THEDIRECTORS THEEDITORIALS
INTERIM PRESIDENT
Desiree Lizama
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
Alan 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
THETEAM
PUBLISHER: Desiree Lizama
PRODUCTION TEAM
LEAD: Geri Leon Guerrero
AD SALES: Alyssa Roces
Sierra Tenorio
PRODUCTION: Jason Davis
Alyssa Roces
Christopher “Taco” Rowland
PHOTOGRAPHY: Alyssa Roces
EDITOR: Adztech
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Francine Taitague
Rodney “RJ” Ricarte
Patricia “Patti” L. Diego
Joe Roberto
GCA STAFF: Francine Taitague
Trevor Cruz
Rosielyn Holgado
Peter Finona
COVER:
Like the Latte Stone, SBA helps provide a support for businesses to prosper and grow.
PRESIDENT’S
Here Comes 2025
I extend my warmest wishes to the members of the Guam Contractors Association for a prosperous and successful 2025.
We have an exciting calendar of events planned, and I encourage all members to actively participate in shaping our association and industry's future. Our strength lies in our unity and commitment to excellence and your involvement is crucial to our continued growth.
The year kicks off with our signature middle and high school girl engagement program, Pizza, Pop, and Power Tools on March 29, held at the GCA Trades Academy. We continue our mission to inspire the next generation of construction professionals. This hands-on event has become instrumental in showcasing the exciting opportunities within our industry to young minds.
Soon after, our Annual Golf Fundraiser will be held on April 18. This event is an excellent opportunity for networking while supporting our association's initiatives and scholarships for students attending the GCA Trades Academy.
May 28 & 29, the GCA will host the Samoan Joe Annual Safety Conference. This two-day event, focusing on crucial industry safety practices and innovations, brings together experts and professionals to share insights and best practices that keep our workforce safe and coming home to their families everyday. Summer brings another opportunity to hit the links with our August Golf Fundraiser, fostering camaraderie among our members (and friendly competition).
Mark your calendars for the GCA Family Day Picnic, on October 12, followed by the Construction Warriors, an event for high school students, October 25. The picnic strengthens our member community bonds and celebrate the hardworking families that make our industry the success that it is.
The year will culminate with the Excellence in Construction and Contractor of the Year Awards on November 8, celebrating the outstanding achievements of Guam’s construction industry.
Please join us at our monthly membership luncheons, held every third Wednesday. These gatherings are vital networking opportunities and provide a platform for meaningful dialogue about industry challenges and opportunities.
Additionally, our various committees meet throughout the month, offering opportunities to contribute to our association's growth and development. Your involvement in these committees is vital to our continued success and helps shape the future of our industry.
We're also committed to professional development through our comprehensive safety training programs, including CQM, EM385 40-hour, and various OSHA certifications. These programs demonstrate our dedication to maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality in our industry. By participating in these training opportunities, you're investing in your team's development and contributing to the overall excellence of our construction community.
Get involved in the GCA this year. If you would like more information, please call the GCA office at (671) 647-4840.
Let's make 2025 a year of growth, collaboration, and achievement.
Desiree Lizama Interim President Guam Contractors Association
APPRENTICESHIP
By Francine Taitague Education Director Guam Contractors Association
YOUR COMPANY'S APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM CHECKLIST FOR 2025
Happy New Year! The construction industry in Guam continues to face a shortage of skilled workers. With retiring workers and increasing construction demands, the need for qualified craftspeople has never been more critical.
Creating an apprenticeship program is an investment in your company's future. Here is your guide to creating a successful apprenticeship program in 2025.
1.) Create a Foundation
Assess your company's strengths and weaknesses before starting an apprenticeship program. Do you understand all of the rules and guidelines? Do you have the physical space, equipment, and most importantly, the right people to mentor apprentices? Identify your master tradespeople who demonstrate both technical excellence and teaching ability. These individuals will become the backbone of your program as mentors.
Review your workforce needs for the next five years. Which trades do you need? How much of your workforce do you anticipate leaving? Additionally, calculate your company’s available budget. Considering not just training costs, but also tools, materials, and mentor time allocation.
2.) Build Your Program Structure
A well-designed apprenticeship program requires careful planning. Start by outlining a clear roadmap—typically two to four years, depending on the trade. Establish detailed learning objectives that align with industry standards and your company's specific needs.
Develop a competitive wage progression scale that rewards skill advancement while maintaining program sustainability. Remember, apprentices are investments—their productivity increases as they progress
through the program. Safety must be paramount. Create comprehensive safety training protocols that exceed minimum requirements and integrate them throughout the curriculum—and your company.
