WEST KENTUCKY COMMUNITY & TECHNICAL COLLEGE NAVIGATING FUTURES WITH THE STUDENT IN FULL VIEW Also in this issue BROOKENS CONSTRUCTION • POOL & HOT TUB ALLIANCE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06 | JUN 2024 Commercial Drywall Contractors Inc. Expert Drywall solutions Await Pg. 67 Dr. Anton Reece, President
WWW. BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE .COM Email for all inquiries: info@businessviewmagazine.com 2422 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 820 Sanibel FL, 33957 239.220.5554 CONTACT US TITLE SPONSORS GREAT NEWS! Business View Publishing was named to the 2020 Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies! Read the press release Editor in Chief Karen Surca Research Directors Paul Payne Brendan McElroy Thomas Hiley Chad Loveless Jessica Zaneis Mike Luchetta Ali Ahmed Jillian Hicks Javier Robles Contributing Writers Andrew Macfarlane Michelle Mahoney Brett Anningson Caroline Verner-Hiley Al Krulick Ian Gyan Dan Marcharia Director of Production Jared Ali Director of Administration Michelle Siewah Director of Marketing Nora Saliken Digital Strategist Jon Bartlow Art Director Renée Yearwood Managing Director Alexander Wynne-Jones COO Matthew Mitchell Executive Publisher / CEO Marcus VandenBrink 1 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
EDITOR’S NOTES The unofficial start of summer has arrived. If you are like me, you are probably having a hard time wrapping your head around how fast the last few months have flown by. Many may welcome the hot and hazy days of summer and are looking to relax. Around the offices of Business View Publishing, we are also certainly feeling the excitement of summer. Although many are looking forward to winding down over the summer months, the cities, organizations, school districts, and airports that we were fortunate to profile are doing the exact opposite. All are revving up to welcome continued growth and new initiatives over the summer ahead. We covered them all with the same enthusiasm we put into every issue of our publications. Business View is proud to continue with our sectorfocus series profiling leading school districts across North America. Education remains the cornerstone to future success and with a new economy comes a shift in curriculum for many school districts across the US and Canada. Prioritizing technology training and focusing on work and co-op experiences for their students, school districts are successfully pivoting to meet the needs of jobs and careers of the future. We sat down with school officials from Peel District School Board, Fenton Area Public Schools, Lanier County School District, Klamath County Schools to Kearney Public Schools to discuss core values, career readiness, and educational initiatives that are setting our students up for success. A sunny June forecast is also predicted for the municipalities we covered for our June issue. We sat down with city officials from Buffalo, Minnesota, Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal, Ontario, Great Bend, Kansas, to Tamaqua, Pennsylvania among other fast-growing municipalities. Commercial growth coupled with residential growth has propelled these municipalities into representing some of the fastestgrowing regions across North America as they continue to implement core infrastructure initiatives for their residents. Company profiles also filled the pages of our June issue as we went the extra mile to highlight winning strategies as these organizations adapt to a more favorable economic climate. We bring you features with Brookens Construction, Claffey Pools, Fortis Corporation, and Fortis Design Build among other top-tier organizations covering a cross-section of business sectors. As we continue to bring you the very best sector and industry-focused features, we hope that you have a little extra time to get outside to read them and welcome the warm spring weather at your doorstep. Karen Surca Editor in Chief Dear Readers, 2 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
33 V O L U M E 1 1 , I S S U E 0 6 CONSTRUCTION 19 AISI - AMERICAN STEEL Shaping a Greener, Competitive Industry 25 WISCONSIN UNDERGROUND CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION The Voice of the Industry 33 BROOKENS CONSTRUCTION Constructing the Right Solutions that Cover the Competition 43 POOL & HOT TUB ALLIANCE The Voice of an Enterprise 53 CLAFFEY POOLS Builders of a New Industry Standard 63 SKYLER DESIGN BUILD Building on a Great Future Design COVER WEST KENTUCKY COMMUNITY & TECHNICAL COLLEGE 2 EDITOR’S NOTES 7 OPENING LINES BROOKENS CONSTRUCTION CLAFFEY POOLS 53 3 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
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EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTION PROGRAMS 127 INDUSTRIAL RESOURCES, INC. Iron-Clad Leaders of Welding and Steel Fabrication ENERGY & INDUSTRY 75 FORTIS CORPORATION A Canadian success story with a global focus EDUCATION 87 HUDSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE Innovating Education for Diverse Futures 105 LAKE-SUMTER STATE COLLEGE Academic Road to Success 115 WEST KENTUCKY COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE Navigating Futures with the Student in Full View V O L U M E 1 1 , I S S U E 0 6 FORTIS CORPORATION HUDSON COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE 75 87 5 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
BUSINESS VIEW CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL View these features in our newest magazine The articles in this publication are for information purposes only. Business View Publishing assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed, or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The information contained about each individual or organization has been provided by such individual or organization without verification by us. The opinion expressed in each article is that of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Business View Publishing. AVIATION VIEW View these features in our newest magazine 139 HAZLETON, PA/HAZLETON REGIONAL AIRPORT Soaring to New Heights in Service and Growth 153 HICKORY REGIONAL AIRPORT The Sky’s the Limit in western North Carolina 163 MINERAL WELLS REGIONAL AIRPORT A Strategic Aviation Hub Poised for Growth 173 NORTHEAST PHILADELPHIA AIRPORT Soaring to New Heights CITY VIEW NORTH DAKOTA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE BUFFALO, MN EDWARDSBURGH / CARDINAL, ON ELIZABETHTOWN-KITLEY, ON PORT HOPE, ON GREAT BEND, KS PARK CITY, KS HAZLETON, PA / HAZLETON REGIONAL AIRPORT TALLASSEE, AL TAMAQUA, PA WICKENBURG, AZ DISTRICT HEIGHTS, MD ZUMBROTA, MN EDUCATION FENTON AREA PUBLIC SCHOOLS HURON-SUPERIOR CDSB KEARNEY PUBLIC SCHOOLS KLAMATH COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT LANIER COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT PEEL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD SUPERIOR-GREENSTONE DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD YORKTOWN COMMUNITY SCHOOLS HICKORY REGIONAL AIRPORT 153 6 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
