A Golden Anniversary:

Bo-Macs 50 Years
Building the Gulf Coast
BuildHoustonOnline.
A L S O IN T H I S I S SU E : T H E SUP E R B OW L OF C ON S T R UC TFebruary
I ON/ March
P R2016O JE
C T S com 1

MUCH
Not too LITTLE

Not too

On a budget? Call TCA.

Cultural Transformation
Award Winning Trend Software
OSHA Help
Safety Training
Written Safety Programs
Embedded Safety Technician
Safety Audits
Pre-Qualification
Training
Owner/Site-Specific Safety Plan
Strategic Planning
And more.

Since 1985

3131 Memorial Court

Suite 15101
Houston, TX 77007
713.263.7661 Tara.Amavi@tcamembers.com
2012 The Compliance Alliance L.P. All Rights Reserved.

BuildHoustonOnline.com February / March 2016

Letter from the Chair

Mike
Holland

Marek Brothers Systems, Inc.

2016 ABC Greater Houston Chair

humble

Beginnings

I want to wish all of our ABC Greater Houston members a happy and prosperous 2016. We are indeed blessed to be in Houston, and
the great state of Texas. While the impact of an uncertain future concerning the energy industry is looming, we are surrounded by
positive signs and a can do attitude in our community.
Several recent events point to progress for our chapter and its strategic objectives.

In continuation of our focus on workforce development, put in place by our previous board chair Darlene East with Holes
Incorporated, we welcome Michael Richter as our new Vice President of Education and Workforce Development. Overseeing
the ABC training affiliate CMEF, Michael will be working to enhance existing programs, develop new training delivery methods,
and build consensus among commercial contractors on craft training programs they use to increase performance.

Staying on the workforce theme, The Greater Houston Partnership has announced they will construct their new office space
downtown utilizing the Construction Career Collaborative (C3) principles. ABC was one of the original endorsers of C3, along
with several other construction associations, and stands firmly behind the mission of developing sustainable employment
practices, safety, and craft training to sustain our workforce into the future.

I am proud to say our chapter has recently been awarded the status of a High Performing Chapter by ABC National through
the accreditation process, an endorsement of the good work by our staff, members, and volunteers.

I am preceded as board chair by Darlene East, Tim Ricketts, Lohn Zylicz, Dwayne Boudreaux, and many others who leave a legacy of
leadership and commitment to ABC and its members. I will be challenged to fill their capable shoes.
It is my sincere hope ABC Greater Houston and CMEF can offer a valuable service of some kind to each of your firms this year. Few
organizations can boast of the passion and excellence our member firms and volunteers exhibit every day. I am pleased to serve as
your 2016 Board Chair and I welcome any questions or concerns you have.

Mike Holland
Chief Operating Officer; Marek Brothers Systems, Inc.
ABC Greater Houston 2016 Chairman

February / March 2016 BuildHoustonOnline.com

Contents

ABC LEADERSHIP
Chair
Mike Holland - Marek Brothers Systems, Inc.
Chair Elect
Warren Adamson - S&B Engineers and Constructors
Vice Chair
Robert Burelsmith - E.E. Reed Construction, L.P.

Cover Story

Secretary
Brandon Mabile - Performance Contractors, Inc.
Treasurer
Todd Fry - Karsten Interior Services
Past Chairman
Darlene East - Holes Incorporated
President
Russell Hamley - ABC Greater Houston Chapter

2016 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Brian Anderson - G.R. Birdwell Construction
Rusty Barnhill - Force Corporation
Leonard Bedell - Mobil Steel International, Inc.
Kerry Bennett - ISC Constructors, LLC
Sam Craig - Craig & Heidt, Inc.
Matt Daniel - BE&K Building Group
Matt Elliott - SpawGlass Construction Corp.
Laura Price Gautreau - Polk Mechanical
Dinesh Ghia - Gilbane Building Company
John Golashesky - Turner Industries Group, LLC
John Marshall - Satterfield & Pontikes Construction Inc.
David McCleskey - Brown & Root Industrial Services, LLC
Rhonda Mitchell - Aggregate Technologies Inc.
Rod Molyneau - Brock Services, LTD.
Rodney Page - Ref-Chem L.P.
Tim Ricketts - HSG Constructors, LLC
Wendell Rychlik - W.T. Byler Company
William Sanchez - Oxford Builders Inc.
Christina Stone - Stone & Stone
Phil Restivo - Turner Construction
Ben Westcott - Andrews Myers, P.C.
Mark Williams - Bechtel Construction Services
Lohn Zylicz - D.E. Harvey Builders, Inc.

Build Houston Magazine

4910 Dacoma St
Houston, Texas 77092
(713) 523-6222
Publisher/Owner:
Associated Builders & Contractors of Greater Houston
Executive Editor: Jennifer Woodruff
Contributing Writer: Jasmine Swoope
Account Manager: Janice Peters
Graphic Design: Robert Chevis

BuildHoustonOnline.com February / March 2016

Bo-Mac Contractors, Ltd.

13

Founded in 1966 to provide civil, pipeline, and

other construction services for the petroleum
industry, Bo-Mac Contractors has since grown into a
Texas construction powerhouse.

Also in this issue

6
8
18
10
14
16
22

Advertisers

Courts Scrutinizing Employer FCRA Compliance

Compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is critical, especially since
the number of employment class actions under the FCRA have increased.

Promote Your 401k to Help Employees Save

Suggestions to educate your employees and help them take full advantage of
your retirement plan.

Super Bowl LI is Bringing More Than Fans to Houston in 2017

Many Houstonians may fear the inevitably crowded restaurants, congested
roads and overflowing venues during the weeks leading up to the event, but for
the construction industry, being a host city means more project opportunities
for our industry.

