Connecting for Success - Matrix Group Publishing Incflip.matrixgroupinc.net/curt/2012/spring/CURT Spring 2012... · 2012. 3. 29. · Chemical Company) has picked up the treasurer

CURT’s 2011 National Conference Educates, Informs and Unites

Connecting

VoiceThe

The official magazine of The construction Users Roundtable

Spring 2012

for Success

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The Construction Users Roundtable 5

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CURT LEADERS: 7 Michael G. Conley, CURT President 9 Jim Sexton, National Conference

Chairperson 11 Gregory Sizemore, Esq., CURT Executive

Vice President

GET TO KNOW CURT: 12 Membership Information 15 CURT Board Comments 17 Committee Conversations

COVER STORY: 20 Connecting for Success: CURT’s 2011

National Conference Educates, Informs and Unites

20 And the Award Goes to…

29 Speaking Out: What the Major Speakers

Had to Say

FEATURES: 33 Adaptability in Uncertain Times

LEGAL BRIEF: 35 Common Pitfalls: Seven Issues for the

Construction Professional

LUC UPDATE: 39 The Central Gulf Industrial Alliance

PROFILES: 40 Owner Profile: Praxair, Inc. 41 Contractor Associate Member Profile:

ISC Constructors, LLC 42 Contractor Subscriber Member Profile:

The Yates Companies 43 Association Member Profile: Mechanical

Contractors Association of America, Inc. (MCAA)

BACK AT YOU: 45 Modest Optimism in 2012

46 BUYER’S GUIDE

Published by Matrix Group Publishing inc. Please return all undeliverable addresses to: 5190 Neil Road, Suite 430, Reno, NV, 89502 Toll Free Tel (866) 999-1299 Toll Free Fax (866) 244-2544 President & CEO Jack Andress Chief Operating Officer Jessica Potter ([email protected]) Editor-in-Chief Shannon Savory ([email protected]) Editor Alexandra Walld Finance/Accounting & Administration Shoshana Weinberg, Pat Andress, Nathan Redekop ([email protected]) Director of Marketing & Circulation Shoshana Weinberg Sales Manage-Winnipeg Neil Gottfred Sales Manage-Hamilton Brian Davey Sales Team Leader Rick Kuzie Matrix Group Publishing Inc. Account Executives Adam Mitchell, Albert Brydges, Brandon Burke, Brian Davey, Brian Macintyre, Brittney Black, chantal Duchaine, colleen Bell, Dean Guzzo, Declan o’Donovan, Jeff Boyle, Jim Hamilton, Joe DiBenedetto, Ken Percival, Kyle Yewman, Mike Lasebnik, Miles Meagher, Patrick Lymburner, Peter Schulz, Robert choi, Shane collins, Wilma Gray-Rose Advertising Design James Robinson Layout & Design Kayti Taylor ©2012 Matrix Group Publishing Inc. All rights reserved. Contents may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of Matrix Group Publishing Inc.

Published For: The Construction Users Roundtable 4100 executive Park Drive cincinnati, ohio 45241 Tel: (513) 563-4131 Fax: (513) 733-9551 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.curt.org • CURT Liaison to The VOICE Publication: Donna M. Janssens, CIT ([email protected])

On the Cover: If you didn’t attend the 2011 CURT National Conference, you certainly missed out! The event is known for its dynamic keynote speakers, thought-provoking break-out sessions, formal awards ceremony to recognize the industry for safety and workforce development, ample networking opportunities, interactive exhibitor’s hall, and, of course, golf! Catch up on the 2011 event starting on page 20, and make sure to check www.curt.org for details on the 2012 Conference, planned for November 12, 13 and 14.


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Message from the CURT President

Sounds like a software revision number. But I can tell you that, as applied to CURT, it is a very energizing term. We have talked at length in membership meetings, within the Board of Trustees, at the 2011

National Conference, and in previous messages for The VOICE about the strong foundation CURT has built and the need to focus the energy we have created going forward. I am happy to say that the work continues on this topic and the energy builds.

At the 2010 National Conference, we celebrated our tenth anniversary and during that Conference, we looked back at the first ten years and talked in general terms about where we are headed. Last summer at the Board of Trustees strategic planning session, we decided to do an evaluation of our mission and vision and to ensure that our collective energy—through Committees, task forces and others—will move us towards that vision. We spoke about direction at the 2011 National Conference. The Committees, through the leadership of the chairs, worked last year to define stretch goals that would increase CURT impact.

Currently, the Board of Trustees is evaluating the use of external consultants to help us move this work forward in a professional, organized and timely manner. We spent much of our time in the February Board meeting working on this. And if you were present at the membership meeting in February, you heard Ashley Baker (CURT Board of Trustees; Southern Company) give an overview of our efforts and direction here. As Ashley pointed out, we are building off the CURT Productivity Triangle that Bob Volkman developed and see this as a fundamental tool to ensure our mission and vision, as well as our structure and efforts, are focused and aligned.

If you weren’t there in February, you not only missed Ashley’s overview, you also missed witnessing the energy it created. It is clear that many people see the potential in front of us and are aligned that we need to “step up” as an organization to capitalize on this. I welcome you all to be part of defining where CURT will take us from here. Please be engaged with us as we move forward.

Here are few updates on the CURT leadership process that will help us move forward and that you should be aware of.

The CURT leadership team—defined as the Board of Trustees, the Committee co-chairs, and staff leaders—that was initiated last Fall continues to develop. The team met again as a body in February. We also spent time with this

leadership team discussing CURT’s direction and next steps…this team is also energized. While getting this group together is difficult, I believe that it is improving communication and will result in a more effective CURT. My thanks to all those committing their time to help us do that.

On a related topic, there is a significant effort underway on the topic of succession planning. This is being led by Egon Larsen (CURT immediate past president; Air Products & Chemicals, Inc.) and Daniel Groves (CURT). They are laying the groundwork to help us improve our organizational planning from on boarding of new members, to staffing committees with needed members, to ensuring proactive succession planning for Committee leadership and Board

positions. Their work will also lead us to a more effective CURT and I thank them for their efforts.

And the last item on the topic of CURT leadership: We have made some

changes on the Board of Trustees officer positions. In June, there will be some turnover in the Board due to the normal completion of terms. In an effort to prepare for that transition, we have made some changes in Board officers.

Ashley Baker, who has been on the Board for over five years in various

capacities, most recently as Vice President, will vacate that chair and focus

on making CURT 2.0 a reality. Effective January 1, 2012, Art Goehry (J&J) has

stepped into the Vice President role. Jeff Patterson (Dow Chemical Company) has picked up the treasurer role. And Mike Criscitiello (Praxair, Inc.) has agreed to assume the role of Secretary. My personal thanks to Ashley, Art, Jeff and Mike for their many past contributions and their willingness to serve in these new capacities. CURT is in good hands.

I close this letter knowing that as I do, Greg Sizemore and Daniel Groves are on their way to China for the third CURT event being held there. What better evidence of the energy—and potential—CURT has. I am personally energized by this and look forward to working with you to make it happen. And, as with everything CURT does, it happens through people like you. I thank you for your continued interest in CURT and ask that you remain vocal about what your needs are and how CURT can help serve those needs.

Michael ConleyCURT PresidentDuPont Engineering

Introducing CURT 2.0

It is clear

that many people

see the potential in front

of us and are aligned that

we need to “step up”

as an organization to

capitalize on this.


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Message from the 2011 CURT National Conference Chairperson

Were you at the 2011 CURT National Conference? If yes, then I hope you learned, laughed and left with many take-aways that can be applied within your business in 2012. There certainly were a lot

of gold nuggets of information thanks to our enlightening keynote speakers and break-out session presenters.

The individuals and groups who spoke to our attendees shared thoughts, ideas and insights into the construction industry. They showcased how they have improved project execution and competitive edge…and how you can too. Experts included the always enjoyable Anirban Basu, Chief Economist of the Associated Builders and Contractors. I think those who haven’t heard him speak before are always surprised by this comedic economist.

Undeniably, one of the most powerful speakers at the Conference was Aron Ralston, inspiration for the Academy Award Nominated movie 127 Hours. Aron shared his story with our Conference attendees, walking them through the misfortune of his fall while rock climbing in Utah, the emotional roller coaster ride he went on during his time trapped in the canyon, and the eventual

amputation of his own arm so that he could live. Aron’s journey inspired the crowd to look beyond their limitations and realize that there is very little in this world that is insurmountable.

While speakers are a key component at our Conference, we are proud to say that the event is not just about sitting and listening. We strive for interaction, whether it happens at a question/answer period at the end of each presentation; at scheduled networking times during coffee breaks, lunches and at social events in the evening; and at the annual golf tournament which enourages fun and talent!

The 2012 National Conference is going to be just as impressive and, I’m excited to say, we have just confirmed our venue…the beautiful Buena Vista Palace Resort in Orlando, Florida! Join us November 12-14, 2012…I’m looking forward to seeing you there!

Jim SextonNational Conference Chairperson Procter & Gamble

Improve Projects and Competitive Edge


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Message from the CURT Executive Vice President

The title of my message is also the tag line on my email address. It’s true. And because change is inevitable CURT is changing to respond

to evolving member expectations. In addition, we are growing. We are growing in terms of value added to each member and growing in terms of increasing our offerings not only to Owners but to the industry.

I am happy to report we are doing both; changing to grow and growing to change. Before you read on, read Mike Conley’s message on page 7. It introduces you to what is being called “CURT 2.0”. In effect, it’s the CURT of tomorrow.

Suffice it to say I am super excited about CURT 2.0. Some of the concepts being considered are: networking

with a purpose; improving connectivity; making our work on productivity meaningful, doable

and measurable; improving the quality and value of committee outputs;

educational offerings; and creating space for our Young Professionals who can take advantage of the tremendous collective wealth we have within CURT. Excited yet? You should be!

I will ask you to begin to think about what CURT 2.0 should be and

how CURT can better serve you with improved value. Give us your feedback and

keep posted. More to come!

Gregory Sizemore, Esq.CURT Executive Vice President

Change is Inevitable; Growth is Optional.

We are

growing in terms of

value added to each member

and growing in terms of

increasing our offerings not

only to Owners but to

the industry.

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RegulaR membeRshipConstruction Owner: Any industrial or major commercial user of construction or maintenance services who spends at least $75 million annually as a corporation. The company must be represented by at least one high ranking corporate policy maker usually the vice-president or corporate manager of construction or engineering.

associate membeRshipContractor, Subcontractor, Specialty Contractor, Supplier, Service Provider: From time to time the Board may create a number of Associate Members positions. Provided space is available, Associate Members may be recommended by an Owner/Member and the recommendation must be accompanied by two letters of recommendation and be approved by a 2/3 majority vote of the Board.

associatioN associate membeRshipAny not-for-profit national trade association, research organization, or educational organization that provides services to the industrial or commercial construction industry may be eligible for membership in CURT and submit an application to join, provided they meet the Association Associate Membership requirements established by the Board of Trustees and an opening in this category of membership becomes available.

coNtRactoR subscRibeR membeRshipAs CURT has grown, there has been an increasing demand for contractor membership and participation. In response, CURT developed the Contractor Subscriber category with many benefits and services not available to non-members. Initial participation in CURT as a subscriber is a prerequisite to the contractor associate membership. Contact the CURT office for more information.

