The Building PA Podcast serves the construction industry throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in brief, downloadable segments. Hosted by Chris Martin, President of Atlas Marketing, and Jon O’Brien, Executive Director for the Keystone Contractors Association, the Building PA Podcast covers topics such as safety, workforce development, insurance, legal, legislation, business development and much more.
…
continue reading
A conference with 10,000+ attendees, exploring integrated, offsite, wood-based, automated construction in association with Greenbuild. Mass Timber+ 2024 November 12-14th, Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia Brought to you by Forest Economic Advisors.
…
continue reading
The Kinzua rail viaduct, in Pennsylvania, collapsed when it was hit by a tornado in 2003. First built in 1882 and redesigned 1900, it was at one time the highest bridge in the world. The two video tracks in this album tell the story of the Kinzua catastrophe. The subsequent forensic investigation has cast new light on the failure of Tay rail bridge in Scotland 125 years earlier; with 75 people killed, the worst ever disaster to befall a trestle bridge. This material forms part of the course ...
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Addressing Construction Labor Shortage in South Central Pennsylvania
26:36
26:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:36
In this podcast episode, Lorelee Isbell, Associate Vice President for Career and Workforce Development at Shippensburg University, and Laura Potthoff, Director of Business Development from F&M Trust Bank, discuss a collaborative workforce development initiative aimed at addressing the labor shortage in the construction industry in South Central Pen…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Talking with KCA Scholarship Recipient James Fretz
29:09
29:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:09
This week’s podcast discusses the KCA's scholarship program, highlighting its success in fostering the next generation of construction leaders in Pennsylvania. James Fretz, a scholarship recipient and construction management student at Penn College, shares his journey from a high school carpentry program to his current internship experiences. He em…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Meet the author of “Hire Better People Faster!”
33:39
33:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:39
In this week’s podcast episode, Jon and Chris chat with Ryan Englin, author of “Hire Better People Faster!” – an Amazon best-seller that reimagines hiring philosophies. Englin has been dedicated to helping service contractors and construction companies hire better people for over a decade. His passion stems from observing his father's struggles as …
…
continue reading
In this week’s podcast episode, Jon and Chris chat about the evolution and impact of their long-running podcast, particularly their popular safety episodes. To keep the educational safety content from June’s National Safety Month going, the pair brought in Darren Rech to discuss even more safety resources. They emphasize the importance of toolbox t…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The Future of Safety from a College Student's Perspective
26:27
26:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:27
In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien interview Makenzie Daniel, a sophomore safety science major at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Makenzie shares her journey into the construction industry, highlighting her experiences and successes, including making the Dean's list and obtaining her OSHA 30 card…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Cybersecurity and Protecting the AEC Industry
28:52
28:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:52
In the latest episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien interview Will Foret, co-host of the Building Scale podcast, renowned in the architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Will emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity, making it relevant and accessible to all. He breaks down the costs of cyber…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Navigating Legislative Updates in Construction
24:17
24:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:17
The latest Building PA Podcast episode featured guest Jimmy Christianson, VP of Government Relations for AGC, who shared crucial legislative updates. They emphasized the urgent need for workforce development and immigration reform to address labor shortages in the construction industry. Additionally, innovative approaches like partnerships with com…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Importance Of Culture To A Successful Organization
29:37
29:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:37
In the latest episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien sit down with Justin Neagle from the Building Scale podcast, exploring the keys to scaling businesses and fostering a strong organizational culture. Neagle emphasizes the importance of people, processes, and technology as the pillars of business growth. Drawing …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Navigating the Depths: Excavation Insights with Larissa Llewellyn
18:34
18:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:34
In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien interview Larissa Llewellyn from Pioneer Construction about trenching and excavation. Larissa shares insights into the importance of background checks before digging and discusses the challenges and safety measures involved in the industry. They delve into the evolv…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Navigating Work Zone Safety: Insights From Rich Barcaskey Of CAWP
32:03
32:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:03
In the latest episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien sit down with Rich Barcaskey from the Constructors Association of Western Pennsylvania to discuss work zone safety awareness. The conversation touches on the implementation of automated work zone speed enforcement programs, highlighting effectiveness in reducing…
…
continue reading
In the latest episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien interview Frank Baxter from Construction Risk Partners, about taking safety programs to the next level. Baxter emphasizes the importance of top management's commitment to safety, highlighting the need for leaders to lead by example, engage in the process, and de…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Learn About Project-Based Insurance from NFP
28:18
28:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:18
In the latest episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien engage in an insightful conversation with Christopher Smith from NFP brokerage insurance. They delve into the significance of project-based insurance coverage in commercial construction, particularly in Pennsylvania. Smith, drawing on over three decades of exper…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The Future of Transportation: Fleet Electrification
27:33
27:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:33
