, “Shut down [our] electrical company and started up this one.”

Capital Glass Distributor officially began in May 2015. The other company wrapped up all its standing orders but left word with its customers that CGD was standing up.

“They were going out of business and we just purchased the equipment and right away opened up another [company] that was very similar to what they were doing,” Summer said.

“We’ve grown organically, all on our own,” she added. In other words, CGD hasn’t used any investors or banks to grow.

“We make residential insulated glass units,” Aubrey said. “We buy the products raw. It comes in on big, 4,000lb racks of glass.” continued on Page 14

Placed-based learning

Aerial view of Austin Achieve

the new building including steel frame, metal stud walls, brick veneer, roofing, site work, paving and landscaping and MEP systems.

In addition to the academic building, the scope included a sports field and spectator stands positioned in a courtyard between the Primary School (Phase 1) and the Secondary Academic Building.

The building was constructed as a traditional slab-on-grade, steel structure with five feet of select fill. The exterior features multiple materials including cost-effective HardiePlank® and HardiePanel® siding, Lueders limestone rock applied using a field pattern of two, four, and eight-inch patterns, and “knot wood” siding that is intended to look like wood siding but isn’t actual wood. A RhinoBond® roof system was installed per the project team’s recommendation. This unique roof system was mechanically fastened and allowed for flexibility of instalcontinued on Page 14

Page 2

N

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019

Cool air, ahoy

From retirement to roofing

Jeremy Cook, owner of Bluebonnet HVAC, flanked by Chuck and Ralph

The Apex Roofing team.

ot too many HVAC contractors can say they got their start or education in the trade from working on yachts. Jeremy Cook of Bluebonnet HVAC can.

“My first experience was working on boat air conditioners and refrigerators,” he said. These “boats” were in the Florida Keys and owned by “A lot of rich people who came down and slept on their boats a couple of times a year and had a boat captain keep things ready for them,” Cook explained.

Cook initially went to the Keys to visit his father and ended up working with him for about three years in his AC business.

When Cook came back to Texas, he continued his work in the HVAC trade by working for several companies. But, as he said, he got tired of working all the time.

“I eventually decided I wanted to have some free time, so I started a company.”

That company was Bluebonnet HVAC, which started in 2008.

Cook’s wife Kititke works alongside him, running the office, answering phones and doing the scheduling. Cook

T

has another person working with him.

With houses booming, Cook says it’s “usually about six years after they’re put it [is when] they start having issues.”

“I’ve been very successful being a problem solver for homeowners who have had multiple companies who couldn’t fix the problem,” he said.

Cook said he’s seen beer cans and an occasional not-totally-legal substance left in the attic from the original HVAC contractor. He’s also seen stuff that shouldn’t have passed inspection in the first place.

Cook would like to expand Bluebonnet’s footprint, “but at the same time I don’t want a huge company,” he said.

“The bigger you get, the less quality you put out there and it’s hard to keep track of everything.”

“I do like getting out there and talking to homeowners,” he said. “That’s one of my favorite things about it.”

“I’ll work on anything,” Cook said, even if it doesn’t have an anchor. Ahoy, there.

Bluebonnet HVAC does full-service AC and heating service, in Leander. -dsz

M

ike Cochran was ready for retirement – or so he thought. Not long after he left a long auto-mobile business career, restlessness set in.

“I think everyone gets to that point where they want to retire. I was fortunate enough to be able to retire, but once I did it, I realized it wasn’t what I thought it was going to be. I realized how much I like to work,” he says. ”I wanted to do something different, but at that age, what do you do?”

A roofer’s Craigslist ad seeking appointment setters provided the answer.

Cochran says he “had absolutely no construction background whatsoever” but the auto business had primed him for it.

After a 2014 storm in Killeen, he went door to door, setting appointments for his employer to make roofing presentations to homeowners. After repeatedly listening to their pitch, Cochran was allowed to sell roofs on their behalf and he hired a canvasser to gather leads for him. In March 2015, Cochran chased an Arkansas storm and sold roofs with much success, but he grew weary of the storm-chasing

game.

“I decided I knew enough to do this on my own,” he says. “I came home to Georgetown at the end of that storm season, formed APEX Roofing, hired my canvasser guy back, and sold roofs the first month we were in business.”

He grew the company from his kitchen table and pickup truck, focusing on keeping promises to his customers and ensuring their satisfaction. It paid off: APEX Roofing has doubled in growth every year and has moved into an office.

Cochran also bought Skinner’s Custom Screens, Windows & Doors to help more customers with their needs.

With two businesses to run, the former retiree got just what he wanted: work.

“Whatever you are doing in life, you have a plan and it doesn’t always work out, but it’s just amazing to me,” Cochran says. “It’s just all working the way I expected it to work.”

Subcontractor APEX Roofing in Georgetown offers residential, metal and premium roofing services. –mjm

Leaving a legacy

wo months ago, office to oversee work Bob Lowe’s retireon the DFW Airport, a ment party strainproject he champied to hold the swell of oned. Seven years and people celebrating the a final Fort Worth proTDIndus-tries Vice Preject later, he decided sident, but it also strugthe time to retire had gled to contain everyarrived. one’s emotions as they Bob looks forward reflected on Lowe’s 43to renovating his lake year career. house, selling his Dallas “I think one of the home, and taking best things about retireConnie on a fall foliage ment parties is all of the tour through some stories that people tell,” northern states. He is Harold MacDowell, also excited to spend TDIndustries’ CEO, says. more time with “At TD, we’ve always daughter Amy, her hustried to use storytelling band Paul Jenke (a and remembering as a TDIndustries senior proway to keep culture ject manager) and his L-R: Bob Lowe (seen with brother Jack Lowe, Jr.) is leaving a legacy alive, and there were a two grandchildren. with his retirement from TDIndustries. lot of great stories As happy as Bob is, hard and moved up the ladder, but was there is a twinge of sadness from those who about Bob that day.”

The story of Bob’s career at TDIndus- always aware he would have to earn it. have worked with him and who carry on the “Dad told me that if I was one of two Lowes’ legacy. This includes MacDowell, tries actually started before he ever worked for the company. TDIndus-tries, which was people who were equally qualified for a who has doubled the company revenue to founded as Texas Distributors in 1946 by position, the other person was going to $630 million, grown the employee count to Bob’s father Jack Lowe, Sr. (and financed get it just to make sure I was never shown almost 2,700 and expanded offerings to

by Bob’s great aunt Julia Greer), first focused favoritism,” Bob says. “But he said the mechanical construction, truck-based on residential work. From age 14, Bob advantage I would always have is that, service and integrated facilities manageworked summers for his dad in the mail- because of my name, I didn’t have to ment. room, on service trucks and in attics. Bob worry about being forgotten.”

“Bob is the last of the two sons who left and waited tables at his brother Ed’s Bob participated in iconic projects, were extremely active in this business Celebration restaurant for six years but including City Place and Arlington’s original and, for TD, it’s kind of a sad day that we returned to TD in 1976, when marriage and Rangers ballpark. In 2005, he was named no longer have any direct descendants of Executive Vice President, but his leukemia the founder involved in the business,” the desire to start a family called.

Bob, Jack Sr. and Jack Lowe Jr. wanted diagnosis that year, followed by the death MacDowell says. “However, we’re also to expand TD to include commercial work, of his daughter Catherine one year later, extremely excited about the legacy Bob and Bob jumped in to learn all he could. “changed the direction of my life signifi- leaves inside of the organization, in terms He began as a sheet metal helper and, cantly,” he says. “I decided that I no longer of the people that he grew, the careers within a year, became a foreman. He then had the desire to climb the corporate lad- that were promoted, and the legacy of moved on to plumbing and pipe fitting der. I wanted to enjoy life and travel more.” leadership that will help carry the comand earned his plumber’s license. He Bob and his wife, Connie, bought a pany forward.” learned how to manage projects as a job lake house and focused on his three-year Mechanical contractor TDIndustries is in clerk and then became a superinten-dent leukemia treatment and recovery. Within Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Richardson, and construction manager. He worked five years, he moved out of the main Austin, San Antonio and Phoenix, AZ. –mjm

In memory of

O

ur thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and employees of Faulkner Construction.

