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Lorenzo Tabb from Reading, PA, and owner of Tabb Construction, joins us on the podcast to discuss his journey as a fourth-year apprentice with the Carpenters Union and his transition into commercial contracting. 

Tabb shared his experiences, challenges, and the certifications his company holds, such as EDWOSB (federal) and minority business certifications. 

He emphasized he is currently focused on interior systems projects, including framing, drywall,  doors, and hardware. 

Tabb also highlighted the support and encouragement he has received from the industry and expressed his determination to succeed. The conversation concluded with optimism about Tabb Construction's future and its growth within the commercial sector.

What makes your insurance broker invaluable? One that knows the construction safety side and the insurance risk side and uses that knowledge to find solutions for construction clients.

We sat down with the Director of Construction Risk Partners, Joe Poliafico, an industry veteran with over 30 years of experience in construction risk management. Joe shares insights into his journey from the contractor side of the construction business to his current role at Construction Risk Partners (CRP). He provides a glimpse into CRP's unique approach to insurance brokerage, focusing primarily on the contracting space and helping contractors enhance their businesses through a risk-oriented lens.

Joe's storytelling takes us through the pivotal moments of his career, highlighting the importance of safety and risk management in the construction industry. He emphasizes how safety isn't just about following textbook guidelines but also about practical implementation in the field. 

Joe candidly recounts his early experiences, where safety was viewed as a mere formality to secure insurance coverage, and how he turned that perspective around to become an integral part of the organization's success.

The conversation delves into Joe's journey from being a figurehead for insurance compliance to a genuine advocate for safety and risk reduction. He shares anecdotes and challenges he faced along the way, showcasing his dedication to improving safety standards in the industry. Joe's passion for helping contractors succeed shines through as he discusses CRP's construction-centric approach and its commitment to understanding and enhancing clients' businesses.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the construction industry or those interested in the intersection of safety, risk management, and business growth. Joe's insights offer valuable lessons on how safety and success can go hand in hand, making it a compelling and informative conversation.

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month,  The Building PA Podcast is sharing a powerful podcast replay with one of the construction industry's most notable individuals and advocates for mental health in construction, Mandi Kime, Safety Director for AGC of Washington.

This podcast replay is worth sharing not only with those in the construction industry but also anyone in a stressful job or personal situation. Share your comments to let us know what you are doing to recognize National Suicide and Prevention Month! Be sure to listen to the The Building PA Podcast each week throughout the month of September for new podcasts on mental health and wellness. Take care!

Original Content:
According to the CDC, men working in construction have one of the highest rates of suicide compared to all other industries. A shocking statistic, but one not that can not be ignored.

Today's podcast is all about shining a light on mental health and wellness in construction. We're kicking off this month with a candid conversation with the Director of Safety for the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Washington, Mandi Kime.

Kime is an accomplished safety professional and leader within the construction industry on the topic of mental health & wellness.

This podcast conversation is candid, bold, and thought-provoking. To learn that men are two and a half times more likely to die by suicide than homicide is jaw-dropping. That statistic is worth repeating, MEN ARE 2 1/2 TIMES MORE LIKELY TO DIE BY SUICIDE THAN HOMICIDE, and the only way to move the needle on this statistic is to talk, engage, educate, and build awareness.

This podcast is filled with tips to help recognize the signs of depression or distress. We've included resources and links to help you gain access to private mental assessments.

If you are in the construction industry, take a moment to listen to this episode. Do it for yourself, your staff, a coworker, or a friend.

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, text or call the Suicide and Crisis hotline at 988.

Check out mantherapy.org for a private mental health assessment. This is a great resource and starting point if you are dealing with anxiety, depression, and/or substance abuse. 

The primary goal of the WELL Building Standard is to prioritize the health and well-being of occupants. By incorporating features that enhance indoor air quality, lighting, acoustics, and ergonomic design, buildings can create environments that support physical and mental health, productivity, and overall comfort.

This podcast replay with guest Chip Desmone, CEO of Desmone Architects is the epitome of WELL Building which is expressed through his business practices, WELL Gold Certified Building , and commitment to the WELL Building process. 


Original Content:
WELL Building. What is it? How does it differ from Lead building and is this the wave of the construction future? These questions and many more are answered by Chip Desmone, CEO of Desmone Architects.

