Subcontractor USA 75

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

June 2022 | Advertising for Certified Women, Veteran & Minority-Owned Subcontractors | 75th Edition

MCA Communications, Inc.

expands into Central Texas in support of the technology boom FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Rick Cortez - Founder/Chairman, Maria Cortez – Wife to Rick Cortez, David Cortez – Operations Manager, Jennifer Cortez – VP Human Resources, Ricky Cortez – CEO, Val Cortez – Wife to Ricky Cortez

16-17

INSIDE

20

5 Key Steps To Keep a Sharp Eye on Your Plans During Permitting

13 5 Construction Strategies to Successfully Deploy at Your Firm Today

26

DART Welcomes Bernard Jackson as Chief Operations Officer

2 | June 2022

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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 MCA Communications, Inc. (MCA). Since its founding in 1983 in Houston, Texas, MCA has sustained a solid track record of completing high-profile projects with a focus on safety, quality, and customer service. This award-winning design-build technology integrator firm specializes in network cabling infrastructure, audiovisual installations, wireless solutions, and security solutions for schools, hospitals, corporate buildings, and industrial facilities, serving a roster of globally-recognized clientele that include MD Anderson, Memorial Hermann

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 Dana C. Sotoodeh Helen Callier Cal Beyer Subcontractors USA

— Henry Ford, Founder of Ford Motor Company

City of Houston

HISD

16-17 COVER STORY 16-17 MCA Communications, Inc. expands into Central Texas in support of the technology boom 16-17 04 ARCHITECTURE 04 Leadership Training for Ethnically Diverse Women in Architecture 06 Leadership Programs for Architects

14 5 Construction Strategies to Successfully Deploy at Your Firm Today

07 CONSTRUCTION 07 Construction Employment Exceeds Pre-pandemic Peak in 32 States in April, but Record High Job Openings Threaten Further Job Gains 08 New Report Explores Architect, Contractor Relationship 10 ENERGY 10 API Addresses Economic Club of Colorado, Underscores Importance of American Energy Leadership 10 API: Proposed Offshore Energy Program Shows Disconnect Between Political Rhetoric and Reality 12 Reliant and Houston Texans Award Six Student-Athletes With $10,000 Scholarships 13 IT & TECHNOLOGY 13 How To Create Accurate Estimates in Your Construction Business?

18 OIL AND GAS 18 API, AOPL Report Shows Strengthened Pipeline Safety Performance 18 API Enhances Pipeline Safety With Two Updated Standard 20 PERMITS 20 5 Key Steps To Keep a Sharp Eye on Your Plans During Permitting 22 SAFETY 22 Mental Health and Wellbeing in Construction Pulse Survey 22 Construction Suicide Prevention Week 24 TRANSPORTATION 24 Houston Airports Fully Onboard with UA and SWA Initiatives To Boost Minority Representation in Aviation 26 DART Welcomes Bernard Jackson as Chief Operations Officer 27 Port Houston Volume Surge Continues 28 What You Need To Know About NASA’s Boeing Orbital Flight Test-2

HUB

VBE

DBE

OUR SERVICES

CONTENTS

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

"A business absolutely devoted to service will have only one worry about profits.

They will be embarrassingly large."

Hospital, the University of Houston, Houston ISD, Chevron, and ExxonMobil.

As the State’s growth propels major and lucrative high-profile construction projects around Texas, MCA not only moves right along with the development but ahead, with the announcement of a new Central Texas office. The new office serves as a home base for the technology integrator’s growing Central Texas presence in Round Rock, Texas. This milestone is a major move for MCA as it expands across Texas and the Nation.

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

Fax: (713) 750.9472

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ARCHITECTURE

Leadership Training for

Ethnically Diverse Women in Architecture This Thisyear’s year’sinaugural inauguralNext Nextto toLead cohort includes: Lead cohort includes:

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

o create an architecture profession that serves everyone, we must include everyone. Next to Lead is a new pilot association leadership program that removes barriers to AIA leadership positions for ethnically diverse women. It's part of AIA's commitment to advancing racial equity in our organization, in the architecture profession, and in our communities.

Next to Lead isn't just leadership training. This twoyear program is designed to teach essential leadership skills alongside successful, diverse women leaders with decades of experience. It includes a leadership impact capstone - a volunteer leadership opportunity within AIA where you'll serve on a collaborative project developed with a local or state component or with the AIA. Next to Lead is how we're ensuring the next generation of leaders is more diverse and that everyone's voice and unique perspective is heard.

Next to Lead is the first program of its kind to support association leadership for ethnically diverse women aspiring to be leaders of the AIA. Candidates were selected by jurors from AIA’s Equity and the Future of Architecture Committee (EQFA) who conducted a blind review of applications and reference letters.

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Anna Barbour, AIA, AIA Northern Virginia Kuleya Bruce, Assoc. AIA, AIA Springfield Chelsea Davis, AIA, AIA Brooklyn Libertad Lauren Harris, Assoc. AIA, AIA West Jersey Nicole Hilton, AIA, AIA Atlanta Tanya Kataria, Assoc. AIA, AIA Seattle Siobhan Klinkenberg, Assoc. AIA, AIA San Francisco Levitta Lawrence-Gathers, Assoc. AIA, AIA Newark & Suburban Architects Whitney Lewis, Assoc. AIA, AIA Seattle Brenna Martin-Shaffer, AIA, AIA Pittsburgh Wendy Meguro, AIA, AIA Honolulu Phuong Nguyen, Assoc. AIA, AIA Omaha Nasra Nimaga, AIA, AIA New York

• • • •

Constance Owens, Assoc. AIA, AIA Richmond Melanie Ray, AIA, AIA Baltimore Sophia Tarkhan, AIA, AIA Atlanta Ellie Ziaie, Assoc. AIA, AIA Minneapolis

Next to Lead is a two-year program developed by AIA.

Some highlights about the program: - The first year follows an online curriculum with monthly virtual sessions.

- The second year involves serving in a volunteer leadership role within AIA. This role is unpaid but works around your existing work schedule.

- AIA covers most program costs including curriculum and virtual meetings.

Participants are responsible for purchasing books and resources ($295).

- The program is open to racially and ethnically diverse women who are AIA members and have at least 5 years of experience in architecture.

The next program application period is expected to be held in 2023.

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

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NAMC

Golf Tournament

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ARCHITECTURE

Leadership Programs for

Architects

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

o meet the complex demands of this fast-paced environment, leadership is the most critical component for success. Through seminars, workshops, certificate programs, and online resources, the AIA prepares architects and emerging professionals to advance the architecture profession.

Whether you are a partner in a large firm, an emerging professional in your first project management role, or an elected official on a municipal council, AIA leadership programs will develop your potential and provide you with the tools to lead the profession into the future. AIA leadership development programs— in tandem with AIA components across the country—help shape the minds of architects of all experience levels.

