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Strong Container Volumes Continue Steady Pace at Port of Houston

By Port of Houston Authority News “We fully expect to top last year’s container volume with another record year in 2016,” reported Port of Houston Authority Executive Director Roger Guenther to the Port Commission during its meeting recently.

PAGE 6

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The National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) By Subcontractors USA News Provider NOMA has as its mission the building of a strong national organization, strong chapters and strong members for the purpose of minimizing the effect of racism in the profession. PAGE 10

PAGES 18-19

Maya Thornton (center) and her team at the University of Houston HUB Operations Department are Dedicated to Helping Small Businesses

High-Speed Train Opens Competition to Design Passenger Stations By Subcontractors USA News Provider Texas Central, the private developer of the Texas bullet train, recently announced its sponsorship of a design competition for architecture students from accredited Texas universities to help produce an inspiring vision for the high-speed train passenger stations. PAGE 22

PAGES 25-27

In the Subcontractors USA Community

• Houston Minority Supplier Development Council Emerging 10 Awards Luncheon • Houston Minority Supplier Development Council EXPO • Asian Chamber of Commerce • The Greater Houston Business Procurement Forum

PAGE 28

Job Alert: Diesel Technician and Truck Driver Shortage Countrywide

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Journal

Behind The

Publisher’s Message

MR. D-MARS

SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr.

VICE PRESIDENT

Houston is a great place to grow your business, as this is one of the most diverse and largest cities in the nation. HUBs and subcontractors are gaining opportunities, and our journal takes pride in the fact that we can highlight opportunities and news relevant to this industry. We hope that as you read through this latest issue, you will be inspired, informed and educated.

Kim Floyd

ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla

This month’s issue highlights the University of Houston HUB Operations Department (HOD). This department is dedicated to the University’s mission to help open doors for the small business community. Under the leadership of Director Maya P. Thornton and HUB Specialists Maira Artola and Tanya Douglas, the HOD is making a positive impact in the small and minority business community, while helping our local economy.

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Dawn Paul

PHOTOGRAPHY L.C. Poullard Grady Carter

As always, thank you for your continued support of d-mars.com. When you support us, you are supporting more than just our company; you are supporting the communities in which we live and work. Working together, we can succeed in making positive things happen.

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNER Angel Rosa

Contents Houston’s Oil Industry...................................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Port of Houston Authority News................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Texas Oil and Gas Production........................................................................................................................................................................ 8 Oilfield Product Manufacturer Gains............................................................................................................................................................ 9 The National Organization of Minority Architects...................................................................................................................................10 Construction Employment Rises................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Business, Labor, Transportation & Travel Groups.................................................................................................................................... 11 Technology & Your Business.........................................................................................................................................................................16 How the Energy Industry Is Using Crowdsourcing................................................................................................................................ 17 The University of Houston HUB Operations Department.................................................................................................................18-19 Low Tanker Rates............................................................................................................................................................................................20 High Speed Train.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 22 A Career in Engineering................................................................................................................................................................................. 23 National Society of Professional Engineers............................................................................................................................................ 24 In the Subcontractors USA Community................................................................................................................................................25-27 Job Alert…………………………………………………………………...................................................................................................................................…………….28

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Houston's Oil Industry Eyes Recovery, Job Creation

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

but there is movement toward a $55$60 oil price environment, she added. Assuming the price trough of $26 oil in Feb. 2016 is the lowest the industry will see this downturn, Philip said typically it will take two or three quarters to see drilling pick back up, which is happening now. Two or three quarters after that, we’ll see an uptick in hiring. “We’re not going to see a huge hiring binge. As the industry recovers, significant hiring is still being held off,” Philip said. “The concern with energy industry hiring is that a lot of the technological advances that were employed during the downturn actually cannibalized human capital. The projects that were hiring were the ones looking at technologies to take people out of the workforce.” Similar to adjusted expectations to the rig count and oil price, the industry has to adjust its expectation of the head count post-downturn. Moving into 2017 and 2018, Houston isn’t expecting to see a recovery like it did coming out of the Great Recession in 2009, said Philip. “What took us into the Great Recession was a financial crisis,” she said. “What took us into this downturn was specifically about energy. Houston’s employment continued to grow, even with the volatility of oil prices.”

enny Philip, senior manager, economic research for the Greater Houston Partnership, discussed the future of Houston’s energy workforce at WorkforceNEXT’s Fall Summit. Houston has lost 24,700 mining and logging jobs since the beginning of the industry downturn (December 2014). “Houston is the energy capital of the world,” said Philip. “We love to boast about that in $100 oil, but we also have to own that in $26 oil or our current $52 oil.” We’re on the verge of approaching $54 per barrel oil, which Philip said is when many energy analysts believe we will start seeing more exploration and production activity and hiring. In a September meeting, OPEC agreed to cut oil production, but Philip said market fundamentals are holding back a surge in oil prices. “If you look at supply and demand, you have to take into account not only the production that is already occurring, but the amount of surplus capacity that has been built up throughout the course of the downturn,” she said. “Right now, we’re at about three billion [barrels] and we’re not able to draw down on these inventories in a significant way until next year.” Those aren’t great market fundamentals to support a huge oil price increase,

Source: www.downstreamtoday.com

TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE Historically Underutilized Business Program TDCJ HUB MISSION STATEMENT THE MISSION OF THE HUB PROGRAM FOR THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE IS TO PROMOTE AND INCREASE CONTRACTING OPPORTUNITIES WITH HISTORICALLY UNDERUTILIZED BUSINESSES. THE HUB PROGRAM WILL PROVIDE THOSE BUSINESSES AND AGENCY STAFF THE ASSISTANCE NECESSARY FOR THE SUCCESS OF THIS MISSION.

SHARON SCHULTZ HUB Director 936-437-7026 (P) 936-437-7088 (F) Sharon.Schultz@tdcj.texas.gov Two Financial Plaza, Suite 525 Huntsville, Texas 77340 RUBY COWAN HUB Coordinator 936-437-3128 (P) 936-437-7088 (F) Ruby.Cowan@tdcj.texas.gov Two Financial Plaza, Suite 525 Huntsville, Texas 77340

CINDY GUAJARDO HUB Coordinator 936-437-7061 (P) 936-437-7088 (F) Cynthia.Guajardo@tdcj.texas.gov Two Financial Plaza, Suite 525 Huntsville, Texas 77340

Contact the TDCJ HUB Program for a current list of commodity/ service codes and phone numbers for Purchasers For more information on doing business with the TDCJ, you may visit the TDCJ web-site at www.tdcj.texas.gov

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Port of Houston Authority News

Strong Container Volumes Continue Steady Pace at Port of Houston “We fully expect to top last year’s container volume with another record year in 2016,” reported Port of Houston Authority Executive Director Roger Guenther to the Port Commission during its meeting recently. The Port Authority has handled more than 1.6 million TEU through its container terminals to date this year, and it expects to maintain “strong growth” through the remainder of the year. All told, the Port Authority’s general cargo and container terminals handled more than 26 million tons of cargo through September. The Port Commission also acted on agenda items that support the Port Authority’s continued growth, increased cargo volumes, and diverse business base. Of special note is the award of a $4 million gate operating and optical character recognition project at Bayport and Barbours Cut Container Terminals, to optimize and modernize the truck gate interchange process and enhance the exceptional customer service levels at each terminal. Port Commission Chairman Janiece Longoria announced that the Government Finance Officers Association had awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the Port Authority for the 42nd consecu-

Department shared accolades for quick actions and response following a recent fuel spill and fire, and Port Authority Police Sergeant Dwight Gaines was recognized for his life-saving rescue of the victim of a recent automobile accident. Captain Peter Martin, Sector Commander, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston, making his first appearance before the Port Commission as Captain of the Port of Houston, also commended the work of the Port Authority fire-fighting crew.

