February 2021
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8 Message from the Editor
10 Industry News
14 A/E/C People
20 Q&A with Gary Ellis 22 Features
22 Building Off of 2020 The new year promises new challenges as the COVID-19 vaccine rolls out and the state considers fully reopening. But what will it mean for construction?
26 A Tale of Two Cities Provo and Orem share an extensive border and plenty of similarities but are on different, positive trajectories toward meeting the needs of their respective residents. 26
32 A Bridge to Somewhere Stakeholders from UVU, UDOT, and UTA come together to build spanning pedestrian bridge to bring first mile and last mile together for travelers.
40 Dollars and Sense Pandemic, increased environmental concerns spur infrastructure spending, but can Utah construction workers keep pace?.
46 Partnered Up— Personally & Professionally Couples from every facet of the industry tell us what it is like to work with their partners and how both their personal and professional relationships strengthen one another. 32
52 AGC of Utah Convention Recap AGC of Utah’s 2021 Conference builds on the desire to train up future generations of construction workers and assert the industry’s spot as the best place for a happy, challenging career.
60 Marketing Strategy
On the Cover: The Offices at University Place (pictured) are developer Woodbury 46 Corporation’s Class-A office space that have helped turn both Orem and neighbor Provo into two cities that exemplify the perfect blend of live-work-play. With two universities and a new emphasis on density, city officials and developers in both Orem and Provo see the overall area as well-positioned to progress in the coming years (photo courtesy Woodbury Corporation).
Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 7 < Message from the Editor Best of the Best UC&D How about the Utah Jazz? As the best team in professional basketball record-wise, Utah Construction & Design Magazine winning multiple games by a large margin, and with All-Star 2075 S Pioneer Rd STE B caliber players on their team, it’s been a blast cheering Salt Lake City, UT 84104 them on. In many ways, our industry reflects their success in O: (801) 747-9202 teamwork and adaptability, but we must continue to work www.utahcdmag.com together and aim for the best shots. With the Utah Jazz, everyone knows their role and Bradley H. Fullmer LET’S DO THIS. maximizes it. Shooters shoot, defenders defend, and Publisher/Managing Editor playmakers are finding their spots to make great plays. [email protected] In A/E/C, there are many moving parts that build the projects from initial agreements to rounding out the punch list. Each person—be it an office manager, BIM Taylor Larsen specialist, or principal—must maximize their own role for a successful project. Editor Quin Snyder, the coach of the Utah Jazz, has a game plan beforehand, but when [email protected] things aren’t working, the leader of the team changes things up to maximize their success. Ladd J. Marshall Our game plan in this state is transforming to keep pace with the desire of others to Advertising Sales Director come and live here—what a testament to everything Utah has to offer. Gary Ellis, new [email protected] President/CEO of Jacobsen Construction (see page 20) told me we’ve been “discovered.” He’s correct, and we have to prioritize getting the infrastructure in place see( page 40) Jay Hartwell to adjust to our new needs. Art Director I remember watching a game a few weeks back where Coach Snyder was yelling [email protected] at the players to shoot the ball—he wasn’t yelling at them for missing shots, he was yelling at the players for doubting themselves. He trusts everyone to maximize their role on the team. When we trust each other, the result is a company that wins jobs, works hard, finishes projects successfully, then wins more work and starts the cycle over again. Seeing all of these promotions in our A/E/C People section (see page 14) shows this industry trusts and encourages the people within it to maximize their talents. With the Jazz, no one is looking to elevate themselves above the team—the only success is a shared one. Listening to Darin Zwick and Rich Thorn speak of the shared banner year across the industry at the AGC of Utah convention (see page 52) was a delight. Hearing of companies offering bonuses and raises because of the successes this year has been wonderful. What a way to build a unified team that cares about the work they do! Two months into the basketball season, and the Jazz are fun to watch. They are the epitome of maximizing one’s strengths, planning, trust, and shared success. Utah Construction & Design is published eight (8) times a year. Postage Two months into this year, I believe all of our companies are working toward those paid in Salt Lake City, UT. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Subscriptions: $64.00 per same outcomes. Imagine the heights we can hit. To quote Uncle Rico in Napoleon year. Subscribers: If Postal Service alerts us that magazine is undeliverable to present address, we need to receive corrected address. Postmaster: Dynamite, “State champs, no doubt in my mind.” Send address changes to 2075 S Pioneer Rd. STE B, Salt Lake City UT 84104. To subscribe or contribute editorial content, or for reprints, please email [email protected]. For Advertising rates/Media Kit, please email [email protected]. Vol. 9 No. 1
Coming in March|April issue of UC&D: Taylor Larsen Sustainability/Green Building Women in Construction K-12 Market Focus
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH • OGDEN, UTAH • LAS VEGAS, NEVADA WWW.RANDOC0.COM 8 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 > Industry News
Construction on the Ken Garff Performance Zone marked a significant milestone when the last beam was hoisted Housing and Infrastructure Developments into place. The expansion and renovation project, led by Layton Construction, will Bring Movement to Wasatch Front enclose the south end zone, add premium seating, and increase stadium capacity by nearly 5,000. The interior will house both Walker Edison Renovates New HQ; Olympic Cauldron Returns; teams’ locker rooms, officials’ locker rooms, sports medicine facilities, and many other New BRT in Ogden; Water Infrastructure Helps Utah’s GDP spaces dedicated to game-day personnel at field level, plus a large field club. the 31st floor, the apartments will include The overall project is expected to finish studios plus one- and two-bedroom units. in July, a few months before football season. The roofline itself will be 368 feet plus a 24-foot rooftop mechanical unit that tops Construction Moves Forward the building out at 392 feet, according to for Ogden BRT System current plans. While preliminary utility construction This development will help alleviate area near Regent Street and City Creek Mall. but also signals a deep commitment to our on Ogden’s Bus Rapid Transit project has the ongoing housing demand in Salt Lake Pantages Park, an homage to 20th-century community.” already begun, local transit officials say a City’s downtown—a need that has resulted theater impresario Alexander Pantages, The office features top new agreement with the Federal Transit in skyrocketing attention and construction will sit on top of the 261-stall, three-story accommodations for employees returning Administration (FTA) will allow mainline over the last few years. parking garage. The park will be accessible to an in-person work environment as the construction to begin in March. Details for the proposed Main Street by stairs fronting Main Street through an pandemic draws to a close. The desk areas Utah Transit Authority (UTA) Executive Apartments come after years of back and open, landscaped, wide-corridor plaza. offer flexible workstations so employees Director Carolyn Gonot said the agency forth between residents, developers, and The corridors and park space will hopefully can take advantage of versatile work received the go-ahead for UTA to begin city officials. The RDA bought the theater for ensure the public is well-served and support arrangements. construction on the $100 million-plus $5.5 million in 2010 from a local developer the walkability of Main Street overall. “This new building typifies who we are project before a federal grant is finalized who had tried to find a way to restore the at Walker Edison. We lift where we stand and this summer, allowing UTA to complete Post House Concrete Pour for Big-D,” said Rob Moore, CEO of Big-D theater and attract developers and tenants. Walker Edison Revamps look for opportunities to enhance schools, some $23 million of construction on the Sets Company Record Construction. “It’s projects like this that Over a year ago, the City Council New Headquarters in West Jordan neighborhoods, and communities around project ahead of the formal award. The foundation of the future Post truly showcase the outstanding work agreed to give its historic theater on Main Furniture company Walker Edison us,” said Brad Bonham, CEO of Walker Edison, Finalizing the grant is seen as a >> House Apartments is set, thanks to Big-D that we produce and the talented team Street over to Hines if they met certain recently completed its new 125,000-SF concerning their work turning the former Construction. This base supports two major members that make them happen.” stipulations: salvage and incorporate corporate headquarters in West Jordan, Utah. shopping center into the headquarters of a buildings and is responsible for holding parts of the Utah Theater into their new The building, a former Shopko, is now a state- multi-billion-dollar business. “[It] has been the walls, the parking structure, and the Hines Plans Move Forward construction, offer 10% of the total units of-the-art facility complete with a 20,000-SF a great honor. We look forward to adding apartments above. It’s a tall task rendered for High-Rise to Replace Theater as affordable housing units, and add a video studio and 15,000-SF showroom. hundreds of high paying jobs to this location easy by the 30-inch-thick foundation, and is Hines, the owners of the property public space—walkway or park—between The renovated facility is designed to throughout the years.” the first step toward Lowe Property Group’s containing the Utah Theater, have the new building and the Kearns Building inspire innovation and support a high- overall development for the Post District released detailed renderings of their plans next door. performance workforce. Inside the building, Olympic Cauldron Returns to Rice-Eccles near the basketball arena downtown. for redeveloping the area. Main Street 40 of the new apartments will be there are seven conference rooms of Stadium; Expansion Nearly Complete Big-D Construction executed the 8,100- Apartments, the multi-family project affordable (60-80% AMI, or between varying sizes and one large training room. The 2002 Olympic cauldron has yard cement pour in just 20 hours, beating planned to occupy the space, will be the about $39,000 and $49,250 in Salt Lake The break room includes a large open space returned to its rightful home at the their past record pour by more than 2,500 most recent of the high-rises going up County) under the property transfer on the main level that combines booth University of Utah’s Rice-Eccles Stadium. yards in nearly the same amount of time. around downtown. agreement that the City Council— acting seating, an employee market, and arcade The cauldron was removed in February The project took an innovative Hines previously released conceptual as the Redevelopment Agency Board of games. The building also has a mother’s 2020 to get ready for the $80 million collaboration between Big-D’s general drawings showing a 30-story tower with Directors—created last year. The affordable room, massage room, salon, and four end-zone expansion. The cauldron was contracting team and concrete pouring 300 units. With the new renderings, the units will include 31 studio units, five privacy phone booths. transported off-site where all 700-plus glass team, both ensuring a safe and successful Main Street Apartments project aims one-bedroom, and four two-bedrooms, “I couldn’t be more thrilled with the panes were removed and the structure was project. From start to finish, this project to be a 31-story building containing 400 each with less space than the market-rate investment Walker Edison made in West sandblasted and refinished to bring it back took roughly 20 hours of planning, 1600 apartments. options to be available there. Jordan,” City of West Jordan Mayor Dirk to its former glory. hours of labor, 70–80 Big-D workers on site, The expansive ground-floor will have The plan for the outdoor public space Burton said. “The decision to redevelop a Nearly a full year later, the cauldron and 815 truck pours. 8,400 SF for retail, lobby, and leasing office. will be a park, creating a bit of greenery large, abandoned retail building will not was lowered onto a newly constructed “This was an enormous achievement Along with the five penthouse suites on and potential movement in the bustling only breathe new life into the city’s core pedestal north of the stadium ticket office.
10 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 11 > Industry News formality by officials, with the FTA already WSU’s campus shuttle, which carried some decades has demonstrated the full value of Utah, Wasatch, and Duchesne counties— dams, tunnels, and committing to the money after a several- 5,000 riders per day before the COVID-19 water infrastructure and their projects to accounting for 20% of Utah residents. pipelines generated years-long joint effort from UTA, Ogden City, pandemic hit. communities, tax payers, and the economy. “The execution of the CUP has allowed approximately $5.9 and Weber County. UTA officials say the project should be This was done by studying the economic the Wasatch Front to continue to thrive and billion in state GDP The new transit system, some 16 up and running by August 2022, aligning impacts of the Central Utah Water become a desirable location for families and from 1960 to 2017, and years in the making, will provide a 5.3-mile with the fall start of school at WSU. Conservancy District’s (CUWCD) Central businesses,” said Gene Shawcroft, General the water provided connection between Ogden’s emerging Utah Project (CUP) since 1960, with the study Manager of the CUWCD. “This in-depth study supports close to downtown, Weber State University (WSU), 2020 Study Shows How Water concluding in 2020. has confirmed that we would not enjoy the 660,000 Utahns. and McKay-Dee Hospital. In May of last year, Infrastructure Adds to State GDP The CUP is managed by the Central Utah same quality of life without this project.” Without this water, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) An analysis conducted by the Kem Water Conservancy District, distributing The CUP has been a large federal consumption rates announced it would contribute $65 million C. Gardner Policy Institute over several water from the Colorado River to Salt Lake, investment in the state at $2.5 billion, would have to be one- toward the project through the Small Starts and the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute third lower in Salt grant—one of 41 grant winners. The DOT analyzed what the project would look like Lake, Utah, Wasatch, announced it would contribute another without it. and Duchesne $10.6 million to the project as part of the “We examined the economic impacts counties.” FTA’s Capital Investment Grants Program of the 50-plus-year construction of the CUP The Kem C. late last year. and conducted a counterfactual analysis of Gardner Policy The service will begin at the Ogden UTA how things would look had there been no Institute also Through the counterfactual analysis, transit center at 2350 Wall Ave., head east federal funding,” said John Downen, Deputy found that the CUP helped create 9,130 researchers found that without federal on 23rd Street to Washington Boulevard, Director of Economic and Public Policy -plus jobs through direct and indirect money, infrastructure construction would go south along Washington Boulevard to Research at the Kem C. Gardner Policy construction roles over last 60 years. be 26 years behind schedule, with state 25th Street, turn east along 25th Street to Institute and lead author of the study. “The Federal appropriations paid back by users funding theoretically covering only 44% of Harrison Boulevard, then south to WSU and construction of the network of diversions, positioned the CUP to be where it is today. the actual federal funding. n a planned transit center at the Dee Events Center before service stops at the hospital. Stops will go in at The Junction, downtown, along 25th Street and Harrison Boulevard, Ogden High School, WSU, and the Dee Events Center. UTA has projected around 3,000 riders per day from the Ogden Intermodal Center to WSU and McKay-Dee when the project comes on-line, and it will also take over
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esteemed architects and planners from around the country who help shape the practice of architecture through resilience. Recher has been a part of this group since Promotions Abound Across All Facets of the Industry its founding in 2019.
