Subcontractors USA Journal 4

SUBCONTRACTORS February 2016 Connect With Us

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Lazer Construction Company:

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PAGES 4-5

Ousley L. Lacey & The Lazer Construction Company Team

PAGE 10 Texas Workforce News!

PAGE 6

In the Subcontractor Community… Business Event at HCC

2  February 2016

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

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SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Journal Behind The

Publisher’s Message

MR. D-MARS

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis

Houston is an amazing city filled with great opportunities for subcontractors and the small business community. Subcontractors USA understands that diversity in the workforce strengthens Houston’s economy. This latest issue of Subcontractors USA includes information to help the subcontractor community succeed.

VICE PRESIDENT Kim Floyd

ACCOUNTING MANAGER SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

This month’s cover story is on Ousley L. Lacey and Lazer Construction Company, Inc. Since 1992, Lazer Construction has been providing excellence in quality and service. Not only does Lazer Construction have years of experience, but a highly skilled and qualified management team and a crew of trained field experts that allow them to continuously deliver stellar jobs to their clientele.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Thank you for supporting Subcontractors USA. When you support this journal, you are supporting more than just this publication, you are supporting the growth of Houston in the areas of engineering, architecture, construction, transportation, and IT. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

Eugenie Doualla C.T. Foster Eric D. Goodwine Tiffany Black Dawn Paul

PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter Tony Gaines

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Angel Rosa

Contents Lazer Construction Company, Inc..............................................................................................................................................................4-5 In the Subcontractor Community................................................................................................................................................................. 6 Subcontractor Tax Tips.................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Six Ways to Make You a Better Business Owner & Subcontractor..................................................................................................... 8 Fair Labor Standards Act Advisor................................................................................................................................................................. 9 Texas Workforce News!..................................................................................................................................................................................10 5 Tips That Will Help You as a Subcontractor..........................................................................................................................................10 Texas Department of Motor Vehicles........................................................................................................................................................... 11 Are You Succeeding as a Subcontractor?.................................................................................................................................................. 12 Is a Line of Credit Right for You as a Subcontractor?........................................................................................................................... 14 Visualizing Success..........................................................................................................................................................................................16

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4 February 2016

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Lazer Construction Company, Inc. 20+ Years of Construction Experience

By Subcontractors USA News Provider azer Construction Company, Inc. (LCCI) has been providing excellence in quality and service since 1992. They are well-known for their civil engineering construction expertise and experience. Whatever the size of the project, LCCI can handle the task and exceed expectations. Not only does LCCI have years of experience, but a highly skilled and qualified management team and a crew of trained field experts that allow them to continuously deliver stellar jobs to their clientele.

L

LCCIExperience Experience LCCI LCCI has more than 20 years in the construction industry, always committed to excellence and quality service.

The company has created a strong and well-respected foundation in Houston

Chateau Cocomar Project

and the surrounding areas, making a name for itself as one of the premiere construction firms to work with in the area. Founded by Ousley L. Lacy, President and CEO of LCCI, for the past two decades the company continues to evolve and be one of the top rated contractors in the Texas construction market.

LCCI is a full-service general contractor deeply rooted in the Greater Houston metropolitan market. LCCI is rated as Houston’s largest African-American owned civil contractor. The firm specializes in government, industrial, commercial, and institutional projects. LCCI’s self-performance capabilities and experience includes all aspects of civil, concrete-both structural and pavement and complete project management.

LCCI is a very familiar name in the construction industry. After Hurricane

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February 2016 5

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Dynamo Stadium Project

HCCS Northeast Campus Project

Bush Airport Chilled Water Line Project

• Houston ISD • Manhattan Construction • OEM, Inc. • Rice University • Schlumberger • Shell Oil • Spaw-Maxwell Company • Texas Medical Center • Texaco • Texas Southern University • UTMB

City Construction Project

Katrina, the Beaumont Independent School District needed assistance, and LCCI was more than equipped to complete the task, and they provided site work and concrete foundations to five schools in the area. Providing parking lots, asphalt paving, and sidewalks, is also part of the services the LCCI provides, helping to keep businesses running smooth. The LCCI team mobilizes to respond to your construction needs at the onset of any project, because they recognize the need to be flexible with design plans. They will work until the job is completed.

