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Small Business Enterprise Program Opens Doors for Subcontractors

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In the Subcontractor Community Spotlight: National Hispanic Professional Organization

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Journal Behind The

Publisher’s Message

MR. D-MARS

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

This is a new year filled with endless opportunities for small businesses and subcontractors to succeed. Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the nation, and we understand that diversity in the workforce will help to continue to strengthen the Houston economy. This issue of Subcontractors USA is filled with information that can help get you to the next level in your business and succeed as a subcontractor.

VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine Tiffany Black

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Dawn Paul

This month’s cover story is on the Fort Bend ISD. With the Fort Bend ISD needing to meet the needs of the growing District, their Board of Trustees recently approved a Small Business Enterprise Program for a $484M bond to construct 4 schools for the 2017-2018 year. This bond will not only address the District’s growth, but improve safety and security in schools and upgrade the District’s technology infrastructure. With this project kicking off this year, subcontractors and small businesses have a great opportunity to expand their business.

Thank you for supporting Subcontractors USA. When you support this journal, you are supporting more than just this publication, you are supporting the growth of Houston in the areas of engineering, architecture, construction, transportation and IT. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM Dyvl Davis

PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

Contents

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Angel Rosa

DISTRIBUTION

Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Helen Callier Subcontractors USA News Provider

Fort Bend ISD Small Business Enterprise Program..............................................................................................................................4-5 The Ten Top Ways to Maximize Your Experience...................................................................................................................................... 6 In the Subcontractor Community............................................................................................................................................................. 8-9 The Houston Airport System.........................................................................................................................................................................10 5 Tips That Will Help Subcontractors and the Small Business Community..................................................................................... 11 Subcontractors and Small Businesses Can Cut Energy......................................................................................................................... 11 Subcontractors Can Win Jobs and Get Paid!............................................................................................................................................ 12 Industrial Welding Academy December 2015 Graduates...................................................................................................................14-17 News from the Texas Workforce Commission.........................................................................................................................................18 Port of Houston Authority.............................................................................................................................................................................20 Cost-Effective Subcontracting Tips............................................................................................................................................................ 22 Get Ready for Women in Construction Week!.........................................................................................................................................26

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Fort Bend

ISD Opens Doors for the Small Business and Subcontractor Community

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By Subcontractors USA News Provider ith Houston being one of the largest cities in the United States, it’s no surprise that there will be many construction opportunities for subcontractors and small businesses to be a part of. With the Fort Bend ISD needing to meet the needs of the growing District, the community and to properly educate the Fort Bend student body, their Board of Trustees recently approved a Small Business Enterprise Program (SBEP) for a $484M bond to construct 4 schools for the 2017-2018 year. This bond will not only address the District’s growth, but improve safety and security in schools and upgrade the District’s technology infrastructure.

With this project kicking off this year, subcontractors and small businesses have a great opportunity to take advantage of this project that will expand their business and open doors for them to gain other lucrative opportunities.

In November 2014, the Fort Bend ISD voters approved this $484M bond by a 74% margin, which is the largest bond in the District’s history. The

Bond Program construction projects include spending a total of approximately $375M in construction and renovation projects. The Small Business Enterprise Program for construction services projects is in the amount of $50,000 or greater. “Our Fort Bend ISD Board members approved the Small Business Enterprise Program and are strong advocates of small business participation in the District’s construction contracting,” says Dr. Charles Dupre, Fort Bend

What is projected date for construction?

The Notice to Proceed and the projected date for construction for Phase I is projected to be no later than June 2016.

How will you publicize opportunities?

We will publicize opportunities through newspapers, the Fort Bend ISD website, the National Association of Minority Contractors, the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council, the Fort Bend County Chamber of Commerce, and other chambers of commerce.

What are the goals for this program?

Our goal is to encourage and support small

ISD Superintendent of Schools. “Fort Bend ISD intends to continue to reach out directly to small businesses and let them know about the District’s program well in advance of the start of construction projects. The Business Opportunity Team will conduct monthly workshops and meetings where certifying agencies can assist small business representatives with their certification process.”

Fort Bend ISD will open four new elementary schools as part of the 2014 Bond projects. Anne Sullivan Elementary in the Riverstone

Community will open in August 2016.

It is the first new school built as part of the 2014 Bond Program. In the Sienna Plantation community, the District plans to open Elementary 48 in August 2017, which is being built adjacent to Middle School 15. Elementary 49 in Harvest Green along the Grand Parkway corridor near Travis High School will also open in August 2017. Also near the Grand Parkway, Elementary 50 is planned to open for the 2017-2018 school year. In addition, one of the construction projects is a 2007 Bond Project, Middle School 15 in Sienna Plantation that will open in December 2017. Classroom additions at Cornerstone, Sienna Crossing, Scanlan Oaks, Jan Schiff, Holley, and Oyster Creek Elementary Schools are also part of the new construction projects set to begin in June 2016. Other safety and security projects in Phase I include the construction of security vestibules, emergency generators, and window film.

“We want to make sure that everyone in the construction services industry –

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business opportunities in the District’s construction contracting. We want the program to grow into other areas of service contracting.

What is your minority participation goal?

Our minority participation goal is 25%.

How will subcontractors be able to stay current on your guidelines and opportunities?

We will host monthly workshops, and information will be available on Fort Bend ISD’s website so subcontractors can stay up to date on this program.

MANY SMALL AND MINORITY BUSINESSES WORRY ABOUT NOT RECEIVING OPPORTUNITIES AND THE PROCESS TO BID BEING FAIR. TALK ABOUT FORT BEND ISD'S PROCESS.

Fort Bend ISD intends to reach out directly to subcontractors and let them know this is the District’s program, and we take ownership of it. Not only will we host monthly workshops, but also invite representatives from the certifying agencies we will recognize. We will assist the subcontractors with their certification process. There will also be a hotline for subcontractors to contact us directly with problems and concerns they may encounter.

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Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees. “As a Board of Trustees, we are committed to the Small Business Enterprise Program and providing opportunities for small businesses to learn more about how they can participate in the District’s new construction and renovation projects.”

prime contractors, sub-contractors and small businesses, as well as program managers – knows about the Fort Bend ISD Small Business Enterprise Program, its key features and how to participate in the District’s bond program construction projects,” says Fort Bend ISD Board Member and past Board President Jim Rice.

