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May 2021 | Advertising for Certified Women, Veteran & Minority-Owned Subcontractors | 62nd Edition
Industrial Welding Academy: Welding Curriculum in Higher Education Elevates Students for a Second Chance and Success Front row, left to right: Fred Blain, Brittany Wade, Sharese James, Ericka Martinez, Desiree Horn, Veronica Sanchez, Miranda Horn and Andre Horn; Back row, left to right: Marcus Horn, Quasi Gomez and Dalton Horn
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INSIDE
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Turner Construction School of Management Develops Strategic Business Relationships With Minority and Women-Owned Firms
12-13
The National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC) Houston Golf Tournament 2021
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DART Board of Directors Announces Nadine Lee as New President & Chief Executive Officer
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PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE
Keith "MR. D-MARS" Davis, Sr. CERTIFIED:
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The Subcontractors US Texas Journal highlights opportunities and news relevant to the construction, energy, architecture, manufacturing, education, engineering, oil and gas, transportation, and IT industries we serve. We hope you find this issue not only informative, but inspiring and educational as well. This month's issue highlights the Industrial Welding Academy (IWA). IWA, for more than a decade with an acclaimed certification program, has proven itself as more than just a welding school, but a proven place for young men and women to get a second chance, being successful in their personal and professional development. Under the direction of Andre and Miranda Horn, the curriculum, staff, and instructors are strategic, so the student body feels more like part of a family, beyond the traditional teacher-student setting. This learning environment is distinct and effectual, perpetually producing graduates who are
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BEHIND THE JOURNAL PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr. CHIEF OF STAFF & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Amber P. Jones ASSISTANT SALES REPRESENTATIVE Tiffany Brown OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Bria Casteel ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Erick Fontejon PHOTOGRAPHY Grady Carter L.C. Poullard DISTRIBUTION Rockie Hayden CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Helen Callier Angie Frederickson Destiny Vaquera Julianne Malveaux Subcontractors USA News Provider
“The space within becomes the reality of the building.” —Frank Lloyd Wright (1867-1959), American architect, designer, writer, and educator
City of Houston
the future generation of leaders in the welding profession. With locations in Houston and Beaumont, the Horns leading this family-owned enterprise prepares not only students, but also the next generation of IWA leadership with their children, Desiree and Dalton Horn showing passion and gaining first-hand experience to be successful in continuing the IWA legacy. Though you may not realize it, welding shapes our communities and everyday lives. And IWA is proud to be instrumental in shaping the lives of the next generation working in this career. IWA understands that its responsibility to prepare students goes beyond the classroom, preparing them to also lead successful lives as professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders in the communities where they live and work. As always, thank you for your continued support of the Subcontractors US Texas Journal. When you support us, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.
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06 CONSTRUCTION 06 Shining the Spotlight on the National Association of Black Women in Construction 08 Texas and Wyoming Have Worst Job Losses in the Past Year, While Utah and Idaho Top Gainers; Texas and Iowa Rebound the Most from February’s Storms, as Nevada Posts Biggest Monthly Loss 10 Turner Construction School of Management Develops Strategic Business Relationships With Minority and WomenOwned Firms 10 ENERGY 10 CenterPoint Energy Named to Newsweek's Most Responsible Companies List for 2021 12-13 EVENT 12-13 The National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC) Houston Golf Tournament 2021
16-17 COVER STORY 16-17 Industrial Welding Academy: Welding Curriculum in Higher Education Elevates Students for a Second Chance and Success 18 TRANSPORTATION 18 DART Board of Directors Announces Nadine Lee as New President & Chief Executive Officer 18 Notice and Opportunity to Comment on SH 6 Reconstruction - Gorman 18 Distracted Driving Continues to Plague Texas Roadways 20 DART and Trinity Metro Rail Lines to Connect at DFW Airport 20 Houston Becomes Large Hub for Southwest Airlines Service 22 Houston Airports Chronicles ‘Year of Resilience’ in 2020 Annual Report 24 PERMITS 24 Five Benefits of Starting During the Early Phases With Permitting 28 OIL AND GAS 28 130 Years Young, RRC Looks to the Future 28 RRC Gives Coal Mining Reclamation Award to Dos Republicas for Work at Eagle Pass Mine
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CONTENTS 04 ARCHITECTURE 04 PVAMU’s School of Architecture Collaborates With Habitat for Humanity To Build Homes, Structures in Houston Area 04 Professor Kubo Receives 2021 SAH Exhibition Catalogue Award
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ARCHITECTURE
ARCHITECTURE
PVAMU’s School of Architecture Collaborates
With Habitat for Humanity To Build Homes, Structures in Houston Area By Angie Frederickson News Provider
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tudents in the Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) School of Architecture (SOA) are receiving a new opportunity to take what they are learning in the classroom and apply it to real-world situations. Thanks to a newly formed partnership between the university and Habitat for HumanityHouston, students are getting a chance to work on building homes and open-air structures in the Greater Houston area. “Being on site with Habitat construction projects allows students to see how building materials come together with gravity, which doesn’t exist in their computer drawings,” said April Ward, assistant professor of architecture and faculty advisor. “It gives dimensionality to their vocabulary and builds their confidence.” The students, who recently worked together to build a home in northeast Houston, are members of the PVAMU chapter of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS). At the national level, AIAS encourages collegiate chapters to participate in the community service program Freedom by Design. AIAS’ Freedom by Design provides students experience working with clients, learning from local licensed architects and contractors, and experiencing the practical impacts of architecture and design. Now that Habitat for Humanity-Houston is the official construction mentor for the School of Architecture student group, PVAMU students have access to opportunities to expand their knowledge and promote growth in the community. “This is a partnership that Alison Hay, director of Habitat for Humanity-Houston, and I have been working together to build ever since we connected after Hurricane Harvey,” said Ward. “PVAMU students will be able to benefit from Habitat’s experience and resources.” The students’ most recent project centered on a 1,200 square-foot house located in a new neighborhood of single-family, all-brick homes. Each house was newly constructed and designed to be energy efficient, safe, and healthy. PVAMU students worked with Habitat for Humanity-Houston to follow construction plans, and they fully participated in the home building process. One of those students, Alexis Adjorlolo, who is also the social coordinator for PVAMU’s AIAS, says she and her classmates worked as a team. “We prepared the house for window installation by using power tools and creating openings in the exterior walls, installing interior wall framing, and raising the roof trusses,”
she said. In addition to home building days, PVAMU AIAS members have the opportunity to create other design and build initiatives. The Social Justice Design Project is a student-driven idea to make a park-like structure in memory of social justice activists who have fallen victim to discrimination. Additionally, a team is entering a virtual and theoretical project competition that addresses community housing and food insecurity in Dallas. “Hands-on building is amazing because we are literally building tomorrow, today. For us, as students, we are building our future, and for people who inhabit the buildings and structures we work on, they are also beginning their futures today,” said Brooke Meshack, PVAMU AIAS president for 2020-2021.
