EPIC EXTRAORDINARY EMPOWER
CINDY
KIM
563-880-2582 Chris@IowaCSSI.com
CADE
BY CHAD KLEPPE PRESIDENT/CEO
Since the mid-1980’s, MBI has conducted a confidential wage survey as an exclusive member benefit. Through the Human Resources consulting firm Newport Group, the survey gathers wage data from general and specialty contractors and construction material suppliers.
For 2024, the MBI Board has decided in these times of increased inflationary pressure, executives need better data to determine competitive compensation for employees. Previously, the wage survey was done every other year, but MBI will now conduct this survey annually. The survey link was shared with each membercompany back in mid-May with the hopes of getting members to provide wage information that will serve as a benchmark in assessing their current wage structures. The survey has been expanded to include additional positions and titles, as well as inquiries on enhanced benefit offerings such as health, PTO, car allowances, ESOPs, and even health club memberships and student loan repayment. (Interesting fact – over 10% of the respondents have some sort of student loan repayment program.)
With wage and compensation information being highly sensitive to each company, MBI and Newport Group have gone to great lengths to enhance confidentiality. The survey uses a regional format as opposed to data collection subject to a particular city. Likewise, any and
The Importance of TIMELY Wage Data
all information is completely confidential and only those firms who are willing to complete the survey will have access to the final product.
As with any survey, the greater the participation, the better the data. Last year, nearly 80 firms completed the information and submitted their respective data. The participation was widespread throughout Iowa, including general contractors, specialty contractors, and suppliers. Respondents also covered the entire laborforce spectrum, from large to small and union to nonsignatory. We have always felt that it is important that as many MBI members participate to help make this a meaningful and valuable report for members. Without question, this data can be the most accurate commercial construction compensation update in Iowa and is just another example of how MBI is uniquely adding value to your membership investment.
MBI Compensation & Benefits Survey - 2021
EXECUTIVE INSIGHT SERIES
in partnership with
Program seeking company leaders at the executive level to attend.
Objectives this program addresses are:
• Industry literature review
• Local and global trends analysis
• Executive focus groups of MBI members
• Online membership survey
• Working sessions
The next Executive Insights Series session will be held in September 2024.
For more information, please contact Ben Hammes at BHammes@MBI.Build
PROGRAM SPONSOR
Invitation Only
EPIC EXTRAORDINARY EMPOWER
BY TARA RINEHART VICE PRESIDENT OF INDUSTRY EDUCATION
True leaders have a vision, strategic thinking, and the ability to create powerful teams. Every three years, Master Builders of Iowa creates an experience for our most advanced leaders. This summer, the experience will take place in Iowa City from July 31-August 2. EliteX is designed for industry professionals who want to expand their learning from some of the world's top business and thought leaders alongside like-minded industry professionals. EliteX will allow you to expand your thinking, recharge your vision, fuel your energy, and transform your leadership.
Through a combination of presentations, workshops, and activities, you will be introduced to and apply high-performing leadership skills. Sessions include: The Art of Encouragement, An Executive’s Candid Guide to Human Capital Decisions, Championship Culture: 5 Secrets to Leadership Multiplication, From Ordinary to Extraordinary: Leveraging Working Genius, and Leveling Up – Six Questions for Next Level Performance. The lead thought partners that we have secured for this event are best-selling authors, transformational speakers, and executive coaches from the likes of Ryan Leak, Mike O’Connell, and Jordan Montgomery. The commitment will continue once the event is over in the application of the content learned.
Go on this journey with Master Builders of Iowa to enrich your leadership. Do not miss this transformational opportunity – get registered today. Expected participants for this exclusive event are those that have graduated from The Leadership Experience, gained their Master Builder’s Designation award and/or are currently executive leaders within our membership.
For additional information, contact Vice President of Industry Education, Tara Rinehart at TRinehart@MBI.Build or (515) 657-4395.
www.thembiedge.com
Check out the MBI EDGE Podcast to get a sneak peak into what this program has to offer! THE ELITEX - Epic. Extraordinary. Empower Season 2 | Episode 9
PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
With MBI Remaining for 2024 -2025
BY ANDY SWANSON MEMBER SERVICES MANAGER - PARTNER RELATIONS
Sponsorship continues to be the pinnacle of an organization’s targeted marketing efforts. And if you have sponsored an MBI event in the past, we are confident that you saw the Return on Investment! However, if you are new to sponsoring association events, now is the time to get together and chat.
The key to plugging into associations is to:
GET INVOLVED!
Our sponsorships range from logo and brand placement to full experience sponsorships that often include a dinner or social event. Sponsorship gives you a personal connection with your desired audience. As an experience or event sponsor, you will have a greater opportunity to learn more about your targeted audience and gain an advantage over those competitors who are absent from sponsorship.
With our multiple digital platforms, our sponsorships have expanded beyond the basic physical events. With MBI sponsorships, we have a dedicated team to meet with you and discuss your goals to ensure your sponsorship dollars are placed in front of the right audience. Sponsorships also provide you with authentic connections and the ability to cultivate real relationships.
Whether your company or brand has been around for 1 or 100 years, you need a reputation. Whether your company or brand is 5 employees or 5000, you need to be in the spotlight. Sponsoring MBI is a terrific way to build awareness and positive community exposure for your company.
MBI's mission is to be the essential resource for improving member performance and promoting a business environment favorable to the construction industry. And we are your biggest advocate!
