INSIGHTS FALL 2023 EDITION
A QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF THE MAREK FAMILY OF COMPANIES
MAJOR PROJECTS
ATLANTA Northeast G e o r g i a Medical Center is firing on all cylinders, and we are extremely pleased at the remarkable progress achieved by our dedicated team. This outstanding success can be attributed to the efforts of Brian Skinner, Project Manager; Marty Shonkwiler, Project Executive; Tony Smith, Project Superintendent; Jack Smith, Field Supervisor; Rick Jecker and Diego Martinez, Layout Supervisors; Ismael Bravo, Juan Lopez and Martin Martinez, Drywall Supervisors; Eduardo Ibarra, Finishing Supervisor; Nick Pallino, Logistics Supervisor; Rodrigo Caballero and David Ramirez, our Safety Advisors; and finally leading the way, Raul Villegas, Ismael Perez and Escar Toledo, our outstanding Leadmen. Brasfield & Gorrie is the GC and Perkins & Will is Architect. These exceptional individuals are the driving force behind our achievements! AUSTIN RESIDENTIAL MAREK Austin is thrilled to work on an exciting project at the University of Texas in Austin – a
high-density apartment development comprising a remarkable 547 units and over 300,000 sf. This cutting-edge project is destined to become the new home for graduate students at UT Austin, providing them with a modern and vibrant living space. OHT Partners, our valued and trusted partner, is GC on the project with Kirksey Architecture as Architect, ensuring its success. Renowned for our expertise in metal framing, Foreman, Joel Soldano; Project Manager, Jose Palacios; Assistant Project Manager, Arturo Huerta; and Cliff Marek in Sales all play a pivotal role in bringing this project to life.
Supervisor, Eric Lumsden. Alongside Eric, we have a talented group including Felipe Hernandez, Juan Mendoza, Pedro Huerta, and Raul Gomez, who are all experts in their respective fields and committed to making this project a success. Bartlett Cooke is the General Contractor, and O’Connell Robertson is serving as the Architect.
AUSTIN COMMERCIAL We are excited to announce that work has officially started on the Hays Academic Center! This 77,000-sf project is truly transformative as it combines the best of the old and the new to create a fantastic training and support hub for academic endeavors in Hays County.
HOUSTON COMMERCIAL We have successfully undertaken an extensive four-floor demo and remodel project at 5 GWP OXY in Houston. Construction that began in January 2023 and was completed in a span of 9 months, focusing primarily on floors 2, 7, 16, and 17.
We are thrilled to be part of this important initiative and look forward to creating a space where tradition and innovation harmoniously coexist to meet the educational needs of our community. Stay tuned for updates on our progress!
Our goal is to provide exceptional Our skilled onsite operations team educational resources and opportunities are responsible for demoing outdated elements and then executing the build for the community. back process, including drywall installation and painting. These efforts are aimed at We have assembled a dedicated team creating a workspace that aligns with to work on this project, led by our OXY’s company culture. Additionally, we Page 1
FALL 2023
PM: Justin Lee ∙Paint Project Manager: Robert Hall ∙Fireproofing Project Manager: Kyle Busa ∙Window Treatments & Fabric Panels Project Manager: Kyle Ishimoto ∙Demo and Drywall Superintendent: To add a touch of elegance while ensuring Michael Romero optimal acoustics, our acoustical team ∙Finishing Superintendent: Victor Banos installed custom wood grille ceilings. ∙Acoustical Superintendent: Art Villareal These ceilings not only enhance the ∙Paint Superintendent: Joey Buxton overall design but also play a crucial role in ∙Fireproofing Superintendent: Larry creating a favorable acoustic environment. Vance, Jr. Parallelogram baffles are strategically ∙Window Treatment Superintendent: placed to serve as focal points while Krista Sayre improving sound diffusion and control. Window coverings to provide privacy, HOUSTON COMMERCIAL control light, and enhance comfort. “Energy company Bechtel is excited to announce our move to the City West The successful completion of this project Building 3 in Westchase from our longshowcases our team’s unwavering standing office in the Galleria area. As commitment to excellence and elevated part of this transition, we have adopted technical skills. Effective coordination a hybrid work schedule and have and clear communication allowed us to significantly reduced our office space, exceed the expectations of DE Harvey creating a more efficient and flexible work Builders, the general contractor involved environment.” in this project. To support this move, our project This project is a success thanks to our teams are currently undertaking a project teams led by: comprehensive interior remodel across 10 floors, covering 204,000 square Onsite Operations team: feet. We have partnered with MAREK, ∙DEMO & Drywall Foremen: Mario a trusted contractor, to manage various Aguilar, Javier Sandoval, and Michael aspects of the construction, including Reed drywall installation, painting, and the ∙Doors and Drywall Foreman: Jon incorporation of high-quality felt ceiling Gaastra and wall panels from Frasch, a Texas∙Finishing Foreman: Santos Tejada ∙Acoustical Foremen: Alan Henry, Omar based manufacturer. have fabric installed wrapped panels to enhance the aesthetics and improve the acoustics of the environment, resulting in a visually appealing and acoustically comfortable workspace.