Standout photographer Jared Tom Jackson, who had been serving over half of that time. He joined the Steel pass the torch of firm leadership to Kevin Kenitzer has joined architectural firm as President of Steel Encounters, has Encounters team in 2013, now managing Mass. Kevin is a seasoned professional and CRSA as their new Marketing Director. received the title of CEO. Coupled with an internal staff of sales and estimating a true leader.” Kenitzer joins CRSA with quite the specialized training in construction teams throughout the structural offices in Incoming President and Senior portfolio having earned four Telly Awards, management, Jackson’s industry multiple locations across the United States Principal Kevin Mass mentioned the a Communicator Award, and a W3 award Tom Jackson Brad Hardy Derek Losee experience estimating and quantifying as far-ranging as Salt Lake City, Portland, respect he has for both the people of for various projects. With 10-plus years of construction productivity has led him and Arkansas. his company and the work they do. “I diverse marketing experience, including from a Construction Manager, where he am honored to be selected by my Board four years in the AEC industry, an internet began with the company in 1996, to his Lotus Company recently added to follow Roger Jackson as President of marketing agency, and Zions Bank, he current position. Jackson was instrumental Adam Hughes to their team as Vice FFKR Architects,” he said. “We are all comes ready for the challenge. in founding the Utah Glass Association President of Operations. Hughes comes to thankful for Roger’s decades-long work Said Kenitzer in a statement, “The in 2018 as well as a major employee Lotus from the position of Chief Executive to make us successful and his forward- architects and designers here at CRSA are engagement campaign, driving sales and Officer for Better City, an economic looking leadership. With the support of my incredibly creative, talented, and genuinely client service for Steel Encounters and development consulting firm based in partners and our tremendous staff, I am great people. My hope is to use the skills I bringing revenue for the company up to Ogden with engagements throughout the confident we will continue to prosper and have developed over the past 10-plus years $160 million annually. western United States. grow. Our best years are still ahead.” to help frame their creativity and talent Brian Tlustosch Adam Hughes Kevin Mass Brad Hardy has been promoted During his time with Better City, In addition, Senior Principal Steven while telling the incredible story of this to Executive Vice President, Structural Hughes was integral in orchestrating Goodwin will serve as Secretary, and 45-year-old firm.“ Division. In his new role, Hardy will oversee the agreement for Lotus’ city-shaping Senior Principal Michael Leishman will around 60 professionals in locations masterplan in Clearfield, Lotus Landing, serve as Treasurer. The definition of a success story, ranging from Jacksonville to Seattle. He breaking ground in the spring of this year. Adam Eastman started with FOCUS began his career in the steel industry in Lotus Founder & CEO, Bryan Wrigley, Megan Recher, an Associate at Engineering & Surveying as an intern 1980 and joined Steel Encounters in 2005. was excited to welcome Hughes into Architectural Nexus and well-qualified and has now become a Partner within the He has provided value-based steel joist the fold and engage his competency in leader in resilient buildings, has been Midvale-based company. With six years and deck-building solutions to clients both catalytic project development. “Having selected to be Co-Chair of the AIA National of experience and over 2,000 projects local and national and has supervised an worked closely with Adam for several Resilience and Adaptation Advisory Group completed, the Structural Department average of 600 construction projects a year years, not only have we developed a (Rad-AG)—along with her mentor, Dr. Manager seeks to accomplish improved great professional rapport, but I am Janice Barnes, Managing Partner at Climate during his time with the company. communication, efficiency, and knowledge Steven Goodwin Michael Leishman Megan Recher Derek Losee has been promoted to constantly struck by his genuine passion Adaptation Partners. growth for all of his colleagues and trade Executive Vice President, Architectural for relationship-building and collaboration Recher and her RAd-AG colleagues partners. Eastman explained that this Division. Former Co-Owner of Reflective in community development. It feels like a have led several initiatives to provide tool is all “so we can fully understand client Product Sales, Derek joined Steel natural segue to bring him over to our side kits for architects to apply resiliency plans, needs and wants to provide them a better Encounters in 2005 and has since elevated of the table,” said Wrigley. business continuity guides, and creating experience.” the company to one of the largest design- other resources to address the forces Colton Finan was recently promoted assist glazing contractors in the west. He FFKR Architects is pleased to affecting the built environment. to Layout Manager in FOCUS’ Construction has also worked closely with architects announce Senior Principal Architect Kevin What are some things she wants Staking department. He joined FOCUS and builders on glazing solutions, curtain Mass has been selected by the Board architectects and designers to see going Engineering & Surveying in 2016. Four years walls, and building envelopes. Losee of Directors as the next FFKR President. forward in her new role? She wants later he continues to enjoy interpreting manages the company’s Architectural Past President, Senior Principal Roger architects to be aware of the different plans and utilizing the latest technology Division, overseeing work on iconic Jackson, is stepping down after eight years grants and insurance rebates to help to accurately and reliably lay out a job site Jared Kenitzer Adam Eastman Colton Finan projects like the Salt Lake Airport Terminal of service and will continue to provide finance these buildings with a longer so that a structure can be built. Previously Redevelopment and the Mountain America guidance to the new leadership of the Salt design-life. the Senior Crew Chief, Finan is now to Crew Chief. As part of this new role, requires patience and impeccable Credit Union Headquarters. Lake City-based architectural firm. Said Recher, “Our two big ideas responsible for coordinating the horizontal Atwood mentors his direct reports to communication skills, qualities which Brian Tlustosch has been promoted “What a privilege it has been to be the for this year are releasing designs for and vertical locations of subdivisions maximize their potential while also Atwood has honed during his two years to Structural Sales Manager. Tlustosch has President of FFKR Architects,” said Jackson. decommissioning and how to finance and commercial sites he receives from providing quality assurance reviews of at FOCUS. been in construction for over 30 years and “This is such a talented and dedicated projects for resiliency.” engineers and field crews. technical project information. The former Cory Thompson was promoted to has been focused on the steel industry for group of professionals. I am so pleased to The RAd-AG is a select group of Tim Atwood was recently promoted Survey Rodman said the new position Senior Crew Chief. Before starting with >>
14 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 15 > A/E/C People
Jeff Young has been promoted Others’ (MACHO) safety initiative as a daily operations divisions, as well as UDOT’s engineering from Utah State University. to Commercial Construction Manager driving force within the organization— four statewide regional offices. Her appointment reflects an ongoing focus for Pentalon Construction. In this keeping our people safe and sending our For the first time in department by the department to promote gender new role, Young leads all day-to-day people home safe and sound for many history, UDOT will be led by two female equity in leadership positions, providing commercial construction functions for years,” Fortuna said. Deputy Directors. Teri Newell was new ideas and perspectives that are Pentalon Construction. Young has been in appointed as Deputy Director of Planning needed to meet the transportation needs commercial construction for over 20 years Self-driven, consistent, and an and Investment in 2018. of the future. and came to Pentalon in 2019. He started effective manager with a great eye for Wilson is a licensed professional Prior to being named a Deputy at Pentalon as a Project Manager with over detail, Jonathan Johnson was recently engineer and holds a degree in civil Director, she served as Region Two >> 10 years of experience. Young has overseen promoted to Senior Project Manager at projects in excess of $50 million. Curtis Miner Architecture (CMA). He Tim Atwood Cory Thompson Jeff Young Elise Lewis has been promoted to completed a Master of Architecture from Project Manager, where she oversees the the University of Utah in 2006 but has schedule, financials, and overall health of been working in commercial architecture projects she is assigned. Lewis graduated since 2003. This new role will allow him at the top of her class from Brigham to collaborate with the talented team of Young University where she earned a project managers and manage a studio Bachelor of Science in Construction of important projects. His experience in Management and is a fourth-generation healthcare and automotive projects will construction professional with a passion be a great asset to the entire CMA team. for the industry. Lewis started her career Michael Sroufe was promoted with Pentalon Construction in 2017 as an to Project Manager. With a Master of Assistant Project Manager. She leads the Architecture degree he earned in 2017 Elise Lewis Doug Welling John Fortuna on-site team and assists in strategizing the from the University of Utah, Sroufe initially best path forward to bring projects in on joined CMA as an Architectural Associate time and within budget with her proactive that same year. His new role involves coordination. managing multiple projects and project teams—in the office and in the field. He Doug Welling, CEO of Jacobsen most enjoys his new role of taking client Construction, officially retired on project visions and turning them into January 1, 2021 after 33 distinguished and reality. “It’s truly fulfilling to problem-solve visionary years with Jacobsen, including 14 until the final solution is built,” he said. years as President and the last nine years Merrill Roberts has also been as both President and CEO. Welling will promoted to Project Manager for the award-winning firm. A certified Jonathan Johnson Michael Sroufe Merrill Roberts continue serving on the Jacobsen Board, a role he has admirably filled for many years. architectural drafter, Roberts is procuring Under Welling’s leadership as CEO, his architectural license and is midway Jacobsen’s influence in the industry grew through his Architectural Experience considerably with such landmark projects Program provided by the National Council as the Utah State Capitol restoration of Architectural Registration Boards. and base isolation, City Creek Center in Roberts has been working hard to develop downtown Salt Lake City, Provo City Center and sharpen his skills, assisting other Temple restoration, and Salt Lake Temple project managers as he learns the ropes. renovation. He has coordinated multiple projects and Chief Operating Officer John Fortuna teams and optimized internal systems and has also announced his retirement, structure to provide outstanding results Lisa Wilson Mykel Vallerga effective January 1, 2021. Fortuna’s for CMA clients. long and successful career at FOCUS in 2018, Thompson had six years he is no longer only managing staking, but Jacobsen began as a project manager and Lisa Wilson has been appointed of blue staking experience. He’s also managing schedules, mitigating problems, estimator in 1992 before becoming COO as the new Deputy Director of patient—starting as a rodman and working and making sure technicians hit their goals in 2012. Engineering and Operations for the from the ground up. Thompson has always with precision and accuracy. Thompson is “The thing I’m most proud of Utah Department of Transportation been driven to keep his clients happy and involved in up to 150 jobs at any given time is changing our safety culture and (UDOT). In this role, Wilson will oversee the keep survey data accurate. In his new role, to meet client needs. building up our ‘My Attitude Can Help department’s project development and
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Director, overseeing UDOT’s operations in Salt Lake, Summit, and Tooele counties. A veteran UDOT employee with 24 years of experience, Wilson has also worked in roles such as traffic operations, project The management, and program management.
