Austin Construction News August 2024 by Construction News

Austin CONSTRUCTION NEWS

The

TSummer School

exas Critical Systems (TCS) had the pleasure of hosting a teacher externship with Workforce Solutions Capital Area, the local workforce development board for AustinTravis County. This great group of teachers took time out of their summer to learn about construction trades and return construction industry information to their students. This program is invaluable to developing the workforce pipeline and TCS can’t thank these educators enough for their efforts. TCS would also like to thank their staff for working with the teachers and Workforce Solutions staff for organizing this program.

The Rosendin Foundation (TRF), a 501(c)(3) local non-profit incorporated to positively impact communities, build and empower people, and inspire innovation, hosted a free, week-long construction camp for middle school students in its hometown of Austin. For the second year, TRF Camp Build partnered with local construction professionals and volunteers to help students discover the joy of building with hands-on projects.

Under expert supervision, 31 rising students learned specialized construction skills, including using power tools safely, wiring and building lamps and switch labs, soldering copper stands, and welding treasure boxes. They also got to build virtually using VR and Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology used in the building industry.

“We are thankful to all our volunteers and partners who took the time to help teach our campers new skills and the joy that comes with building something with your hands,” said Jolsna Thomas, President of The Rosendin Foundation. “We

Camp Build

designed TRF Camp Build to build and empower the next generation of builders, and it was inspiring to see students who had never picked up a power tool before walk away with new confidence.”

TRF Camp Build’s co-ed camp took place June 17-21 at the Austin Electrical Training Alliance. Campers also got experiential learning during field trips to the UA Local 286 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union and Rosendin, the nation’s largest employee-owned electrical contractor.

In addition to skills training, professionals discussed potential career paths in construction.

“Once they hit middle school, kids are starting to think about their future, but most have never even considered a job in construction,” said Mario Flores, Rosendin Corporate Trainer. “We want to change that perspective by showing kids and their parents that the construction industry is like any other, with hundreds of career options whether they like computers and math, graphic design, and writing, or building with their hands. There’s something for everyone.”

Ten returning campers who attended the first TRF Camp Build in 2023 learned advanced building skills and took on new projects. However, many of the other campers had never been exposed to construction or used a power tool. To ensure their experiential learning continued at home, each camper also received a free bag of tools, courtesy of Milwaukee Tool and DeWalt / Stanley Black & Decker.

“I really enjoyed TRF Camp Build. I came home excited about the potential job opportunities and want to come back next year!” said Tucker Offield, a TRF Camp Build participant.

The Rosendin Foundation sponsored this event and four others nationwide, thanks to generous sponsors and in-kind donations. These included Patron-level sponsors Rosendin and MPS, Diamondlevel sponsors Milwaukee, Dewalt, and United Rentals, Emerald-level sponsors Border States and Graybar, and Ruby-level sponsor Sherwin Williams. Additional sponsors include Delta 360, RRC, Trust Waste Solutions, DIS-TRAN Packaged Substations, and RDO Equipment.

TRF Camp Build Austin campers built lamps at the free summer camp

TRF Camp Build Austin campers show off the copper cactus they soldered

Tucker Offield (R) and fellow camper Valentina (L) at TRF Camp Build built a dog house and donated it to an Austin nonprofit

Industry FOLKS

Bill Womack

Owner Alamo Grid Concrete

San Antonio, TX

Bill Womack is a man who thinks outside of the box. His company, Alamo Grid Concrete specializes in Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs). Based in San Antonio, he has built homes and commercial buildings all over Texas and even in New Mexico. This type of building material is not new, and Bill has been working ICFs for over 20 years. His motto is, if you can dream it, I can build it.

Bill receives his ICFs from a company in Arizona. Their light weight means they can be shipped easily. ICFs result in cast-in-place concrete walls that are sandwiched between two layers of insulation material. These can be used for the construction of low-rise buildings, with property uses ranging from residential to commercial to industrial. Traditional finishes are applied to interior and exterior faces, so the buildings look similar to typical construction, although the walls are usually thicker. Bill says, “When you build with ICFs, you have a structure that is termite proof, mold proof, tornado proof, hurricane proof. You’d practically have to drop an atomic bomb on the building for it to come to pieces.”

In addition to their durability, ICFs provide benefits to builders and building owners alike. Owners will appreciate the sound blocking capabilities, and the high R factor energy efficiency that will save them money. Contractors can enjoy faster, easier construction and the ability to meet higher energy code standards

with less complicated construction. Bill thinks that more people need to consider the sustainability of building with ICFs for their homes. “I can build a house with a geothermal slab, and make that house totally independent, so that it needs no air conditioning or heating. It stays a constant 68 to 70 degrees year round.” These benefits speak for themselves for people who live with long, hot summers and the possibility of losing power for weeks, like we recently saw in Houston with hurricane Beryl. Similarly, In Tuscaloosa, Alabama a home built with ICFs was the only one left standing after a deadly tornado ripped through a neighborhood.

Born and raised in San Antonio, Bill’s family has been in this part of Texas since the days of the Fisher-Miller Land Grant, an early colonization effort on the part of the Republic of Texas in 1842. This goes back to before German Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels established the city of New Braunfels, in 1845. Bill is a self described foodie, who loves the authentic Mexican food at Soluna on Broadway in San Antonio. He enjoys thrill seeking in the form of skydiving“Life’s not a rehearsal,” he says. In his free time, he’d rather be fishing. Preferably in Costa Rica. -ndw

TNT Crane and Rigging Partners with Samsung

In 2022, Samsung broke ground for their new Samsung Austin Semiconductor manufacturing facility in Taylor, TX. This massive campus will be situated on 1400 acres. According to Samsung, this Taylor facility will boost the production of semiconductor solutions that will power next-generation technologies in areas like 5G, artificial intelligence and high-performance computing. With greater manufacturing capacity, they will be able to better serve the needs of their customers and contribute to the stability of the global semiconductor supply chain.

TNT Crane and Rigging (TNT) was awarded a contract for the first fab (phase), which is nearing completion. Founded in 1985, TNT Crane & Rigging has grown exponentially, evolving into one of the largest crane companies in North America. Now comprising a network of over 40 branches, TNT boasts a fleet of 700 cranes, and has a team of more than 1,700 dedicated employees. Their track record of success and safety, and decades of valuable experience made them best company suited for this incredibly complex, long-term project.

TNT created a Specialty Rigging Division dedicated to the project, with about 50 of their employees on the job, and 13 cranes on site. The entire project is designed to be built in a series of 10 fabs. The piers have been poured for fab 2, and the next fab will be the beginning of operations manufacturing semiconductor chips for the US Government. Each fab will need its own 6-7 story office building, parking garage, water filtration system,

and substation.

Samsung is investing heavily in Central Texas. According to their website, the economic impact for Taylor and Williamson County has been substantial. In 2023, Samsung’s Austin manufacturing site along with the Taylor construction site injected $26.8 billion into the local economy —nearly doubled compared to $13.6 billion in 2022. In 2023, construction activities at the Taylor site injected $11.6 billion into the local economy and supported a total of 8,897 direct and 9,264 indirect construction jobs. In the same year, operations at the Taylor site pumped $115 million into the region while supporting 2,317 jobs in the area. The new facility will bring approximately 2000 new jobs to Taylor.

The unique challenges faced in a project of this magnitude mean experience and expertise are not optional. The construction and power industries are the backbone of modern infrastructure, and these monumental projects would not be possible without the unsung heroes of the industry – crane and rigging companies. TNT’s website proudly states that, “Our success remains rooted in their steadfast dedication to delivering unparalleled service, providing reliable and modern equipment, and prioritizing the safety and well-being of our team. We take pride in our rich history, our enduring commitment to excellence, and our vision for a future where we consistently work to set the benchmark in the crane and rigging industry.” This project is one dynamic example of what will remain as part of their legacy. -ndw

Winners by Design

The Texas Society of Architects are pleased to announce the 2024 Honor Awards! These awards recognize exceptional members, firms, individuals, and organizations for outstanding achievements in support of the profession of architecture, the built environment, and quality of life in Texas. Recipients will be recognized at the Texas Society of Architects upcoming 85th Annual Conference & Design Expo on Oct. 3–5 in Houston. Congratulations to all the honorees!