GET INVOLVED
WHY SPONSOR EVENTS AT MBI?
• Sales
• Networking
• Companies like to keep their expenses within the organization
• Close to 500 member companies within the association and thousands of membership employees
• Highlight your product
• This is a terrific opportunity to be visible among your target audience
• Clarify your company’s perception
• Clearly identify your company/product/service’s goal
• Reach your targeted audience
• Entertain your prospective clients.
• Lead Generation
• ROI Let's chat! Reach out when time is convenient and let’s build your 2024/2025 marketing plan with this state’s leading commercial construction association! Andy Swanson can be reached at ASwanson@MBI.Build or (515) 554-7032.
Now that our first right of refusal time period is over, here are the remaining sponsorships available:
• Master Builder Designation Partnership
• MBI BuildHER Experience Opportunities
• Lunch and Learn (Lunch Club) Sponsors
• Building a Safety Champion Dinner Sponsors
• Construction Rodeo Event Sponsors
• Foundations of a Field Leader Dinner Sponsor
• PAC Clay Shooting Event Sponsors in both Eastern and Central Iowa locations
• MB Eye on the Future Experience Sponsor
• PAC Golf and Smoker Sponsorships
• Project Managers/Project Supervisors Dinner Sponsors
• The Leadership Dinner Sponsors
• Multiple 2025 Annual Winter Conference Opportunities
DID YOU KNOW MBI Members have access to AGC of America Discount Programs!
BY ADAM DOBRASKA
MEMBER SERVICES MANAGERMEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
You may or may not know this, but any member of MBI can take advantage of the various AGCA discount programs. As an affiliated state-chapter of AGC, all MBI members can access a variety of discounts that the AGC of America offers. These include discounts on insurance programs, industry solutions, fleet management, shipping, and more. These discount programs are designed to help our members save money and improve their daily business operations. To view those discounts, please visit https://www.agc.org/Discounts.
Please look at the discounts page through the membership benefits section of our webpage to see what discounts might catch your eye. There are a lot of savings out there that we want you to take part in if you feel inclined to do so. Being able to have our members take advantage of great discounts is something we take pride in. Membership at MBI has many rewards, but having access to these discount programs is certainly something that members should utilize.
For any questions related to the AGCA discount programs, or any other membership benefits, please reach out to Adam DoBraska at ADoBraska@MBI.Build.
Project Information Services
Member Pricing on Training
Networking Events
AGC Discount Programs
Training Coupon
Legislative Representation
Legal Counsel
Exclusive MBI LIVE Online Training • Workforce Recruitment
• Training Vault • Webinars
• ELEVATE - Business & Events Center
DON'T GET CANNED
Which Gas Cans are Job Site
Appropriate?
BY CHRIS PANKOW SAFETY CONSULTANT
Understanding and strictly adhering to OSHA standards, especially in fuel storage, is critical. Safety is not just about avoiding fines; it is also about ensuring everyone's safety. The OSHA standard 29 CFR 1926.152 (a) (1) explicitly states that "only approved containers and portable tanks shall be used for the storage and handling of flammable and consumable liquids."
• Type I safety cans: are characterized by a single large opening, facilitating quick filling, and pouring. On the other hand, type II safety cans are equipped with two spouts, one for filling and one for dispensing, which enable fast filling and smooth pouring without the disruptive glugging sound.
• Type II safety can: Users fill the safety can through the large opening. The second opening has a flexible metal hose for controlled dispensing into smaller openings. Type II safety cans have the same springloaded caps and flame arresters as Type I.
Implementing proper fuel storage practices is a nonnegotiable aspect of maintaining safety at a construction site. Storing fuel at room temperature is a critical safety measure, away from heat sources including direct sunlight. Fuel tanks or cabinets must be securely locked to ensure that only authorized personnel can access them. OSHA also provides comprehensive guidelines on the design and construction of safety cans. For instance, flammable liquids with a flashpoint at or below 80°F should be stored in a red safety can with a yellow band around it, clearly identifying its contents.
Safety cans are designed with specific features to enhance safety. They have self-closing, leakproof, gasketed lids that prevent vapors from escaping
and guard against dangerous spillage if the can is accidentally dropped or knocked over. The lids are spring-loaded, ensuring they close automatically after filling or pouring and keeping the can in a safe, closed container as required by law. The yellow band around the body warns of danger and includes a large area for content identification, while red is most widely used for flammable liquids such as gasoline. Blue is frequently used for the storage of kerosene; yellow can be used to designate the storage of diesel fuel and green is often used for the storage of oil.
A positive pressure relief cap allows the container to vent automatically to prevent rupture or explosions in a fire. A flame arrester within the fill/ pour spout guards against outside heat sources, such as sparks, from entering the container, thereby protecting the volatile vapor space inside the container from igniting. Every safety can is 100% leak-tested and tested under pressure to ensure it will not leak.
The carry handle's rounded design does not cut into the hand and makes it easy to carry heavy loads. The free-swinging style on type 1 can pull back to open lids. The rigid carry handles of type II can include an easy trigger mechanism for controlled pouring. While plastic cans do not bend, they also do not meet the flash point of about-49°F. This can vary slightly depending on the fuel's composition and other conditions.
It is important to consider what standards will be enforced by regulatory agencies, but also what is the right can for the right fuel. Simple pre-planning and regular jobsite inspections will keep our sites using the proper containers this summer.