• Fundamentals: Discover behaviors, attitudes, and expectations that characterize leadership culture, and learn organizational theory and skills, and abilities needed for successful leadership at any career stage.

• Community: Find effective methods for sharing and conveying ideas to different audiences beyond architects through civic engagement and government service, advocacy skills building, philanthropy, pro bono, and public policy. Gain competencies demonstrated within public settings and new markets.

• Firm: Build leadership competency related to people, teams, and firm settings and enhance personal and organizational leadership effectiveness within design and practice.

• Professional: Expression of leadership gained through engagement across the industry, within the AIA, and affiliated professional organizations to advance the impact architects have on the future of the profession.

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.

There are many AIA leadership programs around the country, including the Advanced Executive Leadership Program hosted by the AIA chapter in Dallas, Texas. The Advanced Executive Leadership Program is an advanced, executive leadership program recognizing the need for architect-leaders, based on the fact that, while professional education is starting to address this issue, leadership development is generally left up to the professional to learn, and succeed, or fail on their own. The problems faced by firm and studio leaders are more complex and demanding and need a higher level of engagement than traditional management programs. The program includes a one-day introductory seminar on general knowledge of leadership and basic strategies for influencing professionals and organizations; followed by five half-day seminars held each month to introduce new concepts and practices and extend knowledge; and one concluding session.

Visit aiadallas.org for more.

For more information about AIA’s leadership programs around the country, please visit www.aia.org.

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

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CONSTRUCTION

Construction Employment Exceeds Pre-pandemic Peak in 32 States in April, but Record High Job Openings Threaten Further Job Gains

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

C

onstruction employment exceeded pre-pandemic levels in 32 states in April, according to a new analysis of federal employment data released by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials cautioned however that record-high job opening levels in the construction sector indicate that many firms are having a hard time finding workers to hire, putting future job gains at risk.

Construction employment gains have stalled in many states in recent months as the pool of available workers has dried up,” said Ken Simonson,

the association’s chief economist. “It will be hard to satisfy the demand for private projects and infrastructure unless more workers are available to fill the record number of openings.

Simonson noted that government data from the monthly Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey show that there were 415,000 job openings in the construction at the end of March. That was the highest March total since the series began in 2001 and constituted a 20 percent jump in openings from one year earlier. Openings exceeded the 388,000 employees hired during that month, implying that construction firms would have added twice as many employees if they had been available, the economist asserted.

From February 2020—the month before the pandemic caused projects to be halted or canceled—to April 2022, construction employment increased in 32, states, declined in 17 states, and the District of Columbia, and was unchanged in Alaska. Utah added the most Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

construction jobs since February 2020 (16,300 jobs, 14.3 percent), followed by Florida (15,500 jobs, 2.7 percent) and Tennessee (13,200 jobs, 10.0 percent).

Utah had the largest percentage gain, followed by Montana (13.3 percent, 4,100 jobs) and South Dakota (12.5 percent, 3,000 jobs).

New York shed the most construction jobs over 26 months (-27,700 jobs, -6.8 percent), followed by Pennsylvania (-15,600 jobs, -5.8 percent) and Texas (-10,800 jobs, -1.4 percent). The largest percentage losses were in New York, Kentucky (-6.2 percent, -5,000 jobs), and Pennsylvania.

In April, 27 states and D.C. added construction jobs, 21 states lost jobs, and there was no change in Alaska and Rhode Island. Florida added the most construction jobs (4,300 jobs, 0.7 percent), followed by Texas (3,600 jobs, 0.5 percent) and Ohio (3,300 jobs, 1.4 percent). Delaware had the largest percentage gain (2.1 percent, 500 jobs), followed by South Dakota (1.5 percent, 400 jobs), Ohio, and Montana (1.4 percent, 500 jobs).

California lost the most construction jobs last month (-13,200 jobs, -1.4 percent), followed by North Carolina (-5,900 jobs, -2.4 percent) and New Jersey (-2,600 jobs, -1.6 percent). Arkansas had the largest percentage loss (-2.7 percent, -1,500 jobs), followed by North Carolina and Kentucky (-2.1 percent, -1,600 jobs).

Association officials urged public officials to boost investments in career and technical education to help entice more people to pursue high-paying careers in construction. They noted that the federal government invests only a fraction of what it spends on “traditional” college preparation on programs focusing on careers like construction. “We need to let more young people know they can earn a good living and a lot of satisfaction by working in 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

8 | June 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

CONSTRUCTION

New Report Explores Architect,

Contractor Relationship

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

A

study published recently by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), in partnership with the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), sheds new light on the relationship between architects and contractors and the needs of both professions.

The fifth edition of The Architect’s Journey to Specification focuses on improving the working relationship between architects and contractors and explores how the parties align, differ, and depend on each other.

“This report is a first step towards fostering greater understanding between architects and contractors,” said AIA EVP/Chief Executive Officer Lakisha Ann Woods. “Ultimately, we hope it will help them to improve their working relationships, achieve even greater success on their projects, and build a better world.”

Highlights Highlightsfrom fromthe report the report include: include: • A majority of architects and contractors want to work more collaboratively for the benefit of all.

• Successful relationships benefit from mutual understandings and alignment about client advocacy and

the purpose of substitutions.

• Transparency and communication are key to building more trusted working relationships for the benefit of all parties and the built environment.

• Earlier collaboration and more clarity around design intent are likely to set projects up for success for all parties.

This report will help contractors and architects build stronger, more successful, and trusting relationships with each other,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, CEO of the AGC. “Everyone wants to see successful projects and understanding the concerns architects and general contractors have will help members of both our associations become even better collaborators.

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

Source: Associated General Contractors of America

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ENERGY

ENERGY

API Addresses Economic Club of Colorado, Underscores Importance of

American Energy Leadership

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

A

merican Petroleum Institute (API) President and CEO Mike Sommers recently addressed The Economic Club of Colorado and discussed the importance of American energy security during a critical moment in the nation’s history. Sommers discussed energy markets and offered recommendations to both federal and state policymakers to maintain and strengthen American energy leadership.

“If our country is going to live up to our billing as the world’s energy leader, then we can look to Colorado to see how it’s done,” Sommers said. “This state has been right in the middle of what we call the dual challenge – meeting America’s energy needs, and doing so safely and responsibly to protect the environment and build a lower-carbon future.”

Sommers called attention to the mixed messages being received by the industry from Washington and in state capitols across the country, including in Denver.

“We can’t treat the oil and natural gas industry as a kind of light switch that is turned on or off to suit the political moment," Sommers said. "Production and delivery don’t work that way. Yet the overriding policy lately has been to cancel pipelines, block permits, and deny leases – all of which suppress needed investment.”

