GCA Construction News Bulletin April 2024

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Guam 671.649.4228

THEDIRECTORS THEEDITORIALS

PRESIDENT

James Martinez Guam Contractors’ Association

PAST CHAIRMAN

Bill Beery Tutujan Hill Group

CHAIRMAN

Joe Roberto East Island Tinting

VICE CHAIRMAN

Matthew Hunter

Dylan Mechanical Construction Services

SECRETARY/TREASURER

Kathleen David Pacific Rim Constructors

CONTRACTOR DIRECTORS:

Don McCann

Black Construction Corporation

William Best SmithBridge Guam

AJ Perez

Hawaiian Rock Products

Brian Holm

Hensel Phelps

Soraya Vongjalorn Vertex Guam

ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS:

Mark Cruz Mid Pac Far East

Jose Garcia First Hawaiian Bank

Camilo Lorenzo Matson Navigation

Geri Leon Guerrero Adztech Advertising and PR

JOIN ONE OF OUR MANY COMMITTEES!

Guam Contractor’s Association (GCA) in conjunction with Adztech and Public Relations, Inc. publishes the Construction News Bulletin (CNB) monthly. Reproduction of materials appearing in this publication is strictly forbidden without written permission by GCA.

While we always strive for accuracy, we will from time to time overlook mistakes. In order to help us improve the quality and accuracy of this publication, we ask that you take the time to look at the information provided and notify GCA or Adztech of any corrections as needed. Opinions and editorial content of this publication may not necessarily be those of the publisher, production team, staff, GCA members, GCA Board of Directors and advertisers.

For more information about advertising in the GCA Construction News Bulletin contact the advertising department at (671) 477-1239/2239 or email at adztech@teleguam.net.

Distributed to GCA members or can be obtained by stopping by the Guam Contractors’ Association office located at 506 Mariner Ave., Barrigada, Guam 96913

To find out more about how you can become a GCA member contact Guam Contractors’ Association at Tel: (671) 647-4840/41 Fax: (671) 647-4866 or Email: gca@teleguam.net. www.guamcontractors.org

Postmaster. Send address changes to Guam Contractors’ Association, located at 506 Mariner Ave., Barrigada, Guam 96913

TRADES ACADEMY

THETEAM

PUBLISHER:

James Martinez

PRODUCTION TEAM

LEAD:

Geri Leon Guerrero

AD SALES:

Alyssa Roces

PRODUCTION:

Jason Davis

Alyssa Roces

Christopher “Taco” Rowland

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Alyssa Roces

EDITOR: Adztech

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Joanna Rupley Sablan

Myracle S. Mugol

Francine Taitague

Rodney “RJ” Ricarte

GCA STAFF: Desiree Lizama

Elaine Gogue

Francine Taitague

Trevor Cruz

COVER: Core Tech and Pacific Rim receiving national recognition at the annual ABC awards ceremony.

“When I complained about the sunlight fading the wood on our steps through our large picture window, Kin suggested I call Island Tinting to see what they could do. Tom and his crew came out to the house and in just over an hour, they applied this clear film. He made me stand on the side where they had applied the film and then on the side with no film. The heat difference was amazing. The best part about it is that our power bill has gone down $70 a month because of this film!”

Kin and Jayne Flores with Tom Roberto

East Hagåtña

477-TINT (8468) / 472-TINT eastislandtinting@guam.net

APPRENTICESHIP CORNER

By Francine Taitague Safety, Training and Education Coordinator, Guam Contractors Association

INVESTING IN APPRENTICESHIPS: A WIN-WIN FOR EMPLOYERS AND EMPLOYEES

A construction company’s registered apprenticeship training program, which is work-based learning that combines practical on-the-job training with theoretical classroom instruction, serves as a valuable tool for developing a highly skilled and competent workforce.

In the construction industry, the importance of apprenticeships cannot be overstated. They are absolutely crucial for the development of skilled workers. Apprenticeships provide a practical, hands-on platform for workers to acquire vital skills and deepen their technical knowledge. This hands-on training is essential for a successful, fulfilling career in the construction field, equipping workers with the practical expertise they need to excel.