We would like to express our gratitude to our talented field operations and their teams, who have played an integral role in making this project possible. Thank you for your hard work and dedication! Field Onsite Operations: ∙Drywall Foreman: Sergio Najera ∙Acoustical Foreman: JD Wedgeworth ∙Paint Foreman: Jacinto Tamayo ∙Wall Panels Foreman: Gerardo Hernandez Office Operations: ∙Drywall Project Manager: Steven DeGroot ∙Drywall Superintendent: Michael Romero ∙Acoustical Project Manager: Davis Sprague ∙Acoustical Superintendent: Art Villarreal ∙Paint Project Managers: Jimmy Munoz and Steve Gonzalez ∙Paint Superintendent: Joey Buxton ∙Wall Panels Project Manager: Kyle Ishimoto ∙Wall Panels Superintendent: Bradley Moore
RIO GRANDE VALLEY We are excited to share with you our latest project for the Corpus Christi community. We just completed a brandnew elementary school that we hope will provide a nurturing and growthfilled environment for young minds. The school is a $2.9 million investment that spans an impressive 102,000 square feet. We had the pleasure of collaborating Perez, Chester Abbey, and David with a fantastic team lead by Antonio Working closely with O’Donnell Snider, Alfaro Delgado as Estimator/Project Manager a well-known general contractor, and and Forman Jose Vasquez. Weaver and ∙Paint Foreman: Julio Melendez ∙Fabric Panels Foreman: Christopher Kirksey Architects, our team is committed Jacobs also joined as the GC and Turner Forrester, and Rudy Vasquez to bringing together innovation and Ramirez led the Architect team. ∙Window Treatment Foreman: Rod Bush precision. We are confident that this collaboration will result in a transformative We are thrilled to be building a brighter Office team: office space that not only meets but future for the next generation of learners in our community! ∙Demo, Drywall, Acoustical, and Door exceeds all expectations. Page 2
ON SITE
Gary Marek assumes the roles of Project Manager and Sales Representative for this project, with Arturo Hernandez serving as the Foreman. The Gonzalez Group serves as the General Contractor, while Cobalt Office acts as the Architectural firm.
HOUSTON COMMERCIAL Cheniere Energy will be relocating their global operations from 700 Milam at Pennzoil Place in early 2024 to 845 Texas Avenue in the new Texas Tower. The dedicated Houston This impressive undertaking will team has taken on the task of installing encompass a sprawling 43,000 sf, more than 135,000 square feet of spanning across five different floors. custom Armstrong Calla TechZone Four different state agencies will take Ceilings, as well as 1,000 square feet of over this space, creating a collaborative custom Armstrong RH200 Curved Metal and dynamic workspace that promises Ceilings throughout Cheniere’s five-floor to be at the forefront of innovation and lease space. progress. Marco Herrera is Supervisor with Jesus Contreras, Fidencio Nino, The Armstrong Calla TechZone Ceilings Nicolas Siquina, and Jose San Juan feature the Armstrong Silhouette XL Rendon assisting bolt slotted suspension system. The installation of this system requires the creation of custom notched main tees, HOUSTON RESIDENTIAL tailored specifically to fit the layout of the space. MAREK Houston understands the importance of thorough planning, skilled installation, and quality control in ensuring the seamless integration of these custom ceilings across all five floors. AUSTIN The Texas Facilities Commission (TFC) is embarking on an exciting multistate agency tenant finish out project in the new George HW Bush building, strategically located just across the mall from the Texas State History Museum on MLK Blvd.