PVAMU students are making an impactful contribution to society while furthering their own education and looking toward the future. Working with Habitat for Humanity will provide the students the extra support they need. “Once students master normative design methods, it allows them to innovate,” Ward said. Looking to the future, PVAMU architecture students are eager to continue and develop the partnership with Habitat for Humanity-Houston to maximize their potential for mentorship and volunteering. Students can join the PVAMU chapter of AIAS and the Freedom by Design group by contacting Alexis Adjorlolo at alexismadjorlolo24@gmail.com. For more information about the PVAMU School of Architecture, please visit https://www.pvamu.edu/soa/.
Professor Kubo Receives 2021 SAH Exhibition Catalogue Award Book highlighting the architecture and urbanism of the Pittsburgh Renaissance recognized by the Society of Architectural Historians By Destiny Vaquera News Provider
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he Society of Architectural Historians (SAH) recently awarded Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design Professor Michael Kubo with the 2021 Exhibition Catalogue Award for his book Imagining the Modern: Architecture and Urbanism of the Pittsburgh Renaissance, co-authored with Chris Grimley and Rami el Samahy and published by The Monacelli Press in 2019. The SAH award recognizes and encourages excellence in publications of architectural history exhibitions. It also acknowledges catalogues that address historical and critical questions through documentation and artifacts for a diversified audience, becoming distinctive models for the expression of scholarship in architectural history. "It’s an honor to be a part of the fantastic lineage of books that have received the Exhibition Catalogue Award," said Michael Kubo. "We especially appreciate SAH's recognition of our efforts to create a work of historical scholarship and advocacy that can have a life beyond the exhibition itself." Imagining the Modern originated from an exhibition of the same name that revisited the contentious legacy of Pittsburgh's urban renewal era, curated by Kubo, Grimley, and el Samahy at the Heinz Architectural Center (HAC), Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh in 2015-2016. The exhibition formed part of HAC Lab Pittsburgh, the first in a series of initiatives at the Heinz Architectural Center dedicated to examining and presenting the history of architecture, planning, and urban development in Pittsburgh and the region. In Imagining the Modern, Kubo, el Samahy, and Grimley explore the modern architecture and urbanism of the Pittsburgh Renaissance, an ambitious era of urban revitalization in the 1950s and ’60s that transformed Pittsburgh and became a model for other U.S. cities. The book provides a complex view of the city's post-World War II development through documentation, photographs, essays, analytical drawings, and interviews with protagonists and participants in the city’s transformation in this period. "The book tries to reassess the Pittsburgh Renaissance beyond the almost exclusively negative narratives that have framed the history of urban renewal up to the present," shared Kubo. "Our hope was that after the exhibition, the book could continue the work of reigniting conversations around the complicated legacies of modern architecture, heritage, and development in Pittsburgh and other U.S. cities during the urban renewal era." To learn about past SAH Exhibition Catalogue Award recipients, visit the Society of Architectural Historians website at www.sah.org.
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CONSTRUCTION
Shining the Spotlight
on the National Association of Black Women in Construction By Subcontractors USA News Provider
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he National Association of Black Women in Construction, Inc. (NABWIC) is a Floridabased, non-profit organization with chapters around the nation, formed in 1991 to address the unique challenges of Black women in the construction industry. Founded by
Mrs. Ann McNeill, its mission is to champion and empower Black women in construction and related industries to reach their full potential as entrepreneurs, small business owners, government professionals, and industry leaders who represent "THE VOICE OF BLACK WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION." NABWIC operates under the leadership and direction of its founder, McNeill, and is governed by a national board of directors composed of women and men small business owners who actively engage in various construction trades and industries. With multiple chapters and areas throughout the country, NABWIC provides a forum for its members to network, strategize and exchange information, ideas and solutions on a local, regional, and national level. They currently have membership representation in
key geographical areas including Florida, Georgia, New York, Michigan, Maryland, Virginia, Memphis, Texas, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Arkansas, Pennsylvania, Alabama, California, and Washington, D.C. NABWIC offers members an opportunity to expand personal and business networks, maintain awareness of industry developments, improve skills and knowledge, and make a contribution to other women in the construction industry. On a national level, NABWIC provides opportunities for its membership to come together around three national events. These are: • NABWIC National Industry Day held annually in Washington, D.C. • National Congressional Black Caucus Reception and Mid-Year Meeting in Washington, D.C. • National Annual Meeting (rotated throughout the states) NABWIC offers members an opportunity to expand personal and business networks, maintain awareness of industry developments, improve skills and knowledge, and make a contribution to other women in the construction industry. Visit www.nabwic.org for more information about the NABWIC. And to find out more about the Texas chapter, please email texaschapter@nabwic.org. Source: The National Association of Black Women in Construction, Inc.
