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March 2023 | Advertising for Certified Women, Veteran & Minority-Owned Subcontractors | 84th Edition

Helen Callier on Remaining Committed to Permitting & Helping Clients #BuildSafe 16-17

INSIDE

24

2023 Oil and Gas Industry Outlook

28 Austin Transportation News: CapMetro's New CEO, Dottie Watkins

11

Doing Business with TxDOT

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PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE 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 Helen Callier. She is the president of PermitUsNow – an industry recognized building permitting and expediting firm headquartered in Texas.

Callier earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Prairie View A&M University. She is a graduate of the Goldmans Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program.

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

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ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Erick Fontejon SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER EMMA AGUIÑAGA SENIOR PROJECT COORDINATORS BRIA CASTEEL LINDSEY FORD DISTRIBUTION MIKE JONES WILLIE JONES PHOTOGRAPHY Grady Carter L.C. Poullard DISTRIBUTION Mike Jones CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tracey Kohler Paul Stoessel Helen Callier Subcontractors USA

The business mogul is a published author, dynamic speaker and a frequent contributor in the business and philanthropic circles that support Texans.

— Eleanor Roosevelt

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.

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16-17 04 ARCHITECTURE 04 Architects Advocate for Design Freedom and Resilent Communities 04 Women in Architecture: Dr. Sharon Egretta Sutton, FAIA 2023 AIA/ACSA Topaz Medallion for Architectural Education

20 PERMITS 20 24 OIL & GAS 24 2023 Oil and Gas Industry Outlook 24 Numbers Once Again Show Texas Gas Supply Held Strong During Winter Weather

05 CONSTRUCTION 05 Construction Spending Slips 0.4 26 SAFETY Percent in December, Yet Record- 26 Department of Labor, Better Business Bureau North Central High December Job Openings Texas Sign Alliance Partnership Suggest Contractors Remain To Help Keep Workers Safe Bullish in 2023 28 U.S. Department of Labor Seeking Public Comments 05 Construction Sector Adds 25,000 on Modernizing Programs That Employees in January as Firms Recognizes Employers Raise Pay Faster Than Overall Committed To Best Safety, Private Sector in Bid To Attract Health Practices More Workers 26 TRANSPORTATION 06 ENERGY 06 8 Energy News Stories You Need 26 Austin Trasportation News: CapMetro's NEW CEO, Dottie To Read Watkins 08 Biden-Harris Administration Announces Historic Investments To Support America's Energy and Industrial Communities 12 Partners in Power: Providing Assistance For Customers Through More Than 100 Partners

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16-17 COVER STORY

16-17 Helen Callier on Remaining Committed to Compliance & Helping Clients #BuildSafe

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PUBLISHER & CEO Keith J. Davis, Sr.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Emil Flemmon

“Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.”

Callier was recognized in 2021 by the

BEHIND THE JOURNAL

CHIEF OF STAFF & MANAGING EDITOR Kimberly Floyd

Houston Business Journal as one of Houston's Women Who Mean Business and Small Business Administration Womens' Business Champion.

She is currently serving as advisory board vice chair for the Tri-County Regional Black Chamber of Commerce and as advisory board member for SubContractors USA News.

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13 IT & TECHNOLOGY 13 5 Ways Your IT Admin Can Improve Password Management and Security for your Firm

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Architects Advocate for Design Freedom and Resilient Communities

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

ARCHITECTURE

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he American Institute of Architects (AIA) and more than 400 of its architect members attended meetings recently with their Members of Congress. As professionals and constituents, AIA members are advocating for two bipartisan pieces of legislation that benefit communities and their inhabitants.

Architects met with legislators to discuss the Democracy In Design Act (S.366), to ensure that communities across the country maintain a voice in the design of federal buildings consistent with their preferences, culture, topographies, and design traditions.

Architects are also advocating for the Resilient AMERICA Act, which would make significant changes to the federal government’s ability to prepare communities for future natural disasters. The bill accomplishes this by increasing federal funding for predisaster mitigation through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program.

“Improving building and community resilience to future climate-related natural disasters is a key component of AIA’s goal,” said AIA 2023 President Emily Grandstaff-Rice, FAIA. “Additionally, it remains critically important that our country retain the flexibility to choose between a variety of design styles in our public buildings, not have those decisions dictated at the outset.

AIA Lobby Day (on February 15th) was one component of this year’s AIA Leadership Summit.

AIA’s Lobby Day provides architects with a platform to directly advocate in support of legislation impacting the profession.

Grandstaff-Rice added, “As trained problem-solvers and natural facilitators, architects have the skills to help legislators develop policies that create more resilient, sustainable, and equitable communities.”

Visit AIA’s website at www.aia.org to learn more.

Source: American Institute of Architects

Women in Architecture: Dr. Sharon Egretta Sutton, FAIA 2023 AIA/ACSA Topaz Medallion for Architectural Education affirmative action student at Columbia University’s School of Architecture to reveal how the school recruited and retained minority architecture students.

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

n educator, author, and citizen architect with worldwide reach, Dr. Sharon Egretta Sutton, FAIA, has shifted the profession of architecture toward a more equitable, diverse, and inclusive future. Fueled by a passion for representing the unrepresented, she has shaped a career informed by the obstacles constructed by the country’s political landscape.

Throughout, she has developed research and tools that encourage the next generation of design professionals to heed the call of activism.

A

Sutton’s list of achievements is lengthy, and she is no stranger to breaking new ground: She was just the 12th African American woman to become a licensed architect in the U.S., the first to be promoted to full professor of architecture, and the second to be elevated to AIA fellowship. Currently, she is a distinguished professor of architecture at Parsons School of Design, and she previously served in the faculties of the University of Washington, the University of Cincinnati, Columbia University, and Pratt Institute. Under her tutelage, a roster of transformative leaders has risen to pivotal positions in architectural education and practice.