Future Leaders

Since 2004 the Austin Contractors & Engineers Association (ACEA) has been awarding scholarships to Central Texas high school graduates pursuing a degree in civil engineering or construction. ACEA has now provided $276,000 in scholarship funds to 79 students. Scholarship recipients are eligible to receive $2,000 their first year and if they maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher, they are eligible for $2,000 for the next three years.

This year, the ACEA Board of Directors voted to establish the Clarence Vinklarek Memorial Scholarship in honor of the association’s co-founder who passed away earlier this year. Mr. Vinklarek was a well-known and respected contractor in Central Texas who served as the association’s board president in 1985-1986. The scholarship in his honor will be awarded to a student pursuing a career in construction management or construction science.

The first recipient of this memorial scholarship is Pearce Quinn, a graduate from Hays High School and plans to attend Texas State University studying construction management. Kathryn Roth was awarded a general scholarship. She graduated from Anderson High School with plans to attend the University of Florida to study civil engineering.

Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Honor of Llewellyn W. Pitts, FAIA Jim Susman, FAIA (Austin)

Associate Member of the Year Kate Sector, Assoc. AIA (San Antonio)

Mentorship Award AIA Austin Women in Architecture (Austin)

Citation of Honor Centro San Antonio (San Antonio)

Architectural Landmark Award Huston–Tillotson University (Austin)

Cornerstone Award George B. Hernandez Jr. (San Antonio)

O’Neil Ford Medal for Design Achievement Sinclair Black, FAIA (Austin)

Award for Equitable Practice in Architecture in Honor of John S. Chase Jr., FAIA Nicki Marrone, AIA (San Antonio)

Award for Early Career Professional Achievement in Honor of William W. Caudill, FAIA Aline Yoldi, AIA (San Antonio)

Congratulations to Steve Lyons, Vice President of Business Development at Skanksa. Steve was recently awarded the 2024 SMPS Leonardo Award for his creative innovation and community-focused strategy in the construction industry.

(L-R) Kathryn Roth; Garrett Shepperd, ACEA Board President; Pearce Quinn

HOLT Ready Tech Poised to Fill Skilled Trades Talent Shortage

The wave of early retirements in 2020 and 2021 triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the issue of skilled worker shortages. According to a recent study by Tech Force, the diesel tech industry is facing a major need to attract more than 152,000 new professionals across the country within the next five years. While the problem can’t be fixed overnight, HOLT Group is recharging the industry’s workforce with new talent through an innovative training program.

HOLT Ready Tech, HOLT’s on-thejob training program, is designed to upskill entry-level employees. Recently, the third and fourth cohorts graduated 15 individuals from San Antonio, Irving and Corpus Christi, entering a workforce that is currently experiencing a major

shortage of skilled talent.

This innovative initiative provides a comprehensive training program designed to equip employees with a desire to learn and grow with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive as Level 1 technicians. HOLT Ready Tech is a 12-week intensive program that combines classroom instruction with valuable on-the-job training. Participants receive a strong foundation in key areas such as diesel engine fundamentals, electricity fundamentals, repair and maintenance of machines, and technician safety.

Alexander Graf, 19, was a member of HOLT Ready Tech’s first cohort. His journey into the skilled trades started at home, working on his trucks and tractors. He joined HOLT Ready Tech in July 2023 and, after graduating from the program in September, equipped with both classroom and machine shop experience, was hired as a full-time employee and received a $10,000 tool kit. Since then, he has been promoted to a Level 2 Technician.

“I chose to join the skilled trades after high school because I wanted a hands-on career that offers stability, good pay, and the opportunity to continuously learn and grow,” said Graf. “Knowing my work to repair a machine positively impacts our community gives me a deep sense of accomplishment.”

While the program is only three months long, HOLT’s investment in quality technicians extends through the duration of their careers. By

investing in employees’ development, HOLT believes that they will not only build a strong team but also contribute to a growing and thriving industry.

“HOLT Ready Tech represents our commitment to developing skilled and qualified technicians,” said Beki Hutchison, senior vice president at HOLT Group. “This initiative not only fills immediate gaps but also fosters long-term growth and innovation within our industry to ultimately support our communities”

There are clear signs that Generation Z is moving into the trades, as higher pay, new technologies, and a lower cost of entry than four-year college programs are attractive to young adults who want to start a career immediately. A rise in high school career and technical education programs have also created more exposure to these opportunities.

While HOLT Ready Tech is designed to address the critical talent pipeline shortage in the skilled trades, it’s not the only avenue HOLT deploys to attract the next generation to the trades. HOLT works with high schools and colleges across Texas, offering paid internships to eligible students enrolled in various career and technology pathways, and preparing students for job opportunities upon graduation.

In September, Graf will celebrate one year as a full-time employee at HOLT CAT, and his career is only just

beginning. He encourages anyone who is interested in hands-on learning and being part of an industry with opportunities for growth, to apply.

HOLT Ready Tech candidates must have a high school diploma or equivalent and are expected to demonstrate alignment with the company’s mission and core business values. This is an entry-level position for those who have mechanical aptitude and a desire to work as a diesel technician in the equipment industry. In addition to having instructors and service managers available to provide training, each participant in the class is paired with a mentor that will guide them through their time in the HOLT Ready Tech program.

Alexander Graf, HOLT Ready Tech graduate. Working on a 140G Motor Grader from 1994 for multiple engine and transmission repairs.

Beki Hutchison, Senior VP, Holt Group

Bosch to Buy Johnson Controls Air-Conditioning Assets in $8 Billion Deal

Robert Bosch has agreed to acquire Johnson Controls’ and Hitachi’s residential ventilation businesses for $8 billion, it said recently, in what will be the German engineering group’s largest takeover to date.

Bosch said Johnson’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) business for residential and small commercial applications would strengthen its Bosch Home Comfort arm, boosting the division’s sales to $9.8 billion from $5.4 billion currently.

Johnson Controls International (JCI) said separately that it stands to receive $6.7 billion in cash from the transaction.

Bosch said the addition would strengthen its presence in the United States and Asia, including sales of heat pumps as the company looks to capitalize on global efforts to reduce oil and gas heating to cut greenhouse gases.

The sale of the JCI assets includes its North America ducted business and a joint venture with Japanese group Hitachi which holds a 40% stake.

Bosch said it expects the global market for the heating and cooling of buildings to grow 40% by 2030, driven by technological progress, the fight against climate change and new regulations. The deal will be funded through cash on their balance sheet, the company added.

JCI said the transaction includes ductless HVAC production sites in Shimizu, Japan, which Hitachi will acquire.

Bosch CEO Stefan Hartung has said the company was looking at bigger, potentially global, acquisition targets and that the group was open to listing some of its divisions on the stock market.

Reuters reported last month that Bosch was weighing a bid for U.S. appliances manufacturer Whirlpool. Bosch is no longer pursuing such a deal with

Whirlpool after deeming the agreement with Johnson Controls and Hitachi more attractive, according to people familiar with the matter who requested anonymity because the deliberations are confidential.

Hartung declined to comment on Whirlpool but said that the Johnson-Hitachi deal would keep the company busy for 12 months.

Bosch, which had revenue of about $99 billion last year, also makes car parts, factory gear, power tools and home appliances.

As part of the deal, Johnson Controls’ North America ducted business was valued at a multiple of 16.7 times its 2023 earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA), the company said. Its stake in the air-conditioning joint-venture with Hitachi was valued at a multiple of 7.5 times its 2023 EBITDA.

After tax, Johnson Controls is expected to receive net proceeds of about $5 billion for the deal.

Lennox International and Samsung Electronics were among suitors competing against Bosch for the Johnson Controls assets, people familiar with the matter told Reuters in March.

Centerview Partners and Citi acted as Johnson Controls’ financial advisers while Simpson Thacher served as its legal adviser. Perella Weinberg Partners and Sullivan & Cromwell advised Bosch.