Building Your Business in Every Season: Through the Ups and Downs
The Brain and its Role in Sustainable Safety
You Are Here
In the Know

American Mat & Timber.....................11

Buyers Barricades.................................9
Cokinos, Bosien & Young...................15
Cherry Companies..............................12
Coastal Welding Supply.....................12
Craig & Heidt, Inc....................................9

GP Radar System..................................17

Scott Macon Equipment......................9

Interface Consulting International.......15

TCA/The Compliance Alliance.....................2

Locke Solutions.......................................7
Marek Brothers Systems...................11
Porter & Hedges...................................17
RedGuard..............................................24

Trench Plate Rental..............................12

Wolfenson Electric, Inc.........................9

$ Start Saving Today

abc.org/discounts
$
$
Companies can take advantage of these great programs!

Save up to 29 percent on
shipping services.

Setup fees are waived on

this total benefits solution of
ACA-compliant benefits and
retirement plans.

Premium pricing on
professional development and
leadership training courses.

Exclusive discounts on Autodesk

products (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit,
Civil 3D), and software on
scheduling, document control, data
management and laser scanning.

Reduce your vehicle fleet

management costs and gain
access to all incentives.
Reduce your vehicle fleet
management costs and gain
access to all incentives.

Receive discounts and a free

Executive Dashboard with a new
construction accounting software
purchase a $1,595 value.

Companies and their employees can take advantage of these great programs!

Exclusive pricing from

thousands of merchants on
everyday purchases.
Save 20 percent on uniform
rentals and puchases of work
and safety apparel, logod
apparel, boots and more.
Members and their
immediate family members
receive discounts on most
Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep,
RAM and Fiat vehicles.

Contractors and building material

suppliers are eligible for a 22
percent discount on calling plans,
and savings on mobile devices.

Exclusive discounts
on Ramada, Days Inn,
Super 8, Baymont and
other affordable brands.

For complete details visit abc.org/discounts

February / March 2016 BuildHoustonOnline.com

Courts Scrutinizing
Employer FCRA
Compliance
B Y

G .

M A R K

J O D O N

f your company is conducting background checks on applicants,

compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is critical,
especially since the number of employment class actions under
the FCRA has exploded over the past two years.Most of the cases
have involved challenges to an employers compliance with the
FCRAs disclosure and authorization requirements. However,
recent class action filings show that the cases are also challenging
employer compliance with the FCRAs adverse action requirements,
including allegations that the employer has failed to provide any
pre-adverse action notice, or if notice has been provided, to wait
an appropriate amount of time before taking final adverse action
against an individual (holding the job open in the meantime).

employee with an opportunity to discuss the report with the

employer before the employer takes adverse action.
Once the employer is prepared to take the adverse action against
the applicant or employee, it must then provide an adverse
action notice to the individual. The adverse action notice, which
can be in writing or delivered orally or by electronic means, must
contain the following information:

The FCRA Requires a Two-Step Adverse Action Process
Employers must follow certain requirements if they intend to take
adverse action against an individual, including a job applicant or
a current employee, based in whole or in part on the contents
of a consumer report, before the adverse action is taken. In the
context of a consumer report used for employment purposes,
an adverse action includes a denial of employment or any other
decision for employment purposes that adversely affects any
current or prospective employee. The FCRA also defines the
term adverse action to broadly extend to any action taken or
determination that is made in connection with an application
that was made by . . . any consumer and that is adverse to the
interests of the consumer. In prior guidance, the Federal Trade
Commission (FTC) has expressed an expansive view of the FCRAs
definition of the term adverse action and opined that the term
extends beyond decisions to disqualify a job applicant from further
consideration for an available position.
Before the employer implements the adverse action against the
applicant or employee, the employer must provide a pre-adverse
action notice to the individual, which must include a copy of the
consumer report and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureaus
Summary of Rights. This requirement affords the applicant or

BuildHoustonOnline.com February / March 2016

The name, address and telephone number of the consumer

reporting agency (CRA) that provided the report to the
employer;
A statement that the CRA did not make the adverse decision
and is not able to explain why the decision was made;
A statement setting forth the applicants or employees right to
obtain a free disclosure of his/her report from the CRA if the
applicant or employee makes a request for such a disclosure
within 60 days; and
A statement setting forth the applicants or employees right
to dispute directly with the CRA the accuracy or completeness
of any information contained in the report that the CRA
provided to the employer.
The text of the FCRA does not dictate the minimum amount of
time an employer must wait between mailing the pre-adverse
action and adverse action notices. One fairly accepted
standard was five business days, although recent class action
cases suggest that employers may want to wait more than five
business days.

Considerations for Employers

It is advisable for employers that use background checks for
employment purposes to take steps to ensure compliance
with the applicable provisions of the FCRA. There is more FCRA
litigation against employers for alleged willful violations of the FCRA
than ever before, especially class action litigation. In addition,
because various other laws affect the use of background checks

for employment purposes, such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act
of 1964 and state fair employment and fair credit reporting laws,
employers should continue to be mindful of their obligations to
comply with all of these laws.
Employers also should:

Consider the potential significance of the FTCs position with

respect to how they vet incumbents for promotions and
lateral transfers (even ones without an increase or reduction
in pay) and how, if at all, they use consumer reports to take
disciplinary action against employees.
Consider periodically auditing their background check policies
and procedures to ensure that applicants and employees are
being provided with an adequate amount of time to consider

the information contained in their background check

reports. It also would be prudent for employers to review
the indemnity provision in their subscriber agreements with
CRAs. Employers may outsource the process of mailing the
notices, but the employer remains potentially liable under the
statute.
Take steps to ensure that they are providing applicants and
employees with the most recent version of the Summary of
Rights document.
Consider how to best record personnel decisions such that,
if necessary, the employer can prove that the reason an
applicant was rejected was because of a poor interview, failure
to provide requested follow-up information, drug test failure,
etc., rather than based even in part on the background
report. u

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

G. Mark Jodon, managing shareholder of Littler Mendelsons Houston office, is board-certified in labor and employment law
by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Mark represents employers exclusively in all areas of labor and employment law.
He can be reached at (713) 652 - 4739 and mjodon@littler.com.

