GCA Construction News Bulletin June 2024

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THEDIRECTORS THEEDITORIALS

PRESIDENT

James Martinez

Guam Contractors’ Association

PAST CHAIRMAN

Joe Roberto

East Island Tinting

CHAIRMAN

Matthew Hunter

Dylan Mechanical Construction Services

VICE CHAIRMAN

Kathleen David Pacific Rim Constructors

SECRETARY/TREASURER

Soraya Vongjalorn Vertex Guam

CONTRACTOR DIRECTORS:

Dean Bates

Black Construction Corporation

Allan Bell

SmithBridge Guam

AJ Perez

Hawaiian Rock Products

Brian Holm

Hensel Phelps

Randolf Salas Proferre

ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS:

Mark Cruz

Mid Pac Far East

Jose Garcia

First Hawaiian Bank

Camilo Lorenzo

Matson Navigation

Geri Leon Guerrero

Adztech Advertising and PR

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.

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.

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.

Distributed to GCA members or can be obtained by stopping by the Guam Contractors’ Association office located at 506 Mariner Ave., Barrigada, Guam 96913

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

Postmaster. Send address changes to Guam Contractors’ Association, located at 506 Mariner Ave., Barrigada, Guam 96913

TRADES ACADEMY

THETEAM

PUBLISHER:

James Martinez

PRODUCTION TEAM LEAD:

Geri Leon Guerrero

AD SALES: Alyssa Roces

PRODUCTION:

Jason Davis

Alyssa Roces

Christopher “Taco” Rowland

PHOTOGRAPHY: Alyssa Roces

EDITOR: Adztech

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Joanna Rupley Sablan

Francine Taitague

Rodney “RJ” Ricarte

Myracle S. Mugol

Sabrina Salas-Matanane

GCA STAFF:

Desiree Lizama

Francine Taitague

Trevor Cruz

Rosielyn Holgado

Peter Finona

COVER:

Through the years, Bob Salas and LMS helped shape our island.

Cover Photo & Feature Photos contributed by LMS.

Peter Duenas Owner

CHAIRMAN’S LETTER

Assuming the role of Chairman of the Guam Contractors Association Board of Directors fills me with profound honor, especially when surrounded by a team of immensely talented and diligent individuals. Their steadfast dedication and remarkable abilities serve as invaluable assets as we push forward to advance the association's mission and objectives. Collaborating with such committed directors and staff is not only a privilege but also a wellspring of inspiration. Together, we pledge to propel the association's goals, maintaining the utmost professionalism, fostering growth and innovation in Guam's construction sector, and above all, serving our community with integrity, excellence, and unwavering passion.

Though the shoes left by past chairmen are undoubtedly large, I have full confidence in the capabilities of our board and staff to carry forward their esteemed legacy. With the unwavering support and guidance of our predecessors, I eagerly anticipate collaborating with them as we navigate the path ahead. Together, we are poised to honor the traditions of excellence set forth by those who came before us, ensuring the continued success and growth of the Guam Contractors Association.

I am thrilled by the array of initiatives we are actively developing for our membership. Among these, we are addressing pressing issues such as labor shortages, streamlining the H2B temporary labor process, tackling H2B housing challenges, and addressing concerns related to NAVFAC MAR and PAC. Additionally, we are establishing a GCA Safety Office, expanding our membership reach into the CNMI and Micronesia, and embarking on numerous other impactful endeavors. The breadth and depth of these initiatives underscore our commitment to serving our members and enhancing the construction landscape in Guam and beyond.

I want to reassure the GCA’s membership that the board and staff stand firmly behind you, offering our unwavering support. Whatever concerns, issues, ideas, or initiatives you may have, I encourage you to bring them to our attention. My door is always open, and you are welcome to contact me at any time for a discussion or even just a friendly chat. We embrace the wisdom in C.S. Lewis's words: “Two heads are better than one, not because either is infallible, but because they are unlikely to go wrong in the same direction.” We value your input and believe in the power of collaboration to navigate challenges and seize opportunities together.

Here's to an exceptional and prosperous year ahead for all our esteemed members, dedicated board, and hardworking staff!

Si Yu'os Ma'ase, Salamat, and Stay Safe!

Matthew S. Hunter Chairman Guam Contractors Association Board of Directors

APPRENTICESHIP CORNER

By Francine Taitague Safety, Training and Education Coordinator, Guam Contractors Association

THE BENEFITS OF HANDS-ON LEARNING FOR YOUR CONSTRUCTION COMPANY’S WORKFORCE

In this month's column, we'll explore why construction companies should embrace hands-on training and how it can positively impact its workforce.

