Subcontractores USA 72

SUBCONTRACTORS

USA

TEXAS JOURNAL

W W W . S U B C U S A . C O M

Architecture | Construction | Education | Energy | Engineering | Legal | Technology | Manufacturing | Oil and Gas | Safety | Transportation

March 2022 | Advertising for Certified Women, Veteran & Minority-Owned Subcontractors | 72nd Edition

HCC Continues To Be a Champion for the

Small Business Community 16-17

INSIDE

29

06

Senior Project Manager & Design Consultant

22-23

2022 NAMC Houston Construction Business Expo

DART Board Chair Michele Wong Krause Selected as 2022 Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation Award Winner

2 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

March 2022 | 3

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

Keith "MR. D-MARS" Davis, Sr. CERTIFIED:

HMSDC

Subcontractors USA 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 cover story highlights HCC’s Small Business Development Program (SBDP). The SBDP remains an award-winning program within HCC, driving small business progress. Though many small business enterprises in our city and the surrounding areas continue to feel the financial impacts of the pandemic, HCC remains proactive in providing opportunities for our businesses to succeed. Under the leadership of Joseph Gavin, CTCD - Executive Director, Procurement Operations, the procurement team contributes to keeping small businesses strong and valuable to HCC and our city.

The SBDP recently held its 7th annual “Access to

Port of Houston

Metro

BEHIND THE JOURNAL

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla ASSISTANT SALES REPRESENTATIVE Tiffany Brown OPERATIONS COORDINATOR Bria Casteel ART DIRECTOR Angel Rosa DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Erick Fontejon PHOTOGRAPHY Grady Carter L.C. Poullard DISTRIBUTION Mike Jones CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Texas A&M Department of Architecture UH Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design Dana C. Sotoodeh Helen Callier Subcontractors USA

—Jim Rohn, American entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker

City of Houston

HISD

16-17 COVER STORY 16-17 HCC Continues To Be a Champion for the Small Business Community 16-17 04 ARCHITECTURE 04 Architecture Department Head Elevated to AIA College of Fellows 06 Senior Project Manager & Design Consultant 08 CONSTRUCTION 08 Construction Spending Rose in January From December and January 2021 10 Construction Industry Adds 60,000 Jobs in February as Hourly Wages Post Steepest Rise Since 1982; Competition for Workers Expected To Intensify 12 ENERGY 12 API Letter Calls on Biden Administration to Support American Energy Leadership 12 Large Public Power Council Welcomes Austin Energy General Manager Jackie Sargent as New Chair 14 9 in 10 U.S. Voters Support American Energy Production Over-Reliance on Foreign Energy: New API Poll 14 OIL AND GAS 14 Railroad Commissioners Applaud Major Oil Companies Cutting Ties With Russian Oil Companies, Encourage Others To Do the Same 20 API Statement on US Ban of Russian Crude Oil and Refined Products 20 OSHA Publishes Interim Final Rule for Handling Retaliation

Complaints Under the Taxpayer First Act 20 PERMITS 20 4 Pillars to De-Risk Permitting on P3 Projects 22-23 NAMC HOUSTON PHOTOS 22-23 2022 NAMC Houston Construction Business Expo 24 SAFETY 24 U.S. Department of Labor Announces Enforcement, Effort for Focused Inspections in Hospitals, Nursing Care Facilities Treating COVID-19 Patients 24 API Publishes First-Edition Document Enhancing Safety of Onshore Drilling and Production 26 U.S. Department of Labor Announces $3.2M in Susan Harwood Grants For Workplace Safety, Health Training on Infectious Diseases, Including COVID-19 28 TRANSPORTATION 28 Port Houston Executive Roger Guenther Named to The International Maritime Hall of Fame 29 DART Board Chair Michele Wong Krause Selected as 2022 Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation Award Winner 29 Sanjay Ramabhadran Takes the Helm as New Chair of METRO Board of Directors

HUB

VBE

DBE

OUR SERVICES

CONTENTS

PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr. CHIEF OF STAFF & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd

“Formal education will make you a living; selfeducation will make you a fortune.”

HCC” Procurement Expo. This year’s event allowed the College and its suppliers to get back to doing business as they have previously. Long-standing business relationships are created at their expo between its suppliers, clients, and community partners. New opportunities are discovered and trending solutions are brought to the forefront, making it a win-win event for all. This cover story features many of the initiatives that make the SBDP a champion for our small business enterprises. Find out more about how to do business with HCC in this issue.

As always, thank you for your continued support of Subcontractors USA. 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.

ADVERTISING | MARKETING MEDIA | COMMUNICATION GRAPHIC DESIGN • Logos • Flyers • Ads • Folders • Brochures • Door Hangers PRINTING • Business Cards • Flyers • Folders • Pull-up Banners • Step and Repeat Banners • Brochures • Door Hangers • Letterhead • Envelopes PHOTOGRAPHY • Headshots • Event Photography Online & Email Marketing Social Media Advertising

VASKEY MEDIA GROUP, INC. MAIN OFFICE 7322 Southwest Fwy., Suite 800, Houston, TX 77074 Phone: (713) 373.5577

Fax: (713) 750.9472

Email Us: contact@subcusa.com

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

Visit Us Online www.subcusa.com SubContractors USA

@subcusa_com

SubContractors USA

@subcusa_com

4 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

ARCHITECTURE

Architecture Department Head Elevated to AIA College of Fellows

By Texas A&M Department of Architecture Texas A&M Contributors

E

xceptional contributions to architecture, design education, and society have elevated Greg Luhan, head of the Texas A&M Department of Architecture, to membership in the prestigious American Institute of Architects’ College of Fellows, a distinction held by only three percent of AIA members.

An investiture ceremony for Luhan and this year’s group of new AIA fellows is scheduled for Friday, June 24, at the AIA’s Conference on Architecture in Chicago.

Luhan, whose appointment as department head began in July 2020, has led numerous new departmental initiatives, including an accelerated pathway to professional licensure for Texas A&M Master of Architecture students, and a design project for a Juneteenth museum in Galveston that features a collaboration with Texas A&M and Prairie View A&M design students and faculty, and Galveston community members.

For many years, Luhan’s award-winning, researchdriven teaching, scholarship, and professional practice has enabled him to forge collaborative relationships with disciplines outside architecture, most notably engineering, education, business, physics, arts & sciences, and the fine arts.

Luhan regularly heads multidisciplinary projects which integrate novel research and economic development and incorporate themes central to architecture, most notably sustainability, digital technologies, and the collaborative process.

Prior to heading the Department of Architecture, Luhan served as an administrator and faculty member at the University of Kentucky, where he directed studentbuilt projects that employed multidisciplinary pedagogy, including the broadly recognized “Houseboats to Energy Efficient Residences,” the AIA award-winning entry in the U.S. Department of Energy’s 2009 Solar Decathlon.

The groundbreaking project featured the Resonance House, the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-certified house in Kentucky. It served as a model in the U.S. Green Building Council’s pilot program for LEED homes.

Luhan serves on the editorial board of Technology | Architecture + Design Journal and has also served on the executive board of the Association for Computer-Aided Design in Architecture, the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture, and on the editorial board of the International Journal of Architectural Computing.

