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NOVEMBER 2021DIGITAL EDITION

From the Editor@mcsmagModern Contractor Solutions MagazineModern Contractor Solutionswww.mcsmag.com P.O. Box 660197 | Birmingham, AL 35266DONNA CAMPBELL Editor in Chiefdonna@mcsmag.comMIKE BARKER Publishermike@mcsmag.com RANDY MOON Media Consultantrandym@mcsmag.comMICHAEL FISCHBACH Media Consultantmichael@mcsmag.com JOHN FRIEND Media Consultantjohn@mcsmag.comKEVIN MCCLARAN Media Consultantkevin@mcsmag.comLISA AVERY Art Directorlisa@mcsmag.com SETH SAUNDERS Digital Media Specialist seth@mcsmag.comINGRID BERKY Office Manageringrid@mcsmag.comTIM GARMONCEORUSSELL HADDOCKPresidentCHRIS GARMONCFODONNA CAMPBELLVice President, EditorialTONYA BROWNINGVice PresidentSUBSCRIPTION inquiries or changes:205.380.2048No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage-and-retrieval system without permission in writing from the publisher. The views expressed by those not on the staff of Modern Contractor Solutions, or who are not specifically employed by Highlands Publications are purely their own. All Industry News material has either been submitted by the subject company or pulled directly from its corporate website, which is assumed to be cleared for release. Comments and submissions are welcome, and can be submitted to donna@mcsmag.com.For reprint information, contact Chris Garmon at chris@mcsmag.com.Canada Post Publication Agreement #41578525. Undeliverables 355 Admiral Drive, Unit 4, Mississauga, ON L5T 2N1GIVING THANKSWelcome to the November issue! This month’s focus centers on veterans and the contribution this distinguished group of men and women can make to the construction industry. The article on page 20 highlights the skills that make military to civilian personnel valuable to the construction workforce. This November issue is also the 2022 Buyers Guide with profiles of companies geared to provide solutions for the back office and in the field. Use this special issue as a resource for 2022 planning. Looking at the year so far, one word stands out: productivity. A great article about efficiency gains on page 22 shares ways to improve productivity as the construction industry works its way out of the pandemic, supply chain issues, and skilled labor shortages. With a process in place, contractors are looking to reduce costs now and into the new year.There is also a rise of technology making the jobsite more autonomous. There are benefits to embracing the technology and the article on page 24 explains the revolution. Stress is a serious issue. This month’s Coach’s Corner shares ways to combat some of the common stressors associated with leading a construction crew. Read the entire article on page 88. Finally, November is a month of giving thanks, being thankful for ALL THE THINGS. From all of us at Highlands Publications and the crew of Modern Contractor Solutions, Happy Thanksgiving!Cheers, Donna CampbellEditor in ChiefPROJECT PROFILEGeofoam Blocks .................................................................14MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONSSupporting Veterans...........................................................20Efficiency Gains..................................................................22Autonomous Jobsite ..........................................................24The Great Resignation........................................................26SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS3D Digital Twin Platform ....................................................30Equipment Mechanics .......................................................32LEGAL SOLUTIONInnovative Materials ...........................................................34TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONSActionable Data ..................................................................36 Tolerance Gaps ...................................................................38Virtual Learning ..................................................................402022 BUYERS GUIDECompany Profiles ...............................................................45WINGS OF GOLD MERIDIAN, Mississippi: The U.S. Navy selects its first woman to go directly from earning designation as a naval aviator to postgraduate flight training in the F-35C Lightning II. Lt. j.g. Suzelle Thomas, assigned to the “Eagles” of Training Squadron (VT) 7, received her Wings of Gold alongside seven fellow naval aviators and one Italian Navy aviator during a ceremony at the chapel onboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Meridian, October 29. Thomas is a Birmingham, Alabama, native. Photo courtesy of Chief of Naval Air Training Public AffairsWREATHS ACROSS AMERICA RADIOWreaths Across America Radio is a 24/7 Internet stream. Its unique format provides informational and inspiring content about members of the U.S. armed forces, their families, military veterans, and volunteers throughout the country and overseas who support the mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach You can listen to Wreaths Across America Radio’s 24/7 stream anywhere at www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/radio, and via the iHeart Radio app, or download it at the App Store or on Google. WREATHS ACROSS AMERICAWreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organization’s mission–Remember, Honor, Teach–is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as thousands of veterans’ cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond. For more information or to sponsor a wreath, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.

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NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com8industry newsB2W SOFTWARE API STREAMLINES CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT INSPECTION/REPAIR PROCESSB2W Software introduces new capabilities within its ONE Platform that enable contractors to identify equipment defects and make repairs faster and more cost effectively.The ONE Platform from B2W can now generate repair requests automatically based on data from electronic forms used for completing equipment inspections. The enhanced process relays detailed information from equipment inspections to the maintenance team immediately. By eliminating lag time and manual steps for transferring this data, contractors can identify and complete equipment repair work more efficiently to minimize maintenance costs while improving equipment uptime and safety.The B2W Inform application enables contractors to customize and manage electronic forms for any requirement, including equipment inspections. Form fields can be mapped to the format of equipment repair requests, which are managed in the B2W Maintain application. This connection allows inspection forms to trigger repair requests automatically in the maintenance software and for information from forms—including descriptions and photos—to flow directly to the requests. B2W Maintain and B2W Inform utilize a single database for equipment lists, jobs, employees, and other operational data. Linking inspection form fields to this database allows drop-down menus to be populated with valid, up-to-date options, minimizing errors, and the effort required to fill out forms. For more, visit www.b2wsoftware.com.HAZTEK INC. ANNOUNCES NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH BLUEWATER, FABENCO, AND PARENT COMPANY TRACTELHazTek Inc. announces a new partnership with Tractel, the leading safety specialist of industry solutions, powering such globally-recognized safety brands as BlueWater™ and Fabenco™.With this new and exciting partnership, HazTek will continue to provide the very best in fall protection expertise and solutions for any facility or project—while also supporting the installation of Tractel’s reliable, innovative working-at-height solutions and services. Tractel’s BlueWater brand provides non-penetrating freestanding guardrail systems, permanent horizontal lifeline systems, and roof post anchors, while Tractel’s Fabenco line offers adjustable, self-closing safety gates, loading dock gates, and mezzanine gates. BlueWater and Fabenco are both American-made products with a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and safety.“Rooftops, platforms, HVAC equipment, stairways, mezzanines, loading docks, and ladders are primary areas of REPAIR SPALLS AND CRACKS IN 10 MINUTES!ROADWARE 10 MINUTE CONCRETE MENDER™It’s thin, it gets in, and it won’t pop out!See more at www.roadware.us or call 800-522-7623.Cartridge applied or bucket mixed, Roadware Concrete Repair Products will have your oors ready for trafc, coating, or polishing in about 10 minutes. Any size repair. Blend with sand and pigments to create unlimited colors. Permanent repair.800-522-7623ROADWARE INCORPORATED381 BRIDGEPOINT WAYSOUTH ST PAUL, MN 55075 www.roadware.usContractor’s #1 Choice for Flat FloorsA great power screed using straight flat screed bars. The❝Black Beauty❞GET FLAT FLOORS!Screed bars are available in lengths up to 20 feet.▼ Equilateral screed bars stay straight through years of use.▼ Now available with “T” handle (shown) or “Bicycle” handle.▼LOCATE A DEALER AT advancedconcretescreeds.com OR CALL US AT 800-648-0542.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com10industry newsTECHNOLOGY • MANAGEMENTTECHNOLOGY • MANAGEMENTMANAGEMENT • ENVIRONMENTALMANAGEMENT • ENVIRONMENTALEQUIPMENT • SAFETYEQUIPMENT • SAFETYSAFETY • TECHNOLOGYSAFETY • TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT • EQUIPMENTENVIRONMENT • EQUIPMENTSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSTECHNOLOGY • MANAGEMENTTECHNOLOGY • MANAGEMENTMANAGEMENT • ENVIRONMENTALMANAGEMENT • ENVIRONMENTALEQUIPMENT • SAFETYEQUIPMENT • SAFETYSAFETY • TECHNOLOGYSAFETY • TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT • EQUIPMENTENVIRONMENT • EQUIPMENTSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSSOLUTIONSGo to mcsmag.com for solution-based articles with insight from industry experts.LET MCS BE YOUR RESOURCE.SEEKING A SOLUTION? concern for fall safety, requiring proper safety assessments and installation,” says Pete McEvoy, HazTek’s solutions consultant, specializing in Fall Protection. “We formed this unique partnership to expand the breadth of solutions we can offer our customers for these and other areas.”McEvoy, whose field surveys include detailed measurements of buildings, roof surfaces, and structures, also oversees anchor point inspection, testing, and certification services and conducts Fall Hazard Assessments and Project Management. For more, visit www.haztekinc.com.BRADLEY NAMED ‘LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR’ FOR CONSTRUCTION LAW IN 2022 U.S. NEWS - BEST LAWYERS® ‘BEST LAW FIRMS’Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP announces that the firm has been named the “Law Firm of the Year” in the area of Construction Law in the 2022 edition of U.S. News – Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms.” Only one firm per legal practice receives this designation, making it particularly significant. Bradley was named “Law Firm of the Year” for Construction Law in the 2020 and 2018 editions as well.Bradley has held a national Tier 1 ranking in Construction Law since the list’s inception and also earned Tier 1 metropolitan rankings in Construction Law in Birmingham, Charlotte, Houston, Jackson, Nashville, and Washington, D.C. Overall, the firm earned four national Tier 1 rankings and 156 metropolitan Tier 1 rankings across all 10 of its offices.“Being recognized as the top law firm in the nation for Construction Law is a tremendous honor and is a testament to the exceptional work and high level of client service provided by our attorneys and professional staff,” says David W. Owen, a partner and leader of Bradley’s Construction and Government Contracts practice groups and co-chair of the firm’s Energy team. “We are proud of this continued recognition of our team and Bradley’s numerous other practices ranked in the 2022 ‘Best Law Firms’ list.” The firm’s Construction Practice Group attorneys advise clients on projects in the United States, Canada and Mexico, as well as in more than 35 countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, the Middle East, the Caribbean, and South America. The team handles every aspect of large-scale construction projects, from initial contract negotiation and bid preparation to project close-out and dispute resolution. Several of Bradley’s construction lawyers hold degrees in engineering, building science or architecture, and have previous experience working in the construction industry.The 2022 edition of “Best Law Firms” includes rankings in 75 national practice areas and 127 metropolitan areas. Rankings

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com12industry newsOSHA Compliant Guardrail andStair Rail SystemsSafety Boot® Guardrail SystemStringerShield® Stair Rail System1.800.804.4741safetyboot.com• Non-Penetrating Design• Rugged Steel Construction• Exceeds OSHA Regulations• Simple, Aordable & Reusable• Residential, Multi-Family & Commercial Applications• Unique Free Standing Design• Keep Post Attached For Reuse On Next Level Or ProjectFeatured on osha.gov website!are based on client evaluations, peer reviews from leading attorneys, and review of additional information provided by law firms as part of the formal submission process. To be eligible for a national or metropolitan ranking, a law firm practice area must have at least one lawyer in that practice ranked as a “Best Lawyer.” For more, visit www.bradley.com. MEET THE PINKS, OWENS CORNING’S INSULATION SUPERHEROES Owens Corning’s new PINK Next Gen™ Fiberglas™ insulation launched in August just ahead of the fall/winter insulation season. And, because the company thinks of its contractors as superheroes, who work hard every day and toughed it out during the pandemic, their social media group created The PINKs, a group of “next generation” insulation superheroes. The four characters, in the cartoon genre of Marvel or the X-Men, represent the essence of the new fiberglass line: precision, comfort, safety and sustainability. Since about 90% of homes are under insulated, they are dedicated to help battle the cold of winter or heat of summer with innovative PINK Next Gen Fiberglas insulation.Meet the PINKS! The characters include Precision Pete, a red-haired mercurial guy who darts around super-fast, dedicated to fast insulation jobs; Comfort Carolina, a sprightly young woman who keeps everyone cozy; Safety Sam, a muscle-man who is super-protective when it comes to safe ingredients and fire. And, with an eye on the environment, Sustainability Steve, noted for his green thumb, gives a thumb-up to wind powered manufacturing and recycled content. They fight a never-ending battle for precision, safety, sustainability, and comfort. The four characters are depicted working together to insulate homes in zippy, gravity-defying, cartoon superhero fashion.The secret behind the advanced fiber technology of PINK Next Gen™ Fiberglas™ is a tightly woven network of soft, fine fibers to form a super-resilient blanket of insulating micro-pockets. Leveraging several new technology innovations, the new product is safe for installers and residents and faster to install than competitive insulation products and spray foam insulation. Because no hazardous chemicals are required to be mixed on the install site, there is less potential for human error, increasing peace of mind for installers and residents. PINK Next Gen™ Fiberglas™ insulation is available in the U.S. and Canada. For more, visit www.owenscorning.com/PINKNextGen.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com14project profile

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202115Geofoam BlocksGeofoam Blocksairport expansion benefits from molded polystyrene void-fillFUTURE PROOFAsk any construction professional about their work and most will say they enjoy that every day is a little different. Even after more than 37 years of hands-on experience, Matt Outsen still feels that way. Outsen specializes in complex concrete structural frames for buildings and infrastructure. For the last 12 years, he has been a superintendent with Ralph L. Wadsworth Construction Company (RLW) of Draper, Utah, where complex, high-stakes projects are the norm.“Working for one of Utah’s largest builders of heavy highway and mass transit systems puts me in constant contact with challenging construction situations,” shares Outsen. Founded in 1975, RLW specializes in innovative approaches to large, complex projects for both public and private sector clients. As a self-performing general contractor, RLW often takes the reins on piling, shoring, drilling, paving, structural steel, and structural concrete on infrastructure, buildings, roads, and bridges to ensure quality and value in many of any project’s most critical elements.“Our greatest strengths are our people and our processes,” continues Outsen. “We are dedicated to safely building the best work possible through a commitment to innovation and continuous improvement.”THE PROJECTIn the realm of challenging assignments, Outsen has seen his fair share and takes pride in RLW’s reputation for delivering excellence on projects with difficult logistics and tight timelines. One such example is the firm’s recent work at the Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). The massive redevelopment program intends to right-size the airport for its next generation of life as a flexible, user-friendly, operationally efficient travel hub. The work includes a new terminal and concourses that will have state-of-the-art functionality for users on the inside and significantly more room for aircraft to be maneuvered on the outside.RLW’s work at SLC has included constructing numerous tunnels, footings, concrete slabs, and decks for the By Sean O’Keefe

