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Dear Members and Friends,
Greetings to one and all! As we head into the fall and winter, it’s always a good reminder to consider those vaccinations to help you from getting sicker from those illnesses. Also, those best practices for your health are good to remember!
I was bummed to miss our Emerging Leader’s event with Jeff Koziatek due to my own sickness last week. He is amazing and I was so looking forward to it. I can’t wait to bring him back. Thank you for those who joined us and for those who didn’t, make sure to come out next time! I know you missed out on this event. I heard it was amazing.
And, we of course had our Fall Safety Forum. This is recapped below too, but I wanted to mention it here, as it’s so important to attend our Safety Forums. If you have a desire for health and safety, there are just two forums each year. Mark the calendars and don’t miss them. Each one of our Forums are specifically developed for our members and guests. This past Forum was championed solely by owner members. We had less of a crowd but we received a 4.9/5.0 score on that program.
I know there are a lot of other programs and events clamoring for your attention. We hope you will take note of the events that matter most to your companies and to you. Our topics are very deliberate and timely stemming from conversations of what is trending and what are pain points. They are created from a collaboration of owner and associate membership but always driven by owners.
Lastly, I have an article in the newsletter on a recent court decision on racial bias. It’s a “needle forward” result I wanted to highlight in case you haven’t heard or seen it yet. I combined as much information to share the case and the ways to address the issue. This is mine alone, however, I am confident any opinions shared here support the SLC3’s position. I encourage anyone to share with me any feedback and better yet join us at a diversity committee meeting.
As I share in my own daughter’s experiences I find myself more and more compassionate about the issue. When you are white you just don’t understand the day-to-day biases the same. However, through others, you can be understanding, mindful and empathetic. I am saddened every time my daughter (who is 92% Maya) tell me her work tales on the issue. Never will I understand the need to be rude based on color.
My daughter is in customer service and sees hundreds of customers every day she works. She is repeatedly affected by bias and even told to go back to where she came from just because she asks someone to repeat an order. They will even spell out everything or say it so slow in a condescending way. By the way, she was four months when she came to the U.S. and speaks fluent English. But getting more frustrated over repeating and responding in a condescending manner is just one more example of everyday examples that minorities are living through. Every time I wish the word “grace” would come over them to think about what they are saying and how they are behaving. I know there will be more conversation and I look forward to it. I know many of you feel the same. Ron Unterreiner first comes to mind. And he was just recognized for his efforts by the St. Louis Business Journal for his work with PEOPLE.
Please mind your P’s & Q’s as they used to say. We all have so much to get through in a day and adding unneeded bias is just counterproductive. Have a great week and we look forward to Thursday’s Owner’s Roundtable!
My best,
Cheers,
Kelly Jackson
Executive Director
KJackson@SLC3.org
SLC3 Staff
Note: Please remember to follow us on LinkedIn to stay on top of our posts. Follow us here.
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NOVEMBER 8 SLC3's First Ever Trivia Night: Individual Tickets & Tables Available | |
TODAY'S ARTICLES
News & Updates
Construction Updates (STL Region) New Additions
Training & Education
SLC3 Safety Forum: Let's Talk Fatigue, Behavior, and Policies
The Need for Speed Can Lead to Problems on Projects, Engineers Say
Fostering Collaboration in Construction Project Management Through Integrated Technology
Special Feature
11 Rules of Business Etiquette You Should Never Break | Rule #6
Upcoming Industry Events
Concrete Pipe Week Event - October 9th 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
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Asphalt Paving Systems Settles Race Bias Charge for $1.25 Million: A Wake-Up Call for the Construction Industry
By Kelly Jackson, Executive Director, SLC3
In a significant move toward addressing racial discrimination within the construction sector, Asphalt Paving Systems (APS) has agreed to pay $1.25 million to settle a race bias lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This landmark settlement shines a spotlight on the pervasive challenges of racism in the industry and underscores the EEOC’s commitment to tackling such issues.
The Case: A Glimpse into Systemic Racism in Construction
The lawsuit against Asphalt Paving Systems stemmed from allegations the company engaged in racially discriminatory practices, including a hostile work environment for black employees, discriminatory assignments, and denial of promotions based on race. Workers reported enduring racial slurs and harassment from supervisors and colleagues. These allegations are not isolated; they reflect a broader, long and systemic issue within the construction industry, where minority workers have historically faced significant barriers and racial inequality.
The $1.25 million settlement sends a clear message racial discrimination cannot be tolerated. However, monetary settlements alone are not enough. As part of the agreement, Asphalt Paving Systems will also be required to implement reforms aimed at fostering a more inclusive and equitable work environment, such as diversity training for managers and supervisors, policy changes, and greater reporting mechanisms for employees who experience discrimination.
