CONSTRUCTION NEWS
In the world of construction trades, a young woman is making waves and breaking stereotypes. Ashton White, known on Instagram as “That Masonry Girl,” has become a prominent figure in promoting masonry through her work with Masonry Rocks, a program that aspires to introduce masonry to the next generation of young people who are interested in a skilled trade. Ashton’s journey into masonry began unexpectedly in high school. A class introduction led her to compete in masonry contests during her junior and senior years, continuing through community college. Her passion for the craft eventually brought her to Texas, where she found her calling with
ALaying the Foundation
Masonry Rocks.
Established approximately five years ago, Masonry Rocks is an organization dedicated to workforce development in the masonry trade. For the past two years, Ashton has been at the forefront of their mission, focusing on passing on her knowledge and training both students and teachers.
“Our goal is to promote masonry as a viable career option,” she explains. This mission is particularly crucial in Texas, where only four high school programs currently teach masonry full-time. In an era where many young people are drawn to tech careers, White and Masonry Rocks are working to reach those who prefer hands-on work and
may excel in skilled trades.
White emphasizes the benefits of pursuing a career in masonry, including the potential for a good living without the burden of student debt. “You can earn while you learn in this trade,” she points out, highlighting an attractive alternative to the traditional college path.
Recently, Masonry Rocks organized an event at the Helotes Fairgrounds that brought schools together for a day of immersive learning. Students rotated through various stations, experiencing different aspects of masonry including block laying, stone setting, and scaffolding. Ashton coordinated the event, ensuring a smooth experience for
all participants and even providing demonstrations herself.
The event showcased the collaborative nature of the industry, with contractors and bricklayers volunteering their time to teach alongside her. This hands-on approach gives students a real taste of the masonry world and the opportunities it offers.
As Masonry Rocks continues to grow and inspire the next generation of masons, Ashton White stands as a testament to the changing face of the construction industry. Her dedication to education and promotion of the trade is helping to build not just structures, but also careers and futures in masonry. -ndw
Alamo Crane Service, Inc. celebrates 46 years
lamo Crane Service, Inc. , a local leader in the crane services industry celebrates their 46th year in business as a family-owned and operated business.
Established when there was only one crane company in town, Marge and Marvin Ohlenbusch purchased their first crane to keep their refrigeration company’s installation contracts on schedule during a heavierthan-usual rainy season. When the crane was not in use and to get the most out of their investment, they began to rent the crane, giving birth to Alamo Crane Service on April 24, 1979, with their first paid job.
After selling their refrigeration business, the Ohlenbusches became fully invested in their new crane company. Without the support of outside investors, Alamo Crane Service has grown to be the largest familyowned crane company in San Antonio with over 30 cranes ranging from 15 tons to 770 tons in its fleet as well as a
of customer satisfaction and safety. The extraordinary safety record of Alamo Crane Service has earned the company numerous safety awards including the American Subcontractor Association’s (ASA) 2022 National Safety Award, one of nine companies from across the country to receive the national safety award and the only crane company; the 2017 Texas Mutual’s Platinum Safety Award, one of only 45 companies to receive the award from over 68,000 policyholders across the state of Texas, and continues to be recognized by Texas Mutual and other trade associations for its outstanding safety record.
Marge and Marvin Ohlenbusch continue to play an active role in the company’s day-to-day operations as the company remains 100% operational by the Ohlenbusch family with the second generation, Brian and Gina Ohlenbusch , in line to continue the Ohlenbusch legacy of providing quality service without comprising safety.
Ashton White, aka That Masonry Girl
A Holistic Housing Model for Those In Need
Abold new vision for addressing homelessness in San Antonio has taken shape – literally – with the completion of the first phases of Towne Twin Village , an innovative permanent supportive housing community tailored for seniors who have experienced homelessness. Spearheaded by the Housing First Community Coalition (HFCC), this ambitious undertaking is the result of years of collaborative effort, drawing support and resources from public agencies, private companies, and nonprofit organizations.
Towne Twin Village officially opened its doors with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in April, celebrating the transformation of a long-held dream into a living, thriving community. With more than 200 housing units planned – including Tiny Homes, RVs, and future apartments – the development is not just a place to live, but a hub of holistic support. Essential services include
access to healthcare, communal spaces, spiritual services, and daily necessities like meals and hygiene facilities.
Jordan Foster Construction has helped bring this vision to life, constructing the commercial infrastructure that anchors the village. Their scope of work included the chapel, healthcare clinic, community kitchen, event space, and other communal facilities that serve as the foundation for wellness and stability within the village. Jordan Foster Construction is best known for its work in medical office, hospitality, multifamily, and industrial construction.
“This was more than a construction job – it was a chance to create a place of healing,” said Roy Raines, President of the Building Group at Jordan Foster Construction. “We’re proud to be part of a project that addresses homelessness not just with shelter, but with dignity and opportunity.”
Texas Homes , a San Antonio-based homebuilder, constructed the Tiny Homes that provide comfort, privacy, and independence to residents – each designed with the specific needs of senior citizens in mind. The architectural layout of the community was developed by Chesney Morales Partners, whose trauma-informed design philosophy helped ensure every aspect of the village promotes healing, safety, and connection.
The project was made possible through deep coordination with the City of San Antonio’s Neighborhood
and Housing Services Department, the Mayor’s Office, and numerous City Council members, reflecting a shared commitment to addressing the city’s most urgent housing challenges. The public sector’s involvement ensured not only the acquisition of funding but also helped align regulatory, design, and outreach efforts for long-term sustainability.
“Our role was to bring the architectural vision to life in a way that supports long-term sustainability,” Raines added. “Towne Twin Village isn’t just about what’s built – it’s about what’s made possible”.
Other key partners include Catholic Worker House, which provides daily meals, hygiene supplies, and essential services at the Towne Twin Village Community Center; University Health System and UT Health, which are offering mental, dental, and general healthcare services; and a host of local nonprofits who will provide case management and other wraparound supports.
Together, this dynamic team has created a national model for addressing homelessness through integrated care and compassionate design. The ribboncutting event marked not only the completion of the first three phases of the project, but also a powerful demonstration of what can be achieved when a city comes together to reimagine what housing – and healing – can look like.
“Towne Twin is not just another
milestone – it’s a demonstration of San Antonio’s Strategic Housing Implementation Plan in action,” said Veronica Garcia , Director of the City of San Antonio’s Neighborhood and Housing Services Department. “Thanks to bold investments by our community from the Affordable Housing Bond and coalition of partners, we’re addressing chronic homelessness head-on through housing affordability and delivering wraparound services onsite. This project demonstrates that we can address our housing and homeless issues by weaving compassion through our investments – Towne Twinn proves that San Antonio doesn’t just plan, we deliver.
Towne Twin Village stands today as a beacon of hope and a testament to what is possible when architecture, construction, public leadership, and social services work in unison. For the team at Jordan Foster Construction and all the partners involved, this project has proven that building homes can also mean building futures.
ASA San Antonio Hosts 30th Annual Excellence in Construction Awards with a Hollywood Twist
The American Subcontractors Association – San Antonio Chapter (ASA-San Antonio) rolled out the red carpet for its 30th Annual Excellence in Construction Awards on March 20, held at the beautiful Mays Family Center at the Witte Museum. This annual event shines a spotlight on excellence within the construction industry, honoring general contractors who go above and beyond in building strong, collaborative relationships with subcontractors.
What sets this celebration apart is its signature presentation style: award categories are introduced through pre-recorded skits performed by ASA Board Members, adding a creative and entertaining flair to the evening. This year’s theme, “Movie Night,” brought the house down with hilarious reenactments of iconic scenes from classic films including Titanic, Braveheart, Rocky, The Godfather, and more Guests were treated to a night of laughter and celebration, Blending industry recognition with memorable entertainment.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Annual Pioneer Award to Kenneth Moore of KCM Cabinets. This prestigious honor is given to an individual who has demonstrated unwavering dedication to advancing ASA’s mission and values. Moore was recognized for his long-standing commitment, leadership, and contributions to the subcontractor community. ASA San Antonio is proud to celebrate three decades of honoring the “best of the best” in construction, while continuing to foster strong industry relationships and advocate for subcontractors across the region. Photos courtesy of Mary C. Haskin Photography
President’s Award
Ted Dunnam
Dunnam Safety Management
President’s Award
John Cruz
Broadway Bank
Pioneer Award
Kenneth Moore
KCM Cabinets
Superintendent of the Year
Mark Mueller
Nunnelly General Contractor
Project Manager of the Year
Matt Doherty
Joeris General Contractors
Project of the Year Under $2 Million
San Antonio Zoo Naylor Savanna
SpawGlass Contractors, Inc.
Project of the Year
Between $2 - $3 Million
Steele Plaza
The Fetzer Companies, Inc.