LCCI’sspecializations specializationsinclude, include, LCCI’s but are not limited to: but are not limited to: • Asphalt Paving • Civil Construction • Concrete • Concrete Paving • Excavation • Foundation • Infrastructure • Site Work

Almeda Sims Project

LCCI’sCertifications Certifications LCCI’s and Affiliations: and Affiliations:

• Storm Sewers • Trenching • Utilities

LCCIClientele Clientele LCCI Their impressive and vast experience in the construction industry has provided them a diverse portfolio of clients, including private, medical, and public sector entities. LCCI’s administrative

staff and over 50 field employees take pride in providing professional services to clients.

LCCIclient clientlist listincludes, includes,but butisis LCCI notlimited limitedto: to: not • Beck Construction • Bush Intercontinental Airport • Beaumont ISD • City of Houston

• City of Houston • State of Texas – HUB • Port of Houston Authority • Houston Minority Supplier Diversity Council • Associated General Contractors of America • National Association of Minority Contractors

Subcontractors USA is proud to highlight LCCI this month. Located in the heart of Houston, LCCI has established themselves as one of the top construction companies in the area. To find out more about Lazer Construction Company, Inc., please visit www.lazercci.com.

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6 February 2016

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

In the Subcontractor Community…

To View More Photos, Visit Our Website www.subcusa.com and Click on ‘Photo Gallery.’

Fort Bend ISD Subcontractor Kick-Off Meeting

Business Event at HCC

Subcontractor Tax Tips

S

By Subcontractors USA News Provider tarting a business can be intimidating, but with a solid business plan and guidance from the small business community of experts, it can also be incredibly rewarding. One of the biggest things to get used to as a new subcontractor and small business owner is filing taxes for the first time. If you're filing a business return, hiring an experienced professional tax preparer can help you avoid making common mistakes that can impact the success of your small business.

To get the most from your deductions, here are five tips for subcontractors and small business owners to keep in mind this tax season: 1. What tax deductions can I claim?

Even if the expenses were incurred during the previous calendar year, the IRS allows businesses to deduct up to $5,000 worth of certain start-up expenses in the year the business began (subject to limitations). In addition to these costs, corporations and partnerships are allowed to deduct up to $5,000 of their organizational costs in their first year of operation.

2. Is my car mileage deductible? If you use your home as a place of business and consider it your principal place of business, car owners are typically allowed to deduct mileage costs from their home to businessrelated stops.

3. Can I deduct business travel expenses? When you are traveling away from your usual business location, you may be able to deduct ordinary and necessary expenses related to your work. These expenses include transportation costs, lodging, dry cleaning or laundry, tips, baggage charges and business equipment usage expenses such as fax machines or phones. Meals can be deducted if the trip

is overnight but there is a 50 percent limitation on these deductions.

4. Are personal care and clothing expenses deductible? No, the IRS has a very strict rule against personal clothing being deducted even if they are bought for business use and only worn at work.

5. How does the Affordable Care Act (ACA) affect my taxes and deductions?

The Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Marketplace allows for small business to purchase health insurance for their employees. If you pay at least half of your employee's premiums and have less than 25 full-time and equivalent employees with an average annual wage of less than $50,000 ($51,600 for 2016), you may be eligible for the small business health care tax credit. See the calculator at health care.gov.

Tax preparation is not one-size-fits all, and navigating credits and deductions makes them even trickier - especially for small business owners and individuals with more complicated tax situations. Filing a business return for the first time can be a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. A new offering is launching this year called Block Advisors that specializes in personalized tax preparation, tax planning, small business taxes and year-round support. For small business owners, Block Advisors also provides back-end needs like payroll and bookkeeping. Visit blockadvisors.com for more information or to find your nearest location.

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SUBCONTRACTORS USA

MEP Engineering

Commissioning

Program Management

When you need experience, we have it covered.

Rice & Gardner Consultants, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary professional engineering firm that focuses on MEP Engineering, Commissioning, and Program Management. We act as an extension to our clients, providing total engineering services from project inception to completion. With our deep bench of high skilled and experienced staff and innovative technology Rice & Gardner can plan, lead, and complete projects on time and within budget.