CONCEPT, MEET REALITY.

We like how the future looks here at Locke Solutions. Rather than sit by while technology passes us
up, were incorporating it into our process. From custom design to 3D-printed prototypes, were able to
bring ideas to life faster than ever. And we do so, as we always have, with top-notch quality and great
customer service. We see the precast industry differently and soon you will too. Give our process a test.

PRECAST DIVISION

Locke Solutions: Quality precast solutions paired with world-class customer service.

PH ON E: 8 32. 8 0 4 .7 0 6 2

F A X: 8 3 2 . 8 0 4. 7 0 7 1

L O C K E S O L U T I O N S . C O M

February / March 2016 BuildHoustonOnline.com

Promote Your

401(k)

to Help
Employees Save

aving for retirement throughout ones working years is vital, and

your 401(k) retirement plan is a great vehicle for employees to
do so. However, employees often do not realize the importance
of saving now, they might believe they cant afford to save right
now or may choose to remove 401(k) money prematurely to
cover a current financial need in their lives. Other employees do
realize the value of contributing to a 401(k) plan but are simply
overwhelmed by the complexity of investing and choose not to
do anything as a result. Consider the following suggestions to
educate your employees and help them take full advantage of
your retirement plan.

1. Offer some financial education. Bring a financial advisor

or representative from your 401(k) administrator to
provide employees information about the importance of
saving, the concept of compounding, how much theyll
likely need to live comfortably in retirement, different
investment options and how just a small amount from
each paycheck can make a significant difference.
2. Make sure employees understand your plan. Investing in
a retirement plan is confusing, and your communication
strategies should make it as clear as possible for
employees. If they dont understand, they are more
likely to make poor investing decisions or not invest at
all. Employees should know if you offer a match (and
how much you offer), the types of investments they
can choose, fees associated with the plan, penalties for
early withdrawal, vesting requirements, loan or hardship
withdrawal options and all other relevant details.
Consider providing written flyers or brochures, online or
email communication, group meetings and one-on-one
consultations.
3. Offer target-date funds. These funds are a great option for
employees with minimal investment savvy or who dont
want to manage their investment options on a continual

BuildHoustonOnline.com February / March 2016

basis. A target-date fund holds an array of stock, bonds

and other investments, with the balance of risk becoming
more conservative as retirement age nears.
4. Consider automatic enrollment. Often, employees realize
they should enroll in the 401(k) plan but just dont take
the time to do so. Automatic enrollment will give them
the push they need. Also, it is a benefit for new hires
because they are enrolled as soon as they are eligible,
so likely wont miss the percentage deducted from their
paychecks if it begins right away. Employees do have the
option to change their contribution amount or opt out of
the plan if they choose.
5. Offer a match if possible. Offering a 401(k) match is a
great way to encourage employee participation. If you
do offer a match, let employees know that not investing
themselves is leaving free money on the table. u

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Christ Taylor Insurance is an Employee Benefits and
Insurance Brokerage firm doing business for over 50 years
in southeast Texas, and long-time ABC member. We provide
solutions to small and medium size companies in the areas of
Healthcare and other Benefit programs, as well as Life Insurance
and Retirement Plans. Contact the Christ Taylor team at
713-850-7747 or www.christtaylor.com.

Wolfenson Electric, Inc.

& Civil Mechanical, Inc.
We stand united in our commitment to quality
and safety as full service industrial contractors
with over 70 years of combined experience.
Houston
7902 Cowart Street
Houston, TX 77029
Phone: 713-676-1201
Fax: 713-676-0457
Brazosport
430 West Plantation Drive
Clute, TX 77531
Phone: 979-265-1831
Fax: 979-265-1573
Fabrication & Support Services
726 Highland Park Drive
Clute, TX 77531
Phone: 979-265-0655
Fax: 979-265-5354

WHEN SERVICE
M A T T E R S

Exceptional Service,
Exceptionally Maintained Machines

BE SAFE. BE SEEN.

With locations in DFW and Houston, safety is just a phone call away.

281.453.6400

WWW.BUYERSBARRICADES.COM

Temporary Traffic Control On-Site Consulting Flagger Training

Equipment Rental 24-Hour Emergency Service Equipment Sales
PPE Custom Signs Traffic Control Plans

Here at Scott-Macon Equipment, we go to great lengths

to ensure that our cranes and our service are exceptional.
Whether you are looking to purchase or rent one of our
cranes, you can be sure that you and your equipment are
being taken care of.
Scott-Macon Equipment
14925 South Main St.
Houston, TX 77035

Phone: (713) 721-7070

WWW.SMEQUIPMENT.COM

February / March 2016 BuildHoustonOnline.com

Building Your Business

in Every Season:
Through the Ups and Downs
By Rick Yandle

s any construction professional knows, the industry

runs in phases. Some months are packed tight with bids,
business meetings and build-outs, while others leave crews

contending with down time. Slower seasons might not seem

ideal after all, if youre not on the job site, youre not making
money but they actually present their share of opportunity.
Such times allow owners and management the chance to step
back, evaluate current practices and find new ways to get the
companys name out there. The good news is, these efforts
dont have to cost much, if anything at all. Here are a few ways
construction teams can continue building their brands and
marketing all they have to offer, even between projects.
Take To Social Media
Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn accounts are free to run,
and they offer a great way to engage with both existing and

and form friendships. Ask about their families. Shake hands. These

potential clients. Post photos of recent projects, announce

seemingly common sense measures often go overlooked, but

job openings and reach out to contacts pages to keep your

business top of mind. If you want to take activity a step further,
consider advertising on these platforms. It doesnt cost much,

could improve your business propositions substantially moving

forward.

and has the potential to get your message in front of an entirely

new audience.
Go Straight To The Inbox
Many people collect business cards during meetings and trade
shows, but never do anything with them. The truth is, if youre