3.)
Implement and Support
Success requires robust administrative systems. I can help can guide you through this process and implement record-keeping systems to track apprentice progress, such as work hours and evaluations.
You’ll be partnering with the GCA Trades Academy and/or the Guam Community College for hands-on technical training and classroom instruction. Review all legal requirements thoroughly, including labor laws, safety regulations, and apprenticeship standards. You’ll want to define clear metrics for program success, including completion rates, and skill benchmarks. Implement regular feedback sessions for both apprentices and mentors. Develop retention strategies that keep apprentices engaged and committed to completing the program.
4.) The Next Steps
Together, we can build a stronger future for our industry, one apprentice at a time. The GCA keeps track of hours worked and the education progress of the apprentices in your program. We can guide your company through the whole process.
Join the list of companies that have, or are in the process of, creating an apprenticeship program to enhance the skills of its workforce.
I can help you! Interested in learning more? Please contact me at (671) 647-4841 or francine.taitague@guamcontractors.org.
“Having our home windows tinted by East Island Tinting was an excellent decision. Our power bill dropped enough to pay for the work in less than a year. Even better, our home is much cooler and more comfortable when we walk in after a long, hard day.”
Make 2025 Your Healthiest Year Yet: A Guide to Essential Health Screenings
By Rodney “RJ” Ricarte
Your TakeCare GCA Employee Health Plan members can access the FHP Health Center. You and your family can find various specialties and diagnostic services all mostly under one roof, making it a convenient option for your medical, dental, and vision needs.
The FHP Health Center aims to meet your healthcare needs, providing well-baby visits and annual physicals for adults. The pediatricians focus on the health of children from birth to 18 years, while adult medicine and women’s health services cover preventive care and treatment for acute and chronic conditions.
While many make resolutions about exercise and diet, scheduling regular health screenings is equally crucial for maintaining optimal health and catching potential issues early. Prevention and early detection remain our most powerful tools in maintaining wellness.
Your Annual Medical Examinations
Start with the basics: an annual physical examination. This cornerstone of preventive care gives your healthcare provider a comprehensive view of your health status. During this visit, essential metrics like blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose levels are checked, providing vital information about your cardiovascular and metabolic health. These simple tests can reveal early warning signs of conditions like hypertension or diabetes before they become serious concerns.
Your Dental Health
Don't overlook your dental health—it's more connected to your overall well-being than you might think. Scheduling bi-annual dental cleanings and an annual set of dental X-rays can prevent major oral health issues and detect problems before they become painful or expensive to treat. Many systemic health conditions, including heart disease, first show signs in oral health changes.
Your Eye Health
Your eyes deserve equal attention. Annual eye examinations go beyond just checking if you need new glasses. These comprehensive screenings can detect early signs of serious conditions like glaucoma, diabetes-related complications, and even neurological issues. With our increasing dependence on digital devices, protecting our eye health has never been more important.
Your Gender Specific Health
Gender-specific screenings add another crucial layer to preventive care. Women aged 40 and above should schedule annual mammograms, while men over 50 should discuss prostate screenings with their healthcare providers. These targeted screenings are vital tools in the early detection of gender-specific cancers.
Make Time for Your Health
Making time for these screenings might seem daunting, but modern healthcare has made the process more convenient than ever. Some screenings can be clustered together to minimize time away from work or family commitments.
Remember, these recommendations are general guidelines. Your personal screening schedule should be tailored to your age, family history, and individual risk factors. Some people may need more frequent screenings, while others might require additional tests based on their specific health profiles.
2025 can be the year you and your family get healthy.
Rodney “RJ” Ricarte is the TakeCare account executive for GCA. He can be contacted at (671) 487-7121 or rodney.ricarte@takecareasia.com.
The BestIsland’sClinic
APEX ACCELERATORS CONNECT LOCAL BUSINESSES TO FEDERAL OPPORTUNITIES
By Patricia “Patti” L. Diego
Guam’s strategic location in the Pacific positions the island as a vital hub for U.S. military operations. The ongoing military buildup, including the relocation of Marine Corps units from Okinawa, drives extensive and significant federal infrastructure project and contract opportunities for Guam’s construction industry.
On December 11, 2024, the University of Guam (UOG) hosted the Department of Defense (DOD) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) presentation on the APEX Accelerators program, a pivotal initiative for businesses aiming to enter and navigate the defense supply chain and succeed in government contracting. UOG’s partnering with the APEX Accelerators program directly aligns with the mission of the Guam Contractors Association (GCA), which focuses on fostering the growth, development, and sustainability of Guam’s construction industry. The presentations supported promoting local business opportunities, advocating for workforce development, and facilitating collaboration between government and industry. The strong turnout at the event demonstrated a high level of interest and demand among local businesses for resources and guidance in government contracting.