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com16project profileTerminal, South Concourse West, Gateway Buildings, and associated components. A multi-contract, multi-phase assignment, Outsen has been building structural concrete solutions at the airport for more than 5 years already and expects to be working there for another 2 at least. In the area of thinking ahead, for Outsen one of the more unusual concrete elements he has built at the airport so far was a train station in waiting.“The airport’s next step will be to build another concourse, at which time they will add an Automated People Mover system on rails underground,” says Outsen. “As part of our concrete scope, we built an underground vault that will one day become the loading platform for the People Mover.”VOID-FILL CHALLENGEBuilding a train platform 28 feet below grade within the structural foundation of the new terminal building presented a significant void-fill challenge that RLW had to overcome economically. Carrying the anticipated live loads of passengers across the sizeable train platform was accomplished through a combination of reinforced concrete and molded polystyrene Geofoam from Atlas Molded Products.“The structural platform consists of 6-inch concrete walls every 6 feet with Geofoam blocks filling in the voids between walls,” says Outsen of the future platform’s slab assembly. Molded polystyrene is a cellular plastic material Atlas molds into blocks as large as 40 x 72 x 288 feet. A versatile building material that can be stacked, shaped, and even sculpted, Atlas Geofoam economically responds to the architectural specification for a lightweight structural material that can be easily maneuvered in tight spaces.“We dropped the Geofoam down to the site using the opening for the future escalator walkouts with a crane,” says Outsen of the challenging access. “Once it was down there, it was very easy to customize with a hot-wire cutter and put in place by hand.”ATLAS GEOFOAM SOLUTIONOutsen has previous experience working with Atlas Geofoam on a variety of architectural and infrastructure challenges and appreciates the company’s willingness to facilitate material orders and deliveries around construction sequencing and logistics.“Atlas will cut blocks to specific sizes based on the drawings. They will organize, stack, and label material orders, and then facilitate a just-in-time delivery whenever needed,” says Outsen of the company’s capacity to support projects with practical logistical assistance.At SLC, once the Geofoam block and rebar grid were in place, Outsen and the RLW team poured the concrete walls directly within the Geofoam formwork, which remains structurally integral to the finished platform.Justin Heekin also enjoys a challenge. He is a project manager with GH Phipps Construction Companies in Denver, Colorado, focused on concrete for much of his 25-year career. A Front Range Colorado and Wyoming Contractor, GH Phipps has deep roots in public projects spanning from education to transportation and many in between including recent work at Denver International Airport (DIA).“GH Phipps is committed to building relationships and giving back to the community in everything we do,” says Heekin. In addition to self-performing concrete on all their projects, GH Phipps

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202117also frequently subcontracts concrete services to other local, non-competitive contractors. “Our work at DIA reflects our expertise and versatility in concrete. We are providing concrete services on four different concourses as a subcontractor to two different teams of general contractors.”FUTURE-PROOF FACILITIESLike their contemporaries in Utah, DIA is also thinking ahead and using molded polystyrene Geofoam from Atlas to help future-proof facilities. As part of the closing stages of work on the existing Concourse A West, Heekin and the GH Phipps team built the entrance to a tunnel extension for DIA’s existing Automated Guided Transit System, which will one day connect to future Concourses D and E.“The use of Geofoam was as a long-term but still temporary fill material within the future opening of the new tunnel,” says Heekin of the need for a lightweight yet structurally stable material that could be cost-effectively installed now and removed at a much later date. At approximately 1/100th of the weight of soil, Geofoam’s dimensional stability makes material behavior resolutely predictable. Atlas manufacturers Geofoam blocks in compressive resistances ranging from 2.2–18.6 psi at 1% deformation.“We installed 940 Geofoam blocks that were 8 feet long basically by hand. There were very few waste cuts,” continues Heekin. While the logistics of accessibility were similar to those faced at SLC, the big difference on the DIA project is the Geofoam blocks are intended to be removed in the eventual next phase of tunnel construction.“Right now, the Geofoam is sitting on a 10-inch structural slab. When the tunnel extension continues, all the Geofoam blocks will be taken back out completely intact and could even be reused,” says Heekin. Like his contemporary in Utah, Heekin has experience working with Atlas Geofoam to address a wide range of architectural challenges on projects of many sorts and understands the possibilities are virtually endless.CLOSING THOUGHT“In commercial construction, new and challenging situations arise almost every day. Atlas Geofoam is a dynamic building material that cost-effectively solves a lot of architecture and engineering challenges, says Heekin. We will continue to use Geofoam when applications require a lightweight fill.” about the authorSean O’Keefe is an architecture and construction writer who crafts stories and content based on 20 years of experience and a keen interest in the people who make projects happen. He can be reached at sean@sokpr.com.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com20management solutionSupporting Veteransveterans can be a great fit for construction companies WORKFORCE MATTERSPeople with military training and experience can be a great asset to the construction industry. This is especially true in a time when many contractors face challenges filling job openings. With Veterans Day, United Rentals, Inc. shared three ways contractors can support veterans looking to work in the construction industry.Construction contractors looking to hire new employees often seek job candidates who are hard-working, safety-oriented, and able to perform effectively under stressful conditions. Construction can be a strong match for men and women transitioning from military to civilian life, and looking to join an industry that offers good wages and competitive benefits.VALUED SKILL SETSVeterans typically have a set of base skills valued by construction companies. These include wheeled/tracked vehicle mechanics, ground support equipment technicians, and repairmen and maintainers. Veterans have shown themselves to be able to overcome adversity in the field and in construction. They value team work, which is essential for safe, productive worksites, and understand how to demonstrate and respond to leadership.“Veterans provide an excellent talent base for construction companies because they have a foundation of skills that are strong assets at the worksite,” said Kelly French, Veterans – Talent Acquisition Program Specialist, United Rentals. “Many people with military experience have traits and qualities contractors look for in new hires: loyalty, integrity, dedication, service excellence and a focus on safety. It’s a smart move for companies to build on what veterans have learned in the military to address hiring needs with skilled, motivated people.”Here are three steps contractors can take to support service men and women and veterans seeking to join the construction industry. MILITARY SKILLS TRANSLATORWhile some military-based skills are easily transferable to construction, others, like infantry or combat experience, can be more difficult to leverage. Contractors can help by adding a tool like a military skills translator to their websites. These online tools allow service members and veterans to input their military occupation code (MOC) and receive an instant list of open positions that match their various skills and attributes. Companies can customize a military translator to Military Occupational Specialties across all branches, and identify those that would fit and what roles they would likely translate into. The tools can significantly change the job-seeking experience for service members

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202121for more informationUnited Rentals, Inc. is the largest equipment rental company in the world. The company has an integrated network of 1,278 rental locations in North America, 11 in Europe, 28 in Australia, and 18 in New Zealand. In North America, the company operates in 49 states and every Canadian province. The company’s approximately 20,100 employees serve construction and industrial customers, utilities, municipalities, homeowners, and others. The company offers approximately 4,300 classes of equipment for rent with a total original cost of $15.72 billion. United Rentals is a member of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index, the Barron’s 400 Index, and the Russell 3000 Index® and is headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut. For more, visit unitedrentals.com. and veterans, helping them to find employment matches that may not be immediately obvious. JOB FAIRSConstruction companies can participate in job fairs that target military personnel and veterans. Recruiters can also engage with employment outreach programs such as Work for Warriors and Hiring our Heroes as well as programs offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. WORK-STUDYContractors can provide work-study programs that help veterans transition into civilian positions. These programs deliver job-readiness instruction including a mix of intensive technical training and corporate skills training. They give veterans a solid underpinning of workplace expectations and enable them to assimilate into new roles more quickly and effectively than traditional routes to employment.For example, United Rentals partnered with Workforce Opportunity Services to develop the Service to Employment Program (STEP). The program offers ten weeks of in-class and hands-on training, where veterans learn technical and social skills, meet with company leaders and experience what it is like to work at a United Rentals branch.CLOSING THOUGHTA significant portion of the United Rentals workforce comes from a military background. The company offers many roles that are a strong fit for the skills which veterans have gained through their service. To learn more about career opportunities for veterans and active military members, visit jobs.unitedrentals.com/creative/military.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com22management solutionThe pandemic continues to impact the construction industry as more contractors search for ways to improve efficiency and make up for time lost on projects. New technologies can provide critical efficiency gains as contractors face increased pressure to stay competitive and win bids. FINDING EFFICIENCIES IS A PRIORITY Along the lines of the Need for Speed program from the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), many construction fabricators and contractors are looking for more efficient ways to do business and new technologies that save time and money. While efficiency has always been a priority, it’s especially critical now as the industry looks to rebound from the pandemic slowdown. A member survey by Associated General Contractors (AGC) of America shows that construction is essentially less productive now than it was before the pandemic. Increased safety measures that have been implemented on jobsites due to the pandemic—such as restricting how many people can work in a tight space together or how many workers can be shuttled to a remote jobsite together—protect worker safety but have made the operation less efficient. “What people don’t appreciate is how much more expensive it is to operate during the pandemic,” says Brian Turmail, vice president of public affairs and strategic initiatives for AGC. As a result, many contractors are looking for ways to improve efficiency and reduce costs. “The pandemic has almost worked like an accelerator on existing trends,” Turmail says. “A lot of contractors have been exploring technologies, like using robotics or using drones to do inspections. All of a sudden, what was an interesting curiosity before to see if it was worthwhile becomes a necessity.” AISC member feedback echoes this, says Brian Raff, vice president of market development. More of their steel fabrication shop members are using robotic welding, for example. IMPROVING PRODUCTIVITY As contractors look for ways to improve efficiency and productivity on projects, new technology and a shift in processes or techniques can deliver results. Here are some changes that can help save time and money. Efficiency Gainsimproving construction productivity after delays BEST PRACTICESBy Ben FrolandMany construction fabricators and contractors are looking for more efficient ways to do business and new technologies that save time and money. The ability for welders to make adjustments remotely can deliver significant time savings.

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202123New technology for the jobsite: In the search for more efficient technology, the ability for welders to make adjustments remotely can deliver significant time savings. Walking between the weld joint and the welding power source to change parameters and processes can add up to hours wasted every day. This is especially true on larger jobsites where the welder may be hundreds of yards or several stories away from the machine and needs to make frequent adjustments. If a welder makes the trip four times a day and takes an average of 15 minutes each time, that’s 250 wasted hours per year—totaling $11,250 in lost productivity. ArcReach® technology from Miller Electric Mfg. LLC provides operators with complete control at the weld joint using a wire feeder or stick/TIG remote, which allows them to reduce or eliminate this wasted time. Wireless Interface Control on Trailblazer® and Big Blue® welder/generators provides full front panel access from wherever operators are working on the jobsite, so they don’t have to go back to the welder/generator to turn it on or off, change welding processes or adjust parameters. A change to processes: Converting to wire welding processes is another change that contractors can make to improve productivity and efficiency. More companies are transitioning from stick welding to wire welding on construction jobsites, due in part to the significantly higher deposition rates and travel speeds that wire processes can deliver. These gains can be realized while still meeting high weld quality requirements and improving jobsite safety.Streamlining steps: The ability to complete parts of the construction or welding process with the workers on the jobsite—rather than hiring a third party for those tasks—can help contractors reduce costs and gain better control over the schedule. For example, many welding applications on construction jobsites require welding preheat. If the contractor is paying a subcontractor to come to the site and use resistance heating for this task, it can add significant time and cost to the process. Preheating contractors can charge up to $2,000 per joint, and setup time can be up to 3 hours per weld joint. New ArcReach Heating Systems from Miller eliminates the need to bring in more subcontractors by enabling welders to do the welding preheat.CLOSING THOUGHTAs the construction industry rebounds from the slowdown spurred by the pandemic, it’s more important than ever for contractors to use solutions that help make up lost time and keep them ahead of schedule. about the authorBen Froland is a market development manager, Power Systems Division, with Miller Electric Mfg. LLC. For more, visit www.millerwelds.com.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com24management solutionIt’s no surprise that the world has been marching towards an autonomous future. Autonomous functions are found today on the roads, at retail locations, and on the jobsite.For years, humans and machines have had an increasing number of seamless interactions. Over time, the shift has happened, with robots, machinery, and equipment working hand in hand with humans.While cities launching driverless shuttle buses often capture the headlines, an even bigger transformation is taking place on the jobsite.The industry is coping with a lingering shortage of skilled labor and other pressures. The trend is likely to continue and compound moving forward, and a more automated jobsite has emerged as a solution to help contractors mitigate and rise above these challenges.These changing environments require technology to move automation to autonomy. Construction is sitting at the cusp of those changes, and contractors have a unique opportunity to benefit from it.The heavy construction landscape faces enormous challenges today. Companies continue to have a challenge finding skilled labor, and when coupled with margin pressures such as the varying and fluctuating cost of materials, managing a jobsite is as hard as ever.According to The Civil Quarterly (TCQ) from Dodge Data & Analytics, the use of technology on-site is an area of increased interest to many contractors.The wider use of on-site technology is important because of its positive impact on productivity, which is the top benefit contractors expect from using these technologies. As workforce worries grow, the need for greater productivity from existing workers will continue to grow in importance.THE AUTONOMOUS REVOLUTIONThe ability to move toward complete autonomy on the jobsite is based on shared information. There’s a layer of intelligence throughout the deployment of autonomous solutions that drives these seamless interactions. Intelligence—and the decision-making it empowers—is built on the collection of data and real-time information. It coordinates people, processes, and assets to be deployed in the most efficient and effective ways.Everyone on the jobsite today must have the ability to tap into real-time data to understand the intricacies of a project. It allows teams to adapt to jobsite conditions in real time and empowers teams to make rapid decisions when needed.There’s a fusion between what type of intelligence went into the design for scheduling tasks and planning for the end of the project’s life. Machines no longer move dirt between Point A to Point B; they may need to change course to handle an unexpected change on site.Consider, for example, a change in task priority or a delay in the delivery of material needed for the project. The team can use this real-time intelligence to automatically re-task equipment to complete tasks in a different order, allowing a project to progress rather than come to a standstill.Additionally, it opens up a feedback loop—getting to a continuous feedback process to see what’s happening with designers and operators based on real-time dynamic information on what’s happening on the jobsite. Real-time feedback is the holy grail of site management.MAKE THE JOBSITE SAFEROne of the immediate needs on the jobsite that can be addressed today is safety. Safety technology, such as collision avoidance and warning systems, is proven and cost-effective already. It also is an enabling building block to upgrade to full autonomy. Heavy construction regularly ranks in the top three industries worldwide for serious injuries and fatalities. Autonomous Jobsitehow contractors can reap the benefitsRISE OF TECHNOLOGYBy Troy Dahlin

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202125about the authorTroy Dahlin is vice president, heavy construction segment US/CAN at Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon. For more, visit leica-geosystems.com. Heavy traffic, large equipment, poor visibility, and blind spots all create the potential for accidents on-site and, when combined, make sites potentially dangerous places.Providing better visibility, greater feedback to operators and field personnel minimizes the risk of injuries, near-misses and site shut-downs. For construction sites, safety awareness is a sound investment, ensuring that everyone gets home safely. Jobsite accidents are expensive, from the damages themselves to the time a jobsite is shuttered to the personal and financial toll. The deployment of technology that combines a collision avoidance system with alerts is a smart investment that will pay dividends for a company.FULLY AUTONOMOUS WORKSITEWhile most companies say they are ready for the fully autonomous worksite, there are some barriers to entry.In recent years, the technology to enable the fully autonomous worksite has made significant strides, but it isn’t yet mature enough or often cost-prohibitive. Like all fundamental shifts within an industry, this too will take time. There is also a reskilling and deploying necessary that may require organizations to reskill operators from a machine into an office away from the jobsite with teleoperated controls to manage the equipment and jobs. Increased interaction with collaborative, semi and fully automated machines will allow for more complex work.However, the move to the fully autonomous worksite can help minimize the impact of the ongoing labor shortage. It helps with higher utilization because a smaller team can cover tasks across more jobsites simultaneously.FULL AUTONOMY EXTENDS DEEPERThe idea of moving to a fully autonomous jobsite extends beyond the jobsite itself and into every aspect of a contractor’s operations. This fusion of the digital and physical worlds with intelligence touches every step in the life of a heavy construction project.Estimating, bidding, design, planning, construction, and handover will feed each other simultaneously and dynamically, ensuring the completion of a job on-spec, in-budget, and with zero harm. CLOSING THOUGHTAmid the discussion of technology and potential real-world applications, it’s easy to get lost in the pie-in-the-sky predictions. But autonomy on the jobsite is no longer a theoretical possibility; it’s taking place, and it’s already proven itself.The revolution is happening. Why not join in and reap its benefits?