Colorado is America’s sixth-leading oil producer and seventh-leading natural gas producer. Yet the political and regulatory environment in the state has created additional barriers to production, despite Colorado voters recently demonstrating clear support for natural gas and oil development.

“For Colorado’s producers to do their part to help meet growing energy demand, regulatory and political certainty is a must,” Sommers said. “State policymakers can and should take action to ensure that Colorado operators can produce the natural gas and oil needed

by American families, businesses, and America’s allies abroad.”

“This is an industry well-known and appreciated in Colorado. But I could also show you around places in Pennsylvania, Ohio, North Dakota, New Mexico, and elsewhere that have seen job growth and economic revival more durable and broad-based than anyone imagined was possible,” concluded Sommers. “That spreads out to parts and equipment suppliers, truckers, contractors, service providers, and on and on.

We’re ta lk ing about a powerful engine with a history of prosperity and patriotism.

A nd I would rather keep that engine running in America than anywhere else.”

API Colorado is a division of the A merican Petroleum Institute, which represents all segments of America’s natural gas and oil industry. It’s 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 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

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

Source: American Petroleum Institute

API: Proposed Offshore Energy Program Shows Disconnect Between Political Rhetoric and Reality

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he American Petroleum Institute (API) recently released the following statement from Senior Vice President of Policy, Economics, and Regulatory Affairs Frank Macchiarola in response to the Department of Interior's (DOI) proposed 5-Year Program for federal offshore leasing on the Outer Continental Shelf:

“Today’s announcement from the Department of the Interior confirms they are significantly behind in this multi-year process and will release a proposed program by June 30 - the day they should be finalizing it. The practical effect of this is that it is unlikely there will be offshore lease sales before the end of 2023. This is one more example of the disconnect between the administration’s political rhetoric and policy reality. As energy prices and geopolitical volatility continue to rise, we urge the administration to end the continued mixed signals on energy policy and remove regulatory hurdles that are hindering American producers’ ability to increase supply and meet the growing energy demand.”

API and NOIA released an analysis recently explaining how a lapse in the 5-year program could jeopardize American energy security, cost thousands of jobs, and billions in lost state and local revenues. View the fact sheet at api.org.

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 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

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

Source: American Petroleum Institute

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ENERGY

Reliant and Houston Texans Award

Six Student-Athletes With $10,000 Scholarships ers, mentors, and coaches to recognize their achievements as each pursues a college degree beginning this fall.

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

A

s the 2021-2022 school year comes to an end for students across the greater Houston area, six student-athletes received the ultimate surprise from Reliant and the Houston Texans: $10,000 college scholarships. The annual Scholarships for Champions program is designed to encourage students to follow their dreams and further their education while never losing sight of the passion they have for athletics.

Whether they are first-generation high school graduates or the first in their families to attend college, the program recognizes these deserving students for their work both on and off the field, including community involvement, leadership in athletics, and excellence in academics. Since 2005, Reliant and the Houston Texans have partnered together on the program, reaching a milestone of $600,000 in merit scholarships and providing life-changing opportunities for more than 100 students.

“Each Scholarships for Champions student has a remarkable story, demonstrating perseverance and dedication in academics and athletics while being an inspiring changemaker in their community and family,” said Elizabeth Killinger, president of Reliant. “Their futures are bright, and it is an honor for Reliant to celebrate them through scholarship.”

This year’s scholarship recipients from Alvin, Fort Bend, Hempstead, Humble, and Spring Branch ISDs participate in football, squash, track & field, soccer, volleyball, cheerleading, and swimming, with most students playing multiple sports. Students were secretly nominated by teach-

The2022 2022Scholarships Scholarshipsfor forChampions Champions The students are: students are: • Aaron Davis, senior at Summer Creek High School, is a team captain for his varsity track and field team, earning him the titles of 6th-best long jumper in the U.S. and 3-time AAU All-American. He has continued to persevere through multiple injuries and surgeries and spends his time off the field helping with the youth department at his church and coaching a local youth soccer league.

• Josiah Ibarra, senior at Elkins High School, has been a member of the varsity swimming team throughout his high school career. He has been recognized on 1st Team All-District since 2020, Academic All-District Team in 2021, and was named team captain his senior year. Josiah has volunteered for several hurricane clean-ups, including Hurricane Laura and Hurricane Delta in Lake Charles.

• Gabriel Mata, senior at Northbrook High School, has played on the varsity football team for the last two years and was twice named Special Teams player of the week. He was part of the Academic All-District Team as a junior and also participated in track and field, and powerlifting. He is part of the Yes Prep program at his high school and has been on the A/B honor roll several times throughout his career as a student. Gabriel serves as a campus ambassador and volunteers at local organizations, including DePelchin Children’s Center.

• Ariel Mayes, senior at Hempstead High School, participates in both volleyball and cheerleading and was named the captain of the varsity volleyball team her junior and senior years and was recognized at the district level. She also was named the captain of the cheerleading team her senior year and earned the recognition of All-American Cheerleader. Ariel volunteers at a local elementary school and serves lunch to veterans in her spare time.

• Miranda Medina, senior at St. Pius X High School, has been a part of the varsity squash team since she was a freshman and was named captain her junior and senior years. As a result of her various athletic state titles, she has achieved the ranking of 77th in the U.S. for squash, 144th in the world for her age division, and has committed to playing Division 1 squash for Connecticut College starting next year. Miranda is passionate about food security and spends time volunteering at the Houston Food Bank and Second Servings.

• Trevor Singleton, senior at Alvin High School, is a three-year starter on his varsity soccer team and has played a variety of positions on the varsity football team. Throughout his high school career, he has given back to his community through his volunteer work at local food banks, Project Graduation events, and his local church. He also has supported the Down Syndrome Buddy Walk for many years, volunteers at the local food bank, and picks up trash in his neighborhood.

For more information about the program, visit www.Reliant.com/SFC.

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Source: Reliant

June 2022 | 13

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IT & TECHNOLOGY

How To Create Accurate Estimates in Your Construction Business?

By Dana C Sotoodeh CPS Energy Contributor

P

roviding accurate project estimates to your clients seems challenging for every industry, and construction is not an exception in this regard.

Several factors need to be considered for every project, making each estimate special from the next.

As a construction business owner, you know how significant it is to estimate accurately. With fluctuating material costs and a competitive market, worrying about whether your bids can win or not. Besides, one more aspect that makes things more challenging is estimating higher risk, leading to losing the job or estimating lower than market endangers bottom line and your brand's future.

Well, it may seem like you'll lose in every situation, but it doesn't have to be. Execute the below-mentioned construction estimating tips and ensure that you're providing the most accurate estimate possible.

1. Ensure that your launch process is excellent In the launch process, you should have a meticulous outline of every aspect of your project you will need for each job. It would help if you spent your time reducing the possibility of making a mistake.