Brick by Brick

Shadrock & Williams, a top-tier masonry and wall cladding contractor located in Helotes, is the latest company to have earned certification through the Masonry Certification Program, sponsored by the Mason Contractors Association of America (MCAA). Known for their work on commercial and large-scale projects, Shadrock & Williams has successfully completed hundreds of challenging, grand, and complex projects, establishing an unmatched reputation for capability and ethics.

The MCAA has developed the national Masonry Certification program to provide customers with a tool to select mason contractors who are committed to quality and end user satisfaction. Quality of work and end user satisfaction are at the foundation of the certification program. Companies must earn 75 credit hours and pass an exam in order to become certified. In addition, companies must obtain 45 credits every three years to renew their certification.

“We congratulate Shadrock & Williams in their commitment to quality service. Our goal is to provide architects, designers, general contractors, and consumers with an easy way to select and specify professional mason contractors,” said Jeff Buczkiewicz, President and CEO of the MCAA. “Certification allows them to easily find contractors who have committed their entire firm to meet the stringent requirements of the program.”

The University of Texas at San Antonio - Downtown Campus Tobin Center for the Performing Arts

Ken Milam’s Fishing Line

The Great Outdoors

6 Hunting Season Preparation Tips

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

Fall here we come

Well August is here and nobody’s taking bets on if we will get to a hundred 100-degree days this year. That counts as a win! A couple of months ago the rainfall lottery favored Lake Buchanan to get a rise in lake levels and now Lake Travis is getting some fresh water too! Thank goodness no two years are alike when it comes to weather! This year’s weather is so much better than last year!

Our Highland Lakes are seeing some muchneeded drought relief. Buchanan and Travis are still a long way from full, but at least for now the trend is looking up some and the catfishing is great because we have flood water coming in! This is the time of year the surface water temperatures on the lakes can get so hot even the fish can’t stand it anymore. Any time we can get cloudy skies, some rain, and high temperatures under 100 degrees, the water temp gets a better chance to cool enough to keep the fish biting. The last few days have been good for us.

August is where we start to look forward to fall, not just for cooler temperatures, but also for hunting season! The dove, deer and turkey have also benefited from a more moderate summer. Where rainfall was good, the pastures produced plenty of browse for our wildlife to feed on and water to drink. Wildlife should be plentiful this season and in seasons to come because more of

Rising Water

et’s talk about something fun! I’m sure by now everyone has seen that Canyon Lake is on the rise. Hopefully it continues to get more water as we progress further into hurricane season. Rising water will mean Canyon Lake is going to fish a little different and offer new opportunities. With all the rain, it is going to create more areas to fish along with a new look at some previous spots.

Let’s talk about how to fish this new water. The very first thing I like to do as the water rises, is look for bushes or brush that’s now getting submerged. These bushes offer excellent cover for bass, and since bass tend to follow the water as it rises, bushes are a perfect first place to check. There are many ways to fish bushes, but my two favorites would have to be flipping a creature bait and throwing a spinnerbait or swim jig around them. When I’m flipping the bushes, I always try to get my bait as close to the trunk of the

Deer hunting season is weeks away for many of us. Now is the time to start preparing for the season by picking up your license & taking hunter education classes; clean and repair your equipment; check the lease and property and more. Here are 6 tips to help you prepare now for a great season.

1. Get your hunting license – Save time and purchase your hunting license ahead of time. Don’t stand in line at the last minute waiting for your license. If you are a new hunter, find out if a hunter education workshop is required. Check with your local Parks & Wildlife office or with your county extension agent. Many courses are now offered online which can save you time.

2. Check dates & regulations – many state regulations are updated annually, take the time to check them and make sure you are in compliance. Find out the dates for opening season for the various types of deer you are hunting, and for the different hunting methods.

3. Clean and repair your equipment – If your equipment has been set aside for some time, take it out and clean it. Check the sight and scope of your rifle. Clean your deer feeders, and check your blinds. Any repairs needed are best done now to save you time during hunting

bush as possible and let it fall into the bush on a slack line. To me it’s important to let it free fall as it produces a lot of reaction strikes. When I’m fishing the spinnerbait and swim jig around the bushes, I look for lanes around and through the cover and try to make accurate casts to keep the bait in the strike zone.

Areas that were previously fishing good, like grass mats, are now going to offer a different approach. Instead of being totally matted on the surface you’re going to have a little bit of fishable water on top of the mat. A couple of different baits you’re going to want to try are a swimbait, fluke, Senko, and chatter bait. The new water should allow you to fish these moving baits over the grass and give the fish some room to still be able to ambush your presentation.

Good luck to anyone trying to take advantage of the new water and let’s hope we continue to see the lake rise!

season. Make sure you have ammunition on hand, get it early as supplies can be limited at times. Don’t forget clothing! Make sure they fit.

4. Test your equipment –If you haven’t been practicing at least once a month, it’s time to start. This keeps you in practice for aiming, shooting and handling your gun.

5. Check your lease or property – Do you need to clear out some areas? Is your deer feeder in the right place? Put your deer blind up so the wildlife become used to it. Scout out patterns and be ready for hunting season.

6. Safety first – Have a first aid kit on hand in the blind, your truck or on the property. Refill it with any missing items. Consider having an emergency plan in place, it’s always best to be prepared.

Preparation is key! Follow these simple tips for a successful hunting season.

Ken Milam

Captain Evan Coleman Big Bassin’ Fishing Tours

Daiwa USA

Never a Dull Moment

On Jul. 19, EquipmentShare

District Sales Manager David Ross and Outside Sales Rep. Stan Rothman treated one of their valued customers to an offshore fishing trip. Fishing was going great until Kaleb Dougherty encountered a little snag while reeling in one of the red snappers he hooked onto. As Dougherty was working his catch, he felt another tug. When he finally brought in his catch, all he had was half a fish and it was at that time, Rothman and the others saw what appeared to be an eight-foot shark.

Not long after, Rothman’s line got a hit and the fight was on. With his rod completely bent over and hanging on with all his might, it was clear that he had hooked onto the menacing shark who took half of Dougherty’s fish. After fighting the beast for what seemed like forever, the line broke.

Despite their unwelcomed guest, they limited out on red snapper and landed a few king fish as well. -cmr

AThe Great Outdoors

Haley Mathews, Construction News, shares his Bates Hundo Baitcaster review:

The reel I have been using is great but mine was pretty loud since I hadn’t cleaned it several trips. So I asked my good buddy Captain Steve Hillman out of Galveston, if he had an extra rig I could throw instead. He said yes, grab the new Bates Hundo reel that was on the Waterloo 6’ 8” Carbon Mag. It felt incredibly solid for being so remarkably light. The first cast impressed me immensely. It’s very fluid with a moderate casting motion.

What makes it special:

The Hundo like the other Bates reels comes with a solid aluminum frame that is not molded but rather it is CNC cut from 6061-T6 bar stock aluminum. This is the same aluminum they use for aviation parts, and highend technology parts. The fact that this is cut from solid aluminum bar stock instead of poured and molded from molten aluminum gives it an incredibly light but incredibly strong frame as its foundation. The reel weighs just 5

Casting Call

ustin Chapter of the Associated General Contractors’ (AGC) Construction Leadership Council (CLC) hosted its annual Bay Fishing Tournament Jun. 28-30 at Seadrift, TX’s Bay Flats Lodge. After a day of fishing on the San Antonio Bay, participants enjoyed dinner and an awards ceremony, awards were given for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place stringers, as well as in the “Biggest Trout”, “Biggest Red”, and “Most Redfish Spots” categories. The festivities concluded on Sunday, with everyone returning home full of fish tales and fun memories.

1st Place: Tex-Mix Concrete

2nd Place: Stallion Infrastructure Services

3rd Place: BrightView Landscapes

Biggest Trout: Tyler May with Lasco Acoustics, Drywall, Plaster & Stone

Biggest Red: John Schlesselman with BrightView Landscapes

Red with Most Spots: Meg Schneider with Joeris General Contractors, LLC

AGC would like to thank their 2024 Committee for another successful year.

ounces even though it’s probably as solid a reel as I’ve ever held in my hand.

The first thing you notice when fishing it is how tightly and smoothly the gears mesh together, how freely the spool spins on a cast and how smoothly the handle turns on a retrieve. The drag is very consistent and smooth too. I don’t know if this tight, fluid feeling comes from having a more rigid frame, but it’s very noticeable how solid and precise the reel feels overall while fishing.