In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien sit down with Haggai Dror of Shikun & Binui to discuss the intricacies of fleet electrification. Dror explains that fleet electrification involves converting traditional internal combustion engine vehicles into electric vehicles, emphasizing the need for a comprehen…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Exploring Carpentry's Evolution Through Innovative Training
17:57
17:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:57
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin share a recording from their field trip to Sicklerville, New Jersey, to explore the training initiatives in the carpentry industry. Chris and Jon are joined by Phil Diaz, the training director for the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters located in New Jersey. Diaz shares …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The real value of working in the building trades with Dave Iannucci, EAS Carpenters
17:56
17:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:56
In today’s installment of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin continue their fascinating field trip to the Eastern Atlantic State's Regional Council of Carpenters Dive School in Sicklerville, New Jersey. Positioned on a serene lake, the hosts are joined by Dave Iannucci, the Special Projects Coordinator for the EAS Carpen…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Prefab Chronicles: Navigating the Evolution with Steve Powers of Novinger's
20:28
20:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:28
In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien take a field trip to Novinger's in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. They are joined by Steve Powers, the Vice President of Sales at Novinger's, who is hailed as the cleanup hitter and the go-to person for all things related to panel construction and exterior panels. Steve sh…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Harnessing Innovative Technologies in Construction with Brian Skripac of the DBIA
30:33
30:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:33
In this podcast episode, Brian Skripac, the Director for Virtual Design and Construction with the Design Build Institute of America, shares insights into the evolving landscape of construction technology. Having transitioned from architecture to the realm of BIM leadership, Skripac discusses the excitement of leveraging new technologies to enhance …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Dive into the Carpenters' newest training school
19:08
19:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:08
Dive into the depths of underwater construction with the latest Building PA Podcast episode in our field trip series featuring guest Don Gibbons, a Commercial Dive Instructor at the EAS Commercial Dive School. Explore the unique skillset of commercial divers who undertake tasks like underwater inspections, and learn about the extensive training and…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Panel prefabrication and the impact on various project types
17:07
17:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:07
In the latest installment of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin conclude their field trip series with a visit to Novinger's in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Accompanied by Jim Novinger, the owner of Novinger's, the hosts delve into the company's evolution and extensive expertise in panelization dating back to the 1920s. Jim …
…
continue reading
Join Chris and Jon as they welcome 2024 with a reflection of the past year. Our co-hosts discuss the impact Building PA Podcast has had within the PA construction community and beyond, and also touch on their favorite interviews of the year. No lookback would be complete without also looking ahead at the future, so listeners can expect to hear abou…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
How to strengthen relationships among GCs and subcontractors with Dan Myers
16:01
16:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:01
In this episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin embark on a field trip to Novinger’s in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania – a leading specialty contractor specializing in unitized exterior wall panels, fireproofing, structural framing, drywall installation, and ceiling work – to delve into the world of prefabrication. A lively …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Insight from Ollie Olsen - EAS Carpenters
23:17
23:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:17
In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin bring the audience to Sicklerville, New Jersey, to explore the fascinating setting of the Carpenters Dive School. As they share insights from this unique location, including humorous moments and unexpected turns, they're joined by Ollie Olsen, the council rep for th…
…
continue reading
In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien set the stage for an engaging discussion on how to strengthen sales. This week we introduce an exciting guest, Steve Heroux, Founder and CEO of The Sales Collective, offering a sneak peek into Steve's unconventional journey from a guy in Boston with a unique upbring…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Determination turns a dream into reality - Tabb Construction
18:16
18:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:16
In this Building PA Podcast episode, Chris and Jon interview Lorenzo Tabb, owner of Tabb Construction LLC in Reading, PA. Lorenzo shares insights from his fourth-year apprenticeship with the Carpenters Union, details his shift to commercial contracts, and discusses managing large projects like the State Police Barracks in Hershey. The episode cover…
…
continue reading
Art Schmon, Managing Director IWBC, interviews Vaughan Buckley, CEO of Volumetric Building Companies to discuss the advantages offsite modular building.It's the orchestration of bringing together:-Technology-enabled design process-Precision-driven manufacturing capabilities-Project-proven volumetric set and construction expertiseEnsures faster deli…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
PSU Student finds internship in construction a promising option for the future
16:56
16:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:56
Bridget Austin, a junior studying Civil Engineering at Penn State University shares her summer internship experience at Mascaro Construction. Austin talks about her positive journey this summer and some of the challenges she faced that naturally come along with being a newcomer to construction. Like learning industry-specific terminology and softwa…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Building Success - From Apprentice to Commercial Contractor
18:16
18:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:16
Lorenzo Tabb from Reading, PA, and owner of Tabb Construction, joins us on the podcast to discuss his journey as a fourth-year apprentice with the Carpenters Union and his transition into commercial contracting. Tabb shared his experiences, challenges, and the certifications his company holds, such as EDWOSB (federal) and minority business certific…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Construction companies win when their insurance broker is construction-centric!