Royce Faulkner, founder of Faulkner Construction Company in 1962, passed away Jun. 25. He also founded the Faulkner Group of Companies to become a major player in almost every aspect of the construction industry.

His spirit and wisdom will live on in the hearts and minds of every person who was fortunate enough to listen and learn from him, a great man who helped build Austin’s quality of life that we all enjoy today.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Settlement Home, 1600 Payton Gin Road, Austin, TX 78758, or website: www.settlementhome.org; Schreiner University, 2100 Memorial Blvd.

Kerrville, TX 78028-5611, www.schreiner.edu; or the charity of your choice. -cmw

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019

Page 3

Anyone for a dip?

T

he Central Texas Roofing Contractors Association (CTRCA) hosted a Party Barge Networking Event on Lake Travis with Aquaholics Watercraft. Roofing contractors, family and friends enjoyed a 4-hour evening taking dips in the lake, drinking and dining and listening to good music. -cmw

Rescheduled clays

T

he rainy days of April resulted in the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) to postponed their 2nd Annual Clay Shoot. The event was rescheduled and held on May 22 at Reunion Ranch. Victory Designs won first place.

Chaparral Insulation came in second, while Apollo Valves took third place. -cmw

Victory Designs CTRCA party barge

Local NARI recognize

CTRCA members and friends cool off in the water of Lake Travis.

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) named six Chapter Community Service Award winners at NARI’s Annual Spring Business Meeting in San Diego, CA. Austin NARI was recognized for going above and beyond for High Hopes Sports & After School, a Christian after-care and summer camp program for elementary-aged kids. -cmw

Austin

CONSTRUCTION NEWS

Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Buddy Doebbler Editorial/Production . . . . . . Reesa Doebbler Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carol Wiatrek Production Manager . . . . Helen Greenwood Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Terri Adams Account Manager . . . . . . . . . . . Dana Calonge Editors

AustinEditor@ConstructionNews.net DFWeditor@ConstructionNews.net HoustonEditor@ConstructionNews.net SAeditor@ConstructionNews.net Austin Area Counties Travis, Hays, Bastrop, Burnet, Blanco, Caldwell and Williamson counties Construction News Ltd. Home Office P.O. Box 791290 • San Antonio, TX 78279 210-308-5800 Fax 210-308-5960 www.ConstructionNews.net

Visit our Website to sign up for a free monthly Digital Subscription www.ConstructionNews.net The Austin Construction News (ISSN 15477630) is published monthly by Construction News LTD., dba Austin Construction News, and distributed by mail to constructionrelated companies of record in Austin and surrounding counties.

All submissions should be emailed to our editorial offices. We reserve the right to edit any materials submitted. No fees for materials, copy or photographs submitted will be due unless agreed upon in advance in writing. Submissions will be published at our discretion on a space available basis.

Construction News, Ltd., dba Austin Construction News, will not be liable for errors in copy or in advertisements beyond the actual cost of space occupied by the error.

Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement at any time. ©2019 Construction News, Ltd.

SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS GO TO www.ConstructionNews.net Select “Subscribe” and choose city(s).

Page 4

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019

Double checking the contracts and invoices for cash flow slowdown contributors

What is OSHA’s General Duty Clause (5.(a)(1)) and how is it used

Judson Southwell, Senior I, Assurance Services Lane Gorman Trubitt, LLC Dallas TX

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

I

T

ssues with cash flows can come in any shape or form and are derived from multiple causes. One main culprit to these slowdowns is the same documents used to start and complete projects – specifically your contracts and invoices.

Make sure to always read the small print When you think about cash flow issues, your brain might rush to the end of the construction project when you’re trying collect what you are owed. But the seeds of monetary discontent are often sown before a shovel hits the dirt. Case in point: the contract’s payment terms.

In most common terms, contractors usually have two options. One option is to receive payments upon completion of specific phases of the job, or receive payments by the owner in equal installments over the course of the project or by what was agreed upon in the contract.

If you have been accepting one of these options without question, consider how it can negatively impact your cash flow. Receiving payments on completion is risky since random events may occur which pushes out the completion date.

For the installment option, this might leave you underfunded at important times where you need the extra cash flow. If either of these apply, you may need to renegotiate the payment terms.

Make sure to know your customer It is obvious that issues with cash flow start with the owners. Owners may tend to draw out making payments as long as possible in order to benefit their own cash flows. In the meantime, your outstanding invoices can pile up and slow your cash flows down.

One general rule in the construction world is that contractors must be able to get by with getting paid within 60-90 days. But, in order to increase cash flow, set a company standard to reduce that down to less than 50 days. This will vary, depending on the type of construction work you do and the structure of your contracts. But there are certain proven procedures that can be helpful. One example would be to use an electronic billing system to invoice the owners. This will expedite the time they receive your invoice. Make sure that your invoices

clearly state the terms, total amount owed, and penalties for making late payments.

Make sure to familiarize yourself with every owner you are working with and modify your invoicing process that will suit the situation. With some owners, a clear and precise invoice will do the trick on its own. For other owners, they may need some assistance for a more handson walk through approach. This is usually true when dealing with an owner that has given you payment issues in the past.

In these cases, go the extra mile to invoice the owner on time and send a follow up shortly after.

Sign here We all know that everyone dislikes doing paperwork, but your contracts and invoices can determine the success or failure of a construction projects. In closing, make sure to pay close attention to the details and know exactly what you are signing off on.

Judson has quickly established himself as a leader, demonstrating his passion in the assurance services department. As a Senior I auditor, Judson oversees the work performed by professional staff and serves as the primary link between the professional staff, manager, partner, and the client.

He has a comprehensive knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) financial statements as well as a thorough understanding of audit practices in accordance with Generally Accepted Auditing Standards (GAAS). As a Senior I within the firm, he works with audit teams through planning, management, and the success of engagements. Judson specializes his knowledge and efforts within our construction services, investment companies, and employee benefit plans. He also consults with clients on internal controls emphasizing efficiency and productivity.

Agreement in place

The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) renewed a partnership agreement that outlines how the organizations will collaborate on advancing workplace safety and health over the next five years. L-R: ASSP President Rixio Medina, CSP, CPP and NIOSH Director John Howard, MD, signed the memorandum of understanding May 22.-cmw

he General Duty Clause, found in the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, has become increasingly important to employers. OSHA can and will utilize the clause for penalty and enforcement actions. The discussion below describes the General Duty Clause and how it is being used by OSHA to ensure a safe work environment.

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 requires that all workers must be provided with a safe and healthful workplace. The section, more commonly known as the General Duty Clause, specifically states:

“Each employer shall furnish to each of his employees employment and a place of employment which is free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to his employees.”

In simple terms, this statement means that you, as an employer, are obligated to protect your employees from recognized hazards in the workplace even if there is not an OSHA standard which applies to the situation or if hazards still exist after compliance with a standard. In effect, the General Duty Clause obligates employers to take additional steps toward safety if the well-being of employees is in jeopardy.

How Does OSHA Use the General Duty Clause?

The General Duty Clause extends OSHA’s authority beyond the specific requirements of the OSHA standards when a recognized workplace hazard exists or potentially exists. It is often used by OSHA when there is no specific standard which applies to a recognized hazard in the workplace. OSHA can and may also use the General Duty Clause when a standard exists, but it is clear that the hazards involved warrant additional precautions beyond what the current safety standards require.

OSHA has issued General Duty Clause citations on other issues where no apparent safety standard exists. Citations have been issued for lack of training, failure to have additional safety or alarm equipment to detect or warn of chemical leaks, and failure to provide safe locations or safe access to valves or other instruments necessary to an employee’s job.

