PC Construction Company Blog

HEALTH CARE CONSTRUCTION LOOKING UP FOR 2011

January 3, 2011

As we look forward to a new year full of construction opportunities, I was heartened to read an article written by Mike Hrickiewicz and published by Health Facilities Management in December 2010.

The article states that “most forecasters expect [hospital] building activity to start moving forward again next year as the push for efficiency and advanced technology drives new capital spending plans.” Anecdotally, we are seeing increased requests for information from Owners and design teams throughout New England, as well as a renewed willingness to have a sales meeting. Though we don’t want to be overly optimistic in our planning, it appears that the health care market in New England has a robust list of capital projects in the planning stages for 2011.

Click here to read the full article.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

December 22, 2010

When one asks what makes this one of the most special times of the year, certainly a faith-based answer is appropriate. And yes, scurrying around shopping, holiday gatherings, presents, and Christmas trees are all part of the mix. And resting in the corner of our memories are the traditions, those quite often of our childhood days – some going back generations, some of a single moment or event.

For me, a couple of whimsical memories flash – carefully peeling chestnuts with my Dad on Christmas Eve, as they were a key ingredient for our Christmas dinner turkey stuffing. Waking up Christmas morning at 4:30 a.m. with stockings Santa had somehow strategically left on our bed posts, full of little toys and gifts, along with buttered bread, juice, nuts, and always an orange in the toe, to keep my sister and I occupied until my Dad gave us the bedroom breakout flag at 7:00 a.m. – always two and an half hours later than desired…who said life was fair!

During the hustle and bustle of the holidays, I would like to take a moment to wish you and your families a wonderful season filled with your own treasured memories and traditions.

PROJECT UPDATE: HOPEWELL WATER TREATMENT PLANT

December 22, 2010

CONSTRUCTION IN FULL SWING ON BIOINFORMATICS EXPANSION

December 21, 2010

The biomass project mentioned in my last blog post is not the only PC Construction job under construction at The Jackson Laboratory. Project Manager Brian Holmes, Project Superintendent Dave Provencher, and their team are constructing a three-story 3,000 square foot addition to Building One, Unit Five and renovating 5,000 square feet within the facility. The $1 million project is for the Bioinformatics program, an emerging research field that uses computers as a tool to study biology.

The project’s location is as high-profile as one can imagine as it sits on the street side of the Jackson Lab campus along the entrance road to Acadia National Park. The site is also immediately adjacent to the Research Director’s offices and functioning labs conducting research. Dave Provencher is working closely with The Jackson Laboratory Facilities to keep the research and operations as routine as possible during the construction. The number one priority is upfront communication.

I got to witness that communication in action yesterday as I sat in on the bi-weekly project meeting between Brian, Dave, Office Engineer Derek Lapointe and The Jackson Laboratory Project Manager Deb O’Donnell and Facilities Engineer Brian Henigan. Dave outlined upcoming activities using a two-week look-ahead schedule ensuring proper coordination could be made with The Jackson Laboratory Operations. Derek gave an update to all RFI’s and Submittals while Brian led the meeting through to resolution of field issues encountered.

It was reassuring to watch these construction pros in action. The owner welcomed the sequencing suggestions and engineering solutions the team offered. All in all, a very positive meeting and an important project for both PC Construction and The Jackson Laboratory.

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT

December 20, 2010

What a whirlwind! First accepting the AGC of Vermont Best Builders Award and then flying to Orlando to accept Honorable Mention in Power Engineering Magazine’s 2010 Projects of the Year Awards. It is, of course, a pleasure to accept an award from our home state and be recognized for our efforts in green construction, but it was truly a distinct honor to be recognized by Power Engineering in this international competition and elite award program.

The PurposeEnergy Digester project was first named by Power Engineering Magazine as one of only three finalists in the world in the Best Renewable/Sustainable Projects category – and the only finalist from the United States. During the POWER-GEN International Conference, we had the opportunity to learn more about the other finalists – the $350 million Tekeze Hydropower Project generating 300MW in Ethiopia and the Canoe Creek Hydroelectric Project in Canada – and share the story of our unique PurposeEnergy project. By the end of the awards banquet, the Ethiopian project had taken the first place award and we were happily holding our Honorable Mention.

It was quite an experience. Many of the most influential power projects, and the people behind them, were represented. The other categories included Nuclear (2 finalists), Coal (3 finalists), and Natural Gas (3 finalists). All of these projects were very large, multi-year efforts that simply dwarfed ours by every measurement. Our award has generated quite a buzz, though, and congratulatory e-mails have come from all over to a wide range of people at PC Construction. Internally, our congratulations and thanks go to Senior Project Manager Chet Laymen and Project Superintendent Jody Atkins who built this internationally acclaimed, multi-award winning project.

PC Construction Recognized for Renewable Energy Project

Senior Project Manager Chet Layman accepts PC Construction's Project of the Year Honorable Mention at the POWER-GEN International Conference

PurposeEnergy DIGESTER PROJECT SNAGS NEW GREEN CONSTRUCTION AWARD

December 17, 2010

All of us at PC Construction understand the uniqueness associated with the recently constructed PurposeEnergy Digester project. The innovative qualities of this project provide numerous renewable energy benefits to New England’s largest craft brewery, Magic Hat Brewery. And last week, I was proud to see this project be recognized for outstanding quality of work and effort by the AGC of Vermont with a 2010 Best Builders Award in the New Green Construction category.

The major components of the project included a Flow Equalization System, Mechanical Building to house the process equipment and piping, a patented Anaerobic Digester designed for brewery waste, and a Cogeneration System. This new digester allows PurposeEnergy, Inc. to use the organic waste streams produced by Magic Hat Brewery to generate biogas. The biogas is then utilized by the brewery’s steam boilers and/or PurposeEnergy’s cogeneration plant.

The brewery’s three waste streams; spent grain, high strength wastewater, and low strength wastewater (gray water), were previously disposed of through off-site trucking and surcharges at a local municipal waste treatment facility. Now these waste by-products are diverted to the anaerobic digester at the PurposeEnergy biogas facility. PurposeEnergy’s patented Biphase Orbicular Biodigester^TM (which we affectionately call BOB), specifically designed for brewery by-products, enables the conversion of high solids content brewery waste into carbon neutral, renewable biogas. Additionally, this system is designed to utilize the waste heat from the generator’s exhaust, coolant, and engine oil to heat the digester and preheat the water used in the brewing process.