6161 Savoy Drive, Suite 1212 Houston, TX 77036 | 713-482-2300 | www.ricegardner.com Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

8 February 2016

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Six Ways to Make You a Better Business Owner & Subcontractor

I

By Subcontractors USA News Provider f you’re a subcontractor, this is a great opportunity to take action to make your business even better as we are early in the year. Here are some suggestions from small business expert and author Gene Marks on how to get started: 1 - Do a productivity review.

Now’s the time to find those expensive inefficiencies and make some changes. Do you really need to be doing your copies in-house? Are you spending too much time shipping products? Have you devoted hours to fixing tech problems? To save time and money, look for solutions outside your company, such as shipping at your local Staples store to help your staff streamline day-to-day activities and troubleshoot issues in advance.

2 - Evaluate your employees. This is a great time to sit down with your employees, one-by-one, to discuss goals for the year. Update their personnel files, medical records and personal information.

3 - Clean up your office. Get rid of those old files. Replace your ancient office chairs. Wipe down those windows, clean out those closets, dispose

of unused supplies and vacuum, mop and sweep. You and your employees will enjoy coming to work when the office is cleaner and brighter.

4 - Revisit safety. When was the last time your fire extinguishers were replaced? Are your first-aid kits up to standards? Do you even have a firstaid kit? Do your employees know what to do in case of an emergency?

Make a checklist of all the things you’ll need to do to make your company as safe as it can be. As a subcon-

Setting Us Apart

6 - Upgrade your tech. Hopefully as the economy grows your business will grow, too, and now’s the time for upgrades to your company technology needs. Work with Staples EasyTech associates to determine where investing in better technology will improve your profitability and productivity going forward.

There you have it. Now is a great time to make some changes as a subcontractor so you can enjoy the benefits all year long. – BPT

performing beyond expectations

projects on 1 Delivers time and on budget

Azteca Enterprises, Inc. was founded in 1989 and provides services ranging from general contracting, construction management, program management, design-build services, and self-perform across a broad spectrum of projects for both public and private sector clients. Industries served include, aviation, transportation, local, state and federal government agencies, hospitality, multi-family housing, entertainment and real estate developers.

About Us Horizon International Group, LLC is a certified SBE/MBE/WBE/HUB construction manager with a proven history of providing clients impeccable contracting services since 1994.

to 2 Committed delivering quality &

Certified MWBE/SBE/HUB Contractor

meaningful service

We are a certified Minority Business Enterprise through the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council, Hire Houston First, South Central Texas Regional Certification Agency (SCTRCA), the North Central Texas Regional Agency (NCTRCA), the DFW/MSDC, and the Texas Minority Historically Underutilized Business (HUB). We are a mentor to other minority and small business companies in several mentor-Protégé programs.

Horizon is a certified MBE, WBE, SBE and State of Texas certified Historically Underutilized Business (HUB). As such, Horizon is always striving to expand business opportunities, provide added value to our clients, and is actively engaged in procuring goods and services from other talented SBE/MBE/WBE/HUB subcontracting firms. We believe that diversity strengthens the community and the overall small business environment.

3 Financial stability bonding 4 Strong capacity

DIVISIONS:

Services

safety 5 Excellent record

6

tractor, this is very important.

5 - Go green. You want to be more environmentally conscious, but you’ve always been too busy to do so.

Recycle your old technology. Start an ink and toner recycling program.

Purchase environmentally friendly cleaning products and make a list of green products you’ll be buying going forward. Finally, make sure to tell the world what you’re doing. It’ll encourage others and ref lect positively on your business.

• • • •

Horizon provides a range of services including:

Experienced project teams

• Construction Management

• Estimating

• General Contracting • Design/Build

• Owner Representation & Feasibility Studies

• Project Management

• Development Services

• Job Order Contracting

• Program Management

Building Division Heavy Civil Construction Steel Fabrication and Erection Multi-Family Housing

years of industry 7 30+ experience size to deliver 8 Right flexibility of services

and effective responses

Houston First 9 Hire Houston based

Dallas, Texas

company hiring Houston based subcontractors

10

SBE/MBE/WBE/ HUB firm

2518 Chalk Hill Road Dallas, Texas 75212 T: (214) 905-0612 F: (214) 905-0828 4204 Bellaire Boulevard Houston, TX 77025 p: 713.660.8282 f: 713.660.0102

