2023 October Building Insight by BIAW

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EDITORIAL STAFF COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Janelle Guthrie

FEATURED

CONTENT SPECIALIST Hannah Cassara

10 Seattle Wood Tech Center receives $750K grant

VISUAL DESIGNER Lena Anderson

The Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grants Program provided Seattle Central College’s Wood Technology Center with a $750,000 grant on Sept. 18.

BIAW MANAGEMENT EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Greg Lane

12 2023 Scholarship and Grant Winners

EDUCATION & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR Al Audette

BIAW and the Washington Home Builders Foundation invested nearly $80,000 in scholarships and grants to 16 students and 13 construction trades programs across Washington this year.

COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Janelle Guthrie MANAGING DIRECTOR OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS Jan Himebaugh MANAGING DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Stephen Hyer

IN THIS ISSUE

ROII DIRECTOR Jenn Kavanaugh

ASSOCIATION SERVICES DIRECTOR Brenda Kwieciak

18 Building a safer future

President’s message

The importance of teaching construction safety early

New BIAW General Counsel

20 Local happenings

Executive Vice President’s Message

22 Hard hat safety tips

Upcoming Classes

New codes delayed to March 15, 2024

Retention Royale ending soon

GENERAL COUNSEL Ashli Tagoai

ON THE COVER A young attendee admires equipment on display during the Yakima Dozer Day event hosted by the Central Washington Home Builders Association earlier this year at the Yakima Fairgrounds. Read more about Dozer Day and other workforce development efforts on pages 10 and 11.

For editorial inquiries, contact Hannahc@biaw.com Interested in advertising in Building Insight? Contact communications@biaw.com www.BIAW.com Building Insight magazine is published on behalf of the Building Industry Association of Washington by Print Northwest.

WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU

@BuildingIndustryAssocWA

Photo credit: Bailee Butcher

As always, we want to hear from you! We invite you to take a quick survey about your thoughts on Building Insight. Happy reading!

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@BIAofWA

Building Industry Association of Washington

b u i l d i n g i n s i g ht | october 2 0 2 3

President’s message In October, the home building industry celebrates Careers in Construction Month with a focus on encouraging the next generation of builders and supporting efforts to train and educate them. Building our future workforce is one of my top priorities as your president— and the good news is we have great projects underway all across our state.

Local efforts show workforce leadership

Gary Wray President

In late September, the chair of our BIAW Workforce Development Task Force, Courtenay Gebhardt of Blue Sound Construction and Certified Builder Amy Ecklund of AmyWorks, both members of the Master Builders of King and Snohomish Counties, celebrated a $750,000 Gable Grant from the Lowe’s Foundation to the Seattle Wood Tech Center. Enrollment at the Wood Tech Center continues to grow, creating a new stream of trained workers ready to join builders’ teams across the state. Also in September, the Spokane Home Builders Association’s Frame Your Future Foundation partnered with the Spokane Tribe of Indians to launch a Construction Camp at the Wellpinit Pow-wow Grounds. Participants, all of whom are between 19-24 years old, learned basic building skills like reading blueprints, measuring, cutting, and using power tools. They’ve build sawhorses, stairs and a floor. They’ve framed walls to build a “Tiny Getaway on Wheels” for the tribe. Down in Southwest Washington, the Building Industry Association of Clark County Building Futures Foundation supported Dozer Day in Vancouver with a career fair connecting builders and interested workers and two days of hands-on activities for young people. And those are just a few of the highlights at the local level. We have more stories about how we’re training and developing new workers in this issue.

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Join us in supporting training and education This summer, BIAW proudly awarded a total of $79,500 in scholarships and grants to 16 students and 13 construction trades programs across Washington. Since its inception, The Washington Home Builders Foundation and BIAW have awarded over $830,000 in scholarships and grants. Investing in our future workforce is crucial, and we’re proud to support education and training into the future. Want to help us fund even more scholarships and grants? We’re kicking off a campaign to raise $120,000 in 2023-24 for the Washington Home Builders Foundation through donations and grants. You can contribute by visiting biaw.com/wa-homebuildersfoundation.

Share your knowledge, leave a legacy Finally, Education and Workforce Development Director Al Audette and the Workforce Development Task Force encourage members to look into joining technical advisory groups at their local trade schools. Members across the state offer their expertise and knowledge to help train and develop curricula for students in their communities. Sharing your experience and wisdom not only helps build the next generation of homebuilders but also leaves a legacy for years to come. Whether you’re hiring and training new workers, contributing financially to the foundation or donating your time and energy to advising local trades programs, you matter to our industry and to the next generation of builders. Thank you for your work to build a better future.