We are pleased to announce the details of our most recent construction project - an attractive garden-style apartment development at Hycohen Residency, which aims to revolutionize contemporary living. This ambitious endeavor comprises seven designed structures, totaling 210 units, and a clubhouse that provides a hub for relaxation and socializing. Currently, we are in the process of installing one million square feet of drywall with a commitment to excellence.
The success of this project can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of the General Contractor, DE Harvey, the Architect, Planning Design Research, and the MAREK team, led by Estimator/Project Manager, Raquel Moreno, Acoustical Superintendent, Art Villarreal, onsite Acoustical Foreman, Brad Johnson, and their dedicated team. In the coming months, the once bare ceilings will undergo a remarkable transformation, becoming an essential element of the overall architectural identity Page 3
and leaving a memorable impression on both occupants and visitors. HOUSTON COMMERCIAL Presenting our latest impressive achievement: Lifetime Fitness in Missouri City! This two-story athletic club exemplifies luxury and is crafted to enhance your fitness journey. MAREK’s unwavering attention to detail, has brought their expertise to every aspect of this project. The carefully selected wallcoverings and seamless integration of interior and exterior paint create an environment that is both inspiring and functional. To ensure the long-lasting resilience of every surface, our team utilized highperformance coatings. This enables Lifetime Fitness to endure the demands of a dynamic fitness environment while preserving its allure. By maintaining an uncompromising commitment to excellence, and have fulfilled our vision and produced a premier athletic club that redefines luxury and sets a new standard for design and quality. We extend our gratitude to the talented individuals who led our teams on this project, specifically Paint Foreman Victor Ventura, Paint Superintendent Joey Buxton, Project Manager Obed Munoz, and Estimator Steve Gonzalez. Their dedication, hard work, and expertise have enabled us not only to construct a superior athletic club but also redefine the concept of “building muscles and structures simultaneously!” The collaboration of everyone involved in this project demonstrates that in the realms of fitness and construction, we not only lift weights but exceed expectations! We would like to express our appreciation to Lifetime Construction and Lifetime
Architecture for providing us with the opportunity to be a part of this remarkable project! RIO GRANDE VALLEY Our recent venture in Mission, Texas was truly an exciting one! We had the opportunity to completely revamp a beloved Schlotzsky’s restaurant and give it a fresh new vibe for all the food enthusiasts. This project had a contract amount of $74,000 for a spacious 5,000 sf area. We took great care to transform the space, working on aspects like drywall, insulation, and acoustical ceilings, to ensure that every single detail met the highest standards. Itzel Alcala led the project as both the Estimator and Project Manager, while Luis Delapaz did an amazing job as the Foreman. We couldn’t have achieved all this without the support and collaboration of D. Wilson Construction, our trusted G e n e r a l Contractor. SAN ANTONIO MAREK has had a longstanding relationship with USAA since 1987, when we constructed their office space complex. We have been a presence at their location ever since. Currently, USAA has a two-year plan to remodel several areas in their headquarters, starting with the Recharge Zone, GHSVCE Service, and HSVCE Service. To meet the tight schedule, our onsite field operations had to work on all three projects simultaneously within a three-month timeframe. While this may seem like a daunting task, our skilled onsite team, led by Drywall Foreman Hector Ramirez and Acoustical Foreman Matthew Luna, worked diligently, putting in overtime to ensure the timeline was not only met but exceeded the expectations of
GC Harvey Cleary.
care to new heights.
USAA Recharge Zone consists of Armstrong Wood Grill Forte, Turf Baffles, and custom metal ceiling panels: Arktura Vapor Bloom.
AUSTIN COMMERCIAL Work has recently begun in the heart of Austin’s vibrant Downtown West 6th District, as Winstead, a distinguished law firm, assumes its new home in the Horizon Bank building. Occupying an impressive 31,885 sf spanning two and a half floors, this endeavor represents a dense build-out tailored to meet the specific needs of a dynamic legal practice.
USAA GHSVCE Service & HSVCE Service has a whopping 87,00 sf footprint! Our teams installed a new product Armstrong Woodworks Shapes for Design Flex, and ceiling tile from Unika Vaev. We are looking forward to continuing to build our relationship with the USAA team and are grateful to Harvey Cleary for the opportunity kick off their twoyear plan to remodel.