Project of the Year
Between $3 - $5 Million
212 N. Alamo (Henry Terrell Building)
Pugh Constructors
Project of the Year
Between $5 - $10 Million
Animal Research Vivarium
Keller-Martin Construction, Inc.
Project of the Year
Between $10 - $20 Million
Cornerstone Secondary School
Additions & Renovations
Bartlett Cocke General Contractors
General Contractor of the YearUnder 100 Employees
Nunnelly General Contractor
General Contractor of the YearOver 100 Employees
Bartlett Cocke General Contractors
Pugh Constructors
The Fetzer Companies Steele Plaza
President’s Award John Cruz
Presidents Award Ted Dunnam Pioneer Award with Staff
SpawGlass Zoo
Mark Mueller Nunnelly Super
General Contractor over 100
Nunnelly GC under 100
Keller Martin Construction
Matt Doherty Joeris
Joeris
Paving the Way The Team Behind the Wheel
Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) South Texas Chapter affinity group, Ladies Operating for Growth in Construction (LOGIC) hosted a panel of women who have “paved the way.” Panel included Stacy Gunderson of MAREK who, when asked for her advice to overcoming obstacles, said “Don’t be afraid. Just go after it.” Our own chapter president Michelle Davis spoke of her early days with the association and how she found her passion in politics. In addition to that, she is also fueled by helping others “find
their why.” The panel was rounded out by Stephanie O’Rourke of Cokinos | Young. She specializes in litigation for the construction industry. O’Rourke referenced how special the people of this industry are and the blessing of the relationships she’s made that have lasted decades. All three encouraged the group to go after what they want & lean on each other.
Chair and co-chair Ana Owens and Heather Osborn expressed their appreciation for the difference these ladies have made.
Founded a decade ago as a specialized hauling service for select clients, Raintree Transport has steadily evolved to meet the growing demands of contractors throughout Central Texas. What began as a focused operation has since expanded into a comprehensive waste management and transportation provider.
In early 2023, Raintree took a major step forward with the launch of Raintree Roll Off Services, a dedicated division offering dumpster rentals and roll-off services tailored for industrial, commercial, and residential projects. This strategic expansion positioned the company as a full-service partner for construction jobsite logistics and waste solutions.
As their services have grown, so has their team. Today, Raintree operates a fleet of 15 CDL-certified drivers, enabling the company to respond quickly and reliably across Bexar County and surrounding areas.
With drivers on the road five days a week, safety is a cornerstone of Raintree’s operations. The company conducts weekly training sessions where drivers review real trip footage to reinforce safe driving habits and share best practices. These ongoing efforts underscore Raintree’s commitment to public safety, employee wellbeing and operational excellence.
That commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed. Raintree Transport was recently honored with the Our Driving Concern (ODC) Texas Employer Traffic “Industry Leader for Comprehensive Safety” Award by the National Safety Council. The award recognizes the company’s exceptional dedication to road safety and positions Raintree as a leader in transportation safety across the state.
In celebration of this achievement, Raintree is proud to shine a spotlight on the drivers who keep the wheels turning—and do so with outstanding safety records. These professionals are not only the face of the company on the road, but also a vital part of their ongoing success.
Requirements but not limited to:
Communicate with clients/project manager professionally
Be a leader, position is to lead 2-6 employees daily
Ability to travel as needed
Ability to safely operate and maintain construction equipment and trailers
Prepare materials and a daily course of action for jobsite
Clean background. No felonies, no DUI’s
Jose Valladolid , one of our veteran Roll Off Drivers, has consistently shown exceptional skill and a strong commitment to safety on the road. With nearly a decade of service, Jose is a self-motivated professional who always asks the right questions before leaving the yard, ensuring each task is handled with care and precision. His work ethic and dedication to upholding high safety standards set a positive example for others.
Augustin Lopez is a reliable Half-Round Driver with experience in Roll Off and Lowboy Heavy Hauling. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in rigging and operating heavy equipment. Known for his adaptability, Augustin handles challenging conditions with confidence, making him a versatile and valuable asset in the field.
Alexander Silvas started with us as a Roll Off Driver and has since become a standout Lowboy Driver— earning the nickname “Lowboy Specialist.” His extensive experience in a variety of duties, and with multiple trailers configurations, has made him a go-to expert for transporting heavy equipment. Alexander’s dedication to safety and consistent delivery of highquality work continues to raise the bar.
From heavy hauling and trucking to roll-off dumpster services, Raintree Transport proudly leads the way in providing safe, reliable waste transportation across Central Texas. Our drivers are the backbone of that mission.
San Antonio CONSTRUCTION NEWS
Shaping America’s Future Workforce
Universal Technical Institute, Inc. (UTI), a leading workforce education provider for transportation, skilled technicians, energy and healthcare, today announced that San Antonio will be the site of its first campus for skilled trades programs. The announcement continues the company’s successful execution of its North Star strategy to shape the future of workforce education in the United States.
The San Antonio campus is one of three campuses the company plans to open in Fiscal 2026, subject to regulatory approvals, across its two operating segments: UTI, which offers transportation, skilled trades and energy education; and Concorde Career Colleges, which specializes in the dental, nursing and allied health professions.
UTI-San Antonio is expected to open in Spring 2026 and offer programs in aviation, welding, HVACR and an electrical training suite of wind, robotics, industrial maintenance and electrical/electronics.
“Skilled trades education builds the foundation for innovation, economic strength and fulfilling career opportunities,” said Tracy Lorenz , UTI Division President. “In a world that relies on skilled professionals to keep industries moving, an investment in this training is an investment in the future. We look forward to leveraging our educational expertise and deep industry relationships to support San Antonio’s economy.”
“This skilled trades campus highlights how we are optimizing our resources to increase access to highdemand programs while minimizing space and capital expenditures,” said Todd Hitchcock , Corporate Chief Operating Officer, Universal Technical Institute, Inc. “San Antonio is the ideal city for our investment, given local industry’s growing need for skilled workers in the programs this UTI campus will offer. In addition, we have received strong support from public officials and community leaders over the years for our Concorde-San Antonio campus, which has successfully educated thousands of students for healthcare careers since 2010.”
Todd Hitchcock, Corporate Chief Operating Officer Tracy Lorenz, UTI Division President
UTI-San Antonio will occupy more than 50,000 square feet at 5776 Stemmons Drive. The location and programs are subject to state, accreditor and U.S. Department of Education approval and student recruitment will not begin until those approvals are received.
“Universal Technical Institute is a welcome addition to San Antonio’s workforce development ecosystem,” said Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “We look forward to their presence helping to make economic mobility accessible for all San Antonians.”
Universal Technical Institute, Inc., currently has 6 campuses in Texas: UTIAustin, UTI-Dallas, UTI-Houston, Concorde Grand Prairie, Concorde Dallas and Concorde San Antonio. The company recently announced Atlanta as the site of another new UTI division campus and Fort Myers, Fla., as the location of a unique, co-branded Concorde-Heartland Dental campus for dental hygiene and dental assistant programs.
The core tenets of the Universal Technical Institute, Inc.’s North Star strategy—growth, diversification and optimization—are the foundation for initiatives at the company’s two divisions. The second phase of the company’s North Star strategy is expected to deliver approximately 10% revenue CAGR and expand its Adjusted EBITDA margin to nearly 20 percent through fiscal 2029. At its most recent earnings call, the company reported strong financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2025, with its key metrics of revenue, Adjusted EBITDA and new student starts having improved year-over-year. The company also increased its guidance ranges for the fiscal year.
Final Phase
Skanska, together with members of the Hemisfair Park Area Redevelopment Corporation, San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, and other city officials, hosted a ribboncutting ceremony to officially open Civic Park Phase 2. The park is located within the former 1968 World’s Fair grounds.
Civic Park Phase 2 continues Hemisfair’s vision for a green and active urban neighborhood. It features four main spaces: Source Plaza, the Promenade, the Zócalo, and the Stage. The new section of Civic Park connects Hemisfair with one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the city.
Civic Park Phase 2 is thoughtfully landscaped with native plantings, including 59 large trees, that are irrigated with recycled water from the water collection and treatment system that was built as part of Phase 1 of Civic Park. This system largely eliminates the park’s dependence on potable water sources, allowing resilience during periods of drought.
Source Plaza serves as the entrance to Civic Park from downtown San Antonio. It features a blend of hardscape and landscape with limestone seat walls, shaded terraces, and native plantings creating a welcoming space for everyday use. Phase 2 completes the Promenade, a pedestrian artery lined with Mexican Sycamores, providing a shaded walkway,
enhancing San Antonio’s walkability and urban connectivity.
Following the Promenade from Source Plaza leads guests to the Zócalo, an elevated hardscape terrace equipped with movable tables and chairs for daily use and designed to support larger gatherings, complementing the adjacent Great Lawn and Stage.
