Building PA Podcast

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, we welcome Andy Gaslevich and Ben Miller from Cleveland Brothers, a leading Caterpillar construction equipment dealership. The discussion centers around the integration of technology in the construction industry, particularly how it relates to equipment utilization, safety, productivity, and addressing the skilled labor shortage.

We kick off the episode with an introduction to Cleveland Brothers, celebrating their 75 years in the business and their extensive coverage across Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and parts of Maryland. Andy and Ben share insights into how the company has evolved to meet the growing demand for technology in construction, emphasizing the dual goals of increasing productivity and enhancing safety.

The conversation delves into the various technological advancements in construction equipment, such as sensors, backup cameras, and remote control technology. Andy highlights the importance of safety features that prevent accidents, such as cab avoidance systems and remote operation capabilities, which allow operators to work in hazardous environments without being physically present.

As we explore the intersection of safety and productivity, Ben explains how these technologies not only protect workers but also streamline operations. The hosts and guests discuss the training required for operators to effectively use these advanced systems, noting that Cleveland Brothers provides comprehensive training tailored to the needs of their customers.

The episode also touches on the generational shift in the workforce, with younger operators being more comfortable with technology due to their familiarity with smartphones and digital interfaces. Ben elaborates on how GPS technology has transformed job site operations, allowing for real-time data on cuts and fills, which significantly enhances efficiency and reduces fatigue for operators.

Looking to the future, Andy and Ben discuss the potential for autonomous machinery in construction, drawing parallels with advancements already seen in mining operations. They express excitement about the ongoing developments in machine control technology and the gradual move towards greater autonomy in construction equipment.

In conclusion, this episode provides a comprehensive overview of how technology is reshaping the construction industry, making it safer, more efficient, and more appealing to the next generation of workers. We encourage our listeners to check out Cleveland Brothers for more information on their offerings and to stay tuned for future episodes in this series. Thank you for joining us on the Building PA Podcast!

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome back Odie Parkins, the owner of Four Tree Solutions, for an engaging discussion about his journey and the evolution of his work in the construction industry. Odie, who previously worked with the Carpenters Contractors Trust (CCT), shares insights from his transition to consulting and his focus on leadership and professional development within heavy industry.

As we dive into the conversation, Odie reflects on his extensive background in the labor movement, starting as an apprentice carpenter and eventually becoming an international trainer. He emphasizes his passion for helping people improve their skills and the importance of fostering a positive workplace culture. Odie highlights the challenges many companies face, such as high turnover rates and poor retention, often stemming from toxic workplace environments. He advocates for a shift in mindset, encouraging employers to create a culture where workers feel valued and supported.

The discussion also touches on Odie's innovative approach to training, which includes retreats designed to build trust and values among construction professionals. He describes the unique experience of these retreats, where participants engage in deep conversations about leadership and personal growth while surrounded by nature. Odie's emphasis on vulnerability and authenticity resonates throughout the episode, as he shares stories of how these retreats have transformed the way leaders connect with their teams.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of trust in leadership, the need for a collaborative work environment, and the impact of personal development on professional success. Odie's journey from West Virginia to Seattle serves as an inspiring backdrop for this thought-provoking conversation, reminding us all of the power of genuine connection in the workplace.

Join us for this enlightening episode as we explore the intersection of construction, leadership, and personal growth with Odie Parkins. Don't forget to check out our website for more resources and to stay updated on future episodes!

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome back Cal Beyer, a passionate advocate for addiction awareness and recovery in the construction industry. Cal, who recently joined SAFE Project as the Senior Director for Safe Workplaces, shares his journey and insights into the critical intersection of addiction, mental health, and workplace safety.

The episode kicks off with a warm introduction, highlighting Cal's previous appearance on the podcast and his new role at SAFE Project, a national non-profit organization dedicated to combating the addiction epidemic. Cal recounts his experiences collaborating with SAFE Project over the past three years and how his involvement deepened after attending their Collegiate Recovery Leadership Academy. He emphasizes the importance of supporting individuals in recovery and the potential for these individuals to contribute positively to the construction workforce.

As the conversation unfolds, Cal discusses the alarming statistics surrounding addiction in the construction industry, including high rates of substance misuse and the challenges faced by workers. He reflects on the industry's historical reliance on drug testing and the need for a more proactive approach to support employees struggling with addiction. Cal advocates for a shift in perspective, urging employers to focus on recovery solutions rather than merely punitive measures.

