Since 2019, there has been a 60% increase in suicidal youth seeking care at the Children’s Mercy ER.* P1 Construction Navigates Unusual Requirements at Olathe Mental Wellness Campus
This sobering statistic is just one reason the new Olathe Mental Wellness Campus in Olathe, KS, is such a desperately needed resource.
P1 Project Manager Lauren Titzman
Watch the Video to Learn More about the Campus
The new facility broke ground in June, 2023, and is designed to reduce strain on the Kansas health system. The campus is a partnership of Camber Mental Health (part of KVC Health Systems) and Children’s Mercy, and will feature 72 inpatient beds: 24 for adults and 48 for children in crisis.
P1 Construction was selected as a design-build partner for the project and owned the engineer’s contract for the HVAC and plumbing system.
The scope for the nearly $60M project included HVAC, plumbing, and controls. P1 performed all the installation for the HVAC equipment, ductwork, hydronic piping, and fixtures, while having CSC as a subcontractor for the controls.
P1 Construction is no stranger to healthcare, and has been working in this market for many years. Each healthcare facility comes with its own set of challenges, and the Olathe Mental Wellness Campus was no different.
P1 Cost Manager Nick Lawless was the project manager at the start of the project, before changing roles within the company.
P1 Project Manager Lauren Titzman took over in Fall 2023.
Lauren says one of the challenges on this job was the requirement to use anti-ligature fixtures.
Anti-ligature is a safety measure that prevents people from harming themselves or committing suicide using ligature items, such as cords, ropes, or other potentially dangerous materials. Anti-ligature products are often used in mental health facilities, as well as a variety of other facilities, including hospitals and prisons.
Lauren noted that these types of fixtures are expensive and can have a long lead time, but are essential in these facilities.
To help offset the longer lead time needed for anti-ligature products, P1 used a Gripple wire hanging system for the HVAC duct work and plumbing pipe.
Gripple is a system that uses cables to hold up the piping/ductwork, and is used by P1 for most all HVAC installations.
Nick said Gripple hangers were recommended to him during the handoff meeting.
Examples of Gripple Systems
These are all anti ligature fixtures.
“I looked into the process, and after seeing what it could do to save time on the piping side, we decided to run with it,” Nick said.
Plumbing pipe is typically hung with all thread rod (ATR) and various types of hangers - such as Unistrut trapeze hangers - to hold multiple pipes, clevis hangers, and auto grip hangers.
Nick noted that ATR requires more work than Gripple to install.
“ATR is measured, cut to length, then installed to the top of the building in various ways. It takes more time to assemble and adjust,” he said.
“Gripple is ordered in various lengths and strengths, depending on what you’re hanging and the elevation. From there, you can use various
Anti-ligature is a safety measure that prevents people from harming themselves or committing suicide using ligature items, such as cords, ropes, or other potentially dangerous materials. Anti-ligature products are often used in mental health facilities, as well as a variety of other facilities, including hospitals and prisons.
options to attach, but you adjust it in the air to elevation and cut the excess length with a pair of snips.”
Between the plumbing and the piping combined, the project came in 38% under budget in labor and 27% under budget in material for hangers.
The keys to the facility were officially handed over to the owner in October, and the facility is expected to have its first patients in January, 2025.
*Source: Mental wellness campus to open in Olathe, will offer clinical and holistic care
Mechanical Room Drawing and Reality; Anti-Ligature Plumbing Fixtures
P1 SERVICE CELEBRATES FMO TEAMS’ COMMITMENT TO QUALITY
IN HEALTHCARE
ASHE National Health Care Facilities and Engineering Week
Healthcare facilities represent intricate ecosystems that require comprehensive planning, consistent maintenance, and strategic management.
That is why the P1 Service Facility Maintenance Operations (FMO) teams are so critical to major healthcare systems.
Hospitals can’t afford to have “down time”, and healthcare facility professionals play a vital role in maintaining the infrastructure that supports these facilities.
Their responsibilities include ensuring compliance with stringent health and safety regulations, maximizing energy efficiency, and implementing innovative solutions that enhance patient care and operational efficiency.
Each year, the American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE) shines a light on the importance of healthcare facility professionals during National Health Care Facilities and Engineering Week. In 2024, the event took place from October 20-26.