This is an incredible project, one I was proud to be involved with. I’d especially like to recognize the PC Construction team for this recognition: Senior Project Manager Chet Layman and Project Superintendent Jody Atkins, as well as their crew – Kevin Brodeur, Nathan Cameron, Brian Chaffee, Wayne Combs, Shane Gray, Paul Lincolnhunt, Gary Morin, Jeff Reynolds, Justin Reynolds, Cody Smith, Arnie Brown, Larry Dopp, Peter Sweeney, and Stacy Tomko.

PC Construction's AGC Best Builders Award

Andrew Martin, Jody Atkins, Chet Layman, and Jeff Garner accept the AGC of Vermont Best Builders Award for PC Construction's work on the PurposeEnergy Digester project

ATLANTIC TREATMENT PLANT EXPANSION COMMEMORATED IN VIDEO

December 15, 2010

Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD) recently released a video highlighting the expansion to their Atlantic Treatment Plant in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Take a look and see what our team has been up to and how our combined efforts really are making a difference in the health and well-being of our society! http://www.hrsd.com/atlanticplant.htm

Through a very close relationship with the owner, HRSD, and the design engineer, HDR, PC Construction is nearly complete with this $150 million construction project. This is one of many projects that PC Construction has completed for HRSD, a very progressive and forward-thinking municipality.

When asked what made the project so successful, the team unanimously agrees that it was constant communication between PC Construction, the plant staff, and HDR engineers. Through open and honest dialogue, proper preparation, and contingency plans, the numerous plant shutdowns and bypasses were all completed successfully.

One of the unique features of the Atlantic Treatment Plant is the extensive odor control system. One can imagine the importance of containing foul odors at a beach town where tourism accounts for a great deal of revenue. A pleasant trip to the beach might not be if such measures were not implemented.

Like every project, whether small or large, success depends on the full commitment of all stakeholders. It is clear that all parties brought their “A” game over the past 3½ years, allowing this project to be completed on time, within budget, and in a safe manner.

PC CONSTRUCTION HOSTS 2010 LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM ACADEMY

December 15, 2010

Participants in PC Construction’s Leadership Development Program convened for the 2010 LDP Academy in hospitable Winston-Salem, North Carolina, just a few weeks ago. This was the first opportunity for most of the LDP participants to meet face-to-face, and the Academy provided a great opportunity for us to swap stories, share ideas, and build relationships.

The theme of this Academy was PC Construction’s values. Vice President Jay Fayette kicked things off Thursday by sharing his career story and how the alignment of his values to the company’s led him to success. Controller Maureen O’Brien followed with a presentation on the company’s financial statements and about how our performance on a construction project influences the company as a whole. Attendees appreciated the chance to see the company from the corporate perspective and asked great questions of both speakers. Afterwards, we had a workshop to discuss how our thinking preferences affect our decision-making and communication, and then practiced thinking in ways that don’t come as naturally to us. The day culminated with a tour of the R.A. Thomas WTP Improvements project, giving many of the participants their first opportunity to step onto one of our water/wastewater treatment projects. On Friday, we discussed the ESOP and how employee ownership impacts our values. Finally, the participants worked together to design improvements for the Leadership Development Program.

The Leadership Development Program equips the future leaders of our company with the skills and experiences necessary for success. The LDP Academy is an integral part of the program and offers participants a vision of the company as a whole and establishes networks for collaboration.

PC Construction Leadership Development Program Academy

Participants in PC Construction's Leadership Development Program gather for the 2010 LDP Academy

RIBBON CUT ON NEW BUILDINGS AT SUGARBUSH RESORT

December 14, 2010

Myself and other members of the PC Construction team joined the staff at Summit Ventures to celebrate the grand opening of the new Sugarbush Ski School this past Friday. The new Ski School is also known as the Schoolhouse and Farmhouse. Continue Reading →

HEALTH & WELLNESS IN CONSTRUCTION PART 7: REFLECTIONS

December 8, 2010

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM GRADUATE JOINS TEAM IN NORTH CAROLINA

December 6, 2010

In 2008 Ryan Levesque graduated from the University of Maine with a degree in Construction Management Technology. He had interned with PC Construction during his studies and then signed on to be a member of our team in the Leadership Development Program (LDP) after graduation.

Ryan spent the next few years learning the ropes and completing rotations in estimating, field, office engineering, and scheduling roles at several project sites in the southeast as well as in our regional office in Maine. We are proud to announce that Ryan has successfully completed the program requirements and has graduated, marking his promotion to Project Engineer. Ryan is now a PC Construction employee owner working on the R.A. Thomas WTP Improvements project in North Carolina.

What is the Leadership Development Program? Over 30 years ago, we developed this program to identify and coach future leaders from within the PC Construction team. This program targets energetic, highly motivated employees who strive for excellence and are ready to embrace the demanding expectations of our profession. Emerging leaders receive hands-on training through four vigorous rotations in field work, office engineering, scheduling, and estimating. Each rotation provides a real-world look at each facet of our operations, allowing employees to broaden their understanding of the business and develop a strong foundation for professional growth at PC Construction. This is just one of the ways we support the personal and professional development of our team at PC Construction.

Leadership Development Program Graduate Joins Team in North Carolina

Project Manager Brian Walker congratulates Ryan Levesque, a recent graduate of PC Construction's Leadership Development Program

PROJECT UPDATE: SUBSTANTIAL COMPLETION ACHIEVED FOR $108 MILLION PROJECT

November 30, 2010

On September 30, PC Construction achieved substantial completion on the $108 million H.L. Mooney Water Reclamation Facility Expansion and Upgrade Phase 2, Stage 1 project in Woodbridge, Virginia. In achieving this contractual milestone, Prince William County Service Authority (PWCSA) was able to request from the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) a Certificate to Operate ahead of the imposed December deadline.

This design build project with Camp Dresser & McKee included the upgrade in plant capacity from 18 to 24 MGD, while also reducing the amount of total nitrogen being discharged in accordance with the Chesapeake Bay Initiative.

The increased treatment capacity of the plant was made possible with the addition of a new 95-foot Primary Clarifier, four new Pass Aeration Basins, three 125-foot Secondary Clarifiers a new 95-foot Secondary Clarifier, a new RAS Pump Station, 14 new Denitrification Filters, two covered 85-foot Gravity Thickeners, a new Thickened Sludge Pump Station, and a new SCADA Control System, in addition to upgrades and modifications to existing structures and systems.

Since reaching substantial completion, PC Construction has been awarded a $4 million change order to replace the Odor Control System, modify the Primary Clarifier Influent Distribution Box, and perform site work modifications. We are pleased to continue providing construction services for PWCSA!