His oft-cited scholarship resulted in recognition and best paper awards from ACSA, CAADRIA, and SIGraDi. He co-edited Synthetic Landscapes and The Digital Exchange and has authored numerous journal articles. He has also authored four books: “Close to Home: Buildings and Projects of Michael Koch, Architect,” “Dayton Eugene Egger – The Paradox of Place: In the Line of Sight,” “Live.Light” and co-authored “The Louisville Guide”.

He earned a Bachelor of Architecture degree at Virginia Tech, a Master of Architecture degree at Princeton University, and a Ph.D. in Architecture at Texas A&M. Luhan started his academic career at the University of Kentucky and founded Gregory Luhan Architects in 1998. Prior to starting the firm, he served as a senior designer and project architect on acclaimed national and international projects with Agrest & Gandelsonas after interning at Gwathmey Siegel, Eisenman Architects, and Edward Larrabee Barnes in New York City. He holds National Council of Architectural Registration Boards certification and architectural registrations in New York, Kentucky, and Texas.

Source: Texas A&M

Introducing: Opportunity Business Equity at Port Houston Our NEW Business Equity Division provides resources to small, minority- and woman-owned businesses seeking to participate in Port Houston procurements.

Learn more about how we can help support your business at: www.porthouston.com/businessequity

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

March 2022 | 5

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

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

www.uh.edu/hub Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

6 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

ARCHITECTURE

Senior Project Manager &

DESIGN CONSULTANT

By UH Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design Contributor

Why Whydid didyou youchoose choosethe theGerald GeraldD. Hines College of Architecture and D. Hines College of Architecture and Design, and what Design, and what drew drew you toyou to design? design?

Being a University of Houston alumna and familiar with the reputation of majors offered, I sought a design program recognized for integrating theory and evidence-based design. Rob Civitello’s Intro to Architecture class and a conversation with Tom Colbert about strategic initiatives to expand and diversify the scholarship of the architecture program convinced me to move forward with my application.

My gravitation to design was influenced and nurtured at an early age by my parents and an elementary science teacher gifted in both the arts and sciences. Collectively, they modeled and exposed me to fundamental ways to approach problems, explore ideas, observe / document, and process and interpret information. With time and faith, I honed this comprehensive approach to providing a sense of joy and purpose in my work, regardless of the arena in which it is applied.

What was one of your favorite memories from your time on campus? Was there a particular professor who influenced your education?

A favorite memory that comes to mind is representative of the lasting bonds forged in the studio. One fall semester, we visited the construction site of the Nasher Sculpture Center in Dallas, Texas. While en route, our car experienced some mechanical issues and came to a stop. Cold and tired with cell batteries diminishing, the wind from passing trucks whipped the vehicle back and forth during a long wait for the tow service. We were taken to a nearby roadside diner/gas station, where we anxiously waited for one of our classmates to circle back to pick us up.

By order of severity, we were exhausted, cold, hungry, sleepy, and laughing into a slumber when we reached our destination. Despite the adventure and sleep

deprivation, we arose rested and ready for the site tour the next day.

Several professors left an indelible mark on my education and how I continue to apply the lessons I learned, including Tom Colbert, Rob Civitello, David Guthrie, Patrick Peters, Donna Kacmar, Ronnie Self, Dietmar Froelich, Rives Taylor, Dr. Joe Colaco, Leonard Bachman, Nora Laos, John Zemanek, and Jean Krchnak.

I have maintained communication with many of them since graduation.

In terms of overall influence, I recognize Bruce Webb for creating space and encouraging me to challenge the design thinking paradigm and investigate the missed opportunities of scholarship and application in the profession. He used his voice and agency to clear a path to test ideas and methodologies.

What Whathas hasbeen beenyour yourcareer careerpath path graduation? since graduation? since WhereWhere are you are you currently and currently working,working, and in what in what capacity capacity?

Following graduation, I completed NCARB’s internship development program (IDP) at a commercial architectural firm with a portfolio mix of private and public sector commercial interior projects, new construction, campus planning, and development. Over a seventeen-year tenure in design and management, I have been blessed with opportunities and collaborative achievements on communitybased projects. I am currently working as an independent contractor with Vergel Gay & Associates as a Senior Project Manager and Design Consultant.

What Whatdoes doesaatypical typicalday daylook look likeininyour yourjob? job?Do Doyou youhave haveaa like particular design or business particular design or business philosophy? philosophy?

Depending on the project load, type,

nities and in the fields of archaeology, anthropology, and historic preservation while at the Hines College proved invaluable in framing the history-shaping built environment in these communities.

What is a valuable piece of advice you would lesson learned give to current during your time at Architecture and the Hines College Design students? of Architecture and Design? and phase, a typical day is characterized by any combination of client meetings, design research and coordination, field inspections, and general project management.

My Business Philosophy: Lead, manage, and operate with integrity in pursuit of excellence. Be the example!

My Design Philosophy: Design consciousness is empathetic, sustainable, responsive, pliable, liberating, and equitable.

What Whatisisone oneaccomplishment accomplishmentofof your yourcareer careerofofwhich whichyou youare are particularly proud?

How do you particularly proud? How do you feelthat thatthe theCollege Collegeprepared prepared feel you for this? you for this?

I had the honor of delivering a project for the City of Houston in a non-traditional capacity. The basis of the project was research I started as part of my thesis while at the College. I continued the research out of a sense of stewardship to support local efforts to preserve the cultural fabric of local African American communities through an architectural lens. The project required me to write a historical narrative for a permanent panel installation in a public park – Bethel Park.

The aggregate of my research and that of a local historian with whom I collaborated gave a voice to the craftsman and leaders who built these communities against the insurmountable odds of their time. The relationships forged within the commu-

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

We all have biases. However, those biases can render an injustice if not examined through an objective multi-perspective lens. I had an opportunity to expand on a skillset from a previous career based on non-biased information gathering and critical analysis. In-studio, we were encouraged to think constructively and critically, review relevant scholarship, and connect empathetically with our subject to strengthen the integrity of our design solutions.

Whatisisaapiece valuable lesson you What of advice learned during your time at the you would give to current Hines College of Architecture Architecture and Design and Design? students?

The advice I offer is two-fold:

• Informed design is design justice.

Identify your biases, put them in perspective, and embrace possibilities from a blank slate as a perpetual exercise.

• Commit, investigate, and create with implications and constructive impact in mind.

Source: Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design

March 2022 | 7

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

8 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

CONSTRUCTION

Construction

Spending Rose in January From December and January 2021

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

A

onstruction spending increased in January compared to both December and a year ago, with strong gains in private nonresidential and residential construction but mixed results for public spending, according to an analysis of federal spending data the Associated General Contractors of America released today. Association leaders urged Washington officials to speed the award of funds promised by the Bipartisan Infrastructure law.

month and 31.2 percent year-over-year, accounted for the bulk of the private nonresidential pickup. In addition, the largest private nonresidential segment, power construction, rose 2.7 percent for the month but trailed the January 2021 rate by 1.4 percent. The nextlargest segment, commercial construction, declined 0.5 percent in January but jumped 18.0 percent year-over-year, with year-over-year gains in each component: warehouses (up 22.4 percent), retail categories (up 15.2 percent), and farm (up 4.4 percent).

The largest public segments showed diverse results. Highway and

“Private nonresidential construction, especially for manufacturing plants, has rebounded sharply in recent months, while demand for housing remains strong,” said

Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “But public

projects have yet to grow consistently.”

