Subcontractors USA Journal 11 by subcusa.com

SUBCONTRACTORS

USA

TEXAS JOURNAL

W W W . S U B C U S A . C O M

February 2017

Inspire, Inform & Educate

11th Edition

The

Ironman of Construction Vladimir Naranjo, P.E., Owner of PMG Project Management Group, LLC

20-21

INSIDE

Houston Hosts Trade Delegation from Cuba

Pilot Flies 500 Miles on Wings of Waste

Texas High-Speed Train Adds to Leadership Group

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Publisher’s Message

MR. D-MARS

Houston is one of the largest and most diverse cities in the United States. There is definite opportunity for business growth in Houston and throughout the State of Texas, and HUBs and subcontractors are gaining opportunities in the area of construction. The Subcontractors USA Texas Journal highlights opportunities and news relevant to this industry. You will find this issue inspiring, informative, and educational. This month’s issue highlights Vladimir Naranjo, P.E., owner of PMG Project Management Group, LLC (PMG). Vladimir is a champion when it comes to the Ironman, and

VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd ASSOCIATE EDITOR Dawn Paul ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES C.T. Foster Tiffany Black PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Taelor Smith MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Angel Rosa SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Charlette Washington Project Coordinator Taelor Smith DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Helen Callier Taelor Smith Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner Subcontractors USA News Provider

“What I believe unites the people of this nation, regardless of race or region or party, young or old, rich or poor, is the simple, profound belief in opportunity for all - the notion that if you work hard and take responsibility, you can get ahead.” – President Barack Obama

contents

our services

04 Architecture 04 Subcontractors USA Spotlight on Great African American Architects

ADVERTISING | MARKETING MEDIA | COMMUNICATION

Behind the Journal SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

06 Construction 06 First-Of-Its-Kind Agreement

08 Education 08 Lori Vetters Elected President & CEO of the Houston Technology Center 08 HTC West Launches 10 Energy 10 Houston Hosts Trade Delegation from Cuba 12 Think Energy® to Power Smart Financial Centre

14 Engineering 14 NSPE Urges Revisions 16 Contributing Writers 16 Give Your Proposal a Step Up 16 Survey Says

the same methods he uses to successfully place in these triathlons, he uses to create success in the construction industry. Vladimir, along with the PMG team, provide quality program and project management, general construction services, and energy efficiency solutions to each and every project at a cost effective price within the markets the company serves. As always, thank you for your continued support of the Subcontractors USA Texas Journal. When you support us, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

17 Information Technology Brian Crutcher Named Chief Operating Officer of TI

18 Manufacturing 18 NIMS Wins Federal Contract

• Business Journal • Health & Wellness Journal • Community Journal • Black Pages Online Business Directory • Top 50 Black Health, Medical & Wellness Professionals • Top 50 Black Professionals & Entrepreneurs • Top 30 Influential Women of Houston • Top 25 Prime & Subcontractors for Diversity • Business Connection • Business Development • Business Consulting • Graphic Design • Photography • Printing • Web Design • Online & Email Marketing • Public Relations • Social Media • Advertising • Writing • Promotional Marketing

20-21 Cover Story 20-21 PMG Project Management Group, LLC 22 Oil and Gas 22 MHI Sets up U.S. Oil and Gas Unit 22 Railroad Commission of Texas News 23 Petrochemical 23 Pilot Flies 500 Miles on Wings of Waste 23 Transportation 23 U.S. Department of Transportation 24 High-Speed Train 24 METRO News 26 Texas Central Leadership 28 Houston News 28 Solving Our Flooding Problem 28 Report: More than Half of Houston Employers 28 City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity

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MAIN OFFICE 7322 Southwest Fwy., Suite 805 Houston, TX 77074 Phone: (713) 272.9511 | Fax: (713) 272.6364 Email Us: contact@subcusa.com

30 Subcontractors USA News You Can Use 30 OSHA 32 Port of Houston 32 Occupational Safety and Health Administration 34 San Antonio News 34 AAMPO Votes for $33 Million in Funding 34 Annexation Agreement

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Architecture

Subcontractors USA Spotlight on Great African American Architects By Subcontractors USA News Provider

Robert RobertR.R.Taylor Taylor

here were many African American architects who faced enormous social and economic barriers. Although there have been improvements, there are some African American architects today who have not received the recognition they deserve. This month our journal shines the spotlight on Robert R. Taylor and Paul R. Williams, notable Black architects. Robert Robinson Taylor was born on June 8th, 1868, in Wilmington, North Carolina. His father, a carpenter, and his mother were former slaves. Taylor’s earliest formal education occurred at Wilmington’s Williston School and the all-black Gregory Normal Institute (1868-1921), sponsored by the American Missionary Association (1846-?). He entered MIT’s School of Architecture in 1888 and in 1892 was MIT’s first Black graduate. Upon graduation, Taylor was recruited by Booker T. Washington (1856-1915) to serve as the Tuskegee Institute’s campus architect, planner and construction supervisor, serving at the Alabama school for nearly 40 years until 1933. Taylor is often credited with constructing what observers saw as a beautiful and sound campus. Built between 1895 and 1898, Butler Chapel is considered to be his fin-

est achievement and, along with his nine other campus buildings, was thought to be symbolic of the success of industrial education at Tuskegee. After leaving Tuskegee in 1900 to serve as an architectural draftsman in Cleveland, Ohio, Taylor was again recruited by Booker T. Washington in 1904 to return to the campus, serving as the director of the Mechanical Industries Department. In 1913, Taylor was appointed to be one of five directors of the Negro Farmer (1914-1965), a new Tuskegee-based periodical. By 1925, Taylor was promoted to vice-principal of Tuskegee Institute. Taylor traveled to Kakata, Liberia in 1929 to design the Booker T. Washington Institute in accordance with the beliefs of industrial education. After retiring from Tuskegee in 1933, Taylor moved back to Wilmington, North Carolina, where he served as a trustee for Fayetteville State Teachers College.

PaulR.R.Williams Williams Paul

American architects. Early in his career, Williams designed mostly houses, but in the 1950s and 1960s he designed some of the most distinctive public buildings in Los Angeles. Williams’s best-known building is probably the Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport, which he designed with William Pereira. Williams was licensed as an architect by the State of California in 1921, and the next year he established his own practice. In 1923 he was the first African American to become a member of the Southern California chapter of the American Institute of Architects. In the late 1930s Williams gained some important nonresidential commissions, most notably the Music Corporation of America building (1937) and the Saks Fifth Avenue store (1939), both in Beverly Hills. During World War II Williams worked with other architects to design public housing for war workers. After the war, Williams continued

to design homes for wealthy European Americans including the Beverly Hills home of William Barron Hilton and the Palm Springs homes of Frank Sinatra, Lucille Ball, and Danny Thomas. Williams also designed numerous public and commercial buildings. As modernism came to dominate public architecture after the war, Williams modified his more traditional plans. He characterized the style of some of his buildings as “conservative modern.” He designed houses and hotels in Colombia as well as the buildings of landmark blackowned Los Angeles businesses such as the Angelus Funeral Home, Golden State Mutual Life Insurance, and Broadway Federal Savings and Loan. He also designed a new home for Los Angeles’s First A.M.E. Church, of which he was a member. In 1957 Williams was the first African American honored with election to the AIA College of Fellows. Source www.blackpast.org

Paul R. Williams was one of the most well-known 20th Century African

Building

HOUSTON It’s official! Harris County and the City of Houston have broken ground on the

Joint Processing Center Experienced builders with deep local roots, Clark/Horizon is proud to partner with city and county agencies, and architect PGAL, to deliver this model social infrastructure project. Hats off to Harris County and the City of Houston for bringing this facility to life!

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Construction

First-Of-Its-Kind Agreement

Brings Millions in Flood Relief for Houston, TX By Subcontractors USA News Provider

ith the recent flooding still fresh in the minds of Houstonians, Mayor Sylvester Turner announced that the City of Houston is stepping in to provide the funds needed to help expedite longawaited flood relief projects along Brays, Hunting and White Oak Bayous. The move, which relies on unprecedented cooperation by numerous governmental agencies, will end the delays that have prevented the Harris County Flood Control District from proceeding with planned improvements in these watersheds. Because it has already received federal approval, Project Brays is the first in line for the improvements. The White Oak and Hunting Bayou projects will follow, pending Congressional authorization. Upon receipt of that authorization, the City and Flood Control District will pursue separate agreements similar to the Brays Bayou project. The total estimated cost of all three projects is $130 million. In a separate and unrelated move, the City is also studying potential improvements to Keegans Bayou, a Brays Bayou tributary, which exceeded its banks during last week’s heavy rain. The analysis will look at options for creating additional detention and improving channel flow. “These projects will greatly reduce the flood threat for residents along these bayous and remove hundreds of properties out of the 100 year flood plain. I want to thank the multiple governmental entities that have come to the table to make this happen. The level of cooperation is unprecedented and a sign of just how committed everyone is to solving our flooding issues,” said Mayor Turner. “While flooding will always be a part of life in southeast Texas, common sense demands that all levels of government work together as closely as possible in an effort to control it as much as we can,” said Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. “This project is another example of cooperation and coordination that directly benefits residents throughout the area.” On Wednesday, City Council will consider a loan application to the Texas Water Development Board for the Brays Bayou improvements. Upon approval of the loan by the state, the City will in turn advance $43 million to the flood control district to help pay for bridge replacements and extensions and channel

widening in the Brays watershed. The $43 million is equivalent to the amount the flood control district expects to receive from the federal government once the projects are completed. The City will be paid back as projects are completed and the flood control district is reimbursed by the federal government. Today’s announcement comes just two weeks after Mayor Turner unveiled a Storm Water Action Team, or SWAT, to reduce drainage problems that are not directly attributed to overflow from the bayous that are under the control of the Harris County Flood Control District. Approximately 100 deferred maintenance projects spread throughout the city have been initially identified for inclusion in the SWAT program. An initial round of funding of $10 million has been approved so that work can begin on 22 of these projects, two in each City Council district. The work encompasses everything from replacing sewer inlets and grates to regrading ditches and resizing culverts to minor erosion repairs and regular mowing.