The Stage is an addition to the north end of the Great Lawn which provides a space for concerts and larger-scale events.
“It’s an honor to work with the City of San Antonio and Hemisfair to transform downtown,” said Ryan Aalsma, executive vice president and general manager of Skanska USA Building San Antonio. “Hemisfair has always been a key part of our city’s history. Being part of shaping a space that celebrates San Antonio’s culture and brings families and visitors together in this amazing park is a huge opportunity. It’s all about making sure this space stays a lively, vibrant community hub for generations to come.”
“We are thrilled to have completed Civic Park in its entirety,” said Hemisfair CEO Andres Andujar. “Civic Park serves as San Antonio’s front porch, a gathering place for the city’s biggest celebrations for generations to come. As a vibrant centerpiece of downtown, it will bring people together, foster community connections and create lasting memories for residents and visitors alike.”
The Great Outdoors
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.
Lake Buchanan has been here for 88 years, here since 1937.
People have come here as little kids, come back with their families and now their grandkids bring them along to the lake. Before the fishermen, there were the folks who settled in this river valley, native and settler. Some of them left little traces of themselves when they visited.
Over the years, when the water was low, it has been a pastime to explore the empty lake bottom. The most obvious clues come from the bottles and jars you can find. I know one spot where there were a bunch of Old Crow bottles sticking out of the sediment. I figured there was a fellow whose favorite fishing partner was his drink of choice. In another area, I have found quite a number of old timey dark blue glass.
Milk of Magnesia bottles. That poor fisherman must have needed quiet time on the water to try and ease his worries and soothe his ulcers. Either way, it seems they both fished in those spots often, so the fish must have been biting. I have filed those spots away for future fishing reference when the water comes back.
Every so often you come across a large flat rock with heavy nylon string wrapped around it. That is a trotline anchor. If you see several of them in the same area you know it’s a good spot to fish. When you see a similarity in the size of the rock and the way it is tied, you can tell they were placed by the same fisherman, or his family. I know of some jealously guarded trotline spots that have been held for four generations!
You can learn a lot about people by what they are willing to use to hold a trotline down. West Texas oil people might use discarded drill bits, mechanics used engine blocks and old soldiers used cement-filled practice bomb casings, but locals mostly used the biggest rock they could put in the boat.
In some places you will find broken pieces of china or old crockery and sand smoothed shards of glass, aged in the sun to a light purple color. The remnants of old home places dot the lakebed. You can’t see much more than the corner stones a house might have sat on or a pile of tumbled down stones near a depression where a well once was. By looking even closer, you can see the flint chips and scattered bits of sandstone grindstones left behind by the original settlers of the river valley. Everyone leaves something behind.
Every time I come across a cast-net tangled up in a dry stump, I know some guy was cussing because his bait catching trip got cut short. When I see a waterlogged cell phone, I wonder if it was lost overboard by accident, or if it was someone’s declaration of independence. “I’m catching fish, and I don’t want you bothering me!” SPLASH! I have seen that happen on my boat.
So, what kind of fisherman are you? It doesn’t really matter why you fish – just that you do! And hand the tradition down to the kids too. Someday they might walk along a low water shoreline and remember their times on the water with you!
While the water is low, the catching is on fire! You need to come and see what you’ve been missing!
Spring has returned and that means it’s time for catfish angling at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Neighborhood Fishin’ lakes across the state. The program provides friends and families with the opportunity to reel in catfish close to home and participate in the Texas tradition of outdoor recreation.
On Apr. 11, TPWD resumed stocking thousands of catfish at 18 Neighborhood Fishin’ lakes, including, two each in Austin and San Antonio.
“Neighborhood Fishin’ lakes are conveniently located in urban and suburban areas to provide a great fishing experience where most Texas residents live,” said Marcos DeJesus, TPWD Inland Fisheries Division Region Three Director. “Catfish are fun and easy to catch for anglers of all ages and experience levels. If you’ve never fished before, these are the perfect places to get started. If you are an experienced angler, these are the perfect places to introduce fishing to a friend or family member.”
Each lake will receive channel catfish every two weeks through the end of October — with a brief pause during the heat of August — to ensure there are plenty of angling opportunities for everyone throughout the spring, summer and early fall. Neighborhood Fishin’ lakes are located in city and county parks with ample parking, shoreline access, restrooms, lighting and other recreational amenities in addition to fishing.
Anglers can keep up to five fish of any kind (all species combined) per day with one black bass 14 inches or greater in length. Youth under 17 do not need a fishing license, but adults who fish these sites do. For as little as $11, folks can purchase a “one-day, all-water” license or they can buy an “annual, freshwater” license for $30, allowing you to fish at any time during the year. All proceeds go toward management of the fisheries, providing access and conservation of Texas fish and their habitats.
To find a Neighborhood Fishin’ lake near you as well as tips on how to fish, where to purchase fishing gear or licenses, fishing regulations or to sign up for email updates, visit www. neighborhoodfishin.org.
Neighborhood Fishin’ is supported by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Foundation through donations from Friedkin Family Foundation and Phillips 66 as well as local government bodies across the state.
Catfish Stocking is Back at Neighborhood Fishin’ Lakes Beach Building
Ken Milam
Craig Noto of Quality Fence and family enjoying the Texas Sandfest festivities in Port Aransas
Mission Golf Cars Sandfest Crew!
The ghosts of fishermen past
BThe Great Outdoors
Crankin’ in May
May is probably my favorite month of the year to throw a crank bait. Regardless of if you’re fishing a shad spawn up shallow, or dredging a deep diver on a rock pile. You can catch them at any depth on a crank bait this time of year. The water is warming up, bass are getting off of their beds, and are extremely active and hungry! With that being said I’m going to give some tips for throwing a crank bait in general.
Line selection
Line selection is extremely important when throwing a crankbait. For example the depths that are advertised on the package are actually when throwing the bait on 10lb fluorocarbon. The line I’m going to use depends a lot on what style of crankbait I’m going to throw, and I always throw fluorocarbon, fluorocarbon is clear, has a smaller diameter, sinks, and is way quieter going through the guides of your rods than any other line. If I’m throwing a squarebill in 2-5ft of water I prefer 14 or 15lb test flurocarbon.
Usually when I’m doing this style of fishing I’m running the bait over a lot of logs, shallow rocks, and grass. Since a squarebill’s bill is typically pretty small you get quite a bit of abrasion on your line right by the bait. So to prevent breaking off fish I typically go to that 14 or 15lb test to just have a stronger line.
When throwing a deep diving crankbait, it gets a little more technical depending on what I’m trying to achieve. I always throw a minimum of 12lb test when throwing a deep diver just so It can handle the large baits. But there are times when I go heavier. For example, if I’m trying to get a 20ft diving crankbait to only dive 9-12 ft I would probably put 17lb line on so the drag of the thicker line going through the water forces the bait to not dive quite as deep. Or if I’m fishing a lake that has zebra muscles I like to bulk up the line, so when a fray in the line occurs it still maintains enough strength to get your fish in the boat.
Color selection
My color selections for crankbaits in
Best Braided Fishing Lines for 2025
raided fishing line offers anglers a host of benefits over monofilament lines. It has little to no stretch, almost zero memory, and a really high strength to diameter ratio. They offer superior UV resistance when compared with traditional monos, and tend to have a much longer lifespan as a result.
But the field of braided lines available is wide and varied. Despite their similar appearance, construction methods differ, and as a result, braided lines have different qualities. There are makes and models aimed at different tactics and techniques, from power fishing to finesse. With so many different varieties out there, it can be hard to decide which is right for you.
To help make sense of it all, we’ve prepared this in-depth guide to the best braided fishing lines. I’ve included some important background info on how different lines are made, their characteristics, and their best uses. And as a long-time member of the fishing industry, I’ve had the ability to test just about every type of braided line to hit the market. So I’m confident that this guide will help you select the best braided line for your unique situation.
Best for Finesse Fishing
Sufix Revolve Braided Line
Winner of the Best of Show Fishing Line at ICAST 2024, Sufix’s Revolve braided line was specifically designed for finesse fishing applications. I was impressed by the line’s feel when I first encountered it on the show floor, and knew it would excel for Ned rigs and the like, fished on lightweight spinning gear. It should also be a boon to FFS fanatic flinging minnows. With an extremely fine diameter, this should also be perfect or BFS applications Sufix says the Izanas fibers used in the line’s construction have more body than comparable fibers, which should help eliminate wind knots. Another notable feature is the midpoint marker that divides the spool in half, so you can put 100 yards on one reel and have another 100 for another. This is a great choice for those looking for an ultra-fine diameter that offers smooth casting qualities.