H.L. Mooney Water Reclamation Facility Expansion and Upgrade Phase 2, Stage 1 project

PC Construction has reached substantial completion for the $108 million H.L. Mooney Water Reclamation Facility Expansion and Upgrade Phase 2, Stage 1 project

PC CONSTRUCTION AND THE JACKSON LABORATORY BREAK GROUND ON RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT

November 24, 2010

Monday was a typical November day on the coast of Downeast Maine where preparations are under way for the coming winter. Change was in the air as lobstermen continued the process of bringing up their traps before foul winter weather really hit. Change was also in the air at The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor as a groundbreaking ceremony was held to mark the beginning of a renewable energy project that will reduce heating and electricity costs at the century old non-profit laboratory dedicated to genetic research. Continue Reading →

A NEW HOME FOR OUR CORPORATE OFFICE!

November 23, 2010

We are excited to announce that our corporate office will move next year. Our new LEED Certified office building will allow us to remain in our hometown of South Burlington, Vermont, while providing a fresh atmosphere for our team and opportunities for increased efficiencies. Our new home at 193 Tilley Drive in the Mountain View Office Park was constructed by PC Construction, which makes it an especially fitting selection for our future office.

Formal planning and fit-up design will commence early next month. Construction is scheduled to begin next March and the building will be fit-up and ready for occupancy in late May.

While the buildings at 50 and 55 Joy Drive have been our home now for about 40 and 25 years respectively, it is time to put our corporate offices all under one roof in a new, effectively configured, energy efficient, LEED Certified facility. The opportunity is there for us to take a renewed, innovative look at our systems and processes and create a space we will be proud to call our home for decades to come.

PC Construction will occupy this office building in South Burlington, Vermont, next May

A YOUTHFUL SURPRISE

November 22, 2010

It has been a long time since I have been in a learning environment with ninth graders, but just last week I participated in Vermont’s Linking Learn to Life Learn To Earn program with local high school students. Along with two of my coworkers, Estimator Sara Page and Project Manager Jason Surowiec, we laid out two exercises to expose the students, at their level, to construction and some of the roles outside of what they envision as the stereotypical construction worker.

I was not the only one in the room with preconceived notions. Honestly, I did not know what to expect from this group of kids with their skinny jeans, multicolored hair, pierced lips, and earbuds, but I have to say I was pleased. In particular, there was one young woman who did not appear particularly engaged or enthused but took on the role of estimator and proceeded to gather her subcontractor pricing. She never spoke a word but went methodically about her business of selecting the low bidder, calculating equipment charges, factoring profit, and tallying the bid. While her team was not the successful low bidder, I do believe I saw a smile on her face as she realized what she had done. Who knows, maybe someday she will be working in that same calm, controlled manner on bid day at PC Construction!

HEALTH & WELLNESS IN CONSTRUCTION PART 6: THINKING LONG-TERM IS KEY

November 19, 2010

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THE CHALLENGES OF A TIGHT SITE

November 15, 2010

ACTIVATION PLANNING SERVICES FOR PATIENT-CENTERED MEDICAL HOME

November 12, 2010

The Martin’s Point Veranda Clinic is ready to receive their first patients on Monday, November 15. PC Construction’s Team Health Care spent part of last week helping the Martin’s Point team prepare for every possibility that could occur on opening day. Senior Project Manager Garret Bertolini and Project Superintendent Tim Street were there to help with the fire alarm and power outage tests, Senior Project Engineer Jarred Ballard was on hand to provide construction assistance with zero turnaround time, and I was able to help the clinical leadership teams at Martin’s Point organize their operational plans to better anticipate and problem-solve potential patient and work flow issues. The goal was to practice a variety of scenarios and ultimately enact the ideal patient encounter for opening day.

Throughout the course of the exercise, we identified some issues to address before opening day as well as areas to monitor over the first few weeks of operation. Certain open issues, such as permanent way-finding systems and waiting room configurations are best solved after hearing suggestions by patients and answering their questions.

Through the activation planning process, our team learned how the physical space of a clinic can help meet the goals of the practice. For example, the Patient-Centered Medical Home is a practice in which a team of specialized health professionals is coordinated by a personal physician and works collaboratively to provide high levels of patient education and care coordination to improve the health and wellness of the entire patient population. We now better understand the needs for patient consult space, accessible educational areas, and collaborative space for the care providers because we participated in this exercise.

It was great to have the whole PC construction team on site to take part in activation planning and to see the Clinic from the patient and the provider’s perspectives. The provider’s participation ensures we keep the ultimate client – the patient – in mind with every new health care project.

THE CHESAPEAKE BAY INITIATIVE

November 10, 2010

After several years of studies and negotiations between the Federal Government and states within the Chesapeake Bay Watershed, a consensus has finally been reached as to the Bay’s “Pollution Diet.” The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set annual limits for the amount of discharge into the bay for Nitrogen (187 million gallons), Phosphorous (12.5 million gallons), and sediment (6.1-6.7 billion gallons).

How does this affect us? Simply put, it is the beginning of an action plan to help clean up the Chesapeake Bay and preserve it for future generations. The states belonging to the 64,000 square mile watershed include Delaware, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia – as well as the District of Columbia.

The Federal Government has committed $491 million dollars towards the initiative in an attempt to jump-start the program. Some of the monies allocated will be put towards agricultural runoff, storm-water control, wetland conservation, as well as for improvements to wastewater reclamation facilities. Directly affecting our livelihoods will be stricter mandates directed at reducing the amount of phosphorous and nitrogen limits allowed for wastewater plant’s discharge.

There will be many requirements for plant upgrades to meet the stringent discharge limits. This will prove to be good for the construction industry and may provide new and unique opportunities for PC Construction and our industry partners. The first ‘progress report’ of the initiatives’ effectiveness is due in early 2012. Results of this study will determine how much additional funding and legislative mandates may be implemented.

I grew up on the Bay. My father taught me how to go crabbing, fishing, and how to shuck oysters as a young boy. Our family farm is in Saint Mary’s County, Maryland – home of the national oyster-shucking championship. Sadly, the oyster population has been severely reduced to a point where it has not been sustainable – partially a result of the amount of nitrogen and phosphorous released into the Bay from wastewater plants. I am very proud to be in an industry in which we are able to truly make a tangible difference in the quality of life for society.

MARTIN’S POINT HEALTH CARE COMMEMORATES OPENING OF VERANDA PRIMARY CARE CLINIC

November 5, 2010

Staff and leadership at Martin’s Point Health Care cut the ribbon on their new state-of-the-art health care facility after many years of planning. The new facility overlooks Casco Bay in Portland, Maine. Family practice, internal medicine, cardiology, and surgery clinics as well as laboratory, pharmacy, and radiology are housed in the three-story, 43,000 square foot facility. Also included are 216 covered parking spaces for patients and staff.

