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Table of contents
WHO WE ARE As the state’s largest trade association with nearly 8,000 member companies, responsible for approximately 188,000 jobs, we are the people who build, remodel and maintain homes. We create economic opportunity and strong communities. BIAW champions the rights of our members and fights for affordable homeownership at all levels of government.
Cover photo: Certified Builder Lucas Shifflett of Titan Builders and crew show off their most recent project.
BIAW MANAGEMENT Executive Vice President Greg Lane Education and Workforce Development Director Al Audette Communications Director Janelle Guthrie Government Affairs Director Jan Himebaugh Finance and Human Resources Director Stephen Hyer ROII Director Jenn Kavanaugh Association Services Director Brenda Kwieciak General Counsel Jackson Maynard BUILDING INSIGHT EDITORIAL STAFF
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Communications Director Janelle Guthrie
Pro-housing? Prove it Who you vote for matters
Legal battles rage in court
BIAW continues to fight for members on issues in the courts
Professional women in building: A network of support
BIAW celebrated Professional Women in Building (PWB) Week Sept. 13-17
Communications Manager Bailee Wicks Layout and Design Lena Anderson
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To submit editorial or advertise, contact communications@biaw.com.
Building Insight is proudly printed by:
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Certified builders measure up
BIAW Certified Builder Week spotlights top builders
Wood Technology Center brings hope and opportunity to Seattle youth King County builders and remodelers invest in workforce development october 2021
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President’s message Homes start here. The new BIAW tagline is more than just words for those of us who’ve spent our lives building homes. It’s our legacy. As BIAW members join with others in the construction industry to celebrate Careers in Construction Month, it’s a time for us to tell our story. It’s a chance for us to inspire others. And it’s an opportunity to help shape the future of our industry. Stirring a passion Building a home provides opportunities for a broad range of skilled tradespeople to come together and feed their love of working with their hands. Whether we’re general contractors or remodelers, roofers or carpenters, designers or painters, or one of the many other specialty tradespeople, we enjoy working hard on projects. It’s our passion. And finding a job that’s also my passion is what’s kept me in this business for more than 44 years. Tracy Doriot, BIAW Certified Builder President
Like many of you, I started my career by walking onto a jobsite and working hard. As I developed a reputation for my work, I soon realized it was time to branch out on my own. I certainly didn’t know everything, but sometimes it’s better not to know what you don’t know! Pathways to success While some may look at the hard work involved in home building and choose to go a different route, we know our work provides a pathway to owning your own business, being your own boss and ultimately living the life you choose. And it’s a pathway to success without a costly college degree and the debt that can come with that. NAHB reports that roughly 90% of residential construction company presidents/CEOs rose up from working in the trades. Substantial salaries abound But it’s not just the company presidents and executives who make a great living. Many skilled tradespeople across the board earn on average more than $65,000/year. According to the latest federal statistics for 2020, these jobs included carpenters, concrete finishers, drywall and ceiling tile installers, electricians, plumbers, insulation workers and more. The top 25% in these trades earned more than $90,000/year. Throughout the month of October, we’ll be sharing stories of opportunities in our industry to encourage the next generation to join our ranks. We’ll also be celebrating our Young Professionals and our Certified Builders. As families across our state and our nation continue their insatiable demand for new homes, it’s a great time to be in the building industry. Let’s work together to build our ranks and celebrate our careers in construction.
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Government Affairs
Pro-housing? Prove it by Jan Himebaugh Government Affairs Director
Heading into the 2022 legislative session, housing, home prices and homelessness are hot topics in Washington state. Washington’s homeless population continues to grow. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently reported our state saw a 6.2% increase in homelessness between 2019 and 2020 with 30 out of every 10,000 people homeless. At the same time, NAHB reports home prices are up more than 30% on average nationwide since the start of 2020. In Washington, the median home price is $522,023, requiring a minimum income of $112,295 just to qualify for a mortgage. At that price point, more than 72% of Washington’s roughly 3 million households are priced out already. And for every $1,000 in additional costs, 2,524 more households are unable to qualify for a new mortgage.
increasingly cumbersome paperwork, liability requirements, taxes, costly building code obligations, hookup and other development fees, or endlessly long permitting timelines. Homebuilders have asked for relief to address the desperate demand for new homes people can afford. In response we hear, “Yes, we want housing… but no, we can’t do anything to help you build more homes.” Instead they continue to add to the burden of construction. Then, they’re shocked to learn threequarters of Washingtonians can’t afford new home ownership opportunities. This hypocrisy has real-life impacts on every single Washington resident or future resident’s ability to own a home.
