Subcontractors Journal 109th

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RESEARCH EXPLORES AI PERCEPTIONS, OPPORTUNITIES IN ARCHITECTURE

Anew study published by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) explores the current use of artificial intelligence (AI) across the profession, and the opportunities and concerns about its increased use in the design and construction sector.

The report,  Artificial Intelligence Adoption in Architecture Firms: Opportunities & Risks, is part of The Architect’s Journey to Specification series and was published in collaboration with Deltek and Construct Connect.

AI is transforming the design industry, creating both challenges and opportunities for Building Product Manufacturers,

Derek Guffey, Assoc. AIA, LEED AP, Vice President of Sales, Building Product Manufacturers Segment, ConstructConnect.

“This research offers key insights into AI and its impact on go-to-market strategies and product selection in this brave new world. The Journey to Specification serves as a guidepost for manufacturers planning for an AI-driven future."

Key findings of the report include:

o Only 6% of the profession regularly uses AI for jobs. Most common applications are chatbots, image generators, and grammar/text analytics (e.g., correcting errors).

o Experimentation and usage of AI are driven significantly more by architects aged 50 or younger.

o More architects aged 35-50 have used chatbots, while more architects under 35 have used image generators.

o Overall, only 8% of firms have implemented AI solutions into their practice, with 20% currently working on implementing solutions. This is driven significantly more by large firms (50+ employees), the early adopters in this space.

Architects are most optimistic about being able to automate manual tasks to save time and help with product research, according to 84% and 74% of respondents.

Nearly all (90%) architectural professionals are concerned about:

o    Inaccuracies of AI outputs (e.g., mistakes or misleading information)

o    Unintended consequences (e.g., how data and models might be misused)

o    Security (e.g., how data is stored and the potential for hacks)

o    Authenticity (e.g., distinguishing human-made from AI-generated content)

o    Transparency (e.g., where data is stored and how it is used)

"The future of architecture isn't about AI replacing human creativity - it's about AI enhancing it,” Chris Metropulos, AIA, CSI, LEED AP, Senior Director, Product Management, Deltek. “When we automate routine tasks, we create more space for innovation, allowing architects to focus on what they do best: designing spaces that create lasting value."

Source: American Institute of Architecture (AIA)

H-E-B Announces Plans to Open Store in Denton

As H-E-B continues its expansion in North Texas, the retailer announced plans to open its first H-E-B store in Denton, Texas, in Hillwood’s Landmark By Subcontractors USA

development.

The store will be built on a more than 20-acre site at the northwest corner of Interstate 35W and Robson Ranch Road. While the purchase of the property is not yet finalized, construction on the store is expected to begin this spring.

Additional details about the project will be shared at a groundbreaking ceremony. A date for the groundbreaking will be announced soon.

This is a rapidly growing area, and we are excited to introduce this new H-E-B store to Denton and surrounding towns. We look forward to meeting our new neighbors and sharing more details soon,

said Mabrie Jackson, Managing Director of Public Affairs for H-E-B and Central Market.

With sales of more than $46 billion, H-E-B operates over 435 stores in Texas and Mexico.

Based in San Antonio, H-E-B employs over 160,000 partners in Texas and Mexico and serves millions of customers.

Source: H-E-B

Photo courtesy of H-E-B

Entergy Texas’ Orange County Advanced Power Station

to Transform SE Texas' Energy Future

ntergy Texas’ Orange County Advanced Power Station has transformed into the foundation of Southeast Texas’ energy future.

Construction of the state-of-the-art facility, designed to generate 1,215 megawatts of power, is more than 60% complete overall, with construction surpassing 30%. The project remains on track to power more than 230,000 homes by June 2026.

Since breaking ground in 2023, our dedicated teams have made tremendous progress, completing much of the underground work and shifting focus to above-ground construction said John Watts,

senior project engineer. “This milestone reflects the incredible work of our teams and partners and includes the safe delivery and installation of equipment critical to the project’s success.”

TO BRING THE PROJECT TO LIFE, CONSTRUCTION REQUIRES THE FOLLOWING MATERIALS:

▶ Over 1.3 million feet of electrical cables

▶ More than 43,000 feet of underground piping

▶ Nearly 2,000 tons of steel

▶ Over 22,000 cubic yards of concrete

“This facility is a cornerstone of our strategy to modernize our infrastructure and provide reliable and more sustainable power,” said Jim Malain, customer service manager. “Its fuel

efficiency will generate more than $1 billion in savings for our customers during its lifetime, making a real difference in the communities we serve.”