Constructionof ofnew newschools schoolsand Construction and classroom additions: classroom additions:

Keyfeatures featuresofofthe theFord FortBend BendISD Key ISD Small Business Enterprise Small Business Enterprise ProProgram (SBEP) designed to ingram (SBEP) designed to include clude certified small businesscertified small businesses in es in major construction and major construction and renovarenovation tion projectsprojects include:include: • The SBEP is a goal-oriented program, requiring contractors to whom Fort Bend ISD awards prime contracts for construction services to use Good Faith Efforts to use certified small businesses as sub-contractors.

• Fort Bend ISD, not the prime contractors, is the “owner” and responsible for the SBEP. • The program applies only to SBEPeligible contracts, defined as all contracts for construction services over $50,000, except contracts for sole-source items, federally funded contracts, contracts with other governmental entities, and those contracts that are otherwise prohibited by applicable law or expressly exempted by Fort Bend ISD. • The SBEP is a race and gender-neutral program.

• Board Policy CV (local) contains an annual SBEP participation goal of twenty-five (25%) percent of the dollar amount of all SBEP-eligible construction contracts subcontracted to certified small businesses.

• Fort Bend ISD recognizes that actual participation may vary based on legal requirements, subcontracting opportunities, availability of small businesses, and price competitiveness. The participation goal may change from year to year based on all relevant factors considered by the Fort Bend ISD Board of Trustees.

• To participate, small businesses must be certified by an agency or organization whose certification is recognized

by Fort Bend ISD. Certification is based on the firm’s gross revenues or number of employees averaged over the past three years, inclusive of any affiliates as defined by 13 C.F.R. § 121.103, and does not exceed the size standards as defined pur-

suant to Section 3 of the Small Business Act and 13 C.F.R. § 121.201.

Fort Bend ISD, not the prime contractors, is the “owner” of the SBEP, and they own and are responsible for the program. “In the proposals themselves, the prime contractors will make a commitment to secure small business subcontractor participation up to the 25% goal. Fort Bend ISD will follow up to ensure the goals of the program are met,” says Robert Fazakerly, Director of the Fort Bend ISD Business Opportunity Services Team.

TheSmall SmallBusiness BusinessEnterprise Enterprise The Program provides benefits to Program provides benefits to small businesses that include: small businesses that include: • Proving assistance to small businesses and contractors by providing information and support, including workshops where certifying agencies will be invited to assist small businesses with the certification process.

• Reducing the size of contracts for construction services, when feasible, to allow small businesses a better opportunity to complete.

• Assisting small businesses by of-

How will this program help educate subcontractors to help give them the best opportunity to receive a contract with this program?

We want to keep subcontractors ahead of the game, so they know in advance what business opportunities will be coming up. We will be looking at historical data on which primes are doing well with SBE subcontracting and which ones are not. The SBEP will always be an important piece of the pre-proposal conferences with the prime contractors.

Talk about the bidding process?

Once a bid is released, all correspondence will be

fering training and information regarding contractor insurance and surety bonding.

• Requiring prospective vendors to provide written assurance of small business participation in their proposals for SBEP-eligible contracts.

• Providing workshops and training sessions on issues frequently encountered by small businesses during the proposal for SBEP-eligible contracts, • Maintaining an updated small business directory and source list(s) to help identify qualified and available small businesses, and providing information on the Fort Bend ISD website about opportunities to do business with Fort Bend ISD, and • Providing information on the Fort Bend ISD website about SBEP-eligible procurements.

The estimated budget for the construction work from both funding sources, including soft costs, is valued at approximately $436M. “Our community overwhelmingly supported these bond projects, and we look forward to beginning construction on three new elementary schools and one middle school this summer,” says Grayle James, President,

focused through one project manager who will be responsible for keeping the proceedings open and fair to all. SBE scoring will be conducted separately from the scoring for such things as quality and schedule so that the SBE piece will stand on its own merits.

What certifications will you accept?

We will accept certifications from the City of Houston, the Port of Houston Authority, and METRO (Houston).

What are important dates to remember for Phase I of this project?

-Pre-Proposal – Advertise as early as February 2016.

-Bid/Proposal – Due date will be March/April 2016.

• Elementary School 47 in Riverstone, named Anne Sullivan Elementary, is currently under construction and scheduled to open in August 2016.

The Construction Manager is BartlettCocke.

• Elementary School 48 in Sienna Plantation is scheduled to open in August 2017.

• Elementary School 49 in Harvest Green near Travis High School is scheduled to open in August 2017.

• Elementary School 50 in the Grand Vista is scheduled to open in August 2017.

• Classroom additions at Cornerstone, Sienna Crossing, Scanlan Oaks, Jan Schiff, Holley, and Oyster Creek are scheduled to open in Spring 2017.

• Middle School 15, which is a 2007 Bond Project, is scheduled to open in early 2017 and will be constructed on the same site as Elementary School 48.

• Fort Bend ISD Career Center (location TBD) is scheduled to open in Fall 2018.

Facility FacilityLife LifeCycle Cycleand andDeficiency Deficiency projects include: projects include: • Roofing • HVAC Replacement • Painting • Flooring • Emergency Generators • Security Vestibules • Security Window Film • Access Control The Fort Bend ISD’s Business Opportunity Services Team will hold a kick-off meeting on Tuesday, January 19, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at the Fort Bend ISD Purchasing and Facilities Management Office located at 555 Julie Rivers Drive in Sugar Land, Texas 77478. The meeting will provide information on “How to Do Business.” For additional information, contact the Business Opportunity Services hotline at (281) 634-1841.

-April and May 2016 – The Fort Bend ISD Board will review and consider action on these contracts.

Talk about the additional phases and upcoming projects over the next few years.

-Phase I in 2016 includes new construction and classroom additions, as well as some life cycle and deficiency work.

-Phase II in 2017 includes life cycle and deficiency work.

-Phase III in 2018 includes life cycle and deficiency work, as well as the construction of the Fort Bend ISD Career Center.

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SUBCONTRACTORS USA

PART TWO OF A TWO-PART SERIES

The Ten Top Ways to Maximize Your Experience During a Small Business Training Event 2. Punt the words “can’t,” “won’t” and “no” in the rear.