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CONSTRUCTION
Texas and Wyoming
Have Worst Job Losses in the Past Year, While Utah and Idaho Top Gainers; Texas and Iowa Rebound the Most from February’s Storms, as Nevada Posts Biggest Monthly Loss By Subcontractors USA News Provider
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onstruction employment in March remained below March 2020 levels in 35 states despite a sizzling homebuilding market and a strong recovery from severe winter weather, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of government employment data released today. Association officials cautioned, however, that a host of challenges, including continued project cancellations, rising materials prices, and supply chain uncertainties are making business conditions for contractors difficult. “Nonresidential contractors are coping with a depleted list of projects, extreme cost increases, and unprecedented supply-chain problems,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “These headwinds are likely to keep industry employment in many states below pre-pandemic levels for months.” Seasonally adjusted construction employment in March exceeded the March 2020 level in only 14 states and the District of Columbia. Utah added the most jobs (6,400 jobs or 5.6 percent), trailed by Id a ho (3,90 0 jobs, 7.0 percent) and Washington (2,200 jobs, 1.0 percent). Idaho added the highest percentage, followed by Utah and South Dakota (3.8 percent, 900 jobs). Employ ment declined year-overyear in 35 states and stagnated in Mississippi. Texas lost the most construction jobs over the period (-35,400 jobs or -4.5 percent), followed by New York (-29,300 jobs, -7.2 percent), Louisiana (-16,500 jobs, -12.4 percent), and New Jersey (-14,500 jobs, -8.9 percent). Wyoming recorded the largest percentage loss (-12.7 percent, -2,900 jobs), followed by Louisiana, New Jersey, and Nevada (-8.1 percent, -8,000 jobs). For the month, construction employment rebounded in 39 states—some of which had been battered by unusually severe winter weather in February—while 10 states lost jobs, and there was no change in D.C. and New Hampshire. Texas added the most construction jobs (19,100 jobs, 2.6 percent) as work resumed following a damaging freeze in February. Other states with large monthly gains include New York (10,000 jobs, 2.7 percent), Minnesota (7,900 jobs, 6.8 percent), and Iowa (7,500 jobs, 10.3 percent). Iowa had the largest percentage gain, followed by Kansas (10.0 percent, 6,000 jobs) and Minnesota. Nevada lost the largest number and percentage of construction jobs for the month (-1,300 jobs, -1.4 percent). Association officials said Washington leaders could help address many of the challenges facing commercial contractors. They noted, for example that proposed new investments in infrastructure will help offset continued private sector project cancellations. And they renewed their calls for the Biden administration to remove tariffs on key construction materials, including steel and lumber, and explore actions to unjam ports and other shipping facilities. “Nicer weather and expanding confidence that the pandemic will soon end are helping improve market conditions,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “But the best way for policy makers to support continued job growth in the construction industry is to invest in infrastructure, remove government-imposed additions to materials prices, and help get the country’s supply chain back in order.” Source: The Associated General Contractors of America
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CONSTRUCTION
Turner Construction School
of Management Develops Strategic Business Relationships With Minority and Women-Owned Firms By Subcontractors USA News Provider
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he Turner School of Construction Management is the oldest community outreach program in Turner’s history. It was initiated in 1969, one year after their Affirmative Action Department was created, and soon became an opportunity to develop strategic business relationships with minority and women-owned firms. Since then, Turner has provided a training course for minority- and women-business owners in the disciplines practiced in the construction industry. The Turner School of Construction Management celebrates over 20 years in partnership with the City of Houston, graduating over 1,000 local men and women. The program is designed to prepare small, minority and women-owned contractors for contract procurement opportunities and has been uniquely designed to enhance the technical, administrative and managerial skills of minority and women businesses in order to make a profit and build a reputation for efficiently managing construction projects. Individuals enrolled in the program gain insights and meaningful tools that help them target their business for quality and growth and develop new, strategic business relationships. Dedicated minority- and women-business owners working as general contractors, subcontractors, construc-
tion managers, construction consultants and individuals who work closely with construction firms are encouraged to participate in this program. Individuals enrolled in the program gain insights and meaningful tools that help them target their business for quality and growth and develop new, strategic business relationships. An example of one program: • Refining Your Business Plan for Continued Growth • Effective Marketing Strategies to Increase Your Business • Managing Stress for
Business Success • Scheduling Concepts and Applications • Safety—The Bottom Line • Construction Law • Measuring Your Performance • Banking in Today’s Economy • Estimating: The True Value • Risk Management • Pre-Construction: The Important Perspectives • Strategies of Financial Management • Daily Operations • Reading Blueprints and Specifications • How to Win Bids, Perform and Get Paid • Bonding & Insurance Each class is uniquely devoted to a separate topic and is taught by some of the best professionals in this industry. Class subjects may differ from one business unit to another. Registration is available every fall through the City of Houston. For more information, please visit Turner’s website at http://www. turnerconstruction.com/ or the City of Houston’s website at http://www.houstontx.gov/obo/outreach.html. Source: Turner Construction
ENERGY
CenterPoint Energy Named to Newsweek's Most Responsible Companies List for 2021 By Subcontractors USA News Provider
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enterPoint Energy has been recognized as one of the most responsible companies in the United States by Newsweek. For the second time, Newsweek recognized America's Most Responsible Companies based on publicly available key performance indicators derived from corporate social responsibility, sustainability and corporate citizenship reports, as well as an independent survey. "CenterPoint Energy is focused on delivering responsibility through our commitment to leadership, sustainability, safety, diversity and inclusion in all the communities we serve," said Angila
Retherford, CenterPoint Energy's Vice President, Environmental and Corporate Responsibility. "We are honored to be named one of the most responsible companies in the country, as we continue to strive to build strong communities, safely deliver reliable electricity and natural gas, and invest in a clean energy future." The list from Newsweek and its partner Statist recognizes the top 400 most responsible companies in the United States, spanning 14 industries: Automotive & Components, Capital Goods, Consumer Goods, Energy & Utilities, Entertainment, Leisure & Dining, Financial, Health Care & Life Sciences, Materials, Professional Services, Real Estate & Housing, Retail, Software & Telecommunications, Technology Hardware and Travel,
Transport & Logistics. "Last year, we announced a goal to reduce operational emissions by 70 percent by 2035 and emissions attributable to
natural gas usage in heating, appliances and equipment within the residential and commercial sectors by 20 to 30 percent by 2040. Our reduction goals are based on 2005 emissions. With more than 7 million electric and natural gas metered customers across eight states, we were among the first energy delivery companies to make an emissions-reduction commitment across a multi-state footprint," added Retherford. Visit CenterPoint Energy's Corporate Responsibility page at www.centerpointenergy.com/responsibility to learn more about the company's commitments to environmental stewardship and a cleaner energy future. As the only investor-owned electric and gas utility based in Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is an energy delivery company with electric transmission and distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution operations that serve more than 7 million metered customers in Arkansas, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas. As of December 31, 2020, the company owned approximately $33 billion in assets and also owned 53.7 percent of the common units representing limited partner interests in Enable Midstream Partners, LP, a publicly traded master limited partnership that owns, operates and develops strategically located natural
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gas and crude oil infrastructure assets. With approximately 9,500 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years.
