Subcontractor USA 81

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Subcontractors USA highlights opportunities and news relevant to the construction, energy, architecture, manufacturing, education, engineering, oil and gas, transportation, and IT industries we serve. We hope you find this issue not only informative but inspiring and educational as well.

This month's issue of Subcontractors USA highlights The Houston Minority Supplier Development Council (HMSDC). HMSDC is unwavering in taking action and bringing members and key corporate leaders together for solutions, leaving an impactful footprint as it pushes growth for Minority Business Enterprises and excellence in supplier diversity and supplier development.

— 46th and current president of the United States, Joe Biden

A trailblazer in progressing Minority Business Enterprises, HMSDC hosted its inaugural Program Managers Meeting, leading the charge and collaborating with supplier diversity leadership for the strengthening and sustainability of small businesses.

As always, thank you for your continued support of Subcontractors USA . 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.

CERTIFIED: HMSDC Port of Houston Metro City of Houston HISD HUB VBE DBE

“An American economy is strong because America’s small businesses are strong.”

Women

Recognized in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

Recently, the Regional Hispanic Contractors Association (RHCA) announced San Antonio winners: Elaiza Alvarez , with Lockwood, Andrews, and Newnam, awarded Woman of the Year A/E/C, and Sherrika Arch with Straight Line Management A/E/C Firm of the Year.

The Award ceremony was held at the Marriot Riverwalk Hotel with remarks by RHCA President and CEO John Martinez, who highlighted the importance of recognizing women in the A/E/C industries. Esmeralda Pena, VP of Human Resources with Vanir, mentioned that more than 43% of the 350 Vanir employees across the nation are women, a proudly announced statistic!

The Luna Regional Awards Ceremony at Austin was held at the JW Marriot. Jolsna Thomas with Rosendin was awarded Woman of the Year A/E/C, Jessica Campos with marketing for Greatness, Service Firm of the Year, and Aisha Gonzalez, with B2Z Engineering, A/E/C Firm of the Year. The Austin Luna Regional nominees and winners were recognized by RHCA Chair Luis Delgado and Vanir President Jim Smith

This was a milestone, as the Luna Awards announced its winners in El Paso for the first time. An appointment in the Brigadier Room of Anson 11, in the western city of El Paso, Luncheon took place with the notable presence of Ron Roberts, Central States Area manager for Vanir, that remarked on Vanir’s support for Luna. Regional award recipients were Celia Veloz, with Rodriguez Transportation Group for Woman of the Year A/E/C; Marina Monsisvais, with barracuda Public Relations, Service Firm of the Year, and Yolanda Diaz, with Mirador Enterprises for A/E/C Firm of the Year.

For more information about RHCA, please visit www.regionalhca.org.

Source: RHCA

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Luna Awards recognized women professionals for the first time in El Paso.

RHCA Announces Luna Awards Winners in San Antonio, Austin, and for the First Time El Paso!

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By Subcontractors USA News Provider

measure of construction contractors’ bid prices moved sharply higher in October as firms coped with ongoing supply-chain challenges and a tight labor market, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of government data released recently. Association officials said rising construction costs threaten to undermine demand for projects and urged administration officials to remove remaining tariffs on construction materials and to boost investments in construction-focused education and training.

The producer price index for new nonresidential building construction—a measure of what a fixed group of contractors estimate they would charge to erect a specific set of nonresidential buildings—jumped 3.0 percent from September and 20.2 percent from October 2020, Simonson noted. An index that measures the prices charged by goods producers and service providers such as distributors and transportation firms—the producer price index for inputs to new non- residential construction—rose 0.2 percent for the month and 11.2 percent over 12 months. However, the input price index does not

percent in October, bringing the year-over-year increase to 13.4 percent. The index for architectural coatings such as paint surged 1.1 percent for the month and 27.5 percent over 12 months.

Other inputs declined in price for the month but still rose steeply from a year earlier. The index for asphalt paving mixtures and blocks decreased by 0.7 percent in October but was 20.7 percent higher than in October 2021. The index for gypsum building materials such as wallboard slipped 0.4 percent from September but jumped 17.6 percent from a year ago. The index for insulation materials edged down 0.2 percent in October but rose 13.5 percent over the year. The cost of truck transportation of freight slid 1.4 percent for the month but increased 11.8 percent over 12 months.

Association officials urged federal officials to remove tariffs on key construction materials including steel and aluminum. And they urged the President to reconsider measures like Buy America that artificially inflate the cost of materials for many projects. They also called for investments in construction training and education.

