VOL. 60 ISSUE 10 OCTOBER2019 • GUAM CONTRACTORSʼ ASSOCIATION
THEY CAME FROM AFAR
The Guam Chapter of ASCET
2019 NFPA SEMINAR October 28 - 31 | 8AM - 5PM Dusit Thani Hotel
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Includes NFPA Handbooks!
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$1650/person After Oct. 2nd
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
OCTOBER PRESIDENT’S LETTER S.A.M.E. update Military news Small business notes FEATURE STORY FEATURE STORY PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS NEWSLINE REPORTS/INFORMATION
2019 NOVember
Board of Directors Meeting
6 8 10 12 14 18 24 26 28
FEATURE STORY
18
GCA Calendar Date:
feature story Time:
Venue:
7:30
Fiesta Resort
Wednesday
November 6, 2019
Veterans Day
Monday
November 11, 2019
Guam Registered Apprenticeship Forum
TuES-Wed
November 12-13, 2019
8:00
Dusit Thani
Construction Warriors
Saturday
November 16, 2019
8:00
Black ConstRUCTION YARD
GCA 60th Gala/EIC/COY
Saturday
November 16, 2019
6:00
Dusit Thani
Membership Luncheon
Wednesday
November 20, 2019
11:30
Westin
Thanksgiving Day
Thursday
November 28, 2019
Office Closed
Day after Thanksgiving
Friday
November 29, 2019
Office Closed
Small Business Committee Meeting
Tuesday
November 26, 2019
11:30
GCA Conf. Room
Wednesday
November 27, 2019
2:00
GCA Conf. Room
Safety Committee Meeting 2 |
14
OCTOBER2019
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Office Closed
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EDITORIALS
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
THEDIRECTORS
THEEDITORIALS
THETEAM
PRESIDENT James Martinez Guam Contractors’ Association
Guam Contractor’s Association (GCA) in conjunction with Adztech and Public Relations, Inc. publishes the Construction News Bulletin (CNB) monthly. Reproduction of materials appearing in this publication is strictly forbidden without written permission by GCA.
PUBLISHER: James Martinez
CHAIRMAN Jessica Barrett Barrett Plumbing VICE CHAIRMAN Peter Errett Hawaiian Rock Products
While we always strive for accuracy, we will from time to time overlook mistakes. In order to help us improve the quality and accuracy of this publication, we ask that you take the time to look at the information provided and notify GCA or Adztech of any corrections as needed. Opinions and editorial content of this publication may not necessarily be those of the publisher, production team, staff, GCA members, GCA Board of Directors and advertisers.
SECRETARY/TREASURER Bill Beery Tutujan Hill Group PAST CHAIRMAN Mark Mamczarz Black Construction CONTRACTOR DIRECTORS: Henry Taitano Core Tech
For more information about advertising in the GCA Construction News Bulletin contact the advertising department at (671) 477-1239/2239 or email at adztech@teleguam.net.
Harold Cullick Dylan Mechanical Mary Grace Jacot SET Pacific
Distributed to GCA members or can be obtained by stopping by the Guam Contractors’ Association office located at 718 N. Marine Corps Drive, Suite 203, East West Business Center, Upper Tumon, Guam.
Kevin Kruger Granite Construction Shoja Rezvani Contrack Watts Contractors
To find out more about how you can become a GCA member contact Guam Contractors’ Association at Tel: (671) 647-4840/41 Fax: (671) 647-4866 or Email: gca@teleguam.net. www.guamcontractors.org
ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS: Bill Bernardo First Hawaiian Bank Mark Cruz MidPac Far East Patty Lizama Pacific Isla Life
Postmaster. Send address changes to Guam Contractors’ Association, located at 718 N. Marine Corps Drive Suite 203, East West Business Center, Upper Tumon, Guam.
Camilo Lorenzo Matson Navigation
PRODUCTION TEAM LEAD: Geri Leon Guerrero AD SALES: Jaceth Duenas PRODUCTION: Christopher “Taco” Rowland Jason Davis Jaceth Duenas PHOTOGRAPHERS: Jaceth Duenas Christopher “Taco” Rowland EDITOR: Adztech CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Pete Diaz Albert Sampson R.D. Gibson Rebecca Gale GCA STAFF: Desiree Lizama Elaine Gogue Francine Taitague Trevor Cruz COVER: DIY Network’s Rescue Renovation host Kayleen McCabe is going to be the special host for the GCA EIC/COY Gala.