Best Sinking Braided Fishing Line
Sunline Almight Sinking PE Braid
All braided lines used to float, but recent advances have allowed manufacturers to create sinking versions. Sunline Almight Sinking PE Braid is great for hover stroll, drop shot, and shaky head techniques. The benefits go
beyond those applications, as the sinking nature of the line eliminates line bows and puts you in greater contact with your bait. This is one we’re particularly excited about. Sunline gave the line a specific gravity of 1.48 by blending four ULT-PE materials and a high-specific gravity fiber core to achieve the ideal sink rate. Despite this, strength remains comparable to 100% PE braided material for a long life. And the straight-line connection to your bait gives it even greater sensitivity over traditional braided lines.
Best Braided Line for Lures
Seaguar JDM PEX8 Lure Edition Braid
The super-thin diameter of Seaguar’s JDM PEX8 Lure Edition Braid is a good all-around choice for finesse applications. Though it was designed for micro jigs and other downsized offerings, we think one will work well for just about any finnesse technique you can think of. If you don’t need a sinking braid, this one can probably do it for you. The 8-strand construction is beyond smooth, and keeps its shape even after a tough season. Seaguar engineers have always been good about making their lines keep their colors, and this one appears to be no different. Plus, it has the lowest stretch of all of Seaguar Japan’s offerings, so you know it’s going to be sensitive.
The Best All Around
Power Pro Spectra Braided Line
If you’ve ever sold your trusty ol’ pickup truck for one of those fancy ones and regretted it a few months later… you can probably relate to the millions of Power Pro Spectra users across the world when they try other braided lines. This line and brand has a rabid following of anglers and it’s just one of those “old faithful” lines that won’t really let you down. I’m one of them; I’ve been a fan of the stuff since it came out, and you can find it on more of my spinning, casting, and conventional reels than anything else. It’s smooth, it’s quiet and in my personal opinion, it excels on spinning gear. It behaves well on the spool and allows for great casting distance and sensitivity. It’s also a relative bargain when compared to many others in the field. I’ve gotten a really long life out of Power Pro, some of my reels have lines that are 5 years old or older. If you’re in a store before a fishing trip or fishing tournament and can’t quite make your mind up, this is somewhat of a fail-safe option that isn’t going to let you down.
May are very simple. I either throw a shad/ white patterned crankbait or a bluegill colored bait. Depending on if I’m fishing an area that is abundant in shad or fishing a bluegill bedding area. The specific colors I throw will be influenced by the water color. If the water is really clear I try to have as natural colors as possible and rarely mix in bright colors. Then if the water is stained or muddy I’ll throw some brighter colors or really dark colors. But from my experience with color selection, just rotate colors until you find something that works.
Fishing a crankbait is definitely my favorite way to catch a fish. And I hope these tips will help y’all land more fish as we go into the beginning of summer!
Best Casting Braided Fishing Line Berkley X9
Berkley’s X9 is a relative bargain that delivers long casts and easy line management. As you probably guessed from the name, X9 has a rather unique 9-strand composition. This results in a very round, smooth braid, which slides through rod guides smoothly. It also helps prevent it from digging into itself on the spool.
Best Braided Fishing Line for Topwaters Sunline Xplasma Asegai Braided Line
I was a little skeptical of this line when I first spooled it onto my reel because it kinked a lot. It has a very waxyfeeling coating which is meant to increase slickness, abrasion resistance and water repellency but until I tried this stuff, I had never really felt a braid like this before. Once you get above the 50-pound test mark, you’ll be taken aback by its rigidity. But with all of that being said, it softens up after a few fishing trips and has turned into a really nice, braided line that seems to work excellently for a myriad of bass fishing techniques. Due to its stiffness, I think it’s a great choice for open water topwater fishing, especially when it comes to walking topwater lures. These lures require you to incorporate slack into your retrieve when you quickly pause the bait. A braided line that’s too limp will almost surely hook itself on the front treble hook of your lure which will foul the bait and essentially ruin your entire cast and most likely spook any fish that may be following your lure. This more rigid line, however, stays in front of the line when you pause your topwater which keeps it clear of the front treble hook. So if you want to bomb some casts across a point or towards some schoolers, this braided line is a solid choice that’s tailor made for the situation.
Captain Evan Coleman Big Bassin’ Fishing Tours
Sponsored by: Daiwa USA
What is it, and what does it do?
If you have ever had an overflowing, open-top dumpster, you know just how frustrating it can be.
In 2021, Hiltpold & Company, founded by Chris and Tiffany Hiltpold got the answer everyone was looking for by bringing Crushr, a mobile dumpster compacting service to the San Antonio market.
Although the engineering aspect dates back to the early 1990s, the actual adaptation to the truck originated in the late 1990s,” says Business Development Specialist Jason Jackovich. “A factory representative for Heinz Bergmann OHG, a waste management equipment manufacturer, was selling stationary units with only a brochure to display the equipment. Designing and patenting the truck was solely for an experimental marketing ploy in 2003, which later became the design you see today.
Jackovich explains, “After several years of using the truck for marketing, a group of investors convinced the inventor the mobile concept would be a good idea. In 2011, they built five trucks to place in various test markets and service routes on an as-need basis. Then in 2015, the Crushr founder discovered one of these trucks operating in southern Indiana and had a franchising idea. In Jan 2016, they began building a business case for franchising and in 2017 were approved. Crushr sold the first franchise location in Nashville, TN in early 2018.”
In 2021, with one truck, co-owner Chris Hiltpold and one driver aggressively began pounding the streets, knocking on doors, showing off the truck, performing free demonstrations, visiting job sites with an open-top dumpster, slowly growing their new franchise. Now, three years later, Crushr Hill Country has seven employees and four trucks.
Jackovich says, “We often hear, ‘I’ve never seen anything like this. Or I was behind one of your trucks on the highway and wondered what it is and what does it do?’”
Crushr, with its 5,000 lbs. of downforce, shreds open-top dumpster contents with its multi-speared barrel that rotates forward and backward until the contents has been compacted. “We have total control of the rotating drum,” Jackovich maintains. “We can rotate it forward, and backward, and concentrate on certain areas within the dumpster. We back up to the dumpster and break down sheetrock, pallets, and anything in the dumpster. If dumpsters are backed up to the loading dock and the contents in the container are piled near the loading dock, we can pull the contents
the front of the container creating a belly on the backside that can be filled up making it more efficient for the labor force. “
Hiltpold & Company, a woman-owned business, has 300 customers. And although it continues to grow, saving their customers money every day, it isn’t without its obstacles.
“It’s no secret, the construction industry has been known to use various pieces of construction equipment to compact their open-top dumpsters,” Jackovich adds. “Often, when we go to a new job site and tell them we can compact their garbage, save them money and recover 40-50% of the dumpster capacity, their first response is they have this heavy piece of equipment onsite, whether it be an excavator, Skytrak, forklift or bobcat, to crush their dumpster. However, they usually bite on a free demonstration!”Jackovich continues, “Once they see our application and process, they soon realize how efficient it is and that their method is more antiquated and more for making their load road compliant, while we are regaining space inside the container.
“Additionally, they are at risk of damaging the container or their equipment. When they sign up to use our service, we indemnify them under our insurance; therefore, protecting them. If ever there is damage to the dumpster, Crushr will take responsibility, not the customer. All of our operators are trained to use the machine, which is a purpose-built truck specifically for trash compaction and greatly minimizes any kind of damage.
“Mobile compaction works! When a customer uses Crushr, they can expect to reduce hauls by 65%, resulting them in a 33% reduction in overall cost. There’s an added benefit by reducing trips to the landfill. Your annual carbon footprint is reduced by 1.5 tons or more. Furthermore, if you are working on a LEED certified contract, this data can be provided to the customer. “
In closing, Crushr Hill Country services San Antonio, TX to Kyle, TX including Boerne and the surrounding areas. It does not require any long-term commitment, and they are happy to work on any on-demand basis. “We guarantee a 24-hour service and appreciate the heads-up notice. With our fourth truck now in the market, we can typically service our clients the same day. We are happy to provide and greatly encourage people to reach out to us for a free demonstration,” Jackovich says. -cwr
Subfest 2025
The American Subcontractors Association (ASA) hosted its highly anticipated ASA Subfest on Apr. 12, bringing together over 1,500 attendees for an unforgettable day of family-friendly fun, community spirit, and a whole lot of Texas BBQ!
Held under clear skies and high energy at the Helotes Festival Fairgrounds, the event featured an exciting lineup of activities for all ages — including live music, face painting, balloon twisters, caricature artists, cotton candy, ice cream, and even a petting zoo. A special appearance from the Easter Bunny delighted children and added a touch of seasonal magic to the festivities.
One of the main highlights of Subfest was the fiercely delicious BBQ competition, with 37 cook teams firing up their pits and serving mouth-watering creations. Congratulations to all the competition winners who brought the heat and took home top honors!