Throughout the dedication ceremony, credit was give to PC Construction and the PC team’s customer service. President and CEO of Martin’s Point Health Care, David Howes, MD singled out Project Superintendent Tim Street as a man worthy of eternal gratitude from the staff and future patients of the clinic. “…Tim never failed to take the time to answer my questions: Why is this like this? Why is this outlet there? And he did it with patience and a sense of humor. He was on site all the time and always ready to help. Thank you, Tim”.

This was a real testament to the customer service our team provided every day during the course of the project which started in October of 2008 with preconstruction. We broke ground in May of 2009.

The success of the project can be credited to several factors:

An early involvement by PC Construction, working close with SMRT Architects, to develop a design that met budget, was constructible, and fit the campus extremely well.
Efficient buyout that yielded an exceptional group of qualified subcontractors.
A well-developed construction plan that was closely followed by and communicated to the owner on a weekly basis to minimize impacts to a very busy campus.
And most importantly, a close working relationship between PC Construction’s onsite team and the Martin’s Point community, lead by Director of Support Services Ann Tucker. Countless hours were spent working directly with Martin’s Point user groups to coordinate every aspect of their space from outlet and phone locations in relation to their furniture to locating shelves, scales, medical equipment, and a host of other items. The end result was a group who moved into a space they were already well familiar with no surprises.

This was one of the best planned and executed projects I have been involved with in my over 24 years in construction. The project yielded substantial owner savings and was completed ahead of original schedule despite many changes. I am very proud of the project and my team that made it happen.

Martin's Point Health Care Ribbon Cutting

The Martin's Point Health Care staff and leadership joined together for the ribbon cutting for this new 43,000 square foot facility constructed by PC Construction

HEALTH & WELLNESS IN CONSTRUCTION PART 5: PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY

November 2, 2010

Health coaching is a very important corner stone in helping employees take personal responsibility for their health. A health coach that an employee trusts can help the employee take control of their health. Health coaches using a cognitive behavioral change model help employees take a good hard look in the mirror and ask if their health habits are consistent with their goals.

I could go on for pages about plan design because there are thousands of ways to go about it. Our goal was to design a plan that provided incentives for good behaviors. I don’t like the model of providing incentives for lowering risk factors because some factors are affected by genetics, but behaviors that improve health is a choice each of us can make.

I also don’t like the punitive “stick” approach. We tried it – it didn’t work.

We settled on a Health Reimbursement Arrangement and Healthy Awards Accounts. Without going into too much detail, employees have a pot of money to help pay their out-of-pocket deductible and coinsurance. They can earn more money to offset those expenses by participating in things like health coaching, biometric screening, follow-up visits with the coach, and completing their Health History and Risk Assessment. Other healthy behaviors that can be compensated might include participating in walking tournaments or “biggest looser” type campaigns. We reward them when their spouses participate in certain activities. Some of the money can roll over to following years. This approach puts decision making and awareness of dollars being spent in the hands of employees rather than the insurance company. No more $20 doctor visit. The employee knows the true cost of health care.

In addition to a Health Reimbursement Arrangement that provides incentives for healthy behaviors, we also provide full coverage for preventive care such as an annual physical, mammogram, colonoscopy, well-baby visits, etc.

Designing health care benefits is very complex. I needed someone who understood the regulations and how the carriers could package the benefits to help in crafting a well thought-out and comprehensive design. I strongly suggest using a third party benefits consultant to assist in the design and negotiation process. A third party will not only understand the rules and guidelines, but is also objective in evaluating the alternative carriers. I used Hickok & Boardman’s Benefits Group and am confident our design is a thousand times better than it would have been if I tried to go it alone or if I simply asked a carrier to help craft the design.

A note of caution: don’t shift costs to employees in your benefit design. It sours employees right off the bat which, instantly defeats the program. Keep your new design cost neutral to achieve the best result. This is the best long-term solution. Stay tuned for more about thinking long -term with regards to health care.

This story of how we restructured our health care program around these ideas will continue with future posts to our blog. Click to read Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, and Part 4 of this Health and Wellness blog series.

CONSTRUCTION IN THE EYES OF A 9TH GRADER

October 28, 2010

On October 15, I, along with Corporate Scheduling Engineer Ashraf Asad and Training and Development Manager Bob Correll, had the opportunity to visit a class of high school ninth grade students in Chittenden County. Our goal was to spend an hour and a half giving the students an overview of a career in construction.

We first started by introducing ourselves and reminiscing about what we imagined for our own lives after high school when we were their age. For me, I always thought I would be an accountant.

After a brief introduction to PC Construction, we divided the class into four groups and provided each group with 15 project photos to sort in chronological order. It was interesting listening to the groups as they completed this exercise and seeing the way they justified the particular order they chose. Next, each member of the group was given a role – an estimator, scheduler, superintendent, and project manager – and the challenge of bidding a project. The groups were given instructions for each occupation and a time limit to provide a price for the project. After each exercise, we took some time to discuss each occupation and learn who in the class might be interested in that type of work. What really amazed me about the ninth graders was their perception of the construction industry – “heavy set guys wearing shorts, work boots and cut off t-shirts.”

At the end of the session, it was nice to see the students realize that with adequate education and training, and a desire for the business, construction can be a very rewarding profession. Just look at me. Turns out accounting wasn’t a good fit, construction is!

A UNIQUE PROJECT: UPPER OCCOQUAN SEWAGE AUTHORITY CARBON REGENERATION FACILITY

October 26, 2010

One of the things I love about working for PC Construction is that with each project, there are new challenges and opportunities to implement the latest technologies.

The Carbon Regeneration Facility project is a very interesting project and one of only a few of its kind in the country. The project is yet another in a series of improvements for a PC Construction repeat customer: The Upper Occoquan Service Authority (UOSA), located in Northern Virginia.

Talk about sustainability! This is a fascinating process, a brief synopsis of which is provided below.

UOSA operates an advanced water reclamation plant that processes raw sewage to virtually drinking water quality. A key component in the overall UOSA process scheme to achieve this challenging goal is the use of Granular activated carbon. Plant effluent passes through the carbon, which adsorbs organic compounds and other contaminants. Currently, the UOSA plant has an inventory of 4,000,000 pounds of activated carbon which is used to treat approximately 32 million gallons of water per day.

Over time, this activated carbon becomes depleted from the contaminants adsorbed and its effectiveness is reduced. The depleted carbon can be ‘regenerated’ again and again by exposing it to high temperatures which destroy the organics adsorbed by the carbon. The carbon is left intact for continuous reuse in the UOSA treatment facilities. UOSA uses a multiple hearth furnace fired by natural gas for this process to restore (reactivate) the adsorptive capacity of the plant’s activated carbon inventory.

