Houston Construction News November 2018 by Construction News

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The force is with May

He lifts you up

Vincent May on a job at Kyle Field the Texas A&M football stadium.

Rodolfo Fernández, owner of Eskala North America.

incent May was a freshly-graduated Aggie with a construction science degree when he accepted a field engineer position in 1992. The gig lasted a year before May, itching to branch out on his own, founded building maintenance, waterproofing and structural restoration company Mayco Building Systems in 1993. “I jumped out on my own and started doing everything myself. I wasn’t intimidated; I was familiar with almost all of the construction processes,” he says. “My grandfather started working for a waterproofing company, The Horne Company, in the 1930s. Around 1950, he started his own waterproofing company, Caravella Waterproofing, in Houston. I worked for him on and off for him while I

www.constructionnews.net H (210) 308-5800 H Volume 16 H Number 11 H NOVEMBER 2018

was in high school and college. My dad, who had worked for my grandfather, was running a waterproofing division for a roofing company at that time. I knew that if I went into the waterproofing business on my own, I had two of the best consultants in the world – my grandfather and my dad – at my fingertips.” Almost 26 years later, May has grown Mayco Building Systems to just under 50 employees, whom he says are the reason he is still in the business. In fact, May, who builds spec homes on the side, said he would make more money and have less stress if he left it all to put on his flip flops and shorts and develop the properties he owns in Galveston. “The only reason I don’t stop this continued on Page 14

he verbal form of escalar, translated from the Spanish, means, “to climb.” As a noun, it can be translated as “ladder.” Eskala is a fitting name for Rodolfo Fernández’s company. His goal is to get the customer off the ground and in the air. Eskala rents and sells lift equipment. For a rental, it handles the greater Houston area. For sales, Eskala has gone to every lower 48 state (but would love to get Alaska). Fernández is from Mexico, and has been in construction his whole life. When he came to Houston 15 years ago, he grew frustrated whenever necessary equipment was down or he couldn’t get a part for it. Seeing the need, he started Eskala five years ago.

“Our main focus is customer service,” Fernández said. For instance, if a lift is broken down or has a problem, he’ll get a replacement out to the jobsite within two hours, then bring the broken one back to the shop for repairs. Eskala sells refurbished lifts of all the major brands. They are brought back to all original factory specs and sold at a good price to anyone who wants to own it. Fernández uses a trucking freight line to ship the lift out to the customer. In addition, Eskala sells parts to the lifts as well. They will research the needed item with the customer, then overnight it to him. “In the beginning, we started just selling scissor lifts,” Fernández said. continued on Page 14

Beauty and ambiance

n 2011, Irfan Abji and Alejandra Cobas-Abji acquired E Contractors, priding itself on service and truly exceptional construction projects when it comes to serving clients and the level of responsibility on each project. It has assisted school districts in saving thousands of dollars by understanding the project in whole, knowing what can be value engineered and what cannot, never taking quality control compromises to cut budgets. With so much business in the public sector, E Contractors is always cognizant that it’s not just the client’s money they are spending, but it is also the public’s money. Leveraging more than a century in professional experience in construction management to in-depth project management, E Contractors was an ideal fit for the construction of Egrets Landing, a Class A office building in Sugarland, TX.

Located in the Lake Pointe of Highway 6 and U.S. 59, Egrets Landing offers spectacular views of Brooks Lake. The new two-story office building with a modern exterior and steel construction has been completed after fifteen months of tedious planning and construction. The 22,000sf office building was comprised of red-iron steel structural framing, masonry brick exterior with wood fascia trims on the exterior and interior for finishing touches. Exquisite upscale materials and finishes encompass the two-story atrium and restrooms. Porcelain stone tile adorn walls and floors within the facility and are complimented with decorative chandeliers. The challenges faced by the E Contractors team was meeting requests to continuously seek ways to improve the design and concept that would bring the building to truly meet their expectations. Egrets Landing, 16554 Creekbend Drive

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Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

Showing a little appreciation

Supplying the force

outhwestern Paint Co. Inc. hosted a customer appreciation lunch and pro show at Benjamin Moore in Katy, TX Oct. 17. Clients of Southwestern along with customers of Benjamin Moore’s were treated to a barbeque lunch with all the trimmings. “It’s our way of showing our customers new products and thanking them for their business,” says Dean Stevens, owner of Southwestern Paint. “Vendors are on hand to show new products, offer special buys and give aways.” -cmw

Dean Stevens, owner of Southwestern Paint Co. Inc.

James Coon with Titan demonstrates a rotary surface scrubber & pressure washer, CA-4004 Mi-T-M.

Customers visit with Wood Defenders and asks questions about their products.

Daryl Watson, director of operations for Condustrial, Houston

n the old days, one would get the newspaper to read the Help Wanted ads. Employers looking for employees would post their needs and hopefully someone would respond. Now, when Construction Company X needs people, it can call on Daryl Watson at Condustrial to help fill their voids in the workforce. The Condustrial website says it “is a full service supplemental employer of skilled construction, manufacturing and industrial personnel.” Watson is a Houston native who was hired by Condustrial to get its Houston office ginned up. It had been in Houston for over four years, but with only one client. After Hurricane Harvey, the need for skilled workers boomed, and Watson became part of the team. He had been working in retail and service management when he saw the ad. He met with the national sales manager of Condustrial, and “the next thing I know is I’m in training in South Carolina, and I’m learning all about Condustrial and what it does. And I really liked what I saw.” The Houston branch is the only Condustrial office west of the Mississippi. Their headquarters is in Greenville, SC. Watson came on board January 2018. “My first goal is to expand this office,” he said. It’s possible that Condustrial could expand further into Texas, like Dallas or Austin. Condustrial’s clients are the companies who need workers. Its employees are the workers. “They work for us,” Watson said. “They’re on our payroll.” Condustrial ensures that when they send a worker to a Company X, that worker is qualified and ready to go. All employees will have undergone a five-panel drug test (more if requested) and have all the proper certifications and licenses if that skill requires regulating. Further, Watson will ask for references. “Anyone can have a piece of paper,” he said, “but the people they’ve worked for will paint a truer picture.” Being so thorough with

the vetting process is a win-win: “It increases their value to us as well as our value to the client.” Condustrial must be doing something right in terms of being of value to its clients, as it was Build Magazine’s winner as the top construction recruiter for 2018. Watson enjoys a friendly rivalry with the other two main offices on the east coast, both in South Carolina. It’s game on in terms of finding new folks. He’s already placed people in west Texas, Virginia and Florida. Condustrial isn’t in the quick-fix market, but focuses on long-term solutions for its clients. “We really stress to them [their clients] that this is not a one-hit wonder business.” They don’t provide day laborers, even if the particular job is for a short-term project. They’re in it for the long haul. Condustrial offers its employees a full package of benefits, and will handle all HR issues should something arise. A general rule of thumb, however, is no news is pretty much good news. Watson will interface with both his personnel in the field and the company. The worker works for Condustrial, but is supervised and directed by the Company X. Watson likes to stay in close communication with both parties. There can be an ebb and flow to what clients need. After Hurricane Harvey, drywallers and carpenters were in big demand. And, oddly, during a time of robust economy - like now - it can be harder to find good workers as there aren’t as many people looking for work because they already are working. “We just have to dig deeper,” Watson said. In fact, after Hurricane Harvey, Condustrial heavily stocked a restoration company with 125 people. Condustrial stands ready to help you get the job done. Condustrial, Inc., is a construction industry workforce recruiter, with an office in Houston. -dsz

Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

Page 3

Taking the ICE

he Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) Greater Houston Chapter hosted their 2018 Excellence in Construction Awards Gala to acknowledge the commitment ABC members dedicate to safety and excellence during the construction of their projects. The event was held at the beautiful Ballroom at Bayou Place. Member companies anxiously awaited as Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale, the event’s master of ceremony, announced the winners of the prestigious “ICE” Awards. Congratulations to all. –cmw 2018 Excellence in Construction Merit Award winners: Specialty Construction – Other Cherry Companies - Southmore St. Bridge Removal Finish Interior – Masonry Camarata Masonry Systems Ltd. – West Memorial Place Phase 1 Finish Interior – Masonry Camarata Masonry Systems Ltd. - 10100 Katy Freeway

Finish Interior – Masonry Camarata Masonry Systems Ltd. - Methodist Woodlands Finish Interior – Masonry Camarata Masonry Systems Ltd. – 600 Jefferson Heavy Industrial – Maintenance/Small Cap Craig & Heidt Inc. – East-West Road at Lyondell CVO Commercial D.E. Harvey Builders – Dow Texas Innovation Center Interior Rogers-O’Brien Construction – WeWork 708 Main Project Interior Turner Construction – EDF Trading Interior Turner Construction - United Airlines Polaris Lounge IAH Terminal E Finish Exterior Haley-Greer Inc. – IUOE Training & Conference Center Finish Exterior Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing – The Buckingham