In the early days of her career as both a professional musician and burgeoning architect, she was a staunch advocate for social justice causes, supporting efforts to end housing discrimination and dismantle institutional barriers. Later, she drew on her experiences as an

Sutton’s research shared across six books she has either authored or co-authored, encapsulates hidden histories, broken pipelines, and other factors that hamper the potential of architecture education today. In 2017’s When Ivory Towers Were Black, Sutton lays the foundation for attracting and bolstering a diverse student body with a vision for a curriculum that opens doors of opportunity for the underrepresented in professions such as architecture and planning. In her most recent work, Pedagogy for a Beloved Commons: Pursuing Democracy’s Promise Through Place-Based Activism, which will be published in the spring, Sutton offers a game plan for students and other hopeful citizen architects to learn and use practical skills to continue her vital work.

"As an intellectual leader, Sutton continues to straddle the worlds of the academy and practice, framing the built environment as a source of oppression for communities of color while giving voice to the unique role African American architects face both inside and outside of the profession."

In all that she has done and endeavors to do, Sutton has created the framework and vision for a more just and robust profession. By probing the complicated relationship between architects and the communities they are entrusted to protect, she dares architects to strive for a more equitable built environment with her trademark style, generosity, and good humor.

Visit AIA’s website at www.aia.org to learn more.

Source: American Institute of Architects Image: University of Washington University Photography, courtesy AIA.

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CONSTRUCTION

Construction Spending Slips 0.4 Percent in December, Yet Recordhigh December Job Openings Suggest Contractors Remain Bullish in 2023

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

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otal construction spending decreased by 0.4 percent in December, yet industry job openings at the end of the month set a new high for December, according to an assessment the Associated General Contractors of America conducted recently of two new federal data sets. Association officials said the jobs data signals that the slowdown in construction spending may have been more about changes in weather than demand.

“The record number of job openings in construction compared to previous Decembers suggests contractors are bullish about their backlogs despite a dip in spending in December,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “Some of the downturns may be due to unusually bad weather rather than a shrinking market.”

Construction spending, not adjusted for inflation, totaled $1.810 trillion at a seasonally adjusted annual rate in December, 0.4 percent below the November rate, which was revised up from the initial estimate a month ago.

Spending on private residential construction decreased for the seventh consecutive month in December, by 0.3 percent. Spending on private nonresidential construction

fell 0.5 percent in December, while public construction investment declined 0.4 percent.

A separate government report showed there were 359,000 job openings in construction at the end of the year, a jump of 58,000 or 19 percent from a year earlier and the highest December total in the 23-year history of the data. Openings exceeded the 217,000 workers hired during the entire month, which suggests contractors wanted to bring on board more than twice as many employees as they were able to find, Simonson added.

Spending varied among large private nonresidential segments. The biggest component, commercial construction—comprising warehouse, retail, and farm construction—increased by 0.4 percent. Spending on manufacturing plants decreased by 2.2 percent. Private power construction rose 0.5 percent.

Public categories were also mixed. The largest public segment, highway and street construction, increased by 1.1 percent in December. Spending declined by 0.3 percent for education construction. Investment in transportation facilities rose 0.2 percent.

Residential spending shrank due to a 2.3 percent contraction from November in single-family homebuilding. That outweighed increases of 3.2 percent in multifamily construction and 0.7 percent in additions

and renovations to owner-occupied houses.

Association officials cautioned that labor shortages and regulatory delays on federally funded projects pose a risk for contractors in 2023. They urged the Biden administration and Congress to clarify new Buy America and registered apprenticeship requirements included in new federal funding measures. And they continued to push for immigration reform and support for construction training programs to get more people into construction careers.

“Instead of just talking about projects that someday might get built, the President and Congress should take steps to speed project reviews, reduce regulatory delays and enable men and women to pursue highpaying construction careers,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer.

For more information, please visit www.agc.org.

Source: Associated General Contractors of America

Construction Sector Adds 25,000 Employees in January as Firms Raise Pay Faster Than Overall Private Sector in Bid To Attract More Workers

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

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onstruction firms added 25,000 employees in January and raised wages for hourly workers more steeply than other sectors, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of new government data. Association officials said the industry was benefitting from relatively strong demand for construction projects as firms struggle to fill available positions in the sector.

“Construction employment and pay gains outpaced the economy as a whole in the past year, showing that demand for projects remains strong,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “In fact, most contractors would like to hire even more workers and are raising pay in an effort to attract them.”

Construction employment totaled a record 7,884,000, seasonally adjusted, in January, an increase of 294,000 or 3.9 percent from a year earlier. That growth rate topped the 3.3 percent rise in total nonfarm employment.

Nonresidential firms—comprising nonresidential building and specialty trade contractors along with heavy and civil engineering construction firms— added 19,300 employees in January and 179,200 employees or 4.0 percent over 12 months. Residential building and specialty trade contractors together

added 5,500 employees for the month and 114,600 employees or 3.6 percent over the year.

Pay levels in the construction industry continued to increase in January at a faster pace than in the overall private sector. Average hourly earnings for production and nonsupervisory workers in construction—mostly hourly craft workers—climbed by 6.2 percent, from $31.44 in January 2022 to $33.38 last month. That increase exceeded the 5.1 percent rise in average pay for all private sector production workers. Workers in construction now earn an average of 18.1 percent more per hour than in the private sector as a whole.

J o b o p e n i n g s i n construction at the end of 2022 totaled 35 9, 0 0 0 , t h e

highest December total in the 23-year history of the data. Simonson said that figure reinforced contractors’ reports that they are seeking far more workers than they have been able to hire, despite the industry’s large job gains over the past year.

Association officials said the industry likely would have added even more jobs if firms could find more people to hire, noting that 80 percent of firms in the association’s recent survey reported having a hard time finding qualified workers to hire. They urged federal officials to allow more people with construction skills to lawfully enter the country to work in the industry.