The group discusses the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health, noting the progress made in recent years. Cal shares his observations on how attitudes have shifted, with more people recognizing addiction as a chronic health condition rather than a moral failing. He highlights the importance of normalizing conversations about mental health and addiction in the workplace, encouraging employers to provide resources and support for their employees.

Throughout the episode, Cal emphasizes the need for community-based recovery organizations and the role they can play in helping individuals navigate their recovery journeys. He encourages employers to build partnerships with these organizations and to create a culture of support within their workplaces. The hosts discuss the importance of education and awareness, particularly in addressing the needs of employees and their families.

As the episode draws to a close, Cal expresses his gratitude for the opportunity to share his insights and the importance of collaboration in tackling addiction in the construction industry. He leaves listeners with a call to action: to prioritize human capital and to foster an inclusive workplace that supports recovery.

This episode is a powerful reminder of the impact that addiction can have on individuals and the construction industry as a whole. It serves as a rallying cry for employers to take proactive steps in supporting their workforce and to embrace a culture of recovery and understanding. Join us for this enlightening conversation that sheds light on a critical issue facing our industry today.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin visit the Bethel Village project in downtown Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where they engage with the team from the JEM Group, the general contractor for this significant affordable housing development.

The project, which is being constructed on the site of the former Bethel AME Church, represents a $20 million investment aimed at providing quality housing for individuals and families earning between 60-80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). The hosts and guests discuss the common misconceptions surrounding affordable housing, emphasizing that it is not merely subsidized living but rather a well-planned investment that requires residents to meet specific financial criteria.

Throughout the episode, the JEM Group team - including Andrew Noto-Francesco (Vice President of Operations), Josh Wine (Project Manager), Ben Green (Assistant Project Manager), and Clayton Lutz (Senior Project Manager) - highlights the importance of energy efficiency and quality construction, noting that each apartment is designed as its own sealed envelope to enhance energy performance. They explain the rigorous air sealing and testing processes involved, which are not typically seen in standard construction projects. The discussion also touches on the community's positive reception of the project, with a significant number of applications expected from interested residents.

The hosts learn about the outreach efforts made to engage the local community, including hosting meetings to connect local individuals with job opportunities in construction. The JEM Group emphasizes its commitment to hiring locally and providing wraparound services to support residents.

This episode sheds light on the complexities and benefits of affordable housing projects, the importance of quality construction, and the positive impact these developments can have on local communities.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin dive into the exciting world of electric vehicles and their impact on the construction industry. We are thrilled to welcome back Eido Almog, the Director of Strategy and Business Development for S&B USA, a global infrastructure and construction company.

Eido shares insights from S&B USA's recent pilot program focused on electrifying their fleet, which includes both on-road vehicles and off-road construction equipment. He discusses the motivations behind this initiative, highlighting the dual goals of reducing emissions for environmental sustainability and staying at the forefront of technological advancements in construction.

Throughout the episode, Eido provides a detailed overview of the data collection process that informed their decisions, revealing surprising findings about where the majority of emissions were coming from—primarily from on-road vehicles rather than heavy machinery. He emphasizes the importance of aligning the pilot program with capital expenditure plans to gain leadership buy-in, making it easier to transition to electric vehicles as older models are retired.

Listeners will learn about the specific electric vehicles S&B USA has integrated into their fleet, including two Ford F-150 Lightnings, and the infrastructure they are developing to support these vehicles, such as strategically placed chargers at job sites and employee homes. Eido also shares valuable lessons learned during the pilot, including the significance of vehicle range and the user experience, as well as the decision to maintain a traditional corporate branding approach for the electric trucks to avoid any stigma associated with driving an electric vehicle on job sites.

As the conversation unfolds, we explore the broader implications of electrification in construction, including potential cost savings and the innovative solutions that can arise from integrating electric technology into traditional practices. Eido also touches on the future of S&B USA's electrification efforts, with plans to expand their electric vehicle fleet and further develop their infrastructure.

This episode is packed with insights for construction professionals interested in sustainability and innovation. Join us as we uncover the challenges and opportunities that come with transitioning to electric fleets in the construction industry. Don't miss this engaging discussion that promises to inspire and inform!

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien welcome Jessica McKinney from P.J. Dick Trumbull Lindy to discuss the intricacies of proposal management in the construction industry. With over 25 years of experience, Jessica shares her insights on the importance of tailoring proposals to meet client needs, emphasizing that successful proposals are not just boilerplate documents but rather personalized narratives that reflect the client's unique requirements.

Jessica highlights the significance of kickoff meetings to gather essential information and the role of effective communication in the proposal process. She also discusses the challenges of working with field personnel who may not be accustomed to presenting in formal settings, offering strategies to help them feel more comfortable during interviews.