For Guam’s construction industry, this program represented information and contact details on unique opportunity to access federal contracts, expand local capacity, and contribute to the nation’s defense infrastructure while fueling the island’s economy. The Department of Defense (DOD) Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP) proved that there are opportunities for local businesses to excel in federal projects.
The APEX Accelerators, formerly known as Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs), guides businesses through the complexities of government contracting. The program educates companies on federal requirements, helps them register in necessary systems, and prepares them to submit competitive proposals. Serving as a bridge between the government and the private sector, APEX empowers businesses of all sizes, ensuring that the Department of Defense has access to a diverse pool of suppliers, including small and disadvantaged companies.
The APEX Accelerators program has the potential to significantly benefit Guam’s construction industry by equipping local firms with the tools and knowledge needed to compete for federal contracts. Participants in the program gain valuable expertise in federal contracting, including comprehensive training on acquisition regulations, bid requirements, and proposal preparation. These tools enhance their ability to navigate the complexities of federal procurement processes effectively.
Additionally, the program opens access to high-value opportunities, with billions of dollars allocated annually to defense contracts. Guam’s construction firms can leverage these opportunities to secure projects for building critical facilities, housing, and utility infrastructure. Participation in federal projects also promotes workforce development, enabling companies to invest in employee training, create jobs, and improve living standards within the local community.
Moreover, diversifying revenue through federal contracts fosters resilience, helping businesses mitigate the risks associated with fluctuations in the local market. By engaging with APEX Accelerators, Guam’s construction companies position themselves for greater competitiveness, sustainable growth, and long-term success in the federal contracting sector.
The APEX Accelerators Program provides comprehensive support to help businesses succeed in government contracting. Key features include education and training through workshops, webinars, and counseling on crucial topics such as SAM registration, cybersecurity compliance, and proposal writing. The program also assists businesses with market research, helping them identify relevant opportunities and trends within the defense sector. Furthermore, APEX Accelerators facilitates valuable networking opportunities by connecting businesses with prime contractors and government agencies, providing valuable industry insights and fostering partnerships.
A sample of the presentations shown.
Office of the Secretary of the Navy Small Business Programs
“Small BusinessThe First Option "
Ms. Arveice M. Washington
Office of the Secretary of the Navy Small Business Programs
Success stories from other businesses that have won government contracts clearly demonstrate the powerful impact of the APEX Accelerators program. A Hawaii construction firm attended an APEX workshop, resulting in the company securing a $2 million contract for military housing with 15 new jobs created. A California Veteran-owned business pursued program guidance, which lead to infrastructure maintenance contracts at a naval base, doubling the company’s revenue in three years. These examples showcase how businesses can grow while meeting critical defense needs.
Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) also presented and offered valuable information and resources, which could benefit GCA members and other construction companies interested in expanding their reach into federal contracting. The SBA highlighted several programs designed to empower small businesses and foster economic growth within Guam's construction industry:
• Simplified Certification: The SBA's Unified Certification Program, presented by Francine Morris, Director of Government Contracting, streamlines the process for businesses seeking to compete for federal contracts. This program can significantly ease your company's entry into the federal contracting arena. You can find all the details and resources online at https://certify.sba.gov/.
• Reduced Burden for HUBZone Businesses: For the HUBZone-certified, Laura Mass, Deputy Director of the HUBZone Program, announced a shift to tri-annual re-certifications starting in January 2025. This change reduces administrative burdens, freeing up your time and resources to focus on winning contracts.
The SBA is committed to supporting small businesses in Guam. By utilizing the resources offered by the SBA, Guam's construction companies can gain a significant advantage in the competitive world of federal contracting.
Guam businesses can get started and benefit from the program. Local construction firms should:
1. Review and learn from the December 11, 2024 presentation(s) which highlighted various opportunities specific to Guam. (See the links to the slide presentation(s) on the GCA website.)
2. Utilize the various and local resources including the Small Business Administration(SBA) and University of Guam’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to gain valuable guidance.
3. Satisfy federal requirements through registering in SAM and ensure your firm’s cybersecurity compliance.
4. Invest in workforce development and training through attending workshops and counseling to build expertise in government contracting.
5. Collaborate locally, forming joint ventures or subcontracting agreements to enhance your company’s capacity for larger projects.