Quotes from from Governmental Governmental Partners Partners Quotes Congressman John Culberson “I’m pleased to see local officials working together to improve Houston’s flood infrastructure. Houstonians have experienced two major flood events in the last two years, and this collaborative plan gives hope to residents that completion of major flood mitigation projects will minimize future damage. I look forward to continuing to work with State and local officials to develop creative solutions for Houston’s flooding problem.” Congressman Al Green "I would like to thank Mayor Sylvester Turner, the Houston City Council, the Harris County Flood Control District, and the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) for their important work on this agreement to advance the completion of Project Brays,” Congressman Al Green said. “In addition to local efforts, securing the necessary federal funding for these flood control projects is a major priority of mine as well as many of my colleagues in Congress. I will continue working with my colleagues to pass H.R. 121, the Emergency

Flood Control Supplemental Funding Act of 2017, formerly known as H.R. 5025 during the 114th Congress, which attracted over 100 bipartisan co-sponsors last year. H.R. 121 would deliver hundreds of millions of dollars to fully fund our flood control construction projects such that their completion can be expedited.” Congressman Gene Green “I applaud the important step taken by City officials to address Houston’s recurring flood problem. The completion of Brays Bayou and others like it are examples of proactive solutions that reduce the risk of flooding and make increased safety the norm. “At the federal level, we have an obligation to do all that we can to match local efforts and reduce delays on reimbursements. To that end, I was pleased late last year with the passage of S. 612, the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN). The legislation prioritizes federal reimbursement and cost-sharing on flood mitigation projects like Brays and our entire bayou system. In the 114th Congress we introduced H.R. 5025, which would increase access to federal funds for flood control projects and deliver $311 million for the completion of our local bayou projects. The bill achieved more than 100 cosponsors and we are working to reintroduce the bill in the new Congress. State Senator Borris Miles "I applaud Mayor Turner and the Houston City Council for approving this $46 million dollar zero interest loan from the Texas Water Development Board. I am encouraged that changes in the process will enable this funding to reach our community faster and will expedite the completion of Project Brays to give the surrounding neighborhoods the relief they so desperately need. I look forward to working with the City of Houston in the Texas Legislature to fund future flood control initiatives." State Representative Gene Wu “While we can’t eliminate flooding altogether, we can work to limit it and its damaging effects.”

Source: houstontx.gov/mayor

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MEP Engineering

Commissioning

Program Management

When you need experience, we have it covered. Rice & Gardner Consultants, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary professional engineering firm that focuses on MEP Engineering, Commissioning, and Program Management. We act as an extension to our clients, providing total engineering services from project inception to completion. With our deep bench of high skilled and experienced staff and innovative technology Rice & Gardner can plan, lead, and complete projects on time and within budget.

6161 Savoy Drive, Suite 1212 Houston, TX 77036 | 713-482-2300 | www.ricegardner.com Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

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Education

HTC West Launches

Houston Technology Center is a nonprofit organization that provides education, insight and access to capital that entrepreneurs need to move toward the path of commercialization. As a 501(c) (3), HTC assists Houston-based entrepreneurs within several key sectors: energy, information technology, life sciences, nanotechnology, and NASA/ aerospace. For more information, visit houstontech.org.

By Subcontractors USA News Provider ouston Technology Center, the largest technology business incubator and accelerator in Texas, is excited to announce the launch of HTC West. Joining its headquarters in Midtown, and satellite offices at Johnson Space Center to the south of the city and at HARC in The Woodlands to the north, the west location complements HTC’s suite of services and brings those resources to the Energy Corridor District. The west campus will be located at the newly developed Republic Square complex - a 35-acre campus formerly occupied by ExxonMobil that is being transformed into a new business, leisure, intellectual and creative hub. Focusing on energy technology innovation and entrepreneurship, HTC West will host its first open house event on January 18, bringing together clients and professional advisors, plus individuals and small businesses looking to pitch their ideas. HTC West will serve as the nexus for new ideas, technological innovation and entrepreneurship in the West Houston area. Working closely with entrepreneurs and startup companies HTC provides in-depth strategic and tactical business guidance, fundraising advice, and connects them to opportunities, customers and capital. In addition to weekly office hours and meetings by appointment, a variety of regularly scheduled programming and special events will be hosted at Republic Square. “We’re thrilled to bring Houston’s startup ecosystem west to Republic Square,” said Mike Mueller, Director of HTC West and a former, 29-year employee at the BP US headquarters, which is located immediately east of the wooded campus with a central lake. “With thousands of white collar workers laid off in this current oil and gas cycle – many living in close proximity to this site – we see tremendous potential with entrepreneurs in waiting.” “Houston Technology Center is delighted to bring to Republic Square all the resources and the full suite of services available through HTC.” adds Walter Ulrich, President and CEO, “We have worked with entrepreneurs in energy, medicine and IT that have enjoyed over $2.8 billion in funding and financial transactions, and this special location on Houston’s energy corridor is ideal for creating new companies, driving job growth and changing the world for the better.”

Source: Houston Technology Center

Lori Vetters Elected President & Ceo of the Houston Technology Center By Subcontractors USA News Provider HOUSTON, TX – Houston Technology Center is pleased to announce the election of Lori Vetters to succeed Walter Ulrich as President & CEO of HTC upon his retirement on February 1. Ms. Vetters has joined the staff of the HTC as President/CEO-elect to begin the transition. Lori is a well-known and highly respected Houston business and civic leader with deep experience working with some of Houston’s major non-profit organizations. She has had substantial board experience with the Greater Houston Partnership, Teach for America and the Houston Zoo. Her extensive background in banking brings a wealth of experience in business leadership and strategy to the Houston Technology Center and to the entrepreneurial community. “This is exciting news for the Houston Technology Center and for the community we serve and will represent an important ‘changing of the guard’” said Walter Ulrich current CEO and President of HTC. “These have been great years,” continued Ulrich. “I can’t wait to see what the next 10 years will hold for the HTC and the community.” “After an extensive search in which over 100 candidates were considered, we

are lucky to attract and elect such a talented individual and committed leader as Lori to bring the HTC to the next level.” added Charles Flournoy, HTC Chair of the Board. Ms. Vetters commented, “What a privilege it is for me to join Houston’s pre-eminent business and technology incubator and accelerator, leveraging 18 years of successfully fulfilling its mission and with new opportunities to build on the vision that our distinguished Board has put together.” Most recently, Vetters was Senior Vice President and Regional Commercial Executive at HSBC Bank plc and has amassed more than 25 years of banking experience in Texas. Previously, Ms. Vetters served as President of her family's Texas-based businesses, as Regional President of Houston Gulf Coast at Wachovia Corporation and as a Texas-based Managing Director at

J.P. Morgan Chase and its predecessor firms. She received a Bachelor's degree in Geology from Tulane University and an MBA from Southern Methodist University. Houston based McKinley Arend International assisted in the search and recruitment. The Houston Technology Center also wishes to express special appreciation to the Executive Search Committee and Board members who were particularly helpful in the search and in Ms. Vetters’ recruitment: Charles Flournoy, Chair of the Board; Dick Williams, chair of the search committee; Randy Walker; and Barbara Burger.

AboutHouston HoustonTechnology About Technology Center Center

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Energy

Houston Hosts Trade Delegation from Cuba From the Office of Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner

delegation of Cuban representatives from various organizations involved in port activities was recently in Houston as part of a multi-city U.S. tour focused primarily on visiting ports. The visit comes just four months after Mayor Sylvester Turner and the Greater Houston Partnership led a trade delegation to Cuba. "It is encouraging to see Cuban representatives accepting my invitation to visit Houston so soon after we were on the island,” said Mayor Turner. We are building relationships from the governmental side while encouraging and offering assistance and support for interactions with the Houston business community. I see opportunities for Houston in the energy, health, agriculture and shipping logistics sectors, especially as Cuban politics begin to evolve following the death of Fidel Castro.” The group toured the containerized shipping area at the Port of Houston Sunday. They will have a private meeting with Mayor Turner and a workshop at the state capitol today. Then on Tuesday, there will be a “Doing Business with Cuba” presentation at the Houston Club, organized by the Greater Houston Partnership, Houston Bar Association

and the Texas-Cuba Trade Alliance. Under current regulations, agricultural products are the primary category of licensed cargo that can be moved from the U.S. to the island. Currently, this is only happening out of Fort Lauderdale. Up until late 2009/early 2010, frozen poultry was shipped from the Port of Houston. This ceased when Cuba began sourcing from the east

coast. The resumption of shipments from Houston could help a number of other Texas agricultural products become competitive in the Cuban market. It is estimated $18.8 million worth of Texas-grown food could be going to Cuba in the future. Cuba relies on Venezuela for its oil, but that relationship is viewed as precarious as Venezuela’s economy contin-

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About Us Horizon International Group, LLC is a certified SBE/MBE/WBE/HUB construction manager with a proven history of providing clients impeccable contracting services since 1994.

Certified MWBE/SBE/HUB Contractor Horizon is a certified MBE, WBE, SBE and State of Texas certified Historically Underutilized Business (HUB). As such, Horizon is always striving to expand business opportunities, provide added value to our clients, and is actively engaged in procuring goods and services from other talented SBE/MBE/WBE/HUB subcontracting firms. We believe that diversity strengthens the community and the overall small business environment.