The conversation delves into best practices for maintaining schedules during the proposal process, the importance of collaboration with technical staff, and the need for succinct yet impactful writing. Jessica shares her experiences with various project types, including government proposals, and the necessity of providing proof statements to back up claims.

As the episode progresses, Jessica discusses the evolving landscape of proposal writing, including the integration of technology and the potential future of video proposals. She also identifies trends in the construction industry, such as the ongoing demand for multifamily housing and laboratory renovations.

This episode provides valuable insights for anyone involved in proposal management. It offers practical advice and a glimpse into the dynamic world of construction proposals. 

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Matt Curry and Chad Stokes from Cleveland Brothers Equipment Company. The discussion centers around workforce development and the innovative approaches Cleveland Brothers takes to recruit and train the next generation of technicians.

Matt, the Technical Training and Development Manager, and Chad, the Corporate Technical Recruiter, share insights into their recruitment strategies, focusing on high school career technology centers. They emphasize the importance of reaching out to young people and providing them with various pathways into the industry, including entry-level positions and apprenticeship programs.

The Cleveland Brothers Apprentice Program, launched last year, is highlighted as a key initiative. This 15-month program allows participants to gain hands-on experience while being paid, allowing them to explore different business segments within the company. Matt and Chad explain how this program not only fills the technician gap but also fosters a culture of growth and development within the organization.

Throughout the episode, the hosts and guests discuss the evolving nature of the industry, particularly the increasing role of technology in equipment maintenance and repair. They stress the importance of having a solid foundation in electronics and troubleshooting skills, as these are critical for success in today's technical landscape.

The episode concludes with a call to action for those interested in applying to the apprenticeship program or exploring career opportunities within the company.

Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into workforce development in the construction industry and showcases Cleveland Brothers' commitment to building a skilled workforce for the future.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Salomon Moreno-Rosa, the Managing Director of Strategy and Philanthropy at Envoy. The discussion centers around the concept of "Recovery Ready Workplaces" and the importance of fair chance employment, particularly in the construction industry.

Salomon explains that fair chance employment initiatives aim to create inclusive hiring practices that support individuals from the reentry community and those navigating recovery from substance use disorders. He highlights the significance of community-based partnerships, which can help employers tap into new talent pools while providing essential wraparound services such as transportation, housing, and childcare.

The episode delves into the Recovery Ready Workplace series, a program designed to equip employers with the tools and resources needed to foster a supportive work environment. Salomon outlines the structure of the series, which includes virtual modules, downloadable toolkits, and opportunities for one-on-one consultations with HR professionals. The series aims to reduce stigma, improve employee wellness, and ultimately enhance productivity and retention within companies.

Listeners are encouraged to consider the benefits of participating in the series, which is free and accessible to employers across Pennsylvania. Solomon emphasizes that the initiative not only supports employees in recovery but also helps companies reduce turnover and improve workplace morale.

As the episode wraps up, Jon and Chris express their gratitude to Salomon for sharing valuable insights and resources that can help employers navigate workforce development challenges while making a positive impact on their communities.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin tackle a critical and often overlooked issue in the construction industry: suicide prevention. They are joined by Sonya Bohmann, the Executive Director of the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention (CIASP), who brings her expertise and personal experience to the conversation.

Sonya discusses the significant stigma surrounding mental health in the construction sector, which often prevents workers from seeking help. She emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment where individuals feel safe to express their struggles. The conversation highlights the alarming statistics related to suicide in the industry, with one in nine construction workers knowing someone who has attempted or died by suicide.

The hosts and Sonya delve into the resources available through CIASP, including a new initiative aimed at helping companies develop mental health and wellness programs. They also discuss the importance of community and connection, encouraging listeners to reach out to colleagues and check in on their well-being.

Throughout the episode, Sonya shares valuable insights on recognizing warning signs of mental distress and the importance of open conversations about mental health. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to utilize the resources provided by CIASP and to foster a culture of support within their workplaces.

This episode serves as a powerful reminder that addressing mental health and suicide prevention is not just a personal issue but a collective responsibility within the construction industry.

In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien interview Alexander Papson from Schneider Downs about the Secure Act 2.0. Papson, an investment advisor specializing in retirement plans, discusses how the legislation aims to improve private retirement plans and outlines key provisions, including tax credits for employers and automatic enrollment options. They delve into challenges employers face, such as complying with new rules for long-term part-time employees, and offer resources for both employers and employees interested in understanding the implications of the Secure Act 2.0.