The current construction contract will provide a new multiple hearth furnace, as the existing is reaching the end of its useful life. Once this furnace is operating, major repairs and upgrades will be made to the existing furnace. The combination of projects will provide the owner with reliable regeneration capacity for the foreseeable future. When construction is complete, the plant will be able to produce 12,000 pounds per day of reactivated carbon.

This project provides challenges for close coordination and creativity to construct the new building, carbon furnace, and associated infrastructure while maintaining ongoing operations at this critical facility. Now underway, this project is scheduled for completion in late 2012.

SUPPORTING AND PROMOTING ESOP

October 21, 2010

On August 26 we were one of four Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) companies asked by Senator Bernie Sanders to testify in Montpelier to the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee in support of two bills Sanders is co-sponsoring that would provide support for small business forming an ESOP. In addition to PC Construction, Gardner’s Supply, King Arthur Flour, and Hypertherm testified before the Committee.

Having never testified before, it was a very interesting experience. The hearing itself was not all that formal. Senator Sanders was there by himself with one staff person. In total, there were about eight people who submitted testimony, four representatives from ESOP companies and four representatives of ESOP trade associations.

Senator Sanders did attract a crowd and there were probably two dozen spectators at the hearing.

We each gave a brief testimony that included information about our companies and how our ESOPs have been successful.

Given that October is Employee Ownership Month, I thought I would share this experience. The hearing can be viewed on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWgG2KXYvc0. In addition, my testimony is available by clicking here and Senator Bernie Sander’s introductory message can be read by clicking here.

STUDENTS LEARN CRANE SAFETY FIRST-HAND

October 20, 2010

On October 11, ten Building Trades class students and an instructor from the Essex Technical Center visited the Airport Parkway WWTF Upgrade and Expansion project in South Burlington, Vermont. The purpose of the visit was to witness crane operations as part of a class segment on crane safety. PC Construction Safety Engineer Lynn Hunter and Project Superintendent Jody Atkins joined us for the site walk-around where the students learned about the 65-ton Terex rough terrain hydraulic telescoping boom crane as well as setup procedures and requirements, computer system operation, rigging inspection requirements, and swing radius protection.

Crane Operator Ed Brodeur explained what it takes to become certified by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators and shared the daily, weekly, monthly, and annual inspection requirements for the crane. Students were also interested to learn that the project’s close proximity to Burlington International Airport impacts the length of crane boom allowed for construction operations and requires strict adherence to the Federal Aviation Administration permitting process.

“I enjoy working with young people interested in the construction field. I know how important it is that they participate in a Trades program within their school system to gain basic construction knowledge before entering the workforce. I get a lot of satisfaction relating to the students that with proper training, education, and a passion for the business, construction can be a very rewarding profession.”

How did this Building Trades class get connected with PC Construction? Senior Project Manager Chet Layman has been involved with the Essex Technical Center’s Advisory Board since 2008. As a group, they review curriculum and make program suggestions to provide the students with the skill sets for employment in the construction industry.

Building Trades Students Visit PC Construction Jobsite

Building Trades students visit PC Construction's construction site at the Airport Parkway Wastewater Treatment Facility in Vermont

INTEGRATED PRECONSTRUCTION PROCESS FOR HEALTH CARE CONSTRUCTION

October 18, 2010

What did 250 hospital engineers, facility managers, plant operators, and safety professionals have in common earlier this month? They were all at the New England Health Care Engineers’ Society Annual Meeting in Mount Washington, New Hampshire.

The three-day education seminar, technical exhibit, and networking experience exposed us all to innovative new processes for hospital planning, construction, and utilization. There was healthy discussion around the contractual responsibilities of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM). There were several sessions that highlighted simulation technology for determining optimal space needs, bed counts, and surgical services. The panelists even ventured beyond planning and construction into operations and regulatory compliance.

PC Construction was pleased to be selected to participate in a panel discussion on best practices in health care construction estimating and the ideal integrated process for preconstruction. The panel included:

Andrew Martin, Vice President, PC Construction
Eve Norris, Senior Project Manager, PC Construction
Ed Seraydarian, Senior Estimator, PC Construction
Dan Morris, Principal, MorrisSwitzer Environments for Health
Scott LeClair, Principal, Fitzemeyer and Tocci Associates

The topic generated some great questions including, “When we [facility directors] are asked by the hospital’s leadership what three things we will gain by spending money on preconstruction services, what would your answer be?” Collectively, the panel was quick to respond that the project will come in on budget, on schedule, and with a program that will maximize capital dollars.

If everyone attending took away that quick lesson then we’ve done our job well.

New England Health Care Engineers' Society Annual Meeting

Representatives from PC Construction, MorrisSwitzer Environments for Health, and Fitzemeyer and Tocci Associates participated in a panel discussion at the recent New England Health Care Engineers' Society Annual Meeting

PROJECT UPDATE: SUGARBUSH RESORT PHASE 1B

October 13, 2010

The leaves and rain continue to fall in Vermont and the project at Sugarbush Resort continues to rise at a very rapid pace. Continue Reading →

PHOSPHORUS AND NITROGEN REMOVAL SETS TRENDS FOR TREATMENT PLANT CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

October 11, 2010

The strict permit limits set forth by the Department of Environmental Protection’s Chesapeake Bay Initiative has resulted in the need for any treatment plant discharging into waterways leading to the bay to make adjustments to their treatment processes. A main driver of the Initiative is the removal of phosphorus and nitrogen prior to the treated wastewater being returned to the environment. The limits are causing plants to take a closer look at their treatment processes and take on construction projects to reach regulatory requirements.

PC Construction is doing just that with the upgrade and expansion project at the Vint Hill Farms Wastewater Treatment Plant in Warrenton, Virginia. The project includes two main structures. One is the Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR), which consists of a Precast Post-Tensioned Concrete Structure designed and installed by Dutchland, Inc. Once a base slab was cast, the building of the structure, which includes three separate water-holding areas and one equipment room, took less than a week to assemble. The new process equipment for the SBR, designed by Aqua Aerobics, performs most of the phosphorus removal for the treatment process. We also constructed a Filter Building to accompany the Parkson Dyna-Sand Filters. This structure houses Parkson sand filtration equipment which will be used for the denitrification of the process flow.

This project has achieved a great safety record and is set for completion this month.