GE AEROSPACE DEVELOPING HYBRIDELECTRIC ENGINE WITH NA Source- https://www.wearefinn.com, Editor News, First Published June 19th, 2024 GE Aerospace is developing a hybrid-electric demonstrator engine with NASA, modifying a Passport powerplant to embed electric motors/ generators and supplement power during different phases of operation, with ongoing evaluations informing an upcoming ground test. Through modifying the high-bypass commercial turbofan with hybrid-electric components, NASA’s Hybrid Thermally Efficient Core (HyTEC) project hopes to advance electric aircraft engine technology; optimizing performance by “creating a system that can work with or without energy storage like batteries,” explains GE. This could help accelerate the introduction of hybrid electric technologies for commercial aviation before energy storage solutions are fully mature. The modification of the Passport engine is one of several GE initiatives underway and is being developed as part of the CFM International Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engines (RISE) programme, a collaboration between GE O p e n i n g L i n e s 7 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
“Our collaborations with industry partners like GE Aerospace are paving the way for US leadership in hybrid electric commercial transport aircraft,” said Anthony Nerone, HyTEC project manager, NASA’s Glenn research centre. Noting that single-aisle aircraft are the biggest contributors to aviation carbon emissions, he added: “That’s why we’re focusing on key technologies that will enable next generation single-aisle aircraft with much greater efficiency and reduced emissions than the other fleet”. Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines. With initial component-level testing and an initial baseline test now complete, the results are now being used to evaluate and update models in preparation for a ground test. Another NASA collaboration involves GE maturing an integrated,megawatt-class hybrid-electric propulsion system as part of the Electrified Powertrain Flight Demonstration (EPFD) programme, with the system scheduled to perform ground and flight tests aboard a modified Saab 340B test-bed this decade. 8 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
OPENING L INES Source- https://www.wearefinn.com, Howard Hardee, First Published June 24th, 2024 US electric propulsion developer Magnix is rolling out a new line of high-performance batteries known as Samson, promising “industry-leading energy density” to support the fledgling electric aviation industry. The Everett, Washington-based company said on 24 June that the first iteration of its Samson battery line – the Samson300 – will deliver 300Wh/kg and a cycle life of 1,000 “full-depth discharges to reduce operating costs”. The product line represents a ”breakthrough for Magnix and electric aviation”, says Ben Loxton, vice-president of energy storage systems and the NASA Electric Powertrain Flight Demonstration programme at Magnix. “With unrivaled energy density, cycle life and safety features, Magnix’s Samson batteries will help to unlock the tremendous potential of electric flight – enabling many eVTOLs and electric programmes on the edge of viability to become viable.” Magnix says its Samson300 battery is “designed for certification” under civil aviation regulations Magnix, which is developing electric propulsion systems for a variety of light aircraft – including electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles – says that pairing Samson batteries with its electric motors “provides customers with a fully optimized and integrated powertrain for aerospace”. MAGNIX INTRODUCES ‘BREAKTHROUGH’ SAMSON BATTERY LINE FOR ELECTRIC AIRCRAFT 9 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
“The roadmap to an energy density of 400Wh/kg or more is looking very promising,” he says. In April, Canadian seaplane operator Harbour Air signalled intention to purchase 50 electric propulsion systems from Magnix, a move supporting its goal of creating a fleet of all-electric De Havilland Canada aircraft. Magnix supports development of Eviation’s allelectric Alice commuter aircraft, which is currently powered by twin 700kW Magni650 motors. The Magni650 electric propulsion unit has also been applied to Universal Hydrogen’s modified De Havilland Canada Dash 8-300 demonstrator. Increasing the energy density of batteries has been a high priority for the electric aviation sector, with ranges and payloads limited by currently available technology. Magnix’s battery line is intended to maximize energy density for aviation and other highperformance applications. It is also designed for fast turnaround times, ”with active on-ground cooling during charging, and the option for passive cooling in flight, minimizing weight and complexity in the aircraft”. The company claims the battery’s modular architecture will allow it to support larger aircraft. Reed Macdonald, appointed chief executive of Magnix last month, adds that the Samson300 is “just the beginning”. 10 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