“Although some materials costs have moderated, other costs are still climbing steeply, while contractors are incurring added expenses from delays caused by supplychain disruptions, shortages of skilled labor, and rising interest rates,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “Some owners may delay or cancel projects as the price to complete them continues to increase, threatening to undermine overall demand.”

capture contractors’ added costs from materials that are not delivered on schedule, rising wage rates, overtime pay, or the financial costs associated with delays. Input costs were mixed in October, and numerous items posted double-digit increases compared to year-ago levels. The producer price index for diesel fuel soared 9.8 percent for the month and 61.5 percent year over year. The index for cement rose by an unusually large 2.5

“Tariffs and regulations are making construction more expensive, which if left unchecked will undermine private sector demand for projects and limit the impacts of new infrastructure investments,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer.

For more information, please visit www.agc.org.

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“Association Officials Caution that Higher Construction Costs Could Undermine Demand for Projects, Urge Biden Administration to Remove Tariffs on Key Materials, Continue to Untangle Supply Chains”

Source: The Associated General Contractors of America

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Apprentices “Earn While They Learn” to Build a Clean Energy Future

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

Historically, apprentices played an important role in developing and supporting the early economy of the United States. In fact, George Washington was an apprentice surveyor and Benjamin Franklin was an apprentice printer. Today, apprentices continue to make critical contributions to our country’s economy, infrastructure, and industry. While apprenticeships thrive across a range of industries, the construction sector has particularly benefited from this training model, which has maintained a skilled and trained workforce to keep up with changing industry demands. Now, with the passing of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), apprentices have assured a vital role in supporting the clean energy transition.

Supporting apprenticeships is critical to President Biden’s agenda to build a clean energy economy that works for everyone. Apprenticeships allow workers to get paid while they train to join the clean energy workforce. High-quality, compensated training through apprenticeships can provide a pathway for workers, particularly workers without college degrees, to find good, familysupporting jobs. Apprenticeships also benefit unions, employers, and the nation as we work to decarbonize the economy. From November 14 to 20, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Policy and Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy are joining the U.S. Department of Labor to celebrate this “earn while you learn” model during National Apprenticeship Week.

By combining mentorship, on-the-job training, and classroom instruction, registered apprenticeship programs (RAPs) offer a pathway to a range of careers in the energy industry. Apprenticeships can also build a diverse energy workforce through intention-

ally recruiting and training workers who have been historically underrepresented in the energy industry, including women and people of color.

Apprenticeships in the Energy Industry

The United States needs a skilled workforce to build and support clean energy infrastructure. Energy jobs can offer high wages, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to join a union.

In-demand clean energy jobs include:

• Line maintenance

• Electrician

• Power-line distribution erector

• Gas-main fitter

• Water treatment specialist

• Substation operator

The number of registered apprentices in the energy sector has doubled in the past eight years to 13,539 apprentices in 2021. Those numbers will likely continue to grow thanks to incentives in IRA: employers that hire registered apprentices for some projects using IRA funds are eligible to receive tax benefits up to five times larger than for projects that do not hire apprentices. This tax benefit is available for many types of energy projects, including renewable energy storage and alternative fuel vehicles.

How Apprenticeships Benefit Workers and Unions

Workers who complete RAPs earn an average of $77,000 in their first year on the job. This is higher than the average salary of a worker in their twenties with a college degree ($52,000) and more than double the average salary of a worker in their twenties without a college degree ($30,000). Over the course of their career, a worker who’s completed a RAP can earn about $300,000 more in wages and benefits than a worker who hasn’t.

Many em - ployers or labor unions will pay their apprentices’ tuition, so apprentices gain skills with- out taking on student debt. Industry and union in- volvement in RAPs ensures there will be relevant

jobs in the field available for apprentices when they finish the program.

Union-supported RAPs help cultivate a supportive workforce culture by demonstrating the financial and community benefits of a union from day one on a worksite. Mentorship through the RAP can strengthen bonds between coworkers as well as between apprentices and experienced journey-level workers, generating a culture of safety and mutual respect.

How Apprenticeships Benefit Employers

For employers who invest in RAPs, the average return on investment is $1.47 for every $1 invested in an apprentice. RAPs strengthen workers’ trade skills and knowledge, which increases an organization’s productivity.

RAPs also reduce worker turnover. The three-year retention rate for registered apprentices is 89%. RAPs reduce recruiting costs for companies by building a pipeline of skilled workers to complete clean energy projects.

Companies can enhance diversity and inclusion in their workforce by recruiting from historically underrepresented groups into RAPs. Fostering diversity within an organization can help groups tackle problems creatively by bringing together people with a range of experiences.

RAPs are educational programs, so companies can teach how they value diversity and address issues like harassment early on. This can help workers from historically underrepresented groups feel welcome, increasing representation and retention of historically underrepresented workers.

Getting Started With RAPs

Whether you want to advance your clean energy career or find qualified, high-skill workers, RAPs are an excellent tool. Career seekers can connect with RAPs by visiting the U.S. Department of Labor’s website. Employers can explore RAPs to implement in their organizations to better train workers and attract talented tradespeople.