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com26management solutionCOVID-19 pandemic has no doubt fundamentally changed the economy, including the AEC industry. One of the greatest impacts has been on employment. In April, May, and June of this year, an average of 4 million individuals quit their jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Particularly hard hit has been the professional services sector. So, what’s going on?Christened the “Great Resignation” by business pundits, this phenomenon stems from a wide range of reasons. Some workers are leaving for greener pastures, lured by better pay or remote-friendly working conditions. Others have decided to take matters into their own hands and start their own businesses. Still others are quitting with no firm plans, confident they can find a better job as the economy rebounds.UNREST IN AECSurvival and sustainability of AEC firms will require developing effective strategies to deal with the disruption that lies ahead. The planning process is critical whether an AEC firm decides to continue only in its core business and adjust or reinvent themselves to respond to the changing market environment. Success, in large part, will hinge on business agility and competitive advantage. And that means attracting, hiring, and retaining top talent.However, the AEC industry is particularly vulnerable to employment woes. A shortage of white-collar talent has been brewing for years. The pandemic has only intensified this shortage as baby boomers retire earlier than expected and others quit for better opportunities.Hinge Research Institute’s employer branding study, focused on skilled white-collar employees and talent recruiters, revealed factors prompting active and passive job seekers.According to the survey, both active and passive job seekers are much more likely to have gone through an M&A than their non-job-seeking peers, with only 13-16% of them satisfied with how their firm handled it. In fact, ALL active seekers, and almost three-quarters of passive seekers, were dissatisfied with the process. Likewise, how the AEC firms who participated in our survey handled the COVID crisis created another employment vulnerability. Sixty-seven percent of active job seekers, and 26% of passive seekers, felt their current employer did not adapt well to the disruptions caused by COVID-19.A major underlying cause for these two major influencers of employee dissatisfaction was poor communications. Fifty percent of surveyed professionals indicated that clear communications about how the firms involved in the M&A fit together would have elicited a more positive response to the deal. AEC firms engaged in an M&A, or trying to transition their workforces in response to the pandemic, simply did a poor job of communicating their intent or strategy to their employees. THE #IQUIT ERAThe single most important thing your firm can do to attract the most qualified, skilled, and experienced talent is to ensure that you’re presenting a highly visible, positive, and attractive image to the marketplace. Here’s how. BUILD THE CULTURE THAT WILL HELP YOU KEEP YOUR BRAND PROMISEFor an AEC firm to succeed in the turbulent post-pandemic business environment it must focus on having the right people, process, and tools to run and grow the business. Together, all the elements that factor into how you do things are what we call your company culture.In fact, research shows that company culture is one of the most important things a candidate considers when seeking a new job. It reveals what kind of behavior is valued, how management interacts with employees and employees with clients. A positive culture attracts more and better talent to your firm and is key to retaining the talent you already have. The Great Resignationattracting, hiring, and retaining top talentAEC FIRMS AND THE NEW REALITYBy Karl Feldman

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202127 MAKE YOUR EMPLOYER BRAND A PRIORITYWell over half of all job seekers avoid firms with a poor reputation. Top prospects seek out a firm others know and admire for its positive reputation as a workplace among current and prospective employees. In short, a strong employer brand, increasingly a powerful incentive to stay with a firm. Hinge’s research suggests job seekers value a great workplace over higher pay. MONITOR AND MANAGE YOUR EMPLOYER BRAND ONLINE Do you know what candidates will find out about your firm when they do a Google search? To make sure your reputation is untarnished, it helps to actively manage it online, and that means combining SEO and digital PR strategies. Done right, both can help distribute content showcasing good deeds and positive accomplishments. It not only makes your firm look good, it makes employees feel good about where they work. UNDERSTAND YOUR TOP PROSPECTS AND HOW TO ENGAGE WITH THEMIt’s hard to attract top talent if you don’t know what’s important to them and where to find them. Many employers think money is the most important criterion to a candidate, but our research shows that compensation ties at a distant second with a desire for strong leadership and a clear vision for the future, behind the number one consideration—company culture.While some AEC firms might be reluctant to have a highly visible presence there, it can be beneficial to promote your experts on LinkedIn to demonstrate a culture that values its people. The talent you promote will be delighted by the recognition and association with your company even more. If they leave your firm, LinkedIn was not the problem. CLOSING THOUGHTAs the pandemic gradually recedes and business gets back to whatever the new normal is going to be, it’s important to look at this new reality as an opportunity. The Great Resignation trend signals a changing employment dynamic, one in which talent—forced to adjust to a new way of working—is also open to opportunity. Is your firm ready to offer it to them? CUTTING EDGE IMPALEMENT PROTECTIONCARNIE CAP is the most effective way to cap exposed rebar while keeping your workers safe and on the job.National OSHA Compliant • CAL-OSHA ApprovedPatent #5826398, 6073415ORDER TODAY!(888) 743-7725 www.carniecap.comWORKS IN HORIZONTAL, VERTICAL & INCLINATIONAPPLICATIONS✓ ASSEMBLE WITH 2X4 OR 2X6 LUMBER ALREADY ON SITE✓ SAFELY DISTRIBUTES WEIGHT ACROSS ENTIRE SYSTEM✓ NO MORE CAPPING EVERYREBAR!✓ about the authorKarl Feldman is partner at Hinge, the leading research-based branding and marketing firm for the professional services. Hinge conducts groundbreaking research into high-growth firms and offers a complete suite of services for firms that want to become more visible and grow. For more, visit www.hingemarketing.com.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com30software solutionThere’s no way around it, construction projects produce surprises. Sometimes they’re good, but mostly they’re not—costing money and time and, in the worst cases, impacting relationships between owners and builders, prime contractors, and subs.Fortunately, there’s been a steady flow of investment in the development of new technologies designed to help eliminate those surprises and keep projects on track.But here’s the problem: many of these new solutions are focused on just one phase of a building’s lifecycle—whether pre-construction, construction, post-construction, or maintenance and operation. Make no mistake, virtual online tours, mobile LiDAR, 3D scanners, and 360-degree video-based (or photo-based) documentation—among others—all have their uses and, within the context for which they were designed, can add a lot of value.The downside is that this piecemeal approach frequently results in huge information gaps between one construction phase and the next, introducing new risks, new complexities, and new costs for owners, property managers, and builders alike. SUPPLY FOLLOWS DEMANDThis disconnect becomes particularly evident, for example, in the handoff from builders to owners after a massive project, or when property managers take over the maintenance and operation of a building or facility. There’s typically a massive gap in information, making it nearly impossible for owners or property managers to have a clear view of the history of a site, the issues that may have come up, or things they need to watch out for.As a result of this information deficit and the problems it causes, the construction sector has been looking for comprehensive solutions that reduce cost, save time, and deliver value across the entire building lifecycle—especially during handovers to owners and property managers. GAP IN THE MARKET Again, there are all kinds of technologies available to owners, property managers, and builders to help them visualize a construction project before it’s built. There are even some that will help them visualize what’s happening during construction. But almost none of them give you an up-to-date accurate view of what’s happening all the way from initial blueprint to final handoff.That’s where 3D digital twin platforms come in. A 3D digital twin platform—one with easy data capture and spatially accurate 3D Digital Twin Platform3D Digital Twin Platformtechnology delivers value across building lifecycle INFORMATION GAP SOLUTIONBy Simon Bae

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 2021313D visualization—delivers value across the entire built-world lifecycle. And that continuity of critical insight before, during, and after a project has been completed is a game-changer. And, the 3D digital twin platforms that provide the most value are those that enable frequent, easy, seamless 3D site capture, with uniformly high-quality data. After all, what good is a new cutting-edge technology if you can’t use it frequently and easily? CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY For example, until now, the only way to create a truly accurate 3D digital twin of a jobsite was to use a 3D scanner. But it was a time-consuming and expensive option, meaning that creating as-built 3D data scans on a weekly, or even monthly, basis has not been practical. Alternatively, you could use LiDAR or a mobile 3D scanner, or even a 360 camera, but typically you sacrifice accuracy in the spatial data, so it’s nearly impossible to tell where various components and assets are in relation to each other. Fortunately, with the right 3D digital twin solution in place, it’s now fully practical. Perhaps still more important is the ability for a 3D digital twin platform to work with builders’ existing construction management platform. A solution that requires users to integrate yet more tools isn’t a solution—it’s a time suck and hindrance. In contrast, the best new 3D digital twin solutions are embedded within users’ existing construction management software, meaning users don’t ever have to “leave” their existing construction management platform or alter their normal operations. Using their current platform, users can remotely “walk through” a jobsite, navigating to the location of RFIs, observations and open items, searching by the location names they already use, e.g., main lobby, atrium, conference room A, conference room B, etc. Additionally, users are able to review jobsites retrospectively, enabling teams to review iterative progress on a jobsite dating back days, weeks, or months.CLOSING THOUGHTWhile there is no shortage of vendors and technologies who can deliver value on one piece of an overall construction project, a new wave of solutions deliver the real control that owners and builders need—from blueprint to building and beyond. about the authorSimon Bae is CEO and founder of Cupix, a San Jose, California-based leader in 3D digital twin technology for general contractors, owners, and property managers. In a career spanning more than 25 years, Bae previously founded and served as chief executive of INUS Technology and VisPower, both later acquired by 3D Systems. For more, www.cupix.com.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com32software solutionMechanics are among the most valuable employees at construction companies that operate heavy equipment. Adding software capabilities that are powerful, easy to use and mobile to their toolboxes is emerging as a high-ROI option for maximizing their efficiency.The essential work mechanics do, their relatively high compensation and difficulties of finding, training, and replacing them make it imperative for executives and managers to focus on increasing “wrench time”—the time spent actually servicing equipment, as opposed to getting to where it is and doing administrative work.Poor scheduling and excessive time spent preparing work orders and traveling are the leading threats to the efficiency of mechanics. Maintenance management software drives significant improvements in all three areas. Linking that Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) with a real-time, online application for resource scheduling and dispatching can compound the efficiency gains. MORE WRENCH TIMEThere are two main challenges with scheduling mechanics. The first is planning preventive maintenance (PM) in an organized and orderly manner. Without an automated software solution, PM is typically scheduled on a catch-as-catch-can basis. Service intervals tend to sneak up on mechanics and managers, and work gets assigned at the last minute. This can result in mechanics scurrying around in a very inefficient manner.With maintenance software, each piece of equipment is set up with a PM schedule that is tied to meter readings, dates, or both. Shop managers get automatic alerts for impending requirements. They can even determine how far in advance they want to receive the notices. Seeing well ahead of time the upcoming PM work that needs to be performed allows them to schedule it for optimum mechanic efficiency. Also, when a mechanic is sent to a worksite to perform emergency repairs, the software can identify other equipment on the site or nearby that will require PM in the near future, so a mechanic could do it in advance and get it out of the way while he or she is already there.The second scheduling challenge involves people. Even when a manager knows exactly what repair work is coming up, scheduling the assignments of multiple mechanics on paper, whiteboards or spreadsheets is ineffective. Requirements change continuously and often suddenly. With maintenance software, assignments can be created and modified with drag-and-drop simplicity on an easy-to-follow grid. Importantly, that schedule, including up-to-the-minute updates, can be visible across the organization and on mobile devices.The next time sink for maintenance teams is preparation of work orders. In a manual environment, the mechanic typically takes a standard form and fills it in by hand. Beyond the writing or typing time, they also have to think of what work needs to be performed and which parts are required. This is time consuming and it results in inconsistent PM.Maintenance management software systems, by contrast, can be set up to generate standard work orders. A mechanic enters the PM or emergency repair that needs to be performed, and the system automatically generates an electronic work order that can then be modified if necessary. This can be done on a desktop or mobile device.Software can also cut down the administrative time mechanics spend entering their hours manually on paper Equipment Mechanicsleveraging technology to be more efficientMAINTENANCE SOFTWAREBy John Kane