2. Maintain your cost-estimating catalog smartly Understand that this task is quite difficult, but not impossible. Creating a construction cost estimate without using a database is an effective way to do so.

After a period, your database should keep growing and evolving. This makes it easier to produce estimates for new projects. You can also use your database to allocate crew and production rates to every project variable.

Your construction database plays a vital role in creating an accurate estimate, so be sure it's consistently up to date.

3. Prepare a checklist for easy project tracking Preparing a checklist or utilizing a construction estimate template is one of the most significant steps for staying consistent. This is where ProjectPro can help you. It has an in-built feature that allows you with ready-made templates to keep track of project details.

Using a templated list is suitable, so you're not starting from scratch each time. You'll have your essential list, and then you can take on any job-specific essential items.

4. Stay ahead of material costs The construction industry is one of the leading sectors affected by fluctuaExperience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

tions in material prices. The materials and appliances can be complex, and the prices vary frequently. Remember when you're creating your estimates. Keep in mind the following questions such as: • Is there a high demand for certain materials?

• Can certain items or appliances order back?

• Are there any restrictions for products?

• Does this project need any custom work?

Staying notified on these topics at the beginning of a job will help advise your estimate.

5. Analyze risks in cost Your construction estimation should possess costs for things that may go wrong. There's no accuracy in the prediction of tomorrow, but the best way to predict these unplanned costs is by looking back at earlier projects. This will give you a fair idea of what could potentially happen.

Expecting these costs will enable your client to be ready financially and protect your end if something goes wrong.

6. Take into account costs beyond labor and materials Along with paying attention to detail, don't give extra cost items, you will also want to keep in mind the operating costs that will slip outside of labor and materials. For instance: • • • •

Engineering or architecture Land purchase Operation and administrative Legal services

7. Know your equipment needs You may get more large projects than you already have, requiring more equipment. Having the right equipment for the job will ensure that the job is completed efficiently, but more equipment indicates more money. Don't overlook these extra costs. The right time to factor them in when you're creating project estimation.

8. Evaluate higher costs more closely When creating your construction estimates, you'll want to prioritize your focus on the pieces of your job that have the most elevated percentage cost. Your number of tasks, the scope of work, labor pricing, and material costs should take primacy when building your estimate.

Looking meticulously at these items will help you prioritize and cut costs in other areas if essential.

For more information, please visit www.projectpro365.com.

Source: Via ProjectPro Blog

14 | June 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

IT & TECHNOLOGY

5 Construction Strategies to Successfully Deploy at

Your Firm Today

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

C

onstruction is an industry that has been low on digitization, very low on spending, and has been lagging in terms of productivity growth. There is a dire need to implement construction technologies to transform an industry with a $1.6 trillion opportunity and a lot of scopes to boost productivity performance.

Today the construction technology market is highly fragmented and the need for product-specific software is on the rise. The need for planning strategies to deploy at construction firms arises from the fact that incumbents are changing how construction firms plan, design, and implement projects.

Other than that, construction is at the cusp of a new era and the need for digital collaboration is more.

Hence, productivity strides have to be made through automation and digitization. But the question remains what strategies to deploy to maximize the return from investing in construction technology.

So Sohere hereare arethe thetop top55strategies strategiesthat that construction firms construction firms shouldshould deploydeploy for added for added productivity: productivity: Digital Solution is the Next Big Thing

Many construction businesses are rapidly investing in digital solutions and spending significantly on new tools.

To stay on top of the competition it is best to deploy construction-specific software. Tech transition may not be easy but improving process value and operations is the only way to success.

Although digital initiatives carry some amount of financial risk, contractors should seek those solutions that will be the

right fit for them. Hence you should seek ProjectPro’s partnership program powered by Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central for your construction business.

Look for enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions that streamline your construction accounting so that you can increase field supervision for large construction projects.

Effective Planning with Accurate Data

Today the need for integrated data on a centralized system trumps all and equips you to deal with any unforeseen situation. Hence a software system with project management features and with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) functionalities is a popular choice.

This helps builders and remodelers to collect and analyze data on ongoing as well as past projects.

Construction technology that incorporates data and allows decision-makers within firms to get key insights and make meaningful decisions will continue to dominate the construction landscape.

Relying on building information modeling (BIM), analytics and decision-making algorithms will help firms to evolve a strategy unique for them.

Investing in capabilities and collecting targeted data will help in increasing your return on investment (ROI) and help you strengthen control of your project. But to make a lasting impact and scale your business, you have to rely on data that is going to lead the way for future building projects.

and previous difficulties associated with collecting data.

Today, firms are in a better position to execute projects.

Set Realistic Goals New tools are enhancing field productivity as well as helping with quality control and safety monitoring.

This has enabled construction firms to set realistic and achievable goals.

It’s true that construction technologies are gaining momentum and automating tasks such as managing equipment and scheduling is allowing builders to exploit valuable project data on costs and finances.

Digital collaboration is facilitating the exchange of information and allows contractors to make changes in purchase orders. Also, there is an increase in efficiency and on-site execution of projects is much more accurate due to the accuracy of project specifications.

Stay Focused on your Digital Strategy

By adopting construction technology, you must establish a performance baseline and how it will affect your bottom line. Identify your areas of improvement such as construction productivity, documentation, tracking project progress, and streamlining your accounting process. Then set some benchmarks to quantify the benefits associated with implementation.

Some may find implementing construction technology and developing a digital strategy more challenging but you have to implement initiatives that can be scaled in the future.

Make the Fullest of Technology

As a contractor, succeeding in the wave of digital transformation will empower your construction firms efficiently. Construction projects will continue to become expensive and complex. This is why construction managers are facing an uphill battle to improve efficiency, and timelines and make projects cost-effective.

A d v a nc e d a n aly tic capabilities and constructionfocused technology is available to eliminate the problems related to sharing project information

Way Forward As we all know by now, construction strategies help set contractors up for success. Apart from reducing inefficiencies, deploying a strategy also improves profit.

It may be hard to adopt a new operating model as it involves significant investment and overhauling your company’s culture.

But it’s time to change work operations and rely on integrated data to future-proof your business. To position yourself for success and prime your organization to understand the need for change, productivity and profit are the need of the hour.

It’s important to focus on winning and coordinating the next stage of work and only construction technology can catapult you to soar above the competition.

Say yes to transparency by banking on a robust platform that can streamline workflows through real-time alerts and updates.

For more information, please visit www.projectpro365.com.