ASA extends its deepest appreciation to the incredible volunteers who worked tirelessly to make this event a success, and to their generous sponsors for their invaluable support. Your commitment to the ASA community is what keeps events like Subfest thriving year after year. Photos courtesy of Mary C. Haskin Photography
Chicken
1st Place: TNT Crane & Rigging, Inc.
2nd Place: The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
3rd Place: Joeris General Contracting
Ribs
1st Place: Redondo Manufacturing
2nd Place: Joeris General Contractors
3rd Place: MEMCO
Brisket
1st Place: Broadway Bank
2nd Place: Core Electrical Group
3rd Place: The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
People’s Choice Alterman, Inc.
Best Camp
1st Place: Alamo Crane Service, Inc.
2nd Place: Western States Fire Protection
3rd Place: Keller-Martin Construction Grand Champ Redondo Manufacturing Reserve Champ
The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
1st Place Brisket
1st Place Best Camp
1st Place Chicken
2nd Place Best Camp
2nd Place Brisket Grand Champ Reserve Champ
1st Place Ribs
3rd Place Brisket
3rd Place Chicken
2nd Place Chicken
2nd Place Ribs
3rd Place Ribs
3rd Place Best Camp
Urban Oasis
The visionary minds behind the wildly popular Elsewhere Garden Bar and Kitchen in San Antonio, are in the process of creating their next masterpiece - Elsewhere Too. This one of a kind indoor-outdoor bar, entertainment space and gardens, will be like nothing San Antonio has ever seen. Situated on a nearly five acre property, Elsewhere Too promises to be a haven for those seeking a retreat from urban life without leaving the city limits. The founders, Nolan Ellis and Terrin Fuhrmann, have partnered with CGC General Contractors (CGC) to make their dreams a reality.
Groundbreaking for the project took place on October 24, 2024, and construction is progressing steadily towards a projected completion in Summer 2025. The design team has taken great care to preserve the site’s natural elements, including heritage oak trees, while incorporating new landscaping to enhance the organic feel. Thoughtfully designed hardscape elements like planters, fire pits, and seating areas make the space inviting and comfortable, setting the stage for relaxing and socializing.
B“We’re really focusing on creating a space that feels like a natural extension of the landscape,” Construction Superintendent Anthony Skerhut says. “The existing heritage oaks are being carefully integrated into the design, and we’re adding extensive new landscaping to maintain that natural look.”
When asked about his favorite elements of the project, Anthony describes a standout feature of Elsewhere Too - the innovative Wisteria tunnel, a custom-fabricated rolled tube steel tunnel, 20 feet wide and 10 feet tall will be covered with flowers and vines that leads guests to the bar area. “It’s been a challenging but incredibly rewarding element to bring to life.”
Project Manager, Travis Miller, says that one his favorite elements of the project so far is the architectural wood that ties the look of the bar and shade pavilion together. “What was originally specified was an LVL grade, which didn’t give the nice finish that I think the owners wanted. So we proposed the glulam style beams, and we already have them up at the bar right now, and we’ve already sealed them. They look fantastic.”
The venue will feature a variety of spaces for
Team Spotlight
artlett Cocke General Contractors is celebrating changes in the Estimating & Preconstruction Department. Nathan Olson , Vice President of Estimating & Preconstruction, shares, “We are happy to recognize these individuals for stepping up for new challenges in their career in support of our mission to Build Better Lives within the Estimating & Preconstruction Department.” Join us in congratulating the following team members on their well-deserved promotions:
Russell Asher, Chief Estimator – Now leading the
relaxation and entertainment, including natural fire pit seating areas, limestone block seating, and a 2,500 square foot greenhouse-style pavilion for gatherings and events, and will even include a ferris wheel! To ensure comfort in the Texas heat, the design incorporates cooling elements such as a mister system and ceiling fans, while string lighting will create a magical ambiance in the evenings. The Concept Drawings were done by Lake Flato and the Construction Drawings and Administration by Studio 8 Architects. The CGC project team is working closely with the owners to ensure every detail aligns with their vision.
As construction continues, anticipation in the community is building. “There’s definitely a buzz around this project,” Travis says. “People are excited to see how Elsewhere Too will complement and expand on what made the original Elsewhere so popular.” With its thoughtful design that celebrates nature while providing modern comforts, Elsewhere Too is poised to become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a unique space for escaping urban life. -ndw
South Texas Regional Team of Estimators. Russell’s leadership and technical expertise continue to elevate
Bartlett Cocke’s efforts across the region.
Cody Fife, Regional Estimating Team Manager –Cody leads the East Texas Regional Team of Estimators. Cody has the skills to lead and brings a can do attitude and problem-solving skills to every project and team.
Chris Johnson, Chief Estimator – Taking on a corporate role supporting their Regions in Higher Education projects and supporting broader workload needs across the company. Chris is a trusted go-to
resource with a wealth of knowledge to deploy.
Garrett Renken – Transitioning into Preconstruction Management in South Texas over the course of this year. Bartlett Cocke is excited to see Garrett apply his diverse knowledge and skillset in new ways!
Bart Rogers, Director of Estimating Systems & Analytics – Moving into a new corporate role focused on Systems, Data, and Integration - ensuring Bartlett Cocke maintains accuracy and efficiency across their workflows and applications.
Russell Asher
Cody Fife
Chris Johnson
Garrett Renken
Bart Rogers
Elsewhere Too project rendering
The Quarry Golf Club was the place to be on Mar. 26 when the San Antonio Chapter of Associated General Contractors (AGC) hosted their Annual Golf Tournament. With two teetime, It truly was a packed fun-filled day,
Golf anyone?
keeping the AGC and Quarry staff members on their toes.
The morning flight was sold out with 104 golf enthusiasts ready to hit the greens after a 7:00 am check-in. Finishing their round of golf with overcast skies, the 92
Women’s Longest Drive: Jamie Lamberecht, Alterman
Men’s Longest Drive: Mark Misenhimer Cannon Hole: Greg Garcia
afternoon golfers weren’t quite so lucky as the weather took a turn for the worst and were only able to finish 14 holes of play.
“We are grateful for the support we received from our title sponsor, Alterman, as well as our other incredibly generous
1st Place Gross: Bell & McCoy
1st Place Net: River City Excavation
2nd Place Net: Bartlett Cocke General Contractors
sponsors,” said AGC Events & Marketing Communications Manager Alexandria Ballew. “Thank you to our wonderful golf tournament committee, volunteers, and all the golfers who joined us and helped make it another successful tournament.”
3rd Place Net: Opifex
Women’s Longest Drive: Vanessa Garza
Men’s Longest Drive: Hunter Trinidad Cannon Hole: James Ellison
Don’t Get Locked Out
Since 1989, The Key Depot has been providing innovative security services that directly address the unique challenges faced by construction companies. “We understand that construction sites require specialized security solutions,” says Kai Dussling, the company’s general manager. Construction firms can rely on The Key Depot to secure their most valuable assets, from managing complex access control for job sites to providing critical key management for heavy equipment.
The Key Depot offers comprehensive services including re-keying construction vehicles like bobcats and skid steers, installing secure access systems for job site trailers and common areas, and creating customized key control systems that ensure only authorized personnel can access critical equipment and
sensitive areas. Their expertise extends to installing safes for new construction projects, managing electronic entry systems for emerging developments, and providing flexible security solutions that adapt to the dynamic nature of construction work sites.
“Different projects have different security needs,” Kai explains. “We focus on finding the most effective solution for each unique situation.” Whether it’s a small residential project or a large commercial development, The Key Depot provides professional security services across a 1.5hour radius from New Braunfels, serving construction professionals in Austin, San Antonio, and surrounding regions. For customized security solutions tailored to construction industry needs, contact The Key Depot at their New Braunfels location: 386A Landa St. -ndw
Round-Up
On Apr. 21 HOLT Group announced the promotion of Kevin Chavez to general manager at HOLT Renewables, a commercial energy solutions provider specializing in solar design, engineering, procurement, construction, and maintenance. As general manager, Chavez will oversee the operation and execution of HOLT Renewables’ strategy, facilitating its entry into new markets and enhancing offerings in energy resilience and renewable energy adoption.
Chavez began his career in the renewable energy industry in 2019 and joined HOLT Renewables in 2020 after the company merged with PCI Solar. During that time, he led a variety of significant projects, including the design and construction of first-of-its-kind solar charging infrastructure for CapMetro and an innovative, 1.036-megawatt (MW) solar system for Bakerly located at Brooks, a mixed-use community on San Antonio’s South Side. During his time, these projects have served as a testament to the evolving energy landscape, demonstrating how innovation and sustainability are increasingly shaping corporate strategy.
“Kevin’s strategic leadership has been a driving force behind his successful career,” said J.K. Baxter, senior vice president of sales at HOLT Group. “His dedication to the team, exceptional customer service, and continued commitment exemplify the core values of HOLT Renewables. Under his leadership, both our customers and employees can expect continued excellence and outstanding service.”