OCAPS is an investment in Southeast Texas. During construction, the project will generate more than 7,000 indirect jobs and, once operational, will support 27 permanent roles. By leveraging modern, fuel-efficient technologies, OCAPS will

Learn more about Entergy Texas’ vision of an

sustainable, and resilient energy future for Southeast Texas by visiting entergy.com/entergypowerstexas.

Source: Entergy Texas

Photo courtesy of Entergy Texas

RUN CLEANER RUN LONGER

Environmental Partners Receive Entergy Grants to Protect Natural Resources

Entergy is helping 17 environmental organizations protect our natural resources by contributing $1 million in shareholder-funded grants through the company’s Environmental Initiatives Fund.

“We know that protecting natural resources is foundational to helping our communities thrive,” said John Weiss, Entergy’s vice president of sustainability and environmental policy. “For 24 consecutive years, our shareholders have supported the work of community partners who are stewarding our local ecosystems to ensure a brighter future for both the customers we serve and the natural world.”

Entergy’s Environmental Initiatives Fund identifies projects or programs that improve the environment by reducing emissions, protecting natural resources, and restoring wetlands and forests.

The fund also supports projects designed to educate Entergy’s customers, employees, communities and owners on the value of natural resources and other environmental improvements.

The University of Houston’s Cullen College of Engineering hosted its 11th Women in Engineering Celebration in the Shamrock Ballroom of the UH Hilton on Wednesday, March 5, 2025. According to the university’s website, the event fosters a community of support among engineering students and professionals by promoting the success and advancement of women in engineering.

Kim Topps, an alumna of the electrical engineering program who’s worked for Dow, Honeywell and other large firms, gave the keynote address at this year’s celebration.

This year, the Cynthia Oliver Coleman, P.E. 2025 Rising Star Award was given to Renee Badilla, a junior biomedical engineering student and member of the Society of Women

Recipients of the 2024 Environmental Initiatives Fund grants include: MWR plans to open the Valery E. Smith Nature Center as a free destination for the public in Coldwater, Mississippi ($72,000).

• The Nature Conservancy Texas to steward the longleaf pine ecosystem in the 5,673-acre Roy E. Larsen Sandyland Sanctuary with a focus on wildfire risk prevention, invasive species control, and restoration of native ecosystem function in Kountze, Texas ($50,000).

• Woodlands Conservancy to restore habitats for migratory birds in Belle Chasse, Louisiana ($37,000).

• Lake Hamilton Fire and Rescue to purchase hazardous materials mitigation supplies for emergency response and containment in Lake Hamilton and Lake Catherine, Arkansas ($160,000).

• Mississippi Wildlife Rehabilitation, Inc. to build new enclosures to house education ambassador raptors and add flight cages for conditioning rehabilitated birds for release back to the wild.

• Urban Conservancy to support programming to educate residents about building climate resilience and biodiversity in the Melia and Pines Village neighborhoods of New Orleans, Louisiana ($25,000).

Since 2001, Entergy shareholders have invested nearly $44 million in environmentally beneficial projects and programs through the Environmental Initiatives Fund. The fund also contributes to Entergy’s role as an advocate for and contributor to solutions to our most critical environmental challenges. If you or someone you know has a project idea that promotes conservation, energy efficiency or delivers other environmental benefits, review the Environmental Initiatives Fund’s 25th  request for proposals for funding by visiting https://cdn.entergy.com/userfiles/content/environment/docs/ EIF_RFP.pdf.

Source: Entergy

UH’s Cullen College of Engineering Comes Together

for

11th Women in Engineering Celebration

Coleman

For more than a decade, thanks to the vision of Cynthia Oliver Coleman, P.E., hundreds of UH engineering students and alumni have come together to lift each other up and provide a support network through this annual gathering,

De La Rosa-Pohl, Instructional Associate Professor in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, said while giving opening remarks. “We’re here tonight to celebrate, learn from each other and continue to grow.”

“My wife and I met back in 1996 as graduate students in engineering. After graduating, we started our careers together at General Electric R&D before making our way to the University of Houston, where she is now a

professor and an assistant vice president,” Pradeep Sharma, Dean of the Cullen College of Engineering, said.