With these statistics in mind, you’ll be hard-pressed to find an elected official across your region, state or even country who doesn’t claim to be pro-housing. You’ll also be hard-pressed to find a government employee who would claim an anti-housing mantle.
There’s always an excuse as to why homes can’t be more affordable. Gov. Inslee recently denied our request to pause the implementation of the expensive new energy code due to massive supply chain issues and skyrocketing costs for compliant materials. Then, in the same breath, he bemoans the lack of access to housing.
Building homes? Or barriers? But when the foundation needs to be poured— many forget about their proclaimed commitment to housing and homes. Instead they actively erect barriers to home construction and accessible home ownership for families in our state.
We can’t make housing more affordable by making it more expensive. And we’ll never turn the tide and increase homeownership until our elected officials and government staff commit to working with us to balance their policy desires with the need for more Washington families to have a place to call home.
These barriers come in a variety of forms: land use or environmental exactions and regulatory takings,
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Executive Vice President’s message Over the past few months, I’ve enjoyed being able to attend local association events and socialize with many of you once again. The worst part of this pandemic has been the restrictions on getting together at events. The freedom to see each other again has provided a sense of normalcy and shows the power of the home building community. I intend to continue visiting local association events and BIAW staff will attend events as long as we are capable of doing so. Recruit to win Speaking of events, NAHB’s International Builders’ Show (IBS) is still on for February in Orlando, FL, and BIAW wants to send you there. Membership Monopoly ends Oct. 31, but there is still plenty of time for you to “Win It All,” which includes an all-expenses paid trip for two to IBS 2022 in Orlando. All you have to do is recruit new members into the association. And you can earn bonus points for those who join BIAW’s health insurance program or ROII. Greg Lane
Executive Vice President
Workforce development In October, BIAW celebrates Careers in Construction month. BIAW’s Workforce Development Task Force, comprised of members from nearly every local association, is leading important conversations, holding events and starting training programs to engage students, provide training opportunities to build the workforce and connect them with employers to reduce the labor shortage. These task force leaders embody the goals and aspirations of Careers in Construction Month all year long. Here are just some highlights of all the great events and programs our locals and members are contributing to workforce solutions: n Jon Girod of Quail Homes with the BIA of Clark County helped start plans for a new training and education center in Vancouver. n The Master Builders Association of Pierce County presented the Pierce County Skills Center (PCSC) with a $5,000 donation in June to kick-start a partnership that will benefit local students enrolled in the school’s construction trades program. n Four school districts, including seven different schools, incorporated the Home Builders Institute curriculum in the state. HBI provides students the skills and experience they need for successful careers through pre-apprenticeship training, job placement services, mentoring, certification programs, textbooks and curricula. We encourage everyone in the association to get engaged locally to build the future workforce in your community. Attend the fall board meeting Next month is our 2021 fall board meeting at the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington in Renton. Come and celebrate the 2021 builder, associate and remodeler of the year and the installation of BIAW's 2022 BIAW senior officers. Hope to see you all there.
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Healthcare Tip of the Month Important considerations Here are a few more things to consider:
Getting your flu shot is even more important this year
n The CDC recommends everyone older than six months old receive a flu shot, with only a few rare exceptions.
by Michaela Gormley
n You cannot get the flu from the flu shot. Some people do experience mild symptoms after receiving the vaccine, but they typically last only a day or two.
Director of Marketing & Communications at Capital Benefit Services, administrator of BIAW's health insurance program
Now that COVID-19 vaccines are widely available, it’s important not to forget about another important and easy vaccination available to help keep you healthy: the flu shot. Flu season lasts from December to February. So now’s the time to get your vaccine to protect yourself once flu season is in full swing. Many health officials fear that if the U.S. does not have widespread vaccination against the flu this winter, we may face what the New York Times dubbed a “twindemic” with the flu season piling on top of the current COVID-19 outbreak. The flu vaccine will not protect you against COVID-19. But, it’s still important to consider getting a flu shot this year.
n Most health insurance plans cover 100% of the cost of a flu shot. Check with your health insurance carrier for details. n Flu shots are readily available at most doctor’s offices and walk-in clinics. Contact your health care provider for more information.
By getting a flu shot and your COVID-19 vaccination and following recommended safety guidelines, you can make a huge impact on your own health and that of your friends, family and entire community. The BIAW Health Insurance program is proud to assist you in offering affordable health insurance benefits to your employees and their families. To find about more about the program or to receive a free, no obligation quote, visit us online at BIAWHealthTrust.com or call us at (425) 641-8093.