By investing in apprenticeships, employers can mold their workforce to meet the company's specific needs, enhancing overall operational efficiency. Apprenticeships can lead to decreased turnover, as workers who receive comprehensive training are more likely to remain loyal to the company, fostering a positive work culture.

Moreover, apprenticeships significantly boost productivity. Employees who are trained on the job develop better understanding and proficiency in their roles. They become more efficient, effectively handling tasks and making fewer mistakes. Their increased capability also allows them to take on more challenging tasks, thereby contributing more to the company.

Apprenticeships offer employees the unique opportunity to earn a salary while they learn, substantially alleviating financial stress often associated with education and training. The hands-on nature of these programs means

apprentices can apply their learning in real-time, accelerating their skill acquisition and competency.

Additionally, a construction company’s registered apprenticeship program instills a sense of confidence in employees, as they can see their skills growing and improving. It also fosters valuable industry networking, connecting apprentices with professionals and experts in their field.

Furthermore, the continuous learning involved promotes a culture of lifelong learning, inspiring apprentices to continually develop and expand their knowledge even after the apprenticeship ends. This lifelong learning mentality ensures constant professional growth in their chosen field.

Investing in apprenticeships is a win-win situation for both employers and employees. It enables employers to train a skilled workforce tailored to their needs while providing employees with valuable on-the-job training and career development opportunities.

It is an avenue worth considering for all employers in the construction industry.

The Guam Contractors Association keeps track of hours worked and the education progress of the apprentices in your program. We can guide your company through the whole process. What have you got to lose?

Join the list of companies that have, or are in the process of, creating an apprenticeship program to enhance the skills of its workforce.

Interested in learning more? I can help you! Please contact me at (671) 647-4841 or francine.taitague@guamcontractors.org.

Accessing Care…

How Your TakeCare Coverage Works

By Rodney “RJ” Ricarte

Your TakeCare GCA Health Insurance Employee Benefit includes many ways to live a Balanced Lifestyle of being active, eating right, relaxing and unwinding , and staying socially connected

A good way to understanding your health benefit is to familiarize yourself with the TakeCare Member Handbook. This handbook outlines benefit coverage, copayments, co-insurance, deductible, exclusions and limitations specific to your health plan. We hope the Member Handbook is resource for you.

The Accessing Care section, starting on page 5, helps you understand how your coverage works. Outlined and explained is important information including the membership card, specialty care, Wellness Programs, immunizations, fitness and outcome based incentive programs, mail order pharmacy, airfare benefit to off-island hospitals, and prior authorization.

One item to note is Behavioral Health. If you are experiencing emotional distress and need help, dial 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or visit: https://www.bhwc.guam.gov

Here are a few highlights from the Accessing Care section.

Membership card. You will need to present your membership card to your health care provider to verify your coverage. You can access your membership card through the TakeCare mobile app. Physical copy of your membership card is available upon request. If you lose the physical copy of your membership card, a fee will be charged for each replacement card.

Wellness and Preventive Incentives. TakeCare offers wellness and disease management incentives up to $250 per individual or up to $500 per family per benefit year. Health Risk Assessment (“HRA”), Health Education Workshops and Disease Management programs must be completed and done through TakeCare to be eligible for these incentives. Likewise, members must participate in the Plan for at least three (3) months of continuous coverage within the benefit period, are an active member by the end of the benefit period, and must have paid all premiums due for the benefit period. Please refer to your schedule of benefits for specific coverage levels for certain benefits.

Mail Order Pharmacy. TakeCare offers convenience of prescription drugs mail order. To learn more about mail order services, please contact Elixir Pharmacy at 1-800-909-5170 or by email at Care@elixirsolutions.com or talk to your pharmacist and/or primary care provider. Please refer to your schedule of benefits for specific levels for certain benefits.

Airfare Benefit to Off-Island Hospitals. TakeCare offers an airfare benefit through specific plans for hospital-to-hospital transfers from a service area hospital to an off-island hospital. TakeCare pay for the round-trip air transportation of a member who requires medical treatment at a facility. There are some conditions and limitations apply to airfare benefit. Please refer to your schedule of benefits for specific coverage levels for certain benefits.

Of course, this is not a complete listing, just a sample. Please review the Member Handbook at your earliest convenience. It is wealth of information to assist you and your family in better understanding your health insurance coverage. If you need more information, please contact me.

