The Connection EVPS newsletter
Volume 1, Issue 5 - July 2014
R
ecently, a major construction firm in our area announced it was closing its doors. Over 200 people out of work – ouch; that hurts. I found it remarkable based on the fact we are seeing plenty of work options to pursue, a great backlog and more overall margin potential than we’ve seen in a decade. How could this firm just go out of business right now, after making it through so many decades and “The Great Recession?” The answer has become fairly clear to me now. I believe the company was led astray: »» They lost their focus on managing risk »» They fell prone to greed (more work at any cost) above core principles »» They grew too quickly and became invincible in their own minds »» They lost control by simply hiring “warm bodies” to fill empty positions This is a really good checklist for EV on what to avoid! Counter to our failed competitor, we focus on: »» Doing what we understand and doing it better than everyone else
Meet our New Team Members
HELLO
Lou Verzak Production Specialist
Madeline Sagorski Communication & Marketing Assistant
Bruce Wilson Financial & Asset Inventory Manager
Josh Simmons Construction Manager
A Few Reminders
Referrals are still welcome! If you know any quality candidates that are in the job market, please forward their info onto Stacy Chatfield at schatfield@evpsinc.com or 616.392.2383 x 445. Also, if you have recently completed any certifications or trainings please email Ali Nedved at anedved@evpsinc.com. We would love to add any addtional qualifications to your resume to better qualify you!
Phone: 616.392.2383 Web: www.evpsinc.com
»» Not taking on more than we can deliver exceptionally, regardless of profit potential »» Slow and steady wins the race. Having a clear head - not heading out to sea without having any idea where shore is. PLAN! »» It’s all about the highest quality of people and not giving in to average when you should hold out for exceptional This all seems so basic but I have to tell you, it’s harder to live out in reality. We don’t like to say “no” to anyone. We love to experience the excitement of growth and minimize the potential risks. Business owners often accept marginal talent because of immediate, pressing need. What EV wants to be known for is its deliberate, contemplative thought about every major step taken. To carefully and diligently vet out critical decisions and to be a leading company for another 70 years (at least!). Thank you for all of your continued dedication to our mission.
Mike Novakoski, President & CEO
Employee Spotlight | Katrena Bouchard Hometown: Cereal City - Battle Creek, Michigan
Within the past few months, we have welcomed back several employees as well as added many new faces and trades around the country. Please join us in welcoming:
George Clayborn Senior Construction Manager
86 East Sixth Street Holland, MI 49423
Position: Capital Finance/Engineering/Sustainability Data Analyst at Mondelez International. Family/Interests: Katrena is married to Scott and together they have three sons ages, 23, 21 and 15. As a family they enjoy disc golfing, live music and festivals and, of course, football in her house full of boys! Katrena also enjoys gardening, cooking at her summer lake house, and frequenting nearby farmers markets.
Combating Heat Exhaustion As the temperature continues to increase Preventing Heat Exhaustion this summer, please keep in mind »» Ample sleep/rest prior to work activity the dangers of heat exhaustion. The »» Hydrate well before & during work tips below will help you prevent heat »» Wear light, loose clothing, so sweat exhausation as well as effectively treat it. can evaporate If you have any questions, please contact »» Use sunscreen to prevent sunburn Buddy Simmons at 616.834.6690. »» Stop work activities if you feel your abilities start to diminish Heat Exhuastion Treatment »» Do not drink beverages with caffeine »» Stop work activities and rest »» It is easier to prevent heat exhaustion »» Drink cool water or a sport drink than it is to treat once symptoms »» Move to an air conditioned room develop »» Remove extra clothing »» Be mindful of interior non air- »» Place ice bags under arms conditioned work areas
Your EVPS Team Name
Title
Phone
Mike Novakoski
President/CEO
616.836.5456
mikenova@elzinga-volkers.com
Buddy Simmons
Vice President of Operations
616.834.6690
bsimmons@evpsinc.com
James Sheely
Director of National Sales
616.212.9916
jsheely@evpsinc.com
Dave Lamy
Operations Executive
773.841.9500
dlamy@evpsinc.com
Ali Nedved
Marketing Assistant
616.894.0921
anedved@evpsinc.com
Jenna Giha
Accounting Assistant
616.395.1427
jgiha@elzinga-volkers.com
Stacy Chatfield
Recruiter
616.813.2916
schatfield@evpsinc.com