For more about apprenticeships in energy jobs, check out this fact sheet from the U.S. Department of Labor.

For more information on clean energy careers, read about internships, fellowships, graduate, and postdoctoral opportunities, and clean energy jobs at the U.S. Department of Energy.

For more information, please visit energy.gov.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

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CONSTRUCTION

Construction Employment Grows in 269 of 358 Metro Areas From September 2021 to 2022 but Looming Challenges Imperil Future Gains

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

Construction employment increased in 269 of 358 metro areas between September 2021 and September 2022, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of new government employment data. But association officials noted that those job gains could stall as the industry faces a growing list of challenges, including labor shortages, rising materials prices, and slowing private-sector demand for construction.

“Firms added as many workers as they could find during the past year to keep pace with strong demand for construction in many parts of the country,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “But as rising interest rates prompt developers to rethink future projects while prices for labor and construction materials remain high, fewer markets may experience job gains in the near future.”

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, Texas added the most construction jobs (29,100 jobs or 14 percent), followed by Dallas-Plano-Irving, Texas (11,000 jobs, 8 percent); Seattle-Bellevue-Everett, Wash. (8,900 jobs, 8 percent) and Los AngelesLong Beach-Glendale, Calif. (8,800 jobs, 6 percent). The largest percentage gains were in Provo-Orem, Utah (21 percent, 5,700 jobs); Danville, Ill. (17 percent, 100 jobs), and Albuquerque, N.M. (17 percent, 4,200 jobs).

Construction jobs declined over the year in 50 metro areas and were unchanged in 39 areas. The largest loss occurred in Orlando-KissimmeeSanford, Fla. (-6,300 jobs, -8 percent), followed by Richmond, Va. (-2,800 jobs, -7 percent); Bergen-HudsonPassaic, N.J. (-2,100 jobs, -7 percent) and Baton Rouge, La. (-2,100 jobs,

Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, Texas, and Provo-Orem, Utah Have the Largest 12-Month Gains; While OrlandoKissimmee-Sanford, Fla. Has Lost the Most Total Jobs and Has the Fastest Rate of Annual Decline

-5 percent). The largest percentage declines occurred in Orlando; BergenHudson-Passaic and Richmond.

Association officials cautioned that rising interest rates are prompting private sector developers to rethink some projects as higher finance costs offset potential returns. They added that labor costs continue to rise as firms struggle to hire enough workers and supply chain challenges inflate the cost of key materials. Sandherr urged federal, state, and local officials to accelerate investments in infrastructure and remove regulatory obstacles – like new Buy America requirements – that will slow new project starts.

“Public officials can offset declining private-sector demand for construction by speeding up planned projects,” Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “There is no shortage of public funds for construction, but too much of it has been encumbered by senseless red tape like new Buy America provisions that will delay progress and undermine economic benefits.”

For more information, please visit www.agc.org.

Source: The Associated General Contractors of America

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At H-E-B,we value our partnerships with women and minority suppliers. Through their contributions, we better understand the needs of our customers and add to the growth of our company and the communities we serve.

Electric Construction Equipment

Global Market Report 2022: Development of Long-Range and Fast-Charging Battery Technology Presents Opportunities

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

The electric off-highway equipment market is estimated to grow from USD 9.2 billion in 2022 to USD 24.8 billion by 2027 at a CAGR of 22.0% over the forecast period. All key countries have established programs/regulations to deal with GHG emissions in the transportation industry. Most countries follow Euro equivalent Standards, such as Stage IV or V. The PM limit of the Stage V standard is 97% lower than that of the Stage I Standard, and the hydrocarbon (HC) + Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) limit is 94% lower.

The battery electric offhighway equipment would lead the market due to the stringent noise and emission regulations.

The demand for sustainable equipment in the mining industry to decrease ventilation costs is expected to drive the electrification of mining equipment during the forecast period. However, the stringent noise and emission regulations within the city limits would drive the market for such battery electric and hybrid construction equipment. Though this electric equipment would face challenges such as higher cost than their ICE counterparts or longer charging time, the advancements in battery technology would make the electric equipment popular in the long run.

Americas is projected to be the second-largest market for electric offhighway equipment.

The leading countries such as the US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina are considered under the Americas region. The electric off-highway equipment demand in the Americas is rapidly increasing because of the environmental protection measures adopted in these key countries. In addition, with the upcoming stringent emission norms for fuel economy in the region, companies are making efforts to manufacture electric and hybrid equipment for the domestic market. Recent electric equipment launches from the leading off-highway equipment manufacturers have promised growth of the electric

off-highway equipment market in this region. Some of the leading companies that are present in this region are Caterpillar Inc. (US), Deere & Company (US), Soletrac Inc. (US), Dana Limited (US), and others.