R LEB ATING CE
60 YEARS
GCA
TRADES ACADEMY B u i l d i n g
S k i l l s
F o r
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L i f e t i m e
Guam Contractors Association
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PRESIDENT’S LETTER
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
President’s Letter
Careers in Construction Month Highlights Pathways into Industry As we celebrate Careers in Construction Month in October, we must be mindful that while our economy is now in the longest expansion in history, it’s creating new challenges for the businesses that build Guam—specifically, finding skilled labor, which is impacting construction firms all of sizes. In Guam, construction unemployment as of March 2019 was at 4.3% according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and on a national scale, Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) estimates 440,000 construction workers need to be hired just this year to meet current construction backlog, which stood at 8.5 months as of July 2019. According to the BLS, Local construction and extraction workers, which make up 6.7% of Guam's total workforce compared with 4.1% nationwide, earn an average hourly wage of $15.21. In short, the construction industry is hiring, and the barriers to entry are minimal. There are numerous ways for people of all backgrounds and education levels to both join and excel in the construction field. Take Dominick Santos of Contrack-Watts for example, he has done various types of work to include layout, framing, ceiling grid systems, dry wall installations and finishing, and various types of floor systems. His training has helped him advance in his career as a carpenter and to help others interested in construction. He mentions, “College isn’t for everybody and it’s okay. GCA Trades DOMINIC SANTOS Academy is cheaper, schooling is shorter, and in the end, he gets a nationally-recognize industry credential that has helped him get to the next level of his career and he thanks Contrack-Watts for the opportunity”. Another craft professional, Leandra Ngiratereged, a heavy equipment operator apprentice at Black Construction Corporation mentions to us “The trades has opened up a lot of opportunities for me and most importantly in the fields where I want to pursue my career. In the future I plan to build me and my son our own house and my Trade/Profession in Heavy Equipment Operation is the first step towards my ultimate goal in life”. LEANDRA NGIRATEREGED
In offering advice to those who want to consider getting into the construction trades she says, I would highly recommend the construction industry to others if it was something they wanted to do because it is a field which requires hard work and perseverance. Also, once you become a certified skilled worker it will highly benefit you because there will always be a need for skilled workers, which means job opportunities will always be there. I also want to be a prime example to my peers that construction is not a field for males only, I am a mother and I am currently loving my field of work. Women are able to learn and love Heavy Equipment Operations as well” Eric Banjawan, another electrical apprentice at Pacific Rim Land Development states “This profession has helped me a lot! Especially when I started attending classes at GCA Trades Academy. Not only did it widen my knowledge with electrical, I also experienced hands on training that I could use as part of my everyday life”. His advice to aspiring young craft professions is “I recommend the construction industry as a viable career opportunity to others, simply because the now a day’s craftsmen are in demand. Not only ERIC BANJAWAN do you get the salary you desire, you also get to build your career and gain experience from others that you can pass on to the future generations. Whether you have a degree or not, you do not get left behind. They will help you achieve what you have planned for, for your future”. These are just some examples of the variety of paths into the construction industry that have led people to professional success and job satisfaction. And there are many more to highlight during Careers in Construction Month.
Guam Contractors Association
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GUAM’S LEADER IN OCCUPATIONAL & ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES
Tel: (671) 646-9524 | Email: jvisecsales@gmail.com
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Across Micronesia Mall, Route 16 647-TINT (8468) / 649-TINT northislandtinting@guam.net
East Hagåtña 477-TINT (8468) / 472-TINT eastislandtinting@guam.net
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S.A.M.E. UPDATE
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
Society of
NEWSLETTER OCTOBER 2019
American Military Engineers
ANNOUNCMENTS SEP 30 2019 SAME Guam Post Charlie Corn Scholarship Applications for 2020-2021 have been released. Check out our website!