“Through her journey, I witnessed firsthand the trials and tribulations she faced in a field historically dominated by men. It was an eyeopening experience and fundamentally altered how I think. As a faculty member, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring many outstanding women in my research group. Watching them grow into leaders — whether in academia, industry, or beyond — has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Their success reinforces what we already know — Women in engineering are not just thriving, they are shaping the future of this field.”

Source: University of Houston’s Cullen College of Engineering

Engineers.
was UH’s first Black woman chemical engineer.
Diana
Photos courtesy of University of Houston’s Cullen College of Engineering

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) and Federal Small Business Program Mission is to:

Provide opportunities to compete on a level playing field with all other suppliers for current and planned MDACC contracts

Increase our annual expenditures with women, minority, small, small disadvantaged, veteran, and service-disabled veteran owned businesses

Comply with all federal, state and local regulatory procurement guidelines

Register as a supplier at: www.mdanderson.org/suppliers

For list of bid opportunities: www.mdanderson.org/bids

Visit our website at: www.mdanderson.org/HUB

Certifications we accept:

State of Texas HUB and SBA Federal Small Business Certifications

State certification application: www.comptroller.texas.gov/purchasing/vendor/hub/

To obtain Federal certification, go to: www.sba.gov/contracting

For further information:

Gabriela Zambrano, MBA Associate Director MGZambrano@MDAnderson.org

Barbara Howard, MBA Sr. HUB Coordinator: Bhoward@MDAnderson.org

The University

of Houston

continues to grow not just in student population but also in the construction of new buildings such as the John M. O’ Quinn Law Building and Tilman J Fertitta Family College of Medicine.

UH’s facilities growth includes the continuous need to procure a variety of non-construction goods and services, all of which undergirds UH’s recognition as an institutional “Powerhouse.”

A

re you a business owner with cash flow problems? Invoice factoring is your solution.

A+ Factoring, a Vaskey Media Group company, can now help you run a smoother operation, regulate your cash flow and provide funding for your business.

Based in Houston, Texas, A+ specializes in helping subcontractors improve their cash flow and keep their businesses running smoothly.

Factoring is crucial for subcontractors looking to maintain and grow their business because it provides immediate money, allowing them to cover important expenses, like payroll, materials, and equipment costs, without waiting on clients to pay their invoices. Since subcontractors tend to work under payment terms that are 30, 60, or sometimes 90 days, factoring is the key that helps bridge the gap between the project completion date and the payment.

A+ Factoring understands that as a subcontractor, waiting for payments can disrupt operations and factoring services give you immediate access to cash by turning your outstanding invoices into working capital. With years of experience in the construction industry, the company is dedicated to supporting subcontractors just like you.

Keith "MR. D-MARS" Davis, Sr., President/CEO of A Plus Factoring, knows all too well the importance of factoring. "I've watched too many

hard-working entrepreneurs give their alllate nights, missed milestones, and sacrifices most people never see - only to be brought to their knees by the simple thing: waiting to get paid," shares Davis.

BENEFITS

Some key benefits of factoring include:

1. Improved Cash Flow:

Factoring allows subcontractors to receive a large percentage of their invoice value upfront, ensuring there is working capital to keep the projects going.

2. Faster Growth & More Opportunities:

With the plus of having consistent money coming in, subcontractors can take on larger projects, hire more people, and invest in better equipment without having to experience financial strain.

3. Ability to Avoid Debt:

Unlike loans, factoring doesn’t require collateral. It leverages unfulfilled invoices to generate funds immediately.

4. Leaves Security for Clients Who Haven’t Paid:

Many general contractors and developers have long payment cycles. Factoring helps subcontractors avoid financial bottlenecks caused by slow payments.

Helping with Cash Flow and Fueling Growth for Subcontractors

5. Stronger Supplier Relationships:

Having funds that are readily available allows subcontractors to pay suppliers on time or negotiate early payment discounts.

6. Covering Payroll & Operational Expenses:

You can ensure your workers and staff are paid on time. Factoring helps eliminate the stress of waiting for payments before meeting payroll obligations.

7. Flexibility & Scalability:

Factoring ultimately grows your business. As you win more contracts and generate more invoices, you’ll be able to factor more, ensuring that your cash flow remains steady.