ON THE HORIZON ATLANTA As one of the Top 100 hospitals, Northside Hospital Gwinnett offers the most advanced care available for all surgical, medical, rehabilitative, and emergency care needs. MAREK is proud to embark on this monumental endeavor, a 15-story hospital expansion project that is set to redefine healthcare excellence. Spearheading this project is Tony Smith, Project Superintendent; Damian Ontiveros, Field Supervisor; Carlos Pangui and Greg Stine, Project Managers, orchestrating the project’s grand design and execution. Batson-Cook Company is the GC and Perkins+Will the Architect. Together, we’re constructing a healthcare masterpiece that will elevate patient Page 4
With an emphasis on creating stateof-the-art offices, conference rooms, and meeting spaces, this project is led by Supervisors, Joe Juarez and Jose Sigala, assisted by the dedicated team of Felipe Dominguez, Jose C. Rodriguez, and Abel Suarez. AUSTIN RESIDENTIAL Work is gearing up in June 2024 on this high-density apartment project totaling 357 stylish units. This Springdale project promises a vibrant community for residents to thrive in. MAREK is contracted to install a whopping 1.8 million sf of drywall, emphasizing our commitment to precision and quality. Special thanks to Cliff Marek in Sales, Project Manager, Jose Palacios, and Assistant Project Manager, Arturo Huerta, for getting this project off the ground. Morgan is GC on the project and Belshaw Mulholland Architects is Architect.the eyes of the youth and help them see a solid career path MAREK can offer in the construction industry.
HOUSTON COMMERCIAL
facility. Stay tuned for updates as we begin this exciting journey!
We are thrilled to announce a significant achievement in the renovation and improvements for the third phase of the John Sealy Hospital Modernization Phase III B project. MAREK has been contracted by Hensel Phelps to install the drywall on three entire floors, each spanning a vast 33,000 sf. This accomplishment showcases our dedication to excellence and commitment to delivering topquality construction services. Our Estimating and Project Management teams are preparing for the upcoming drywall installation phase. This involves thorough planning, procuring materials, and ensuring our workforce is ready for the task ahead. Our commitment to teamwork will be a driving force in this endeavor. Effective coordination with project partners, contractors, and stakeholders is vital to ensure the project’s success. As we gear up for this significant undertaking, our skilled workforce is fully committed to adhering to the highest quality and safety standards. This will ensure that the hospital environment we contribute to will be optimal for patient care. Construction will consist of faculty offices, conference rooms, workstations on Levels 9 and 10, while Level 8 will primarily consist of Patient Care rooms. The journey ahead promises to be both challenging and rewarding. It is an opportunity for us to demonstrate our capabilities and commitment to excellence as we contribute to the construction of a critical healthcare
HOUSTON COMMERCIAL / RESIDENTIAL JV M A R E K Houston is poised for another new adventure working with MAREK BROTHERS COMPANY for multi-family developer, Oden Hughes Taylor, to build five-story, load-bearing connecting corridors between two sections of five-story wood framed apartment buildings in the Houston Heights area.
expansive 143,000 sf. With a contract worth almost $6MM, we’re committed to creating a space that supports healing and hope. Leading this vital mission is Alejandro Rebeles, Estimator and Project Manager, and Ernest Montez, Foreman, along with GC, Vaughn Construction, and HKS, Architect, we each play a pivotal role in crafting a space that fosters rest and recovery.