Rodney “RJ” Ricarte is the TakeCare account executive for GCA. He can be contacted at (671) 487-7121 or rodney.ricarte@takecareasia.com.

Empowering Your Health Journey:

Unmatched Quality and Access for TakeCare Members

Experience unparalleled healthcare with TakeCare, providing top-tier access to a comprehensive network of quality providers on and off Guam. Our expanding roster includes renowned institutions such as GMHA, Guam Regional Medical City, Guam Seventh-day Adventist Clinic, and Guam Radiology Consultants, with extended coverage in the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, and New Zealand. Enjoy exclusive access to the FHP Health Center, boasting a team of highly trained professionals and cutting-edge facilities, ensuring optimal care in Urgent Care, Full-Service Radiology, Primary Care, Occupational Health, Home Health, Hospice, Cancer Center, Dental, and Vision Centers.

Seamless Technology Integration for a Healthier Lifestyle

Take advantage of TakeCare’s wellness programs and our upcoming online member portal. Access valuable health resources, complete a Health Check by Virgin Pulse, manage claims, review benefits, and monitor personal health through our TakeCare Wellness site. Our mobile app simplifies your health journey, providing ID card display, network information, wellness programs, fitness schedules, Affinity Rewards, and wellness partner updates – all while tracking your progress through biometrics. Elevate your health experience with TakeCare in 2024.

Customer Service (671) 647.3526

cusotmerservice@takecareasia.com

www.takecareasia.com

Construction Champions

By: Myracle S. Mugol

As part of the Guam delegation to the ABC Convention 2024, Geri Leon Guerrero shared insights into the remarkable experience at the conference held in Kissimmee, Florida, in March. She noted, “Within the lively activities and valuable interactions, the values of ‘God, Family, and Safety,’ central to the ethos of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), shone brightly through the endeavors of two prominent Guam construction companies: Core Tech and Pacific Rim.” At the 34th annual Excellence in Construction® Awards during the ABC Convention 2024 in Orlando, Florida, on March 14, Core Tech won the prestigious National Excellence in Construction Award, while Pacific Rim earned the National Safety Excellence Award.

The Associated Builders and Contractors, as detailed on their website, is a national construction industry trade association representing more than 23,000 members.

Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC and its 68 Chapters help members develop people, win work, and deliver that work safely, ethically, and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members operate.

In an interview, Johann Cruz of Core Tech succinctly articulated the company's ethos, stating, "Core Tech stands out due to our unwavering commitment to striving for excellence in every contracted project and with our corporate philosophy of ‘Doing the job right’." This commitment to excellence bore fruit as Core Tech was honored with the prestigious Eagle award, symbolizing their dedication to innovation and

Similarly, Shierly Caceres of Pacific Rim emphasized the paramount importance of safety within the company's operations, compliance exercise to win contracts and keep us at work. It is a matter of life and death."

recognized with the National highlighting their commitment to ensuring the well-being of their workforce and stakeholders.

These awards serve as more than mere accolades; they are testament to the unwavering dedication of Core Tech and Pacific Rim to their craft, their employees, and their community. As Geri Leon Guerrero aptly put it, "These accolades are not just symbols of professional success but reminders of the values that guide their every action."

These awards can be likened to winning championships in sports. Imagine Core Tech and Pacific Rim as two teams competing in a prestigious tournament. Core Tech's Eagle award could be compared to winning the championship trophy for demonstrating exceptional skill, teamwork, and determination. Meanwhile, Pacific Rim's National Safety Excellence Award could be likened to winning the "Safety MVP" award for consistently prioritizing the well-being of their team members and ensuring a safe playing field.

Keith Stewart, President & CEO of Pacific Rim shares, “We're immensely proud of our company's safety culture and the honor of receiving this prestigious safety award. This recognition and remarkable milestone reaffirm our unwavering commitment to prioritizing safety above all else. It's a testament to the dedication and hard work of every member of our team.”

Just as in sports, these awards are not just about the glory of victory; they represent the culmination of hard work, dedication, and adherence to core principles. Core Tech and Pacific Rim's success in securing these awards speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence, innovation, and safety, setting them apart as champions within the construction industry.