Protect yourself In 2019, only about 45% of the US population received a flu shot—and the nation experienced between 24,000 and 62,000 flu-related deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Because the viruses that cause the flu and COVID-19 are different, you could contract both at the same time, which could be catastrophic, especially for those who are already at an increased risk. Protect your community Being vaccinated against the flu will help to reduce your chance of getting it, therefore limiting its spread and protecting those around you. If you do happen to get the flu even after getting a flu shot, generally your symptoms will be much milder. Fewer people critically ill with the flu means more medical resources will be available to those who may be critically ill due to COVID-19. october 2021
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Legal Affairs
BIAW battles for our members in the courts by Jackson Maynard General Counsel
failed to follow the law requiring him to select the two appointees from a list of three names provided by recognized professional trade associations representing residential construction and commercial construction respectively. The case is likely to be set for a trial in December or January.
BIAW fights for you at all levels of government and in the courts. At times, it can be hard to keep up with it all. Here’s the latest: Hydraulic Project Approval (HPA) permit fine increases BIAW sued the governor and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) regarding a new law increasing the fine for violations of a common type of permit for construction near the waterways of the state from $100 per violation to $10,000. The governor vetoed a subsection of the bill, which is not permitted under the Washington State Constitution. The case is currently on appeal to the Washington State Supreme Court. BIAW has also filed a separate lawsuit challenging the rule that WDFW filed authorizing the increased fine so that if the direct suit is unsuccessful, there will be another way to attack the fine increase. 8
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COVID-19 emergency rules BIAW also sued the Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) over whether it had the authority to enforce the governor’s executive order on COVID-19. L&I issued multiple emergency rules claiming the authority to fine businesses $10,000 for violating the governor’s order, despite the fact that the statute says such violations are punishable as misdemeanors - not by agency enforcement. The case has been stayed until November to evaluate the status of regulations and the pandemic. Improper State Building Code Council (SBCC) appointments BIAW joined with the Associated General Contractors (AGC) in suing the governor and the state building code council, challenging the governor’s appointment of two general construction positions on the SBCC. We argue the governor
Campaign disclosure BIAW joined Enterprise Washington, the Farm Bureau and other organizations in filing a friend of the court (amicus curiae) brief on a lawsuit involving the largest fine for a campaign disclosure violation in U.S. history. The Attorney General authorized an $18 million fine against a group of businesses who opposed an initiative and failed to timely disclose their list of donors. BIAW and others argued a fine of that size for this type of offense chills free speech and violates the state and federal excessive fine provisions. The Washington Supreme Court heard oral arguments on Sept. 28, 2021. Now we wait on a decision. BIAW will continue to fight for our members on these and any other issues as is necessary. If you have any questions, please contact BIAW General Counsel Jackson Maynard at (360) 352-7800 ext. 108 or at jacksonm@biaw.com.
BIAW welcomes new staff
Sabrina Arrants
ROII Administrative Assistant
Sabrina Arrants joined the ROII team as our new ROII administrative assistant on Sept. 8. She has spent the last nine years working at Olympic Peninsula Personnel. She graduated from West Coast Baptist College with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Teaching. She recently moved to Lacey with her husband, Andy, BIAW’s digital production manager. Her attention to customer service and her knowledge of human resources will be invaluable as she supports the ROII team. When not at work, Sabrina enjoys spending time with her husband, hanging out with friends and family and shopping.
Alex Horn
ROII Claim Representative
Alex Horn joined the ROII team as claim representative on Sept. 13. Prior to joining our team, Alex worked at Approach, a third-party administrator for retro programs. He was with L&I prior to that. He graduated from Western Washington University in 2010 with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. His favorite things lately are fishing and disc golfing with his wife and five-year-old son.
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Membership Drive: Ends Oct. 31
Membership monopoly September leaderboards by Karen Hall Membership Manager
Three months down, one more to go! BIAW’s membership drive, Membership Monopoly, continues to grow. One PLAYER has already reached the "20 Point Achievement" level and earned the "WinItAll” package including round-trip airfare for two to Orlando for the 2022 National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) International Builders' Show, a five-night stay at the DoubleTree Hilton Orlando at Sea World (BIAW’s designated hotel), and BIAW’s Recruiter Reception! Two more have reached the “15 Point Achievement” level, winning the five-night stay at the DoubleTree Hilton Orlando at Sea World, plus BIAW’s Recruiter Reception! Nine more have reached the "5 Point Achievement" level and will attend the BIAW Recruiter Reception. But there’s still time to #WinItAll!