215 W. San Antonio St. San Marcos, TX 78666 p: 713.660.8282 f: 713.660.0102

Houston, Texas

www.azteca-omega.com

11777 Katy Freeway, Suite 190 Houston, Texas 77093 T: (281) 391-7473 F: (281) 665-2115

1999 Gulfmart Ste. 522 San Antonio, TX 78217 p: 713.660.8282 f: 713.660.0102

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SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Fair Labor Standards Act Advisor Independent Contractors

T

By Subcontractors USA News Provider he Supreme Court has said that there is no definition that solves all problems relating to the employer-employee relationship under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The Court has also said that determination of the relation cannot be based on isolated factors or upon a single characteristic, but depends upon the circumstances of the whole activity. The goal of the analysis is to determine the underlying economic reality of the situation and whether the individual is economically dependent on the supposed employer. In general, an employee, as distinguished from an independent contractor who is engaged in a business of his own, is one who "follows the usual path of an employee" and is dependent on the business that he serves. The factors that the Supreme Court has considered significant, although no single one is regarded as controlling are: (1) the extent to which the worker's services are an integral part of the employer's business (examples: Does the worker play an integral role in the busi-

ness by performing the primary type of work that the employer performs for his customers or clients? Does the worker perform a discrete job that is one part of the business' overall process of production? Does the worker supervise any of the company's employees?); (2) the permanency of the relation-

ship (example: How long has the worker worked for the same company?); (3) the amount of the worker's investment in facilities and equipment (examples: Is the worker reimbursed for any purchases or materials, supplies, etc.?

Does the worker use his or her own tools or equipment?);

(4) the nature and degree of control by the principal (examples: Who decides on what hours to be worked? Who is responsible for quality control? Does the worker work for any other company(s)? Who sets the pay rate?); (5) the worker's opportunities for profit and loss (examples: Did the worker make any investments such as insurance or bonding? Can the worker earn a profit by performing the job more efficiently or exercising managerial skill or suffer a loss of capital investment?); and (6) the level of skill required in performing the job and the amount of initiative, judgment, or foresight in open market competition with others required for the success of the claimed independent enterprise (examples: Does the worker perform routine tasks requiring little training?

Does the worker advertise independently via yellow pages, business cards, etc.? Does the worker have a separate business site?).

For information about trainees (including School-to-Work programs) and volunteers or to find out whether you are covered by the FLSA, click on the underlined text.

Remember that some employees are exempt from various provisions of the law.

To explore the broad categories of these exemptions or to obtain further information about the FLSA, please visit www. dol.gov.

Source Used: United States Department of Labor

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Texas Workforce News!

Texas Workforce Commission Earns EPA’s ENERGY STAR certification

F

By Subcontractors USA News Provider or the third consecutive year, Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) buildings have earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR certification. Buildings that earn the EPA’s ENERGY STAR certification use 35 percent less energy and generate 35 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than similar buildings from around the country.

In addition to this year’s award, TWC’s building in Grand Prairie is the sixth building to be added to TWC’s certification portfolio. The repeat award winners include TWC’s Main, Trinity, MoPac, Fort Worth, and Houston Beechnut office buildings.

“TWC is pleased to be recognized for the energy efficiency efforts of our staff,” said TWC Chairman Andres Alcantar. “This certification highlights TWC’s commitment to reduced energy consumption and agency operational costs. I commend TWC’s Business Operations facility and planning teams for their hard work in qualifying another TWC building for this recognition.”

TWC improved its energy performance by successfully integrating the use of energy-saving materials, systems design and power management strategies into TWC’s regular facility master plan and maintenance schedule.

This achievement highlights an even larger milestone for all TWC-managed buildings. In the buildings for which TWC managed utilities over the last 10 years, the agency: • Reduced electricity consumption

providers and community partners. This network gives customers local access to workforce solutions and statewide services at numerous Workforce Solutions offices.

TWC provides unemployment benefits services through five Tele-Centers and administers unemployment tax through numerous local tax offices.

Major Functions

by 36.1 percent from September 2005 through June 2015 • Reduced natural gas consumption by 6.2 percent from September 2005 through June 2015 To learn more about TWC’s commitment to energy conversation, visit the http://www.twc.state.tx.us/ webpage.

Mission Their mission is to promote and support a workforce system that creates value and offers employers, individuals, and communities the opportunity to achieve and sustain economic prosperity. The TWC Mission, Vision, and Philosophy give more information about their goals and core beliefs.

