Putzmeister America, Inc. Introduces Boom Pump QuickStart Series
NEW DVD SERIES MAKES IT EASIER FOR CUSTOMERS TO START SOMETHING BIG
Putzmeister America announces the May 2007 release of its new Boom Pump QuickStart DVD series. Designed as a convenient reference for new and experienced boom pump operators, the QuickStart DVD series is a guide to operational procedures, general maintenance and advanced special features of Putzmeister truck-mounted concrete boom pumps. This is just one more way Putzmeister offers its customers more than equipment.
Hosted by Alan Woods, Putzmeister field service technician, the two-disk series is easy to navigate to specific sections for viewers on the go.
The first DVD takes the viewer through a boom pump walk around from the cab to the hopper, explaining where each feature is located. Various outrigger deployments for the 20-, 30-, 40- and 50/60-Meter classes are covered as well. In addition, boom deployment for the three different Putzmeister boom configurations, Z-Fold, Multi-Z and Roll-and-Fold, are also reviewed.
The second DVD includes maintenance and special features sections. Maintenance information includes hopper safety inspection, proximity switches, an accumulator test and lubrication systems. Some of the special features discussed include EBC with OneTouch™, Free Flow Hydraulics, One-Sided Support (OSS), Remote Preferences and Extended Range EBC.
“The Boom Pump QuickStart DVD series was designed to accelerate the understanding of how boom pumps work for both new and experienced boom pump operators. This series will accompany the operator and maintenance manuals shipped with every machine,” says Putzmeister Vice President – Sales and Marketing Bill Dwyer. “We also recommend thorough review of the manuals and ACPA safety guidelines prior to operating any boom pump.”
New and experienced boom pump owners and operators are encouraged to not only read their manuals to fully understand their equipment, but also attend Putzmeister’s operation and maintenance service schools. Operators should also be educated and tested in proper concrete pumping safety practices. This includes certification by the ACPA in the Association’s comprehensive safety program.
The easy to navigate QuickStart DVD series will be included in the operators manual for all new boom pump models delivered after May 15, 2007. For more information, please call the Putzmeister Customer Support Department at 1-800-890-0269.
EPA 2007 Fuel Regulations Now in Effect
A prototype of the new Mack TerraPro Series arrived at Schwing America recently. Since this model will also usher in the 2007 EPA certified engines there is considerable interest in the replacement for the venerable MR Macks that have been the standard for concrete pump applications.
The 2007 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations regarding the use of S15 Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) are now in effect. S15 ULSD is defined by the EPA as diesel fuel with a sulfur content not to exceed 15 parts per million (PPM), a sharp contrast to prior fuels with a sulfur content of 500 PPM. The new fuel was actually introduced on October 15, 2006, with the aim being to significantly reduce the amount of Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) and particulate matter emissions.
The new Mack TerraPros must run only on S15 ULSD fuel. The engines also require the use of new oil, one completely reformulated to help protect engine components. It is recommended that fleets engage in sulfur testing as their transition progresses to assure the sulfur content is being reduced effectively.
It is estimated that the energy content of ULSD fuel will be reduced by 1% from that of 500 PPM fuel, which may affect fuel mileage. The most-discussed features of the new 2007 engines are the DPFs which weigh about 110 pounds and contain a Cordierite (ceramic) honeycomb filter. The DPF will provide a variable volume of filtration and insulation while reducing hydrocarbons.
The soot collected within the channels of the DPF must be regenerated, or “burned off ” periodically. This will be done automatically in most cases on the TerraPro. The operator will be responsible for overriding the system manually if regeneration should be delayed. This could occur when the truck is positioned near overhanging structures or trees. Exhaust gas temperature can reach 1100 degrees Fahrenheit during regeneration which takes about 25 minutes.
One result of regenerating the DPF on a regular basis is an accumulation of residual ash within the filter. Consequently, the EPA suggests the DPF system filter be cleaned at least once every 150,000 miles.
As the first of the TerraPros are put into service, the impact on fuel economy, regeneration of the DPFs and cost of operation will become known. Meanwhile, some pump manufacturers stocked up on 07 pre-emissions MR Macks to satisfy customers who want to forestall the higher costs and other unknowns that will be sure to surface with the ULSD burning 2008 models.