What about situations where a safety standard currently exists on a particular subject? Are you doing enough if you are in compliance with OSHA’s safety standard? The answer, unfortunately, is maybe not. OSHA has also used the General Duty Clause to cite employers who knew that an OSHA standard was inadequate to protect their employees from harm.

If an employer knows a particular safety standard is inadequate to protect his workers against a specific hazard(s) it is intended to address, or that the conditions in their place of employment are such that the safety standards will not adequately deal with the hazards to which their employees are exposed, the employer has a duty under Section 5(a)(1) to take whatever measures may be required by the Act, over and above those mandated by the safety standard, to safeguard his workers.

Summary of requirements Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 places additional responsibilities on the employer and the safety manager to ensure that a safe work environment is provided to all employees. The General Duty Clause is being increasingly applied to a wide vari-

ety of situations, many of which have not been addressed by a specific OSHA standard. What may be even more disconcerting, however, is that general duty citations can also be issued if OSHA feels that additional safety equipment or procedures are necessary beyond what is required in an OSHA standard. Thus, the General Duty Clause is making it increasingly difficult for companies to fully comply with OSHA’s requirements.

One way to deal with the threat of general duty violations is to make good faith efforts to correct existing workplace hazards and to identify and address new hazards as they appear. Some steps you can take to accomplish this goal include: • Investigate every accident or injury in the workplace to determine the root cause and identify actions that need to be taken to prevent if from recurring; • Conduct job hazard analyses to identify the specific hazards associated with every job and to identify new job hazards; • Document your training efforts and conduct periodic retraining as necessary; • Consider establishing an employee safety committee in the workplace; and • When you have met the letter of the law,” step back, and critically assess whether the process might still be unsafe • Hold your foremen, supervisors and management accountable for safety on the jobsites.

Prior to joining the team at Catto & Catto, Jim worked with the Baptist Health System as Safety Manager. He has gained vast experience in the safety field working in the construction, manufacturing, retail, hospitality and healthcare industries. As a working Director, Jim currently 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 received his Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Tulsa. He is certified as a Field Safety Representative (FSR) and as an approved Professional Safety Source (PSS) by the State of Texas. Jim is a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP), Applied Ergonomics from HumanTech, and a Master Instructor for the Crisis Prevention Institute. Jim is also a Certified Active Shooter Instructor through the ALICE Training Institute.

Catto & Catto LLP was founded in 1933, and we are the largest independently owned firm in Central Texas providing thoughtfully developed and professionally delivered solutions to our clients. Our firm is driven by a passion to create risk intelligent cultures. Therefore, we take a global view on complex risk issues inherent to each client through our diagnostic audit process, the Catto & Catto Experience. The result?

Engaged executives, informed staff, increased efficiency and decreased total cost of risk.

210.222.2161 x239 jgreaves@catto.com

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019

Page 5

Top cybersecurity concerns for the construction industry

The facts about OSHA 10 & 30 hour cards

Denis G. Ducran, Senior Counsel Peckar & Abramson Houston, TX

Joann Natarajan Compliance Assistance Specialist OSHA Austin, TX

M

odern technology has made many things more convenient, from email in your pocket to looking at who is ringing your doorbell by glancing at your phone.

But constant connectivity has also opened us up to attacks and as such, it is more important than ever to be vigilant and prepared. Because the construction industry is not always at the forefront of adopting new forms of technology, particular emphasis must be placed on cybersecurity and data privacy. Below are some of the top concerns for the construction industry related to cybersecurity and data privacy and why ongoing training is essential.

The Internet of Things

In today’s world, we are hard-pressed to find devices which are not “smart” or connected to the internet. Every time you ask Siri a question or start the car from an app on your phone, you are using the internet. Baby monitors, HVAC systems, home security, smart lightbulbs, the list that makes up the internet of things goes on and on. All of this connectivity is wonderfully convenient, but any time a piece of equipment accesses the internet, it is exposed to hackers. Many people may ask, “what does it matter if hackers gain access to the air conditioner?” Besides the obvious temperature control issues, this can be a point of entry for hackers to gain access to more sensitive computer systems where personal and business information is stored. Many believe that is exactly what happened during Target’s well-publicized data breach. Hackers gained access to Target’s POS system through an HVAC vendor without proper security. As a result, training is essential for contractors and subcontractors who are given access to networks or other portals.

willingly provide thinking that the attacker is a trusted colleague. Spear phishers go after who they believe are likely to have access to and will provide them the information they need.

Jobsite Security

Hackers will always seek the path of least resistance. If the front door is locked why not see if the back door will open?

With cyber attacks making headlines many companies have invested money in securing their data and implementing best practices regarding cyber security in the home office. But what about on the jobsite? Construction sites are buzzing with activity and oftentimes have computers or devices that connect to networks at the home office. If devices are left unlocked or someone enters a restricted area undetected they now have access to those systems and the money and time invested in securing the home office was for naught. For this reason, dual-factor security is gaining popularity and highly recommended by IT professionals. This type of security requires a secondary device such as a smart phone to log into a computer.

Liability Liability in the event of a cyber attack is a major concern in the construction industry. Who is to blame and who should bear any losses? Whether it is the owner/developer, the contractor or the subcontractor the fingers will be pointing. Going even one step further, what will insurance cover in the event of a cyber attack or data breach? It will be very important moving into the future that cyber security and data privacy concerns are worked into contracts so that everything is clear from the outset. With proper training, hopefully liability will not be the ultimate problem, but it is important to consult with an attorney fluent in these issues when drafting and negotiating contracts. Fortunately, many insurance markets have started to offer cyberinsurance products to protect against some of these risks.

Phishing/Spear phishing While not specific to the construction industry, phishing and spear phishing are major threats that must be protected against. Numerous contractors have been victimized by these scams to the tune of millions of dollars. With potentially hundreds of employees, hackers want Personally Identifiable Information (PII) or access to company information that can, in some way, get them money.

With phishing, attackers are looking for information or login info from the target.

This will be a more generic email casting a wide net looking for low-hanging fruit.

Spear phishing is more targeted. Attackers engage in social engineering, such as looking at LinkedIn or other websites to find out who your colleagues are, potentially spoof their email addresses and mention colleagues in an email, ultimately hoping that you will provide the information they need to access your system or steal personal information that you

Payments One major cyber security problem many companies face is spoofing – where an email looks like it is coming from a reputable, known source. The email appears to be from a friend, colleague, vendor, etc. when it is actually from a malicious actor. The construction industry deals with many payments from developer to contractor and contractor to subcontractor. Often these are very large sums of money. If an outside actor finds out about a regularly scheduled wire transfer they can send an email shortly before or at the time a payment is due asking the company to change the routing information. At that point, if undetected, the money is being handed to the attacker instead of its intended recipient.

This can create substantial financial loss, and in the worst case, causes companies to go out of business.

Government Requirements Anyone working on public projects or government contracts will need to not only be aware of cybersecurity issues to protect public infrastructure, but also will need to understand government requirements related to cybersecurity. Depending on the project, contractors will need to adhere to different standards about cybersecurity and data protection.

The construction industry faces daily challenges due to the complexities of cyber security, information integrity and data privacy. Increased awareness and ongoing training will assist the construction industry avoid incidents before they occur.

Denis G. Ducran is Senior Counsel in Peckar & Abramson’s Houston office.

A board-certified construction lawyer and registered architect, he focuses primarily on construction industry transactions, litigation, arbitration and risk management.

He may be reached at: dducran@pecklaw. com.

M

any general contractors ask their subcontractors to obtain OSHA cards for their workers. This often refers to OSHA’s 10-hour and 30-hour safety courses. Unfortunately, there has been an increase in fraudulent activity related to these courses over the past several years.

Knowing the facts can help workers avoid fraudulent trainers and courses.

FACT: Only OSHA-authorized trainers may teach 10- and 30-hour safety courses and issue OSHA student course completion cards. These trainers are authorized by an OSHA Education Center to teach OSHA 10 and 30 hour courses.

The 10-hour safety course covers general safety and health hazards for entrylevel workers. The 30-hour safety course provides a greater variety of safety subjects and in-depth, industry-specific training and is intended for supervisors and workers with safety and health responsibility.