BIAW Associate General Counsel Ashli Tagoai promoted to General Counsel BIAW is excited to announce the promotion of Associate General Counsel Ashli Tagoai to the head of BIAW’s legal department as General Counsel beginning Oct. 1. Tagoai will fill the vacancy left by former General Counsel Jackson Maynard, who accepted a fulltime position as executive director of the Citizen Action Defense Fund.

Tagoai with former BIAW General Counsel Jackson Maynard and former BIAW Paralegal Paige Jaramillo before arguing on behalf of Washington builders regarding unconstitutional document surcharges at the Division II Court of Appeals in the case BIAW et al. vs. State of Washington et al. on Sept. 14, 2023, in Tacoma.

“After considering many outstanding candidates, it was clear to our entire search committee that Ashli was the best choice to succeed Jackson Maynard in leading BIAW’s legal team,” said BIAW Executive Vice President Greg Lane. “A talented and skillful attorney, Ashli is an expert on land use policy who will be a passionate and effective advocate for the interests of our members and the industry. She is also an exceptional resource for our members and local associations and a positive influence in our organization.” Tagoai started as Associate General Counsel with BIAW in December 2022 after working as an associate attorney at Flynn & Associates in Seattle. Her work there focused on representing landlords in residential landlord-tenant disputes. As an advocate for property owners in her former role, Tagoai jumped at the opportunity to advocate for builders and housing providers at BIAW. A native Washingtonian, Tagoai holds a B.A. in international relations and political science from Boston University and a J.D. from Seattle University School of Law. She was admitted to the Washington State Bar Association in 2021. Join us in congratulating Ashli on her new role at BIAW!

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b u i l d i n g i n s i g ht | o c tober 2 0 2 3

Executive Vice President’s message As we prepare for a new legislative session just around the corner, I’d like to take a moment to celebrate and reflect upon how effective our association is when we all work together to ensure our industry’s voice is heard.

New codes delayed until March 15, 2024 On Sept. 15, in Spokane, the State Building Code Council (SBCC) voted to delay the implementation date of all the new 2021 building codes to March 15, 2024, from the earlier agreed-upon date of Oct. 29, 2023. Unfortunately, the council also approved new natural gas restrictions, continuing to ignore federal law and public opinion. Rulemaking continues on those rules, and we will keep you posted on the next steps.

Greg Lane

Executive Vice President

While the council chose to deny the requests of BIAW and others to delay implementation to July 1, 2024, their decision to delay implementation to March is a step in the right direction, and that is mainly due to all the BIAW members and thousands of individuals who voiced their concerns about these restrictive new codes. I want to thank Daimon Doyle, BIAW 2007 President and NAHB Life Director, for serving on the SBCC as the residential construction industry representative and bringing common sense and expertise to this process. Thank you also to BIAW Policy and Research Manager Andrea Smith for her excellent work as BIAW’s lead staffer on building codes. Andrea has worked tirelessly, developing calls to action, providing testimony, drafting codes updates and keeping members informed.

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Member engagement influences positive change Thank you to the BIAW members who joined in public testimony on the codes, responded to our calls to action and shared our information with others. Together, you sent 10,500 messages (or just under 1,000 per council member and staff ) supporting our position on the codes. Looking back, the historic success of the 2023 legislative session was largely due to the members working closely with BIAW staff and local government affairs staff. It is crucial that we as an association stand united, working together to ensure our voices are heard and our industry remains strong and resilient. Our association thrives when we collaborate as a team. As we face the possibilities of the upcoming legislative session, let us remember that our collective strength is our greatest asset. Stay engaged, stay informed and let your voices be heard. By working hand in hand with your local associations and BIAW, we will continue to shape the future of our industry and ensure its success.

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b u i l d i n g i n s i g ht | o c tober 2 0 2 3

Code Updates

Building codes delayed to March 15, 2024 by Janelle Guthrie Communications Director

The State Building Code Council (SBCC) voted to approve modifications to their previously approved energy codes and delayed implementation until March 15, 2024.

“

“Unfortunately, the State Building Code Council continues to ignore federal law and public opinion,” said BIAW Executive Vice President Greg Lane.

The council’s decision to delay implementation of these new codes is one step in the right direction. — Greg Lane, BIAW Executive Vice President

Sadly, the modifications still fail to follow federal laws recently upheld by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals decision to invalidate the City of Berkeley’s natural gas ban. And they still fail to protect the public’s right to energy choice.

“Instead, they insist on unnecessary new codes that restrict access to natural gas energy for new homeowners, restaurants and other businesses and continue to drive up the cost of housing for no discernable gain in energy efficiency.”

Building codes adopted earlier this year explicitly restricted natural gas options, limiting access to natural gas for cooking and heating and resulting in higher prices for new homes in Washington. BIAW members and thousands of individuals concerned about the high price of homes in Washington urged the SBCC to reject high-priced energy code requirements and adopt a more flexible, affordable approach.