27:50
27:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:50
What makes your insurance broker invaluable? One that knows the construction safety side and the insurance risk side and uses that knowledge to find solutions for construction clients. We sat down with the Director of Construction Risk Partners, Joe Poliafico, an industry veteran with over 30 years of experience in construction risk management. Joe…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Director of Safety and suicide survivor shares how his experience is helping others in construction
18:12
18:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:12
This podcast highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues, especially in the construction industry. The conversation with Marko Kaar, director of safety operations at BBE Incorporated, emphasized the need for open communication, resources, and support. Kaar touches on the nationwide prevalence of mental health challenges in the indu…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Chris Lalevee with Operators Local 825 Opens Up about Mental Health and Paying it Forward
39:08
39:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:08
To further acknowledge Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, we reached out to Chris Lalevee, a business agent affiliated with the Operating Engineers Local 825. In an exclusive one-on-one interview, Chris opened up about a period in his life when he faced significant challenges, including anxiety, depression, and resorting to self-medication as …
…
continue reading
In recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, we have a well-respected thought leader in the mental health and wellness space, Senior Director of the National Stigma Initiative at Shatterproof, Rachel Cooper. This episode its all about stigma and how it is one of the key drivers and main barriers to treatment and recovery. The national nonprofit orga…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Podcast Replay - Kicking off Suicide Prevention Month with Mandi Kime
26:51
26:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:51
In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month, The Building PA Podcast is sharing a powerful podcast replay with one of the construction industry's most notable individuals and advocates for mental health in construction, Mandi Kime, Safety Director for AGC of Washington. This podcast replay is worth sharing not only with those in the constru…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
A Field Trip to the First Union-Operated Diving School in The United States.
16:54
16:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:54
On the road again... Co-hosts John O'Brien and Chris Martin took the show on the road. This time their field trip landed them at the Carpenter's Dive School in Sicklerville, NJ. After touring the facility they sat down with Tim Waring, the training coordinator at the Sicklerville Dive School. This school is the first UBC (United Brotherhood of Carp…
…
continue reading
We invited co-founders Kristen Fallon and Jon Lattin to the Building PA Podcast to share more about Let's Build of Lehigh Valley. This unique hands-on experience for girls aged 12-18 opens up the world of AEC. The mission of Let’s Build Construction Camp for Girls was founded with a goal to ignite the spark within girls to explore the built environ…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Podcast Replay - Improving Company Culture through WELL Building
26:31
26:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:31
The primary goal of the WELL Building Standard is to prioritize the health and well-being of occupants. By incorporating features that enhance indoor air quality, lighting, acoustics, and ergonomic design, buildings can create environments that support physical and mental health, productivity, and overall comfort. This podcast replay with guest Chi…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Yinz Good? A New Mental Health Initiative for the Construction Industry
26:51
26:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:51
The Constructors of Western Pennsylvania (CAWP) and the Master Builder's Association of Western Pennsylvania (MBA) have partnered to bring a new mental health initiative to the construction industry in western PA called Yinz Good? Jason Koss, director of industry relations for the CAWP, and Bob McCall, director of safety for the MBA are the co-foun…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Innovation in Construction: Building a Tech-Forward Future
24:45
24:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:45
In this episode, we tap into the mind of the Vice President of Innovation for Wohlsen Construction, Ed McCauley to discuss innovation in the construction industry. Our co-hosts explore the role of technology and IT in construction. McCauley shares his thoughts on virtual design in construction. McCauley explains how they use innovative tools and te…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Mark Your Calendar: Pittsburgh International Airport To Announce $50 Million In Bid Packages
27:43
27:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:43
The Building PA Podcast recently had a sit-down interview with Paul Hoback, the Executive Vice President, and Chief Development Officer for the Allegheny County Airport Authority. Hoback is currently overseeing the Terminal Modernization Program for the Pittsburgh International Airport. During the podcast, Hoback made an important announcement for …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Podcast Replay - Talking Leadership with Retired Major General John Gronski
28:12
28:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:12