During this time, ASHE provides resources and information to help facility teams that serve healthcare customers. The week is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the contributions of healthcare facility professionals and engineers.
According to P1 FMO Manager Bryce Tullis, P1 uses this time to acknowledge the efforts and dedication of our FMO teams who work to ensure that healthcare environments are safe, efficient, and conducive to optimal patient care.
“This week-long celebration serves not only to highlight their critical contributions but also to underscore the pivotal role they play in the healthcare system, ultimately affecting patient outcomes and wellbeing,” Bryce said.
P1 delivers food and hosts a luncheon at each FMO facility location, which include the University of Kansas Healthcare System, Saint Luke’s Health System, and the Midwest Transplant Network.
Either Bryce or FMO Program Administrator Jen Kohl attended the luncheons, recognizing the team's contributions.
“We want to sincerely thank our team members for their commitment,” Bryce said.
P1 Service Vice President Dave Beebe notes that without an exceptional team in place, a hospital's operations could come to a complete standstill in just a matter of days.
“These dedicated teams ensure the seamless functioning of essential hospital systems, such as cooling, heating, airflow, etc., which is crucial for maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for both patients and staff,” Dave said.
Throughout ASHE National Health Care Facilities and Engineering Week, a diverse range of activities and events are organized to engage, educate, and inspire participants from all sectors of the healthcare industry. Key activities include:
• WEBINARS AND WORKSHOPS: These educational sessions delve into a variety of topics pertinent to healthcare facility management. Sessions cover areas such as HVAC efficiency to improve air quality, sustainable building practices aimed at reducing environmental impact, and advanced healthcare project management techniques that streamline operations.
• NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES: A series of events are dedicated to fostering connections among professionals in the field. Participants have the chance to meet peers, share experiences, discuss challenges, and learn from one another, thereby building a strong community of healthcare facility and engineering professionals.
• RESOURCE DISTRIBUTION: Attendees have access to a wealth of special resources, including toolkits and guides. These materials are designed to empower facility teams to enhance their operations, improve efficiency, and respond more effectively to the ever-evolving needs of healthcare environments.
“By recognizing their invaluable contributions, offering educational opportunities, and fostering a strong sense of community, we hope to elevate the FMO profession and ensure healthcare environments continuously improve for the benefit of everyone involved, particularly the patients who rely on these vital services,” Dave added.
“Through this celebration, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the professionals who make quality healthcare possible.”
Treats for Troops through Operation Shoebox
Treat the troops overseas by donating your extra candy from Halloween this year. Look for the donation box in the P1 Construction Lenexa lobby. If you don’t have any leftover candy, you can also send any of these items.
• Granola Bars
• Individually Wrapped Beef Jerky
• Wrapped Cookies
• Slim Jims
• Ramen Noodles
These items can also be ordered online from stores like Sam’s Club, Costco, or Amazon, and shipped directly to Operation Shoebox:
Operation Shoebox 8360 E Highway 25 Belleview, FL 34420
Any questions, contact Kayla Hicks at kayla.hicks@p1group.com
Out with the heat, IN WITH THE
COLD
With winter on the way in many of our P1 work locations, be sure you know how to work safely in cold conditions. Working in extremely cold or wet weather is a dangerous situation that can cause illness and injuries such as hypothermia, frostbite, and trench foot to name a few.
PROTECT YOURSELF
DRESS APPROPRIATELY: Wear several layers of loosefitting clothing for insulation. Tight clothing can reduce blood circulation to extremities & it can also restrict movement which can be dangerous when working in hazardous environment.
PROTECT THE EARS, FACE, HANDS, AND FEET with outerwear that will keep you dry, including hats, insulated and waterproof boots, and insulated Cut Level 4 gloves.
STAY HYDRATED: Drink plenty of warm, sweet beverages (electrolytes, sports drinks). AVOID caffeine (coffee, tea, sodas, or hot chocolate) and alcohol.
LIMIT EXPOSURE: Schedule jobs for warmer days or the warmer part of the day. Provide warm areas for use during breaks & take frequent breaks in heated areas if possible. Block wind with tarps or burn blankets.