The Power of Hands-On Learning

Hands-on learning involves direct experience, allowing individuals to acquire practical skills by actively engaging with tools, materials, and real-world scenarios. In the construction industry, where practical expertise is paramount, hands-on training plays a crucial role.

Construction work isn't theoretical; it's about building tangible structures. Whether it's framing a house, welding steel beams, or operating heavy machinery, hands-on experience is essential. Apprenticeships provide the perfect platform for this immersive learning. Hands-on learning enables employees to hone their skills effectively.

Increased Efficiency and Productivity Companies that invest in hands-on training reap several benefits:

Efficient Workforce

- Skilled workers complete tasks faster, reducing project timelines.

- Efficiency translates to cost savings and increased profitability.

Safety and Risk Reduction

- Safety is paramount in construction. Hands-on learning contributes significantly:

Safety Awareness

- Apprentices learn proper tool handling, safety protocols, and hazard identification.

- Fewer accidents mean reduced medical costs and insurance claims.

Employee Satisfaction and Retention

- Happy employees stay longer and perform better.

Job Satisfaction

- Accomplishing tasks firsthand boosts morale.

- Apprentices take pride in their growing skill set.

Retention Rates

- Companies that invest in apprenticeship programs retain skilled workers.

- Loyal employees contribute to a stable workforce.

Invest in Your Company’s Future

An apprenticeship program with hands-on learning benefits both employees and construction companies. As an industry, let's prioritize apprenticeships and create a skilled workforce that builds our communities with expertise and pride. If you're a construction company owner, executive, or HR manager, consider implementing an apprenticeship program — it's an investment that pays dividends.

Remember, the foundation of a strong construction company lies in the capable hands of those who build our world, one brick at a time.

The Guam Contractors Association keeps track of hours worked and the education progress of the apprentices in your program. We can guide your company through the whole process. What have you got to lose?

Join the list of companies that have, or are in the process of, creating an apprenticeship program to enhance the skills of its workforce.

Accessing Care… Off Island Dependent Children, And Live And Work Off Island

By Rodney “RJ” Ricarte

A good way to understanding your health benefit is to familiarize yourself with the TakeCare Member Handbook. This handbook outlines benefit coverage, copayments, co-insurance, deductible, exclusions and limitations specific to your health plan. We hope the Member Handbook is resource for you.

The Off island Dependent Children and Live and Work Member section, starting on page 4, helps you understand how your off island coverage works.

Here are a few highlights from the Off island Care Services section.

Eligible Off island Student Members. Off island dependent child(ren) under their parent’s insurance plan will be covered provided that they are a full-time student with at least twelve (12) semester units, or the equivalent as determined by TakeCare at an accredited grade school, high school or collegiate level or vocational institute of learning. The off island dependent child(ren) must be identified on TakeCare’s enrollment form and documentations must be completed and submitted to TakeCare to identify the subscriber as a parent or legal guardian whether the child(ren) has the same or different last name as the subscriber. Identification of member’s primary care provider must be done within thirty (30) days from the member’s effective date or open enrollment date.

All eligible off island dependent child(ren) are required to complete and submit the Off Island Student Verification Form to TakeCare every school term along with a Certification of School Attendance. The Certification must be completed and signed by the appropriate school official after the enrollment/drop period and submitted to TakeCare within 30 days after the start of the term.

Eligible Live and Work Members. Members covered under the live and work benefit needs to be identified prior to the group’s effective date. Similarly, their primary care providers are required to be identified and provided to TakeCare prior to the effective date of coverage. If the member and primary care provider information are not prior identified, TakeCare will deny any off island/out of service area services. All eligible members under live and work needs to complete and submit a Live and Work Enrollment form within thirty (30) days after Open Enrollment or qualifying events. Failure to provide this information within the 30-day deadline will forfeit any out of service area benefits.

Some, but not all, of your coverage for approved off island dependent child(ren) and/or members under live and work include:

• Basic primary care services including preventive services through prior identified primary care provider(s) from directly contracted or rented network (when re-priced) are covered under the member’s participating benefit.

• Any bonafide emergency and/or urgent care services through a participating / directly contracted network or an identified provider within the rented network.

All services that were not prior coordinated and prior approved by TakeCare are not covered and non-payable under the member’s benefit plan.