The TerraPro also offers the latest generation of Vehicle Management and Controls System (VMAC) allowing customers to closely monitor truck and engine performance. ACPA members who visited Schwing America at last year’s orientation to the new Mack trucks were able to learn about the VMAC features and benefits first hand. The fuel consumption information generated by VMAC was used in calculating fuel use in order to challenge the IRS Fuel Tax Issue. Other options available with the system include road speed tamper detection, integrated starter protection and programmable daytime running light override. Advanced software captures information like vehicle trip histories, duty cycle information and scheduled maintenance intervals.
Schwing S 41 SX models and smaller pumps mounted on the TerraPro will come standard with the EPA 07 certified 11-liter Mack MP7 producing approximately 365 hp. The MP7 Engines will utilize the Arvin Meritor ignition system of Diesel Particulate Filtering (DPF). Schwing S 42 SX models and larger will utilize the 07 certified MP8 engine set at approximately 405 horsepower. This engine will use the Fleetguard DPF which relies on the heat of combustion to burn diesel particulate. Both engines feature single overhead cams, electronically controlled fuel injection and one piece steel pistons.
CIFA’S K31 BOOM PUMP
Designed with the operator in mind, the unique characteristics of the K31 XZ boom pump make this machine flexible yet simple to operate.
The NEW K31 XZ boom configuration allows operators maximum maneuverability in restricted areas through its amazingly low unfolding height of 18’-8” and the outstanding 360° bidirectional continuous rotary actuator located on the 5th section. Furthermore, the K31 XZ 5 section boom is equipped with 5” twin wall pipeline assuring long-life of the delivery pipe line.
Equipped with the heavy duty “Open Loop” concrete pump system, PA 1506/909F8, the K31 XZ provides Foundation Contractors with smooth, safe, continuous movements, high reliability and a generous output of 196 yd3/hr. Also available is a “Closed Loop” concrete pump system; HPG 1808/1113IF8-F9 capable of 235 yd3/hr.
All new CIFA boom pumps offer these key features not found on most other brands: hydraulically opening and closing hopper clean-out doors, clean-out ball stop, prime port in rear elbow, (2) proportional remote controls, simplified wiring offering several small bundles of wires that are well marked and easy to understand. They unit also feature portholes in the turret to allow easy inspection and maintenance of the pipe located inside.
Designed for low maintenance costs, CIFA backs it up with new heated clean-up water tanks and installs the water pumps and hoses to avoid damage due to freezing temperatures.
Please call for references of CIFA customers doing the same job with less initial capital tied-up and low overhead costs. CIFA’s new K31 XZ will provide Foundation Contractors with the tools for a successful pour and a successful bottom line every time.
CATCH THE WAVE — SWITCH TO WATER
Concrete contractors have willingly used a variety of water based products for years. However, when it comes to form release agents, acceptance has been slower. While this was understandable a few years ago when the cost savings between water and petroleum based versions was minimal and the enticements to switch were fewer, times have changed. Water based release agent formulas now offer more benefits than ever before.
Today, oil prices continue to rise and stricter environmental and safety regulations are changing the way many contractors work. Nox-Crete’s continued research and development of improved water based technology has produced products that perform equal to, and in many cases better than, petroleum based products. These form release agents easily meet all known state VOC requirements and provide substantial cost savings over petroleum based form release agents. A variety of formulations are available, including concentrated versions such as Alumi-Con.
Formulated specifically for aluminum forms, chemically active Alumi-Con maximizes the savings potential with the economy of a concentrated product. Dilutable up to 6:1 with water, Alumi-Con allows the user to customize product performance by adjusting the dilution rate to fit specific needs. Once diluted, Alumi-Con stays well mixed longer due to improved emulsion technology. When dry on form surfaces, Alumi-Con is non-slippery and resists removal by normal rain showers. The variable dilution rates also allow Alumi-Con to be used as a maintenance coating as well.
Achieving the proper dilution rate is easily achieved when Alumi-Con is used in conjunction with Nox-Crete’s Mix Station. The Mix Station simultaneously dilutes and mixes Nox-Crete’s concentrated form release agents in one easy step. Contractors dilute and mix only as much product as they need at a given time.
It’s time to catch the wave and switch to water based form release agents. Choose the leaders in water based technology. For more information about the advantages of water based release agents, contact Nox-Crete at (800) 669-2738 or visit www.nox-crete.com. Full product data sheets for the Mix Station, Alumi-Con and all water based release agent options are available online.