Several local associations have made the leaderboards as well. Local association prizes up for grabs include: cash for attaining their retention rate goals and a bonus prize of roundtrip airfare for two to Orlando, a five-night stay at the DoubleTree Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld and entry for two to BIAW’s recruiter reception. Congratulations to all! Continue recruiting through Oct. 31 to collect achievements that could earn you a trip to the 2022 NAHB International Builders' Show. For questions about Membership Monopoly or how PLAYERS and locals can earn points, contact BIAW Membership Manager Karen Hall at (360) 352-7800 ext. 137 or at karenh@biaw.com.
Local Association Leaderboard
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Celebrate careers in construction month by Bailee Wicks
Communications Manager
Every October, BIAW celebrates Careers in Construction Month (CICM) to increase public awareness of the opportunities available in construction trade professions. Although Careers in Construction Month is a good time to celebrate and highlight the trades, you can choose any month or day. The most important thing is for local associations and members to do something each calendar year to assist the future workforce of the residential construction industry. Ongoing efforts are important to achieve the goal of increasing the number of professional construction trades employees in your area to close the labor gap the trades face daily. Ways to get involved The best ways to get involved are to recognize contributions made by the professionals working in construction, instill a sense of pride in the industry, increase awareness and foster a positive career image.
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Here is what you can do to recognize and support Careers in Construction Month to build up our future workforce:
#ChooseTrades #Remodeler
n Let people know you are hiring and offer tips to make sure they come into your jobsite prepared n Encourage companies to announce Careers in Construction Month and boast a little about your career on social media using hashtags #CareersInConstructionMonth, #CICM and #ChooseTrades n Open up your site and host a virtual field trip. Camera phones and drones are great tools for capturing the attention of any audience. Students will be able to gather first-hand information about what it takes to have a successful career in construction n Have young people or students job shadow you for an afternoon n Post videos or pictures on social media explaining what a day in your trade looks like using the hashtags #CareersInConstructionMonth, #CICM and #ChooseTrades
#ChooseTrades #Roofer
n Reach out to local trade schools and programs and offer to speak to them in-person or virtually Remember any effort will make an impact on future generations of students and workers. Careers in Construction Month is crucial to filling the labor shortage in the residential construction industry in Washington. If you have any questions about Careers in Construction Month or would like to get involved, contact BIAW’s Education and Workforce Development Manager Al Audette at (360) 352-7800 ext. 105 or ala@biaw.com.
#ChooseTrades #Plumber
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ROII Tech Tools
Safety solutions by Jesse Balbin ROII Field Representative
ROII is always ahead of the game when it comes to the latest and greatest in safety tech, tools and products. Prevention is always our goal, so keeping our participants informed on innovative ways to stay safe while working is one of the many benefits of joining ROII. As your trusted tech guru and ROII Field Representative, I've spent years searching for the best tools that help prevent some of the most common construction injuries. Whether you’ve just landed on a jobsite or have been in the construction industry for a while, these products can help you. Not already an ROII participant and want to be rewarded for safety in your workplace? Join the crowd—by joining the state’s largest, longest-operating construction Retro (Retrospective Rating) safety incentive program. It’s the workers’ comp program trusted by more Washington businesses. Get started today at roii.com.
The Pitch Hopper Easily a crowd favorite at all of the golf tournaments we’ve sponsored, the Pitch Hopper helps reduce fatigue and saves you time so you can get more jobs done, all while keeping you safe. How does it work? The Pitch Hopper has a superior grip surface that uses friction force to keep The Pitch Hopper in place. It’s a roof wedge for even the steepest asphalt roofs up to a 12/12 pitch and has been tested to take over 3,000 pounds of weight. The Pitch Hopper comes in 24- and 32-inch steps and works at different angles depending on the steepness of the roof. ThePitchHopper.com
King Kombo Ladder by the Little Giant Did you know that 20% of reported ladder falls occur because the person operating the ladder missed the last step? The King Kombo ladder comes with GROUND CUE, an audible and tactile signal to let you know when you have reached the bottom step. Also, most step ladders aren’t designed to be a leaning ladder. We see so many people on jobsites using them incorrectly. The King Kombo is a true leaning ladder. Its light frame makes it easy to carry, and it comes in different models and heights. LittleGiantLadders.com 14
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Otis Ear Shields I was at a shooting range when I discovered the Otis Ear Shields. These ear shields are available in 31dB and 26dB NRR levels of protection and are passive, meaning they don’t require any charging or batteries. They are a very inexpensive way to protect your ears while still allowing normal communication on a jobsite. Amazon, Cabela's, Walmart and Bass Pro Shop
HexArmor® Helix® 1092 – Break Away Gloves Gloves are easily one of the most underrated pieces of safety gear. We find people either aren’t using the correct type of glove or they aren’t using them at all. These 15-gauge nylon blend shell gloves offer 360° degree cut protection, but what makes these gloves unique is the Safe Finger Release (SFR) Technology. If you catch your finger using a power tool like a drill, the glove fingers break free, keeping your hand free and safe from injury. HexArmor.com
Impacto Rhino Tuff Insoles These stainless steel plate insoles protect against puncture wounds in any work boot or shoe. Say goodbye to the days where you step on a nail or other sharp objects. They are also anti-fatigue and moisture-wicking. Impacto.ca
Impacto Toes2Go Steel Toe Cap In times where you need a steel-toed boot, these heavy-duty steel toe caps keep your feet protected on the jobsite regardless of what type of shoes you’re wearing. They also have treads to prevent slipping and adjustable straps and hooks. They come in different sizes and don’t harden, stiffen or crack. Impacto.ca ROII isn’t affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with any of the products mentioned above or any of their subsidiaries or affiliates.