Every season plays a vital role in running a successful construction

business. The key is to take advantage of opportunities as
they come, make use of available resources and work to build
relationships with both current and potential clients. u

not using that information, those cards are just collecting

dust. Upload email addresses into your computer system,
and include those contacts when sending out email marketing
blasts. Updating people about company events, helpful tips
and industry news allows readers to feel connected with your
business. The next time theyre looking for construction work,
chances are youll come to mind.
Dont Forget The Human Element
Emails, tweets and other technology have changed the
construction world in big ways. Still, at the end of the day, these
prospective contacts are people. Personal relationships are
important, and simple gestures go a long way. Make it a point
to drop by and visit important clients, take them out for lunch

10

BuildHoustonOnline.com February / March 2016

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rick Yandle is Business Development Manager
for Design At Work, an advertising and
marketing firm that has served Houston for
more than 25 years. He obtained his BBA in
marketing from Kennesaw State University,
and has extensive experience serving clients
across a range of industries. You can contact
him at 832.200.8232, or by emailing rick@
designatwork.com.

IN OUR

PROCESS
IN YOUR PRODUCT.

At Marek, we invest in educating our

employees to improve specialty skills and
foster long-term careers. The result is
a dedicated team of craft professionals
with the experience and expertise to
provide you what matters most quality
construction on time and on budget.
Because were devoted to developing
a highly skilled workforce, our process
always leads to a strong final product.
With Marek, its more than the strength
in our workforce its about giving your
project strength from within.

Specializing in RentalS and SaleS of

Heavy timbeR and laminated matS
Serving the gulf CoaSt for over 30 yearS

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

Framing | Drywall | Ceilings | Acoustical Solutions | Flooring
Painting & Wall Textures | Fabric Panels | Specialty Trims | Window Treatments

One-click
messaging to
your member
of congress

1(800) 671 - 0694

www . americanmatandtimber . com

713.681.2626 | marekbros.com

Instant
notifications for
grassroots and
legislative alerts

Voting history
on key ABC
issues

Detailed contact
information for
your federal
representatives

The ABC Action app for iPhone and Android.

Download it on your phone at abc.org/ABCaction
iPhone

Android

February / March 2016 BuildHoustonOnline.com

11

Connecting with you.

EVERYDAY.

COASTALWS.COM | 800.852.4177

FirSt in Service

Since 1979
tprco.com

South Houston (713) 671-2551

North Houston (866) 247-9449

Hydraulic Shores

Slide Rail System

Steel Trench Boxes

Locations throughout California, Nevada, Texas, Illinois, and Florida

12

BuildHoustonOnline.com February / March 2016

Manhole Shield

COVE R STO RY

A Golden

Anniversary:

Bo-Macs 50 Years

Building The Gulf Coast

Founded in 1966 to provide civil, pipeline, and

other construction services for the petroleum industry,
Bo-Mac Contractors has since grown into a Texas
construction powerhouse. The company has added
pile-driving, marine piling, fabrication and dock
construction capabilities to better serve the gas and
oil refining industries. Today the company provides a
large number of civil, piling, and marine construction
services for projects of all sizes along the Gulf Coast.

clearing and preparation, heavy haul roads, reinforced

concrete foundations and structures, drilled piers,
underground piping and drainage, and other turnkey projects. Bo-Macs Piling Division installs all types
of driven pile, auger-cast pile and sheet pile. And the
companys Marine Division designs, fabricates and
installs dock facilities for major industrial and energy
companies with operations along inland waterways
throughout the Gulf Coast.

When asked about Bo-Macs staying power, company

president Jody Brusenhan says, It all starts with our
core values. Number one is We do what is right.
That applies to everything from our accounting
practices and how we treat our employees to our client
relationships and delivering on our commitments.
Bo-Macs second core value, Working safely is not
optional, emanates from a true desire to do the right
thing. And while safety is commonly cited as important
for many contractors, Bo-Mac truly walks the talk. As of
this writing, Bo-Macs Civil Division has worked more
than 4 million man-hours with out a lost-time accident.
This is one company that is serious about safety.
Safety training is mandatory for
every employee and includes training
in the safe operation of equipment,
hazard awareness, and the proper
implementation of safety policies.
To keep safety at the forefront, field
personnel participate in weekly safety discussions and
frequent training programs. Brusenhan continues, Our
great safety record is a result of driving the proper
safety mindset across the company and from the top
down. Weve had stretches as long as 16 straight
months without a recordable incident.

Our great safety record

is a result of driving the
proper safety mindset
across the company...

Today the companys 600+ employees are organized

into three divisions. The Civil Division handles site

While the company works with a few specially chosen

sub-contractors, most of their work is performed
in-house so the company can maintain its high safety
standards and meet client expectations. Since BoMacs founding five decades ago, theyve built a
solid reputation for taking on difficult projects and
producing high-quality work that thrills their clients,
while safeguarding employees and partners. Another
of our core values is that we want results to exceed
expectations, Jody Brusenhan tells us. Mediocrity isnt
acceptable to anyone at Bo-Mac so we like to keep
control of all the project details. And given the results
weve been able to achieve for our clients, its the way
well continue doing business for the next fifty years as
well.

Bo-Mac Contractors Ltd. (409) 842-2125 www.bomaccontractors.com

February / March 2016 BuildHoustonOnline.com

13

SAF ETY

THE BRAIN AND ITS ROLE IN SUSTAINABLE SAFETY

B Y

T A R A

M A R I A

A M A V I

t was a private, VIP tour of a major hospitals latest and greatest

technological advances. One of the presentations was a video
of a patient who had lost his legs and who now had robotictype equipment attached to what was left of his legs and a cap
of electrodes on his head. As he walked in the video, the first
impression is the robotics made his legs work. But that was not
what was happening.
What was happening is his own thoughts were making the robotic
device work, not the reverse. Recently, PBS showed a series
based upon the book The Brain, written by Houstons own David
Eagleman, a scientist at Baylor. His series shows a woman using
her mind to make prosthetics work no electrode cap shes
using only her thoughts.
It has been accepted in the medical industry that sociopaths1
arent curable. However, new studies show all sociopaths brains
are different than everyone elses and they are different in exactly
the same way2. Kent Kiehl is doing studies with sociopaths while
they are still young many initially display anti-social behavior
between the ages of 8-16 years. Caught early, he finds you can
sometimes reverse the syndrome. How? By using neuroplasticity
exercises to turn the non-working part of the brain back on. This
approach, in combination with other Cognitive Behavior Therapy
(CBThow to stop your stinking thinking) and a supportive
environment, often results in recovery and reintegration as a
productive citizen and family member.
From Sociopaths to Robotics, and many things in between,
cognitive neuroscience is changing our world.
How does this apply to safety? Every time you do something, you