Membership InformationCURT Members 2012Membership

Categories Representatives from these companies are primarily Corporate Directors of Construction,Engineering or commensurate positions with decision-making authority.OWNER MEMBERSABBOTTAIR PRODUCTS & CHEMICALS, INC.ALSTOM POWER INC.AMERENARCHON GROUP, LPBARRICK GOLD CORPORATIONBAXTER HEALTHCARE CORP.BAYER TECHNOLOGY SERVICESTHE BOEING COMPANYBPBRUCE POWERCATERPILLAR INCCHEVRONCONOCOPHILLIPSDOMINION GENERATIONDTE ENERGYTHE DOW CHEMICAL COMPANYDUKE ENERGY DUPONTDYNEGY GENERATIONELI LILLY AND COMPANYEXELON CORPORATIONEXXONMOBIL CHEMICAL CO.FEDERAL BUREAU OF PRISONSGEORGIA GULFHONDA OF AMERICA MFG., INC.INTEL CORPORATIONINTERNATIONAL PAPERJOHNSON & JOHNSONLINDE PROCESS PLANTSTHE McGRAW-HILL COMPANIESMARATHON PETROLEUM COMPANY LPMERCK & CO., INC.MITSUBISHI NUCLEAR ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC.NRG ENERGYNV ENERGYONTARIO POWER GENERATIONOWENS CORNINGPRAXAIR, INC.THE PROCTER & GAMBLE CO.PROGRESS ENERGYPSEG POWER, LLCSANDIA NATIONAL LABORATORIESSHELL GLOBAL SOLUTIONS (U.S.), INC.SIEMENS ENERGYSOUTHERN COMPANYSUNCOR ENERGY SERVICES, INC.TAMPA ELECTRIC COMPANYTENNESSEE VALLEY AUTHORITYTOYOTATYCO INTERNATIONALU.S. ARCHITECT OF THE CAPITOL

ASSOCIATION ASSOCIATE MEMBERSABC (Associated Builders & Contractors) AGC (Associated General Contractors)AIA (American Institute of Architects) AISC (American Institute of Steel Construction)DBIA (Design-Build Institute of America) FCA (Finishing Contractors Association)MCAA (Mechanical Contractors Assoc. of America) NACA (North American Contractors Association)NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction)NECA (National Electrical Contractors Association)NCCER (National Center For Construction Education & Research)SMACNA (Sheet Metal/AC Contractors Nat’l Association)TAUC (The Association of Union Constructors)

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERSU.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY - NNSAU.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE - OBOU.S. GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATIONWESTINGHOUSE ELECTRIC COMPANY

CONTRACTOR ASSOCIATE MEMBERSAMECBECHTELBMW CONSTRUCTORS, INC.THE CIANBRO COMPANIESEMCOR GROUP INC.FLUOR CORPORATIONISC CONSTRUCTORS, LLCJACOBS ENGINEERING GROUP, INC.KBRKVAERNER NACRUDOLPH/LIBBE COMPANIESTHE SHAW GROUP, INC.SKANSKA USATURNER CONSTRUCTIONURS CORPORATIONVULCAN INDUSTRIAL CONTRACTORS

CONTRACTOR SUBSCRIBER MEMBERSALBERICI CONSTRUCTORS, INC.AREVA BARNHART CRANE & RIGGINGBRAND ENERGY SOLUTIONS LLCBRASFIELD GORRIETHE BROCK GROUPCH2MHillDAY & ZIMMERMANNEGIZZI ELECTRICE-J ELECTRIC INSTALLATION CO.GRAYCOR INDUSTRIAL CONSTRUCTORSGRIBBINS INSULATION COMPANYHARGROVE ENGINEERS + CONSTRUCTORSHARSCO INFRASTRUCTUREHOLDER CONSTRUCTION GROUP, LLCLAUREN ENGINEERS & CONSTRUCTORS, INC.McABEE CONSTRUCTION, INC. MESSER CONSTRUCTIONPCL INDUSTRIAL CONSTRUCTION CO.ROBINS & MORTON POWERS&B ENGINEERS AND CONSTRUCTORS, LTDTHE INDUSTRIAL COMPANY (TIC)TURNER INDUSTRIES GROUPWALBRIDGEWILLIAMS INDUSTRIAL SERVICE GROUP LLCWORLEYPARSONSTHE YATES COMPANIESZACHRY INDUSTRIAL


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Here CURT Officers and Board of Trustee Members answer: In your opinion, what is the number one benefit of joining CURT in 2012?

CURTComments

michael g. conleyCURT PresidentDUPONT ENGINEERINGConstruction and Project Controls Competency LeaderWilmington, DE

"CURT has always been valuable to members but 2012, I believe, holds even more potential value for those that participate for two reasons. First, the breadth of members, best practices, committees, geographic impact, etc. is greater than it has ever been. This provides great value today. Second, CURT is working to define the direction it will take for its second decade. So members can extract value today and, at the same time, help steer CURT to ensure future efforts meet their needs."

Michael G. Conley has over 25 years of construction and engineering management experience. His career has spanned the United States and Europe, and includes construction, design, project controls, project management and business engineering management. He currently manages the DuPont Project Engineering Center, a unique organization whose goal is project execution excellence and the renewal of engineering skills within DuPont.

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egon J. larsenCURT Past PresidentAIR PRODUCTS AND CHEMICALS, INC.Global Construction ManagerAllentown, PA

“I think the construction industry and the economy as a whole are not only changing but changing very quickly. It is important for all companies to

be on top of the changes and also what others are doing in response to deal with them. Joining CURT allows you to stay on top of the changes, network and interact with other companies that are dealing with the same uncertainty. CURT also offers the opportunity to listen to and interact directly with guest speakers who are experts in the economy and have the pulse of the construction industry in general. The speed with which our business environment changes requires a quick and accurate response to successfully navigate the surprises we all are dealing with on a daily basis.”

Egon Larsen is responsible for Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.’s construction activities totaling approximately $700 million annually. This includes locations in the Americas, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. With over 25 years of experience in managing projects and construction, he has been instrumental in numerous capital project initiatives and development programs.

arthur goehryCURT Vice PresidentJOHNSON & JOHNSONSenior Director, Project ManagementWorldwide Engineering and Technical OperationsJohnson & JohnsonNew Brunswick, NJ

“CURT continues to focus on Owner needs and what the CURT organization can do to ‘effect positive, meaningful change and improvements .’ We continue to access our strategies, objectives and long range goals. However, the only way to effectively achieve this is to get the voice of the construction user community. The problems and issues that face one Owner are usually similar to many others. Being a part of this voice is the benefit you will get by joining CURT and connecting with Owner members through the sharing of best practices, benchmarking, ideas and information. Join the organization ‘Whose primary purpose is to create competitive advantage for construction owners by making the industry safer, promoting overall cost effectiveness and productivity, and improving the way construction is planned, managed, justified and executed.’”

Arthur Goehry has been with Johnson & Johnson for 28 years, holding various positions within Facilities, Project and International Engineering. He is currently the Director of Project Management in the Worldwide Engineering Group and is responsible for large capital projects throughout North and South America. Goehry has a Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering from Lafayette College and a Masters of Science in Management Engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT).

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michael criscitielloCURT Secretary PRAXAIR, INC.Senior Project Manager U.S. Engineering & ConstructionTonawanda, NY

“Why join CURT in 2012? As social media fans would say ‘to become

connected!’ CURT provides the opportunity to connect with other Owners and contractors to share construction experiences and best practices for a wide range of issues: international construction, productivity improvements, safety metrics, project delivery, etc. Whether connecting face to face at a CURT meeting or

CURT Officers


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to construction industry experts. In today’s dynamic construction environment, you can’t afford not to be connected!”

Michael Criscitiello has over 30 years of engineering, project management, construction and procurement experience at Praxair. His career spans the United States and Asia, including expatriate assignments in Korea and China. Prior to his current role, Criscitiello was responsible for equipment and construction sourcing for global projects. He has been active with CURT since its inception in 2001.

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Jeff pattersonCURT Treasurer DOW CHEMICAL COMPANYDirector of Global ConstructionHouston, TX

“CURT offers tremendous networking opportunities to interact with other Owners about common issues. It also gives you the

ability to make your voice heard; the International and the Handoffs to Construction Committees were both started based on feedback from members. Along with the opportunity to drive improvement across the industry, to share perspectives and to learn things that you can take back to your company, CURT also provides great personal development opportunities. With all the hard work the Board and Committees have been doing to accelerate the progress in 2012, there is no better time to join.”

Jeff Patterson has over 30 years of experience in construction management, engineering, and project roles, and is currently the Global Construction Director for Dow Chemical.

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gregory l. sizemore, esq.Executive Vice PresidentTHE CONSTRUCTION USERS ROUNDTABLECincinnati, OH

“CURT members stand out. The industry recognizes our members for their long-standing commitment to safety improvements, for their

dedication to workforce development, and for their overall interest in bettering the construction industry as a whole. Joining CURT in 2012 will ensure you stand out, too. You’ll gain support of industry peers, you’ll have a nation-wide network of contractors, suppliers and other Owners to tap into, and you’ll be able to share your ideas on how to improve our industry.”

Greg Sizemore has over 25 years of construction industry and association management experience. For eighteen years Sizemore has been the Executive Director of the Construction Owners Association of the Tri-State (COATS) in Cincinnati, Ohio, and, in 1989 Sizemore started Sizemore & Company, a construction industry association management firm. He was instrumental in the start-up of CURT and has served as the Executive Vice President since its inception. Sizemore serves on various industry and civic boards including the University of Cincinnati’s Industrial Advisory Council, the Advisory Committee to the Albany Technical College, and the Western Virginia Construction Coalition Conference.

curtis ashley baker, p.e.Member-at-LargeSOUTHERN COMPANY GENERATIONVP Environmental Projects & Construction - West Birmingham, AL

"During the latter half of 2011 our Board and Committees were working hard to improve focus and determine the best areas to concentrate on

in 2012. With a clear plan of action now established, there is no better time than the present to join CURT and be a part of everything that we have planned for the year. I think you will be impressed with our vision, goals and action plans."

Curtis Ashley Baker is currently responsible for the implementation of Southern Company Generation’s projects in Alabama, Florida and Mississippi, with project estimates totaling approximately $3 billion. He has 33 years experience in Project Management and Construction in the utility industry. Baker is the former Vice President of CURT and is the Board Liaison for the Workforce Development Committee and the Nuclear Construction Effectiveness Committee.

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charles g. hardyMember-at-LargeGENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION, CCMRegional Recovery ExecutiveChicago, IL

"Now, more than ever, as the economy and environment has challenged everyone to re-think operations with a more sustainable eye, CURT

continues to lead the way. Together Owners can address workplace innovation and improve upon the future of our industry and businesses. I look forward to another successful year of CURT delivering as promised!”

Charles G. Hardy is a licensed architect and certified construction manager. Before joining GSA in 1991, Hardy was an architect with architectural firms in Florida and Illinois practicing in the areas of real estate development and office design. Additionally, Hardy is a retired officer of the U.S. Air Force Reserve.

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steve mongiardoMember-at-LargeMerck and Co., Inc.Senior DirectorWest Point, PA

“If you were ever thinking about joining CURT, 2012 is the year to do it! We have spent a lot of time evaluating our mission and making sure

that our Board and Committees are working on projects that will increase CURT’s impact. You and your company are going to want to be a part of it—it's going to make a difference.”

Steve Mongiardo has been with Merck & Co., Inc. for 25 years. His current position is Senior Director, West Point Facilities Management. Mongiardo is responsible for the operations of all support functions, utilities, maintenance and services for the Merck, West Point Pharmaceutical Manufacturing and Research site, located in South Eastern, PA.


Following are updates from all of CURT’s Committees. Visit www.curt.org for more information on each Committee’s focal point and, if you have any questions on their activities or want to find out what’s being planned for 2012, please contact the CURT office.