Services Horizon provides a range of services including: • Construction Management

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years of industry 7 30+ experience size to deliver 8 Right flexibility of services

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ues to reel back from its own governmental policies and the decline in global oil prices. It is also believed there may be potential in the areas of LNG exports and renewable energy as well as the potential for U.S. oil service firms to provide expertise to the Cuban energy market. Source: houstontx.gov/mayor

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Energy

Think Energy® to Power Smart Financial Centre By Subcontractors USA News Provider

hink Energy®, ENGIE's small commercial and residential power and gas supply company, announced recently that it has entered into a multi-year agreement to power Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land, the state-ofthe-art 200,000-square-foot indoor performance venue located in Sugar Land, TX. As part of the agreement, both Think Energy® and its affiliate ENGIE Resources (together ENGIE) will share in the designation as the team's official electricity supplier. Steve Wilson, Director of Corporate Partnerships for Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land, said ENGIE emerged as a top choice based on its pricing, strong reputation, and extensive background working with performance and sporting venues. "Texas is an extremely competitive market when it comes to electricity, and several suppliers offered us some pretty compelling deals," he explained. "But we were interested in more than just a great price on electricity. We wanted to work with a company with a reputation for reliability and great customer service as well. We also wanted a company that understood our business as a performance venue because we're not your typical commercial operation. ENGIE was able to deliver on all of those fronts, and we couldn't be more pleased to have them as a strategic partner of our organization."

JD Burrows, Vice President of Marketing for ENGIE, said the supplier's willingness to work closely with this new venue and their energy broker, Choice Energy Services, every step of the way is what truly paid off in the end. "At ENGIE, we take the time to understand everything driving a company's energy decision because we want to be absolutely certain that our customers get exactly what they need from us as a power provider. Additionally, our dedication and desire to work with Choice to build the relationship with Smart Financial Centre is a true example of collaboration." Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land is an $84 million project owned by the City of Sugar Land and designed to position the area as a destination location for culture and entertainment. With its opening date just around the corner, Smart Financial Centre has already booked several notable entertainers, including headliners like Jerry Seinfeld, Sting, and Tony Bennett. The list of acts is growing quickly; be sure to visit www.smartfinancialcentre.net for upcoming events.

About AboutSmart SmartFinancial FinancialCentre at CentreLand at Sugar Land Sugar Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land is a state-of-the-art indoor performance venue that is strategically located 22 miles from downtown Houston off of Highway 59 and University Boulevard. With its

Grand Opening in January 2017, Smart Financial Centre will set a new standard for live performance venues and will be equipped to host a wide array of programming, including national music and comedy artists, family shows, staged Broadway theater productions, and cultural and performing arts attractions. Designed for flexibility, the 200,000-square-foot venue will incorporate innovative movable walls that can expand and contract to create four different seating capacities that range from an intimate setting of 3,000 seats to a maximum audience of 6,400. It will also feature 2,500 guest parking spaces, 14 luxury suites, corporate hospitality areas, and the latest sound, light, and video technology. Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land is managed by ACE SL, LLC in partnership with the City of Sugar Land. For more information, visit www.smartfinancialcentre.net.

AboutENGIE ENGIEResources Resources About ENGIE Resources, which recently rebranded in 2016, is the third-largest non-residential retail electricity supplier in the United States and currently serves commercial, industrial, and institutional customers in 14 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington, D.C. The company serves over 85,000 accounts for

customers having a peak demand ranging from 50 KW to more than 200 MW, with an estimated peak load totaling nearly 13,000 MW. For more about ENGIE Resources, visit www.engieresources.com or call 1-866-999-8374. Follow ENGIE Resources on Twitter and Facebook. The company offers electricity service to residential and small business customers in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington, D.C., under the brand Think Energy®. Think Energy® works every day to be "The Unsurprise Energy Company," providing customers transparent, competitive fixed prices, easy-to-use online tools, and excellent customer service. For more information, visit www.thinkenergy.com, or call 1-888-923-3633, or email questions@mythinkenergy.com. ENGIE Resources & Think Energy® are part of ENGIE North America, which manages a range of energy businesses in the U.S. and Canada, including electricity generation and cogeneration, natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) distribution and sales, retail energy sales, as well as services to help customers run their facilities more efficiently and optimize their energy use and expense. For more information on ENGIE North America, visit www.engie-na.com or Twitter. Source: ENGIE Resources

We’ll wait on YOU, before YOU wait on US Traffic Control in Cypress, Texas American Traffic Control, based in Cypress, Texas, specializes in traffic control and planning services for detours, lane closings, road and freeway closures, and traffic calculation. We provide professional service to the entire United States, while maintaining the highest safety standards for workers and the public.

Quality Service since 2001 American Traffic Control is a small, minority-owned company specializing in a large capacity of traffic control operations, and has been in business since 2001. We are a member of The Associated General Contractors of Texas. Our staff consists of Certified Traffic Control Specialists and Flaggers, some with over 30 years of experience. We aim to always provide costeffective assistance and effective communication with our clients to cement a long-lasting client relationship. We are able to travel any distance to provide outstanding service to our clients. We have provided traffic control services for the following government agencies: Texas Department of Transportation and Georgia Department of Transportation. We also provide outstanding services to some of the most prestigious companies, as follows: Kansas City Southern Railroad, Traffic Control Devices, The Levy Company, and numerous others. Our focus on safety awareness is most important to us. Our goal is to provide a safe work zone for the traveling public and the construction workers. Thank you for allowing us to introduce ourselves; we look forward to building a long-lasting work relationship with your company.

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Engineering

Newly Issued Federal Autonomous Vehicle Guidelines Fail to Address Major Safety Implications, NSPE Urges Revisions By Subcontractors USA News Provider ecognizing the promise of autonomous vehicles, the National Society of Professional Engineers has been a leading advocate on the need to place the public health, safety, and welfare first, and require a licensed professional engineer to play a key role in the development, testing, and safety certification of autonomous vehicles. NSPE is disappointed that several major safety implications are still not addressed in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recently released Federal Automated Vehicles Policy. These guidelines, while not binding, will play a key role in the development and deployment of autonomous vehicles. NSPE and the professional engineers it represents have a foremost responsibility to protect the public health, safety, and welfare—and to make others aware of ways that safety may be jeopardized. Given the unique technical and ethical expertise that professional engineers possess, NSPE strongly believes professional engineers can play a key role in addressing the ethical and technological challenges raised by autonomous vehicles, and strongly urges NHTSA to reconsider and revise its

policy to address the following key issues: • There is no requirement for a third-party certification of autonomous vehicles and technologies by someone in the decision chain who has a duty that puts public safety first and overrides competitive pressures– i.e., a professional engineer. These guidelines allow manufacturers and suppliers to self-certify, eliminating a critical third-party safety check. • Despite encouraging results of autonomous vehicle deployments in controlled environments, there is still significant work to be done before the achievement of human-operated and autonomous vehicles safely sharing public roadways. Many factors—weather, pedestrians, road conditions—are common, rapidly changing, and highly unpredictable. The guidelines assume these hurdles will be easily overcome and do not provide for adequate safety protections. • The enormous ethical implications of deploying autonomous vehicles are simply not addressed. While the guidelines acknowledge there are major ethical issues, no proposed methods for addressing them are provided, leaving these critical considerations up

adequately address public safety protections are too great to ignore. In the absence of NHTSA revising its policy, NSPE urges states to incorporate such requirements in rulemaking and manufacturers to incorporate these steps in their deployment of the various iterations of this technological advancement.

Additional Notes:

to manufacturers and interested stakeholders. Professional engineers should play a key role in this evaluation as their oath in holding the license is to place the public health, safety, and welfare above all other considerations. There is no reason that these steps should slow or delay the introduction of this promising new technology. However, the risks posed by failing to

The National Society of Professional Engineers is a member-centric, nimble, future-focused, and responsive organization, serving as the recognized voice and advocate of licensed Professional Engineers. Through education, licensure advocacy, leadership training, multidisciplinary networking, and outreach, NSPE enhances the image of its members and their ability to ethically and professionally practice engineering. Founded in 1934, NSPE serves more than 31,000 members and the public through 52 state and territorial societies and over 400 chapters. For more information, please visit www.nspe.org. Source: National Society of Professional Engineers

T H E H O U S T O N A I R P O RT S Y S T EM P ROUD

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Survey Says: Here Are the Top Three Building Permitting Questions Most Often Asked By Helen Callier Contributing Writer

Give Your Proposal a Step Up By Taelor Smith Project Coordinator

ort Bend ISD’s Small Business Enterprise Program held a workshop to better connect businesses with resources and networks. Attendees were lucky enough to receive great information from a number of great speakers including Julie Irvin of Keystone Resources. Irvin shared key tips to increase the chances of winning proposals. Speaking from her own experience of being a small business President and CEO, following particular actions when submitting proposals has kept her business at an 87%-win rate, granting Keystone Resources and its clients a total of $3.5 billion in projects over the years. Below are just a few tips Irvin provides to make sure your proposal stands out from others. 1. Participate in a mentor and/or agency program to gain better understanding in business relationships, business skills, and have the opportunity to network with established firms. Many small businesses who have participated in such programs have grown exponentially and expanded their network to be recognized by notable city, state, and even national agencies. One such program in the Houston area is a combined effort between The City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity, METRO, Houston Independent School District, and Port Houston, which offers the Interagency Mentor Protégé Program. 2. Track your win rate and capture ratio for your business. Your win rate equates to the number of RFPs won over the number of RFPs submitted. Your capture ratio equates to the value of RFPs won over the number of RFPs lost. Keeping track of your numbers allows you to keep track of your business growth. Contractors use these numbers to better determine and decide on

those who will win bids. 3. Be compliant and responsive to RFPs. Simply following guidelines and instructions drastically increases the chances of your proposal being considered. Pay attention to deadlines to turn in your proposal on time. Make sure you’re meeting the needs that are being asked. More importantly, follow correct RFP submission guidelines such as the proposal being in the required format or within page requirements, and it is contained in the right presentation, like a binder or folder. Even the smallest misstep could run the risk of your proposal being discarded. 4. It's very important to know the budget of the project and the incumbent of the project when preparing your RFP. This plays a role in what you should expect as the incoming subcontractor. Having a handle on the budget sets the guidelines of your spending and the return you will receive when the project is complete. Knowing the incumbent of the project gives you a chance to study what they are doing with the project and prepares you to maintain certain aspects or change others. These few tips should give a better outlook on RFPs and improving the way you submit your proposals. There’s no sure way to know how contractors determine who will win the bid, but taking a few extra measures to ensure your proposal represents your business well could never hurt.

n a construction market that is red hot or one that seems to be cooling, architects, contractors, and project owners are all focused on obtaining building permits fast, starting construction in a timely manner and obtaining a Certificate of Occupancy to open doors for business. At this point, the project owner begins to serve their customers plus start producing a return on their investment. And while open for business is the end goal, during the design phase, many questions arise regarding the applicable building codes and the best option to use in order to comply with the appropriate jurisdiction’s building codes. Keeping up with the latest building codes is sometimes a challenge for architects and designers, which is a reason that our Permit Us Now building permit experts are asked the following three questions: 1) Which building codes are applicable for a new ground up design or for a structure to be renovated? 2) How much will the building permit cost? 3) Are there any other separate fees applied? If you are an architect or general contractor or you know any that are struggling with determining the latest building codes, then the five tips below offer a general plan to follow.