And they urged federal officials to boost funding and support for all types of construction-focused education and training programs.

“Construction firms are doing everything in their power to recruit even more people into the industry,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “Closing a federal funding gap that puts $5 into collegetrack programs for every dollar spent on career and technical education will help expose many more workers to highpaying career opportunities in fields like construction.”

For more information, please visit www.agc.org.

Source: Associated General Contractors of America

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ENERGY

8 Energy News Stories You Need To Read

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

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o help you stay current on the energy and natural resources industry, here's a roundup of some recent stories that shouldn't be missed.

1. ExxonMobil to Deploy Honeywell Carbon Capture Technology - Honeywell UOP's carbon capture technology will be integrated into the design of ExxonMobil's low-carbon hydrogen production facility and enable it to capture more than 98 percent of associated CO2 emissions. The captured CO2 is expected to be sequestered and permanently stored by ExxonMobil.

2. Bp leans into convenience and mobility across the US, agrees to purchase leading travel center operator, TravelCenters of America - TA's strategically-located network of highway sites complements bp's existing predominantly off-highway convenience and mobility business, enabling TA and bp to offer fleets a seamless nationwide service. In addition, bp's global scale and reach will, over time, bring advantages in fuel and biofuel supply as well as convenience offers for consumers.

3. Lunar Resources and Wood Selected by NASA

to Study Building a Pipeline on the Moon - This award funds a feasibility study for the Lunar South Pole Oxygen Pipeline (LSPoP), a pipeline at the South Pole of the Moon to transport gaseous oxygen from an extraction site to a proposed future Lunar base.

4. Shell starts production at Vito in the US Gulf of Mexico - With an estimated peak production of 100,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, Vito is the company's first deep-water platform in the Gulf of Mexico to employ a simplified, cost-efficient host design.

5. PG&E and Angel Island Ferry Partner to Launch California's First Zero-Emission, Electric Short-Run Ferry - "This partnership marks a significant expansion of our resources beyond land-based electric vehicles, and it demonstrates how we deliver for our hometowns and in support of California's clean energy goals," said Lydia Krefta, PG&E's Director for Clean Energy Transportation.

6. HEVO to Collaborate with Stellantis on Wireless EV Charging - Wireless charging is designed to increase simplicity and safety while removing operational friction associated with cord management. HEVO's awardwinning technology is up to 95% efficient (grid-to-

battery) and is compliant with SAE and UL wireless charging standards.

7. Drilling Tools International, a Leading Oilfield Services Company, is to List on Nasdaq through Business Combination with ROC Energy Acquisition Corp. - DTI's success is supported by its ability to meet its customer demand with operations from 22 locations in North America, Europe, and the Middle East; with over 65,000 tools in its fleet including drill collars, stabilizers, crossover subs, wellbore conditioning tools, drill pipe, and tubing.

8. RoyPow Debuts All-in-One Residential Energy Storage System at Intersolar North America 2023 The RoyPow all-in-one residential energy storage system - the SUN Series - provides a one-stop solution for home solar energy storage backup protection. This integrated, compact system requires minimal space and ensures easy installation with versatile mounting options for both indoor and outdoor environments.

Source: PR Newswire

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

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ENERGY

Biden-Harris Administration Announces Historic Investments To Support America’s Energy and Industrial Communities

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

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he U.S. Departments of Energy (DOE) and the Treasury, and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) recently announced several major programs to accelerate domestic clean energy manufacturing and ensure traditionally underserved communities benefit from clean energy technologies. As part of this whole of government approach, DOE is partnering with Treasury and IRS to implement two programs funded by the President’s Inflation Reduction Act: the Low-Income Communities Bonus Credit Program (48(e)), and the Qualifying Advanced Energy Project Credit(48C). Continuing the effort to uplift underserved communities, DOE also opened applications for the $750 million Advanced Energy Manufacturing and Recycling Grant Program, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to support industrial projects by small- and medium-sized manufacturers in energy communities. These announcements underscore the Administration’s commitment to leading an equitable clean energy transition and supporting the goals of President Biden’s Justice 40 Initiative.

“Underserved communities have the people, the skills, and the willpower, but often lack the opportunities and resources to invest in clean energy infrastructure to revitalize their local economies,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “These transformative programs and grants will strengthen the nation ensuring U.S. workers and businesses lead us around the globe and deliver on the President’s promise to not leave communities behind during this critical energy transition.”

Advanced Energy Manufacturing and Recycling Grant Program DOE’s Advanced Energy Manufacturing and Recycling Grant Program opened for applications recently for the first funding opportunity which invests $350 million for small- and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) to produce or recycle advanced energy property— property used to support clean energy supply chains — in energy communities. A mapping tool showing eligible communities under the program is available here.

The program will prioritize applications from minorityowned firms, and all applicants are required to submit a Community Benefits Plan demonstrating the project’s impact and benefits to the host community and region.

Full applications are due on June 8, 2023, at 5 p.m. ET. DOE’s Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains manages the program and will also establish a competitive technical assistance program in partnership with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to support small and medium manufacturers in feasibility analyses and other planning activities in support of the transition of dislocated workers into clean energy jobs and of inactive energy infrastructure into hubs for future economic growth.

Qualifying Advanced Energy Project Credit Program The Qualifying Advanced Energy Project Credit (48C) program was established by the 2009 Recovery Act and expanded with a $10 billion investment under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. Today, Treasury and IRS, in partnership with DOE, announced the intent to release approximately $4 billion in a first round of tax credits for projects that expand U.S. supply chains for clean energy technologies and critical materials for clean energy technology production, and for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions at industrial facilities.

Approximately $1.6 billion of this allocation will be set aside for projects in coal communities. The program will provide an investment tax credit of up to 30% of qualified investments for certified projects that meet prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements.

DOE’s Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains will lead DOE 48C efforts.