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Source: Via ProjectPro Blog

June 2022 | 15

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

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16 | June 2022

MCA Communicati SUBCONTRACTORS USA

expands into Central Texas in support of the technology boom

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

S

ince its founding in 1983 in Houston, Texas, MCA Communications, Inc. (MCA) has sustained a solid track record of completing high-profile projects with a focus on safety, quality, and customer service. This award-winning design-build technology integrator firm specializes in network cabling infrastructure, audiovisual installations, wireless solutions, and security solutions for enterprise markets including energy, education, healthcare, hospitality, entertainment, and government, serving a roster of globally-recognized clientele that include MD Anderson, Memorial Hermann Hospital, the University of Houston, Houston ISD, Chevron, and ExxonMobil.

The firm’s growth in the AV market

birthed its expansion, with MCA’s move into a new facility in 2018. This 50,000 sq ft office and warehouse include a state-of-theart training facility, AV lab, and technology showroom. With the ability to train and develop its own skilled workforce, MCA maintains one of the largest skilled workforces in Texas.

As the State’s growth propels major and lucrative high-profile construction projects around Texas, MCA not only moves right along with the development but ahead, with the announcement of a new Central Texas office. The new office serves as a home base for the technology integrator’s growing Central Texas presence in Round Rock, Texas.

The new location, at 3101 Eagles Nest St., Suite 430, is MCA’s first office outside of its Houston headquarters and is home to its growing Central Texas team.

This milestone is a major move for MCA as it expands across Texas and the Nation.

“The opportunity for growth in Austin is exciting,” says Ricky Cortez, CEO at MCA. “We are looking forward to being part of the numerous high-profile construction projects that will continue to shape the city of Austin and surrounding areas.” To celebrate its newest location, MCA hosted an Open House last month.

MCA continues to evolve into a fullservice technology solutions provider, completing 500 projects a year for clients across the Nation. Adding a Central Texas office is a strategic move that will allow MCA to have a physical presence in a location where it has taken on many projects.

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ions, Inc.

June 2022 | 17

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

Q&A With MCA Communications, Inc.

SUBC USA: What does this Central Texas Office opening mean for MCA long- and short-term?

MCA: In the short term, the opening of MCA’s Central Texas office has been significant in providing a home base for our team members already working on projects in Central Texas. When looking ahead in the long-term, our Central Texas office plays a vital role in providing a positive experience for our clients and creating the same long-lasting relationships and partnerships in Central Texas that we have in Houston, Texas.

SUBC USA: What does this Central Texas office open mean for the Central Texas area and Austin, Texas?

MCA: The rapid expansion and development of Central Texas, especially in the Round Rock-Austin area, not only bring MCA many new opportunities but also enables us to further strengthen our presence in this region. The greatest benefit of our new location, however, is being able to provide local resources for our clients, delivering better and quicker care while offering more services.

We are excited about growing in tandem with the region and contributing to its digital transformation.

SUBC USA: Any construction projects that MCA is already a part of in this area that you can mention?

MCA: MCA has been working in the Central Texas region for some time now and has completed several projects, including those with clients in Higher Education and K-12. For legal reasons we cannot name them, however, MCA is currently working on several projects in the region, including those with a notable multinational technology company, in addition to a new construction 15-story building in the heart of Austin, Texas.

SUBC USA: Any special guests in attendance and honors received at the Open House on May 5th that you want to mention?

MCA: This celebration highlighted local Austin talent and businesses, with entertainment by local Austin musician, Neon Bridges, and food catered by Top Taco food truck. We had many special guests in attendance, including the National Association of Minority Contractors Austin leadership team, as well as representatives from LG, Samsung, CommScope, Corning, Logitech, Tellabs, and Page.

In addition to low voltage and AV solutions and services, MCA has expanded its service offerings to include design-build, consulting, and staffing, as well as managed services and an E-Shop. MCA has partnered with Hanwha, CommScope, ZKTeco, Brivo, GCon Systems, AlertEnterprise, Fluidmesh, and Assa Abloy to bring their security and surveillance solutions to their clients. Security solutions offerings include cloud-based managed systems, cameras and VMS, access controls, customized servers, and more.

MCA’s managed services take a proactive approach to ensure business continuity, security, and workforce are protected and empowered for success.

—Cortez says MCA’s managed services offer a full suite of products for Information Technology, Cybersecurity, and Disaster Recovery solutions. MCA’s E-Shop provides a customized purchasing experience for their clients. As an authorized value-added reseller, all of their products and solutions, including their bundles, are hand-picked and customized by the team to meet the specific needs of each client, all available to them through their own private online portal.

With rapid growth, MCA is always looking to add more team members to its family. MCA is currently hiring for positions across Texas. Those interested in applying can email their resumes to recruiting@mcacom.com.

For more information about MCA Communications, Inc. and to schedule an appointment for a demo, please email info@mcacom.com or call (281) 591-2434. You can visit MCA on the web at www.mcacom.com.

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18 | June 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

OIL AND GAS

API, AOPL Report Shows Strengthened

Pipeline Safety Performance

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he American Petroleum Institute (API) and the Association of Oil Pipe Lines recently released their annual 2021 Pipeline Safety Excellence Performance Report, which found that the safety of liquids pipelines increased across several key indicators.

Thanks to an industry culture of “safety first, safety always” and a commitment to zero-incident operations, liquids pipeline incidents impacting people or the environment have declined by 31 percent over the past five years, even while pipeline mileage and barrels per day have increased nearly 10 percent.

“Liquids pipelines perform the vital role of delivering U.S. produced energy to American consumers. The additional U.S. crude oil production we need to increase American energy security and supplies will flow by pipeline,” API-AOPL Pipeline Safety Excellence Steering Committee Chair and President of Phillips 66 Pipeline Todd Denton said. “This year’s performance report on industry-wide pipeline safety metrics shows pipelines are safe and getting safer.”

“Thanks to industry initiatives and best practices, pipeline operators are working every day to strengthen safety and reduce incidents while providing Ameri-

cans the fuels they need,” said API Vice President of Midstream Policy Robin Rorick.

“The government’s own data shows liquids pipelines are getting safer,” said Andy Black, AOPL President, and CEO. The 2021 report shows that in the past five years, liquids pipeline safety has increased across several key performance indicators identified by federal and state regulators, industry operators, and public safety advocates. Comprehensive safety management systems and robust safety programs, including advanced inspection and leak detection technologies, help operators safely deliver energy to Americans every day. Based on data tracked and maintained by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) from 2017 to 2021: • Liquids pipeline incidents impacting people or the environment decreased 31 percent over the last five years and total pipeline incidents decreased by 17 percent, even while pipeline mileage and barrels per day have increased nearly 10 percent.

• Pipeline incidents impacting people or the environment caused by corrosion, cracking or weld failure decreased 32 percent over the last five years.

• Operations and maintenance incidents

impacting people or the environment declined 34 percent between 2017 and 2021.