As Core Tech and Pacific Rim bask in the glow of their well-deserved victories, they serve as beacons of inspiration for others in the industry. Their achievements reinforce the importance of upholding goals for the coming years, Core Tech simply responded, “We just do the best in each moment.”

Advancing Safety Education in the Digital Age PACIFIC COAST SAFETY FEST

From March 11th to March 14th, 2024, safety professionals and advocates convened for the groundbreaking Pacific Coast Safety Fest. Hosted virtually, this event heralded a new era in safety conferences, welcoming over 300 attendees from Region 9. Spearheaded by Region 9 Regional Administrator James D. Wulff and featuring esteemed guests like OSHA National Office Deputy Assistant Secretary of Labor Amanda Edens, the conference showcased a diverse lineup of speakers and topics aimed at enhancing safety practices across industries.

One of the highlights of the Pacific Coast Safety Fest was the participation of Region 9 OSHA Training Institute Education Centers, including Stephanie Spann from the University of California San Diego, Raul Guzman from California State University Dominguez Hills, Naci Ozgur from Chabot Las Positas, and Lisa Hogle from Arizona State University. Their insights and expertise enriched discussions on critical topics such as OSHA Outreach Trainer Forum, Evacuations, Fall Protection, Cultural Safety, and Whistleblower Protection.

Adding to the conference's depth and breadth were presentations by the Department of Industrial Relations (Cal/OSHA), represented by Regional Manager Patrick Corcoran. Their contributions underscored the collaborative efforts to promote safety and health in the workplace.

Guam made its mark with significant contributions on the virtual stage with three guest speakers: Nadia Holm, ECC, Jesse Pangelinan, OSHA On-Site Consultation, and Vince Salas, GPDB, LLC. Their perspectives provided invaluable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Pacific Islanders in maintaining safety standards.

Nadia Holm of ECC emphasized the dynamic nature of safety programs and the importance of staying current with evolving trends. She highlighted the conference's comprehensive curriculum, which covered a wide range of topics, including mental health and suicide prevention in construction—a subject close to ECC's heart. Holm expressed pride in ECC's proactive approach to wellness and hoped that participants left with actionable ideas to enhance safety programs

Vince Salas shared a powerful anecdote illustrating the conference's impact, recounting how an attendee's boss committed to revamping their safety program after being enlightened by the event.

Salas expressed confidence that the Pacific Coast Safety Fest's success would fuel ongoing improvements, increased participation, and the recruitment of additional safety experts in future conferences.

Jesse Pangelinan, noted that he is a trainer, consultant and a student. I did learn a lot from the hour long trainings. The event is meant to provide safety awareness for each topic and provide information for those that need to dig deeper and get more information to perform their specific tasks safely. So, to me, the event is a start, and not an end to safety knowledge. The attendees were provided a goldmine of contact information and resources. Yes, goldmine. The gold is having a direct line to OSHA for any questions through Justine Som. Contact information to UCSD for any training opportunities in your area of Region IX. Contact information to local state programs which include the OSHA On-Site Consultation which provide Free and Confidential Assistance to small businesses, and finally, organizations such as GCA that provide safety training for the construction industry in association with OSHA and UCSD. "Safety Starts With You," and now you have resources to make it better.

The virtual format of the Pacific Coast Safety Fest facilitated broader participation and fostered inclusivity, with interpreters ensuring that all voices were heard and valued. Holm noted the significance of virtual events like the Pacific Coast Safety Fest in providing accessible training opportunities, particularly for remote locations like Guam.

Looking ahead, participants expressed hope for more collaborative opportunities like the Pacific Coast Safety Fest, underscoring its role as a catalyst for innovation and progress in safety education and practices. As safety professionals continue to navigate evolving challenges, the Pacific Coast Safety Fest stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and collective action in advancing workplace safety and health.

Nadia Holm

March 20th, 2024 Hilton Guam Resort

DELEGATE MOYLAN TO INTRODUCE A MEASURE TO ADDRESS DELAYED INSPECTIONS FOR MILITARY AND CIVILIAN PROJECTS ON GUAM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - MARCH 25, 2024 (Washington, D.C.). To address the issue of pending inspections by the Guam Environmental Protection Agency (GEPA), which adversely impacts the progress in completing construction projects both inside and outside of military fences in Guam within projected timelines, Delegate James Moylan is preparing to introduce a measure which would enhance the manpower needed to complete these inspections.