Five Tips to Handle the Building Codes Challenge • Identify the actual jurisdiction that the building is located in. • Visit the jurisdiction’s web site and review building permitting process and building codes for compliance. • If the building is food-related, make sure to verify if the particular jurisdiction farms out any plan their review needs to other jurisdictions such

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as health reviews. • If you have any doubts about information on the jurisdiction’s web site, call the local jurisdiction permitting center to ask for clarification. • Reach out to building permit experts who have experience with the jurisdiction.

How much will the building permit cost? Are there other fees applied? These are two other questions that we hear often, and while we know the importance of managing project costs, the three basic tenets below are important to note. 1) Regulations and building permit costs will vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. 2) Change is inevitable. Permit costs and add-on fees change. 3) Some city permitting web sites have a calculator for estimating the cost of a building permit, however, this will not include any add-on fees that some jurisdictions charge. For example, the City of Austin Permitting Center charges fees if you want to meet with a plan reviewer to ask questions or obtain pre-reviews. And for some cities, more costs may be incurred if required to go to another jurisdiction for projects needing a health review. The bottom line is that it is best that architects, contractors, or project owners wanting to know full estimated costs of obtaining a building permit call the city’s permitting center. We are excited about the construction market in U.S., and we are committed to helping architects, contractors, and project owners obtain building permits fast. The Permit Us Now team is here to answer your building permitting questions, as we are covering major cities in Texas and their surrounding areas, staying up-to-date with changes in building codes. We are here so you can eliminate any building permitting frustrations. Helen Callier, CEO of Permit Us Now, is the one-stop building permit expediting firm that helps architects, engineers, contractors, and project owners save half the time and money in obtaining building permits in Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and North Texas. Connect with @ PermitUsNow on Twitter and Facebook.

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information technology

Brian Crutcher Named Chief Operating Officer of TI By Subcontractors USA News Provider

exas Instruments Incorporated (TI) (NASDAQ: TXN) recently said Brian Crutcher has been promoted to chief operating officer (COO). Crutcher, 44, is a 21-year veteran of the company and has been executive vice president responsible for all business and sales operations, Kilby Labs and information technology. As COO, he adds oversight of TI's global technology and manufacturing operations to his current duties. "Brian has an impressive track record of operational and strategic accomplishments," said Rich Templeton, TI's chairman, president and chief executive officer. "Over the past five years, he has driven important business results and strategic initiatives that have made the company stronger. Brian is an exceptionally talented leader whose intelligence, candor, discipline and competitive drive inspire those around him. I look forward to continuing our work together to consistently deliver great new innovations for our customers and sustainably grow free cash flow for our shareholders." Crutcher joined TI in 1996 and during his first 10 years served in a variety of leadership roles in the sales organization, including vice president in charge of the Americas. He later moved into business operations and at separate times led each of the company's two business segments, Analog and Embedded Processing.

Crutcher earned a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Business Administration from the University of California, Irvine. He believes in inspiring next generations of engineers through philanthropy and hands-on mentoring, and in 2012 was

honored with a Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Central Florida.

About Texas Instruments Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) is a global semiconductor design and manufacturing company that develops analog

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ICs and embedded processors. By employing the world's brightest minds, TI creates innovations that shape the future of technology. TI is helping more than 100,000 customers transform the future, today. Learn more at www.ti.com. Source: Texas Instruments Incorporated

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Manufacturing

NIMS Wins Federal Contract to Grow Apprenticeships in Manufacturing By Subcontractors USA News Provider

he National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) has been selected by the United States Department of Labor as an industry intermediary to support the expansion of registered apprenticeships within manufacturing. NIMS will work with industry, workforce and education partners to increase access to apprenticeships and assist employers in developing new programs that reach diverse talent pools. As part of this initiative, $500,000 is available to support companies in establishing a registered apprenticeship program with the Department of Labor. "For over two decades, NIMS has worked with companies, workforce development groups and community colleges to high-caliber apprenticeship programs across the country," said Jim Wall, Executive Director, NIMS. "This contract gives us the unique opportunity to create more impact in our industry by expanding apprenticeships to underrepresented populations and to new companies looking to establish a sustainable talent pipeline." NIMS will focus on providing com-

panies with tools and resources to develop customized registered apprenticeship programs. These programs combine on-the-job training with job-related classroom instruction and meet national standards for registration with the Department of Labor or State Apprenticeship Agencies. As part of the contract, NIMS will support the expansion of registered apprenticeship programs by: • Equipping companies with the necessary information to design and implement a registered apprenticeship program • Supporting companies and industry groups in completing the registration process • Creating new avenues for employers to share best practices on the creation of registered apprenticeship programs. "A registered apprenticeship is a proven work-and-learn model that has a long history of preparing manufacturing workers for success," said Greg Chambers, Director of Corporate Compliance, Oberg Industries, which has run successful registered apprenticeship programs since 1971. "But NIMS has mod-

ernized and enhanced apprenticeships in manufacturing to meet the needs of the millennial workforce and today's dynamic workplaces." The Oberg Apprenticeship Training Program is a competency-based program certified by the U.S. Department of Labor and the Veterans Administration and was established to guarantee that the company would maintain future generations of highly skilled workers. Oberg currently offers more than a dozen Apprenticeship Programs. Major stakeholders that will support the expansion of apprenticeships in manufacturing include: • AMT-The Association for Manufacturing Technology • National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA) • Precision Machined Products Association (PMPA) • Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) • Technology and Manufacturing Association (TMA) • The Aluminum Association (AA) • Digital Manufacturing & Design Innovation Institute (DMDII)

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• Lightweight Innovations For Tomorrow (LIFT), operated by ManufacturingUSA • Manufacturing Institute (MI), the workforce development arm of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) • National Coalition of Advanced Technology Centers (NCATC) • National Governors Association (NGA) • National Network of Business and Industry Associations (National Network). "NIMS is seeking companies and education and industry partners that are interested in enhancing their talent pipelines through apprenticeships," said a NIMS spokesperson. Companies that are interested in building an apprenticeship program or organizations that are interested in partnering with NIMS should go to www. mfgapprenticeship.com or email the NIMS ApprenticeshipUSA team at apprenticeship@nims-skills.org. Source: mfgnewsweb.com

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TSUTexans2016.indd 1

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By Dawn Paul Associate Editor

n Ironman is widely considered one of the hardest one-day endurance races in the entire world. In order for one to effectively compete in this race, they need motivation, tenacity, focus, and physical and mental strength. No stranger to the Ironman method is Vladimir Naranjo, P.E., owner of PMG Project Management Group, LLC (PMG). Vladimir is a champion when it comes to the Ironman, and the same methods he uses to successfully place in these triathlons, he uses to create success in the construction industry. Vladimir, along with his team at PMG, provide quality program and project management, general construction services, and energy efficiency solutions at a cost effective price within the markets the company serves.

Hobby Airport Expansion, Construction Management Founded in 2004, PMG is an awardwinning company with years of impressive experience. Vladimir, a licensed civil engineer with over 18 years of experience in the United States and abroad, earned his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from “Universidad Nacional” de Colombia and his Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Houston. He specializes in program and project management, project controls, code compliance, and project administration. Under the leadership of Vladimir, PMG was founded on superiority, offering high-quality services to organizations in Houston and the surrounding areas. Serving this city for more than a decade, PMG continues its commitment to being the best civil general contractor and provider of construction management services. PMG has participated in and managed projects worth over $500,000,000. PMG understands any business is exposed to risks at all times. Some of the challenges the company has faced over the years has been access to resources, such as labor, capital, and regulations. What helps PMG succeed is taking on risks and overcoming the challenges where they apExperience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

“

Successfully comp race takes disciplin perseverance, stro mental attitude, go work, and vision. T brought to achieve Ironman is brought PMG project, achiev client expectations

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pleting an Ironman ne, preparation, ong will, a strong ood habits, team The same ethic e goals for the t to each and every ving and exceeding s and goals.” — Vladimir Naranjo, P.E., Owner of PMG

pear. Being a project management consulting firm and a contractor gives PMG a differentiator from the competition. Facing challenges with smart solutions has allowed PMG to combine professional services and construction activities, providing continuous professional development, ensuring safety, quality, and integrity in all projects they take on. It was during one of the most challenging times for PMG that Vladimir learned in order to survive work-related stress and stay mentally and spiritually strong for himself and his family, he had to have a positive outlet. It was in January 2014 when he was motivated by a friend, Cesar Gongora, to sign up and compete in his first Ironman competition. Since then, Vladimir has continued to successfully compete. In fact, he compares the effort necessary to cross the finish line at one of the most difficult athletic competitions on earth to the effort necessary to maintain a business. “Triathlons have taught me that anything is possible with the proper training and preparation. Hard work pays off. The mind and body are directly connected to your will. This attitude to accomplish Ironman goals is used in business at PMG. The PMG team and I work diligently to

accomplish our client’s projects, giving us a huge sense of satisfaction, motivating us to continue to strive for greatness,” says Vladimir. PMG is certified by the City of Houston, METRO, and Port of Houston as a Minority, Disadvantaged, Small Business Enterprise (MDSBE) and a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) by the State of Texas. These certifications give PMG the opportunity to create employment in most of the minority groups when working as a general contractor or subcontractor. PMG is a very strong contributor to the Houston business community and economy, supporting and actively participating on several initiatives, councils, and organizations within the City of Houston. The company takes pride in the fact that it partners to promote small business development and minority participation on private and public projects.