The Prescriptive Pathway (035) removes the heat pump mandate but requires more credits for compliance. It indirectly ensures that natural gas for space and water heating is so cost-prohibitive (based on credit allotments) that it would deter natural gas usage in new homes.

In the end, the council voted to support codes removing the heat pump mandate, but builders say the revised codes still don’t go far enough to preserve access to natural gas in new homes and restaurants.

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Natural gas restrictions remain

Instead of five credits, this pathway requires eight credits for compliance, which further adds to the cost of building new homes, making it impossible to choose natural gas appliances. It also over-incentivizes heat pumps for water and space heating. These codes still penalize supplemental heating using natural gas (or propane),

meaning Eastern Washington will bear further costs to reach compliance. The Simulated Performance Pathway (038) provides a pathway to compliance with the energy code in writing only, not in practice.

Code implementation delayed until after legislative session Because the new codes approved on Sept. 15, 2023, must continue through the formal codes process, BIAW and others requested the codes be delayed until July 1, 2024, consistent with when codes traditionally go into effect. The council instead moved to delay the implementation date of all the new 2021 building codes to March 15, 2024. “The council’s decision to delay implementation of these new codes is one step in the right direction,” Lane said. “Builders, building officials and training professionals need time to digest these changes, train up and comply. At the same time, the supply chain needs time to adjust to the new materials and appliances needed. Ideally, we would have kept the codes on the traditional July 1, 2024 timeline.” The codes will now move into the rulemaking process with further action in November. BIAW is also reviewing its legal options moving forward. A state challenge remains before Thurston County Superior Court. The coalition on the federal lawsuit has also reserved the right to file a new challenge on the federal preemption issue.

BIAW’s Retention Royale ends this month by Raelle Vitali

In 2021, BIAW hosted a Membership Monopoly recruitment competition to help boost membership numbers that had dropped during the initial COVID shutdown period. Since this competition took place two years ago, BIAW decided to focus on these recruits for our Retention Royale competition. We challenged all 2021 Membership Monopoly players not to leave membership up to chance by encouraging the renewal or rejoining of their 2021 recruits. New participants could also join by reaching out to any 2021 recruits who were not assigned to an active Spike recruiter. Retention Royale players could then win chips based on their retention efforts to be cashed in for BIAW Swag Shop gift cards. We are excited to see this campaign’s official results and success on our state retention rates. Take a look at the stats to see where we started! Official results will be published and celebrated in December If you have any questions, please reach out to me at raellev@biaw.com.

Retention

Royale

Member Resources Manager

The Retention Royale membership competition officially began July 1 and ends Oct. 31. This competition focused on improving retention rates across the state by focusing on those members who are most at risk for cancellation based on their join date. NAHB has found that nationally, members are most likely to cancel their membership one to two years after joining.

Membership

For all 2021 Membership Monopoly Players:

RETENTION ROYALE STARTING STATS Don't leave membership renewal to CHANCE

397

58.7%

84.2%

starting retention rate of recruits

starting retention rate across the state

New members are most likely to cancel their HB membership in the2021 firstMembership 1-2 years after they've join Retention Royale players Monopoly recruits Help members that joined in 2021 BEAT THE ODDS focusing on retention efforts and win chips!

9,475 chips able to be won by players

b u i l d i n g i n s i g ht | o c tober 2 0 2 3

Workforce Development

Seattle Wood Tech Center receives $750K grant to support construction by Janelle Guthrie Communications Director

The Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grants Program provided Seattle Central College’s Wood Technology Center with a $750,000 grant on Sept. 18, providing the center with a vital boost after BIAW members feared it might close due to lack of funding. Lowe’s Vice President of Corporate Communications and Community Relations, Denise Hill, Ph.D., APR, traveled to Seattle to present the check.

the next generation of builders has the knowledge and skills necessary to meet the demands of our modern world.”

BIAW members provide longstanding support BIAW’s Workforce Development Task Force Chair and Chair of the Seattle Wood Tech Center’s Technical Advisory Committee Courtenay Gebhardt of

Blue Sound Construction and Certified Builder Amy Ecklund of AmyWorks worked diligently with the college and local legislators to garner support for the program. Ecklund serves with Gebhardt on the Center’s TAC. The two joined the celebration on Sept. 18 at the Wood Tech Center along with Rep. Frank Chopp, Seattle

“We reviewed hundreds of applications, and we were very impressed with what you are doing here,” Hill said. “That’s why you’re one of our very first Gable Grant recipients.”