Desmone and his team of architects designed the first WELL Gold Certified Building in Pittsburgh, PA. They are one of just six WELL certified spaces in Pennsylvania.

Listen and learn how WELL intersects design with human health. Desmone shares his journey through WELL certification and the continued commitment, and dedication it takes to maintain this certification status. 

Desmone comments that their “accidental brilliance” has led them to have a healthy, productive workspace environment focused on their employee’s mental health, fitness, and positive workplace culture.

The Constructors of Western Pennsylvania (CAWP) and the Master Builder's Association of Western Pennsylvania (MBA) have partnered to bring a new mental health initiative to the construction industry in western PA called Yinz Good?

Jason Koss, director of industry relations for the CAWP, and Bob McCall, director of safety for the MBA are the co-founders of this initiative in partnership with Youturn Health. Jason and Bob joined us on the podcast to discuss the importance of this campaign and why now was the right time for it. 

When asked how Yinz Good? came to be, McCall commented that the rising rate of suicide among men in construction and the demand from their members for a program on mental health and wellness was a driving factor in the MBA's motivation to develop a program like this. Koss was on board noting that their members, unions, and other safety professionals recognized the need to help the construction industry in an open and non-threatening way. To do this, Yinz Good? centers its initiative on a central website, YinzGood.com. 

YinzGood.com houses free information on topics like:

• stress management
• substance misuse
• how to have tough conversations and more. 

The digital library of resources include materials such as:

• videos
• blogs
• webinars
• assessments
• toolbox talks 

YinzGood.com can be accessed anonymously and is available now for anyone to visit. The website was designed for construction employers, individuals, loved ones of those in the industry, and YOU.

Tune in to this episode to learn more and help us start the conversation around mental health and wellness in construction by asking one simple question: "Yinz Good?"

Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date on the latest news. You can find us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. 

In this episode, we tap into the mind of the Vice President of Innovation for Wohlsen Construction, Ed McCauley to discuss innovation in the construction industry.

Our co-hosts explore the role of technology and IT in construction. McCauley shares his thoughts on virtual design in construction. McCauley explains how they use innovative tools and technologies to improve project management, coordination, and efficiency.

Various innovations in the construction industry are highlighted, including image recognition for quality and safety observations, robotics for demolition and progress monitoring, and exoskeletons for enhancing worker capabilities and reducing strain. 

They also touch on the potential of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) in construction, especially in maintenance and operations.

The conversation further delves into the application of LEAN principles in the construction process, emphasizing continuous improvement and collaboration to identify and solve challenges. 

The trio also touches on the cyclical nature of technology innovation, expecting future tangible advancements that directly impact construction professionals in the field.

McCauley believes that there will be continual advancements in drone usage and 3D modeling positioning this technology at the forefront of innovation for now and in the future.

To learn more about Wohlsen visit their website wohlsenconstruction.com.

In this podcast episode we talk with Edna Howard, the president of Voices of Encouragement, a training and development company focused on empowering the workforce.

The discussion is around the importance of employee wellness, safety concerns, and workforce challenges.

Howard shares her passion for leadership development and helping leaders have "light bulb" moments of understanding.

This episode addresses mental health topics and issues, particularly in the construction industry, which has been affected by addiction and suicide problems.

Howard advises companies to start by conducting a needs assessment and creating a supportive culture that promotes open communication, work-life balance, and healthy behaviors. Providing resources and support such as counseling, mental health workshops, stress management training, and employee assistance programs is crucial.

The podcast emphasizes the significance of reducing the stigma around mental health by promoting awareness and education.  The importance of self-care and meeting individuals where they are on their wellness journey, acknowledging their unique circumstances, and tailoring support accordingly.

Overall, the goal is to improve employees' mental health and well-being through a multifaceted approach that prioritizes culture, support, and education.

Edna Howard is the author of Mindset Reset: Three Powerful Principles to Transform Your Thinking. Click on the link to buy directly from Amazon. You can also learn more about Voices of Encouragement by clicking on the link attached. 

In this episode, Vice President of Aims Construction, Mike Tarle,  gets in-depth on the topic of how the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry can better deal with local government. Tarle, who serves as the town council president of McCandless Township, shares his insights from both his professional experience in the construction industry and his role in local government. 

They delve into the importance of developing personal relationships with government officials, meeting the concerns of neighbors and stakeholders, and addressing challenges such as stormwater management and outdated zoning codes. 