PMGpartnerships partnerships include: PMG include: • City of Houston - Office of Business Opportunity • Houston Minority Supplier Development Council • National Association of

Metro Burnett Transit Center, Construction Services

Minority Contractors • Associated General Contractors Houston Chapter • Skanska - Mentor Protégé Program

PMG honors and awards include:

PMG honors and awards include: • 2016 Emerging E 10 Award - Houston Minority Supplier Development Council • 2013 Top 100 Fastest Growing Companies - Houston Business Journal • 2013 21st Fastest Growing Business Initiative for a Competitive Inner City • 2012 8th Fastest Growing Business Initiative for a Competitive Inner City

PMG started as a professional consulting firm and over the years it has evolved to become a highly sought-after general contractor and energy solutions company. The company continues to grow, with expertise in a spectrum of areas including construction, construction management, engineering services, and energy solutions. PMG has been a leader in this industry. The company’s clientele is mainly in the public sector. However, in 2009 driven by a growing demand by homeowners and entities to reduce their energy costs and environmental impact, PMG began providing energy efficiency solutions. PMG has evolved to providing general contracting services, while actively performing weatherization measures which included insulation installation, sheetrock, roofing, windows, new HVAC and ductwork, and ultimately civil construction projects including asphalt and concrete paving, emergency standby generators, new lift stations and rehabilitations, special structures, and underground utilities. Moving forward, PMG’s goals are to continue to serve the Greater Houston construction market and stay consistent as a leader who uses integrity to serve clients in this construction arena. In addition, PMG is continuing to reinvent itself and develop itself as a place to be a retirement choice for its employees. Vladimir says, “PMG is dependable, resourceful, trusting, and a leader in the area of construction. PMG strives for 100% customer satisfaction at all times and on all projects.” Over the years, PMG has built a stellar reputation, gaining the trust and respect of clients by consistently delivering reliable solutions with integrity and honor. Not only does the company expertly manage time and resources to deliver professional results, but they do it according to the schedule and within budget. The PMG project managers, supervisors, and team members are highly trained and qualified to meet project needs. For more on PMG Project Management Group, LLC, please visit www.PMGunited.com.

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22â&#x20AC;&#x201A; |â&#x20AC;&#x201A; February 2017

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Oil and Gas

MHI Sets up U.S. Oil and Gas Unit M

itsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has established a specialized Oil & Gas Division within Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc. (MHIA), its Houstonbased U.S. subsidiary. By strengthening the combined functions for various products handled by the Group, such as compressors and gas turbines, MHI will provide one stop solutions to the upstream, LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) and downstream markets. "Many of MHI's leading technologies trace their origins back to the U.S." said MHI President and CEO Shunichi Miyanaga "We are pleased to be able to offer the technologies we have honed in Japan to customers in the U.S. from a local base." Hiroaki Osaki, president of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Compressor Corporation (MCO), serves as president of the newly-established division. "I am convinced that the oil, gas and petrochemical industry in the U.S. will continue its robust development," Osaki stated. "It is my responsibility to create synergies across MHI's product lines and utilize our vast R&D network to seek out new technologies, innovations, and services that will drive value for customers and broaden the MHI Oil & Gas portfolio. MHI's Oil & Gas Division has opened a dedicated office in downtown Houston, The division will focus on identifying, developing, and leading business opportunities for turbomachinery and engineered solutions including growth areas such as floating production, LNG, plant modularization, CO2 EOR, gas

Oil and Gas

Railroad Commission of Texas News

Statement from Commissioner Ryan Sitton on EPA Lawsuit Regarding Oil and Gas Waste Disposal AUSTIN - Texas Railroad Commissioner Ryan Sitton issued a statement regarding the court decision in a civil complaint filed against the EPA: Civil Action No. 1:16-cv-842, which was filed on May 4, 2016. The court decision, announced Dec. 28, directs the EPA to review and update its regulations on oil and gas waste disposal. In July of 2016, Commissioner Sitton sent a letter to EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy explaining that no additional federal regulation is needed in this area to protect the public and environment and asking EPA not to collude with environmentalists by settling the case.

CommissionerSitton Sittonissued issued Commissioner thefollowing followingstatement statementon onthe the the decision: decision:

processing and petrochemicals. , . MHI group has 7,300 employees in over 100 offices and factories located in 30 states across the U.S. MHI's relocation of its U.S. Head Office in Houston last year, established deeper roots in an important city for America's energy and oil & gas businesses, bringing MHI closer to its customers and manufacturing sites. The MHI Group will work in close collaboration across group companies and through the MHIA Oil & Gas Division and con-

tinue to expand business in the North American market. Houston is also home to the head office and factory of MCO's U.S. subsidiary Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Compressor International Corporation (MCO-I) and a service base of the local subsidiary of Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems, Ltd. (MHPS). For more information, please visit: www.mhi-global.com. Source: www.yourpetrochemicalnews.com

"We have hundreds of rules in place at the Railroad Commission specifically to safeguard the public and the environment from any potential risks associated with oil and gas waste disposal. There is no rational basis for EPA to layer additional bureaucracy on top of our regulation of oil and gas waste disposal rules. As stated in my letter to the EPA, at the Railroad Commission we take our duty to regulate these processes seriously and have stringent requirements and comprehensive rules in place to ensure there are no harmful releases. "The decision by EPA to settle caters only to environmental groups and adds unnecessary, burdensome regulation to an already suffering energy industry and economy. I am confident that the incoming presidential administration will put an end to this "sue and settle" approach to regulation, stop this type of political gamesmanship and base future decisions on sound science and data, as we do at the Railroad Commission." Source: Railroad Commission of Texas

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Petrochemical

Pilot Flies 500 Miles on Wings of Waste p

ilot Jeremy Rowsell has made history by flying a light aircraft more than 500 miles from Sydney to Melbourne, Australia, using conventional fuel blended with 10% fuel manufactured by the UK’s Plastic Energy, from plastic waste. The unique ‘On Wings of Waste’ (OWOW) flight in a Vans aircraft RV9a has proved that end of life plastic waste can be transformed from a pollutant into a viable alternative jet A1 fuel and can also be used for any diesel engines. Dubbed the “10 per cent solution” the ‘On Wings of Waste’ team’s campaign to inspire people to recycle plastic waste has taken four years to get off the ground. The four stage proposition is: re-cycle – persuading the public to support for a recycling; re-use – transforming fuel from plastic waste to be blended with Jet A1; re-fuel – airlines adopting a 10% blend of fuel derived from plastic waste, and rescue – pollution of the world’s oceans is slowed down and eventually halted. “After years of preparation and many ups and downs we’ve finally shown that the eight million tonnes of plastic dumped into the oceans each year can be put to good use.” Said Jeremy, who arrived in Melbourne today. “We blended 10 per cent of fuel manufactured by Plastic Energy with conventional fuel and the flight was a dream.” The revolutionary project came about after Jeremy witnessed first-hand from the air, pollution on land and sea, and recognised the significant danger posed by ever increasing plastic waste. His concern about the environment and the consequences of an aviation industry reliant on toxic and damaging fuels gave him the drive and determina-

tion to test out a solution. “Plastic breaks up into small particles, mixing with the plankton at the ocean surface. Plankton is at the heart of the food chain and provides us with more than half the oxygen we breathe – our oceans keep us alive.” Says Jo Ruxton, part of the OWOW team and one of the producers of ‘A Plastic Ocean’, a film highlighting plastic pollution to be released on January 20. “We can’t yet safely remove plastic particles from plankton that lives in the ocean, so we must stop dumping plastic waste in the ocean. There are estimated to be 5.25 trillion particles of plastic floating – mainly at the bottom – of the world’s seas.” Jeremy’s flight could have a profound effect on the aviation industry. A 747 aircraft on a 10,000 mile flight burns 36,000 gallons of fuel and 33% per cent of airlines’ operating costs are spent on fuel. If 3,600 (UK) gallons of that fuel was sourced from plastic waste it would be the equivalent of 18 tonnes of waste

plastic that might otherwise be dumped in the ocean. Factor in the 1200 flights a day that are made from Heathrow, and approximately 21,600 tonnes of waste plastic would be transformed from pollutant to fuel – every day. The fuel, produced by Plastic Energy, uses end of life plastic, normally found in garbage patches in the ocean and landfill sites, where it takes hundreds of years to degrade the waste into recyclable material. 95% of the end of life material is usable for diesel fuel and the remaining 5%, known as ‘Char’ is a solid used, for example, for fuel additives and pigments. “Jeremy’s flight is a tremendous opportunity to showcase how plastic waste can be put to productive use instead of thrown away to pollute the oceans or despoil the land. We are delighted to be supporting this adventure.” Said Carlos Monreal, President and CEO, Plastic Energy. Plastic Energy use a process called TAC (Thermal Anaerobic Conver-

sion). Plastics are heated in an oxygenfree environment to prevent them from burning, and then broken into their component hydrocarbons to create the equivalent of a petroleum distillate. This can then be separated into different fuels. As there is no burning of the plastics, but rather a melting process, there are NO toxic emissions released into the environment. Jeremy’s flight, supported by Tony Loughran, from Zerorisk International, who has put him through a series of survival courses including underwater escape training, hostile environments awareness and sea survival training, and fellow chief pilot and advanced flying instructor Chris Clark of Five Point Aviation, ought to change the mind-set of airlines and aviators across the world. Tony, with Jeremy, has also started to roll out an educational campaign with a lecture programme in schools in Australia building a groundswell of support for OWOW. World renowned Naturalist Sir David Attenborough has backed the OWOW project saying: “The Wings of Waste flight, I hope, will bring the attention of the world to this great solution that is there waiting to be taken if only we can get the support of people to do so.” Jeremy and the ‘On Wings of Waste’ team are looking for support from the general public and other investors to build a recycling plant in Australia which, they hope, will help lead to a change in culture and attitude about how we dispose of single use plastic. For more information, please visit: www.onwingsofwaste.org. Source: www.yourpetrochemicalnews.com

Transportation

U.S. Department of Transportation: Selects Texas as 1 of 10 Testing Locations for Autonomous Vehicle Technology AUSTIN – The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has named Texas a national Automated Vehicle (AV) Proving Ground for the testing of connected and automated vehicle technologies. The designation establishes Texas as a leader in the research and development of new transportation technologies that could make roads safer and less congested. “With five of the nation’s 15 fastestgrowing cities in Texas and our population expected to potentially double by the year 2050, Texas must be a leader in new technology that addresses transportation challenges,” said Texas Department of Transportation Deputy Executive Director Marc Williams. “This partnership puts Texas at the forefront of automated vehicle technologies that likely will shape the future of transportation around the world.”