About the Port of Houston Authority

tive year. This award is the highest form of recognition in the area of government accounting and financial reporting, and represents a significant accomplishment by a government agency and its management. Chairman Longoria also reported that the Port Authority “made history again”

in support of its strategic objective of environmental leadership: it is the first public port in the world to meet the new and more rigorous requirements of the ISO 14001:2015 standard. Chairman Longoria also acknowledged the Port Authority’s people: its Emergency Management team and Fire

For more than 100 years, the Port of Houston Authority has owned and operated the public wharves and terminals of the Port of Houston – the nation’s largest port for foreign waterborne tonnage and an essential economic engine for the Houston region, the state of Texas, and the nation. It supports the creation of nearly 1.175 million jobs in Texas and 2.7 million jobs nationwide, and economic activity totaling almost $265 billion in Texas – 16 percent of Texas’ total gross domestic product – and more than $617 billion in economic impact across the nation. For more information, visit the Port Authority website at: www.portofhouston.com.

We’ll wait on YOU, before YOU wait on US Traffic Control in Cypress, Texas American Traffic Control, based in Cypress, Texas, specializes in traffic control and planning services for detours, lane closings, road and freeway closures, and traffic calculation. We provide professional service to the entire United States, while maintaining the highest safety standards for workers and the public.

Quality Service since 2001 American Traffic Control is a small, minority-owned company specializing in a large capacity of traffic control operations, and has been in business since 2001. We are a member of The Associated General Contractors of Texas. Our staff consists of Certified Traffic Control Specialists and Flaggers, some with over 30 years of experience. We aim to always provide costeffective assistance and effective communication with our clients to cement a long-lasting client relationship. We are able to travel any distance to provide outstanding service to our clients. We have provided traffic control services for the following government agencies: Texas Department of Transportation and Georgia Department of Transportation. We also provide outstanding services to some of the most prestigious companies, as follows: Kansas City Southern Railroad, Traffic Control Devices, The Levy Company, and numerous others. Our focus on safety awareness is most important to us. Our goal is to provide a safe work zone for the traveling public and the construction workers. Thank you for allowing us to introduce ourselves; we look forward to building a long-lasting work relationship with your company.

American Traffic Control 17240 Huffmeister Road Suite 104 Cypress, TX 77429

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24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week | Insured, Bonded, & Licensed | Emergency Services Available Based in Cypress, Texas & Proudly Serving All 50 United States & Municipalities

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Serving local small businesses who are seeking to do business with Houston Community College Assisting small businesses and Contractors by providing opportunities, information, and support

For information about the Small Business Development Program, visit hccs.edu/sbdp For current bid opportunities, visit hccs.edu/procurement

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Oil and Gas

TABLE 1 – AUGUST 2016 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

RANK

COUNTY

CRUDE OIL (BBLS)

KARNES

5,456,746

MIDLAND

5,305,560

UPTON

3,776,826

MARTIN

3,729,908

DEWITT

3,523,600

LA SALLE

3,499,775

REEVES

3,284,712

MCMULLEN

3,259,857

ANDREWS

2,989,817

10.

GONZALES

2,900,684

TABLE 2 – AUGUST 2016 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

Texas Oil and Gas Production Statistics for August 2016 By Subcontractors USA News Provider

AUSTIN –– Production for August 2016 as reported to the Railroad Commission of Texas (Commission) is 75,034,914 barrels of crude oil and 606,931,065 mcf (thousand cubic feet) of total gas from oil and gas wells. These preliminary figures are based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received. Production reported to the Commission for the same time period last year, August 2015, was: 74,679,202 barrels of crude oil preliminarily, updated to a current figure of 90,454,059 barrels; and 624,110,098 mcf of total gas preliminarily, updated to a current figure of 746,328,268 mcf. The Commission reports that in the last 12 months, total Texas reported production was 1.004 billion barrels of crude oil and 8.2 trillion cubic feet of total gas. Crude oil production reported by the Commission is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the Commission. Texas preliminary August 2016 crude oil production averaged 2,420,481 barrels daily, compared to the

2,409,007 barrels daily average of August 2015. Texas preliminary August 2016 total gas production averaged 19,578,421 mcf a day, compared to the 20,132,584 mcf daily average of August 2015. Texas production in August 2016 came from 183,052 oil wells and 92,155 gas wells.

About the Railroad Commission Our mission is to serve Texas by our stewardship of natural resources and the environment, our concern for personal and community safety, and our support of enhanced development and economic vitality for the benefit of Texans. The Commission has a long and proud history of service to both Texas and to the nation, including almost 100 years regulating the oil and gas industry. The Commission also has jurisdiction over alternative fuels safety, natural gas utilities, surface mining and intrastate pipelines. Established in 1891, the Railroad Commission of Texas is the oldest regulatory agency in the state. To learn more, please visit http:// www.rrc.texas.gov.

RANK

COUNTY

TOTAL GAS (MCF)

WEBB

61,192,846

TARRANT

37,246,599

PANOLA

24,670,352

DIMMIT

24,107,623

KARNES

20,787,521

DEWITT

19,496,927

JOHNSON

18,763,931

LA SALLE

17,913,624

WISE

16,111,571

10.

DENTON

13,845,267

TABLE 3 – AUGUST 2016 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION RANK

COUNTY

CONDENSATE (BBLS)

DIMMIT

2,014,509

KARNES

1,300,763

WEBB

1,195,686

CULBERSON

1,050,726

DEWITT

997,425

LIVE OAK

402,040

LA SALLE

297,122

REEVES

247,103

LOVING

172,978

10.

HEMPHILL

167,960

Source: Railroad Commission of Texas

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Manufacturing

Oilfield Product Manufacturer Gains Competitive Edge with New Lathe

By Subcontractors USA News Provider arl Moore, President of Constantin Precision Instruments, has built a successful business by delivering quality products on time and at competitive prices. "We understand that lead time and price are the driving factors for jobs in the current oil and gas market," said General Manager Michael Cooper. "In our quest to gain an edge on our competition, we were in search of ways to improve lead time through reduced set-up and operation times." Constantin Precision Instruments machines exotic metals to produce components for down hole production. "We needed a lathe with milling capabilities that could handle a large part with multiple finishes and two operations and mill off center," said Cooper. "After researching the lathes on the market, we decided to purchase a Samsung SL45XLY/3000BB from Ryu Tomita, President of Dynamic Texas in Houston, TX. With a 24 inch chuck, 38.4 inch swing over the bed, maximum turning length of 114 inches, 50 HP and 1,200 RPM, this was the machine that would take us where our

based in Katy, TX, was founded in 1998 and currently has 40 employees.