For more information on fuel cans and fire safety, reach out to Chris Pankow, Safety Consultant with CSSI, the MBI preferred provider for safety services at Chris@IowaCSSI.com
CONSTRUCTION WEEK 2024
OCTOBER 7-11, 2024
Celebrating the Built Environment and Showcasing Those that Create it.
PROFESSIONAL PROFILE
BY TARA RINEHART VICE PRESIDENT OF INDUSTRY EDUCATION
What started as an idea – reaching your full potential requires having a competitive mindset – that he printed on shirts and sold out of the trunk of his car in 2011, blossomed into something much bigger.
He realized that many people were craving more – more from their career, more from their relationships, and more from themselves – but simply were held back by fear from doing so.
They wanted it – they simply needed to know how to forge the courage required to get started.
Jake Thompson has worked with leaders and organizations all over the world including Master Builders of Iowa, has been featured in Forbes, and taught ambitious leaders how to develop the mindset and skills necessary to close the gap between their current position and their full potential. Hopefully, you also learned from him during his keynote at the 2024 Winter Conference or during his breakout session titled Control the Controllables.
Jake has spent over a decade helping leaders be more courageous in the pursuit of their full potential – and as a result, those leaders have elevated the tangible results they have created, and the intangible leadership influence earned. Through lived experiences as an athlete, entrepreneur, and speaker, he has battle-tested and mastered the secret to success. It is the small shifts in our daily focus, mentally and practically, that build a winning life. He will be joining MBI to do just that with our class of 2024-2025 MB EYE on the Future students.
Jake is a proud TCU Horned Frog (’06) and earned his MBA from the University of Dallas (’08). He currently lives in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex with his amazing wife & their three dogs, Sugar, Biscuit, & Donut.
THE NEW
MB EYE on the Future Instructor
LEGISLATIVE REPORT 2024
BY BEN HAMMES VICE PRESIDENT OF ASSOCIATION AFFAIRS AND MEMBER ENGAGMENT
The 2024 Legislative Session ended towards the end of April, and it was another successful session for MBI and the broader Iowa business community. In addition, the Government Affairs Committee has met this spring in preparation for the 2025 Legislative Session and the upcoming PAC events planned for this fall.
Here is a quick recap of the 2024 Legislative Session:
Sales Tax for Sister Affiliated Companies
a: Gov. Reynolds signed this legislation. Put simply, we eliminated double taxation amongst sister-affiliated companies who register vehicles under the parent company.
MEGA (Major Economic Growth Attraction) Site Attraction Program
a: Gov. Reynolds signed this legislation. This legislation, proposed by the Iowa Economic Development Authority, will attract MEGA site projects worth over $1 billion to limited areas of Iowa.
Tax Reform
a: The Senate and House landed on two different items that MBI supported:
1. Accelerating income tax cuts to flatten rate to 3.8% and be implemented next year.
2. Constitutional amendment requiring a higher threshold to increase future taxes.
b: Gov. Reynolds signed this legislation.
RIIF Funding
a: Increase in Major Maintenance budget from $20M to $22M for 5 consecutive years.
b: Gov. Reynolds signed this legislation.
In addition to these priorities, a couple of other legislative wins for MBI members occurred:
Stormwater Permitting and Topsoil Replacement
a: A bill that would restrict a local municipality from requiring stricter standards that what state and federal guidelines on stormwater runoff and topsoil replacement require. Gov. Reynolds signed this legislation.
School Security Legislation
a: MBI will play a role in a taskforce that will make recommendations to lawmnakers by next year regarding code adoption of school safety requirements. Gov. Reynolds signed this legislation.
Casino Gaming Licenses
a: The Legislature decided not to continue a moratorium on new gaming licenses paving an opening for Cedar Rapids/ Linn County to apply for a gaming license fora casino in Iowa's second-largest city.
As always, if you would like to discuss the legislative session or have any questions about anything that happened, please reach out to Ben Hammes at BHammes@MBI.Build.
Don't miss the opportunity for a morning program and light networking with colleagues.
August 6, 2024 7:30am - 9:00 am
Have you Listened to
EDGE SEASON 2?
YOUR HOSTS
Were You Thinking?”
BY BEN HAMMES VICE PRESIDENT OF ASSOCIATION AFFAIRS AND MEMBER ENGAGMENT
Launching our podcast, THE MBI EDGE, has been an excellent way of communicating to our membership. It has also been incredibly rewarding to garner the feedback that we have gotten. We are very encouraged that the content being delivered is what our audience wants to hear, and we are excited to continue that messaging in Season 2.
Those following along with THE MBI EDGE will notice a new voice this season in the host seat. MBI’s new Vice President of Industry Education, Tara Rinehart is going to host her segment within the podcast that is titled, “What Were You Thinking?” She has a knack for exploring the curiosities of individuals and bringing them to light. In addition, Joe Melton and Ben Hammes will continue their segments as well throughout the rest of this season.
We have over 4,500 downloads of the podcast since launching 18 months ago. If you have not already, we encourage you to also follow along on this journey. Please make sure your employees are also aware of the messages. We believe this podcast truly is going to help Educate, Develop, Grow and Enhance (EDGE) you and your company. Find us wherever you find your podcasts.