create a path in your brain. You cant do anything without that

path. The first time you do it, its awkward because you are babystepping into a new neuronal pathway. But the 50th time you do it,
your brain is operating unconsciously to drive the behavior. Thats
why you can drive all the way home on Houston freeways and, lost
in thought, not remember the drive. Think of all the hundreds
of safety decisions that were made by your brain without your
awareness for you to unconsciously drive home on a Houston
freeway without getting killed. Its mind boggling!
According to David Eagleman, most human behavior arises from
these unconscious pathways. He explains that, because of this
fact, science asked the question: What is the conscious mind for?
Why does it exist when almost everything we do arises from these
unseen, unconscious neuronal pathways?
Their conclusion? The conscious mind exists to override the
unconscious mind. It exists to say No to a neuronal pathway
that does not serve that persons ultimate interests and goals. This
is why ANY approach to behavior modification, including safety,
that does not engage the brain to develop new neuronal pathways
in the workforce, will not be sustainable.
Safety systems based upon fear, punishment, and outside-in
control do NOT reach this area of the brain. They force adaptive
responses to avoid the thing they fear but they do NOT change
behavior in any process-driven or sustainable way. For example,
you drive the speed limit in League City or Pasadena because you
fear the tickets their police have a reputation of writing. But, for
most of us, on the open road in Montana, its a different story.
We avoid punishment but we dont change behavior. Why?
Because, at a brain level, a neuronal pathway level, we actually

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tara Maria Amavi, (formerly Tara Templeton Hart, name changed due to identity theft) is the Founder and President of TCA/The Compliance Alliance
L.P. TCA has provided services to almost 1000 companies nationwide and TCAs proprietary tools, methods and means have been ranked #1 in the world
for managing contractor safety. The TCA Safety System is peer acknowledged as a method based upon TCAs own trade secrets which get better results
than traditional safety methods and, therefore, saves lives. Ms. Amavi has been named one of Houstons 50 Most Influential Women by Houston Woman
magazine, and has also been named one of the Whos Who in Safety by Compliance Magazine. Ms. Amavi is a sought after public speaker, has appeared on
local & national radio and television programs including five appearances on The BusinessMakers, a radio show hosted by John Beddow & Russ Capper.
Ms. Amavi may be contacted at tara.amavi@tcamembers.com or 713.263.7661.

14

BuildHoustonOnline.com February / March 2016

Honored

2016 Best Lawyers in America

US News & World Report
Gregory Cokinos

Richard Flake

J. Parker Fauntleroy

Patrick Wielinski

2015 Texas Super Lawyers

Thomson Reuters

believe our default behavior (i.e.

speeding in this example) is safe
and that we have things under
control.
We will avoid consequence but we
wont change. And thats why the
industrys fatality statistics dont
change in any meaningful way.

Dr. Robert Hare, internationally renowned

expert on sociopaths/psychopaths explains

Stephanie ORourke

James Ewbank II

Craig Power

Richard Flake

Patrick Wielinski

John Grayson

Marc Young

2015 Texas Rising Stars

Thomson Reuters
Gabriel Head
Misty Segura
John Warren

2016 Best Law Firms

US News & World Report
Cokinos, Bosien & Young is nationally ranked
Tier 1 in Litigation - Construction

Congratulations to our attorneys that have been recognized for their excellence!

Tune is next issue when we examine

the history of Behavior Based Safety
(BBS) and begin to unravel where
it goes wrong and how to integrate
brain science to make BBS and other
programs more effective. u

Gregory Cokinos

www.cbylaw.com

HOUSTON

DALLAS /FT. WORTH

SAN ANTONIO

AUSTIN

Trouble?

the terms are interchangeable. He states

separate terms arose in society, not within
the medical community. Society reserves
the term sociopathy for the fraudsters,
embezzlers, and wife beaters of the world
and prefers the term psychopath for the
Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmers of the
world.
The Psychopath Whisperer: The Science

of Those Without Conscience by Kent A.

Kiehl.

Let us help you avoid getting trapped.

Interface Consultings construction consultants and experts provide proven insight backed
by unrivalled experience to address cost and schedule issues on troubled projects. Clients
have called on us to assist with change order identification and substantiation, schedule delay
analysis, claims preparation and management, and dispute resolution for the past 27 years.

Weve built our reputation by getting into trouble.

