Building PA Podcast

Brad Kriel and Dan Obriot of SB Monitoring join co-host Chris Martin and Jon O’Brien to discuss technological operations improvements on job sites throughout Pennsylvania.  Operational improvements include security cameras that help enforce safety policies along with equipment tracing on project sites that require security or remote supervision.

Join us as we kick off the Better Project Outcomes Series sponsored by Strategic Executive Consulting (SEC).  In our inaugural series episode, listen as Bob Dresser, president of Strategic Executive Consulting discusses mobilization readiness.  In this episode we learn about project success based on preparedness as Dresser shares the SEC mobilization process, discusses the impact contracts have on mobilization readiness and the various steps within the SEC process.  

A key takeaway from the conversation was the emphasis on risk avoidance and the impact risk has on a successful project.

This episode is part of the Better Project Outcome Series sponsored by Strategic Executive Consulting.  Visit their website at strategicexecconsult.com.

Listen in as Casey Schlaegle talks about owning a small business in the construction industry.  Schlaegle has a diverse background within the industry and has worked as an architect, carpenter and now owns and leads his own architectural woodworking firm.  He discusses the need to find a reliable team that has the right mindset and skills to complement each other.  He also shares how vital it is to have a sound legal and accounting team to help grow a business within the construction industry.

Odie Parkins of the Eastern Atlantic States Council of Regional Carpenters joins the podcast to talk about the Carpenters training program.  Parkins talks of the tools and technical support each apprentice receives along with the emphasis on behavior and attitude.  He also shed light on the Carpenters 300 Hitters program and how the international union utilizes its Las Vegas training center.

As president of Alexander Building Company, Seitz oversaw the growth of the general contractor’s Central Pennsylvania region.  Who better to learn from?  Listen as Seitz shares how he addresses growth for a general contractor and the importance of establishing a vision.  In our conversation, he also discusses the importance of communication, its impact on your company’s vision, and future trends anticipated within the industry.  

This episode is part of the Business Leadership Series brought to you by McQueen Building Company.

The PA Chamber's Allen Norton visits the Quandel Studio to discuss career awareness with Jon and Chris.  Norton is leading the charge to help job seekers and students learn of opportunities throughout the state.  Via multiple websites - starttheconversationhere.com and BringingPABack.com - those interested can learn more of the multitude of opportunities available.

Listen as Jennifer Berrier, the Secretary of the Pennsylvania Labor and Industry department meets with co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O’Brien.  Berrier discusses the challenges her department overcame during the COVID pandemic, mentors she has relied on throughout her career, the impact communication has on effectively governing, and the challenges she anticipates among her team at L and I.  

This episode is part of the Business Leadership Series brought to you by McQueen Building Company.

85% of military veterans have no experience in construction, yet the industry is a perfect fit for those who have dutifully served their country.  Dan Breslin of Helmets to Hardhats talks about the program, the impact it has on veterans and the construction industry, and how to gain entry to construction through the national program.

Don Eldridge, training coordinator for Plumbers and Pipefitters, Local 520 shares his insight for becoming an apprentice plumber or pipefitter.  During the discussion with Jon and Chris, Don explains the requirements for becoming an apprentice, expectations of the program, and the ongoing future training this Building Trades union provides.

Listen as Bryan Cutler (R), Speaker of the PA House of Representatives, shares his thoughts and learnings from years in the legislation and healthcare industries. Specifically, Cutler shares the guidance his father imparted on him; the mentors who steered him; the morale building skills that shaped him; and the importance relationships are as a leader.  Most important to Cutler, as a leader, is to have a clearly defined vision and the need to articulate that vision to ensure work is completed efficiently and effectively.  This episode is part of the Business Leadership Series brought to you by McQueen Building Company.