While fraudulent actors may advertise OSHA 10-hour training, only OSHA-authorized trainers can issue course completion cards at the end of the training.

FACT: OSHA does not require completion of these courses, but may require other training for workers that encounter certain workplace hazards. Although some states, cities, and job creators have mandated Outreach Training Program courses as a prerequisite to employment, OSHA does not require the training. In other cases, jobs may include workplace hazards that require training to meet OSHA standards, such as training on common chemical hazards encountered in the workplace, or operator training for specific powered industrial trucks on the jobsite. Be sure to check your local requirements and consult the relevant OSHA regulations.

FACT: OSHA publishes a public list of authorized trainers at: https://www.osha. gov/dte/outreach/outreach_trainers. html to help workers find legitimate training and avoid fraud.

The list provides trainer names and contact information, and denotes which course each trainer is authorized to teach (i.e., construction, general industry, maritime, disaster site worker). Courses are also available in Spanish and online from the appropriate authorized trainer.

FACT: Taking the course does NOT guarantee employment.

While OSHA believes this training is an important first step towards workplace safety, beware of advertisements “guaranteeing” jobs after taking the course.

FACT:

The OSHA 10 hour card belongs to the worker that attended the course.

The employer is not allowed to keep worker’s cards, even though the employer may have paid for the worker to attend an OSHA 10 or 30 hour class.

Keep these facts in mind when searching for courses and trainers to ensure proper safety training and avoid fraudulent courses. If you come across any fraudulent actors, please contact the Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General at https://www.oig.dol.gov/ contact.htm For more information, visit the Outreach Training Program website at: https://www.osha.gov/dte/outreach/ natarajan.joann@dol.gov 512-374-0271 x232

Page 6

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019

I realized it was in my blood through my grandfather. My dad did some woodworking and woodcarving and I tinkered a little bit with it; I built shelves and other things.

Matthew Szynal

Owner/Fabricator Slight of Hand Metalworks Austin, TX

M

atthew Szynal, who plays drums and electric guitar, cut his musical teeth on bands like Metallica.

With his welding career, he jokes that he went from being a metal head to metal working.

Share about your background.

I was born in the Washington, DC area and lived in Virginia until second grade and lived in West Virginia until sixth grade. In junior high, during my formative years, I lived in Strongsville, OH, which is a suburb of Cleveland, and then I spent high school in Dublin, OH, which is a suburb of Columbus. We moved a lot and I had to learn to be friendly and make new friends every couple of years. I kind of think it was a good thing and helped me to be more outgoing.

Did you come from a creative family?

I guess there are some creative juices in there. It turned out that my grandfather is also a welder, or more of a pipefitter; he did pipefitting and steamfitting.

He was a member of United Association Local 777. After I became a metal worker,

Did you show other creative tendencies as a child?

I’ve always been good with my hands. At around age 6, I started taking apart and put back together any number of things, and that would make my dad very upset! I was kind of a tinkerer with Legos and Erector sets, and I always loved science classes; they were more handson than math or some other disciplines. I think I was creative because I was the middle son of three boys; maybe I was trying to make my stamp on the world. I always had a good imagination and would be a little more extravagant with things maybe than other people.

I always thought that I would never really be happy at a desk job. I wanted to play a musical instrument and I always kind of liked art; At around age 12 or 13, my uncle gave me an electric guitar and I also started playing drums in seventh grade. I liked creating things, but it was more musical than anything else.

Where did those creative tendencies take you after high school?

By high school, I had been taking lessons from a master drummer in Cleveland for four or five years. I had five or six different drum books and I would do a couple of pages per week. I really studied and learned rhythms, beats, and reading music, so I was disciplined on that.

I thought I was going to major in business and minor in music. I went to Columbus State Community College and was going to do a two-year, four-year transfer program and do UT engineering.

But when I went to UT, I kind of felt profiled to some degree. I had long hair in dreadlocks, holes in my jeans, looking like a little rocker kid. They said they appreciated my efforts, but I was never go-

Matthew Szynal and Honky Tonk visit Szynal’s late dog Nia, who has her own shrine at the Slight of Hand Metalworks shop.

ing to get into the program. They said they had a list of 500 people with a 4.0.

That was a bit of a disappointment, seeing as how I thought I would be able to transfer.

When I moved to Austin, I took some of the core classes and took a welding class. I used to drive an Isuzu Trooper, since it could hold the drums and had four-wheel drive because I loved to go skiing up north in the winter. Part of the frame rusted out and I had to learn to weld to repair the frame on my truck.

That truck was kind of the gateway to learning mechanics; I even rebuilt an engine for it. I took a welding Art Metals class and just fell in love working with metal. I ended up getting an associate degree in AutoCAD and also pursued an Associates in Art Metals from Austin Community College.

What path did you pursue after your time at ACC? I started working at a company called Mind Over Metal. I was fresh out of school, and the first day I worked there, they had me running an angle grinder with a wire brush on a bed frame. I remember my hands going numb and I basically left the job after four hours. I thought about it and then went back and got my job back but under the condition that I wouldn’t be running the grinder, I would be doing welding and fabrication.

I spent three or four years in the field doing ornamental iron such as chandeliers that looked like vines and leaves, railings, bed frames, and tables. That’s where I learned all of the tricks of the trade they don’t teach you in school.

When did you use your experience to start your own business?

In about 2001, I was having a hard time getting paid more than $9.50 an hour when we were doing $60,000 railing jobs; the time came for me to strike out on my own. I had a friend, Reji Thomas, who is a glass artist. She was kind enough to let me rent some shop space to do my welding work out of. While I was under her wing in her shop space, I met one of her clients and we did a collaboration on some sconces.

The next 20 years came with no advertising, just word of mouth after that job. My first big job was the benches in front of the Juan in a Million restaurant on Cesar Chavez St. Then, I was lucky to be making bamboo-looking railings for a builder who was working on ex-Longhorn football coach Mack Brown’s house.

I hustled, which got me more and more work over the years.

The original reason I became selfemployed is that I didn’t want to leave my dog at home 9 to 5. My old dog, Nia, was my shop mascot and she is actually buried at my shop. I have a little shrine to her with a fire hydrant and a giant valentine candy heart that says “Awesome,” which was what I used to say to her. I have a new dog, “Honky Tonk.” That is a nickname that grew out of the name “Ushanka,” which is the fur hat Russians wear. When I

rescued her from the pound, she was three months old and curled up into a little ball like one of those black Russian hats with eyeballs. “Ushanka” became “Shank” became “Honk” became “Honky Tonk.” From the way she acts, I think she is a reincarnated Nia. How has your work evolved?

Primarily, my work is done by hand, nothing from the machine, everything is usually textured or distressed, nothing really looks like rough steel. I’ve evolved into doing a lot of the horizontal railings, the modern look that you see around town. Also, I make rusty metal planter boxes and edging. I’ve kind of evolved into a more modern look.

What are your favorite projects?

I did some really neat pool gates out of patinaed copper by Lake Belton. I have done a railing at the Driskill Hotel in the Victorian Room and we reused some of the historic, 1-inch twisted steel bar that used to be the rebar in the bank vault of the Driskill basement.

What work would you like to do?

I would like to get into more public art and sculpture. Last year, I worked with Capital Metro to do a historical feature for east Austin.

What do you do in your free time?

Besides playing drums and doing metalworking, I’m an avid mountain biker. I’ve raced a couple of seasons of cross country, have gotten to travel around Texas, see some of the other trail systems and have enjoyed nature and parks around the state. When I get off of work, I’ll probably go home and get on my bike.

My dog joins me, and we go down to the trail. She plops in the creek and that’s what our nightly ritual is.

I also love to cook. Growing up, I had a bunch of restaurant jobs and I learned to cook.

I’m single right now, no kids. I’m in between relationships, kind of letting my heart heal from the last one. It’s been an adventure!

What role does music play in your life now?