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EDUCATION COMMITTEEpatrick DuffyChairmanTAMPA ELECTRIC COMPANYManager, Projects & ConstructionTampa, FL

CURT’s Education Committee continues to work towards developing a comprehensive education program that focuses on training people who perform project and construction management for Owner companies. The CURT Board approved moving forward on this exciting initiative in late 2011. Phase 1 of creation will consist of base curriculum development, Phase 2 will consist of industry/topic centric curriculum development, and Phase 3 will consist of specialized/customized course development.

HANDOFFS TO CONSTRUCTION COMMITTEEchris affusoCo-ChairmanPRAXAIR, INC.Senior Engineering ManagerTonawanda, NY

peter DumontCo-ChairmanTYCO THERMAL CONTROLSDirector of Global Projects Business DevelopmentHouston, TX

In the upcoming months CURT’s Handoffs to Construction Committee will be defining a new focus that will keep it in line with CURT’s Committee Enhancement Plan. The Committee is also delving into the major topic of

“recalibration”, looking at how to add value to Owners, how to add to the industry’s body of knowledge without duplicating others’ efforts, and deciding what the Committee’s end deliverables should be. During this discussion the Committee asked: While we “know” the right things to do on projects, we’re often constrained by our own work processes, supply chain strategies, etc. Are we our own worst enemy?

INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEEJames c. ellisCo-ChairmanDUPONTDirector, DuPont Capital Asset ProductivityWilmington, DE

matthew JacksonCo-ChairmanINTEL CORPORATIONProject ManagerHillsboro, OR

The International Committee led another successful meeting in Shanghai, China in February, 2012. The meeting explored how to achieve construction safety, whether or not project safety statistics are valid and how Owners can ensure their legitimacy; what are the tools to achieve safety and how to deploy them; and what should be the role of each project stakeholder. Additionally, this meeting looked at a multitude of other topics around best practices, procurement, quality, and use of expatriates.

Future forums are being discussed for India and Brazil.

NATIONAL CONFERENCE PLANNING COMMITTEEJim sextonChairman (2011)PROCTER & GAMBLEGlobal Construction ManagerCincinnati, OH

Another successful CURT National Conference was held in November, 2011. The attendance was back up to one of its highest levels since the very first conference—a great sign that companies are adding travel back into their budgets.

Stay tuned for details on the 2012 Conference. They’ll be posted to www.curt.org as they become available.

NUCLEAR CONSTRUCTION EFFECTIVENESS COMMITTEEmark hellsternCo-ChairmanPROGRESS ENERGYSite Project Manager CR3 Major ProjectsKnoxville, TN

Ray hrubyCo-Chairman TENNESSEE VALLEY AUTHORITYProject Director, Bellefonte Unit One Completion Project for TVA’s Nuclear Generation Development and Construction (NGDC)Knoxville, TN

The CURT Nuclear Construction Effectiveness (NCE) Committee wrapped up the Winter meeting with final consensus on the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for nuclear construction excellence for new nuclear generation projects and a revised


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charter to expand the use of KPIs to Major Nuclear Outage projects such as steam generator replacement, extended power uprates, etc. For the Winter meeting, Co-Chairman Mark Hellstern led the team in discussions on expanding the use of the KPIs from only new nuclear generation development to major nuclear outage projects excluding refueling outages. Due to the slowing in the nuclear industry on new builds and the economic outlook, the expansion to major projects was logical and enables leveraging process improvements in these major nuclear upgrades. The decision was made to revise the charter and to revise the target goals for the KPIs. For major nuclear upgrade projects, the KPIs would be modified as required and 2016 target goals will be developed. For new nuclear generation, the KPIs will be refined and 2020 target goals established for each KPI. Finally, the Committee targeted a goal to brief Institute of Nuclear Power Operations by the fall of 2012.

PROJECT DELIVERY COMMITTEEal schwarzkopfChairmanMERCK AND CO., INCProject Engineer GlobalEngineering ServicesDurham, NC

The Project Delivery Committee is in the midst of planning a CURT/LCI/AIA/AGC Summit with the theme: Optimizing the Project, not the Pieces. It is scheduled for June 13-15 in St. Louis, Missouri. This will be the third time this Committee will be organizing a project delivery-themed conference. Stay tuned to the CURT website as speakers and presentations are nailed down, and registration options become available.

SAFETY COMMITTEEarthur limperCo-ChairmanMERCK & CO., INC.Global Manager of Construction SafetyMerck & Co., Inc.Whitehouse Station, NJ

As reported in the Fall 2011 issue, the Safety Committee has been working on a China-related Owner’s Safety Blueprint, as well as refreshing the original Owner’s Safety Blueprint, which was created in 2004. The China-related supplement is now complete and will be available very soon! The updated original Owner’s Safety Blueprint is in final review with a technical writer, and will also be available shortly.

The Safety Committee is also starting work on the 2012 Construction Industry Safety Excellence (CISE) Awards, which will once again be presented at CURT’s National Conference, during an Awards Gala Reception. Information about the 2011 award winners can be found starting on page 20 of this magazine. For information on how to apply for the 2012 CISE Awards, contact Arthur Limper or the CURT office.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS COMMITTEEeddie claytonCo-ChairmanSOUTHERN CO. GENERATIONPlanned Outage and Labor ManagerBirmingham, AL

A number of workforce development initiatives have interesting news:

The Construction Labor Market Analyzer (CLMA), a dependable and cost-effective solution over the traditional methods of forecasting and project labor planning, will be launching a new application in March at the Central Gulf Industrial Alliance (CGIA) meeting. For more information on CLMA visit www.myclma.com.

The Go Build campaign, which was originally created in Alabama, will soon be up and running in Georgia, followed by Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi. For more information go to www.gobuild alabama.com.

The Build Your Future campaign just launched a newly refreshed website: www.byf.org.

The Workforce Development and Industrial Relations Committee is also working on award enhancements for 2012. The 2011 Awards were presented at the CURT National Conference; details on th winners can be found on page 26. For information on how to apply for the 2012 Workforce Development Awards, contact Eddie Clayton or the CURT office.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALSKyle a. smithDUPONTWashington, WV

The primary emphasis of recent CURT Young Professionals meetings has been to develop a regional strategy, emphasizing a more readily available network and tangible membership benefits beyond simple access to the Facebook® page and potential inclusion in the National Conference. The guiding principles of these regional groups must parallel those of the embodying CURT organization and the visions articulated by the Curt Leadership Board Members, with a particular emphasis on Owner representation. To that end, primary YP Committee members are in the planning phases of a YP mixer. The current concept is to leverage the membership strength of the Cincinnati metropolitan area, which will provide learnings for subsequent kick-off events in alternate regions that have strong membership figures and involved, local YP Committee leadership. Before even the first regional event, the Committee has drafted an outline to the CURT Board identifying its vision for the group. Discussions have taken an aspiration tone, as the CURT Young Professionals have acknowledged their recent networking successes and look to mold themselves into a beneficial industry entity.

If your organization is interested in hosting a future CURT Young Professionals regional mixer or mentoring a CURT Young Professional regional group, please contact Bryan Beischel at [email protected]. ●


class: Operating Entity Major Functional Group

Name: ExxonMobil Refining and Supply – Baytown Refinery

about: ExxonMobil Refining & Supply’s Baytown Refinery managed a portfolio of major projects, large turnarounds and daily maintenance projects at the largest refinery in the United States. The contractor teams worked over 25.5 million total hours over a three year period with a TRIR of 0.18.

On winning this award, Jerry Mayfield comments, “I am honored to accept this award on behalf of the workers at the ExxonMobil Baytown Refinery. It is a direct result of the efforts put forth by our field supervisors and contract workers to ensure that hazards are identified and either eliminated or mitigated throughout the lifecycle of a work task. Our constant reinforcement of a systematic process for planning safety into the execution of every work task ensures that we continue on our journey to a workplace where ‘Nobody Gets Hurt’.”

Art Goehry; Curtis Warren T/A Manager, Exxon Mobil; Jerry Mayfield, Mechanical Section Supervisor, ExxonMobil; and Arthur Limper.

Art Goehry; Bret Crowley, Site Construction Process Owner, Procter & Gamble; and Arthur Limper.

class: Operating Entity – Major Plant/Operating Facility

Name: Procter and Gamble Iowa City Plant

about: The P&G Iowa City site has worked over 30 years and 4.4 million hours without a lost time injury. During the past three years, P&G project teams worked 808,000 hours with a lost time rate of zero and a recordable incident rate of 0.48. Key contributors include the continuous hazard improvement process pro-gram, a behavior based feedback process which includes a detailed safety program for craft, and a supervi-sory training and risk management program designed to help connect with a younger workforce.

OWNER SAFETY AWARDSThe Construction Industry Safety Excellence (CISE) Constructor Awards were developed to recognize commendable safety

management by owner member companies of CURT that have most effectively implemented the recommendations of The Construction Users Roundtable R-807, CURT Construction Owners’ Safety Blueprint and other CURT user practices.

The awards were presented by Art Goehry, Senior Director of Project Management, Johnson & Johnson and Arthur Limper, Global Manager of Construction Safety, Merck & Co., Inc.

Award Goes to…And the

The 2011 CURT National Conference drew one of its biggest crowds in the past 10 years. Held November 7-10 at the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass in Phoenix, Arizona, the event gave attendees the opportunity to hear from industry keynote speakers, partake in breakout sessions dedicated to construction’s hot topics, honor leaders in safety and workforce development at the Annual Awards Gala, and network with peers. Following are some highlights from the 2011 event!

Connecting for Success:CURT’s 2011 National Conference Educates, Informs and Unites


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Art Goehry; Dorian Boone, Project Engineer, Merck & Co.; Alicia Robey, Sr. Project Engineer, Merck & Co.; and Arthur Limper.

class: Specific U.S. Construction Project Less than 12 Months

Name: Merck & Co., Inc. QO Lab Project – Durham, North Carolina

about: The Merck Durham QO Lab is a 45,000 SF facility that was constructed in just one year. The proj-ect consisted of 189,000 hours with a lost time rate of zero and a recordable incident rate of zero.

On winning this award, Alicia Robey comments, “Receiving this award and the recognition by our peers is very meaningful. The project team established specific safety goals in alignment with the existing safety program at the Durham site. To see the fulfillment of these goals, culminating with this award, is not only a testament to Merck’s overall commitment to safety but also to the dedication and hard work of the entire con-struction team, including the Merck project team, the Merck Safety Program Management (SPM) team and the construction management firm, Yonkers Industries, Inc.”

Art Goehry; Jim Ellis, Engineering Director, E.I. DuPont; and Arthur Limper.

class: Specific U.S .Construction Project > 12 Months

Name: E.I. DuPont Cooper River Kevlar® Spinning Project – Moncks Corner, South Carolina

about: The Cooper River Kevlar® team achieved a Total Recordable Frequency Rate (TRFR) of 0.26 on this large project utilizing over three million field hours. For the last 80 percent of the project, the team had a TRFR of 0.08! The team overcame significant obstacles from both business driven changes on scheduled completion as well as managing an unusually high number of people who worked on the project.

On winning this award, Jim Ellis comments, “We are extremely proud of our integrated project team. In working together, they created an environment that valued safety at the core enabling each person to con-tribute at their maximum while avoiding the pain and suffering that results from any injury.”

Art Goehry; Jim Ellis, Engineering Director, E.I. DuPont; and Arthur Limper.

class: Specific U.S. Construction Project >12 Months

Name: E.I. DuPont Louisville VF Expansion, Phase 4 Project

about: This project was completed with ZERO recordable injuries, which was achieved while in an electrically classified operating area and during extreme high temperatures. Jim Peckham, Project Team Leader, indicated that DuPont worked closely with contractors during front end loading to reduce exposure during construction via utilizing modular techniques and during operation by focusing on asset and opera-tions integrity.