Maximum economy and easy one-step dilution and mixing is achieved when Nox-Creteʼs Alumi-Con form release agent is used in conjunction with the Mix Station.
What is TECHNOLOGY? In this
Technology (tek nol’ e je) n. 1. The branch of knowledge that deals with the creation and use of technical means and their interrelation with life, society, the environment, and POURED WALL CONTRACTORS, drawing upon such subjects as industrial arts, engineering, applied science, etc.
In this age of constant technological innovation, it is obvious that new products and processes can have a huge impact on your company. A shift in technology can create a demand for new products or make an existing product obsolete, practically overnight. For quite some time the typical foundation contractor has not only used technology in constructing foundations but has embraced it. Some high-tech instruments and equipment that have worked their way into the everyday landscape of the poured wall contractor may include robotic total station layout tools, CAD software, boom trucks, truck mounted conveyors, grade control systems for excavators, etc. These tools and many others have been tried and proven in the field. Some proven benefits would include greater productivity, less reliance on manual labor, more accurate and predictable outcomes, etc. All of these benefits focus mainly on improving a task or a specific aspect of an operation. I would like to offer another view on technology and how it can be used to make your business more successful.
Every reader of this article is involved in a business that utilizes processes and systems to deliver their product while relying on human beings to carry these tasks out. Universally, one of the most difficult challenges then, is to train and develop employees to follow the established process which will lead to a predictable and successful outcome – every time. Employees are without a doubt the most valuable asset in virtually any business, however, since employees are human they do provide some challenges. Sometimes they may be late; errors in the field will happen; personality conflicts will arise; and yes at times they will stray from the time-proven, established processes. Of course, they can cause a great deal of anxiety to all involved. It is true that technology can’t fix or control human nature; however it can help to make some behaviors more controlled and more predictable. Have you ever heard yourself say “What was he thinking?” or “She knows better than that!” Have you ever tried to use technology to help you with some of these problems? Some obvious products that come to mind may be electronic data collectors to help with time keeping or GPS units to monitor locations or driving behavior. These may be good places to start but let’s try going a little further. If you have concerns about attaining a certain behavior or achieving better results from your employees perhaps there is a computer program, device, or piece of equipment that can help you. For example, if you have a problem with loitering at your office or shop; why not install magnetic or electronic locks in order to limit access and create desired traffic patterns for employees. A simple bar code could be used to track all tools and company equipment that is issued to your field personnel to reduce loss and to create accountability. Technology can also be used to upgrade office procedures that may be archaic or inefficient. One example may be to utilize electronic billing for materials and supplies; this may allow you to reduce your pay cycle which may give incentive to a supplier to offer a better price. If your desire is to have a complete estimate for every job that accounts for all aspects of a project, why not employ an operating system that requires the desired input before the project can proceed? Would it be beneficial for you to issue laptop computers to your field supervisors that would allow them to quickly transfer and process more accurate and up-to-date job information?
I realize that these examples are not powerful revelations that are going to change the course of how you operate. The truth is; I couldn’t even begin to know what specific ideas would be effective in improving your business. The suggestion I propose is to consider “leaving the old paradigm of doing things the way we do simply because we have always done them that way” and entering a new paradigm of “being open-minded towards new approaches and ideas”.
Consequently, when a new technology appears on the business horizon it may be time to reassess your processes and plans. You need to explore the possibilities and ask yourself how this new technology can effect how you conduct your business. Lay out plans how to incorporate the new technology and use it to your advantage.Therefore, in conjunction with the definition, it would be expedient for everyone in our industry to embrace the “creation and use of technical means” to further advance our effectiveness and success.
Brad Schrock, CFA President, Custom Concrete Company Inc. bschrock@customconcrete.comThe Importance of Exhibitors
In case you haven’t noticed, the 2007 CFA Summer Convention, scheduled for August 8th through the 11th, is fast approaching. If you haven’t made your room reservations yet, it is time to do so. We have reserved the entire resort at Stoweflake but they have a limited number of rooms. For those of you bringing the entire family, there are some nice condos surrounding the resort you can reserve interlaced by a small executive par 3 golf course. This is one of the few times where we are actually able to “take over the resort”, literally. This is a beautiful area of the country in which to spend some extra time if you can get away.
