Safety Days Count:
4,722
No Lost Time Injuries
As of 4/20/2020
EC CONNECTION - FISH AND CHIPS
APRIL, 2020
BUILDING TOGETHER
MIKE NOVAKOSKI, CEO & PRESIDENT
We’ve had our hands full with a challenge none of us have ever faced.
them for bringing us to a solid footing from which we can be a positive influence to so many others!
No proactive level of business planning could ever have fully prepared us for this pandemic. We just weren’t ready. COVID-19 is a very real threat to our health and safety and will surely impact our society in ways we can’t even imagine yet. Fear and insecurity invades the attitude of so many people when a crisis like this hits. When Michigan’s governor declared schools would be closed for three weeks and then issued a stay at home executive order, it all became very real. For the Leadership Council at EV, there was a brief moment of shock followed quickly by the need to react. When triage was complete (in a matter of hours), we got busy proactively moving ourselves into an offensive position; a position that could only be fueled by an order of “Fish and Chips”.
Times are tough and good; positive news is at a premium. We had the option of postponing our rebranding launch to a future date, but felt the world around us could use some sunshine on a cloudy day. After all, our rebranding is the culmination of a decade of growth, transformation and human effort. It is a great story! We chose to celebrate now despite the current global crisis. The spirit being communicated by the new brand should not be affected by the current challenges with COVID-19. EV Construction is positive about the future and eager to come out of this crisis healthy and with a fresh look and feel. We are proud to have brought EV Construction into the light, saying our goodbyes to our old brand that served us well for many decades.
I’m not suggesting we let our stomachs take over in a time where critical action is needed. By “Fish and Chips” I’m referring to the phenomenon of how you can take two items that may be great on their own and join them together into something much better. This is what EV does so well. We rely on the diverse thoughts and talents of our front line field professionals, coupled with excellent leadership in the office, to establish the best plans and advance the company into the strongest position. I look at all the fantastic efforts of these men and women and thank
As we move forward through these uncommon times together, don’t forget the old sayings “this too shall pass” and “take one day at a time”! Try to be a calming and optimistic presence in other’s lives and stay healthy! Sincerely,
SAFETY TIP
WELCOME TO THE EV FAMILY!
Machine Guarding: When using saws, grinders or other powered equipment always use proper guards. If a tool comes with a guard, leave it in place. Operators should be familiar with the tool’s manual and only use it for manufacturer-recommended jobs. Further enhance your safey by tying back long hair and not wearing baggy clothing while operating tools with moving parts.
OUR FAMILY IS GROWING!
NEW, PRECIOUS LITTLE PEANUTS
Hunter Sutton
Sitework Division
Eric and Grace Lammers welcomed Monroe Grace to their family on Sunday, February 23. Big brother Bennett was excited to welcome his new 8Ibs, 4oz little sister into this world. Congratulations Lammers family!
Devon Eldred Painting Division
On Tuesday, March 17, Jeff and Michelle De Jonge welcomed their second baby boy, Klayton Parker. Grandpa Tom, Grandma Diane and big brother Landon are also sharing in the excitement! Congratulations to the De Jonge family!
Greg Roets
Firestop Division
UPCOMING DATES TO NOTE May 8 | 10A-1P | Microsoft Project Training May 11 | Employee Store Opens May 13 | 2:45P | Safety Meeting May 15 | 10A-1P | Microsoft Project Training May 22 | 10A-1P | Microsoft Project Training May 25 | Memorial Day May 28 | 12P-1P | Building Connected (Taught by Eric Lammers)
Don’t forget to check EVinsite for all upcoming events and more details! Page 2
TEAM GROWTH OPEN POSITIONS:
Though we fully anticipate being back to full working strength soon and have a hefty backlog of projects, we are putting a temporary hold on any new hiring. Check back next month to see what positions we’re looking to fill!