On winning this award, Jim Ellis comments, “We are honored to receive these prestigious CURT awards for both the Louisville and Cooper River projects this year and very much appreciate the efforts of our partner contractors for executing these projects in line with our core values.”

Art Goehry; Joerg Becker, Project Manager, Procter & Gamble; Arthur Limper.

class: Specific International Project

Name: Procter and Gamble Baby Care October 6 Site

about: The Procter and Gamble Egypt Baby Care project is located just west of Cairo on a 63 acre Greenfield tract that will meet critical demand for the Middle East, Eastern Europe and North Africa. The project worked a total of 3.3 million hours over a 27 month period with a lost time rate of zero and a recordable incident rate of 0.008. Key contributors included the Behavior Observation System which incor-porates P&G’s corporate mission of “Touching Lives Improving Life”, strategic planning for cultural aspects, emergency response during political crisis and commitment to safe methods—many of which were not used in Egyptian construction up until then.

Art Goehry; Paul J. Logan, Director of Projects, Eli Lilly & Company; and Arthur Limper.

hoNoRable meNtioN

class: Operating Entity

Name: Eli Lilly & Company Global Facilities Delivery

about: On winning the award, Paul J. Logan comments, “Eli Lilly & Company has only been a CURT member for two years so it is an honor for our safety program to be recognized with this award. We strive to apply the same good safety practices across our global capital portfolio. This award provides the posi-tive reinforcement so beneficial to all our construction operations throughout the world.”

Continued on page 23



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hoNoRable meNtioN

class: Specific U.S. Construction Project > 12 Months

Name: The Dow Chemical Company Engineering Solutions – St. Charles Operations EO Only Project

about: The Dow Baton Rouge Facility completed an $80 million expansion of Ethylene Oxide production which involved substantial equipment installation and underground utility piping installa-tions. The project worked 574,000 hours over a 13 month period with a lost time rate of zero and a recordable incident rate of zero. No photo available.

Brian Salsgiver, Sr. Safety Manager – Centennial; Mark Baier, Project Executive, Southwest Operations; Arthur Limper; and Art Goehry.

class: NAICS 236 – General Building Contractor

categoRY: Category 1 (< 500,000 man hours/year)

Name: Centennial Contractors Enterprises, Inc.

about: Centennial Contractors Enterprises, Inc.’s safety performance the last three years has been outstand-ing; they have managed an average of 155 thousand hours working injury free in 2008 and in 2010.

On winning this award, Brian Salsgiver comments, “Centennial is thrilled to receive this award. Our safety programs touch not only our employees but also the hundreds of small and disadvantaged busi-nesses we work with who need better access to safety training and resources. We are proud to provide the mentoring and partnership with these subcontractors which results in a safer workplace for everyone and are appreciative of CURT for recognizing Centennial’s contributions in this important role.”

Anthony O’Dea, VP, Director, Corporate Safety; Arthur Limper; Art Goehry; and William Gilbane Jr., President and COO.

class: NAICS 236 – General Building Contractor

categoRY: Category 3 (>2 million man hours/year)

Name: Gilbane Building Company

about: Gilbane Building Company is a Providence, Rhode Island-based firm which, over the past three years, has accumulated approximately 86 million man hours. During this time their average record-able OSHA rate has been 0.44, and there have been no fatalities or lost day work cases in 2010. Their outstanding performance can be attributed to a corporate and ownership to commitment illustrated by the corporate slogan “Gilbane Cares – Because we’re all one family.”

CONTRACTOR SAFETY AWARDSThe Construction Industry Safety Excellence (CISE) Constructor Awards are intended to convey the Construction Users Roundtable’s

(CURT) strong support of constructor safety performance. The awards were presented by Art Goehry, Senior Director of Project Management, Johnson & Johnson.

Arthur Limper; Robert C. Royal, Safety Director, Triple “S” Industrial Corporation; and Art Goehry.

class: NAICS 237 – Heavy Construction

categoRY: Category 2 (>500,000 to < or = 2 million man hours/year)

Name: Triple “S” Industrial Corporation

about: Over that past three years Triple “S” Industrial has accumulated approximately 2.8 million man hours while obtaining a recordable incident rate of less than 0.15. The company also has no lost time injuries during this time.

On winning this award, Robert C. Royal comments, “Winning the CURT CISE award is very special to us at Triple “S” Industrial Corporation, as it provides a local Southeast Texas company the opportunity to receive national recognition. This award is the result of best in class management commitment and employ-ee involvement. It was truly an honor to accept this award on behalf of our employees.”

Arthur Limper; Mark Costello, President, Industrial/Process; and Art Goehry.

class: NAICS 237 – Heavy Construction


Name: URS Energy & Construction

about: In the past three years URS has been responsible for directing, managing and supervising close to 100 million labor hours on their projects with an overall recordable rate of 0.36, more than 12 times better the average rate for the construction industry as based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

On winning this award, Mark Costello comments, “This award validates that the focus URS places on our safety program is producing industry leading results. URS considers safety a core value and keeps safety fresh using innovative, memorable approaches. We train our people to look for and recognize unsafe conditions, empower them to stop the work if they deem it unsafe and consistently reward the right behaviors.”

Do you deserve a CURT Owner Award/Contractor

Safety Award or Workforce Award? Learn more about applying at

www.curt.org.

Continued on page 26


●●● Connecting for Success Continued

Arthur Limper; Marty Rouse, Vice President Safety, Rosendin Electric, Inc.; and Art Goehry.

class: NAICS 238 – Special Trades Contractors


Name: Rosendin Electric, Inc.

about: Rosendin Electric, Inc. is a 100 percent employee-owned electrical engineering, power and com-munications provider. Their policy and leadership belief focuses on “TAP” (training, attitude and planning) and “Right to Ask”. As a result they are adopting processes that they “believe will empower their workers earlier in the processes and place safety more fully within their power and responsibility.”

On winning the award, Marty Rouse comments, “As one of the largest, privately-held electrical contractors in the nation, our safety record is no accident. In fact, safety is part of the fabric of the Rosendin Electric culture from the executive suite to every electrician working in the field. Earning the prestigious CURT safety award is a great achievement and a tribute to the hard work and commitment of senior managers and employees.”

Arthur Limper; Megan Knoll, Director of Marketing,Gribbins Insulation Company; and Art Goehry.

class: NAICS 238 – Special Trades Contractors

categoRY: Category 1 (< 500,000 man hours/year)

Name: Gribbins Insulation Co., Inc.

about: Gribbins Insulation Company has experienced significant improvement in safety performance over the past three years. The number of OSHA recordable injuries has decreased by 66 percent, their OSHA recordable rate by over 50 percent and the company has maintained an average EMR of 0.67 over the same period of time.

On winning the award, Jim Gribbins, President of Gribbins Insulation Co., Inc. comments, “Every team mem-ber at Gribbins Insulation, including the person we hired yesterday and the person we may hire tomorrow, must place safety in front of all actions. There is absolutely no task that is so important or necessary that we might consider sacrificing safety, to even the slightest degree, in an effort to perform the task. Such recognition by CURT is proof that even a mid-sized contractor can develop and maintain a successful safety program.”

Greg Sizemore, Executive Vice President, CURT; Mike Schneider, VP, CPO, Baker Concrete Construction, Inc.; Judy DeWeese, CEO, National Association of Women in Construction; Janice Urbanik, Director of Industry Partnership; Sherry Kelley Marshall, President/CEO, Southwest Ohio Region Workforce Investment Board (SWORWIB); Mark Luegering, Senior Vice President, Messer Construction Co.; and Mike Conley (DuPont), President, CURT.

pRogRam: Greater Cincinnati Construction Career Pathways Collaborative

pRoJect pRoFile: For nearly 10 years, the Greater Cincinnati Construction Career Pathway Collab-orative has developed and leveraged partnerships to raise awareness of construction careers and to create pathways to those careers. Outreach ranges from middle school students to high school to adults.

Partners agree: “Our collaborative is extremely honored and thrilled to receive this CURT award. Con-struction employers say our work is paying off and we are very proud of our accomplishments.”

WORKFORCE AWARDSThe Construction Industry Workforce Awards were developed to give significant national and international recognition for

extraordinary, exemplary and innovative training and education programs that lead others to a career in the construction industry. The awards were presented by CURT Workforce Awards Chairman, Eddie Clayton, Planned Outage and Labor Manager,

Southern Company.

For being only 7 ½ years old, Augustus “Gus” May clearly understood the carbon footprint he was making in his world when he par-ticipated in the St. Joseph, Missouri, Chapter’s local Block-Kids Contest last year. Gus, the 2011 national Block-Kids winner, was inspired to make “Gus’s Town,” his winning entry in the annual contest sponsored by the NAWIC Education Foundation (NEF).

The Block-Kids Building Program is a national competition that is sponsored on the local level by NAWIC chapters and other organiza-tions. For nearly 20 years, The Construction Innovation Forum (CIF) has recognized the National Block-Kids Award as part of the Nova Awards ceremony. Gus, then a second-grader at Thomas Edison Elementary, was sponsored by the St. Joseph, Missouri Chapter of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). The award-winning program introduces children to the construction industry in a fun and interactive way. Grade school children from grades 1 to 6 are given a variety of interlocking blocks and three of the following additional items: A small rock, string, foil and poster to construct anything, limited only by their imagination and creativity.

Working with the interlocking blocks, string and rock, Gus formed a city consisting of a market, museum, city hall, police station and church. What distinguished Gus’s entry is that the city had a very “green” feel. For instance, the city had surrounding farmland, which included a volcano made of tinfoil and a mountain, both ensuring better farming soil. Trying to keep the town as clean as possible, Gus wanted people to walk, and only delivery drivers have vehicle access to drop off locally grown food.

Gus said that the most fun part of participating in the Block-Kids Contest was that he got to “walk around with the judges and see the other kids’ constructions.” It’s not surprising that this kid who loves to build wants to be an aeronautical engineer one day, with aspirations of designing airplanes for the military.

National Block-Kids Winner Inspired By ‘Green’ WorldBy Leona Dalavai Scott

Gus with his winning Block-Kids project.

Gus was recognized at the CURT National Conference Awards Banquet by CURT Executive Vice President Greg Sizemore (left) and CURT President Michael Conley (right).


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Greg Sizemore, Executive Vice President, CURT; Jerry Rispone, President/CEO, ISC; Ronnie Gulino, Asset Director, ISC; Eddie Rispone, Chairman, ISC; and Mike Conley (DuPont), President, CURT.

pRogRam: ISC Constructors

pRoJect pRoFile: Over the past seven years, ISC has methodically developed and implemented work-force development programs which address recruiting, placement, training, assessment and retention of its associates.

On winning this award, Jerry Rispone comments, “Workforce development has always been a high priority for ISC and we feel extremely honored to have received this prestigious award. We consider it a true testament to our efforts of attracting new individuals to the construction industry and also of maintaining the best qualified and trained associates in the industry. We know that our success depends on these dedicated associates!”

pRogRam: ConocoPhillips Project Development Summit Program

pRoJect pRoFile: The ConocoPhillips Project Development Summit Program aims to recruit and develop entry-level engineering and construction management graduates and prepare them for a career focused on the planning and implementation of major capital projects within the global oil and gas sector. The Summit Program is a 12-month program which includes an intensive summer training program followed by a 9-month assignment on a capital project team.

Steve Siceluff, Director, Summit Program; and Eddie Clayton.

pRogRam: Los Angeles Unified School District “We Build” Program

pRoJect pRoFile: The Los Angeles Unified School District’s Board of Education’s (LAUSD) “We Build” Program was designed to provide local district residents an opportunity to participate in the construction of neighborhood schools through pre-apprenticeship training and placement in Union Apprenticeship Pro-grams.