Vint Hill Farms Wastewater Treatment Plant

HEALTH & WELLNESS IN CONSTRUCTION PART 4: CREATING AWARENESS

October 8, 2010

Frequent communication and health coaching are the approaches we use to increase awareness about health and wellness. We hired Marathon Health and their health coaches to provide health and wellness services for our employees. They travel to our jobsites each year to perform biometric screenings on employees and gather additional information about their health through a Health History and Risk Assessment (HHRA). The biometric and historical information goes into a database maintained by Marathon Health and provides a fairly complete picture of a person’s health and risk factors. No specific information is shared with anyone at PC Construction besides the individual, providing a safe and confidential atmosphere for employees to consider health and wellness short-comings, goals, and steps.

Employees then meet face-to-face with a health coach to review the results of the biometric screening and HHRA information. Employees are invited to set goals and develop a plan for improving their health while reducing risk factors. Those with high risks are invited to participate in frequent in-person or telephonic discussions with the health coach. All employees are asked to participate in a six month follow-up visit. The critical component for success in this program is that the employee meets face-to-face with a health coach during the first meeting. It is during this meeting that the employee develops a relationship and builds trust with the coach. That relationship and trust is key to the success of the program and the individual’s health and wellness goals. On-line or telephonic health coaching without a personal relationship does not work.

Telephonic health coaching will cost a company much less than the face-to-face model, but you won’t get the same results. Individuals treat telephonic health coaching phone calls from people they have never met sort of like they treat telemarketers. I have had employees, as an example, tell me they receive numerous disease management calls from our insurance company and they don’t answer the phone when they see our carrier’s name on the caller ID. Some of these calls are very helpful and important, but there is no relationship, no rapport, and no trust – it just doesn’t work.

The combination of health coaching and program design help to develop personal responsibility. This story of how we restructured our health care program around these ideas will continue with future posts to our blog. Click to read Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 of this Health and Wellness blog series.

AN OWNER’S VIEW: WHAT THE ESOP MEANS TO ME

October 4, 2010

“Helping to continue a strong legacy for the next generation and build my retirement funds.”

When I first started working at PC Construction I realized very quickly that I belonged to a strong company with a great team of employees working hard every day to bring quality work to our clients. A company that cares about you as a person, values family, and strives to deliver above and beyond customer satisfaction. When the announcement was made that an ESOP was going to purchase the company from the PC Construction Brothers and that we were all going to be “owners,” I was filled with an enormous amount of pride. I realized that because we have this great group of employees, the PC Construction Brothers were entrusting to us the legacy they built and not selling out to others. I am now part of this legacy as an owner and as such, it is even more important for me to do my part so future generations will be able to experience what it is like to work for a business that recognizes hard work, sticks together in hard times, and, come retirement, will allow us to relax more easily. By working hard and safe and looking for ways to improve the process, along with the 1/3 penny I might be able to save on every dollar, I am helping make this company profitable. When I retire down the road some years from now I know this company will be as strong as ever and it is important to me that I do whatever I can to leave behind the same strong legacy I was allowed to be a part of.

Celebrate October – it is Employee Ownership Month! Did you know that extensive research over the past 30 years has revealed that employee-owned companies are better performing, provide greater wealth creation for employee owners, stay in business longer, have greater profitability, offer better benefits, and have more employee involvement in decision making?

PROJECT UPDATE: BUSH CREEK PUMP STATION

September 28, 2010

As part of the project sequencing for the Bush Creek Pump Station project in Abingdon, Maryland, a 25 MGD full bypass was recently completed. The temporary bypass was needed in order to tie into and modify the pump station’s influent manhole.

Trade Superintendent Tom Youngblood led the charge for the successful series of complicated events necessary for such a task. Tom and his crew started on a Tuesday, with all of the bypass pumps connected and in operation. There were a total of five diesel pumps on hand with multiple piping connections required, ranging in size from 6 to 18 inches in diameter. Wet weather delayed the commencement of the manhole modifications until Friday morning, with the crew completing the work on Saturday. The bypass pumping operation ceased following inspection by the resident engineer on Monday.

It was a difficult week yet the crew did not waiver in their dedication. That is one of the things I love about PC Construction – knowing that when it gets down to the nitty-gritty and work needs to get done in tough conditions, I’m supported by folks who get the job done right.

There will be other bypass operations for Bush Creek, and I am confident that they too will be completed successfully.

A 25 MGD full bypass in process at PC Construction's construction project at the Bush Creek Pump Station

PurposeEnergy DIGESTER: RENEWABLE GREEN ENERGY

September 24, 2010

In mid-2008, PC Construction was competitively selected by PurposeEnergy, Inc. as the design/build partner for a first-of-a-kind biogas facility project at the Magic Hat Brewery in South Burlington, Vermont. This unique project allows the owner, PurposeEnergy, Inc., to use the organic waste streams produced by New England’s largest craft brewery and generate biogas (a form of renewable natural gas). The biogas is then utilized by the brewery’s steam boilers and/or PurposeEnergy’s cogeneration plant. This brewery waste recovery system was developed by CEO and founder of the Arlington, Massachusetts based PurposeEnergy, Eric Fitch. His vision was to use the by-product grains and yeast from breweries to make clean renewable energy. Continue Reading →

SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS FOR GROWTH

September 21, 2010

One of my passions in life is learning about and implementing measures for conservation of our natural resources. As a kid I spent a great deal of time on the family farm and was intrigued with organic farming and ‘green’ living long before it gained its present popularity. As such, one goal in my new role is to position PC Construction as a leader in the use of the latest technologies for the conservation of electricity, reduction of nitrogen and phosphorous into the water stream, and the construction of carbon neutral water and wastewater treatment plants.

There are many new and fascinating technologies that are being developed and advanced each day. These advances offer additional opportunities for reducing energy consumption and providing clean water for drinking and recreation. Implementation of cutting-edge technology can provide unique challenges and new opportunities to those with the vision and insight to take the first bold step forward. The challenge will be to convince owners and engineers that long-term, sustainable solutions are the most viable alternative means of construction.

No one person can keep up with all the changes and opportunities for future growth in this market. As such, please contact me if you come across new technologies or potential opportunities.

BEST PRACTICES IN HEALTH CARE PLANNING AND ESTIMATING

September 17, 2010

Strategic planners for health care expansion often find themselves in a conundrum – how to plan the program the hospital needs and get an accurate estimate of what it will cost to build it, all BEFORE applying for the Certificate of Need. The scope of the project needs to include all of the necessary health care elements while not giving the staff and potential users unreasonable expectations. So often we see a huge program and a beautiful design that staff is thrilled with, but the cost comes in too late and too high.

This process can be mitigated by bringing the design and construction team on board to work with the hospital staff as early as possible. The design team (most often architects with engineering support) provides the tools to optimize the clinical space and design an aesthetically-pleasing environment. The construction management team takes the early, preliminary design and estimates the cost to build it, often suggesting value engineering options along the way to save money.

