GDI
Commercial Drywall, Inc.
Craftsman
Vot.2 No. 12
October 1981
Battle almost over
Shall W@®dl©ir@@k pr®|set dlfrawomig to d®as One of the most significant projects for CDI this year has been Shell Woodcreek. Beyond the fact that it was one of the largest undertakings to be completed in 1981, it posed challenges throughout its duration. And, one of the major reasons for its significance is that it was a total team effort on a large scale with carpenters, finishers and painters seeing a lot of tough action. Shell Woodcreek is a sprawling seven building complex in West Houston. That work was spread over a large area and in several buildings placed even a greater burden on the overall production effort. Roger Warman headed the carpenters’ activities and served as the jobsite supervisor. Ken O’Brien handled the finishing reigns while the painting operation required Ben Boatright and later Dub Williams. From the very start, it was evident that this would be no easy project. The layout of the building was nothing short of tough due to bad prints. And, numerous changes which ultimately numbered almost 70 played havoc on production. But, it was more than this complicating things for Roger and every CDI craftsmen there. The job was also plagued by five strikes — a painters’ strike, an operators’ strike, a plumbers’ strike, and two electrical strikes. And, one of the year's worst storms damaged completed or partially completed areas. Actually, says Roger, “it seemed like everything was conspiring against - »’ us. Carpenters had things rough because of bad prints and contract changes. Finishers had it bad because storm damage and changes created extra joints and reduced
quality. And, the painters had to contend with a sequence which called for painting to be done after the doors were hung and carpet laid. Where does one find a silver lining in such a dark cloud? Director of construction Hoagy Cannon summed it up with the remark “There's always going to be good jobs and tough ones. To have either one you have to have ’em both sooner or later." One shouldn't take this as an attitude of indifference. Rather, it should reflect the fact that CDI can be counted on to accept the challenge of any kind of project — tough or easy. CDI’s craftsmen are some of the best in the business and this too is proven on projects like Shell Woodcreek. The bulk of the project is behind the company now. Several painters continue on the exterior, but most of the battle has been fought. And, as it does wind down it is clear that the caliber of personnel that make up CDI, that allows the company to take on such projects, is unparalleled, anywhere.
An interior shot of one of the Shell Woodcreek buildings fails to show the complexity of completing this project.
(Editors note: The Craftsman would like to take this opportunity to thank every craftsman associated with Shell Woodcreek for the fine effort and team spirit.)
Bmside • One more reason to be proud ° Superintendents — an elite group • CDI Systems making mark on Dallas • Estimator Gilligan in spotlight