Source- https://www.americancityandcounty.com/, Timothy Menard, First Published June 24, 2024 In recent years, pedestrian safety has become a growing issue in urban planning and traffic management. Alarmingly, the number of traffic-related incidents and fatalities involving pedestrians has increased rapidly, raising significant concerns among policymakers, city planners and the general public. According to a report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian deaths in the United States dropped by 4% in the first half of 2023, but remain 19% higher than in 2019 before the pandemic began, and fatalities have risen a staggering 58% between the first half of 2013 and 2023. It’s time city planners and officials took a closer look at the reasons behind the worsening pedestrian safety, the dangers at intersections, and how artificial intelligence (AI) transit prioritization systems can play a crucial role in improving safety at these critical junctures. THE DETERIORATION OF PEDESTRIAN SAFETY One of the primary reasons for the increase in pedestrian deaths is the rise in vehicle miles traveled (VMT). As more people drive, the likelihood of pedestrian-vehicle interactions increases, leading to a higher number of accidents. Another contributing factor is distracted driving while sitting in traffic. The ubiquity of smartphones and in-car entertainment systems has led to a surge in distracted driving incidents. Drivers who are stuck in traffic are increasingly texting, browsing social media, looking at incar infotainment systems or using navigation apps, and are less likely to notice pedestrians, leading to more accidents. URBAN SPRAWL & TAKING A CITIZEN APPROACH IN URBAN DESIGN Urban sprawl and inadequate pedestrian infrastructure also play significant roles. Many cities were designed with a focus on vehicle traffic rather than pedestrian movement. As a result, sidewalks, crosswalks and pedestrian signals are often inadequate or simply configured. Intersections are particularly hazardous for pedestrians. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 40% of pedestrian fatalities occur at intersections. Intersections today are complex environments where multiple streams of traffic converge. Pedestrians must navigate vehicles turning left or right, often against the light, while also contending with cyclists and other pedestrians. This complexity increases the likelihood of accidents. REASONS FOR INCREASED TRAFFICRELATED INCIDENTS The increase in traffic-related incidents involving pedestrians can be attributed to several societal and technological changes. Urbanization, while generally positive for economic growth and social vibrancy, has brought about denser traffic conditions. Cities are seeing more cars on the road and more people walking, creating additional opportunities for conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles. City planners and elected officials are not taking pedestrians and citizens into account in their planning THE GROWING CRISIS OF PEDESTRIAN SAFETY: A CALL FOR PREDICTIVE & PRESCRIPTIVE AI-DRIVEN SOLUTIONS OPENING L INES 11 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
efforts. In the development of today’s truly smart cities, the infrastructure is at the core of all things pedestrian. This is being seen up and down the West coast of the U.S., in cities like Seattle; Portland, Ore.; and San Jose, Calif., where officials are reshaping busy corridor strategies leveraging AI and data technology to move urban transit, pedestrians, bikers, commuters, and first responder vehicles in a more concerted effort. These reshaped urban transit strategies, centered on prescriptive efforts in reducing congestion, have resulted in less stop-and-go traffic, where pedestrians can be more in tune where they co-exist better with traffic systems. The design of modern vehicles also plays a role. Today’s cars are equipped with numerous in-dash technologies that,while convenient, can also be distracting. Infotainment systems, navigation aids, and even advanced driver assistance systems can divert attention away from the road. Furthermore, larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks, which are more popular today than ever, pose a greater threat to pedestrians due to their size and weight. As one example, Tesla’s Cybertruck is measured at 6,843 pounds, and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 2.6 seconds. For comparison, the 2023 Ford F-150 starts at slightly more than 4,000 pounds and can go from 0-60 mph in about 5.5 seconds. The Cybertruck’s extreme acceleration capabilities, combined with its weight, means that drivers will have less time to react to pedestrians, and collisions with them will be deadlier. THE ROLE OF AI IN ENHANCING PEDESTRIAN SAFETY AT INTERSECTIONS AI offers promising solutions to improve pedestrian safety at intersections. AI transit prioritization systems can enhance the management of traffic flow, reduce accidents, and save lives. Here’s how: • Adaptive traffic signals: AI-driven adaptive traffic signals can adjust signal timing based on real-time traffic conditions and pedestrian activity. Traditional traffic signals operate on fixed schedules that do not account for variations in traffic flow or pedestrian presence. AI systems can analyze data from cameras, sensors, and other inputs to dynamically adjust signal timings, ensuring pedestrians have sufficient time to cross safely. This will result in resetting roads not just to the demands of vehicles and constantly changing vehicle traffic patterns, but also resetting to pedestrian and bicyclist demands. Imagine a day when walkers and runners can enjoy a series of green lights, in addition to cars and buses. • Predictive analytics: AI can use historical data and real-time inputs to predict potential pedestrian-vehicle conflicts. By identifying patterns and high-risk times or conditions, city planners and traffic managers can implement targeted measures to enhance safety. For instance, predictive models can inform the placement of additional signage, speed bumps or pedestrian crossings in areas with high pedestrian traffic. • Enhanced data collection and analysis: AI can improve the collection and analysis of data related to pedestrian safety. By continuously monitoring traffic patterns, pedestrian movements and accident data, AI systems can provide valuable insights for improving intersection design and traffic management strategies.This data-driven approach enables more informed decisionmaking and better resource allocation. As we continue to embrace technological advancements, it is imperative that city planners, policymakers, and technology developers collaborate to implement AI-driven solutions that are more predictive and prescriptive. The future of pedestrian safety depends on our ability to leverage these innovations to create smarter, safer and more efficient urban environments. 12 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