With expertise in Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC), Chavez will leverage his knowledge of the complete project lifecycle to deliver top-tier solutions for HOLT Renewables’ customers. Chavez earned his Bachelor of Science in Technological Entrepreneurship and Management from Arizona State University, after having attended the United States Air Force Academy.
Submissions
On Apr. 3 the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) spent Roofing Day at the Texas Capitol.
Clear savings
In 2003, at his kitchen table in Austin, TX, Glenn Garland and his vision for changing the world with innovative energy savings, alongside Audrey Parker, a true entrepreneur, co-founded CLEAResult, an energy efficiency consulting firm.
Starting out as a very small startup with fewer than six staff members, CLEAResult grew to become the largest energy efficiency-consulting firm in North America, which now employs 2,700 employees.
The driving force behind starting CLEAResult, was cost saving and emission reduction. According to Program Manager Tim Stark, “Garland wanted to help people save money on energy costs, reduce greenhouse emissions, help businesses and homes become more energy efficient, and help communities become more sustainable.”
Initially, they began working with different utility companies and the contractors of those companies with different programs to help their customers conserve energy.
Primarily, CLEAResult focuses on projects related to energy efficiency, energy transition, energy sustainability, and helping businesses and utility companies implement cost-effective solutions to reduce energy consumption through initiatives like building retrofits, renewable energy integration, demand response programs, and comprehensive energy audits across commercial, industrial and residential sectors. Essentially, CLEAResult designs and manages project that lower usage and carbon footprint for their clients.
Market Outreach Specialist Marinda Stevens adds, “In San Antonio, CLEAResult works exclusively with CPS and covers all CPS customers.
“Residential clients can take advantage special rebates through upgrades and energy-efficient products such as attic insulation and cool roofing rebates. If you need to do some repair work on your roof, replace an old roof, or your roof has been damaged and needs to be replaced due to wear and tear, you can get a rebate if you decide to go with
an energy star approved roofing material and get up to .20 per sq ft back. The same applies with attic insulation. If you use material that is energy star certified with an itemized receipt you can get .25 per sq. ft. if self-installed, and .35 per sq. ft if contractor installed.
“We have rebates on heat pumps, mini-split heat pumps, pool pumps (must be energy star certified, variable speed with a one-for-one replacement, $150/ horsepower – you can get up to $450 for your pool pump). The most popular rebates are the HVAC rebates – if you are looking to replace your HVAC system and as long as you do a one-for-one replacement and is within the new efficiency system rating guidelines, you can get up to $115 per cooling ton.”
For commercial clients, CLEAResult offers lighting and HVAC rebates for commercial, schools, institutions, and small businesses. They also have cool saver tune-up program for both residential and commercial customers.
“In 2023,” adds Stark, “all CLEAResult programs averted 1.4 million metric tons of CO2*, which is equivalent to keeping over 275,000 homes off the grid for one year. This same work saved customer $549 million on their energy bills in 2023.
“As our business grows, so does the long-term, positive impact for the planet, people, and the communities where we live and work.”
Headquartered in Austin, TX, CLEAResult services all of North America. -cwr
Future Leaders Takes on Tech
Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) South Texas Chapter held their recent Future Leaders Initiative (FLI) event and it was a powerful testament to the energy and innovation shaping the construction industry. Hosted by Joeris General Contractors, LLC , the event drew a fantastic turnout of rising industry talent eager to grow and connect.
Attendees heard from forward-thinking industry leaders that included Patrick Scarpati, Director of Construction Technology and Innovation, Associated Builders and Contractors, Andy Gajbhiye, Founder of DBI Consulting, and Suril Patel, Director of Construction Technology, Joeris General Contractors, LLC.
These speakers shared insights on how technology is transforming the way we build—from design to delivery. FLI’s mission is clear: to build and connect professionals across the construction industry through education, networking, and mentorship.
2025 Design Award Winners
Texas Society of Architects is pleased to announce the Texas Society of Architects’ 2025 Design Award winners. The winning projects will be featured in the Awards issue of Texas Architect magazine this fall. Congratulations to all the honorees!
Marinda Stevens
Isidore + Nicosi, San AntonioBaldridge Architects
310 W Grayson, San AntonioBeaty Palmer Architects
Gone but not forgotten
On a solemn and moving morning, Child Advocates San Antonio (CASA) hosted the community’s annual Memorial Wreath Laying Ceremony on Friday, Apr. 4, to honor the lives of children who tragically died of abuse and neglect.
Held at the Historic Bexar County Courthouse, the ceremony gathered many community partners, supporters, and local leaders to reflect on the importance of advocacy and remembrance. Beautifully adorned wreaths were placed in memory of the children lost, representing a collective promise to continue the fight for every child’s right to a safe, loving, and permanent home.
Dr. Angie White, President and CEO of Child Advocates San Antonio, emphasized the community’s role in preventing child abuse: “It is critical that our community comes together to ACT whenever one of us sees something suspicious. If you suspect a child is being abused or hungry, you have the power to file a report and perhaps save a life. “At Child Advocates San Antonio, we always
look forward to the day when CASA, foster care, and National Child Abuse Prevention Month are no longer necessary because all children are growing up safe and supported with their families,” she said.
The event included heartfelt remarks, a moment of silence, and bell tolls in remembrance of the 5 lives lost this last year, along with an extra representing any other child whose death of abuse has been unrecognized, offering attendees a time for reflection, healing, and renewed resolve.
Child Advocates San Antonio serves as the court-appointed advocates for children in foster care in Bexar County. Each year, CASA advocates dedicate thousands of hours to supporting children navigating the complex child welfare system. Events like this serve as both remembrance and a call to action. CASA invites the community to get involved— whether through volunteering, supporting programs, or spreading awareness. Together, we can work toward a future where every child is safe, seen, and supported.
I-9 Audits and Site Visits: How Construction Employers Can Prepare Before the Feds Come Knocking LEGAL
P| Young Houston,
TX
icture a typical morning on a Texas construction site: crews are setting rebar, schedules are tight, and every hour counts. Then, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer arrives, presenting a Notice of Inspection (NOI) that demands all Form I-9 records within three business days. For construction firms, with their expansive workforces and high visibility, such scrutiny is not hypothetical, its reality, and the consequences of unpreparedness in such a situation can be severe, from substantial fines to operational disruptions. Yet, through proactive compliance measures, construction employers can mitigate these risks and protect their business.
With federal scrutiny intensifying and penalties for noncompliance reaching six figures, construction employers can’t afford to leave I-9 compliance to chance. Conducting a thorough internal audit before an inspection is not just wise, it’s essential. A well-executed self-review allows you to catch and correct errors and demonstrate good-faith efforts if ever called upon to respond. Waiting until the government is reviewing your files is simply too late. The best time to address potential issues is before your records are under federal review.
Understanding What’s at Stake
Every U.S. employer is required to complete and retain Form I-9 for each employee hired after November 6, 1986, to verify identity and authorization to work in the United States. Employers must ensure the form is completed on time, that the documentation presented by the employee appears genuine, and that the form is properly stored and maintained.
If ICE initiates an audit, typically by issuing an NOI, you’ll be given just three business days to produce your I-9 forms and related documentation. Employers with incomplete, inaccurate, or missing forms can face steep fines. In some cases, repeat violations or knowingly hiring unauthorized workers can result in criminal liability. Moreover, if your company doesn’t have a plan in place when ICE agents show up unannounced, confusion and fear may lead to disorganized responses from your workforce.
Conducting
a Voluntary Internal Audit
One of the most effective ways to reduce risk is to regularly conduct a voluntary internal I-9 audit. It demonstrates good faith to regulators and can help reduce penalties. When done correctly, it can also help employers identify systemic issues
before they become legal problems.
A complete audit should include all current employees and any former employees whose I-9s fall within the retention period (three years from hire or one year after termination, whichever is later). Each form should be reviewed for completeness, valid documentation, and timely execution of both employee and employer sections.
Common mistakes include missing signatures, late completion dates, or incorrect document types. Errors must be corrected carefully: original forms should never be replaced or backdated. Corrections should be clearly marked, initialed, and dated. If a form was never completed, a new one should be filled out immediately, dated accurately, and accompanied by a written explanation.
Employers should also track expiration dates for temporary work authorizations and ensure that work eligibility is reverified before an employee’s authorization expires. Overlooking these requirements can lead to significant penalties.
Just as critical is proper storage. It is best practice to store I-9s in a secure, centralized location, separate from personnel files. Remember, employers have just three business days to produce them during an audit.
The Value of Legal Oversight
Employers often assume that a self-audit is solely an HR task. But involving legal counsel adds two major advantages. First, counsel can help ensure the audit is conducted properly, spotting both technical and substantive issues that may otherwise go unnoticed. Second, when an audit is carried out at the direction of an attorney, the findings may be protected under attorney-client privilege. That layer of confidentiality can be critical if the audit uncovers potential compliance concerns.