OUTSTANDING
EMPLOYEES
ATLANTA I would like to recognize Ismael The new project, called Lenox Heights, Grimaldo, Finishing for broke ground in May and will bring more Foreman Outstanding Employee. He started at upscale housing to what is becoming a premier Houston living, working, and MAREK 18 years ago as an apprentice shopping location. MAREK Houston will and worked his way up to help be responsible for all the engineering finish some of our most demanding design for the connecting corridors load projects over the years. These include bearing framing including walls, floors, Restoration Hardware, Atlantic Yards, and roof trusses. These important Microsoft and currently finishing CHOA components will be built in MAREK’S Hospital and the Clinic. His attention to prefabrication shop and delivered to the detail and work ethic have earned him jobsite for installation by MAREK framers. the respect of teammates and make him MAREK will be using BIM modeling to an invaluable member of MAREK. create the panel drawings for precision Ralph Stilz in fabrication and installation. Production Manager RIO GRANDE VALLEY We’re excited to introduce a project RIO GRANDE VALLEY that’s not just about construction MAREK Rio Grande Valley would like but about making a difference – the to recognize Ernesto Montez, Field University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Supervisor for Outstanding Employee. cancer treatment center in McAllen, Since he started at MAREK in January Texas. With a compassionate focus on of 2017, Ernesto has displayed the healthcare, we’re working diligently to outstanding attributes of a tireless ensure that every aspect of this facility foreman. Not only has he been able to produce projects under budget, but meets the highest standards. he also obtains great communications Our scope of work encompasses skills that allow him to develop rapport exterior framing, sheathing, interior with his crew and establish a great client drywall, and acoustical ceilings across an interaction and relationships. Page 5
SAN ANTONIO MAREK would like to acknowledge Oscar Jimenez for his outstanding contributions. Oscar is a valued member of our team who initially joined MAREK’s WFD Bootcamp at our San Antonio Branch. Oscar had the privilege of attending Southwest High School, where he participated in the Construction program under the CTE Program. After finishing high school, Oscar applied to be part of the WFD Bootcamp, and successfully completed the program. Throughout his journey, Oscar has honed his skills by working alongside various Foremen and gaining valuable knowledge and experience on the job sites. Today, we are pleased to announce Oscar’s promotion to the role of Project Manager, where he is furthering his professional development by specializing in MECHO shades in our Specialty Projects division. Stay tuned to our next issue for Oscar’s story!
PEOPLE
NEWS
retirement! Your dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment over the years have made a lasting impact on our team and organization. Thank you! ATLANTA Leonel Jaime was recognized by CHOATE, at a safety stand down at the Chick-fil-A project for always wearing his proper PPE and setting the example for safe work. DALLAS RESIDENTIAL MBC Dallas was honored to share in the retirement celebration for Sheila Rose who oversaw customer service scheduling and purchasing for the branch. In Sheila’s 26 years of service, she became well known in the Dallas residential market as a person who would go above and beyond for customers, vendors and her fellow teammates. We are happy for Sheila’s success and wish her well in her next chapter!
HOUSTON RESIDENTIAL Allen Tyson joined the Marek Family of Companies Houston ATLANTA MAREK Atlanta wishes to extend a Branch May 1, 2023, warm and hearty welcome to Dorian as a Construction Account Manager. Eder and Elisha Tobler, our newest Previously, he served Project Managers to join the team! in the capacity of Sales, Management and Executive Leadership MAREK Atlanta desea dar una cálida in the Wholesale Plastic distribution y cordial bienvenida a Dorian Eder y with an emphasis on Rigid sheet. Elisha Tobler, nuestros nuevos gerentes His territory included Texas and the Northwest United States. His customer de proyecto que se unen al equipo. base ranged from Graphics and Signage to Aerospace and Orthopedics. ATLANTA A special congratulations goes out to Allen’s immediate goal is to maximize profitability through a strategic sales Cindy Woodruffe on reaching this plan and grow the divisions customer incredible milestone in your career – base by focusing on building lasting Page 6
relationships. His eventual goal is to return to a leadership role to serve others to the best of his abilities. Allen and his wife have four children including twelve-year-old twins. Allen is a true family man in the MAREK tradition! Welcome to Marek Bros. RIO GRANDE VALLEY MAREK San Antonio would like to welcome our newest employee, Roxanne Galeano. Originally hired through MEMCO in November 2022, she officially became part of the MAREK team in February. RIO GRANDE VALLEY We’d like to thank our Summer Intern, Klarissa Lopez, who helped on our Field Safety/Operations teams this summer. Good luck in your studies at Texas A & M! RIO GRANDE VALLEY MAREK Rio Grande Valley would like to recognize this years’ service award recipients: 5-Year Award: Ariana Cortez (Admin), Adan Delgado, Jr. (Field Foreman), Erick Velez (Safety Supervisor)
20-Year Award: Frank Villareal, Sr. (Senior Estimator/PM) and Arthur Holmes (Estimator/PM)
30-Year Award: Joe Figoroa (Superintendent) and Luis Delapaz (Field Foreman) RIO GRANDE VALLEY This year, we would love to recognize Itzel Alcala (Estimator/ PM) for graduating with her Associate of Applied Science in Building Construction Technology in December 2022.