We have some great events planned. One new event this year will be a first: The equipment rodeo. The competition is still being designed but it will focus this year on concrete pumps and layout stations. A competition where individuals will be able to test their skills at operating a range of boom lengths is in the works along with a speed test to complete a basic footprint layout for footings. The contest will be viewed from the safety, and comfort, of the hotel’s poolside patio.
As long as we are on the topic of exhibitors, I want to take this opportunity to stress how important it is for each of you to not only attend the trade show reception planned for Friday night, but to give some time to each one of the exhibitors. They are a critical part of this Association and our events. Without their participation, your membership dues would be higher and your cost of attending our events, both at the World of Concrete and our Summer Convention, would be more. Exhibitors spend a tremendous amount of money, time, effort, and manpower attending, exhibiting, and displaying equipment at our events. They rely on your feedback and support to improve the tools and products you use in your business. This is a great time for both you, and the exhibitors, to spend some quality time together. Venues such as the World of Concrete allow you to see a lot of equipment but there is so much to see and so little time you often do little more than stop by and say hello. This is your opportunity to get to know the Associates’ staff and really learn something about what they have to offer and what they can do for you.
This event is also good for the exhibitors because, unlike the big trades shows where a small percentage of booth visitors are qualified buyers, everyone who stops by their booth is a potential customer. We have restructured the event this year to give you more opportunities to visit with the Associates including two different evening venues. If improving your business through quality products and equipment isn’t enough…or finding the next partner to step up your game isn’t attractive enough…we’re offering you a chance to accomplish all of this AND win one of three great door prizes. CFA Staff will draw for these door prizes during the luncheon on Saturday from those who visit all the booths. Who knows, you might learn something you didn’t know about their products and you will have made their effort worthwhile.
Ed Sauter, Executive Director, CFA esauter@cfawalls.orgConcrete Homes: The Word on the Street
In each issue of Concrete Facts you have been reading about some amazing developments in above-grade concrete housing. These articles have featured companies, they have featured solutions, they have talked about the market penetration and the future. There continues to be tremendous interest in concrete homes and what they hold for business opportunities. However, in spite of the efforts of the Concrete Homes Council, form manufacturers, and contractors in the industry, the penetration of RCF’s (Reusable Concrete Forms) is disappointing. Progress is being made, in particular in states such as Florida where the benefits of concrete homes is evident. Elsewhere, however, market growth is proceeding at a snail’s pace.
The reasons for this slow growth are varied and complex – and beyond the scope of this article. Briefly, part of the problem is cost, though the value is clearly present and the improvements can be recouped in 3-5 years. Another part of the problem is resistance to change and still another is the mistaken belief by many that living in a concrete home is akin to living in a basement. Part of the problem is availability of qualified contractor, a problem which the CFA and CHC are addressing. The CHC will continue to provide educational opportunities for contractors and builders and will introduce a manual for the industry at this summer’s meeting which will help lead potential buildings through the intricacies of above grade construction.
In recent months, concrete homes have been under construction from New York to Florida, Oklahoma to South Carolina and many points in between. These projects have been, or soon will be, profiled through the efforts of the CHC. More importantly, these efforts are part of the latest educational push the CFA is making towards strengthening the market opportunity of concrete homes. Let’s take a look at what is ahead for the CFA and the promotion of concrete housing.
To begin, the Spring Regional Meeting in Raleigh, NC was designed to allow company management to attend a track featuring the latest information on concrete home construction and design. This track was developed specifically to strengthen the interest on the part of existing poured wall contractors and provide real evidence of the steps that can be taken to move this market ahead no matter the region. Curt Fields of Tri-City Contractors and David Pfanmiller of the Security Building Group have been active in this segment of the industry for several years. Their extensive experience with large custom homes in the heart of North Carolina, upscale coastal cottages along the Eastern Seaboard, and improved homes along the Gulf Coast bring a well-rounded message for how the contractor must look beyond the shell to the full development of a concrete home. This is a message that will continue to be repeated and strengthened at these educational events as the opportunity presents.