Moreover, the region has large deposits of coal, iron, zinc, copper, cement, lithium, and precious metals. The mining industry in this region is large and many leading players that hold a significant share of the mining equipment market are present in this region. The Americas electric off-highway equipment market is estimated to be the second largest market, globally. High demand for mini construction equipment, including mini excavators, loaders, and dozers, is driving the growth of the electric off-highway equipment market in the Americas.

Market Dynamics

Drivers

• Strict Vehicular Emission

Regulations

• High Ventilation Costs in Underground Mining

• Rising Demand for Low-Noise Construction Activities in Residential Areas

Restraints

• Higher Initial Cost Than Conventional ICE Equipment

Opportunities

• Development of Long-Range and Fast-Charging Battery Technology

• Intermediate Demand for Hybrid and Alternate Fuel Equipment

Challenges

• Limited Compatibility, Interchangeability, and Standardization of Electric Off-Highway Equipment for Long-Haul Applications

• Need for Efficient Thermal Management System for Batteries in Extreme Working Conditions

For more information about this report, please visit www.researchandmarkets.com.

Source: Research and Markets

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New Study: Oil & Gas

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

The American Petroleum Institute (API) recently released a new analysis of the benefits of lowcarbon hydrogen produced from natural gas. The study, commissioned by API and conducted by ICF, found that hydrogen produced from natural gas with carbon capture and produced from electricity and other energy sources could eliminate an additional 180 million metric tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions on average per year through 2050 and save over $450 billion cumulatively through 2050 when hydrogen incentives are uniformly provided based on a per ton of GHG emissions reduced.

“Our industry is committed to advancing innovative technologies like low-carbon hydrogen, which are crucial to reducing GHG emissions economy-wide,” said API Vice President of Corporate Policy Aaron Padilla. “Working together with policymakers to incentivize all forms of low-carbon hydrogen and accelerate hydrogen production through programs under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we can drive down emissions while ensuring American consumers have access to the reliable energy they need.”

API analysis of the study’s findings shows that uniform incentives for producing hydrogen from natural gas,

electricity, and other energy sources are critical to meeting the U.S. Department of Energy goal of 50 MMT of clean hydrogen produced by 2050, as laid out in the recently published National Clean Hydrogen Strategy and Roadmap

Highlights from the report include:

• Larger Hydrogen Market : When every ton of emission reductions is incentivized the same, the U.S. hydrogen market could be three times larger by 2050 than when emission reductions are treated unequally (i.e., the hydrogen market could be 15% of total end-use energy consumption in 2050 versus 4% of total end-use energy consumption in 2050).

• Larger GHG Emission Reductions: The larger hydrogen economy resulting from uniform incentives could avoid an additional 183 million metric tons of U.S. GHG emissions on average per year through 2050 than if incentives were unevenly implemented by taking advantage of low-cost options, like hydrogen produced from natural gas with carbon capture. Enabling incentives for all hydrogen production is equivalent to eliminating the emissions from more than 38 million cars annually, accord - ing to API analysis.

• Less Costly Emission Reductions: Uniform incentives could reduce the cost of mitigating a metric ton of carbon by an average of 12% annually over the study period, saving over $450 billion cumulatively through 2050.

The study found that critical hydrogen infrastructure, like hydrogen storage, pipelines, and local distribution systems, will be required to unleash hydrogen’s potential to contribute to significant GHG emissions reductions. Capital investment in hydrogen infrastructure projects could exceed $400 billion by 2050 and include the construction of 67,000 miles of hydrogen transmission pipeline, 500,000 miles of customer laterals and local distribution company pipeline/ service lines, and 560 trillion Btu of hydrogen underground storage capacity.

For more information or the full report, please visit api.org.

Source: American Petroleum Institute (API)

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By Subcontractors USA News Provider

he Houston Minority Supplier Development Council (HMSDC) is unwavering in taking action to bring key corporate leaders together across industries for solutions, leaving an impactful footprint as it pushes growth for Minority Business Enterprises and drives excellence in supplier diversity and supplier development.

Though there has been growth in the effectiveness of supplier diversity, there’s still room to enhance strategies that underpin many supplier diversity programs. A trailblazer in progressing Minority-owned businesses, HMSDC hosted its inaugural Program Managers Meeting, for new and established programs. For almost five decades, HMSDC has been leading the charge and collaborating with supplier diversity leadership for the strengthening and sustainability of small businesses. This meeting, sponsored by ConocoPhillips, Hess Corporation and Entergy, was deemed phenomenally successful by the 30 + corporate attendees.

The theme for this year's meeting was L.E.V.E.L. U.P. Supplier Diversity With Innovation. Today’s business environment has changed how corporations view diversity in hiring, job promotions, and supplier base. HMSDC is leading the charge to create an equitable supplier base by transforming supplier diversity programs into procurement inclusion. The Program Manager Meeting provides supplier diversity informational sessions to move supplier diversity towards a standardized procurement process. This provides an eco-system that intentionally engages MBEs in contracting opportunities and impacting the economy in diverse communities.