SAVE THE DATE 19 OCT 2019 Community Service Project: Agana Heights Gym Restroom Repair Phase 3: Plumbing and Lighting Install OCT 25 2019 (FRIDAY - DAY CHANGE!!!) SAME Guam Post General Membership Meeting Hilton Resort, Tumon 26 OCT 2019 Community Service Project: Agana Heights Gym Restroom Repair Phase 4: Touch-up 2019 Warrior Transition Brief and Career Symposium Guam National Guard, Barrigada GSPE 10th Annual Golf Tournament for Mathcounts 20-22 NOV 2019 Small Business Conference Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, Dallas, Texas
Upcoming October Meeting
MAIN PRESENTATION Powering the Future 2019-2024 Presented by: John M. Benavente, PE General Manager Guam Power Authority
25 OCT 2019
SEPTEMBER MAIN PRESENTATION RECAP
2019 H-2B PROGRAM UPDATE
Greg Massey, Administrator for the Guam Department of Labor (GDOL) Alien Labor Processing & Certification Division (ALPCD) provided an update to the SAME Guam Post members on the H-2B Program. Background: 1. The H-2B program allows U.S. employers who meet specific regulatory requirements to bring foreign nationals to the United States to fill temporary nonagricultural jobs. 2. The H-2B program on Guam began in 1985. Guam had nearly 100% approval rate for 30 years, until in 2015, 0% approvals were granted by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Denials were based on employer’s failure to meet Temporary Need requirements. 3. There are currently 3 paths for H-2B petitions: a. Regular Process: Filing I-129 petition without claiming any special consideration, and justifying temporary need b. Class Member under the Guam Contractors Association (GCA) Lawsuit: Filing I-129 with notice that the petitioner is a member of the class established in the ongoing GCA v. USCIS lawsuit and covered by a temporary injunction barring USCIS from denying the H-2B petition. c. National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Exemption: Limited to contracts directly connected to or associated with the military realignment Updates for each path: 1. Regular Process: USCIS approval rate is 0%. This has had a chilling effect as there is no confidence petitions will be approved. Employers avoid filing under this path. 2. GCA Lawsuit: USCIS approval rate is under 1%. USCIS seems to be ignoring the injunction, but claiming compliance. This has had a chilling effect for this path. 3. NDAA Exemption: USCIS approval rate is 100% for FY19. A letter from DoD is required by USCIS for this exemption to apply. a. A process was established with DoD for GDOL vetting, routing, and recordkeeping. Allows some local control/involvement. No request has been declined by DoD to date. b. USCIS is the final decision maker on whether or not a contract meets the NDAA exemption; relying heavily on DoD decision. c. Federal contracts and local government infrastructure projects have been easy approvals. d. Other “outside the fence” projects are harder, but some been approved. Hotel construction and multi-family housing projects have been approved by USCIS. Current Impediments: 1. Philippines was removed from the H-2B list of approved countries; applies nation-wide, revised in January of each year. 2. Named beneficiaries now required. 3. Determination of US interest needed or USCIS will deny. Points of Interest: 1. NDAA exemption may be justified for housing and real estate projects; Developers/contractors are encouraged to try. 2. Workforce Housing Needed - Concern with lack of existing facilities; Great opportunity for business. 3. Current Numbers: 1413 positions approved; 995 workers deployed on Guam. 4. More filings occurring, but only with NDAA exemption. DoD is supporting broad interpretation of “associated with…” Many civilian sector projects possible using the NDAA exemption.
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S.A.M.E. UPDATE
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
COMMUNITY PROJECT HIGHLIGHT:
AGANA HEIGHTS GYM RESTROOM REPAIR PROJECT (PHASE 1)
EVENT SUMMARY
•
Agana Heights Gym Restroom Repair Project (Phase 1)
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• • •
• •
–
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30+ Volunteers representing SAME Guam Post, Home Depot, Red Horse/ USAF, Parole, Contrack Watts, Techni-con, and GMBA THANK YOU, VOLUNTEERS!!!
The SAME Guam Post, in partnership with Home Depot and community volunteers are renovating the restrooms at the Agana Heights gym. This event is spearheaded by the Post’s Young Member Committee at the request of the Veterans Committee. The Agana Heights gym is home court to the Guam Masters Basketball Association (GMBA) and Guam Women Masters Basketball Association whose members include veterans. The gym is also a popular venue for afterschool programs, summer camps, and other sports programs. The project is broken up into 4 phases occurring every Saturday in October. The scope work is as follows:
– – – –
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05 Oct 2019; 0800 - 1500
Phase 1: Demolition, Pressure Washing Phase 2: Surface Preparation, Painting Phase 3: Installation Phase 4: Touch up
OCTOBER2019 | 9
MILITARY NEWS
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
SMALL BIZ NOTES If August was a good month for small businesses; September was a great one. NAVFAC Marianas awarded about $78.2M to contractors/vendors of which about $64.6M (83%) went to Small Business (SB) concerns. In Fiscal Year 2019, about $276.5M in contracts was awarded on which SB concerns may participate as prime or subcontractors. Of that amount, about $189.1M was awarded to SB concerns to provide a variety of products and services on Guam. Socio-economic breakdown of the SB awards are: - $139.7M - Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) - $143.2M - HUBZone Small Business (HZSB) - $ 9.3M - Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) - $ 14.7M - Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) The sum of the figures above exceed the overall SB awards of $189.1M because some SB concerns qualify for multiple socio-economic categories. Significant SB awards in September:
• Infratech International, • Infratech International, LLC was awarded LLC was about awarded $1.2M about to $1.2M • UEGtoInc. was • UEG awarded Inc. was about awarded $2.4M about for the$2.4M removal forand the removal and replace a sandblasting replace a system sandblasting and electrical system and wiring electrical on wiring on disposal of oildisposal sludge on of Naval oil sludge BaseonGuam. Naval Base Guam. Andersen AirAndersen Force Base. Air Force Base. • Modern International, • Modern International, Inc. was awarded Inc. was about awarded $2.3M about to $2.3M to • Reliable Builders, • Reliable Inc.Builders, was awarded Inc. was about awarded $1.2M about to provide $1.2M a to provide provide temporary a provide fire temporary station facilities fire station in support facilities of in support of backup generator backup andgenerator automaticand transfer automatic switch transfer on Andersen switch on Andersen Marine CorpsMarine Base Guam. Corps Base Guam. Air Force Base. Air Force Base. • Fargo Pacific, • Fargo Inc. was Pacific, awarded Inc. was about awarded $2.9M about to $2.9M to • Modern International, • Modern International, Inc. was awarded Inc. was about awarded $1.5M to about $1.5M to repair/replace repair/replace various roofs various (121 each) roofs on (121 Andersen each) on AirAndersen Air repair and upgrade repair and a HVAC upgrade Direct a HVAC DigitalDirect Control Digital (DDC) ControlForce (DDC) Base. Force Base. System on Andersen System on AirAndersen Force Base. Air Force Base. • Modern International, • Modern International, Inc. was awarded Inc. was about awarded $2.6M about for $2.6M for • Reliable Builders, • Reliable Inc.Builders, was awarded Inc. was about awarded $2.4M about to replace $2.4M to the replace renovationthe of renovation a parachuteofdrying a parachute tower drying on Andersen tower on Andersen existing underground existing underground paper insulated paper leadinsulated covered (PILC) lead covered (PILC) Air Force Base. Air Force Base. lines on Navallines Computer on Naval & Telecommunications Computer & Telecommunications Station. Station. • Reliable Builders, • Reliable Inc.Builders, was awarded Inc. was about awarded $2M toabout install$2M a to install a • Reliable Builders, • Reliable Inc.Builders, was awarded Inc. was about awarded $1.3M to about replace $1.3M to communications replace communications duct bank to support duct bank various to support facilities various on facilities on existing asbestos existing cement asbestos pipe with cement PVC pipe to include with PVC installation to include installation Naval Base Guam. Naval Base Guam. of new PVC looping of new PVC the system looping onthe Andersen system on AirAndersen Force Base. Air Force Base.International, • Modern • Modern International, Inc. was awarded Inc. was about awarded $2.2M about $2.2M • Serrano Construction • Serrano Construction and Development and Development Corp was awarded Corp was awarded awarded to provide awarded fiveto40x8 provide climate five 40x8 controlled climate modular controlled modular about $1.6M to about replace $1.6M HVAC to replace systems HVAC in 137systems Units on in 137 Units trailers on to be used trailers fortooffice be used space. for office Trailers space. to beTrailers to be Andersen AirAndersen Force Base. Air Force Base. constructed and constructed rated to withstand and rated typhoon to withstand strength typhoon winds strength winds seismic activity. and seismic activity. • Reliable Builders, • Reliable Inc.Builders, was awarded Inc. was about awarded $1.4M for about various $1.4M forand various facility upgrades facility on Andersen upgrades on AirAndersen Force Base. Air Force Base. • Reliable Builders, • Reliable Inc.Builders, was awarded Inc. was about awarded $1.9M to about expand $1.9M to expand existing fence an existing line to accommodate fence line to accommodate pending site pending site • Reliable Builders, • Reliable Inc.Builders, was awarded Inc. was about awarded $5.5M about to replace $5.5M to an replace preparation preparation construction and activities construction on Naval activities Computer on Naval Computer existing sewerexisting lines, manholes, sewer lines, and manholes, related components and relatedalong components along and & Telecommunications & Telecommunications Station. Station. designated streets designated on Andersen streets on AirAndersen Force Base. Air Force Base. • Modern International, • Modern International, Inc. was awarded Inc. was about awarded $2.2M about to $2.2M to provide temporary provide police temporary station police facilities station in support facilities of in support of Marine CorpsMarine Base Guam. Corps Base Guam. Source: Federal Procurement Data System – Next Generation (FPDS-NG)
10 | OCTOBER2019
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CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
MILITARY NEWS
HOW TO FAIL SUCCESSFULLY What do Abraham Lincoln, Walt Disney and Steve Jobs have in common? They all failed miserably early in their careers.
• Don’t be gun-shy. Failing may make you afraid to get back in the saddle, so it’s important to jump right back in while you and your team are still invested.