Mykel Vallerga, Project Engineer for Colvin Engineering Associates, has earned recognition as one of the 20 to Watch: Women in HVAC for Engineered Answer Systems Magazine. to all of your construction needs She has enjoyed her time with Colvin Engineering Associates for the last five- plus years. Supervisors, clients, and colleagues have helped her hone her skills and enjoy the journey as an engineer. “Our company has an incredible support system,” she said in her interview with Engineering Systems Magazine. “When »ASPHALT »SAND & GRAVEL »EXCAVATION & UNDERGROUND »READY MIX we are all in the office, there is a tangible energy of the kindness and determined work ethic that encourages everyone to improve and work hard. As an up-and-coming professional, she is aware of the challenges the field poses for woman. “Having been the only woman in a meeting with a dozen men who have decades of professional experience and KNOWLEDGE being put on the spot to answer tough questions that weren’t on the agenda EXPERIENCE … it can be nerve racking,” she said. But she knows to be patient and hold steady COMMON SENSE in her knowledge and skills and trust in her judgement and calculations. “Overall, »EDUCATE »TRAIN »PLAN »ENGAGE »EXECUTE I have had positive experiences when put in this situation and have had the opportunity to work and learn from many knowledgeable people in the industry.” She’s encouraged by the field and sees lots of potential for other woman to enter Craig Coburn* Lincoln Harris Brian Bolinder into engineering. “The engineering field is challenging, SERVING UTAH’S DESIGN PROFESSIONALS AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY SINCE 1983 but there are tons of brilliant and strong o. 801 250 0132 | www.kilgorecompanies.com | f. 801 250 0671 women out there,” she said. “Encouraging Professional & Business Risk Management Employment/Labor; ERISA Contracts Review/Drafting/Enforcement Immigration women, especially when they are young Design/Construction Defects & Disputes Criminal Defense Mechanics Liens; Bonds Estate/Tax Planning; Trusts girls, to build, tinker, explore, and persevere Government Procurement Family Law through tough challenges is an easy place Mediation/Arbitration/Litigation/Appeals Real Estate; Leases Business Organization & Continuation Land Use & Development to start.” n Mergers & Acquisitions Personal Injury CONTRACTOR 111 E. Broadway | Suite 400 | Salt Lake City, Utah 84111 801.531.2000 | www.rbmn.com OF THE YEAR *Hon. AIA Utah; General Counsel AIA Utah and Special Counsel ACEC Utah Since 1985
18 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 > Q&A with Gary Ellis
never going anywhere in regard to tech. It’s not true any longer. It takes a lot of skill, sophistication, and an understanding of technology. It’s finally time that we tell Same Passion, New Title people about the cool things we’re doing in this industry and let people see what an Gary Ellis, President/CEO of Jacobsen Construction, spoke with UC&D exciting career you can have here. www.stakerparson.com | 801-731-1111 to share his thoughts on the new position, where the company is headed, UC&D: What’s your favorite project and what he is most excited about for 2021 and beyond. that you all are working on? Ellis: Favorite? Whew. That’s tough. UC&D: You took over as President in Let me cheat a little and say that our June 2020 then CEO on January 1st. Have extraordinarily diverse set of projects is my there been any surprises to the new title? favorite part about what’s happening right now at Jacobsen—more so than any specific Ellis: Nothing surprising, but I’m project itself. constantly making sure I’m learning and The Salt Lake Temple Renovation Project understanding my new responsibilities and is of course a major undertaking for us right OUR PEOPLE ARE not defaulting to my old ones! now because of the complexity and the OUR FOUNDATION One of the things that I’ve seen to is impact involved in renovating a worldwide eliminating road blocks for my incredible church headquarters. We’re doing a massive leadership team so they can keep doing restoration of a historic building, and we’re the work that they're doing. This team is thrilled to be involved in that project. We’re sophisticated, knowledgeable, collaborative, going to be able to walk away knowing that and respectful. It’s like a fly-wheel spinning— we have been a terrific partner. if we can keep our team spinning, we’ll keep There is also a lot of anticipation right creating something special. now about Liberty Sky, and the movement for high-rise housing projects is an exciting UC&D: You started in finance—what thing for us. We feel like we’re at the top made you switch to construction? level for those able to understand that for whom we work. responsible for caring for them, their type of a project. It’s a testament to what Ellis: I fell in love with this industry spouses, their children, and making sure Salt Lake City has to offer. All of the people and the ability to step back and say “Wow, UC&D: What value do you want to they have money for food and to send their seeing the beauty, the lifestyle, and the look what we’ve done.” There is something emphasize the most? kids to school. preparedness of our city—we’ve been special to that, even if my kids are sick of me But it’s an absolute positive. As an discovered. It’s great to be a part of that. saying “I wonder who’s tower crane that is?” Ellis: Safety has to be our number one employee-owned company, we’re all pulling And the list truly keeps going— Or “Who do you think built that?” And “Look priority. We want our people to go home in the same direction. It adds to our culture whether it’s West Quarter and the multiple over there! There’s some of our crews.” every day and have their life—that’s the that we are all assisting each other and ways it will impact Salt Lake’s sports and whole reason they come to work. We have sharing in best practices. We’re always entertainment district, our construction of UC&D: What practices do you want to a lot of ways to live up to that. Respect for trying to thrill our clients, and there is a the new Primary Children’s Hospital campus continue from former CEO Doug Welling’s one another and continual improvement huge personal interest and satisfaction in in Lehi and Veterans Affairs clinics in Texas, legacy at Jacobsen Construction? are two crucial elements we emphasize. doing that. or the campus buildings going up right We want to build for life and to help our We just moved into our new now at Utah State and Dixie State—there Ellis: Doug knew that people were our employees grow, progress, and to build headquarters, and we’re excited to show are so many kinds of impactful projects most important asset, and that’s true— facilities where those who reside and work that we’re here for the next hundred years to get deeply excited about this year and people are the most important asset we in those buildings can succeed. to serve this marketplace with excellence. beyond. From warehouse facilities, to have. It’s highly important for us to create an performing arts venues, to tech campuses, atmosphere where the best people want to UC&D: You’re the chief executive of an UC&D: What are some things you are to remodels of existing health care spaces, be. We want to provide an experience where employee-owned company. What’s that like? looking forward to in 2021? our current mix of work is profoundly wide- our employees are respected, cared for, and ranging and important. All of it is bringing where we as a company expect excellence. Ellis: It’s a lot of pressure! To walk Ellis: I’m excited about AGC of Utah’s positive change to our communities. The To us, our business is to positively impact the into a room and see the faces of these “We Build Utah” campaign. Construction exceptional diversity of our projects is what Sand, Rock & Landscape Products | Ready Mixed Concrete | Asphalt | Paving | Construction Services lives of those who work for us and for those people and then remember that you are used to be a stagnant industry that was inspires us more than anything. n
20 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 21 Economic Outlook 2021
affordable, and high-amenity spaces. Because of this, she expects commercial real estate to have a reckoning. “The leisure and hospitality sector will change. Business travel will change. [We’ll Building Off have] fewer hotels and fewer restaurants of 2020 and more warehousing and distribution.” What Will Carry Us Forward? The new year promises new challenges as the COVID-19 While the pillars of the economy vaccine rolls out and the state considers fully reopening. might shift, Nold was fairly certain that the But what will it mean for construction? economy would bounce back overall and near-fully by the end of 2021, with sound By Taylor Larsen reasoning to support it. “In 2008, there was an internal problem that needed to be fixed from the inside. COVID is an external shock that goes away when COVID goes away,” he explained. employment-aged—filling available jobs Coming from a state that had been One thing that will help the state’s then spending money on housing, goods, doing 2.8% job growth per year, Nold stated economic outlook in 2021 is the migration and services in their communities. that we’re not out of the woods just yet, but of new residents to our lovely Deseret. Nold, based on DWS and other data, early returns are promising. “In-migration is a turbo charge on our forecasts “having about 3.8 % job growth economy,” said Nold concerning Utah’s for the whole year.” He cautioned readers The Promise of Construction population growth. “Utah is one of the best to overlook faux-optimism by looking at He complimented construction for in the nation in job growth and economic 2019 numbers instead of 2020 to determine continuing on and being a major pillar activity. […] I don’t see anything slowing in- where the state is overall and where it is of support for the economy. His team of migration.” headed. “If you take the end of 2021 and economists expect residential housing to h the economy. The amalgamation of something that Natalie Gochnour, Associate Changing Cityscape? That economic turbo-charge that compare it with the end of 2019—before continue to plug along at a normal, or even trillions of moving parts, billions of Dean at David Eccles School of Business The security of the population centers Nold mentioned comes about through a COVID—we anticipate that Utah will heightened pace as low interest rates and Apeople, and millions of companies. and Director of the Kem C. Gardner brings up an ongoing debate about how high percentage of new residents being increase the job count by 2.3 %.” incoming residents drive up demand. >> While the totality of it is too big to Policy Institute at the University of Utah, changing demographics of Utah residents completely comprehend, we can still mentioned in her address to the AGC of affect where they will ultimately settle. make sense of our smaller state economy Utah at the end of 2020. “We entered this Nold speaks to what is increasing that and where we’re headed as of now, a few downturn in much better shape,” she said. changing desire: remote work. months into 2021. “We were at our lowest unemployment rate “Telecommuting was the great in state history [at 2.5%].” experiment. We knew it could happen, Where We’ve Been Utah’s employment stacks up well the technology was there, but there was Mark Nold, Senior and Supervising nationally as we head further into 2021. just a reluctance from employers to 100% Economist for Utah’s Department of While overall employment between embrace it,” he said. “They are discovering Workforce Services (DWS), thinks we’re February and November 2020 fell by 0.9% in that it wasn’t as bad as they feared.” past the worst of the recession, even if the state, national employment fell by 6.4% With a large percentage of businesses we may have to stick to the economic on average, according to Gochnour. decreasing their overall need for office equivalent of “taking it easy” for the “You are such a big part of our recovery,” space in downtown, staying at home will coming months. He explained in a recent Gochnour mentioned of Utah’s entire A/E/C greatly affect the restaurants and other interview that he expects the same issues industry, noting the growth in construction auxiliary industries that depend on that we experienced for the majority of last employment from September 2019 to urban market for support. “I think you can year—some budget tightening and the September 2020—a remarkable 6.6%. end up with an economy back on its feet […] necessary restrictions still negatively But, according to the data, the while still having downtown recessions,” impacting the state’s economy—but it’s recovery is k-shaped, with the more densely Nold expressed. improving, and he expects the second half populated counties housing remote Gochnour called this potential shift of 2021 to have a better trajectory. workers still thriving while rural, tourism- into 2021 and beyond a “Zoom-town Because of the structure and setup of based counties are still reeling. Places migration”—a structural change where our economy going into the pandemic, the like Grand County, Garfield County and remote work will be more dominant. That Beehive State has a real chance to slingshot others in eastern and southern Utah have change, she said, will result in people out of the recession we are experiencing, unemployment rates around 10%. choosing to live in increasingly convenient,
22 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 23 Economic Outlook 2021
Speaking of low interest rates, Gochnour employed into existing structures as well as Gardner Policy Institute estimates that the referenced a new banking paradigm— new or reopened restaurants. state is still thousands of units short from “[There will be] low interest rates, for the With an influx of available people to equilibrium with housing demand, with the foreseeable future, that we see will go on for work, ABC Utah will continue to pursue prices of available home stock skyrocketing. the upcoming two to three years.” their strategy of building up the skill “Utah’s growth and projected growth It’s something that Chris DeHerrera, level of entry-level construction workers are resulting in an affordable housing President and CEO of ABC Utah, sees as as well as increasing the skills of the crisis, and part of the response has been advancing commercial construction thousands already involved in building multi-family housing. The state has seen a interests. “The plan is now focusing on Utah. “‘Re-skilling’ workers is a major and steady uptick of this project type for the last construction-ready investment through crucial element for keeping the economy several years,” said DeHerrera. accelerated bonding,” she said of the funding pumping,” said DeHerrera. A/E/C industry leaders are adamant to build more of this state. Potential projects She and others are working to maintain that construction can help the state build range from outdoor recreation and housing the momentum of full employment within out of these problems, with prime land to transit and other highway projects. construction. It’s a challenge, certainly, but opening up for residential projects and Nold is less optimistic. “Commercial one the industry looks ready to take head- other developments like The Pointe in construction could follow [residential on. Their partnership with the Department Draper, data centers, and manufacturing housing], but the lead time on projects of Workforce Services is a particular boon, and industrial projects at the Inland Port. might cast a shadow on available work their goal as an organization being aimed at for architects and planners toward the placing people in available, high-paying jobs Where Do We Go Next? end of 2021 and into 2022. Construction like those in construction. It’s promising stuff that looks even employment will continue on, but we “To keep the economy pumping, the better considering the state’s other assets. expect it to slow down as we enter into construction industry must pursue a solution Gochnour referenced the state’s “rainy day 2022,” Nold said. to our workforce shortages,” said DeHerrera funds” as another collective failsafe to keep Gochnour’s feelings are closer to when asked about how to harness the state’s building up Utah as 2021 progresses. DeHerrera’s. “The construction sector is projected growth for the coming years. “We “We have 900 million dollars in rainy leading the way in terms of recovery,” she must continue to recognize all construction day funds that haven’t been touched during assured. But this k-shaped recovery is stark training programs on state construction the pandemic,” she said. Money will be in sectors outside of construction. projects as well as take on responsibility for appropriated for the arts and hopefully for “Our state lost 24,000 leisure and training the workforce.” infrastructure and those public projects hospitality jobs.” DeHerrera reported that her mentioned to set up the Beehive State for She mentioned that this is a pink- organization both grew and retained a strong year in 2021, especially given the collar recession. “It hurts the occupations membership in 2020, another sign of the unique circumstances of 2020. that women dominate,” she said, naming strength of the construction sector during The data is promising that construction hospitality and other service industries. a challenging year. She predicts more in this state will keep up the good work “It’s also been hard on working women.” growth in 2021 as contractors continue to after a banner year. Gochnour concluded But there is promise on the horizon as build up Utah. that “Utah’s the place to be right now. It was the vaccine rolls out, with people being re- One place to start? Housing. The Kem C. before COVID and it will be after COVID.” n
24 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Provo/Orem Update
The Offices at University Place have brought stellar Class-A office space to Orem, a product badly missing in the city’s quest to close the loop on the community ideal of live-work-play (courtesy Woodbury Corporation).