ICOMMERCIAL GC s: WHY INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS

ARE STRONG DEFENSES AGAINST MARKET UNCERTAINTY

n construction, the only constant is change. Material costs fluctuate, building codes evolve, and zoning laws shift—sometimes overnight. If you're not staying ahead of these changes, you're exposing your projects and bottom line to unnecessary risks.

At PermitUsNow, we’ve pulled over 10,000 permits across Texas and the Gulf Coast, working with some of the largest general contractors and project owners. We’ve learned that contractors who stay plugged into industry associations navigate changes more smoothly and avoid costly surprises. So, here’s the question: Are you standing flatfooted or staying in the saddle?

WHY STAYING CONNECTED MATTERS

Organizations like the Association of Home Builders (NAHB), Associated General Contractors (AGC), and National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC) do more than just hold networking events. They provide:

REGULAR UPDATES ON TARIFFS & MATERIAL COSTS:

Knowing when prices are set to rise can help you lock in contracts and adjust bids accordingly.

EARLY WARNINGS ON BUILDING CODE & ZONING CHANGES:

What you don’t know can hurt you. If local codes shift, your project could face unexpected delays or compliance issues.

ACCESS TO POLICY ADVOCACY:

These organizations often fight for industry-friendly regulations, including exemptions on tariffs and fair permitting processes. Being part of the conversation gives you a voice in shaping policy.

EXCLUSIVE ACCESS TO INDUSTRY EXPERTS:

From legal advisors to permitting specialists, industry associations give you

direct connections to professionals who can help you navigate challenges before they become problems.

HOW TO STAY IN THE SADDLE

1. Join the Right Organizations: Identify associations that align with your sector, whether it’s commercial construction, homebuilding, or specialty trades.

2. Engage in Local Chapters: National news is useful, but local regulations and fees impact your projects the most. Stay active in city and state-level discussions.

3. Leverage Insider Knowledge: Use your association memberships to get ahead of

policy changes and adjust project plans accordingly.

4. Build Strong Relationships: Decisionmakers in permitting offices often work closely with industry groups. A strong network can mean faster approvals and fewer roadblocks.

CONCLUSION

If you’re a general or trade contractor and you’re not plugged into industry associations, you’re exposing your projects to unnecessary risks. Regulations, tariffs, and costs are shifting faster than ever, and the contractors who stay informed will outperform and outlast the competition. Industry associations also help to minimize the impact of risks and highlight options to consider for mitigation purposes – placing your business in a stronger and resilient position.

At PermitUsNow, we stay connected so you don’t have to scramble when changes happen. Need help navigating the latest industry shifts? Whenever you require clarifications or need guidance on navigating permitting in this changing market, feel free to call 1-844-PERMIT-4 . Let’s make sure your project stays on track. #BuildSafe

US Department of Labor, Industry Leaders, Focus on Railway,

Hearing Safety During 2025 Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week

The 2025 Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week is an annual training and educational event that reminds agriculture industry employers and workers about the potentially deadly hazards in confined spaces, including grain engulfment.

This year's event, held March 24-28 at the first universityowned feed mill in Iowa, was a joint effort by the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration's Alliance Program, the Grain Handling Safety Council, the Grain Elevator and Processing Society, and the National Grain and Feed Association. At the Iowa State University in Ames, the opening event focused on worksite housekeeping, hearing conservation, preventing struck-by incidents, and railway safety.

According to a news release, OSHA's Alliance Program, in collaboration with state workplace safety officials and industry leaders, helped reduce fatal grain entrapments by 25.7% from 2022 to 2023. Despite those efforts, half of the reported grain entanglements in 2024 were fatal.

Every worker should be able to go home safe at the end of the day,

said Acting Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health Amanda Wood Laihow. "By working together with our alliance and industry partners, we're making grain handling safer and raising awareness to protect the people who produce our nation's vital food supply."

Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week features open discussions and daily interactive webinars with experts on OSHA regulations and topics including fatigue, emergency safety planning, worksite housekeeping, railway safety, and alternative grain storage.

Texas Instruments Introduces New Power

Chips to Boost Efficiency in Data Centers

OSHA's Grain Handling Safety Standards address six major hazards: engulfment, falls, auger entanglement, struck-by incidents, combustible dust explosions, and electrocution.