Presently, GEPA does not have the adequate number of inspectors to address both military and civilian projects hence creating additional burdens for contractors, inclusive of financial concerns. Under the Moylan proposal, the Department of Defense (DoD) would enter a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) to utilize federal inspectors to address military projects in Guam. This would free up GEPA inspectors to address the inspections for civilian projects. The measure would also ensure that all local and federal inspection laws are complied with.

“The lack of manpower with inspections is concerning, and creates unnecessary burdens on contractors, including the need to meet certain timelines. For military projects, this affects readiness. For civilian projects, this impacts timely completion of homes or commercial buildings. No one

many objectives”, stated Delegate Moylan. “This outside the box concept aligns with DoD’s previous efforts in establishing a MOU with federal entities. It is also a discussion our office has had with several federal and local partners, and it has been gaining some positive traction”, added Delegate Moylan.

Delegate Moylan’s office is currently circulating the measure to secure original co-sponsors in the House of Representatives and is also in conversation with some members of the Senate Armed Services Committee to consider the introduction of a companion measure. The introduction will take place this week once a pro forma session is called in the house.

“The draft legislation has certainly gained some interest with some house offices along with the House Armed Services Committee (HASC) Staff since the brass of the INDOPACOM have raised concerns on the delayed inspections with military projects in Guam. It is no secret”, stated Delegate Moylan. “The legislation is a process to educate members on the importance of the issue, and to secure as much co-sponsorship and/or general support. However, our team is also working with the HASC staff to try and get the language inserted in the 2025 NDAA. This is a pro-business measure, which will supplement economic activity, which everyone in the community benefits from”, added Delegate Moylan.

Congress Acts To Nullify Independent Contractor Final Rule NEWS LINE

On March 25, the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Education and the Workforce passed the ABC-supported H.J. Res. 116, the Congressional Review Act resolution to nullify the U.S. Department of Labor’s independent contractor final rule, in a 21-13 vote with all Republicans present voting in support.

Ahead of the markup, ABC sent a letter in support of the resolution and urged committee members to report it for a full House vote. “The proposal creates an ambiguous and difficult-to-interpret standard under which employers will be forced to guess which factors will be more important in the determination and how to analyze the facts of their contractual relationships

under multiple factors,” the letter noted. “This confusion will lead to more litigation, as employers and workers alike will not understand who qualifies as independent contractors.”

On Jan. 9, the DOL announced the final rule on Employee or Independent Contractor Classification Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, which rescinds the ABC-supported 2021 final rule and replaces it with a confusing multifactor analysis to determine whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor. On March 5, ABC, its Southeast Texas chapter, the Coalition for Workforce Innovation, the Financial Services Institute, the American Trucking Associations, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the

National Retail Federation and the National Federation of Independent Business filed an amended complaint in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas arguing that the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employee or Independent Contractor Classification Under the Fair Labor Standards Act final rule is unlawful and a violation of the Administrative Procedure Act. The district court will review the complaint and response from the U.S. Department of Justice. The final rule went into effect on March 11.

ABC Submits Comments Opposing Ban on Federal Contractors Considering Salary History During Hiring

On April 1, ABC submitted comments opposing the Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council’s proposed rule, Pay Equity and Transparency in Federal Contracting. The proposal would prohibit federal contractors and subcontractors from requesting or considering information about a job applicant’s salary history during hiring for certain positions and would also require them to publicly disclose the salary for certain positions as part of any advertisements for the job opening.

Companies would be required to comply with these provisions for any

position that will perform work on or in connection with a federal contract. The rule also establishes a complaint process for job applicants to report contractor noncompliance to the contracting agency.

ABC’s comments highlighted several concerning issues regarding the proposed rule, including:

• Violation of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act by inhibiting “economical and efficient government procurement”

• Conflicts with existing regulations requiring evaluation of employee

compensation

• Impractical and overly broad salary range requirements

• Lack of clarity and due process for contractors in the complaint process

ABC will continue to monitor this regulation and provide additional information as the FAR Council moves towards a final rule.