www.interface-consulting.com | Houston, TX | 713.626.2525

February / March 2016 BuildHoustonOnline.com

15

YOU ARE HERE

B Y

B E N N E T T

G H O R M L E Y

You Are Here

My once a year shopping experience at the mall was not an
enjoyable one. It seemed like I was the only one who did not know
where to go. Maybe for guys like me, its good that the holiday
season comes around only once a year. My first action was to find
the directory and after being shoved around a bit I spotted itand
it read You are here. Relief did not come instantaneously. Ive
never been lost in the woods, and seldom in an unfamiliar place.
But here, in my own hometown, even knowing what the directory
declared, the truth be known, I was lost. The situation reminded
me of a place our company ended up years ago: In safety, we were
worse than the industry average, our execution was poor and we
had no plan to do better. And customers were coming down on
us.
You, Too, Are Here
This may strike you the wrong way and may not be what you want
to hear, but your company is here also. All companies have been
at a place that was undesirable, uncomfortable or possibly noncompliant. As a contractor, many eyes are upon youand not just
in Texas. Your customers are looking. If you provide services for
owners, you are under their magnifying glass.
Everybody is watching. Can you remember when contractor X was
dismissed from a project for inability to perform the work? Do
you remember contractor Y being ousted from the job for not
meeting quality expectations? How about contractor Z losing its
contract for having safety issues? Well, it happened yesterday and
will happen tomorrow. Problem is, contractors have not been able
to overcome issues that plague them.
Main Issue: Satisfy The Customer
Equipment and materials. Can we blame equipment and
materials for our issues? No we cant. Equipment and materials
are inanimate objects and must be controlled by humans. So if
it breaks, it is an issue of line management or the manufacturer.
Equipment and materials are supposed to be purchased or
rented and is to be inspected daily and maintained in a workable
and safe condition. So if a forklift malfunctions, do we blame the
manufacturer, the project manager or the operator? In reality, it
could be all of the above. Each person in the line of execution has
some responsibility and is accountable in some way.
The workforce. Can we blame hourly workers for our workplace
problems? No we cant. Labor is a subset of management. Every
company needs qualified workers and if a firm chooses to develop
its own workforce, workers can choose to stay or join another
organization. So, if the contractor workforce is not trained it is a

16

BuildHoustonOnline.com February / March 2016

situation for management to deal with. The old saying goes like
this: Train the workers and they leave you or dont train them and
they stay. A firm can do more than train. They can lead, they can
treat workers well and thus will maintain a percentage of them.
Management. Can we blame all issues on management? No,
probably not all things, but maybe a high percentage. As in the
military, leadership responsibility and accountability starts at the
top. I was taught years ago to pass problems up to management
and pass solutions down to the workers. For those who choose to
supervise or manage others, accountability is key.
Safety. Can we blame all injuries on workers? No, all injury is
not the fault of workers. Prevention lies in elimination of at-risk
behavior on the part of leaders and workers. Leaders make errors
in judgement, planning and leading execution of the work. Worker
injury may be from following poor planning and supervisors who
may be untrained and unfocused on the work.
These are but a few of the problems in construction. All in all, it
gets done.
SoWhere Are You?
We need to know where we stand with workforce and company
issues. Knowing about these can bring opportunities to improve.
Our job as leaders, is to know the issues, our responsibilities
and be accountable in fulfilling our roles. It is up to us, in leading
construction, to know our corporate situation so that we can put
the pieces of the puzzle together. We must combine workers and
leaders, quality, safety, materials and planning in facing all that we
encounter and still get the job done. Dont forget You are here
and were in this together. u

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Bennett Ghormley has more than 35
years of experience in safety, training and
construction administration. He is experienced
in implementing safety programs involving
commercial,
industrial
and
municipal
industries. Mr. Ghormley has conducted
audits, investigations and inspections in
refineries, chemical and petrochemical plants,
for pipelines, water and waste facilities,
manufacturing plants and fabrication
facilities. Mr. Ghormley has served as an expert
witness in litigation cases and appeared before
the Workers Compensation Commission,
EEOC, Employment Commission and civil
courts. Contact Mr. Ghormley via email at
bennettghormley@yahoo.com.

GPRS IS A MEMBER OF:

For more information about our

Safety Program please contact
Matt Johnson at
matt.johnson@gp-radar.com

Call Jim Cardoza at 713-253-7072

or e-mail jim.cardoza@gp-radar.com

Our construction team

builds
solutions

relationships by providing clients with

HOUSTON

OKLAHOMA CITY

based on experience.

WWW.PORTERHEDGES.COM

February / March 2016 BuildHoustonOnline.com

17

18

BuildHoustonOnline.com February / March 2016

SUPER

BOWL

LI

is bringing more than fans

to Houston in 2017
B Y

J A S M I N E

S W O O P E

Houston, we have a Super Bowl!

It has been more than a decade since the Super Bowl was hosted
in Houston, Texas. Every year the Super Bowl, the unofficial
American holiday, is the NFLs crowning achievement, heaping
massive amounts of attention on whichever city is tasked with
hosting the ubiquitous event.
More than 70,000 fans attended Super Bowl XLIX. With the
guaranteed influx of football fans planning their trip to the
Bayou City, many Houstonians may fear the inevitably crowded
restaurants, congested roads and overflowing venues during the
weeks leading up the event. However, there is a silver lining for all
the locals to look forward to when the Super Bowl touches down
in 2017.
For anyone who has seen downtown Houstonor any part of
Houston it is hard to miss the roadblocks and construction
happening all over the city.
There has definitely been a tremendous uptick in construction
activity since the announcement of Houston hosting the Super
Bowlall of these projects contribute to a more dynamic
experience for the visitor and residents, A.J. Mistretta, Houston
First, Sr. Public Relations Manager said.
From a new convention district, and dazzling hotels, to smoother
transit, and delicious dinning options, Houstonians can look
forward to a more vibrant downtown post Super Bowl.
(continued on next page)

February / March 2016 BuildHoustonOnline.com

19

A New Experience

We have been working on one of the many projects within the

Many Houstonians are working overtime to get ready for the big

convention center non-stop since December 2014, Glen Blaha,

event. Sunday, February 5, 2017, thousands of fans will make their

Estimator/Project Manager, Marek Bothers Systems, Inc., said.

way to our fair city to pack NRG Stadium. Throughout the event,

Our primary focus has been two fold, one aspect being to design

visitors and locals will experience Downtown Houstons long

and construct a new concourse wall for a new registration space,

awaited facelift.

separating the exhibit hall, and building a temporary wall to serve

as a dust partition to shield guests from the additional structural

The Houston Super Bowl Committee (liaison between the city

demolition occurring at the same time.

of Houston and the NFL), Houston First Corporation and many

construction companies are deep into the planning phase to

Due to the Super Bowl coming to Houston next year, the overall

help support the many events and activities preceding the game,

deadline for many construction projects has been moved up to

including a 10-day Super Bowl Center at Houstons Front Yard

meet the needs of the upcoming event. A major benefit for many

Discovery Green, according to the Super Bowl Host Committee

constructions companies is having their work recognized and

website. The Host Committee anticipates upwards of one million

viewed by those that visit and live within that area. The Super

visitors to experience Super Bowl activities in the two weeks prior

Bowl is providing an opportunity for many Houston construction

to the Super Bowl.

professionals.