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202133timecards or stand-alone systems. Automated processes can systematically create a “timecard” based on hours added to a work order.LESS WINDSHIELD TIMEMost larger or mid-size heavy construction companies have multiple jobsites over a wide geographic footprint. Mechanics can spend a lot of time driving to various sites to perform work. Software-assisted capabilities like scheduling PM work and assignments more efficiently and performing upcoming work on multiple assets in advance to eliminate return trips to the same site can reduce some of this “windshield time.”Inaccurate knowledge of equipment location is another cause of excessive windshield time. A mechanic driving an hour or two and finding out that the piece of equipment they are scheduled to work on is no longer at that worksite is not unusual. Visibility into maintenance and resource scheduling applications greatly reduces the chances of this occurring. GPS tracking in one or both of those applications virtually eliminates it.Equipment maintenance and resource scheduling software that works in concert provides contractors with a final advantage when it comes to efficiency. Schedulers and dispatchers, by seeing the upcoming maintenance requirements, can plan equipment assignments and moves around that schedule. Likewise, maintenance managers can coordinate repair work, when possible, at times that will least disrupt production.Heavy equipment mechanics are extremely important resources. Their efficiency is critical to getting preventive maintenance and emergency repairs performed in a timely and cost-effective manner. They are also hard to come by and retain, especially in the current labor market.CLOSING THOUGHTSupporting mechanics with the software capabilities outlined above can optimize their time and job satisfaction while also reducing maintenance costs and equipment downtime. In some cases, using software technology to cut “windshield time” and increase “wrench time” could even reduce the number of mechanics a company requires. about the authorJohn Kane is a product manager for B2W Software. He has had a leadership role in the development of the company’s specialized B2W Maintain application for equipment maintenance and repairs. John has more than 15 years of project management, program management, technical data analysis, and troubleshooting and reporting experience. He can be reached at jkane@b2wsoftware.com. For more, visit www.b2wsoftware.com/products/construction-equipment-maintenance-software.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com34legal solutionWe live in an age of innovation where change in our environment creates change in technology and materials. While three specific materials seem to be a constant in construction—concrete, aluminum and brick—they are not immune to innovation. All three materials are going through an innovative process fueled the potential concern of the environmental impact of building materials. Construction attorneys and in-house counsel need to take note of innovation and new building materials. Understanding the products that are coming into the construction world will only benefit legal construction teams as, inevitably, new products become new legal issues. Having a baseline for innovative products prior to legal issues arising is beneficial to both the advocate and the client in terms of time, cost, and general knowledge. CONCRETEConcrete, commonly used for foundation and many facets of superstructure construction, is generally poured on site or delivered pre-cast. The use of concrete comes with reinforcing and strength requirements based on structure size and the climate where the structure will exist. Innovation: Self-Healing Concrete:Self-healing concrete is mixed with water-activated bacteria or capsules and fibers containing adhesive liquids to allow self-healing when it cracks, producing calcite to aid the process. Calcite is a carbonate, the mineral component in limestone—another widely used construction material. Self-healing concrete has many advantages both for the environment and for the cost of construction. Self-healing concrete has a long-life span, a relatively low cost, and reduces infrastructure maintenance. Additionally, being more eco-friendly, self-healing concrete cuts greenhouse gases sometimes present with traditional concrete, creating more sustainable development.Light-Emitting Concrete: Developed by Dr. Jose Carlos Rubio from the Michoacan University of Saint Nicholas of Hidalgo in Mexico, light-emitting concrete is a wonder and a beauty. Light-emitting concrete emits soft light at night (without the use of electricity) through a polycondensation process wherein a chemical reaction between the raw materials contained in the concrete (sand, silica, industrial waste, alkali, and water) produces a strong, gel-like mixture which emits light. Conventional concrete forms crystal flakes when mixed with water which blocks absorption of solar energy. Dr. Rubio successfully sought out to modify the microstructures of cement to eliminate the crystals. Light-emitting concrete is “charged” through the day. The translucent gel enables the absorption of solar energy, although not requiring the sun. The gel can recharge during overcast days, and it can also be charged via artificial lighting. Light-emitting concrete will most-likely be applied to roads, lanes, and safety signs. Because it is aesthetically pleasing, another use could be construction décor. Importantly, light-emitting concrete conserves energy, maintaining longer life span than fluorescents made from plastic. It is also sun-resistant, not decaying via ultraviolet rays. Best of all, light-emitting concrete is produced through recycling industrial waste. ALUMINUMThe history of aluminum is nearly as fascinating as its current innovation. Before the construction of the Empire State Building, aluminum was an expensive product used by few. During the early 1920s, aluminum went through an electrolysis process rendering it cheaper and easier to produce. Thereafter, 730 tons were used to construct the Empire State Building, and that in and of itself was an innovation. Now recognized as one Innovative Materialswhat to look for in 2022 and beyondCONCRETE, ALUMINUM, BRICKBy Danielle Waltz & Alexis HailpernBy Danielle Waltz & Alexis Hailpernwhat to look for in 2022 and beyond

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202135of the most sustainable and energy-efficient construction materials (generally contains ½ to ¾ of recycled content), aluminum is experiencing a renaissance.Transparent Aluminum: Aluminum oxynitride, or ALON, is aluminum that is transparent. Unbelievably, ALON is stronger than steel by three times, four times harder than silica glass, and 85% harder than sapphire. Aluminum becomes a revolutionary ceramic alloy when nitrogen, oxygen, and aluminum are fused in precise measures to create a transparent, strong aluminum product.ALON can be used for windows and fire-resistant glass window panes. ALON is also used by the military for under water or deep-sea vehicles or domes and for safety glass. Despite the innovations described above, conventional aluminum comes with advantages. It is corrosion resistant, requires no framework or cure time, and needs minimal maintenance. Aluminum has a high structural strength, is less expensive than steel, yet lighter than steel with an equal strength to steel. Conventional aluminum is the primary building material for LEED certified builds as it is environmentally friendly. While cost prohibitive for common use at this point, ALON has many advantages on top of the advantages that already come with the use of conventional aluminum that may help facilitate its use once the cost problem is solved.BRICKBricks, although timely to lay, are used in construction because of their strength and aesthetic appeal. With its load bearing qualities, brick can support an entire building while requiring little maintenance. While brick is often considered “traditional,” it is also going through innovation. Wool Brick: Originated in Spain and Scotland, wool brick is made by adding wool fibers to regular clay material used in traditional bricks. The purpose of the fiber is to reinforce the brick, reduce production time, and avoid deformities. The wool and clay combination is then mixed with a natural polymer extracted from seaweed.Wool brick emits zero carbon as an unfired, naturally dried material whereas traditional bricks are fired using large amounts of coal and natural gas creating greenhouse gases. Zero carbon emissions aside, unfired brick like wool brick is approximately 37% stronger than conventional brick using unfired earth products.Wool brick is stronger than conventional brick, it is more durable, leaves less of an environmental footprint and is non-toxic, which may warrant its increased use in the future.Pollution-Absorbing Brick: Pollution-absorbing brick removes pollution from air as opposed to innovative materials, which only reduce pollution. Also known as breathe brick, pollution-absorbing brick serves as an air filtration machine. Developed by professor architect Carmen Trudell at Cal Poly San Louis Obispo, breathe brick was inspired by the cyclone filtration in vacuum cleaners. Working on the basic premise of air filtration systems, pollution-absorbing bricks take in air, then separates pollutants and other particles.Breathe bricks are made of porous concrete, having faceted shape with recycled plastic placed between two bricks. A hopper is installed at the base to collect particles—basically a double walled building cavity with a cyclone filter. Like a vacuum, breathe bricks filter 30% of pollution particles and need to be cleaned.Although breathe bricks can only be used in one-two story structures when used as a load bearing material, they do not use much energy. They are inexpensive relative to other air-filtration gadgets, and they are made with recycled materials. Breathe bricks do take up more space due to their shape and pattern; however, they are most sustainable and more environmentally friendly than traditional bricks. While very innovative, breathe bricks do not require a specialist to construct a breathe brick system, rending them cost-effective.CLOSING THOUGHTOur world is constantly changing, and construction is not immune to those changes. New, innovative construction materials are the wave of the future, and the growth of the industry over the next couple of years will be immense once these products are widely available. about the authorsDanielle Waltz is a commercial and construction litigator and government relations specialist in Jackson Kelly PLLC’s Charleston, West Virginia, office, where she is a member. She represents a variety of construction clients. She is a member of the International Association of Defense Counsel (IADC) and is active in its Construction Law and Litigation Group. She can be reached at dwaltz@jacksonkelly.com. Alexis Hailpern is a commercial attorney in Jackson Kelly’s Denver Office focusing the majority of her practice on commercial transactions, including drafting and negotiating construction contracts. She can be reached at alexis.hailpern@jacksonkelly.com.SOURCES:• Science Direct, Self Healing Concrete (November 08, 2021), www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/self-healing-concrete. • Cement World, The Development of Light-Emitting Cement (November 07, 2021), www.worldcement.com/the-americas/09052016/development-light-emitting-cement-62/. • Southern Aluminum Installations, Inc., How Aluminum Launched to the Top of the Industry (November 08, 2021), www.southernaluminuminc.com/aluminum-launched-top-industry/.• Technology in Architecture, Transparent Aluminum – Aluminum Oxynitride (November 07, 2021), technologyinarchitecture.com/transparent-aluminium-aluminium-oxynitride/. • The Aluminum Association, Building & Construction Quick Read (November 07, 2021), www.aluminum.org/product-markets/building-construction. • Science Daily, Bricks Made with Wool (November 08, 2021), www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/10/101005085503.htm. • Phys.org, Bricks Made with Wool (November 07, 2021), phys.org/news/2010-10-bricks-wool.html. • Architecture Magazine, Breathe Brick (November 08, 2021), www.architectmagazine.com/awards/r-d-awards/citation-breathe-brick_o. • Arch Daily, This Innovative Brick Sucks Pollution From the Air Like a Vacuum Cleaner (November 07, 2021), www.archdaily.com/771767/this-innovative-brick-sucks-pollution-from-the-air-like-a-vacuum-cleaner.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com36technology solutionActionable DataActionable Dataimproves concrete quality, from batching to deliveryCENTRAL CONCRETE Serving the San Francisco Bay Area for more than 70 years, Central Concrete Supply Co., Inc., a Northern California business unit of U.S. Concrete, invests in products, people, and technology to drive ongoing success. The firm’s investment in the VERIFI® in-transit concrete management system and associated concrete admixture has yielded considerable quality and operational improvements. CHALLENGECentral Concrete designs and delivers concrete with high early strength, low shrinkage, and superior permeability for diverse projects, from commercial enterprises to large public works projects. The firm has in-depth experience designing and delivering higher performing concrete while significantly lowering the carbon footprint of its mixes. As part of its commitment to delivering the best possible products and production capabilities, the firm decided to implement the VERIFI in-transit concrete management system to measure slump and temperature as concrete batches move from the plant to jobsite—and to gain insights for improvement throughout the concrete production process. SOLUTIONEach of Central Concrete’s trucks is now equipped with the VERIFI system, which combines sensor technology with predictive analytics to measure and manage concrete in transit. The sensors on the trucks monitor slump, temperature, load size, age, water, admixture, drum speed, and drum revolutions for optimum concrete consistency. Thanks to these automated capabilities, Central Concrete’s batch men can now remotely confirm the appropriate slump for each batch. The system automatically adjusts the water and/or admixture on the truck as needed so that each batch arrives on spec. GCP’s VERIFI team worked closely with Central Concrete to help them make the most of the new system. “Our local GCP rep is great,” says Central Concrete director of quality assurance Patrick Frawley, P.E. “He was a quality manager before he joined GCP, so he ‘speaks concrete’ and knows how to drive value from our investment.”The real power of the VERIFI system is in the data it collects from ready-mix trucks, which is readily accessible through a dashboard. With this actionable data, Central Concrete can identify and resolve productivity issues. “The VERIFI system helps us to be more efficient operationally and understand exactly how to properly design our mixes. It enables us to be more competitive on our projects,” says Frawley. For example, by integrating the VERIFI system with Central Concrete’s dispatch software, the company can benchmark

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202137data, identifying what factors influence leave plant time. “Everyone has their own set of KPIs, such as first ticket to first load, and can relay back to us how efficient they are throughout the day,” explains manager of strategic development and sustainability Juan Gonzalez. “We’ve made great strides in our leave plant time, which is now just 6 minutes, compared to the national average of 10-11 minutes.”Central Concrete is also piloting the use of GCP’s in-transit management (ITM) concrete admixture at seven of its plants. As part of this process, the plant batches concrete at 2 inches below the target slump and relies on the potent ITM admixture, added in micro-doses while the concrete is headed to the jobsite, to bring it to the optimum slump. “When you try to batch so that you arrive at a target slump, the variability of what arrives at the jobsite can be high,” says Frawley. If we batch low and then use the VERIFI system to adjust the concrete along the way, the consistency is vastly improved. That’s very exciting for us. It represents a big step forward in the quality of our admixture usage.”CLOSING THOUGHTEnhancing concrete batch consistency. “The VERIFI system helps on many fronts,” says Frawley. “We target the batch slump lower than the ordered slump and rely on the VERIFI system to increase the slump along the way, so slumps arrive with more consistency. Having the ability to automatically add exactly the amount of water and admixture to the mix in transit means the concrete arrives on site and will pump and finish with more predictability.” Slump management is the foundation of what’s useful, Frawley explains. “It’s what goes into the slump that is really key for us to manage.”Optimizing mix designs and reducing rejected loads. “Early on, there was no way to measure the consistency and quality of concrete other than to wait for 28 days to pass,” says Christopher Schenone, vice president of concrete operations. “The VERIFI system was a real eye-opener. In the first year or two of having trucks enabled with the VERIFI system, we reduced rejected loads by roughly 75%. It quickly allowed us to pull back and see if certain batches were water starved or had too much water. This enabled us to better design our mixes.” Our digital marketing campaigns can identify prospects interested specifically in your product, and then tell you exactly who they are! See what our customers are saying:The reports are awesome! Thank you. If we can get that level of information from all of our suppliers, we will be very happy! We have already made one machine sale to a prospect from the eBlast and I am sure there will be more. Paul Gazik,Business Development/International Salesfor Call us today to get started at 205.795.0223 or email us at russell@mcsmag.comYou Need Leads!You Need Leads!We Have the We Have the Solution!Solution!for more informationFor more information about GCP’s innovative products and services, visit www.gcpat.com. ON THE WEBRead about more Read about more benefits from the VERIFIbenefits from the VERIFI®® system in this article on system in this article on mcsmag.com.mcsmag.com.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com38technology solutionWhen building structures in hurricane-prone states, it’s important to factor Mother Nature in design decisions. A popular building design in Florida—and other coastal and high-wind communities—includes a resilient cast-in-place concrete structural frame accompanied by concrete masonry infill at the perimeter that offers protection from high-velocity winds and flying debris. The structure is typically covered with an attractive architectural stucco finish. Delivering the final product requires a high level of coordination among concrete, masonry, and stucco trades to ensure the design’s structural elements and finishes fit seamlessly together. That’s easier said than done, as each trade’s allowable construction tolerances vary. If the three differing trade tolerances are not addressed and adjusted for compatibility by the design team, they often lead to confusion and discrepancies at the jobsite, which can result in change orders and cost overruns.To help close the gaps between the structural shell (concrete and concrete masonry unit) tolerances and the stucco industry’s expectations, Ceco Concrete Construction is working with the Florida Lath & Plaster Bureau (FLAPB) and the American Society of Concrete Contractors (ASCC) to provide industry-backed guidance and recommendations. Concrete and stucco contractors can share these documents with clients, designers, and other project partners to resolve tolerance issues before construction begins. THE TOLERANCE CHALLENGEConstruction tolerances are simply defined as allowable deviations from specification or design values. Each trade’s maximum tolerance limits are dictated by building codes and standards; deciding which tolerance ranges are compatible and reasonable for the project is a design responsibility. Yet, because these allowable design deviations are not reflected in designers’ BIM models, alignment issues do not always arise until the skin phase of construction. Generally, at this point, the finish contractors are left to determine whether they can fix the tolerance issues or notify the general contractor of deficiencies that must be corrected before they can begin their work. Ceco’s Florida Team has been able to overcome tolerance issues between concrete and masonry scopes by self-performing masonry work in addition to the structural concrete. The concrete and masonry divisions work together to create higher-quality connections where the two structural components meet. This synergy allows Ceco to provide clients options that include schedule impacts when it comes to substituting cast-in-place concrete for CMUs or vice versa. However, the varied tolerances can still be a problem when stucco contractors arrive on the job.Work on the project’s concrete frame begins first, followed by masonry and infill after the structural pour is complete. Stucco work is last. As the last installer to arrive onsite, the stucco contractor may come across tolerances from preceding work that require them to apply thicker stucco. The stucco contractor must determine if this work goes beyond the scope of their contract or prevents them from working within their own allowable tolerances.LEADING THE CHARGE“Project owners don’t always understand why tolerances are what they are. It’s Tolerance Gapsindustry associations working together to resolve issuesBEST PRACTICESBy Victoria K. SicarasCeco Concrete is working with the Florida Lath & Plaster Bureau regarding tolerance issues that affect the concrete masonry infill and stucco exterior trades as well as concrete frame contractors.