Construction spending in January totaled $1.68 trillion at a seasonally adjusted annual rate, 1.3 percent above the upwardly revised December rate and 8.2 percent higher than in January 2021. Private residential construction spending rose 1.3 percent in January from a month prior and 13.4 percent from January 2021, while private nonresidential construction spending increased 1.8 percent from December to January and 7.3 percent from January 2021. In contrast, public construction spending rose 0.6 percent for the month but slipped 1.3 percent from the yearago level.

Among residential segments, singlefamily construction added 1.2 percent over the December total and 15.4 percent year-over-year. Multifamily construction inched down less than 0.1 percent in January but rose 4.8 percent from a year earlier. Spending on improvements to existing owner-occupied houses increased 1.8 percent for the month and 13.7 percent year-over-year.

A surge in manufacturing construction, which gained 8.5 percent for the

street construction edged down 0.1 percent from December but rose 5.2 percent compared to January 2021. Educational construction was unchanged for the month and skidded 9.9 percent year-over-year.

Transportation construction spending climbed 1.6 percent in January but only 0.1 percent year-over-year.

Association officials said one reason for the uneven public sector construction spending is that Congress has not appropriated most of the extra funds authorized in the Bipartisan Infrastructure law signed by President Biden last year. In addition, the administration has added restrictions not intended by Congress. They urged Congress to quickly pass the overdue appropriations bill and the administration to stick to the wording and intent of the infrastructure bill.

“The highway, transportation, and other infrastructure promised by that bill are urgently needed to tackle snarled supply chains and rising costs,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “Congress and the administration need to fulfill the promise of the legislation right away.”

Source: Source: The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC)

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

March 2022 | 9

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

10 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

CONSTRUCTION

Construction Industry Adds 60,000 Jobs in February as Hourly Wages Post Steepest Rise Since 1982; Competition for Workers Expected To Intensify

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

Contractors Association Urges Washington Officials to Boost Funding for Career and Technical Education, Open More Apprenticeship Opportunities to Attract and Prepare Workers for Careers in Construction

C

onstruction employment climbed by 60,000 jobs between January and February as hourly pay rose at the steepest pace in nearly 40 years, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of government data released today. Association leaders urged officials in Washington to boost support for career training and education to enable more workers to pursue high-paying construction careers.

“All segments of construction added workers in February,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “However, filling positions remains a struggle, as pay is rising even faster in other sectors.”

Average hourly earnings for “production and nonsupervisory employees”—

largely, hourly craft workers, in the case of construction—increased 6.0 percent from February 2021 to last month. That was the steepest 12-month increase since December 1982, Simonson noted.

The industry average of $31.62 per hour for such workers exceeded the private sector average by 17 percent, the economist pointed out. Nevertheless, the average for the entire private sector climbed even more in February—6.7 percent year-overyear—and the competition for workers has intensified as other industries offer working conditions that are not possible in construction, such as flexible hours or work from home.

Employment rose at all types of construction firms in February. Nonresidential construction firms added 29,400 employees. That included 19,900 more employees among specialty trade contractors, 7,300 at heavy and civil engineering construction firms, and 2,200 working for general building contractors. Employment in residential construction rose by 31,000 workers, including 24,300 at specialty trade contractors and 6,700 employed by homebuilders and multifamily general contractors.

The number of unemployed jobseek-

ers with construction experience shrank by 26 percent over the past year, from February 2021 to 677,000 in February 2022. Simonson said the decline is further evidence that the industry will have a hard time filling positions with experienced workers.

Association officials said it is clear the industry will need to hire hundreds of thousands of additional workers in each of the next several years to complete projects that will be funded by the recently enacted Bipartisan Infrastructure law, as well as to satisfy the continuing demand for homebuilding and private nonresidential structures. Officials urged Congress and the Biden administration to increase funding for career and technical education and to support a wider range of apprenticeship and training opportunities.

“Construction firms are doing all they can to add employees and pay them well,”

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “But there are not likely to be enough workers to meet demand unless officials in Washington act now to prepare more job seekers for these opportunities.”

View the construction employment table and chart of average hourly earnings.

Source: The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC)

March 2022 | 11

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

12 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

ENERGY

API Letter Calls on Biden Administration to Support

ENERGY

Large Public Power Council Welcomes Austin Energy General Manager Jackie Sargent as New Chair

American Energy Leadership

By Dana C Sotoodeh CPS Energy Contributor

A

head of the State of the Union Address, American Petroleum Institute (API) President and CEO Mike Sommers sent a letter to Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Jennifer Granholm and other administration officials outlining steps key regulatory agencies should take to ensure long-term American energy leadership and security at a time of increased geopolitical volatility.

“Recent developments illustrate the importance of the government working collaboratively with industry to ensure U.S. energy and economic security, as well as that of our allies in Europe and around the world,” API President and CEO Mike Sommers said. “Now more than ever, the administration should speak clearly and without equivocation that the United States will be a reliable producer and supplier of oil and natural gas to our allies around the world both now and in the future.”

The United States is now the world’s leading producer of oil and natural gas and exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG). In fact, for a period last month, US LNG exports to Europe actually exceeded Russian pipeline deliveries. At the same time, in recent weeks, decisions across the administration, including at the Department of Energy (DOE), the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the Department of the Interior (DOI), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other agencies, have introduced significant uncertainty that will negatively impact American energy investments.

“We commend the administration’s focus on addressing climate change and share the goal of reducing emissions across the economy, but we cannot let that objective detract from the clear and present need for continued responsible investment in oil and natural gas development,” Sommers continued.

InInthe theletter, letter,Sommers Sommersoutlined outlineda alist oflist concrete policy solutions that the of concrete policy solutions administration should immediately that the administration should implement to ensure long-term immediately implement to ensure long-termenergy American energyand American leadership leadership and security. security.

• The administration should clearly commit to the continued export of crude oil, natural gas, and refined petroleum products.

• The DOE, along with FERC, should swiftly approve all LNG applications and establish clear and consistent timelines to approve future applications.

• The DOI should issue a final notice of lease sale (NOS) under the current five-year offshore oil and gas leasing program by March 2, 2022.

This will provide sufficient time to hold the lease sale prior to the expiration of the current program on June 30, 2022.

• The DOI should complete the new fiveyear program with regularly scheduled Gulf of Mexico lease sales to minimize the unprecedented gap in offshore lease sales.

• The DOI should schedule, and complete, quarterly onshore leasing sales as required under the Minerals Leasing Act, with sufficient acreage and equitable terms.

• The administration should work with FERC, US Army Corps of Engineers and other relevant agencies to ensure NEPA, CWA Sec. 401, the FERC policy statement, and other permitting processes for oil and natural gas infrastructure are designed and implemented in a manner that ensures consistency, transparency, and timeliness in their application.

• The administration should work through the Commerce Department and our US allies to encourage investment in the full range of energy projects around the world and especially in Eastern Europe.

API also submitted a letter to Secretary Deb Haaland seeking clarification on DOI’s response to Louisiana v. Biden regarding leasing and permitting delays and urging the department to prioritize and move forward with its statutory requirements to issue quarterly lease sales and issue a five-year plan for offshore development.