Abraham Lincoln failed in his initial presidential campaign and Steve Jobs was let go from Apple. Walt Disney, a cartoonist, was let go from his first job because he was “not being creative enough.” These men are huge success stories because they used lessons from their failure to drive their success.
• Don’t act like a victim. Don’t feel sorry for yourself just because you failed. Assess what went wrong and develop your plan to move forward.
Albert Einstein, another great “failure,” is quoted as saying: “Success is failure in progress.” To fail successfully, you must be willing to make mistakes when you try something new and prepared to use the lessons learned to launch a more successful effort.
• Be open to learning. There’s a new lesson to be learned from a failure, so take your failure as a chance to see what you could change in the next round of a project to improve it. • Try something new. Taking risks can be daunting, but it’s important to be willing to try new ideas. Being open to new ideas can also foster a more innovative team.
Some tips to fail successfully: • Face the music. Accept when you fail. Admitting you failed will help free you from some of the burden that prevents you from embarking on a new plan.
PRESENTED BY:
GUAM REGISTERED APPRENTICESHIP FORUM LET’S GET TO WORK HIREGUAM! November 12-13, 2019 Dusit Thani Guam Resort 5PIEWI GSRXEGX XLI ,)41 XEXI &TTVIRXMGIWLMT 4ǽGI EX 671-300-4572 or email at apprenticeship@dol.guam.gov
SPONSORED BY:
SMALL BUSINESS NOTES
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
WANTED: A FEW GOOD MEN AND WOMEN • The GCA Small Business Committee supports small business members of the association to ensure their voices are heard and needs are met within GCA capabilities. • Do you have an issue or concern that we might be able to assist with? • Do you have an idea or suggestion that may benefit our small business community?
HELP US HELP YOU BY JOINING US AT OUR MONTHLY MEETINGS OR CONTACT: Lucia Wood (Chair) Theresa Crisostomo (Vice-Chair)
(671) 777-8425 lucia.wood@aptim.com (671) 588-5972 theresac@jwsguam.com
Our next meeting is on Tuesday, October 29th, 11:30 a.m. at the GCA Conference Room 202. Please RSVP with Elaine Gogue at elaine.gogue@guamcontractors.org
GUAM PTAC FREE PUBLIC WORKSHOPS DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS)
10/17 2019
The DLA Internet Bid Board System (DIBBS) provides the capability to search for, view, and submit secure quotes for DLA supply RFQs, RFPs, and IFBs. The Guam PTAC will guide you through the process of setting up an account and navigating the system.
Wages
10/24 2019
10/31 2019
Which wage do you pay your employees on government contracts? The Guam PTAC will discuss the various laws and regulations to make sure you stay in compliance.
Teaming and Joint Ventures What are they and which is right for your business? The Guam PTAC will discuss the federal regulations related to these arrangements and discuss ways to use these arrangements effectively.
The Guam Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) is offering FREE workshops to the public for October 2019. The last quarter of FY19 is looking to end strong with Hundreds of millions in Federal contracting dollars spent on Guam and the CNMI. Don't be left out! small businesses. Workshops run from 9 a.m. - 10 a.m. at the University of Guam in the Jesus & Eugenia Leon Guerrero Business and Public Administration Building. Margarita Duenas Perez & Jaime Felipe Tuquero IT&E Lecture Hall, 131 (unless otherwise specified)
Register at: guamptac.ecenterdirect.com For Project Management Professionals, Guam PTAC workshops may count toward your annual Professional Development Unit (PDU) goals! For more information, contact the Guam PTAC at (671) 735-2552 or visit www.guamptac.com
12 | OCTOBER2019
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By: R.D. Gibson
CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
It used to be that in order to get in touch with your favorite movie star or musician, their fan mailing address would be published in those teen magazines. I remember freaking out when the casts from two of my favorite television shows sent me autographs on a postcard. Sure, they were printed - believe me, I checked for legitimate ink. But, it was the feeling those stars took the time to send me a postcard. I was ten-years-old; forgive my naïveté. Now social media has provided us a closer link to today’s celebrities - selfies, direct messaging, and sometimes - just sometimes - the double tap to like your comment. All nostalgia aside, a contracting celebrity will be on island. Kayleen McCabe, a host of TV’s Rescue Renovation and proponent for trades education in the United States. According to her website, she beat out a bunch of guys to host a television show in 2009. Rescue Renovation put her and her skillset on the map by incorporating skill and wit, and showed that the girls can do it just as good - if not better - than the boys. More pointedly, she has shut down stereotypes that construction is a boy’s club. It doesn’t help that she’s been donning a tool belt since she was starting to primary school. According to her biography, McCabe has been working consistently pushing trades education and career options, putting a spotlight on labor shortages in the United States, and having women choose non-traditional careers in skilled labor. “Her non-profit, the McCabe Foundation, tightens America’s skills gap by encouraging young men and women alike to consider careers in this undervalued, unfilled sector.”