The conversation highlights the significance of communication and collaboration between the AEC industry and local government for successful development projects.

Ensuring a healthy work environment and fostering a positive work culture have become paramount for numerous companies. The advantages of prioritizing these aspects far exceed any associated costs.

In this podcast replay, we delve into the strategies employed by a company that places utmost importance on the well-being of its employees. The episode outlines how this organization prioritizes the health and welfare of its workforce, showcasing the significant benefits that result from such a commitment.

Original Content:
The Building PA Podcast in partnership with Barry Isett and Associates brings you another podcast in the Healthy Work Environments Series.

This episode is with PJ Dick - Trumbull - Lindy Group's Vice President of Human Resources, Lisa Nakamura.

Nakamura expands on the high importance they place on their employees. She'll share details of how looking at the total employee helps guide them on the types of programs their company puts into place to assist with mental health and wellness initiatives.

You'll hear how their forward-thinking help attracts and retain talent. Nakamura shares that an investment or lack of investment in our employees directly affects the bottom line concluding that one dollar can provide a $3 to $5 return. Nakamura states it's well worth the investment.

Nakamura offers training tips on how to recognize signs of distress and despair in employees. And with the holidays right around the corner, the information in this podcast may offer some help and guidance to you, a friend, or a co-worker.

If you need to talk to or know someone who may need help, call or text the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. There's someone available 24 hours a day.
 

Josh Strickler, the COO of Diplomat Demolition, has been employing workers through worker re-entry programs for almost 20 years.

Diplomat Demolition employs workers who have gone through re-entry programs, with 70 out of 70 workers having some form of re-entry background. Approximately 20-30 workers have come directly from re-entry programs, while another 20 have criminal backgrounds.

Diplomat Demolition has incorporated worker re-entry programs into its growth strategy. This initiative started when they had a large project and hired a project manager who was a veteran. This led them to explore worker re-entry in work release programs, and they began hiring individuals from such programs after evaluating their performance.

Diplomat Demolition shared they find real value in work release because of the availability of a reliable labor force, especially for seasonal work. The company aims to focus on hiring individuals when they are released from these programs. They have obtained OSHA 10 certification and are working on the logistics, including hiring a driver.

Hiring workers from re-entry programs involves dealing with more red tape, especially post-COVID. There are differences in the hiring process compared to hiring from prisons. Diplomat Demolition is currently working on refining its process by partnering with organizations like IMPACT. They have also faced challenges related to transportation and tools reaching job sites, especially when most of their employees are in Philadelphia and Delaware.

Diplomat Demolition has successfully integrated worker re-entry programs into its operations, capitalizing on the available labor force and contributing to the reintegration of individuals into society. They have faced challenges in logistics, transportation, and bureaucracy but continue to expand and grow while maintaining a positive reputation in the industry.

In this podcast episode, the host introduces Josh Strickler, the Chief Operations Officer at Diplomat Demolition. The discussion centers around worker re-entry, a topic that has been increasingly discussed in recent years but has not been covered on the podcast before.

Strickler shares his experiences and insights on employing veterans and individuals who are reentering the workforce after incarceration. He talks about how Diplomat Demolition started working with organizations like Impact Services and the Montgomery County correctional facility to hire individuals from these backgrounds. 

Strickler emphasizes the positive impact these individuals have had on the company, their strong work ethic, and the low turnover rate. Strickler also discusses the benefits of having a consistent labor force through work release programs and the value of re-entry programs in providing support and training for individuals transitioning back into society.

Work release programs provide a consistent labor force for companies with seasonal fluctuations.

In this episode, we have a special guest, Kerry Smith, a freelance writer and expert in media relations. We dive into the topic of storytelling and the interview process, exploring what makes a good story. 

Our enthusiastic hosts are excited to learn from Smith's wisdom and experience.

Smith introduces herself as a serial entrepreneur however, she clarifies that her innovation lies in various writing forms, ranging from news publications to websites, ghostwriting, and now podcasts.

Smith reflects on the evolving landscape of the industry, particularly the impact on journalism and editorial content. She highlights the shift from traditional print advertising to digital platforms, which has significantly affected revenue streams. 

The conversation delves deeper into the implications for professionals in the construction industry. Smith emphasizes the importance of contractors, architects, engineers, and the supply chain in telling their own stories, as there is a decline in business reporters covering their work. With limited media attention, companies must proactively share their achievements and projects. Smith's construction magazine, Saint Louis Construction News, plays a vital role in reaching out to these industry players and providing a platform for them to showcase their work.