For more information contact: Carl Moore, President Constantin Precision Instruments, Inc. 7633 Cherokee Road Katy, TX 77494 713-461-9090 carl@cpiprecision.com www.cpiprecision.com

business needed to be." The Samsung SL45XLY is used to machine a 6" x 120" mandrel. The part has 63 finishes and requires some holes and pockets milled off center. The SL45XLY, with its combination of C and Y axes and programmable hydraulic steady rests, allows Constantin to run this part in one operation. "Since we added the SL45XLY to our inventory of machines, we have shaved off four hours of production time, eliminated two operations, eliminated scratches in the finishes and improved

Setting Us Apart About Us

Certified MWBE/SBE/HUB Contractor

meaningful service

Horizon is a certified MBE, WBE, SBE and State of Texas certified Historically Underutilized Business (HUB). As such, Horizon is always striving to expand business opportunities, provide added value to our clients, and is actively engaged in procuring goods and services from other talented SBE/MBE/WBE/HUB subcontracting firms. We believe that diversity strengthens the community and the overall small business environment.

3 Financial stability bonding 4 Strong capacity

Experienced project teams

Source: mfgnewsweb.com

Azteca Enterprises, Inc. was founded in 1989 and provides services ranging from general contracting, construction management, program management, design-build services, and self-perform across a broad spectrum of projects for both public and private sector clients. Industries served include, aviation, transportation, local, state and federal government agencies, hospitality, multi-family housing, entertainment and real estate developers.

Horizon International Group, LLC is a certified SBE/MBE/WBE/HUB construction manager with a proven history of providing clients impeccable contracting services since 1994.

to 2 Committed delivering quality &

Ryu Tomita, President Dynamic Texas 5980 W Sam Houston Pkwy N Suite 200 Houston, TX 77041 281-893-2222 / 832-876-5476 rtomita@dynamic-texas.com www.dynamic-texas.com

performing beyond expectations

projects on 1 Delivers time and on budget

Excellent safety record

location and concentricity," said Cooper. "We have increased profits by offering higher quality parts in a shorter amount of time through fewer set-ups, less part handling and condensed operations." "By utilizing advancements in tooling and machine tool technology, Constantin Precision Instruments has been able to distinguish itself as an industry leader while maintaining and ever striving for the technological skillset that keeps them at the forefront," said a company spokesperson. Constantin Precision Instruments,

Samsung Machine Tools America a Division of Dynamic Intl. N25W23287 Paul Road Pewaukee, WI 53072 262-521-1100 www.samsungmachinetools.com

We are a certified Minority Business Enterprise through the Houston Minority Supplier Development Council, Hire Houston First, South Central Texas Regional Certification Agency (SCTRCA), the North Central Texas Regional Agency (NCTRCA), the DFW/MSDC, and the Texas Minority Historically Underutilized Business (HUB). We are a mentor to other minority and small business companies in several mentor-Protégé programs.

DIVISIONS:

Services

• • • •

Horizon provides a range of services including: •

Construction Management

•

Estimating

•

General Contracting

•

Design/Build

Owner Representation & Feasibility Studies

•

Project Management

•

Development Services

•

Job Order Contracting

•

Program Management

Building Division Heavy Civil Construction Steel Fabrication and Erection Multi-Family Housing

years of industry 7 30+ experience size to deliver 8 Right flexibility of services

and effective responses

Houston First 9 Hire Houston based

Dallas, Texas

company hiring Houston based subcontractors

SBE/MBE/WBE/ HUB firm

4204 Bellaire Boulevard Houston, TX 77025 p: 713.660.8282 f: 713.660.0102

215 W. San Antonio St. San Marcos, TX 78666 p: 713.660.8282 f: 713.660.0102

1999 Gulfmart Ste. 522 San Antonio, TX 78217 p: 713.660.8282 f: 713.660.0102

2518 Chalk Hill Road Dallas, Texas 75212 T: (214) 905-0612 F: (214) 905-0828

Houston, Texas

www.azteca-omega.com

11777 Katy Freeway, Suite 190 Houston, Texas 77093 T: (281) 391-7473 F: (281) 665-2115

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Architecture

The National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA)

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

OMA has as its mission the building of a strong national organization, strong chapters and strong members for the purpose of minimizing the effect of racism in the profession. Strength in NOMA is built through unity in the cause that created the organization. Their impact is felt when the organization wrestles with the dilemmas that face this nation, particularly as they affect this profession. There is strength in numbers. By increasing the number of people in this organization, they add strength to the voice with which they can speak against apathy, bigotry, intolerance and ignorance; against abuse of the natural environment; and for the unempowered, the marginalized and the disenfranchised. By building a strong organization, NOMA has developed a showcase for the excellence and creativity which has been ignored for so long. Through their publications and conferences, NOMA is able to inform the world that minority professionals have the talent and capabilities to perform in design and construction with any other group. By building strong chapters of design professionals whose sensibilities and interests include promotion of

Aims and Objectives

urban communities, NOMA is able to respond to the concerns that affect marginalized communities and people. Their goals are to increase the level of participation in the social, political and economic benefits afforded the citizens of this nation and to tear down the barriers that make full participation unattainable. Chapters give members a base from which to be involved in politics, to visit schools and reach out to children, to conduct community and civic forums and to responsibly practice in their professional capacities.

History Twelve African-American architects from different parts of the country met, some for the first time, during the AIA National Convention in Detroit in 1971. What these professionals recognized was the desperate need for an organization dedicated to the development and advancement of minority architects. Present at the creation were William Brown, Leroy Campbell, Wendell Campbell, John S. Chase, James C. Dodd, Kenneth B. Groggs, Nelson Harris, Jeh Johnson, E.H. McDowell, Robert J. Nash, Harold Williams and Robert Wilson. These African American architects wanted minority design professionals to work together to fight discriminatory policies that limit or bar

minority architects from participating in design and constructions programs. That was the beginning of NOMA, an increasing influential voice, promoting the quality and excellence of minority design professionals. There are NOMA Chapters in all parts of the country, increasing recognition on colleges and university campuses and providing greater access to government policy makers.

Mission NOMA’s mission is to champion diversity within the design professions by promoting the excellence, community engagement and professional development of its members.

• Foster communications and fellowship among minority architects; • Form a federation of existing and proposed local minority architectural groups; • Fight discrimination and other selection policies being used by public and private sector clients to unfairly restrict minority architects' participation in design and construction; • Act as a clearing house for information and maintain a roster on practitioners; • Promote the design and development of living, working and recreational environments of the highest quality; • Create and maintain relationships with other professionals and technicians whose work affects the physical and social environment; • Encourage the establishment of coalitions of member firms and individuals to form associate and joint venture relationships; • Speak with a common voice on public policy; • Work with local, state and national governments on issues affecting the physical development of neighborhoods and communities; and • Be an effective source of motivation and inspiration for minority youth. For more on the National Organization of Minority Architects, please visit www. noma.net.

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SMALL BUSINESSES ARE ON THE MOVE Take your company to new heights!