Finish Exterior Camarata Masonry Systems Ltd. – Hotel ZaZa Finish Exterior Camarata Masonry Systems Ltd. – Sam Houston State University S. Residence Complex Heavy Industrial Construction PCL Industrial Construction Co. – OG&#E Mustang Simple Cycle Project Heavy Industrial Construction Performance Contractors Inc. – OXEA Corporation Propanol 2 Project Other Specialty – Commercial MAREK Sawing and Drilling LLC – Ben Taub Hospital Kitchen Renovation Finish Interior & Exterior Fast Track Specialties – Fast Track Specialties Building Finish Interior & Exterior Oxford Builders – Southwest Police Station Finish Interior – Drywall GMI – Market Square Tower Finish Interior – Drywall MAREK Brothers Systems Inc. – Polaris Club

Finish Interior – Drywall MAREK Brothers Systems Inc. – Texas A&M University Softball Stadium Commercial – Other Turner Construction – Alamodome Institutional – Publicly Funded D.E. Harvey Builders – University of Houston Indoor Practice Facility Institutional – Publicly Funded E.E. Reed Construction LP – Lone Star College Institutional – Publicly Funded Satterfield & Pontikes Construction Inc. – Klein Cain High School

Specialty Construction – Other Aggregate Technologies – 1-69 TxDOT Emergency Bridge Repair

Other Specialty – Commercial Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing – 1600 West Loop South

Electrical MMR – Shell Deer Park Olefins Flare Gas Recovery Project

Light Industrial E.E. Reed Construction LP – Wismer Distributing

Commercial – Other Manhattan Construction Company – Minute Maid Park Center Field Renovations

Heavy Industrial – Maintenance/Small Cap Standard Constructors Inc. – Dow Lake Jackson Pump Station

Finish Exterior Camarata Masonry Systems Ltd. – Hines Market Square

Heavy Industrial Construction S & B Engineers and Constructors Ltd. – Lone Star NGL Frac V Project

Finish Interior – Masonry Camarata Masonry Systems Ltd. – Texas Children’s Hospital

Heavy Industrial – Turnaround/Shutdown Starcon International Inc. – Dow Deer Park NAREA Turnaround

Residential Hoar Construction – The Ascent at Victory Park

Heavy Industrial – Mega Construction KBR – Koch Enid Expansion Project

Institutional – Publicly Funded White Construction Company – Sam Houston State University – Bernard G. Johnson Coliseum Renovation

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Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

Litigious personal injury (PI) attorney-driven climate on commercial auto – Must address directly with your driver group

Part II: What are the accounting methods for long-term contracts? Scott Allen, CPA, Tax Partner Cornwell Jackson Plano, TX

Wes Pitts, Sr. V.P. and Southwest Regional Construction Practice Leader for USI Southwest USI Southwest Austin, TX

re you compliant? There are nuances to this area of the federal tax code. To prepare for the changes in 2018, each company should review accounting methods for long-term contracts with a CPA knowledgeable in this area of the federal tax code.

The following are the primary accounting methods for long-term contracts, explained briefly, for smaller and larger contractors. Smaller Contractors - Ave. Gross Receipts < $10 million (or < $25 million starting in 2018) Completed Contract Method • No revenue is reported or costs deducted until the contract is complete: • Generally considered complete when 95% of expected costs have been incurred • Aggressive billing and collections do not impact income • Biggest tax deferral opportunity The disadvantages of this method occur when several contracts finish in the same year, causing a spike in income and a spike in the tax rate. Contractors also cannot deduct losses on a contract until the job is complete. Note that home contracts are exempt from Section 460 and that the completed contract method is generally used by home builders. Cash Method • Revenue reported when collected • Costs deducted when paid • Large deferral opportunities by managing billings and acceleration of payment of costs The disadvantages of the cash accounting method with long-term contracts is that contractors must spend cash to claim deductions and delay receipts to defer income, which is counter to smart business planning. Aggressive billing may result in acceleration of income. Also, a declining economy could mean large tax bills in down years due to the inevitable reversal of income deferrals. Accrual Method • Revenue reported when billed • Costs deducted when incurred The disadvantages to the accrual accounting method are that aggressive billing generally results in acceleration of revenue, accrued losses on contracts are not deductible until the job is complete and tax planning techniques may be counter to business planning. Percentage of Completion Method • Ongoing recognition of revenue and income, computed by the stage of project completion when compared to total costs to complete the project • Based on estimated future costs The disadvantages to the percentage of completion accounting method are that accrued losses on contracts are not deductible and income can be accelerated due to things like uninstalled materials charged to jobs, overbillings by subcontractors or underestimated total costs to complete a job. The accuracy of the meth-

od is dependent upon the accuracy of estimates. Inaccurate estimates could result in inaccurate reporting of tax. A Note About Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) For C-corporations, AMT was repealed for 2018 forward. The 2018 tax law increased the AMT exemptions for individuals, however AMT continues to apply. Percentage of completion is required for AMT purposes. Thus the difference in income between percentage of completion and the income under the taxpayer’s method of accounting for long-term contracts is an adjustment for AMT purposes. If the contractor is organized as a partnership, Scorporation, or sole proprietorship, the owners should evaluate the effect of AMT when selecting their accounting method. Home builders, as an exception, are permitted to use the completed contract method for AMT. Larger Contractors Ave. Gross Receipts > $10 million (or > $25 million starting in 2018). Larger contractors are required to use the Percentage of Completion method under Code Section 460. To offset the potential for accelerated income, companies may elect a 10% method, which defers recognition of revenue or costs until a job is at least 10% complete. This method is also allowable under AMT. It may be useful in instances when a contract commences toward the end of a tax year. Larger companies are also required to use a look-back approach once a job is complete. Income in prior years is recalculated using actual costs, which may result in a change in gross profit for the prior year. Tax is recalculated and compared to tax actually paid for the year. Interest is calculated on the resulting over or under payment. Code Section 460 also requires companies to allocate certain overhead costs to contracts. This may provide a deferral opportunity if the contractor is diligent in estimating overhead costs that may be allocated to the contract in future years. For more information on Tax Law Changes and how they will affect your company, read December’s Accounting Column. Scott Allen, CPA, joined Cornwell Jackson as a Tax Partner in 2016, bringing his expertise in the Construction and Oil and Gas industries and 25 years of experience in the accounting field. As the Partner in Charge of the Tax practice at Cornwell Jackson, Scott provides proactive tax planning and tax compliance to all Cornwell Jackson tax clients. Contact him at Scott.Allen@cornwelljackson.com or 972-202-8032

ave you seen your Auto rates steadily increasing over the last several years? You are not alone, it’s happening on all commercial insurance accounts across the board regardless of your own individual account’s auto experience – an 8% bump, 10% bump, even 15% or more are becoming more and more common! Commercial Auto (the Business Auto Policy line) is at the top of all underwriter’s radar screens right now. Why? The Personal Injury attorneys are having a field day on Auto, and you can’t avoid seeing their advertising in just about every kind of media outlet today. Just think for a minute how often daily you hear or see, “Have you been hurt by a company truck, call us know, we can get you the money you deserve, we’re standing by, etc., etc.” These attorneys have become experts at leveraging all aspects of how you the employer were negligent in the case of your driver’s accident on behalf of your company – how you hired the driver, how you vetted your driver (MVR program), experience and training, negligent entrustment, your written policies for safe driving including distracted driving acknowledged by all drivers, written documentation of maintenance of the vehicle, etc. (think of these as defenses). For all we know many of your employees may have the misconception that these PI firms are their friends and allies out there looking out for the employee’s best interests. In fact, these PI firms are costing employers millions of dollars in increased auto rates, which at the end of the day can and will affect employer’s bottom lines, and that could mean impacts to salaries, raises, bonuses, etc., and this is what the employees don’t realize. As an agent in this marketplace dealing with ever increasing auto rates daily and working diligently with underwriters trying to demonstrate the we have best-in-class insureds that are doing everything right, there’s a big picture strategy that we feel strikes into the heart of this problem better than anything else. We have to get out and talk directly to our insured’s drivers! Insureds today should expect their agent to be coming out and holding sessions with their driver groups to address and explain the big picture problem, key them in on why this is important to them, what is fueling the poor performing line (not only the PI’s, but also growth in fleet

size, higher vehicle values and repair costs, our ever-increasing traffic problem – all a perfect storm homed in on the Auto line! The session should address how underwriting has a keen eye on them as drivers, what is a loss ratio, how they/their employer are performing, what their frequency and trends are on Auto, what their goals should be, and what their costs are now and more importantly what their costs could be. Goals should be set with the drivers and demonstrate to them what are considered the best, good to average, higher, and the highest auto rates on a typical light class service truck, and show them where they don’t want to be going on that spectrum. Then after they understand all that, is when we begin to go into safe and defensive driving strategies with the drivers, almost like a refresher course on basic concepts of safe and defensive driving. The session should be interactive and encourage participation and involvement from the driver group. The presentation should show statistics, and have imbedded videos that show accidents and the pains of losses that can occur because of their driving decisions. A lot of time should be spent on the fastest up and coming crash cause, distracted driving with the use of cell phones and similar devices. You take a look at your Auto line and you see the last 5 years’ experience shows three to five claims a year, but several have large reserves when your driver and investigation showed you the people were up and about just fine at the accident scene – this is the issue, a week later these people (claimants) hire the PI and now all of the sudden they have all kinds of problems and your carrier puts up a $25,000. reserve on the Auto BI-Liability. One light truck on average moderately generates about $1,500 a year in full coverage premium, you see the issue? Rates are moving up because of this, but getting out in front of the drivers and discussing this whole situation is an excellent big picture step, and we’re confident that getting their buy-in will make a significant difference for your company over the long haul with this issue. Wes Pitts is a Sr. Vice President and Southwest Regional Construction Practice Leader for USI Southwest - Austin, TX. 512-651-4107, or Wesley.pitts@usi.com

Construction News ON LOCATION

Visiting with Coburn’s

Coburn’s in Conroe, TX visits with Construction News. L-R Back Row: Leotis Warren, Mike Davila, Trey Kennedy, Todd Hatchcock, Laura Coker, Julie Pitts, Todd Blavat, Matt Gregg, Daniel Whitehead and Tim Fielder. L-R Front Row: Adam Andreason, John Chandler, Virginia Davis, Ken Snow, Willie Ceaser and Oscar Quezada. -cmw

Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

Page 5

Design defects threaten Texas contractors

Is 911 your confined space rescue plan?