Source: Occupational Safety and Health Administration

exas Instruments (TI) introduced a new powermanagement chip that was designed to support the growing energy demands of modern data centers.

The company's latest creation, the TPS1885, is the industry's first 48V integrated hot-swap eFuse with power-path protection. This helps data centers manage high-power processing needs efficiently.

TI also launched a new family of integrated gallium nitride (GaN) power stages-- the LMG3650R035, LMG3650R025and LMG3650R070-- which provide enhanced efficiency in industry-standard transistor outline leadless (TOLL) packaging. The advancements were shared at the 2025 Applied Power Electronics Conference (APEC) in Atlanta, Georgia, from March 16-20, 2025.

With data centers increasingly demanding more energy, powering the world's digital infrastructure begins with smarter, more efficient semiconductors,

said Robert Taylor, general manager, Industrial Power Design Services. "While advanced chips drive AI's computational power, analog semiconductors are key to maximizing energy efficiency. Our latest power-management innovations are enabling data centers to reduce their environmental footprint while supporting the growing needs of our digital world."

With data centers shifting to 48V power architectures, the TPS1685 eFuse enables power levels beyond 6kW, offering a scalable solution that reduces design complexity and cuts solution size in half, compared to traditional hot-swap controllers.

Source: Texas Instruments (TI)

Photo courtesy of Texas Instruments (TI)

MOBILE SECURITY TRAILERS FOR REAL-TIME MONITORING AT CONSTRUCTION SITES AND EVENTS

ecurity is a top priority for construction sites and events where valuable equipment, materials, and attendees are often exposed to potential risks. Mobile security trailers have emerged as an effective solution, offering real-time monitoring to protect assets and ensure safety. Their adaptability, advanced features, and cost-effectiveness make them an essential tool for businesses and event organizers alike.

SOne of the standout features of mobile security trailers is their adaptability. These units can be positioned virtually anywhere, making them ideal for dynamic environments like construction sites or sprawling event venues. Equipped with advanced camera systems, they provide highdefinition video surveillance, even in low-light conditions, ensuring 24/7 visibility. Some models also include motion sensors, floodlights, and loudspeakers, enhancing their deterrence capabilities.

Remote monitoring is another critical advantage. Many mobile security trailers

or computer. This feature not only improves response times but also reduces the need for on-site staff, offering a more cost-effective security solution.

The benefits of mobile security trailers are undeniable. At construction sites, they act as a powerful deterrent against theft and vandalism, protecting expensive equipment and materials. Their presence ensures a safer environment for workers, reducing liabilities for site managers. For events, these trailers help manage large crowds by monitoring entrances, parking areas, and high-traffic zones. They offer peace of mind to organizers and attendees while simplifying the overall security process.

Additionally, mobile security trailers are a budget-friendly option compared to hiring a full security team or installing permanent systems. Their mobility means they can be repurposed for different projects or events, maximizing their value.

Investing in mobile security trailers ensures comprehensive, real-time protection without breaking the bank. Whether safeguarding a construction site or managing an event, these versatile units deliver reliability, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Photo courtesy of ESI Fire & Security, Inc.

DART Senior Executive VP, COO Accepts Position with New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority

allas Area Rapid Transit (DART) announced on Thursday, March 20, that Bernard Jackson, senior executive vice president & chief operations officer, has accepted a position as chief operating officer at the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

Jackson's last day at the agency is set for Friday, May 2, 2025.

NYMTA is North America’s largest transportation network, and this is a tremendous opportunity for BJ, as well as a testament to the incredible work he has done here since joining us in May 2022,

said DART CEO & President Nadine S. Lee. “From the roll out of DART Zoom to maintaining ninety-nine percent service delivery to installing a culture of excellence in customer service, BJ has been a driving force behind our growth and success.”

In the coming weeks, DART will be naming an interim COO and initiating a nationwide recruitment search to fill the vacant position.

“I came to DART because I believed in the leadership of Nadine Lee. Over time, I came to appreciate the outstanding employees who work tirelessly to deliver quality service to those who rely on DART,” said DART Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer Bernard Jackson. “I’ve met great people at a great agency. While I’m looking forward to new challenges, I will always keep pulling for DART. Thank you for an experience I will never forget.”