Implications for the Construction Industry
The construction industry has long been criticized for its lack of diversity and inclusion. Despite being one of the largest sectors in the U.S. economy, it has struggled to foster racial equity. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Black workers represent only about 6% of the construction workforce, while Hispanic and Latino workers make up 30%. Although there has been progress in hiring more diverse employees, Black workers often remain underrepresented, particularly in leadership roles.
The settlement against APS is a critical reminder for construction firms across the country that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are no longer optional. They are legal and moral imperatives. Companies that fail to create safe, inclusive, and equitable workplaces face the risk of lawsuits, reputational damage, and financial penalties.
The Push for Change: DEI in the Construction Sector
The Asphalt Paving Systems settlement is part of a broader push by the EEOC to combat systemic racism in industries that have traditionally lagged in diversity and inclusion efforts. In recent years, the construction industry has seen growing pressure from advocacy groups, governmental bodies, and stakeholders to address disparities in hiring, promotion, and treatment of minority employees.
A key challenge in advancing DEI in construction lies in the ingrained culture of the industry, which is often male-dominated, with deeply rooted traditions that can resist change. Many construction firms, particularly smaller and mid-sized ones, have historically lacked formal diversity programs. However, as seen in this case, the costs of neglecting DEI initiatives can be steep.
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LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER! OWNER'S ROUNDTABLE | |
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WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP LUNCH
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
Achieving with Ease: When Overworked, Overwhelmed, & Overstressed Isn't Working
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SLC3 SPORTING CLAYS -
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4TH
NEW LOCATION!! Top Gun Sportsman's Club
Thank You to Our Title Sponsors CRB & UHY!
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PROJECT TOUR & HAPPY HOUR - WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9
Brown & Crouppen Law Offices:
Kings Hill Historic Redevelopment
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SLC3 TRIVIA NIGHT -
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8
Individual Tickets and Tables Available
**REGISTRATION INCLUDES OPEN BAR**
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Contact Lydia Meyer to join a committee! | |
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Do you know the SLC3's four key pillars?
We are driven by innovation, continuing education, equity empowerment, and collaboration.
These aspects are what push us to bring our members as many benefits to the table as possible. For our region and for the AEC industry as a whole, it is essential to stay connected, continue learning, and focus on what we can do to better one another.
If you're not a member, do any of those aspects align with your organization? If so, please reach out to learn more. We want to provide as many benefits to as many individuals and organizations as possible. If you are a member, we greatly appreciate you and your continued support! If you have questions, ask us. We want to hear from you and we want you involved. Join us in bettering the STL AEC Industry!
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ICYMI: Last Week's Happy Hour with Jeff Koziatek
Last Tuesday was a smashing success at our Happy Hour, hosted by the Emerging Leaders Committee, where we were lucky enough to have the incredible Jeff Koziatek share his wisdom on achieving that elusive work/life balance! If you weren’t there, you really missed the chance to learn while having a blast—Jeff truly knows how to juggle fun and insight!
He emphasized two powerful takeaways: 1) Determine Your Worth and 2) Determine Your Values.
With these tools in your toolkit, navigating life's responsibilities can feel less like a circus act and more like a well-choreographed dance!
So, let's take a moment to reflect on our own balance—how do you find your rhythm amidst the chaos? A big thank you to Jeff for his engaging expertise and to all who joined us; together, we’re building a vibrant SLC3 community that knows how to work hard and play hard!
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Northern Engineering & Consulting, Inc. Joins IMEG
Rock Island, IL—Northern Engineering & Consulting, Inc. (NECI), with offices in Minnesota, Montana, and Wyoming, has joined national full-service engineering firm IMEG. The merger expands IMEG’s civil group to more than 500 team members.
NECI has provided civil engineering, land surveying, right-of-way design, GIS, site development, water and sewer design, and other civil services for municipal and tribal nation clients throughout the upper Midwest and mountain states since 1997.
“We are extremely pleased to bring NECI into our company,” said IMEG President/CEO Paul VanDuyne. “We look forward to growing our civil presence within the upper Midwest and mountain states and bringing IMEG’s full-service engineering portfolio to NECI’s municipal and tribal clients.”
NECI President Lisa Gladstone said the firm is excited to become part of IMEG and help drive continued growth in the region. “The merger provides growth for all our employees as well as our clients and teaming partners,” she said. “This decision is a direct result of our success over nearly 27 years, and we look forward to continuing to deliver the same high-quality product and relationships along with the added resources of a nationwide company.”