Forward Looking Statement This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions of management which are believed to be reasonable at the time made and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Any statements in this news release regarding future events, such as the CenterPoint Energy's carbon emissions reduction targets and commitments, and any other statements that are not historical facts are forwardlooking statements. Each forward-looking statement contained in this news release speaks only as of the date of this release. For more information, please visit www.CenterPointEnergy.com. Source: CenterPoint Energy, Inc.
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EVENT
The National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC) Houston
Golf Tournament 2021
The National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC) Houston recently held their Inaugural Golf Tournament at Pearland Golf Course. Awards, lunch, prizes and raffles marked the day. The tournament was underwritten by Cadence Bank and included a bevy of participants from the contractor community. For more information about NAMC Houston, please visit namctexas.org.
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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.
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The Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program at the University of Houston (UH) is committed to promoting the inclusion of HUB vendors in university procurements. The HUB Program ensures compliance with state HUB laws, assists UH departments in locating HUB vendors; as well as offering HUBs assistance to facilitate access and contracting opportunities.
For more information about how to do business with the University of Houston, bid opportunities, or to learn about events, workshops and seminars, visit: www.uh.edu/hub
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Industrial Welding Academy
A Family-Owned Enterprise Preparing the NEXT GENERATION OF WELDERS By Subcontractors USA News Provider
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he nation's aging infrastructure requires the expertise of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers to help rebuild bridges, highways, and structures. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of welders, cutters, solderers, and brazers is projected to grow 3% from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Recent statistics from Data USA show the number of people employed as welding, soldering, and brazing workers has been growing at a rate of 4.98%, from 580,520 people in 2018 to 609,457 people in 2019. Andre worked for several major industrial companies, and as a Certified Welding Educator (CWE), he has more than 30 years of training experience in the welding industry. Miranda possesses more than 2 decades of workforce development and management experience, being a valuable element to IWA’s foundation. Continuing to meet the industry’s demand for welders, providing higher education in welding is the Industrial Welding Academy (IWA). Since 2007, Andre Horn, founder and CEO and Miranda Horn, vice president, have been dedicated to teaching students the in-demand trade of welding built on their motto of “Integrity With Attitude.” IWA, for more than a decade with an acclaimed certification program, has proven itself as more than just a welding school, but a proven place for young men
Left to Right: Andre Horn, Desiree Horn, Miranda Horn, Dalton Horn
and women to get a second chance, being successful in their personal and professional development. Under the direction of the Horns, the curriculum, staff, and instructors are strategic, so the student body feels more like part of a family, beyond the traditional teacher-student setting. This learning environment is distinct and effectual, perpetually producing graduates who are the future generation of leaders in the welding profession and in their communities. “IWA changes the lives of our students by teaching them the valuable skill of welding. And we don’t
take it for granted that we are in a city with one of the highest levels of employment in the welding field in the country. Yes, our students have the advantage in that instance, but we understand that the highest level of training needs to be available in order for
them to secure gainful employment. IWA is about opening doors for young welders to be the best through our quality welding training environment. When our students gain the confidence career-wise, that also extends into their personal life, building self-esteem. And that is one of the best things to witness.” Andre said. The Horns leading this familyowned enterprise prepares not only students, but also the next generation of IWA leadership with their children, Desiree and Dalton Horn showing passion and gaining first-hand experience to be successful in con-
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tinuing the IWA legacy. “I am more than honored to continue the legacy my parents have created from the ground up. For them to even consider passing the torch to me really means a lot. I get the privilege to keep this legacy alive and impact the community the same way my parents did,” said Desiree. “IWA is the perfect place to come for those needing a second chance. Regardless of your background, welder qualifications are based on hands-on training and work ethic. Here at IWA, we focus on book knowledge and hands-on training that you will need in the field,” expressed Dalton. But the academy’s achievements would not be possible without the IWA educators and support staff. “You can give students requirements, but do they have the tools to meet those demands? I am thankful that IWA’s instructors are providing those necessary tools for our students to succeed in their education and in the real world after they graduate from IWA,” Miranda said.