Source: Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART)
Photo courtesy of Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART)

Port Houston Sees Biggest January on Record

ort Houston kicked off 2025 handling 356,407 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in January, reflecting a 7% increase, compared to the same month last year. This represents the biggest January on record for containerized cargo at Port Houston.

PAccording to a news release, East Asia imports soared, in preparation for Lunar New Year sales. Asia imports represent 56% of total container imports for Port Houston facilities, based on YTD November 2024 data. This

past January, loaded imports rose by 10% compared to the same month last year, while loaded exports declined by 1%.

“We are starting the year strong, reaching milestones with completion and acceptance by USACE of Segment 1B for Project 11 and operations records at our terminals,” said Charlie Jenkins, CEO of Port Houston.

At the port’s multi-purpose facilities, steel imports increased by 18% in January, and general cargo is up a remarkable 21%. Total tonnage for Port Houston facilities in January reached 4,271,573 million tons, a 2% increase over January 2024.

“We are strategically focused on enhancing capacity and resilience,” Jenkins added.

“Looking ahead, we are reminded of the importance this channel has for all users, a robust petrochemical complex, and more than 8,000 vessels calling this port every year. Our work as the advocate for the Houston Ship Channel helps us build prosperity for the region.”

Investments include ongoing construction projects at Bayport Container Terminal with wharf 7 reaching completion in 2026 and Wharf 1 in 2027, and the arrival of 8 additional ship-to-shore cranes for both container terminals and 16 rubber-tired gantry cranes in 2026 for Bayport Container Terminal. “As we continue to grow, we do so with this goal in mind, to be the nation’s premier maritime gateway for all.”

Source: Port Houston

DART Transforms System Through Modernization Program

allas Area Rapid Transit (DART) is working to modernize its transit system to continue improving the customer experience.

According to Jasmyn Carter, DART's Director of Public Relations, DART Transform is a modernization program that will focus on five core elements: vehicles, stations and passenger facilities, resiliency, a unified signaling system and

operating facilities. By improving each of these measures across its transit network, DART aims to transform commutes and communities across North Texas.

“Many of our vehicles and facilities have reached their usage capacity, so it’s time to invest in our aging system to ensure our customers have a cleaner, safer, more reliable experience when they are commuting with us,” said DART CEO and president, Nadine Lee.

DART reportedly surveyed its riders, stakeholders, and employees to identify ride improvements. Changes riders will see include:

• New buses and trains with upgraded lighting, system messaging, and convenience features

• Raised platforms at 23 stations to provide level boarding and improve access for those with limited mobility or who are traveling with children

• Renovations at the Cityplace/Uptown station

• Additional resiliency measures to guard the rail system against extreme weather events, and

• Improvements at stations and passenger and operations facilities

Over the last year, DART has reportedly installed 34,000 new vinyl seats on buses and trains, hired more security and fare enforcement officers, implemented an on-board cleaning team, and improved lighting around stations.

DART has also secured a contract to purchase new buses that will replace the oldest ones in its fleet and anticipates having them operating routes by spring 2026.

DART officials say the process to begin replacing light-rail vehicles (LRVs) will take a bit longer as DART is still in the planning and development phase. Once a final design is approved and manufacturing begins, riders can expect to see the new LRVs in operation by 2029.

For more information about DART Transform, visit https:// transform.dart.org.

Source: Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART)

DART Transform aligns with our Point B vision, a road map that will move us from where we are now to where we want to be as an agency.

More than Bricks & Mortar

As one of the nation’s largest builders, Turner is dedicated to providing avenues of opportunity for Minority and Woman-Owned Businesses in Houston to achieve entrepreneurial success. Our commitment to social responsibility and fair play is not just on paper; it’s ingrained in our company culture. We are devoted to making contributions that not only strengthen the local economy, but also reflect the demographics of the community at large.

Turner is proud to celebrate our 35th year of The Turner School of Construction Management in partnership with The City of Houston, Office of Business Opportunity. We remain steadfast in our commitment to grow capacity in Small, Minority and Women owned enterprises in the communities where we work.

DIVERSITY

IS THE

SPICE OF Life AT H - E - B

H-E-B’s Supplier Diversity Program works hard to ensure we’re selling goods and utilizing services from a wide variety of Texan businesses. We’re proud that our suppliers are as diverse as the Lone Star State itself.

As a former small business ourselves, we believe in and celebrate the value & strength that working with small businesses, local businesses, and businesses owned by minorities, women, LGBTQ+, Veterans, and disabled Texans brings to both our business and the communities we serve.