Lowe’s grant part of national effort In March, Lowe’s announced a $50 million commitment to prepare 50,000 new skilled tradespeople in the next five years. The grant presented to the Wood Tech Center is part of this effort. “With the skilled trades industry facing a labor crisis, the Lowe’s Foundation is now poised to help train tens of thousands of qualified, skilled tradespeople, giving each of them the opportunity to build a rewarding career and make lasting impacts in communities across the country,” said Janice Dupré, Lowe’s executive vice president of human resources and chair of the Lowe’s Foundation in a news release earlier this year. “We are bringing our network, our expertise and our resources to address this critical need and help ensure that

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Dr. Rosie Rimando-Chareunsap, Chancellor, Seattle Colleges, Amy Ecklund, Rep. Frank Chopp, Courtenay Gebhardt and others pose during the check presentation.

Deputy Mayor Greg Wong, Chancellor of Seattle Colleges Dr. Rosie RimandoChareunsap, and Associate Dean of Wood Technology Center Rob Watt. Learn more about BIAW’s workforce development efforts at biaw.com/ program/workforce-development. Make a difference by contributing to the Washington Home Builders Foundation at biaw.com/wa-homebuildersfoundation.

Amy Ecklund, Courtenay Gebhardt, with Denise Hill of Lowe’s.

Dozer Days give valuable insight into the building industry to students of all ages With events now in Puyallup, Yakima and Vancouver, Dozer Day gives kids the ultimate construction experience by inviting close contact with heavy construction equipment, public safety vehicles, recycling trucks and more. Its goal is to educate people of all ages about building sustainable communities, industry career opportunities, and public safety.

County School District to meet with local companies in the building and construction industry. Hundreds of students attended to engage with local builders, construction crews and

Since 2007, the Building Futures Foundation has awarded 121 scholarships and tool grants, representing a total investment of $214,250 in construction careers. To

remodelers, gaining valuable insight into the building industry.

learn more about the Building Futures Foundation and to donate, visit biaofclarkcounty.org/building-futuresfoundation.

The first “Dozer Day” was held in Wisconsin as a benefit for local schools. In 2008, the Nutter Foundation acquired the rights to Dozer Day and trademarked the event. To date, Dozer Day events across the country have given back more than $2.3 million to charities that benefit youth and workforce development activities in the construction industry. Dozer Day is now shared with partners throughout the United States.

Dozer Day Career Fair, Clark County The Building Industry Association of Clark County (BIACC) and their workforce development foundation, the Building Futures Foundation, hosted the Dozer Day Career Fair in conjunction with the popular Dozer Day event, Oct. 7-8 at the Clark County Fairgrounds in Ridgefield. Event organizers Renee Nutter, Aimee Gebarowski, and Jon Girod invited juniors and seniors from Clark

Students gained hands-on experience by operating heavy machinery with the assistance of qualified machineoperator volunteers. They also learned about local projects, participated in mock interviews, and scheduled interviews with companies.

To learn more about bringing Dozer Day to your local community, visit dozerday.org.

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BIAW awards nearly $80,000 in scholarships and grants by Hannah Cassara Content Specialist

“

We are so proud of these students and programs for stepping up to fill such an important need. — Gary Wray, BIAW President

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BIAW and the Washington Home Builders Foundation are doing their part to nurture the future workforce by investing nearly $80,000 in scholarships and grants to 16 students and 13 construction trades programs across Washington. “The residential building industry needs 723,000 new construction workers each year to meet our nation’s current demand,” said BIAW President Gary Wray. “Investing in our future workforce is crucial, and we are so proud of these students and programs for stepping up to fill such an important need.”

James Bacon

Cesar Bedolla-Hurtado

Eastern Washington University

Washington State University

Eastern Washington University student James Bacon received a $3,000 scholarship toward a degree in construction management technology.

Eastmont High School graduate and Washington State University (WSU) student Cesar BedollaHurtado received a $2,500 scholarship toward a degree in civil engineering.

Son of a third-generation steel fabricator and a former Marine, Bacon says pursuing a career in construction only seems natural. “I have always enjoyed solving complex problems, and what is construction other than a multitude of problems needing solving?” he said. Outside of school, Bacon has volunteered for the Spokane Home Builders Association workforce development program, Frame Your Future, and interned as a project engineer for JR Merit. He looks forward to eventually owning his own custom home building company, as custom home building is what interests him most.

Jamie Bekel University of Washington

Chelan High School graduate Jamie Bekel received a $4,000 scholarship to pursue a degree in architectural design from the University of Washington. Bekel says she is most interested in designing residential housing, as she believes that is where she can inspire the most positive change. “Affordable housing is often scarce, and the working class often struggles to turn a monthly profit,” she said. “Duplex development, accessory dwelling units and subdivisions are extremely important to increase affordable housing opportunities.” Bekel looks forward to implementing strategies such as passive and net-zero design and is excited to learn more about the field of architecture and the opportunities it holds.