3. Be fully engaged.

4. Listen.

5. Help other scholars.

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By Helen Callier Contributing Writer

n Part One of this two-part series, the importance of small businesses being clear on their reason for attending a training event and getting what they paid for from participating in a training event were discussed. It was also shared that gone are the days a small business leader can throw dollars out the window and not gain maximum return on their training investment.

Each year, there are hundreds of opportunities for small business leaders to fork over their hard-earned dollars to use for training.

To make sure your workshop investments are wisely selected and your money is well spent, below is the first group of five ways to maximize your experience during a small business training event:

1. Be open to new ideas and perspectives.

And to continue to assist you making a decision, below is the second group of five ways to get what you paid for from a small business training event:

6. Think BIG and have a vision.

When asked during her seasoned years what was worse than being blind, deaf and mute, Helen Keller responded to a young reporter by saying, “Having no vision.” Helen Keller touched the lives of many across the world, visited kings, queens and presidents, plus created an environment where millions of people with disabilities can live a fulfilling life. While you are in a training event, think BIG and write a vision that when achieved, your small business will have created a multitude of jobs and caused your community’s economy to prosper.

7. Keep a journal.

While attending a training event that spans several days or months, writing in a journal can be helpful in capturing your

truest thoughts about you as a leader and your small business. There is no need to be concerned on the length of the entry. The very aspect of getting your ideas, sketches, etc. on paper is powerful enough. Once you complete your training event, your journal book becomes a valuable tool during your time of reflection and while experiencing any hiccups as you continue on your path of fulfilling your small business goals.

8. Have fun and laugh – a lot!

Laughter does the heart and body good.

It releases any strains, pressures and anxieties. It is a natural medicine that opens your mind and spirit to receive. So, laugh at yourself, and enjoy a laugh with other scholars. Life is meant to be fun.

9. Work like a steam engine.

Often times, most people attending a training event fail to complete the training assignment. They take the workbook to their office, and if it makes it inside their of-

fice, it then finds a new resting place on the corner of the desk – soon to be covered with papers, tablets and magazines. To truly maximize your experience during a training event, work like a steam engine. Take in new information like water; heat it up by completing the exercises that same day, and then quickly apply the new information or tools in your small business. This steam engine learning and application strategy allows you to complete your training event with a growth plan or the particular tool you invested in to receive.

10. Be grateful and say “thank you.”

When someone is helping you to grow your small business and to achieve your life’s dream, saying “thank you” to your instructor or the person who is assisting shows not only respect, but it shows your heart of gratitude. “Gratitude wakes up your surroundings. Be grateful today.” – Oprah Winfrey That’s it for now on suggestions to maximize your investment and participation in training events to help develop you as the leader and your small business.

To find out more about Helen Callier and how she can help your small business succeed, please visit www.yourmoneyisinthefol lowup.com.

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In the Subcontractor Community…

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The Houston Airport System

Breaks Ground on New Training Center

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By Subcontractors USA News Provider

uilding facilities and infrastructure for the future requires a construction workforce with current and expansive knowledge and skills, and the Houston Airport System (HAS) took another major step forward toward achieving that goal when it recently broke ground for the renovation of a new training center designed to enhance the skill safety and construction skills set of various employees working on HAS-designated construction projects.

The Houston Area Construction Education Collaborative (HACEC) training center, located in a former warehouse along Lee Road at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), will provide a mandatory training classes where OSHA and HAS safety and security guidelines and requirements are laid out in a detailed fashion. Both HAS employees and contractor employees working on HASdesignated construction projects will be introduced to the dynamic environment of working on an airport prior to being actually mobilized on their job site. The educational collaborative and training center also will be available to HAS and contractor employees as they look to upgrade their craft skills by receiving training in various construction-related crafts.

“With the tremendous growth of the Houston Airport System, a well-trained and prepared workforce is vital. This new education training center is going to help ensure construction on these important projects is completed in the most efficient and safe manner possible, and also give the Houston region a more powerful and dynamic workforce, thanks to the craft skills that are sharpened at the new facility,” says former Mayor Annise Parker.

The 40,000 square foot facility will feature a mix of classroom, laboratory and office spaces and provide a variety of construction craft skill training, including: • Project management • Heavy equipment operation • Concrete and asphalt • Steel/iron work • Metal framing • Pipe fitting • Welding • HVACR • Sheet metal • Electrical • Fire sprinkler • Plumbing • Carpentry and masonry • Flooring • Roofing All training provided will be certified through appropriate organizations, like

the National Center for Construction Education or OSHA, and will offer a unique three-step training process that includes safety training, construction skills training and hands-on internships.

“With the growth at all of our airports, it is essential that the Houston Airport System has an available and well-educated, thoroughly prepared and highly qualified workforce to ensure the success and quality of our various construction projects,” Houston Aviation Director Mario C. Diaz says. “This new training center is proactive in achieving that goal and will ensure — whether that person is employed by the airport system or a private sector company — that the professionals working on these projects have a solid grasp on the skills needed to perform their job safely, as well as skill sets that keep pace with constantly evolving industry practices.”

Under a plan approved by Houston City Council in January 2015, the HACEC entered into a mutually beneficial partnership between HAS and a coalition of regional institutions of higher learning, including: Lone Star College System (LSCS), Houston Community College (HCC), and San Jacinto College District (SJCD).

Because of its vested interest, HAS is playing a direct role in the funding required to launch and operate the training program. The agreement calls for HAS to provide funding support for the training center by making financial contributions based on each contractor-employee labor hour actually worked by construction firms engaged in the HAS-designated capital projects.

The benefits from this innovative initiative will be seen in a number of important areas. For example, the extended training is expected to reduce the likelihood of construction related injuries, thereby reducing the likelihood of lost-time work injuries and may result in a reduction of the

airport system’s insurance program premiums. The training also provides craft training to construction employees, improving that person’s job-related capabilities and earning power. And finally, in a very competitive construction labor market, these improved craft skills will translate into support of the greater Houston community and improve local engagement in the HAS-designated capital projects.

The program comes at a pivotal time for HAS, as detailed plans continue to move forward in the construction of a new international terminal building at IAH. The agreement guarantees the program through the life of that project — slated for completion in 2022 — but does not limit it to that designated period of time.

For more information, please visit fly 2houston.com.