SAN ANTONIO MAREK would like to extend a warm welcome to our newest team member, Superintendent Todd Winder. Todd is currently collaborating with his father, Bob Winder, on ongoing projects in San Antonio. Todd joins our team with valuable experience as a former Assistant Superintendent at Barlette Cocke and Superintendent at Dawson Construction. We are delighted to have Todd as part of our team and look forward to working together. CORPORATE
Corporate Accounts Payable is thrilled to extend a warm welcome to our two newest team members, Kay Silence and Amanda Walters. Amanda embarked on her journey with MAREK in May 2022, diligently immersing herself in the intricacies of the Accounts Payable department. On the other hand, Kay joined MAREK in July 2023, bringing an impressive wealth of over two decades of experience to our dynamic team. Their arrival marks an exciting addition to our AP family, and we eagerly look forward to their contributions. Welcome aboard!
BIRTHS
x
AUSTIN MBS Austin would like to congratulate to Priscilla Garcia-Ñeco on the birth of her beautiful baby girl, Liah Priscilla Ñeco, who was born April 10, 2023, weighing in at 5 lbs., 6 oz, and was 18 inches long. RIO GRANDE VALLEY Ariana Cortez (Admin) welcomed her newest addition to her family, a beautiful little girl, June Marie Cortez in January 2023. DEATHS DALLAS MBC Dallas is mourning the loss of a long-time multifamily team member, Glenn Murphy. Glenn began his career with Marek in 2011 and his 12 years with the company he showed dedication to the company, his coworkers as well as his customers. Glenn was a great team member, and he will be dearly missed. MBC Dallas is sad to share with you the passing of our teammate and longtime Marek employee, Alex Vargas. In 2004, Alex began as a mechanic’s helper and throughout his career led and managed some of Marek’s most challenging and successful projects. His dedication to our company and people was unquestionable, and he built a legacy at Marek through the teammates he mentored and the friendships he made. Alex will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.”
CORPORATE We are thrilled to welcome Calin Strawser as a Claims Handler in our Insurance/ Risk Management Department. She was born in Florida, and moved to Texas when she was 6 years old. With Calin’s extensive experience, knowledge of the construction industry, and dedication to providing exceptional service, we are confident that she will play a pivotal HOUSTON role in ensuring the safety of our team On June 30, 2023, MAREK Houston members, and our projects. Welcome had a Field Appreciation Day party to to the MAREK family, Calin!
COMPANY HAPPENINGS
& EVENTS Page 7
celebrate and acknowledge the hard work of our craft professionals. It was held at Northside Columbus Club. We had 550 employees attend who enjoyed a fajita lunch, beverages, fellowship, and comradery. Phil Nevlud and Jorge Rodriguez thanked all employees present for their hard work and encouraged them to continue to work safe specifically while we experience extremely hot and humid days. We also recognized thirty-six employees for their ESL accomplishments. We gave away ninety-nine prizes to our well-deserved craft professionals. Employees had a great time and were very appreciative. RIO GRANDE VALLEY The heatwave of this summer didn’t stop all of the exciting happenings in San Antonio. Kicking things off in May, we hosted a spectacular Client Appreciation Event in Harlingen, Texas. It was a fantastic opportunity to express our gratitude and strengthen the bonds with those who make our work meaningful. In June, we cast our lines and set sail for the ABC Fishing Tournament, where we reeled in memorable moments and some impressive catches. Then, in July, we traded our fishing gear for golf clubs at the AGC Top Golf Tournament, where we showcased our skills on the green while networking with industry peers. As summer reached its peak in August, we kept the momentum going with an ABC Mixer, proudly sponsored by MAREK. And to cap off this fantastic season, we brought our company family together for the MAREK Family Picnic, an event filled with laughter, games, and cherished memories.
WORKFORCE
DEVELOPMENT ATLANTA The “Atlanta WFD TEAM” has been extremely busy this quarter! We have been able to take part in another SkillsUSA event which makes two events for the year, Georgia and Nationals. We started up another successful school year teaching at Berkmar and our new partnership with Marietta High School, helping students better understand our WFD Program. We continue onboarding craft employees through our bootcamp facility where we provide the skills and knowledge needed before an employee steps foot on the job and also began onboarding newly hired Estimator/Project Managers. We are especially proud of the relationship built with Brasfield and Gorrie’s training coordinator during the latest SkillsUSA event, because of this, Reggie Coleman was invited as a guest speaker/instructor for their next internal training class where they will mockup a hospital patient room. We look forward to even greater things next year building potential leaders for the MAREK Family. AUSTIN On July 27, the Austin branch hosted lunch at Salt Lick BBQ in Driftwood to recognize our most recent WFD graduates. Their journey is marked by countless hours of hard work and unwavering dedication. Congratulations Ernest Garnica, Jonathan G r a h a m , Johnathon Yglecias, and Fernando Martinez for taking the next step in your career at MAREK! We can’t wait to see what the future holds for each of you!