OPENING L INES UNDERSTAND THE NUANCES OF NEW TECHNOLOGY According to a 2024 HR Trends report by NEOGOV released earlier this year, “operational efficiency is important for any organization, but especially for government agencies struggling with staffing shortages and high turnover. The majority of agencies say their operational efficiency, which is defined as the ability to deliver high-quality service at scale with few resources, is good (46 percent), and even excellent (10 percent). To improve these operational inefficiencies, agencies are turning to technology.” AI is a good example of a technology that can be used to improve efficiencies, yet it also highlights why policy and systematic policy management is necessary. As a relatively new and rapidly evolving technology it is a welcome tool, especially when it comes to the HR function. It is clear that there are many advantages of AI, however for local governments, it is crucial to understand that there are also risks to consider. Take ChatGPT. It is now one of the most widely used AI tools, according to Forbes. And with good reason. It has proven to be incredibly effective for many individuals and organizations, streamlining many otherwise tedious and HOWONE CITY IS PROACTIVELYMANAGING AI USE—AND WHAT LOCAL GOVERNMENTS CAN LEARN FROM IT Source- https://www.americancityandcounty.com/, Tod Hurley, First Published April 08, 2024 AI (artificial intelligence) had a big year last year. A topic once reserved for tech circles, it became a frequent news headline and a regular dinner table conversation piece. Governments across the world began shaping policies for AI. In the U.S., President Joe Biden enacted his executive order in October, which created several initiatives to promote transparency, safety and security. While this is likely just the beginning of more regulation to come, presently, local government agencies are more or less faced with creating their own nuanced approaches to AI policy. While AI’s uses and implications are just being figured out, for local governments AI could create security issues because AI search becomes public, which can put sensitive information at risk (security protocols, etc.). And while some municipalities have banned AI outright for this reason, the city of Grove City, Ohio, is taking a different approach. They are creating a model for how other local governments can create and share an AI policy for safe and appropriate use. LAY THE GROUNDWORK Grove City’s approach is grounded in proactive governance and risk mitigation. However, before creating an AI policy, the city first took a hard look at its policy management practices. At a high level, they wanted to ensure that employees had a clear understanding of acceptable conduct and performance from day one of their career journey. Upon review, the city realized it lacked formal policies for several aspects of employee conduct and performance. As a result, the city adopted a policy management system already utilized and proven by the Grove City Police Department, to lay the foundation, transfer its existing policies into the cloud, then establish new policies and add them into the mix, helping them to accomplish a more formalized sense of compliance and communication. With this simple move, Grove City immediately added an enhanced layer of professionalism to its HR processes.When employees start their career at the city, they now have clear expectations and accountability for a wide range of policies, from the appropriate use of assets to the city’s drone policy. Employees acknowledge and sign off on these policies as well, so when the city must undergo an audit, it has a direct record of signatures to establish compliance. Additionally, and perhaps most importantly, when a policy is updated or a new policy created to adapt to an evolving technology, Grove City has a simple, straightforward way to communicate with employees in real-time and ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of what the policy means for them. 13 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
CREATE A POLICY THAT WORKS In Grove City, the information systems department took all of this into consideration and championed the development of a policy to ensure the city could embrace the operational efficiencies that come with AI, while ensuring its sensitive data remained protected. First, the city took a detailed look at its data and classified it accordingly. Generally, it fell into four classification levels: public data, internal data, confidential data and restricted data. The city then determined that AI fit into the appropriate use policy and updated that policy with the core consideration that all uses must be approved by the information systems department. Employees must sign off on this policy at the time of hire, and then on an annual basis. When considering a request to useAI,the information systems team reviews what classification of data a department is using and if it will put the city’s data at risk. For example, any information that would need to be redacted upon reporting, i.e. personal identifiable information (PII) or victim information would not be approved for AI use. Additionally, Grove City’s information systems department manages IT for five township fire departments in the city, so in that case healthcare considerations come into the equation. For example, patient information and HIPAA considerations. While the above scenarios are mostly a common sense take on what would qualify as sensitive information, there are often scenarios that are more nuanced. For example, sharing information about the city’s infrastructure, and the potential for cybersecurity risk.According to Forbes,“global cybercrime damage costs are expected to grow by 15 percent per year over the next two years, reaching $10.5 trillion USD annually by 2025.” This is a crucial consideration. Water, sanitary, stormwater, communication, IT infrastructure in the state of Ohio is protected infrastructure and should not be disclosed as they can put a municipality at high cybersecurity risk. AN EVOLVING TECHNOLOGY LANDSCAPE Whether local governments decide to enact a formal policy or more informal guidelines, it is important that they recognize that AI is a growing force in our technology landscape—one that must be given careful consideration. The efforts in Grove City serve as a model for local governments grappling with the complexity of AI governance. As the nature of AI changes, and experts learn more about its many pros and cons, the policies can and will shift as well. Having a strong framework in place will help adapt to an ever-changing technology environment to continue to ensure the safety and security of employees, citizens, and municipalities as a whole—now and in the future. time-consuming tasks. But using a tool like ChatGPT comes with inherent risk. For example, hypothetically, if Grove