Shelly Masters, Principal Cokinos | Young Austin, TX

Joann Natarajan Compliance Assistance Specialist OSHA Austin, TX

any Texas contractors wrongly assume they have no responsibility for errors or omissions in plans and specifications. To the contrary, Texas courts have held contractors – not owners – bear the risk and liability of deficient plans when the contract is silent on the issue. Unlike most states, Texas contractors remain largely unprotected for the errors and omissions of architects. Texas courts have refused to follow what is known nationwide as the “Spearin Doctrine” – a federal court ruling that an owner of a construction project has an implied duty to provide the contractor with accurate plans and specifications. If a contractor builds according to the owner’s plans and specifications, the contractor will not be responsible for the consequences of any defects in those documents. Thus, the contractor is relieved of liability to the owner if its work is defective due to following the design documents provided by the owner. Instead, Texas follows the holding by the Texas Supreme Court in the Lonergan case wherein the court stated: There is no more reason why the [owner] should be held responsible for the alleged defects in the specifications that it did not discover for want of skill and knowledge of the business of an architect, than there is for holding [the contractor] to be bound by their acceptance of the defective plans which they understood as well as the [owner] did, and in all probability much better. The fact that [the contractor] contracted to construct the building according to the specifications furnished implied that they understood the plans. ... If there be any obligation resting upon the [owner], as guarantor of the sufficiency of the specifications, it must be found expressed in the language of the contract, or there must be found in that contract such language as would justify the court in concluding that the parties intended that the [owner] should guarantee the sufficiency of the specifications to [the contractor]. Because Texas law does not follow the Spearin doctrine, contractors must bear the risk of design deficiencies in the absence of contract provisions otherwise allocating this risk. Further, contractors have no direct claim for negligence against architects for damages incurred as a result of design errors or omissions.

Houston

Avoid entering into contracts with language meant to shift the risk of loss from design errors or omissions onto the contractor through the use of specific disclaimers making the contractor the guarantor of the adequacy of the plans and specifications. Limitations should also be placed on language requiring the contractor to thoroughly inspect the site and design documents and otherwise assume responsibility for any errors therein. Beware – the more specific and detailed the clause, the more likely it will be enforced. Contractors should aggressively negotiate very specific provisions negating liability for design errors based on the scope of work of the project. For example, contractors have successfully shifted the risk back to the owner with contract language expressly stating that the contractor shall be entitled to rely on the accuracy of information furnished by the owner; the contractor shall not be liable to the owner or architect for damage resulting from errors or omissions in the contract documents; and, the contractor’s review of plans and specifications are made in the contractor’s capacity as a contractor and not as a licensed design professional. Shelly Masters is a Principal in the Austin office of Cokinos | Young, a firm specializing in the representation of those in the construction industry for almost 30 years. She represents clients in the areas of construction, labor and employment, commercial, and products liability law. Her firm also has offices in Dallas, Houston and San Antonio. She can be reached by e-mail at smasters@cokinoslaw.com or by phone at (512) 615-1139.

CONSTRUCTION NEWS

Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Buddy Doebbler Editorial/Production . . . . . . Reesa Doebbler Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carol Wiatrek Production Manager . . . . Helen Greenwood Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Terri Adams Account Manager . . . . . . . . . . . Dana Calonge Editors

Carol Wiatrek Lexie Velasquez

As a result, a contractor’s primary tool for limiting risk and liability is by agreement. Contractors must carefully review and revise construction contract language to reduce or eliminate such risk. Texas courts have upheld such contract provisions.

Daniel Zulli Reesa Doebbler

Contributing Editors

Melissa Jones-Meyer Ann Keil Jesse Abercrombie Houston Area Counties Harris, Galveston, Fort Bend and Montgomery counties Construction News Ltd. Home Office P.O. Box 791290 • San Antonio, Tx 78279 210-308-5800 Fax 210-308-5960 www.ConstructionNews.net

AustinEditor@ConstructionNews.net HoustonEditor@ConstructionNews.net

Visit our Website to sign up for a free monthly Digital Subscription www.ConstructionNews.net The Houston Construction News (ISSN 1547-7630) is published monthly by Construction News LTD., dba Houston Construction News, and distributed by mail to construction-related companies in Houston and surrounding counties. All submissions should be mailed to our editorial offices. We reserve the right to edit any materials submitted. No fees for materials, copy or photographs submitted will be due unless agreed upon in advance in writing. Submissions will be published at our discretion on a space available basis. Construction News, Ltd. , dba Houston Construction News, will not be liable for errors in copy or in advertisements beyond the actual cost of space occupied by the error. Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement at any time. ©2018 Construction News, Ltd.

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ermit-required confined spaces can present conditions that are immediately dangerous to workers’ lives or health if not properly identified, evaluated, tested and controlled. OSHA has developed a standard for Confined Spaces in Construction (29 CFR 1926 Subpart AA) for any space that meets all of the following criteria: • Is large enough for a worker to enter; • Has limited means of entry or exit; and • Is not designed for continuous occupancy. One provision of the standard requires employers to develop and implement procedures for summoning rescue or emergency services in permit-required confined spaces. An employer who relies on local emergency services for assistance is required to meet the requirements of §1926.1211 — Rescue and emergency services. OSHA recognizes that not all rescue services or emergency responders are trained and equipped to conduct confined space rescues. When employers identify an off-site rescue service, it is critical that the rescuers can protect their employees. The emergency services should be familiar with the exact site location, types of permit-required confined spaces and the necessary rescue equipment. Calling emergency responders to provide rescue services can be a suitable way of providing for rescues in a permitrequired confined space. Preplanning will ensure that the emergency service is capable, available and prepared. Prior to the start of the rescue work operation, employers must evaluate prospective emergency responders and select one that has adequate equipment for rescues, such as atmospheric monitors, fall protection, extraction equipment, and self-contained breathing ap-

paratus (SCBA) for the particular permitrequired confined spaces. The emergency responder must have the ability to respond and conduct a rescue in a timely manner based on the site conditions and is capable of conducting a rescue if faced with potential hazards specific to the space. Such hazards may include atmospheric hazards (e.g., flammable vapors, low oxygen), electrocution (e.g., unprotected, energized wires), flooding or engulfment potential, poor lighting, fall hazards and chemical hazards. Agreed to notify the employer in the event that the rescue team becomes unavailable. Employers must also inform the emergency responders of potential hazards when they are called to perform a rescue at the worksite; and provide emergency responders with access to all permit-required confined spaces. Emergency responders must be provided with information on access routes, gates or landmarks, a project site plan if necessary, and GPS coordinates if in a remote location. Employers should ensure that the most efficient means to contact emergency responders is available, any changes to the project site conditions are communicated to the rescue service, and emergency responders are willing to visit the site and conduct a joint training exercise with the employer. natarajan.joann@dol.gov 512-374-0271 x232

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT & WHY? Papacito’s--very good food. Marilyn Peterson, SealMaster

It is fresh seafood with a good combination of sushi and a salad together.

New York Pizza. I grew up with it and just love pizza. You can’t beat the size of New York Pizza. Robert Chpangco, ACY Industries

Ryon Oates, The Door Guys I’d say Pappasito’s Cantina because I like the food and whenever my kids come to town they like it. I mean I did install ceilings there, but I think if I am going purely by food that is the place we always go to. It’s good Mexican food at a reasonable price. Glenn Eldridge, Chelsea Decorative Metal Co.

Floyd’s in Cypress, Texas. Great Cajun food with a fun atmosphere. Daryl Watson, Condustrial, Inc. Ruggle’s Black. The paleo crab pasta is the best! Lindsay Harrington, Masonry Revival My NEW favorite restaurant is Del Frisco’s Grille at Hughes Landing in The Woodlands. The bone-in filet cooked Pittsburg style is second to none. They have a nice environment and friendly staff. Dan Pinnell, The Pinnell Group, LLC Seaside Poke, it is a sushi and salad place.