If you have innovative safety product suggestions or would like to learn more about these items, please get in touch with ROII Field Representative Jesse Balbin at (360) 352-7800 ext. 157 or jesseb@biaw.com.
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ROII Safety Services
Consider a safety career in construction by Bob White ROII Safety Services Director
With the construction industry booming, employers need help in the safety arena now more than ever. While the industry may be booming, finding skilled workers to fill much-needed positions, unfortunately, continues to be a challenge. As we work to attract young people into the trades and retain existing workers who might be seeking alternative career paths, it’s important to make sure everyone knows about our commitment to safety. Purpose with a paycheck According to many nationwide surveys, students and workers alike from all generations want a job that combines purpose with a paycheck. Construction safety jobs are a great combination of the two. Safety personnel play one of the most critical roles in the construction industry and come with competitive salaries with some companies offering over sixfigures for top talent. Also, a position as a safety manager is perfect for older workers not ready to retire who want to leave the heavy lifting to younger workers. Retraining these highly experienced employees into safety roles helps the younger ones work safer and more efficiently. These more experienced employees are also great mentors for the next generation. Promoting a culture of safety Workers find companies with stellar safety reputations and cultivated cultures of safety and teamwork very attractive. Safety managers, in cooperation with company owners, have the power to create this environment. One of the most satisfying rewards for a safety manager is ensuring employees go home safe daily. Workplace injuries are hard on everyone. Aside from the loss in production and extra time spent Not an ROII participant? Learn more at roii.com.
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hiring and training new workers, our employees are our people. An injury can be devastating to their families, their livelihoods and their future—and that’s important to all of us. The construction industry depends on safety managers who can improve processes, provide training, and prevent accidents that can cause injuries or even claim lives. As the industry grows, filling construction safety jobs with the right people will be critical to companies’ ability to compete for jobs and complete them safely and effectively. It will also strengthen the industry’s reputation as a growing and safe career choice. If you are an ROII participant and have questions about starting a career in safety, please contact ROII Safety Services Director Bob White at (360) 352-7800 ext. 109 or bobw@biaw.com.
Celebrate Women in Building
Professional women in building: A network of support by Bailee Wicks Communications Manager
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We’re a built-in support system with our biggest goal being to help others succeed. —Kimberley Martin, Cyneburg Services, LLC
BIAW celebrated Professional Women in Building (PWB) Week Sept. 13-17. PWB week celebrates women as an important component of the residential construction industry. PWB Councils play a huge role in initiating conversations and supporting women through mentoring. Washington has two PWB Councils: one at the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties and the other at Olympia Master Builders. PWB Councils give a voice to the women in the building industry, dedicated to promoting industry professionalism and supporting members at the local, state and national levels.
Kimberley Martin, of Cyneburg Services, LLC, MBAKS Professional Women in Building Council chair, shares that passion. “I hope other women considering careers in our field will look to us for inspiration and guidance,” she said. “We’re a built-in support system with our biggest goal being to help others succeed.”
More than a meeting Debbi Boyd, Real Estate of the South Sound, and Olympia Master Builders PWB Council chair, says PWB is more than just a monthly meeting. “My favorite part of being in a PWB Chapter is the networking with other professional women in the industry and learning and collaborating on how they manage their life and professional work balance,” Boyd said. However, those events became more than networking during COVID. “Our PWB Council is a little over 18 months old and was commissioned right before the pandemic hit,” adds Boyd. “I have heard from some members that the PWB Lunch and Learns and Mingles were a way to keep sane and receive information about safety and working from home successfully during lockdown.”