The Performance Report also includes the 2020-2022 Strategic Plan, which describes industry-wide safety improvement efforts to promote organizational excellence, harness technology, and innovation, increase stakeholder awareness and engagement, and improve emergency response preparedness. Through a commitment to continuous improvement and a culture of safety, pipeline operators are working every day to protect the communities and environment where they live and work.

The natural gas and oil industry has a long history of promoting safe operations, and API has been setting standards since 1924 to promote safety, environmental protection, reliability, and sustainability through proven engineering practices. API has published 35 technical documents that are specifically applicable to pipeline and related facilities contributing to the safety of workers, the environment, and surrounding communities.

The 2021 API-AOPL Pipeline Safety Excellence Performance Report and 2020-2022 Strategic Plan are available at api.org.

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 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 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

AOPL represents liquids pipeline owners and operators transporting crude oil, petroleum products like gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, home heating oil, and industrial products like propane and ethane.

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

Source: American Petroleum Institute

OIL AND GAS

API Enhances Pipeline Safety With Two Updated Standard

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he American Petroleum Institute (API) recently released two revised liquid pipeline leak detection standards to improve operational integrity and advance operators’ mitigation capabilities.

“Leak detection in liquid pipelines enables operators to quickly respond to incidents, minimizing any impact on local communities and the environment,” said Anchal Liddar, senior vice president of API’s Global Industry Services. “RPs 1130 and 1175 both play an important role in providing pipeline operators with critical guidelines to support early and accurate leak detection.”

Published together because they address similar issues, Recommend Practice (RP) 1130, Computational Pipeline Monitor-

ing for Liquids, and RP 1175, Pipeline Leak Detection—Program Management, are second edition standards designed to improve leak detection capabilities.

RP 1175 provides guidance for pipeline operators to create effective leak detection programs (LDP), with the aim of identifying leaks quickly and with certainty, facilitating a rapid shutdown, and minimizing negative consequences in the event of an incident. The second edition of RP 1175 was developed to provide a flexible framework for determining which technologies, systems or programs operators use in establishing LDPs, considering leak detection often utilizes a multi-layered series of technologies and strategies. The new edition incorporates new leak detection technologies, including the role of fiberoptic sensing. RP 1175 also references and incorporates API RP 1173, Pipeline Safety Management Systems, the first standard to address pipeline safety management

system requirements for pipeline operators of all sizes.

RP 1130 addresses Computational Pipeline Monitoring (CPM), or algorithmic monitoring tools used to enhance the ability of a pipeline controller to recognize hydraulic anomalies that could show a pipeline leak.

Federal regulators, including the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), have recently put renewed focus on leak detection for natural gas and liquid pipelines. RP 1130 and RP 1175 support PHMSA’s priorities by putting additional tools and

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leading practices in the hands of operators to more effectively monitor and manage potential liquid pipeline leaks.

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 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

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

Source: American Petroleum Institute

June 2022 | 19

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

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20 | June 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

PERMITS

5 Key Steps To Keep a Sharp Eye on Your

Plans During Permitting

By Helen Callier Contributing Writer

I

t can be challenging for some Contractors to keep their focus on what’s happening with their plans while in Permitting. Getting distracted with day-to-day tasks is one factor.

When I was waiting for my favorite tacos to go at a local restaurant, I started watching one of the large screen TVs near the bar. I saw a video of an old NFL football game and noticed that the wide receiver was just about to catch a pass when he took his eyes off the football to see how close the defensive players were to him.

Though many might think this was logical to do and something that they might even do if they were playing in that position, by taking his eyes off the football he failed to make the catch. Now it was 4th down and very long yards with the clock ticking and his team was behind in scoring. A single eye of focus would have shifted the momentum of the game in his team’s favor.

I grabbed my order of fresh avocado tacos and thought to myself that just like distractions can cause frustration and losses in games, the same occurs in Permitting when Contractors lose focus of what is going on with the review of your plans.

Every now and then a Plan Reviewer can create a distraction and cause a stir. And in the rush of your busy

day, you miss what is really going on with your plans and you suffer more delays with unexpected rejection comments and RFIs. We get it! We’ve heard the stories over and over from Contractors calling our hotline for help with obtaining their permits.

Here's what we know: when submitting plans to Permitting, you must keep your eye on the process to make sure reviews are occurring in a timely manner and you are responding to comments quickly.

Beloware are55key keysteps stepsto tokeep keepaasharp sharpeye eyeon Below on your plans during permitting your plans during permitting.

1. QA/QC your submittal package prior to uploading it to the jurisdiction portal to make sure you have all the proper documents based on City’s Permitting guidelines.

2. Track your plans through a completeness check.

3. Monitor plans through departmental reviews for comments and RFIs. 4. Respond quickly to any City comments and RFIs, and resubmit properly.

5. Pull stamped and approved plans and pay for permits.

Distractions can cause football teams to lose games and even championships and losing focus can knock a Contractor off their game when consumed with other critical project tasks. It happens, and the above 5 basic steps are presented as helpful tips to keep you sharp.

If you have multiple projects that you are juggling and find that you’re really too busy to handle your own permitting, you can call 1.844.PERMIT.4 for help. 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. Visit us on the web at permitusnow.com. #BuildCustomersDreams #BuildSafe

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June 2022 | 21

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

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22 | June 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

SAFETY

Mental Health and Wellbeing in Construction Pulse Survey

By Cal Beyer

VP of Workforce Risk and Worker Wellbeing, CSDZ

I

n September 2021, the Center for Workplace Mental Health released the results from the Pulse Survey on Mental Health and Wellbeing in the Construction Industry. This pulse survey focused on opportunities to continue moving forward in effectively addressing worker mental health and wellbeing in construction. The final survey report highlights findings, strategies, recommendations, and resources to improve mental health for construction workers.

TheMental MentalHealth Healthand andWellbeing WellbeingSurvey Survey The addressesfour fourcrucial crucialchallenges. challenges. addresses 1. Engaging company leaders to support mental health initiatives visibly, vocally, and vulnerably.

Leaders who exhibit these “three Vs” lead by example and let workers know “it is okay to not be okay.” Leaders who care share resources to help workers and families in need of support. Where these “three Vs” exist, a fourth “V” for "vertical" emerges as workers up and down the organizational structure begin to freely share their lived experiences.

2. Raising mental health awareness by regularly sharing resources with employees. It is important for employees to better understand the services and supports available to them and their dependent family members.

Teaching employees how to tap into employee assistance programs and employee health insurance programs is important education.

3. Creating a mentally healthy culture to reduce the stigma and shame associated with mental health.

It is important to increase the literacy of health and mental health for leaders at all levels in a company. Take time to educate leaders and supervisors on why mental health is a workforce safety and health issue. Provide training to promote and reinforce psychological safety in the workplace and on the job site.

4. Removing barriers and enhancing access to mental health services and support. Barriers to care-seeking and acceptance can be removed by integrating mental health into human resources functions, employee benefits programs, and safety/health and wellness practices.