Low-Income Communities Bonus Credit Program The Low-Income Communities Bonus Credit Program—also known as 48(e)—advances the Administration’s commitments to equity and environmental justice as the most significant tax incentive

in U.S. history to promote clean energy investments in low-income communities, on Tribal Land, and within affordable housing. The program prioritizes the following equity goals: • Increasing the adoption of and access to renewable energy facilities in underserved and environmental justice communities.

• Encouraging new market participants, such as community-based organizations and mission-driven entities.

• Providing substantial benefits to underserved communities and individuals who have been historically marginalized from economic opportunities and overburdened by environmental impacts.

DOE’s Office of Economic Impact and Diversity will administer the Low-Income Communities Bonus Credit Program, which will allocate the bonus credit to 1.8 gigawatts (GW) of eligible solar and wind capacity per year. Beginning in 2023, a 10 percentage point increase is available to eligible solar and wind facilities that are installed in low-income communities or on Tribal land. A 20 percentage point credit increase will be available to clean energy projects that serve a qualified low-income residential building or provide at least 50% of the financial benefits of electricity generated to lowincome households.

The initial guidance for 2023 allocates the 1.8 GW of capacity across four categories: 700 megawatts (MW) for projects located in low-income communities, including residential rooftop solar, 200 MW for projects on Tribal lands, 200 MW for projects that are part of qualified low-income residential buildings, and 700 MW for projects, such as community solar, that provide economic benefits to low-income households.

Following the release of the initial guidance, DOE and Treasury will continue to engage with the clean energy industry, environmental justice, and community-based organizations to inform how the equity goals are realized in the program’s implementation.

Learn more about the Qualifying Advanced Energy Project Credit (48C) and the Low-Income Communities Bonus Credit Program guidance and the Advanced Energy Manufacturing and Recycling Program at www. energy.gov.

Source: The U.S. Department of Energy

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ENERGY

SAN ANTONIO ENERGY NEWS

Partners in Power: Providing Assistance for Customers Through More Than 100 Partners

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

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s a community, we have faced many challenges; a global pandemic, a record-breaking hot summer, and the continuous rise in natural gas prices. With everything we’ve faced, many of us have needed help to make ends meet. CPS Energy and its community partners have worked together every day to help the people in our community get back on track with bill assistance and everyday necessities. For instance, its Customer Response Unit (CRU) has been working diligently to share awareness with our community on how to enroll in assistance programs, educating customers about energy efficiency and safety, and working directly with customers with unique needs.

CPS Energy recently invited its 100-plus community partners to their 5th annual Partners in Power event, a workshop designed to strengthen and expand the network and exchange information with partner agencies to help better serve all of its customers.

“The Partners in Power event brings nonprofit partners from across the city together to learn about CPS Energy and how we support our community,” said Jesse Hernandez, Senior Director of Equity, Community Strategy & Engagement at CPS Energy. “It also allows time for nonprofits to network and share ideas on how best to support our mutual customers with the end goal of creating a better quality of life for customers in our community that may need a little extra help.”

all headed in the same direction, and I want to be sure I am supporting all of you. I am very moved by all the work each of you does and am thankful for it.”

“This partnership has been very resourceful,” added Brenda Rodriguez, Community Services Specialist at the City of San Antonio’s Department of Human ServicesUtility Assistance Program. “We have been able to help a lot of families with their utility bills, we have helped three times the amount in the history of San Antonio through the assistance programs. Especially through the pandemic, this has given them the extra boost to give our community a chance to get back on their feet.”

The San Antonio Food Bank is another great example of an agency helping residents through a variety of programs it offers.

“We are fortunate to have CPS Energy as a partner to the San Antonio Food Bank,” said Mike Rivas, the agency’s Director for Food for a Lifetime program. “The CPS Energy team sets up a table to greet clients at the San Antonio Food Bank, in our lobby in our client services department. This allows our same clients to be able to have access to the programs CPS Energy offers. We are very fortunate and privileged to have the team there. Our clients have shared their gratitude for the convenience that they can come to our location and there are other services in addition to what the San Antonio Food Bank offers.”

The power truly is in partnerships. With them, CPS Energy has been able to help many customers

with different assistance programs.

One unique example lies with a veteran who had fallen behind in his energy bill by $10,000. The CRU team connected him with nearly $10,000 in assistance from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and the Bexar County Utility Assistance Program. CRU then placed the customer on an installment plan and enrolled him in the Affordability Discount Program, taking the customer from what seemed like impossible debt to a manageable resolution. It’s one of the many examples of how CPS Energy, working with its partners, helps change the lives of customers every day.

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, call (210) 353-2222. For more information, please visit www.cpsenergy.com.

The CPS Energy Community Engagement team performs outreach through the CRU as well as the Casa Verde home weatherization program. Through its community partners, CPS Energy has been able to reach a wider span of customers in different parts of the San Antonio area. The partnerships are important because many of our customers do not know that they can receive assistance from multiple organizations.

The University of Texas Health Science Center (UTHSC), San Antonio Food Bank, and the City of San Antonio’s Human Services Department attended the event as community partners.

“The partnership with CPS Energy is a win-win,” said Gilbert Martinez with UTHSC. “People are coming into our office for medical assistance and can also get assistance from CPS Energy, so it is almost like a one-stop shop for the community.”

Keynote speaker and District 6 Councilwoman Melissa Cabello Havrda commended the partners for their community impact.

“A lot of the essence of who we are, are our non-profits,” said Councilwoman Cabello Havrda. “You are the heart and the key to preserving the San Antonio culture. I believe this is what this celebration is about, all these partnerships and the beautiful city we all help. We are Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

Source: CPS Energy

March 2023 | 13

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5

IT & TECHNOLOGY

Ways Your IT Admin Can Improve Password Management and Security for Your Firm

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

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f you're an IT administrator, you know how difficult it is to get employees to create and remember strong, unique passwords for business accounts and technology. Often, users will fall into common habits like using short, easy-to-guess passwords or passwords they've already used in other accounts.