I am a trained drummer and I always had an electric guitar. At this point, I play a lot of instruments, mostly by ear. When I moved here, I joined a band and we named ourselves the “Poquito Street Hustlers.” I ended up welding as a fallback career and ended up paying the bills a little more regularly, so I stuck with that. I still play guitar and drums mostly for personal pleasure and enjoyment. I don’t gig a whole lot, but I have a whole lot of fun.

If I could get something released, I would probably quit welding, or I would only do the metal work in a more fun role.

I’ll probably work in welding my entire life, though. I love working with the metal and making cool things!

Subcontractor Slight of Hand Metalworks is in Austin. –mjm

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019

Page 7

I try to get to the surf anytime I can starting mid-summer. Live croakers work the best, but it’s fairly easy to catch these fish on lures too. If fishing from the beach, topwater plugs such as the Super Spook Jr. cast well into light on-shore winds, and if nearshore sargassum is abundant, topwaters can be rigged with single live-bait hooks instead of trebles.

Slow-sinking baits such as the Mirrodine and Softdine also cast well and remain in the strike zone, allowing trout extra time to see the lure.

If you are interested in trying a surf fishing excursion, give me a call. Here are some open dates available in August 15,20,21,22 and September 3,4,5,10,19,25.

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 SteveSchult zOutdoors@gmail.com.

Good luck and Good Fishing.

Surfs up for speckled trout

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.

T

he population of speckled trout in the surf along the Gulf of Mexico is, quite frankly, enormous. This somewhat seasonal fishery is sometimes under fished (mostly due to wind conditions in the spring, fall and winter) and not only harbors sizable quantities of fish but many times offers quality trout weighing up to eight lbs or more. Those who learn to fish the surf for speckled trout will find considerably less fishing pressure compared to the bays. Let’s take a look at what anglers should consider about fishing the surf for speckled trout.

The surf is not an easy environment to pattern speckled trout until one knows and understands the structures, currents and the habits of surf-running speckled trout. When inshore fishing for trout, most anglers have learned to target structures such as oyster reefs, drop-offs, sea grass edges and sand-pockets. In the surf, the only structure that exists is the sandbar and the troughs (referred to as guts) between the bars. These sandbars and guts are extremely similar for miles

Latest surf outing with Turner South Texas Marketing Dept. included Cali, Kayla, Alexa and Mike. Limits of trout by 10am and a neat photo opt at the famous Port A lighthouse.

and miles.

The currents, caused by wind direction and tide, flow differently through the bars and guts as water heights change throughout the day. As the nearshore current runs along the beach, it will occasionally be pinched by a sandbar intersecting the beach. All the water flowing down the gut between the beach and the sandbar has to go somewhere, so it will be pushed over the sandbar and back out. As it flows, it carries with it all the baitfish and forage into the waiting

Submitted to Construction News

A hunting I will go

mouths of the predators. Now, these locations shift daily, but in general they can be found every quarter to half mile along the beach. It will take training your eyes to find them. As you fish the beach more and more, you’ll begin to recognize them.

At first you’ll only notice the very distinct ones. Later you’ll begin to notice the ones that are barely visible. Finding these areas where the current carries baitfish into the second gut and onto the second bar is one of the keys to understanding surf-running trout and catching them.

First trout

While his buddies were pitching washers after a full day of deer camp maintenance, Stanley Rothman, Ahern Rentals, decided he was going out to hunt rattlesnakes. Five short minutes later, his buddies heard a gunshot, jumped into a Polaris and found Rothman with this 4ft. 4in. rattler in hand. -cmw

Construction News’ Managing Editor Carol Wiatrek shows off two speckled trout she caught over the 4th of July holiday in Galveston. Wiatrek had never caught trout before and was even more excited as she was the first to pull one in. -cmw

Page 8

Austin Construction News • AUG 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

A

Expectations

big part of having a good time on a fishing trip is based on what your expectations are. Expectations are how we navigate through familiar experiences. What did we forget to bring with us last time? Did we have a hard time getting to our destination? How can we make sure we have as good a time as last time, or better? Expectations can help us be ready for what comes next, or they can hinder us from enjoying something.

Remember when you were a kid and everything was new to you? Maybe you remember your first time fishing. You didn’t have any preconceived idea as to how things would be. It was more exciting and maybe even a little scary, but it was fun! I think that is why some of our best memories are from childhood, when everything was new and we didn’t have any expectations to go on.

As a guide I have seen many people have a good successful fishing trip where they had an absolute blast. Then the folks book another trip so they can come do it again. Only rarely will they get to have a trip equally as satisfying or better than the first one. Fishing involves working with variables in weather, lake conditions and the behavior of the fish. These are things we can do our best to compensate for, but can never really control.

Even when you bake a cake or barbeque a brisket, you can have the exact same recipe and never get just the same result each and every time. Once again…variables wreck the expectation, and can leave you disappointed.

So here is what you can do. Use the power of expectations to help you get

ready to do. Anticipate what you need to bring and to find the best way to get to your destination. Then just leave the expectations at home so you can embrace your next experience anew, just like a kid.

Follow the cake recipe the best you can.

Set the oven temp just right and set the

timer. You have done all you can, so just walk away and see how it turns out. Never the same way twice, but pretty good eating just the same!

The other thing you can do is understand what your expectations for a fishing trip are. Are you taking a kid for a first

fishing trip? You are going to need to find a lot of fast biting fish to keep their interest. Do you just want to spend the day wetting a hook and sipping a cold one with buddies? It might be a good day for just scouting out new places to fish. Are you trying to impress a client with a big stringer of fish? You need to be on top of your game, so be sure the weather is good and bring your best bait and bag of tricks. Most important, if you are using the services of a fishing guide, share your expectations with him so he has the best chance of giving you what you want. Any good guide knows the whereabouts of several schools of fish on different feeding patterns that he can get you on to.

Then just try to stop expecting and start enjoying what comes! The fun of fishing is the unexpected!

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019

Page 9

Page 10

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019

Helping those in need

W hat’s Trending in Fire Protection

Innovations that capture the hearts of survivors, technicians and customers

A

The employees of Martin Marietta Materials got together and collected food and money from their local branches of Austin, San Antonio and Beaumont.

Believing in giving back to their communities, they are donating the food to the Central Texas Food Bank to help those in need. -cmw

nxiety and a bit of panic sets in at the sound of an unexpected fire alarm or sight of smoke in a room, yet in an instant, relief can suppress fear as the installed protective measures work as they were intended. The fire protection/life safety industry gets little thought by the masses. However, all appreciate it as its systems give peace in the day-today. As all things evolve, fire protection continues to advance through life-saving, timedecreasing and experience-enhancing innovations.

The Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) System

Koetter Training Center

Experience-enhancing Innovations In the evolution of this digital age, fire protection is no exception. Digital devices and web-based platforms drive this industry too. These ever-changing advancements give our team the ability to collaborate and use real-time information to better serve our customers.

Online after-service reporting software allows Koetter Fire Protection to confirm the work performed and centralize reporting resources like photos, voice memos, comments and inspection reports documenting the service on-site.

By utilizing these access points, customers receive complete transparency into services performed, issues found by technicians and what was done to resolve them. continued next page

s

Life-saving Innovations In the moments of an emergency, reliable communication is critical. Staying informed with clear radio transmissions between first responders inside a building and emergency personnel outside the building can help prevent injuries and save lives.

While reacting to an emergency, responders lose communications when inbuilding radio signals are weakened by structures such as concrete, windows and metal. To solve these communication challenges, Koetter Fire Protection looks to Notifier’s Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) System.

This system is a signal boosting solution designed to enhance in-building radio frequency (RF) signal coverage for public safety radio. They are high gain, high power band-selective signal boosters/bi-directional amplifiers that can integrate directly to a Notifier fire alarm control panel. Designed and customized to meet all public safety frequency band ranges, it is intended to provide reliable two-way radio and FirstNet signal coverage inside buildings, tunnels and other structures. The band’s selective design delivers reliable performance in even the most challenging RF environments.