CONTRACTORS

SMALL BUSINESS UNIVERSITY (SBU)

OUTREACH

METRO’s OFFICE OF SMALL BUSINESS OFFERS: • Outreach

• Face-to-Face Match Up

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For more information, contact METRO’s Office of Small Business at smallbusiness@RideMETRO.org or call 713.739.4844

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Construction

Construction Employment Rises In 35 States From September 2015 To 2016; Only 21 States And D.C. Add Jobs Recently Amid Worker Shortages

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

alifornia and Iowa Add Most Jobs for the Year, While Wyoming and Kansas Have Largest Declines; New York and Arizona Top Monthly List of Gainers, Pennsylvania and Wyoming Lose the Most Thirty-five states added construction jobs between September 2015 and September 2016 while construction employment increased in only 21 states and the District of Columbia between August and September, according to analysis of Labor Department data released recently by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials said contractors still report difficulty filling construction jobs, and they urged Congress to complete action on a bill that would help more students gain the skills to qualify for good-paying careers in construction. “The list of states that are adding construction jobs has been shrinking, yet contractors generally report they are busy now and optimistic about the workload ahead,” said Ken Simonson, chief economist for the association.

“Therefore, the lack of employment increases in many states may reflect the difficulty contractors say they are having in finding qualified workers.” California added the most construction jobs (30,900 jobs, 4.2 percent) between September 2015 and September 2016. Other states adding a high number of new construction jobs for the past 12 months include Florida (22,800 jobs, 5.2 percent), Colorado (19,400 jobs, 13.0 percent), Washington (15,300 jobs, 8.9 percent) and Iowa (13,700 jobs, 17.7 percent). Iowa added the highest percentage of new construction jobs during the past year, followed by Colorado, Hawaii (11.1 percent, 3,900 jobs) and Idaho (11.1 percent, 4,200 jobs). The District of Columbia and 15 states shed construction jobs over the year. Kansas lost the highest number (-4,700 jobs, -7.7 percent), followed by Alabama (-3,500 jobs, -4.3 percent) Pennsylvania (-2,600 jobs, -1.1 percent), North Dakota (-2,100 jobs, -6.3 percent) and Wyoming (-2,100 jobs, -9.2 percent). Wyoming lost the highest percentage of jobs, followed by Kansas, Montana (-6.9 percent, -1,800

jobs), North Dakota and Maine (-5.7 percent, -1,500 jobs). New York added the most construction jobs between August and September (5,100 jobs, 1.4 percent), followed by California (5,000 jobs, 0.7 percent), Texas (3,400 jobs, 0.5 percent), North Carolina (3,300 jobs, 1.7 percent) and Florida (3,100 jobs, 0.7 percent). Arizona added the highest percentage of construction jobs during the past month (2.1 percent, 2,900 jobs), followed by North Carolina and South Dakota (1.7 percent, 400 jobs). Construction employment declined in 24 states and held steady in five states. Pennsylvania lost the most construction jobs during the month (-3,400

jobs, -1.4 percent), followed by Ohio (-2,600 jobs, -1.3 percent) and Utah (-1,500 jobs, -1.7 percent). Wyoming lost the highest percentage of construction jobs between August and September (-4.1 percent, -900 jobs), followed by North Dakota (-1.9 percent, -600 jobs) and Utah. Association officials said that it is vital for policy makers to support and expand programs to provide career opportunities in fields such as construction that are short of workers. They urged U.S. Senators to act promptly on a House-passed measure that would boost funding for, and make needed reforms to, career and technical school programs to encourage and prepare more students to pursue high-paying careers in construction. “Congress should act right after the election, and not wait until January, to enact a bill that will help school districts to set up programs that teach construction skills to enable more students to pursue construction careers,” Stephen E. Sandherr, chief executive officer for the association, said. Source: www.agc.org

Construction

Business, Labor, Transportation & Travel Groups Call On Presidential Candidates To Include Long-Term Funding Measures In Infrastructure Plans

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

hirty-four Different Groups Say One of Candidates’ Top Infrastructure Priorities Must Be In Finding Long-Term, Reliable, Dedicated and Focused Revenue Sources to Pay For Needed Improvements to Country’s Aging Infrastructure Thirty-four of the nation's leading business, labor, transportation and travel groups called on both major party presidential candidates to include longterm, sustainable funding measures as part of their infrastructure plans and are offering to help get those plans enacted in letters sent to both campaigns this week. The various groups said that finding ways to pay for future improvements to the nation's transportation infrastructure would help boost employment levels and economic growth. “We believe that an infrastructure package needs to include, as a foundation, additional sustainable revenue to ensure the permanent solvency of the Highway Trust Fund,” the groups said

in their letter, which was sent to the Trump and Clinton campaigns. “The additional revenue sources must be long-term, reliable, dedicated and focused on the users and beneficiaries of our transportation network to support the increased investment provided under your infrastructure proposal.” The various groups noted that the surface transportation law that was enacted at the end of 2015 failed to include measures to ensure the long-term solvency of the federal Highway Trust Fund, the source of the vast-majority of federal funding for highway, transit and other surface transportation projects in the country. They added that, as a result, many state and local transportation officials have had a hard time planning and funding transportation projects, undermining the impact of the new transportation law. The groups added that in addition to supporting legislative proposals from either of the two candidates that include long-term funding measures, they also stand ready to assist the next presidential administration in formu-

lating and implementing their infrastructure agenda. “Our industries stand ready to work with you to ensure any new infrastructure investment proposal you offer has the greatest possible impact on our nation's economy and transportation network,” they added in their letter. The groups signing the letter are the: U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Association of Manufacturers, National Retail Federation, Associated General Contractors of America, America Road & Transportation Builders Association, American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, AAA, U.S. Travel Association, American Trucking Associations, International Union of Operating Engineers,

Laborers’ International Union of North America, Building America's Future, Retail Industry Leaders of America, American Public Transportation Association, American Council of Engineering Companies, American Highway Users Alliance, American Iron and Steel Institute, American Public Works Association, American Society of Civil Engineers, American Moving &Storage Association, American Concrete Pavement Association, Americans for Transportation Mobility, American Concrete Pipe Association, Associated Equipment Distributors, Association of Equipment Manufacturers, American Traffic Safety Services Association, National Asphalt Pavement Association, National Association of Regional Councils, National Electrical Contractors Association, National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, National Stone Sand and Gravel Association, National Utility Contractors Association, PeopleForBikes – Business Network, The Association of Union Constructors. Source: www.agc.org

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MEP Engineering

Commissioning

Program Management

When you need experience, we have it covered. Rice & Gardner Consultants, Inc. is a multi-disciplinary professional engineering firm that focuses on MEP Engineering, Commissioning, and Program Management. We act as an extension to our clients, providing total engineering services from project inception to completion. With our deep bench of high skilled and experienced staff and innovative technology Rice & Gardner can plan, lead, and complete projects on time and within budget.