Users who do not follow password security best practices leave themselves and the company open to a data breach.

To help employees create stronger passwords, protect company assets and make things easier on themselves, IT admins should consider these five password management and security tips.

2. Avoid password fatigue Password rotation is a common practice in password management and security. By requiring employees to change passwords every few months, it would seem to help you stay one step ahead of potential hackers.

However, frequent password changes can lead to password fatigue, meaning that users are more likely to use simple passwords that aren't secure enough.

Also, according to a survey conducted by the Ponemon Institute, 51% of people rotate the same five passwords across their work and personal accounts, leaving them and the company vulnerable to data breaches.

1. Design a password policy By creating a detailed password policy that all employees must follow, you can limit access to and protect your company's resources. For example, you can require that users use long, complex passwords.

Employees will likely be familiar with this requirement, as many websites require a minimum character length, which is generally six characters long. However, longer is better. According to Scientific American, a 12-character password takes 62 trillion times longer to crack than a standard 6-character one.

Also, don't allow users to include personal information in their passwords. While it's easier to remember dates of important life events, names of pets and children, birthplaces, and other words based on personal information, these clues are easy for hackers to find on social media and public records.

3. Use a password manager Consider using a password manager to help you and other employees create strong passwords and store them securely. There are many password managers, but they're not all created equal. In fact, a recent data breach of LastPass has made some wary of using a cloud-based password manager. However, by using a program like JumpCloud, IT admins and users can feel secure about passwords and data safety.

JumpCloud uses a hybrid approach that uses a decentralized architecture that stores enterprise vaults locally on users' devices. It also syncs users' vaults to multiple devices with end-to-end encryption on the cloud, offering the best of both worlds. To learn more, visit JumpCloud.com.

4. Check a password dictionary Many fraudsters use a password dictionary to crack account security by sheer brute force. When employees use dictionary words in their passwords, such as using three short words together, hackers can easily use an algorithm to try different combinations of words until they crack the code.

Have employees check their passwords against a password dictionary so they can avoid using common words, and refer them to sites such as haveibeenpwned. com. If they must use dictionary words, implement guidelines that require they use four or five dictionary words with a mix of other characters. For example, "cloud. novella-candlestick.backpack" is a strong password.

5. Require multi-factor authentication Many electronics and other technologies now require multi-factor authentication (MFA). Users may have MFA enabled on their phones, tablets, and computers, which require them to use their fingerprints, enter a code, or another secondary form of identification in addition to a password. When paired with a strong password, MFA makes it more difficult for the wrong person to access company data.

Password management and security don't have to be a headache or time-consuming. Using these five tips will save you time and help users become more invested in a company's security.

Source: BPT

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CORPORATE OFFICE: 108 SOUTH MAIN STREET, LA FERIA, TEXAS 78559 HOUSTON OFFICE: 9000 SW FREEWAY, STE 330, HOUSTON, TX 77074 SAN ANTONIO OFFICE: 1223 ARION PARKWAY, SUITE 132, SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS 78216 WWW.NOBLETX.COM | 833-423-1410

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Helen Callier o Committed to & Helping Clien

Staying True to Compl

H

when we're pulling a building permit for our large corporate accounts, say, like an H-E-B, we're still pulling a building permit for their dreams,” she

By Subcontractors USA said. “Their dream to touch the News Provider lives of customers that come elen Callier, who recently served as Emcee for the through their stores.”

“This is our fourth year celebrating National Women in Construction Week recognizing many roles that women work in. What started out over 20 years ago, the National Women in Construction Association thought it was prudent to acknowledge the value that women are providing in design and construction. And, I’m honored to say that we have women working in our business.”

She added,

She serves as a key contributor in the business community and often participates in industry conferences as a panel moderator, Emcee, or keynote speaker.

PermitUsNow has a sustainable business model that will provide our clients with value in the years to come.

Our company is 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 permit 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. #BuildSafe Helen Callier, 1.844.

PERMIT.4, helen@permitusnow.com. We operate offices in Houston, Dallas and Austin, TX. We are always willing and able to help.

first annual Harris County Minority and WomenOwned Business Enterprise (MWBE) Summit with SBA Houston, is expanding PermitUsNow's position in the construction industry.

As President of the firm, Callier uses PermitUsNow, an industry recognized building permit expediting firm helping architects, contractors, and project owners, to save time and money by obtaining building permits in a timely manner.

“We understand that small business owners have dreams.

We get that. We understand that. But I got to tell you, even

Starting in the fourth quarter 2016, PermitUsNow is the only permit expediting firm recognized as Diversity Firm of the Year by H-E-B for helping to save 50% in time in pulling permits allowing them to become profitable sooner. The company has pulled permits in over 700 jurisdictions in Texas for commercial clients, and has established relationships with Plan Reviewers, Analysts, Inspectors, and other jurisdictional staff.

With Women’s History Month celebrated in March, Callier is no stranger in support of women-owned businesses and women in construction,

“I’m a Mechanical Engineer by training, and I’ve been in construction for some 15 plus years. So, I challenge any and every one to chase their dreams in the areas of construction, building and design.”

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on Remaining o Permitting nts #BuildSafe

liance in Construction

Q&A With Helen Callier

President, PermitUsNow

SUBCUSA: What are your top areas of focus for 2023?

HC: We are excited about providing exceptional permitting services to the design and construction industry in 2023 across Texas and other key regions.

Our top areas of focus are taking care of our longtime clients and core business (continuing to be innovative in helping clients save time and money plus become profitable sooner), growing our green market share including permitting more EV charging stations, and building our bench strength via continuous training of team members and leveraging technology.

SUBCUSA: How have your strategies improved from the start of your company until now? What are some of the benefits and outcomes?