When combined with Notifier’s fire system, Notifier provides the reliability and quality expected from a life safety solution.

Time-decreasing Innovations Fire sprinkler companies deal with many obstacles daily. Two challenges that need managing are material cost and manpower. With the increasing material cost, sprinkler contractors must strategically navigate man-hours.

As sprinkler manufacturers seek to meet the demand for products that decrease man-hours without sacrificing quality, they have developed time-saving parts like slip-on couplings and 1” grooving systems.

Slip-on Couplings The concept of slip-on couplings is not new, yet the idea of having a coupling that you do not have to take apart to install has become a game-changer.

Slip-on couplings alone have increased

productivity in the field, and now, manufacturers are developing single bolt slipon couplings. These products maximize labor cost by decreasing time spent on installation.

1-Inch Grooving Systems

One inch grooving systems help fire protection technicians significantly decrease installation time. Typically oneinch pipe is threaded and can take up to two to three minutes per fitting. When using this new system, technicians can have the pipe cut and grooved in less than 30 seconds and ready to install with a slip-on single bolt coupling in the same time it would have taken to thread a pipe.

This system is proven to increase sprinkler head installation by 200 percent. Additionally, the one-inch grooving system offers equivalent foot length demand and will not cause an issue with the hydraulic demands on the fire sprinkler system design.

These are a few innovations in the fire sprinkler industry that are available to help fire protection companies save time on sprinkler head installation without sacrificing the quality of the products or the work performed.

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019

Page 11

Association Calendar

Cruising at sunset

Content submitted by Associations to Construction News ABC

CTSA

Aug. 8: ABC Membership Mingle Happy Hour, Lavaca Street Bar/Domain, 11420 Rock Rose Ave., 4:30-6:30pm. For more info, email jbunyard@abccentraltexas. com or call Tracey Littlejohn at 512-7195263

Aug. 13: CTSA/CFMA Joint Lunch & Learn, Embassy Suites Austin Central, 5901 N. 1-35, 11:30am-1pm. For more info, contact Wendy Lambert at 512-2556373 or email wendy@ctsaonline.org

ACEA

Independent Electrical Contractors

Associated Builders & Contractors

Central Texas Subcontractors Assn.

Aug 15: Meet & Greet, Oskar Blues Brewery, 10420 Metric Blvd., 5;30-7pm. For more info, contact David Johnson at 512832-1333

AGC

National Assn. of the Remodeling Industry

NARI

Associated General Contractors

Aug. 15: Social, BMC -TBA. For more info, contact Kayvon Leath at 512-375-2601 or email kayvon@austinnari.org

AGC-TBB

National Assn. of Women in Construction

Aug. 29: Leadership Forum, Location TBD. For more info, contact Toni Osberry at 512-442-7887

NAWIC

Associated General Contractors Texas Building Branch

Aug. 7: President’s Choice Event, Circuit of the Americas (COTA) Kart Racing, 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Aug. 21-24: Annual Conference, Atlanta, GA. For more info, contact Toni Osberry at 512-442-7887

AIA

Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Gulf Coast Chapter

Aug. 23: TBB Construction Awards, Sheraton Hotel & Conference Center, 1101 Woodlawn Ave., Georgetown, TX. For more info, contact Toni Osberry at 512442-7887 American Institute of Architects

Aug. 22-23: Summer Conference, AT&T Conference Center, 1900 University Ave., 8am-5pm. For more info, call 512-4524332 ASCE American Society of Civil Engineers

Aug. 13: Technical Webinar, Prequalification of Contractors and the use of Competitive Sealed Proposals for Contractor Qualification, 12-1pm. For more info, contact Bailey Pattison at 512-910-2272 CFMA Construction Financial Management Assn.

Aug. 13: CFMA/CTSA Joint Lunch & Learn, Embassy Suites Austin Central, 5901 N. I-35, 11:30am-1pm. For more info, email annaf.edge@gmail.com

ssociated Builders & Contractors (ABC) held its annual casino boat cruise on beautiful Lake Austin. The sunset cruise and casino event was held on Jun. 13. ABC members enjoyed barbeque, beverages and networking! Devoted poker participants enjoyed several rounds of roulette, black jack and craps. -cmw

IEC

Greater Austin Contractors & Engineers Assn.

Aug. 8: ACEA Membership Luncheon, Norris Conference Center, 2525 W. Anderson Ln. 11:30am-1pm. For more info, go to www.aceatx.com or call 512-893-7067.

A

ABC annual casino boat cruise

PHCC

Aug. 12-14: 2019 PHCC-TX Annual Conference, Horseshoe Bay Resort, 200 Hi Circle North, Horseshoe Bay, TX. For more info, contact Amy Noska at 512-523-8094 or email amy@phcc-tx.org SEAot Structural Engineers Association of Texas

Aug. 22: Chapter Meeting. For more info, call 512-553-9634 TCA Texas Construction Association

Aug. 20: TCA PAC Clay Shoot, Greater Houston Gun Club, 6700 McHard Road, 1pm. For more info, call Patrick Finnegan at 512-473-3773 or email pfinnegan@texcon.org

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing

JOB SIGHTS

What is one of your bad habits?

Regarding bad habits, I would say generally in any sales job, things are so up and down and it can be emotionally/mentally exhausting. I have to continuously remind myself to stay motivated and find the positive in everything even when business is up or down. Generating leads more cold calling and more follow-ups to continue motivating myself.

Allie Fowler, Staff Zone I’m a thinker, and everyone one knows that when I have a lot on my plate and I’m thinking, I start picking [the skin] on my thumbs. I have a really bad habit of picking my thumbs! I can be talking in a meeting and doing it. 3i general superintendent Rusty Morse bought me some

lotion and brought it to the office; he is my constant reminder to stop it, because we’re together most of the time. He’ll tell me to stop and put the lotion on, so I’ll stop and put the lotion on.

Ron Hil, 3i Contracting I like fishing a lot. I’m not sure that’s a bad habit. I don’t smoke or am a heavy drinker.

Jeremy Cook, Bluebonnet HVAC

George Maldonado, Zapalak Reed Construction takes a break from excavating and concrete work prep at the Hays Logistics Center in Kyle, TX. -cmw

I don’t have the patience to sit and read about the industry.

Summer Dougherty, Capital Glass Distributor

s

continued - Trending - Koetter

Through web-based platforms, customers receive online quoting including photos and detailed descriptions of the service to be performed or the deficiency to be repaired. This process yields a more efficient quoting process, especially in the field, and our automated job booking gets the ball rolling. The customer is in control while they interactively approve services or request changes, while companies track the progress.

This innovative platform delivers swift reaction to inbound service calls as we answer questions, schedule services and update our entire team with a few clicks. Instantly customer records are

found while technicians are tracked and redirected for the fastest response time possible.

With our unmatched, growing database of safety devices and code requirements, we deliver inspection solutions for NFPA that make building safety inspections easier and more accurate – which leads to greater compliance and lower cost.

Jason Ferguson, Managing Partner Koetter Fire Protection 16069 Central Commerce Dr. 512.251.7888 Koetterfire.com

L-R: Elias (Lee) Jr. Castro Concrete Contractor Owner Lee Castro, Andrew Rios, Mariano Mendoza, Gabriel Guerrero and Andrew Zuniga install reinforcing steel prior to concrete pour at the new strip center on Slaughter Lane in South Austin. -cmw

Page 12

Austin Construction News • AUG 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

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

Labor staffing needs

34 total nationwide, with a new corporate office under construction.

safety parties, as well as attending recruitment events and meetings.

Allie Fowler, Sales Manager Staff Zone

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

The hot button issues are unexpected weather and permit delays ultimately hindering the construction schedule for many.

What is on the horizon for your industry? Changes in technology; changes in codes, ordinances or laws; other

With the lucrative industry and high demand for labor, we expect our business to continue to increase. This in hand follows enhancements with technology and how orders and tickets will be processed.