API represents all segments of America’s natural gas and oil industry, which supports more than 11 million U.S. jobs and is backed by a growing grassroots movement of millions of Americans. Our nearly 600 members produce, process, and distribute the majority of the nation’s energy, and participate in API Energy Excellence®, which is accelerating environmental and safety progress by fostering new technologies and transparent reporting. API was formed in 1919 as a standards-setting organization and has developed more than 700 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Source: American Petroleum Institute (API)

By Dana C Sotoodeh CPS Energy Contributor

T

he Large Public Power Council (LPPC) is pleased to announce Jackie Sargent, General Manager of Austin Energy, and Tom Falcone, CEO of the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA), have been elected as the organization’s Chair and Vice-Chair, respectfully. Sargent and Falcone will join LPPC President John Di Stasio in advocating for policies that support America’s largest public power systems in Washington, D.C. Sargent has a 34-year history of electric utility experience and is a proven advocate for public power, serving as General Manager at Austin Energy since 2016. Sargent previously served as Senior Vice President of Power Supply and Market Operations at Austin Energy before joining Platte River Power Authority in Fort Collins, Colorado, as General Manager and CEO. She also served as the former Vice President of Power Supply and Renewables Integration for Black Hills Corporation in South Dakota.

“I’m proud to begin my tenure as LPPC Chair and advocate on behalf of public power,” said Sargent. “Public power has been innovating and adapting to meet the needs of our communities for decades. But the challenges we face are increasingly complex, and utilities across the country are committing significant resources to address climate change and modernize our electric grid. Now, more than ever, we need the support of our federal policymakers. I’m looking forward to helping share the public power story with policymakers in Washington, D.C.” Newly elected Vice-Chair, Tom Falcone has led LIPA, the thirdlargest publicly owned electric utility in the U.S., as CEO since 2015.

“It is an honor to be elected as Vice-Chair of LPPC,” said Falcone.

“I look forward to working with Jackie to advance the priorities of our nation’s largest public power systems.”

John Di Stasio, president of LPPC, looks forward to advocating for public power in Washington, D.C., alongside both Sargent and Falcone.

“LPPC has been an instrumental voice for public power in Washington, D.C. since 1987, and I look forward to working with Jackie and Tom as we help to inform federal policy,” Di Stasio said.

“As our industry undergoes transformational change and Washington continues to debate critical issues, Jackie and Tom will bring insightful perspective to the table. Jackie leads one of the country’s most innovative utilities, and Tom is a leading voice on tax policy, a crucial issue for public power as the industry looks to invest in new technologies to decarbonize and modernize the electric grid.”

Sargent succeeds Dan Sullivan, President, and CEO of Grand River Dam Authority, who served as LPPC Chair since 2020. Sullivan led LPPC through the Coronavirus pandemic, offering member utilities critical counsel and support as the pandemic impacted the nation.

“It has been an honor to serve as chair of LPPC over the past two years,” said Sullivan. “I worked side-by-side with Jackie to lead LPPC through an unprecedented time in our country’s history. Her tenacity and dedication to public power are exemplary, and I look forward to watching her move the needle in Washington on behalf of our industry.”

Founded in 1987, the Large Public Power Council (LPPC) is comprised of 27 of the nation’s largest public power systems that serve 30 million Americans, about 10 percent of the U.S. population. Member utilities are located in 21 states and Puerto Rico, and own and operate more than 71,000 megawatts of generation capacity and more than 30,000 circuit miles of high voltage transmission lines. LPPC members are notfor-profit, locally governed, and directly accountable to the consumers they serve. LPPC advocates for policies that allow public power systems to build infrastructure, invest in communities, and provide reliable service at affordable rates. To learn more, please visit the LPPC website.

For more information, please visit www.austinenergy.com.

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

March 2022 | 13

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

14 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

ENERGY

9 in 10 U.S. Voters

Support American Energy Production OverReliance on Foreign Energy: New API Poll

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

API highlights benefits of American energy ahead of State of the Union

A

head of the State of the Union Address, API President and CEO Mike Sommers highlighted the importance of American energy leadership as both geopolitical volatility and energy costs rise. API also released new polling by Morning Consult that found 90 percent of American voters support the U.S. developing its own domestic energy resources rather than relying on foreign energy sources.

“Tonight’s State of the Union address comes at a moment of uncertainty and volatility around the world, and now more than ever is the time for President Biden to confirm the United States’ role as a global energy leader and send a clear message that America will be a reliable producer and supplier of natural gas and oil at home and abroad for decades to come,” API President and CEO Mike Sommers said. “While it’s unclear what lies ahead as Russia invades Ukraine, we know one thing for sure: American energy is a positive force in difficult times, helping to provide stability for the U.S. and our allies. We have the technology, innovation, and resources here in the U.S. to meet this moment while at the same time furthering progress toward our shared climate goals.”

• 85 percent believe producing natural gas and oil here in the U.S. helps America maintain a leadership role during a period of global uncertainty (Democrats 82%; Independents 78%; Republicans 91%).

• 85 percent believe that producing natural gas and oil here in the U.S. could help lower energy costs for American consumers and small businesses (Democrats 81%; Independents 80%; Republicans 90%).

• 84 percent agree that producing natural gas and oil here in the U.S. helps make our country and allies more secure against actions by other countries such as Russia (Democrats 83%; Independents 78%; Republicans 88%).

Earlier this week, API President and CEO Mike Sommers sent a letter to Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and other administration officials outlining steps key regulatory agencies should take to ensure longterm Ameri-

New Newpolling pollingconducted conductedby by Morning Consult on behalf Morning Consult on behalfof of API APIfound: found:

can energy leadership and security at a time of increased geopolitical volatility. API also submitted a letter to Secretary Deb Haaland seeking clarification on DOI’s response to Louisiana v. Biden regarding leasing and permitting delays and urging the department to prioritize and move forward with its statutory requirements to issue quarterly lease sales and issue a five-year plan for offshore development.

API’s ongoing “Keep America Competitive” campaign, launched in 2021, emphasizes the importance of American energy leadership for reducing reliance on foreign energy sources.

Methodology: The poll was conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of API on February 25-26, 2022, among a national sample of 2,002 registered voters. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus two percentage points.

API represents all segments of America’s natural gas and oil industry, which supports more than 11 million U.S. jobs and is backed by a growing grassroots movement of millions of Americans. Our nearly 600 members produce, process, and distribute the majority of the nation’s energy, and participate in API Energy Excellence®, which is accelerating environmental and safety progress by fostering new technologies and transparent reporting. API was formed in 1919 as a standards-setting organization and has developed more than 700 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Source: American Petroleum Institute (API)

• 90 percent of voters support the U.S. developing its own domestic sources of energy rather than relying on other regions of the world (Democrats 92%; Independents 86%; Republicans 90%).

OIL AND GAS

Railroad Commissioners Applaud Major Oil Companies Cutting Ties With Russian Oil Companies, Encourage Others To Do the Same

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

ecently, major oil and gas companies, such as British Petroleum and Shell, have announced their divestment of ownership in Russian oil and gas companies such as Rosneft. RRC commissioners firmly support these actions and strongly encourage all Western oil and gas companies to similarly cut ties with any Russian oil and gas business.

“I’m heartbroken and disgusted by the ruthless and lawless actions of Vladimir Putin. Energy security is national security, and that’s clearer than ever,” said RRC Chairman Wayne Christian. “The United

R

States, our European allies, and major oil and gas producers should immediately sever all ties with Russia – period. Western democracies shouldn’t fuel Putin’s unjust war against a peaceful and democratic nation. Instead, oil and gas should be purcha sed from reliable a n d t r u sted allies or produced here at home.