NAHB Second Vice Chair Alicia Huey (l), President of HCS Construction Services Sherry Schwab (m) and Executive Producer of Tenhulzen Residential LLC Traci Tenhulzen (r) lead the industry panel at the MBAKS PWB Summit, moderated by Kimberley Martin on Oct. 7.
Remember, you do not need to be a part of a PWB Council to inspire others and strengthen the workforce. Celebrate tradeswomen, support the next generation and help us build the next generation of skilled workers. To learn more about PWB week or councils, contact Communications Manager Bailee Wicks at (360) 352-7800 ext.143 or baileew@biaw.com. october 2021
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Celebrate Certified Builders
Thank you to all our Certified Builders! Aaron Marvin, A.C.T. Builders, LLC, BIACC
Certified builders measure up by Bailee Wicks Communications Manager
BIAW celebrates Certified Builder Week, Oct. 25-29. A Certified Builder strives to stand out from the rest. BIAW created the designation to bridge the communication gap and offer more transparency between builders and their clients. Being a Certified Builder shows clients that you are completely vetted and thus creates a sense of trust in knowing you go above and beyond what is asked of you from the state. BIAW dedicates this week to the 36 Certified Builders who encourage and inspire other tradespeople to surpass expectations and continue to lead the residential construction industry. If you have questions about hiring a Certified Builder or how to become a Certified Builder, please visit BIAWCertifiedBuilder.com or contact Certification and Education Manager Hillary Vanatta at (360) 352-7800 ext. 106 or hillaryv@biaw.com.
Anthony Collins, Northlight Custom Builders, LLC, MBAKS Brett Lott, Brett Lott Homes, HBATC Bryan Uhler, Pioneer Builders Inc., KBA Clint Adamson, Pleasant Ridge Construction, CWHBA Curtis Banta, Yonkman Construction Inc., SICBA Deacon Band, Band Construction Inc., SHBA Dominic Moceri, Moceri Construction Inc., BIAWC Dylon McClary, Rose Construction Inc., BIAWC Elizabeth Gomez, Bridge City Contracting, LLC, BIACC Jared Jones, Copper Hills Construction, LLC, CWHBA Jay Roberts, Cascade Custom Homes & Design, SICBA Jennifer Kelly, J & J Kelly Construction Inc., HBATC John Erwin, John Erwin Remodeling Inc., OMB John Johnson, Johnson Custom Homes, LLC, OMB John Piazza Jr, John Piazza Jr Construction & Remodeling Inc., SICBA Joseph Irons, Irons Brothers Construction, MBAKS Justin Ross, Design Doctors Construction, LLC, BIACC Kenneth Nichol, Ethos West Construction Inc., BIAWC Lucas Shifflett, Titan Builders, LLC, NPBA Mark Pedersen, Dansk Homes, SICBA MaryAnn Sailors, Cornerstone Construction Group Inc., MBAKS Matt Kuehn, No 7 Development, LLC, SICBA Melissa Irons, Irons Brothers Construction, MBAKS Nathan Coons, Coons Construction, LLC, MBAKS Paul Kocharhook, Pathway Design & Construction, MBAKS Paul Woodmansee, BYK Construction, Inc., MBAKS Rick Hjelm, Phase II General Contractor, Inc., MBAPC Scott Yonkman, Yonkman Construction, Inc., SICBA Tim Dickey, Dickey’s Remodel & Repair, OMB Tim Stratton, Cornerstone Homes NW, LLC, MBAKS Tim Woodmansee, BYK Construction, Inc., SICBA Tod Sakai, Sockeye Homes, MBAKS Tom Reier, Reier Construction, LLC, MBAPC Tracy Doriot, Doriot Construction, LLC, BIACC Wesley Nelson, Apex Building Services, CWHBA
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Irons Brothers' Melissa Irons teams up for excellence by Janelle Guthrie Communications Director
Melissa Irons, Director of Administration of Irons Brothers Construction in Shoreline, Wash., recently completed the rigorous requirements to earn the BIAW Certified Builder designation. She joins her husband Joseph in the designation, making them the first couple to earn this preeminent professional certification for home builders and remodelers in Washington.
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Remodeler of the Month for November 2018, and currently chairs the awards committee for the MBAKS’ Professional Women in Building Council. Irons uses her background in nursing, management and customer service to keep the Irons Brothers Construction showroom, office, field and personnel systems running smoothly.