6161 Savoy Drive, Suite 1212 Houston, TX 77036 | 713-482-2300 | www.ricegardner.com Experience Our World of Advertising, Marketing, Media and Communication

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Technology & Your Business

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

echnology evolves and improves seemingly every time you blink. From apps to virtual reality and voice assistants to robots, technology affords us the ability to make life easier so we can enjoy what matters most to us. And when it comes to managing the finances of your business, digitizing your life can actually have a bonus effect on your wallet. Digital Lifestyle Expert Katie Linendoll teamed up with Capital One to share simple tips to digitize your life and save even more. “We live in a day and age where new technologies afford us the ability to improve our lives in new, offbeat ways,” Linendoll says. Whether you’re budgeting for your business or simply just "tech curious,’" Linendoll’s tips offer a great way to employ modern technology to aide your bottom line. Make your business smarter. Enhancing your business with smart products can save you time, energy and money. By switching to a smart thermostat, which can turn on and off when you need to, you’ll save more. Leverage cutting edge technology. Voice-activated technologies hold a lot

of promise to make our lives easier. For example, with the Capital One Skill for Amazon Alexa, you can use any Amazon Alexa-enabled device like the Amazon Echo to access your Capital One accounts and check your balance, make a payment and manage your account — all using just your voice. Trade in your old tech for cash. Have some old phones and tablets lying

around? They could be worth a couple hundred bucks. Many internet trade-in sites and retail stores will offer gift cards and even free shipping for your old tech through something called “recommerce,” aka reverse commerce. If you can make money off old things lying around, do it! Take charge of your spending (and saving). Some small business owners

struggle to come up with emergency expenses, which makes having the flexibility to bank more ways all the more critical. Enroll with a bank like Capital One, which offers great digital tools and services — such as Online BillPay, Enhanced Transactions, Mobile Check Deposit and Personalized Alerts — which ultimately work harder for you and your bottom line. – BPT

T H E H O U S T O N A I R P O RT S Y S T EM P ROUD TO BE RECOGNIZED AS A “2016 TOP 25 SUPPLIER DIVERSITY CHAMPION”

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Energy

How the Energy Industry Is Using Crowdsourcing

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

eb 2.0 brought greater connectivity, faster communication and a global reach. Exploiting these facets, crowdsourcing and open innovation broke through as an alternative way for organizations to seek results; a method to facilitate connections with globally diverse actors and present problems to those with the knowledge to make a difference. InnoCentive were at the forefront of this movement and for the past 15 years have been expediting innovations through our Challenge Driven InnovationTM methodology – positioning problems in a manner that elicits diverse solutions and, by offering prizes, drives individuals to create ground-breaking results. The InnoCentive global Solver network of 375,000 individuals and small companies has provided solutions to over 2,000 Challenges and been awarded nearly $20 million in the process. Tapping into this hub of creativity has brought significant benefits for organizations as they return again and again to see their tough problems solved by connecting with individuals from industries they might never have dreamt could provide the winning solutions.

One of the sectors that has capitalized on this ‘open’ movement is the energy industry; it lies at a nexus of many technical disciplines, and with high-tech R&D demands that can be extrapolated to various expertise areas, the industry is perfectly positioned to benefit from crowdsourcing. The Italian energy conglomerate Enel have been working with InnoCentive for the past year and in that time have posted eight Challenges, with high quality solutions awarded in seven of them. One of those successful Challenges sought a method to prevent and remove ice buildup on electrical distribution lines. Another wanted a wireless communication system that could be used in tunnels and other confined spaces, while a third was looking for a method to clean photovoltaic panels in the field. These problems give but a taste of the diversity of issues that one organization has posted. The success in the energy sector though is not a new phenomenon. An example from InnoCentive’s more distant past is the Oil Spill Recovery Institute (OSRI) “Breaking Viscous Shear of Crude Oil” Challenge. The Challenge introduced the problem to individuals who may not have even considered working in the oil recovery industry prior. This included the provider of the winning solution: an expert in concrete mixing and pouring who noticed that a method could

be transferred to help separate oil and water once they had frozen into a viscous mass. Posting the problem as an open innovation Challenge allowed the OSRI to access out-of-the-box ideas and different perspectives that had not been institutionalized to one way of thinking. This broadening of perspectives allowed a decade’s old issue to be solved in a sixmonth period. The examples we’ve looked at so far have all been ‘public’ Challenges – the client behind the project has disclosed who they are and are happy for the world to know this is an issue that matters to them. This though does not have to be the case. InnoCentive’s methodology has the ability to not only anonymise the Challenge, but also abstract

the problem so that the source industry could be masked. The Slurry Separation Challenge is one example of this masking: purely stating the technical problem and proposing multiple industries where it occurs. This level of abstraction may reduce the specificity and precision of the problem, but can allow for more unusual and unexpected solutions to come forward as Solvers are not constrained by preconceptions of how an industry would expect solutions to look. The energy industry has a diverse set of innovation aims that cover nearly every expertise, however this diversity should not be seen as daunting. It’s an opportunity to use crowdsourcing to access external expertise that organizations may not have internally. It’s an opportunity to position problems in a manner that allows new viewpoints to offer solutions. It’s an opportunity to expedite innovation by using the crowd to supplement your internal work. InnoCentive have been at the forefront of this crowdsourcing movement and has a wealth of experience in both the energy sector and wider fields. If want to find out more or to explore how InnoCentive’s methodology and expertise, global Solver network, and purpose-built platform could help your organization, click here. Source: www.breakingenergy.com

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Expanding Business Oppo for Small and Minority Busin By Subcontractors USA News Provider

ouston is one of the largest and most diverse cities in the nation. This city also has countless Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs) just looking for opportunities to expand their company in this competitive business world. The University of Houston HUB Operations Department (HOD) is dedicated to the University’s mission to help open doors for the small business community. Under the leadership of Director Maya P. Thornton and HUB Specialists Maira Artola and Tanya Douglas, the HOD is making a positive impact in the small and minority business community, while helping our local economy. The HOD is very successful in what they do, reaching their HUB procurement utilization goals because of Mrs. Thornton’s approach as leader of this department. She does not take her position lightly, committed to the development of meaningful and beneficial business relationships with diverse suppliers and recognizing the value that the relationships add to any business, and the HUB Specialists have the same mindset. “I prefer a hands-on approach, which includes direct company oversight; specific direction and making sure suppliers have what they need to succeed. I believe companies that decide they will not let supplier relationships fail will be in a good position to maximize the business relationship,” says Mrs. Thornton. Mrs. Thornton and the dedicated HOD team understand the challenges that small business face, and they understand that it can be competitive. This is why they have processes and programs in place to give these businesses the best chance possible to do business with the University of Houston and open doors for them to grow their business. Mrs. Thornton expresses, “We highly believe in a ‘culture of inclusion.’ Just as our University and the City of Houston reflect a diverse population, our HUB Program mirrors these efforts.”

The TheHUB HUBOperations OperationsDepartment Department Utilization Goals: Utilization Goals: Heavy Construction Building Construction Special Trade Professional Services Other Services Commodities

0% 21.10% 32.90% 23.70% 26.00% 21.10%

TheUniversity UniversityofofHouston HoustonHUB HUB The Operations Department Goals Operations Department Goals • Implement a contract monitoring system to monitor prime contractor payments to subcontractors and audit for compliance with the prime’s HUB Subcontracting Plan.