Avoid touching cold metal surfaces with bare skin, and work in pairs to spot any danger signs. Never rub or massage potentially frostbitten skin - cover the affected area to raise temperature.
WATCH OUT FOR ICE!
One of our most common causes for slips trips & falls is from ice. Use the 20x20x20 rule (every 20 minutes, take 20 seconds to observe 20 feet around you for hazards) to avoid slick areas.
Clear any icy areas with ice melt or sand. Have sure footing in icy or slick conditions by taking shorter steps and walking at a slower pace.
SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
Get medical help right away if you or another worker has symptoms of hypothermia: shivering, fatigue; loss of coordination; confusion or disorientation.
AND REMEMBER, YOU CAN ALWAYS CONTACT
SOMEONE FROM THE P1 SAFETY DEPARTMENT ANY TIME WITH ANY QUESTIONS!
FIRST TIME’S A CHARM:
Mechanical Estimator Amelia Mullin Passes PE Exam on the First Go
Looking out at the buildings rising from the Kansas City skyline visible along the curve of I-35 is the earliest inspiration Mechanical Estimator Amelia Mullin can recall, but it was enough to shape her career path in the architectural, engineering, and construction industry.
“I’ve always liked buildings,” Amelia said. “I grew up in Kansas City and one of my favorite things as a kid was driving into downtown where you could see the skyline – it always made me feel inspired, even when I was little.”
She found the Architectural Engineering degree at Kansas State University fit her passion for
“Once in the curriculum, I learned structural engineering wasn’t as interesting to me as the mechanical side,” Amelia said. “Structural doesn’t leave as much room for creativity –mechanical is about taking a set of rules and figuring out how you’re going to fit what you build into those guidelines.”
Amelia found an internship at P1 in 2021, reporting to Team Leader and Senior Project Manager Carey Minihan, which she says gave her a variety of projects to work on.
She recalls one project with Truman Medical Center that entailed removing bromide chillers and installing new hot water equipment.
“I had never even seen a bromide chiller before,” she said. “That was really interesting.”
Amelia’s latest milestone is taking – and passing on the first try – the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
“I wanted to take this exam even before I started college,” she said. “In Kansas, you can take the exam at any time – some states require you to have more experience before you take it.”
She notes that some of the content aligns what she learned in college, so she wanted to take it while that was still fresh.
“I studied for three months to prepare,” Amelia said. “It’s an eight-hour exam with one one-hour break in the middle. So, a lot of the challenge is stamina – you have eight hours to complete 80 questions, but you have to manage your time and know your stuff well enough to not panic!”
“I
grew up in Kansas City and one of my favorite things as a kid was driving into downtown where you could see the skyline –it always made me feel inspired, even when I was little.”
Her study paid off, considering the first-time pass rate across disciplines is around 50 percent, and the odds of passing on a second attempt go down to 35 percent.*
Amelia says she didn’t think she was going to be among that 50 percent.
“I walked out not feeling very confident,” she recalls.
But she did pass, and will look forward to getting her official PE license after a couple more years of experience.
There are several steps needed before a PE license can be obtained, and Amelia only has one to go.
A degree that’s ABET accredited (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology)
Take and pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, which is based on college broader topics learned in college, like chemistry and calculus.
Take and pass the PE exam, which is more focused on a specific area. In Amelia’s case it was mechanical HVAC, specifically aimed at HVAC, and some plumbing, design.
Four years of experience working under someone who has a PE license – Amelia has about 1.5 years of that experience so far.
“As an estimator, I enjoy the different types of projects I see around the Kansas City metro area,” she noted. “I’ve worked in healthcare, industrial, and higher education markets, and get to see a lot of different things at P1.”
Future goals include staying in estimating or possibly moving to preconstruction. “It’s cool to see projects as they’re coming in,” Amelia said. “I like being part of that initial analysis to set the project up for success.”
Congratulations! We wish Amelia the best of luck.
*Barghausen.com, “A Guide to Passing the PE Exam on the First Attempt”
To feed her creative side and relax, Amelia likes reading and crochet. “I wanted to crochet little hard hats but couldn’t find a pattern, so I made my own,” she said.