Specs on the Hundo:

The Hundo is a 100-size reel and holds roughly 100 yards of 14-pound monofilament line or 100 yards of 30-pound braid. So I probably had 8590 yards of 15-pound fluorocarbon on the reel and could roll cast and bomb cast alike with ease. You are able to finely tune your drag, tension and braking on this reel. He had his reel dialed in so well, that I was throwing my lure nearly to the end of my spool. It was incredible the distance I was getting.

The reel features 10+2+1 bearings, an 88mm swept handle, 14 pounds of drag, in 7.1:1 and 8.1:1 gear ratios. And unique, orange, easy-to-grip, soft rubber knobs on the handle complete this remarkably different baitcaster.

The dials and knobs are all very easy to tune from the external brakes to the tension and drag on the handle plate. This reel is the total package.

My next reel purchase will be the Bates Hundo no doubt!

1st Place Team Tex-Mix Concrete

2nd Place Team Stallion Infrastructure Services

3rd Place Team BrightView Landscapes

Biggest Red John Schlesselman with BrightView Landscapes

Dominique Revada with Bartlett Cocke General Contractors

Red with Most Spots - AGC’s very own Meg Schneider with Joeris General Contractors, LLC

Lauralynn Arellano with ISEC

L-R: David Ross, Hensel Phelps’ Nick Bessire, Andrew Stocker, Kaleb Dougherty, Trey Wink, and Stan Rothman

Biggest Trout

Happy National Intern Day!

On Jul. 25, Alterman Inc. was thrilled to celebrate the amazing group of smart and talented interns who have joined Alterman Electric this summer. Their energy, dedication, and fresh perspectives are making a significant impact on the team and they are excited to see all the

they will achieve! Here’s to a summer filled with growth, learning, and success!

One Good Cookie

The Texas Air Conditioning Contractors Association (TACCA) is pleased to announce that Roland Arrisola, TACCA State Board President, has been awarded the Good Cookie award ahead of the TACCA State third quarter board meeting. The Good Cookie award has become the unofficial recognition for commitment and support of TACCA initiatives.

Arrisola, who has previously won the award, was recognized this time for his quick response to TACCA business, demonstrating dedication and prompt action. His continuous efforts and proactive involvement in the association’s activities have made a significant impact, earning him this notable recognition once again.

The Good Cookie award is a testament to the everyday contributions and exceptional support that members like Arrisola provide to the association. It highlights the importance of commitment and active participation in furthering TACCA’s mission and initiatives.

Association Calendar

ABC CTX

Associated Builders & Contractors

Central Texas Chapter

Aug. 2: First Aid / CPR

Aug. 14: Protect Your People –Leadership in Safety and STEP How-To lunch - Waco

Aug. 15: OSHA 10

Aug. 20: Protect Your People – Confined Spaces - Austin

Aug. 21: Construction Executive Breakfast Group

Aug. 22: Leadership Academy begins Aug. 27: Young Professionals – Crafting Connections: A Taste of Teamwork

Aug. 28: Microsoft Outlook - English Aug. 29: STEPping Stones Webinar: Bus Application – Savings Through Safety

ACEA

Greater Austin Contractors & Engineers Association

Aug. 8: Membership Luncheon, 11:301pm, Topic: Project Connect Update, Norris Conference Center, 2525 Anderson Lane, Austin

Aug. 23: ACEA Clay Shoot, 7:30am-3pm, Reunion Ranch, 850 CR 255, Georgetown

AGC

Associated General Contractors Austin

Aug. 8: TopGolf Networking event, 4-8pm, TopGolf, 2700 Esperanza Crossing, Austin

Aug. 9: CLC Community Service Event, 1-4pm, Central Texas Food Bank, 6500 Metropolis Dr., Austin

CTSA

Central Texas Subcontractors Association

Aug. 8: TCA’s Texas Mutual Safety Program

FREE Webinar, 11-11:45 am, Presented by Gina O’Hara, Register at www.ctsaonline. org, Contact Carrie Buckley at 817.983.6244

Aug. 15: Market Forecast Lunch Meeting, Presented by Mark Sprague with Independence Title 11am-1pm, Maggiano’s Little Italy, 10910 Domain Drive, Suite 100, Austin, Attendance Includes Lunch, Register at www.ctsaonline.org, Contact Carrie Buckley at 817.983.6244

DACA

Drywall Acoustical Contractors Association

Aug. 22: Clay Shoot, Capital City Clays, www.dacaaustin.org, 214-557-0356

HBA

Home Builders Association Greater Austin

Aug. 15: HBA Happy Hour at Windo Showroom, 4:30-6:30pm, 7801 N Lamar Blvd Ste B156/B158, Austin

Aug. 27: Mid-Year Housing Forecast, 8:3011am, Austin Life Events - Mueller, 1504 East 51st Street, Austin

NARI

National Association of the Remodeling Industry

Aug. 1: Backpack Drive Luncheon, 11am1pm Aug. 29: 80’s Bingo Night, 5-8pm

Traffic Control

Getting Final Four Ready

As the city of San Antonio prepares to host the NCAA Final Four at the Alamodome, Skanska is committed to making the improvements that will revitalize downtown destinations in time to host the exciting event. Phase One of the Civic Park improvement project was completed in September 2023, and Phase Two is now in full swing, as are improvements to the Alamodome. After the ‘Madness’ of the Final Four has come and gone, these improvements will be left for the residents and visitors to the beautiful city of San Antonio to enjoy.

In 1968, the city of San Antonio marked the 250th anniversary of the city’s founding in 1718. To celebrate this momentous occasion, a six month long International Exposition known as HemisFair ’68 was held in the heart of downtown San Antonio, and welcomed 6.4 million visitors from around the world through its gates. In 1973, the San Antonio Spurs played their first game at the HemisFair Arena, which was demolished in 1995 for the Convention Center expansion. Fast forward to 2021, and this cultural heart of downtown was aging and in need of a dire refresh. The City of San Antonio awarded the Hemisfair Civic Park redevelopment project to Skanksa, a world leading project development and construction company.

This project consisted of transforming an underutilized area of downtown, immediately adjacent to the Convention Center. Skanska was given the task of adding water features, natural grasses and native trees to the area with the goal of repurposing the space as a destination for local residents and tourists coming to San Antonio. The area consists of a beautiful green space with a rolling topography and showcases a water feature that draws its inspiration from the acequías, or ancient irrigation canals, that used to run through San Antonio watering crops and sustaining life.

Phase One of Civic Park included three key elements: The Great Lawn, The Springs and The Promenade. Skanska, in collaboration with GGN, a landscape architecture firm based in Seattle, used native Texas elements and building processes, focused on responsible water use and sustainability. “Civic Park supports a greener future while honoring San Antonio’s rich natural legacy,” Executive Vice President and General Manager of Skanska USA Building’s San Antonio Operations, Ryan Aalsma said. “ ‘The Springs’, inspired by San Antonio’s natural water resources, embodies our commitment to sustainability. Utilizing reclaimed water and native tree planting, we’ve merged heritage and modernity with this project. This innovative approach showcases our dedication to sustainability, blending technology and nature seamlessly.” Phase One was completed and celebrated its grand opening to the public with a ribbon cutting ceremony on September 30th, 2023, and Skanska was awarded Phase Two of the project.

The major focus of Phase Two for Skanska is The Zócalo, an elevated hardscaped terrace that brings Phase One and Phase Two of Civic Park together. Source Plaza, a large plaza located at the busiest intersection of Downtown San Antonio with both hardscape and landscape areas will produce substantial shade through the tree canopy, and completion of the Promenade, which creates a shaded pedestrian connection between Downtown and Southtown through the Hemisfair District.

In addition to the Civic Park project, Skanska is also working on improvements to the Alamodome that will be used by guests attending Final Four. This includes upgrades and modernization to the suites and the common space in the Alamodome, as well as constructing additional suites to increase availability. The amenity improvements to the common spaces throughout the Alamodome will include concession improvements, flooring enhancements, and other cosmetic upgrades to dated decor to revitalize and refresh the area for visitors.