The best way to illustrate the ideal process is with a diagram:

Health Care Construction Process Diagram

We’ll share examples of these best practices at our panel presentation on Monday, October 4 at 9:30 a.m. at the New England Health Care Engineer’s 2010 Conference. Please join us at the presentation or stop by our booth anytime.

NOT JUST ANOTHER TRAINING EXERCISE – THE LDP EXPERIENCE

September 13, 2010

Quite often we hear about how successful we are as a company. Memos are sent out within minutes of a successful low bid, featured projects and awards are broadcasted through our newsletter, and our safety reports keep us aware of how well our teams are performing. I would like to take a minute to step back and see where this all comes from.

The backbone of our success comes from the long hours of hard work put in by each and every member of our PC Construction team. And for us newcomers to the industry, PC Construction offers a training program that is second to none – the Leadership Development Program (LDP) – which prepares participants for a successful future in construction.

As a recent LDP graduate, I had the opportunity over the past three and a half years to take in all this program and this company has to offer. Everything from pulling concrete blankets, setting up project schedules, and reviewing scopes to helping manage multi-million dollar projects – the sky is the limit!

What separates this program from others is the involvement and responsibility LDP engineers in this program have. We are not stuck behind a desk doing meaningless “beginner” activities. We are out in the field, solving problems, dealing with owners, working with budgets, and being an active part of a construction team. All of this plus a mentor who is just a phone call away should we have any questions.

My experience with PC Construction through the LDP program has been phenomenal. I have been exposed to a variety of projects from a 200,000 square foot processing facility to state-of-the art radiology and oncology suites – each with their own distinct scopes and tasks. Not to mention the valued time spent estimating and bidding the projects we ultimately build.

Even though I have officially graduated from the program, I know I will face a new learning curve, challenges, and increasingly complex projects. But no matter where I find myself, I know I have the experience and resources behind me to tackle any project. The sky is the limit!

HEALTH & WELLNESS IN CONSTRUCTION PART 3: BEING PROACTIVE

September 8, 2010

CAST YOUR VOTE: CVPH A TOP RENOVATION/REMODEL PROJECT

September 1, 2010

GROUND BROKEN ON NEW CANCER CENTER

August 27, 2010

I was honored to be part of a very special event for Canton-Potsdam Hospital – the ground breaking to begin construction on the Hospital’s new cancer center.

This event has been a long time coming. We have been working with MorrisSwitzer Environments for Health and the Hospital’s leadership for just over two years in a process that ultimately resulted in the design, and now the construction, of a new cancer center.

I was moved to hear from the Hospital’s special guest speaker, Jacquelyn Kuno, the Foundation Board Vice Chair and a cancer survivor who received treatment at the Hospital. She spoke of the quality care she received and how eager she was to see a new linear accelerator and facility that will provide technology to match the quality of care provided by the Canton-Potsdam caregivers.

PC Construction is proud to be part of a team that will bring state-of-the art cancer treatment to upstate New York . . . and that’s a very good team to be on!

Cancer Center Groundbreaking at Canton-Potsdam Hospital

The groundbreaking ceremony for the new cancer center at Canton-Potsdam Hospital

BACK HOME

August 25, 2010

Four years ago my family moved to Kansas and I had to leave my job as Project Manager at PC Construction. When I returned a few weeks ago to take on the role of Director of Business Development at PC Construction, it was like coming home. Seeing all the familiar faces and renewing old friendships really made me feel at ease. Although I had not been around in years, it felt like a blink of the eye, and I truly feel fortunate for all of the warm greetings that awaited me. And that is one of the reasons that PC Construction is truly a special company. At the risk of sounding like a cliché, when one works for PC Construction, they really are a member of a special family.

My new position as Director of Business Development for the Water Treatment market will present challenges and opportunities quite different from those of my former life as a Mechanical Superintendent and Project Manager – and I am excited for the journey. While I will be highly involved with the competitive bid aspect of water treatment work, my primary goal will focus on furthering PC Construction’s procurement of design-build and integrated delivery construction projects in this market. I look forward to strengthening current relationships with engineers, clients, and industry associations while meeting new faces and promoting the value of design-build and integrated delivery construction methods to meet all of our clients’ needs.

I look forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming Chesapeake AWWA Tri-Association Conference, the AWWA Rocky Mountain Section Joint Annual Conference, and the Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition and Conference. Although I will be unable to attend the Virginia Section AWWA WaterJAM, look for our exhibit and the opportunity to talk with some of PC Construction’s professionals in the Water Treatment market.

PROTECTING CHILDREN: CERTIFIED AND TRAINED FOR LEAD-BASED PAINT HAZARDS

August 20, 2010

Lead has long been recognized as a serious health hazard and, for years, was a common ingredient used in many construction materials, most notably lead paint. The health risks related to lead exposure are particularly serious for young children. In 1977 the use of lead paint was banned in the United States. In addition, OSHA and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) have strict requirements for contractors who disturb lead paint or materials suspected of containing lead.

Over the years The USEPA and OSHA have continually modified the lead paint standards and requirements. The latest change in the law requires certification for contractors performing lead based paint renovation, repair, and painting activities for all work taking place in housing, child care, and school buildings. While the requirement is restricted to the type of projects listed above, many current PC Construction clients have indicated that certification will be required for all contractors performing work for them.

Even though all lead-related work associated with our projects is subcontracted to abatement contractors, PC Construction is responsible for the proper and safe execution of the work. As a result, our project teams must be aware of safety and disposal requirements associated with lead.

PC Construction has fulfilled all EPA requirements and received certification from the USEPA to perform this type of work. In addition to the certification, ten PC Construction professionals have completed training on disturbance of lead paint. This certification and PC Construction’s efforts to provide associated training goes hand-in-hand with our commitment to ensuring the safety and health of everyone connected to our projects, including those executing the work and those using the completed facility.

EPA Lead-Safe Certified Firm Certificate

VISIT PC CONSTRUCTION ON YOUTUBE!

August 17, 2010

PC Construction is now live with a customized YouTube channel. The highlight of our channel includes three new videos created to showcase who we are as a constructor of water/wastewater treatment plants, buildings, and facilities, and features our employees’ feelings about our great company.

Check it out at: http://www.youtube.com/pcconstructionco/

PC Construction Company's YouTube Channel

PC CONSTRUCTION PADDLERS IN ACTION

August 13, 2010

Paddles up! Ready, Ready, take it away!

The Burlington, Vermont, Waterfront was buzzing with excitement on Sunday, August 8 as I participated in the 5th Annual Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival and races. An enthusiastic crowd looked on as 75 teams raced all day long to raise money for Camp Ta-Kum-Ta and Dragonheart Vermont. This was my second experience as part of the PC Construction team.