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5 Tips

That Will Help Subcontractors and the Small Business Community Make the Most of 2016

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By Subcontractors USA News Provider s there any time of year more important for a small business than right now? The business you do in these months will go a long way toward not only determining your day-to-day success, but the very outlook for the rest of 2016. So how do you make sure your small business is up to the task and makes the most of the here and now?

Small businesses everywhere are asking these same questions, and to help, Susan Solovic, The Small Business Expert, offers these helpful tips.

• Keep in touch. Connecting with someone is a good idea any time of year, so why not pick up the phone and see if you can schedule a coffee or lunch meeting for the New Year, especially if it’s an old colleague or a customer who has fallen off your radar. You may also consider sending holiday cards and greetings to everyone on your list to close out 2015 right. Staples Copy and Print has customizable stationary and cards you need to send the perfect message at the perfect time. They also have all of the marketing materials, product customization and graphic insertion options you could ever need, making it easy for you to make more happen.

• Tie up loose ends. Get out your “to-do” list, find the projects you never had time for, and jump on them when the New Year arrives. Mark them off your list and start 2016 with some momentum. And if your project list includes upgrading your business with some new tech, Staples Tech Services

services can keep your small business running smoothly with the latest tech that will improve your productivity and save your company money in the long run.

• Review successes and failures.

What worked well for you this past year? What didn’t work? What do you think you can do better? The New Year represents the chance for a clean slate.

Fill that slate with the things that work!

• Read and learn. You’ll probably have some extra down time when the

New Year rolls in. Spend a few minutes searching the Internet for lists of “mustread” business books. Find a couple that look like they’d be a good fit for your business and commit to reading them in the first part of 2016. In the same manner, learn a new skill. Experiment with social media or learn how to manage an online marketing campaign • Start tax preparation. Review your bookkeeping system and make sure everything is up to date. Start organizing your files in anticipation of

tax season. If you get organized now, the process will be much easier come tax time.

The New Year is the perfect time to say goodbye to a successful 2015 and prepare for the year ahead. Apply the tips from Solovic and you’ll be ready to make 2016 your business’s best year yet. To learn more about finding the right tech solutions and everything else your small business needs, visit Staples. com. – BPT

Subcontractors and Small Businesses Can Cut Energy & Save Money with These Tips

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By Subcontractors USA News Provider ompanies across the nation are looking for ways to become more energy efficient, and small and mediumsized businesses (SMBs) are no exception. Reducing energy consumption is one of the top areas where SMB leaders need more guidance — up 14 percent from the previous year, according to the 2015 Cox Conserves Sustainability Survey.

Energy costs are among the largest business expenses for any company.

Simple conservation efforts will go a long way to lower the power costs of your current operations.

"More companies than ever have said they want information on sustainability," says Cox Enterprises Executive Vice President Alex Taylor. "Our survey showed that some SMBs often find it

difficult to make or justify the investment in sustainability programs or prioritize them over other demands and initiatives. From our own experience with the Cox Conserves program, I can confirm that sustainability is as good for our business as it is for the environment."

Here are some quick tips that can help any sized business improve

efficiency and cost savings.

1. Know your baseline. Your utility company can provide detailed usage records that show usage and cost totals, as well as helpful details like peak usage times. This data helps you measure your progress.

2. Take advantage of savings. Government agencies offer a variety of tax credits, rebates and other incentives to

support energy efficiency. Visit energy. gov/savings to find programs that may be available to your business.

3. Pay attention. Take note of the natural energy sources specific to your geographic location. Sun or wind energy technologies may be great money-saving solutions. If the sun sufficiently lights your office or meeting room, make a point of keeping the blinds open and the electric lights off.

4. Look at lighting. Lighting retrofits are a simple and effective solution that do not interrupt regular operations and often offer a short return on investment.

5. Encourage employees. Turning off computers and other office equipment when not in use is an easy way employees can make an impact.

These tips can start your business on a journey toward becoming a more efficient and eco-friendly organization. The benefits start at protecting the earth and extend to enhancing the bottom line. – BPT

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12 January 2016

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Subcontractors Can Win Jobs and Get Paid!

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By Subcontractors USA News Provider f you are a subcontractor, the process that prime contractors use to choose who to hire may seem a little unclear to you.

However, understanding what prime contractors look for in subcontractors is a big step toward landing more jobs and getting more income. If you’re looking for ways to improve your next bid and start winning jobs, read some helpful tips below from FieldLens:

Know What Your Strengths Are Bidding on a subcontracting job is extremely competitive, and often the prime contractor can’t see any difference between different subcontractors other than price. That’s why bidding can sometimes feel like a race to the bottom — who can offer the lowest fee for the most work. You can help your bid stand out by applying a little marketing know-how to your approach.

This starts with knowing what exactly you do differently from your competitors that makes you the better choice.

Whether you regularly attend training to keep up with the latest procedures, have a bigger crew to get the job done faster, or have a proven safety record, setting yourself apart from the competition can help your bid make its way to the top.

Brush Up on Your Marketing Skills

Once you start thinking that subcontracting jobs are awarded solely based on price, it can be easy to fall into the trap of thinking that marketing doesn’t really matter for you. But the truth is, a good marketing plan is just as important for subcontractors as it is for any other business.

Start by knowing who you’re marketing to — including who the decision makers are and what their biggest needs and problems are. This will likely involve more than one person at each firm, since most prime contractors have multiple decision makers for choosing subcontractors. Once you’ve identified them, address their specific needs and problems in your marketing materials. For example, learning about upcoming jobs early enough to form an accurate bid is one challenge most prime contractors face. By forming relationships with prime contractors and letting them know about new jobs you hear about, you can make their job easier — and their appreciation will move your name a little farther up their subcontractor list. You’ll have to know what your competitors are doing, and how you’re different from the crowd. Successful marketing relies on being able to show how you’re different, and how you can make your client’s life easier.

ties related to your field that could affect the build.

• Offer ongoing training programs to your team to make sure their skills are up-to-date and then publicize that fact. If you have a website and social media accounts, these are good places to mention your ongoing training efforts.

Be Professional

Learn Successful Marketing Tactics Here are a few ways you can market your services to a prime contractor. Note that not all of these involve actually sending marketing materials — much of the marketing you do comes from the reputation you build on previous jobs.