NEW FACES/ANNOUNCEMENTS
Please join us in welcoming our newest P1 associates. KEY: (C) = P1 Construction, (S) = P1 Service
BrendaTeres Fisher
Purchasing Coordinator Lenexa
(S) Sheyanna Thompson
Senior Project Accountant Lenexa
Jay Baird
Project Manager/Estimator Lenexa
Jeff Walker Proactive Solutions Sales Manager Lenexa
OPEN ENROLLMENT DATES
P1 Construction
P1 Benefits Open Enrollment starts November 4, and the deadline is November 15. Optional informational meetings will be held:
Congratulations to P1 Service Wichita Receptionist Katelyn
(C)
(C) Stely Ahissou Project Engineer Pryor, OK
(C)
(C) Alejandro Serrato Barajas Estimator
Las Vegas
BIRTHDAYS + ANNIVERSARIES
NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS
RANDALL HARRELL
BILLY CARRENO
KEVIN WARNECKE
VINCENT KANE
MICHAEL BROWN 2 RICK ELLIS
NICK LAWLESS
BEN SCHRADER
CODY ROTH
LOYD CHAMBERLAIN
KOLTON SCOTT 3 GARY JONES
LIZ LYON
MICHAEL DEFOE
ZACHARY REVER
JOHN
JONATHAN WRIGHT
ISAAC HOEHN
JULIUS BROWN
CHRISTIAN CASTEL
CONNOR ROBERTS
JOHN HEATHMAN
5 DENIS DE MATA SANTISTEBAN
RISTON BREINER
6 JUSTIN KOERNER
TIM HOOVER
JON SILER
JAMIE BURKE
STEVEN HOLLADAY
GAGE HENDRIX
JEREMY PRICE
AARON STEFFENSEN
CODY WATSON
GARY BAIRD
5
7 MARTIN STILL
MATT SCHNECK
COREY WILSON
MICHAEL BOYCE
8 EMMA DURKES
JAMES JENKINS
QUANG LE
BILL FREDE
DYLAN STUMP
MARK CHAPMAN
9 CHRIS CARR
ADAM STEIN
JOHN PACHECO
JIMMIE CHISM
JOHNSON
MATTHEW HOLLOWAY
MICHAEL WESSEL
JEN MORRIS
ALEX VANLEEUWEN
JASON QUATTLEBAUM
LARYN WILSON
SHAIN BURK
TERRY WHITSELL
KENNETH WINGENDER
BRAD MLYNEK
DALTON GAKLE
ZACH MONTAGUE
CANDY BORTNIKER
DON CREASON
RYAN NEWELL
TAMARA ARTHURS
SHAWN OLWELL
KIM CLARY
MARTINEZ
COLLIN KEHL
ARMSTRONG
NORMANDIN
GRAVES
Inspiring Others: We’ve brought you the inspiring stories of Don Pardew, P1 Service FMO technician at the University of Kansas Health System. Don works with houseless people throughout the Kansas City metro area, providing much needed food, clothing, and supplies. In the month of October, Don received a surprise at work when the Fox 4 “Pay it Forward” crew showed up to give him a $400 gift card. He was nominated by Richard Kumpfer, a member of Don’s church in Overland Park, KS, who said he “felt inspired” by the work Don has done for Kansas City’s houseless communities. See the moment he receives the honor in THIS VIDEO.
HAPPENINGS
Congrats Fall Corporate Sponsorship Winners!: P1 Construction announced the winners of the Fall Corporate Sponsorships: P1 Safety and Fleet Coordinator Kayla Hicks earned funds to help the Cambridge Elementary School in Belton, MO, provide yearbooks for all students (pictured, left). P1 Project Engineer Kevin Kibbee got the scholarship for the Mission Valley Dance Team in Eskridge, KS. Kevin’s daughter is a member, and the money will help with expenses related to the team’s state competition (pictured, right).
Thanks to Our Field! P1 Las Vegas showed field personnel how much they appreciate their talent and skill with a catered taco lunch and prizes from Milwaukee, Winston Water Cooler, Fasteners, and Ideal Supply. Attendees received a hat and a t-shirt as a gift, a raffle ticket, and an extra raffle ticket with their OSHA card.