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in realistic welding conditions and environments. Students are each assigned a welding machine and welding booth during the course. IWA providing individual booths for students allows them to strengthen their skills received individually as well as collectively. IWA remains committed to providing the superior training and education that is in line with current welding industry needs. Like many, IWA has had to pivot and adapt amid the pandemic, but the academy shows no signs of yielding, continuing to produce confident and competent welding professionals. “The government required closures during the pandemic did force us to close our doors temporarily for a couple of months, but
Miranda and I are proud of the achievements of IWA, but we are training our children, Desiree and Dalton, to build upon the foundation that we have laid. Learning the business and what it takes to run a successful school, also earning the opportunity to lead IWA is what will sustain the IWA legacy. Our family and the IWA staff and instructors are dedicated to the philosophy that one’s ability to earn a meaningful income is based on their dedication to learn marketable skills. This is based on our ‘Integrity With Attitude’ motto. IWA stands on that now, and with our children one day taking over the reins, I have no doubt this academy will continue to stand on that for years to come.” —Andre Horn, founder and CEO of the Industrial Welding Academy
IWA CWEs are credentialed by the American Welding Society (AWS), the multifaceted nonprofit organization advancing the science, technology, and application of welding and related disciplines all across the
country. Working with welders of all levels and companies of all sizes, IWA’s certified welding instructors have more than 50 years of experience in the welding industry. Ever growing, with a location in
Houston and expanding in 2018, with a school now in Beaumont, both state-of-the-art welding schools accommodate an industry-leading student-teacher ratio of 15:1. Training spaces are designed to resemble the job settings
we took that time to put new procedures into place when able to reopen for our students. We were able to adapt with CDC and state regulations in place for the health and safety of our staff and students to remain productive in IWA’s learning environment,” said Andre. He added, “And with us being in the hub of the oil and gas and petrochemical core, there remains continuous career opportunities for our students after they graduate. We had no choice but to adapt to the current times. If you don’t adapt, you get left behind, and there was no choice but for us to reopen and push through. We owed that to the students, staff, and to the community.” IWA proves to be a worthy driving force in educating our next generation of welders, recently holding their Annual Student Welder Certification Day, hosting aspiring welders from Houston and the surrounding areas to test for certifications at their Houston location. “This annual event was especially important, being that we all have had to overcome challenges brought about by COVID-19. Our students, instructors, and staff had to adapt as well, and we understand that. But we are still here and applaud everyone for pushing through to not only continue to keep IWA a success, but to shine the light on our students who worked so hard and deserved this
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day. This annual day would not have been possible without AWS, our sponsors, proctors, community partners, instructors, staff, and the high school instructors who brought their students to participate,” expressed Miranda. Though you may not realize it, welding shapes our communities and everyday lives. And IWA is proud to be instrumental in shaping the lives of the next generation working in this career. From construction to manufacturing, the demand for welders remains strong. Salaries are also good, given that many jobs in this arena don’t require an extensive education, with some making a six-figure income. IWA is not just about preparing students for a job, but a career and fulfilling life, conveying the great value of integrity and discipline upon its students. Because many of the IWA students come from at-risk areas, IWA gives them a deserving second chance to change their lives. “IWA is providing our young people an invaluable opportunity to gain higher education in the welding industry. Miranda and I, with our children, dedicated instructors, and staff are equipping students to perform their best, because they have the credentials, discipline, experience, welding training, and confidence to excel and exceed expectations as welders,” Andre said. A ndre and Miranda have made IWA more than an academy, but a family-run operation preparing students to be productive assets in the industry and in their communities. It’s a great legacy that will remain standing for years to come, one day being run by their children, Desiree and Dalton, remaining the bridge connecting those needing a second chance to a successful career in this industry. Desiring to meet the steady demand for welders, IWA has future plans to open additional facilities throughout the city and state. For more information about IWA, please visit www.iwatraining.com or email mybestwelding@ iwatraining.com. Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Data USA Zippia
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TRANSPORTATION
TRANSPORTATION
DART Board of Directors Announces Nadine Lee as New President & Chief Executive Officer By Subcontractors USA News Provider
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he Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Board of Directors recently announced the appointment of Nadine Lee as its new president & chief executive officer. Lee, an experienced transit industry leader and engineer who has worked in the transportation industry for nearly 30 years, will assume her new position on July 12. “The DART Board is pleased to welcome a leader of Nadine’s caliber and experience to direct the agency during these challenging and exciting times,” said Paul N. Wageman, chairman of the DART Board of Directors. “DART is an essential resource for the residents of our region, as well as a growth engine for all of North Texas. Nadine possesses the passion and expertise to grow DART into an even greater, more successful organization, and to create a lasting impact for our customers and local communities.” Before joining DART, Lee served as the chief of staff of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro). In this role, Lee coordinated programs and services across the nation’s third busiest transit agency and led an effort to make bus service more equitable and dependable for residents. Previously, she was the deputy chief innovation officer in Metro’s Office of Extraordinary Innovation where she led the development of Vision 2028, Metro’s 10-year strategic plan to improve mobility and quality-of-life for Los Angeles County residents. "I am honored to be selected for the opportunity to lead this exceptional organization of dedicated and talented professionals," said Lee. “DART’s employees have always demonstrated a deep commitment and dedica-
tion to its customers, mission, and each other. I look forward to building on the foundation that has been created here and developing new programs and opportunities for the customers and communities we serve.” Prior to her tenure at Metro, she led the development and implementation of the FlatiNadine Lee, ron Flyer Bus Rapid Transit for President & Chief Denver’s Regional TransportaExecutive Officer tion District (RTD), a project that produced a 40% increase in corridor ridership in its first few months of service. Lee also led RTD’s Northwest Rail and Commuter Rail Maintenance Facility projects in the FasTracks Program. “Nadine’s deep knowledge and understanding of how growing transportation choices can improve the quality of life for customers aligns perfectly with DART’s long standing mission," said David Leininger, DART’s interim president & chief executive officer. “I am confident that her distinguished track record of leadership and innovation will ensure the agency's continued success in serving the residents of North Texas." Lee was appointed to the Leadership APTA Committee in 2019 and is a past director of the WTS International board. She was also honored as the WTS International Woman of the Year in 2019. A registered Professional Engineer in Colorado and Kansas, Lee received her B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Missouri-Columbia. Please visit dart.org for more information. Source: Dallas Area Rapid Transit
TRANSPORTATION
Distracted Driving Continues to Plague Texas Roadways By Subcontractors USA News Provider
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adly, distracted driving is still near the top of the list when it comes to crashes on Texas roadways, coming in at No. 2 for traffic-related crash causes. Last year Texas roadways saw nearly 1 in 5 crashes caused by a distracted driver in which 364 people died and 2,200 were seriously injured. Last month was National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and TxDOT continues to remind all Texans to put their phones down and give driving their full attention whenever they are behind the wheel. “A serious or fatal crash can happen in an instant,” said TxDOT Executive Director James Bass. “If you’re distracted by your phone, or doing anything else that takes your focus away from driving, you’re putting yourself, your passengers and everyone else on the road at risk. Distracted driving crashes are 100 percent preventable. Driving should be your number one priority behind the wheel – everything else can wait.” TxDOT is re-launching its web-based augmented reality game “Dart Those Distractions” to reinforce the importance of paying attention behind the wheel. Designed to be played on a smartphone or tablet (but not while driving), the game increases awareness about the dangers of distracted driving in an interactive, engaging way. The game challenges players to throw darts at balloons that symbolize driving distractions, such as eating, grooming, programming music or checking a navigation system. Dangerous distractions include any activity that diverts the driver’s attention away from safely operating a vehicle.