Construction safety is an ongoing conversation. This podcast replay with Bob McCall, safety director for the MBA shares insight into job site safety and how safety is compromised when we aren't focused on the root cause which is often stress and mental health and wellness.

On the heels of Construction Safety Week, we thought this podcast was a good refresher for everyone working in the construction industry.

Original Content
In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with the Director of Safety, Bob McCall of the Master Builders' Association. McCall is a seasoned professional in safety-related matters and candidly spoke about COVID, mental health, and the need for more programs that help construction workers.

McCall shared that COVID placed a greater reliance on safety and the need for companies to plan their work. The pandemic brought personal lives into the workplace. Workers and their families who were affected by the pandemic had a greater level of stress on the job. It's a different level of impairment and one that brought the issue of mental health and awareness of construction workers front and center.

McCall shares that it's time to start having real conversations about mental health and share resources for workers in construction.

Please listen to this podcast and share it with your family, friends, and coworkers. 

If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 988.

In recognition of National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 17-21, we thought it was the perfect opportunity to share a podcast replay with Rich Barcaskey of the Constructors Association of Western Pennsylvania (CAWP). He shares some great advice. As drivers, follow work zone signs, slow down, and save lives!

Take a listen to this podcast replay. It's a great reminder of the small things we can do to keep our highways safer.

Original Content:
We've all been there, you're in your car on your way to your annual family vacation destination or just making your daily trip to work, and you're stopped or slowed down because of traffic due to road construction. It seems like road construction and repair are everywhere, and you're right, it is! And whether you believe it or not, it's a good thing.

With the recent Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, road construction and repair of bridges and highways are booming and making our infrastructure in PA better and safer.

We invited the Executive Director of CAWP (The Constructors of Western Pennsylvania), Rich Barcaskey to give us some insight into heavy highway repair, construction, and the importance of being a patient and responsible driver when you are driving through construction zones.

One of the most important, if not the most important concern for the CAWP is the safety of their workers. As drivers, we can do our part by obeying the speed limit, minimizing distractions, and staying alert while driving through construction areas.

This summer CAWP developed a new initiative to recognize the hard-working men and women working in heavy highway and construction. The program is called CAWP Cares and includes a bag packed with essentials for workers to help them take care of themselves— sunscreen, a cooling towel,  a tick-removal kit, and many more useful items to have on the job. CAWP has also included a printed brochure with daily tips to help them with their mental health and physical well-being.

To learn more about the Constructors of Western Pennsylvania check out CAWP.org.

Well, it looks like prefabrication IS here to stay. It's been over a year since we aired this podcast and supply chain issues continue to remain a headache for the construction industry.

This podcast is worth another listen. Why? Because there are some great tips and stories of how prefabricated products are solving problems and helping to get jobs done without delay.

Original Content - 
Jim Gabriel, president of MODLOGIQ shed light on why prefabrication is trending across the construction industry. 

Owners, general contractors, designers, and architects are turning to modular construction for several reasons. One of the biggest reasons is that the world is changing. Gabriel speaks openly about the pandemic and how modular construction has helped contractors and projects continue to move ahead even when job sites are shut down. This is due in part, to 80% of modular construction being constructed off-site. When MODLOGIQ finishes a project, it’s set and ready to be shipped and installed without the headache of on-site construction. 

We also will put to rest some of the myths about modular construction and prefabrication. The perception is that modular construction is cheaper. Gabriel comments, “it’s not cheaper, it provides more cost certainty for their clients and helps reduce cost escalation.” 

You’ll also hear more about the unique ways modular construction is being used. Gabriel talks about “pushing the envelope” in their industry. Prefabrication and modularization are pushing to do more than just affordable housing or single-family homes. MODLOGIQ is trying to bring their business up to standards that designers and owners expect from traditional builds. 

We know our listeners always want to hear the take on safety as it relates to our topics. We asked Gabriel how prefabrication translates to a safer job site. He shares his thoughts, insights, and more in this next episode of the Building PA Podcast. 

This podcast replay focuses on the groundbreaking technology and work that CNX is doing and features one of the most down-to-earth environmentally-conscious "Yinzers" in the business, Nick Deiuliis.

Read all the details in this news release on the Pittsburgh Airport project.