United Airlines Breaks Ground on $177M Ground Service

Operations Training Facility at IAH Equipment Facility, Opens Technical

nited Airlines announced another investment in at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) by breaking ground on a 140,000-square-foot Ground Service Equipment (GSE) Maintenance Facility and opening a state-of-the-art Technical Operations Training Center.

United is reportedly the largest airline in Houston, with more than 14,000 employees and more than 500 daily departures. Since 2021, United has invested more than $32 billion worldwide, including billions in modern infrastructure, cutting-edge technology and nearly $10 billion alone in employee raises, a news release stated.

"At United, we believe that investing in our people and our facilities is the key to maintaining our leadership in the aviation industry," said Vice President of Airport Operations, Phil Griffith.

With these new facilities, Ground Service Equipment Maintenance Facility and the Technical Operations Training Center, we are enhancing our ability to maintain a world-class fleet while empowering our employees with cutting-edge tools and training. This investment reflects our longterm vision for Houston as a critical hub for United's operations and our commitment to sustainability, efficiency, and growth.

United expects the new $177 million GSE maintenance facility to open in 2027. It will support the airline's fleet of more than 1,800 ground service vehicles and give United's Ground Service Equipment maintenance team, comprised of more than 130 employees, even more resources to perform critical tasks like charging batteries, fabricating metal, and monitoring electronic controls with improved infrastructure and modernized workspaces.

The new $16 million Tech Ops Training Center (TTC) will support the airline's plan to take delivery of hundreds of new planes by 2032 and the 91,000-square-foot facility includes sheet metal and composite training shops, desktop simulators, as well as scenario-based engine maintenance and inspection trainings.

The new training center will house a $6.3 million Move Team Facility, strategically designed to centralize United's Super Tug operations.

United also has plans to introduce more than 500 new, narrow-body aircraft into its fleet, increase the total number of available seats per domestic departure by nearly 30%, dramatically reduce carbon emissions per seat, and create thousands more high-quality, unionized jobs by 2026.

"By opening our Tech Ops Training Center, we are setting a new industry standard for real world and specialized training opportunities for United technicians," said Maria Deacon, Senior Vice President of Technical Operations at United. "We're also extremely pleased to break ground on a new GSE maintenance facility which will revolutionize our capacity to

maintain our fleet of ground service equipment for decades to come."

The GSE maintenance facility will be twice the size of the current facility, which was built 40 years ago when IAH had only 37% of its current gates.

The fleet in Houston is comprised of over 1,100 pieces of electric ground service equipment (eGSE).

The new GSE maintenance facility will provide space to meet both current and future needs. Key features include:

■ A 25% increase in repair space

■ A 60% increase in shop space

■ An 80% increase in storage capacity

■ A 50% increase in shared spaces

United is reportedly the largest airline in Houston, with more than 14,000 employees and more than 500 daily departures. The recent investments follow United's launch of the Terminal B renovation and expansion project, slated for completion in 2026. The project will add 40 gates for larger aircraft, increasing capacity by 40% for passengers traveling both domestically and internationally from IAH.

Source: United Airlines

Photos courtesy of United Airlines

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email: contact@subcusa.com

Who We Are

MCA Design Group delivers expert IT, AV, cabling, wireless, and data center solutions tailored to industries like energy, healthcare, and hospitality

With a unique blend of field, engineering, and design expertise, our team streamlines the entire design process, saving clients time and money

We provide comprehensive services for large corporations, government agencies, public sector entities, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and commercial real estate clients, including:

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C o m p r e h e n s i v e S o l u t i o n s : O f f e r i n g

t a i l o r e d s e r v i c e s f o r l a r g e c o r p o r a t i o n s ,

g o v e r n m e n t a g e n c i e s , e d u c a t i o n a l

i n s t i t u t i o n s , h e a l t h c a r e f a c i l i t i e s , a n d

c o m m e r c i a l r e a l e s t a t e c l i e n t s .

I n d u s t r y - F o c u s e d A p p r o a c h : S p e c i a l i z e d i n

p r o v i d i n g h i g h - q u a l i t y d e s i g n s o l u t i o n s f o r

p u b l i c a n d p r i v a t e s e c t o r o r g a n i z a t i o n s .

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.