I call on President Biden to end his illogical

stance on oil and gas and unleash American producers in defense of Ukraine and democracy.”

“Putin’s war against Ukraine is despicable and should serve as a wake-up call to the world,” said Commissioner Christi Craddick. “I support the actions of BP and Shell and encourage other international energy providers to divest from Russian companies and markets. Texas producers are ready, willing, and able to supply oil and gas on a global scale, and I encourage President Biden to support Ukraine by releasing the chokehold on American energy production.”

“The Russian war against Ukraine is a forceful reminder of the importance of American-made energy and that domes-

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

tic energy policy is crucially intertwined with U.S. foreign policy,” said Commissioner Jim Wright. “The exploration and production of oil and gas do not occur overnight, which is why it is essential to have consistent, predictable, energy policies that encourage and promote development. Maintaining our domestic production is not only vital to America’s national security interest but those of our allies around the globe. Having long recognized the importance of oil and gas to our state, our nation, and our allies, Texas stands ready to do its part.”

Source: rrc.texas.gov

March 2022 | 15

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

16 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Providing Strategi

SMALL BUSINESS P

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

A

cclaimed as one of the largest community colleges in the nation, the Houston Community College System (HCC) is also acclaimed for being impactful as a champion for the small business community.

In addition to HCC’s various programs and efforts for small businesses, the Small Business Development Program (SBDP) remains an award-winning program within HCC, driving small business progress. Though many small business enterprises in our city and the surrounding areas continue to feel the financial impacts of the pandemic, HCC remains proactive in providing opportunities for our businesses to succeed. Under the leadership of Joseph Gavin, CTCD - Executive Director, Procurement Operations, the procurement team contributes to keeping small businesses strong and valuable to HCC and our city.

Q&A With HCC: “We understand the importance of engaging in a face-to-face environment with our suppliers, clients and community partners. This years “Access to HCC” Expo allowed the College and its suppliers to get back to doing business as we have previously. Long-standing business relationships are created at our expo between our suppliers, clients and community partners. New opportunities are discovered and trending solutions are brought to the forefront. It’s a win-win event for all.”

—Joseph Gavin, CTCD - Executive Director, Procurement Operations

D-MARS: Please talk about any new procedures the SBDP has implemented and the successes since 2021.

HCC: In an effort to continually hold our networking and meet and greets with SBE’s, we incorporated a number of platforms into our Program to determine which one would allow for the most interactive and engaging experience. Prior to COVID-19, all networking and meet and greets were in person. Now, we utilize TEAMS and WebEx to engage with supplier’s one-on-one and in group settings. Although working virtual, we understand the need for continued engagement between our clients and SBE’s and have implemented new procedures to engage with SBE’s. We are also in the process of completing our Constant Contact page which will highlight the SBDP and our community partner activities. You can sign up today at hccs.edu/sbdp.

D-MARS: Please talk about the SBDP’s continuous outreach efforts that continue to support small businesses, HCC: while still in the midst of COVID-19.

Since the start of COVID-19 in March 2020, the Small Business Development Program (SBDP) has hosted and/or participated in over 150 outreach and networking events. As an example, the SBDP hosted virtual seminars on RFP Presentations and Evaluations, Building Financial Capacity, QuickBooks for Entrepreneurs and Maximizing Your Certification to Generate Business Opportunities. As we noticed the need for the in person experience, we hosted our first hybrid event on July 21, 2021 at our West Loop Campus. The topic of discussion was “Are You Protected” and surrounded general risk management, EBLI v EPLI, cyber insurance and most importantly, insurance in a post COVID-19 world. Our hybrid and virtual seminars were well received by the supplier community, averaging over 100 attendees per session! We continually engaged with the supplier community by hosting meet and greets between the supplier, procurement and the client department. Prior to the meet and greet taking place, the supplier is requested to register as a vendor as well as provide a capability statement to the SBDP to ensure the correct client is engaged.

The key element to doing business with HCC is vendor registration. Vendor registration ensures automatic notification of bid and quote opportunities. Vendor registration is

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

March 2022 | 17

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

ies for

PROGRESS a simple process and can be completed at hccs.edu/procurement.

D-MARS: What can we expect from the SBDP this year and moving forward?

This year the SBDP will focus on its in reach, engaging more with our internal clients. The SBDP will meet with our internal clients to understand their needs and how SBE’s can become engaged in the procurement process. As the SBDP grows, training will be provided internally to our clients on the importance and impact of utilizing SBE’s, the SBDP contract compliance process, the clients role in the supplier selection process and the importance of utilizing our SBE’s and the effects of their utilization on the local economy.

D-MARS: Please give us an example(s) of HCC partnering with an SBE, resulting in the small business being able to pivot to achieve success during the pandemic.

HCC: Several of our SBE’s were able to partner with HCC during the pandemic resulting in success in their business. Specifically, one of our local SBE’s provided 112 Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines. Of the 112 administered vaccines, 75% were students and 25% were staff. A variety of personal protection equipment (PPE) was purchased from SBE’s including thermometers, masks, hand sanitizer and face shields. However, PPE only represented one of several commodities purchased. Services were also purchased from SBE’s including IT asset management and audit engagement, temporary staffing for the Industrial Technology Department and temporary staffing for COVID-19 screeners as well as a variety of other services required to continue servicing our staff, students and programs.

In 2021, our engagement with a local SBE granted the College a rebate for recycling material in the amount of $8,240.00. This rebate is the direct result of the sale of scrap metal. Specifically, copper and HVAC units from the College’s deferred maintenance program. Strategic Sourcing identified the opportunity for the College to receive rebates on copper and HVAC equipment, worked internally with Business Services and the SBDP and ultimately brought this project to fruition. Procurements persistence turned this into a good environmental process (recycle) and generated funds for the College. A total of 74,434 pounds of scrap metal was picked up in 2021. This is largely in part to the HVAC units that were recycled from the contractors who procured the HVAC Bids.

D-MARS: Please talk about the success of your “Access to HCC” event held recently.

HCC: We held our 7th annual “Access to HCC” Procurement Expo at the HCC West Houston Institute on March 10, 2022. This year’s expo was hybrid, featuring 6 virtual exhibitors, 14 community partner exhibitors and 21 HCC exhibitors. We also highlighted 3 local businesses who gained connections and contracts from our annual procurement expo by way of a video highlighting their business and the work they performed for HCC. This year’s keynote was Jay Steinfield, Founder & CEO of Blinds.com. Early bird attendees received a signed copy of Jay’s book, “Lead from the Core”. Our numbers were extraordinary this year with a total of 497 RSVPs. We welcomed vendors virtually as well as in person allowing us to serve a larger audience. “Access to HCC” is the SBDP’s signature event, bringing out HCC Trustees and Presidents. The VIP list did not stop there as Marshall Heins, M.B.A. - Sr. Vice Chancellor, Finance & Administration CFO, Joseph Gavin, CTCD - Executive Director, Procurement Operations and Christopher Burton, CTPM, CTCM, CPM, CPSM, MBA, CPPO - Director, Procurement Operations brought greetings. Desmond Lewis, Ed.D., Associate Vice Chancellor, College Readiness provided words of inspiration to our attendees as well as introduced this year’s Keynote.