Ms. Robinson set the stage for what to expect from an impactful full day of supplier diversity training and challenged the audience to leave with actionable tasks, not just take good notes

“One of the benefits of supplier diversity is that corporations, whether competitors or not, all work together for the same goal to economically empower traditionally underrepresented communities. While some programs are in the infancy phase and others are mature, there is always room for growth and improvementThis is what the HMSDC Program Managers Meeting provides.”

- Ingrid M. Robinson, President of HMSDC.

Speakers for the 2022 HMSDC Program Managers Meeting:

• Richard A. Huebner, Former HMSDC President

• Jewel Smith, C.E.O. of i3029 Liron Consulting,

• Debra Stewart , Former Director of Supplier Diversity and Diversity Outreach at Shell Oil

• Scott A. Vowels PhD, Manager Supplier Diversity at Apple Inc.

What Do Supplier Diversity Program Leaders Have to Say?

“We support the mission of HMSDC to grow and expand opportunities for MBE inclusion in corporate

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Diversity Professionals To L.E.V.E.L. U.P.

To Supplier Diversity Programs

supply chains. The Program Managers Meeting provides the perfect platform to learn new and innovative strategies to take new and mature supplier diversity programs to the next level. The inaugural 2022 Program Managers Meeting was a huge success with over 30 corporations participating. We were honored to be integral in advancing supplier diversity in each attending corporation’s procurement process.”

- Robin Hawkins, ExxonMobil Supplier Diversity Program Manager

“The session inspired those new to the profession as supplier diversity program managers and reinvigorated those who run mature programs and have been in the role for some time. The opportunity to review the history of supplier diversity and HMSDC breeds innovation, collaboration, and excitement to execute the commitment to utilization, advocacy, and development of minority businesses. Every attendee walked away with a wisdom nugget, if not several! The HMSDC SDAC Committee is excited to hear about all the program developments and success stories that will be generated from this event.”

- Annie Lidge, FLUOR Supplier Diversity Program Director

This year’s kick-off for HMSDC’s Program Managers Meeting has already proven effective for the advancement of supplier diversity, with new innovative concepts and results-driven strategies that build economic equity across communities of color. There is no doubt that the collaborative efforts of the day will result in economic development and growth of our small businesses in underserved communities.

Key takeaways for intentional supplier diversity programs:

• Select a respected, trustworthy professional for a supplier diversity executive role & team

• Challenge the status quo and be a change agent

• Establish a recognition/awards system

• Create highly visible and effective communication plans

• Assess your supplier diversity program/practice for effectiveness

• Work with the resources available to achieve a successful program; your network (internal and & external), data, budget, your team, and HMSDC.

• Be bold, courageous, and ready

For more about the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council Program Managers Meeting and all of the organization’s efforts creating business opportunities for our Minority Business Enterprises, please visit, www.hmsdc.org.

“One of the main reasons for supplier diversity programs is for professionals to come together through either volunteering or new ideas. Those ideas can not only be amazing but benefit us all for a by making the ecosystem better for the MBE.”

- Tamara Garrett, BP America Inc., Director, Supplier Diversity

“It’s best to level up our programs in supplier diversity for the seasoned community but to enrich the new ones while building bridges between internal and external stakeholders on the value of supplier diversity. But driving the initiative of inclusion of diverse business of all areas into our organization. ”

- Che McFerrin, Manager, Supplier Diversity Accenture

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Che McFerrin, Robin Hawkins, Angela Freeman, Dr. Linelle Clark Dave Feldman, Maalika Moore-Thomas, Donovan Casanave, Crystal Royal, Nicholle Bradley Niese, Sabeeta Singh Bumguardner, Anwar Phillips, Layle Ellis, Karen Franklin, Will Norwood, Monica Campana, Christie Pillar, Jewel Smith, Jasmine Morgan

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Justina

Marsha Murray

Rhonda Arnold

Play Ball for Permitting Construction Projects in 2023

By Helen Callier Contributing Writer

“Play ball” is two words you should remember going into 2023.

Ienjoy networking with contractors, developers, and others in the construction industry. I recently attended the American Turkic Real Estate and Construction Summit in Houston and here’s the bottom line for the 2023 economy in Texas and in the Houston area: slow growth and slowing growth. But we are up for the challenge according to the Dallas Federal Reserve.