The Annual CFA Summer Meeting is the next stop on the education tour of concrete homes. This is the pinnacle event in the CFA calendar year. If you have not attended the Summer Meeting, we’re not quite sure what more information you might need to attend. It is the only calendar event each year solely dedicated to the foundation contractor. Market opportunities, business models, strategic plans—all of these are concepts that education springs from. When combined with the incredible product focus and the net-working that electrifies the two-day event, company personnel that take the “risk” to attend become convicted to attend the next year. Yes, even those that are intent on making above-grade home construction their primary product. And so, with this year’s event rapidly approaching, we can offer you an insight that the subject of Concrete Homes will once again take a front seat for this convention. Three contractors will be in attendance to discuss their latest advancements, struggles and conquests. Their messages, developed in New York, Oklahoma and Florida offer a very diverse look at the market and how to make it your own.
This leaves us with the one variable that makes this information and the opportunities a reality—your involvement. The contractor many times wants the builder to make the first move; the builder wants the home owner to “demand” the concrete home in order to avoid the risk; and the home owner wants to be assured that if they want to build it—“they will come”, to actually build it. This is a market segment in an industry that continues to look for leaders. Without leaders, we will continue to plod along and watch concrete homes sporadically dot the landscape of the residential industry in places where the “team” can afford to take the risk as a whole or where it makes too much economic or durability sense to avoid it.
The word on the street is that the concrete contractor needs to be that leader. Does this describe you? Make the case for your answer with the involvement form you see in this magazine and let the Concrete Homes Council help pave the way for increasing your opportunities and decreasing your risk.
Passing of a founding father…
Herald L.R. “Jake” Smith, age 76, of Wellington, OH died Saturday, February 3, 2007 at Life Hospice Center of St. Joseph’s in Lorain, OH after a long (hard fought) illness.
Mr. Smith was born April 7, 1930 to the late, Herman & Ollie (Handley) Smith. Herald grew up in Wellington where he remained the rest of his life. He served three years in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, during which he was stationed in Germany as a radio operator.
He was very passionate, hard working and loving. He founded Modern Poured Walls and was involved with many business endeavors for over forth years. He also played an intricate part in the creation of the Penfield Recreation Park. Mr. Smith was well-known around Wellington, where he was often seen driving around with his brother, Dean or eating breakfast at his favorite restaurant Cecil’s. He was a member of the Wellington Eagles Arie #2051. He enjoyed sulky racing of standard breed horses, golfing, hunting and going camping. He had a great sense of humor and a bright outlook on life.
Herald was a caring father, husband, brother and friend. He is survived by nine children, Treasa (David) Williams, Scott (Linda) Smith, Chris (Dean) Poling, Hope Smith, Kerry (Michele) Smith, Tina (Jeff ) Corn all of Wellington; Ken (Kathy) Smith, Jeff Smith, Mike (Tracy) Smith all of Olympia, WA; 17 grandchildren; two great grandchildren; 5 step children; 2 brothers, Dean Smith of Wellington and Melvin “Tubby” Smith of Kentucky.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Smith; a sister, Evelyn Williams; and 2 brothers, Ernie and Bill Smith. Funeral services were held on February 7th at Norton-Eastman Funeral Home in Wellington. Memorials may be made to the Eagles #2051.
To Grandpa from your grandkids—“See you later alligator…After while crocodile”.
When it comes to your education, WHAT IS CFA PROVIDING?
CFA provides a forum…
One of the essential ingredients of CFA is the forum that it provides for contractors to exchange ideas and information both through meetings and newsletter articles. With a membership in excess of 300, members throughout the United States and Canada turn to each other for advice and professional assistance.
CFA provides meetings…
Today, CFA holds two meetings each year, typically gathering over 250 people. These meetings provide a friendly atmosphere where large and small companies can share successes and failures. The winter meeting is held in conjunction with the World of Concrete show. The summer meeting is held in a different location each year and includes a variety of activities for the whole family.
The CFA has members in 26 states and Canada. Members consist primarily of foundation contractors with firm sizes ranging from 6 to over 100 employees. Member firms construct from between 12 and 1200 basements annually.
The Association provides numerous educational opportunities for contractors. The Foundation Fundamentals seminars provide basic information for workers and foremen on the basics of foundation construction. They are produced twice annually in different areas of the country. The summer meeting provides excellent educational and networking opportunities for the management of member firms.
The winter meeting, held in conjunction with the annual World of Concrete trade show, provides members with an opportunity to discuss problems and ideas with their peers.
CFA provides industry influence…
Beyond serving as an informational and networking tool for members, CFA is an influential organization within the construction industry. Representing the interests of its members and the industry on several code and regulatory bodies, several CFA members have been active participants in writing codes and standards in the industry. One of these entities is The American Concrete Institute (ACI). ACI is the recognized organization for the development of standards, guidelines, and design methods for the concrete industry.