Construction Suicide Prevention Week

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he construction industry has the second-highest rate of suicide in the United States at 53.3 per 100,000 workers according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC). In the U.S. there are approximately 123 suicides per day that breaks down to one death every

AACall CalltotoAction: Action: Immediate ImmediateSteps StepsLeaders LeadersCan CanTake TakeNow Now • Read the 2021 Mental Health and Wellbeing in Construction Survey Final Report.

• Read the flipbook, “Building a Caring Culture: Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace.”

• Discuss mental health with the senior leadership team and develop a simple strategy to develop a mentally healthy culture and improve sharing of resources with employees and family members.

• Commit to stamp out stigma in the organization by creating a no-shame zone with a psychologically safe work environment where managers and supervisors support workers with empathy and understanding.

For more, please visit www.constructionexec.com.

SAFETY

12 minutes (SafeBuild Alliance).

In 2020, a mission-driven group of volunteers from across the construction industry came together with the goal of saving lives. They collaborated to launch the inaugural Suicide Prevention Week for the industry — a week dedicated to raising awareness about the higher-than-average number of suicides in the construction industry, and to providing resources to help prevent those deaths.

Suicide Prevention Week is September 5-9, 2022. It will take all of us to prevent suicide.

Companies are encouraged to check the resources provided on the site to plan activities with their workers during Suicide Prevention Week. Participating companies will receive an OSHA-recognized,

Every year, during September — National Suicide Prevention Month — the construction industry will dedicate a week to raising awareness about the unique challenges workers face in construction that lead to suicide and what we can do to prevent it.

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Source: Construction Executive

industry-endorsed certificate of participation and a badge they can display on their website and social media.

In 2021, more than 68,000 workers from 32 states registered their participation in Construction Suicide Prevention Week via this website.

When it comes to preventing suicide, the idea of where to start can be overwhelming. There is a library of resources to help you get started — from videos to websites to toolbox talks and much more, the site has what you need to put a program together for your workplace that could save lives.

For the resources, visit www.constructionsuicideprevention.com.

Source: OSHA

June 2022 | 23

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

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24 | June 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

TRANSPORTATION

Houston Airports Fully Onboard with UA and SWA Initiatives To Boost

Minority Representation in Aviation

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

H

ouston Airports is fully onboard with two major airlines' recent focus on increasing diversity in aviation by attracting, training and equipping more men and women of color.

United Airlines Houston Airports was pleased to be in attendance on March 9 when United Airlines announced a $100,000 partnership with Texas Southern University (TSU), providing students in the school’s aviation science and technology program with financial aid and mentoring as they pursue careers in the industry. Three student pilots and two aviation management students have been selected to receive scholarships from the funding, according to officials at Texas Southern.

Jacorey Adams, currently an intern working out of the office of Houston Airports’ Chief Operating Officer Jim Szczesniak, is one of the students who is benefitting from the tremendous United Airlines investment. He attended the event, along with Rhonda Arnold, Houston Airports Chief Community Relations Officer, and a TSU Aviation Advisory Board member.

"It has been an amazing experience thus far,” Adams said. “I've learned key skills such as strategy approach, business communication, dealing with diversity, and dealing with deadlines. Overall, I view my internship as a transformative, cultural experience because of the value they bring to the organization, the importance of their roles, their relationships with the team, and how their work affects the overall business."

The United-TSU partnership also includes ongoing mentorship activities between United employees and students in TSU’s Aviation Science and Technology program, including the Professional Pilot concentration.

There is a projected nationwide shortage of 120,000 pilots over the next 20 years and this initiative provides a starting point.

TSU launched its aviation science management program in 1986 and offers courses on aviation weather, law, history and safety, and air traffic control. Its pilot program began four years ago. Texas Southern is one of nine Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the country and the only public

four-year institution in Texas to have an aviation management system, a pilot program, and a flight school. (Texas A&M University-Central Texas in Killeen has an all-online professional pilot program.)

In 2021, Texas Southern’s aviation science management program had 62 students enrolled, and the pilot program had 21 students, according to Terence Fontaine, director of TSU’s aviation program. In 2022, those numbers remain about the same.

United Airlines, the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, announced in April 2021 that it plans to train 5,000 pilots by 2030, of which at least half will be women and people of color.

Southwest Airlines TSU and Southwest Airlines announced TSU as a university partner – and the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) – in SWA’s First Officer recruitment program: Destination 225°. (On a compass, 225° is the southwest directional heading, and the carrier developed Destination 225° to lead aspiring pilots to Southwest Airlines.)

TSU is the only school in Texas that offers a combined Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Science Management and a Bachelor of Science degree as a Professional Pilot.

“Working with Southwest Airlines and Destination 225° aligns with Texas Southern University’s mission of transformation – not only for our students but for STEM-related industries such as aviation. This is great news for TSU Director of Aviation Dr. Terence Fontaine,

the Aviation Science program, and our students,” said Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young, TSU President. “African American, Hispanic, and Asian American pilots are significantly underrepresented in the U.S. This makes our degree program and our new partnership with Southwest a critical pathway for the next generation of minority pilots and aviation professionals.”

“We’re honored to welcome Texas Southern University as the newest academic partner in our Destination 225° program as we focus on hiring, training, and developing the next generation of world-class, professional aviators.,” said Lee Kinnebrew, Southwest’s Vice President of Flight Operations.

We recognize the importance of embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion in all that we do, and we are confident this partnership and defined career pathway supports underrepresented and minority aspiring pilots in their efforts to join the Southwest family.

“Our job as educators is not complete until our students are either employed or seeking further education,” Fontaine said. “Today, our partners at Southwest Airlines delivered news that our students have a new place to land, literally. Being the first HBCU that Southwest Airlines is partnering with shows the depth of talent we have in our Professional Pilot students. I want to thank our university leadership for allowing our Aviation Program to grow to unforeseen heights.

The best is still yet to come from Texas Southern University Aviation.”

For more information, please visit www.fly2houston.com.

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Source: Houston Airport System

June 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.

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26 | June 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

DART Welcomes

Bernard Jackson as Chief Operations Officer

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

TRANSPORTATION

D

allas Area Rapid Transit (DART) announced recently that Bernard Jackson has been selected as the agency’s new chief operations officer. Jackson assumed his new role on May 23, 2022.

Reporting directly to DART president & chief executive officer Nadine Lee, Jackson will lead the agency’s operations teams, including bus, light rail, facilities maintenance, GoLink, and mobility management.

Photo Caption: Bernard Jackson is the new chief operations officer of DART. "Bernard is a tremendous transit leader and we are excited to welcome him to DART,” said Lee.