• Keep an eye out for upcoming jobs and forward valuable leads to the prime contractors with whom you have a relationship (as described earlier).

• On jobs you win, help the prime contractor give presentations to the owners — cementing your reputation as an asset to a job can help you get an edge over competitors.

• Point out potential pitfalls to your prime contractor — such as legal liabili-

This final point may seem obvious, but presenting a professional image is crucial to your long-term success as a subcontractor. Make sure your finances are in order so you’ll never seem desperate to get paid. Most prime contractors have a regular payment schedule, and many operate on net 30 payment terms for subs — if you insist on immediate payment because of various business requirements on your end, you’re unlikely to win another bid from that prime contractor. Conduct weekly safety meetings so your crew can help ensure jobsite safety, and things like making sure your guys clean up after every day’s work. Leaving a cluttered jobsite will reflect poorly on you, and your prime contractor will likely remember it when the next bid comes around.

These are just a few ways you can boost your chances of winning bids and making more money. For more tips, please visit www.fieldlens.com.

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14 January 2016

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Subcontractors USA

Congratulates Industrial Welding Academy’s December 2015 Graduates

By Dawn Paul

Associate Editor

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ndustrial Welding Academy (IWA) and Andre and Miranda Horn are shining examples of community builders, because they are paying it forward and providing opportunities for the next generation to succeed. The Horns have not only made IWA a successful business, but also a place to get a second chance at a career and life.

Recently, IWA held its graduation for the December 2015 class. Council Member Robert Gallegos, local leaders and the community were in attendance, celebrating this accomplishment of young people in our community. IWA does more than help young people obtain certification to start on a positive path to success, but it is helping build a better community.

fundamentals and techniques of welding from Certified Welding Educators (CWEs) credentialed by the American Welding Society (AWS). IWA and the Horns are providing young men and women an opportunity to gain higher education in the welding industry.

For more about the Industrial Welding Academy, please visit www.iwat raining.com.

Industrial Welding Academy: Their Approach to Welding Education IWA is located in East Houston. IWA’s impressive facility consists of offices, classrooms, and a welding lab. The welding school at IWA is state-of-the-art, and it comfortably accommodates fifteen students per instructor. Because IWA wants to prepare their students to be in the best possible position when entering the welding profession, their facility is designed to resemble and inspire on the job settings. IWA is built to accommodate realistic welding positions and environment which includes; out of position welding, jack stand welding, on the scaffold welding, simulation of pipe rack welding layout and fit up, oxy-fuel, and thermal cutting scenarios. In addition, each student is assigned a welding machine and welding booth for utilization during the course.

Providing individual booths for students allows them to utilize their skills individually and collectively. IWA is committed to providing quality training and education based on welding industry needs.

Industrial Welding Academy: Quality Instruction and Education At IWA, students are learning the

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Industrial Welding Academy December 2015 Graduates

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Industrial Welding Academy December 2015 Graduates

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Industrial Welding Academy December 2015 Graduates

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News from the

Texas Workforce Commission Texas Added 16,300 Jobs in November

State has experienced job growth in 9 of 11 months in 2015

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

A

USTIN - Texas employers expanded their payrolls in November with the addition of 16,300 seasonally adjusted nonfarm jobs, marking the ninth month of job increases for Texas in 2015.

“Texas employers added 179,300 jobs over the past year, highlighting the diversity of the Texas economy and job market,” said TWC Chairman Andres Alcantar. “Job seekers are encouraged to pursue these opportunities with employers by contacting their local Workforce Solutions office for assistance.”

Texas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 4.6 percent in November, up from 4.4 percent in October, and remained below the national average of 5.0 percent.

“I’m pleased to see that the Construction industry continued to see growth in Texas in November,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Ronny Congleton. “This is a good indicator that the state’s economy is growing and that job opportunities will continue to increase.”

The Construction industry accounted for more than half of November’s net job gains with the addition of 9,000 jobs, marking that industry’s fourth straight month of growth. The Professional and Business Service industry also added jobs for the fourth month in a row, adding 5,500 positions in November.

“Texas employers continue to lead the good economic news for our state,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Ruth R. Hughs. “The fact that our state has added jobs for nine of the eleven months of 2015 is a credit to the diversity and resilience of employers in Texas.”

The Amarillo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) recorded the month’s lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs with a non-seasonally adjusted rate of 3.2 percent, followed by the Austin-Round Rock and Lubbock MSAs with rates of 3.3 and 3.4 percent, respectively, in November.

Employment estimates released by TWC are produced in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. All estimates are subject to revision. To access this and more employment data, visit www.tracer2.com.

Civilian Labor Force Estimates for Texas Metropolitan Statistical Areas Not Seasonally Adjusted (In Thousands) November 2015

United States Texas Abilene Amarillo Austin-Round Rock Beaumont-Port Arthur Brownsville-Harlingen College Station-Bryan Corpus Christi Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington Dallas-Plano-Irving MD Fort Worth-Arlington MD El Paso Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land Killeen-Temple Laredo Longview Lubbock McAllen-Edinburg-Mission Midland Odessa San Angelo San Antonio-New Braunfels Sherman-Denison Texarkana Tyler Victoria Waco Wichita Falls

October 2015

November 2014

C.L.F.

Emp.

Unemp.

Rate

C.L.F.

Emp.

Unemp.

Rate

C.L.F.

Emp.

Unemp.

Rate

157,340.0 13,100.3 75.6 128.8 1,063.6 182.2 163.8 119.5 212.9 3,591.3 2,405.2 1,186.1 342.0 3,249.6 166.2 112.9 105.7 153.0 335.6 96.8 86.5 55.0 1,107.7 60.0 63.1 101.5 50.7 116.6 63.5

149,766.0 12,506.6 72.7 124.7 1,028.5 169.8 152.2 115.3 201.3 3,448.5 2,311.6 1,137.0 324.2 3,090.9 158.3 107.5 100.4 147.9 308.9 93.4 82.3 52.7 1,065.9 57.6 60.1 96.8 48.5 111.8 60.6

7,573.0 593.7 2.9 4.1 35.1 12.4 11.6 4.2 11.5 142.8 93.6 49.2 17.8 158.8 7.9 5.4 5.3 5.2 26.7 3.4 4.2 2.4 41.8 2.4 3.0 4.7 2.2 4.8 2.9