It’s an important event for me as cancer has touched the lives of several of my family members and friends. Not only does this event raise money to help those diagnosed with cancer, but it’s also a great way to bond with your co-workers and give back to your local community.

The PC Construction Paddlers finished 24th out of all race teams, with our best finish of the day at 00:58.16. Our team also took a 1^st place award for the Best t-shirt design. And most importantly, we are extremely proud to have ranked 14th on the donations leaderboard with a total of $2,324 raised before the event (and donations are still trickling in!).

The PC Construction Paddlers in action at the 5th Annual Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival

A DAY IN THE LIFE IN RADIATION ONCOLOGY AT FLETCHER ALLEN HEALTH CARE

August 10, 2010

With PC Construction’s $9.5 million Radiation Oncology project at Fletcher Allen Health Care now undergoing the finishing touches, the hospital is anticipating treating their first patients in the new department within the next few weeks. The new facility houses dosimitry and treatment planning, patient exam room space, gendered changing areas, patient registration, and a comfortable waiting room, as well as three new linear accelerator vaults. Continue Reading →

DARTMOUTH-HITCHCOCK MEDICAL CENTER OUTPATIENT SURGERY CENTER OPEN TO PATIENTS

August 2, 2010

PC Construction’s recently-completed Outpatient Surgery Center project at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center opened its doors last month. The new 41,000 square-foot facility houses eight operating rooms, associated support space, public access space, outpatient lab services, and a central sterile processing area.

The complexity of these health care projects, with enhanced regulation and complicated infrastructure, is why this type of construction is so appealing to me. I’ve been working on projects at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center for 23 months and it’s great to see the results of those efforts. People are oohing and ahhing over the new center and it’s gratifying to know we’ve been part of it. It’s been a pleasure working with the DHMC teams at every turn: clinical staff, care providers, facilities, leadership, housekeeping, and beyond.

Take a moment to check out the new facility via a guided tour by Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center Medical Director, Dr. Douglas Merrill.

NAWIC: SUPPORTING THE FUTURE OF CONSTRUCTION

July 27, 2010

Why would you want to be a member of one of the greatest non-profit organizations in America? Being a member of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. My favorite part about NAWIC is the education, specifically the grade school competition.

Our education process starts with young children as we introduce them to construction through an annual Lego competition. Given guidelines and limited materials, it is amazing to see the imagination these precious children have and the energy they put into constructing their best masterpiece. We know that education at all levels is crucial for the construction industry. High school students participate in a CADD drafting competition. College students attaining a construction-related degree are supported through scholarships to local colleges with funds raised by NAWIC. And as members, we advance our own education through the NAWIC Education Foundation. Our mission is to promote the employment, education, and advancement of women in the construction industry. And every member does just that.

Please check into your local NAWIC Chapter or visit us online. There you’ll find an organization with a supportive and caring group of women working to better the future of the construction industry.

NAWIC’s core purpose is “to enhance the Success of Women in the Construction Industry.” We pledge “as material for the construction of our building, the agility of our hands, the ability of our minds and the integrity of our heart.”

NAWIC: Supporting the Future of Construction

A student uses her creativity while constructing her masterpiece for NAWIC's annual Lego competition

HEALTH & WELLNESS IN CONSTRUCTION PART 2: PERSPECTIVE

July 21, 2010

In 2006 we realized our system of providing health care to employees was broken. We weren’t providing “health” care; we were providing “sick” care.

Approximately 45% of PC Construction employees who paid health care premiums didn’t actually use the health care system during the year – not even once. They didn’t get a physical, a mammogram, a colonoscopy – nothing. With preventive care covered 100% simply by paying their premiums, these treatments were essentially already paid for, yet these employees had failed to cash in. Continue Reading →

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY: IT’S PERSONAL

July 16, 2010

One thing I really like about PC Construction is their attitude about giving back to the community, especially that they encourage me to take a day away from my regular work to help out on a Habitat for Humanity home. Volunteering with Habitat for Humanity has been a passion of mine for years. It allows me to share in a family’s dream for home ownership that otherwise may never be fulfilled. You can see and feel the genuine excitement and energy that emanates from the proud homeowner while working with them side-by-side on THEIR home. It’s a little like paying it forward – to give of your talents to others who somehow haven’t gotten the same breaks in life. Everyone has their own way to give back to the community. For me, it is a privilege to be involved with Habitat for Humanity.

Staff Estimators Marty Brooks (left) and Joe Daigneault (right) at a Habitat for Humanity work site with the brother of the proud new homeowner

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PC CONSTRUCTION VEHICLE GOES TO A GOOD CAUSE

July 13, 2010

INNOVATIVE CONSTRUCTION METHODS SAVE TIME AND MONEY AT CLIFTON-FINE HOSPITAL

July 8, 2010

My objective on the Clifton-Fine Hospital Clinic Replacement and Addition project is clear: deliver the highest quality hospital building within budget and on schedule. One particular challenge we have faced is the project schedule with regard to the limited weather window in the North Country. This issue was addressed during the preconstruction process and, as a result, we researched several alternatives to conventional building systems that are typically constructed on-site. After exploring many options, we settled on a precast foundation and prefabricated wall panels since this approach works well for a building of this size and type. To date the results are very positive. Continue Reading →

PROJECT UPDATE: ABINGDON WATER TREATMENT PLANT

July 6, 2010

PC Construction completed the construction of the original 10 MGD Abingdon Water Treatment Plant in Abingdon, Maryland, in the fall of 1994. Fifteen years later, we were awarded the $62 million expansion project at this same site. The project broke ground in January of 2009 and consists of the construction of a new 10 MGD treatment train including new raw water screening facilities, pretreatment with rapid and flocculation, clarification using plate settlers, filtration, backwash and washwater recycle, a new 2.5 million gallon clearwell and upgrades to the finished water pumping and existing filters.

The first of three project phases is complete. Phase 1 consisted of the construction of a 115-inch diameter tunnel beneath interstate I95 to carry a new 48-inch raw water main along with a 30-inch and 12-inch finished water service. The requirement to increase the plant’s raw water intake via the tunnel was met two weeks ahead of the contractual date. Phase 2 consists of the construction of the new 10 MGD treatment train. The 20,000 cubic yards of concrete placement is complete with the emphasis shifted to process piping, equipment, and chemical feed systems. Phase 2 construction will be completed three months ahead of the contractual completion date. The final phase, and possibly the most challenging, will be the rehab of the existing filters, filter gallery, and associated controls package. Construction on Phase 3 will not commence until the new treatment train has been placed into service.

PC Construction's $62 million expansion project at the Abingdon Water Treatment Plant