Aalsma says Skanska is striving to have all of this completed prior to the Final Four, and possibly ahead of schedule. This has its own unique set of challenges, as the area is still very much an active space. With all of the events and entertainment continuing at the Alamodome during the process, Skanska has had to balance accessing space to do the construction work while maintaining operation capabilities for the staff to continue business of the Alamodome. The close proximity of Civic Park to the Alamodome ensures guests will enjoy the vibrant and engaging spaces as they move between these two locations.

This beautiful greenspace will tie the whole area, from a civic and a hospitality perspective, together. “It’s exciting for the City of San Antonio to host the 2025 Final Four tournament, and Skanska is honored to help the city put its best foot forward,” says Aalsma. “Through projects like Civic Park and the Alamodome renovations, Skanska’s contributions help San Antonio highlight our vibrant and welcoming community, bringing enjoyment to both locals and visitors. And the best part is, it will continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.” -ndw

Civic Park

Civic Park Aerial View

No More Leaks

As a Certified Aerobarrier/Aeroseal dealer, Kevin Holder, owner of 787 Development based in Austin sat down with Construction News to discuss the benefits to homeowners and builders alike.

What are Aeroseal and Aerobarrier?

Aeroseal is a spray-based duct sealing technology that uses a non-toxic, milky white sealant to fill and seal leaks and cracks in ductwork from the inside. The sealant is a water and vinyl acetate emulsion that’s stable, non-toxic, and non-flammable. Aerobarrier is a similar concept, except Aerobarrier seals the home envelope during construction, down to the ACH50 a builder requires. A home or building can leak from a multitude of places- around doors and windows, studs, around headers and sill plates. This can greatly reduce a home’s energy efficiency and air quality.

How does the process work? For Aeroseal duct sealing, a pressurized machine injects the sealant into the ductwork, where it flows through cracks and coagulates to seal them. A scrubber fan captures any sealant that leaks into the living space and filters it out. With an Aerobarrier sealing, the whole house is pressurized, and air always follows the path of least resistance. The pressurized air will automatically go find any leaks in the house, going to the ally. And now, and now that we have the house fogged up, that pathway, our product will follow that pathway. And so when it hits that leak, there’s a change in pressure. That change in pressure changes the product

from an aerosolized polymer into a solid. Then it will start self-adhering where that leak is, fills it, and seals it up. It will seal holes the size of hair follicle, up to 5/8’s of an inch.

What are the benefits of Aeroseal? Aeroseal can reduce air leakage by up to 90%, which can improve airflow efficiency, air quality, and comfort, and can even reduce dust. It can also help heating and cooling systems work less to maintain air temperature, which can save homeowners an average of 20%-40% on their energy costs. For people living with asthma, allergies and respiratory challenges, this can provide them relief by reducing mold spores, pollen and dust in the air. Kevin says, “I have done the Aeroseal on my house, on the ducts on two systems for my upstairs and downstairs. On my downstairs system my initial pre-test leakage of my ductwork was equivalent to a 24 and a half square inch hole.” That’s like leaving a window open with the A/C on!

With Aerobarrier and Aeroseal, It’s the Easiest Way to Never Fail a Blower Door or Duct Blaster Test Again... Guaranteed! To learn more, please visit www.787development.com. -ndw

Aloha

G.W. Mitchell Construction was honored to be ranked #4 in the medium category at the San Antonio Business Journal’s Best Places to Work award luncheon. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without their r amazing team whose dedication and hard work make G.W. Mitchell a truly exceptional place to be. Here’s to continued success and creating an even better work environment together. Cheers!

Game On

JT Magen, a national construction firm specializing in preconstruction, construction management, designbuild, and general contracting across a variety of industries, has completed a full office renovation for Owlchemy Labs, a video game developer, in Austin.

JT Magen served as the construction manager for the 8,079-square-foot project, overseeing all aspects from budgeting, procurement of materials, managing subcontractors and conducting the final handover upon completion.

As a fully remote company, Owlchemy Labs had a vision to provide an event location that supports the local Austin video game community and offers an employee gathering space that fosters connection, collaboration and creativity. Founded in 2010 and acquired by Google in 2017, Owlchemy Labs is an XR studio with a passion for polished, playful, and innovative VR games and experiences. Owlchemy’s titles include the awardwinning, platinum-selling VR launch title “Job Simulator,” the Emmy-nominated “Rick and Morty: Virtual Rick-ality,” the top ten VR title “Vacation Simulator” and its newest VR title “Cosmonious High.”

“We celebrate the opening of Owlchemy Labs new event space in Austin, which aligns with the company’s

vision of creating an environment for everyone to enjoy,” said Dan Longshore, Southwest Regional Director at JT Magen. “It was rewarding to see the project come together and be able to deliver a highquality space that met Owlchemy’s current and future goals.”

JT Magen worked with Revel Architecture to create a seamless, engaging environment for Owlchemy Labs. Prior to the renovation, the office was compartmentalized into individual employee workstations, separated by high walls that blocked the natural light. To better support Owlchemy’s growth and its move to a fully remote environment, the project team created several areas for larger group gatherings, smaller connection spaces, and a place to kick back and play video games. They also maintained the private meeting rooms.

The office was designed to reflect Owlchemy’s fun, playful and vibrant brand with a balance of neutral shades of white with pops of teal and blue throughout the space and a perimeter floor of polished concrete that adds a bit of contrast. The ground-floor space features large windows that allow for natural light, supported by dark metal pendant lighting throughout.

Matt Mitchell, Vice President

Unlocking Efficiency with AI

Drillbit is the answer to a question. What if business people in the construction industry had more time to focus their skills on the real work, instead of spending half their day on administrative tasks? Instead of making PDFs, sending emails and running down all the loose ends, they could better focus on their jobs and clients, and would actually be helped by technology instead of tasked with it? Introducing Drillbit- an AI business tool that can streamline business tasks. The future is moving fast, Drillbit is here to help businesses keep the pace.

Alexander Seutin grew up in San Francisco, California. As a kid, he was a big math and science nerd, obsessed with space and tinkering and inventing things. By age 14, he had taught himself how to code. His mother would often get mad at him for staying up too late on his computer, doing his programming, which would later become his career. Growing up in a very expensive city with a single mother who made entry level wages and struggled to make ends meet, fueled his ambition to be successful and make a better life for himself. He threw himself into learning everything he could on his own, and later attended Stanford, graduating with a computer science degree focused on artificial intelligence.

Starting at SpaceX on the flight software team, being on an applied machine learning team at Apple, he then found himself at a startup that made autonomous excavators. Alex says, “It wasn’t about making heavy equipment operators obsolete. The way they framed it was as a stepping stone. We used to do everything with shovels, and then we got hydraulics, and then now we have heavy construction equipment that allows one operator to get a lot more done. And the idea is, what if you could take another step, and allow one operator to operate a whole fleet of machines?” This type of work appealed to Alex, though he wasn’t sure yet how it would play a role in his future. As he became an adult, he found himself driven to make change in an even bigger way. Feeling disillusioned with the corporate tech world, he longed to do something more tangible.

A few years ago, Alex bought his first home in Austin. This was a feeling of breaking a generational curse, owning a home being something that once seemed so unattainable. “It was important to me to renovate it on my own, to do the work. Not just by myself, but my partner and me. She and I both agreed that we had no business doing it, but we did everything by hand, learned a little bit of every trade, and made a lot of mistakes, but it was a great experience for me,” he remarks. In the process of that renovation, his mind started trying to wrap itself around his desire to make a bigger impact for good in the world, and how he could use his skills to do that. Now, he had seen firsthand a certain set of problems faced by the construction and

renovation industry because he had gotten to know it better. He started to see how there might be a connection between these issues and the issue that had bothered him since childhood, the lack of affordable housing.