Give yourself the chance to be inspired by Retired Major General John Gronski by listening to this enlightening podcast replay. The question of whether there are natural-born leaders or if leadership skills can be learned is a topic of debate. However, the truth is that both perspectives hold truth. It is undeniable that some individuals possess in…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Mindset Reset: A Conversation with Author Edna Howard
31:27
31:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:27
In this podcast episode we talk with Edna Howard, the president of Voices of Encouragement, a training and development company focused on empowering the workforce. The discussion is around the importance of employee wellness, safety concerns, and workforce challenges. Howard shares her passion for leadership development and helping leaders have "li…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Podcast Replay - Safety Culture in the Construction Industry
21:10
21:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:10
This is a throwback podcast from 2020. Co-hosts Jon and Chris talk safety culture in the construction industry with Owner and President Clayton Leibold from Leibold Inc. Leibold is a mechanical contractor based in Pottsville, Pennsylvania. Leibold shares the biggest challenge for the construction industry regarding safety is overcoming job site hur…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Best practices for dealing with local municipalities.
21:52
21:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:52
In this episode, Vice President of Aims Construction, Mike Tarle, gets in-depth on the topic of how the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry can better deal with local government. Tarle, who serves as the town council president of McCandless Township, shares his insights from both his professional experience in the constructio…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
NFP podcast series - Mitigating risk in the construction industry
16:07
16:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:07
Building with confidence and navigating risk in construction: Insights from NFP, the Global Insurance Broker. In this episode, the Building PA Podcast and guest Ivan Usero sheds light on the critical role of NFP, a global insurance broker, in helping construction companies mitigate risks. Ivan Usero provides valuable insights into risk management s…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Podcast Replay - Providing Healthy Environments for Employees Can Positively Affect the Bottom Line.
23:16
23:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:16
Ensuring a healthy work environment and fostering a positive work culture have become paramount for numerous companies. The advantages of prioritizing these aspects far exceed any associated costs. In this podcast replay, we delve into the strategies employed by a company that places utmost importance on the well-being of its employees. The episode…
…
continue reading
Josh Strickler, the COO of Diplomat Demolition, has been employing workers through worker re-entry programs for almost 20 years. Diplomat Demolition employs workers who have gone through re-entry programs, with 70 out of 70 workers having some form of re-entry background. Approximately 20-30 workers have come directly from re-entry programs, while …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Solving labor issues with worker re-entry.
24:10
24:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:10
In this podcast episode, the host introduces Josh Strickler, the Chief Operations Officer at Diplomat Demolition. The discussion centers around worker re-entry, a topic that has been increasingly discussed in recent years but has not been covered on the podcast before. Strickler shares his experiences and insights on employing veterans and individu…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Do you know how to efficiently communicate your business mission and story?
26:40
26:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:40
In this episode, we have a special guest, Kerry Smith, a freelance writer and expert in media relations. We dive into the topic of storytelling and the interview process, exploring what makes a good story. Our enthusiastic hosts are excited to learn from Smith's wisdom and experience. Smith introduces herself as a serial entrepreneur however, she c…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Podcast Replay - Labor Relations & Safety
27:01
27:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:01
In this podcast episode, the focus is once again on safety. The discussion revolves around strategies that construction businesses can employ to create safer work environments, aiming for zero injuries and reducing OSHA recordable incidents. Original Content: The HR and Safety Director of Kalkreuth Roofing and Sheet Metal, Seth Abraham, stopped by …
…
continue reading
This positive and powerful podcast addresses a topic that the Building PA Podcast, can not talk enough about - workplace mental health and suicide prevention. Our guest, Cal Beyer, Vice President of Workforce Risk and Worker Wellbeing for Holmes and Murphy is sharing his personal and professional journey of communicating, educating, and informing i…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Podcast Replay - Safety Talk with Bob McCall of the MBA
28:41
28:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:41
Construction safety is an ongoing conversation. This podcast replay with Bob McCall, safety director for the MBA shares insight into job site safety and how safety is compromised when we aren't focused on the root cause which is often stress and mental health and wellness. On the heels of Construction Safety Week, we thought this podcast was a good…
…
continue reading