OVER 4,500 Downloads
Ben Hammes
Joe Melton
Tara Rinehart
“It’s Ben Real”
MBI's Partnership Construction Angels
BY BEN HAMMES VICE PRESIDENT OF ASSOCIATION AFFAIRS AND MEMBER ENGAGMENT
Last year, MBI was introduced to a charity by MBI member Cemen Tech called Construction Angels. Construction Angels’ stated mission is to provide immediate financial assistance and grief counseling to the families of construction workers who have unfortunately lost their lives while working on the jobsite. Our partnership blossomed through a headlining sponsorship of a golf outing that raised more than $127,000.
Through this article, we want to inform the membership of how that money raised is being used. While sad to discuss, the reality is that we do have fatalities in this sometimes-dangerous industry, and it is important that we are there to support those survivors. In 2024, this partnership has led to support for the following families:
Family of a southeastern Iowa man who tragically lost his life in a skid loader accident. Construction Angels provided $17,000 to the surviving members of his family including a spouse and 6 children.
In addition, grief counseling was offered, and scholarship opportunities are now possible for dependent children.
Family of a western Iowa man who tragically lost his life working on Interstate 80. Construction Angels provided $14,000 to the surviving members of his family including a spouse and 2 young children. In addition, grief counseling was offered, and scholarship opportunities are now possible for dependent children.
Family of a 21-year-old young man who lost his life in a trench collapse. Construction Angels provided $3,000 to his mother to offset funeral costs because the individual did not have a spouse or children. In addition, grief counseling was also offered to the mother.
These stories are stark reminders of how dangerous construction can be. But it is also a testament to the companies and associations that have stepped up to help in a time of need.
If you are interested in partnering with us at our golf event on September 11th in Norwalk, please reach out to Ben Hammes at BHammes@MBI.Build on how to sponsor the event.
ASK MBI - Does MBI Have Programs for Young Professionals?
BY ADAM DOBRASKA MEMBER SERVICES MANAGER - MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
We feel it is extremely valuable and important to empower the young professionals that help shape this wonderful industry. One way to do so is to create groups for young professionals that are geared towards professional development, along with networking. Connecting with your peers in the industry is great, and we enjoy ensuring these young professionals have the chance to do so, which is why MBI has created the YBUILDER Network. Employees of MBI-member companies can enroll/register to be a YBUILDER at any time of the year for an annual fee of $55. We market this to any 2235-year old’s that work in the commercial construction industry.
We also have a Summer Intern Series that is available exclusively for members of MBI. From late May through early August, your summer interns can have their internships enhanced by joining MBI’s Summer Intern Series. We have five fantastic sessions that they can be a part of. For this summer, we have 58 interns enrolled and are looking to expand on that number each year. This series helps your interns gain valuable exposure to our association, practice their networking skills, and get a taste of our educational and professional development offerings.
We place great emphasis on investing in our young professionals, and it is certainly great to see that our members do as well. We now have over 100 YBUILDERS enrolled, and 50 summer interns! If these numbers are any indication of the value that our young professionals are finding in these programs, then I would say that we are moving in a positive direction.
For any questions regarding the YBUILDER Network or MBI Summer Intern Series, please make sure to direct those to Adam DoBraska at ADoBraska@MBI.Build.
Y YBUILDER
Events for YBUILDERS
January 10, 2024
YBuilder Recruiting Kick Off Event: Smash Park Happy Hour Social
February 6, 2024
Lunch & Learn: How to Begin Building Wealth as a Young Professional (A financial planner will provide tips and tricks on how to start building and generating wealth as a young professional)
March 27, 2024
Spring Social: Bowling Happy Hour
June 6, 2024
Summer Social: I-Cubs Baseball Game
July 24, 2024
Lunch & Learn: Why Are My Geniuses So Important?
September 5, 2024
Bags Tournament: IA/IS Pregame Tailgate Event
October 17, 2024
Executive Experience: A Panel of Iowa's Construction Leaders
December 13, 2024
Service Project: MBI Cares mission to provide Toys for TotsTis the season of giving!
MBI Scholarships A Strong Workforce on the RISE
BY TARA RINEHART VICE PRESIDENT OF INDUSTRY EDUCATION
Each spring, members of the MBI Scholarship& Academic Advisory Committee converge on the campuses of the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) and Iowa State University (ISU), in support of potential future leaders in our industry.
These visits are to award scholarships to deserving students in the Construction Management program at UNI and the Construction Engineering program at ISU. To be considered for a scholarship, students are required to apply and participate in an interview with committee members. We are extremely grateful for the support of our members who give up their time to give back to our industry! A special thanks to Jason Knipp of Henkel Construction for chairing this committee.
Below are the latest beneficiaries of MBI's Commitment to future industry leaders and we are extremely excited to be part of their journey.
THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTHERN IOWA CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
Megan May Master Builders of Iowa Scholarship
Carter Miller Master Builders of Iowa Scholarship
Brett Lensing Master Builders of Iowa Scholarship
Kara Reicks Master Builders of Iowa Scholarship
Peters Construction Scholarship
Mitchell DeVries Waterloo Building Trades Scholarship
Jace Rempel Peters Construction Scholarship
Hailey Nie Waterloo Building Trades Scholarship
IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY CONSTRUCTION ENGINEERING
Molly Stanhope Master Builders of Iowa Ken Lewis Scholarship
Carson Copple Master Builders of Iowa Scholarship
Jaden Doebelin Master Builders of Iowa Scholarship
Jacob Blomquist Master Builders of Iowa Scholarship
Caleb Kingery Breiholz Construction David Ward Memorial Scholarship
Joseph Hovick Henkel Construction Scholarship Master Builders of Iowa Scholarship Whitfield & Eddy Law Scholarship
$ 43,250 A TOTAL OF WAS AWARDED
The Master Builders of Iowa’s education and scholarship fund has been supporting students enrolled in construction engineering and construction management curriculums for over 70 years. Since 1950, there have been over 410 MBI scholarships awarded to students enrolled in either the Construction Engineering program at Iowa State University or the University of Northern Iowa’s Construction Management program.