D-MARS: What upcoming events do you have planned over the next couple of months/ through the year for the small business community?

HCC: The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, the City of Houston, Houston Independent School District, the Port of Houston Authority, Houston First and the HCC Small Business Development Programs have teamed up to create the Interagency Mentor Protégé Program (IMPP). IMPP exists to foster and strengthen long-term, effective

working relationships between established companies and emerging and historically underutilized businesses. Benefits for participating in IMPP include, but are not limited to understanding business financials and bidding, creating and strengthening working relationships between established and emerging companies and understanding how to do business with local government agencies. Program length is nine (9) weeks from 6pm - 8p.m. every Tuesday online via Microsoft Teams.

The application deadline is March 31, 2022. However, this is a yearly program. If you miss this year’s deadline, you can apply next year! Apply online by March 31, 2022 at http://www.houstontx.gov/obo/mentor_protege.html.

D-MARS: Any recent awards/recognitions/honors you want to mention?

• National Association for Minority Contractors Platinum Sponsorship recognition • Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award – National Procurement Institute (2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017 & 2016) • Strategic Partner of the Year - Greater Houston Business Procurement Forum (2021, 2020/multiyear) • Award of Merit – Greater Houston Business Procurement Forum (2020, 2016/multiyear) • Top 25 Supplier Diversity Champion – Subcontractors USA (2018/multiyear) • R.A. Wiltz Minority Business Advocate of the Year Greater Houston Business Procurement Forum (2018)

What do SBE’s have to say about HCC’s SBDP? “The partnership with the Small Business Development Program and Procurement has been an integral part of our inroads and partnership opportunity with HCC. I don’t think we would have cultivated the relationships or had as much traction had it not been for these areas serving as internal advocates.

We are greatly appreciative to the SBDP for their assistance in implementing business opportunities and collaborative work projects for my company. As a 100% Wo m a n - O w n e d Small Business, we are grateful to programs that want to be proactive in a diverse culture. The SBDP/ Procurement Department is an integral part of building these opportunities, and supports the efforts of small businesses to compete and grow.” - SBE Electrical Services & Sales Provider “I have worked with the Small Business Development Program on several different projects. The one thing that is completely consistent, the Small Business Development Program is a champion for small businesses.

Kudos to the Small Business Development Program and Procurement Operations.” - SBE Apparel Provider “On behalf of our team, I want to sincerely thank the Small Business Development Pro-

gram for your support. Your efforts with arranging introductions between Procurement and our team was a vital component that allowed us to showcase our capabilities. Without the SBPD none of this would have been possible. Thank you for being an advocate!”

- SBE IT Services and Equipment Provider “It’s my absolute pleasure to work with the Small Business Development Program/ Procurement Department. During our first meeting, the SBDP assisted me with registering in HCC’s vendor database.

Once registered, we started to receive RFQs and have successfully provided HCC with many items we quoted for. The SBDP always manages to foster positive discussions and bring the best out of small businesses.” - SBE Print Services Provider The SBDP is very active in our Community by participating with local Chambers and Associations as panelists and exhibitors. The SBDP also partners internally with the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program and Houston MBDA Business Center to provide even more value to the SBE community.

Please keep in touch with the SBDP at hccs. edu/sbdp. To receive automatic notification of bid opportunities, be sure to fill out a vendor application at hccs.edu/procurement.

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

18 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

PERMITS

4 Pillars

to De-Risk Permitting on P3 Projects

By Helen Callier Contributing Writer

M

ore cities and counties in the U.S. are exploring Publicprivate partnerships (P3s) as an economically creative way to build infrastructure and buildings which allow them to meet the demands of their growing communities. Several years ago, public entities were hesitant to leverage P3s, especially when hearing about projects that did not go so well like one of Texas toll roads.

A lot has been learned since early project failures, and today is a new day where public officials are more open-minded to consider P3s. Public-private projects are focused on what it takes to quickly make accessible new buildings and infrastructure for public use.

They are also more clearly designed and structured to provide the government (city, county, state,

etc.) with several benefits such as the following: • Able to bring on projects faster than traditional government capital improvement procurement processes • Lowers liabilities and risks on capital projects • Provides an alternate source of funding

When I recently attended an Infraday Conference in Houston, Texas, one of the panels talked about P3 projects that were primarily in located Texas and shared examples of projects in Indiana. Aside from mentioning the technical aspects of certain capital projects like in San Marcus and Travis County, Texas, they also stressed the importance of de-risking a P3 project to ensure its success.

One particular area noted to reduce risk i.e. minimize delays and associated costs to construction on P3 projects is with permitting.

When P3 projects get caught in the snares of planning and zoning with variances and permitting for plan reviews,

then Private Developers’ ability to deliver promised benefits to their public customers becomes strained.

To mitigate this above scenario, below are 4 proven pillars to de-risk permitting on a P3 project.

• Start early during the programming phase to identify any areas of concern, possible variances, permitting center workloads, etc.

• Collaborate with key stakeholders on project requirements • Execute plans with a sense of urgency to minimize the impact of changes in market conditions such as an increase in material costs • Hire permitting experts that have established relationships and experience with jurisdiction

P3s are a strong delivery method for public entities to consider and use. Many cities in Texas are fertile ground for P3 developers to assist local governments in achieving their vision

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

and assisting with established strategic plans. Permitting is one of the key areas that must be de-risked for success, and PermitUsNow has experience permitting large and complex capital projects in Texas. Also, at PermitUsNow, we are committed to pulling permits for our architect, contractor, and project owner clients without delay, eliminating their frustrations with the permitting process.

Plus, we make it easy for you to work with us. Simply: 1.) Email us your plans, 2.)

Follow up on our feedback for any missing items, and 3.) Let us get your permitting done for you.

So, send us your plans today and we’ll free you up to focus on doing what you love - building your customers’ dreams.

Call the PermitUsNow team at 1.844.PERMIT.4 if you need assistance with permits. Visit us on the web at permitusnow.com. #BuildSafe

March 2022 | 19

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

20 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

OIL AND GAS

API Statement on US Ban of Russian Crude Oil and Refined Products

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

A

merican Petroleum Institute (API) President and CEO Mike Sommers issued the following statement following an announcement from the White House to ban imports of Russian crude oil and refined products into the United States.

“We support the US government and our allies in their collective efforts against Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, and our industry is prepared to comply with the import ban in response to this aggression. The industry has already taken significant and meaningful steps to unwind relationships, both with respect to assets in Russia, as well as imports of Russian crude oil and refined products. We share the goal of reducing reliance on foreign energy sources and urge policymakers to advance American energy leadership and expand domestic

production to counter Russia’s influence in global energy markets.”

API represents all segments of America’s natural gas and oil industry, which supports more than 11 million U.S. jobs and is backed by a growing grassroots movement of millions of Americans.

Its nearly 600 members produce, process, and distribute the majority of the nation’s energy, and participate in API Energy Excellence®, which is accelerating environmental and safety progress by fostering new technologies and transparent reporting.

API was formed in 1919 as a standardssetting organization and has developed more than 700 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Source: American Petroleum Institute (API)

SAFETY

OSHA Publishes Interim Final Rule for Handling Retaliation Complaints Under the Taxpayer First Act

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently published an interim final rule establishing procedures and time frames for handling employee retaliation complaints under the Taxpayer First Act. The Taxpayer First Act, enacted July 1, 2019, protects employees who report underpayment of taxes or other potential federal tax law violations or engage in other protected activities.