Our inspiring creative and custom designs deliver an exceptional building experience. I’m proud to join the BIAW Certified Builder community with my husband. —Melissa Irons, Irons Brothers Construction
Melissa currently volunteers as the vice-chair of the Master Builders of King & Snohomish Counties (MBAKS), Remodeler’s Council and in 2022 will sit as their chair. She has been an active member of this Council since 2009 and in 2016 was awarded MBAKS Remodeler Member of the Year. Irons believes strongly in continuing education and achieving certifications for her work. Since leaving her nursing career behind in 2008, Melissa has earned multiple construction industry designations from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), including Certified Aging-inPlace Specialist, Certified Graduate Remodeler and Certified Green Professional. Melissa enjoys educating homeowners and coordinating philanthropy projects as part of her company responsibilities. She was the NAHB
“The Irons Brothers family has a strong commitment to high-quality craftsmanship, superior customer service and professional worksite safety,” Irons said. “Our inspiring creative and custom designs deliver an exceptional building experience. I’m proud to join the BIAW Certified Builder community with my husband.” If you want to become a Certified Builder or have questions, please contact Certification and Education Manager Hillary Vanatta at (360) 3527800 ext. 106 or hillaryv@biaw.com.
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Workforce Development
Wood Technology Center brings hope and opportunity to Seattle youth by Janelle Guthrie Communications Director
BIAW members frequently share their passion for residential construction as well as the frustration that comes from a widespread shortage of skilled trades people looking for work. A group of builders and remodelers in the King County area hope to make a difference. They’re not only sharing their knowledge and expertise, but providing opportunities for the next generation of workers to learn the skills necessary to join their teams.
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While the Wood Technology Center (WTC) in Seattle’s Central District opened in 2013, the first cohort of the Residential Construction program started just this fall. The one-year program, one of five micropathways at Seattle Central, started on Sept. 29.
“The goal is to provide a lot of different onramps so people of all backgrounds can find an entry point to a career in construction.” Students receive in-person instruction each Wednesday of the quarter for roughly three hours. They also attend classes in the Core Shop on three Saturdays during the quarter for four to five hours at a time. This in-person learning is coupled with online curriculum to allow students to work, take care of their families or do other things while in the program.
The goal is to provide a lot of different onramps so people of all backgrounds can find an entry point to a career in construction. —Courtenay Gebhardt, Blue Sound Construction Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) members Courtenay Gebhardt of Blue Sound Construction and Amy Ecklund of AmyWorks co-chair Seattle Central's Wood Technology Center (WTC) Technical Advisory Committee.
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Together with Laura Elfline of Mighty House Construction, Teri McDermott of CRD Design Build, Erich Armbruster of Ashworth Homes and other local builders and remodelers, Gebhardt and Ecklund helped develop Seattle Central’s latest micro-pathway: Residential Construction.
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“This is the first program WTC has offered that specifically targets an earn-and-learn offering, where we expect skills to be supplemented with working during the day,” Gebhardt said.
Blue Sound Construction employee, Brian Bender, is one of the carpenters enrolled in the evening course.
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As my dad always said, learn a trade and you’ll always have a job.
—Darylene Dennon, Solid Energy, Inc., BIAW Workforce Development Task Force chair
As Watts and his team at the WTC prepared for classes to start, Gebhardt and others joined him in welcoming potential students and other interested workers at a job fair at the center on Sept. 10.
Melissa Irons of Irons Brothers Construction, Inc., chats with Vitino Solano at the Wood Technology Center Job Fair on Sept. 10 in Seattle.
“We’re really about changing lives and bringing hope to our community through working with wood,” said Associate Dean of the Wood Technology Center Rob Watts. “Employers are definitely looking for some good employees, and we plan to give them to them.” Structured around the Home Builders Institute's (HBI) Residential Construction Academy, in accordance with NAHB standards, the curriculum trains new residential carpenters and provides formal, accelerated training for workers already employed with local companies. Class sizes range from 7-20, and the first cohort filled up quickly. The total cost for the year is roughly $6,000 but several local construction companies offer paid
employment to students in the program. Others help offset costs of tuition and fees. Gebhardt credits BIAW’s Workforce Development Task Force as well as Education and Workforce Development Director Al Audette for their support of the new Evening Carpentry program, including marketing materials, advice and tuition reimbursement agreement templates to help industry employers establish a viable way to fund this education for their workers. “BIAW was instrumental in supporting the Evening Carpentry Program since its inception, and provided the link to the HBI curriculum contacts and other program design resources,” Gebhardt said.