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FEATURE STORY
McCabe started by talking about rebuilding Studebakers with her father and doing remodeling projects around the house with her parents. “However, I didn’t fall in love with it as a career option until I was working behind the scenes on television shows in my 20’s.” A lot of the draw to this career choice was creating every day and “working with wonderful people”. Her support for the trade careers and her social media presence made her the only choice to invite for a slew of events sponsored by the Guam Contractors Association, especially since she has some indirect roots on our slice of paradise. She’s coming all the way from Colorado, but she has already heard about the island even before the GCA invited her. “When my Mom was younger she lived in Guam,” stated, McCabe. “...when I was a little child, she would share with me stories of how beautiful the island was, how wonderful the people were, the fruit trees in her yard, and even some hilarious geckos that would try to sneak in the house.” In November, she will be crossing the Pacific - “Now I get to see it in real life!” With some familiarity about the island, she is looking at a busy time here. She will be making several appearances - as celebrities always do, but also speaking at and attending several events. The GCA Construction Warriors events, the
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OCTOBER2019 | 15
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Department of Labor Guam Registered Apprenticeship Forum, and the GCA 60th Anniversary celebrations, as well as the Excellence in Construction and Contractor of the Year events. With a full balutan plate like that, she is also going to be speaking at several middle and high schools about trades education. “And, since I will be there in November, [I’m] very excited to leave the snow.” McCabe spoke about her desire to build and create. “The construction industry satiates my need to create, problem solve, keep my brain and body active, help people, and not be in the same place every day.’ She added how she enjoys putting her ‘love and passion into each project’, and how she gets to be artistic with mediums like concrete and tile.
vehicle, be able to shop in buildings, and drive a nice roads,” she started. “This is why it’s critical that we encourage our students to consider an education and career path in the trades. Having knowledge in these areas will either give them the ability to create their future, or be a better consumer when work needs to be done. Part of her visit are the talks to the youth of Guam and getting them excited about trade careers. She said, “Being successful as an adult happens in a variety of ways, and it doesn’t happen overnight.” McCabe talked about the variety of careers she has had, but finding a lot of enjoyment in construction. “I could have gone to college, but I didn’t, learning is a life-long process.” She emphasized that learning doesn’t stop at high school graduation; “Follow career opportunities that have growth potential and sparks and interest.” She spoke about the diverse opportunities in the construction industry. However, she stated the bottom line is the industry is looking “to educate and employ people who are smart, passionate about learning, will show up on time, be part of a team, and will want to invest [in] themselves.” She added that the work provides a lot of opportunities for upward mobility in the industry. McCabe seems to have a litany of industry-related stories she is excited to share while on island next month. But, her general (and genuine) enthusiasm for the industry is so tangible and seems like it will make an impact on industry veterans and the young minds she will meet.
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However, McCabe’s passion is most noticeable for trades education. She emoted, “It’s critically important that people learn trade skills for a variety of reasons.” She started by talking about employment opportunities for those positions that remain unfilled because of a shortage of skilled professionals. “These are great careers with great earning potential, pathways for growth, and who doesn’t love power tools,” she added. Moreover, she stated that “people need to become better consumers.” She continued, “Understanding the level of education and skill required to take on some tasks is very valuable, and could help with communication or save money.”
More often than not, it is such an enlightening experience to meet someone with this much passion for what they do - and be able to learn from them. Nonetheless, Kayleen McCabe is set to make several appearances, and she is sure to ignite - or reignite - some spark of passion - we can’t wait to see! Don’t forget your selfie!
She talked about how there has consistently been a push for college readiness, “and it’s time we update that message.” She spoke about average college debt not being repaid until nearly three decades after college graduation, “the fact that 7 out of 10 jobs do not require a college degree (they do require post secondary training, apprenticeships, OTJ training, or certificates and credentials)”, and how there is an increase in career openings in the industry - (predictably over 2M by 2020, according to McCabe). “These statistics alone are compelling.” Additionally, by teaching trades, McCabe hints that students learn a lot of skills they will be able to use well into adulthood. “We want the next generation to live in a home, drive a 16 | OCTOBER2019
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“This sums me up pretty well.”