OSHA is accepting comments from the public. Submit comments online, identified by Docket No. OSHA–2020– 0006 at the Federal eRulemaking Portal.

Read the Federal Register notice for additional details. The dead line for submitting comments is May 6, 2022. The interim final rule is effective March 7, 2022.

For additional details about the statute along with instructions on how to file a complaint with OSHA under the Taxpayer First Act, read the fact sheet on Whistleblower Protection for Employees Who Report Federal Tax Law Violations.

OSHA enforces the whistleblower provisions of the Taxpayer First Act and 24 other statutes protecting employees against retaliation for reporting violations of various workplace safety and health, aviation, commercial motor carrier, consumer product, environmental, financial reform, food safety, health insurance reform, motor vehicle safety, nuclear, pipeline, public transportation agency, railroad, maritime, securities, tax, antitrust, and anti-money laundering laws and for engaging in other related protected activities. For more information, please visit OSHA’s Whistleblower Protection Program webpage.

Learn more about OSHA at osha.gov.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

March 2022 | 21

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

22 | March 2022

2022 NAMC Houston SUBCONTRACTORS USA

CONSTRUCTION NAMC Houston recently held their 2022 Construction Business Expo at the Sheraton Brookhollow Hotel. Attendees were provided a unique opportunity to connect with major government agencies, prime contractors, MBE contractors and service providers all at one time and place. The morning consisted of four business conference breakout sessions and the expo and then an afternoon luncheon.

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

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

March 2022 | 23

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

BUSINESS EXPO

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

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

24 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

SAFETY

U.S. Department of Labor Announces Enforcement,

Effort for Focused Inspections in Hospitals, Nursing Care Facilities Treating COVID-19 Patients

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

F

or two years, millions of the nation’s healthcare workers have been battling the coronavirus. Many have endangered themselves as they care for those who contract COVID-19 while working in high-risk settings that expose themselves and their families.

As the nation moves to the next phase of the pandemic, the U.S. Department of Labor recognizes the need to prepare for any new variants that may emerge and provide healthcare workers the protections they deserve.

The Department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently announced an enforcement memorandum for a short-term increase in highly focused inspections directed at hospitals and skilled nursing care facilities that treat or handle COVID-19 patients.

OSHA’s goal is to expand its presence to ensure continued mitigation to control the spread of COVID-19 and future variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and protect the health and safety of healthcare workers at heightened risk for contracting the virus.

citations, as well as where complaints were received but the agency did not conduct in-person inspections.

OSHA intends to expand its presence in targeted highhazard healthcare facilities during a three-month period f rom March 9, 2022, to June 9, 2022.

“We are using available tools while we finalize a healthcare standard,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Doug Parker. “We want

to be ahead of any future events in healthcare.”

The agency will be initiating focused inspections to emphasize monitoring for current and future readiness to protect workers from COVID-19. Follow-up inspections will be conducted at sites that were previously issued

Through this focused enforcement initiative, the agency will verify and assess hospital and skilled nursing care employers’ compliance actions taken, including their readiness to address any ongoing or future COVID-19 surges.

This initiative supplements OSHA’s targeted enforcement under the Revised COVID-19 National Emphasis Program [DIR 2021-03 (CPL 03)] by conducting focused follow-up and monitoring inspections of previously in-

spected or investigated hospitals and skilled nursing care facilities within four North American Industry Classification System codes listed in the memorandum where COVID-19 citations or Hazard Alert Letters were issued, including remote-only inspections where COVID-19-related citations were issued.

This initiative and the revised COVID-19 National Emphasis Program would comprise 15 percent of OSHA’s enforcement activity.

On Dec. 27, 2021, OSHA announced its decision to withdraw the non-recordkeeping portions of the Healthcare Emergency Temporary Standard. The agency will accept continued compliance with the Healthcare ETS as satisfying employers’ related obligations under the General Duty Clause, Personal Protective Equipment and Respiratory Protection standards.

OSHA has continually conducted outreach at the national, regional, and area office levels throughout the duration of the pandemic outbreak.

Visit the agency’s Coronavirus Disease webpage for more information and resources on keeping workers safe from COVID-19.

Healthcare facilities across the country have been applying key components of the Healthcare Emergency Temporary Standard successfully to protect the health and safety of their employees. OSHA would like to learn more about these successful programs. If you would like to share your success stories, please send an email to Healthcaresafety@dol.gov.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration

SAFETY

API Publishes First-Edition Document Enhancing Safety of Onshore Drilling and Production

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

oday the American Petroleum Institute (API) published an important first-edition document focused on improving the safety of onshore drilling and production operations. API Bulletin 16H, Automated Safety Instrumented Systems for Onshore Blowout Preventer Actuation, is the first upstream document that provides information on existing and emerging technologies to bring a well to a safe state if other operational barriers fail.

“Our mission is to drive continuous industry improvements while keeping up with emerging technology,” Global Industry Services Senior Vice President Anchal Liddar said. “This first-edition API bulletin about onshore automated safety instrumented systems showcases our commitment to evolving technologies that contribute to safety and sustainability.”

The bulletin provides recommendations for the equipment, interfaces, and management of automated safety systems and alarms for blowout preventers. In an onshore environment, an automated safety instrumented system is designed to bring the well to a safe state in the event that site personnel do not recognize a serious well control incident or are unable to respond to one. Safety instrumented systems have been utilized in process facilities – refining, chemical, and nuclear – as an integral part of a critical process system and this bulletin expands this usage into upstream natural gas and oil.

The document states original equipment manufacturers should consider existing and emerging technologies to conduct risk assessments, evaluate equipment compatibility and perform functional testing to develop a safety instrumented system to place a well in a safe state. Additionally, the bulletin provides an overview

of components for future research into developing automated well control actuation systems.

Developing and fully implementing automated safety instrumented systems has the potential to transform and empower natural gas and oil exploration and production. These technologies can help automate and expand ways to mitigate unexpected well control events driving safety and operational improvements for the industry and reducing the risk of fugitive emissions arising from these events.

To learn more about API Bulletin 16H and other efforts to advance safety and sustainability, visit API.org.

API represents all segments of America’s natural gas and oil industry, which supports more than 11million U.S. jobs and is backed by a growing grassroots movement of millions of Americans. Our

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

nearly 600 members produce, process, and distribute the majority of the nation’s energy, and participate in API Energy Excellence, which is accelerating environmental and safety progress by fostering new technologies and transparent reporting. API was formed in 1919 as a standards-setting organization and has developed more than 700 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

Source: American Petroleum Institute (API)

March 2022 | 25

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

SMALL BUSINESS ON THE MOVE Take your company to new heights!

ARCHITECTURE/ ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

GENERAL SERVICES

SUPPLIES & EQUIPMENT

METRO’s OFFICE OF SMALL BUSINESS OFFERS: • Outreach • Certification • Compliance

• Virtual one-on-one • Small Business University (SBU) • Business Development

For more information, contact METRO’s Office of Small Business at smallbusiness@RideMETRO.org or call 713.739.4844.