Now is the time to seize this opportunity. Guam's construction industry and related sectors possess the potential to significantly contribute to the island's economic growth. By establishing and nurturing strong partnerships, local companies can gain access to the tools and knowledge necessary to compete successfully for significant federal and military infrastructure contracts.
The APEX Accelerators program empowers our industry initiatives. Securing these contracts fosters innovation and island. Through partnerships and networking, we can build
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GCA, Committee on Government, Military, & Labor Affairs
What words would describe the past 2024 and forward to 2025? Collaboration, cooperation, cohesiveness at the very same time, challenges, cautiousness and calamity?
As we all know and should realize, in all things, there are Pros & Cons, Opportunities & Catastrophes or simply put, good and bad. It’s how we deal with such “issues”, in an effort for proper and careful quality output.
This sentence must be repeated to ourselves as we venture towards a year of demand in 2025, “we must value each person, profession and organization we currently work with to solidify and satisfy our absolute need in the moment”. And in this moment is our Construction industry requires continued TEAMWORK
Over the past weeks, months and year, we’ve grown to know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. It is with such knowledge everyone will benefit and allow for quality, safe output and achieving goals.
2024, over a BILLION dollars that’s $1,000,000,000.00 (if the font were larger, it’ll take up the whole line) was awarded for Guam projects alone. Billions more are currently being awarded and shared.
2024, we went from less than 10,000 persons in the construction industry to over 10,000 by the end of the year. there was less than 500 GCA members, we are now well over 500 members.
2024, your committee met on many occasions discussing challenges to overcome and by the end of the year, met with success. This success is contributed to all Government Department Agencies, our Administration, Legislative and Congressional leadership, NavFacPac, NavFacMar, JRM and OICC’s continues communications, Guam Chamber of Commerce, GHRA, S.A.M.E. and other vital non-profit organizations made up of Professionals volunteering their extremely valuable time to ride such a massive billion-dollar build-up.
2024, amongst ALL the blessings some may consider “issues”, from housing shortages, supply timelines, infrastructure costs, permit delays, processing requirements, weather warnings and interruptions, shipping and transportation logistics, design and manufacturing, distribution and trade realities, there is but one single most common denominator that affects and creates a ripple affect which is labor. Labor will continue to be a hot topic in all discussions and with the right direction, attitude, and willingness to accept the challenge ahead, we will achieve what can and must be achieved.
NOW, 2025, hang on tight as things will ramp up even more. More H2B Barracks are being built, more H2B applications being turned in, more students graduating from the GCA Trades Academy and GCC. The UOG’s School of Engineering is in full swing and the labor market increasing in worth and experience, there is hope
for a greater “tomorrow”. “Today” however, who you work with now, keep them. Who you contract with now, continue with them. Who you do business with now, keep them in business. The Engineers, Architects, Electricians, Plumbers, Mechanics, and amongst all the specialty fields, maintain a positive and consistent relationship as the wave and current will require everyone to show and prove their strength and bond to one another.
We have the commitment from the Executive and Legislative leadership to work in tandem. We have the participation and cooperation from our Congressional Office to move forward as expeditiously as possible. This year, 2025 will be a pivotal year of laying the bricks on top of the footing and foundation we formed from 2024.
This year, 2025 will be a pivotal year of laying the bricks on top of the footing and foundation we formed from 2024. Let’s use the powerful tool of technology and teamwork to make 2025 a year filled with milestones met and goals achieved. And, in a blink of an eye, this article will start once again in 2026 with, “we must value each person, profession and organization we currently work with to solidify and satisfy our absolute need in the moment”.
Lastly, from Harry S. Truman, “Do your best, history will do the rest."
Best wishes,
Joe Roberto GCA Immediate Past Chairman
CONTRACTORS, DEVELOPERS AND BUILDERS: PLAN AHEAD FOR POWER CONNECTIONS
The Guam Power Authority (GPA) encourages contractors and developers to prioritize submitting requests for new power installations early in their project timelines, ideally during the pre-construction phase, to ensure seamless and on-time project completion.
"Early application is crucial," emphasized GPA General Manager John M. Benavente, P.E., in a public notice issued in late 2024. By urging contractors and developers to submit applications concurrently with building permits, GPA can plan ahead and acquire the necessary materials such as power poles, transformers, and other equipment. “This proactive approach helps minimize delays caused by global supply chain issues and manufacturing challenges,” stated Benavente.
GPA acknowledges the construction industry's current challenges, including global disruptions impacting the availability of critical electrical components. To minimize delays and ensure project timelines are met, GPA strongly advocates for proactive collaboration during the design phase of major projects.