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202139up to us as an industry to not only explain the gaps, but also propose viable solutions for them before any issues arise,” says Brandon Kovarick, Ceco senior project manager.In March 2021, Kovarick reached out to the Florida Lath & Plaster Bureau (FLAPB) to discuss Ceco’s tolerance concerns. He learned that FLAPB had already published one Technical Bulletin addressing the issue (TB-ST-#03-12), which was endorsed by the Florida Concrete & Products Association, Masonry Association of Florida, and Florida Wall & Ceiling Contractors Association. At the time, FLAPB was still in the draft phase for its update (TB-ST-#03-04.21). These bulletins provide guidance for both stucco contractors and designers.Brandon’s timing was fortunate. He seized the opportunity to offer Ceco’s assistance with the bulletin update. Working with Ceco’s Director of Quality Control Frank Salzano, FLAPB improved the bulletin by more accurately representing the concrete tolerance expectations outlined in ACI 117 Standard Specification for Tolerances for Concrete Construction. At the same time, says Brandon, “We learned a lot about stucco, and I’m sure working with Ceco helped FLAPB members increase their depth of knowledge. Imagine if all trades worked together in the same fashion!” SHAPING RECOMMENDATIONSTolerance variations between trades is not restricted to Florida. This is an industrywide problem. To tackle the issue on a larger scale, Ceco approached the ASCC Technical Committee about creating a position statement that addresses the three trade tolerances. ASCC position statements help concrete contractors clarify contradictory or obsolete specifications. They can be referenced to determine whether the specification or scope of work is realistic and what the contractor can and cannot feasibly do. They also are excellent resources to share with project partners during preconstruction so the project team can discuss applicable issues before they become problems. FLAPB board member and stucco expert Michael Starks (CGC, CDT, CCPR, LEED, BD&C) of In-Spex LLC also agreed to join efforts to draft this important position statement. The result will help owners and designers industrywide successfully specify their vision and goals.“Because tolerance issues snowball downhill, it’s just as important to know how your work will affect the trade after you as it is to know how the trade before you will affect your performance,” says Starks. “All trades need to clearly communicate what we can and cannot do before we start.”CLOSING THOUGHTNobody likes the stresses of eleventh-hour change orders. When trades work together to address tolerance gaps, we can provide enhanced, solutions-based planning for our clients.“Ceco is proud to be part of the movement to help clarify tolerance variances between trades and ensure project budgets reflect the steps needed to close tolerance gaps,” says Phil Diekemper, senior vice president at Ceco. “We are working to help advance the construction industry through education and a higher level of collaboration with other trades so we can improve constructability for our clients’ concrete building projects.” about the authorVictoria K. Sicaras is an account manager with Advancing Organizational Excellence (AOE), a full-service business consulting firm specializing in the concrete and construction fields. Ceco Concrete Construction is the nation’s leading design-assist structural concrete contractor helping clients build high-performing, cost-efficient structures through front-line innovation and technology. For more, visit www.cecoconcrete.com. STAY UPDATED:@modern contractor solutions@mcsmag

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com40technology solutionVirtual LearningJLG’s Access Your World virtual experience A WHOLE NEW WORLDThe email caught her attention. Curious, Wendi Smith clicked on the link—and stepped into an immersive virtual world of access equipment.Without leaving her desk, Smith, an assistant service manager for Sunbelt Rentals in Ceres, California, navigated onto a stadium jobsite packed with 3D MEWPs (mobile elevating work platforms) and telehandlers. From there, she could learn about equipment applications, drill down into specs, watch walk-around videos, chat with a product expert, and order parts for her location’s rental fleet.This wasn’t another Zoom call, webinar, or virtual trade show. This was different. THE FUTURE IS HEREWelcome to the future of virtual learning for the rental equipment industry.This is JLG’s “Access Your World” virtual experience, a dynamic, evolving environment designed to meet rental customers and equipment users where they are with information, education, and training. It’s free for participants, who can return whenever and from whatever device they want.Though digital technology has become essential for rental operations to function during the pandemic, it has also become a bit tiresome when video calls and events try to merely replicate in-person events. Smith says the JLG virtual experience stands out.“I loved it—it was hands-on, it was interactive,” she says. “It took you right to the jobsite, and it shows how the equipment operates.”Smith has returned to the “Access Your World” virtual experience on multiple occasions, discovering something new each time. JLG recently launched its second jobsite scenario, where users can move into the interior of the stadium to see how access equipment assists with finishing work. It’s really just the beginning when it comes to virtual learning experiences, says Jennifer Stiansen, director of marketing for JLG. She envisions a world where access equipment education and training marries the complexity of the real world with the convenience of digital.“At JLG, we really see the sky as the starting line when it comes to virtual,” Stiansen says. “The possibilities are endless.”THROUGH THE DIGITAL NOISEThe quest to develop more digital tools for customers began prior to the pandemic as mobile usage has increased, Stiansen says. But when COVID-19 hit, digital technology became an absolute necessity in order for rental companies to manage day-to-day operations.“We’ve seen the industry accelerate 5 years nearly overnight as it relates to the adoption of virtual,” she says. “It became increasingly apparent that not only would we need to cater to this new medium, but we would also somehow need to break through the noise to get the attention of our audience.”With much of the workforce shifting to remote locations, traditional 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. workdays are also fading into the past. Today’s rental equipment staff require flexible learning opportunities.“We wanted to develop a tool that allowed users, regardless of time zone, the ability to experience JLG where and when they wanted,” Stiansen says. “This gives them the control to explore the areas that provide the greatest interest and benefit to their businesses on-demand.”It also needed to be an engaging, life-like experience. Using detailed 3D access equipment models, JLG is recreating a series of realistic scenarios, starting with the construction of a sports stadium. “The virtual environment is really an educational environment,” Stiansen says. “It allows visitors to experience JLG® products in a variety of jobsites to better understand specific applications and uses of the equipment. In the first part of the stadium site, “Access Your World” virtual experience participants can explore the access

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202141Virtual LearningJLG’s Access Your World virtual experience A WHOLE NEW WORLDequipment used in the exterior steel erection, such as the new JLG high-capacity 2733 telehandler. From there, participants can navigate into the interior of the stadium to see which MEWPs are ideal for truss and finish work, as well as check out a variety of apps and tools that help improve job site productivity.David Boelke, an equipment sales consultant for Titan Machinery in Fargo, North Dakota, says this is not like other virtual exhibits and webinars he’s participated in.“I like the video game feel of the JLG ‘Access Your World’ virtual experience,” he says. “It’s given me a better understanding of the equipment available to rent and sell.”Interacting with the equipment this way can help rental staff more effectively meet the needs of their end-user customers. “It really helps, especially when you’re talking to customers or placing orders to have that visual in your head of what exactly you need through the experience on the site,” says Sunbelt Rentals’ Smith.NEXT GENERATION TRAININGWhile the “Access Your World” virtual experience was designed primarily as an educational tool for both rental companies and access equipment users, its ability to connect with a multi-generational workforce for training resonates with Ryan Creighton, district sales manager for Herc Rentals in the northern New Jersey area.“Many of our newer employees are not familiar with this equipment and how it can be used in real-life applications,” Creighton says. “It puts the application and gear associated with the work in better context.”Creighton says the pandemic has exposed the need for the rental equipment industry to create more opportunities to engage in a nontraditional format.“I’m a millennial, so I’m very much aware of how the digital business transformation is happening,” he says. “But during the pandemic, we were all forced to connect and communicate from afar. I’m interested to see the growth from here.”CLOSING THOUGHT“We are only skimming the surface of what is possible today,” Stiansen says. “We anticipate an increase and evolution of these types of experiences in both the near term and long term.”That’s because virtual learning and training is not intended to serve as a replacement for in-person events, she says; it’s an enhancement. for more informationFor more about JLG’s Access Your World virtual experience, visit jlg-experience.virtualevents-hub.com.

2022 Buyers Guide2022 Buyers Guide

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com46company profileBigfoot Crane Company Inc. is a value-driven organization. We strive to be a leader in the high-angle materials handling industry by providing the best in industrial cranes, hoists, underhook accessories, services, and solutions. EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCEWith nearly 30 years of experience, we understand the challenges our customers face. We have developed our team, service, and product selection accordingly to ensure we can deliver meticulous quality and excellence every time. Bigfoot has been operating out of Abbotsford, BC, since the early 2000’s and a distribution warehouse in Virginia since 2015. LEGENDARY SERVICEAs a growing company we pride ourselves on our culture, our customer service, and our reputation. Our goal is to provide products and services that are industry leading and will keep clients coming back.Our company moto is: Legendary Service and this moto lives in how each Bigfoot employee approaches their work and customer service. One of our key strategies is to provide our customers with a turn-key and inclusive vertical material handling experience including but not limited to: • Tower crane rentals, sales & services• Construction hoist rentals, sales & services• Under hook crane accessories rentals, sales & service• Self-dumping bins• Auto leveling pallet forks• Concrete buckets• Man-baskets• Spreader bars and related rigging• Wind safety systems sales & service• Zone control rentals, sales & service• Complete shop services to support all products we rent and sell• Certified Crane & Hoist operator training facility covering all classes of cranes and hoists• In-house engineering and project supportSINGLE, GO-TO PARTNEROur product and service lineup is focused on giving each of our customers a single go-to partner that they can trust and depend on for their entire project; we literally can provide with one phone call the solution our customers need without the need to talk to multiple suppliers. For more information, visit www.bigfootcrane.com.Bigfoot Crane Company Inc. Bigfoot Crane Company Inc. A-600DSELF-DUMPING BINS A-D SERIES BY BOSCAROBoscaro’s A-D self-dumping bin series consists of 17 durable yet light weight sizes designed for safe, hands free unloading. Increase productivity while enhancing safety by equipping your worksite with a self-dumping bin. All of our buckets and bins are approved for use in North America because they meet or exceed all ASME standards.• Designed for hands-free unloading• Durable powder-coated finish• Proven for safety, strength, and longevity• 100% Welded steel construction• Lightweight and durable

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com48company profileThe BILCO Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of AmesburyTruth which is a division of Tyman PLC, has served the building industry since 1926. During these years, BILCO has built a reputation among architects, engineers, specifiers, and the construction trades for dependability and for products that are unequaled in design and workmanship.ACCESS PRODUCTSBILCO manufactures a complete line of products that provide access for commercial building applications. Products include roof hatches, safety railings, smoke vents, access doors, fall protection products, and more. They are available in a number of standard sizes and can be custom engineered to meet unique access requirements.All BILCO access products are designed to provide many years of trouble-free service. In addition, The BILCO Company has a highly skilled customer service department and an international network of factory trained representatives ready to provide whatever service or assistance you may require. Please contact us to learn more about our products or to find a BILCO dealer near you. For more information, call 800.366.6530,or visit www.bilco.com.The BILCO CompanyThe BILCO CompanyExperience Innovation with BILCO’s Commercial Access Products

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com50company profileTicketPro is a new and unique software system designed to help heavy civil contractors easily manage and optimize their jobs. Solutions to track labor and equipment effectively have been on the market for years, but it has always been a challenge to understand materials and trucking costs due to paper processes. TicketPro brings an efficient way to digitize material and hauling paper ticket data, generate real-time Job Cost reporting, and provide relief to overburdened administrative staff by eliminating data entry and automating invoice reconciliation.THE PROJECTBangerter Three Interchanges is a large joint venture between W.W. Clyde and RLW (Ralph Wadsworth). It is a $140M project in the Salt Lake area comprised of three separate interchanges; essentially three separate small projects separated by 2-3 miles.A project of this size requires a vast amount of hauling and materials—meaning a vast amount of paper tickets to account for these deliveries. Paper tickets result in manual data entry into some sort of system—usually an Excel spreadsheet—that doesn’t deliver a true understanding of costs or help to predict margins. Most heavy civil jobs are bid as a fixed bid, and if you’re going to make any money on the job, cost control is the name of the game. TRACKING & INVOICINGTracking costs and reconciling invoices was a two-person job for Brendon Jorgenson, field engineer at W.W. Clyde, and his colleague. This project has a complex mix of tickets—from handwritten hauling to normal scale tickets, as well as inbound raw materials tickets from one of their plants. Matching tickets with invoices was a tedious process that drained attention and focus from other aspects of the job. With TicketPro, they can digitize 100% of the tickets that come into the office using a mix of artificial intelligence optical character recognition, as well as a small army of people working to 24/7 to verify that the data on each ticket is accurate. Once invoices arrive, TicketPro will automatically read the data on the invoice and match it to the tickets previously received, ensuring that invoices are correct.Tickets come into TicketPro via a scanner, mobile app, or from other Command Alkon systems like CONNEX, Apex, and Ruckit. With the data in one location, invoice reconciliation takes just seconds to match tickets with invoices, mitigating risk of overpaying or paying for invoices that have already been paid for, run reports that enable a more efficient job, and have insight to cut costs and eliminate inefficient trucking operations. TIME-SAVING SOLUTIONW.W. Clyde worked with Command Alkon to create a cost code system so that they could keep track of costs on a daily/weekly basis. Now they have more understanding of how they are measuring up in terms of the budget and can make decisions to ensure their costs are controlled, and Brendon and his colleague save hours of busy work a week to focus their brain power on solving actual business and process problems. SMOOTH TRANSFER OF INFOTicketPro integrates with multiple accounting software solutions, such as Viewpoint and Quickbooks, to ensure a smooth transition of information into existing AP systems already in place. By integrating TicketPro with Viewpoint enables WW Clyde to reconcile six times the among of invoices in a day! For more information, visit www.commandalkon.com/getticketpro.Command AlkonCommand AlkonTicketPro Solves the Job Cost Problem for Hauling and Materials