NPR reported that Super Bowl host cities could earn upwards

The novelty of being a part of the creation of these buildings, even

of $200 million to $500 million for the local, regional and state

after the project is completed, is a piece of what makes a career

economies in additional business revenue during the event. It is

in construction so cool, said Blaha. There is a sense of pride for

no wonder that construction is in full force. One of the biggest

yourself and the company each time someone drives by, walks

projects, lead by the Houston First Corporation, is the renovation

though or mentions it.

of the George R. Brown Convention Center and Convention

District.

Blaha is expecting a third quarter completion date for Mareks

portion of the convention center so that development can move

The George R. Brown Convention Center is being transformed

forward to be completely done before the Super Bowl. This

from a large, blank slate venue to a more interactive haven for

remodel will allow Houston to be an option for larger trade shows

events. Mistretta, describes the model as inclusive. He explained

and conventions. Locals can look forward to a more wide-ranging

that its a trend now for cities to design their convention centers

and contemporary experience.

for the local residents as well as the visitors.

Houston invites you to be our guest
The convention center will include: a second connected

Super Bowl guests can look forward to the addition of 3,000 hotel

headquarters hotel, a new grand entrance, restaurants at the

rooms through eight new hotels coming to Houstons Convention

front of the building, a pedestrian plaza out front, a concourse that

District, as well as improved transit centers, a recently completed

connects exhibit halls, a parking garage linked to a 10-story office

light-rail extension and a new antenna system to provide all the

tower with street-level retail, and the new Avenida de las Americas,

internet access fans desire.

which runs across the front of the George R. Brown Convention

Center.

The biggest project is the 29-story Marriott Marquis under

construction next to the north end of the George R. Brown

Most of the projects on the drawing board were in development

Convention Center and across from Discovery Green Park,

before we won the Super Bowl bid. In my opinion, many of the

bookending with the Hilton Americas-Houston to its south.

projects were brought to the front burner, Mistretta said.

Everyone wants to capitalize on the exposure and potential

This is a huge impact for the convention district, Nick Martien,

revenue from this major sporting event.

Senior Project Manager at Marek Brothers Systems, Inc., said.

They are making downtown a place where people want to live,

ABC Greater Houston member, Marek Brothers Systems Inc., is

instead of just commute.

one of the companies working to upgrade the George R. Brown

Convention Center and the Marriott Marquis to suit the needs of

Houston will be the sixth city to carry the Marriott Marquis

the modern day visitor.

designation, which is reserved for large convention hotels of iconic

design in the nations gateway cities. A sky-bridge will connect the

20

BuildHoustonOnline.com February / March 2016

1,000-room hotel to the conventions centers north end with

to and from Houston. The expanded terminal has a new ticket

100,000 square feet of elegant event space, including multiple

counter, six additional security checkpoints, five new gates and

rooftop lawns.

a Federal Inspections Services facility for Customs and Borders

Protection.

We are working on the Podium and Tower floors, providing

exterior framing and sheathing as well as the interior framing,

Houston nonprofit, Scenic Houston, is working to upgrade the

drywall, finishing, acoustical ceilings, acoustical plaster, and

two-mile stretch of Broadway Street between Hobby Airport and

stretched fabric panels, said Martien. One of the challenges and

Interstate 45, according to the Houston Chronicle. The multimillion-

major focus of the work Marek is doing with the hotel is ensuring

dollar project includes additional tree installation, innovative

the level of sound quality that hotels of this stature are accustomed

landscaping, and new LED lighting and better sidewalks to create

to having, Martien said.

a welcoming and walkable environment. In addition to the scenic

appeal, the Texas Department of Transportation is working on a

Locals can also look forward to experiencing the crowning jewel

$17 million project to reconstruct Broadway Street.

in the hotels outdoor area, which includes an infinity edge pool, a

Texas-shaped lazy river, and seven event lawns.

A lasting impression
It is plain to see that the Super Bowl will bring a plethora of people,

If Super Bowl fans are looking at flights as an option to make the

activities and experiences for manyDowntown Houston can

game, they can look forward to the updates at the William P. Hobby

attest to that. The city will not know the overall revenue generated

Airport. Houston Airport System and Dallas-based Southwest

from the event until sometime in 2017, but the effects will be

Airlines spent $150 million to upgrade the Airport into Houstons

felt for years to come. As Houston works to beautify the city and

second international gateway.

prepare for its guests, perhaps a thank-you to the Super Bowl is

in order. Once the dust settles and the adrenaline levels come

On the horizon, passengers can expect an additional parking

down, Houstonians will have some amazing new additions and

garage, roadway modifications, new concourse and an expanded

opportunities available to them at the place they call home. u

terminal, all of which will help accommodate international flights

BIM-focused training
Your competition is using BIM
are you doing everything you can
to stay ahead of them?
BIM adoption among contractors in North America
is now topping 70%.* Project Virtual offers the most
comprehensive training in the industry. Here are
examples of the courses available. Check out the entire
list of classes at abcprojectvirtual.com.
*SmartMarket Report 2014

BIM Best Practices

Why Using BIM in Early Design Matters
BIM in the Cloud
Implementing BIM in your Company
Navisworks Essentials for Contractors
Navisworks Advanced for Contractors
Navisworks Quantification for Contractors
Project Collaboration for the Design-Build
Team
Autodesk Revit 2014 System
Fundamentals