HC: One strategy that we exercised at the start of PermitUsNow was writing regular newspaper and blog articles to educate our clients and the industry on best practices, changes in jurisdiction policies and tips on how to obtain building permits.

Our articles are published monthly in Subcontractors USA and on permitusnow.com.

We receive text messages and calls from general contractors, Architects and Project Owners saying they appreciate the tips we provide or have found the articles to be valuable. This speaks volumes.

We also speak at contractors’ expos focused on building permitting and code compliance. Recently, we have started our PermitUsNow Youtube channel to serve as an educational resource for a larger audience. To date, responses have been positive.

SUBCUSA: Are there any other areas within Permit Us Now that you are working to improve?

HC: We perform in a fast-paced challenging industry.

Fand finding more creative and innovative ways to save time and money when obtaining permits for our clients is important. We are planning to begin using drones to collect field data when doing site

assessments and working on improving our CRM tool to allow quicker access to a client’s project information.

SUBCUSA: What challenges have you faced and overcome in the procurement industry?

HC: We rarely participate in an RFP typical procurement process. Relationships are important for us to identify the Architects who are engaged on a corporate project. The primary architect typically have permitting responsibilities included in their scope which they typically outsource.

We live and breathe permitting jurisdictions, building codes and stay in regular communications with Permitting staff (plan reviewers, plan analysts, inspectors, etc.) which helps us in being referred and in growing our business with existing clients.)

from the Regional Hispanic Contractors Association in 2021.

• We have assisted many senior citizens and economically challenged homeowners in Texas on a pro bono basis with obtaining building permits after Hurricane Harvey, many floods, and Winter Storm Yuri. We also have provided support in Louisiana after numerous hurricanes over the last several years.

• In the future, we will continue to save our clients time and money in obtaining building permits in Texas and across North America, to be a recognized leader in permitting EV charging stations and other green infrastructure (solar, battery storage facilities, etc.) and to be recognized in using innovative technologies to obtain building permits.

SUBCUSA: Tell us more about your commitment to constructional compliance.

HC: Helping our clients to adhere to compliance requirements is the top priority of our company. We understand the importance of helping our clients to meet all requirements regarding permitting, regulatory codes, and other critical factors.

SUBCUSA: What opportunities/resources does PermitUsNow provide?

HC: PermitUsNow has an experienced multi-discipline team, led by Moruf Jimoh, AAIA, Technical Manager, that conducts plan reviews, provides design assistance, conducts site assessments, expedites building permits, and assists clients with close-out as needed.

SUBCUSA: Breakdown some of your accomplishments over the years and future expectations.

HC: We are the only Permit Expediting firm recognized as Diversity Firm of the Year by H-E-B Grocery and featured in an H-E-B video. We are the only Permit Expediting firm and 1 of 5 small businesses featured in the official NFL Super Bowl 51 Commemorative Magazine.

• We have permitted approximately 85% of the concessions and restaurants at Bush Intercontinental Airport and Houston Hobby International Airport. 85% of our revenue comes from repeat business and referrals. We are the only permits expediting firm recognized as Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Subcontractor of the Year by SubContractors USA in 2022, and to receive the prestigious LUNA Award

SUBCUSA: What are the takeaways you want for the readers to have after they read this cover story?

HC: We are a proven building permitting firm in the industry that saves time and money plus removes the frustrations in obtaining a building permit.

Permit Us Now is here to bring you tips, stories and just the dynamics as to what's going on with the jurisdictions to help our target clients and the industry to pull permits faster for us. We help architects. We help project owners and contractors to save time and money and, of course, to help them build their customer dreams. That's what we're here for.

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For Upcoming Contracting and Networking Opportunities visit https://VIA.diversitycompliance.com The scope of contracting opportunities encompasses a wide variety of projects and services, including, but not limited to: • Architecture • Engineering • Construction • Facilities & Maintenance • Goods & Services

Procurement Division 800 W. Myrtle San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 362-2400 Office of Diversity & Federal Compliance 800 W. Myrtle San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 362-2074 | ODFC@viainfo.net

Building the Future

University of Houston – The Hub

MD Anderson – Biosciences Research Facility

MD Anderson – South Campus Education Building

More than Bricks & Mortar As one of the nation’s largest 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’s ingrained in our company culture. We are devoted to making contributions that not only strengthen the local economy, but also reflect the demographics of the community at large.

Turner is proud to celebrate our 33rd year of The Turner School of Construction Management in partnership with The City of Houston, Office of Business Opportunity.

We remain steadfast in our commitment to grow capacity in Small, Minority and Women owned enterprises in the communities where we work.

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PERMITS

Effective Time Management: What Every Contractor Needs To Know When Pulling Building Permits

By Helen Callier Contributing Writer

point and may have experienced delays W atthatsomepunched holes in a project’s budget. In e have all heard the phrase, “Time is money,”

the construction industry, time is crucial - especially when pulling building permits. Getting a permit can be cumbersome and time-consuming, so it's crucial for contractors to understand how to manage their time effectively in order to keep projects running on schedule.

Here are eight tips for getting building permits quickly and efficiently: 1. Know your building codes. Before you start the permit process, make sure you understand the building codes for your project. This will help reduce delays and ensure that your project meets all local regulations. In addition, knowing building codes will help you determine what type of permit you need, as well as any additional requirements.

2. Research permit requirements. Before you start the permit process, research the specific building code regulations that apply to your project and make sure you understand them. You should also review the application requirements for building permits in your area so that you know what paperwork you need to submit.

3. Prepare your building permit materials in advance. Make sure that all the required documents are filled out correctly and completely before submitting them for a building permit. This includes ensuring that all building plans, drawings, and other materials are accurate and up-to-date.

4. Follow up on building permit applications quickly. After you submit your building permit application, follow up with city plan reviewers and monitor the jurisdiction’s online portal to make sure that everything is moving along in a timely fashion.