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com52company profileDouble Coin has taken the initiative to increase Off-the-Road (OTR) and Industrial (IND) distribution so you’ll have the tires you need at hand to keep you productive as your business grows. We’ve increased tire supply to our network of warehouses and have expanded warehousing in Thailand for additional OTR and IND tire capacity. Plus, we’ve secured available ocean freight space through our long-standing partnerships with established carriers. We also have competitively priced our OTR tries to make it easy for businesses to get more of the tires they need. STEADY TECH ADVANCESDouble Coin first entered the North American radial OTR market in 1992. Over the years, we’ve continued to make steady technology advances, while also improving our manufacturing prowess. In 2017, Double Coin opened one of the world’s most advanced manufacturing facilities in Thailand. This 3.6 million sq. ft. facility has the capacity to manufacture 1.8 million TBR tires and more than 50,000 OTR tires per year, and even now we’re looking to expand that capability.Today, Double Coin is a trusted OTR tire brand. A growing number of contractors have chosen Double Coin OTR tires based on their superior performance and lower cost of ownership. And now, you can count on our tires to be more readily available. What we promised years ago remains true today: The Smart Money is on Double Coin. STRATEGICALLY LOCATEDHeadquartered in Monrovia, California, Double Coin radial OTR tires are an OEM fitment at major North American construction-equipment manufacturers. Double Coin has 3 strategically located warehouses and several hundred dealers across the U.S. that give quick access to the competitively priced OTR tires you need to keep productive. Our OTR tires are built to work, move earth, and carry heavy loads in rocky, sandy, and muddy terrains. Our tires deliver superior traction, proven performance, long-term retreadability, and an overall lower cost per hour. For example, the REM-2 (E-3/L-3) radial OTR, for example, is built with an aggressive self-cleaning, non-directional tread design that makes it ideal in a wide range of OTR applications. It is engineered to deliver a smooth ride and superior traction in rocky, muddy, and sandy terrains. The REM-2 is an OEM Certified OTR with an advanced casing design that delivers superior tire life and long-term retreadability. Our REM-8 is a high-speed crane OTR crane tire that is U.S. DOT approved for on-highway use. This OEM Certified OTR is designed with a universal tread pattern to help minimize fuel consumption, improve traction, and deliver a more comfortable ride.DESIGNING SOLUTIONSWith over 80 radial OTR SKUs available, Double Coin has a diverse line of OTR tries to help your construction operation maximize performance and reduce operating costs. We’re proud of our continued growth and industry acceptance. Our promise is to continue to help our customers and OEMs improve profitability by manufacturing OTR tire products of uncompromising quality, and by designing solutions that deliver ongoing value. To find out more about the REM-2 OTRs, or other quality OTR products, visit DoubleCoinTires.com or call 888.226.5350. Double Coin TiresDouble Coin TiresPrepared for Your Business GrowthREM-1 REM-3 REM-8

©2021 CMA, LLC. AvailableCoast to CoastCATXTNFind a Dealer at:www.DoubleCoinTires.com/dealersSuperior quality is close at hand You’re working around the clock and we have high-quality OTR tires in stock. The REM-2 OTR radial features an aggressive self-cleaning tread design that is engineered to deliver a smooth ride and superior traction. The REM-3 OTR features a special uni-directional tread design for maximum traction in O -the-Road skid loader applications. With 3 warehouses strategically located across the US, Double Coin delivers the tires you need, quickly.Page 1 of 1

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com56company profileGas Clip Technologies believes that quality and affordability go hand-in-hand, which is why they manufacture top-of-the-line gas detectors and accessories that meet every budget. Each product meets the highest standard of reliability and longevity to ensure that every user’s safety remains uncompromised. Gas Clip’s multi gas detectors are perfect examples.MULTI GAS DETECTORSThe Multi Gas Clip was Gas Clip’s first multi gas detector, and it was also the first portable gas detector in the industry to utilize infrared technology to detect combustible gases (LEL). The continuous run time of the Multi Gas Clip is two months. However, its sisters—the MGC Simple and the MGC Simple Plus—have continuous run times of two years and three years respectively. Additionally, after being charged and calibrated during manufacturing, neither the MGC Simple nor the MGC Simple Plus require recharging or routine calibration, although bump testing prior to every use is advised. Also, all three of these detectors are designed to identify the presence and level of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbon monoxide (CO), oxygen (O2) and combustible gases (LEL).SINGLE GAS DETECTORSIn turn, on the days that require a single gas detector, Gas Clip Technologies has two to choose from—the Single Gas Clip (SGC) and the Single Gas Clip (SGC) Plus. Both include superior sensor reliability along with adjustable alarm set points, a programmable six-digit detector ID code and a two-year battery life. However, the SGC Plus also includes a built in “hibernate” mode that allows users to place it in a rested state when not in use. It is available in two models—SGC Plus H2S for detecting hydrogen sulfide and SGC Plus CO for detecting carbon monoxide. The Single Gas Clip, on the other hand, comes in three different versions—SGC O2 for testing oxygen levels, SGC H2S for testing hydrogen sulfide levels and SGC CO for testing carbon monoxide levels. THE GCT EXTERNAL PUMP Whether a worker uses a multi gas detector or a single gas detector, simplicity and longevity are guaranteed as is compatibility with the newest addition to Gas Clip Technologies’ collection of gas detection solutions—the GCT External Pump. This accessory is a motorized sampling pump that allows any Gas Clip diffusion detector—single gas and multi gas—to take remote samples from up to 75 feet away. It has a 40-hour continuous run time on average, and the battery typically recharges in 4-6 hours. Audio and visual alerts will inform the user of possible errors including blockages and a low battery charge. Additionally, the sleek, ergonomic design of the pump allows it to sit comfortably in the user’s hand, which helps prevent potential drops. However, an alligator clip allows the user to firmly attach the pump to their belt, jumpsuit, etc. as needed. Either way, if the device takes a tumble, the durable casing can withstand the fall as well as other harsh treatment. INDUSTRY-CHANGING PRODUCTSAfter more than a decade of creating industry-changing products, including its new GCT External Pump, Gas Clip Technologies continues to keep its focus on the future and how to further develop simpler and safer gas detection solutions. However, those two concepts are merely stepping-stones to their ultimate goal—helping workers get home to their families at the end of the day; and in truth, that is what gas detection is all about. For more, call 972.775.7577, or visit www.gascliptech.com.Gas ClipGas ClipUncompromised User SafetyEach product meets the highest standard of reliability and longevity to ensure that every user’s safety remains uncompromised.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com58company profileIsuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc., is the distributor of Isuzu commercial vehicles in the United States—the best-selling low cab forward trucks in America every year since 1986. There’s a simple reason why these trucks have gained such popularity: Isuzu has the right truck for all your business needs.EXTENSIVE LINE-UPIsuzu offers the widest range of low cab forward trucks available:Class 3-5 Isuzu N-Series V-8 gas trucks, driven by a powerplant with an engineered design life of 200,000 miles. These are the only low cab forward gasoline-powered trucks with GVWRs ranging from 12,000 to 19,500 lbs. Accommodating up to 20-foot bodies, Isuzu N-Series gas trucks are available in both Standard and Crew Cab configurations. Class 4 and 5 Isuzu N-Series diesel-powered trucks, equipped with the legendary Isuzu 4HK1-TC engine that boasts a B-10 durability rating of 375,000 miles. The trucks that made Isuzu famous are available in Standard Cab with three-across seating or a Crew Cab that will handle up to seven, and with wheelbases from 109 to 212 inches in length.Class 6 and the all-new class 7 Isuzu F-Series trucks, featuring the most powerful Efficiency Series variant of the proven Cummins B6.7 diesel engine for the optimum in performance and economy. Isuzu F-Series trucks are available in both Class 6 and new Class 7 models with GVWRs from 25,950 to a whopping 33,000 lbs. With eight wheelbase choices, Isuzu F-Series trucks can handle bodies up to 30 feet in length. INCREASED PRODUCTIVITYYou can reach more tough-to-navigate locations and make more stops thanks to Isuzu trucks’: Maneuverability: Curb-to-curb or wall-to-wall, Isuzu trucks’ cab-over-engine design gives them a turning circle dramatically tighter than any conventional cab.Visibility: Between their low cab forward design and wide expanses of glass, these trucks allow drivers to see objects as close as eight feet ahead—far better visibility than you’d find in a conventional cab. Economy: Fewer stops for fuel means more time moving your business forward. LOW COST OF OWNERSHIPIsuzu trucks are famous for their low cost of ownership, thanks to their efficiency and dependability, plus:• Outstanding basic limited warranty protection for a minimum of 36 months, with extended warranties available for as much as five years/250,000 miles• 24/7 roadside assistance for the length of your warranty or extended warranty• Isuzu’s Priority Service Maintenance Program, which allows you to lock in today’s maintenance service prices for up to six years—and the cost can be included in your Isuzu Finance of America finance or lease contract• Isuzu FleetValue parts, priced to compete with aftermarket parts but engineered to meet Isuzu’s stringent specifications, in addition to Genuine Isuzu OEM parts • Vehicle Health Reports produced by every Isuzu N-Series diesel truck, that show you idle time, speed history, acceleration frequency and more, so you can optimize your truck’s efficiency by monitoring and making adjustments to driving habitsNATIONWIDE SALES AND SERVICEIsuzu trucks are sold and serviced in all 50 U.S. states, which means there is probably an Isuzu dealer near you wherever you are—or wherever your truck takes you. Isuzu Commercial Truck of America invites you to visit www.isuzucv.com or contact your nearest Isuzu dealership to discover for yourself all the reasons an Isuzu truck is the right truck for you. Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. Isuzu Commercial Truck of America, Inc. Best-selling Low Cab Forward Trucks in America

company profileToday, we are here to support your North American power requirements, from agricultural, industrial, medical and construction, by providing environmentally responsible and critical power products for specific applications. To understand the needs of your business and that of your customers. Our problem solving and product support can make a positive difference in your business challenges.GLOBAL LEADER OF INNOVATIVE POWERThere are over 28,000,000 Isuzu engines spanning over 100 countries. Not only does Isuzu Diesel validate specific off-road application usage, we develop Power Units for unlimited applications. We have built and maintained a professional organization and back our products with warranties that go up to 5 years/5,000 hours providing power solutions that work.Isuzu Diesel ensures the most advanced performance and services, with a goal to become the new international standard of excellence in product development, quality, and customer support.PRODUCTS/SERVICES OFFEREDNew GenSet Ready, Alternative Fuel and Dual-Fuel Power Units. Open GenSet Power Units are pre-tested and over 90% validated with adjustable bolt-on mountings for ease of installation and multiple generator applications, saving customers time, money and resources. Alternative Fuel Engines and Power Units use natural gas or propane and can be equipped with a Dual-Fuel System to simply reconfigure a fuel source eliminating on location downtime. NEW ISUZU CONTROL PANELS BUILT WITH TOUGHNESS IN EVERY FEATURE• Reliable: With Automotive grade sealed connectors, applicable to all Isuzu current tier electronically controlled engines.Isuzu Motors America, LLC Isuzu Motors America, LLC Caring people providing The Power behind it all