Legal counsel can also guide you on how to handle corrections, what to do if you discover unauthorized workers, and how to implement or revise company policies to avoid future issues.
If the Government Comes Calling
The reality is that even companies with the best of intentions may one day face an audit or enforcement visit. That’s why it’s far better to conduct your own internal audit before the government comes knocking. A wellplanned audit takes time and attention to detail. It’s not a task that can be rushed under the pressure of a looming deadline. Employers who wait until they receive an NOI to get their records in order often find themselves playing catch-up with limited options.
Shannon Gatlin, Principal Cokinos
Kristen Maloney, Associate Cokinos | Young Houston, TX
The Risk of an Inventory Correction is Rising
Joseph Brusuelas Chief Economist and Principal RSM US LLP
Austin, TX
Producers and wholesalers have prepared for higher tariffs by buying goods in advance, which is creating the conditions for a modest inventory correction should demand slow.
The risk particularly applies to purchases of durables such as machinery and equipment, our analysis of inventory data shows.
It’s important to remember that 40% to 45% of imports are not the final products that consumers or businesses purchase. Instead, they are intermediate goods, or inputs used in the production process.
With the threat of trade taxes becoming increasingly real, firms have pulled forward their purchases of industrial supplies, capital goods and consumer goods from trading partners.
That pulling forward has sent the trade-in-goods deficit to record levels in recent months. It has also sent inventory levels rising in selected industries.
The interplay between the inventory buildup, which boosts gross domestic product, and a larger trade deficit, which reduces GDP, in the first quarter will most likely restrain growth later in the year as purchasing managers work off their existing stocks of intermediate goods.
In our view, the American economy is strong enough to absorb the volatility caused by the trade uncertainty. We expect GDP growth to decline to 1.5% in the current quarter, with a risk of a slower pace, below 1%.
As the trade deficit has soared …
By the second half of last year, the deficit in the trade in goods was surpassing the deficits of 2022, when the demand for imports surged as the pandemic recovery gathered momentum.
By this past December, the United States was posting a $122 billion deficit in the trade in goods, the largest monthly deficit in history, only to be surpassed by the January deficit of more than $155 billion.
Imports for intermediate goods have accelerated except for two categories: automobiles and auto parts, and food and beverages, our analysis found.
There was a 34% increase in the import of industrial supplies in January, an 8.3% increase in consumer goods, and a 5.5% increase in capital goods.
… inventories have risen …
Manufacturing inventory-sales ratios are notably higher relative to the prepandemic era of just-in-time purchasing. This shift in structure was likely precipitated by the trade war in 2018 and the pandemic in 2020, which led to dramatic shortages of intermediate goods.
… most notably in manufacturing …
The increase in inventories was evident in the durable goods sector. The inventory-sales ratio for the manufacturing of durable goods was substantially higher in December and January than would normally be expected, our analysis found.
… and among durable goods wholesalers … Inventory-sales ratios showed significant increases for wholesalers of machinery, equipment and supplies; motor vehicles and parts; and lumber and construction equipment in both December and January compared to pre-pandemic, non-recession averages. Furniture and home furnishing inventories increased as well. There was a significant decline in electric and electronic wholesale inventory-sales ratios.
… and nondurable goods wholesalers …
There were significant increases in the beer, wine and alcohol inventory-sales ratio and in the miscellaneous sector in both December and January.
If your company does receive an NOI, contact your legal counsel immediately. The three-day window to produce records should be used strategically: reviewing your files for completeness, flagging known deficiencies, and preparing a clear and compliant response. Keep copies of everything you provide and document your steps in detail.
If ICE agents arrive at your job site unannounced, you are entitled to request a warrant before granting access to non-public areas or employment records. If a warrant is presented, review it carefully to determine precisely what it authorizes and limit access accordingly. Assign a designated company representative to interact with agents, and ensure employees are trained not to speculate, panic, or volunteer information.
Final Thoughts
I-9 compliance may not be the most exciting part of running a construction company, but it is one of the most important. In today’s enforcement environment, failing to keep your records in order can be a costly mistake. The good news is that with the right internal processes and the support of knowledgeable legal counsel, employers can get ahead of potential problems and build a solid defense against enforcement actions before they arise.
… but retail may be a different story
In the retail sector, inventories in December were across-the-board lower than would normally be expected, perhaps a sign of concern over a downturn in consumer spending. Data for January was not available.
The takeaway:
The prospect of new and higher tariffs presents conflicting concerns for businesses:
Stocking up on inventories before the tariffs take effect to avoid increased costs
Increased costs of supplies because of the tariffs, leading to higher prices for goods and diminished consumer demand
The increase in inventories at year-end suggests the former, with producers and wholesalers taking out an insurance policy on future business.
As for the potential drop in consumer demand, businesses could respond by reducing their purchases of input materials in the future.
Association Calendar
Content submitted by Associations to Construction News
ABC
Associated Builders & Contractors South Texas Chapter
May 5: Lunch & Learn on Cybersecurity
May 12: Annual Golf Tournament, 9am, The Club at Sonterra, 901 E. Sonterra Suite 111, San Antonio
May 19: Member Exclusive Mayoral Forum Event
May 21: LOGIC “Understanding the Construction Process”, 12pm, ABC office May 28: Texas Lien Law Seminar & HH
AGC
Associated General Contractors San Antonio
May 29: Annual Fun Shoot, National Shooting Complex, 5931 Roft Road. For info: alexandria@sanantonioagc.org
ASA
American Subcontractors Association San Antonio
May 1: Masters Builders Course / Level 3, Invite Only - please contact office for more info
May 1: Free Safety Update, 11:30am
May 1: Baseball Night, 7pm, Nelson Wolff Stadium
May 8: Master Builders Course / Level 3, Invite Only - please contact office for more info
May 8: Free Tacos & Training, 8:30am, Aprio’s Office, FREE for ASA Members
May 15: Master Builders Course / Level 3, Invite Only - please contact office for more info
May 20: Spring Golf Tournament, 8am, Hyatt Hill Country Golf Course
May 22: Master Builders Course / Level 3, Invite Only - please contact office for more info
IEC
Independent Electrical Contractors
May 6: IECGSA Lunch & Learn, Distractive Driving, 11am-2pm
May 13: A & T Committee Meeting, 11am
May 17: Electrical Maintenance Technician Class, 8am-5pm, $150 Per Person
May 21: Board of Directors, 11am
May 26: Memorial Day, Training Center & School - Closed
HCA de SA
Hispanic Contractors Association
May 6: Café y Conchas with the City of San Antonio, a briefing over the 2024 Amendments, Central Library, 600 Soledad St., San Antonio, Free for Members, $25 Future Members
May 21: May Monthly Members Meeting & Mixer, 5:30-7:30pm, Location TBD
MCA-SMACNA INC
Mechanical Contractors Association
Sheet Metal & A/C Nat’l Association
May 14: Regular & Associates Meeting, 11:30am, The Petroleum Club, 8620 N New Braunfels Ave # 700, San Antonio
May 28: Joint Industry Fund Meeting, 11:30am, MCA-SMACNA Office, 206 E. Nakoma, San Antonio
NAWIC
National Association of Women in Construction San Antonio
May 7: Industry Appreciation Night –Garden Party, 5:30-7:30pm, Byrne Construction Services, 5851 Sebastian Pl., San Antonio
PHCC
Plumbing Heating Cooling Contractors Association
May 1: PHCC Night at the Missions Baseball, 7pm, Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium
5757 W. US Highway 90, San Antonio
May 8: PHCC Golf Tournament, 8am Northern Hills Golf Club, 13202 Scarsdale Street
San Antonio
May 27: Board of Directors meeting
May 31: Deadline Scholarship Application
SAMCA
San Antonio Masonry Contractors Association
May 1: Golden Trowel project submission deadline
TACCA
Texas Air Conditioning Cooling Contractors Association
May 21: Sporting Clay Shoot, 11:30am, National Shooting Complex, 5931 Rolf Road, San Antonio
Together We Rise
As more and more women enter the construction industry, women across the nation celebrated their presence in this rewarding industry The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) officially kicked off the Women in Construction (WIC) week on Mar. 2. Fun-filled events were scheduled through Mar. 8 to bring women in the industry together.
CCO CERTIFIED CRANE OPERATORS – experienced in operating hydraulic cranes, set up and break down, crane inspection, hydraulic systems inspection before and after use, coordinate with ground personnel and interpret hand and verbal signals, follow safety guidelines and protocols, keep and update maintenance and activity log, carry out basic repairs to machines, transfer loads and discharge safely, ability and willingness to complete required crane operating paperwork. Must be able to pass medical and drug check. Commercial driver’s license is a must.