On winning this award, Anabel Barragan comments, “The ‘We Build’ Program is honored to be nationally recognized by CURT. The Los Angeles Unified School District’s $20 billion school con-struction program is more than building schools, it is cultivating a skilled workforce that serves the future of Los Angeles. Through ‘We Build’, local residents are receiving training and access to a union career in construction that will reinvest local bond dollars in the community and demonstrate the true spirit of public works.”

Michael Richardson, Los Angeles Unified School District "We Build" Program; Anabel Barragan, Los Angeles Unified School District "We Build" Program; and Eddie Clayton.

Eddie Clayton; and Matt Clark, Senior Manager of Training.

pRogRam: KBR OnTrack Leadership Academy

pRoJect pRoFile: The OnTrack Leadership Academy is a four-tier progression program that identifies high potential NCCER Certified Plus Journeymen and provides a clear path of advancement that includes, training, mentoring support and pay increases at each tier: crew leadership, leadership essentials for front-line supervisors, craft management and site management.

On winning this award, David Zimmerman, Group President, KBR Services, comments, “We aim to recruit and promote high-potential employees into the program based on merit and provide them with a clear path to advancement so that one generation’s success provides the motive and momentum to train, mentor and empower another. We are honored that the CURT organization has recognized our efforts to stay at the forefront of this important workforce development initiative.”

THE CIF NOVA AWARDSThe Construction Innovation Forum (CIF) is an international, non-profit organization formed in 1987 to recognize and encourage

proven innovations that improve the quality, efficiency and cost effectiveness of construction.The 2011 NOVA Awards were presented by Timothy Alter, Chair of the CIF, and Rasha Stino, PhD., Vice Chair of the CIF. In-depth

videos of each NOVA Award winner are available at www.cif.org/award_videos.php#

Rasha Stino; Steve Hayes, Project Engineer, MTI; Hans Hutton, Senior Engineer, HNTB; and Tim Alter.

pRoJect: Huey P. Long - Preassembly and Lift Scheme

about: An innovative erection procedure was designed to widen the historic Huey P. Long Bridge in New Orleans, Louisiana. The one-of-a-kind erection method allowed complete spans of the widening trusses to be built on barges along the banks of the river. The whole system of trusses and stabilizing frames for both sides of the existing structure were then floated into position under the existing bridge and lifted at the four corners by strand-jacks supported on the top of the widened pier trusses.

The solution was designed by HNTB, Inc., and Massman Construction, Inc., both of Kansas City, Mis-souri. The project was constructed by a joint venture of Massman Construction, Traylor Bros. and IHI.



pRoJect: Brick Paving Machine

about: The Brick Paving Machine mechanizes the laying of brick pavements so that brick masons and the laborers supplying them work more ergonomically and productively to build brick pavements more quickly with less expense.

The innovator of the Tiger Stone Brick Paving Machine is Henk van Kuijk, owner of the Dutch industrial company, Vanku BV.

Craig Austin, President, Grinnell Paving; Frens Peters, Export and Sales, Vanku BV; Henk van Kuijk, Owner, Vanku BV; and Tim Alter.

pRoJect: Concrete Optimizer

about: Concrete Optimizer is comprised of on-vehicle hardware and software that provides instant and accurate measurement of the material properties in a concrete mixing drum during transit, measures vital information from inside the drum and relays this information to the concrete mixing plant operator, dispatch system operator, and QA/lab technician.

The Concrete Optimizer System was invented by Berthold Berman, CTO of the SensoCrete Company in Quebec, Canada.Rasha Stino; Juan Velasquez, VP Hardware,

SensoCrete; Dully Katzeff, CEO, SensoCrete; Berthold Berman, CTO, SensoCrete; and Tim Alter.

pRoJect: Hybrid Uninterruptible Power Supply (HUPS)

about: The Hybrid Uninterruptable Power System (HUPS) Turbine integrates functions that have tradition-ally required two separate pieces of equipment to provide an energy-efficient Uninterruptible Power Supply that can provide power during long duration blackout events.

The system was designed by Capstone Turbine Corporation© of Chatsworth, California. BHP Energy of Walbridge, Ohio took the integration effort a step further when it applied the HUPS tur-bine in a Combined Cooling Heating and Power (CCHP) product. ●Rasha Stino; Ron Donnal, Vice President, Gem

Inc., on behalf of BHP Energy LLC; Steve Gillette, Vice President, Business Development, Capstone Turbine Corp.; Justin Rathke, Director of Sales, Capstone Turbine Corp.; and Tim Alter.


RESOURCES FOR TODAY’S INDUSTRY CHALLENGESMike Conley, DuPont, CURT President

Mike Conley started his speech with four important phrases: “You can do better!”, “So what?”, Step up!” and “Be bold!” He went on to explain that in 2012 CURT Committees (Education, Handoffs to Construction, International, Nuclear Construction Effectiveness, National Conference Planning, Project Delivery, Safety, Workforce Development and Industrial Relations, and Young Professionals) would be using these phrases to chart their course of action, telling themselves, “you can do better!”, asking “so what” when determining whether or not to start a new initiative, making sure everyone on the Committees “steps up” and “being bold” by not taking the easy road when deciding how to tackle new ideas. Doing this, he explained, will help CURT achieve its mission to, “Provide aggressive leadership on business issues that promote excellence in the creation of capital assets.”

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Speaking Out:What the Major Speakers Had to Say

ADVANCING CURT INTERNATIONAL: ENABLING COMPETITIVE PROJECTS OFF SHOREJim Ellis, Engineering Director, DuPont

The business case for getting involved with CURT International is pretty simple; China and India are projected to each hold 18.2 percent of the world’s population by 2020 (the United States is projected to hold 4.5 percent), and China alone is expected to produce 19.4 percent of the world’s gross domestic product by 2020. These emerging markets are leading global expansion and China, in particular, is critical to future growth. Success in these markets requires “local” strategies though (knowledge, practices and resources), which is where CURT International comes in. Participation in this Committee can improve performance through leveraged best practices, help companies successfully navigate through the complexities, and provide a community of networking outside the United States.

THE INTEL CONSTRUCTION MINDSETTim Hendry, Vice President of Fabrication Materials, Intel Corporation

Intel Corporation is the world’s largest semiconductor manufacturer with 151 sites and 546 buildings in 62 countries. The company’s vision is that, “This decade we will create and extend computing technology to connect and enrich the lives of every person on earth.” As a result of this vision, Intel has increased spending on construction from $1.2 billion in 2010 to $3.5 billion in 2011. The company has also reduced fab cycle time by 60 percent in order to keep up with the fast-pace that technology must come to market; historically significant technology improvements were made every two years and now emerging mobile markets release significant technology improvements every 9 to 12 months. In order to increase construction velocity, Intel is extensively exploring building information modeling (BIM) and prefabrication.

I WILL SURVIVE: WHAT THE DATA SAYS ABOUT THE ECONOMYAnirban Basu, Chief Economist, Associated Builders and Contractors

Anirban Basu’s presentation talked about “your 19th nervous breakdown,” highlighting where the country was economically, where it is today and where it’s headed to in the near and long-term. He noted that in May 2009 the entire country was in recession, in April 2010, only one state was in recession (Nevada) and around half of the states were recovering, and as of July 2011 only one state was in recession (Nevada), the majority of states were recovering and one state (North Dakota) is actually expanding. Some predictions: the housing market will remain in recession for the balance of 2012 and non residential construction volumes will slump…again.



PROCTER & GAMBLE: A CONSTRUCTION STORYMike Chaney, Vice President of Product Supply, Gillette

P&G operates in 80 countries, sells its product in 180 countries and serves approximately 4.4 billion consumers. Yet, even with such success, they still have a growth strategy: touching and improving more consumers’ lives in more parts of the world…more completely. During Mike Chaney’s presentation, he explained how P&G is achieving this strategy by investing $3.5 billion in capital investment in 2010/2011 and committing $2 billion to research and development. This resulted in 29,000,000 construction effort hours worked globally during those years, on all five continents at over 135 plants. Even with so many construction effort hours, safety is still the primary focus—P&G’s global total incident rate is 0.38 TIR.

TRANSLATING AND TRANSCENDING THE GENERATION GAPYOUNG PROFESSIONAL | SENIOR EXECUTIVE ROUNDTABLEStephen Ayers, Architect of the CapitolAshley Baker, Vice President Environmental Projects & Construction, Southern CompanyKyle Smith, Construction Engineer, DuPontCarolyn Thorngate, Value Stream Manager, CRANE ChemPharmaRon Spear, Vice President of Health, Safety, & Environmental, AMECMatthew Schaefer, Engineer, Turner Construction CompanyJan Tuchman, Editor-in-Chief, Engineering News-Record (Moderator)

This panel discussion between industry leaders, senior executives and young professionals was all about translating and transcending the generation gap. Discussions on topics like turnover, training, leadership and motivation were what made this one of the highest ranked presentations at the Conference. One of the most interesting parts of this presentation was to see that 30-somethings and 50-somethings are not that far off in opinions. A Young Professionals (YP) survey asked, “How do you treat safety on a jobsite?” Ninety percent of 30-somethings and 91 percent of 50-somethings said, “Serious, all activities on site should follow all rules.”

Break-out Session SuccessIn addition to insightful keynote

speakers, the CURT National Conference also features numerous break-out sessions. Attendees can pick and choose which sessions are most relevant to their businesses and interests, and can attend those that are most beneficial to their own situations. Some of this Conference's topics included improving productivity, technology, the Choose Construction Initiative, investing in the former Eastern Bloc, and international construction.You can download presentation files from the break-out sessions and from the keynote speakers at www.curt.org


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CMAA AND FMI PRESENT THE 2011 OWNERS’ SURVEY RESULTSLee Smither, Managing Director, FMI Corporation

The FMI/CMAA Twelfth Annual Survey of Owners: Adaptability in Uncertain Times adds further depth to an evolving portrait of construction Owners who are coping with an operating environment that is changing profoundly and, in all likelihood, permanently. Highlights of the survey are below and, for more information, go to page 33 of this magazine.• 52percentofownersfindmanybids

priced well below expected levels;• 48percentaretakingadvantageof

the opportunity to contract work at the lowest price;

• 38percentofOwnersagreedthatitwas getting harder to get a project fully completed than before, while 42 percent did not agree;

• 77percentofOwnersexpecttheirCMto have expertise or thorough working knowledge in facility startup; and

• 61percentbelievethatleadingIPDimplementation is an important or very important CM function.

SOLVING AMERICA’S INDUSTRIAL CONUNDRUMThomas Crumm, Author

With nearly a million jobs at stake, Thomas Crumm believes that America’s auto industry can regain the world leadership it once enjoyed…and be profitable. A third-generation autoworker himself, Crumm has experience in every nook and cranny of GM’s diverse operations. In his book General Motors? Solving America’s Industrial Conundrum, and during his keynote address, Crumm shares his vision on how the future of manufacturing lies in the past when small teams built each car from start to finish, which is a surefire way to rekindle the passion workers once had for their products.

ARON RALSTONMountain Climber, Inspiration for the Academy Award Nominated Movie 127 Hours

The final speaker of the Conference was Aron Ralston, who shared his dramatic and life-changing story with attendees. Aron is widely known for surviving a canyoneering accident in Utah, during which he was forced to amputate his own right arm with a dull multi-tool in order to free himself after being trapped for five days and seven hours. A candid and sincere Aron walked listeners through the events leading up to his accident, the hours spent trapped beneath the boulder and the realization that he would have to amputate his own arm in order to live.