• Eco-friendly: Featuring a lifecycle management system with simple software upgrades and a user-friendly large display. • Durable: Can work indoor/outdoor, hot/cold conditions and is sunlight, water, and soil resistant. • Technologically Advanced: With complete Generator monitoring, auto ramping and maintenance reminders with a single controller part number for easy, infinite reprogramming configurations. It becomes one Controller to rule them all. ISUZU PRODUCTS, BUILT TO LASTIsuzu Engines—Reliable, Eco-friendly, Durable, and Technologically Advanced. Tier 4 and Stage V Engines and Power Units, branded under Isuzu REDTech™, provide quiet, low maintenance and fuel-efficient solutions for existing and new applications. From 6.7kW to 397kW these Engines and Power Units use the latest after treatment DOC or DOC+SCR, with vertical or horizontal SCR for design flexibility. All are precision tuned for efficiency, while reducing oil and fuel consumption. All Isuzu products are supported by Genuine Isuzu Parts, a Distributor and Dealer network.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com62company profile Jeffrey Machine Inc., a third-generation family owned business, is an innovative, global leader in auger manufacturing and technology. With highly skilled engineers and machinists in place, Jeffrey Sager knows what it takes to be at the forefront of his industry and understands that downtime costs money. With that in mind, he has worked diligently to take his company to the next level in order to better serve his customers by adding a second location in Euless, Texas, and expanding company’s headquarters in Birmingham, Alabama. TOUGH & DEPENDABLEToughness and dependability are what Jeffrey Machine tools are known for. They deliver the finest, most comprehensive line of drilling tools in the industry. They can create a variety of sizes starting at 6 inches for dirt and rock augers up to 18 feet, CFA’s, core barrels up to 15 feet, to a full line of utility augers, revolutionary Dragon’s Tooth® Rock Cutting System, and much more. Their custom manufactured tools are designed to devour the densest rock, eliminate project downtime, and reduce wear-associated costs. In addition, they boast one of the world’s largest inventories of wear parts and components for the drilling tool industry. Their state-of-the-art facility uses both standard and proprietary equipment, including a game-changing Plate Roll that greatly increases our capacity to quickly roll cylinders of up to 2-inch-thick material up to 10 feet long, and diameters as small as 2 feet and as large as 15 feet, making it perfect for barrels, cylinders, and coring products that need a quick turnaround from shop floor to jobsite. This custom Plate Roll was a huge investment and has paid off by greatly improving the factory’s ability to be more responsive to customers’ needs and adding areas of potential expansion into new markets. In 2019, the next generation of the Sager family officially joined the company, with Jeffrey’s daughter, Gabby, coming on board. Gabby has immersed herself in all things Jeffrey Machine and continues to uphold the quality and standards set by her father and grandfather. As the company enters its 45th year in 2022, Gabby looks forward to continuing the great work that her family has done for decades. RESPECTED IN THE INDUSTRYWhat began as a small machine shop in 1977, has turned into an internationally known and respected player in auger manufacturing and the drilling tool industry. In 2001, a 20,000-square-foot shop was built, and due to increasing demands, another of equal size was constructed in 2002. Another expansion completed in 2007 brought the facility to over 100,000 square feet, making Jeffrey Machine one of the world’s largest independent auger manufacturers. The latest expansion was completed in August of 2021. The new 14,000-square-foot warehouse houses a variety of stock parts, and a new shipping office to help expedite orders. This addition combined with the added reach of the Euless, Texas, shop allows Jeffrey Machine to better serve their customers, reduce downtime on jobs, and save them money. DEDICATED TO EXCELLENCEFor almost 45 years, Jeffrey Machine has been producing rugged, cost-efficient augers and other foundation and utility drilling tools. We owe our success and longevity to our ability to really listen to our customers, customize tools to their exact requests—and to provide those tools at competitive prices, on a timely basis. Jeffrey Machine Inc.Jeffrey Machine Inc.Global Leader in Auger Manufacturing and TechnologyJeffrey Sager, Gabby Sager, Jeffrey Machine Inc.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com64company profileA “safety first” approach created unique challenges. No two roofs are the same–many roofs do not have tie off anchors and lifelines can create additional safety hazards. Leading Edge Safety started with a simple idea and the TriRex™ was born. Leading Edge has worked hard to build a brand that sets the bar for safety compliance. Leading Edge Safety was born out of necessity, but today we are fueled by a passion for safety–because no worker should have to choose between safety and livelihood. FALL PROTECTION OPTIONSAt Leading Edge Safety, we make fall protection attainable. You’ve heard of the Raptor Cart, but have explored our other fall protection options? Permanent, temporary or mobile–Leading Edge Safety has the expertise and experience to solve your most challenging fall protection needs. From complicated architecture to multi-level roofs, we have a solution for you! Having an anchorage point on wheels has been a revolution in fall protection.Leading Edge Safety is your complete solution for fall protection. Whether you need permanent, temporary, or mobile fall protection, Leading Edge Safety has the answers for you, with an array of options designed to keep you safe on the job. Unlike our competitors, Leading Edge Safety combines two successful names in the fall protection industry with proven history. AES Raptor and Premier Rail Systems have joined forces to offer you a full temporary, permanent and mobile fall protection solutions from one great provider. Our combined expertise, customer service and American-made products provide an unmatched selection of products and services.Fall Protection? Permanent, Temporary, or Mobile—Leading Edge Safety has a solution for your fall protection requirements that exceeds current codes and regulations. Leading Edge Safety has the knowledge, expertise, and inventory to help you choose the correct product for your specific needs. If your requirements do not fit a standard product, our design team will develop and engineer a specific product per your specifications with the required codes and regulations.Whether your fall protection requirements are for a few hours or for the lifetime of the building, Leading Edges Safety has a product for you.• Permanent: Long-term guardrail solutions with inconspicuous and non-intrusive mounting system with a sleek appearance that blends into the surrounding environments.• Temporary: Short-term guardrail solutions providing passive fall protection to entire work areas large and small.• Mobile: Simple, fast, with little to no set up time required offering fall arrest and fall restraint for 1-5 workers.More than a fall protection company—Leading Edge sees the bigger picture, and as a result, we work to help make every aspect of a jobsite more productive and safer. Our solution? The creation of custom design services. Offering a wide spectrum of custom design services, ranging from specialty spray rigs for roof-coating companies, one-of-a-kind material carts used to enhance your construction equipment, and custom-built hydraulic tanks, we work to help make construction equipment modifications for the construction and roofing industries.Unsure what kind of fall protection product is required for your project? Allow the experts at Leading Edge Safety to take the lead, offering you the best fall protection solution, tailored for your needs. Contact us today at 888.999.2990 or sales@leadingedgesafety.net. Leading Edge SafetyLeading Edge Safety

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com66company profileSullair is at it again. This time turning the world of portable air compressors upside down with the Sullair Mid-Range Series—the ultimate in efficiency and versatility. With the 800HH/900H model delivering 800–900 cfm at 150–200 psi, and the 920H/1100 model delivering 920–1100 cfm at 100–150 psi, these units can cover the jobs of up to nine compressors.MID-RANGE SERIESFeaturing best-in-class fuel efficiency, a compact design and unprecedented versatility and ease of use, these two units are a revolutionary change to compressed air on the jobsite. Pipeline work, abrasive blasting, construction, shipyards, fiber optics installation and more, the Mid-Range Series can do it all.Legendary compressors start with legendary air ends. Driven by the Sullair 23-Series variable capacity air end, the Mid-Range takes a 30-year legacy of Sullair spiral valve expertise in the industrial market on the road. Not only is this air end extremely efficient, it provides the durability Sullair is best known for. This means the Mid-Range is in it for the long haul and ready to work alongside you all day, every day for a very long time. MAXIMUM EFFICIENTYAt its core, the Sullair Mid-Range Series is designed for maximum efficiency. It is the first Sullair portable diesel air compressor to incorporate electronic spiral valve technology which helps maximize fuel efficiency and extend runtimes by matching air supply to demand. This means your compressor stays on the job as long as you do—it doesn’t quit until you quit. Plus, this technology allows nearly infinite combinations of pressure and flow options which can be changed quickly and easily using the state-of-art touch screen controller.The Sullair Touch Screen Controller (STS) is designed for ease of use on the jobsite. With the touch of a finger, you can set pressure and flow values, control spiral valve operation and get in-depth compressor information—even with work gloves on. Premium engines make this compressor an unmatched powerhouse on the jobsite. You have your choice of a Caterpillar 7.1l or Perkins 1206J diesel engine. With all the features that matter, these engines are small, designed for reduced noise and longer service intervals—up to 500 hours. All backed by industry-leading dealer networks. Plus, the smaller package size of the engine reduces the overall compressor weight. This makes towing and maneuverability easier and minimizes impacts to the environment. Coupled with the Sullair Electronic Spiral Valve Technology, these engines help the Mid-Range provide best-in-class fuel efficiency and reliable operation in cold weather or high altitudes. Sullair Mid-Range compressors have multiple service doors with robust push-to-close latches. These provide easy access to all service components to maximize time on the jobsite and help increase worker safety. Users also have the option of adding Airlinx®, which provides telematics and remote monitoring capabilities.The Mid-Range Series is the latest addition to the broad range of Sullair portable air compressors. Sullair portable air compressors range from 185 to 1600 cfm, with multiple engines to give customers additional choices. To learn more about the Sullair Mid-Range Series, visit www.upsidedowncompressors.com.SullairSullairTurning the Portable Air Compressor World Upside Down

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202167company profile

company profile Yokohama Off Highway Tires America Inc Tires Ready for Any Season Any Challenge Y okohama Off Highway Tires America Inc provides that grab extra traction For contractors who make plowing snow modern contractors with rugged tires for any task any removal or winter long construction their business the Alliance jobsite and any weather With nearly 4 000 Yokohama 551 Multiuse Professional adds a special all weather compound OTR Alliance Galaxy and Primex SKUs contractors have a and siped blocks for extra traction in snow and ice for backhoes range of choices for all their construction equipment from nearly and utility tractors indestructible Severe Duty Solid skid steer tires to high tech radials for articulated dump trucks and everything in between Every one of the company s tires is backed by more than a And both the 550 and 551 feature high stability centerlines for reliable steering while steel belts and radial sidewall construction create a big rectangular footprint to put more century of leadership in the science of rubber compounds coupled blocks on the ground deliver more traction and ensure longer with state of the art design engineering and manufacturing The more even wear Yokohama OTR Galaxy and Alliance brands are known worldwide for innovation quality and performance in construction tires MORE SIPES Like sipes The Galaxy Mighty Trac ND brings angular siped HYBRID TREAD tread blocks to backhoes and skid steers to create the ultimate As winter weather blows in contractors across North America all around snow tire The non directional loader design of the shift gears The hybrid tread patterns that handled sand mud Mighty Trac ND is perfect for pushing snow and its stepped and pavement all summer long show their versatility on snow shoulder adds even more traction as the inches pile up and ice A combination of industrial style tread blocks arranged While more staggered voids on the shoulder boost traction in agriculture style curves Alliance and Galaxy match the extra the dense centerline of the Galaxy Mighty Trac ND improves biting edges of individual blocks with the enhanced self cleaning roading and dramatically reduces wear capabilities of farm type tires The result tires that clean themselves thoroughly as they move through snow ice and REINFORCED SIDEWALLS mud ready for the next bite The Alliance 585 Radial brings an extra level of toughness The Alliance 550 Multiuse radial delivers a smooth steady to backhoes compact wheel loaders and telehandlers with ride on pavement and reliable steering for skid steers backhoe reinforced sidewalls for added stability and wider voids in its loaders excavators and more thanks to its S shaped centerline multi directional tread pattern block array Just as important The Alliance 550 ensures ample grip on snow its high grip blocks boosted by sharp shoulders Coupled with mud breakers and steel radial belts the Alliance 585 is perfect for wintertime jobsites and when winter turns to spring it s great in the mud too CONTACT YOUR TIRE DEALER Ask your tire dealer about Yokohama OTR Alliance Galaxy and Primex tires Ask about quality innovation reliability customer support and warranty You ll find that Yokohama Off Highway Tires America Inc is committed to keeping you and the rest of the construction industry rolling profitably all year long no matter what challenges Mother Nature and your customers send your way For more contact your tire dealer or visit www yokohama oht com 68 NOVEMBER 2021 www mcsmag com

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202169company profile

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com70company profileApplied Machinery Sales (AMS) is the official importer and distributor of world-class Merlo telehandlers for the US market. Merlo telehandlers in the 6,000 to 26,500 lb class with heights ranging from 19 to 115 ft are available for sale and rent through AMS and an ever-growing network of dealers.Known for supreme innovation, technology, safety, and ease of use, Merlo’s versatile machines deliver superior performance, comfort, and efficiency to all industries needing nimble material handling with a compact footprint. Currently, there are 23 telehandler models available in the US. All Merlo telehandlers easily accept a wide range of attachments for unmatched versatility.Of the telehandlers, the Roto is our most in demand unit. It combines crane functionality with telehandler versatility. Rotos are equipped with a 360-degree slewing turret, independent jacking stabilizers, and for optimum operator safety and efficiency, a 20° tilt cab.Safety is a Merlo hallmark. The 3-inch ring of steel protects the machine, replaces the need for rear counter weights, and ensures the machine is balanced at all times. The no-flex boom, designed with safety in mind, places all the electronic and hydraulic lines within the boom itself. The ACSC real-time monitoring system displays all operating parameters, such as load placement, machine functions, and stabilizer engagement on a highly visible LCD screen.AMS has recently expanded its Merlo offerings with the DBM self-contained mini cement mixer. Unique to the DBM are the ground controls that replicate controls found in the cab. An operator can control engine acceleration, water pump activation, drum rotation, barrel lift, chute lift, and emergency stop. The drum sits on a “fifth wheel” allowing 180° lateral rotation. Added to the vertical tilt capability, the DBM3500 can discharge concrete up to 330° around the machine. For more information or to find a dealer, visit ams-merlo.com, call 803.327.4949, or email info@appliedmach.com.AMS-MerloAMS-MerloMerlo. The better machine.

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202171company profileB2W Schedule replaces the disconnected mix of spreadsheets, phone calls, whiteboards, and messages with a single solution for coordinated, collaborative scheduling and dispatching of resources across job locations and over time. Individuals manage scheduling based on their area of responsibility. Users can view, enter, and manage assignments and needs in real time. This puts employee, equipment, and material resources in the right place at the right time, reducing inefficiencies and downtime.An intuitive, multi-day interface gives users of B2W Schedule a day-by-day view of assignments, needs, and orders. Managing crews, employees, equipment, or trucks associated with these items can be done with drag-and-drop simplicity, and assignments can be viewed or planned as far into the past or future as needed.Users can apply multiple filters and groupings to customize how they view the schedule according to their specific roles and requirements, and the same views are accessible on a desktop or mobile device. An unlimited number of these user-defined views can be stored, and security restrictions can be set up to determine which views can be seen by which employees. From resolving conflicts and creating needs to filling assignments and generating moves, B2W Schedule keeps everyone in touch and up to date—even when they are on the move and working on a mobile tablet.An advanced map function lets users view jobsites and equipment locations in relation to each other geographically. They can also create boundaries with geofencing and incorporate real-time information on traffic, accidents, and road construction delays.B2W Schedule also provides dedicated views for mass haul trucking, equipment moves, and deliveries. Whether it is planning out stops for equipment moves or deliveries on the move planner, or assigning dozens of trucks to an order on the mass haul planner, B2W Schedule has single day, dedicated views for assigning and notifying resources which have been assigned to orders. For more information, visit www.b2wsoftware.com. B2W SoftwareB2W Software

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com72company profileBullet Liner is the market’s leading supplier of spray-on elastomer sealant for trucks, fleet and commercial vehicles, utility equipment, cargo vans, storage tanks, cars, and more. The brand’s proprietary, spray-on polyurea coating safeguards a business or individual’s most important investments—applying a protective, water-sealed “no scuff-no scratch” layer on most any surface to ward off damage from extreme weathering, sunlight, abrasions, overuse, and road debris. Bullet Liner provides an impenetrable “shield” that is resistant to product wear and tear. It’s well suited to any industry—especially construction and contracting—where physical assets and equipment that are vital to operations can sustain serious abuse on the job. THREE DECADES STRONGOur “bullet-tough” line of high-caliber elastomer sealants was first developed over three decades ago. The technology is based on advanced chemical R&D that, today, is still the bedrock of the spray-on coatings marketplace. EXTRA BENEFITSBullet Liner products will not peel, flake, bubble or crack—regardless of weather and environmental conditions. The formulations also offer UV protection for surfaces that spend hours baking in hot sunlight, and the sealant can be matched to any custom color scheme. Additionally, Bullet Liner provides a great “grip” surface for improved safety on wet or otherwise slippery areas such as boat decks and truck flat beds—offering extra benefits for operators that haul cargo and work in inclement weather conditions. Bullet Liner can adhere to virtually any interior or exterior surface via a simple spray-on application. For more information, visit www.bulletliner.com.Bullet LinerBullet LinerHigh Caliber Protection