For additional information about the MBI scholarship program or the Scholarship & Academic Advisory Committee, contact Tara Rinehart, Vice President of Industry Education at TRinehart@MBI.Build.
If It Flys, It Dies...
MBI-PAC Sporting Clay Builders' classic
Mark your calendars for this year's events.!
Thursday, September 19th
Highland Hideaway Hunting Preserve Riverside, IA
Thursday, October 3rd
New Pioneer Gun Club Waukee, IA
Contact Ben Hammes with questions at BHammes@MBI.Build.
KEY DIMENSIONS of WELLNESS
BY TARA RINEHART VICE PRESIDENT OF INDUSTRY EDUCATION
Prioritizing employee well-being is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage. With fast-paced and demanding work environments, promoting wellness has become an integral aspect of fostering employee satisfaction, productivity, and overall organizational success. While wellness often conjures images of physical health, it encompasses a much broader spectrum of dimensions, each playing a crucial role in shaping a fulfilling work experience. The National Wellness Institute, Inc. has identified and supports these six dimensions:
Occupational, Physical, Social, Intellectual, Spiritual, and Emotional. There are many institutions that have selected to add 2 additional with Financial and Environmental Wellness. Understanding the key dimensions of employee well-being in the commercial construction industry is essential for fostering a thriving workplace environment. From mental and emotional well-being to social connections and environmental factors, understanding and nurturing these dimensions is essential for creating a thriving workplace culture. Let us delve into the multifaceted dimensions of workplace wellness:
By recognizing and addressing these key dimensions of wellness, companies in the commercial construction industry can create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture where employees feel valued, motivated, and empowered to thrive. Prioritizing wellness not only benefits individual employees but also leads to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and greater organizational success overall. Embracing an integrated approach to workplace wellness is not only a strategic imperative but also a moral imperative in nurturing the holistic well-being of employees.
Physical Wellness:
• Encouraging regular physical activity, ergonomic workspaces, and access to nutritious food options are fundamental in supporting physical health.
• Initiatives such as fitness challenges, standing desks, and wellness programs can promote healthy habits and reduce sedentary behavior.
Emotional Wellness:
• Providing resources for stress management, mindfulness practices, and mental health support services are vital for addressing the psychological well-being of employees.
• Creating a stigma-free environment where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health concerns fosters a culture of support and understanding.
• Recognizing and validating emotions, promoting work-life balance, and offering avenues for emotional expression contribute to emotional well-being.
• Employee assistance programs (EAPs), counseling services, and resilience training can equip employees with coping mechanisms to navigate stressors effectively.
Social Wellness:
• Cultivating a sense of belonging through team-building activities, mentorship programs, and open communication channels enhance social connections among employees.
• Promoting inclusivity, diversity, and fostering a supportive community fosters a positive work environment where individuals feel valued and appreciated.
Occupational Wellness:
• Ensuring alignment between job roles and individual strengths, providing avenues for career advancement, and promoting work satisfaction are crucial for occupational wellness.
• Offering mentorship, feedback mechanisms, and recognition programs cultivates a sense of purpose and fulfillment in the workplace.
Environmental Wellness:
• Creating a safe, clean, and sustainable work environment promotes environmental wellness.
• Incorporating elements of biophilic design, reducing noise pollution, and implementing eco-friendly practices demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship.
Financial Wellness:
• Providing financial education, offering competitive benefits packages, and facilitating work-life balance initiatives contribute to financial wellness.
• Empowering employees to manage their finances effectively and offering support during times of financial stress enhances overall well-being.
Intellectual Wellness:
• Providing opportunities for learning and development, fostering creativity, and encouraging innovation stimulate intellectual wellness.
• Offering skill-building workshops, access to educational resources, and platforms for knowledge sharing empower employees to grow both personally and professionally.
Spiritual Wellness:
• Incorporating discussion around values and alignment to company values along with sense of purpose contributes to spiritual wellness.
• Empowering employees to use these principles to guide actions whether in a religious or non-religious manner enhances overall well-being.
EXCELLENCE IN IOWA'S CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY Prepare NOW TO Submit!
BY LAURIE DELMOTT CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
MBI takes great pride in recognizing individual and organizational achievements in the Iowa construction industry. Through MBI’s annual awards programs, members can receive recognition for excellence in construction. The annual awards are presented at highly visible events and all members are encouraged to submit nominations.
Each year during the MBI Winter Conference, the awards programs are a celebration of the Iowa commercial construction industry and everything that has been achieved over the previous twelve months. The awards recognize companies, teams, and individuals who deliver outstanding results in the industry through collaboration and innovations. These prestigious awards provide one of the most effective platforms for leading companies to maximize their industry exposure for excelling in the Iowa construction industry. This recognition helps attract new clients, bolster existing relationships, and raise overall company morale.
The awards presentations continue to break records, elevating the profile of the companies involved. To be awarded for all your efforts you must take part in the awards process – plan now to submit one, or multiple award programs.