He reached a point where his house project was done, and he was at a point in his personal life where he was ready to take a bigger risk. “I also felt like I just saw this problem so clearly, and that no one else was really trying to solve it. We have 150 million homes that are depreciating very actively, and the rate of depreciation seems to be increasing because the quality of materials is going down. It’s becoming more and more expensive for homeowners to maintain their homes. And then there’s a lot of businesses trying to help those homeowners, but they’re bogged down by so much wasted effort in terms of non-billable hours because it’s becoming harder and harder for them to keep up with all the communications required and to run their business.” The greatest inefficiency he saw was that the administrative side things- workflows that were really limiting to a company’s day to day operations. He wants to change that, for an underserved sector that is crucial to maintaining the supply of housing. Alex admits that nobody’s going to replace your handyman anytime soon. There’s no way to do that. Old houses, for example, are all built with a unique footprint. If you tear out the drywall on one, you’ll see something different every time, and he knows that there is no way to automate that. The administrative side of things, however, could benefit greatly from being streamlined.

From that idea, Drillbit was born. A platform that puts all of your business tools under one virtual roof. Because of his background, his degree in AI at Stanford and working for various high level tech companies, Alexander has unique insights into this technology

that’s changing very quickly. He wanted to seize the opportunity to be the person who brings more efficiency and automation to construction as a business. From pen and paper to phone and fax, to text and emails, technology keeps flowing. But more or less, it’s all still manual. Right now we are in a second stage where there’s all these software platforms that attempt to consolidate things into one place, but basically mirror those old school processes in online form. Alexander has learned that many people feel like they’re working in service of these tools, instead of the other way around.

Drillbit was created to work for you, using automated AI receptionists that can manage the job from end to end and coordinate logistics to keep things running smoothly. This ensures you’ll never miss a call or forget a follow-up ever again. For example, when a business owner receives a job request from a homeowner, Drillbit’s AI receptionist can actually go from a vague text description of a problem in the homeowner’s words, (which can be somewhat imprecise because they’re not experts in a given trade) and read between the lines and go straight to a series of potential services that you can offer. From there it will produce an estimate, and instead of the business owner having to add every little line item and every description, every unit cost, Drillbit creates and delivers it for approval. The user can then simply edit the final number or just accept it as is. With each estimate proposal, the likelihood that they can just accept rather than edit goes up with each subsequent quote, because it learns from past jobs and gets better and more accurate every time. The AI fine tunes itself specifically to you and your business, which is something previously that was reserved for the very rich and the very elite. Drillbit aims to democratize access to that technology.

Beyond this quoting engine which is very highly specialized to you and your business, Drillbit provides an AI assistant that you can literally call on the phone, 2/47 and talk to it as if it’s a human personal assistant. Your AI assistant has instant insight into all the information: every job, every client, every line item, every discount, every note, every image. Since it’s all under one roof, you then have a consolidated data layer that is protected and private. Alex is excited about the fact that, even though many people aren’t experts in technology, this makes it automatic and accessible to anyone. User friendly and intuitive, it saves time by completing tasks so that you don’t have to. At the end of the day, most people would rather have more free time to be with their family, and have the time while they are at work be more productive and efficient. Drillbit can help you get more done, with less headache. To learn how Drillbit can maximize efficiency for your business, please visit: www.drillbit.com or contact Alexander Seutin directly: (415) 992-1219 alex@drillbit.com. -ndw

Alexander Seutin, Founder & CEO, Drillbit and business partner, Liam Osler

ACCOUNTING LEGAL

SFamily Business Succession Planning

Steven Bankler, CPA, PFS, Cr.FA, CFF, CGMA

Senior Partner Steven Bankler, CPA, Ltd.

tudies show family businesses are growing faster than expected. That’s great news, but the more success these business owners realize, the more worried they seem to be about the future. You may be feeling the same. Tax and succession planning can help relieve these fears.

A study conducted by Family Enterprise USA found that 61% of family businesses grew last year, and 74% expected growth this year. These businesses are similar to yours: More than half (51%) are in the manufacturing/ operations, construction/facilities, and real estate industries. Topping their concerns as they grow are taxes, and those concerns are valid even when succession isn’t at stake.

Whether you’re just starting or you’re knocking on the door to retirement, it’s always a good time to consider your succession plan. Great plans take years to play out. Sadly, most family businesses do not have a strong, documented, and communicated succession plan. Many don’t even have critical documents in place. These include shareholder agreements, family employment policies, entry and exit provisions, dividend policies, emergency and contingency procedures, and conflict resolution mechanisms. Only 64% of family business leaders have the most fundamental asset-protection document in order: a last will. If you recognize that you’re missing some of these critical documents, take steps to remedy it.

We often tell clients that exit planning and succession planning are similar. Whether you plan to sell the business to an outside buyer or employees or intend to pass it down to family, preparing for that transition—any transition—takes years. Here’s why: Protecting assets through a transition takes a combination of tax minimization strategies, business financial planning, estate planning, industry comparisons, and sometimes restructuring of the business and even forensic accounting to uncover mysteries that could derail future moves.

The most significant task you’ll face is untangling yourself from the business. Obviously, there are emotional, psychological and operational benefits to doing this. But there are compelling financial—and tax—reasons as well. Separating yourself from the business affects the valuation, the tax bill slapped onto the business sale or transition, and your own tax bill after the fact.

To best prepare, consider: Does the business structure still make sense? Your business structure may have been set up years ago and could use an update. For instance, while a sole proprietorship or LLC made sense initially when it was just you in charge, a corporation or partnership may be better

for the future. This is especially true if multiple owners are poised to take over or the business has made product, service, or industry pivots over the years.

Are the books in order? Your business is only as strong as your balance sheet, and your accounting methods can make or break a transition. Your bookkeeping needs to be consistent and clear as you adapt to cost fluctuations, material or supply setbacks, delays, labor costs, and inconsistent workflows over time.

Are YOU the business? When it’s time for you to leave your business, your personal goodwill in the form of your expertise, the relationships you’ve built over the years, and other intangible assets leave with you, which can affect the value of the business. Also, consider which assets tied up in the business belong to you. It’s easy to mix business and personal property when you’re a business owner, but they are taxed differently.

How are you tied to it financially? Separating yourself from a pass-through entity is notoriously tricky. However, you can be financially tied to a corporate entity as well. Maybe you infused money into it through personal equity or a business loan. These two are very different regarding selling, liquidating, or closing the business. Your ability to personally guarantee past liabilities could also affect the next generation. Will the company be able to maintain its own credit power? Will your personal finances truly be disconnected?

Is everyone on board? If you haven’t discussed your wishes with your successors yet, do it. They may not be on the same page, making a transition to them more complicated than you would hope. You may even consider bringing in an external facilitator to help guide these discussions. Be open and collaborative about business operations, performance and strategy, tax history, roles and responsibilities, concerns and conflicts, and your role (if any) after the transition.

What will the sale look like? There are numerous ways to transition a closely held business to the next generation. Simply giving the company to your heirs or selling it at a “steep discount” could financially backfire. Transferring the business over time or even holding onto certain assets until death might help reduce unnecessary capital gains, for instance. Employee stock ownership (ESOP) could also be a consideration. The sale may not look how you envisioned, but thinking outside the box could work out better in the long run.

It’s hard to step aside, but it can be even more heart-wrenching if you’re unsure how the business will survive without you. It can also be expensive. Succession planning takes much of the guesswork out of that equation and can save you thousands in taxes.

INSURANCE

WithThe Importance of Distracted Driving Awareness

How fleet management safety programs create a healthy company culture

Jason Pfaltzgraff

Risk Manager and Commercial Insurance

The Nitsche Group Lampasas County, TX

construction booming in Central Texas, the need for qualified drivers and fleet driving safety programs are more important now than ever. The Nitsche Group has served communities across Texas since 1949, and we know how important safe driving is when it comes to a business’ bottom line. Distracted driving leads to accidents that impact our personal and public safety, but it can also lead to insurance increases from claims that can take a heavy toll on a business.

Finding reliable and experienced drivers is a challenge to many businesses, yet having a fleet safety program can help ensure employee retention while showing concern for employees’ well-being. Construction companies should run background checks, drug tests and check Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs) before hiring a new driver. Candidates with a poor driving history may pose a risk for businesses with cost inefficiencies.