A TALE OF TWO CITIES
Provo and Orem share an extensive border and plenty of similarities but are on different, positive trajectories toward meeting the needs of their respective residents.
By Taylor Larsen
ritish author Charles Dickens lot of good things happening here in Provo,” famously said the following about said David Walter, Redevelopment Director Bthe bustling college towns of Provo for Provo City. “There are a lot of markers and Orem in 2020: showing us we are headed in the right “It was the best of times, it was the direction.” worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it Orem has a similar trajectory, with the was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch largest public university in the state—Utah of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it Valley University (UVU)—within its city limits. was the season of light, it was the season of With an ambitious team of city officials darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was and the city’s history as a retail center for the winter of despair.” the county, Family City USA has a great Jokes aside, it’s hard to believe how foundation and the willingness to build on it. crisply and succinctly Dickens could be But it’s the universities’ proximity to describing the tale of these two cities as each other, barely longer than a 10-minute they enter 2021—hopefully the epoch of car ride, that bring a catalytic effect on the belief, the season of light, and the spring of area. With so many people wanting to stay hope as we exit a rough 2020. close to these universities after graduation, So where are they headed? this part of Utah County is a hotbed for growth. Tech-Powered Growth “They are pumping out 20,000 brains The long-time home of Brigham Young a year,” said Woodbury Corporation’s University (BYU) and a former home to Senior Vice President of Acquisitions and one of the best sandwich places around Development, Jeff Woodbury, of UVU and (I’ll never forget you, Rocco’s Deli!), Provo BYU. “Those brains are employees and is quickly proving itself to be a long-term employers and people who are going to home for anyone and everyone. provide growth. Those tech companies “There’s just a lot of projected growth want to be there because the brainpower and anticipated development. There are a is there.” >>
26 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 27 Provo/Orem Update
The Axis (UC&D’s Most Outstanding Student Housing Project for 2020) is one of the recently completed student housing developments going up around Utah Valley University. (previous page top) Rendering and second floor plan of the new Orem Family Fitness Center (courtesy Big-D Construction, Method Studio). Renderings (previous page bottom) of the upcoming Freedom Commons development in Provo (images courtesy PEG Companies).
One major byproduct of that and Orem are growing, housing availability going to do it for us.” Dickens: the season of light. area’s potential and the city’s needs. is confident that property on University brainpower is Qualtrics, the tech giant on isn’t where it needs to be. Along with quicker growth in rent Why? Because demand is still there. Parkway will be in demand for restaurants the north side of Provo and whose campus Woodbury mentioned that NIMBY- across Utah County, the price of residential PEG Companies recently completed The Strong Economic Engines and retail when the pandemic dies down. borders Orem. “They are adding 1,000 jobs ism continues to dominate in each of land keeps going up. But all of those Flats at Riverwoods and 200 City View But these cities, which together count Before 2020, these cities had evolved over the next 10 years and are doubling these cities, especially as each one tries to interviewed agreed that the idea of punting apartments—218 and 159 apartments, for nearly one-third of the population in to fill every niche—taking on retail, tech, their space,” said Walter. “They have 150,000 balance resident desires and city needs. The residential projects down the road to other respectively, that are on opposite ends of Utah County, are maintaining their status as student needs, and even reviving industrial SF right now and are looking to add 160,000 developer understands it, saying, “I can’t tell communities or to a different point in time Provo City. economic powerhouses as they grow. and manufacturing, albeit for a different SF of space adjacent to their current people we aren’t going to change their lives, isn’t going to work. Up in Orem, PEG Companies and Clark appreciates how Orem has type of clientele than Charles Dickens building in the Riverwoods.” because we are.” But he wants residents So are these rising prices of Woodbury Corporation recently completed grown while encircling businesses that would have recognized 150-plus years ago. Other startups are emerging, and to realize that if they don’t prepare for this development just land costs? Or are they Phase I of The Green On Campus Drive—the have always called the city home. “The Spaces like Orem Tech Center on software and development companies change, the ultimate decisions may be out material, labor, and time costs? 700-bed student housing development. businesses that have been around awhile Geneva Road are leasing up as soon as dot the two cities—not as much as their of their hands. “Yes,” said PEG Companies VP of The remainder of project, with another 900 in smaller, older spaces are growing into they’re built, according to Clark. No longer is northern neighbor in Lehi, but enough to be As Orem City Development Services Development Matt Hansen of how COVID beds, is set to complete this year. bigger spaces—they’re taking these new it the Geneva Steel mills of yesteryear. Two fertile ground for creativity and growth. Director Ryan Clark put it, “If we don’t has helped drive up some of the supply- Woodbury Corporation’s flagship spaces,” said Clark, while the old spaces “are flex warehouses have been completed, and provide a place for this to happen, we’re chain issues that then drive up time and property in Orem, University Place, is going to these new [businesses].” two more 250,000-SF buildings of similar Meeting Housing Demand not going to be able to control where this labor costs. He and the other leaders are continuing through with the company’s But the pandemic has had deleterious proportions are projected to go up and add The people of Orem and Provo are happens.” With affordable housing and hopeful that the vaccine helps to put a 15-year master plan. With apartment effects on retail—Orem’s bread and butter to the collective area. reaping the rewards of Silicon Slopes gaining overall housing availability such hot button damper on these issues so construction can complexes nearby that have gone up due for the better part of four decades. “Retail South in Provo, Mountain Vista, a further traction within their respective city topics, he continued, “We can decide how move forward and needs can be met. to Woodbury Corporation’s investment, was undergoing a change anyway, but COVID business park residing on the former limits. But while amenities available in Provo we control the future, or the [legislature] is Hansen and Woodbury see it much like the company is doubling down on the just accelerated that change,” he said. Clark Ironton site of US Steel, is booming. >>
28 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 29 Provo/Orem Update
PEG Companies’ Hyatt Place is a testament to older stock of buildings without the same What’s Next? commutes to the job centers.” the growing hospitality needs of downtown Provo historical value, affording them a different Woodbury is confident that both Provo After a harrowing 2020, maybe Charles (photo courtesy PEG Companies). approach. Clark said that their city will and Orem are still on the up. “Both cities will Dickens was looking at the future of Orem probably go through redevelopment over grow dramatically over the next 10 years,” and Provo after all. adaptive reuse. he said. “Silicon Slopes will move deeper “I see a beautiful city and a brilliant In 2019, Orem City officials completed and deeper into Utah County instead of just people rising from this abyss. I see the a visioning and re-zoning process to create focusing on the northern part.” lives for which I lay down my life, peaceful, five districts at five different intersections Clark is confident too. “People useful, prosperous, and happy. I see that I on State Street. The goal was to protect still want to live in the heart of Utah hold a sanctuary in their hearts, and in the neighborhoods with single-family homes County close to the canyon, close to the hearts of their descendants, generations but build up density in key sectors. City universities, the retail sector with shorter hence.” n officials there want it to be a city where everyone can choose exactly the right housing product to fit their wants and needs and still live in Orem. “Both cities will grow dramatically over the next 10 years. Silicon Slopes will move deeper and deeper into Utah County instead of just focusing on the LOOKING TO northern part.” CONTROL RISK? — Jeff Woodbury, Woodbury Corporation’s Senior Vice President WE KNOW THE DRILL. of Acquisitions and Development
This is where Woodbury sees a key difference. “People look at Orem not having a With the help of the Department of Downtown Infill government has been supportive of good downtown, but I see that as an opportunity,” Environmental Quality and their remediation Provo is looking to go higher as development and will allow for increased he said. “It’s easier to redevelop a parking lot efforts, Mountain Vista is a growing available land shrinks and existing land density in appropriate locations. NuSkin than it is a set of buildings.” manufacturing hub housing companies has to be converted and redeveloped. and the Provo City Center Temple have They’re trying to bring in amenities to like healthcare company Press Ganey and Developers simply need to make sure they provided a great foundation for continued help fulfill their unofficial motto: “Build a shooting range innovator Action Target. can provide adequate parking for building redevelopment, with PEG Companies’ Better Orem.” New State Street standards Transport networks like the Utah Valley users. previously mentioned residential with separated sidewalks, trees, and Express bus rapid transit line were doing According to Hansen, Provo has a properties continuing to build up the city. planter strips have gone in for the major quite well before COVID. 10,000 riders per great layout for walkability with its smaller “We’re seeing renewed interest in the thoroughfare, specifically around Orem’s day were utilizing those specific transit blocks adding some charm and setting it residential downtown because people like new library. services connecting the two cities. That is apart from its much larger counterpart in the quality of life and the lifestyle” that A new city fitness center is also going sure to return after the pandemic, and in the Salt Lake City. downtown Provo offers, Walter said. in, designed by Method Studio with Big-D 100 Years old. 100% Construction. meantime, Provo is expanding their airport. He should know—he lives there. The city is going up in other ways, too. Construction as the general contractor. It For more than a century, CSDZ has been solely “We’re building a new terminal and “I’ve had the most urban, walkable Mixed-use developments like Freedom matches Orem’s active nature, with Clark focused on protecting construction companies like have new gates,” Walter said of the rapidly experience of my life in Provo, Utah Commons and Freedom Boulevard create a boasting that Orem hosts the best park yours whose heavy lifting and risk-taking have transformed this great nation. Our “inch wide, mile growing regional airport. Commercial of all places,” he said of living in the near-perfect blend of live-work-play. With system in the county—and even then it CSDZ.COM deep” approach provides the support and expertise carrier Allegiant Air announced new flights city’s emerging downtown. “From [PEG more development coming in to replace might be underselling how good it is. Pickle you need to manage risk at every level. to Orange County and Denver, a promising Companies] office, I can walk to lunch. It’s the old city hall, additional catalysts ball, playgrounds, and splash pads dot the step to building up the area’s amenities and one of my favorite parts of where we are— are coming in just in time to meet Provo city, with a new city park set to go in after making it a greater connectivity hub for all we can take clients out and walk to lunch.” residents’ needs. the city purchased the school across the of Utah County. He mentioned that the local Orem, on the other hand, has an street from University Place. Minneapolis, MN Salt Lake City, UT Madison, WI 801-537-7467
30 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 31 UVU Pedestrian Bridge
A Bridge to Somewhere Stakeholders from UVU, UDOT, and UTA come together to build spanning pedestrian bridge to bring first mile and last mile together for travelers.