BUILD IOWA AWARD
Submission Date: November 22, 2024
The Build Iowa Award was initiated in 1989 as a vehicle to honor MBI members and to bring public attention to excellence in the construction industry. Each year, the Build Iowa Award is presented to a general contractor or an associate member who best exemplifies the tenets of our organization; Skill, Responsibility, and Integrity. The nominees are judged by how they have performed within the construction industry and in their communities.
MASTERS AWARD
Submission Date:
November 22, 2024
The Masters Award recognizes the exceptional efforts of a construction team in executing the process of completing a project. Although an aesthetically pleasing and functional design is always part of a successful project, it is not a criterion for selection of this award. This award is meant to recognize the role of the project team. As such, projects should reflect good management skills, imagination, perseverance under unusual and challenging conditions, and/or innovative construction techniques. The Masters Award was created to bring a sharper focus to the high degree of professionalism and skill in our industry. For 2025 the categories will be changed to reflect the following $0-$15 Million, +$15 Million$40 Million, +$40 Million and over. There will also be a Master Builders of Iowa Award of Excellence awarded to the "Best of the Best" of all submissions received.
OUTSTANDING COMPANY SAFETY ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Submission Date: December 13, 2024
The Outstanding Company Safety Achievement Award is an Iowa OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) and Master Builders of Iowa sponsored award that has become one of the most prestigious safety awards in the state
of Iowa for the construction industry. The overall goal is to encourage and recognize significant achievements in workplace safety. The process solicits the best practices in accident prevention and promotes the sharing of the industry’s best achievements to advance safety at all levels. The award is presented in two categories: General Contractor and Specialty Contractor. You must be a Master Builders of Iowa member to submit for these awards.
SAFETY MVP AWARD
Submission Date: December 13, 2024
Every successful team has an MVP. This award highlights the leadership, passion, and effectiveness of an individual either directly leading the safety program or influencing the program in an indirect role within an organization. Safety, like other disciplines, is an individual who stands out for their positive efforts in exceptional performance and for leading others in their commitment to excellence on the job. The panel of judges will look for an individual that goes beyond the call of duty in safety, through their devotion to preserving the quality of life in the workforce. This award spotlights the most dedicated and innovative safety MVP and their achievements in safety both within their company and in the construction industry.
To submit your Nomination Form in one or multiple award programs, please visit www.MBI.Build/Recognition
Online Training
THE ESSENTIAL RESOURCE
BY TARA RINEHART VICE PRESIDENT OF INDUSTRY EDUCATION
Since November 2023, nearly 1,900 individuals have registered for the exclusive member benefit of our MBI-LIVE online training. The vision was to create and deliver timely, beneficial, and relevant programs delivered virtually within 2 hours. Each session also provided 2 credits towards the Master Builder Designation award. These sessions included Personal Organization & Work Life Balance, BlueBeam Revu – 3-part series, a variety of Microsoft offerings at both the basic and intermediate learner levels, and Procore for both Superintendents and Project Managers.
MBI will continue to provide our entire complement of MBI-LIVE virtual training at no charge to employees of MBI members in good standing. These classes will also provide Master Builder Designation credits for each session. MBILIVE saw tremendous interest during our inaugural year. In fact, for each class there were nearly 100 participants in each of the 23 different sessions. Our goal for this next training season is to provide sessions almost every week of the year. We will continue with some of the same programs, while also expanding into new offerings such as popular tools in the Microsoft Office Suite like PowerPoint and Word as well as QuickBooks.
For any questions related to the MBI Live sessions, please reach out to Janel Haynes, our new Coordinator of Education and Training at JHaynes@MBI.Build.
ComingthisFall!
MBI Member Employees will soon have access to curated and managed Educational Resource video content for you and your team!
All housed in Your Training Vault. This platform will be available this coming Fall!
BY JOE MELTON VICE PRESIDENT OF INDUSTRY SERVICES
THE GREAT DEBATE
Hard Hats vs Safety Helmets
In Iowa we love a good summer debate leading up to an election cycle. In the safety world, an equally heated debate has emerged with the traditional hard hat vs. the up-and-coming safety helmet. Some frequent questions have been:
1. What standard governs this conversation?
2. What are the added benefits for the new safety helmet?
3. Who are the driving stakeholders for the change to safety helmets?
We will start with the standard, like most PPE standards OSHA references the ANSI Z89 Head Protection standard attached below:
1926.100(a) Employees working in areas where there is a possible danger of head injury from impact, or from falling or flying objects, or from electrical shock and burns, shall be protected by protective helmets.
1926.100(b)(1)(i), 1926.100(b)(1)(ii), 1926.100(b) (1)(iii) American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z89.1-2009, (ANSI) Z89.1-2003, (ANSI) Z89.11997"American National Standard for Industrial Head Protection," incorporated by reference in §1926.6;
1926.100(b)(3) OSHA will deem any head protection device that the employer demonstrates is at least as effective as a head protection device constructed in accordance with one of the consensus standards identified in paragraph (b)(1) of this section to be in compliance with the requirements of this section.
For additional clarity in the conversation on the type of head protection, below are the definitions for determination:
ANSI - Performance and Testing Requirements
• Type I – Top Impact Protection
• Type II - Top & Lateral Impact Protection. Type II helmet performance requirements include criteria for impact energy attenuation from impacts from the front, back and sides, as well as the top, off-center penetration resistance and chin strap retention.
Both types are tested for impact attenuation and penetration resistance.