While construction and other key market data may indicate certain economic conditions going into 2023 and beyond, here’s what the PermitUsNow team knows: regardless if the construction market in your region is hot, cold, or lukewarm, there is one thing for sure; and that is obtaining a building permit in a timely manner is crucial for the success of your project. Having a building permit when it is required helps to start construction on time plus aids in completing construction ahead of schedule

or at least, on time. And when finishing according to your project schedule, your customer can start operations and begin reaping a Return on Investment (ROI) and as the contractor, you can smile with glee with another profitable job if all other key metrics fall in line. A good friend of mine and a legacy in the construction industry – Mr. Pat Kiley always says, “You ought to thank your lucky stars that you’re in Texas!” I agree and going into 2023 and beyond, Houston and Texas for the most part are expected to be resilient. Slow growth in some areas, maybe, but realize that some contractors will continue to be bullish and grow according to their plan. While the construction industry was healthy for many contractors and builders pre-pandemic, the reset or settling into a new norm will require a different strategy and set of skills to maneuver including with permitting.

Again, whether the construction market is hot or appearing to flatline, following the 7 steps below are important for your success in obtaining a building permit in a timely manner.

1. Do your upfront work (pre-construction).

2. Review your plans and permit package before submitting them to the jurisdiction.

3. Track, monitor, and respond to any comments.

4. Pay for and pull permits with stamped approved plans.

5. Call for required inspections.

6. Close out and obtain a Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Compliance.

7. Say “Thank you” to your customer and team.

2023 and beyond will be challenging for many contractors, builders, and even architects that lack a written plan to navigate permitting and changing market conditions. Those that find themselves in this situation can avoid fretting and can leverage key resources like PermitUsNow to assist in obtaining building permits. PermitUsNow has experience working with jurisdictions across the state of Texas, Louisiana, and other states and is available to handle your building permits.

PermitUsNow is committed to pulling permits for our architect, contractor, and project owner clients without delay, eliminating their frustrations with the permitting process. Plus, we make it easy for you to work with us. Simply: 1) Email us your plans, 2) Follow up on our feedback for any missing items, and 3) Let us get your permitting done for you. So, send us your plans today and we’ll free you up to focus on doing what you love - building your customers’ dreams.

You can call PermitUsNow at 1.844.PERMIT.4. Visit us on the web at permitusnow.com.

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#BuildCustomersDreams #BuildSafe

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Safety

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

The global Workplace Safety market size is projected to reach 30.4 Billion USD by 2028, from 13.1 Billion USD in 2021, at a CAGR of 12.8% during 2022-2028.

Some of the factors influencing Workplace Safety market expansion include rising workplace injuries and tight industrial health and safety requirements.

TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE WORKPLACE SAFETY MARKET

The industry will increase as long as environmental, health, and safety services and software can assist businesses in effectively managing their generated garbage. Additionally, the market for environmental health and safety is anticipated to develop as a result of the popularity and proliferation of mobile applications related to these topics.

Managers are able to design unique checklists using good safety management software. For instance, appropriate signage, safety rails, three-point handrails, and anti-slip tiles allow workers to exert themselves fully and fearlessly. A field agent that has faith in their vehicle will depart the job location as quickly as possible and without hesitation. Such minute details can have a major impact on confidence levels and emanate a pleasant vibe.

The systems for workplace safety are made to guard against a variety of ergonomic, chemical, physical, and biological dangers. Therefore, the demand for workplace safety solutions is increased by the growing worries about occupational safety. Significant Workplace Safety market growth is driven by the high need for dependable safety solutions to ensure asset and personal security.

A rise in the demand for environmental health & safety services that aid in monitoring various services such as water conservation, waste management, employee safety, monitoring, emission control, and many others has been caused by the existence of stringent rules and regulations relating to the protection of the environment and occupational health and safety.

Furthermore, the Workplace Safety market is expanding primarily due to the mandated usage of industrial safety solutions in workplaces. The adoption of workplace safety solutions is likely to be sped up by initiatives done by various governmental

and regulatory entities, including the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

The use of safety data as a predictive tool for risk management and the rising integration of big data into safety solutions all contribute to the Workplace Safety market expansion. The need for workplace safety solutions is expected to increase throughout the projected period as a result of the remarkable growth that the surveillance sector is experiencing, particularly in Europe and North America. As the market for workplace safety has grown, several companies have begun implementing real-time location monitoring systems (RTLMS), environmental health and safety systems (EHS), and monitoring and surveillance solutions to protect their assets. The Workplace Safety market for industrial safety systems is creating new growth potential because of the industrial internet of things (IIoT).

WORKPLACE SAFETY MARKET SHARE ANALYSIS

Based on region, the most lucrative region during the forecast period in North America. In the market for workplace safety, North America is anticipated to hold the greatest market share. Regarding infrastructure and usage of security technologies, it is among the most developed locations. The region is seeing a rise in the use of cloud computing across a variety of industries, which has fueled the market for cloud-based workplace safety solutions.

Based on application, During the forecasted years, it is anticipated that the industrial end-user segment will hold the largest market share. Aerospace and defense, mining, building, oil and gas, transportation, pharmaceuticals, semiconductor, and energy and power make up the industrial segment.

For more information or for the full report, please visit https://reports.valuates.com.