CFA’s work with ACI has included CI’s code for residential concrete and revision of the cold weather concreting standard. ACI is currently in the process of developing a “Residential Concrete Standard.” This standard, when completed, will very likely be adopted by the UBC, CABO, and other building codes. The provisions that are included in the standard will have a profound effect on every residential concrete contractor in the United States. The CFA has several of its members on the ACI committee responsible for this document and will endeavor to ensure that the interests of the foundation contractors are considered.
The CFA doesn’t stop with efforts at the ACI level, however. Last fall, the Association completed work on the first official CFA Standard. This significant document puts forth the provisions for basement construction that is supported and represented by the empirical history of its members. The CFA has ambitious goals for the near future including cold weather and structural testing, new computer based educational programs, and continued expansion and added functionality to its web site. The CFA plans to position itself as the representative of the residential foundation industry as expressed in its newsletter byline “leading the poured wall industry into the new millennium.”
CFA provides promotional materials…
The Concrete Foundation Association (CFA) provides promotional materials, educational seminars, opportunities for networking, technical and informative meetings for members. CFA also publishes this publication, Concrete Facts, to keep its members abreast of important developments in the industry and in the industry and provide them with solutions to the many questions that arise during the normal course of business. Often the toughest questions to answer from the builder or the home owner are those related to the design, science or history of concrete work. The CFA strives to maintain current and effective literature that supports the issues of our industry and resolves these questions often involving research and technical investigation.
THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION
Mechanization and technology have vastly improved the concrete foundation industry from the inception of the CFA only thirty years ago. Boom trucks, concrete pumps, and conveyors have reduced much of the back-breaking work accompanied with the construction of concrete foundations. Technology in the form of CAD and robotic layout instruments have greatly improved productivity and accuracy in the layout and construction of basements. Association members themselves are often the “early innovators” in the adoption of new ideas, equipment, and technology. We see from our annual ‘Basement of the Year’ entries that our industry continues to test our knowledge and talents. The wide variety of articles in this magazine from year to year show us that our businesses continue to be challenged through good and bad economic times. As our industry has grown, so has the importance of education.
Now, facing us all squarely in the face is the issue of certification. As Ed Sauter points out in his ‘From the Executive Director’ letter , certification is inevitable. How competent your company rates in a variety of areas will be essential to your company’s future. It all leads to education. An education that from all viewpoints possible, pays dividends in one way or another.
Imagine if you were using the same business practices today that you used ten, or fifteen, or thirty years ago; would you be in business today? In the big picture, what does education do for you and your company? Read on.
WHY EDUCATION? REFUSE TO BE AN AVERAGE COMPANY!
We have to start with the idea that ‘education can help your company be successful’. Knowing that the time you put into acquiring knowledge pays off in success, which means dollars, should be a strong incentive to want to know more.
“Refuse to be an average company.” That’s what John Zink, Director of Education and Programs at the National Educational Foundation for Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors says. He teaches that the success of a business can often be traced to the owner’s dedication to continuing education and encouraging their employees to constantly learn new skills. By participating in educational programs and training, you are giving yourself, your employees and your company opportunities to gain knowledge that will help save time, money and headaches. Depriving your company of these opportunities ensures that it will never be better than average. Something that you have invested your life’s work to build, deserves every opportunity to become phenomenally successful.
In his publication ‘A Business Owner’s Guide to Contractor Education’, he has these pointers that can apply to any foundation business:
• Recognize the massive benefi ts of training.
• Training = Better employee retention, higher company morale
and easier hiring.
• Make the time to attend educational programs.
• There will never be the perfect time to get away for a seminar.
CFA members who attend our meetings regularly understand the benefits of education and take this belief that education is beneficial home with them. Zink says that company culture starts at the top, and owners are responsible for setting the attitude that education is important. Recognize that there will never seem to be a good time to stop everything and attend a seminar. He says to accept that it’s a planning and discipline issue, and commit to attending educational events on a regular basis.
Do CFA members agree that education brings success — that they are more than an average company? Member Scott Smith, owner of MPW Construction Services (MPW) in LaGrange, Ohio confirms that “Education has helped MPW become successful. We provide management training, various certifi cation trainings and safety training. All have led to a sense of involvement and ownership in the company by our employees.”