Texas’ booming population and economy make it an ideal test site for automated and connected vehicle technology. This technology is increasingly being developed and tailored to address congestion and increase safety, by reducing human error. It also offers opportunities to improve how people and goods move throughout their communities and the nation at large. Testing it, in different environments and uses, is an important step in assuring these technologies will be safe and reliable. Texas was one of 10 regions selected from an applicant pool of more than 60. Texas offers a unique statewide capability, starting with existing controlled environments on research campuses such as Texas A&M University, The University of Texas at Austin and the Southwest Research In-

stitute (SwRI) Campus in San Antonio. Texas’ additional testing environments are available in several municipal and regional areas, and include unique settings such as barrier-separated lanes, medical districts, transit bus corridors and border crossings. These varied and unique test sites will help the USDOT develop guidelines for automated vehicle technologies.

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The rapid rate at which this technology is progressing will ultimately require a formal testing plan to be developed and approved by the appropriate state and local agencies, including the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Department of Motor Vehicles. Until then, initial testing will take place on closed research proving grounds. TxDOT joins the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI), The University of Texas at Austin’s Center for Transportation Research (CTR), Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) and 32 municipal and regional partners to form the Texas AV Proving Grounds Partnership. Source: Texas Department of Transportation

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Transportation

New Study Shows Significant Time Savings, Major Ridership Potential With High-Speed Train By Subcontractors USA News Provider

The popularity of the high-speed train stems largely from the freedom Texans want – to have their time back through shorter journeys and more productive travel time. Of the more than 12 million car trips taken between the northern and southern ends of the route in 2015, 93 percent of the trips would have been shorter by train. On Interstate 45, the main thoroughfare for traffic between the two cities, vehicle counts have increased by 10 percent a year since 2012. With drive times from Dallas to Houston now varying from 3.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on delays related to traffic, construction, weather and other causes, Texans say they are eager for the safety, reliability, productivity and efficiency of a high-speed train. The project expects to begin construction in 2018, using proven, world-class technology. The increased mobility between two of the country’s largest and fastest growing metropolitan areas will deliver substantial and long-lasting benefits to both the state and local economies.

• More than 90 percent of riders will save at least one hour taking the bullet train between major cities • Comprehensive study of market size, potential ridership and Texans’ views finds strong demand for high-speed train • Nearly 5 million passengers expected to use the train annually by 2026 – almost 25 percent of all trips between North Texas and Houston

acing increasing congestion between the state’s biggest cities, Texans using the high-speed train will get a big break in travel times, and nearly 5 million passengers are expected to use the bullet train by 2026, a new study shows. The ridership study by L.E.K. Consulting (International) Limited (“L.E.K. Consulting), a summary of which was released by Texas Central, the train’s private developers, demonstrated a massive and growing market for the 90-minute, 240-mile trip between North Texas and Houston, with one stop in the Brazos Valley. More than 90 percent of those in North Texas or Houston would save about an hour or more by taking the train, the study showed. For instance, the trip would be 70 minutes faster than traveling by car and 50 minutes faster than by plane, taking into account airport security and other flight issues. More than 80 percent of 2,000 residents surveyed say they would consider using the bullet train. And more than two-thirds of respondents who have made the trip in the last 12 months would “definitely” or “probably” use a high-speed train on their next trip if it were available.

“This study demonstrates strong, pent-up demand for better travel options,” said Texas Central CEO Tim Keith. “Texans want the freedom to choose how they will travel. They want to save time, be more productive and simply have a better travel experience. The Texas Bullet Train will deliver that.” “High-speed trains will allow people to spend more time where and how they want to spend it and less time worrying about if they are going to get to their destinations on time,” Keith said. This study, the third conducted in less than five years, was commissioned to examine the travel habits and prefer-

ences of Texans. Assessing the size of the travel market between North Texas and Houston is critical. And learning why trips are made and how the system can best be designed around the needs of the traveling public is important as design and service decisions are being made. Based on a broad range of sources, including extensive new research and publicly-available data, the study forecasts that nearly 5 million passengers will use the bullet train annually by 2026 - almost 25 percent of all trips between the cities. By 2050, the bullet train’s total market share is expected to reach almost 30 percent, or 10 million journeys.

Transportation

METRO & Community Celebration of Green Line Completion as Harrisburg Overpass Opens By Subcontractors USA News Provider ast End neighbors and community stakeholders recently gathered to enjoy a free afternoon of fellowship, music, and local fare to commemorate the completion of the final stops of the METRORail Green Line and opening of the Harrisburg Overpass. Regular service has started along the line, stretching from Magnolia Park Transit Center in the East End to downtown's Theater District Station. Building the overpass allowed METRO to add two additional stops along the Green Line that first began operations in May 2015.

Sunday, Jan. 22 marked the last day of free rides on the Green Line. Source: ridemetro.org

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ABOUT ABOUTTEXAS TEXASCENTRAL CENTRAL PARTNERS, PARTNERS,LLC LLC Texas Central is a private, Texas-based company developing a new high-speed train that will connect North Texas, the Brazos Valley and Houston using a proven, world-class technology that will provide a travel time of less than 90 minutes. The company is using a market-led approach, backed by private investors, not public funds. Texas Central and its affiliated entities will be responsible for the system’s design, finance, construction, operation and maintenance. Source: www.texascentral.com

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FLUOR SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PROGRAM

Connecting for Opportunities Fluor is committed to excellence in supplier diversity. As a global company, Fluor operates across highly diverse markets that are best served by correspondingly diverse resources, including suppliers and subcontractors. Visit us at www.fluorprocurement.com for a list of the products and services that Fluor buys and create your company profile.

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Transportation

Texas High-Speed Train Adds to Leadership Group By Subcontractors USA News Provider • Business executive and entrepreneur Drayton McLane Jr. named to Texas Central’s Board of Directors • Former Houston Astros owner joins as bullet train moves into engineering, construction phase • McLane’s entrepreneurial background complements project that will create jobs, spur major economic activity

exas Central, developers of the state’s high-speed train, announced recently that business leader, entrepreneur and former Houston Astros owner Drayton McLane Jr. has joined the company’s Board of Directors. McLane’s appointment comes as the passenger line connecting the state’s biggest metro areas enters a new planning, engineering and construction phase. The project, including terminal stations in Dallas, Houston and a midway stop in the Brazos Valley, is now undergoing a federal environmental review. “We have a strong leadership foundation in place and couldn’t be more pleased to have Drayton join us as the high-speed train moves forward. He brings insightful perspectives, thanks to his business expertise and passionate commitment to helping Texans deal with today’s complicated transportation needs,” said Richard Lawless, the

board chairman. The board announcement is the latest significant leadership move by Texas Central, which recently named as CEO design-build executive Carlos F. Aguilar, who has 30 years of experience overseeing major infrastructure development projects. Also, Tim Keith became president, responsible for its capital-raising efforts. McLane said that as the state’s population continues to grow, high-speed rail is needed to bring about a transportation system that will provide a safe, reliable, predictable and fast service to all. The trains would travel at speeds of 200 mph, whisking riders between North Texas and Houston in 90 minutes. “I’ve said this many times: In Texas, we work hard, and we dream big. The bullet train is transformational to Texas, and ranks as one of the most visionary solutions to future transportation challenges our state faces. I am honored to be part of this organization,” McLane said. “The safety, productivity and reliability of a high-speed train is a perfect fit for Texans looking for a better option than traffic-clogged highways or the hassles of airline travel,” he said. McLane also said he is excited about the economic benefits of the project, expected to pump more than $36 billion into the state economy over 25 years, including providing more than $2.5 billion in local and state taxes, generating 10,000 jobs during each year of construction and boosting development

around the passenger stations. board at the Bush School of Texas Central will not take Government and Public Serfederal or state grants for to vice at Texas A&M University build or operate the project. and as chairman of the Board McLane, a native Texan, of Trustees, Baylor Scott & oversaw a family grocery busiWhite Healthcare. ness that grew into what is Stepping aside to make now one of the largest foodroom for McLane on the service distributors in the board is former Ambassaworld – McLane Company. dor to Japan and Australia Name last name Tom Schieffer, who first met Using innovative technology and efficient business practicMcLane while Schieffer was es, he expanded the company president of the Texas Rangers into a multi-billion dollar baseball team. enterprise that Wal-Mart ac“Having known Drayton quired in 1990. for more than 25 years and having inMcLane now is chairman of the troduced him to our high-speed rail McLane Group, a holding company project, I am delighted he has decided comprised of several entities within glob- to accept our long-standing invitation to al logistics, the technology industry and join the board,” Schieffer said. food production. “Drayton possesses the highest inFrom 1992 until 2011, he was owner, tegrity. His good judgment, experience chairman and CEO of the Houston As- in transportation and plain old comtros baseball team. During his leader- mon sense will make him an invaluable ship, the Astros won five division titles, member of our team and the board. built a new stadium and played in the It will also enhance our ability to get team’s first and only World Series. the train built on time and on budget. McLane is a graduate of Baylor Uni- High-speed rail will be transformative versity and former chairman of Baylor’s to Texas and I cannot think of anyone Board of Regents. In 2012, McLane gave who could help us more than Drayton the lead donation for the construction of McLane,” Schieffer said. Baylor’s on-campus football stadium, a Schieffer said he remains “convinced project that cost $260 million and now that high-speed rail can be transformabears his family name, McLane Stadium. tive to Texas and our nation” and he will He has been involved in many other continue to support its efforts. civic and charitable endeavors, including serving on the Boy Scouts of America National Board, as a member of the Source: www.texascentral.com