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10 YEARS WITH FRONTIER By: R.D. Gibson
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It is said that a frontier is the uncharted land of a certain country; it could also be something mathematical or scientific which requires exploration. It brings to mind the days of horseback riding, vast expanse of fields, and the ridges of mountain ranges in the distance. The concept of settlement comes to mind. And like the days of westward expansion, the new frontier - the new plane of exploration - was constantly evolving and growing. This year, Frontier Supply Company celebrates their settling here in our neck of the woods. Crossing the vast Pacific from Alaska and setting up shop in Tamuning as a supplier for plumbing, heating, industrial piping, mining, and waterworks. The story of this manifest destiny narrative begins in the former Russian colony jutting out into the Bering Strait. Their website states the company was founded by Michael Vivlamore in 1989 originally as a plumbing supply company. They have since expanded into new frontier of products to sell wholesale since their inception 30 years ago. “At Frontier, we understand what it takes to do business in remote locations” - the uncharted, unexplored territory of the construction industry, as well; we can safely deduce. Jon McDonald, Sales Manager at Frontier Supply, emoted at the root of Frontier’s success are their employees who are “unquestionably our number one asset.” Sure, they have an impressive 20,000 square foot warehouse facility, a two-acre lay down yard, and over $2M in inventory, but at the heart of their business venture success are the people who run the place.
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These also include the technical experts who address customer issues and help them solve problems, and the vendor network they boast. McDonald stated that though they are a relatively “small, family-owned business” they are part of a larger ($40B) purchasing network. This allows them to cut out the middle man by having them work directly with suppliers, and gives them a competitive edge; through this network they have been able to invite manufacturers here to the island to see just what products would work out here in the Pacific frontier, as well as introduce new, innovative products to local customers. Ten years is a long time. And it’s usually celebrated big. However, it begs the question of what helped in the building of this longevity - the legacy of service, the diverse products, even the move across the Pacific. According to McDonald, it all comes down to people, product, accountability, technical expertise, and understanding the customer’s needs. He insisted on investing in employees. It is about having employees who are committed and giving them the tools and training to be better. It is a matter of keeping employees satisfied, so they can work well with customers and have them coming back. He stated that 90-percent of the Frontier family in Guam are local - and continues to grow in number, skill, and expertise. McDonald also added that technical expertise is important, and even if they might not have an answer or solution for a situation here in Guam or in the region, their network in the business allows them to find someone who might be able to help.
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Additionally, having product availability at-the-ready is vital. McDonald commented how the cost of getting products to Guam can be costly, but having them available reduces costs and inconvenience for the company and customers alike. However, operations of a business have little meaning if a business is not accountable. The best products do not mean much without the actual work being done. A contractor is responsible for getting the work done or delivering a product no matter. Frontier avoids these issues by having their products readily available at their facilities. McDonald affirmed, “Unlike many off-island companies, our corporate office offers us the autonomy to make local decisions that are best for our location and customers.” Construction isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach; quite the opposite. The infrastructure, the culture, and location all have something to do with how well a job gets done. Which gives the Guam Frontier Supply family a lot of room use a lot of Guam sense in how they do business. He added, “Our President often says, ‘if it makes good business sense, just do it!’” McDonald stated, “We pride ourselves on listening to our customers and offering the best solutions possible.” He continued saying, “We make local decisions for each of the markets that we do business in and very importantly we are accountable for what we say and how we conduct our business.”
But, overall, “Being part of their Guam family is our success.” McDonald stated how the company has no regrets coming to Guam. “It has taken us time to learn the local market and tailor our products and services to better serve our customers here.” But, time and growth has shown them and the community just what it takes to do well here - taking care of their people and fitting their mission to the community they are serving. “We did not come here to displace other local businesses, but to add services, primarily inventory, that has never been available here on the island.” Yet, they still have goals for the future of their company: build upon their relationships, workforce, and previous successes. “We’ve built more friendships that we can count, and we plan to be here for a very long time.” It is these established relationships Frontier can move forward into possible, different frontiers. Like the days in the old west, it is easy to see Frontier Supply blazing their own trail; learning from their past successes and failures; but overall, learning how to acclimate to a different community steadily moving into their own future and putting their needs - and people - at the very center of the mission. As we head into the next decade of the millenium, we congratulate Frontier Supply Company on ten years of success, and wish them the very best into the horizon and beyond.
Additionally, he shared Frontier’s steady growth these last ten years and their focus on local customer base. He stated, “Our first Customer Appreciation Luncheon had only 25 customers in attendance. We now plan for 250 people when we have this type of event.” It seems they must be doing something right. McDonald said continuous improvement is key. “We learn lessons from every success and every failure that we bake into our business plan moving forward.”
20 | OCTOBER2019
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NEWSLINE EPA and Corps Issue Repeal of 2015 WOTUS Rule by: Rebecca Gale On Sept. 12, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers signed the final rule rescinding the 2015 final Clean Water Rule: Definition of "Waters of the United States," also known as the WOTUS final rule. ABC President and CEO Michael Bellaman attended the signing ceremony for the rulemaking.