City’s HR team was interested in changing the city’s dress code, it could easily ask the free-to-use AI ChatBot, ChatGPT, to write a policy that explains that a blue polo is now required. However, what many don’t realize is that the data fed into ChatGPT is now no longer proprietary; it is now in the public domain. This essentially means that this data could be used by others outside of the organization, and potentially in ways that were not intended. In this hypothetical example, the data is not sensitive, therefore risk is low. However, local governments deal with a large amount of sensitive information that should not be shared publicly. This is where the right policy comes into play. According to the same HR Trends report referenced earlier, a whopping 78 percent of government agencies do not have documented policies or procedures surrounding AI, even though it is already being used to help agencies automate routine tasks, develop data-driven policies, and improve service delivery. 14 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
OPENING L INES CITIES AND COUNTIES EXPAND SKILLS OF THEIR TECHNOLOGY TEAMS TO MEET TODAY’S CYBER-THREATS Source- https://www.americancityandcounty.com/, Micheal Keating, First Published 14 March, 2024 Government IT operations are vulnerable. More than a third of IT leaders in state and local governments say their number one challenge heading into 2024 is the possibility of a data breach as a result of inadequate staffing. These findings are from a recent survey from Ensono, a technology consulting and managed service provider. Cities and counties need a variety of skills on their techbuying and IT maintenance teams, says Dean Johnson, senior executive government advisor at Ensono. Johnson previously worked for more than two decades managing IT initiatives for the Georgia state government. His view: Cybersecurity experts are essential for safeguarding sensitive public sector data and are needed more than ever in local government workforces. Johnson says local governments face several key challenges when they try to recruit, train and retain IT staffers. He says they “struggle to attract and retain qualified candidates due to comparatively lower salaries offered in the public sector as opposed to the private industry.” He points to other challenges: • Inadequate training programs for existing staff members in government can hinder their ability to keep up with evolving technologies. This helps contribute to a skills gap. • Problems with recruitment and retention of government workers further compound the issue of maintaining an adequate workforce. • Jurisdictions lack a comprehensive strategy to address these concerns and ensure a skilled and motivated IT workforce in local government. They need a complete strategy to maintain appropriate staff counts to meet growing workloads. Johnson says one way to meet these challenges is to develop a hybrid workforce leveraging public-private 15 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
S partnerships with managed service providers. He adds: “With our Flex Engineering capabilities, Ensono can tailor a solution to address many of the skill gaps found within local government.” Johnson says there are tools that cities and counties can use to recruit experienced ITmaintenance staffers.“Local governments can leverage their existing staff members’ vast network of the skilled IT workforce they already know. They can use a variety of outreach techniques (email, LinkedIn, phone calls, texts, etc.) that your staffers regularly use to stay in touch with their peers and contacts throughout the industry.” His conclusion: “Referrals from existing staff are one the most effective ways to recruit, especially when recruiting in the public sector space, given the unique nature of many of these positions.” Technology procurement in local governments demands a variety of skills, Johnson believes. He lists some of the key players who belong on the tech-buying team: • The chief information officer (CIO) provides strategic direction, aligning technology initiatives with organizational goals. • An IT project manager oversees project implementation, ensuring effective resource allocation. • Cloud ERP specialists facilitate the transition to cloud-based systems, enhancing efficiency. • AI and Internet of Things (IoT) specialists contribute innovative solutions. • Cryptocurrency and e-procurement specialists can help governments navigate evolving trends. • Other skilled personnel, including database administrators, IT support professionals, data analysts and network administrators can help the public sector ensure day-to-day operations, data management, informed decision-making, and infrastructure maintenance are well-addressed. The Ensono executive offers this final opinion on team building: “This diverse team composition reflects a holistic strategy, vital for successful and forward-thinking tech-buying decisions in local government settings.” Johnson says digital transformation in organizations (including governments) involves the mapping of the technology being used to the business functions that the organization performs. “Public sector employees at large will need to have the skill to map the relevant data and technology resources to the business functions they serve in government. These staffers will need to work out what information is consumed and then define how it’s delivered back to agencies and the public that uses it.”He adds that governments can assess their current workers who understand the business side of government. Those workers, he explains, can be trained to work as business analysts, data architects, and program managers. Johnson points to one procurement tool that can offer potential value: “Cooperative purchasing agreements can indeed be extremely instrumental in helping cities and counties secure the necessary IT support services for their jurisdictions. By collaborating with other entities, local governments can benefit from economies of scale, negotiating better rates, and accessing a broader range of expertise. This approach fosters cost-effectiveness, enhances procurement efficiency, and allows for shared resources, enabling municipalities to navigate the complexities of IT support services more effectively.” 16 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
construction 17 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