By Doug Fox
32 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 33 UVU Pedestrian Bridge
The UVU Pedestrian Bridge comes replete with amenities like elevators, roof, snow-melt system, LED lights, and security cameras as it spans across a major highway and rail lines (photos courtesy Endeavour Architectural Photography).
he path to constructing Utah’s largest with some as high as 20,000 per day. Project Manager for this venture, pedestrian bridge was certainly no “This project is an example of people conversation then intensified five to seven Twalk in the park, but the end result coming together to solve a problem,” said years ago when the discussion turned from is a step forward in offering students and Val Peterson, UVU Vice President of Finance “What if we did try to build this?” to “How visitors a convenient, safe, and green- and Administration, noting that this urban can we fund it?” minded passageway between the Utah interchange created an increasingly unsafe UVU and UTA agreed to contribute $4 Valley University (UVU) campus and condition for pedestrians, what with its million each, said Mason, and UDOT agreed FrontRunner’s Orem Intermodal Center. many converging roads and complexes. to work with the Utah Transportation Touching down on Utah Transit “This project creates a safe solution to the Commission to fund the remainder. Authority (UTA) property on the west last mile between mass transit and UVU. It “The willingness of each partner to side and UVU land on the east, the bridge allows people to cross the [I-15] freeway in collaborate and say, ‘Let’s do this,’ was key is 1,000 feet long and 15 feet wide. The a safe manner to utilize the many events to making this project successful,” Mason bridge crosses over nine railway lines, both located at UVU.” said. directions of I-15, some private property, Peterson, who called the bridge a “Collaboration between the three and a frontage road. “one-of-a-kind triumph,” said the project parties has been occurring for many years The $30.7 million project—funded was first placed on the university’s master now during the planning and design of the through a partnership between UVU, plan in 1993, then began to crystalize in project,” said UTA’s Grey Turner, Sr. Program the Utah Department of Transportation a meeting two years later. Several of the Manager. “During design, all parties were (UDOT), UTA, Orem City, and the Utah current partners had then discussed the involved with the selection of the design State Legislature—is expected to provide development of a transit-oriented district, consultant and building contractor. […] safe passage for an average of 5,000 centered around creating an intermodal This is an excellent example of a truly users per day at present. Projections rise center for mass transit. collaborative effort between multiple exponentially concerning future usage According to Eric Mason, UDOT’s agencies to provide a valuable project >>
34 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 35 UVU Pedestrian Bridge for the general public.” student and pedestrian safety in mind. Studio team response. “Upper elevator The design process began in 2017, with “The amount of pedestrian traffic, landings double as viewing platforms, construction beginning in late October combined with the integration into the which provide panoramic scenes of UVU’s 2019 and finishing about 14 months later. UVU campus, are distinguishing factors campus with the mountain background to The partners held an official ribbon-cutting that justified including these kind of the east and Utah Lake to the west.” on January 14th. The bridge officially features,” said a joint statement released On the construction side of things, opened to foot and bicycle traffic on by team members WSP (engineering) and meticulous pre-planning paved the way to February 1st, 2021. Method Studio (design). “Additionally, overcoming many potential challenges in In addition to being the largest this bridge was envisioned as a user advance. The four-span bridge was erected pedestrian bridge in the state, this experience. In order to appreciate this, in five different phases according to Sara walkway comes with a bevy of amenities making the journey feel safe with lighting, Aupperle, Project Manager for the general designed to make it as safe as possible. cameras, and weather protection was contractor of the project, Kraemer North The 15-foot width provides plenty of room essential.” America. for bicyclists and pedestrians to co-exist. In addition to pure functionality, Each phase presented a different To provide shelter from the elements and architecture for the bridge also took challenge with the deck-supporting improve functionality during the winter, advantage of dramatic views provided by girders. However, some pairs of girders there is not only a full roof overhead, but the surrounding Utah County landscape. came out already bolted together, 15,000 SF of heated concrete underfoot to “The curved pathway, semi- making construction easier. The girders melt snow and ice. transparent perforated aluminum spanning I-15 were longer and heavier In addition, the bridge is equipped side enclosure, and peaked roof form and had to be placed individually. How with 125 lights, 18 security cameras, and work together to provide a variety of overhead construction would affect three emergency phone stations tied to framed views and a spatially dynamic traffic, especially on I-15, was a major UVU police dispatch—all designed with user experience.” said the WSP/Method consideration. >>
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36 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 UVU Pedestrian Bridge
But crews were able to finish all girder of way, and working during the global life for residents of Orem and all the people UVU Pedestrian Bridge and bridge deck work with only three full- COVID-19 pandemic. coming to Utah Valley University.” Location: Connecting FrontRunner’s traffic shutdowns, Aupperle said. One night Additional features that are more In the end, the road to better traffic Orem Intermodal Center with Utah Valley for girder erection on southbound I-15, one unique to the UVU bridge include the roof, conditions in the area and the overall University night for girder erection on the northbound along with the staircases and elevators at impact of the bridge will come down to the Cost: $30.7 million I-15, and one night for a complete shutdown each end of the structure. right people committing to use it. To turn Delivery Method: CMGC in both directions of the freeway to install “You have these very fancy stair a key phrase from the one-time hit movie the bridge deck. structures and elevators on either end,” said “Field of Dreams”: Officials have built it, but Primary Owner: UDOT “Those were our three full closures, Aupperle. “Very fancy with glazing and LED will the students come? Ownership Partner: Utah Valley University and we had planned them well in advance. lights that can change colors—so very unique “Much of the potential for decreases Agency Partners: UTA, Mountainland We didn’t have any problems working to the DOT world and bridge construction in congestion depends on the willingness Association of Governments, over I-15, and we got it done in those three in particular. Normally, I build bridges, and I of those wanting to access UVU’s campus City of Orem nights,” Aupperle said. “You know, retelling don’t build elevators that go up to them.” to use the bridge versus driving,” said UTA’s Project Lead + Engineer of Record: WSP it, it sounds really easy—but it’s a lot of According to Mason, one of UDOT’s Cooley. “A great way for that to happen Lead Design Architect: Method Studio moving parts and coordination leading up main goals is to provide diverse choices for could be if the residents living in the multi- General Contractor: Kraemer North to those days, including weather and all how and when people travel. level apartment buildings located at the America that good stuff.” “This is UDOT’s largest active west side of I-15 opted to use the pedestrian Structural Steel Fabricator: Utah Pacific Other challenges faced during the transportation project to date and our bridge as their primary source for going to Bridge and Steel project, according to Dane Cooley, Manager biggest investment so far in pedestrian/ and from campus.” Girder erection: Olsen Beal of Quality and Construction Oversight cycling facilities,” Mason said. “This is The bridge shows the foresight of Electric: Hunt Electric for UTA, included obtaining all the proper another example of how UDOT is focused planning and care from these organizations, Snow Melt/Concrete Heating: Thermal permit approvals for working within and on keeping people moving. This bridge but time will tell if it turns the area into a Engineering above Union Pacific Rail Road and UTA will have a long-lasting effect for the mobility hub and bridges the gap between Landings: Uintah Steel properties, dealing with railroad right community. It’s going to improve quality of the first and last mile. n
38 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 39 Infrastructure Report
Long-term growth heightens infrastructure concerns, but can Utah construction workers keep pace? By Emma Penrod
early 100 years ago, infrastructure the logical place to use the unexpected renewable sources. They’ve partnered with and public works saved America. windfall, DiCaro said. Vanguard Renewables to capture manure NToday, as the nation enters 2021 Many of the allocations proposed methane from farms across the Mountain with an economy that is anything but by Governor Cox’s proposed 2022 budget West for processing, then injection into roaring, U.S. leaders have once again turned released in January represent unaddressed natural gas pipelines as an alternative to infrastructure spending as a means of goals shared by former Governor Gary power source. putting the people back to work. Herbert’s administration. A one-time Dominion Energy shares Governor Although the details are not yet public, $350 million investment in commuter rail Cox’s interest in rural infrastructure, while campaigning in 2020 President headlines the proposed funding package and some of its latest projects include Joe Biden promised to revitalize the U.S. with another $50 million to address growing expansions into rural Utah communities economy with a $2 trillion infrastructure gridlock in the Wasatch canyons. Increased that previously lacked access to spending package focused primarily on rail service, according to DiCaro, will in turn natural gas. transportation and energy. Governor increase ridership, which will improve the Currently, the company is engaged in Spencer Cox has pursued a similar state’s air quality—as will the $6 million a $20 million project to bring natural gas undertaking since his own election, proposed for the installation of electric service to Eureka, according to Dominion proposing millions in one-time payments vehicle charging stations. Energy Utah spokesperson Don Porter, and to expand Utah’s public transit, clean the The 2022 budget also reflects Cox’s they’re currently in talks with eight to nine air, and bring greater opportunity to rural devotion to rural Utah, DiCaro said, and other communities such as Green River. communities. emphasizes a need to expand economic This expansion, Porter said, comes in But while roads and transit are opportunities in Utah. In total, the addition to Dominion’s ongoing $70 million perennially popular budget items, the need budget dedicates $125 million to rural pipeline replacement initiative, which for investment lies elsewhere—particularly infrastructure investments, including $50 involves recent work to upgrade old natural in areas like clean air, water, and waste million for fiber and broadband upgrades. gas lines and service mains on the on both management. Current work to upgrade large and small projects across Utah. Utah’s wet infrastructure is already running Utilities Seek Sustainability It’s not the only utility transmission (pictured and above (photo courtesy Sundt) into cost overruns and cascading delays, and Further Reach expansion, either. In order to connect Utah courtesy Whitaker Construction) causing concerns over Utah’s capacity The budget aligns with plans already to 5,000 megawatts of new wind and solar to absorb increased investment without in motion at Utah’s largest utilities. In generation coming online before 2025, neglecting construction in needed areas. 2020, Rocky Mountain Power sought and Rocky Mountain Power has begun plans received permission to replace a five-year- for a 400-mile transmissions line. With Budgeting for Needs old, $2 million EV rollout program with a $50 their plans to improve the grid’s resistance According to Sophia DiCaro, Executive million program—just slightly less than the to wildfire, these projects will require Director of the Governor’s Office of $66 million proposed that year by Governor significant manpower. Rocky Mountain Management and Budget, state officials Herbert. Since then, Rocky Mountain Power Power’s upgrades aren’t major, according slashed budgets last year with the partnered with NV Energy to apply for to company Vice President Jon Cox, but onset of COVID-19, but sales tax revenue a fund-matching grant from the federal the company is monitoring both projected ultimately did not decline as steeply as government, increasing their EV budget by growth and the best way to meet needs. anticipated, leaving Utah with a large but another $6.6 million. Both Cox and Porter said it’s not yet temporary budget surplus. Infrastructure, a With Dominion Energy wanting to clear what these developments mean for longstanding political priority on account achieve net zero emissions by 2050, the jobs in the energy sector, but they agreed of leaders’ fear that state spending will company has been investing in solar farms that growing interest in renewable energy not keep pace with insatiable growth, was in Utah since 2015 and is looking at other will likely bring additional work. >>
40 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 41 Infrastructure Report
Crews from COP Construction (pictured) prioritize funding for levees, flood control, Even greater investment, on top of response of strategically picking its spots , work on various water/infrastructure and canal projects,” he said. “We need to the wealth of work that already exists, “so that when or if the economy does slow projects. Water Infrastructure investment focus on our two lowest grades.” could once again raise the specter of labor down quite a bit, and prices go down if is a critical need that will take focus and unified effort to address (photos courtesy Laura Briefer, Director of the Salt Lake shortages, but Hamson said he still believes they do, the state could still have bonding COP Construction). City Department of Public Utilities, feels this that if Utah has a one-time windfall, capacity for work to add back in,” thereby need for emphasis on water infrastructure infrastructure is possibly the best place to maintaining stability in the market. acutely. invest it. But with an enormous amount of “This comes up regularly in terms of “It’s actually a good thing that we’re infrastructure spending already in the the public health and safety need, plus spending money we have instead of using works or on the horizon in Utah, additional the affordability concerns that go along up our bonding capacity to finance the funding could exacerbate the existing with it,” she said. “The need exceeds the work,” he said of the state’s financial construction labor shortage if utilities community’s capacity to pay. We can’t just continue to raise rates all the time and hope that access to water is still affordable to people.” But there’s another kind of capacity that concerns Briefer. Even when the city can afford upgrades, they’ve struggled to find skilled workers to fill needed construction jobs.
Labor Shortage Remains Part of the problem, Briefer said, is TURNKEY that the city broke ground on its new $711 million wastewater treatment plant, which TRAFFIC & is expected to create 440 construction jobs over the life of the project, in 2019—before INFRASTRUCTURE work on the airport remodel ended. Delays State Infrastructure Grades Out; Transport about 3,000 bridges in the state are nearing C+ and require some $250 million in repairs have already caused the wastewater SOLUTIONS Receives High Marks their 50-year design life, and more than a to bring them within minimum safety project price take to escalate nearly $200 As a state, Utah typically outperforms third of the state’s roads are in mediocre standards. And the state’s flood control million over the original $528 price tag. Now, its peers with respect to infrastructure, or poor condition. But overall, Friant said levees—yes, they do exist—earned a D-. the city is trying to delay needed work at • Commercial, Industrial & according to Craig Friant, Project Manager Utah’s on the right track with respect to The state’s drinking water and the drinking water treatment plants, each for J-U-B Engineers. He is the Chairman of transportation. stormwater systems have seen significant requiring between $40–$100 million in Subdivision Build-Out rehabilitation and upgrades. the committee responsible for rating the “I think Utah is in good shape because improvement in recent years as increasingly • Utility, Communication & quality of Utah’s infrastructure for the Utah uses state funding to build roads,” strict environmental regulations force It’s not just Salt Lake City, either. Sewer American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) he said of both roads and ridership on upgrades. But with even more regulation and water districts across the state “are in Site Infrastructure state-by-state report card. Utah received public transit, which had increased by 2 on its way, Friant said that Utah has a long a mad scramble” to meet new discharge one of the highest grades awarded in the million riders between 2015–2019. “UDOT way to go overall with respect to its wet regulations that take effect in 2025, said • Conduit Install & 2020 ASCE report card: a C+. recognizes the need for investment into infrastructure systems. Glen Perry, COO of COP Construction, and Relocation “When you look at infrastructure, to get our transportation system, and with a good At the current rate of funding, he said, there’s likely more to come if the EPA adopts an A means all your infrastructure is in great transportation system, we have a good rehabilitating dams alone will take over more stringent drinking water requirements • Street, Parking & under the agency’s Lead and Copper Rule. condition,” Friant said. “Infrastructure is economy. There’s a direct relationship.” 60 years, while the state’s drinking water Sign Lighting not cheap. It takes a lot of money, and every systems will require $11 billion in repairs After years of growth and the onset of state is limited on their budget and funding Water Infrastructure Struggles to Keep and upgrades over the next 20 years. a pandemic, Whitaker Construction Vice • Design-Build Services for infrastructure.” Pace Governor Cox’s proposed budget does President Judd Hamson said he’d expected Utah does especially well in the But the state’s lowest grades are provide new funding for wet infrastructure, to see a slowdown by now. Instead, the & Much More transportation arena, scoring its highest all related to the quality of its water including a one-time allocation of $23.5 heavy civil contractor has experienced grade—a B+—for the condition of its infrastructure—a real concern, Friant said, million and a $200,000 annual increase in growth rates in the range of 15% per year roads and bridges, according to Friant. given that Utah is a desert. The state’s funds for water quality, dam safety, and since 2019, pushing Whitaker to hire 50–75 He said that over the past five years, canal system, which includes as many as efficiency programs. But the conclusion of new employees annually. continued investment in transportation 8,000 miles of canals that remain in service the ASCE report, Friant said, was that Utah “If you’ve got the right skills, you can has decreased the number of bridges despite having been built over a hundred needs to make water more of a priority. find a job anywhere pretty fast,” he said, considered structurally deficient by the years ago, received a D+. The dams, many “We recommend the state develop a adding that demand has begun to drive up ASCE by 40%. There’s still work to do— of which are 50–100 years old, pulled in a statewide risk assessment framework to materials prices as well.