Texas Workforce Commission Organization Purpose

Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is the state agency charged with overseeing and providing workforce development services to employers and job seekers of Texas. TWC strengthens the Texas economy by providing the workforce development component of the Governor's economic development strategy. Texas boasts an incredibly skilled workforce ready to attract enterprise to the Lone Star State. By focusing on the needs of employers, TWC gives Texas the competitive edge necessary to draw business here.

The Commission is the governing body of the Texas Workforce Commission, comprised of three commissioners appointed by the Governor, one each representing employers, labor and the public.

The agency is presided over by the Commission and administered by the Executive Director to operate an integrated workforce development system and administer the unemployment benefits program in Texas.

TWC is part of Texas Workforce Solutions, a local and statewide network comprised of the agency, 28 workforce development boards, and their contracted service

The major functions of TWC include developing the workforce, providing support services including child care for targeted populations participating in workforce training, and administering the unemployment benefits and tax programs.

TWC also provides information and analysis on shifts in occupations and industries within the state and seeks to reduce discrimination in employment and housing through education and enforcement of state and federal laws.

Workforce development includes the oversight and support of an employerdriven, integrated system that consolidates employment, job training and work-related services including the regulation of career schools.

The unemployment benefits program, funded through employer taxes, provides temporary income to workers who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. TWC collects unemployment taxes from liable employers and pays unemployment benefits to qualified claimants.

TWC has a formal appeal procedure to address claim issues and employer tax liability, contribution or reimbursement disputes.

For employers, they offer recruiting, training and retraining, outplacement services, and valuable information on employment law and labor market trends and statistics.

5 Tips That Will Help You as a Subcontractor Make the Most of 2016

I

By Subcontractors USA News Provider s there any time of year more important for you as a subcontractor than right now? The business you do in these months will go a long way toward not only determining your day-to-day success, but the very outlook for the rest of 2016.

So how do you make sure your business is up to the task and makes the most of the here and now?

Small businesses and subcontractors everywhere are asking these same questions, and to help, Susan Solovic, The Small Business Expert, offers these helpful tips.

a subcontractor. Your business depends on connections.

• Keep in touch. Connecting with someone is a good idea any time of year, so why not pick up the phone and see if you can schedule a coffee or lunch meeting. This is especially important when trying to gain new contracts as a subcontractor. It’s vital as a subcontractor that you stay connected. Staying connected keeps you on the radar and will open door for you to stay successful as

• Review successes and failures. What worked well for you to gain business as a subcontractor last year? What didn’t work?

What do you think you can do better to really get the best opportunities out there?

As a subcontractor and business owner, you really need to take this tip seriously.

Don’t take tactics that didn’t work for you last year into this year. What helped you be successful as a subcontractor last year,

• Tie up loose ends. Get out your “to-do” list, find the projects you never had time for, and jump on them. Mark them off your list, and make sure you attack this year with momentum. And if your project list includes upgrading your business with some new tech, Staples Tech Services can keep your small business running smoothly with the latest tech that will improve your productivity and save your company money in the long run.

take it to a higher level this year to elevate you as a business owner.

• Read and learn. Spend a few minutes searching the Internet for lists of “mustread” business books. Find a couple that look like they’d be a good fit for your business and commit to reading them. In the same manner, learn a new skill that will help you gain business and be more successful as a subcontractor.

• Tax preparation. Review your book-

keeping system and make sure everything is up to date. It’s very important that you are organized when it comes to the financial part of the business. If you are organized, this process will be much easier during tax time.

Apply the tips from Solovic and you’ll be ready to make this year your business’s best year yet. To learn more about finding the right tech solutions and everything else your small business needs, visit Staples. com. – BPT

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February 2016 11

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Selling Goods and Non-Professional Services to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

Where to start Register on the Centralized Master Bidders List (CMBL) through the CPA. State agencies select vendors from the CMBL for solicitations based on the following dollar thresholds: • Over $25,000 – Solicitations (IFB, RFP, RFO) are advertised on the open market and posted on the Electronic State Business Daily site. All CMBLlisted vendors under the class and item for the requested commodity or service will receive notice of the solicitation. Solicitations are formal, requiring sealed responses by a specified opening or closing date and time. Other interested vendors may make a written request any time prior to the bid opening date and time.