Following up saves time plus can help ensure that any potential delays are addressed promptly and help avoid unnecessary hiccups.

5. Have a plan for dealing with a building permit delay. Despite your best efforts, building permit delays can occur from time to time. To minimize the impact of this problem, have a plan in place for dealing with potential building permit delays. This could include reviewing your phasing plan, adjusting material delivery schedules, or starting with demolition in case the delay is going to be longer than expected.

6. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Building permit requirements can vary from state to state and even from city to city, so don't be afraid to ask questions if you're unsure about something.

Contacting the building department or local building official ahead of time can help save time and ensure that everything is done correctly.

7. Consider hiring a building permit expediter. If you're unfamiliar with building codes or the building permit process,

it may be beneficial to hire a building permit expert who can help guide you through the process and make sure that everything is done correctly.

8. Say “Thank you.” Pulling building permits can be stressful for the permitting staff, so make sure to be professional at all times, and say, “Thank you” as this often helps in making sure your project keeps moving in the plan review process.

By following these eight tips, contractors can ensure that building permits are pulled quickly and efficiently, allowing projects to stay on track. With a little knowledge and preparation, building permits don't have to be a source of stress. Moreover, with effective time management, building permit delays can be minimized, and projects can stay on schedule.

If you find that you are crunched for time to pull permits, call PermitUsNow at 1.844.PERMIT.4 or visit us on the web at permitusnow.com.

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.

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#BuildSafe

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Final HEB Diversity Red ads.qxp

4/7/08

11:24 AM

Page 1

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At H-E-B, we value our partnerships with women and minority suppliers.

Through their contributions, we better understand the needs of our customers and add to the growth of our company and the communities we serve.

®

For more information on becoming a supplier with H-E-B, visit

www.heb.com

©2008 H-E-B Food Stores

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OIL & GAS

2023 Oil and Gas Industry Outlook

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he oil and gas (O&G) industry earned record profits in 2022, providing ample cash flow to fund its strategies in 2023. And while O&G companies recognize geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainty in the year ahead, they’ve also been given a clear mandate to secure supply in the short term while transitioning to cleaner energy in the long term. Deloitte’s 2023 outlook explores five trends that can help shape the path forward for O&G companies.

While the oil and gas industry isn’t new to supply disruptions and price volatility, the situation today is unique. A confluence of economic, geopolitical, trade, policy and financial factors have exacerbated the issue of underinvestment and triggered a readjustment in the broader energy market. As a result, all three components of a balanced energy equation—energy security, supply diversification, and low-carbon transition—are now facing a “trilemma” of concerns.

Although the immediate impact of this imbalance is high energy prices and record cash flows for O&G companies, how and where the industry will invest in the future remains uncertain.

The O&G industry will likely enter 2023 with its healthiest balance sheet yet and with continued capital discipline. The positivity of this situation is reflected in Deloitte’s survey, in which 93% of O&G executives state they’re positive about the industry in the coming year. This momentum could help companies overcome the energy underinvestment of recent years and help enable an accelerated energy transition.

Explore the five trends below that will likely influence

the direction of the industry over the next 12 months.

Upstream - Healthy balance sheets create opportunities for oil and gas By practicing capital discipline and focusing on cash flow generation and payout, the global upstream industry is projected to generate its highest-ever free cash flows of $1.4 trillion by the end of 2022 (at an assumed annual Brent oil price of $106 per barrel). Now all eyes are

on upstream companies to see if they will continue to prioritize shareholder payouts or increase their hydrocarbon reinvestment rate, driven by the urgency to provide affordable energy to the world.

Clean energy - New policies expected to accelerate the clean energy transition Supportive policies, in combination with higher O&G cash flows in 2022, have enabled O&G companies to increase investment in clean energy. While this investment is expected to continue increasing, several factors could influence the pace of investment or shift the clean energy focus over the next 12 months.

Natural gas and liquified natural gas (LNG) - New policies and investments could boost the role of natural gas in the clean energy transition Increases in natural gas investment are expected in 2023, including investments that reduce the greenhouse gas intensity of natural gas and its related infrastructure.

In the United States, more natural gas is being produced with a view to reducing carbon and methane emissions and exporting incremental supplies, especially to Europe.

Certified natural gas and carbon-neutral LNG are expected to continue increasing momentum in 2023.

Downstream - Refiners respond to shifting energy demand In the coming year, refineries could grapple with weakening demand, recession worries, and a projected 1.6 mbpd increase in global refining capacity. Notably, US-headquartered refiners are not expected to increase core refining capacity as they prioritize financial health, optimize operations, and convert refineries to produce renewable fuels.

Mergers and acquisitions - Deal-making reflects wider trends in the market While projected record cash flows and renewed interest in resource industries bode very well for O&G M&A, capital discipline and an uncertain economic environment will likely keep M&A in check-in 2023.

According to our survey, 27% of executives highlight high and stable energy prices as key to sustaining the M&A momentum in 2023.

For the full report, please visit www2.deloitte.com.

Source: Deloitte

OIL & GAS

Numbers Once Again Show Texas Gas Supply Held Strong During Wintry Weather

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

F

or the second time this winter, the state’s natural gas supply chain was tested and performed as needed to keep heating and lights on for millions and millions of Texans.

Winter Storm Mara swept through Midland, the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and into San Antonio, covering several gas production basins in the state. The key elements of gas supply – production, pipeline transportation, and underground storage – all performed up to par during the arctic blast.

Texas’ daily onshore gas production, for example,

averaged more than 25 billion cubic feet (Bcf) per day from January 31 to February 2. As shown in the chart below, that exceeded the daily average seen during Winter Storm Elliott in late December, and the daily production gas production of all last winter.

The state’s underground storage facilities had an estimated 392.4 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of natural gas as of January 2023. In addition, pipeline operators packed the pipeline system with natural gas ahead of the storm.