Roughly 20 MBAKS builders and remodelers, including Melissa Irons of Irons Brothers Construction, participated in the event, greeting a steady stream of potential new hires. Irons Brothers has a student in the evening carpenter apprenticeship program. Blue Sound Construction has three in the program as well. After working in a variety of different jobs, 37-year-old Vitino Solano attended the job fair hoping to make inroads into a career in construction in Seattle. “This year, there’s over $3 billion going into construction in Seattle, why not be a part of it?” he said. BIAW Workforce Development Task Force Chair and MBAKS member, Darylene Dennon of Solid Energy, Inc. in Woodinville, welcomed jobseekers like Solano and offered this valuable advice. “Not everybody wants to work in technology,” she said. “A lot of kids want to work with their hands. People need to open their minds. As my dad always said, learn a trade and you’ll always have a job.” october 2021
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All photos are (l to r). [1] The team from Gro Outdoor Living and their friends join VIP night at the BIACC’s 2021 Parade of Homes. Craig Kiichle (VP of Sales and Operations), Bob Carey (Experience Manager), Trevor Crump (Experience Manager), Zac Skare, Shalyn Wirfs (Marketing Director), Nick McAllister (Garden Services Division Production Manager), Sean Kearney (Experience Manager), Brandon Dodson (Builder Services Division Production Manager), Erik Flanders (Renovation Project Manager), unknown and Tiwa Akinboro (Landscape Designer). [2] Mark Kroll of Biggs Insurance, Dawn White of iQ Credit Union and Eric Golemo of SGA Engineering and Design celebrate at the BIACC’s 2021 Parade of Homes VIP night. [3] Young professional and MBAKS Professional Women in Building member Stephanie Wilson shows Makela how to use a drill to screw her planter box together at the MBAKS Professional Women in Building (PWB) event on Sept. 14. [4] MBAKS PWB host a planter box building event for children at their office in Bellevue. Nicole Early, MBAKS Membership Councils Manager, Jennifer Tennyson, incoming PWB chair, Melissa Irons, Sherry Schwab, PWB Events Chair, Stephanie Wilson, Kimberley Martin, PWB Chair, and Luellen Smith. [5] MBAKS and Built Green member Better Builders, represented by Owner/General Manager Bill Babb
and Office Manager Tracy Stromberg, gather information from a student interested in working in residential construction at the Seattle Wood Tech Center job fair on Sept. 10. [6] MBAKS member Courtenay Gebhardt of Blue Sound Construction, member of the BIAW Workforce Development Task Force and co-organizer of the job fair, and her son, Sava, prep to meet their next hire. [7] MBAKS members, Owen Roberts, Founder and President of Roberts Group, Service Manager Annette Banis and General Manager Chris Berg share opportunities with job fair attendees. [8] New professionals Kody Marcott and Cole Steeley proudly display their OMB membership sign at the OMB BIG Home & Garden Show Sept. 12. [9] Olympia Master Builders PWB member Amber Bevacqua and Bryce Phinney both with OMB member Cabinets by Trivonna demonstrate the latest in cabinets at the 2021 BIG Home & Garden Show. [10] Construction is a family affair for OMB members Doyle Construction at the OMB BIG Home & Garden Show. Shannon O’Sullivan, Daniel Doyle, Aaron Langer and baby Delilah. [11] BIAW staff joins OMB’s PWB at their Fall Muddle and Mingle event Sept. 20 at Pint’s Barn in Tumwater.
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2021 Fall
Board & Annual Meeting November 15-17
Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle’s Southport
Don’t miss these events Annual Meeting of the Membership + Luncheon
Tuesday | November 16 | 11:30 | Open to all $35 per person | Lake Washington Ballroom All BIAW members and guests are invited to attend the general membership luncheon. Please RSVP to your local association.
2022 Election of Officers
In conjunction with the membership luncheon
Tuesday | November 16 | 11:30 | Open to all Lake Washington Ballroom BIAW directors convene to vote on BIAW’s 2022 senior officers, NAHB representatives, delegates and special voting member.
Future Leadership Social
Tuesday | November 16 | 5 - 6 Interested Leaders | Seattle meeting space Do you have what it takes to be the next BIAW leader? Here’s your chance to find out what serving in BIAW’s leadership is all about. Hosted by our beloved Past Presidents, you’ll discover the ins and outs directly from our experienced, seasoned and knowledgeable leadership experts.
Installation and Awards Gala
Tuesday | November 16 | 7:00 | Open to all $75 per person | Attire: business classy Lake Washington Ballroom Join us as we celebrate and honor BIAW’s Builder/Associate/Remodeler of the Year, Hall of Fame Inductee Dave Main and BIAW’s 2022 senior officers. Please RSVP to your local association.
MORE INFORMATION
BIAW.com/board-meetings
Building Industry Association of Washington 300 Deschutes Way SW, Ste. 300 | Tumwater, WA 98501 (360) 352-7800 | BIAW.com |