42 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 43 and government leaders do not carefully coordinate, Breifer said. Add to that the materials shortage affecting contractors and suddenly fixing Utah’s infrastructure becomes more precarious. “It affects your ability to go out and pursue new work,” Perry said. “There are projects being delayed, due to the availability of materials, and then those same crews get tied up for months longer than you expected them to be, and that’s a lost opportunity to move that crew onto a new project.” This has caused cascading delays that have resulted in a loss of 5–10 bidding opportunities alone for COP Construction. While the company has implemented pay raises, sign-on bonuses and loyalty incentives, these measures are temporary, he said. “As a nation we have pushed our young people away from the construction trades, and now we’re starting to see the ramifications of that,” Perry said. “We can invest as much as we want, but you have to have the people to build the work.” The situation has highlighted a need for government support of skilled trades education according to Chris DeHerrera, President of the Utah chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), so that out- of-work Americans can take advantage of the economic opportunities growth and a renewed interest in infrastructure could bring. “ABC supports the initiatives to rebuild our crumbling infrastructure—nationwide as well as locally—prepare for Utah’s growth projections, job creation, secure our nation, and support economic recovery from COVID-19,” DeHerrera said, adding that “ABC is committed to educating our policymakers that an all-of-the-above strategy for workforce development is critical, so workers and employers have the freedom to choose the best way to provide value to an owner, make a living, and build America. As always infrastructure spending moves forward along transportation and utilities, but even with a larger budget, we can’t afford to ignore some of our more glaring issues. We have the money, but is there a willingness to use it to upgrade and enhance infrastructure where it is most needed? n
44 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 A/E/C Valentine’s Day Profiles
peaking to people about work is “That’s where our worlds started vent, or to just say, ‘Man, that was a rough always a treat, but speaking to merging,” said Kelly, now a Superintendent day.’ When we get home, it’s done. We’re Sfour different couples about the with Hogan. The late Jay Salazar, Kelly’s dad, very good at leaving work at work.” intersection of work and literal love is was working with Hogan as a subcontractor They’re good at keeping home at home, a new experience for me. Each of these and would often shoot the breeze with too. They often fool trade partners and couples explained how working with Melissa when he would stop by Hogan’s new coworkers for months at a time before Couples from every facet of the industry tell us what it is like to work with their partners their partners—some for different former Centerville office. others realize these two coworkers have Partnered Up— and how both their personal and professional organizations, some literally side-by-side— “One day he asked, ‘Is it okay if I get been married for over 20 years. relationships strengthen one another. has added more depth and understanding your phone number? I’ve got a son I’d like to “When they see our pictures behind us, Personally & By Taylor Larsen to their personal relationship. If there was give it to.’” Because of the respect Melissa they see that they are family pictures,” laughed one thing I learned from these interviews, it had gained for Jay, she agreed. “Kelly and Kelly. “But they don’t notice it’s both of us.” Professionally was this: as work abounds, so does love! I went on a date at the end of May in 2000, “They’ll tell me ‘I noticed that in your and we were married a month later.” email that your last name is the same After a year of marriage and raising as Kelly’s.’” Melissa played right along. “I their kids, Kelly came over to work as a usually tell them I’ll have to look into that.” Hogan employee in 2001. Three years later, They are thankful for such an they were working on their first project opportunity. “We’re very fortunate to work together: the Arches National Park Visitor’s for Hogan […] and that they give us this Center. flexibility and trust us,” said Kelly. They are “I did a lot of everything,” said Melissa dialed in both personally and professionally. of her early days working in the field. To Melissa, there aren’t really challenges Whether it was punch work, cleaning up to working with her partner—it’s even a the job site, or even some carpentry work, strength for the Hall family. “it was random and it was interesting. […] “I would struggle working anywhere Anything that needed to be done,” she did it. else and not being together,” Melissa said Their three daughters have even before laughing. “Maybe I’ve gotten clingy worked with them on various projects in my old age.” Melissa and Kelly Hall throughout the years. “It’s a family affair She appreciates seeing how respected What could bring an Alabama native and a in our home. They became dedicated to Kelly is in his field as both a manager and Utahn together? For Melissa and Kelly Hall, the harsh schedules on these projects someone with decades of construction it was construction. and sacrificed a lot of summers working experience. “He’s got a way of helping people Melissa is the Alabama native who overtime to help us meet the schedules. realize their full potential where they still decided to uproot her two girls from the And they learned a little about construction like him at the end of the day,” she said. Gulf Coast to a place with “less water, along the way,” Melissa related. “It’s a tribute to my dad,” he said. fewer trees, fewer alligators,” to which From Moab, to Gunnison (where they “I attribute it to my background as a she laughed, and most importantly, worked on the prison in 2006), to Mona subcontractor where people are juggling “fewer snakes. Which is why I moved!” (where they moved in 2016), work has multiple balls and multiple contracts. After arriving in the Beehive State, she moved them around but always brought the Instead of everything being an emergency, began working with Hogan & Associates couple together—even with their hour-plus we have to figure out how to balance the Construction as a receptionist in 1998. commutes to their current project, Brighton give and take. It’s important to build those While Melissa has learned the trade as High School Rebuild project. relationships with respect.” Trade partners she worked her way into her position as Field “It’s quite a commute every day,” will look forward to working with both the Engineer, construction is in Kelly’s blood. Melissa said. But they’re in good spirits Halls and Hogan & Associates Construction. He grew up in Utah, working for his about it. “It’s fun. But he’s an early bird and I Their respect of both professional and dad during weekends and throughout the am not. I usually try to sleep during the ride personal relationships has allowed them summer. His high school years had them if I ride with him.” the good fortune of working together, tackling progressively bigger and bigger The journey back home is a perfect way and they relish every minute of it. Kelly projects, eventually becoming a trade to decompress and get work out of their concluded, “I know it’s rare, but I wouldn’t partner with some larger companies. systems. Said Kelly, “Whether it is to talk, to change what we have for anything.” ❤
Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 47 A/E/C Valentine’s Day Profiles
conversation. David gains a lot of joy seeing and emergency power of their projects. Greta’s completed projects. “We usually talk They’re different systems, sure, but their about the mundane things that we have to partnership is committed to emphasizing tackle day to day, but there will be a grand each other’s strengths. opening and I get to walk through and feel Susan is appreciative of Ray’s big- pride for her work.” picture vision. “There’s a real synergetic Greta echoed that thought. effect of working together. He thinks in “Sometimes I’m driving on the freeway broader ways than I do. It adds to the down to Provo [with coworkers] and think, process, and we come up with great ‘Wait a minute, I’ve seen that building on solutions to problems.” Dave’s computer!’ I get to tell everyone with That appreciation has only grown me in the car that David designed that.” during the pandemic and has helped them While their respective work has envision what the future of work looks like followed different and fulfilling paths, their at TBCx. Since the work changes of last personal lives are still very much connected, year, Ray admitted with a laugh that they’re especially working from home through the “getting really good at Zoom.” pandemic. Their four-year old son Alistair Susan agreed, appreciating some of with FFKR Architects, David as Principal with way too far to drive to a Colorado ski slope,” Greta and David Anderson pops into our Zoom meeting to say hello, Susan Marshall and Ray Dodd the more sustainable aspects. “There’s a lot Babcock Design. Their relationship is strong, Susan mentioned of the two hours it took to Years ago, David Anderson had recently but mostly to talk about glitter slime. Susan Marshall and Ray Dodd of good in not commuting. There was more and they attribute some of that strength to get them into the mountains from Boulder. graduated from Cornell in upstate New York “The first few weeks were messy and are testaments to the idea that self- stress when we had to drive around a lot their work as architects. In 2009, the couple moved to Utah for when he took a cross-country trek out west complicated,” Greta said as she balanced improvement leads to good things. After all, and sit in traffic.” The shorthand, the thrill of winning Ray’s new position as the President of TBCx, to interview for architecture jobs in San both home and work with ease. It involved it’s how they met. So, do they talk about work and projects, the burn from losing them—they the commissioning division of Spectrum Francisco. Call it fate, but the dark cloud of adjusting to divvy up responsibilities for “Ray likes to say we met at a swanky engineering everywhere they go? both understand the depth of the other’s Engineers. A year later, Susan was hired on. car troubles loomed and forced him to make their new normal. “But it’s nice to see hotel, and that’s sort-of true,” said “No.” Ray said as soon as I finish the work and can relate to it personally. “Being Their work in commissioning has a a pit stop. David throughout the day. There’s sort of a Susan of their meeting in 2001 at the question. He is especially cognizant of how in the same field, we have that compassion symbiotic relationship with their personal That pit stop was Utah, where David’s closeness and connectivity that is really a Millennium Harvest House Boulder. “But remote work makes the balance between and understanding for each other when we quests for self-improvement. While friend asked the new architect to interview shining star for me.” we met through a seminar for the Four personal and professional even more hear those things,” David said. constructing a building is good, ensuring all at VCBO while his car got fixed. It was there Another work from home setup that Agreements,” a famous book by Don Miguel precarious. “We’re fairly competitive, […] but we’re of the systems work at full capacity is both that Greta and David, now in their 12th has brought them together? The ethernet Ruiz that teaches four simple ideas for “You need boundaries. There’s time never competing directly,” Greta mentioned, Susan and Ray’s professional mission. year together, first met. cable that David purchased for Greta as a mastering life in today’s complicated world. for work and time for play. We have to expressing how they keep personal and “There’s an enormous amount of To get the lay of the land, David came Christmas present, which David said is a Ray recalled the initial encounter with compartmentalize the work piece because professional separate. “We want to protect coordination and things that can go wrong,” into the office on a Saturday—just before “manifestation of love.” fondness, “I knew the moment I met her that the challenge of working from home makes each other’s job.” said Ray concerning the various systems he started the following Monday—and met “It’s better than a diamond,” Greta she was smarter than me.” it easy to work 12–14 hour days, and that’s Even when one is close to giving away involved in constructing today’s smart Greta. Coincidentally, she too had come grinned. Their next obstacle to overcome At the time, both were involved with not good for you.” too much information, the other will step in. buildings. from New York, where she was born and together is remodeling their home. commissioning work in vastly different To find that balance in their lives, both “Sometimes we will relate a story where the “As an example: If you’re in the hospital spent her early years before growing up “It’s a challenge to have two fields. While Ray was working with a love to cook—especially Indian cuisine. other person recognizes the project name or on the operating table and the electricity close to the University of Utah’s School qualified designers coming to meet the mechanical design-build firm in Boulder, Ray is the cook and Susan makes sure that something and the line goes dead on that one goes out, that’s a big deal because they of Architecture. She was spending some same problem,” said David. “But it helps Susan said she was “working on refineries everything tastes up to standard, at least and we move on to the next story,” said David. can’t tolerate an interruption of services,” weekend hours completing a project underscore that there are an infinite and large chemical processing plants. […] according to Ray. Luckily, that isn’t too often. With David he continued. Commissioning the when they first met. “I hope I made a good number of design solutions we can keep Much more industrial.” She had been doing He is complimentary of Susan’s mostly designing and overseeing core and building—making sure things function as impression,” David said with a smile. working through until we find something commissioning for offshore oil platforms strengths, especially in some of the details shell office and Greta directing FFKR’s K-12 designed—can mitigate the risk of serious It was a loving nod from Greta. we both support.” and refineries but had started looking for a and work that go under-appreciated in such studio, the two have different niches of problems in the future. Fewer change orders “Sometimes you listen to a coworker and “I’ve pulled the wife card a few times,” more stationary job in the US. a technical field. focus, which Greta sees as another strength. and conflicts, more coordination between then you realize that they are more than a said Greta with a smile. “David is in charge The couple started dating in 2004. “Susan likes to talk to people,” “I’ve always loved the fact that we have the different trades. coworker, and you should have listened more of the RFIs” Susan briefly retired from working in he smiled. “She brings these grumpy had different stories to tell and different Now, the two are working on hospitals, closely to their personal stories,” she said of Whether it is managing employees, engineering before joining up with Ray at construction workers together and gets parts of our day to relate to one another,” she the SLC Airport expansion, offices, and even how their relationship blossomed over the designing the next structures to go up Architectural Energy in Boulder, but a move them to work as a team […] our goal is said. Greta still gets excited to hear about the some of the new high-rises in downtown— years. “Then you have to make up lost time.” across the state, or the complexities of to Utah had been on the radar for a couple a successful project where everyone— design work that David is doing at Babcock. Kensington Tower and 95 State at City Creek. While they’ve certainly made up for juggling all of that while raising their child, years before their eventual move. subcontractors, general contractors, the The excitement and reverence for one As Ray oversees the mechanical side lost time, they also ended up at different each is a champion of the other—a huge “We talked about moving to Utah design team, and owners—are successful.” another’s work are evident throughout the of projects, Susan oversees the electrical companies: Greta as Senior Principal Architect silver lining to a most challenging era. ❤ because I love to ski, and I thought it was Susan mentioned that it can >>