AISI - AMERICANSTEEL SHAPING A GREENER, COMPETITIVE INDUSTRY WISCONSINUNDERGROUND CONTRACTORSASSOCIATION THE VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY BROOKENSCONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTING THE RIGHT SOLUTIONS THAT COVER THE COMPETITION CLAFFEYPOOLS BUILDERS OF A NEW INDUSTRYSTANDARD POOL&HOTTUBALLIANCE THE VOICE OF AN ENTERPRISE SKYLERDESIGNBUILD BUILDING ON A GREAT FUTURE DESIGN 18 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
AISI - AMERICAN STEEL AT A GLANCE AMERICAN IRON AND STEEL INSTITUTE (AISI) WHAT: The American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) is a trade association representing North American steel producers. Its focus is on promoting the sustainable development and use of steel, advocating for fair trade practices, and supporting the industry’s technological advancements. WHERE: Headquarters, Washington, DC WEBSITE: www.steel.org SHAPINGA GREENER, COMPETITIVE INDUSTRY 19 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
A commitment to excellence positioning as a leader in the sector With a legacy dating back to 1855, the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) has been pivotal in shaping and supporting the steel sector. Kevin Dempsey, President and CEO, represents the diverse array of steel producers across the United States. Dempsey shares insights into AISI’s work, the methods of steel production, and the institute’s commitment to public policy advocacy and market promotion, highlighting the dynamic nature of the steel industry. AISI stands out by representing producers across all three main categories of steel: carbon, alloy, and stainless steel. Carbon steel, widely used in 20 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
manufacturing cars, refrigerators, and buildings, is just one facet of AISI’s representation. Alloy steels, which incorporate additional elements, and stainless steel, known for its high chromium content and corrosion resistance, are also part of AISI’s portfolio. This representation distinguishes AISI from other trade associations that often concentrate on a single type of steel. AISI supports various production methods. One involves processing iron ore through an integrated method to produce pig iron, which is then transformed into virgin steel. Alternatively, steel can be produced by recycling steel scrap in an electric arc furnace, aligning with the industry’s focus on sustainability. Dempsey emphasizes that AISI’s inclusive representation of iron ore-based and scrap-based steel production methods is a key strength, particularly as the industry evolves towards innovatively incorporating both approaches. PUBLIC POLICY ADVOCACY AISI’s mission encompasses significant advocacy on public policy issues and government regulations that impact the steel industry. The organization diligently works to ensure that the interests of steel producers are well-represented in policy discussions. Moreover, AISI promotes steel as the material of choice in two of its largest markets in the U.S.: construction and automotive. Extensive industry statistics are maintained, providing valuable data on production volumes, product types, shipment quantities, and the balance between domestic and imported steel. The statistics are reported weekly, monthly, and annually, offering a detailed picture of the industry’s health and trends. The data collection and dissemination are vital for industry stakeholders to make informed decisions and strategize effectively. AISI MEMBERSHIP The American Iron and Steel Institute’s (AISI) membership comprises two primary categories: producer members and associate members. Producer members include companies directly involved in steel production or iron ore mining and beneficiation. These members encompass a range of operations, from those focused on carbon steel to those specializing in recycling steel scrap into new steel. Many companies are integrating traditional and modern production methods to enhance their capabilities. For instance, some producer members employ the direct reduction method, using natural gas to produce iron pellets that can be blended with recycled steel scrap, thus creating higher steel grades with both recycled and virgin content. The adaptability and innovation reflect the evolving nature of the steel industry and the diverse approaches within AISI’s membership. On the other hand, associate members are integral 21 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06 AISI - AMERICAN STEEL
parts of the steel supply chain, though they may not produce steel themselves. These companies provide essential rawmaterials, services, and further processing and distribution of steel products. The broad representation ensures that AISI covers the complete steel supply chain, from raw materials to finished products, supporting various industries in the United States. EVOLUTION OF THE STEEL INDUSTRY The steel industry has shifted towards recycling, with steel being one of the most recycled materials globally.Approximately 70% of steel production now utilizes electric arc furnaces. The industry has also seen changes in company ownership and operations, driven by cycles of restructuring and consolidation. The ongoing adaptation includes reducing energy consumption and increasing reliance on renewable energy sources. Innovation has been a cornerstone of the steel industry’s response to evolving market demands. The automotive industry has driven advancements in producing lighter, stronger steel to enhance fuel efficiency without compromising safety. AISI members have developed advanced high-strength steels that are robust and flexible, essential for modern car manufacturing. Similar innovations are being applied to other sectors, such as renewable energy, where steel is essential for constructing wind towers. The advancements demonstrate the industry’s commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation to new challenges and opportunities. COMBATING UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES The global nature of the steel industry means that almost every country aims to maintain a strong domestic steel sector due to its importance in infrastructure, energy production, and economic development. This often leads to government intervention in the form of subsidies or export restrictions on raw materials, such as iron ore and steel scrap, to support local industries. These practices can result in overproduction and dumping, where excess steel is sold on the global market at prices below production costs, severely impacting industries like those in the United States that do not receive government support. To combat these unfair practices, the U.S. relies on strong trade laws that align with international standards set by the World Trade Organization (WTO). Maintaining and enforcing these laws is crucial for ensuring U.S. steelmakers can compete on a level playing field. AISI’s role involves daily advocacy to ensure these laws remain effective and responsive to new challenges. Dempsey stresses the significant impact of China’s steel industry, which has grown from slightly larger than the U.S. in 2000 to more than ten times its size today. Substantial government subsidies and 22 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