Research shows that regardless of whether a driver uses a voice-to-text program, hands-free device or a handheld one, the distraction will affect the driver’s ability to drive safely. Since September 1, 2017, it has been illegal to read, write or send a text while driving in Texas. Violators can face a fine up to $200. TxDOT offers these tips to prevent distracted driving that can lead to a ticket, or worse, a crash: • Always give driving your full attention. • Pull off the road entirely and come to a complete stop before you talk or text. • Put your phone away, turn it off, or use an app or your phone settings to block texts and calls while driving. • Tell friends, family and co-workers you won’t respond to texts or calls while driving. • Remember that all distractions are dangerous, so pay full attention when behind the wheel. TxDOT’s distracted driving awareness campaign is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel, like wearing a seat belt, driving the speed limit, never texting and driving and never driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. November 7, 2000 was the last deathless day on Texas roadways. #EndTheStreakTX asks all Texans to commit to driving safely to help end the streak of daily deaths on Texas roadways. Source: TxDOT
Notice and Opportunity to Comment on SH 6 Reconstruction - Gorman By Subcontractors USA News Provider
Purpose: The TxDOT Brownwood District is proposing to improve SH 6 from 0.18 Miles north of Crescent Street to the Comanche County line in Gorman, Eastland County, Texas. This notice is affording an opportunity to comment as part of the environmental review process for this project. All comments must be postmarked or received on or before Monday, May 17, 2021.
Description: The project involves reconstructing the roadway to include adding a continuous center-turn lane, curb and gutter, pedestrian facilities and storm drainage. This will involve work within the city of Gorman for approximately 1.34 miles and include approximately 3.52 acres of new right of way (ROW). Storm sewer installation work is proposed along SH 6 and to FM 8 to an outfall at a culvert just south of FM 8 at FM 679. The proposed project would, subject to final design considerations, require additional right of way and potentially displace one residence and three non-residential structures. Relocation assistance is available for displaced persons and businesses. Information about the TxDOT Relocation Assistance Program and services and benefits for displaces and other affected property owners, as well as information about the tentative schedule for right-of-way acquisition and construction, can be obtained from the TxDOT district office by calling (325) 643-0415. The project materials are written in English. If you need an interpreter or document translator because English is not your primary language or you have difficulty communicating effectively in English, one will be provided to you. If you have a disability and need assistance, special arrangements can be made to accommodate most needs. If you need interpretation or translation services or you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation to review the project materials or submit information, please contact Lisa Tipton, TxDOT Brownwood District Public Information Officer, at (325) 643-0413 no later than 4 p.m. CT, at least three business days before the date you would like to review the project materials or submit information. Please be aware that advance notice is required as some services and accommodations may require time for TxDOT to arrange.
Memorandum of Understanding: The environmental review, consultation, and other actions required by applicable Federal environmental laws for this project are being, or have been, carried-out by TxDOT pursuant to 23 U.S.C. 327 and a Memorandum of Understanding dated Dec. 9, 2019, and executed by FHWA and TxDOT. Please call (325) 643-0413 or visit https://www.txdot.gov/ for more information.
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Source: TxDOT
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TRANSPORTATION
DART and Trinity Metro Rail Lines to
Connect at DFW Airport
o f
By Subcontractors USA News Provider
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ecently, the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Board of Directors unanimously approved a resolution authorizing a payment of $21.5 million to Trinity Metro for reimbursement of project costs incurred by Trinity Metro in the construction of approximately 2-miles of rail and platform facilities linking the Cotton Belt line to the DFWIA Terminal B passenger rail platform. The reimbursement is associated with the facilities to be shared by the DART Silver Line. In addition, DART will provide Trinity Metro $6 million for access rights to Terminal B at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport for the future DART Silver Line project once it begins revenue service in 2023. The Trinity Metro Board
Directors approved the agreement on Monday, April 12. "The Silver Line helps address strong demand by a growing number of residents and employees in the eastern portion of the region for a convenient and efficient connection to DFW Airport," said Paul N. Wageman, chairman of the DART Board of Directors. "We are pleased to finalize the agreement with Trinity Metro. It marks another important right of way segment that DART has secured and is critically needed to complete the construction of the Silver Line." With revenue service scheduled for 2023, the 26-mile Silver Line project will traverse seven cities between DFW Airport, Grapevine, Coppell, Dallas, Carrollton, Addison, Richardson, and Plano, and include 10 new stations. The primary purpose of the Silver Line is to provide passenger rail connections and service that will improve mobility, accessibility and system linkages to major employ-
ment, population, and activity centers in the northern part of the DART service area. When completed, the $1.3 billion Silver Line will connect with the Trinity Metro TEXRail commuter rail line at DFW North station providing access to Downtown Fort Worth and various other Tarrant County locales. The Silver Line will also connect with the Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA) A-train commuter rail line providing access to various Denton County locations, DART's Green Line providing access to Dallas Love Field and Downtown Dallas via Downtown Carrollton Station, and DART's Red and Orange Lines at CityLine/Bush Station, giving riders easy access to Downtown Plano and the eastern side of the DART network. More information about the DART Silver Line Regional Rail project can be found at www.dart.org/silverline. Source: Dallas Area Rapid Transit
TRANSPORTATION