• $5,000 to $25,000 – A minimum of three (3) vendors from the CMBL are solicited. Two-thirds of the vendors solicited should be Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs).

• Under $5,000 – One quote may be requested from a CMBL vendor for a purchase order award.

Obtaining Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Certification The TxDMV is committed to pur-

chasing and contracting with HUBs. The purpose of the HUB program is to promote full and equal business opportunities for all businesses in state contracting. All state agencies and universities are required to make a good faith effort to include HUBs in procurement opportunities for goods and services.

HUB certification increases exposure to solicitations for the procurement of goods and services by state agencies.

Companies interested in doing business with TxDMV are encouraged to become HUB certified. This may be accomplished by completing a HUB application and submitting it to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

Vendors may be eligible for the State of Texas HUB Program if their business is located in the state of Texas and majority owned by an Asian Pacific American, African American, Hispanic American, Native American, American Woman, and/or Service Disabled Veteran. HUB certification is free of charge and can be renewed every four (4) years.

Questions regarding TxDMVs HUB Program can be sent to: HUB@txdmv.gov.

Products and Services Purchased

by TxDMV include but are not limited to: • Computer software

• Office equipment and supplies • Office furniture and modular furniture • Temporary personnel services • Recycled products • Office equipment maintenance • Telecommunications • Computer equipment and peripherals The Department of Information Resources (DIR)’s Cooperative (Co-op) Contracts program is a streamlined cooperative purchasing program for state and local government, public education, and other public entities in Texas, as well as public entities outside the state.

They currently offer more than 650 cooperative purchasing contracts for technology products and services including hardware, software, staffing services, maintenance, and other services with a high customer demand, such as managed services and technology training. TxDMV purchases professional services through DIR. Visit http://dir.texas.gov/ for instructions and information on how to contract for Cooperative Contracts, Deliverables-Based IT Services (DBITS), Data Center Services (DCS), Information Security Services, or Telecommunications Services.

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12 February 2016

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Are You Succeeding as a Subcontractor?

T

he amount of entrepreneurs and subcontractors continues to grow, and it is empowering to see so many minorities with an entrepreneurial spirit. www.staples.com asked some minority business owners and those who work with them to provide advice on managing for success. The tips below may help you create success as a minority business owner and subcontractor.

Tip #1: Don’t Freak Out! Pamela Mitchell, founder and CEO of The Reinvention Institute, speaker and author of The 10 Laws of Career Reinvention: Essential Survival Skills for Any Economy, cautions that any business will have its ups and downs. The key to success is how you handle them.

“There will always be problems,” says Mitchell. “Business is a series of solving problems. As much as you can, don’t torture yourself.”

She recommends staying focused on your current project or problem, solving that and remembering that things always shift and evolve. This does take some mental discipline, but it will help keep you grounded and moving forward.

Tip #2: Hire the Right People While this might seem obvious, there

are a few important guidelines to keep in mind, especially as a subcontractor.

Mary Shulenberger, CEO of Parle Enterprises Inc., a promotional advertising company in Brisbane, CA, says one of her first mistakes was employing family members, which caused problems when it didn't work out. Now she approaches hiring by making a complete list of qualities a candidate should possess.

Shulenberger isn’t afraid to demand the best, despite being a smaller company in a competitive market.

“Don’t settle,” she says. “There are qualified people out there, who might work for options or future opportunities. Be creative to get who you want.”

Mitchell suggests looking for employees who complement your skills and personality. While this requires understanding your strengths and weaknesses, it helps you make sure your company is balanced.

Tip #3: Network Becoming a certified minority-owned business doesn't guarantee you’ll get work, says Norberto Velez, president of Customized Performance Inc. in San Jose, CA. But many companies and government agencies are looking for verified minority-owned firms to bid on projects. A good way to do that is through local minority business associations, such as the Minority Business Develop-

ment Agency. “Participate in the council,” Velez says. “You learn so much from other minority business enterprises and sharing ideas.”

Tip #4: Take Advantage of Government Programs There are many programs offering resources for minorities and subcontractors ready to start or expand businesses.

The Small Business Administration is an excellent resource and lists several federal programs that offer services and assistance in everything from starting a company to finding funding.