4.8 4.5 3.9 3.2 3.3 6.8 7.1 3.5 5.4 4.0 3.9 4.1 5.2 4.9 4.8 4.8 5.0 3.4 8.0 3.5 4.8 4.3 3.8 4.0 4.8 4.6 4.4 4.1 4.6

157,313.0 13,069.1 75.4 128.8 1,057.5 181.6 162.6 119.0 212.2 3,579.2 2,395.9 1,183.3 340.5 3,241.7 165.8 111.6 105.0 153.0 332.3 96.4 86.3 55.0 1,105.8 59.8 63.1 101.1 50.6 116.4 63.3

149,716.0 12,485.2 72.5 124.7 1,022.1 169.6 151.7 114.8 201.1 3,436.2 2,302.1 1,134.1 322.7 3,087.7 157.8 106.3 99.8 147.8 307.8 93.0 82.2 52.7 1,064.0 57.4 60.0 96.5 48.4 111.6 60.4

7,597.0 583.9 2.9 4.1 35.4 11.9 11.0 4.2 11.0 143.0 93.8 49.3 17.9 154.0 8.0 5.3 5.3 5.2 24.5 3.4 4.1 2.3 41.7 2.4 3.1 4.7 2.2 4.8 2.9

4.8 4.5 3.9 3.2 3.3 6.6 6.7 3.5 5.2 4.0 3.9 4.2 5.2 4.8 4.8 4.8 5.0 3.4 7.4 3.5 4.7 4.2 3.8 4.0 5.0 4.6 4.4 4.1 4.6

156,297.0 13,202.8 77.1 132.0 1,058.4 181.9 166.5 121.8 214.1 3,595.7 2,395.5 1,200.2 347.9 3,289.8 171.0 113.0 106.7 154.9 337.0 96.8 85.4 56.3 1,102.5 61.1 64.7 103.5 50.8 118.7 66.0

147,666.0 12,614.3 74.2 127.7 1,019.2 169.5 154.2 117.6 203.8 3,438.7 2,290.9 1,147.8 327.9 3,147.4 162.0 108.1 102.3 149.6 311.1 94.5 83.0 54.3 1,058.0 58.5 61.2 98.8 49.0 113.4 63.2

8,630.0 588.6 2.9 4.2 39.2 12.4 12.2 4.2 10.3 157.0 104.6 52.4 20.0 142.4 9.0 4.9 4.5 5.3 25.9 2.3 2.4 2.0 44.5 2.6 3.5 4.7 1.8 5.3 2.8

5.5 4.5 3.7 3.2 3.7 6.8 7.4 3.4 4.8 4.4 4.4 4.4 5.7 4.3 5.3 4.3 4.2 3.4 7.7 2.4 2.9 3.5 4.0 4.2 5.5 4.6 3.5 4.5 4.3

Texas Nonagricultural Wage And Salary Employment Seasonally Adjusted

Nov 2015*

Oct 2015

Nov 2014

Oct ‘15 to Nov ‘15

Nov ‘14 to Nov ‘15

INDUSTRY TITLE

Absolute Change

Percent Change

Absolute Change

Percent Change

Total Nonagricultural Total Private Goods Producing

11,882,600 10,020,500 1,822,100

11,866,300 10,007,800 1,811,400

11,703,300 9,867,000 1,877,700

16,300 12,700 10,700

0.1 0.1 0.6

179,300 153,500 -55,600

1.5 1.6 -3.0

286,100 680,600 855,400

284,500 671,600 855,300

316,400 669,900 891,400

1,600 9,000 100

0.6 1.3 0.0

-30,300 10,700 -36,000

-9.6 1.6 -4.0

10,060,500

10,054,900

9,825,600

5,600

0.1

234,900

2.4

2,381,300 206,600 712,000 1,604,300 1,610,700 1,267,100 416,400 1,862,100

2,384,700 207,200 709,200 1,598,800 1,611,400 1,269,400 415,700 1,858,500

2,339,100 203,800 710,300 1,564,900 1,546,900 1,212,100 412,200 1,836,300

-3,400 -600 2,800 5,500 -700 -2,300 700 3,600

-0.1 -0.3 0.4 0.3 0.0 -0.2 0.2 0.2

42,200 2,800 1,700 39,400 63,800 55,000 4,200 25,800

1.8 1.4 0.2 2.5 4.1 4.5 1.0 1.4

Mining and Logging Construction Manufacturing Service Providing Trade, Transportation, and Utilities Information Financial Activities Professional and Business Services Education and Health Services Leisure and Hospitality Other Services Government

The Texas Workforce Commission is a state agency dedicated to helping Texas employers, workers and communities prosper economically. For details on TWC and the services it offers in coordination with its network of local workforce development boards, call 512-463-8942 or visit www.texasworkforce.org.

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2 Million TEUs: New Container Record Set by Port of Houston Authority

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

H

OUSTON, TX (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Port of Houston Authority has surpassed 2 million twenty-footequivalent units (TEUs) handled for the year, setting a new record and solidifying its position as the leading container port on the U.S. Gulf Coast.

TEU is an industry standard measurement for shipping containers.

The unprecedented performance so far in 2015 beats the previous record of 1.96 million TEUs set for all of last year.

The milestone was highlighted recently during a brief ceremony at the Port Authority’s Bayport Container Terminal.

If the containers were laid end to end, two million TEUs would reach more than 7,575 miles, or approximately the distance between Houston and Shanghai, China.

“We are so pleased to witness this significant milestone in the port's history as we continue to strive to advance the Port of Houston and solidify its position as America's distribution hub today and for generations to come,” Port Commission Chairman Janiece Longoria says.

Executive Director Roger Guenther says, “Having the two millionth TEU crossing our docks today illustrates the steadfast guidance of the Port Authority’s leadership through the Port Commission and diligence of our staff to deliver exemplary service to our customers and validates that the port is ready for the increased cargo…and bigger things to come.”

Projections indicate continued strong

Setting Us Apart

performing beyond expectations

projects on 1 Delivers time and on budget

Azteca Enterprises, Inc. was founded in 1989 and provides services ranging from general contracting, construction management, program management, design-build services, and self-perform across a broad spectrum of projects for both public and private sector clients. Industries served include, aviation, transportation, local, state and federal government agencies, hospitality, multi-family housing, entertainment and real estate developers.