Austin, TX

F

owler began working as a sales manager for Staff Zone in the Dallas market in 2016. Through her success in Dallas, she was given the opportunity to relocate to Austin at the end of 2017 and continues labor sales for the Austin branch.

Fowler and her fiancé purchased a home in Round Rock, feeling that the Austin market would be stable on a longterm basis. The move was somewhat bittersweet as Fowler had built some great customer relationships within Dallas/Fort Worth market.

She has working in Austin for almost two years now, and absolutely loves it! “I have met some great people and helped solidify this market for Staff Zone. To say the least, I stay pretty busy with work.”

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

I have definitely experienced an increase in business in the Austin market.

This market has been consumed with a heavy amount of construction and in general terms I would say it is one of the top lucrative markets right now.

What factors are driving this increase/ slowdown?

The main factors for this increase are that people and businesses want to extend themselves out here, and Texas itself is one of the top markets for businesses right now, with Austin being on the radar for fastest growth.

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

This increase has affected our company in many ways. Considering the fact that construction has sky rocketed, the number of workers we send out per day has increased exponentially. Therefore, this helps our customers stay at good pace with their projects. It has affected how we conduct business because we have had to hire more staff in all of our departments to keep up with the growth.

We have also gone from 25 branches to

Training and qualifying for the future Jason Martin, Regional Service Manager HOLT CAT San Antonio, TX

M

artin has been a part of the HOLT CAT team for two and half years and is responsible for the Southern Region Machine Division. Prior to this, he worked for Caterpillar’s Large Engine Center located in Lafayette, IN for 17 years. Moving his family to Texas, Martin reveals “My wife, Ashley, and children, Aubrey and Parker, have adapted well to the climate and pace of South Texas.”

What is the state of the equipment service industry?

The industry is definitely strong and healthy. The Texas economy is growing and with that growth comes the construction of new homes, roads and infrastructure. We are fortunate to be a part of a unique situation where many new businesses are moving into the state, creating more opportunities for growth.

Have new diagnostic or other technologies changed your industry?

Caterpillar is releasing the largest

new product introduction in the company’s history between 2019 and 2020.

These new products include Next Generation operating technologies to increase customer benefits in safety, productivity, fuel efficiency and maintenance costs.

HOLT is currently piloting an app called CAT Technician. This tool provides a means to diagnose problems and identify the necessary parts needed before arriving at the job site. The application also has the ability to troubleshoot onsite using 3D and augmented reality. Pri-

What are major changes in the staffing industry in recent years?

Being in the construction staffing industry, the major change that I have noticed is there are way more competitors readily available and popping up these days.

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

Cost increases?

The most significant challenge that we have faced is recruitment. However, we have had to think outside of the box to find more resources to gain adequate manpower.

What are the cost increases relating to your industry? How are you dealing with these challenges?

Due to the labor shortages, we have had to increase our starting labor wages which allows us to recruit and keep our current staff.

We deal with these challenges by brainstorming as a team, increasing our employee morale by holding quarterly

or to this, technicians spent excessive amount of time troubleshooting and navigating various systems to identify diagnostic codes. CAT Technician provides a single app for all service needs.

At HOLT, we also use a remote monitoring system called Product Link which provides machine location, service hours and basic diagnostic codes. This helps field service technicians to understand the current health of the machine and order relevant parts before arriving on site.

These features benefit both the customers and HOLT. Well trained and qualified mechanics and technicians are the backbone of any service organization. What is HOLT doing to excel in this area?

At HOLT, our people are our biggest asset, there are several different avenues we are taking to both hire and retain technicians. For the last seven years, HOLT has worked with local high schools providing opportunities for students within career technical education programs. Of those students participating in the program, approximately 75 percent have been hired as full-time employees.

Additionally, HOLT has a training di-

What are the rewards of the staffing industry?

The most rewarding parts of this industry is gaining the satisfaction of helping others, seeing the city grow and building long-lasting relationships with my clients.

What are keys to being successful in the staffing industry?

The keys to being successful in the construction staffing industry is straight up communication not only with my fellow co-workers, but with all of my customers. With communication comes working effectively, planning routes, and getting face-to-face with people in the field on a daily basis.

Staff Zone specializes in the labor needs of the construction, light industrial and special events industries. -cmw

vision called ProTech (HoltProTech.com).

There are 131 available courses and approximately 80 are taught each year, which provides the ability to train both internal and external technicians. We also provide specific training paths for technicians related to their dedicated roles within HOLT whether it be engine, machine or power generation.

How has HOLT streamlined the process of service to make maintenance and repairs faster for the client?

Over the last couple of years, we’ve piloted a dedicated rebuild facility in our Northern territory, which has allowed us to expand shop capacity and throughput.

With this pilot proving successful, we are now in the process of opening another facility in Waco that will allow us to expand this concept even further through the acquisition of a retired Caterpillar manufacturing plant. This new facility will help us to better service our customers.

HOLT CAT sells, services and rents heavy equipment, trucks and trailers, engines and generators for construction, earthmoving, mining, industrial, petroleum ang agriculture. -cwm

Captivating the young

T

he Austin Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) kicked off its first annual Camp NAWIC, a FREE five-day camp for female AISD students going into middle school. These young ladies will be introduced to a career in construction.

The camp, in partnership with AISD and industry sponsors, is designed to give students hands-on experience teaching them basic skills of carpentry, electrical, plumbing, safety and HVAC. By the end of the week, campers had several projects to take home with them to show off all they’ve learned. NAWIC hopes to inspire many young girls about the benefits of a construction career. -cmw

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019

Page 13

NEXT TH MON

GREEN BUILDING

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

Signs of slowing Denise Bendele, Partner, Audit Services, RSM US LLP San Antonio, TX

R

SM US provide services to a wide array of construction segments, including architectural and engineering firms, commercial contractors, highway and street construction companies, residential contractors and specialty contractors.

With nearly 11,000 professionals in 85 offices nationwide, our industry-focused service delivery model provides a high level of partner involvement with our 3,500-plus construction clients and a hands-on, local client service approach, with ready access to the resources and capabilities of a national firm. -cmw How would you describe the state of the construction industry in general terms? Have you experienced an increase in business? Slowdown?

After roaring back to life after the Great Recession, the overall economy has continued to show relative strength in recent years, bringing the construction industry on a profitable ride. But there are signs that the pace of growth in the construction sector is slowing.

Total construction spending declined in late 2018 and early 2019 for the first time in seven years. Any rise in interest rates could, and the tight labor market will, put inflationary pressure on the

sector, and the long-running expansion is overdue for a correction. While the pundits aren’t predicting another Great Recession, the International Monetary Fund‘s most-recent World Economic Outlook predicts a global slowdown in growth through 2019 for 70 percent of the world economy, followed by a potential recovery by 2020.

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

A tight labor market, evolving accounting standards and shifting tax concerns make this a challenging time for construction companies. Construction projects and capital improvement programs are complex financial expenditures for project owners, presenting significant risks to a company’s strategic goals and potential for growth.

Emerging technologies and robotics are being adapted into the industry.

Digital solutions like cloud and mobile technologies, robotics, advanced ana-

lytics, project and performance management technologies are critical for contractor’s successful operations and will help with increased project sizes, rapid growth and constantly changing business landscapes in construction.

However, the increased use of digital technologies exposes information and data through multiple channels, making security and privacy a major concern for middle market businesses.

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

Regulatory changes with revenue recognition, lease accounting and tax reform. Digital transformation of the finance function, including increased technology and automation, which is increasing efficiencies and accuracies.

Bendele, a certified public accountant, has more than 30 years of experience in public accounting and is a leader in the construction industry practice.

Her experience includes construction financial statements, closely held corporations, corporate taxation, succession planning, surety bonding, system selection and implementation, strategic and profitability planning, benchmarking, litigation support, business valuations and mergers and acquisitions.