48 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 49 A/E/C Valentine’s Day Profiles
#WeBuildUtah and the communities sometimes be a struggle. “It’s harder to Community Manager position in Salt Lake next in SLC to continue taking this city to where families and business live, work, and thrive. Join our industry and engage in make the commissioning effort successful City, first in the Clift Building and now in the new heights,” Kristen said. “While we love when there are team members who are Kearns Building downtown. the ‘Small Lake City’ life, we hope in time a promising and fulfilling career as you make a difference in your own community. Scan to watch uncooperative or even combative.” Susan Hines, along with their partner, [some of our favorite amenities] make their a short video mentioned. “We work hard to build a team owns the Kearns Building downtown and way to our new home state.” She is dying that benefits everyone involved in the partnered with Industrious in a venture for a sky-rise rooftop bar and restaurant in project.” called “The Square with Industrious.” The downtown with views for days. She recognizes how it can be space launched in summer of 2020, While Salt Lake City goes through accomplished—much like her and Ray’s and Kristen was tapped to take over development, so does the McCann home. relationship, it’s remembering that the goal management of the new location. Their “It had been my summer job on weekends,” is reached by building greatness together. ❤ offices are now three floors apart. according to Sean. He re-landscaped and sodded the backyard, fully painted the interior of the house, and replaced all baseboards and door trim just in time for their newest family member. That dedication is one of her favorites of Sean’s many qualities. “He is the most detailed person. If we’re going on vacation, I’m packing for the trip the day we leave, and Sean has a list and is ready to go,” Kristen said. It’s not just her who sees it either. “He’s found a great connection with his team. He earns the respect of everyone he works with because he’s a hard worker.” Sean appreciates Kristen’s organization and personality with other people. She is able to connect with the existing and future members of The Square to ensure their Sean and Kristen McCann Now, much like many others in the needs and expectations are exceeded—a They said they missed online dating industry not working on job sites or in testament to her upbringing in Florida. by weeks, but Sean and Kristen McCann offices, the two are sharing a new coworking “Growing up in Gainesville, we were— certainly didn’t miss the boat on love. After space: their home. Life is still the same for the at most—two hours away from our entire meeting through mutual friends on a beach McCann’s—well, as similar as it can be with extended family,” she began. Family cookouts day, the two began dating a month later— a new baby, Beau, who they welcomed to the and get-togethers were a staple. “I grew up but only after Sean had returned from his world on November 30th, 2020. in a big southern family where everybody’s exercise aboard the USS Ronald Reagan. “It has been a very unusual year,” they extroverted—I’ve never met a stranger. At the time, both were working for the said as we laughed at how unforgettable My strength has always been building Navy—Sean as a service member, Kristen as 2020 has been. “Laid-back home life has relationships and bringing people together.” a part of the Morale, Wellness and Recreation turned into rigid baby schedules and tag- And Sean sees how Kristen bringing division—but had never met before that day teaming each other to get a workout in,” people together is essential to her on the beach. They told me that “it wasn’t a said Kristen. But it is all worth it for Beau. professional role. “That role isn’t ‘Office ‘Love Boat’ situation” as they laughed. It’s been so far so good for the couple Manager’ it’s ‘Community Manager,’” he Eight years later, and things are whose professional goal is to provide said. “Her personality, her thoughtfulness, different for the couple. After deciding to exceptional management and enjoyment of her kindness—all of that helps to create pursue a career with Hines, where Sean the spaces where they work. They’ve been community. She’s incredible at it.” works as a Development Associate, the in Utah for 18 months, enjoying the different With baby Beau in tow, Kristen will be couple uprooted from the California coast outdoor amenities Utah has to offer. While going back to full-time in the office when she to the Wasatch mountains. Kristen had they each miss the beaches of San Diego, finishes maternity leave, and Sean will part- been intrigued by Industrious’ Los Angeles Kristen makes sure to keep the noise time at home and part-time across multiple operations, with the company aiming to machine for baby Beau set to wave sounds. projects. Their growing family is a firm part give co-working spaces the office amenities When the two “talk shop,” it centers of the community here, bringing attention to of a Fortune 500 company. As she and around the potential of Salt Lake City. detail and an inclusive spirit that is always Sean moved to Salt Lake City, she landed a “We often daydream about what is welcome in the Beehive State. ❤
50 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 AGC of Utah Convention Recap
with end users about when they can work 2021, Scott Okelberry, related one of his inside [these buildings].” statements via his association’s magazine. Building Relationships and Later seminars included how to In it, he stated that the time was now to build on both personal and professional get involved in association events and relationships in construction’s unique committees, allowing members and their Building Utah environment. One seminar was dedicated companies to stay ahead of trends and to the “We Build Utah” marketing effort issues that affect the industry. AGC of Utah’s 2021 conference builds on the desire to train up future generations of construction and how to effectively use that in “As more of our members get involved workers and assert the industry’s spot as the best place for a happy, challenging career. marketing campaigns. in AGC, that involvement will strengthen In another seminar, Derek Miller, CEO both our association and our industry. By Taylor Larsen of the Salt Lake Chamber and Downtown […] I encourage you to participate in Alliance, spoke of construction’s impact committees and other activities to on Utah’s recovery from the economic advance your career and your business,” he downturn of 2020. said to all members. n one of the first conferences of the “[In Utah,] there are 50,000 people out “One of the key issues that our year for the state’s A/E/C industry, AGC of work [and] lots of jobs going unfilled,” he association continues to work on is Iof Utah hosted several hundred of their said to address the gravity of the situation workforce development,” he continued. members at the Grand America Hotel in and the uneven recovery between urban “We look forward to celebrating the downtown Salt Lake City, providing its and rural areas. But he was complimentary completion of our new Training Center. awards ceremony on January 21st and the of construction’s place in the state’s or other options, Miller was certain that […] In this impressive new facility, annual conference the following day. resurgence. “We know there is a chance these projects can lead Utah to a brighter [construction professionals] will learn “There’s not a lot of live events going through ‘reskilling’ and ‘upskilling’ to bring in future, but “we need infrastructure new skills in their crafts and how to on across the country, and that means a more people to these [construction] jobs.” spending now.” work safely every day. This is a major lot that we can all be here in-person and Miller pointed to key projects that accomplishment that AGC members together,” said Darin Zwick, 2020 Chairman could be a boon for the state. Whether that New Chairman of the Board should be proud of.” of the Board and President/CEO of Zwick was a dual-tracking FrontRunner, clean President of Sunroc Corporation and Construction Company, as he led off the energy infrastructure, high-speed Internet, AGC of Utah’s Chairman of the Board for Closing Remarks and conference on the 22nd. Training Center Update The theme? We build Utah. To conclude the conference, Rich Thorn, AGC of Utah’s President/CEO, New Campaign Sparks Excitement emphasized how the 16,000-SF training “The purpose is to generate excitement center mentioned by Okelberry is a for those in the industry,” said Zwick. He testament to the collective spirit of the and the members of the association’s public association’s membership. relations committee want to show those He began, “You all donated already working in Utah construction that funds—millions of dollars” toward the their collective efforts are meaningful, seen, construction of the AGC of Utah Training and appreciated. Center. “Some of you donated actual skills “We Build Utah” is a major campaign and time, and because of that, we’re now led by the association. Its goal, according to under construction.” Zwick, is to show those going through both Thorn praised the association’s primary and secondary education the many willingness to retain employees and hire great construction careers open to them. more amidst employment challenges in A fitting tribute was a minute-long, other industries. promotional video that showcased both “This last year has been a weird year,” the pride and the range of career options he said. “But you all rallied. We had a lot of covered in construction. of various standards, rules, and best and force majeure delays. people getting together to figure things “I was starting to tear up when my wife practices to deal with construction work The key, he mentioned, is effective out. […] We were able to keep delivering came in and laughed and asked ‘Why are with organizations like Blue Stakes or state communication from all parties so that services. You all led that charge.” you crying? It’s just a construction clip.’” bodies like UDOT and the DFCM. financial and worker availability issues are According to Thorn, 2020 proved to Zwick related. “But I’m passionate about In one seminar, Jim Russell, Director of mitigated sooner rather than later. “It’s a be a great year for association members, this business.” DFCM, spoke on the updated DFCM general death by a thousand cuts,” he said of losing but he and the rest of the association conditions and the changes made to crews to contact tracing and other safety know that the entire industry has new Divide and Conquer various clauses—especially those related measures, “but we [at the DFCM] need to challenges to overcome and additional Breakout seminars included overviews to 2020-specific challenges like COVID-19 know about it […] so we can communicate peaks to summit in 2021 and beyond. >>
52 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 53 2021 AGC Project Awards 2021 AGC Project Awards Ralph L. Wadsworth Presented with Ryberg Award BUILDING/INDUSTRIAL DIVISION PROJECTS Civil/Public Works Project of the Year Founder of innovative construction company recognized Project Name: Silver Creek WRF for industry service and community impact. Expansion Project Contractor: Gerber Construction, Inc. Owner: Snyderville Basin Water alph L. Wadsworth, founder of Ralph Reclamation District L. Wadsworth Construction (RLW), Rwas awarded the 2021 Eric W. Ryberg Award for his outstanding service to the Interior/Tenant Improvement general contracting industry in Utah. Project of the Year Born on November 4th, 1934, Ralph Project Name: Pluralsight Office Tenant grew up on a farm in Idaho where he was Improvement taught to work hard and not expect that Contractor: Interior Construction Office Project of the Year anything be given to him without earning Specialists (ICS) Project Name: Adobe, Inc. it. A boxing scholarship took him to the Owner: Pluralsight Contractor: Okland Construction, Inc. University of Idaho where he graduated in Owner: Adobe K-12 Education civil engineering, Cultural Project of the Year Project of the Year 0-25 Million He and his wife, Peggy, have seven Project Name: Alta High School Project Name: Elizabeth Delong School for boys. Peggy joked, “Unfortunately, he Performing Arts Center the Utah Schools for the Deaf and chickened out and didn’t give me a Contractor: Hughes General Contractors the Blind daughter.” Ralph credits both his wife and Owner: Canyons School District Contractor: Gramoll Construction his sons for helping him bring his namesake Owner: DFCM company to life in 1975. Government/Public Project of the Year