Original Content:
Everyone loves a good comeback story and there's no better story to tell than how the city of Pittsburgh turned from a depressed coal miner's town into a thriving city and suburb filled with environmentally conscious businesses and people. 

Lifelong Pittsburger, or "Yinzer," Nick Deiuliis, president and chief executive officer for CNX shares his view of watching the city change and now working on the Pittsburgh Airport renovation on its way to becoming the first self-sustaining airport in the United States. 

Deiuliis shares details about the project and the innovation behind the work being done. He also talks about the strategies to reduce emissions and costs for transportation and other industries. 

For our listeners who want to hear a story of innovation, technology, and how a project of this size will help reduce carbon footprint, this podcast is for you. 

Download now and share with your co-workers and colleagues. 

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, we talked with Joe Bucci, counsel at JacksonKelly PLLC who shares his unique education and career path - from trades to attorney. 

Bucci starts college, switches into the trades, goes back to college, earns his law degree, and is now an attorney for JacksonKelly PLLC practicing construction law.

This podcast sheds light on the positive aspects of two very different paths for high school students - college or trades. Bucci contributes his ability to connect with his construction clients to his experience as a laborer and apprentice steamfitter who worked in the field and office, learning all aspects of the construction business.

This podcast is great for high school students deciding on their path for the future. 

February marks career and technical education (CTE) month. There's no better podcast replay to share than our recording with the President of the National ACE Mentor Program, Diana Eidenshink. This program is a fantastic opportunity for students and businesses. Students benefit and learn from mentors and mentors help educate young adults about architecture, construction, and engineering.

Original Content
Are you a professional in the field of architecture, construction, or engineering and feel like you have experience and knowledge to share?  

Do you have the desire to provide insight into your profession and help mentor students? The ACE Mentor program may be the right fit for you. Diana Eidenshink, national president of the ACE Mentor program talks with Chris and Jon about all aspects of the ACE program and how industry professionals can become volunteer mentors for future generations. 

There are benefits to being a mentor and a mentee. The ACE Mentor program is a free, award-winning after-school program unified across 37 states. Experienced industry leaders share their insight and time with students who are considering a profession in the construction industry related to contractors, architects and engineers. In addition to insight and experience, mentors discuss best practices and how to excel in the industry. “We utilize technology to address mentees' needs. In addition, we focus on green projects because that is a big ask of the students,” said Eidenshink. She shares examples of projects that students work on and how to become a mentee. Learn more at acementor.org.

This podcast replay was recorded in January 2022 with President, Pedro Rivera of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. The podcast remains relevant in our current state of workforce development. Take another listen.

Original Content -
Listen as President Rivera shares insight into industry trends related to workforce development beyond traditional construction-related skills such as career counseling, heavy equipment training, and professional career paths that will have significant impact. It's vital to the success of any workforce development programs they rely on training to address the entire student to ensure that future workforces are prepared to positively address future needs.  Rivera shares several stories of his experiences.

President Rivera discusses future programs necessary to support the state’s future needs, such as civil engineering specific to water treatment and sewage related to planned infrastructure investments.

Thaddeus Stevens College has various programs to include contractors and owners in meeting industry needs such as advisory panels, internships,  externships, and soft skills counseling.  If interested in learning more about opportunities, visit Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology.

More about President Pedro Rivera:

•Rivera is the former Secretary of Education. 

•Appointed by Governor Wolf to that position in 2015. 

•Previously served as superintendent to the School District of Lancaster.

•Served in the Philadelphia school district for 13 years

•Undergraduate degree from Penn State University

•M.A. from Cheyney University of PA

•Rivera became President of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, in October 2021

Read more about this topic in the interview that President Rivera gave for the upcoming January 2022 issue of the Keystone Contractor Magazine.

During 2022 the Building PA Podcast has had the pleasure to interview some extraordinary individuals. Architects, engineers, economists, construction professionals, attorneys, legislators, state and local authorities, authors, insurance agents, CEOs, construction specialists and mental health and wellness experts, and association presidents.

Of the 50-plus individuals we've interviewed, we want to recognize each one of them for their expertise and willingness to share their industry knowledge with our podcast audience.

While we would love to call out all of the special moments, one-liners, and quotes from each podcast we went through the difficult task of narrowing it down to a few standouts.

Take a listen and let us know what your favorite podcast episode was from 2022. 

Happy New Year!