There is a place in Simonton called Anthonie’s Grill. It is the best food around. The chef is amazing and everything on the menu is phenomenal. Ricki Abney Jr., Houston Post Tension Jason’s Deli - I love it. Nothing fancy, but, man, do they have good food. Rodolfo Fernández, Eskala

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Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

Jonathan Greene President J.A. Greene Construction Services LLC Cypress, TX

nderstanding the value of each client and leveraging his experience and integrity to ensure success has always driven Jonathan Greene. This drive has helped shape the client advocacy people have come to know from J.A. Greene Construction Services. Share about your start in construction. In high school, I took a drafting class, and that’s where it all began; that’s what I wanted to do. In high school, I did some competitions and it piqued my interest. I went to college at Sam Houston State University and majored in design and development. During college, a buddy and I started designing custom homes on the side to get some industry experience. After realizing that we would need experience with our college degrees, we continued designing custom homes for two years. For me, those two years really planted the seed of business ownership. Learning how to ‘land’ a paying client and then maintain the client’s expectations was the basic start of where I am today. I graduated in 2004, and I worked at a residential drafting company in Conroe for about eight months. Then, one of my college professors connected me with a developer in The Woodlands and I went to work for them, which is where I started my career in commercial design and construction. I was a senior project designer but I did everything; I designed retail buildings, bid it out, and built it all in-house, which was a feat in and of itself for a young kid right out of college. While working for that developer, I did many different types of projects and work for many different types of clients, from hotels to cancer clinics to retail centers to a bridal shop and everywhere in between. When did you begin to think about owning your own company? While working for the developer in The Woodlands, I did a build-out for John Masserano, one of the developer’s

tenants. John did nationwide project development for dentists. I ended up going to work for John as a consultant and director of project management. Working for John really taught me I could run a business; John helped guide the development of my temperament and overall confidence that I had the skill set to do it. John challenged my design skills and really opened my mind to not only my possibilities, but the overall possibilities within the design world. John, much like the developer I worked for previously, was a mentor to me. John helped form my mindset of client advocacy, which to this day is still a guiding principal and what sets J.A. Greene apart from our competition. When did you decide to strike out on your own? As I mentioned previously, John got me started, figuratively and literally. John moved his company to New York and I was in a position to retain some of his clients in the Houston area and leverage the many relationships I had already built. As they say, the rest is history. I started a business with a partner in The Woodlands designing and building dental/veterinary offices. We were successful! After three years, I had a once-in-alifetime opportunity come my way, so I sold the company to my then-business partner. I then went on to have the honor of building the Pleasure Pier in Galveston for Landry’s. Rebuilding a dilapidated pier to its former glory from the 1940’s still remains one of my crowning achievements, especially given my age at the time. I ended up developing another 25 or so restaurants all over the nation for Landry’s, gaining a wealth of knowledge that only comes with experience. After that, I started J.A. Greene Construction Services. What motivated you to open your second business? Generally speaking, having found success owning my first business, I always had the ‘itch’ to go back to business ownership. Call it unfinished business or motivation, I knew I would end up starting another business and knew I could not wait too long, so I started J.A. Greene. J.A. Greene was the company I was groomed to own and a dream come true. Being 100% in control, I was able to lay the foundation for a company who’s employees carry the same mentality I do with the same work ethic. How has the company evolved? When we started, we were doing dental offices and some veterinary work here and there. It was just me and one superintendent working out of my house. Now we do retail centers, office buildings, restaurants, restaurants chains, warehouses, and, of course, doctors offices (dental, veterinary, optometry, dermatology, internal medicine, etc.) – just about every type of commercial

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Visiting with Coburn’s

The Greene family. L-R: Addison, Jackson, Leila and Jonathan

construction that’s out there. We have also started real estate development, which was my first big dream back when I worked for the developer in The Woodlands. Having purchased land, developed the land, and now having tenants, we have a better appreciation for what our clients go through and share a unique perspective for our clients now that we have ‘walked in their shoes,’ from a real estate development standpoint. One of the things we do differently is profoundly simple: empathy. We adjust our way of conducting business to suit our client because we realize the design/ construction process can be daunting. We are empathetic in our advocacy, our explanations, and our willingness to do what the clients asks. We want them to feel like we are in their corner, fighting for them. One of the simplest ways we do this is regarding changes or ‘change orders.’ Let’s face it, everyone changes their minds and I mean EVERYONE. Instead of ignoring these changes or trying to take advantage of them. we embrace them and try to draw them out during different stages of construction as to not cost the client additional money. Additionally, we have a doctor who puts on a J.A. Greene shirt and comes to trade shows with us to help meet new clients. This doctor also provides consultation throughout the entire process of opening new offices for us. What do you enjoy about your work? I enjoy working for the clients. Being a business owner, I can sympathize with what they’re about to go through and with my consultant background, I want to help them and I feel like I can help them. We’ve been successful in doing so for five or six years now. Quarterbacking that process is the most gratifying aspect of what I do. Is your business involved in community-minded efforts? Before Hurricane Harvey we would conduct food drives, sponsor families for Christmas, and handful of other smaller donations. After Hurricane Harvey that changed; we wanted to do more and our construction background put us in position to do some real good. We did our part around different neighborhoods, demolishing some houses, helping some people rebuild, and helping a few businesses get back on their feet. We did not bill a single person we helped! Our entire company stepped up, working weekends to help, which is something I am very proud of. I personally witnessed clients who had lost their business and home in tears, paralyzed not knowing what to do or where to turn. I knew then our efforts would have to be more consistent. We have begun companywide volunteering with Hope Disaster Recovery, committing to one day a month for the foreseeable future. Each year, we sponsor a few events for the Aldine/Spring/Klein rodeo committee, on which one of my superintendents serves. This year, we’re also doing CANSTRUCTION. We will be donating toys and hosting food drives too.

We’re also an affiliate with the University of Houston’s construction college. We’re able to get interns from them whenever it’s needed; the interns get college credit for working for us. How do you enjoy your time when you aren’t working? I have a wife, Leila, an 8-year-old daughter, Addison, and a 5-year-old son, Jackson; my kids are the “J” and the “A” of J.A. Greene. Leila is a stay-at-home mom and also teaches part-time at Steppin Time PAC, a dance studio in Cypress. She does a lot of volunteer work at the elementary school where the kids go. Jackson likes science, solar systems and sharks. Addison is into dance and she loves swimming. We’re big Disney people and we go to Disney too much – my favorite Disney character is probably Peter Pan! I’m am a workaholic, I love what I do so it does not feel like work. Between coaching my son’s basketball team, soccer games, my daughter’s dance recitals, working out, and late meetings with doctors does not leave a whole lot of time for a personal life, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I do some volunteering back at my college, Sam Houston State University, for my fraternity. I am helping them build and brand-new fraternity house pro bono. Do your kids visit you at the office? They come here once or twice a week The other thing about my company, from a family standpoint, is my mom Jeri Young is my accountant and my brother Gabe Greene works here part-time doing contract work while he starts his own business. It’s great to work with family; you can trust them without question, especially my mom from an accountant standpoint. She has control of the money, which is always an important part of running a business. And she has background in it; she worked for a large landscaping company as their accountant. She retired and I pulled her out of retirement. What are your plans for the future? I spend a lot of my time in the future as I am often working on preliminary work for projects that may be a year down the road, so our future is really something to be proud of. The client base we have built and the confidence others place in us is fantastic. We plan on doing a few larger projects over the next few years in addition to our bread and butter of tenant improvements. We hope to start doing more development projects and focus on property ownership as a long-term investment strategy for J.A. Greene (or JAG Properties). We also look to maintain our relationships with past clients. What I’ve found is all of our contacts that we’ve made in the past, some of those people want to start their second or third location. I want more of the same. What I do and how we do it is perfect for me. It’s hard to complain – but I hope we don’t get any more hurricanes! Commercial general contractor J.A. Greene is in Houston. –mjm

Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

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Preparing for winter fishing by Capt. Steve Schultz Sponsored by: Waypoint Marine, Shoalwater Boats, Evinrude Outboards, Fishing Tackle Unlimited, E-Z Bel Construction, Costa Sunglasses, Diawa Reels, Simms Fishing, ForEverlast Fishing Products, Interstate Batteries, MirrOlure, JL Marines PowerPole, AFW and AFTCO Clothing

very November, sportsman are faced with the decision on whether to go hunting or fishing on their days off from work. It’s really is a tough choice to make after cold fronts start arriving here along the coast, because you know there is an opportunity to see a big buck standing at your feeder and there’s also a chance to catch a giant gator trout on your next cast with your favorite corky lure. I can recall many days at the ranch when the weather turns out to be so perfect and I look at the guys and say, “We should be fishing!” Well, all I can say is either of the two is ok with me. Fall/winter fishing has been getting so popular in the last several years because there is less pressure on the bay system. Anglers are able to get to their favorite fishing hole without worrying if someone will be there or if it’s already been fished out. This is the time of the year where you take your time getting to the ramp, perhaps stopping for a taco and coffee before you hit the water. Plan

Mike Rodriguez of San Antonio wrestled this 32-inch redfish last month while on an outing with Steve Schultz Outdoors.