About Us Horizon International Group, LLC is a certified SBE/MBE/WBE/HUB construction manager with a proven history of providing clients impeccable contracting services since 1994.

to 2 Committed delivering quality &

Certified MWBE/SBE/HUB Contractor

meaningful service

We are a certified Minority Business Enterprise through the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council, Hire Houston First, South Central Texas Regional Certification Agency (SCTRCA), the North Central Texas Regional Agency (NCTRCA), the DFW/MSDC, and the Texas Minority Historically Underutilized Business (HUB). We are a mentor to other minority and small business companies in several mentor-Protégé programs.

Horizon is a certified MBE, WBE, SBE and State of Texas certified Historically Underutilized Business (HUB). As such, Horizon is always striving to expand business opportunities, provide added value to our clients, and is actively engaged in procuring goods and services from other talented SBE/MBE/WBE/HUB subcontracting firms. We believe that diversity strengthens the community and the overall small business environment.

3 Financial stability bonding 4 Strong capacity

DIVISIONS:

Services

safety 5 Excellent record

6

growth in containers moving across Port Authority docks in coming years.

The Port Authority has continued to invest in its facilities and the newest technology to help spur growth and serve its customers.

About $700 million is being invested by the Port Authority over the next decade modernizing the Barbours Cut Container Terminal to increase efficiency, facilitate larger vessels and

double the container handling capacity. Among other improvements, four new Super Post-Panamax ship-to-shore wharf cranes that were delivered last year are now in operation.

At the newer Bayport terminal, a state-of-the-art truck entry gate has streamlined truck processing, and a user-friendly mobile app for truck drivers has increased efficiency. Recently, the Port Authority processed a record 4,300 trucks in one day at Bayport, which opened in 2007 and is being built out according to its master plan. The terminal continues to show excellent service levels and low truck turn times.

For more than 100 years, the Port of Houston Authority has owned or operated the public cargo-handling facilities of the Port of Houston – the nation's largest port for foreign waterborne tonnage. The port is an economic engine for the Houston region, the state of Texas and the nation. It supports the creation of more than 1.175 million statewide jobs and more than 2.1 million jobs nationwide, and the generation of economic activity totaling more than $265 billion in Texas and $499 billion across the nation. For more information, visit the Port Authority website at www.portofhouston.com.

• • • •

Horizon provides a range of services including:

Experienced project teams

• Construction Management

• Estimating

• General Contracting • Design/Build

• Owner Representation & Feasibility Studies

• Project Management

• Development Services

• Job Order Contracting

• Program Management

Building Division Heavy Civil Construction Steel Fabrication and Erection Multi-Family Housing

years of industry 7 30+ experience size to deliver 8 Right flexibility of services

and effective responses

Houston First 9 Hire Houston based

Dallas, Texas

company hiring Houston based subcontractors

10

SBE/MBE/WBE/ HUB firm

2518 Chalk Hill Road Dallas, Texas 75212 T: (214) 905-0612 F: (214) 905-0828 4204 Bellaire Boulevard Houston, TX 77025 p: 713.660.8282 f: 713.660.0102

215 W. San Antonio St. San Marcos, TX 78666 p: 713.660.8282 f: 713.660.0102

Houston, Texas

www.azteca-omega.com

11777 Katy Freeway, Suite 190 Houston, Texas 77093 T: (281) 391-7473 F: (281) 665-2115

1999 Gulfmart Ste. 522 San Antonio, TX 78217 p: 713.660.8282 f: 713.660.0102

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Cost-Effective Subcontracting Tips

W

By Subcontractors USA News Provider hen should you consider taking advantage of the services of a subcontractor, independent contractor, or freelance consultant for your business? The need may arise during times of high customer demand or if you need certain specialized skills that your employees don’t have. In certain situations, hiring a subcontractor is a viable way to scale up in a hurry without incurring a great deal of overhead.

Subcontractors are a valuable resource. Subcontractors can help out during the busy season when you do not have enough hands-on staff to deal with the load. When you are in the expansion or startup phase and cannot afford to take on employees full-time to immediately help you operate and grow your new business, a subcontractor will be very beneficial.

Here are six tips to help evaluate whether hiring a subcontractor is a viable option for your business: 1. Look at the Numbers

First, determine whether it’s more cost-effective to hire a full-time employee or bring in a subcontractor to handle a task. This means factoring in wages, Social Security and Medicare taxes, benefits, insurance, and training. Depending on your budget, making use of the time-limited resources of a skilled subcontractor might be the best option.

2. Seek Out the Best People You Can Find If hiring a subcontractor seems to be a good fit, look for someone genuinely qualified for the job. This could be an individual you already know from past experience or a colleague in your professional network. Another option is recruiting from a reputable online resource such as LinkedIn or Indeed, both of which offer companies the ability to draw from their sizable databases.

3. Get References After narrowing the search to one or two promising candidates, always ask for references. Not getting references could give you problems in the future.

If you deal with a subcontractor who does not meet the standards or reflect the values of your business, your reputation can ultimately suffer. You may want to talk to others who have worked with the subcontractor to determine how frequently problems arise and how

quickly and professionally they are able to resolve disputes or complaints.

4. Put Your Agreement in Writing When you hire a subcontractor, always put the deal in writing. Outline the projected scope and expenses of the work involved. Specify responsibilities, target dates for deliverables, and anticipated duration of the contract.

5. Know the Tax Obligations A small business is not responsible for paying a subcontractor’s taxes. Subcontractors must file and pay state, local,

and federal taxes on their own. But if your payment to the contractor exceeds $600, you must file Form 1099-MISC with the IRS. “Unless you’re spoiling for a fight with the IRS, you need to specify in writing that your subcontractors (whether they’re individuals or other businesses) aren’t employees and that they’re responsible for paying their own taxes and benefits,” advises Rosalind Resnick, an entrepreneur and author of The Vest Pocket Consultant's Secrets of Small Business Success. “Your agreement letter (or contract) should also contain a provision allowing your company or the contractor to terminate a contract upon giving a certain amount of notice.”

6. Be Prepared to Supervise the Process Hiring a subcontractor might offer the illusion that you can walk away from the project and simply wait for him or her to turn in the finished work. But costeffective subcontracting doesn’t work that way. You’re responsible for staying in touch with the subcontractor, giving directions as needed, and helping resolve issues if and when they arise. The best results come from active collaboration between you and the subcontractor.