She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts (NACVA), Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA)

and San Antonio Chapter of TSCPA, Construction Industry CPAs/Consultants Association (CICPAC), American Subcontractors Association (ASA), Associated General Contractors (AGC) San Antonio Chapter, Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA), University of Texas at San Antonio College of Business Advisory Council and Girl Scouts of America, Audit Committee chair.

Bendele is a board member of the Texas State Chapter Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio. -cmw

Page 14

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019

Busting clays

A

merican Constructors held their 8th Annual Charity Clay Shoot May 31benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area (BGCAA).

Shooters gathered at the Capital City Clays and enjoyed a day of fun and laughter. The event raised $50,000 to directly benefit Austin’s youth. -cmw

Clay shoot winners: 1st Place: Austin Sonic Drive-in – Jeff Boyd, Tim Wilhelm, Brian Hill and Caleb Stafford 2nd Place: Slater Painting Company Inc. – Rick Slater, Chris Aniol, Brad Jackson, Robert Ashcraft and Mike Cearley 3rd Place: Texas Roofing Co. – Dallas Goodman, Michael Meraz, Zach Nance, Steve Acquard and American Constructors’ Tom Satori

continued from Page 1 — Can Do Plumbing call-in-the-home type of plumbing business and sell it all someday. The reason is he has come up with a better way for the customer to get the help he/she needs.

“Customers are scared of service companies,” he said. The whole experience, Bauden said, isn’t good for anyone.

He’s had more than one dangerous and not-fun experience while making a service call. Further, “The most dangerous part of what we do as service technicians is drive, flat out,” he said.

So, what is Bauden going to do? Start up a whole new dimension to his business, called Video Chat-a-Pro. “My wife is the main brains behind it,” he said. With Video Chat-a-Pro, the customer can directly link up with not only a plumber, but HVAC, landscapers, electricians, car mechanics and appliance technicians (as of now).

The venture is brand new and is “based upon a 15-minute session” whereby a licensed and qualified expert in each area can walk a customer through the problem.

“The only way you’re charged is when you both connect,” Bauden explained. He said that with the world getting rougher out there, a person can still get the service they need without whatever hassles either party can go through.

“You either pay to have someone come to your house,” and/or wait for days until that time, he said, or a person can get the problem solved quickly (if it’s doable) by getting coached by a technician on the other end.

All the technicians are vetted and qualified. “The system kind of weeds the them out,” Bauden said. They set their own rates and are even located in states other than Texas.

Bauden himself has used his own web/phone service. He was walked through a vexing HVAC problem that he had had for several years, which had cost him lots of money and which multiple service techs couldn’t fix.

“I would not be able to build that platform had I not experienced every aspect of the plumbing industry,” he said.

Bauden sees Video Chat-a-Pro as competing with the other home-help services out there, and even being used by the companies themselves to enhance training.

“Nobody likes to change,” he said, “but we have to do it.” Perhaps it’s time to get one’s plumbing leak or AC problem fixed in a better way than before. Simply put, now we can do it too.

Can Do Plumbing is based out of Lago Vista. -dsz

continued from Page 1 — Capital Glass Distributor

Participant take aim at the American Constructors Charity Clay Shoot

Slater Painting Company Inc.

Aubrey has a history with glass. “When I got out of high school,” he said, “I installed glass for a couple of years for my uncle. He owned a glass installation company.”

Having an awareness of what the actual contractor/installer goes through has given Aubrey insight into the glass business. CGD fills the orders given to them by the contractor for the job he has.

After previously being the hands-on person but now the glass distributor, Aubrey likes where he’s at: “I’d rather be on this end,” he said.

Summer is the majority owner of CGD, as she has been on the other businesses they have run together. So far, being a woman-owned business hasn’t been an advantage, but the couple hopes to make it so when they can expand into the commercial world.

“We’re four years old,” she said, “and whenever we can grow past the point where we’re only doing residential, we’ll be able to go into commercial and it [being woman-owned] will be beneficial then. We’ll be able to get federal and state-funded jobs a little bit easier.”

The plan is to not call upon investors or the banks to grow the company. In order to get into serious commercial work, the Doughertys would have to invest in

much larger equipment, and they want to be able to raise their own funds for that.

Summer has had experience running a restaurant in her past. She’s a culinary expert. French cuisine is her specialty.

Now, she helps cook up premier insulated glass for their contractor contacts.

“We have the highest quality in the area,” she said.

“We manufacture it from start to finish,” Aubrey said. “We are a supplier to the installer.”

Aubrey spends his time going to the various contractors and letting them know CGD is there to fill their orders out of their 6,000sf facility. They cover the Austin area but make regular runs to Corpus Christi. By being a former installer himself, Aubrey can quickly connect with contractors.

While there is no hard and fast timetable or projection for when CGD will enter the commercial market, Summer feels like they are further along after four years than she initially thought they’d be.

Using a cooking analogy, it looks like Capital Glass Distributor has all the right ingredients to be a very successful company.

Capital Glass Distributor supplies contractors with energy efficient glass products, located in Buda. -dsz

continued from Page 1 — Joeris General Contractors

Austin Sonic Drive-in

Texas Roofing Co.

lation in misty or humid conditions. The interior of the school features a unique and intricate installation of vinyl composite tile (VCT) flooring. Abuse-resistance sheetrock was installed in the school for durability and ability to withstand impacts to the walls.

The site the charter schools was planned to be built on was previously an old construction lay-down yard for the Texas Department of Transportation (Tx DOT). Additionally, Little Walnut Creek lies adjacent to the property, only a few hundred feet away.

Prior to the beginning of any work, the project team had to remove the old debris from the site and create a protective barrier around the creek to prevent soil erosion and contaminants from entering the creek.

The project team vigilantly ensured that all SWPPP best practices were adhered to and worked with the environmental inspector to remove vegetation in a critical zone when access to the sewer main, located in the creek, was required.

There are several unique features at the school including a purple customdesigned turf football field and a “learning staircase” in the high school that supports placed-based learning. The Austin Achieve inaugural class of Polar Bears, the school’s mascot, walked the stage to accept their diplomas this summer

on their new, custom-designed and constructed purple football field. This regulation-size turf field is centered in the middle of the two campuses and can be seen from the air as flights arrive and depart the Austin-Bergstrom Interntional Airport. The learning stairs, located in the high school, offer a flexible learning space for students to challenge themselves and each other in a collaborative space that allows them to work at their own pace and explore their own interests.

Joeris had a great relationship with the owner and HKS Inc. The project team, Senior Project Manager Jeff Fuller, Project Manager Ody Tsoutsos, Assistant Project Manager Suril Patel, Senior Superintendent Herbert Foster, Superintendent Grant Hagar and Assistant Superintendent Clark Toliver, worked closely with both the owner and architect to produce both an elementary and high school that will serve 600-plus students.

Like many construction projects, there were challenges to overcome during the aggressive 10-month schedule and this team worked diligently and creatively to complete the school four weeks before the scheduled completion.

Joeris General Contractors is a full-service general contractor with offices in San Antonio, Dallas, Houston and Austin. -cmw

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019

10 Years Ago — August 2009

Austin Crane Service Larry Taylor, front row, second from right, says in addition to their crane service, they also manage Lamar’s outdoor advertising division. -va

F.L. Crane & Sons, Inc. L-R: Bob Burleson, Ron Molleur, Rachel Arriaga, Dinah Blankenship, Jessica Sanchez and Bob Munsey stand by their Eagles

Got a question about HVAC supplies?

L-R: Dudley Hanson, Scott Whitley, Brant Posey and Johnny Solorzao, Insco Distributing Inc., know a thing or two about what tools and equipment it takes to keep things cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and everything in–between. –va

With offices in Austin and San Antonio, all the team with VFJ International Granite & Marble Supply has to do to see the whole world is take a stroll in their slab yard. L-R: Martin Contreras, Jose Gama, Marlene Schneider, Adrianna Martinez and Jerry Martinez. –va

KST Electric Winners of the evening came in from all over Texas, including Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Dallas and Harlingen.

Page 15

Page 16

Austin Construction News • AUG 2019