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The current operating environment rewards those most adaptable to change. In this environment, markets react violently to each new economic report or each new day’s headlines about trouble around the corner or a world away. As the economic wheels continue to spin with little traction, firms are left with little choice but to adapt to survive.

~Excerpt from the Executive Summary, FMI/CMAA Twelfth Annual Survey of Owners

You are not the only Owner who is trying to figure out what direction your business should go in 2012. The FMI/CMAA Twelfth Annual Survey of Owners: Adaptability in Uncertain Times won’t solve the mystery for you but it can shed some light into what other Owners all across the country are doing, experiencing and trying.

Providing a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse of what Owners are encountering has always been a key objective of the survey. This benefits Owners by giving them context on every day issues and allowing them to compare their experiences. This also benefits construction professionals, providing the data to help them gain a better understanding of what Owners care

about. The 2011 survey carries on this tradition.

One of the most interesting results backs up anecdotal evidence that Owners are receiving bids that are priced below expected levels. The survey asked Owners to comment on their direct experiences with bid values; specifically, on a scale of 1 to 5, how the economic climate had impacted bid levels and procurement strategies. More than half of respondents (52 percent) agreed or strongly agreed with the statement: Due to national economic conditions, we find many bids are priced well below the levels we expected.

Lee Smither, Managing Director for FMI Corporation, explains that, “This trend can certainly benefit Owners by creating an opportunity to execute work at a discount.”

He suggests that, “Perhaps even projects that have been on the shelf for years could now be put back on the table. That said, low bids are not always a positive for Owners, which explains some of the reluctance to take advantage of these bids. It is in the best interest of the Owner to understand how his or her contracting partners expect to profit from these unexpectedly low bids. Otherwise, these bids can create a new set of

challenges for the Owner. It goes back to the classic logic that if something seems too good to be true, then it probably is.”

There are two sides to the coin, explains Smither. On one side, a low bid could be an indicator that the contractor expects to make up the difference elsewhere, like through change orders. Similarly, a low bid could indicate that the contractor does not have a clear understanding of the project and the value the Owner expects, which results in an inaccurate bid. On the flip side, low bids could be the result of innovative approaches from the contractor. If this is the case, a reluctant Owner might miss out.

Survey results like this, along with many other interesting trends, were presented by Smither and Ken Wilson, Director at FMI Corporation, at the 2011 CURT National Conference in Phoenix, Arizona. Wilson says that the survey result that created the most buzz was centered around the changing role of construction managers (CMs). For the first time in the survey’s history, construction owners have ranked, “Transitioning to ongoing operations and maintenance” as the most important area in which they expect their CMs to make significant contributions to the company’s success.

This trend had been noted in several previous surveys. For example, in 2009

in

About this survey

This research effort is the result of collaboration between the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) and the FMI Corporation. Survey participants are selected from Owner members of the CMAA, Owner contacts of FMI and members of organizations such as the Construction User Roundtable (CURT).

Uncertain TimesAdaptabilityBy Shannon Savory


●●● Adaptability in Uncertain Times Continued

the 10th Annual Survey of Owners revealed that this shift would accelerate between 2009 and 2014. Now, only two years into that five year projection, for the first time the transitioning function ranks highest among 16 key functional areas in which CMs could be expected to contribute to owners’ success.

As Wilson explains, “Owners are expecting more from CMs in terms of the breadth of services that the CM should deliver and, at the same time, Owners have fewer resources to commit to their capital programs. This creates an opportunity for CM firms to fill that void and become greater business partners for Owners.

Understandably, Owners are most interested in how they can best identify the CMs who can do just that.”

The survey found that 77 percent of Owners expect their CM to have either expertise or thorough working knowledge of facility startup. A slightly lower percentage of Owners, 75 percent, responded that it is either “important” or “very important” for CMs to be key mediator/problem solvers for document quality concerns, and be Owners’ “go-to” for issue-dispute-claims resolutions.

One of the most interesting findings in this survey, according to Smither, is the bifurcation of Owners’ experiences with completing projects. He explains, “A significant percentage of respondents agreed that it was getting harder, while an equally significant percentage did not agree. This statistic is reinforced by Owners’ experiences with retainage strategies and project commissioning issues. Those who agreed that completing projects was getting harder also struggled with retainage and commissioning more than the rest of the respondents. Clearly, this highlights an area where Owners can learn from one another’s experiences and lessons learned.”

This article only scrapes the surface of this survey’s results. If you’d like to read the entire survey, contact Lee Smither at (919) 787-8400 or by email at [email protected]. You can also access all of the previous Owner surveys, dating back to 2000, at www.cmaafoundation.org/careers-in-cm/research. ●


LEGA

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AAs construction litigators, we are called upon time and again to dissect troubled projects and assess legal responsibility for unmet expectations. While the details vary from project to project, we have observed that the root causes of project failure are surprisingly uniform, and largely preventable. Based on our nearly fifty years of collective experience, we offer that construction professionals will immediately benefit from closer attention to seven key issues:

Issue #1 – Know and Abide By Thy Contract

The projects we work on are extremely complex commercial transactions. Hundreds of millions of dollars are often at stake. By necessity, these transactions are governed by a written document known as the “project contract.” Yet in our experience, construction professionals routinely fail to devote sufficient resources to drafting, coordinating, understanding and abiding by the contract

document. On the front end, the cost incurred for design coordination

efforts to ensure, for example, mechanical, electrical, and structural compatibility, is truly money well spent. The same is true for delineation of work scope. Unfortunately, not all mechanical and electrical packages are free of ambiguity. It is our observation that the vast majority of claims and litigation can be avoided only if the litigants’ responsibilities have been clearly articulated in the contract document. Yet time and again, construction professionals put hundreds of millions of dollars at risk without spending a relatively modest amount of money in the planning stages.

During construction as well, construction personnel often ignore the contract document at their peril. Although the contract document is often reviewed by project management at the outset, very few companies review and reference the contract as a matter of habit during construction. In our opinion, it is critical that onsite personnel and management all be cognizant of, not only the relevant specifications and drawings, but the risk-shifting clauses (i.e., notice, changes, differing site conditions, delays, claims’ submission requirements, delineation of responsibility for permits, access, testing, etc.) as well.

The contract should be read often, and it is imperative to keep personnel familiar with all of the governing paragraphs. We recommend that at the outset of project construction, project management conduct an “all-hands-on-board” meeting to identify controlling provisions in the contract. A laminated, one page

summary can, thereafter, be passed out to project personnel. A summarized version of the contract can be a tangible “quick reference” for project personnel.

As construction litigators, we cannot overemphasize the importance of understanding and abiding by the contract document. It allocates and defines scope of work and provides the rules for governing project conflict. Proper understanding of a well-coordinated contract document will go a long way to eradicating claims and construction litigation.

Issue #2 – The Perils of Design-Build

Design-build has often been labeled as a panacea for all that ails the construction industry. We agree that single source responsibility is salutary, and the ability to break ground and go vertical quickly also is great. But we are as busy as ever, litigating claims between Owners and contractors arising out of design-build projects.

Many claims arise out of inherent ambiguity in the design-build scope. For this reason, Owners primarily need to be more clear in identifying and specifying all program requirements that are deemed essential by the Owner. Thereafter, Owners need to learn to be satisfied with the design solutions arrived at by their design-build contractors. Many Owners, after having lived in the design-bid-build world for so long, have difficulty staying out of the design process and often impose design requirements not explicitly called for in the project scope of work. For that reason, one tip we often provide to our design-build contractor clients is to keep an eye out for Owner representatives spending too much time in the Architect’s office!

Issue #3 – From Estimating to Execution

On a conventional construction project, the estimating team takes the first and

“last look” at the contract documents. The contract price, thereafter, is based on what the estimating team saw as the project scope. All too often, however, the project construction team does not include any member of the

estimating team and the vital knowledge of

Seven Issues for the Construction Professional By Vivian Katsantonis, Edward J. Parrott and Nathaniel G. Sizemore, Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald, L.L.P.

Common Pitfalls:


●●● Common Pitfalls Continued

project scope goes to waste. Therefore, we recommend that contractors include in their project construction team at least one member of the estimating team to ensure that the intended project scope is executed in the field. Coordination between the two groups is critical to project success.

Issue #4 – Overexpansion

It is our opinion that uncontrolled growth is a great enemy of all businesses, including construction companies. We understand that Wall Street sometimes requires growth, and that a three percent margin on $100M in revenue is better than a three percent margin on $50M. But expansion into geographic or business sectors that are beyond a businesses’ historic purview always leads to challenges, and often leads to failure. The root cause is over expansion beyond the company’s expertise and ability to manage and control quality.

We have seen far too many solid and solvent companies get into trouble by overexpanding, typically in response to a lack of work or the recent economic straits. Therefore, companies should be cognizant that expansion is positive, but

overexpansion could be dangerous.

Issue #5 – Adhere to

Contract Notice Provisions

Nearly every claim situation we are involved in has a notice problem. Contractors fail to adhere

to the stipulated notice provisions, thereby potentially

causing prejudice to the Owner. The Owner argues that the failure to receive notice has compromised its ability to solve the problem, and/or control costs.

Contractors often opine that they do not wish to upset the Owner, and for this reason, contractually stipulated notice provisions are often ignored. However, any hesitancy to adhere to contract notice provisions is misplaced. By inserting notice provisions in the contract, Owners ask and invite contractors to promptly notify them of

problems or claims. Thus, playing by the rules of the game as set forth in the contract documents is necessary and appropriate for all parties.

For example, in West v. U.S. Postal Service, the issue was whether or not the

government complied with written notice requirements in a lease contract. 907 F.Supp. 154 (E.D. Va. 1995). The Court held that numerous cases have been brought before the courts

because of a partys’ failure to give proper notice as required by the contract. Id.

at 159. The Court also noted that giving proper notice requires strict

compliance with the contract notice provisions and that the giving of notice may be a condition precedent to recovery for additional work. Id. Thus, West serves as an example for why written notice requirements are to be strictly adhered to in a contract and what can happen if they are ignored.

Issue #6 – False Claims’ FeverThe Federal Government

has long had civil and criminal False Claims’ Statutes providing significant penalties for the submission of false statements or false claims. Virtually all states have followed suit. In addition, many private contracts now incorporate by reference the provisions of the Federal False Claims’ Statutes, putting contractors at risk for treble damages to its Owner on a private construction project. Although the many issues that arise out of false claims’ litigation are beyond the scope of this article, we have seen a marked increase in attempts by Owners (both public and private) to leverage False Claims’ Act allegations against legitimate contractor claims.

The simplest advice we have in all claims is to undertake scrupulous accounting in submission of all claims and invoices. The days of lobbing a $1M claim over-the-fence, in hopes of recovering $500,000 are gone, if they ever existed. On complex claims (involving direct and indirect overhead cost pools and/or compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations), it is highly recommended that contractors obtain

a professional to ensure that all costs are reasonably and appropriately allocated.

Issue #7 – Alternate Collaborative Contract Vehicles

We will conclude with an observation. We have experienced what seems to be a lifetime of disputes between Owners and contractors. The attempt to mitigate disputes through design-build contracting, in our view, has not been successful. Emerging at this time are alternative and collaborative contracting vehicles.

For example, the ConsensusDocs have a Tri-Party Agreement, where the Owner, the architect/engineer and the contractor all sign one contract agreement with schedule and costs benefits accruing to each party. With each party having “skin in the game,” our experience has been that the chances for cooperation increase significantly and

the likelihood of disputes is minimal. For this reason, we continue to urge the building community to carefully consider the use of collaborative contract

vehicles, such as the ConsensusDocs 300 Tri-Party Agreement, for collaborative project delivery and to begin to integrate these systems into future projects. ●

Vivian Katsantonis represents Owners, contractors, suppliers and sureties in a broad range of commercial, construction and government contract matters. Her practice emphasizes the efficient, resourceful handling of national and international contracting issues.