Houston Becomes Large Hub for Southwest Airlines Service Southwest Airlines relaunches service from Bush Airport, providing more convenience for travelers throughout Houston. By Subcontractors USA News Provider
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fter a 16-year absence, Southwest Airlines relaunched service at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, IAH, widening the airlines’ footprint in Houston to provide greater convenience for business and leisure travelers throughout the region. “Welcome back home to Bush Airport,” Houston Airports Director Mario Diaz said. “No matter where you live or plan to visit in Houston, you now have ease of access to Southwest Airlines’ awardwinning customer service at both of Houston’s world-class airports.” Southwest Airlines has a long history
with Bush Airport. The airport served as one of three airports where Southwest operated on its first day in operation, June 18, 1971. The carrier moved to Hobby Airport shortly thereafter, though it operated service from both airports between 1980 and 2005. Southwest remains a key employer in the City of Houston, providing nearly 4,000 jobs. “With Southwest’s expanded Houston service, we’re looking forward to bringing more options
for local travelers,” Vice President of Southwest Business Dave Harvey said. “Whether traveling for leisure or business, Southwest customers can now fly from the Houston airport most convenient to them and experience the flexible policies and world-class hospitality that’s made Southwest a part of Houston’s community for 50 years.” Last month, Southwest Airlines’ inaugural flight to Bush Airport arrived from Dallas Love Field and was greeted by a celebratory water arch as it taxied to the ramp at
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Terminal A. The airline will be operating 15 daily departures from Bush Airport Terminal A at three separate boarding gates. Southwest’s customers can now fly between Bush Airport and five nonstop destinations: Chicago Midway, Dallas Love Field, Denver, Nashville and New Orleans. “Airline expansions like this are important to global air service hubs like Houston,” Diaz said. “As we recover from the pandemic, safety of our passengers will remain our top priority. Partners like Southwest will ensure that as we rebuild and recover, we are building forward better.” For more information, please visit https://www.fly2houston.com/. Source: The Houston Airport System
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TRANSPORTATION
Houston Airports Chronicles
‘Year of Resilience’ in 2020 Annual Report By Subcontractors USA News Provider
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he 2020 story of Houston Airports is not one of suffering, misfortune or pity. It’s a story of overcoming, never giving up, finding hope in the smallest victories and emerging resilient. The annual report chronicles the unprecedented year that pushed our airport system, city, economy and world to the brink. The content in the annual report is layered with a timeline of important C O V I D - 19 events that gives perspective to the stories told. Additionally, for the first time, select content comes to life with specially added QR codes. For Houston Airports, 2020 was a year that started with a fierce tailwind — thrusting Houston Airports into a record-breaking year. The year was on track to break an all-time high of 60 million passengers, until a cascade of news about a virus called COVID-19 commanded the world’s attention. The public health emergency forced Houston Airports leadership to take quick action to preserve and protect its essential workforce, passengers, stakeholders, partners and investments.
The hardships didn’t come without an outpouring of accolades that replenished our team’s drive for excellence. Despite the historic and prolonged decline in passenger traffic, Houston Airports’ strategic focus on safety and partnerships opened the door to a promising rebound in the final months of 2020. In 2021, Houston Airports remains focused on its four strategic priorities: making our passengers happy; acting responsibly to achieve social, environmental and economic sustainability; building platforms for future success; and investing in our partnerships and employees.
The Houston Airports 2020 Annual Report is available at: https:// www.fly2houston.com/sites/default/ f i le s/2021- 0 4/ Hou ston%20A irports%202020%20Annual%20Report_0.pdf For more information, please visit https://www.fly2houston.com/. Source: The Houston Airport System
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PERMITS
Five Benefits of Starting During the Early Phases With Permitting By Helen Callier Contributing Writer
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aise your hand if you have read my articles before. Okay, I see your hands. Now, keep your hands up if you know one of my tenets for building permitting is “Get started early.” Great! Thank you for your participation, and read below. Building permitting can be one of the most frustrating aspects of any construction project. And when operating in some industries that have 1% to 2% margins, as in the grocery industry, every dollar that can be saved is critical to the bottom line and in satisfying customers’ needs. So, when a large E&C company executive said to me during a recent conversation that permitting services on a multimillion-dollar commercial groundup project would not be needed until the construction documents are finished, the hairs on the crown of my head were signaling, “There’s a better way to handle permitting to save time and money.” After listening to all the details and difficult
aspects of the project, I shared with him a few of the many benefits of starting earlier with permitting to minimize delays. Here are 5 benefits of starting in the early phases with building permitting: 1 Helps the architect, contractor, and project owner to identify any changes at jurisdiction that could impact plan reviews and construction start. Changes at jurisdictions could be staffing levels, adoption of new ordinances, new amendments, updated building codes, varying workloads in departments, and so on. 2 Allows the architect, contractor, etc. to ask questions in advance to assist in shaping design and possible options to pursue. This benefit alone can save thousands of dollars on a project. 3 Provides an opportunity to gather jurisdiction data that may create havoc on a project. For example, should you pull one permit, or are multiple permits best? Also, it allows you to gain insight on how
signage can be handled. 4 Saves time and money, plus minimizes headaches associated with the permitting process. 5 Provides relevant information to input into a project's risk mitigation plan that the full team uses to ensure that project goals are being met and the customer is happy.