Gladstone will continue to lead the NECI team, overseeing regional civil operations with existing NECI leadership. The firm and its staff of 40 will continue to operate out of their Minnesota, Montana, and Wyoming offices, doing business as Northern Engineering Consultants Inc., now IMEG.
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Construction Updates (STL Region) | |
Under Design/Construction:
- Avenue Bene
- Viva Bene – 171 Unit Luxury Active Adult Living Community (St. Peters, MO)
- Tara Ridge Development, LLC (Chesterfield, MO)
- First Community Credit Union
- First Community Credit Union (Streets of Caledonia, O’Fallon, MO)
- NGA
- NGA West
- Records
- GRG
- Brickline Greenway (GRG)
- New Chain of Rocks Bridge Park
- Delmar Maker District
- STL Zoo North County
- $230 Million Conservation Area
- STL Zoo
- Destination Discovery
- Crestwood Crossing
- City of St. Louis
- Arch Connector
- 39 North (Danforth Center)
- 600-Acre AgTech Innovation District
- Mixed-use developments
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Safety Forum: Let's Talk Fatigue, Behavior, and Policies
by Lydia Meyer
Last Thursday we held our Safety Forum and it was packed with information!
Special thanks to Don Wilson with SafeStart International for flying in from Canada to speak to us on Behavior Safety & Workplace Fatigue and to Hope Abramov with Thompson Coburn LLP for speaking about the Legal Implications of Legalized Marijuana.
Don illuminated some startling statistics on the pervasive dangers of fatigue, both on the job and in our everyday lives. For instance, did you know that a staggering 13% of all work injuries stem from fatigue and sleep-related issues? Yet, intriguingly, while only 4% of injury-related fatalities occur during work hours, a whopping 55% happen outside of the workplace. This insight compels us to adopt a comprehensive approach to injury prevention—one that addresses fatigue in all aspects of life. Furthermore,
Don introduced us to the four critical "stressor states" that can lead to human error: rushing, frustration, fatigue, and complacency. His engaging presentation, complete with detailed handouts and interactive discussions, served as a poignant reminder of how swiftly accidents can occur when workers are not adequately rested.
This underscores the necessity for a holistic focus on well-being—because when we prioritize rest, we not only enhance workplace safety but enrich our overall quality of life.
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explanations, and interactive presentation were a great demonstration of how quickly accidents can happen when workers are not well-rested.
Hope Abramov of Thompson Coburn followed by presenting on Legal Implications of Legalized Marijuana. Did you know that 25.2% of adults aged 18-25 used marijuana in the past month (vs. 20.8% in 2016) and 15% of adults 26 or older used marijuana in the past month (vs. 7.2% in 2016)? This increase in use means laws and policies are constantly evolving.
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One of the pivotal insights from the recent presentation was the recognition that there is currently no reliable test to assess impairment due to marijuana use. This presents a significant challenge, especially since many organizations have drug-testing policies that vary widely, complicating the response when an accident occurs.
To navigate this landscape effectively, it's crucial to review state and local laws, establish compliance-focused policies, and ensure that supervisors are well-trained on these protocols. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Don Wilson and Hope Abramov for their invaluable contributions to our understanding of these pressing issues.
A special thank you goes to our Emcee and Health & Safety Chair, Charles Twellmann, along with Shana Lawson and Michael McCormick, for orchestrating such a meaningful program. And of course, our sincere appreciation goes to everyone who participated; your engagement is vital to our collective success.
We are excited to continue these essential Health & Safety Forums next year, fostering an environment of shared knowledge and collaboration that inspires us all to prioritize safety in our industry!
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The Need for Speed Can Lead to Problems on Projects, Engineers Say
The push to accelerate construction and a lack of maintenance on existing infrastructure and buildings are top concerns for structural engineers, a new survey found.
What keeps structural engineers up at night? Most of all, it’s the pressure to accelerate construction projects and the country’s lack of infrastructure maintenance.
That information comes from the National Council of Structural Engineers Associations’ recent survey of structural engineers, which found that respondents are most concerned about the speed of construction projects (42%) and the deferral of important structural improvements and repairs (41%).
Both of these issues represent safety hazards, Chris Cerino, president of the NCSEA, told Construction Dive. The push to shorten project timelines can lead to compounding errors during construction, and existing infrastructure is not getting the maintenance and repairs it needs, Cerino said.
Staying Safe Amid Pressure
Speed is a problem from two fronts, according to Cerino.
When owners shorten a project schedule, the architect may not be finished by the start of construction. Engineers are told that the designs will be looked at sometime down the road, but an opportunity for review doesn’t always happen, Cerino said.