Type 2 – additional types
• Class E (electrical) are tested to withstand 20,000 volts;
• Class G (general) helmets are tested at 2,200 volts; and
• Class C (conductive) provides no electrical protection.
Does OSHA require safety helmets on a construction site? Not directly. OSHA stated in the November 22nd, 2023, publishing “Employers must conduct a hazard assessment at their job site and based on the workplace hazards determine whether head protection is necessary and if so, the most appropriate type.”
Like some other standards, OSHA leaves the determination up to the employer. While it may seem somewhat of a gray area, there is clear direction that the employer shall assess the hazards and determine the employee’s exposures to these hazards and mitigate this exposure to the lowest possible level through the hierarchy of controls.
"In 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports head injuries accounted for nearly 6 percent of non-fatal occupational injuries involving days away from work. Almost half of those injuries occurred when workers encountered an object or equipment while about 20 percent were caused by slips, trips, and falls. – OSHA Publication 2023"
While we do not have a clear statement of “you shall wear safety helmets,” we can look at action being taken at OSHA. On December 11th, 2023, the Department of Labor produced a press release stating, “Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced that the agency is replacing traditional hard hats used by its employees with more modern safety helmets to protect them better when they are on inspection sites.”
Within the release was a recommendation:
"The agency recommends safety helmets be used by people working at construction industry and the oil and gas industry; in high-temperature, specialized work, and low-risk environments; performing tasks involving electrical work and working from heights; and when required by regulations or industry standards."
Where do we stand? Hard hats have been a staple on construction sites for nearly 100 years, dating back to the construction of the Hoover Dam. For reference, OSHA was signed by President Nixon on December 29th, 1970, almost 39 years after the Hoover Dam project started. Hard hats were implemented by the six major companies performing work on the project, even though there was no specific standard requiring implementation of hard hats. Fast forward 93 years, in the continual evolution of managing risk, we are now seeing the push towards safety helmets from within the industry as an overall universal best practice, from proactive owners, and other consensus standards such as ANSI. As we saw in 1931 when hard hats were first introduced, we will not see a regression from safety helmet implementation. The CSSI Team has fully transitioned as well, as we see the additional benefits.
We encourage all employers to conduct their own hazard assessments and PPE determinations to protect their employees from known hazards within their scope of work. For additional consultation reach out to Joe Melton, VP Of Industry Services at MBI - Joe@IowaCSSI.com and 515.298.1535
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Calendar of Events
July UPCOMING TRAINING & EVENTS
July 18
Blueprint Reading - Session 1: General Construction/ Civil/Project Delivery Methods
This session will provide the participant with an introduction to the life cycle of a construction project from project conception, through design, construction, and project closeout. Participants will learn about project delivery methods, such as the traditional Design-BidBuild, as well as alternative delivery methods, including Design-Build and Construction Management. Roles of the various parties in each delivery method will be discussed: owner, architect, engineer, contractor, and subcontractor.
Bettendorf, IA
July 18
Blueprint Reading - Session 2: Architectural/ Structural
This session will focus on the reading and use of architectural and structural plans and specifications including standard symbols, plan organization, specification organization; use of standard architectural scales; architectural plan views, details, elevations, and sections; use of architectural schedules, notes, and symbols; structural foundation plans; and plan reading for structural building systems, including precast concrete, structural steel, site cast concrete, and masonry.
Bettendorf, IA
July 19
Blueprint Reading - Session 3: Plumbing/Mechanical/ Electrical
This session will focus on the reading and use of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plans and specifications including standard symbols, plan organization, specification organization; mechanical systems, equipment, ductwork, and schedules; plumbing systems, equipment, piping, and schedules; electrical systems, equipment, wiring, conduit, one-line diagrams, and schedules; electrical site plans; and mechanical, plumbing, and electrical details.
Bettendorf, IA
UPCOMING TRAINING & EVENTS
August
August 6
Drones - The Essential Tool
In this webinar, we will discuss the value of drones in the built environment while addressing topics such as the benefits of using drones in the built environment, different types of drones that are used and why, how a firm can safely operate drones in the built environment, the regulatory state of the drone ecosphere, and the future of drones in the built environment.
MBI Members-ONLY webinar
A
ugust 6
MBI Breakfast Club
Join MBI members at ELEVATE - Business and Events Center for a cup of coffee and breakfast and spend some time networking with colleagues. We'll gather for some light networking and then lead into a morning program that will include a few announcments on what's coming up for MBI followed by a presentation that is of relevance to the membership.
West Des Moines
A
ugust 12
MBI-PAC Construction Golf Classic & Smoker
The Construction Golf Classic and Smoker has grown into the premiere fundraiser for the MBI-PAC. The vision of the “Smoker” has evolved from a simple political fundraiser to an event that brings together construction leaders from throughout the state of Iowa for a day of great golf and unparalleled construction camaraderie. Those who have participated in the past would agree that the “Smoker” is unmatched in how it brings together the leaders in Iowa’s construction industry. Join us for our 24th Annual Construction Golf Classic & Smoker!
West Des Moines
August
14
Beyond Compromise - A Better Way to Negotiate While negotiations are often thought to be reserved for top executives and formal boardrooms, we all negotiate all day, every day. From negotiating a weekend activity with our family members, to negotiating solutions to customer requests, to discussing a raise with an employer, to negotiating assignments on a team, negotiation skills are a critical part of our daily interactions. When asked about negotiations, most people describe a desired and productive outcome as a compromise. Many even begin negotiations by advising the parties that compromise is essential.