Tip #5: Be Savvy About Finding and Accessing Capital Matt Camp, president of ICIC, a

Boston-based nonprofit research and strategy organization that supports urban small business owners, offers these suggestions for those looking for capital.

• Do your homework: “Find out what type of financing support is right for your business,” he says. “Entrepreneurs should get savvy about all their options and choose the financing model that best aligns with their business goals and capital needs.”

• Grow your network: “A lack of access to capital largely stems from a lack of access to capital providers,” he points out. “Entrepreneurs located in underserved areas often don’t have the same network as their suburban counterparts.”

• Practice your pitch: “We've found that many entrepreneurs lack experience speaking with investors,” Camp says. “Learn how to position your business according to what investors are looking for in an investment.”

Are you a minority business owner or subcontractor looking to expand?

The good news is that here are great resources out there to help you not only succeed, but exceed expectations. Check with minority associations, government offices and do your research online for available services.

Minority-owned businesses and subcontractors contribute to the economy on a local and national level.

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February 2016  13

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

MORE THAN BRICKS AND MORTAR

As one of the nation’s largest commercial builders, Turner is dedicated to providing avenues of opportunity for Minority- and Woman-Owned Businesses in Houston to achieve entrepreneurial success.

Our commitment to social responsibility and fair play is not just on paper; it is ingrained in our corporate culture. We are devoted to making sure the contributions that strengthen the local economy reflect the demographics of the community at large.

w w w. t u r n e rc o n s t r u c t i o n . c o m

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14 February 2016

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Is a Line of Credit Right for You as a Subcontractor?

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By Subcontractors USA News Provider rom time to time, you as a subcontractor may face revenue swings, prompting you to borrow money to meet your short-term cash and working capital needs.

One option is to secure a business line of credit.

The Small Business Administration defines a line of credit as a loan given by a financial institution to finance shortterm current capital needs, such as inventory purchases or operating expenses.

“A line of credit is a useful tool for businesses with regular expenses, like paying employees or restocking inventory,” says Jim Salmon, vice president of business services at Navy Federal Credit Union. “It can be tricky deciding whether a line of credit is the right tool for your company, so we help our business members weigh the pros and cons before making the financial decision that’s right for them.”

Below, Salmon outlines the pros and cons of a business line of credit.

Pros: The main benefit of a line of credit is that it acts as a safety net for your business, Salmon says. “It acts like working capital and makes funds available for your business while you wait for payments on accounts receivable,” he explains. “You can rest easy knowing your

employees will get paid even with unpredictable, temporary cash flow slowdowns or problems.”

A line of credit is also a means of leverage to help kick-start business growth.

“Having the funds for extra inventory for a seasonal push can be tough for a small business," Salmon says. "The line of credit could permit for that additional purchase of stock and allow you to be more opportunistic.”

A less obvious benefit is that it can strengthen your relationship with your financial institution. Making payments on time and abiding by the arrangements associated with its use shows viability of your company and character of management. Should you decide to expand your business, a strong relationship with your financial institution will help you gain future acquisitions faster.

Cons: Salmon warns that a line of credit can be easy to misuse and “can get you into trouble.”

“As a business owner, you want to monitor how much you access your credit line. Most are variably priced, meaning the rate can change quickly,” he says.

Salmon also points out that just like a credit card, you should make the required payments, or your rate could increase sharply. In addition, owners should be aware of any added require-

ments that might be associated with having access to the line. For example, quarterly accounts receivable reporting and financial requirements regarding liquidity and reporting are common.

“Owners should ask themselves if they are ready and willing to commit to such oversight,” he says.

Having a line of credit means there is on-record indication of how responsible you are with managing or mismanaging your money. “It will count in the grand scheme of potential credit and be incorporated in any future decisions with your financial institution,” Salmon explains.

If you’re interested in obtaining a line of credit for your business, talk to your financial institution about your options.

Each institution has its own criteria for obtaining a line of credit, such as twoyears-in-business minimum or collateral. Salmon adds that somet ime s, “a small business is able to secure a line of credit with the collateral being the assets of the business or personal assets if need be.”

If your busi-

ness doesn’t qualify, Salmon says there are other loan alternatives. For example, Navy Federal recommends a business credit card as a viable option for its members that need funds from time to time for small purchases or cash advances.