“The idea of turning two-dimensional drawings into a constructed part of a skyline is what makes structural engineering enchanting,” he said. “I aspire to be able to walk through a community and know that I took part in developing the structures around me and know I made a positive impact on a community.” Bedolla-Hurtado’s lifetime goal is to found a structural construction engineering company in his hometown of Wenatchee. His main interests involve improving and urbanizing neighborhoods through building renovations, mixed-use development and building educational facilities. “I look forward to being part of something bigger than myself and making a positive impact that will remain with humanity long after I’m gone,” he said.

Sierra Rothlisberger Washington State University

A senior at WSU and graduate of Chelan High School, Sierra Rothlisberger received a $2,000 scholarship toward her degree in interior design. During her time at WSU, she has completed two minors, one in construction management and one in architectural studies, to help her better understand her field as a whole. Rothlisberger also recently passed the LEED Green Associate exam, placing her among an elite group of leading professionals in the green building industry. “Since being at WSU, I’ve grown to respect the world of architecture in ways I had never considered,” she said. “The beauty combined with reasoning is something few truly appreciate.” After earning her bachelor’s degree, Rothlisberger plans to return to school to work towards a master’s in interior design. b u i l d i n g i n s i g ht | o c tober 2 0 2 3

Angel Jesus Arteaga Roman

Breann Briggs

Wenatchee Valley College

Columbia Basin College

A graduate of Chelan High School, Angel Jesus Artega Roman, was awarded a $1,000 scholarship for his pursuit of a degree in welding from Wenatchee Valley College.

Breann Briggs, a Richland student attending Columbia Basin College (CBC), was awarded a $5,000 scholarship for her pursuit of a degree in project management.

Due to his family’s immigration status and health issues, Artega Roman has lived in 14 different homes and attended five different schools in the last ten years. One move brought him and his family back to their home country of Mexico. It was then he realized the United States offered more academic opportunities, and eventually returned to the United States and discovered a passion for welding.

A graduate of Kamiakin High School, Briggs has worked for her family’s construction company, BIAW member A & R Feser, Inc., since graduating from CBC with an associate degree in 2012. Her grandparents started the company in 1966, and her father took over in 2008. Her father plans to retire in the coming years, passing the company along to Briggs and her brother, thus encouraging her to further her education and work towards a bachelor’s degree in project management.

“In my senior year, I had the chance to take an agricultural mechanics class where I learned about welding,” he said. “I am now determined to become a certified welder.” After obtaining a welding certification, Artega Roman says he plans to accomplish his dream of returning to Mexico and expanding his family farm.

Jake Eko

Ethan Myers

University of Washington

Saint Martin’s University

Adna High School graduate and UW student Jake Eko received a $2,500 scholarship toward his pursuit of a degree in civil engineering. Growing up on a farm, Eko’s interest in construction and engineering came from watching his dad work on farm equipment and constructing buildings, including their own house. As he’s grown older, he has had the opportunity to work alongside his dad, learning from his years of experience as a construction manager. “The hands-on lifestyle I grew up with sparked my interest in construction and engineering from a young age,” Eko said. “I’ve really come to love the entire process, from the initial design to building the final product.” After graduation, Eko plans to pursue a career in the construction industry, focusing on sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. He looks forward to becoming a leader in the industry and using his skills to positively impact the world around him. 14

“A lifetime working in construction as a female has been about constantly having to prove myself more than others in the industry,” Briggs said. “This scholarship means more than just help toward getting a degree. It means showing my daughter how important it is to push on despite the doubts of others and that women can do anything men can do in school and the workplace.”

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A 2023 graduate of W.F. West High School in Chehalis, Ethan Myers received a $3,000 scholarship from BIAW toward his pursuit of a degree in mechanical engineering from Saint Martin’s University. Myer’s primary interest is restoration, with plans to eventually work in historical restoration and replication projects. He plans to pursue his master’s degree in mechanical engineering before entering the field. With experience and his master’s degree, he hopes to move into a management position as soon as possible.

Emma Heeringa

Olivia LeCompte

Washington State University Tri-Cities

Washington State University

A graduate of Sunnyside High School, Emma Heeringa received a $2,000 scholarship from BIAW to pursue a degree in architecture.

Olivia LeCompte, a Fircrest student attending WSU, was awarded a $1,000 scholarship to pursue a construction management degree.

A big part of Heeringa’s life has been staying active in her community. She has contributed over 200 hours of community service through activities in her community and schools. Creativity has been another significant aspect of her life.

A graduate of Steilacoom High School, LeCompte spent two of her high school years in the construction trades program at Pierce County Skills Center.