The above is not a complete listing, just a sample. The Member Handbook can assist you and your family to better understand your health insurance coverage. If you need more information, please contact me.

Rodney “RJ” Ricarte is the TakeCare account executive for GCA. He can be contacted at (671) 487-7121 or rodney.ricarte@takecareasia.com.

ROBERT 'BOB' SALAS

ROBERT 'BOB' SALAS

BY: MYRACLE S. MUGOL

Robert “Bob” Salas, the visionary founder of Landscape Management Systems (LMS), was recently inducted into the Guam Business Hall of Fame, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career. The induction ceremony took place during the Guam Chamber of Commerce’s Centennial Jubilee on May 4, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Guam, an event that celebrated the Chamber's 100th anniversary and honored 44 member companies for their milestone anniversaries.

"Bob Salas is truly a force to be reckoned with," said Joe Roberto, Guam Construction Association Past Chairman. "What can one say about Bob Salas and his incredible achievements but CONGRATULATIONS!!! Both the Guam Chamber of Commerce and the Guam Contractors Association are fortunate to have him and his companies as members. His example of success to date is surely one to strive towards. Making it into the Chamber's Hall of Fame is surely a feat all its own but when you add all of the other GCA awards, recognition, accolades and in several different industries and organizations, one must wonder, when will there be an award called, the "Bob Salas Master Achievement". Then, when you actually sit with Bob and have a casual conversation, you couldn't tell if he has a room full of trophies, certificates of achievements and all sorts of plaques of recognition as his tone and willingness to share is incredibly humble. To grow such businesses in Guam after only thirty (30) years is a feat like no other. AND, he's not slowing down. One day and I pray Bob reads this request, please write a book of "the Bob we know, not know and wish we knew".

Salas, a self-made entrepreneur, has been a transformative figure in Guam's business landscape. His journey began in 1994 when he established LMS, initially a small landscaping business. Despite its modest beginnings, LMS quickly earned a reputation for its innovative use of native plants in landscaping

apart but also showcased the natural beauty of Guam in a new light.

Under Salas’ leadership, LMS evolved into a full-service program management company. It expanded its services to include engineering and construction, broadening its portfolio and increasing its impact on Guam's infrastructure development. Notably, LMS was responsible for designing the annual Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) Holiday Illumination Village in Tumon, a beloved community and tourist attraction that highlights Salas’ commitment to enhancing Guam's cultural and social landscape.

"It was through Bob’s relentless commitment and dedication that Leo Palace was developed into what it is today," said Mr. Miyata San, Former President of Leo Palace Guam & Former Vice Chairman of Sumitomo Mitsui. "Bob was always positive and capable of making the Leo Palace Resort successful, requiring a lot of skills, communication, negotiations, and patience because unexpected things often happen, especially for huge projects. Bob used his skills to help get our project realized."

From Leo Palace, Salas went on to help develop the Mangilao Golf Course, Piti Underwater Conservatory, Cocos Island Resort, and the Guam Medical Plaza in Tamuning. Over the years, LMS has beautified Guam with projects at DFS Galleria, Louis Vuitton, Onward Water Park, several hotels in Tumon, the Guam Congress Building, and the Guam Museum. Salas also expanded into heavy equipment sales and rental, the cemetery industry through Guam Windward Memorial Park, hazardous waste management for the Department of Defense, tire and wood disposal services, a green waste facility in Piti, modular solutions, temporary office spaces, construction management services, and real estate development.

Through his innovation, hard work and persistence, Salas has earned the respect of his colleagues.

Leonard Kaae, Senior VP and General Manager Black Construction while figuring out words to describe Salas stated, “First is success. As many of you know Bob has been very successful in business and his personal life. Bob has demonstrated over the years that he’s built quite an empire in the landscaping business and now in the construction business. He’s starting to grow in that specific area of business. And I wish Bob continued success. Commitment. I think Bob has an unwavering commitment to succeed and he demonstrates that in everything that he does.”

Salas’ contributions to Guam extend beyond his business endeavors. His numerous awards and recognitions reflect his dedication to excellence and safety in construction. These accolades include the Guam Contractors Association Contractor of the Year (2017), the National Safety Excellence Award from Associated Builders and Contractors (2016), and the Guam Chamber of Commerce Excellence in Small Business Award (2013). These honors underscore his commitment to quality and his influence in setting high standards within the industry, and the result of this hard work and versatility.