your day on the water according to the major and minor feeding times to optimize your time on the water. Use the sun to your advantage, keeping in mind that shallow water warms up quicker than deeper water. Take advantage of the whole day by sticking it out when the bite is off. You have already invested the time and money to get on the water, so don’t blow the day off when you don’t catch them in the morning. Winter fishing can be very rewarding if you are willing to be patient and put in the effort it takes to grind through the day with just a few bites. This type of fishing isn’t for everyone. Most seasoned an-

What kind of outdoor are you?

ver since we began our first Construction News paper in October 1998 for the San Antonio area, the center of the paper has always been devoted to outdoor. Each paper after that in Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth and Houston has followed the same path. The folks in our industry work hard and play hard and The Great Outdoors section is a place to show your peers just how much fun YOU

are having and making them a little jealous is okay too. Hunting, fishing and other types of outdoor adventures are always welcome. Don’t be shy and there is never a cost. So contact your Construction News editor and be a part of the Great Outdoors. Buddy Doebbler Publisher

This 27.5-inch, 7.3 lb. redfish was just heavy enough to land Robert Meyers a third place trophy in the San Antonio Pipeliners Tournament.

glers who have spent many hours on the water know what I’m talking about. These trips are not for a newcomer that expects lots of action like we have during the summer. As you get older you understand what I’m talking about. Can’t tell you how many times a young boy, heck even my boys, have asked, “Why are we not catching any fish or seeing any bucks as we sit in a deer blind?” All of these questions are answered with time spent on the water and in the brush and make success very gratifying. For the remainder of the season and the start of 2019, I will be concentrating my efforts wading for trophy trout in Baf-

fin Bay and Port Mansfield. Wade fishing and throwing artificial lures will be the main techniques. I will also be spending lots of time in the South Texas brush searching for someone’s next trophy whitetail. If you are interested in pursuing either of these adventures, don’t hesitate in giving me a call. My 2019 calendar is now open for bookings for the entire fishing season. To schedule your next bay fishing trip or hunting adventure give Capt. Steve Schultz a call at 361-813-3716 or e-mail me at SteveSchultzOutdoors@gmail. com. Good Luck and Good Fishing.

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Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

Ken Milam’s Fishing Line Since 1981, Ken Milam has been guiding fishing trips for striped bass on Lake Buchanan in the Texas Hill Country, You can hear Ken on the radio as follows: The Great Outdoors: 5-8 am Saturday on 1300, The Zone, Austin and The Great Outdoors: 5-7 am Saturday on 1200 WOAI San Antonio The Sunday Sportsman: 6-8 am Sunday on 1300, The Zone, Austin All on iHeart Radio

Patterns

esterday it was 90 degrees with hellish humidity so bad you couldn’t go outside without sweat droplets chasing each other down your back. Today it is 40 degrees with a 25 mph wind driving heavy rain into you at a 45 degree angle. Welcome to Texas. A lot of us natives really don’t feel the need to travel and experience new things because if you just sit still all the weather will eventually come to you! We are creatures of habit. It’s nice to just roll out of bed and dress like yesterday and go and do usual stuff without having to think about it. That doesn’t work with this climate! We go from having to try and stay cool to trying to get warm with not much just right in between. At least we can influence the environment that we inhabit to get comfortable. The wild things we share this world with are not as lucky. If you hunt or fish and learn about the creatures you seek, you understand that they are largely influenced by things like temperature and daylight hours. These are the cues that tell animals (and plants too) what they should be doing in their life cycle on a biological level. Everything revolves around spawning and rutting and creating the next generation and raising them to independence. It tells natural things when to seek shelter and wait and when to surge ahead to feed and succeed. Is it any wonder that hunting and fishing are such a challenge? Yesterday was just another lazy summer day to be endured. Stripers have been in that end of summer shut down mode for weeks now. They don’t like the kind of temperatures our Texas waters get up to. The shorter days have cooled them a little and they have been trying to find enough cool water to spur them into action, but it

just hasn’t been enough to get them going and keep them at it. I bet they will get the message after this cold spell. This is the weather they have been waiting for! Now they will get the clear message that it’s time to school up, chase shad and eat everything they can catch to they can be strong and healthy to spawn in the spring. Striper and Hybrid fishing is about to take off! It’s time to be thinking about booking those holiday fishing trips now! If you hunt, you know how deer need to get some cold weather to spark them into their rutting season. That’s when hunting gets the best. A good fisherman learns how to adapt his bait and presentation for each kind of day. A real hunter can feel the weather and know if the deer or birds will be moving and foraging for food or laying up waiting for better weather. A lucky hunter or fisherman is one who gets a few days in a row that allow him to find and use a pattern of attack that has brought success before! The more time you spend outdoors, the more patterns you learn to respond to. The more you go, the more you know! And don’t forget to bring the kids because they need to learn too!

Half or Full Day Fishing Trips All Bait, Tackle & Equipment Furnished Your catch Filleted and Bagged for You Furnish your TPWD Fishing License & Refreshments, and WE DO THE REST!

Ken Milam Guide Service (325) 379-2051 www.striperfever.com

Call us for a Company Profile (210) 308-5800

Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

Page 9

A growing family

Brand new lineup

L-R: Raba-Kistner Vice President & COO Tom Burr and Timber Creek Environmental Charles “Dude” Hall make the acquisition of TCE official.

t the beginning of October, the Raba-Kistner Inc. (RK) family grew with the acquisition of Timber Creek Environmental (TCE). Based in Conroe and with additional offices in San Antonio and Dallas, TCE will become part of the RK environmental division. Charles “Dude” Hall established Timber Creek with the core competencies of Environmental Compliance, Geosciences and Natural Resource Management in 2013. “TCE is well respected in the environmental field due to their experienced, committed staff, strong client relationships, and innovative project solutions that they have provided to their clients. Their growth in five years is nothing short of phenomenal,” said Tom Burr, Senior Vice President and COO of Raba Kistner’s environmental division. “They are a great cultural fit for Raba Kistner, as a result, and will support multiple components of Raba Kistner’s strategic growth plan.” Raba-Kistner wanted more ways to help their clients and provide solutions for their clients and Timber Creek pro-

vides a good range of services, particularly in the area of environmental compliance that will compliment the services already provided by the RK. “TCE’s background with the manufacturing/industrial sector and with major national clients strengthens our position in this sector,” said Joe Irizarry, CMO and Senior Vice President of Raba Kistner, Inc. “We have served industrial clients for almost 50 years. TCE expands our range of environmental services and gives us even more ways to provide solutions for our clients.” Over the next 90 days TCE will be transitioning their name into Raba-Kistner. “We are excited because we can help their clients in more ways with other services that we do, but we can extend the unique things Timber Creek brings to our clients to all the markets we serve. I think it is going to be very complimentary to all involved and especially to our clients,” adds Irizarry. Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, Raba Kistner Inc. is a full-service engineering firm. -cmw

Robert Chupangco, owner of ACY Industries (left), with a customer friend in Brazil.

ometimes a manager has to shake up his lineup with new players. This is what Robert Chupungco, president of ACY Industries, did with his stable of stone and quartz products. When the paper recycling business in New York City had a down turn, Chupangco moved to the stone world, moving to Houston to work for Avanti Stone. From Avanti, Chupangco got with a friend and started his own company in March 2018. “ACY” stands for “All Commodity Yards.” ACY supplies and distributes natural stone and other stone products. The big news for 2019, is ACY will be launching its new line up of quartz products, called the “Lux” line. Chupancgo says the Lux line will feature colors and designs that are new and unique to the stone world. A new color that Chupangco is excited about is called Black Mamba, which will be introduced to Texas and the U.S. “I had this crazy idea to elevate this company where you come in and we have everything you need,” Chupangco said. The

goal is to have high quality at good prices. Chupangco has gone to Brazil to get Black Mamba and hand pick the new line up. After getting feedback from other contractors and customers, containers of the black quartz have been ordered. The new quartz colors will be offered in Texas only, while the natural stone products are available in Louisiana, Oklahoma, Mississippi and Texas. In addition to stone products, Chupangco will also be offering new designs and models in cabinets and sinks. Plus, ACY will going from strictly residential to more commercial, retail, restaurant, condominium and apartment projects. Every baseball team not only makes new line ups from time to time, shaking up the batting order, but they’ll bring in new players via free agency or the minor leagues, to spice things up. With the new line of products and colors and styles coming in, ACY is ready to make a run at the pennant. ACY Industries is a stone distributor in Houston. -dsz

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Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

The love of the job

First ever for MCA

he Mechanical Contractors Association (MCA) Houston produced its first ever Top Gun Team Handgun and Rifle Shoot at the Athena Gun Club. The event was held on Oct.19 with 21 participating teams plus a number of MCA members who came just to watch and enjoy the fellowship. All were treated to lunch catered by Demeris Catering. -cmw