ownership have driven this growth, leading to global overcapacity. Excess Chinese steel has been dumped on international markets, affecting the U.S. and steel industries worldwide. To address this, AISI collaborates with international counterparts to form bodies that tackle the global overcapacity issue. Under international pressure, China has reduced its domestic steel production growth but has shifted its focus to exporting steel production capabilities through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative. This involves subsidizing the construction of steel mills in other countries, particularly in Southeast Asia, exacerbating the problem of global overcapacity. LEGISLATIVE EFFORTS One of AISI’s current legislative priorities is updating U.S. trade laws to address cross-border subsidies, where China subsidizes steel production in other countries. This emerging issue requires new legal frameworks to ensure that such practices do not undermine the competitiveness of U.S. steel producers. In addition to trade issues, AISI is deeply involved in addressing environmental regulations. The steel industry’s efforts to reduce carbon and other greenhouse gas emissions are critical to meeting broader decarbonization goals. The newly formed sustainability committee at AISI reflects this priority, focusing on cleaner production methods, energy efficiency, and the industry’s role in supporting renewable energy initiatives, such as wind and solar power and steel production for electric vehicles. Dempsey proudly states,“The American steel industry is leading the world in environmental responsibility, producing steel with half the global average emissions. This is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to sustainability.” FUTURE OUTLOOK Looking ahead, AISI continues to focus on education and advocacy to highlight the critical role of American-made steel in achieving environmental and economic goals. The organization is working on new trade measures incorporating environmental 23 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06 AISI - AMERICAN STEEL
sustainability, such as carbon tariffs, to prevent importing cheap, polluting steel. Collaborations with the European Union aim to establish a unified approach to carbon trade measures, ensuring that clean steel producers are not undercut by environmentally damaging imports. Dempsey stresses that steel is indispensable for a sustainable future. AMcKinsey study identified steel as essential across all clean energy technologies. AISI’s ongoing efforts to innovate, educate, and advocate will ensure that American Steel remains at the forefront of the global transition to a greener economy. Dempsey notes, “Steel is the backbone of our clean energy future. The essential material from wind towers to solar panels will power our transition to a sustainable economy.” ADAPTATION AND INNOVATION The steel industry has seen significant technological advancements and structural changes. Innovations in production methods, such as the increased use of electric arc furnaces for recycling steel, have reduced the industry’s energy footprint. Additionally, the development of new grades of advanced high-strength steel for the automotive industry exemplifies the industry’s continuous adaptation to meet evolving market demands. These steels are lighter and stronger, contributing to more fuelefficient and safe vehicles. Similarly, innovations are being applied to constructing wind towers and other renewable energy infrastructure, which requires steel that meets high performance and efficiency standards. The advancements ensure that the steel industry remains competitive and capable of meeting the diverse needs of its customers. Through its comprehensive representation of the steel industry and its proactive approach to addressing trade, environmental, and market challenges, AISI plays a crucial role in supporting American steelmakers’ ongoing evolution and competitiveness. Dempsey’s leadership and the institute’s strategic initiatives ensure the steel industry thrives amid changing global dynamics. 24 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
WISCONSIN UNDERGROUND CONTRACTORS THEVOICEO THE INDUSTR AT A GLANCE WISCONSINUNDERGROUNDCONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION WHAT: A member-based industry association WHERE: Waukesha County, Wisconsin WEBSITE: www.wuca.org ENSURINGSAFETY, TECHNOLOGY ADVANCEMENT, ANDWORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT 25 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
S ASSOCIATION OF RY In the heartland of the US, the Wisconsin Underground Contractors Association (WUCA) has been a steadfast advocate for the underground construction industry since its inception in 1937. With nearly 90 years of history, WUCA has evolved from its early days as the Associated Public Works Contractors of Greater Milwaukee to a statewide organization that prioritizes safety, collaboration, and technological advancement. 26 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