As part of the second step, EPA and the Corps announced a proposal in December 2018 that would provide a clear definition of the difference between federally regulated waterways and those waters that rightfully remain solely under state authority. The final rule for this regulation is expected to be issued in December 2019.
According to an EPA press release, this final rule completes the first in a two-step rulemaking process to define the scope of “waters of the United States” that are regulated under the Clean Water Act. With this final repeal, the agencies will implement the pre-2015 regulations, which are currently in place in more than half of the states.
These rulemakings came at the direction of President Trump’s Executive Order 13778, Restoring the Rule of Law, Federalism and Economic Growth by Reviewing the “Waters of the United States” Rule, which states that the WOTUS final rule should be reviewed in order to protect American waterways from pollutants in the most economical way.
The final rule will go into effect 60 days after publication in the Federal Register, and a prepublished version of the final rule can be found on the EPA website. ABC has long been a vocal opponent of the Obama-era WOTUS rule since it was first proposed in April 2014 and submitted comments on EPA and the Corps’ proposals on step one and step two of the WOTUS rulemaking, stating its continued commitment to work with the agencies and ensure the clearest possible regulations so that its members have the information they need to comply with the law. Additionally, ABC filed comments as a member of the Waters Advocacy Coalition.
Minimum Wage for Federal Contractors to Increase Jan. 1, 2020 by: Rebecca Gale On Sept. 19, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division published a notice in the Federal Register to announce that the minimum wage for federal contractors will increase to $10.80 per hour from the current $10.60 beginning Jan. 1, 2020.
26 | OCTOBER2019
The increase comes as result of the Obama DOL’s final rule implementing Executive Order 13658, Establishing a Minimum Wage for Contractors (Feb. 12, 2014), which raised the hourly minimum wage paid by contractors to workers performing work on covered federal contracts to $10.10 with annual increases
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thereafter. This was determined by the secretary of labor in accordance with the methodology set forth in the order.
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www.guamcontractors.org TOTAL Construction H-2B Workers
Total OTHER Construction
Heavy Equipment Mechanic
Construction Equipment Mechanic
Other Construction Occupations
Employers Workplace Monthly Report Statistics
Total Non-Construction H2-B Workers
7
Automotive Mechanic
Other Non-Construction Occupations
GUAM DEPARTMENT OF LABOR Alien Labor Processing Certification Division
11 989
6
5
18 2 32 20 2 32
Sheetmetal Worker Heavy Equip. Operator Electrician Camp Cook Welder Total Common Const.
1000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1000
1207
1000
Total H-2B Employers
Total U.S. Workers Grand Total H-2B Workers
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
Total U.S. Workers
Grand Total H2B Workers
US Workers vs. H-2B
4 18
1400
14
Construction Non-Construction
Employers By Industry
Philippines Korea Japan Kiribati United Kingdom Australia Italy Peru Thailand Other Total by Nationality
Workers by Nationality
978
10
Structural Steelworker
233
414
215
Plumber
Reinforcing Metalworker
Carpenter
Cement Mason
Common Construction Occupations
MONTH ENDING: August 2019
Korea Thailand 0.00% 0.00%
1.02%
1.84%
0.20%
3.27%
23.82%
2.04%
0.20%
Other 0.00%
Peru 0.00%
Prepared By: Carina Raguindin Contact information: Greg Massey, ALPCD Administrator P.O. Box 9970 Tamuning, Guam 96931 (671)475-8005/8003
Welder
Camp Cook
Heavy Equip. Operator Electrician
Sheetmetal Worker
Reinforcing Metalworker Structural Steelworker Plumber
Carpenter
Cement Mason
Other
Thailand
Peru
Italy
Australia
United Kingdom
Kiribati
Japan
Korea
Philippines
United Kingdom 0.00%
Kiribati 0.00%
21.98%
43.33%
3.27%
Common Construction Occupations
Philippines 100.00%
Japan 0.00%
Australia 0.00%
Italy 0.00%
H-2B Population by Nationality
REPORTS/ INFORMATION CONSTRUCTION NEWS BULLETIN
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Phillip Santos POSITION: Account Executive LOCATION: Asan, Guam DATE HIRED: December 16, 1995 NOTES: Keen ability to connect with clients. Passionate golfer. Makes time to give back, whether serving on the board of organizations like USO and Make-A-Wish or serving barbecued chicken kelaguen from behind the grill.
Matson’s people are more than Guam shipping experts. They are part of what makes our community unique. Visit Matson.com
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