On the construction side, contractors often struggle to find enough workers, especially if there’s a building boom in the region. As a result, they may try to get work done quickly while they still have labor available.
“Even when something is wrong, sometimes they are forced to push forward because of economic reasons, and they’re willing to take the penalties,” Cerino said.
This push to go too fast and possibly cut corners can be combatted by a strong safety culture, according to Cerino. If a company has made safety a core value and won’t accept a less-safe alternative, “they will then push harder to negotiate from a position of strength and confidence in the product of their company and their abilities to get the right amount of time,” Cerino said.
This focus on safety can also prevent issues from snowballing.
”If you’re negotiating from a position of weakness because of whatever reason — you underbid, you’re not totally qualified — errors become compounding errors and start to multiply. It’s rarely one bad decision that causes a construction site problem,” Cerino said.
A progressive design-build delivery method — in which the team works with the owner on developing through the design phase the best possible project and then signs a guaranteed maximum price contract — can enable a reasonable schedule.
“It has been a really good marriage of multiple formats,” Cerino said.
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Fostering Collaboration in Construction Project Management Through Integrated Technology
Integrating new solutions into your already robust tech stack may seem like a hassle, but here are some top tips to seamlessly implement and innovate.
Effective project management is the backbone of successful construction projects, and it requires seamless collaboration between various stakeholders. From general contractors and subcontractors to architects and engineers, each party plays a crucial role in ensuring a project's success.
Research suggests that the adoption of innovative construction project-management software can help transform the way teams work together.
Integrating platforms that facilitate collaboration into your projects and ensuring all the various stakeholders get involved can have a significant impact on project delivery.
Not only does adopting construction project-management platforms streamline project workflows and improve individual efficiency, but it also helps to break down barriers and foster a culture of cooperation that benefits the entire project lifecycle.
Breaking Down Data Silos
One of the primary challenges in construction project management is the fragmentation of information across different platforms and teams.
According to a study by McKinsey & Company, construction projects can involve up to 500 different software applications, leading to a lack of visibility, delayed decision-making and the risk of critical data being lost or overlooked.
Construction projects are inherently complex, with multiple stakeholders, each with their own priorities and preferred tools. Integrated platforms that act as a central hub, aggregating project information from various sources, can help foster better collaboration and decision-making.
By breaking down these data silos, construction teams can access the information they need, when they need it, without having to navigate multiple systems or wait for updates from other parties.
This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of errors and miscommunications that can lead to costly delays or disputes.
Streamlining Workflows
Firms from across the globe have been able to save countless hours and substantially reduce project costs by centralizing their project data with the help of a project-management platform. In addition to centralizing project data, construction-management software can also help streamline workflows and processes; improving collaboration and project efficiency.
Not only does it provide impressive benefits on an individual level for project stakeholders, but these tools make the prospect of project-management platforms even more attractive for teams to work together effectively toward a common goal.
“Automated data transfer, real-time updates and customizable workflows can help eliminate manual tasks, reduce duplication of effort and ensure that everyone is working from the same page,” says Carl Veillette, Newforma's chief product officer. “This not only improves efficiency but also mitigates the risk of costly rework.”
Culture of Collaboration
Beyond the technical benefits of project management information systems, these tools can also play a crucial role in fostering a culture of collaboration within the industry.
By breaking down silos, improving communication and aligning teams around shared goals, these platforms can help construction professionals work together more effectively and build stronger, more productive relationships.
Collaboration is not just about the technology; it's about the people and the processes that enable them to work together seamlessly. When teams can access the information they need, communicate effectively and make decisions based on a shared understanding of the project, it creates an environment where everyone can thrive.
This collaborative mindset can have far-reaching benefits, from improved project outcomes to increased job satisfaction and employee retention.
By investing in a project management information system that prioritizes collaboration and acts as an attractive alternative to the status quo for their employees, AEC firms can position themselves for long-term success and help drive positive change within the industry.
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If you are considering joining us, contact Lydia Meyer about Membership. Don't miss our member-only activities and perks! | |
SLC3 2024 Officers & Leaders:
Frank Niemerg, Ameren - President
Michael Hargrave, BJC Healthcare - 1st Vice President
Bill Dyer, Avison Young/Pace Properties - 2nd Vice President
Anna Leavey, Anna Leavey Consulting, LLC - Secretary
Danielle Thomas, Hazelwood School District - Treasurer
Mark Winschel, ASC Group/Four Fourteen - Past President
Kelly Jackson, Executive Director
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S. M. WILSON ANNOUNCES PROMOTION OF MILLER
S. M. Wilson recently promoted Ralph Miller to Project Superintendent. Miller joined the company in 1999 and continued there until 2013. He returned in 2021. In the past year, he worked with the team to complete the program at HSHS St. John’s Health Center in Springfield, IL, and then completed the Dry Goods store in Pittsburgh, PA, earlier this spring. He is currently working on another Dry Goods store in Delaware.