DALLAS We are excited to announce the tremendous achievement of our recent Construction Summer Boot Camp! Over the course of several weeks, our participants engaged in a rigorous educational program, acquiring vital construction skills and embracing the values of teamwork and ingenuity.
Drywall Superintendent Dave McMillan recommending the bootcamp for another 6 of his recent hires.
Houston’s WFD teams also partnered with the Harris County Department of Education- Adult Education to continue offering English as Second Language Classes to our Craft Workers benefiting 46 students of which 26 were recognized for going above and beyond their class During the Boot Camp, our assignments, these 26 Craft men and participants refined their expertise, women were recognized at the Field from comprehending architectural Appreciation Party where they received blueprints to mastering advanced certificates from Burlington English and construction methods. They gained Chrome Books from HCDE-AE for their not only knowledge in construction but exceptional work. Special Thanks to Head also an appreciation for the significance Coach Jessica Colindrez for leading this of collaboration, problem-solving, and project which currently is benefiting 50 creativity in our field. students enrolled in the new summer cohort. HOUSTON M A R E K SAN ANTONIO Houston’s San Antonio Workforce has recently Development concluded team participated our Summer in hiring events hosted by the Houston i n t e r n s h i p Independent School District, and Texas program. It was a pleasure to have City Independent School District where these talented individuals join our team 6 recent graduates from their CTE for the duration of the summer, and programs joined MAREK full time as we eagerly anticipate their return next Drywall Helper’s, 2 other students from year. Additionally, we conducted a boot HISD in their junior year joined MAREK camp for the high school instructors of for the 2023 Summer Internship. our interns with the aim of enhancing their students’ familiarity with industry We are excited to continue working with standards. both school districts trough the 20232024 school year to strengthen our CORPORATE relationship and continue offering career During the month of July, our dedicated opportunities to their CTE grads. Craft Training Supervisors embarked on a knowledge-enriching journey to Houston. Coach Alexander Their mission? To dive deep into the latest Juarez hosted enhancements to the Talent Program, a Drywall Bootcamps multifaceted initiative encompassing vital to get these students aspects such as relationships, onboarding, prepared to tackle craft academy, continuing education, and the challenges from the field leadership academy. Throughout working on MAREK’s this gathering, projects successfully. our supervisors The feedback from the Supervisors engaged in lively and Superintendents regarding the discussions Bootcamp has been very positive; with centered around Page 8
best practices, while also acquainting themselves with the latest MyMAREK updates designed to streamline their roles.
Arriving in Houston, all three became very proficient as hangers and finishers of a new product called sheetrock. Being from the farm and used to hard work, they excelled at their new trade. As my A core theme of the program’s evolution Dad said many times, it was a lot better revolves around the importance of than trying to make a living on a black program alignment. It underscores land farm during the great Depression of ¡La semana pasada tuve el placer de our commitment to ensuring that all the1930’s. asistir a dos cenas de entrega de premios Training Supervisors receive the essential de servicio en honor a casi un centenar support and tools necessary to simplify When WWII broke out, all three de asociados con más de 1000 años de their responsibilities in the identification joined. They learned a lot and when servicio! Fue un verdadero placer visitar and development of our skilled craft they returned, they found Houston in a los hombres y mujeres, así como a professionals. Together, we’re fortifying the beginning of a building boom that sus cónyuges, para celebrar los hitos our foundation for success in the lasted for years. They called on cousins de 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 e incluso ever-evolving landscape of craft talent and friends from the country and built a más de 40 años. En nuestra industria, management. company, one man at a time, one sheet les aseguro que esto es muy inusual. at time. And they were proud of their Estamos verdaderamente bendecidos de work and proud of the men who joined que muchos de ustedes elijan pasar sus them. I don’t think any of us today can carreras en MAREK. truly appreciate their sacrifices to