There is a better way. Beyond Compromise: A Better Way to Negotiate is an interactive program where participants discover how to balance complex human relationships with a focus on results to achieve win/win outcomes in negotiations.
West Des Moines, IA
August 16
Advanced Blueprint Reading for Commercial Construction
This course will be delivered at an intermediate to advanced level so familiarity with commercial plans, specs, and the RSMeans manual is necessary for the attendee to capture the greatest value. In the morning, we will dive into an extensive concrete take-off activity, and in the afternoon we will participate in an extensive interior finishes take-off activity. Though past attendance of MBI’s Blueprint Reading for Commercial Construction series is recommended but not required, we do suggest that attendees have a medium to high level of understanding of blueprint reading.
Bettendorf, IA
August 27-28
Building a Safety Champion - Fall Class
Designed to help enhance the safety culture within a company by empowering managers and safety leaders, this program will attract those individuals who are not only safety conscious for themselves and every member of their team, but who are also in a position to create fundamental changes with their company. The curriculum for this program will guide attendees through subject matter that will enhance and change their approach to individual and company-wide safety practices.
• September 18 - 19
• October 15 - 16
West Des Moines
UPCOMING TRAINING & EVENTS
September
September 10
Ecological Series: Session 1 - Funky Things in the Water
The environmental series begins with the most basic element of all: water. We will discuss how to keep it clean on our jobsite, how to protect existing waterways and drain fields, dealing with stormwater runoff and required permits, what General Permit #2 requires and why, and how to obtain permit coverage. A DNR Field Officer offers perspective on inspections, complaints and common deficiencies.
• October 23 - 24
• October 23 - 24
• October 23 - 24
West Des Moines & Virtual Option
September 10
Fleet Telematics to Positively Influence Driver Behavior
At-Risk behaviors while driving can increase the probability of an accident. At-risk behaviors can include distracted driving, speeding, and following too closely. In this webinar we will discuss what are telematics, how the data can be used to identify at-risk behaviors, and how to coach them out of your fleet.
MBI Members-ONLY Webinar
September 19
MBI-PAC Sporting Clay Builders' Classic
MBI hosts two Sporting Clay shoots every year in an effort to bring together industry colleagues for a day of construction camaraderie while demonstrating your skills with a shotgun. The format is typically teams of 5 that compete against others while shooting on 12-15 stations and seeing how many out of 100 clay pigeons you can hit with 100 targets.
Riverside, IA (Highland Hideaway Hunting Preserve)
September 25-26
Project Manager and Project Supervisors - A High Performing Leadership Series
Success of a construction team, project or company often boils down to a few key components that, if carefully combined, can lead to great accomplishments where everybody wins. Employees, companies and customers can all win with the proper combination of teamwork, leadership, communication, accountability, personal responsibility, budgeting and quality control on every project, every day. A large portion of the responsibility for these areas falls on the project’s leadership team of project managers and project supervisors.
This interactive leadership program will challenge members of the project team to understand project budgets, elevate individual and team performance, understand customer dynamics, and even have a little bit of fun in the process. This is an outstanding opportunity to put members of your project team in a teamwork atmosphere of learning and professional growth.
• October 23 - 24
West Des Moines
September 27
Regional Membership Meeting
Regional Membership Meetings are luncheon and breakfast meetings for the membership held annually in different locations around the state. These meetings are held to have face time with the membership to introduce new initiatives, services and provide important membership updates and reports.
There is NO CHARGE to attend. For members of MBI ONLY.
September 27 | Cedar Rapids
October 8 | Dubuque
October 8 | Davenport
October 9 | Ames
October 10 | Waterloo
October 10 | Iowa City
October 11 | Sioux City
October 14 | Des Moines
October 1
MBI Breakfast Club
Join MBI members at ELEVATE - Business and Events Center for a cup of coffee and breakfast and spend some time networking with colleagues. We'll gather for some light networking and then lead into a morning program that will include a few announcments on what's coming up for MBI followed by a presentation that is of relevance to the membership.
West Des Moines
October 3
MBI-PAC Sporting Clay Builder's Classic
MBI hosts two Sporting Clay shoots every year in an effort to bring together industry colleagues for a day of construction camaraderie while demonstrating your skills with a shotgun. The format is typically teams of 5 that compete against others while shooting on 12-15 stations and seeing how many out of 100 clay pigeons you can hit with 100 targets Waukee, IA (New Pioneer Gun Club)
October 8
Ecological Series: Session 2 - Spill Prevention: Protecting the Environment
The second topic for this environmental series will deal directly with spill prevention. This will center around protocols, processes and preparedness. The importance of having an onsite plan in the event of a spill, whether it’s just a cup or gallons on the ground. The required gear and supplies needed on site for cleanup. Which agencies to notify and the timeline for reporting, as well as best practices for prevention and mitigation.
West Des Moines and Virtual Option
October 8
Prepare for Tomorrow by Asking the Right Cyber Security Questions Today!
This webinar will present you with crucial questions to help evaluate your organization’s information security posture and empower your leaders with actionable steps. The focus will remain on guiding you to start your security journey and provide insights you can use to ensure you’re safeguarding sensitive data. We will explore key topics like compliance requirements, cyber-liability insurance, data inventory, training employees, managing a remote workforce and more.
MBI Members-ONLY Webinar
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