Ned Parrott’s practice focuses on the preparation and submission of contractor and subcontractor claims under federal procurement, state public works contracts, and standard form AIA contracts. Ned represents contractors building United States embassies as well as EPC contractors and Owners in the power plant field.

Nathaniel Sizemore focuses his practice on construction litigation, government contracts, and suretyship, representing contractors, Owners, subcontractors and sureties in all aspects of public and private development projects.


LUC

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TThe Central Gulf Industrial Alliance

(CGIA) is a local users’ council (LUC) that was formed in 2007 to address common issues faced by industry from Gulfport, Mississippi to Pensacola, Florida. Headquartered in Mobile, Alabama, CGIA’s membership is made up of industrial plants and industrial contractors operating along the central Gulf of Mexico.

OutlookCGIA is poised to play a critical role

for industry all along the central gulf. The organization is aggressively engaged in the creation of new workforce development programs and systems, and in helping to be a central coordination and deployment point for best practices in workforce development in our region.

CGIA’s twice per year wage surveys continue to be a valuable tool and an important member benefit. A recent CGIA General Membership Meeting had an outstanding lineup of industry expert speakers and almost 100 industry leaders in attendance. The organization’s website has been completely revamped and is being positioned as the “go to” information and best practice source for owners, contractors and industry stakeholders. Check it out at www.centralgulfindustries.org.

Workforce DevelopmentThe new CGIA Workforce Development

Committee continues to meet and work toward developing an overall plan to upgrade the skills of the existing workforce and to recruit and prepare a new generation of craft professionals along the Central Gulf. The Committee is focused on four areas of workforce development: forecasting; recruiting; training; and employing.

The CGIA Workforce Development Committee Mission Statements for each of the four focus areas follow:

Forecasting – It is the mission of the CGIA’s Workforce Development Committee to:• Be the primary driver of full utilization of

the Construction Market Labor Analyzer in the Central Gulf.

• Coordinate with other forecasting / labor market analysis efforts in the Central Gulf.

• Act as the development and validation agency for a single, specific, and regularly produced “of record” supply / demand forecast for the Central Gulf.Recruiting – It is the mission of the

CGIA’s Workforce Development Committee to:• Act as a clearing house for best

practices in craft professional recruiting.• Promote craft professional recruiting by

working closely with and leveraging existing national recruiting efforts such as the NCCER’s “Build Your Future Campaign” and “Go Build Alabama.”

• Work with high schools, parent groups, and student groups to change public perception about careers in construction.

• Work with state and local governments to change public education policy to more accurately reflect the need for and quality of careers in construction. training – It is the mission of the

CGIA’s Workforce Development Committee to:• Identify, audit, and validate existing

construction workforce development programs in the Central Gulf.

• Create a list of “CGIA Certified” or “CGIA Endorsed” construction workforce development programs.

• Relay specific demand / supply forecast information to the CGIA endorsed programs and be the “industry voice” to ensure training programs are focusing their efforts where the greatest gaps in supply/demand is forecast.

• Assist CGIA endorsed programs in the development of meaningful “Adopt a Program” agreements between the training provider, CGIA member owners, and CGIA member contractors. employing – It is the mission of the

CGIA’s Workforce Development Committee to:• Work with CGIA member owners and

contractors to develop a “Construction Career Placement Program” to efficiently transition individuals from training programs to meaningful careers in the construction industry.

• The CGIA Workforce Development Committee membership has a significant amount of combined workforce development and training experience and great passion.

Wrap-UpThe entire organization has developed

great energy and momentum. If you are an owner or contractor operating in the Central Gulf and you are not a member of CGIA, the organization would love to discuss how your company could add value to CGIA and how CGIA might add value to your company.

For more information, please contact: Tim JohnsonExecutive Director, CGIATel: (225) 978-1794Email: [email protected] ●

The Central Gulf Industrial Alliance

CGIA At-a-Glance2012 Board of DirectorsChair: Joe Robison, Chevron Vice Chair: Eddie Clayton, Southern CompanySecretary-Treasurer: Maureen Hryniszak, SSABDwane Brumfield, TamincoKeith Cuevas, Gulf PowerWoody Burke, SSAB

StaffTim JohnsonFrank Jelercic


Praxair, Inc. Praxair, Inc. P

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THE OWNER MEMBER:Praxair, Inc.

THE WEBSITE:www.praxair.com

THE HISTORY:The company that evolved into Praxair

was founded in 1907 when it built North America’s first commercial, cryogenic oxygen plant in Buffalo, New York. The plant employed 16 people and produced oxygen for a small market that used oxyacetylene for cutting metal.

As demand for oxygen grew, the company expanded its operations and was the first to distribute liquefied gases. In 1937, it opened an engineering, and research and development center in Tonawanda, New York.

From 1940 to 1950, the company initiated on-site gas supply for customers and introduced the non-cryogenic air separation process. It also expanded its operations to Brazil, Europe, Mexico and South Korea.

From 1950 to 1990, the company developed a process to remotely monitor and control plants and introduced post-combustion and nitrogen- and slag-splashing technologies.

During the 1990s, the company acquired Liquid Carbonic and opened a food technology center in Burr Ridge, Illinois. It patented its CoJet® technology and commercialized oxygen-based

technologies for utility boilers and steel mills.

Since 2000, the company has continued to expand and has established itself as a leading supplier in China and India, doubled its hydrogen capacity in the United States, formed a joint venture in the Middle East, and entered the Russian market.

THE RIGHT NOW:Today, Praxair is a global leader in

industrial gases and high-performance coatings. It is a Fortune 300 company with 2011 sales of $11 billion. Praxair’s 26,000 employees help one million customers in almost 50 countries become more profitable, more efficient and/or more environmentally sound when they use the company’s products, advanced gas-delivery systems, and applications technologies.

Praxair’s product offerings run the gamut from atmospheric and process gases to highly specialized gases and blends, to sophisticated applications technologies and services that cover a wide range of industries: aerospace, chemicals, energy, electronics, food and beverage, healthcare, manufacturing, metals and others.

THE FUTURE:For more than 100 years, Praxair has

taken a basic element—air—and turned it into ways to make breathing easier, food taste better, and plants operate more cleanly and efficiently. By applying

innovative thinking and diverse points of view to pressing, real-world problems, Praxair employees are creating the technology, products and services that improve the lives of people everywhere.

Praxair’s future growth will come from:• Leveragingtechnology,productand

distribution capabilities to provide reliable, cost-effective supplies to the energy sector.

• Offeringapplicationtechnologiesthat help customers reduce their environmental footprint and improve energy efficiency, product quality, and/or yield.

• Beingaleaderinmodernizingindustrial infrastructures by building world-class supply systems and offering advanced technologies in emerging economies.

THE SOCIAL COMMITMENT:

Making our planet more productive is much more than Praxair’s tagline—it is a mindset that drives how the company operates. Each year, Praxair commercializes 20 to 30 new application technologies that provide efficiency, cost-reduction, product yield and modernization benefits to its customers. Praxair’s world-class engineering team has designed and built a comprehensive range of industrial gas supply systems, and the company operates one of the world’s largest pipeline complexes along the U.S. Gulf Coast.

Praxair’s reputation for reliability is unmatched. Its global network of reliability centers maintains a world-class production system with sophisticated analytical tools to predict and prevent mechanical problems while optimizing safety, performance and reliability.

THE AWARDS:Praxair has been a component of the

Dow Jones Sustainability Index for nine consecutive years. Its code of conduct is ranked among the top 10 chemical companies by Ethisphere magazine. It is regularly rated among the most shareholder-friendly chemical companies by Institutional Investor and was named among the “World’s Most Innovative Companies” by Forbes. ●

Praxair air separation facility in Mount Vernon,

Alabama.


Praxair, Inc. Praxair, Inc. PR

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ISC ISC ISC ISC ISC ISC ISC ISCPR

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THE CONTRACTOR ASSOCIATE MEMBER: ISC

THE WEBSITE: www.iscgrp.com

THE HISTORY:Since being founded in Baton Rouge,

Louisiana, in 1989, ISC has grown to employ more than 2,000 associates and has expanded by adding two regional offices in Houston and Beaumont. According to Engineering News-Record (ENR), ISC has become one of the largest industrial, electrical and instrumentation contractors in the United States. ISC’s services include construction, engineering and maintenance, as well as turn-key heat tracing, constructability reviews, project management, budgeting and planning. ISC performs these services within a wide range of upstream, midstream and downstream industries such as refining, chemical, power, production and processing, pipelines, and pulp and paper facilities.

THE RIGHT NOW: ISC believes its success is dependent

upon two key matters, safety and workforce development. These crucial factors have always been at the top of their priorities.

Their safety record has been nationally recognized as one of the industry’s best, especially considering their average T.R.I.R. for the past five years is less than .5 and they work four million man hours annually, in busy industrial environments. This track record has earned them the unique honor of being one of the first contractors in the nation to partner with OSHA.

ISC’s company-wide Workforce Development Plan outlines career paths and opportunities for associates entering the company. In order to have the best-qualified and trained associates in the industry, it promotes advanced training for all staff, craftsmen and supervisors. ISC has become a National Center for Construction Education and Research

(NCCER) accredited training sponsor in order to encourage and increase convenience for associates as they seek ISC training.

Specialized job-site training is often created through collaboration with customers. This additional training helps to reinforce safety techniques, keep awareness high and helps associates prepare for their demanding work environments. It also helps supervisors encourage teamwork and improves communication and record-keeping, which are all essential to successful project execution.

These things are what set ISC apart from the rest. These priorities have led to the establishment of an impeccable safety record, in addition to creating a versatile and talented workforce, all of which reinforces their mission to set the standard of excellence for instrumentation and electrical work.

THE FUTURE:ISC eagerly looks to the future as it

prepares for expansions and growth into new geographical markets. Having been previously depended on by two of the world’s largest refineries and several chemical plants for major expansions, ISC looks forward to the opportunities of the future. ISC will continue to build national and world scale expansions for refining, chemical and power plants, all the while maintaining focus on safety and quality, not only for the benefit of the company, but also for the benefit of the associates and clients. ISC will serve our industry with professionalism and loyalty for many years to come.

THE AWARDS: ISC is recipient to multiple national

awards through many organizations around the country such as Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) and Construction Users Roundtable (CURT), along with being recipient to workforce development, safety and quality awards. ISC was recently nationally acknowledged as a recipient of the 2011 CURT Workforce Development

award, which is nominated and awarded by the owners group. This award was developed to give recognition for extraordinary, exemplary and innovative training and education programs that lead others to a career in the construction industry. ●


Mechanical Contractor Assoc. of America, Inc.THE CONTRACTOR SUBSCRIBER MEMBER:Yates Construction

THE WEBSITE: www.wgyates.com

THE HISTORY:Yates Construction is a fully integrated

project solutions firm, which ranks among the top 50 service providers for the United States construction industry. With annual revenues of approximately $1 billion and over 6,400 employees, Yates has the capabilities to provide a full range of engineering and construction services to clients in domestic and global markets.

Yates Construction was founded in 1963 by Chairman Bill Yates, and his father, William “Gully” Yates. Today, William Yates III is the President and CEO, and is the third generation of “Yates’” to lead the company. Their ability to look around the corner has always served the company well in the past, especially when having to adapt to the industry’s uncertain times.

Yates is a family-owned, privately held firm that prides itself as a premiere project solutions company. Being privately owned gives the company the flexibility to quickly meet the unique needs of each client and project.