“Ultimately, we’re the only organization in the state of Wisconsin that focuses on construction underground, which is a little bit of a different ballgame,” depicts Executive Director, Ruth Hackney. “The stakes are higher. If there are incidents or accidents, it puts our members and their employees at higher risk. If there’s a mistake that happens, the cost of repair is quite a bit higher than if it were something above ground. So, our goal is to have a positive relationship between our members, the unions, and the governing bodies to eliminate potential areas of tension or harm.” WUCA’s core mandates revolve around two primary objectives, with safety being a priority. Hackney describes, “It’s really important to us that this industry, which holds high risks, is as safe as possible. We do that through training, through connections with government entities to ensure that specifications are up to date, and we have strong relationships with OSHA and other governing boards.” Building and maintaining important partnerships is also key for the association, and integral to its functioning. “We have strong relationships with the Operators Union and the Laborers Union, where we are the third neutral party that’s helping the negotiations between the laborers and the contractors and employers themselves,” she explains, adding that WUCA also works closely with the city of Milwaukee and other municipalities in the state, promoting best practices. SAFETY INITIATIVES Hackney further highlights the importance of safety in underground construction, particularly when digging into areas where electric or gas lines could be present. “If they’re not properly located and if there’s a mistake that happens it could quite literally mean explosions,” she acknowledges. “So, it’s vital that we have a strong relationship with Diggers Hotline and our utility providers because being able to know exactly where a gas line or an electric line is, is critical to the safety of our members.” Beyond the immediate dangers of mislocated lines, she underscores the broader risks associated with underground work, noting, “You often think it can’t be that big of a deal, but if there was a collapse of a tunnel, or if there was something that caught employees or workers underground, they are not only not going to have oxygen, but it would be catastrophic. The stakes are just so incredibly high for the workers.” 27 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06 WISCONSIN UNDERGROUND CONTRACTORS ASSOCIAT ION
This heightened danger necessitates safety protocols, and WUCA maintains a close partnership with local OSHA. By staying up to date on regulatory changes, the association works to make certain that contractors prioritize safety at all times. Hackney recounts,“It used to be that the organization itself was the primary provider of safety tools, safety training, that kind of thing, which is wonderful. But most of our contractors have recognized how important safety is, so much so that they now have at the very least a safety director, and many times entire safety teams, so that if there were an accident their team has systems and processes in place to 28 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
ensure that the workers are taken care of to the best of their ability.” EDUCATION AND ADVOCACY EFFORTS At WUCA, education and advocacy are pivotal aspects of its mission. Of course, safety remains the top priority, reflected in the hosting of 10 safety seminars annually, featuring events and presentations from entities such as OSHA, local fire departments, and Diggers Hotline. These seminars, shaped by input from contractor safety directors, cover essential topics like trench rescues and locate processes, providing firsthand demonstrations and practical guidance. The association has also hosted its first annual Mental Health Awareness seminar, much needed in the industry. “You think of contractors as these big burly men who don’t have any issues in the world when in reality, mental health is one of the number one issues that our contractors deal with,” Hackney relays.“That not only means potential loss of life if there’s depression or substance abuse, but it could also be as simple as somebody not being able to come to work because they just can’t get out of bed, and contractor work and construction work is hard work.” In addition to safety education,WUCA cultivates a firm 29 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06 WISCONSIN UNDERGROUND CONTRACTORS ASSOCIAT ION
commitment to the community through networking and social events. Hackney shares that oftentimes members, though competitors, collaborate and support each other in times of need, exemplifying a level of camaraderie unique to the industry.“These are the only guys who understand what it means to work underground and the specific challenges that come with that. So, it is wonderful,” she portrays. Furthermore, WUCA strives to enhance current specifications and reduce risks, participating in various boards and workgroups to secure the safety and efficiency of underground construction work. “We are doing a lot more in terms of advocacy and putting our members in front of municipalities and state governments to ensure that specifications are up to the highest standard, and that technology is utilized whenever possible to eliminate risks so that we don’t have to risk a human trying to figure it out. Because sometimes humans make mistakes,” says Hackney. TECHNOLOGY AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Notably, technology plays a crucial role in enhancing safety and efficiency in underground construction. Hackney shares that innovations such as GPS tracking for utility lines and the use of GoPro 360 cameras for water line inspections have revolutionized the industry. “Technology also offers the ability to 30 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06
provide a safer work environment,” she conveys.“But the thing I think that we can sometimes forget as well is that technology can turn a job that needs 10 people into something that needs two people. So, utilizing technology can also help with some of the workforce shortages that exist.” Workforce development is top of mind for the organization, as one of the most pressing issues facing members is labor shortages. With the federal government investing billions in expanding broadband infrastructure, the demand for underground workers is set to increase dramatically. “In the state of Wisconsin, the broadband initiative alone is expected to add 10,000 jobs. Right now, there are not 10,000 people available,” Hackney acknowledges. “The last thing we want is to have the broadband installed incorrectly and cause many issues down the line. So, we must invest the time and energy to train those individuals correctly from the start. But also, honestly, we’re going to have to rely very heavily on those already in the market to ensure that the work can be done.” She says one initiative is to talk about the opportunities in working underground, potentially repurposing an existing skilled workforce away from building a house, and “into installing the infrastructure that makes that house livable.” 31 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 06 WISCONSIN UNDERGROUND CONTRACTORS ASSOCIAT ION
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