Contractors, developers, and builders are advised to provide GPA with comprehensive information about their project's power needs, including:
• Type and size of structures
• Specific power loads
• Electrical connection requirements (wires, hardware, transformers, power pole/line extensions)
This information will allow GPA to accurately assess and plan for the necessary infrastructure, minimizing any potential disruptions to project timelines.
Guam Power Authority is committed to supporting the Guam construction industry. By working closely with the Guam Contractors' Association, GPA aims to streamline the processes and ensure timely service for all projects.
For more information or assistance with construction projects, contact the GPA Engineering team at (671) 648-3000 or (671) 648-3011.
HELIX ELECTRIC SUPPORTS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM WITH GENEROUS DONATION HEADLINE
We are proud to highlight the generosity of one of our valued members from Helix Electric who recently contributed a $2,000 donation to support our apprenticeship program.
This donation will be used to reward and motivate our hardworking apprentices with $200 Home Depot gift cards upon completing the program. These incentives not only recognize their dedication but also help them take the next step in their professional journey.
Thank you, Helix Electric, for your unwavering commitment to developing the next generation of skilled professionals!
For more information about Helix Electric, visit www.helixelectric.com.
NEWS LINE
Court Reinstates Nationwide Injunction of CTA Reporting Requirements
In a win for ABC and its members, on Dec. 26, a 5th Circuit Court panel reinstated the nationwide injunction against the Corporate Transparency Act’s beneficial ownership information reporting requirement.
On Dec. 3, a federal judge in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas issued the nationwide preliminary injunction against enforcement of the BOI reporting requirements, but upon appeal by the government, the 5th Circuit Court granted a stay on the injunction. The reinstatement of the injunction provides small businesses with necessary relief while litigation continues.
The same panel announced that it would hear arguments on March 25 on whether to keep the injunction in place while the case is heard by the full court, guaranteeing that the injunction will remain in place through at least the end of March 2025. As a result, covered entities do not need to file their beneficial ownership information reports prior to that proceeding.
“A nationwide injunction of the CTA’s reporting requirements will allow small business contractors to breathe easy as we await a decision from the court,” said Kristen Swearingen, ABC vice president of legislative & political affairs. “The CTA’s onerous reporting requirements would impact small business operations, forcing companies to dedicate time and resources to comply or risk lofty penalties. ABC applauds the decision
by the 5th Circuit Court panel and urges the court to keep the injunction in place and side with the small business community when delivering its final decision.”
Background on the Corporate Transparency Act
On Jan. 1, 2021, Congress enacted into law the Corporate Transparency Act, which establishes a new framework for the reporting, maintenance and disclosure of beneficial ownership information in order to better enable critical national security, intelligence and law enforcement efforts to counter money laundering, the financing of terrorism and other illicit activity.
ABC, along with a coalition of small business organizations, submitted a letter to congressional leadership expressing concerns on the amendments incorporating the CTA into the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, stating the enactment of the CTA would decrease privacy protections and slow the economic recovery of Main Street businesses.
ABC responded to Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network notice of proposed rulemaking seeking public input on how best to implement the reporting requirements of the CTA, as well as the CTA’s provisions regarding FinCEN’s maintenance and disclosure of reported information in comments. ABC’s comments noted that the framework prescribed by the CTA will require millions of small businesses,
including nearly every employer with 20 or fewer employees, to report to FinCEN certain personal information of their beneficial owners and update that information periodically throughout the life of the business.
ABC also argued that America’s small businesses—which make up most of ABC’s members—are typically not staffed or equipped to understand and comply with reporting obligations similar to those under the CTA. However, per the CTA, failure to comply can result in significant fines and imprisonment for these small business owners.
OSHA Issues Final Rule on Personal Protective Equipment in Construction
On Dec. 11, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced its final rule on Personal Protective Equipment in Construction, which adds specific language requiring that employers provide PPE that properly fits construction industry workers. The change aligns the construction industry standard with the standard already in place for general industry. The final rule is effective on Jan. 13, 2025. To learn more about the final rule read OSHA’s Frequently Asked Questions.
Tim Irving, acting director of the directorate of construction at OSHA, wrote about the final rule, stating that, “Unlike the general industry standard, the construction industry standard did not clearly state that PPE must adequately fit each affected employee. The revision requires that equipment fit each affected employee properly to protect them from occupational hazards.”
On July 20, 2023, OSHA issued a proposed rule clarifying the requirements for the fit of personal
protective equipment in construction. Read the DOL’s press release. ABC, as a steering committee member of the Construction Industry Safety Coalition, submitted comments to OSHA in response to the PPE proposed rule on Sept. 18.