Follow Salmon’s advice above and talk to your financial institution to see if a business line of credit is right for you as a subcontractor. – BPT

We’ll wait on YOU, before YOU wait on US Traffic Control in Cypress, Texas American Traffic Control, based in Cypress, Texas, specializes in traffic control and planning services for detours, lane closings, road and freeway closures, and traffic calculation. We provide professional service to the entire United States, while maintaining the highest safety standards for workers and the public.

Quality Service since 2001 American Traffic Control is a small, minority-owned company specializing in a large capacity of traffic control operations, and has been in business since 2001. We are a member of The Associated General Contractors of Texas. Our staff consists of Certified Traffic Control Specialists and Flaggers, some with over 30 years of experience. We aim to always provide costeffective assistance and effective communication with our clients to cement a long-lasting client relationship. We are able to travel any distance to provide outstanding service to our clients.

We have provided traffic control services for the following government agencies: Texas Department of Transportation and Georgia Department of Transportation. We also provide outstanding services to some of the most prestigious companies, as follows: Kansas City Southern Railroad, Traffic Control Devices, The Levy Company, and numerous others.

Our focus on safety awareness is most important to us. Our goal is to provide a safe work zone for the traveling public and the construction workers.

Thank you for allowing us to introduce ourselves; we look forward to building a long-lasting work relationship with your company.

American Traffic Control 17240 Huffmeister Road Suite 104 Cypress, TX 77429

Phone: .......281.213.9063 Fax: ...........281.256.9458 Toll Free: ....855.931.9063

24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week | Insured, Bonded, & Licensed | Emergency Services Available Based in Cypress, Texas & Proudly Serving All 50 United States & Municipalities

www.americantrafficcontrolusa.com

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16 February 2016

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Visualizing Success:

6 Ways to Set Yourself Apart as a Subcontractor

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By Subcontractors USA News Provider

ore than half a million new businesses emerge onto the scene over the course of each month, according to Forbes Entrepreneurs. But even more businesses shut down than start up. Whether you’re a new business owner or subcontractor looking to take your career to the next level, it’s definitely a competitive environment. How can you differentiate yourself from the millions of others?

“Developing a purpose and setting goals to accomplish that purpose is the key to success,” says Per Wickstrom, founder of Best Drug Rehabilitation and successful business leader. “As an individual, you have a unique and fresh perspective, so it’s important to let that shine through.”

Wickstrom offers his proven tips for setting yourself apart from the rest to reach your business and career goals: Give back to the community Never underestimate the power of giving back to your surrounding community. The local community is what

helps your business grow, and giving back is immensely rewarding and valuable. From volunteer days to donation drives, there are hundreds of ways for you and your business to give back to the community.

Tell your unique story - All successful people have role models and mentors from which they draw inspiration and knowledge, but it’s important to continue to develop your own individual style and viewpoint. How did you get where you are today? Don’t be afraid to

be your dynamic and complex self.

Continue to learn - Commit to learning something new each and every day. To be innovating and create new products and services, you need to stay on top of the trends and news in your industry. Keep an open mind and always be ready to absorb as much information as you can. Being flexible and adaptable are some of the most valuable assets.

Learn from your mistakes - Of course you’ll never make it to the top without learning from your many mis-

takes along the way. There are very few “overnight successes” in the world, and it’s likely you’ll spend years working towards your greatest accomplishments.

When you experience a setback, don’t let it overwhelm your rational thinking. Instead, let it fuel your motivation on the road to achieving your goals.

Keep productivity top of mind When collaborating with others, meetings can be both incredibly productive or a complete waste of time. Keep your meetings and brainstorm sessions compelling and energetic without letting them run too long. Put away your smartphone and other devices to focus on the task at hand.

Focus on your passion - Successful entrepreneurs and business leaders are not successful because they let money drive them. Instead, they focus on their passion and spend time working on a vision that pulls them forward. While this involves a bit of risk, every successful person must take that leap in order to develop their goals and dreams.

When you visualize your success, it means you believe what you want is more than possible.

For more information and influential tips on success, visit www.perwick stom.com. – BPT

Building

HOUSTON It’s official! Harris County and the City of Houston have broken ground on the

Joint Processing Center Experienced builders with deep local roots, Clark/Horizon is proud to partner with city and county agencies, and architect PGAL, to deliver this model social infrastructure project.

Hats off to Harris County and the City of Houston for bringing this facility to life!

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