“Ralph illustrates the epitome of what Project Name: Joseph D. Adams Police Station K-12 Education the Eric W. Ryberg award stands for. He Contractor: SIRQ, Inc. Project of the Year 25+ Million is a husband and father who has built a Owner: Lehi City Project Name: Roy Junior High School company that is well respected not only in Rebuild Utah, but across the Intermountain West,” Green Project of the Year Contractor: Hogan & Associates said AGC of Utah President/CEO Rich Thorn. Project Name: Sunburst Elementary School Construction, Inc. The first job for the nascent company Contractor: Hughes General Contractors Owner: Weber School District was a bridge project—a box culvert under Owner: Davis School District
State Street in Sandy Utah. RLW has now Manufacturing Project of the Year completed over 650 traffic and pedestrian Healthcare Project of the Year 0-50 Million Project Name: BioFire Manufacturing Renovation/Restoration structures and other landmarks that have Project Name: Huntsman Cancer Institute Contractor: Okland Construction, Inc. Project of the Year been memorable for any who live or pass Proton Therapy Center Owner: BioFire Diagnostics Project Name: Kearns Building Renovation through the Beehive State. Today, revenues Contractor: Jacobsen Construction & Restoration for the company exceed $300 million Company, Inc. Contractor: Jacobsen Construction annually, covering heavy highway, concrete Owner: Huntsman Cancer Institute Company, Inc. batching, and more across 10 different states. Owner: Hines But a hallmark of RLW has always Healthcare Project of the Year 50+ Million been bridges. Ralph helped pioneer Utah’s Project Name: University Of Utah Rehab Sports/Recreation Project of the Year first-ever accelerated bridge construction Contractor: Okland Construction, Inc. Project Name: Draper Recreation Center with an overnight bridge installation Owner: University Of Utah – DFCM Contractor: Layton Construction at 4500 S and I-215 and recently won life, Ralph has also been quite charitable, “He’s such a hard worker and a genuine, Owner: Salt Lake County Utah Construction & Design’s 2020 Most earning a philanthropic reputation for his giving person.” Higher Education/Research Project Multi-Family Residential/Hospitality Parks & Recreation >> Outstanding Bridge/Structure Project work building projects like the Bear Canyon As Ralph was in Arizona at the time of of the Year Project of the Year Award for their work on the transportation Suspension Bridge with his sons, starting the award ceremony, his sons (above left to Project Name: Davis Technical College | Project Name: Kahlert Village network surrounding the new Salt Lake City The National Guard Charitable Trust Fund, right) Tod, Con, and Cal accepted the award Michael J. Bouwhuis Allied Health Building Contractor: Okland Construction, Inc. International Airport. and building a facility for The Sandy Club. in his stead, while Ralph Zoomed in to give a Contractor: Layton Construction Owner: DFCM/State of Utah On top of working hard his entire Said Peggy of her husband’s legacy, brief acceptance speech. n Owner: Davis Technical College/DFCM
54 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 55 2021 ANNUAL CONVENTION THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS PLATINUM
Landscape/Urban Development Rural Highway Project Overall Building/Industrial Division Project of the Year of the Year 0-15 Million Project of the Year Project Name: Bountiful City Project Name: Cascade Scenic Drive and Project Name: Salt Lake City International Downtown Plaza Cascade Springs Road Airport Redevelopment Program GOLD Contractor: Hogan & Associates Contractor: GRP-DSB-TSB (Geneva Rock Contractor: Holder - Big-D Construction, A Construction, Inc. Products, Inc./DSB Construction Joint Joint Venture Owner: Bountiful City Venture) Owner: Salt Lake City Department of Airports Owner: U.S. Department of Transportation, Here to Help. Specialty Construction Federal Highway Division HIGHWAY/TRANSPORTATION/UTILITY Project of the Year - Building/Industrial INFRASTRUCTURE DIVISON PROJECTS Division Rural Highway Project
Name: Morgan Asphalt Paving Batch Plant of the Year 15+ Million Urban Highway Project of the Year and New Office Building Project Name: Jordanelle Parkway Project Name: UDOT 4100 South Bangerter Contractor: Jacobsen Construction Company Contractor: Reynolds Excavation Highway to 5460 West Owner: Morgan Asphalt, Inc. Demolition & Utility Contractor: Geneva Rock Products Inc. Owner: Utah Military Installation Owner: Utah Department of SILVER Development Authority >> Transportation/West Valley City
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Opportunities Utah Families 56 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Careers ConnectionsDreams
Opportunities Utah CareersFamilies ConnectionsDreams 2021 AGC Project Awards
Highway Project of the Year 0-5 Million Specialty Construction Project of the New Building Construction Project Name: I-80 Westbound; MP 99-106 Year 0-10 Million Highway/Transportation Project of the Year Contractor: Sundt Construction Division Project Name: Canyon Suites at Tuacahn Owner: Utah Department of Transportation Project Name: US-89; Garden City Escape Contractor: Watts Construction, Inc. Truck Ramp Owner: Tuacahn Center for the Arts Highway Project of the Year 5-15 Million Contractor: Wollam Construction Project Name: I-15; MP 193.7-200.7 Juab Company, Inc. Utility Infrastructure Project of the Year County Line to Sevier River Bridge Owner: Utah Department of Transportation Project Name: 1700 North Trunk Line Sewer Contractor: Hales Sand & Gravel. Rehabilitation At City Drain Owner: Utah Department of Specialty Construction Project of the Year Contractor: Beck Construction & Transportation Region #3 10-50 Million Highway/Transportation Excavation, Inc. Division Owner: Salt Lake City Corporation Highway Project of the Year 15+ Million Project Name: US-6 Peerless Port of Entry Project Name: I-15 SB; 12300 South to SR-201 Contractor: Nielson Construction & Contractor: Ralph L. Wadsworth Materials Construction Company, LLC Owner: Utah Department of Transportation Owner: Utah Department of Transportation Highway/Transportation Project of the Year Project Name: US-191 Shoulder Airport/Transit Project of the Year Improvements Project Name: Cedar City Regional Airport Contractor: SkyView Excavation & Contractor: Sunroc Corporation Grading, Inc. Owner: Cedar City Owner: Utah Department of Transportation
Utility Infrastructure Project of the Year INDIVIDUAL/COMPANY AWARDS 500,000-5 Million Project Name: 2019 Gravity Sewer Owner of the Year Improvements - Grandview Blvd. Crossing The Ritchie Group Contractor: Claude H. Nix Construction Co. Owner: City of Saratoga Springs Outstanding Architect Firm of the Year Curtis Miner Architecture Utility Infrastructure Project of the Year 5+ Million Consultant/Engineering Firm of the Year Project Name: Utah State Correctional Gerhart Cole, Inc. Facility Offsite Infrastructure Specialty Construction Project of the Contractor: WW Clyde Year 50+ Million Highway/Transportation Service Supplier of the Year Owner: State of Utah Division SmartTrades, LLC Project Name: Landside-CGMP6, Salt Lake City International Airport Terminal AGC Committee Chairperson of the Year Redevelopment Project Levi Clegg Contractor: Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction Company, LLC DFCM Employee of the Year Owner: Salt Lake City Tim Parkinson
Overall Highway/Transportation/Utility UDOT Employee of the Year Infrastructure Project of the Year Margaret Gish Project Name: I-15; Lehi Main to S.R. 92, Technology Corridor Service to the Industry Contractor: Joint Venture of Ames Betty Purdie Overall Utility Infrastructure Construction and Wadsworth Brothers • SANITARY SEWER • AGGREGATES Project of the Year Construction Service to the Industry Project Name: North Fork Siphon Owner: Utah Department of Transportation Kevin Miller (Posthumously Awarded) n • NATURAL GAS • EARTHWORK Replacement Project • INDUSTRIAL PIPING • UTILITY TUNNELS Contractor: Whitaker Construction Co. SMALL CONTRACTOR DIVISION PROJECTS • STRUCTURAL CONCRETE • DEWATERING Owner: Central Utah Water Conservancy (ANNUAL VOLUME UNDER 20 MILLION) • CULINARY WATER • TRENCHLESS District • PUMP STATIONS • LANDFILLS Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 59 > Marketing Strategy UC&D As you tackle these questions, you can create or update your strategic plan Utah Construction & Design Business Not As Usual in a series of short, highly-participatory workshops. These shorter sessions are easier for your team to schedule since The most important thing to do when preparing for an uncertain future they can participate from their own home. You’ll find that you can keep things moving, By Chris Cook interesting, and completely interactive with skillful use of the many online communication tools available. The planning happens over a series of Now’s the time to plan for the new normal base, market position, products, sales four to five weekly sessions lasting between as we inch back into business. Expectations channels, or profitability? one and two hours each. Using breakout are different, and your modus operandi had “rooms” and collaboration tools, this format better be different if you want to attract, 2) Weaknesses has achieved even better outcomes than recapture, and retain clients. Are there weaknesses in your financial the typical daylong, in-person marathon Even if you have a strategic plan in resources, staffing, or competitive sessions. place, there’s no doubt it will need a major vulnerability? Marketing doesn’t have to be difficult, re-imagination. The competitive landscape expensive, or tedious—it can be simple, has experienced a massive earthquake with 3) Opportunities valuable, and fun. Your new achievement numerous aftershocks (many still to come) Are there opportunities to enter new strategies can guide the way toward resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. markets, form alliances, pursue M&As, Chris Cook success in an uncertain future. n If you are like most people, when you and launch new products or services? hear “strategic planning,” your shoulders Chris Cook is the Principal of Capiche. noticeably slump as your eyes glaze over. 4) Threats 2) What is Your Organization’s Since 1984, Chris has been providing You are reminded of those daylong off-site How are the threats surrounding the Major Work? public- and private-sector companies with slogs producing no more than a binder that economy, lack of financial resources, Use the answers here to develop sensible marketing advice. She is a Past is gathering dust on your bookshelf. loss of key staff, and more aggressive strategic goals based on the President and charter member of SMPS of It doesn’t have to be this way. Instead competition affecting you? critical issues and needs facing the Utah. She has worked with start-ups and of those interminable marathons, these organization. entrepreneurs, manufacturers, professional planning sessions can be “snackable”: a services firms, high-tech firms, nonprofits, palatable series of shorter planning sessions Marketing doesn’t have to 3) How Will Your Organization and institutions of higher education. that makes the process invigorating, more Complete its Work? Contact [email protected] or 541-601-0114. productive, and even fun! be difficult, expensive, or Here is where to drill down to Strategic planning defines your tedious—it can be simple, department-level objectives. organization’s goals and strategies and valuable, and fun. Your new Your strategies and tactics will be how those will be achieved in keeping with developed with specific details overall vision, mission, and values. This achievement strategies can of implementation written in an type of planning specifies capabilities and guide the way toward success action-planning format with SMART— constraints, improves resource utilization, in an uncertain future. specific, measurable, achievable, reduces redundancy, and allows any results-focused, and time- Reach 7,000-plus Industry Decision-Makers! organization to both create stability and bound—goals. seek opportunity. Starting with these smaller ideas gives Follow us on Instagram: @ucdmagazine In order to know which topics to base you a foundation for discussion in later 4) What Are Your Staffing, Budget, and For Advertising Inquiries: Email [email protected] your planning sessions around, revisit that meetings. With this general information in Financing Needs? SWOT analysis you created way back when hand, you can now move onto these four With all the departmental needs or create a new one to figure out what your larger topics, which you may divide up into defined and quantified, we round company does well and where changes can their own planning sessions: them up to a centralized plan with an be made to make it better. You can devote organizational structure and budget. your first session to a discussion of the 1) Why Does Your Organization Exist? If your financing is not at the required following questions: Start here to refine the organizational level, there are two solutions: either vision, mission, and values, which decrease the plan to a level you can 1) Strengths define the purpose and function of afford or raise the capital required to The only publication dedicated exclusively to Utah’s A/E/C industry! Are there strengths in your client your organization. achieve the full plan.
60 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | Feb 21 Feb 21 | UTAH CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN | 61 LIST OF ADVERTISERS AE Urbia...... 25 AGC of Utah...... 57 CCI Mechanical...... 62 UC&D Century Equipment...... 17 COP Construction...... 2 Utah Construction CSDZ...... 31 Endeavour Architectural Photography...... 63 & Design Forterra...... 38 Geneva Rock...... 4 Honnen Equipment...... 3 Reach 7,000-plus Hughes General Contractors...... 45 Industry Decision-Makers! Hunt Electric...... 43 Kier Construction...... 18 Kilgore Companies...... 19 Follow us on Instagram: Layton Construction...... 13 @ucdmagazine method studio...... 37 Midwest D-Vision Solutions...... 44 Mountain States Fence...... 56 R&O Construction...... 9 For Advertising Inquiries: Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction...... 6 Email [email protected] Reaveley Engineers...... 64 Richards Brandt Miller Nelson...... 18 Safety Management & Training Solutions...... 39 Staker Parson Companies...... 21 The only publication dedicated UDOT (Zero Fatalities)...... 5 WeBuildUtah...... 51 exclusively to Utah’s A/E/C industry! Whitaker Construction...... 58
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