Register today at www.abcprojectvirtual.com

February / March 2016 BuildHoustonOnline.com

21

In The Know
Karsten Interior Services announces exciting
internal growth and new projects. The company
promoted John Revell, who joined Karsten in
2011, to Director of Project Management.
With a construction background dating
back to 1983, and in-depth experience
in project management, estimation and a
wide range of industry trades, he brings
a wealth of knowledge to Karsten and its
In the spirit of the holidays, Mobil Steel International, Inc.
recently participated in the NRG bike giveaway for children in
underserved communities, as well as gave to MD Anderson,
Sagemont Helping Hands, The Special Olympics, and Boys &
Girls Country of Houston. Annually, Mobil Steel also supports
Houston area car shows which provide military veterans with
transitional housing and provides funding for the Texas Lions
camp for children with disabilities. Additionally, the company
supports college scholarships for students interested in working
in the construction industry through the Associated Builders and
Contractors Scholarship Foundation.
Polk Mechanical is proud to welcome Harry Parker as its
new Chief Estimator. Mr. Parker brings over 15 years experience
in mechanical estimating. He comes to Polk from Gootee
Construction, New Orleans, Louisiana. They are pleased to have
Mr. Parker on board, and look forward to a prosperous future with
him.
Teal Construction recently held their annual Christmas Party
and announced employee awards. Mike Pettus received the
Superintendent of the Year award for the Houston office. Mike
has been with Teal for four years and is currently working on
the Houston Community College Acres Homes Project. Also,
Pat Garrett received the Employee of the Year award for the
Houston Office. Pat has been a Teal employee for 17 years and
is one of their Project Directors. Pat runs multiple projects, but
mainly heads the Frost Bank team.

22

BuildHoustonOnline.com February / March 2016

clients. The company is also proud to play a role in the construction

of Amegy Banks state-of-the-art Houston headquarters. Among
other amenities, the 350,000-square-foot structure will feature
office space for more than 500 employees, a two-story conference
space and game room.
Coats Rose Yale Ryman & Lee, P.C., announces its merger
with Dallas-based Wright Ginsberg Brusilow, P.C. The merger
grows Coats Roses Dallas office by more than 500 percent, with
21 attorneys and 36 total employees bringing the firm to more
than 200 employees overall. Coats Rose currently has offices
in Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio and New Orleans, and
the merger will increase the firms total staff by 23 percent. The
merger not only expands the firms capacity, but also grows its
capabilities in various key practice areas. These areas include
business reorganization and bankruptcy, business and corporate
law, probate and tax, as well as wealth preservation planning.
Polk Mechanical announces its new location in Houston at 11875
Cutten Road (Houston, Texas 77066). This new location will allow
Polk Mechanical to better serve existing and future customers.
Polk sends many thanks to Houston and their loyal customers, all
of whom have contributed to their success.

Clay McCord has joined BE&K Building Group as Senior

Superintendent. Clay has more than 36 years of experience in the
construction industry on both domestic and international projects.
In addition to delivering higher education, institutional, industrial,
healthcare and commercial projects across the nation, Clay spent
several years in Afghanistan overseeing construction of U.S. military
bases in active war zones.
The Economic Alliance Houston Port Region announced
the hiring of Ms. Denise Smesny as the Dream It. Do It.
Southeast Texas Education Foundation, Inc. Program Manager.
A retired educator of 28 years, Ms. Smesny has taught a variety
of subjects including Vocational Home Economics (Lee College),
English, Creative Writing, Reading, Computer Literacy, and Cisco
Networking (Goose Creek CISD). In addition, Denise has been a
district level Instructional Technology Specialist (Goose Creek CISD)
as well as Coordinator and Director of Instructional Technology,
Libraries, and Career and Technical Education (Sheldon ISD). In
addition, Mrs. Smesny served as the program director for the 1:1
Nova 5000 hand held-computer project in Goose Creek CISD.
BE&K Building Group recently began construction on the
Lamar University Center for Innovation, Commercialization and
Entrepreneurship project. This 21,000 square foot education and
workforce development building will be a technology business

incubator to help develop and grow new enterprises. The

facility will include workforce training facilities, a Small Business
Development Center, the Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies and
several anchor tenants.
Peckar & Abramson, P.C. (P&A) is pleased to announce
the opening of three P&A Texas offices in Austin, Dallas and
Houston, along with the addition of nine leading construction
law attorneys, each previously at the core of the Ford Nassen &
Baldwin law firm. The Texas team, consisting of some of the states
foremost construction litigators, will enhance P&As construction,
commercial, real estate and surety law practice in Texas, as well as
its national government contracts practice.
E.E. Reed Construction recently began construction on The
Wilshire Condominium consisting of a 288,966 square foot,
seventeen-story, 96-unit, ultra-luxury residential condominium
tower. E.E. Reed is working with owner, Pelican Builders, and
architect, Kirksey, on this project which is scheduled to be
completed in the Spring of 2017.
Teal Construction Company hired three new employees in
December. New hires include Mike Woods and Mickie Smith as
Superintendents, and Jenny McCarver as a Project Coordinator.
Mike Woods came to Teal from DMAC Construction and Mickie
Smith was formerly with Gilbane. u

February / March 2016 BuildHoustonOnline.com

23

Published by Associated Builders & Contractors of Greater Houston

4910 Dacoma St.
Houston, Texas 77092
(713)523-6ABC (877)577-6ABC

THE PORTABLE SPACE YOU NEED

WHEREVER YOU NEED IT.

WITH MULTIPLE LOCATIONS IN TEXAS, OKLAHOMA AND KANSASSiteBox Storage can provide you
with everything you need from extra storage space to on-site ofces. Our products and delivery service
help make your operation more productive and better organized. Whether youre looking to purchase or
lease, our unmatched logistics and resources mean we can provide unsurpassed quality and service.

VISIT US ONLINE OR CALL 855.748.3269 AND GET THE EXTRA SPACE YOU NEED TODAY.

PRSRT STD
US POSTAGE
PAID
HOUSTON TX
PERMIT 2597

siteboxstorage.com