“I enjoy having a project to work on,” she said. “Since my grandparents built their house next to mine, I have developed an interest in designing houses, and since then, a hobby of mine has been drafting floor plans for houses. A career in architecture would fit me perfectly.” Heeringa dreams of someday owning her own architecture business exhibiting her creativity through her projects. She looks forward to a career that others can benefit from as much as she can.

“Learning the labor side of construction was not just beneficial to opening opportunities for myself in the trades, I also gained the skills to go with it,” she said. “My experience at Pierce County Skills Center has influenced my life by experiencing what communities behind communities look like.” After graduating, LeCompte looks forward to contributing to the world’s developments through construction and architecture.

Bryan Sheedy

Ava Stewart

Washington State University

Bryan Sheedy, a graduate of Squalicum High School attending WSU, was awarded a $3,500 scholarship to pursue a degree in construction management.

Ava Stewart, a graduate of Excel High School attending WSU, was awarded a $5,000 scholarship for her pursuit of a degree in mechanical engineering.

Sheedy first became interested in construction after visiting his father at various jobsites over the years. When he was young, he always enjoyed seeing the cranes and large trucks and wearing a hard hat. His father, a site superintendent, showed him what it was like to take something from an idea with plans and a hole in the ground to high-rise buildings that will stand for years.

With the help of her dad, Stewart began her career in the construction industry in 2021 as a shop assistant for Stewart Mechanical. She soon got into fabrication, prefabbing plumbing and HVAC jobs.

“The idea of building things people and the community need that will leave a legacy is appealing to me,” Sheedy said.

The mechanical engineering degree she’s pursuing at WSU would allow her to work with design software such as AutoCAD and Building Information Modeling (BIM), designing systems for commercial projects. After school, Stewart looks forward to opening an engineering firm one day, working with local businesses to create a thriving environment for the community.

After college, Sheedy looks forward to joining a large company where he can continue to gain experience before one day starting his own company. He hopes to specialize in housing projects that are net-zero energy, maybe even positive energy.

“My dad has been a massive inspiration for me. He showed me the construction industry has fantastic opportunities for those willing to work for it,” Stewart said.

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Joshua Johnson

Edgar Gonzalez

Spokane Community College

Perry Technical Institute

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Recipient of a $2,000 scholarship, Johsua Johnson is studying business management at Spokane Community College. He plans to follow in his father’s footsteps and work in the septic industry with hopes of one day taking over his father’s business and expanding it in the future. “The septic and sewer line of business is very important for society, and without it, there would be a lot of problems,” Johnson said. “The pay, benefits and future opportunities are very good.”

A student attending Perry Technical Institute, Edgar Gonzalez received a $2,000 scholarship from BIAW toward a degree in construction. The first person in his family to attend college, Gonzalez plans to become a business owner one day. He looks forward to helping his community grow through his work and providing future jobs for young people like himself.

Johnson says this career path is an excellent opportunity to help the social economy and ensure his father’s business stays in the family.

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Tim Colby

Donovan Bishop

University of Washington Tacoma

University of Washington

Tim Colby, an Enumclaw student attending UW Tacoma, was awarded $5,000 for his pursuit of a degree in civil engineering.

An Enumclaw High School graduate, Colby has known he’s wanted to work in the construction industry since he was young. His family’s business, Colby Construction, was founded by his grandfather in the 1950s and is now owned by his father.

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Donovan Bishop, an Elma student attending the UW, was awarded a $2,000 scholarship to pursue an electrical and computer engineering degree.

“It is hard not to be interested in construction,” he said. “You see it every day all around you.”

A graduate of Elma High School, Bishop says he has always had an interest in natural sciences, which led him to the engineering field. However, he has recently become more interested in construction, specifically electrical engineering, including power transmission, sustainable energy and control systems pathways.

After finishing his civil engineering degree at UW, Colby looks forward to getting hands-on experience in the field before transitioning into his engineering career.

“Much of engineering is simply making things more efficient, and things dealing with electricity are no different,” Bishop said. After completing his bachelor’s degree, he hopes to find a career in a high-demand field before eventually working towards a master’s degree.

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GRANTS BIAW and the Washington Home Builders Foundation proudly awarded $34,000 in grants to these 13 construction trades programs across Washington. n Building Beyond the Walls Received $5,300 for their flagship construction training program, which aims to promote construction career awareness and connect participants with career opportunities. n Chimacum School District Won $5,000 for shop upgrades and equipment needed for their Construction Trades program. n Kitsap Building Association Earned $5,000 for their Builder Grant Program, which provides internship opportunities in the residential construction industry, focusing on carpentry, electrical, plumbing, painting and coating, and HVAC. n Griffin Bay School Received $3,700 to develop practical Career & Technical Education (CTE) courses. n Economic Development Council of San Juan County Won $3,500 for a tiny home pilot project for their Trades Training Initiative. n Community Boat Project Earned $3,000 for their Shelter From the Storm program, which offers young people paid internships to build tiny homes for people experiencing homelessness. n LaConner School District Received $2,500 for safety equipment needed for their woodworking classes. n Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington Won $1,000 to expand their Career Mentoring and Exploration program into construction. n Frontier Electric Apprenticeship and Training Received $1,000 for classroom and lab expenses. n Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech) Won $1,000 for marketing and outreach efforts for their Construction Management Transfer Degree program.