The contract monitoring system will allow HUB Operations to monitor HUB utilization goals in real time as well as receive verification of payment from subcontractors. • Host an Annual HUB Construction Panel Discussion at the beginning of each fiscal year. The event will include an overview of upcoming UH System construction projects. This will provide HUB vendors ample time to plan and prepare to respond to solicitations. • Host and expand our annual HUB Vendor Fair and HUB Forum events. • Continue our efforts in seeking appropriate matches for our Mentor Protégé Program. • Partner with the trade organizations

Month September October November December January February March April May June July August

Seminar Construction Panel Seminar UH HUB Vendor Fair CMBL/HUB Directory Training How to do Business with the University of Houston Finding Capital How To Prepare a Compliant HSP How to Write Compliant Solicitation Response PAR Training Meet the Chambers HUB Certification How to do Business with the University of Houston Finding Capital

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ortunities ness Owners

Q&A

With Maya P. Thornton, Director of the University of Houston HUB Operations Department Talk about your HUB Certification Process. While the University of Houston is not a certifying agency, we provide an informational pamphlet that outlines the State certification process. We also encourage vendors to directly contact certifying agencies such as the UH Small Business Development Center, the City of Houston Office of Business Opportunity and the State Comptroller’s Office in order to get additional information on the HUB certification process.

Please talk about your Mentor Protégé Program and its success. The Mentor Protégé Program was revamped and re-launched in March 2015. The HOD created a web page for the Mentor Protégé Program that explains the requirements for participation as either a mentor or protégé: http://www. uh.edu/administration-finance/hub/ Mentor/. HOD also created and posted a Protégé Application and a Mentor Application on its website to help match HUB protégés with mentors.

Many small/minority businesses worry about not receiving information properly for opportunities. Please talk about your outreach efforts to help ensure that the information is received to the community as a whole. In addition to posting all formal bid notices to the Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD), the UH Purchasing Department will notify local minority, women and veteran’s organizations of the solicitation opportunity. Further, when attending various HUB outreach events, we provide a listing of current and forecasted solicitation opportunities, along with handouts on How to do Business with the University of Houston. Our HOD website also has a link to current solicitation opportunities, at www.uh.edu/hub under the “Current Bid Opportunities” link.

in order to continue educating the HUB vendor community. • Host monthly seminars directly related to HUB business growth and education. See chart below: HOD is an award-winning department, receiving recognition for their work in helping create a more diverse workforce. Mrs. Thornton says, “Our department’s

mantra is ‘They that will not be counselled cannot be helped.’ This quote is a reminder that we all should stay grounded and be receptive to new ideas and innovative thinkers. We are proud of the work that our department does, helping to open doors for small and minority businesses to be successful.” For more on the University of Houston HUB Operations Department, please visit www.uh.edu/hub.

November 2016 19

Many small/minority businesses worry about the processes being fair to receive contracts. Talk about the processes that you have implemented giving all subs/HUBs an opportunity to have the best chance to do business with UH.

Business with UH and have also created a pamphlet that explains the process in detail. We also encourage vendors to request a debriefing when the vendor has not been awarded a contract.

What certifications will you accept? We accept the State of Texas HUB Certification.

Talk about HOD’s efforts to make this program a continued success for UH, small businesses and the City of Houston. My staff and I go above the call of duty in assisting HUB vendors. Maira Artola, HUB Specialist, handles all pre-solicitation HUB concerns. She also offers a courtesy review of all HUB Subcontracting Plans. Maira coordinates both our HUB vendor fair and vendor forum, also providing internal training and performance reports to UH departments on a monthly bases. She attends various outreach events to promote the HUB Program. Maira is passionate about building relationships with our local chambers and has made it her personal mission to reach out to local HUB vendors. Lastly, she attends pre-proposal meetings to address any HUB related questions or concerns. Tanya Douglas, HUB Specialist, handles all post-solicitation and compliance concerns. Tanya has hosted both construction fairs and construction panel discussions. She has created procedures and templates to make HUB reporting easier and more efficient. She was instrumental in coordinating our HUB compliance software and will be our lead departmental contact in the implementation phase. Tanya also assists departments in HUB related matters. Lastly, Tanya meets with prime contractors post-award to ensure full HUB participation.

We understand the perception of unfair treatment that many HUB vendors feel. In order to offset these perceptions, we have made it one of our top priorities to educate the HUB vendor community on the procurement process at the University of Houston. We have hosted various workshops on How to Do

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Low Tanker Rates Are Enabling Long-Distance Crude Oil and Petroleum Product Trade

By Subcontractors USA News Provider hipments of crude oil and petroleum products using marine tankers support an integrated global market for crude oil and petroleum products. Recent expansion of the global tanker fleet has resulted in falling or lower tanker rates for much of 2016 that have widened the geographic scope for economically attractive trade at a time when inventories of both crude oil and petroleum products are at high levels. On a global scale, demand for tankers is influenced by differences in supply and demand conditions across regional markets. Tankers of different sizes and classes have specific characteristics that help determine the markets and shipping routes they serve. For example, dirty tankers, which transport unrefined or less-refined cargos (such as crude oil and residual fuel oil), tend to be large, with low per-barrel transportation costs. Clean tankers, which transport refined products such as gasoline and diesel fuel, are typically smaller vessels (Figure 1). The supply of tanker capacity of each type varies over time. Building new ships requires long lead times, and as ships age they are removed from service. In recent years, growing global oil production and growth in global refining capacity in markets distant from crude sources led to an increase in orders for new vessels in anticipation of an increasing need for tanker transportation. This resulted in several consecutive years of an expanding global tanker fleet, with an estimated 205 ships added in 2015 according to Thomson Reuters (Figure 2). However, oversupplied global markets for crude oil and petroleum products beginning in late 2014 resulted in large global inventory builds. OECD commercial inventories of crude oil and other liquids grew to over the equivalent of 65 days of supply in 2015, and have continued to grow in 2016 (Figure 3). As storage filled in regions that are traditional importers of crude oil or petroleum products, the demand for tankers to import additional supplies fell. Coincident with several years of growth in the global tanker

fleet, this has resulted in some of the lowest tanker rates since the sharp drop in crude oil prices in 2008-09. To date in October, monthly average rates for very large crude carrier (VLCC)size range dirty tankers between the Arabian Gulf and Singapore, an indicator for the overall dirty tanker market, are down 23% from January. Rates for smaller average freight rate assessment (AFRA)-size range dirty tankers on the same route are down 49% from January. Rates for dirty VLCC-size range tankers and AFRA-size range tankers through October have each averaged 36% lower, than the full year 2015 average. Rates for clean tankers are also lower. The average October rate, to date, for a clean long range 1 (LR1)-size range tanker on the Arabian Gulf to Japan route is down 38% from January. The monthly average rate for a smaller medium range (MR)-size range tanker on the same route is down 22% from January (Figure 4). Lower tanker rates are enabling an increase in opportunistic transactions. With lower tanker rates, the price spread needed for economically attractive trade between two markets narrows, making it possible for importers to bring in distant supplies at reduced cost. For exporters, lower tanker rates increase the price competiveness of their supplies in more distant markets. This may explain some of the motor gasoline imports to the U.S. East Coast in 2016 from relatively distant countries such as South Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Japan. Low tanker rates also aid the competitiveness of U.S. crude oil exports. Currently, no U.S. port is capable of loading the larger vessels typically used to transport crude oil, so U.S. crude exporters must use more expensive smaller vessels. However, with lower tanker rates, exporters may be able to load smaller ships at U.S. ports and transfer the cargoes onto larger vessels offshore for transport to final destinations at an attractive per-barrel cost. This may explain some crude oil exports in Customs data to places like the Marshall Islands, a nation where many vessels are registered but are unlikely taking deliveries. Low tanker rates, supported by futures prices in contango (when prices for longer-

term deliveries are priced higher than nearterm deliveries) may incentivize shippers to take longer routes, such as around Cape Agulhas at the southern tip of Africa, rather than via the Suez Canal for a voyage to Europe from the Middle East. Although low tanker rates and high storage utilization reduces the contango spread needed for crude oil and petroleum products to be put into floating storage, current contango spreads

are likely not large enough for floating storage. Going forward, tanker rates should recover as the global market slowly returns to balance. EIA's current Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO) forecasts a global quarterly stock draw in the third quarter of 2017, the first since 2013. Source: www.eia.gov