“Ralph exemplifies the willingness and drive to do whatever it takes and wherever it takes him across the country to get a project done and maintain great relationships with our clients,” said Jason Gasawski, director of operations. “Ralph is continually going Beyond The Build by putting our clients first and leading with excellence.” In his new role, Miller will oversee the day-to-day operations of project scheduling, subcontractor meetings, quality control, and ensuring safety protocols and standards are consistently followed on the job site.
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Have updates to share with us? Please send to info@slc3.org. Contact Lydia Meyer, Marketing & Membership Coordinator. | |
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TARLTON ADDS SEGLER AS SAFETY ENGINEER
Cliff Segler is an industry veteran who brings more than 25 years of experience to Tarlton from his work at local, regional and national firms that span the construction, energy, industrial and utilities markets. He is a graduate of Midwest Technical Institute in Springfield, Illinois.
In addition to managing and implementing Tarlton’s safety guidelines and protocols in the field, he takes proactive measures to audit jobsites for compliance with local, state and federal regulations. Segler also conducts ongoing safety training and toolbox talks with employees.
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KAI HIRES STEUBER AS PROJECT MANAGER
KAI announces the hiring of Coralie Steuber as Project Manager for its 360 Construction Services division (360 CS). This strategic addition reinforces KAI’s commitment to full-circle construction excellence.
Steuber brings over 20 years of successful construction project management and inspection experience to KAI, with particular expertise in plan and specification interpretation. Her impressive background in public and municipal improvement projects includes engineering planning, design, and construction of public water supply systems, as well as the operation, maintenance, and repair of tanks, distribution systems and facilities.
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Concrete Pipe Week Event - October 9th 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
ST. LOUIS METRO REGION - THIS EVENT IS FOR: DOTs, Municipal - Engineers & Inspectors, County - Engineers & Planners, Civil Design Engineers, Developers, Inspectors, Public Works Departments, and General Contractors!
Join County Materials Corporation for National Concrete Pipe Week with an exclusive Pipe Plant Tour at their St. Louis Location!
Discover the durability, sustainability, and innovation of concrete pipe that drives infrastructure projects forward. This is a fantastic opportunity to:
- Gain insights into the manufacturing process behind high-quality concrete pipe products
- Network with industry peers
- Earn 2 free PDH credits
📅 Event Date: October 9th, 2024
📍 Location: County Materials, St. Louis
🕒 RSVP required by: September 30th, 2024 - Please see details on the event flyer attached
Space is limited, so don’t miss out on this chance to connect, learn, and collaborate!
RSVP by September 30th to Joel Gardner: joel.gardner@countymaterials.com
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SLDC 4th Annual Planroom Open House - We'll Be There!
This is an event to welcome contractors, construction companies & developers to network as they have the opportunities to learn, join and/or participate with following:
Professional Networking Groups:
- Employment Connection Section 3 Certification
- Site Improvement Association
- St. Louis Council of Construction Consumers (SLC3)
- Construction Forum
- Missouri Women in Trades (MOWIT)
Upcoming Opportunities
- Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD) Projects
- SLDC Projects
Planroom Offering
- Headcount (project management software)
- RSMeans Data (construction cost estimating software)
- PlanSwift (estimating software)
And more...
This your chance to connect, learn and grow! See you on Sept. 18, 2024 from 3 to 6 p.m. at Northside Economic Empowerment Center (NEEC) 4248 Cottage Ave St Louis, MO 63115. 314.617.0360
Text Link
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Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis DEI Contractor & Supplier Networking Event
Expand your network with the FRB St. Louis facilities team and learn about the opportunities available at the Bank, including previous projects! Registration Details will be released soon.
When: Thursday, September 26th, 4:30 - 6:30 pm
Where: Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, Economy Museum (free/secured parking in the Bank's garage)
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St. Louis Council of Construction Consumers
301 Sovereign Ct, Suite 101, Ballwin, MO 63011
636.394.6200 | f 636.394.9641 | info@slccc.net | slccc.net
Staff:
Kelly Jackson // Executive Director
Rebecca Hale // Event & Office Manager
Lydia Meyer // Marketing & Membership Coordinator
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CONNECT, INTERACT & SHARE WITH US! | |
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