Great pay, full benefits including paid medical for both employee and family, paid vacation, paid holidays, and 401k.
Bag & Brunch – Mar. 2, kicked off the week with a friendship bracelet & swag bag stuffing brunch, celebrating camaraderie and empowerment, they also had the honor of presenting their proclamation letter.
Women & Tools Workshop – Mar. 3, The Neighborhood Place. The ladies built a bench together. Thank you to Middleman Construction Company for donating the materials and thank you to Lone Star Construction Trades Academy & Family Services for hosting this workshop.
JCI Chill Plant Tour – Mar. 6, Johnson Controls, San Antonio Plant
Annual Golf Tournament – Mar. 7, the all-male team winner was Roger’s-O’Brien Construction. (Pictured L-R) Kat Kelley, Jacob Becka, Marques Espinoza, Reagan Wilke, Dayne Hester & Patty Wylie.
General Meeting – Mar. 5, The Barn Door. Guest speaker Dawn Vernon with Bain Medina Bain, Inc. shared valuable insights on elevating your personal brand and mastering your elevator speech.
Volunteer Day – Mar. 8, building beds at Sleep in Heavenly Peace. Volunteers built 35 beds to ensure no child has to sleep on the floor.
The Plumbing-Heating-CoolingContractors San Antonio chapter (PHCC) and the Central Texas American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) joined together on Mar. 19, for a presentation from the City of San Antonio’s Development Services Department on the 2025 Permit Activity & Project Outlook. The collaboration and communication of all three entities allows for great relationships for the plumbing industry in San Antonio.
The Legacy of Macina, Bose, Copeland and Associates, Inc. (MBC Engineers) Joint Plumbing
tradeshows, and mixers.
Also recognized at this meeting was Colton Bolin Bolin Plumbing for his 2023-2024 Presidential term along with his 7+ year service on the PHCC-San Antonio Board of Directors in multiple positions over the years. Brian Blass, Mechler-Blass was also recognized as 2024 Associate of the Year.
IBoth PHCC and ASPE-Central Texas chapters meet separately on a monthly basis for training & education, networking & fundraising activities, plumbing & mechanical product
Both PHCC and ASPE organizations thrive with the volunteer service of local industry individuals and their supportive member companies that give back to the industry and incorporate new technology to ensure the highest professional industry standards remain intact in order to protect the health and safety of society.
n 1947, R. Marvin Shipman founded a one-man office specializing in structural engineering, establishing the roots of what would become a respected name in the engineering field. By April 1949, the firm welcomed its first full-time draftsman, marking the beginning of a journey defined by growth and innovation. As the demand for quality engineering services increased, the team expanded, and in 1950, the firm relocated to a new office at 146 W. Olmos Drive.
The early 1950s were a time of steady growth and achievement. By 1956, the staff had grown to eight members, and in November of that year, the firm achieved a major milestone, becoming the first professional engineering corporation in the State of Texas under the name R. Marvin Shipman & Co. That same year, the firm moved to 202 W. Olmos Drive, a larger office space that would accommodate its growing operations.
While the firm’s initial focus was on structural engineering, it began taking on civil engineering projects during this period, broadening its expertise and client base. By 1962, the firm strategically shifted its emphasis from structural engineering to land development and municipal projects to better meet the needs of its clients. This transition also brought about the inclusion of surveying services, positioning the firm as a versatile and comprehensive engineering partner.
The firm’s growth necessitated further expansion, and by 1967, it occupied the entire building at 202-208 W. Olmos Drive. This era marked a period of increasing specialization and a broadening scope of services, which laid the foundation for the firm’s continued success. In 1975, after nearly three decades of leadership, R. Marvin Shipman retired. Ownership of the firm transitioned to a group of trusted employees and associates, ensuring continuity in vision and operations.
With new leadership came a new name. In February 1977, the firm was
renamed Macina, Bose, Copeland and Associates, Inc. (MBC Engineers), reflecting the contributions and expertise of its leadership team. Along with the rebranding, the firm relocated to 415 Breesport Drive, a move that symbolized a new chapter while building on its established reputation for excellence.
As MBC continued to grow, its focus on innovation, client service, and employee development remained steadfast. In 1999, the firm moved to its current location at 1035 Central Parkway North. This modern headquarters provided the space and resources needed to support a growing team and expanding project portfolio. Today, MBC employs 40 dedicated professionals, many of whom have been with the company for decades, including several with over 40 years of service. Their tenure is a testament to the firm’s commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
The story of Macina, Bose, Copeland and Associates, Inc. is one of continuous evolution and unwavering dedication to excellence. From its humble beginnings as a single-person operation to its current role as a leader in engineering, MBC has consistently adapted to meet the changing needs of its clients and the industry. With a proud history and a bright future, MBC remains committed to delivering innovative solutions and building lasting relationships with clients across Texas and beyond.
(L-R) Neil Gomez, Mike Ottinger, Mike Morales, Angie Gonzalez-Owner of JR’s Plumbing and PHCC-SA Board of Directors President, Amin Tohmaz and Ramiro Carrillo
Colton Bolin, Bolin Plumbing with PHCC, Heidi Trimble & Angie Gonzalez
Stay Hot
Fire Alarm Control Systems, Inc., San Antonio recently recognized their Women in Construction and then honored the company’s employees with 20 plus years of service at a celebratory lunch in honor of Employee Appreciation Day.
Tis the
season
Galaxy Builders celebrating Fiesta San Antonio with a crawfish boil. Nothing like some cajun seasoning to spice up San Antonio traditions.
AEC Fiesta 2025 Kickoff
The Hispanic Contractors Association de San Antonio ( HCA de SA) would like to say gracias to everyone that attended the A/E/C Fiesta Mixer 2025 “I was overwhelmed by the support of our members contributions to the Rey Feo Scholarships for the trades this year and I am proud to say because of them, these students will be able to succeed in becoming the next generation of builders for San Antonio.”
Julissa Ramos
Thanks to the incredible support on Apr. 10, HCA de SA raised $4,846.97 for the Rey Feo Consejo Educational
Foundation — an amazing win for their future leaders. The Rey Feo Consejo Educational Foundation is a non-profit organization comprised of 16 former Rey Feos and 75 members who uphold the traditions and support the fundraising efforts of the LULAC Rey Feo Scholarship, Inc. program.
Following are the amazing organizations that helped make this event a huge success:
CMAA - South Central Texas, Hispanic Contractors de San Antonio, IFMA San Antonio, NAWIC San Antonio Texas, SMPS San Antonio
The 2025 Boilin’ Over CrawFest took place on Mar. 27. Held at Cowboys Dancehall in San Antonio, this fun annual event is organized to benefit the Seth Strong Foundation
Originally started as a client happy hour for Texas Fifth Wall Roofing, the company decided to select a special charity to center the event around as a way of giving back to the community. The Boilin’ Over CrawFest has evolved into a much anticipated annual charitable event, with strong support from its sponsors: Texas Fifth Wall Roofing, TDIndustries, and Cotton Global Disaster Solutions. The event features Louisiana-style crawfish, raffle tickets, and the crowning of a crawfish king and queen, along with various donated raffle
Putting the Fun in Fundraising
prizes. This year’s event had over 1k RSVPs, and raised a sizeable amount of money for Seth Strong.
Beyond the Boilin’ Over CrawFest, the Seth Strong Foundation also holds other annual fundraising events, including a Mother-Son kickball tournament, scheduled this year for May 9th, and a 5k run held in September to align with Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The Seth Strong Foundation is a local nonprofit organization that provides immediate financial assistance to families with children who are dealing with lifethreatening illnesses or injuries. The funds raised by the Boilin’ Over Crawfest will be handed to the Seth Strong Foundation at a check presentation ceremony at the Mother-Son Kickball event.
“I would say probably my very favorite thing about the Seth Strong Foundation is we kind of pride ourselves in being like first responders,” shares Michelle Bolt. “Families in our community find out that their child has been diagnosed, or something’s happened to their child... we’re the organization that can immediately give this family money that can help them.”
Michelle Bolt is the Director of Business Development and Marketing for Texas Fifth Wall Roofing, and she, along with her sisters Teneile Fountain and Stephanie Johnson are instrumental in the fundraising events that support Seth Strong- serving as board members and organizers, for them this is a deeply important organization that is something
they all love being a part of. By providing quick financial assistance to families in need, helping with immediate expenses such as travel costs for medical treatment and lodging, they are there to lift the burden off these families during a scary time. They’ve expanded their reach beyond their initial boundaries to include schools and communities throughout the Hill Country area, including Comal ISD, New Braunfels ISD, and others. For those interested in supporting the Seth Strong Foundation, sponsorship opportunities will open this summer, and applications for assistance are available on the foundation’s website. To see how you can help support The Seth Strong Foundation, visit: www.SethStrongFoundation.org. -ndw
