Eric Starkowicz

Executive Director

This week’s newsletter features an article that explores the transformative influence of Artificial Intelligence on the construction industry, driving innovation and efficiency on the job site.

Amidst these advancements, our focus extends beyond buildings to the well-being of those who bring our projects to life. Join us in addressing a pressing issue: strategies to reduce suicides among construction workers. Nurturing a culture of support is not only integral to our community, but also a vital step towards a safer and healthier industry.

Additionally, find valuable insights from OSHA, emphasizing the crucial link between workplace safety, mental health, and the overall well-being of our workforce.

Finally, this month, as we recognize American Heart Month, we extend our collective heartbeat towards promoting health, safety, and resilience within our ranks.

Cast & Baker Corporation has began renovations to Oglebay's Wilson Lodge and Wheeling Park's Stifel Playground. Both projects aim to create more inclusive spaces, including an ADA compliant entrance at the Wilson Lodge, and a sensory wave ramp, braille panels, and open paths at Stifel Playground.

Milestone Donation Begins Progress Towards New Pediatrics Center

The new facility will be located on the first floor of the repurposed former Continuous Care Center on the opposite side of the main parking lot from WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital. Hospital staff are currently working with architects and engineers to see what can be put in the building.

With a hefty price tag of $11 million, Douglass Harrison, president and CEO of WVU Medicine Wheeling and Reynolds Memorial hospitals, explained construction will begin when the WVU Medicine Children’s outpatient clinic campaign has raised half of that amount.

Bel-O-Mar Seeks to Revise Construction Plans

Bel-O-Mar Regional Council is proposing to revise the Fiscal Year 2024 – FY2027 Transportation Improvement Program.

Fiscal year programming is on a July 1 basis with FY2024 beginning July 1, 2023. Projects must be included in the local TIP and the state TIP to be eligible for federal funding. Bel-O-Mar is currently accepting public comments regarding the projects described below.

AI Use Builds in the Construction Industry

Over the last year, artificial intelligence (AI) has quickly evolved from a tantalizing technical novelty like ChatGPT into a credible and valued asset for all industries, including the once-Luddite construction industry.



Proptech and contech experts are in full agreement that rapidly iterating AI technology is now in great demand by users and investors alike.

Office Space Available at OVCEC Building

Two (2) distinct office spaces now available at the OVCEC building!

• Approximately 550 sq. ft.: Ideal for small teams or startups seeking a compact, yet functional workspace.
• Approximately 2,700 sq. ft.: Spacious and versatile, perfect for growing businesses or established teams.

Located off I-70 in Wheeling, WV, our prime location offers a host of advantages:

• Strategic Location & Easy Access: Conveniently situated off I-70, with immediate proximity to Wheeling Hospital, restaurants, and other businesses.
• Ample Free Parking: A spacious, newly paved parking lot ensures hassle-free parking for you, your team, and visitors.
• Customizable Spaces: Spaces can be tailored to meet your business needs, including opportunities for interior floor plan customization and branding to reflect your company's identity and culture.
• Fitness Trail: Enjoy The Wheeling Heritage Trail for invigorating breaks and wellness activities, just steps away.
• Responsive Management: On-site management ensuring quick resolutions to any issues or concerns.

Email [email protected] for leasing inquiries.

Virtual Workplace Wellness Training

Free to OVCEC Members

As a “thank you” for your membership with OVCEC, your business has access to national account pricing with several vendors through OVCEC’s Member Rewards Program. These national accounts are managed by DSI, a group purchasing organization, but the associated savings opportunities are available to you solely as an OVCEC membership benefit and without DSI based costs or purchasing requirements.

First Aid and Safety; Uniform Purchase/Lease

• Discounted pricing for onsite First Aid products, AED Program, Fire Protection products and services, rental, purchase, or lease of Uniforms

Next step: Send recent invoices to Michael Petruzzi for a cost comparison. Call 720-382-8162 or email [email protected].

How to Lessen Suicides Among Construction Workers

Dan Lester teaches contractors how to recognize the signs of deteriorating mental health and suicidal ideations, but during National Suicide Prevention Month in September, his brother took his own life.

“While I was talking about the warning signs of suicide, my own brother died by suicide,” said Lester, vice president of field culture and inclusion at Clayco Enterprises. “Sometimes it’s got to hit home until it hits real.

New OSHA Resource on Workplace Mental Health

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued a new fact sheet on Workplace Mental Health, which is now available in English and Spanish. The fact sheet provides workplaces with vital information and resources to address mental health concerns effectively and will be incorporated into the Introduction to OSHA module of the OSHA 10- and 30-Hour Outreach Training courses.