WHAT WE’RE BUILDING RECENTLY AWARDED
GETTING STARTED
CSL - Austin, TX New Construction
TPR - Flint, MI Renovation and Addition
» New construction of a 12,000-SF plasma donation center. We will construct the building shell only and manage five acres of site development. » The project value is estimated at $2.2M. » Construction for this project is scheduled to begin in June and wrap-up in November. » Project Manager: Taylor Ostwinkle » Field Manager: Brian Marion
» Interior fit-out of a space adjacent to the current center, followed by a phased remodel of their existing space. » The project value is estimated at $1.3M. » We will be self-performing demolition, interiors and carpentry. » Project Executive: Brad Giha » Field Manager: Dan Koscielski
UNDERWAY
FINISHING UP
GHSP - Holland, MI Renovation
First Presbyterian Church of Flint - Flint, MI Renovation
» Renovation of existing space to create a new corporate office for GHSP and their parent company JSJ. New flooring, painting and entrances will be added to create a unique space. » The project value is estimated at $3.2M. » Self-perform trades on this project include demolition, interiors, painting and carpentry. » Project Manager: Jared Andersen » Field Managers: Justin Gould and Scott Wondergem
» This project entails a 7,849-SF renovation of the 3rd-floor Children’s Ministry space at the First Presbyterian Church, located in downtown Flint. A custom designed play structure and motorized curtains that create additional classrooms are two of the cornerstones of this design. » This project was originally scheduled for completion in March. Two to three weeks’ worth of work remain in the scope and will be completed once the stay at home order has been lifted. » The project value is estimated at $1.7M. » We self-performed carpentry on this project. » Project Manager: Curt Hielke » Field Manager: Brian Marion
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TEAM SPOTLIGHT - BOVEN BIRTH CENTER JARED ANDERSEN, PROJECT MANAGER
I had the pleasure recently of visiting Holland Hospital’s phase 3 Boven renovation. With our recent COVID-19 situation, I had fully prepared myself for a site visit that would be anything but “normal”. Outside, there were people in masks everywhere, signage with “no visitors allowed” and directions to check-in points. I followed protocol and checked in with the RN. After getting my temperature taken and mandatory face mask, I headed up to our phase 3 construction space. As soon as I entered and looked around it became instantly apparent that this was going to be a very typical site visit. This was the same project I had visited multiple times weekly for almost 3 years. There were EV craftspeople installing ceiling pads and casework, unloading a shipment of doors and of course cleaning. I did have to wonder for a brief second if the Boven team wasn’t aware of our world health crisis. What was more shocking was the attitude. I don’t believe I heard “COVID-19” mentioned one time while I was onsite and if I did it came from my own mouth. There were smiles, small talk and a very overwhelming sense of “normal”. Sure, there were COVID policies posted everywhere, tradespeople in blue masks and an overwhelming supply of hand sanitizer, but otherwise the EV Team was doing what it does best; creating a new quality space for a long-time client. To the untrained eye, these could be construction workers violating the stay at home order. To all those who know better, they are essential workers building nine new and necessary beds for our Holland community. This team is doing this all while maintaining a safe, healthy and perhaps above all, positive project site. So, I say thank you to our guys for continuing to represent EV at the very highest level. Thank you for making it feel like a “normal” day at work.
NAVIGATING COVID-19: AVAILABLE RESOURCES FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
COURTESY OF THE B&B WORK-LIFE BALANCE COMMITTEE
Pinterest Craft Ideas for the Kids Click on or type in the following links: https://onelittleproject.com/sidewalk-chalk-ideas/ https://masandpas.com/melting-skittles-experiment/ https://www.craftymorning.com/crunchy-floam-slime-recipe/ https://www.bloggymomma.com/kids-scavenger-hunt/ Things to Do for You Zoom Happy Hour/Lunches with Friends and/or Family
Friendly Reminders There has always been a general understanding that when it comes to respecting others’ evenings and weekends we should not drop a “bomb message” if it is an issue that can wait. During this time, however, each person has a different schedule. Be mindful as you’re sending off emails and requests that there may be a delayed response.
Join Friday Celebration via Zoom when possible and share in the joy of others
It’s okay to not act normal. Take care of yourself mentally and physically. Turn off the news!
Utilize the time to update paint colors, stain the deck, clean out the garage, etc.
For those working from home, or a different schedule than you are accustomed to, here are some tips that may help.
Mental Clarity Having a set schedule for lunch or a quick 15-minute break
Free Technology Applications BroadwayHD - Stream your favorite musical for free (seven day trial)
Create a schedule for the kids that allows for time to work with minimal distractions
Audible Free Trial Prime members are invited to choose two books to get started ABC Mouse Free Trial Free Fitness Apps - 8fit, Youtube Kids (offers free yoga and many other videos to explore and learn)
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Puzzles & Games House Projects - All of the things you said you would do “one day when you have time”
Go for a walk, take a deep breath and enjoy the sunshine Reach out to loved ones, friends, coworkers and neighbors we are all in this together Food for Thought This situation has organically helped us be a bit more balanced when it comes to work and home. Remember, how we look back on this time will most likely be different than that of the kids. Focus on the opportunity for quality time together and try to enjoy some memory building opportunities.