Source: Valuates Reports

SAFETY

Houston Area School Students Champion

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

Texas Transportation Commissioner Laura Ryan and Houston Independent School District officials recently joined TxDOT Houston District Engineer Eliza Paul, P.E. Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) officials, the Kailee Mills Foundation, and students at the Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy of Houston to urge the public’s help to end the streak of traffic fatalities in Texas.

Texas has not gone a day without a motor vehicle fatality since November 7, 2000. TxDOT is determined to End the Streak of traffic deaths in Texas. In 2021, there were 1,312 fatal motor vehicle crashes in the TxDOT six-county Houston District.

To support the effort, TxDOT shared with Houston motorists the features of its Houston ConnectSmart multi-modal mobility app that can support safe driving. The new tool can be used to alert drivers when they enter school zones and when they exceed the speed limit in those zones. The alerts are audible and do not require drivers to avert their attention.

“We are excited to be joined by students at the Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy who are actively engaged in the development of the Houston Con-

nectSmart app and who are willing to fight for the lives of every Texan by advocating for the safety on our roads and highways,” said TxDOT’s Paul.

“We want to reduce traffic fatalities in Texas by 2035 and eliminate them altogether by 2050,” said Commissioner Ryan. “It is refreshing to be joined by so many young people who are willing to advocate for this mission.”

TxDOT Planning Engineer and Houston ConnectSmart project manager Dr. Brenda Bustillos, P.E. provided an opportunity for the public to get engaged with the mobility app while supporting traffic safety and saving lives.

Anyone who downloaded the free Houston ConnectSmart app and used it through November 30th, the app’s developer, Metropia Inc., donated a dollar for every trip taken, up to ten trips per person and up to $5,000, to the Kailee Mills foundation to promote driver safety education among young people.

The app has numerous other safety features such as the ability to recommend comfort(safer) routes for bicyclists and the ability to help stranded motorists summon a free tow truck via Tow and Go service where available.

Houston Independent School District Trustee Patricia K. Allen applauded TxDOT’s effort. “If your goal is to

reduce traffic deaths to zero by 2050, you must ask for the assistance of young who understand the preciousness of life and who are willing to tackle big problems that require changes in culture,” said Allen. “If you are attempting to achieve a goal that will be 30 years in the making, then ultimately these young people will have to be the ones to carry the mission through.”

In 2021 4,492 people died on Texas roads and Highways, the highest total ever recorded.

The Houston ConnectSmart app is available on iPhone and android. Go to https:// www.houstonconnectsmart.com/ to download.

For more information, please visit www. txdot.gov.

Source: TxDOT

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he U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration, or FTA, has recently awarded CapMetro with $20 million as part of its Bus and Bus Facilities Grant Program. The funding will go toward establishing a permanent North Demand Response Operations and Maintenance facility.

“As CapMetro continues to grow as an agency and as a regional partner, this grant funding will help ensure that we can continue to holistically serve our customers and community,” said interim CapMetro President and CEO Dottie Watkins. “I am grateful our federal partners at the FTA recognize the need for this new facility. It is also significant for our region and community that FTA continues to demonstrate confidence in CapMetro to responsibly accept federal funding to manage and execute projects such as this one. We appreciate our State and Local leadership and supporters who continue to be good partners through these opportunities.”

In addition to establishing a permanent North Demand Response and Operations Maintenance facility, this grant will also allow CapMetro to expand other programs to help accommodate system and regional growth and promote community connectivity. The project will help CapMetro fulfill the current and future demand for MetroAccess paratransit and Pickup growth, and is integral to ensuring the agency can continue providing these services sustainably and efficiently.

CapMetro’s grant application had bipartisan

support from federal lawmakers, U.S. Senator John Cornyn and U.S. Representative Michael McCaul, and was sponsored by Travis County Judge Andy Brown, Travis County Commissioner Brigid Shea, Austin Council Member Harper-Madison and the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, or CAMPO.

“Access to safe and efficient infrastructure is critical for Texas,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I applaud this announcement and look forward to seeing the positive impact this investment will have in Austin.

CapMetro’s new Demand Response and Maintenance Facility will be located on Springdale and Cameron Road, replacing a leased facility that is over capacity. In February 2022, CapMetro’s Board of Directors approved the purchase of 25 acres of land for this new facility, which will be more cost-effective, efficient, and support safe operation. This grant will help continue that development.

For more information, please visit www.capmetro.org.

Source: CapMetro

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overnor Greg Abbott recently announced the adoption of the Texas Department of Transportation's (TxDOT) 2023 Unified Transportation Program (UTP), advancing a record $85 billion, 10-year statewide roadway construction plan. The 2023 UTP reflects an unprecedented level of projected transportation funding dedicated to improving transportation safety, addressing congestion and rural connectivity, and preserving roadways for Texas drivers.