Ricki Abney Jr., Angela Jordy and Jeff Jordy

e has been running around the same warehouse since 1979. Of course, Ricki Abney Jr. was just a toddler back then. Since those fond memories of running around, in Nov. 2017, Abney Jr. took over the production side for Houston Post Tension, when his father [Ricki Abney Sr.] retired and moved to Colorado. His sister Angela Jordy took over the office operations and her husband Jeff Jordy runs the field operations. “Sometimes family businesses don’t work out because it is hard to work with family, but we are fortunate that we enjoy what we do and work well together,” said Abney Jr. Houston Post Tension was established in 1987. Prior, their grand-father John Abney owned it under a different name. As a supplier of post ten-sion cables and rebar for the residential, commercial and multifamily markets, they also sell foundation accessories. “We also provide labor for some home builders in the Houston area, as well as rent and sell por-

table and fixed site environmentally friendly concrete washouts by Waste Crete Systems, that was developed by Ricki Abney Sr.,” said Abney Jr. The company currently has about 40 employees, most of which have been with the company for many years. As far as recent projects go, they are currently shipping materials to some of the largest concrete contractors in the Houston area. They are also working on apartment projects in Houston, Austin and San Antonio. Abney Jr. added, “We also do a lot of Taco Bell’s, Olive Gardens, Chick-FilA’s and Prosperity Banks to name a few.” They also work with some of the local home builders and general contractors on charity projects throughout the year. Together as a company they like to “work hard, but play harder.” Many of the team members are active and enjoy the outdoors. Houston Post Tension is a post tension cables and rebar supplier in Houston. –lv

L-R: Dynamic Systems team member Brendon Reidy with his perfect score target and Chris Rolin

APEX awards

ouston commercial construction contractors celebrated the most outstanding projects built by members of the Associated General Contractors (AGC) at the Awards for Project Excellence (APEX) on Sept. 22. The event was held at The Houstonian. One hundred entries were submitted. Peter Dawson, AIA, NCARB, was honored with the 2018 AGC Houston Master Builder award, who recently retired as Senior Vice President of Facilities Services at Texas Children’s Hospital where, for 16 years, he held the executive leadership responsibility for Facility Planning, Design, Project Management, Facilities Operation and Security Services. –cmw

1st Place: CFI Mechanical – L-R: Britt Adams, Kenny Howard and Fred Hoyt

General Contractor 14 Health Care Under $10 Million: Linbeck Group LLC, MDA LeMaistre

General Contractor 9 Entertainment:Gilbane Building Co., The Aquarium at Moody Gardens General Contractor 17 Office Building Over $20 Million: Gilbane Building Co., Phillips 66 Campus Project

General Contractor 9 Entertainment: Mission Constructors Inc., A.D. Players Theatre

General Contractor 5 Renovation/Remodel: Tellepsen, Chalres Milby High School

General Contractor 16 Office Building Under $20 Million: Brookstone LP, Houston Advanced Research Center

General Contractor 15 Healthcare Over $10 Million: Lindbeck Group LLC, MD Anderson Cancer Center – Rotary House International

General Contractor 7A Laboratory/Veterinary: Vaughn Constructon, Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory Research and Engineering Building

L-R: AGC Houston President/CEO Jerry Nevlud; recently retired Peter R. Dawson Sr. and AGC Houston Vice-Chairman of the Board, Tony Masoorian, W.S. Bellows Construction Group

Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

Page 11

THIS TH MON Jan: Construction Forecast Mar: Construction Education May: Concrete Industry July: Electrical Industry Feb: Construction Safety Apr: Women in Construction Jun: HVAC & Plumbing Aug: Service Providers

Bringing the public into spaces Antonio Giovanni Naylor, President Reliance Architecture Austin, TX

ntonio Naylor is a graduate of Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Environmental Design and owns Reliance Architecture with a partner.

How would you describe the state of the construction industry in general terms? For people looking to build, there has been an increase in costs. Contractors have seen a recent rise in material costs, while labor costs have increased over the past six years. The number of new projects has remained steady, until this past summer. This summer showed an uptick in the construction industry with more projects kicking off design towards the end of the year. I would say we have been bullish since 2012. How has sustainability affected your industry? Education of the public has initiated clients to request buildings that are more

energy efficient, have less water consumption and provide more comfort for the occupants inside. Sustainability urges us to construct a better habitat. Architects have championed most of the sustainability practices for decades. We educate ourselves on the advancement in technology and how we can further reduce the carbon footprint. Sustainable buildings increase costs, but the value to the client and to the environment is worth it. What are the new trends in architecture/engineering? There’s an emergence of green building products at lower price points closer to standard products. The research and technology have improved building

Embracing staffing & technology challenges Patrick Kunz, President Halff Associates Inc. Richardson, TX

t’s a good time to be in construction and engineering/ architectural design in Texas.

The state’s population growth continues to soar, and the private and public sectors are building the infrastructure necessary to support that growth—everything from office buildings and retail to commercial spaces, industrial developments and public infrastructure. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Dallas/Fort Worth gained 146,000 new residents in 2017. Meanwhile, six of the top 10 fastest-growing counties in the United States reside in Texas. Despite a healthy business increase in recent years, there are a few challenges we, at Halff Associates, wrestle with today: staffing and quickly changing technology. Many Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964) are now at retirement

age, and the smaller Generation X population (1965–1980) can’t fill that void completely. The real key is getting Millennials (1981–1996)—which the U.S. Census Bureau predicts will outnumber Baby Boomers in 2019 with more than 73 million people—the necessary experience to succeed. What it really means is we need the people on the fringe or the upper end of the Millennial generation to get experience fast because there are a lot of opportunities for them to fill positions. Specifically, it’s difficult to find quality midlevel managers—people with 10 to 15 years of experience or maybe even up to 20 years. Much has been made about Millennial thinking in society and the work-

ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING

Sept: Green Building Nov: Architecture & Engineering Oct: Specialty Contractors Dec: Construction Equipment

performance, contributed to less consumption of water and electricity and decreased carbon footprint. Architecture has better tools to immerse not only the client but also the contractor and others into visualizing the project. We can construct our designs in a 3D model. We can use the Building Information Model (BIM) to show how the environment will look, present options AND step through detailed information. This gives architects the ability to virtually build designs before construction begins. We have more in-depth conversations with our clients and contractors to proactively work through issues early. Bringing the public into spaces we design has been a focus. We have done more outreach to incorporate functions and expectations of communities more. We design spaces that are inclusive of their communities, provide amenities and services to enrich the community. We have seen more partnering that encompasses large groups with diverse interests. It is rewarding as we see the buyin take place by all parties. What are the rewards of architecture/ engineering? Delivering on a challenge for our clients is extremely rewarding. Collaborat-

ing so that clients can realize their dream and vision within their budget is great. It may seem at times we are under appreciated, but I would challenge my peers to revisit a finished building a year later. Go back, stand around and observe the occupants use the spaces. Very rewarding. To do this job well, to be an outstanding architect, we must love people, have a passion for problem solving and be astute listeners. Those are key ingredients to what we chose to do and what we love to do.

place, but Halff plans to embrace it. You hear things such as they don’t want to work and don’t have a work ethic. I don’t buy that at all. They want to do meaningful work. They want to know that somebody appreciates the work they are doing, and the market is such that they can demand that. I don’t believe that this younger generation is much different than my generation was. The only difference is today, companies are embracing that and giving this generation attention. They are helping them understand how doing even a small task fits into the bigger picture and why that is meaningful work—and how that is going to help them in their career growth. The firms that are doing that and showing a genuine interest in people moving up in their careers are the ones that are going to be successful. Halff is conducting more development training courses to help young professionals grow as quickly as possible and remain engaged in their work. We are also focused on improved communications, so employees know what is happening and what career opportunities exist. Technology is another hurdle in the sense that it has a significant impact to the firm’s overall cost to operate. As software improves, you’ve got to

hold on to the legacy software. Those IT costs are continuing to grow as technology progresses. We do embrace it, and we’re bringing it into our designs. On one hand, it’s helping our designs, processes and implementation be more efficient and effective. But on the flip side, there is a significant cost associated with continuous investment in future and new technology. Digital delivery of plans and specs— moving away from hardcopy plans in the field—is another change that has occurred within construction administration and management. Digital technology will only continue to grow. 3D design is here in architecture; MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) engineering; structural—as well as starting to come into civil. The larger building construction contractors are walking around with an iPad and have a 3D model of the building to see where there are conflicts during the construction process. That’s real. Keeping up with those day-to-day challenges and solving our clients’ problems is our ultimate reward. Everything we do touches and affects people’s lives.

What is the most significant challenge your industry is facing? Managing expectations of all parties involved--the pieces and parts involved from conception of a design to implementation have grown. This makes the management of projects more complicated and requires everyone involved to slow down so as not to rush towards mistakes. The huge challenge is to carry over some wisdom from the past. Even with our more advanced tools, we must practice the art of measuring twice and cutting once. Reliance Architecture is a full-service architecture and planning firm, focused on educational and public architecture. -cmw

Halff Associates Inc. is a full-service professional firm in Richardson, TX. -cmw

Construction News ON LOCATION

A long awaited visit

In the knick of time

Construction News makes a long awaited visit with the folks at ABC Supply Co. Inc. in Conroe, TX. L-R: Jim Davis, Carol Noell, Terry Becker, Andrew Smith, Jeff Guzman and David Wheeler. –cmw

Construction News flags down Cory Malak and Chris Wade with Climate Services of Texas in Conroe, TX as they head out for a jobsite. - cmw

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Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

THIS TH MON

ARCHITECTURE & ENGINEERING

To represent your company in an upcoming FOCUS, contact HoustonEditor@ConstructionNews.net (210) 308-5800

NEXT MONTH (DECEMBER) CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT

Growing with growth Jason E. Puchot, AIA, ACHA, EDAC, LEED AP Principal & AIA San Antonio 2018 Chapter President RVK Architects San Antonio

ason Puchot holds a degree in Evidence Based Design from Texas A&M University. He is a Board Certified Healthcare Architect and has specialized in healthcare design since 2002.