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Solving Our

Flooding Problem A Message From Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner

t is a brand new year and there is a whole new list of things to get done at Houston City Hall. We are starting by tackling flooding. In what is truly an unparalleled move, the City of Houston is stepping in to provide the funds the Harris County Flood Control District needs to help speed up long-awaited flood relief projects along Brays, Hunting, and White Oak Bayous. It is important to note that these projects are not the City’s responsibility; the City is providing the financing to help speed up the work, but they are ultimately Harris County projects. We are stepping in to help because I believe we must do everything possible to mitigate the risk of flooding, even if it is not our sole responsibility. Brays Bayou is the first in line for improvements because it has already received federal approval. The work on Hunting and White Oak Bayous will follow, pending Congressional approval and separate agreements with the Flood Control District. The total estimated cost of all three projects is $130 million. The money the City will provide to the Flood Control District will come via a loan application to the Texas Water Development Board. If approved, the loan proceeds will be advanced to Harris County, which will in turn repay the City once federal reimburse-

RFP730-17049 Study of Finance Departments and Services Open Date: 03/07/17 02:00 PM Agency Requisition Number: RFP730-17049

ment is received. The work will involve bridge replacements and channel widening along Brays Bayou from Buffalo Bayou to Fondren Road. These projects will greatly reduce the flood threat for residents along the targeted bayous and remove hundreds of properties out of the 100-year floodplain. I want to thank the multiple governmental entities that have come to the table to make this happen. The level of cooperation is unprecedented and a sign of just how committed everyone is to solving our flooding issues. I said flood relief would be a priority for the City in 2017; however, we would not be moving forward without Harris County, the Texas Water Development Board and the federal government. When the bayou improvements are coupled with the $10 million of quick action projects anticipated to be done by the Storm Water Action Team, or SWAT program, we announced

two weeks ago, we will be making a significant dent in Houston’s flooding problem. Approximately 100 deferred maintenance projects spread throughout the city have been initially identified for inclusion in the SWAT program. The work encompasses everything from replacing sewer inlets and grates to regrading ditches and resizing culverts to minor erosion repairs and regular mowing. I know residents in neighborhoods all over Houston have been waiting a very long time for flood relief. Thanks to everyone coming to the table and being willing to work cooperatively, we are finally beginning to make progress in this area. My hope is that residents will no longer have to rush to get furniture and carpets off the floor when heavy rain is forecast. We can’t eliminate the possibility entirely, but you have my commitment to do all we can to keep water out of homes and businesses.

Report: More than Half of Houston Employers to Add Staff in 2017 H ouston employers are looking to hire more workers in manufacturing, operations and engineering roles in 2017. These findings come from staffing agency Murray Resources’ 2017 Houston Growth and Staffing Outlook Report. The report, which surveys 67 Houston employers – a significant number who work in or are directly tied to – oil and gas, found that more than half of respondents expect moderate to significant increases in hiring in 2017. And the top three functions expecting a moderate to significant increase in hiring are manufacturing (40 percent), operations (39.3 percent) and engineering (37.1 percent). “I think survey results are a sign that the actual work being done by companies is looking to increase … companies are expecting work to come in,” Keith Wolf,

From the City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity

managing director of Murray Resources, told Rigzone. According to respondents, attracting qualified talent was cited as the biggest staffing challenge for HR executives (44.8 percent). Slightly more than 31.3 percent list retaining current staff as the biggest challenge. “Attracting qualified talent is probably always going to be the most challenging part of an HR person’s job. Until you get the right people in place, nothing in a company really works the right way,” said Wolf. “What’s interesting is that retaining current staff is up to 31 percent as the biggest staffing challenge. Coming out of a downturn, employees who may have stuck through some tough times because of limited opportunities on the outside, may now see that things are improving and start

looking at those opportunities.” Wolf said survey responses indicate that Houston, in particular, is coming out of the downturn it’s seen over the past 18 months, which was largely due to the slowdown in the oil and gas industry. From late 2016 to now in early 2017, Wolf said phones are ringing from new clients who are looking to hire, most in the energy business. And that hasn’t happened in more than a year. “I think that’s huge. Upstream companies are beginning to have some hiring activity,” he said. “Nobody really knows how strong 2017 is going to be. But we’re coming out of the worst and I think most people are pointing to 2018 to potentially be a big year for energy.” Source: downstreamtoday.com

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he University invites you to submit a proposal to provide an evaluation and recommendations for its finance operations, including the following departments and programs: Financial Reporting and Compliance, Travel, Procurement, Student Accounting, State Appropriation Accounting, Budget Office, Student Financial Services, Treasurer’s Offices, Tax Accounting, Accounts Payable, Plant Accounting, the Historically Underutilized Business Office, Research Accounting, Property Management, Business Services, and General Accounting. The evaluation would include an analysis of current business processes, benchmarking current business processes to best practices, identifying gaps and deficiencies in current process and policy, recommending process and policy revisions to model best practices, assisting the university in developing procedure and desk manuals, evaluation of current staffing and recommendations for staffing levels, and organizational reporting structure to align with best practices, and assisting the university in addressing recommendations and deficiencies discovered during this review. Agency: UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON (730) Open Date: 03/07/17 02:00 PM Agency Requisition Number: RFP730-17049 Previous Price Paid: N/A Solicitation type: 21 Days or more for solicitation notice NIGP Commodity Code(s): Class-Item: 918 - 04 Class-Item: 918 - 06 Class-Item: 918 - 49 Class-Item: 918 - 58 Class-Item: 918 - 87 Contact Information: Contact Name: Jack Tenner Email: jdtenner@central.uh.edu Address: 5000 Gulf Freeway Bldg 1, Rm 204 Houston, TX 77204-5015 Phone: (713) 743-5671 Fax: (713) 743-5672

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OSHA Orders Amtrak to Reinstate, Pay

$892K to Employee Discharged in Violation of Federal Railroad Safety Act

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

he National Railroad Passenger Corp., better known as Amtrak, retaliated against a supervisory special agent in its inspector general's office when he raised concerns about railroad safety, fraud and abuse involving an Amtrak contractor and when he supported a fellow agent's safety concerns during an internal investigation, the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has found. In early to mid-2010, the agent was investigating an Amtrak contractor that had been convicted in a New York state court for fraud in examining and testing concrete at building projects in the New York City area. This Amtrak contractor had performed testing on certain Amtrak tunnel projects. Strongly believing it was necessary for safety and security reasons, the agent raised safety concerns regarding work performed by this contractor on Amtrak projects. Then, in October 2010, the agent gave Amtrak's Dispute Resolution Office information and provided support for a fellow employee who had received a letter of reprimand after he raised safety concerns in a separate matter. The following month, the agent received his first-ever negative performance review. In March 2011, Amtrak notified him that - as a part of an overall reorganization - his position was being eliminated. In the course of the next few months, the agent applied for other positions, but was told that he lacked the required

law enforcement training, despite a 40-year law enforcement career that included equivalent training. In June 2011, Amtrak notified the agent that he would be terminated due to his not being placed in a new position. The terminated agent later filed a whistleblower complaint with OSHA. After concluding its investigation, the agency determined that the complainant engaged in protected Federal Railroad Safety Act activities when he raised concerns about safety issues related to work conducted by the Amtrak contractor and when he expressed his support of his fellow agent's safety complaints. OSHA also found these protected activities contributed as factors in his termination by Amtrak. "In this case, an employee was terminated for pursuing and reporting safety concerns. The employer's retaliation is unacceptable and illegal. Federal law gives rail carrier employees the right to raise safety, health and security concerns with their supervisors without fear of retaliation. When retaliation occurs, it can have a chilling effect on employees and create a climate of silence where employees' fear to speak up masks conditions that could impact their health and well-being, and that of their customers," said Jeffrey Erskine, OSHA's acting New England regional administrator. OSHA has issued a notice of findings to Amtrak ordering it to take the following corrective actions: • Reinstate the employee to his former or a similar position with all rights,

seniority and benefits he would have received had he not been discharged. • Pay him a total of $892,551, which is comprised of $723,332 in back wages plus $34,218 in interest; $100,000 in punitive damages; $35,000 in compensatory damages; plus reasonable attorney's fees and costs. • Expunge from Amtrak's records all references related to his discharge and exercise of his FRSA rights; make no adverse statements concerning his employment at Amtrak; and not retaliate or discriminate against him in any manner. • Post a notice to all railroad employees about their FRSA rights. The employee and Amtrak each have 30 days from receipt of OSHA's findings to file objections and request a hearing before the Labor Department's Office of Administrative Law Judges.