Refusing ‘to be an ‘average company’, MPW has sent somewhere between 20 and 30 people over the years to the CFA Foundation Fundamentals seminar for training. The result? Scott says “One result has been that our crews are much better at identifying problem soils and calling for advice and action before proceeding with work. This leads us to seek engineering solutions before we place concrete on poor soils, where in the past a crew might have proceeded forward. I am sure this has saved us from tearing out footings and has also protected our company and our customers.”
He also says that the management training has resulted in his young managers learning the importance of clear communication. He says “Part of their training involves learning an ‘interaction process’ that they really use, almost daily. The process gives structure to not only everyday communication, but also how to conduct a meeting – by opening a conversation with what they want to accomplish in the talk, clarifying, developing the topic, getting feedback, getting agreement about actions to be taken (with dates for completion etc.) and closing.”
Scott adds that “In my own case, this has led to me getting clear, concise and complete emails about issues from these trained employees. This saves me time and helps me give advice and feedback. But it really goes much further. We have heard from numerous trainees how important this has been to them and how they use the processes and skills all the time in disciplinary issues, evaluations and more.”
Fellow CFA member Dan Bromley of ABI Corporation in Missouri, could add another pointer to John Zink’s list; “Tell others.” He remembers that seventeen years ago when he first heard a Brent Anderson fundamentals seminar, it “really opened my eyes. He gave me a good base and since then I’ve kept up. I am a constant learner.” Not only is Dan knowledgeable and has put that education to work in his company, but he has went so far as to develop his own three-hour seminar which he presents to many groups.
Tim Parrish of Cornerstone Foundations, a CFA member from Virginia, says education has helped his company to be successful in two ways. First, their key people received education on a national level and secondly, they were able to pass on the information and educate people within their company. Tim says “When I began my business in 1988 I was open to everything. I joined CFA my first year and found it provided such a wealth of information that I was overwhelmed. It was a double dose, with both the official meeting format and then networking with people willing to share ideas with me. It helped us get off to a good start. Now, at this point in my business, I’m turning over responsibility and so I am relying on the CFA training to teach my people.”
CFA President Brad Schrock from Custom Concrete Company, sums it up in his ‘From the President’s Message’, “We feel that educating our personnel is an area where we can develop a competitive edge in our market. After all, if we cannot find creative ways to separate ourselves from our competition, then the only way our customers can evaluate us is by our price.”
WHY EDUCATION? SAFETY (AND BECAUSE THE GOVERNMENT IS INTERESTED IN WHAT YOU ARE DOING TO PROVIDE EDUCATION)
Your safety materials, frequency of meetings, accident rates and a host of other safety issues will most likely be evaluation points in the future process of certification, according Sauter. Because of this, our question to you is, what do you have to show in terms of providing safety education for your employees? Do you know your county and state guidelines for safety education?
These three CFA members are ready.
MPW employees attend regular safety meetings. The result, Scott Smith says “is that our focus on safety and entering a drug-free workplace program have reduced all categories of injuries and worker comp issues. In addition to the routine savings from these daily benefits, our compensation rates are lower by tens of thousands of dollars as a direct result of the training focus.” Their training has also helped MPW qualify for projects that require certain training levels in drug-free workplace and safety programs.
Dan Bromley conducts his three-hour seminar for the NAHB’s University of Housing in his market detailing concrete foundation construction along with a safety message. He attributes much of the information he bases this seminar on as coming from the years interacting with the CFA, their presentations, his peers and personal experience.
When it comes to safety, Tim Parish stresses that “we’re playing with God’s lives, not just OSHA.” Tim has seen first-hand the benefits of safety education. For example, he says that “A few years ago we attended a CFA seminar on ‘Trench Safety’ presented by Dan Bromley. This is something we don’t always pay enough attention to. He did such a good job of making the information understandable that I was able to bring it back and insist that my excavators and trenchers follow the safety guidelines that Dan had outlined. Now it is just normal to follow these safety guidelines, and we just don’t work on a job if it’s not safe.” If you don’t know much about your local codes, a typical example of the message these governing bodies are starting to send can be found in Dade County, Florida where they require 16 hours of continuing education for local contractors and tradesmen which includes safety education.