All told, there was more than enough gas to meet the demand during Mara. According to data from S&P Global natural gas demand for residential and commercial heating peaked at 4.23 Bcf and demand for electricity generation peaked at an estimated 6.46 Bcf for power generation, both on January 31.

The RRC does not regulate the price of natural gas, but it should be noted that there were no unusual spikes in prices with the cash basis market price averaging below $3 per MMBtu at the Waha trading hub in West Texas during Mara. Market data suggests that the price actually declined by $0.60 per MMBtu on February 1 indicating strong supply in the region.

The Commission has been committed to ensuring the delivery of natural gas to protect Texans this winter, and we will continue that work to ensure peace of mind for residents.

For more information, please visit www.rrc.texas.gov.

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Source: Railroad Commission of Texas

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SAFETY

Department of Labor, Better Business Bureau North Central Texas Sign Alliance Partnership To Help Keep Workers Safe

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Better Business Bureau, North Central Texas have partnered to promote workplace rights and responsibilities of members and employees.

OSHA's Dallas and Fort Worth area offices and the Better Business Bureau have signed an alliance to educate employers and employees on workplace hazards. The alliance's partners will provide information, guidance, and training resources to construction and general industry employers to help protect the safety and health of workers.

The alliance will also promote a better understanding of workers' rights and employers' responsibilities under the Occupational Safety and Health Act. OSHA's Alliance Program works with groups committed to worker safety and health to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries, and illnesses. These groups include unions, consulates, trade or professional organizations, businesses, faith- and community-based organizations, and educational institutions. OSHA and the groups work together to develop compliance assistance tools and resources, share information with workers and employers and educate workers and employers about their rights and responsibilities.

"OSHA's alliance with the Better Business Bureau will greatly improve knowledge regarding the health and safety of business owners and their employees who partner with the organization," explained OSHA Area Director Basil Singh in Dallas.

"This alliance will allow OSHA to provide outreach opportunities for the Better Business Bureau members covering 47 counties in the Dallas and Fort Worth area," added OSHA Area Director Timothy Minor in Fort Worth.

For more information, please visit www.

OSHA.gov.

Source: OSHA

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SAFETY

U.S. Department of Labor Seeking Public Comments on Modernizing Program That Recognizes Employers Committed To Best Safety, Health Practices

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he U.S. Department of Labor recently announced that its Occupational Safety and Health Administration is inviting the public and workplace safety stakeholders to share their comments on how the agency can best honor companies who make exceptional commitments to workplace safety and health and encourage others to follow.

Established in 1982, OSHA's Voluntary Protection Program recognizes workplaces that demonstrate best practices in safety and health management and serve as industry models. In the last 40 years, the program has attracted a wide variety of organizations in many industries. VPP's success has stretched OSHA's resources and made it more difficult to ensure the quality of program applicants' safety and health management systems.

By opening the program to public comments, OSHA seeks input from all perspectives to assist the agency as it modernizes and enhances the VPP, and continues to promote the use of workplace safety and health management systems. The Voluntary Protection Program's modernization project is seeking stakeholder input on issues such as:

• Aligning the program more closely with recent occupational safety and health management practices and system standards.

• How the program can contribute to expanding the use and effectiveness of safety and health management systems.

• Whether and how resources and tools such as “special government employees,” consensus standards, thirdparty auditors, and other methods could serve to expand the program's capacity without compromising effectiveness and oversight.

• Whether particular categories of hazards need special attention in the VPP certification process.

OSHA is asking a series of questions in 10 sections to elicit useful responses to support the project's aims. Interested members of the public should submit comments and attachments, identified by Docket No. OSHA-2022-0012, using the Federal e-Rulemaking Portal. The deadline for comments is April 14, 2023.

Learn more about OSHA and the Voluntary Protection Programs at www.

OSHA.gov.

Source: OSHA TRANSPORTATION

Austin Transportation News: CapMetro's New CEO, Dottie Watkins

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

A

familiar face is CapMetro’s new President and CEO. Dottie Watkins, a lifelong Austinite, will lead the agency following a recent vote by the Board of Directors. She had served as interim CEO since June 2022, while a nationwide search was conducted.

Watkins first joined CapMetro in 1994, working as a part-time shuttle bus operator while attending the University of Texas at Austin. Over the course of nearly three decades, she has held a variety of leadership roles, including Deputy CEO, Chief Customer Officer/Chief Operating Officer, and Vice President of Bus Operations and Maintenance. During the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, Watkins played a key role in ensuring the region’s transit system continued to operate safely.

“I am honored, humbled, and ready to serve as CapMetro’s President and CEO,” Watkins said. “I want to thank the board for selecting me to serve in this capacity and for their vote of confidence. I’ve gotten to watch firsthand as CapMetro and our teams grow into what I consider to be among the best transit agencies in the nation. Delivering safe, reliable, and customer-oriented service for our customers is a priority to me.”

It’s shaping up to be a busy year for CapMetro. Work is progressing on a Red Line station at Q2 Stadium, home of Austin FC. “Central Texas has a lot to look forward to when it comes to public transportation, and I can’t wait to continue collaborating with our stakeholders, the CapMetro staff, and our community members on the future of CapMetro,” Watkins said. “We work hard, and will continue to do so, to be an agency that delivers service that everyone is proud of and takes care of everyone in our community.”

Source: CapMetro

“As a board, it was crucial that we selected the right leader for this position and for our community,” said CapMetro Board Chair and Travis County Commissioner Jeff Travillion. “We interviewed multiple qualified candidates for this position, and we wanted to make sure the person we selected had a stellar professional reputation, a proven track record of getting things done, and most importantly, was someone the community could trust and their staff could respect and also have confidence in. Dottie meets all those qualifications and I’m confident we made the right decision selecting her as the next President and CEO.” Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

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