"The State of Texas is working to ensure the transportation needs of our fast-growing state are met and that the safety of Texans on the roadways is protected," said Governor Abbott. "

TxDOT's 2023 Unified Transportation Program is a critical step toward addressing the diverse needs of Texans in rural, urban, and metropolitan communities. This 10year plan to address transportation needs statewide and dedicate $85 billion to improve roadways will be a huge boon to our state's infrastructure and booming economy. As more people move to Texas and businesses grow across the state, we are working together to make sure Texans' transportation safety and mobility are secured and businesses can flourish for generations to come."

“The UTP reflects a continued focus on improving transportation safety as the top priority, maintaining our current system, addressing traffic congestion, and improving statewide connectivity over the next decade,” said TxDOT Commission Chairman J. Bruce Bugg, Jr. “Additionally, we are making significant progress in addressing congestion in our busiest parts of the state

through our Texas Clear Lanes initiative, which improves top chokepoints in our largest metro areas.”

“Texas’ rapid growth reinforces the importance of investing in transportation to efficiently move both people and freight across our diverse state," said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. "TxDOT is working hard to not only build the new roads and transportation capacity Texas needs but to maintain the more than 80,000 miles of roads and other transportation infrastructure under our care.“

The UTP funds will coincide with an additional $32 billion over the life of the program for routine maintenance contracts and project development, such as planning, professional engineering, and right-of-way acquisition for more than 7,000 transportation projects and a total investment of $117 billion statewide.

Many projects in the UTP plan are roadway segments identified on Texas' 100 Most Congested Roadways list and critical connectivity corridors. The projects will be funded through legislative and voter-approved initiatives that allocate portions of oil and gas taxes, sales taxes, and other money to the state highway fund. These initiatives have increased the UTP by over $50 billion over the 10-year period, with $34.3 billion in projects approved in the 2014 UTP in August 2013. With rural regions of the state supporting the critical energy and agricultural industries, the approved plan includes a historic increase in funding to $14 billion for projects in rural areas.

The $8.5 billion of average annual investment programmed in the UTP over the next 10 years is expected to yield an estimated $15.5 billion per year in economic benefits, according to the Texas A&M Transportation

Institute. These benefits are a result of increased labor income and business output, as well as the addition of 58,500 direct and indirect jobs.

The UTP is a planning document that authorizes highway projects for development and construction. Additionally, the UTP identifies public transportation, maritime, aviation, and rail investments. Projects are selected by TxDOT and local transportation leaders based on effectiveness in addressing criteria such as safety, pavement condition, capacity, and rural connectivity, with opportunities for public input at both the state and local levels.

More information on the UTP projects is available at www.txdot.gov.

Source: TxDOT

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

The Unified Transportation Program (UTP) is TxDOT’s 10-year plan that guides the development of transportation work across the state.

Organized into 12 funding categories, with each one addressing a specific type of work, the UTP authorizes the distribution of construction dollars expected to be available over the next 10 years.

Within the UTP framework, TxDOT works with elected officials, local planning organizations, and the public to select and

fund the state’s highest-priority transportation projects. In addition to highway projects, the UTP addresses public transportation, maritime, aviation, rail, freight, and international trade. The Texas Transportation Commission approves the UTP annually in accordance with Texas state law, and TxDOT publishes the approved UTP each year.

The UTP is part of a comprehensive planning and programming process flowing from TxDOT’s agency mission to project-level implementation. That is, the UTP is an intermediate programming document linking the planning activities of the Statewide Long-Range Transportation Plan (SLRTP), the Metropolitan Transportation Plans, and Rural Transportation Plan to the detailed programming activities under the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program

(STIP) and TxDOT’s 24-month (2-year) Letting Schedule.

The outcome of the UTP process is a list of projects TxDOT intends to develop or begin constructing over the next 10 years, as well as information on the available funding associated with those projects. Project development includes activities such as preliminary engineering work, environmental analysis, right-ofway acquisition, and design. Despite its importance to TxDOT as a planning and programming tool, the UTP is neither a budget nor a guarantee that projects will or can be built. However, it is a critical tool in guiding transportation project development within the long-term planning context. In addition, it serves as a communication tool for stakeholders and the public in understanding the project development commitments TxDOT is making.

The UTP document lists transportation projects funded through UTP categories 2, 4, and 12. This project listing is also available in Microsoft Excel format, found in the links below. For information about all projects in the

UTP, funded through all 12 categories, please see TxDOT’s Project Tracker.

For more information, please visit www. txdot.gov.

Source: TxDOT

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Tellepsen is committed to building a company that truly represents the diverse community we have served for 113 years. Texas Southern University and Tellepsen are working together to positively impact the success of students who are focused on career pathways in the construction industry Through this partnership, we endeavor to provide pathways for the next generation to thrive and succeed as we work together to build for Houston’s future.