WASHINGTON HOME BUILDERS FOUNDATION

The Washington Home Builders Foundation (WHBF) was founded in 2012 by BIAW to address educational and workforce needs within the building industry through charitable activities. The Washington Home Builders Foundation empowers and inspires the next generation of builders by advancing building-related education, unlocking academic opportunities and career possibilities while fostering a culture of innovation, enthusiasm and excellence in the building industry. Since its inception, the Washington Home Builders Foundation and BIAW have awarded over $830,000 in scholarships and grants. The Washington Home Builders Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization as classified by the Internal Revenue Code. Your donations may be eligible for charitable contribution tax deductions.

2024 Scholarship and Grant Applications are now open! Who can apply for scholarships?

Apply now

n VPS Construction Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Program Received $1,000 for a project in partnership with the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to build an accessible wildlife viewing shack.

n Washington State residents only n Students who will be applying to any Washington State accredited community, vocational/technical college, or university

n Perry Technical Institute Received $1,000 for equipment needed for their Construction & Carpentry Technology program. n Quilcene High School Won $1,000 for a senior tour of local businesses in the trades in partnership with the Jefferson County Home Builders Association.

Learn more and donate

n Students who demonstrate a need for additional funding to complete their programs in a construction industryrelated field of study Who can apply for grants?

Apply now

Organizations requesting funding in a construction industry-related field of study (including but not limited to construction career training, continuing education, apprenticeship programs, and skills assessment programs). b u i l d i n g i n s i g ht | o c tober 2 0 2 3

BUILDING A SAFER FUTURE The importance of teaching construction safety early by Leah Jaber ROII Marketing Manager

Residential construction is an essential industry that shapes our world by creating the homes and buildings we rely on daily. However, ROII knows all too well that it is also one of the most hazardous industries, with a high risk of accidents and injuries. Because of this, the importance of teaching safety early, the earlier the better, in construction cannot be overstated. By instilling a culture of safety from the very beginning, we can protect the lives and well-being of workers, reduce accidents and create safe habits that last a lifetime.

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Preventing accidents and injuries Teaching safety early in construction is crucial for preventing accidents and injuries. Construction sites are filled with potential hazards, including heavy machinery, heights, electrical wires and sharp tools to name a few. Without proper safety training, workers are at a higher risk of accidents, which can result in injuries or even fatalities. By teaching safety practices, protocols and instilling good safety habits early in schools, future skilled workers can develop an understanding of potential risks and the knowledge to mitigate them. This not only protects their health but also reduces the financial burden on construction companies, as accidents often result in costly medical expenses and workers’ compensation claims.

Fostering a safety culture A strong safety culture is essential in construction, and it starts with teaching safety early. Workers who receive proper training from the beginning are more likely to embrace safety as an integral part of their job and everyday life. They develop the habits and mindset necessary to prioritize safety over shortcuts or productivity. This culture of safety benefits everyone involved, from laborers and supervisors to project managers and company owners.

Enhancing productivity and efficiency While some may see safety training as a time-consuming obstacle to productivity, it can actually enhance efficiency in the long run. Workers who are confident in their ability to perform their tasks safely are more likely to complete them efficiently. They are also less likely to be absent due to injuries or stress-related issues, which can lead to project delays and increased costs.

Adapting to evolving safety standards Construction safety standards and regulations are continually evolving to address new challenges and technologies. By teaching safety early, construction workers can stay up to date with the latest safety requirements and best practices. This adaptability ensures that the industry remains safe and compliant with changing regulations, fostering a culture of continuous improvement in safety.

Building a skilled workforce Skilled construction workers are an asset to any company. Teaching safety as early as elementary school contributes to a worker’s overall skill set, making them a more valuable employee. These individuals are not only capable of performing their tasks safely, but

they can also provide leadership and mentorship to others, further enhancing the safety culture within the industry. Teaching safety early in construction is not just an option; it is a fundamental necessity. ROII takes this very seriously, that’s why we’ve partnered with schools across Washington by offering personal protective equipment (PPE) and first aid kits for students. By prioritizing safety from the beginning, while they are still learning, we can prevent accidents, foster a culture of safety, enhance productivity, adapt to evolving standards, and build a highly skilled, safe workforce. In doing so, we protect the lives and well-being of construction workers, while also securing the future of the industry itself.