He brings over 30 years of transit operations experience to the agency, consistently developing and achieving employee engagement and customer satisfaction performance targets that have a real impact on the lives of our riders. I have incredible confidence in his ability to align industry-leading operational practices with DART’s vision to improve rider experiences.

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) where he served as the chief operations officer, service delivery.

Prior to his time at Metro, he worked at the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) for nearly 30 years, including as the vice president of bus operations and the director of rail operations. During his tenure at CTA, Jackson was instrumental in establishing customer-focused performance measures to improve transit operations for the benefit of riders.

"I'm proud to join the DART team at a time when leadership is focused on building a world-class rider experience,” said Jackson. “The new direction and strategy that DART has embarked on, a focus on the needs and satisfaction of our riders, has never been more crucial to the long-term sustainability of the North Texas region.

I am incredibly excited to be a part of this new course, and I look forward to helping steer the agency to its next phase of operational and mobility excellence."

"We are thrilled to welcome someone of Bernard’s caliber to the team at DART," said Michele Wong Krause, chair of the DART Board of Directors. "The knowledge he brings to the agency will allow us to continue to enhance and expand the operations of DART for the benefit of our passengers across North Texas.”

Along with an extensive list of distinctions including involvement in the Eno Transit Senior Executive Program, Jackson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Loyola University in Chicago.

For more information, visit www.dart.org.

Jackson joins DART from the Los Angeles County

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Source: Dallas Area Rapid Transit

June 2022 | 27

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

TRANSPORTATION

Port Houston Volume Surge Continues

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

T

he Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority met on Tuesday, April 26 for its regular monthly meeting. Port Chairman Ric Campo opened the meeting by announcing multiple outstanding achievements for the Houston Ship Channel and by Port of Houston.

One of the most notable was a recent agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, permitting it to assume maintenance dredging for a soon-to-be improved segment of the nation’s busiest ship channel. Chairman Campo highlighted the importance of the agreement, in addition to the opportunity it may provide Port of Houston to develop and direct additional investment towards landside infrastructure, to continue to stay in front of increasing cargo volumes.

As gate movements at Port Houston’s two public container terminals continue to break daily records, Chairman Campo commended the staff team, industry, the International Longshoremen’s Association, and seafarers, “who all continue performing an amazing job every day to drive the historical volumes of commerce through our region.”

In his staff report, Executive Director Roger Guenther said Port Houston container volume had increased 23% overall. “More than 900,000 container TEUs moved through the public facilities over the first three months of 2022, our largest quarter ever by far,” he said.

Guenther also commented on a Memorandum of Agreement with FSX, LLC, an agenda item later approved by the Port Commission. The agreement permits the

parties to pursue and explore opportunities to connect shore-side container facilities to more inland locations via the proposed freight shuttle infrastructure. The MOA aims to help improve air quality emissions by reducing truck miles traveled, enhancing intermodal connectivity, and improving the capacity of existing terminals.

Guenther said, “We continue to think out of the box and take a hard look at technologies like the freight shuttle that may provide tremendous benefit for more efficient

freight transportation.” The MOA also highlights Port Houston’s sustainability efforts, including the goal to reduce its greenhouse gas footprint to net zero by 2050.

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For more information, visit www.porthouston.com.

Source: Port Houston

28 | June 2022

SUBCONTRACTORS USA

TRANSPORTATION

What You Need To Know About NASA’s Boeing Orbital Flight Test-2

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

N

ASA and Boeing are taking another major step on the path to regular human spaceflight to the International Space Station using American rockets to launch spacecraft from American soil with the second uncrewed test flight of a commercial crew spacecraft.

NASA’s Boeing Orbital Flight Test-2 (OFT-2) is targeting the launch of the CST-100 Starliner spacecraft on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket at 6:54 p.m. EDT Thursday, May 19, from Space Launch Complex-41 on Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Starliner is expected to arrive at the space station for docking about 24 hours later with more than 800 pounds of cargo, including about 500 pounds of NASA cargo and crew supplies.

OFT-2 will test the end-to-end capabilities of Starliner from launch to docking, atmospheric re-entry, and a desert landing in the western United States. OFT-2 will provide valuable data that will help NASA certify Boeing’s crew transportation system to carry astronauts to and from the space station.

Though no crew will be on board the spacecraft for OFT-2, the Starliner commander’s seat will be occupied by Rosie the Rocketeer, the company’s anthropometric test device. During OFT-1, Rosie was outfitted with 15 sensors to collect data on what astronauts will experience during flights on Starliner. For OFT-2, spacecraft data capture ports previously connected to Rosie’s 15 sensors will be used to collect data from sensors placed along with the seat pallet, which is the infrastructure that holds all the crew seats in place.

During Starliner’s approach to the space station, NASA and Boeing will verify data links and command capabilities by the station crew, including a hold during approach commanded from the station by NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren aboard the station. Starliner also will demonstrate its ability to perform an automated retreat in the event an issue arises during the approach.

Starliner’s vision-based navigation system will be tested as it autonomously docks with the space station at about 7:10 p.m. Friday, May 20, or about 24 hours after launch.

After a successful docking, Starliner will spend five to 10 days aboard the orbiting laboratory before returning to Earth in the western United States. The spacecraft will return with nearly 600 pounds of cargo, including reusable Nitrogen Oxygen Recharge System tanks that provide breathable air to station crew members.

OFT-2 is the second orbital flight for the CST-100 Starliner and the first for the second crew module in the Starliner fleet. Boeing is flying this second orbital test to

prove the Starliner system meets NASA’s requirements, including docking to the space station.

OFT-2 will build on the mission objectives achieved during Starliner’s initial flight test, including:

• In-orbit operation of the avionics, docking system, communications and telemetry systems, environmental control systems, solar arrays, electrical power systems, and propulsion systems; • Performance of the guidance, navigation & control systems of the Starliner and Atlas V through ascent, onorbit, and entry; • Acoustic and vibration levels, and loads across the Starliner exterior and interior; • Launch escape trigger monitoring; and • Performance of the Starliner system end-to-end mission operations.

OFT-2 also will test the changes and improvements made to Starliner, and prove the system is ready to fly astronauts.

NASA and Boeing engineers, technicians, and flight control teams have all been working together to get Starliner back to space safely and efficiently for OFT-2. Following a successful flight test and subsequent data reviews, NASA and Boeing will set a target launch date for the Crew Flight Test (CFT) with astronauts on board.

NASA’s Commercial Crew Program has delivered on its goal of safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation to and from the International Space Station in the United States through a partnership with American private industry. This partnership is changing the arc of human spaceflight history by opening access to low-Earth orbit and the space station to more people, more science, and more commercial opportunities. The space station remains the springboard to NASA's next great leap in space exploration, including future missions to the Moon and, eventually, to Mars.

For more information, visit www.nasa.gov.

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Source: NASA

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