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

26 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

SAFETY

U.S. Department of Labor Announces $3.2M in Susan Harwood Grants For Workplace Safety, Health Training on Infectious Diseases, Including COVID-19

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration recently announced the availability of $3.2 million in funds from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 for Susan Harwood Workplace Safety and Health Training on Infectious Diseases, Including COVID-19 grants.

The grants will fund training and education to help workers and employers identify and prevent work-related infectious diseases, including COVID-19. Training topics must focus either on COVID-19 specifically or infectious diseases broadly.

The maximum awarded for each grant is $160,000 for a 12-month performance period.

This funding opportunity is separate from the fiscal year 2022 Susan Harwood training grants for Targeted Topic, Training and Educational Materials Development, and Capacity Building. Successful applicants may receive an FY 2021 and/or

FY 2022 Harwood training grant (i.e., a Targeted Topic Training, Training, and Educational Materials Development, or one of the Capacity Building grants) and a Workplace Safety and Health Training on Infectious Diseases, Including COVID-19 grant in the same year.

The Harwood Training Grant program supports remote and in-person hands-on training for workers and employers in small businesses; industries with high injury, illness, and fatality rates; and vulnerable workers, who are underserved, have limited English proficiency, or are temporary workers.

Learn more about the funding opportunity and applying for grants at www. federalregister.gov.

Submit applications for Harwood grants online no later than 11:59 p.m.

EDT on May 6, 2022.

Starting April 4, 2022, the Data Universal Numbering System number will be replaced by a new, non-proprietary identifier requested in, and assigned by, the System for Award Management. This new identifier is called the

Unique Entity Identifier. If you have any questions on the UEI, please visit SAM. gov for assistance.

OSHA awards grants to nonprofit organizations, including community and faith-based organizations, employer associations, labor unions, joint labor/management associations, Native American tribes, and local and state-sponsored colleges and universities to provide infectious disease workplace safety and health training.

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

Learn more about the Susan Harwood Training Grant Program at www.osha. gov/harwoodgrants.

Learn more about OSHA at osha.gov.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration

March 2022 | 27

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

28 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

PORT HOUSTON Executive Roger Guenther TRANSPORTATION

Named to The International Maritime Hall of Fame

stakeholders to keep trade and commerce moving for our region, Texas, and the nation.”

Guenther joined Port Houston in 1988, serving in several capacities before being named Executive Director in 2014. Among other past accomplishments, Guenther held key roles in the master planning and development of Port Houston’s Bayport Container Terminal and redevelopment of its Barbours Cut Terminal.

He is currently leading Houston Ship Channel Expansion – Project 11, a collaborative infrastructure construction effort of the billion-dollar deepening and widening of the Houston channel to support its continued growth as the busiest waterway in the nation.

The 28th International Maritime Hall of Fame Awards Dinner will be held on May 18 in New York City.

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

P

ort Houston Executive Director Roger Guenther has been named to the International Maritime Hall of Fame, as announced Monday by the Maritime Association of the Port of New York and New Jersey (MAPONY/ NJ). Guenther will be among six global shipping leaders who “all have shown unwavering leadership and dedication to advancing the industry through innovation, determination, and volunteerism.”

“The international maritime industry is rich in extraordinary leaders who play pivotal roles in moving world trade and who provide support services for these engines of commerce,” said MAPONY/NJ Executive Director Stephen Lyman in the press release.

“The six people we honor this year have represented a broad spectrum of leadership within the global transportation industry and have earned the respect of their colleagues worldwide, deserving of this honor. We

anticipate a record turnout for the event.”

“I am honored to be recognized and included on this list of leaders inducted before me who are pioneers of our industry,” Guenther said. “This award further highlights the success of our local maritime community and the commitment of Port Houston, our partners, and our

Roger Guenther’s full biography can be found here: https://porthouston.com/leadership/ Source: Port Houston

The international maritime industry is rich in extraordinary leaders who play pivotal roles in moving world trade and who provide support services for these engines of commerce,” said MAPONY/NJ Executive Director Stephen Lyman in the press release.

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

March 2022 | 29

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

TRANSPORTATION

DART Board Chair Michele Wong Krause Selected as 2022 Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation Award Winner

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

D

allas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Board Chair Michele Wong Krause has been selected by the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) as a 2022 Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation Award winner.

The Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation Award is one of the highest honors bestowed

by COMTO and recognizes women in transportation from across the nation that has provided inspirational leadership by opening career pathways for women and for their extraordinary achievements in the industry.

"I am honored to be included among such a distinguished group of women transportation leaders from across the country," said Wong Krause. "Since 1971, COMTO has worked tirelessly to provide opportunities and leadership training for minorities in the transportation industry, while developing members to take their place as our future leaders."

Chair Wong Krause will be honored at the 11th Annual Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation Awards Breakfast on March 16.

COMTO is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing minorities and other underrepresented groups in the transpor tation industry. With 35 chapters in the U.S. and Canada, COMTO's mission is to ensure opportunities and participation in Photo Caption: Michele Wong Krause transpor tation for minorities, veterans, people with disabilities, and certified minority, women or disadvantaged-owned businesses through leadership training, professional development, scholarship and internship funding, advocacy, partnership building, and networking opportunities.

For more information, please visit dart.org.

Source: Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART)

TRANSPORTATION

Sanjay Ramabhadran Takes the Helm as New Chair of METRO Board of Directors make in improving our quality of life," said Ramabhadran. "And public News Provider transportation is a huge part of improving that quality of life." nother historic leadership transition

By Subcontractors USA

A

has come to the METRO Board. Recently, METRO's Board of Directors unanimously approved Mayor Sylvester Turner's board chair nomination and welcomed Sanjay Ramabhadran (pronounced Rahm-bud-run) to lead the agency's nine-member Board. Ramabhadran has been on the board since May 2015. Still, his appointment is notable as he is the first Indian-American to serve in this role.

Ramabhadran has served in senior executive/ board roles at global and regional engineering firms and has 25 years of experience in public infrastructure consulting. He has been on the Board of METRO for many of its bold transformations. This includes the launch of the New Bus Network in 2015, the passage of the METRONext Moving Forward Plan, a $3.5 billion bond referendum in 2019, and the opening of the region's first bus rapid transit, METRORapid Silver Line.

Ramabhadran also served as chair of the Capital & Strategic Planning Committee and a member of the Finance & Audit Committee.

The outgoing chair, Carrin Patman, also made history as the first woman to lead the METRO board. She received a proclamation from the METRO Board of Directors for her leadership and many accomplishments.

That extensive list includes leading the effort to adopt the METRONext Moving Forward Plan and getting the bond referendum approved by nearly 70% of voters.

"It's been a profound honor to serve with you all and to lead an agency of such quality and dedicated people," said Patman. "My heart is very full. Thank you."

"The continued economic growth of our region is going to be inextricably tied to the investments we will Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

For more information, please visit ridemetro.org.

Source: Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO)

30 | March 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

March 2022 | 31

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

JOIN THE Subcontractors USA Texas email list for industry news, events and RFP information at

www.subcusa.com @subcusa.com SubContractors USA @subcusa_com

@subcusa_com

SUBCONTRACTORS

USA

T E X A ST JE OXUAR SN A L

W W W.SUBCUSA .COM

W W W . S U B C U S A . C O M

Vaskey Media Group, Inc. 7322 Southwest Freeway, Suite 800 Houston, TX 77074 phone: 713-373-5577 email: contact@subcusa.com