Since 1982, ROII has returned over $500 million in refunds to participating companies all over Washington state. Just this year alone, ROII has returned over $20 million in savings on L&I premiums for businesses all over Washington state. See how much money you could earn back on your L&I premiums at ROII.com.

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Local Happenings

1 [1] The Building Industry Association of Clark County (BIACC) opened the 2023 GRO Parade of Homes with a VIP Night on Sept. 7. The night was very successful, with 625 people in attendance. This year’s Parade of Homes featured four beautiful homes and saw an attendance of 2,500 over the course of the event, which ran Sept. 8-24. [2] The Skagit/Island Counties Builders Association (SICBA) presented $3,000 in funds raised during their golf tournament to M-Bar-C Ranch on Whidbey Island, which is owned and operated by the Forgotten Children’s Fund. (l to r) SICBA Golf Committee members Joel Pasek of SERVPRO of Skagit County, Pamela Sheedy of SICBA, JJ Camacho of Yonkman Construction, April Moore of Mountain Pacific Bank, and Dick York, Board Member of The Forgotten Children’s Fund and long-time volunteer at M-Bar-C Ranch.

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[3] SICBA also donated $3,000 raised from their golf tournament to Camp Korey in Mount Vernon, which provides adaptive yearround programs for children and their families living with lifealtering medical conditions. Pictured are SICBA Golf Committee members Moriah Corser Lukomskiy of Pavement Markings, April Moore of Mountain Pacific Bank, Joel Pasek of SERVPRO of Skagit County, JJ Camacho of Yonkman Construction along with SICBA Marketing and Events Coordinator Pamela Sheedy, and Camp Korey Community Engagement Manager Nichol Ellis, and other Camp Korey members.

[4] The North Peninsula Builders Association (NPBA) held its Builders Cup Golf Tournament on Aug. 25 at the Cedars at Dungeness Golf Course. (a) ROII was a hole sponsor.

[5] The Central Washington Home Builders Association (CWHBA) held an Appreciation & Awards Event for their 2023 Tour of Homes presented by Helliesen Lumber & Supply Co. on Sept. 7 at Doodle Vines in Yakima. (a) Past BIAW Second Vice President Ryan Moore of HUB International MC’ed the event. (b) CWHBA staff pose during the event. b u i l d i n g i n s i g ht | o c tober 2 0 2 3

ROII Safety Services

Hard hat expiration and replacement by Bob White ROII Safety Services Director

Hard hats are designed with highquality, wear-resistant materials but do not last forever. The hard hat’s protective properties will degrade with exposure to many common work environments, such as extreme temperatures, chemical exposure, sunlight and normal daily wear. It is important to read and carefully follow all of the instructions and warnings accompanying your hard hat. Failure to follow the instructions listed on your hard hat may result in serious injury or death. Always consult the manufacturer if you have questions concerning the care and use of your hard hat.

How long is a hard hat’s expiration period?

Even hard hats with a five-year expiration date are recommended to be replaced as soon as two years under heavy use.

How can I tell if the hard hat is reaching the end of its service life? To ensure that a hard hat shell or suspension has not reached the end of its service life, visually inspect the shell for breakage, cracks, crazing, discoloration, chalky appearance or any other unusual condition. Inspect the shell for brittleness by flexing the brim (do not compress the shell sides). These conditions can indicate a loss of impact, penetration, and/ or electrical resistance. If you see any of these signs, replace your hard hat immediately.

Depending on the make and model of the hard hat, the standard lifespan has generally been three years after manufacture, but this is not always the case. Now many manufacturers, such as JSP and 3M, give a five-year lifespan from the date of manufacture. Don’t expect your hard hat to last that long. It might if it is barely used and stored in perfect conditions. Be aware you will often need to change your hard hat before it expires.

Do not use: n Paints n Solvents n Chemicals n Adhesives n Gasoline n or like substances on hard hats Doing so can lessen the protection from impact and penetration.

Check the suspension for loss of flexibility. Also, look for cracks, breaks, frayed straps or damaged stitching. If any of these conditions exist, immediately replace your suspension. These are recommended useful service life guidelines. Wear or damage noticed during a regular inspection may determine that an earlier replacement of the entire hard hat is necessary. ALWAYS replace the hard hat after it has withstood impact or penetration.

Your hard hat has a date stamp The number in the middle (13), in the picture to the left, is the year of manufacture, and the arrow points to the month (5). So, this hard hat was manufactured in May of 2013.

If you are an ROII participant and would like to receive my regular safety updates, including ideas for safety topics, please contact me at (360) 352-7800 ext. 109 or bobw@biaw.com.

Not an ROII member? Visit roii.com to learn more.

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DON'T BE CAUGHT WITHOUT HEALTH INSURANCE