How would you describe the state of the construction industry in general terms? The growth in our region has transferred to our design and construction industry keeping us all continually busy. Have you experienced an increase in business? Slowdown? There has been increase in business with the influx of new residents moving into the area from all over the country. Along with that, come new business opportunities for designing new projects in wide range of areas.

What factors are driving this increase/ slowdown? As mentioned in the previous question, city growth is the driving force behind this increase. How has this increase/slowdown affected your company and how you conduct business? Business remains strong and between servicing new clients as well as existing clients means a bigger focus on balancing project schedules. What are the major changes in the in-

dustry in recent years relating to the type of work you do? Continual changes to codes in relation to energy conservation are the major changes we have experienced. What is the most significant challenge your industry faces? Labor shortages? Cost increases? Other? The biggest challenge is balancing a continual increase in expectations from our owners while staying competitive with professional service fees. How are you dealing with these challenges? We try to work with contractors early to help secure material pricing. What are the cost increases relating to your industry? Staying in tune to rising costs of materials due to tariffs in order to maintain the owner’s budgets during the design phase. What is on the horizon for your industry? Changes in technology, codes, or-

Association Calendar ABC

Nov. 8: Member Mixer, Locke Solutions Precast Division, 700 Almeda-Genoa, 4:30-7pm. Nov. 15: ABC Scholarship Cornhole Tournament, 8th Wonder Brewry, 2202 Dallas St., 5-9pm, Mandatory Team Check-in 5-6pm. For more info, call 713-523-6222 AGC

Associated General Contractors

Nov. 1: Member Mixer, Crisp in The Heights, 2220 Bevis St., 4:30-6:00pm. For more info, call Catherine Bezman at 713843-3750 or email Catherine.b@agchouston.org FPA

Foundation Performance Assn.

Nov. 14: Concrete Parking & Industrial Design and Construction, Hess Club, 5430 Westheimer, 4pm. For more info, call Vicky Bonds at 713-699-4000 IEC

Independent Electrical Contractors

Nov. 14: IEC General Membership Meeting, IEC Auditorium, 601 N. Shepherd Dr. #350, 11:30am-1pm. Nov. 18: IEC Golf Tournament, Kingwood Country Club, 1700 Lake Kingwood Trail, Kingwood, TX. For more info, contact Tori Barrett at 713-869-1976 or email ebrdir@ iectxgc.org

What are keys to being successful in your industry? Communication clearly is the biggest key to success and at the core for designers as service providers to its clients. Clear communication with consultants, vendors, general contractors and our owners will always serve as a focus for continual success. RVK is a commercial architecture, interior design and landscape architecture firm. They have celebrated 47 years of service in San Antonio. Specializing in 12 different commercial market sectors, RVK continues their brand through quality design as well as taking care of its employees recently celebrating seven years in a row as an Express News awarded Best Place to Work. -cmw

Grand re-opening

Content submitted by Associations to Construction News Associated Builders & Contractors

dinances, laws, other? Codes and ordinances are always on the horizon and technology continues to be a focus. From 3D modeling of our designs to Virtual Reality, design firms continue to look for other ways of communicating their design to their clients.

MCA

Mechanical Contractors Assn.

Nov. 14: Regular Membership Meeting, Houston Engineering & Scientific Society, 5430 Westheimer Rd. For more info, call 281-440-4380 NAWIC

National Assn. of Women in Construction

Nov. 9-10: SCR Annual Fall Conference, Little Rock, AR. Nov. 13: Membership Meeting, Maggianos, 2019 Post Oak. For more info, contact Kathleen Cernosek at 281-890-1880 ext. 11 NECA

National Electrical Contractors Assn. Southeast Texas Chapter

Nov. 13-15: Council on Industrial Relations, Washington, DC. For more info, call SETX NECA at 713-977-2522 TSPE

Texas Society of Professional Engineers

Nov. 13: Meeting, HESS Club, 11:30am1-m. For more info, call WCA

Women Contractors Assn.

Nov. 1: Monthly Luncheon, Harold’s in The Heights, 350 W. 19th St., 11:30am1pm. For more info, call 713-807-9977

he International Painters Union and Allied Trades District Council 88 (IUPAT DC88) welcomed workers and their families to celebrate the grand re-opening of the Finishing Trades Institute training facility. The facility will provide industrial coatings and fireproofing services with hands-on training. In addition, the institute will also offer, as a first-in-the-nation, a program that offers health and safety certi-

www.constructionnews.net publishing the industry’s news

fications, industry-specific certifications and a virtual blast and spray machine. IUPAT DC88 has teamed up with NACE International to provide a training program at the institute for workers to complete their training and receive their NACE certifications. “The key to success in the construction industry is a welltrained and well-prepared workforce,” said Ken Rigmaiden, General President, IUPAT. -cmw

Texas Style

★ ★ ★ ★

San Antonio Austin Dallas/Fort Worth Houston

Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

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continued from Page 13

Finish Interior – Drywall Karsten Interior Services – Amegy Bank Headquarters

Commercial Renovation Manhattan Construction Company – United Airlines New Terminal C North at Houston IAH

Interior SpawGlass - Texas A&M University Chemistry Building Renovation

Best of Houston Manhattan Construction Company – United Airlines New Terminal C North at Houston IAH

Commercial E.E. Reed Construction LP – The Kirby Collection

Construction News ON LOCATION

Roofing and exteriors

Mechanical TDIndustries – Memorial Hermann Northwest Tower & Central Plant Expansion

Construction News catches up with Blante Evans with Woodlands Roofing & Exteriors of Spring, TX while ordering supplies in the Conroe area. -cmw

Doing business right

ollowing a venture as a business owner was the right move for Brandon Hoge, owner of Structured Foundation Repairs Houston. They are the first ones to venture off and expand the company from its original roots in the Dallas area. Structured Foundation started in 2003 in the Dallas area. Hoge started working with the business in 2003, and worked his way up to becoming a senior analyst. It was around 2012 when Hoge approached the owner of the business and asked about opening up a franchise/operation in the Houston area because it was a big market. The Hoge family: Mya, Brandon, Cynthia and Brody Hoge The answer was yes. So in 2014, Hoge started his Houston franchise. “When I came down [to Houston] I contractors and would get out to talk found a place that I could rent and store with them.” Eventually, after “pounding the trucks and materials. It also had an of- the pavement,” he found his first crew fice so we could fit an office staff,” said chief, Guillermo Gutierrez. Today, GutierHoge. He was starting from the ground rez is the senior crew chief. Hoge stated, up. “I was walking through Home Depot “Slowly, but surely I grew the company to handing out cards to contractors or if I now what is the highest rated foundation was driving down the road I would see repair company in Houston in 2018.”

Structured Foundation Repairs focuses on foundation repairs, which entails drainage, slab and pier and beam work for both residential and commercial clients. There are about 20 employees that form both the office and crew. They are located in Houston and have remained at the same location since inception in 2014. Since then they have completed several homes, strip malls, office buildings and apartment buildings. Hoge explained that they do work with subcontractors, but only those within engineering, plumbing and electrical work. The Structured Foundation Repairs crew foresees the challenges that can arise from foundation repairs. They have a comprehensive way of assessing any given property. They take an elevation survey of the properties they are looking at to see how high or low the floors are. During a recent project they were going to do excavation underneath an old pier and beam home. “As the guys started the excavation they realized that the ground was harder than what it normally is. In order to help we had to put two full crews on that job. We did what we had to do and you just have to adjust when things like that come up,” said Hoge. Once the company crewmembers install the piers through a hydraulically align system of pilings, “a great method for supporting and lifting slab founda-

tions” it is a product that they can warranty for the life of the house. “We can define settlement in our warranty. We provide a final elevation survey after we’ve done the work in a definition of settlement, Hoge explained. The company motto is “Do the right thing.” If there is something that needs to get done Hoge assures his crew will not wait on it, instead in an efficient matter they get it done right. Hoge had some things to share about his hard working employees. He shared that they are all very talented. Check it out, their senior analyst sings in his church choir and is an expert on antique glass. “He has a house full of antique glass and it is a renowned collection.” Their operations manager has a fun fact of her own. “Back in the 90s she transcribed all of Bill Graham’s sermons.” Senior crew chief, Guillermo Gutierrez is a minister on the weekends and another crew chief refurbished an old school bus that he travels across the country in when given the chance. Another crew chief did some fighting as an MMA fighter and is a personal trainer and artist. “Among our crew, I’ve got a welder, carpenter, two artists, two motorcycle enthusiasts, three musicians that play guitar, an IT specialist and a boxer,” said Hoge. Structured Foundation Repairs Houston is a foundation repair contractor in Houston. –lv