For more, please visit www.quick books.intuit.com.

Building

HOUSTON It’s official! Harris County and the City of Houston have broken ground on the

Joint Processing Center Experienced builders with deep local roots, Clark/Horizon is proud to partner with city and county agencies, and architect PGAL, to deliver this model social infrastructure project.

Hats off to Harris County and the City of Houston for bringing this facility to life!

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TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE Historically Underutilized Business Program TDCJ HUB MISSION STATEMENT THE MISSION OF THE HUB PROGRAM FOR THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE IS TO PROMOTE AND INCREASE CONTRACTING OPPORTUNITIES WITH HISTORICALLY UNDERUTILIZED BUSINESSES. THE HUB PROGRAM WILL PROVIDE THOSE BUSINESSES AND AGENCY STAFF THE ASSISTANCE NECESSARY FOR THE SUCCESS OF THIS MISSION.

SHARON SCHULTZ HUB Director 936-437-7026 (P) 936-437-7088 (F) Sharon.Schultz@tdcj.texas.gov Two Financial Plaza, Suite 525 Huntsville, Texas 77340 RUBY COWAN HUB Coordinator 936-437-3128 (P) 936-437-7088 (F) Ruby.Cowan@tdcj.texas.gov Two Financial Plaza, Suite 525 Huntsville, Texas 77340

CINDY GUAJARDO HUB Coordinator 936-437-7061 (P) 936-437-7088 (F) Cynthia.Guajardo@tdcj.texas.gov Two Financial Plaza, Suite 525 Huntsville, Texas 77340

Contact the TDCJ HUB Program for a current list of commodity/ service codes and phone numbers for Purchasers For more information on doing business with the TDCJ, you may visit the TDCJ web-site at www.tdcj.texas.gov

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Get Ready for Women in Construction Week!

W

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

omen in Construction Week (WIC) is quickly approaching, and the focus of WIC Week is to highlight women as a visible component of the construction industry. It is also a time for local chapters to give back to their communities. WIC Week also provides an occasion for the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) and its thousands of members across the country to raise awareness of the opportunities available for women in the construction industry and to emphasize the growing role of women in the industry. The NAWIC Houston Chapter #3 will be celebrating in a big way in March.

WIC Week is coming up and NAWIC Houston Chapter #3 has some amazing events for their membership and the community. Below please see some of what they have in store for the celebratory occasion during WIC Week March 6 – 12, 2016: Sunday March 6th: Official kick off of the week with an organized walk in Herman Park.

Monday March 7th: Official WIC Week networking event at a local brewery.

Tuesday March 8th: Tuesday is their regular monthly membership meeting, but there won’t be anything “regular” about this one! They plan to have a fantastic speaker to share the benefits of a career in construction in the city of Houston!

Wednesday March 9th: TOP GOLF ANYONE? That’s right! They plan to get the game on early this year with their annual Top Golf fundraising event hosted in March – when the weather is awesome and the energy is high!

Thursday March 10th: Painting with a Twist – where they will reconvene for a night of laughter, networking and creativity.

Friday March 11th: They will celebrate the successful week with food and fun at a local venue.

Saturday March 12th: They will host a Women Helping Women workshop at a local Home Depot to learn a trade and spread the word about NAWIC Houston!

These are just a few of the plans in the works for WIC Week. NAWIC Houston hopes you can join in during this nationally recognized event and have some fun spreading the word about NAWIC Houston! There will be contests and a lot of fun along the way! Stay tuned for more information as WIC Week approaches.

Please visit the National Association of Women in Construction Houston Chapter #3 website for more information at www.nawic-houston.org.

We’ll wait on YOU, before YOU wait on US Traffic Control in Cypress, Texas American Traffic Control, based in Cypress, Texas, specializes in traffic control and planning services for detours, lane closings, road and freeway closures, and traffic calculation. We provide professional service to the entire United States, while maintaining the highest safety standards for workers and the public.

Quality Service since 2001 American Traffic Control is a small, minority-owned company specializing in a large capacity of traffic control operations, and has been in business since 2001. We are a member of The Associated General Contractors of Texas. Our staff consists of Certified Traffic Control Specialists and Flaggers, some with over 30 years of experience. We aim to always provide costeffective assistance and effective communication with our clients to cement a long-lasting client relationship. We are able to travel any distance to provide outstanding service to our clients.

We have provided traffic control services for the following government agencies: Texas Department of Transportation and Georgia Department of Transportation. We also provide outstanding services to some of the most prestigious companies, as follows: Kansas City Southern Railroad, Traffic Control Devices, The Levy Company, and numerous others.

Our focus on safety awareness is most important to us. Our goal is to provide a safe work zone for the traveling public and the construction workers.

Thank you for allowing us to introduce ourselves; we look forward to building a long-lasting work relationship with your company.

American Traffic Control 17240 Huffmeister Road Suite 104 Cypress, TX 77429

Phone: .......281.213.9063 Fax: ...........281.256.9458 Toll Free: ....855.931.9063

24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week | Insured, Bonded, & Licensed | Emergency Services Available Based in Cypress, Texas & Proudly Serving All 50 United States & Municipalities

www.americantrafficcontrolusa.com

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MORE THAN BRICKS AND MORTAR

As one of the nation’s largest commercial builders, Turner is dedicated to providing avenues of opportunity for Minority- and Woman-Owned Businesses in Houston to achieve entrepreneurial success.

Our commitment to social responsibility and fair play is not just on paper; it is ingrained in our corporate culture. We are devoted to making sure the contributions that strengthen the local economy reflect the demographics of the community at large.

w w w. t u r n e rc o n s t r u c t i o n . c o m

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MEP Engineering

Commissioning

Program Management

When you need experience, we have it covered.

Rice & Gardner Consultants, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary professional engineering firm that focuses on MEP Engineering, Commissioning, and Program Management. We act as an extension to our clients, providing total engineering services from project inception to completion. With our deep bench of high skilled and experienced staff and innovative technology Rice & Gardner can plan, lead, and complete projects on time and within budget.

6161 Savoy Drive, Suite 1212 Houston, TX 77036 | 713-482-2300 | www.ricegardner.com