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FLUOR SUPPLIER DIVERSITY PROGRAM

Connecting for Opportunities Fluor is committed to excellence in supplier diversity. As a global company, Fluor operates across highly diverse markets that are best served by correspondingly diverse resources, including suppliers and subcontractors. Visit us at www.fluorprocurement.com for a list of the products and services that Fluor buys and create your company profile.

AV20160111-003 ADAV133416b.indd 1

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Transportation

High-Speed Train Opens Competition to Design Passenger Stations

By Subcontractors USA News Provider exas Central, the private developer of the Texas bullet train, recently announced its sponsorship of a design competition for architecture students from accredited Texas universities to help produce an inspiring vision for the high-speed train passenger stations. Individual students and multi-disciplinary student teams that are actively enrolled in a Texas college or university-level program in architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning, architectural engineering or transportation were contacted before the fall semester and encouraged to take part in the competition. “Students like these are early adopters, driving demand for travel options like the Texas bullet train. We can’t wait to see the proposals they put together, with a vision for the station of the future,” said Holly Reed, managing director, external affairs, for Texas Central. The private sector-led group is developing Texas’ high-speed railway between North Texas and Houston. Students are now working on their initial design proposals, which are due Oct. 31. Each proposal will include: • A vision statement. • Station concepts, with considerations for programming, urban connectivity, use of local materials, environmental

Winners of the competition will be announced on Nov. 21 for the three different categories: • Bullet Train Station Architecture Design • Urban Design • Sustainable Design

Each of the winning teams will receive $5,000 for their school and $2,000 to be split among team members. They also will be recognized in print and on social media.

ABOUT TEXAS CENTRAL PARTNERS, LLC

sustainability and customer focus. • Maximum of three presentations 24” x 36” posters expressing the students’ vision. • Five to 10 conceptual design drawings. The Texas Central Student Design Competition Committee and its judges will evaluate the students’ entries, based their creativity in vision, technical accuracy, quality of submittal materials and overall presentation. All competition documents are available at www.texascentral.com/stationcompetition. Finalists will be announced Nov. 7,

and the finalist teams then will have two weeks to refine their original proposal and prepare a 20-minute in-person presentation for judges. "We are honored to be working with Texas Central to provide our students with a unique, hands-on opportunity to contribute to a real-world transportation solution, said April Ward, professor of architecture at Prairie View A&M University, one of the participating universities. “Our student teams are excited to submit their designs after having researched and created their proposals from the concepts of sustainability, innovation and biomimicry.”

Texas Central is a private, Texasbased company bringing a transformational project to Texas that advances the economy, respects Texas values and keeps our state on track for future growth. We are employing a market-led approach that is unlike other high-speed train projects because we are backed by private investors, not public funds. Texas Central is developing a new highspeed passenger rail system that will connect North Texas, the Brazos Valley and Houston using a proven, world-class technology that will provide a travel time of less than 90 minutes. For more information, please visit www.texascentral.com. Source: www.texascentral.com

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Engineering

ing construction. With declining natural A Career in resources available, Geological engineers are in high demand. Geological Engiwork in the private sector or govENGINEERING neers ernmental agencies.

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

ngineering is a broad term that covers a wide range of applications and industries. Combining mathematics, science and technology, engineers produce creative solutions to real world problems. As a result there are many different types of engineering degrees available. In the past, engineering could be divided into four major branches: Mechanical, Chemical, Civil and Electrical, with sub branches of each discipline. Today however, the number of engineering degrees available have increased dramatically. There are now six major branches of engineering: Mechanical, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Management, and Geotechnical, and literally hundreds of different subcategories of engineering under each branch.

Below are some of the types of engineering degrees: Geological Engineers combine engineering and research skills for mining and construction projects. Construction firms hire Geological engineers. They assess ground conditions and other natural hazards (earthquakes, etc.) before start-

An Electrical Engineering Degree involves the study of energy. Energy is available in various forms such as electrical, hydro and natural sources such as wind and solar energy. An Electrical Engineer develops technologies to assist with the practical application of such energies. Electrical Engineers design components for electronic equipment, communications systems, power grids, automobiles, and more. A blend of mechanical engineering and electronics engineering, Mechatronics, or Mechatronics Engineering, is an emerging area for hybrid engineers. Nearly all mechanical equipment in this day and age is operated with a mix of electronics and software, all based on computers and technology. Mechatronics engineers help bridge that gap, and have intrinsic knowledge of electrical, electronics, and mechanical engineering. Some more experienced Mechatronics Engineers also have computer, hardware, and software engineering experience as well. Paper Engineering is a specialization of chemical engineering and involves understanding the processes involved (chemical and mechanical) of paper production. This type of degree involves both research based work and practical assessment which is typically lab work.

Students learn the principles behind molecular science, wood pulping and fluid mechanics to name just a few. Photons are a specific type of light. Photonics Engineering concerns itself with the exploration of light. this includes generation of light, processing of light signals, amplification of light and modulation. Industries that utilise this kind of technology include Telecommunications (optical signal processing and communication), Medical, Manufacturing, Aviation and computing to name just a few. Over the course of the next decade opportunities for qualified Photonics Engineers is expected to increase significantly.

Nano essentially refers to a billionth e.g. one nanometer is 1 billionth of a meter or between 2 and 20 atoms in length. Nanotechnology is the study of extremely small elements such as molecules and single atoms and the production of extremely small devices. Nanotechnology is expected to be as important to us as the industrial revolution over time as it has the potential to help solve some of the world’s major problems including health and environmental concerns. Nanotechnology is a very specialised discipline that can be applied to a very broad range of industries and fields. Source: typesofengineeringdegrees.org

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Engineering

National Society of Professional Engineers Why Get Licensed?

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

icensure is the mark of a professional. It's a standard recognized by employers and their clients, by governments and by the public as an assurance of dedication, skill and quality. There are many powerful reasons both professional and personal for earning and maintaining a PE license. Only a licensed engineer, for instance, may prepare, sign, seal and submit engineering plans and drawings to a public authority for approval, or to seal engineering work for public and private clients. For consulting engineers and private practitioners, licensure is a virtual necessity. In fact, it is a legal requirement for those who are in responsible charge of work, be they principals or employees. More and more with each passing day, government agencies, educational institutions and private industries are requiring that they hire and contract only with licensed professional engineers. This is a trend that is almost certain to continue in the future. Today, no matter what career path a professional engineer chooses, a successful, ongoing career virtually requires PE licensure.