Their view is that a wide variety of effective and relevant continuing education classes are available. While considered skilled in your particular field, there are, nonetheless, classes designed to improve proficiency in various trades, provide information regarding advancements and innovations within specific trades and general trade refresher courses. They tell contractors in regard to safety education that “safety is an important concern within the construction industry and is reflected by a number of courses aimed at providing a safer work environment, such as courses on general construction safety, scaffolds, ladders and stairs, and Occupational Health and Safety Administration requirements.”
Overall, government looks on safety education as your responsibility.
WHY EDUCATION? CONSUMERS WANT TO KNOW IF YOU’RE ON THE BALL
On top of your goal to have a successful company, and the government’s push to be sure you are safe, your customers want to know about you too! Whether you are a general contractor or subcontractor in foundation construction, in this day and age everyone is looking for someone they can count on.
Your time spent learning can turn into solid evidence when you are asked to provide information about the qualifications of your company employees. Being able to bullet point specific course completions, certifications, or association memberships can create that edge of confidence. Dan Bromley says that his “customers look at me as the guy that knows the answers. Yes, I think my customers give me jobs because I know the code and show that I am knowledgeable about our industry. My people can also talk with confidence.”
Scott Smith says that education has definitely had an affect on his company’s reputation “in many ways; ranging from employee good will to builder confidence in our staff and crews.”
Tim Parish says education “has helped us with our contractors. When they are working with a difficult situation, they know that when they turn to us, that we have the professional ability to handle it, and can do so affordably. They know our solution will work and that we can turn the job around faster (than waiting for an outside engineering evaluation). End customers, when they see the information we provide, like our knowledge. Even competitors call us for help. This has helped us get jobs because our customers value our foundation industry know-how and engineering abilities; for instance, someone with a large commercial job may find that the engineer has over-designed a foundation. We are able to look at the plans and find ways to save money, yet build a quality foundation.”
WHY EDUCATION? UNCLE SAM WANTS TO KNOW THAT YOU “REALLY DO KNOW’
One of our goals at CFA is to be at the forefront with government legislation regarding education and safety for our industry. We think we know our industry better the suits that write the legislation, so using our Association infl uence in Washington matters. We want the guidelines and rules to be fair and effective for our members. Representing the interests of CFA members and the foundation industry, several CFA members have been active participants in developing codes and standards for the industry, including ACI’s code for residential concrete, and are members of a Certification Committee.
ucation
As Ed Sauter asked (see Contractor Certification), if certification is inevitable, which would you rather have? A government entity telling you what you should know, or an industry-generated program that is specific to your field?
Both federal government and local government have been and will continue to develop both educational and code guidelines they want you to follow. Tim, Scott, and Dan all agree that learning the codes, and then earning a reputation for understanding, following, and helping to develop code, has helped their businesses.
Tim Parish sees that “as the years go on, the building codes are always changing. In 2000 a lot of the codes were lumped together into the IRC. When it was introduced, it was confusing. CFA spent the time to explain what the codes meant. I was then able to be proactive by going to my inspectors and explaining; they had been just as confused by the new code as we were. This was favorable for the reputation of my business. Others waited for the inspectors to react; and then it meant lost time, and often incorrect interpretation of the code.”
In addition, shortly after the IRC was introduced, Tim went to a local engineer and came up with a copyrighted, standard foundation drawing that met code. Inspectors found this helpful as they knew it was a good design based on engineering and code requirements. Now it is their standard practice to use these pre-qualified plans. Tim says “This step has given us a competitive advantage. When we get a wall not covered by code, like a 12-foot wall, we either go to an engineer or use CFA’s engineering program, (I use the software and then send to engineer) for stamp of approval.”
Scott Smith says that “education about local codes at MPW is an on-going, in-house program that helps us avoid job site issues and improves our relationship with local building code officials.”
Working with education gained through the CFA to impact local entities is Dan Bromley. A frequent CFA seminar presenter, his extensive understanding of code has taken him to committee participation on many levels in the last five years. He says “When cities in my service area want to write new guidelines or code, they invite me.” He has worked with these local jurisdictions as well as the local HBA, and currently chairs the CFA committee to develop a company certification program that would be introduced nationally.
WORTH IT?
Overall, government looks on training and education as YOUR responsibility. John Zink’s outlook is that education provides success where it counts — in YOUR pocket. And to the people that hire you, if they are comparing, your expertise can make the difference between whether YOU get the job, or whether YOU don’t.