The above is a snapshot of the benefits of starting during the early phase of design and construction with permitting. Trust me, your customer will appreciate hearing that you are considering and factoring in an area that can become a pain in the project. Starting early is the recommended way. Members of the PermitUsNow team have heard plenty of stories where major structures were designed in hurricane country and were unable to pass reviews because the architect used
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the wrong wind load and unfortunately caused major delays. Checking the jurisdiction’s web site or meeting with a plan reviewer during the early design phase; and before the plans were buttoned-up would have eliminated this error. Yet, it happens, which is the reason I keep a steady presence in this publication sharing insights, tips, and lessons learned for contractors, architects, and project owners to benefit. What appears easy to do often is underestimated and relegated to a lesser task. Starting early, you will be on the smoother road to beginning your construction project in a timely manner. Yes, the unexpected pops up, but I guarantee that you will be more prepared to handle surprises when you start during the early phases with permitting. If you have any interesting stories about obtaining permits, please connect with me on Linkedin or call me at 1.844. PERMIT.4. I would love to hear your story. Visit PermitUsNow at www.permitusnow.com to find out more about our permitting services. #Buildsafe
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OIL AND GAS
OIL AND GAS
130 Years Young, RRC Looks to the Future By Julianne Malveaux NNPA Newswire
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t’s easy to not fully grasp just how much the world has changed since a 19th-century legislature created the Railroad Commission of Texas to provide order and predictability to a rapidly expanding railroad industry that controlled the flow of goods. When the RRC opened its doors on April 3, 1891, the common modes of personal transportation were foot and horse. Ford’s Model T was not available for mass consumption until 1908. The coming of the railroad would be followed by a great rush for oil. In 1901, there was the famous discovery of oil at Spindletop near Beaumont. The well was so productive that it produced more than the world’s entire demand in 1902. The well and those that followed it gradually brought into focus the need for responsible stewardship of this valuable resource. The rapid development of oil rigs would also bring to the forefront the need for protection of public safety and the environment. In 1917, the RRC’s duties were expanded with the Texas Legislature’s Pipeline Petroleum Law, giving it oversight of pipelines. That was followed with the Oil and Gas Conservation Law in 1919. RRC’s first oil and gas rule in 1919 concerned the establishment of minimum distances between wells to protect field pressure and correlative rights. As the RRC celebrates its 130th anniversary, it is forging ahead in the 21st century by embracing the latest technologies to better serve the public and improve its oversight of the oil and gas industry, the safety of pipelines, natural gas utilities, liquified petroleum gas (LP-gas), and coal and uranium surface mining operations. The last of RRC’s rail functions transferred away in 2005. The need for RRC’s regulation of the state’s energy resources has been evident with recent periods of massive growth and contraction because of market volatility. Over the last decade, the state experienced a boom in horizontal drilling; discoveries of huge untapped resources, including the 2018 announcement by the U.S. Geological Survey that the Delaware Basin portion of the greater Permian Basin contains an estimated 46.3 billion barrels of oil and 281 trillion cubic feet of natural gas; and market down turns in 2015 and 2020. RRC’s three commissioners and 840-strong staff are dedicated to supporting Texas’ economic vitality as the nation’s leader in oil and gas while protecting the state’s natural resources, environment, and public safety. In recent years, the RRC has leveraged technology to increase efficiency for operators and staff, and expanded transparency by providing the public even more access to agency information. Examples of recent technology enhancements to RRC operations include: • RRC Online Inspection Lookup (RRC OIL), an award-winning, first-in-the-nation web application which is updated nightly and allows anybody to view inspection and violation data 24/7. • RRC CASES, an online portal that allows opera-
tors to file Hearings case files electronically and makes them available for public view. Operators can also pay fines online through the system. • RRC Drone Program, which helps inspectors quickly respond and inspect sites that are unsafe or inaccessible during emergencies. “Over the past 130 years, the Railroad Commission of Texas has set itself apart as a global leader in regulatory excellence,” said Chairman Christi Craddick. “The oil and gas industry is a critical component of our states’ overall success and requires regulatory certainty and adaptation to keep up with an ever-evolving, technologically advanced private sector. I look forward to continuing to prioritize health, safety, and innovation alongside my fellow Commissioners and agency staff as we maintain our status as the best agency in Texas.” “It has been an honor of a lifetime to serve the people of Texas at the Railroad Commission,” said Commissioner Wayne Christian. “I wake up everyday excited to make the Commission better and hopefully lay a foundation to make the next 130 years as great as the last 130.” “While Texas has changed quite a bit since the creation of the commission,” said Commissioner Jim Wright, “our agency’s mission to ensure the production of our state’s natural resources is done safely and efficiently is more important than ever. I am honored to serve as a Commissioner and look forward to advancing the legacy of the Railroad Commission of Texas.” When the 87th Session of the Texas Legislature began in January 2021, RRC’s primary focus was on the continuation of budget priorities to modernize the agency’s information technology infrastructure and maintain oversight of Texas’ energy industry. In February, the RRC exhibited consistent leadership during Winter Storm Uri for Texas’ energy sector through the prioritization of gas deliveries to human needs customers and assisting with emergency response to help ensure the flow of prioritized natural gas deliveries. Drawing from this experience during the storm, RRC has worked with state leaders on legislation to improve Texas’ energy infrastructure for extreme weather events. Key agency priorities for the 87th Session include formalizing the Texas Energy Reliability Council to ensure robust communication between industry sectors and prioritizing natural gas infrastructure for power delivery during widespread outages. RRC continues in its role as the global leader in energy regulation. As the top producer of oil and natural gas in the United States, Texas’ resources are vital to ensure energy independence and security for our nation. As the agency moves forward, more major technology upgrades are also in the works that will improve the agency’s operations, the experience of operators who interact with the agency, and online transparency. A video showing the array of agency functions is posted on the RRC’s website at https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=cUfBep2VSBo.
RRC Gives Coal Mining Reclamation Award to Dos Republicas for Work at Eagle Pass Mine By Subcontractors USA News Provider
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coal mining operation near the Texas-Mexico border was commended for its environmental restoration after shutting down operations. RRC’s commissioners recently recognized Dos Republicas Resource Co. with the agency’s 2021 Texas Coal Mining Reclamation Award. Dos Republicas’ 6,348-acre Eagle Pass Mine, which has held a Railroad Commission permit since 2000, ceased mining operations last year and is now working toward full reclamation. The Eagle Pass Mine is about five miles northeast of Eagle Pass in Maverick County near the border with Mexico. Sub-bituminous coal from the Olmos Formation had been harvested from the surface mine, supplying 2-3 million metric tons of coal per year to a Mexican federal electricity commission power plant.
RRC’s award recognizes Dos Republicas’ reclamation of the Dahlstrom pit, which was graded and merged with the surrounding area in 2018 and 2019. Layers of subsoil and topsoil were placed on top and planted with a mix of native grasses, which provide cover and forage for livestock and wildlife and will hold the newly placed topsoil in place while brush species take time to establish. “Dos Republicas’ efforts at the Dahlstrom pit exemplifies environmental stewardship,” said RRC Director of Surface Mining and Reclamation Division Brent Elliott, Ph.D. “It exceeds RRC standards, which are to return lands to a condition as good or better than before mining started.” The area has been mined for coal since around 1850 and once provided coal to power steamboats that moved up and down the Rio Grande and trains that helped to grow Texas and facilitate trade with Mexico.
Source: The Railroad Commission of Texas
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Source: The Railroad Commission of Texas
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