Just as the CPA defines the accountant, and a law license defines the lawyer, the PE license tells the public that you have mastered the critical elements of your profession. It demonstrates your commitment to the highest standards of engineering practice. It's also proof of your ability to offer engineering services directly to the public - something only a licensed PE can do. The PE after your name is an advantage that will open doors for the rest of your life.

Five Reasons to Get Licensed 1. Prestige: PEs are respected by the public and are seen in the same light as licensed professionals in other fields. PEs are also held in high esteem by their peers within the engineering community, who see the PE as part of an elite group. 2. Career Development: Employers are impressed with engineers who have their PE license. Licensure not only enhances your stature, it shows commitment to the profession and demonstrates heightened leadership and management skills. Licensure is also a necessity for rising to increased levels of authority and responsibility. 3. Authority: Only PEs can sign and seal engineering drawings; and only PEs

can be in responsible charge of a firm in private practice or serve as a fully qualified expert witness. Also, many government agencies and educational institutions are emphasizing licensure among their engineers as well. 4. Flexibility: Having a PE license opens up your career options. You can become a specialist, or establish your own business. It also protects you during industry downsizing or outsourcing.

The PE license allows you to go as far as your initiative and talent will take you. 5. Money: Studies have shown that most PEs earn higher pay throughout their business careers. Having your PE allows expanded opportunities beyond a company structure - as an independent consultant for example. Source: National Society of Professional Engineers

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Houston Minority Supplier Development Council Emerging 10 Awards Luncheon

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Houston Minority Supplier Development Council EXPO

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Job Alert: Diesel Technician and Truck Driver Shortage Countrywide

By Subcontractors USA News Provider

s the transportation industry continues to grow and baby boomers continue to retire, the need for trained diesel mechanics and truck drivers has never been greater. Job openings span the United States, and many sit open while businesses feel the stress of a massive talent shortage. For people seeking job security in a hands-on field, this could be the opportunity they've been waiting for. Whether you prefer the beauty of the open road or the puzzle of diagnosing complex mechanical equipment, each day offers a satisfying challenge, with the income potential to match.

Diesel technicians Employment of diesel service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow 12 percent by 2024, faster than the average for all occupations, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. The experts at Penske Truck Leasing and Penske Logistics say the growth demand is much higher in many parts of the country. As one of the largest transportation companies in North America, Penske Truck Leasing has the responsibility of servicing a 241,400-piece equipment fleet on behalf of its customers. While an 8,000-person maintenance

workforce (representing nearly a third of its global headcount) seems like enough associates to keep trucks of all shapes and sizes running well and on-time, Penske — much like the rest of the industry — needs more commercial truck mechanics.

systems and problem-solve electronic malfunctions. This aligns well with the mindset of the next generation of technicians who grew up with smartphones and social networks.

How to enter these in-demand fields

Truck drivers "Nearly 70 percent of all the freight tonnage moved in the U.S. goes on trucks," notes the American Trucking Associations (ATA) website www.trucking.org. "Without the industry and our truck drivers, the economy would come to a standstill. To move 9.2 billion tons of freight annually requires nearly 3 million heavy-duty Class 8 trucks and over 3 million truck drivers." The trucking industry has a massive shortage of drivers that continues to grow as qualified drivers age and retire. ATA estimates the current shortage at roughly 25,000. Industry insiders fear that number will grow in the coming years. Trained drivers ready to hit the road are in high demand. Employers highly value drivers with clean motor vehicle records who place an emphasis on safety.

Correcting transportation employment misconceptions There are many misconceptions about being a truck driver and diesel mechan-

ic. In order to encourage more people to consider these careers, it's important to get the facts. For example, being a truck driver doesn't necessarily mean you're on the road for weeks on end. There are many opportunities if you prefer to stay close to home. About 80 percent of Penske Logistics’ 4,400 truck drivers return home every evening thanks to flexible shifts and delivery schedules. Another common misconception is that being a diesel engine technician means wrenching on vehicles all day. In reality, due to the electronic complexity of today's diesel vehicles, mechanics must be able to troubleshoot computer

Post-secondary training in diesel engine repair or commercial truck driving will put you in high demand. Technical colleges from coast-to-coast offer quality degree programs. Remember, just because a student graduates from a particular school doesn’t mean he or she needs to remain in that area. Industry opportunities abound across the United States. What are some of the way to become a truck driver? Community colleges and truck driver schools offer the needed training. For military veterans who operated heavy duty vehicles in the armed forces, there is a path to convert that experience into a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in the United States. “We have a major need for entrylevel technicians and truck drivers,” says Ron Schwartz, director of staffing services at Penske’s Reading, Pennsylvania, headquarters. To learn more about diesel mechanic and truck driving opportunities across North America, visit Penske’s career website. – BPT

Building

HOUSTON It’s official! Harris County and the City of Houston have broken ground on the

Joint Processing Center Experienced builders with deep local roots, Clark/Horizon is proud to partner with city and county agencies, and architect PGAL, to deliver this model social infrastructure project. Hats off to Harris County and the City of Houston for bringing this facility to life!

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GIVING

Y U MORE WAYS TO SHINE

DIvErSE SuPPLIErS aDD CrEaTIvITy, InnovaTIon anD vaLuE To our buSInESS Strong working relationships and forward-thinking approaches are important in our business. That’s why we count on diverse business partners to bring unique perspectives, and the desire to go the extra mile to provide value for our customers. It’s also good for our local communities when diverse suppliers have an opportunity to compete for our business. Learn why mutually beneficial relationships with diverse suppliers are important to CenterPoint Energy. Visit CenterPointEnergy.com/SupplierDiversity

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BSCI, Inc.

Corporate Office: 1802 Calumet Houston, Texas77004 Tel. 713.529.4949 Fax. 713.529.4040 Affiliate Offices: Washington D.C. | Dallas San Antonio

Services & Capabilities

Contract Compliance • Risk Management • Constructability Review • Quality Assurance • Document Control

Pre-qualification of Professional Services • Value Engineering • Cost Estimation • LEED™ Evaluation

Stakeholder Communication • Progress Reports • Information Management

Project Design Oversight • Pre-design Conceptualization

Project Management • Project Controls • Quality Assurance • Project Close-out

Construction Program Management • Owner Representation • Budget and Cost Control • Scheduled Analysis

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w w w. t u r n e rc o n s t r u c t i o n . c o m

Building the Future As one of the nation’s largest builders, Turner is dedicated to providing avenues of opportunity for Minority and Woman-Owned Businesses in Houston to achieve entrepreneurial success. Our commitment to social responsibility and fair play is not just on paper; it is ingrained in our corporate culture. We are devoted to making contributions that not only strengthen the local economy, but also reflect the demographics of the community at large. Turner is proud to celebrate our 20th year of The Turner School of Construction Management in partnership with The City of Houston, Office of Business Opportunity. We remain steadfast in our commitment to grow capacity in Small, Minority and Women owned enterprises in the

communities where we work.