Fleet safety programs

Just like we train teenagers to drive, a business should ensure that its company drivers are adequately educated. Driver training programs help prevent accidents and allow for the standardization of processes that establish effective driving habits and general rules of the road specific to a fleet’s vehicle types. A fleet safety program will not only establish company-wide policies and procedures that are crucial to ensure a safe work environment for employees, but it can also help protect your business against liability from vehicle accidents.

Fleet safety programs should clearly state company safety policies and guidelines, standard operating procedures and define accident response protocols. In the event of a trucking accident, drivers should retain evidence and documents to help the business mitigate losses. In addition, company management should adequately communicate with all drivers on how to avoid accidents and how to submit accident reviews.

Focusing on MVRs

When hiring new drivers, businesses should run employee screenings and review driver histories. MVRs allow employers to have a more in-depth look at an applicant to see if they have a history of following safety regulations. MVRs typically include driver’s license information, license statuses, violations, accidents and automatic renewal notices. MVRs must be requested annually in the annual review process to determine if the driver meets company requirements.

Particularly for construction companies, having a consistent system for collecting and reviewing MVRs may help employers hire qualified drivers more efficiently. The Texas Department of Insurance and Division of Workers’ Compensation has established the occupational driving safety program and recommends a safety checklist for employers to make sure company standards align with the law.

Culture around driver awareness

Creating a good fleet-driving culture starts with good leadership. Once employees are made aware of safety policies and procedures, fleet managers are better able to lay the foundation for new employees and coach them adequately. Managers who instill confidence in their drivers will see a difference in team collaboration and higher rates of employee retention.

When implementing these rules and regulations, managers should also ask employees questions to check in on driver history. Asking simple questions such as “Who had an accident this week?” or “Is there something happening in your life outside of work that could be affecting your driving?” allows company leadership to dig in and find out what’s happening in an employee’s personal life. Asking these questions does not serve as a punishment, but rather as a benefit to talk about what’s going on and allow for drivers to improve.

Telematics

Telematics systems are often used in the construction industry to help provide data on machines including GPS location, fuel consumption, idle times and more. By looking at this data, employers are able to see which machines are active on a job site and adjust fleet size accordingly.

While monitoring telematics, employers are able to identify problems early in the process to correct driver behavior. Owners or fleet managers can also run reports to identify individuals who are overworking or misusing equipment. This allows the construction company to not only identify reduced labor costs, but also avoid excessive wear and tear on equipment.

Some insurance providers will provide discounts or reduced deductibles if company equipment has GPS tracking capabilities. Construction companies with a large fleet size may use telematics to streamline organizational communication between office staff and drivers. Overall, telematics software can help improve driver behavior and distracted driving awareness.

Importance of driver safety to a business

Without proper driver safety measures, businesses may be putting the welfare of employees at risk. Implementing a fleet management safety program will help protect against liability from vehicle accidents. Checking MVRs will help ensure that potential hires have a good driving history and are responsible employees.

When creating a culture of distracted driving awareness, it’s important to keep an ongoing and open line of communication with your employees regarding a safety-first mentality. We all know how important it is to your destination—whether you’re traveling for personal reasons or for your job. Training your employees to stay focused on the road and avoid distractions will help them not only reach their destination quickly, but do so safely too.

AOSHA

LEGAL

Key Changes to Amended Construction Arbitration Rules

R. Carson Fisk Construction Attorney Andrews Myers P.C. Austin, TX

rbitration is often lauded for its increased efficiency over litigation, as well as its decisionmakers who generally bring a higher degree of specialization in deciding construction disputes. One of the, if not the, preeminent administrators of arbitration is the American Arbitration Association. It is a preferred administrator of arbitrations, appearing as a check-the-box option in contract forms offered by the American Institute of Architect and ConsensusDocs. In its latest annual report, the AAA noted a fifteen percent increase in case filings, continuing a decade-long growth trajectory. Other data points offered by the AAA include over approximately 300,000 cases, though not limited to construction cases, being resolved in the first half of 2024.

Often, arbitrations administered by a specific arbitral institution are governed by that institutions arbitral rules, which may be industry specific. But rules of various arbitral institutions are not static, and the AAA is no different. Over the past few months, the AAA released amended Construction Industry Arbitration Rules. The new rules, amended and effective on March 1, 2024, offer many updates and, in some instances, fundamentally alter the framework of a case.

For at least approximately twenty years, the default structure for a case administered by the AAA where a claim or counterclaim was $1,000,000 or more was that a panel of three arbitrators—as opposed to one— would hear the case. The parties could agree to something else, but that was the default. Now, under the amended rules, “if the parties do not agree upon the number of arbitrators and a claim or counterclaim involves at least $3,000,000, then three arbitrators shall hear and determine the case; otherwise, one arbitrator shall hear and determine the case.” Associated with this amendment, there are advantages (e.g., cost savings, ease of scheduling) and disadvantages (e.g., less diversity of perspective), and it is important to understand that deference will still be given to an agreement entered into between the parties.

Another major change relates to the joinder of additional parties or consolation of cases. Construction projects, by there nature, often involve multiple contractual chains, many of which are linear (e.g., owner/ contractor/subcontractor, owner/ architect/sub-consultant, etc.). In a

construction case, it may be advantageous to join multiple parties into the case. For example, if a construction project owner pursues a contractor for claims related to defective work, the contractor may wish to join the subcontractors that performed that work, even if the contractor disagrees with the owner’s claim. That process has now been tightened to encourage joinder or consolidation much earlier in the process. In sum, parties must act quickly to seek joinder or consolidation, or will have to prove good cause for the delay and show prejudice if not permitted to proceed to seek joinder or consolidation.

Arbitration is generally viewed as a private, though perhaps not confidential, process. Under the amended rules, the AAA and arbitrators are to keep matters concerning the arbitration or arbitration award confidential. Similarly, arbitrators now have the express authority to enter orders to protect confidentiality as well. Confidentiality is, thus, given much greater attention, and concerns about confidentiality can squarely be addressed by the arbitrator.

While the merits of an entered award may not be revised, the amended rules provide that an arbitrator may clarify his or her award, either on the request of a party or on the arbitrator’s own initiative. Such authority may help in alleviating dissatisfaction or lack of understanding of an award, while still protecting its finality.

The AAA’s Fast Track Procedures generally allows for an accelerated timeline and capped costs in deciding smaller disputes. Over the past several years, that threshold has changed from $75,000 to $100,000, to now $150,000. This means that claims at up to this amount will be more expeditiously—and less expensively— resolved.

Arbitration remains a preferred forum for resolving construction disputes. Always seeking to improve the process and adapt as the industry evolves, the AAA has presented newly amended arbitral rules for construction cases that change the process in many ways. The AAA has offered a helpful summary of the rule changes, available at https://go.adr. org/2024-Construction-Rules-Update. html. Those who prefer arbitration, or have arbitration agreements in place or under negotiation, would be wellserved to be familiar with these rule updates.

INSURANCE

FKnow Your Rights

Michael Middleton Compliance Safety Officer OSHA Austin, TX

ederal law entitles you to a safe workplace. Your employer must keep your workplace free of known health and safety hazards. You have the right to speak up about hazards without fear of retaliation . You also have the right to:

• Receive workplace safety and health training in a language you understand

• Work on machines that are safe

• Refuse to work in a situation in which you would be exposed to a hazard

• Receive required safety equipment, such as gloves or a harness and lifeline for falls

• Be protected from toxic chemicals

• Request an OSHA inspection, and

speak to the inspector

• Report an injury or illness, and get copies of your medical records

• Review records of work-related injuries and illnesses

• See results of tests taken to find workplace hazards

When to File a Complaint

Safety and Health Complaint

If you believe working conditions are unsafe or unhealthful, you may file a confidential complaint with OSHA and ask for an inspection. If possible, tell your employer about your concerns.

August

8/1 – Aimee Dowd / Intertech Commercial Flooring

8/16 – Leticia Fuentes Sanchez / Wilborn Steel

8/16 – Dema Hanson / Baker Triangle

8/16 – Joe Ramon III / JR Ramon Demolition

8/24 – Richard Frank / ESC Safety Consultants

8/25 – Shelley Rappmund / JC Stoddard

8/26 – Lori Green / Acrisure

8/27 – Bob Kilgore / Gardner Law Firm

8/29 – Teri Shelton / S Watts

8/28 – Brad Gillaudeau / Alterman

8/28 – Shane Massick / Robinson General Contractors, Inc.