escape the trauma of homelessness, war, and the Y cuando la velada llegó a su fin, se me hard work it took to build MAREK. pidió que prestara unas palabras para cerrar la velada. Al no tener tiempo para And as I stood there before the crowd, preparar comentarios, hice lo que mi Last week I had the pleasure of attending I shared that if the three brothers were papá siempre sugería, pedirle al Espíritu two service award dinners honoring there that evening, they would look out Santo un poco de ayuda para decir lo almost a hundred associates with well across the room at what they created. que hay en tu corazón, ¡en lugar de en over 1000 years of service! It was a They wouldn’t be most proud of the tu cabeza! real pleasure to visit with the men and building they were in, nor the many women, as well as their spouses, to buildings around the US their company Eso es fácil de hacer cuando se trata de celebrate the milestones of 5, 10, 15, had built. No, they would be most proud los hombres y mujeres de MAREK. 20, 25, 30, 35, and even 40 years plus. of the men and women who joined them In our industry, I assure you this is very through the years. Who took advantage Cuando los tres hermanos tenían la unusual. We are truly blessed to have so of the opportunity to learn a trade that edad suficiente, dejaron una vida en many of you elect to spend your careers would enable them to raise their families, Yoakum, que incluyó cuatro años de at MAREK. put their kids through college and realize falta de vivienda. Habiendo perdido la their American Dream. They were granja familiar a causa de una ejecución And as the evening came to an end, working men, using their hands to do hipotecaria bancaria, experimentaron I was asked to lend a few words to their trade. Thousands of men and algunas de las condiciones más duras close the evening. Not having time to women made this company what it is. A imaginables. prepare remarks, I did as my Dad always company that exists for each of you, not suggested, ask the Holy Spirit for a little just it’s owners. Al llegar a Houston, los tres se volvieron help to say what’s in your heart, rather muy hábiles como colgadores y than your head! Their heritage is a part of our DNA acabadores de un nuevo producto and we should always remember the llamado tabla roca de yeso. Al ser de la That’s easy to do when it comes to the sacrifices it took to get to where we are granja y acostumbrados al trabajo duro, men and women of MAREK. today. sobresalían en su nuevo oficio. Como mi padre dijo muchas veces, era mucho When the three brothers were old Our thanks to each of you for our years mejor que tratar de ganarse la vida en enough, they left a life in Yoakum, that of service. We certainly wouldn’t be una granja de tierras negras durante la included four years of homelessness. what we are today without your hard gran depresión de la década de 1930. Having lost the family farm to a bank work and dedication. foreclosure, they experienced some of Cuando la Segunda Guerra Mundial the harshest conditions imaginable. Thank you. estalló, los tres se unieron. Aprendieron -Stan mucho y cuando regresaron, encontraron
MENSAGE DE
STAN
MESSAGE FROM
STAN
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a Houston en el comienzo de un boom de construcción que duró años. Llamaron a primos y amigos del país y construyeron una compañía, un hombre a la vez, una hoja a la vez. Y estaban orgullosos de su trabajo y orgullosos de los hombres que se unieron a ellos. No creo que ninguno de nosotros pueda apreciar realmente sus sacrificios para escapar del trauma de la falta de vivienda, la guerra y el duro trabajo que tomó construir MAREK Y mientras estaba allí ante la multitud, compartí que si los tres hermanos estaban allí esa noche, mirarían a través de la habitación lo que crearon. No estarían muy orgullosos del edificio en el que estaban, ni de los muchos edificios alrededor de los EE.UU. que su empresa había construido. No, estarían muy orgullosos de los hombres y mujeres que se unieron a ellos a través de los años. Quienes aprovecharon la oportunidad de aprender un oficio que les permitiría criar a sus familias, llevar a sus hijos a la universidad y realizar su sueño americano. Eran hombres de trabajo que usaban sus manos para hacer su oficio. Miles de hombres y mujeres hicieron de esta empresa lo que es. Una empresa que existe para cada uno de ustedes, no solo para sus propietarios. Su herencia es parte de nuestro ADN y siempre debemos recordar los sacrificios que se necesitaron para llegar a donde estamos hoy. Nuestro agradecimiento a cada uno de ustedes por nuestros años de servicio. Ciertamente no seríamos lo que somos hoy sin su arduo trabajo y dedicación. Gracias -Stan
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