His son, Robert Salas II, President of Pacific Federal Management, Inc., also highlighted the lessons learned from his father: "Hard work and drive are important lessons we learned from him. Another interesting thing about my dad is he's extremely competitive and he really likes to think outside the box. It's just natural to him."

Salas’ influence is also evident in his philanthropic efforts and community involvement. He has been an ardent supporter of the Plant Extinction Prevention Program at the University of Guam, where he facilitated the transplant of thousands of federally listed threatened orchids. His contributions have provided numerous student scholarships, further demonstrating his commitment to education and environmental

conservation. He champions sports through youth football leagues and supports several non-profits and initiatives within the Guam community.

Kim Santos, Captain of the Guam Police Department, remarked, "I just believe that Bob is one of the most charitable, giving, and caring people that I know. Bob loves what he does, loves his island, and is one of the most interesting people I’ve ever met. He’s a great inspiration for our younger generations. Hard times are something you get past, and you can accomplish many things in life.”

In addition to his business acumen, Salas has been a key figure in various civic organizations. He has served as chairman of both the Guam Chamber of Commerce and the Guam Contractors Association. His board memberships include the Guam Economic Development Authority, the University of Guam Endowment Foundation, and the Guam Department of Parks and Recreation. These roles have allowed him to influence policy and development strategies, further cementing his legacy as a leader and innovator.

Salas' impact on Guam's business community was aptly summarized by Catherine S. Castro, president of the Guam Chamber of Commerce, who praised his foresight, work ethic, and business collaborations. "Through Bob's foresight, work ethic, and business collaborations, he has created multiple companies across various industries, employing hundreds of our island residents, and has raised the bar of service and efficiency in every industry that he is involved in," she said. "Bob's philanthropic efforts further exemplify his commitment to our island community."

Ernie A. Galito, chairman of the board for the Guam Chamber of Commerce, also commended Salas, highlighting the importance of recognizing outstanding business leaders in Guam. "We aspire for all of Guam’s remarkable business leaders and forward-thinkers to receive the recognition they merit," he said.

"Congratulations to Bob Salas for being chosen as the 2024 Individual Laureate — a truly deserving honor."

Salas' journey from a business consultant to a leading entrepreneur and community leader is a testament to his vision perseverance, and passion. Bob Coulter, a business coach, encapsulated Salas’ passionate approach to business: "When I think about Bob Salas, I think about passion. He's an extremely passionate person with incredible vision."

His ability to bring together talented individuals and his dedication to excellence have been the driving forces behind his success. As he looks to the future, Salas aims to continue advocating for policies that benefit Guam, such as the Super 8a set-aside, which would provide further opportunities for businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged people.

Salas' legacy is deeply appreciated by those closest to him. His son, Randolf Salas, President of Proferre Inc., reflects on his father's indomitable spirit: "It's difficult to consolidate into just a few words who my father is. I will say, as his son, what I'm most proud of is that my father has never given up on anything. He is one of the most tenacious people I've ever met. When things get hard, he pushes harder. He's easily one of the most intelligent and successful people I've been lucky to meet. He's extremely generous, forthcoming, helpful, and accommodating. When he believes in you and your vision, he'll move mountains to get you there."

In honoring Bob Salas, we celebrate a man whose contributions have profoundly impacted Guam. His legacy is one of innovation, community service, and unwavering commitment to excellence. As the Guam Business Hall of Fame welcomes him, we look forward to seeing his continued influence on the island's

GCA May Luncheon

May 15th, 2024

Hilton Guam Resort

GCA Small Business with National Guard Director and Team GCA Gov, Military Labor Committee GCA Safety Committee GCA Activities Committee

Board Member Meeting

2022 Economic Census Snapshot

Selected Statistics From the 2022 Economic Census of Island Areas

Did You Know?

Establishments in the Retail Trade (NAICS 44–45) sector in Guam reported average revenue per establishment of $2.84 million in 2022. The average revenue per establishment across All Sectors (NAICS 00) was $3.03 million.

Establishments in Retail Trade reported revenue per employee of $214,912 in 2022. The average revenue per employee across All Sectors (NAICS 00) was $190,413.

Establishments in Retail Trade reported payroll per employee of $24,510 in 2022. The average payroll per employee across All Sectors (NAICS 00) was $32,575.

Accessing the Data

To access the data released for Guam from the 2022 Economic Census, visit <https://data.census .gov> and use the following steps:

• Enter “IA22” in the “Search” field.