Yates provides project services that cover the complete spectrum, from feasibility studies to start-up assistance. A key focus of services at Yates is to strive for optimal lifecycle costs using a proven project delivery process.

THE RIGHT NOW:The diversity, strengths and capabilities

at Yates allows the company to provide services and expertise to almost any aspect of commercial and industrial construction essentially “in house” when needed to accomplish project goals. This ensures better project results and helps to provide clients with adaptable solutions to changing circumstances.

Yates serves its clients by providing engineering, consulting, general contracting, program/construction management, design/build, and other solutions in the engineering and construction realm. They focus on the best solution to meet the needs for the project and offer a variety of

services and solutions including brownfield or greenfield projects, retrofits, technology, consulting, environmental enhancements, maintenance support services and training.

The company employs direct hire for all construction disciplines along with multiple specialty services such as custom metal buildings, structural steel and rebar fabrication, marine, earthwork, piling, paving material, and more.

Some examples of current successes, along with the vehicle battery plant shown in the photo, include:• Construction of multiple major power

projects in the southeastern United States.• Engineering for multiple pulp and paper

facilities in the southeastern United States.• Refinery work in the Caribbean.• Department of State projects outside the

United States.• Industrial construction services in Russia.• Continuous maintenance projects for

automotive manufacturing facilities.• Project and construction management

of a $1,000,000,000+ greenfield chemical complex in the southeastern United States.

• Large infrastructure (roads and utilities) projects in the southeastern United States.

• Design/build contract for a large casino in the southern United States.

• Design assist/build of a large manufacturing facility in the midwestern United States.

THE FUTURE:The company’s entrepreneurial spirit and

financial strength, along with the passion and commitment to excellence of Yates employees, are the cornerstones that ensure the company’s future growth.

Yates’ recent growth activities include two acquisitions and the opening of a new industrial office in Birmingham, Alabama. These steps allow the company to continue to serve current clients while increasing capabilities to provide solutions for the power, process, manufacturing and forest products industries.

THE AWARDS:Recent awards include:

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Savannah District, Certificate of Achievement in Safety for Outstanding Safety Performance (2010).

• Mississippi ABC Workforce Development Award of Excellence (2009, 2011).

• National Association of Women in Construction, Safety Excellence Award (2009, 2010).

• National Safety Excellence Award from Associated Builders and Contractors (2007, 2009).

• Southeast Construction Best of 2009 Award - Best Civil/Public Works Project (2009).

• Minority Contractors Association of Mississippi Awards - Small Business Mentor of the Year Award (2009).

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Mobile District, Celebrate Safety, Superior Safety Award – Stennis Space Center/NASA (2008, 2009).

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Fort Worth District, Operation Reward Safety, Zero Lost Time Achievement Award (2007).

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Tulsa District, Eagle Eye Contractor of the Year Award for Safety, Sheppard AFB, TX (2007).

• Numerous ABC Step Gold and Platinum Awards. ●

Yates is in the final stages of completion on a large Electric Vehicle Battery Plant in Smyrna, Tennessee; it is one of four of its kind in the world. This facility has an extensive clean-dry room area and will be capable of producing a large quantity of advanced technology batteries annually.

Yates Construction Yates ConP

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Mechanical Contractor Assoc. of America, Inc.PR

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THE ASSOCIATION:Mechanical Contractors Association of America, Inc. (MCAA)

THE WEBSITE:www.mcaa.org

THE HISTORY:Mechanical Contractors Association

of America, Inc. (MCAA) was founded in 1889 as the National Association of Master Steam and Hot Water Fitters to unite heating contractors throughout the United States into a national organization. In 1918 the association’s name was changed to Heating and Piping Contractors National Association, and with the advent of air conditioning in 1933 the organization became The Heating, Piping and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association.

By 1954 “mechanical contractor” had become the term that best described a business that had grown to encompass plumbing, both wet and dry heating and air conditioning, all manner of industrial piping systems and more. And so, in 1955 the organization became the Mechanical Contractors Association of America.

Throughout the organization’s evolution, MCAA has been known within the construction industry as the “education association,” continuously providing resources to prepare its members to succeed in an ever-changing business and industry climate. Through educational, advocacy and relationship-building programs and services, the association helps contractors address short-term challenges and take advantage of long-term opportunities. The association’s efforts help its member contractors to provide superior work and excellent value for owners.

THE RIGHT NOW:MCAA’s 2,500 member

companies are leaders in all areas of mechanical

contracting, including heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, plumbing, piping and energy solutions. Member companies may choose to join MCAA only, or to enhance their memberships by participating in one or more of MCAA’s subsidiaries—the Mechanical Service Contractors of America (MSCA), the Plumbing Contractors of America (PCA), the National Certified Pipe Welding Bureau (NCPWB) and the Manufacturer/Supplier Council (M/SC).

The MCAA family also includes the Mechanical Contracting Education and Research Foundation (MCERF), a separate organization that provides a solid foundation for the growth and success of the mechanical contracting industry by funding the industry’s most critical human resource and research needs.

MCAA is proud of its ongoing relationships with almost 100 local affiliated associations across the country. And, MCAA supports 47 student chapters at colleges and universities across the United States to mentor

students who are considering careers in mechanical contracting and construction.

THE FUTURE:MCAA’s goal is to continue to

anticipate and respond to its members’ needs and challenges. Here are just a few examples:

Advocacy on the industry’s behalf remains a top priority. In 2011, an approach developed by an MCAA-led coalition was incorporated into the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s new accounting standard. MCAA’s key role in the five-year effort to overturn the federal government’s 3 percent withholding tax on government contracts resulted in another win as Congress repealed the tax in November 2011.

MCAA’s educational offerings in 2012 include what’s shaping up to be a very successful annual convention, the twelfth course of our Advanced Leadership Institute for senior executives, and expanded webinar offerings in the areas of energy solutions, green buildings, management strategies and best practices, plumbing, safety and service.

Several new and revised publications will be released. Among these are revised versions of Planning for Profitability and the Successful Project Management Flowchart and a new chapter on “How to Apply the Measured Mile Method of Productivity Analysis” will be added to MCAA’s Change Order, Productivity, Overtime publication. All of these will be released in conjunction with our annual

convention in March. Throughout the year, MCAA will release new Management Methods Manual bulletins highlighting industry best practices and a variety of safety publications.

MSCA’s new GreenSTAR program will create business opportunities for members by enabling them to save their customers money by focusing

on energy solutions. ●

MCAA’s 2,500 member

companies are leaders in

all areas of mechanical

contracting, including

heating, air conditioning,

refrigeration, plumbing,

piping and energy solutions.

Yates Construction Yates Con


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The Mayan calendar abruptly ends on December 21, 2012. Is this the end of the world as we know it? No! There are many positives to discuss, not the least of which is how the construction, energy, utility, petrochemical and manufacturing industries are growing and can serve as a job creation engine in 2012. And regardless of the Mayan calendar, we will exit 2012 intact. Owners, designers and contractors can look forward to experiencing the following in 2012:• Slowly declining unemployment in the

United States (U.S.).• Increasing competitiveness of U.S.

exports due to a declining value of the dollar.

• The lowest borrowing and financing costs/interest rates in our lifetime.

• Aggressive owners accelerating capital construction activity into 2012-2013 in front of accelerating labor, material and borrowing cost inflation beyond 2013.

• Increasing capital construction spending in electric, gas, water, sewer and telecom utility sectors in 2012-2013 due to a combination of regulatory and environmental compliance, deferred maintenance and aging infrastructure.

• Very low general inflation (although higher inflation rates on food, energy and construction commodities) for all of 2012.

• Stable natural gas prices and an abundance of domestic gas supply.

• A convergence of power, water and sewer infrastructure integrated through communication technology serving as one solution to U.S. economic competitive advantages against global competitors including Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC).

• Innovations in capital asset construction in power, water, sewer and communications industries creating new opportunities for owners or builders of these assets and greater work potential

for designers and constructors capable of serving two or more of these sectors. Consider the following: � How “fracking” as an oil and

natural gas extraction technique generates vast amounts of water that requires treatment at both remote and suburban sites; and

� How pipeline automatic shut off values and excess flow valves require highly robust and hardened communications technology to monitor, control and utilize these innovations across thousands of miles of pipeline infrastructure above ground, underground and underwater.

• An America that retains its dominant position globally due to our richness in hard-to-replicate resources including: a large, healthy, long-lived and well-educated population on average; the largest combination of arable land and fresh water access on the globe; an unmatched global combination of natural gas, coal and oil production and bio-fuel potential; superior global performance in electric energy, wind power and geothermal power production and solar power potential.

• A transformation of the U.S. energy and process manufacturing landscape in ways that are hard to envision due to U.S. shale oil and gas finds. Several potential outcomes include: � U.S. exportation of liquefied

natural gas (LNG); � A domestic steel pipeline

manufacturing resurgence to supply needed pipeline construction materials locally in Ohio and Pennsylvania;

� A domestic plastic pipeline manufacturing resurgence to supply needed pipeline construction materials across the United States;

� A refinery and chemical processing facility resurgence in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma to crack the rich natural gas liquids (NGL) finds associated with shale gas; and

� A surge of high paying exploration, production, engineering and manufacturing jobs in North Dakota, Colorado, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma, all of which create dramatic growth in construction spending.

A new generation of American entrepreneurs and farsighted government leaders are required to ensure America and American firms retain a competitive edge. We have the entrepreneurs and, in this election year, can hope that both incumbents and challengers will grasp the opportunities in front of us and help our entrepreneurs reinvigorate our country.

I leave readers with the following thought: There is room for significant optimism in 2012 and beyond, founded on my belief that “American Exceptionalism” is alive and well. ●

Mark Bridgers is a principal with Continuum Advisory Group specializing in driving transformation of the capital construction process for owners, engineers and contractors. He can be reached at (919) 345-0403 or [email protected].

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The opinions and ideas expressed in the BACK AT YOU SECTION are not necessarily those of CURT. If you would like to contribute to our BACK AT YOU SECTION please send topic ideas/completed articles to [email protected] for review.

Optimism in 2012By Mark Bridgers


Buy

er’s

Gui

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AssociAtions American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) ..............................................................8 Design-Build Institute of America ....................14

commerciAl cooling systems SPX Cooling Technologies .............................. 38

construction contrActing Firms Baker Concrete Construction ............................3 Industrial Specialty Contractors, LLC (ISC) .......9 PCL Industrial Construction Co. ..................... 22 Turner Construction Co. ....................................4

construction equipment rentAls, mAintenAnce And services CAJUN Industries, LLC ................................... 32 RSC Equipment Rental ............ inside front cover Solid Platforms, Inc. ....................................... 28 McAbee Construction .............. inside back cover

engineering And construction services Hargrove Engineers & Constructors ............... 34 Lauren Engineers & Constructors....................19 S&B Engineers & Constructors........................31

FAll protection products Miller Fall Protection .......................................13

HeAvy industriAl liFting And HeAvy trAnsporting Barnhart Crane & Rigging ...............................11 Mammoet USA ............................................... 22

lAbor mAnAgement trust Ironworker Management Progressive Action Cooperative Trust .............................. 34

legAl council And Attorneys Graydon Head Legal Counsel ............................6 Sedgwick LLP ................................................ 46 Watt, Tieder, Hoffar & Fitzgerald, LLP .................... outside back cover

nAtionAl construction registry NCCER ........................................................... 37

proFessionAl construction development conFerence North American Crane Bureau ....................... 30

quAlity AssurAnce soFtwAre Qualitech Solutions .........................................10

union Mechanical Allied Crafts Council (MAC) ... 24, 25

veterAns plumbing And welding progrAms United Association (UA) .................................. 44

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