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OSHA enforces the whistleblower provisions of the FRSA and 21 other statutes protecting employees who report violations of various airline, commercial motor carrier, consumer product, environmental, financial reform, food safety, health care reform, nuclear, pipeline, worker safety, public transportation agency, railroad, maritime and securities laws. Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees who raise various protected concerns or provide protected information to the employer or to the government. Employees who believe that they have been retaliated against for engaging in protected conduct may file a complaint with the Secretary of Labor to request an investigation by OSHA's Whistleblower Protection Program. Detailed information on employee whistleblower rights, including fact sheets, is available at www.whistleblowers.gov. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA's role is to ensure these conditions for America's working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit www.osha.gov. OSHA Note: The U.S. Department of Labor does not release names of employees involved in whistle-blower complaints.

Source: Occupational Safety and Health Administration

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Port of Houston Authority News

Janiece M. Longoria Reappointed as Chairman of the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority HOUSTON – Janiece M. Longoria was reappointed Chairman of the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority recently by a unanimous vote during a joint session of Harris County Commissioners Court and Houston City Council. Texas state statute sets out the appointment process for the Port Commission Chair, which is an unpaid position, requiring county and city to meet at the Port Authority on the 2nd Monday in January of odd-numbered years. Ms. Longoria has served as the Chairman of the Port Authority since being appointed to the position on January 8, 2013. She chairs the Port Commission’s Audit Committee, Community Relations Committee and serves on the Governance Committee and Pension and Benefits Committee. She created the Citizens Advisory Council to foster open communication between communities in and around the Port of Houston and the Port Commission. The Greater Houston Port Bureau recently named Ms. Longoria the 2017 Maritime Person of the Year.

Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (2010), and has been recognized as a “breakthrough woman” and was inducted into the Hall of Fame by the Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce.

AboutPort PortHouston Houston About

Ms. Longoria is an honors graduate of the University of Texas and received her J.D. from the University of Texas School of Law in 1979. She is on the board of two public companies, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. and Superior Energy Services, Inc., both based in Houston. She is the former Vice Chairman of the University of Texas System Board of Regents and a former board member of the University of Texas Investment Management Company. Ms. Longoria currently serves on the board of directors of the University

of Texas Law School Foundation, the Greater Houston Partnership and the Texas Medical Center, and of the Board of Visitors of the UT MD Anderson Cancer Center. She is active in many non-profit organizations. Ms. Longoria has received numerous honors and recognitions for her community and board service, including the Distinguished Alumnus Award for the University of Texas, the Sandra Day O’Connor Award for Board Excellence the Female Executive of the Year Award from the

For more than 100 years, the port has owned and operated the public wharves and terminals of the Port of Houston – the nation’s largest port for foreign waterborne tonnage and an essential economic engine for the Houston region, the state of Texas, and the nation. It supports the creation of nearly 1.175 million jobs in Texas and 2.7 million jobs nationwide, and economic activity totaling almost $265 billion in Texas – 16 percent of Texas’ total gross domestic product – and more than $617 billion in economic impact across the nation. For more information, visit Port Houston’s website at: www.porthouston.com. Source: Port of Houston Authority

Arrangement Establishing An Alliance Between The U.S. Department Of Labor’s Occupational Safety And Health Administration Houston Area Offices And The Consulate Of Mexico In Houston, Texas By Subcontractors USA News Provider he U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Houston Area Offices, and the Consulate of Mexico in Houston, Texas, hereinafter referred to collectively as “the Participants”; Recognizing that OSHA’s Alliance Program provides for the establishment of cooperative relationships for purposes such as training and education, outreach and communication, and promoting a national dialogue on workplace health and safety; Recognizing the continuing effort and interest of the Consulate General of Mexico in promoting workers’ rights, health and safety in the workplace;

Intendto toform forman anAlliance Allianceto to Intend achievethe thefollowing: following: achieve Overall Objective The Participants intend to establish a collaborative relationship to provide Mexican Nationals in Eastern Texas and others with information, guidance, and access to education and training resources to promote workers’ rights in protecting their occupational health and safety, particularly with regards to reducing injuries and fatalities related to fall, electrical, struck-by, and caught in/between

hazards, and to help them understand the rights of workers and the responsibilities of employers under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act). Training and Education The Participants intend to work together to achieve the following training and education goals: • To develop training and education programs for Mexican Nationals in Eastern Texas regarding safety and health hazards in the Construction and General Industries relating to fall, electrical, struck-by, and caught in/between hazards, and to communicate such information to constituent employers and workers. • To develop training and education programs for Mexican Nationals in Eastern Texas to promote understanding of workers’ rights and responsibilities of employers, including the use of the OSHA complaint process, and to communicate such information to employers and workers. • To deliver or arrange for the delivery of OSHA 10-Hour Construction and General Industry Outreach Training Programs and other safety related courses. • To develop workplace health and safety curricula on hazards faced by Mexican Nationals in Eastern Texas. Outreach and Communication

The Participants intend to work together to achieve the following outreach and communication goals: • To develop information on the recognition and prevention of workplace hazards, and to develop ways of communicating such information (e.g., print and electronic media, electronic assistance tools, and links to OSHA’s Web site from the Consulate’s Web site) to Mexican Nationals in Eastern Texas and their employers. • To speak, exhibit, or appear at OSHA’s or the Consulate’s conferences, local meetings, or other events. • To participate in “Mobile Consulate” activities and events. • To share information among DOL personnel and safety and health professionals regarding the Consulates’ good practices or effective approaches and publicize results through outreach by the Consulate and through DOL- or Consulate-developed materials, training programs, workshops, seminars, and lectures (or any other applicable forum). Promotion of a National Dialogue The Participants intend to work together to achieve the following goals related to promoting a national dialogue on workplace health and safety: • To raise awareness of and demonstrate commitment to workplace safety and health and workers’ rights

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whenever leaders from the Participants address groups. • To convene or participate in forums, roundtable discussions, or stakeholder meetings on workplace safety and health, working conditions, and labor rights issues to help forge innovative solutions on issues concerning workplace health and safety and understanding of workers’ rights and responsibilities of employers. An implementation team made up of representatives of each Participant intends to meet to develop a plan of action, determine working procedures, and identify the roles and responsibilities of the Participants. In addition, the Participants intend to meet at least three times per year to track and share information on activities and results in achieving the goals of the Alliance. This Arrangement is intended to cease two years from the date of signing. A Participant should endeavor to provide 30 days advance written notice of its intent to discontinue its participation in this Arrangement. This Arrangement may be modified in writing at any time by mutual consent of the Participants. Source: Occupational Safety and Health Administration

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City of San Antonio News

AAMPO Votes for $33 Million in Funding for Wurzbach Parkway

City of San Antonio and City Converse Announce Annexation Agreement

fter years of sustained effort to secure funding for congestion relief along Wurzbach corridor, Councilman Ron Nirenberg recently celebrated a vote by the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s (AAMPO) Transportation Policy Board that will allocate $33 million towards long-term solutions. “Northwest San Antonio is one of the fastest-growing areas in our state and we have been working diligently to address traffic issues there” Councilman Nirenberg said. “This money will help relieve congestion — a regional priority since the Wurzbach corridor is a main route into the South Texas Medical Center.” Nirenberg, who serves on the AAMPO Transportation Policy Board, noted that economic impact studies show that the medical industry generates over $30 billion annually to San Antonio, while over 55,000 people are employed in the South Texas Medical Center. Within 25 years, SA Tomorrow analysis shows that there is potential of 50,000 more jobs to be created the. The recent expansion of Wurzbach Parkway by TxDOT, although a major infrastructure feat, has also diverted thousands of vehicles onto Wurzbach Road, with dramatic increases in traffic congestion projected. Since 2013, civil engineers and the

Texas Department of Transportation have been analyzing major intersections to test the impact of potential roadway redesign and reconstruction. Along with a public feedback process, the TxDoT study identified the most effective and popular designs for the intersections at Northwest Military Highway, LockhillSelma, IH-10 and Fredricksburg Road. With this recent vote on priorities for TxDOT formula funding, planning will begin for construction of the most effective designs to tackle the Wurzbach congestion. In addition, the City Council recommended $2 million in additional Wurzbach Road spending through the 2017 Bond program. For more information, please visit www.sanantonio.gov.

an Antonio Mayor Ivy R. Taylor and Converse Mayor Al Suarez, recently announced an annexation agreement between the two municipalities. As the result of significant regional planning efforts, the City of Converse will provide services, such police patrol and garbage collection to areas in the IH-10 East corridor. “By taking a regional planning approach, the City of San Antonio and the City of Converse worked together to prepare for the future of our cities, while providing services to the entire community,” said San Antonio Mayor Ivy Taylor. “I look forward to working with our municipal partners to continue to plan for our future growth and development.” Over a multi-year period the City of Converse will annex a portion of the unincorporated IH-10 East area allowing for municipal services to this

region. The annexation of the unincorporated area by Converse will allow the areas to receive urban level services, sufficient revenue to support public service delivery, infrastructure needs like streets and sidewalks, and facilitate future development in the region. The City of Converse has agreed to annex approximately three square miles and the City of San Antonio will transfer 2.2 square miles through boundary adjustments. The two areas to be annex are along NE LOOP 1604 and an area north of Gibbs Sprawl Road and should be completed in a little more than seven years. “The City of Converse is pleased to partner with the City of San Antonio on this exciting effort to address the tremendous growth and development occurring in our region,” said Converse Mayor Al Suarez. “Converse is the second largest city in Bexar County and working with our municipal neighbors only strengthens our future.” The City of San Antonio and the City of Converse will respectively adopt an interlocal agreement that will set forth the annexation plan and the series of actions necessary to implement the program. For more information, please visit www.sanantonio.gov.

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GIVING

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DIvErSE SuPPLIErS aDD CrEaTIvITy, InnovaTIon anD vaLuE To our buSInESS Strong working relationships and forward-thinking approaches are important in our business. That’s why we count on diverse business partners to bring unique perspectives, and the desire to go the extra mile to provide value for our customers. It’s also good for our local communities when diverse suppliers have an opportunity to compete for our business. Learn why mutually beneficial relationships with diverse suppliers are important to CenterPoint Energy. Visit CenterPointEnergy.com/SupplierDiversity

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