• Click on “Filters.”

• Under “Geography,” select “State.”

• Select “Guam.”

The 2022 Economic Census of Island Areas comprehensive data on “sales” and other measures of employer business output for nearly every sector of the economy at the state-equivalent and local area levels by 2- through 5-digit codes from the 2022 North American Industry Classification System (NAICS).

5 Sectors by Sales, Value of Shipments, or Revenue: 2022

Detailed industry data from the 2022 Economic Census of Island Areas are available for Guam as a whole and for each municipality (county-equivalent).

Pago-Ordot

Mongmong-Toto-Maite

• Close the filter to view the 2022 Economic Census tables for Guam. Yona Yigo Tamuning Talofofo Sinajana Santa Rita

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 Economic Census of Island Areas.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 Economic Census of Island Areas.

2022 Economic Census Snapshot

Selected Statistics From the 2022 Economic Census of Island Areas

The Economic Census also includes data on employment and payroll by sector. Comparing with previous Economic Census data can help identify shifts in the island economy and its workforce.

Top 5 Sectors by Number of Employees: 2022

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 Economic Census of Island Areas.

Change in Employment for Selected Sectors: 2017–2022

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2022 Economic Census of Island Areas.

Contact Us

To learn more about the Economic Census, visit <www.census.gov/EconomicCensus>.

For Economic Census information specific to Island Areas, visit <www.census.gov/programs-surveys/ economic-census/island-areas/2022.html>.

For general Economic Census information and industry-specific questions, please contact the U.S. Census Bureau at <ewd.outreach@census.gov> or by phone at (301) 763-5154 or (800) 242-2184.

For specific questions about Island Areas data, please contact the Island Areas sta at (301) 763-3314

The Census Bureau has reviewed this data product to ensure appropriate access, use, and disclosure avoidance protection of the confidential source data (Project No. P-7504609, Disclosure Review Board [DRB] approval number: CBDRB-FY24-0044).

MEMBE R SPOTLIGHT

The top finishers of the recent Guam Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) “Block Kids Building Competition” were celebrated by the 37th Guam Legislature. The annual event, hosted by NAWIC Guam, took place in April at the University of Guam Calvo Field House. Hundreds of children from 1st to 5th grade participated, each provided with 100 building block pieces (Legos), a small rock, a piece of string, a piece of foil, and a poster board. They had 45 minutes to construct a structure to present to the judges, who evaluated them based on originality and creativity, attention to detail, use of materials, oral presentation, and enthusiasm.

In May, the following students were awarded legislative certificates at the Guam Congress Hall:

Grade 1:

• 1st Place: Peyton Ulith - Juan M. Guerrero Elementary School

• 2nd Place: Isaac Camacho - Price Elementary School

• 3rd Place: Charm Chiguina - Harry S. Truman Elementary School

Grade 2:

• 1st Place: Darius Iosefa Taumua - C.L. Taitano Elementary School

• 2nd Place: Amber Katherine Tongson - Maria A. Ulloa Elementary School

• 3rd Place: Emily Flores - Machananao Elementary School

Grade 3:

• 1st Place: Kamden Sharpless - Harvest Christian Academy

• 2nd Place: Sophie Nicole Takara F. Diaz - Liguan Elementary School

• 3rd Place: Zoe Abigail Hikari F. Diaz - Liguan Elementary School

Grade 4:

• 1st Place: Gavin Michael Bautista - Juan M. Guerrero Elementary School

• 2nd Place: Jeremiah Damian - Maria A. Ulloa Elementary School

• 3rd Place: Jareden Davis - St. Anthony Catholic School

Grade 5:

• 1st Place: Jonathan A. Connor, Jr. - Maria A. Ulloa Elementary School

• 2nd Place: Leanna Raine Lavarias - Maria A. Ulloa Elementary School

• 3rd Place: Katana Taitague - Adacao Elementary School

The Block Kids Building Program Competition is a national event supported by the NAWIC Education Foundation and hosted locally by NAWIC Guam. Its primary goal is to foster interest in the construction industry among elementary school students through a creative and engaging competition.

$2,719,887.90 $1,420,013.23 $750,677.18

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GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

Black Construction Corporation • First Hawaiian Bank

BRONZE SPONSORS

Isla Coatings and Roofing Supply

Island Equipment Company G4S Security Systems (Guam), Inc. • Phoenix Pacific (Guam), Inc.