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Houston Construction News • NOV 2018

JOB SIGHTS

L-R: Ernest L. Polk, Jr. with Barry Hutton Construction and Donnie Walker with Sunbelt Rentals at the net Little Caesar’s Pizza in Conroe, TX. -cmw

continued from Page 1 — Mayco Building Systems Inc. business and do that is because of my employees; we’re more like a family,” May says. “My chief estimator has been here for 23 years, both of my superintendents have been here for 20 and my secretary has been here for 15. Ten of my employees have been here for 20 years or more and another 10 have been here for 15 years or more. My brother Alan May worked for me as a salesman. I think they stay because I don’t think or act like I’m special. I get out there and help them load materials and ladders. I don’t treat anybody any different, and I don’t ask employees to do anything I wouldn’t do myself.” His employees are also why May, who serves as president of Mayco, adopted a work-hard-then-work-harder strategy during the 2008 recession. “I had about a two-week slow period that got me thinking about which employees would have to go first – and I didn’t want any of them to go!” he says. “I just really started getting out and hustling and making deals. I ended up with two jobs that were two years each and those two jobs kept me really busy. My profits were next to nothing but it didn’t matter; we were still making the same paychecks and I was actually hiring people during that time. During the last recession, I actually did double the

volume during those thin years because I started burning the midnight oil. “I got into this habit of working until 7:30 and 8:00 every night,” May continues. “About a year ago, I told my secretary that I couldn’t get away from working 15and 16-hour days and that I didn’t know how it got started. But she did; she noticed that I started working longer when the economy crashed.” His work ethic paid off; Mayco Building Systems has worked on thousands of notable projects including TAMU Kyle Field Development, Hobby Airport Garage, Texas A&M Health Science Center and Lone Star College – Tomball’s Performing Arts Center and Veterinary Technology Building. Even though he works as hard as ever, May has no desire to take Mayco Building Systems to the next level. “I think I’m going to stay at the size I’m at,” May says. “I do a lot of different services, and I already offer more services than I originally wanted to. My only plan is to hope that I stay as motivated as I am right now and just continue. I think I will probably just stay busy until the day they put me down!” Mayco Building Systems Inc. is located in Houston. –mjm

continued from Page 1 — Eskala North America

Jose Juarez of Total Site grades the site at the new Parkway Ridge Office Condominiums in Katy. -cmw

Industry FOLKS Brandon Lincoln, General Manager Lonestar Aluminum Specialties Houston, TX

randon Lincoln was born in Katy, TX where he lived until he was nine years old. At the age of nine, his family decided to move into the heart of Houston. But, the serenity of Katy would call his family back. Lincoln attended middle school and high school in Katy, graduating in 2001. After graduating from Katy High School, Lincoln went to college for a few years, majoring in petroleum engineering. Having had his fill of school for a while, Lincoln took a few years off from college to work and make a little money. Upon returning to college, he studied drafting and piping design. “I never graduated from college, but I took a bunch of classes in a variety of degrees. I also went to Stock Trading School for fun. I like learning different things,” adds Lincoln. Lincoln says he inspires to be the best person he can be. His philosophy is to love and live life while being surrounded by great people. Speaking of great people, when asked what he liked most about his job, he says, “I love the fast pace. The guys and owners are a great group of people. We’re one big happy family.” Lincoln says his stepfather inspired his interest in construction. “My step dad has always been in construction. He taught me to work well with my hands and then my head.” So when the owners of Lonestar called him and said they had an opening and asked if he

was interested, he accepted the job as their purchasing agent. Three years later he became the manager of Lonestar. A pretty simple guy you might say. Lincoln is single and has never been married. He has no children, but says he would love to have children some day, but until then, he has his nieces and nephews that he loves very much. Although he jokes about “free time,” Lincoln is a man of many interests. He enjoys snowboarding, wake surfing, long boarding, mountain biking, working out, racing his 4-wheeler skydiving, large bodies of water, basically anything that causes an adrenaline rush. When he is not out pushing the limit, he enjoys spending time with his family. As with many of us, Lincoln has had many mentors in his life. He has had a couple of mentors from different jobs he has held, but his mentors in life are his mother and stepfather. “My mom and stepdad are such great people. I strive everyday to be just like them. I appreciate everyone in my life that has take a chance on me and has given me the opportunity to prove to them that I can do the job they have asked of me. God bless them all!” -cmw

“Then, slowly, we added one brand at a time. We became dealers for JLT, then for Genie, and then Skyjack.” Fernández said the hardest brand to get was the first one, as he had to convince them that his company could do what he said it could do. Then, the other, competitor lift companies wanted to be in on the action as well. In those early days, “we were just consuming the parts for ourselves, then we saw the opportunity to not only purchase parts for us, but also to sell them to other customers.” When it came to rentals, “We started with a very small fleet,” Fernández said, and “little by little we added to our fleet.” The growth has been slow but steady, which has worked well so Fernández didn’t (as he said), “trip over ourselves.” The revenue breakdown for Eskala is 50 percent of it comes from the sale of used equipment; 25 percent comes from the selling of parts; and 25 percent comes from rentals. They don’t do the rent-toown model. Not only has Eskala sold to all of the U.S., but also overseas to places like Panama, Ecuador and Argentina. When a lift has to go over the water, Eskala uses freight ships to transport. The most popular item in its inven-

tory is the scissor lift, which can go up to 45 ft. in the air. Most are used indoors, like warehouses, churches and gymnasiums. When the lift is rented, allowance is made for routine wear and tear, even paint or paste that may have been dripped on it. Eskala runs operations out of a 7,000sf facility. The main goal is to not have the yard filled with lifts. “The most expensive equipment you can have is the one that’s not working,” Fernández said. While Houston is the only Eskala location, Fernández wants to have a second facility in the Dallas/Fort Worth area by 2020. Then, perhaps Austin and San Antonio. For now, Fernández has 10 other employees working the Houston plant, to include a parts rep, shop manager, sales rep, and mechanics. The major lift manufacturers update their product lines around once every four years. The model stays the same, but the bells and whistles get updated as the technology becomes available. If a customer needs to escala up in the air, Eskala North America has the lifts necessary to do so. Whether it’s buy, rent or just a part, Eskala will handle it. Houston, we have lift off. Eskala North America is an equipment rental agency in Houston. -dsz

continued from Page 1 — E Contractors Doing so resulted in major design changes and expected overhauls of fine construction. “Quality service will always be our focus,” says Irfan Abji. Project Manager Joseph Roemen and Project Superintendent Enrique Escamilla maintained open lines of communications with the client’s requests to ensure changes were met above their client’s expectations throughStructural framing of Egrets Landing out the construction process. “The end goal was to create an unri- subcontractors; and success for everyone valed building compared to those on the involved. “This win-win-win attitude is so market,” says Willyann Paz, Subcontrac- transformative that it propels hyper tor Relationship Manager. Focusing on growth for everyone,” adds Abji. building sustainable relationships, while The beauty and ambiance of Egrets working together, with all parties in- Landing called to E Contractors, who volved ensures that everyone sees bene- now occupy and are leasing the building fit - quality and a timely product for the full-time. E Contractors is a full-service general client; a work environment that is safe for workers; bottom line enhancement for contractor located in Houston, TX. -cmw

Houston Construction News â&#x20AC;˘ NOV 2018

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Awards in design

he American Institute of Architects (AIA) held their annual Design Awards Sept. 25. The event was held at the Midtown Arts and Theater Center Houston (MATCH). â&#x20AC;&#x201C;cmw

Architecture Less Than 50,000sf: Powers Brown Architecture Intermarine Shipyard Office (Photo courtesy of Mark Johnson)

Architecture Less Than 50,000sf: Perkins+Will Remaking Historic Emancipation Park

Renovation/Restoration: Kirksey Architecture Milby High School (Photo courtesy of Slyworks Photography)

Residential Architecture: JT ARC Studio Ranz Residence (Photo courtesy of Paul Hester) Interior Architecture: Rottet Studio Hotel Alessandra (Photo courtesy of Eric Laignel)

Architecture Less Than 50,000sf: Kirksey Architecture Prairie View A&M University Fabrication Center (Photo courtesy of Aker Imaging)

Architecture Greater Than 50,000sf: GSMA New Hope Housing Harrisburg On The Boards: JT ARC Studio Indiangrass Preserve Education Center (Rendering: Robert Mazzo)

Divine Details: Jackson & Ryan Architects Our Lady of Washington Catholic Church (Photo courtesy of Mark Scheyer)

Architecture Less Than 50,000sf: SCHAUM/SHIEH Transart House (Photo courtesy of Naho Kubota, Peter Molick, SCHAUM/SHIEH)

Conceptual: University of Houston Code to Urbanism

Renovation/Restoration: Kinneymorrow Architecture Joy House (Photo courtesy of Casey Dunn)

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Houston Construction News â&#x20AC;¢ NOV 2018