The Gift that Keeps on Giving

The $17 billion Samsung plant in Taylor continues to drive economic opportunity in the Austin metro area.

Soulbrain Holdings has moved a step closer to building a $575 million phosphoric acid plant on 85 acres it purchased at the RCR Taylor Logistics Park last year. The company has successfully lobbied the Taylor City Council for incentives, all but

cementing the deal.

Soulbrain has committed $175 million in the initial construction phase, and it expects to attempt a second, $400 million construction phase.

The first phase of the project is slated to start in January and be completed by January 2029, with the second phase scheduled to start by January 2029 and be completed by January 2033.

Benefits of Bulk Fuel and Lubricants Delivery

In today’s fast-paced building project growth in the Austin - San Antonio

IH-35 corridor it is imperative that every construction company fleet is powered up and ready to roll to project sites. Fast, efficient refueling helps keeps those projects flowing smoothly. Bulk fuel delivery, on-site fueling, and tank monitoring to ensure equipment is optimizing productivity on the job sites.

Bulk fuel and lubricants delivery to the project site has many benefits:

• Priority Fueling

• M aximize Productivity

Improved Efficiency

• M onitored and Protected

• Q uality Assurance

• Simplified Accounting

M ore for Your Money

Plus, bulk fuel delivery means there is no need to spend time locating a fueling station, mixing additives, or buying unnecessary sundry products. When you need fuel, you can schedule delivery ahead of time to meet the demands of the project. Priority fueling ensures there is no waiting for delivery.

When fuel products are delivered, workers are able to spend their time on the tasks at hand instead of refueling the trucks and tanks. Eliminating the need to refuel at crowded stations improves efficiency. With bulk delivery, fuel levels are constantly monitored and security is provided with a reliable fuel management system. Also part of the system is a single source for account management which makes the administrative processes simpler.

A good product to ensure maximum diesel engine performance is Diesel Max by Bear Oil, a premium diesel. The fuel is pretreated with Power Service additives so that there is no onsite mixing which can be timeconsuming and has safety risks. You can schedule bulk delivery for this product as well.

You can trust Bear Oil Company as a reliable source of fuel and lubricant products. The company guarantees the fuel and lubricants are high-quality so managers can be assured of consistent product delivery for your fleets and equipment at a fair price.

Brad Beldon Beldon Roofing Company

Brad Beldon, self-described CCO (Chief Culture Officer) of Beldon Roofing Company. BELDON Roofing Company is a fourthgeneration, family-owned and operated enterprise that has been an industry leader in roofing and home improvement. Beldon Roofing Company started out as Beldon Roofing and Supply, founded in 1946 by Morry and Ann Beldon.

Construction News: Chief Culture Officer, what does that mean to you?

Brad Beldon: That means that I’m responsible for making sure that everybody enjoys what they do every day. I love that, and I provide them an environment to be successful.

CN: In your opinion, what makes a happy, successful work environment for your people?

BB: I think it’s different for everybody. I mean, you have introverts, and you have extroverts. So you have to foster a culture that works, whether the individual or TEAM member is an introvert or an extrovert. You have to have multiple acceptable solutions for them, that some may not see value in, but others see huge value. We’re all created equally, but we’re all different, right? So we try to find a solution that addresses the lowest point, our most delicate point, our most important point. It might be closing early on Fridays so people can avoid traffic. It might be serving Starbucks coffee in our breakroom. Some people could care less, but there are people who are diehard Starbucks fans. Those little things add up to a happier environment.

CN: A common theme I see with family businesses that last generations is kids get involved at a young age. Was that your case?

BB: So I started working when I was 12. My dad says he used to bring me along when I was four or five years old, and I would ask him which office was going to be mine, but really, I started

when I was 12. My dad started when he was 12. Obviously not the same year. My first job here was cutting the grass, a patch of grass that is about 3 feet wide by 75 feet long. My dad wanted it to look like Wimbledon, and I just wanted to get it cut. Neither one of us got what we wanted! But I got an appreciation for his level of expectation. And I think that cutting the grass taught me a lot about how to improve. My dad used to tell me, “Look, if you watch on TV, at Wimbledon, you can see the lines of the grass. There’s no reason you can’t do the same here.” When I reflect back on that, 48 years ago, and that’s really no different than the philosophy that we continue to aspire to. How do you get better every single day? And never lose focus on, ok, I did well yesterday, what can I improve today?

CN: Tell me more about you. Where were you born?

BB: Right here in San Antonio. My Grandparents were Bostonians, and my grandfather was on General Patton’s staff. They came through here twice on tour duty, with General Patton and they fell in love with San Antonio. My Grandmother was not a fan of the cold weather, and they decided they wanted to move here. The only people they knew in town were the Cheevers, of Broadway Bank. The Cheevers told my grandfather that what San Antonio really needed was a good roofing company, so they set up a roofing supply company. And it was the five of them, my grandparents, my two aunts, and my dad. They didn’t know anybody else.

CN: Amazing. That’s the smartest thing you can do, right? Find a need and fill that need. And here you are, 78 years later!

BB: Exactly. If you think about the basic needs of all people: food, shelter, water. We have the shelter right, right? So everybody needs our services. That’s why we focus on integrity. We believe that people are entitled to a good product at a fair price, and deserve to be treated just like you would want to be treated.

Unfortunately, that’s not as commonplace in the construction industry as it should be.

CN: Tell me more about your family as it is today.

BB: I’ve been happily married to my wife for 36 years. We have three girls and a boy. Our Son works with us in the business, and our three daughters work elsewhere. Our oldest daughter is married and expecting, she’s due in September. And two of our other kids are engaged. We are so proud of them. I went to UT and majored in business, and all of my kids went to UT. All four were business honors graduates, something that the university had never seen before, so that was really special to us as parents.

CN: How did you meet your wife?

BB: We met playing Co-Ed softball in Rockville, Maryland. I got injured, and she felt sorry for me, and the rest is history. We met in June, engaged in November, and married, eloped in April.

CN: That’s so wholesome. What do y’all like to do for fun? Do you like to travel?

BB: Our hobbies are we like to spend time together and spend time with the kids, we’re big homebodies. We’re quite pleased just sitting there enjoying each other’s company watching Netflix. We’re not big travelers, also because we have 5 dogs. Three German Shepherds and two Cockapoos.

CN: What’s the most notable project Beldon has completed lately? What makes you proud?

BB: Our latest big, exciting project was we put the new logo on the Frost Bank Center. I’m proud of how far we’ve come. We spent 30 years getting licensed or registered to work in the 45 states, and we service clients across most of the United States. That was a lot of work. I’m proud of the company culture we have built. In 78 years we’ve had 78 team members who have been with us for 20 years, and 35 of them who have been with us for 30 years,

CN: What do you see in Beldon’s future?

BB: Just to continue serving the people in my company, the community, and giving back however we can. For our 50th anniversary, 28 years ago, we built 50 houses with Habitat for Humanity. We have donated over 300,000 dollars to the Susan G Komen foundation. But I guess one fault that I have, is that I don’t look much further than tomorrow. Because, you know, all my coaches say you need a five-year plan. I understand that, but I tend to believe that if I focus more on today, I’m going to get more out of improvement today, and then I’ll do the same thing again tomorrow.

CN: You seem like such a positive person. What’s your secret?

BB: My belief is very simple. You can wake up every single day, mad at the world, and woe is me- or you can wake up every single day and say, I woke up today. Everything else is icing on the cake, because not everybody wakes up. So if you want to go through life feeling sorry for yourself or not caring about others, that’s your decision. But for me I’m gonna wake up every day. I’m gonna make a difference. My philosophy is that we work to make a difference one day at a time, one person at a time, and the rest all falls into place. -ndw

After a long hot day on the links in Lake Charles for the Solar Supply golf tournament, Lance Lackey, A/C Today; Texoma; Chris McCaskill, Texoma; Wade Strahan, Southwest HVAC & Quitman Moon, Solar Supply won 3rd Place, Low Net. Well done, fellas!

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