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202173company profileThe Caldwell Group Inc. continues to market its range of German-manufactured RUD products, including the ACP-Turnado smart lifting point.CALDWELL AND RUD GROUPRockford, Illinois-based Caldwell and the RUD Group unite their sales and marketing activities in North America for material handling and lifting devices within a common organization.With its unique spring mechanism, the ACP-Turnado ensures greater safety by automatically rotating in the direction of force transmission and by actively preventing a hazardous stoppage of the ring. It eliminates the risk of a sudden release of the ring from this position in the direction of force and the resulting jerky dropping of the load, which endangers the load, load handling equipment and crane system.Features include smart design with automatic optimization; higher working load limits (WLL) than hoist rings of comparable sizes; maximum transmission of force in all possible directions; no kinking; and radio-frequency identification (RFID), as standard.MEETING LIFT NEEDSJay Schroeder, who oversees sales for RUD, Caldwell and Renfroe products in the eastern half of the U.S. and Canada, says: “RUD realizes that everyone has unique lifting requirements. We try to fill as many holes as we can to help the end user.”All RUD products are made to DIN, BG, and EN standards. For more information, call 800.628.4263, or visit www.caldwellinc.com.CaldwellCaldwell

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com74company profileThese days, construction sites are keeping a close eye on safety, particularly when it comes to falls, and with good reason. Impalement by rebar is the #1 most frequent cause of fatalities and injuries in the construction industry. The costs of OSHA violations and rising liability insurance can limit a company’s ability to competitively bid jobs.The most common impalement protection devices are rebar caps containing either a metal sheet or a concrete plug suspended in the plastic. The device must be able to stop a 250 lb weight dropped for a height of 10 ft without the rebar breaking through. The force of the impact pushes the cap down causing the rebar to break through the plastic; the impact can cause the cap to bend and allow the rebar to protrude and impalement to occur. The safest method of guarding against impalement is the trough. In the event of a fall, the weight is distributed over the entire surface area of the lumber and the rebar is absorbed by the lumber. The time and material costs are expensive.Hence, the Carnie Cap system. The system employs the trough method by suspending a 2x4 or 2x6 above the rebar using two caps/8 ft of lumber. This saves time and expenses. Carnie Caps are OSHA compliant and CAL-OSHA approved.The importance of using fall protection devices and safety training cannot be overstated. Workers, be mindful of all safety solutions at your disposal. They are there to protect you, whether or you have been on the job for many years, or only a day. Carnie CapCarnie CapCUTTING EDGE IMPALEMENT PROTECTIONCARNIE CAP is the most effective way to cap exposed rebar while keeping your workers safe and on the job.National OSHA Compliant • CAL-OSHA ApprovedPatent #5826398, 6073415ORDER TODAY!(888) 743-7725 www.carniecap.comWORKS IN HORIZONTAL, VERTICAL & INCLINATIONAPPLICATIONS✓ ASSEMBLE WITH 2X4 OR 2X6 LUMBER ALREADY ON SITE✓ SAFELY DISTRIBUTES WEIGHT ACROSS ENTIRE SYSTEM✓ NO MORE CAPPING EVERYREBAR!✓ Rebar Cap System

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202175company profileCooper Tire of Findlay, Ohio, is an established brand with more than 100 years in service. Cooper’s commercial line of long-haul, regional-haul, and mixed-service application tires are designed and engineered to offer fleets high performing tires and a low total cost of ownership. ON/OFF-HIGHWAY TIRESCooper’s WORK Series™ line are on/off-highway tires, designed for work trucks, vans and regional-haul applications. The tires are engineered to withstand the many starts, turns, stops and other “tough-on-tire” circumstances drivers face in regional-haul applications. With a lineup that includes SmartWay Verified tires, the WORK Series delivers the right mix of fuel efficiency and durability. The WORK Series™ line is backed by a 50% treadwear full replacement value warranty. CONSTRUCTION FLEETSFor construction fleets operating in conditions that require extra grip and traction, the WORK Series™ All Weather Drive (AWD) features a highly siped and aggressive tread pattern to maximize traction in all weather conditions. The tire has 26/32nds of tread depth and is available in three sizes—295/75R22.5 LR G, 11R22.5 LR H, and 11R24.5 LR H.DELIVERING PERFORMANCECooper’s SEVERE Series™ tire lineup for mixed service applications is designed to withstand the rigorous operating conditions construction vehicles, such as dump trucks and cement mixers are often faced with. With proprietary compounds that promote chip, cut, and scrub resistance, the SEVERE Series™ delivers the performance required in extreme conditions. Like the WORK Series™, Cooper’s highly engineered casings are designed for multiple retreads. Cooper Tire & Rubber CompanyCooper Tire & Rubber CompanyTires designed and engineered for performance.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com76company profileFor more than 30 years, Fecon has built a reputation of building the most durable mulching head on the market, and that no-compromise approach extends into each of its product lines. By providing the highest value products and superior service, Fecon forges lasting relationships with its customers. Fecon helps you clear the way to a job well done! CORE VALUES By providing the highest value products and superior service, Fecon forges lasting relationships with customers. Fecon strives to be the foremost leader in the development and manufacture of vegetation management and natural resource recovery equipment through technology, innovation, operational efficiency, safety, and fully engaged the talents of its employees. DO WHAT IS RIGHT Foster goodwill toward our customers, our community, and each other. Seek to be fair and ethical in all decisions. Develop strong relationships—internally and externally (the Fecon Family). Be a good steward of our resources and environment. BEST IN CLASS Lead our industry with the best products that provide the most value to our customers. Hire, motivate, train, and retain the best skilled employees. Provide an advocate role to our industry. COMMITMENT AND DEDICATION Do whatever it takes to get the job done with integrity and excellence.EXCELLENT CUSTOMER CARE Provide excellence in all interactions with our customers. Respond to questions and resolve issues quickly. FeconFeconFor more information, visit www.yellow.fecon.com.BUILT FOR LIFE, ENGINEERED FOR SUCCESS

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202177company profileSince its founding almost 80 years ago, MAX Co., Ltd.’s mission has been to identify and fill the gaps that exist in products available to professionals in a variety of industries. MAX entered the North American market with construction products in 1964, first private labeling tools, then as MAX USA Corp. in 1994. WORLD’S FIRSTIn 1994 MAX also introduced the world’s first battery powered rebar tying tool. Since then, MAX Rebar tying tools have revolutionized rebar tying all around the world. MAX has continued to improve upon its proprietary tying technology, which led to the invention of the TwinTier®, the most efficient battery powered tying tool on the market. UNIQUE MECHANISMSTwinTier technology includes 3 unique mechanisms that allow the tools to form the greatest number of ties per battery charge than any other tool on the market (up to 4,000), while delivering just the right amount of wire for added productivity and cost savings.The “wire pullback mechanism” securely ties rebar, efficiently distributing the precise amount of wire necessary for the specific rebar combination being tied. A “wire bending mechanism” minimizes the resulting tie height to optimize the amount of concrete that needs to be poured. Lastly, a “dual wire feeding” mechanism increases speed and productivity; two factors that add to the efficiency and bottom line of any project.MAX TWINTIER LINEThe MAX TwinTier line includes the RB441T, a tool that can tie between #3x #3 up to #7 x #7 rebar combinations. The RB611T, a tool that has the largest rebar tying capacity on the market, with the ability to tie up to a #9 x #10 combination. Lastly, MAX also brought to market, the 1st battery powered stand-up tying tool, the RB401T-E, in 2020, which can tie up to #6 x #6 rebar combinations. The RB401T-E is optimal for slab work, and offers the benefit of reducing the compression force on the operator’s back by allowing them to tie rebar while standing upright. For more information, call 800.223.4293, or visit www.twintier.global/us-en.MAX USA Corp. MAX USA Corp.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com78company profileFor 50 years, the Mi-T-M Corporation has played a significant role in the industrial equipment industry, manufacturing a wide variety of equipment that includes generators, pressure washers, air compressor, and combination units. Widely known for producing high quality equipment, this US manufacturer is also recognized by contractors who appreciate the value of the Mi-T-M brand.PORTABLE GENERATORS ESSENTIAL Ask a contractor and they’ll tell you that portable generators are among their most important investments. Primarily used on construction sites, Mi-T-M portable gasoline driven generators are essential for powering a variety of construction equipment and lighting systems and are a reliable source for backup power. Mi-T-M recently announced a new line of portable generators powered by a Mi-T-M OHV engine. Developed to offer customers an alternative high quality power source, the Mi-T-M engine is an overhead valve design and features low oil shutdown, easy start and is backed by Mi-T-M replacement parts. The ChoreMaster Series of generators range from 4000 watt to 10000 watts and is engineered to provide maximum power not only for contractors but for commercial businesses and anyone who needs a power source they can depend on. Each comes with a built-in carbon monoxide (CO) detector system designed to alert customers before the harmful gas has a chance to build up. For more information on these powerful Mi-T-M generators and all the Mi-T-M industrial equipment, go to www.mitm.com.Mi-T-M CorporationMi-T-M CorporationStill in the game after more than 50 years.

company profileswww.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202179Committed to helping customers improve profitability, productivity, and efficiency in recycling operations.Moley Magnetics’ suite of services spans from magnets, grapples, shears, and granulator systems to motor and pump sales and service, as well as magnet and electric motor repair.Moley Magnetics makes, sells, and repairs heavy-duty magnets including conventional DC electromagnets and hydraulic and battery-operated magnets, and diesel generators built for the rigors of the railroad maintenance and truck upfitters, scrap, recycling, and demolition. Moley Magnetics also provides a full line of Stokkermill granulator systems and recycling products, from shredders and granulators to a complete inventory of grapples and shears. Moley Magnetics is a family owned and operated industrial supply and maintenance company started more than 30 years ago, currently located in Lockport, New York. Moley Magnetics originally started as a motor repair shop, and hasn’t lost touch with its roots. In fact, this side of the business has expanded greatly over the years. Moley has expanded into the industrial distribution world by offering motors, pumps, drives, control products, and mechanical seals. Moley MagneticsMoley Magnetics

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com80company profileNational Construction Rentals understands the relationships we build are just as important as the quality of work we put into each project. It’s with this principle in mind that has made us become the largest supplier of temporary fencing, barricades, portable toilets, hand wash stations, luxury restroom trailers, mobile storage containers, and temporary power in the nation.LEADING CLIENTELE For nearly 60 years, National Construction Rentals has worked with every leading construction company, supplying temporary site service solutions to: Bechtel, Flour, Kiewit, Turner, PCL Construction, The Shaw Group, Skanska USA, Clark Group, Jacobs, Foster Wheeler AG, The Walsh Group, Balfour Beatty, Whiting-Turner, Tutor Perini Corp., CB&I, Gilbane, Hansel Phelps, Mortenson Construction, McCarthy Construction, and countless others.DEDICATED PROFESSIONALSFrom commercial and residential construction, to government projects, public works, and emergency response, National’s team of experienced professionals dedicate themselves to each project until each customer is satisfied with the results. This was our goal when we started in 1962. This is what continues to define who we are today.SUPERIOR CUSTOMER SUPPORTFor unparalleled service and superior customer support, contact us today at 800.352.5675 for the best in chain link fence, pedestrian barricades, portable toilets, hand wash stations, luxury restroom trailers, mobile storage containers, and temporary power solutions.www.rentnational.comNational Construction RentalsNational Construction RentalsNational Construction Rentals. Rentals Made Easy.™

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202181company profilePoseidon Barge, LTD specializes in manufacturing Sectional Barges used in the heavy construction industry to float equipment, men, or materials. Their Sectional Barges are manufactured in Berne, Indiana, and are transported via truck. They are used primarily on inland waterways where traditional deck barges cannot travel.HULL SIZES TO FIT YOUR NEEDS Poseidon manufactures barges with hull sizes of 4, 5, 7, and 10 ft tall. The Poseidon P10 is the largest Sectional Barge available that can be transported over the road. Measuring 44 ft long x 11 ft wide and 10 ft tall, the P10 has floated some of the largest cranes available. All Poseidon Barges have patented roll form decks that are rated for 20,000 lb/ft2 of point load. That is four times the strength of traditional ¼-inch deck plate.PRODUCT LINE ACCESSORIES Accessories for each specific product line are also available. Spuds, spud wells, deck cleats, rake sections, hydraulic double drum winches, Sea Bee Thruster units, and Push Boats are all part of the product line available for rent or purchase.Poseidon Barge, LTD has a full engineer staff led by an in-house certified Naval Architect. Layouts and Basic Stability Analysis are available for each project based on the information provided by the client.Poseidon has recently added in-house steel grit blasting and liquid spray-painting booths to better serve its customers with a premier product finish. Large enough to accommodate the P10 barge, they are some of the largest booths in the Midwestern United States. Each booth is equipped with a 25-ton crane for easy product handling.DESIGN SERVICES AVAILABLE Poseidon performs contract manufacturing and finishing for markets outside of the marine industry. We also can offer design services through our engineering department.Poseidon Barge, LTD is the onlysectional barge manufcaturer to receive their ISO 9001:2015 certification. High quality, repeatability, and striving towards continual improvement are part of theculture at Poseidon Barge. The Poseidon Barge team has a strong desire for the customer to be assured that each and every barge section was built with the attention focused on these core values. Visit us on Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube. Poseidon Barge, LTDPoseidon Barge, LTDWith a focus on quality, Poseidon Barge gains ISO Certification. High quality, repeatability, and striving towards continual improvement were all reasons for pursuing this certification.Visit www.poseidonbarge.com or call 866.992.2743.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com82company profileIn 2014 Rattle Stick Concrete Tools introduced the world’s first inline battery powered vibration tool that clicks into any float or walking tool and brings up the paste in 1 or 2 passes even on low slump concrete. FEATURES: A true cordless design that works with your jobsite DeWalt, Milwaukee, or Makita 18-20 volt batteries, so there’s never downtime. Patented robust vibration technology designed to last 20 years. Variable speed control is standard. Choice of Super Snake or Slump Buster power. Super Snake is for up to 6 ft floats and the Slump Buster is for big floats and everyday low slump finishing. A sleeve adapter is included for a perfect fit into a wide range of float heads. Comes with a 1-year warranty.BENEFITS: Bring up cream twice as fast, perfect stamped concrete impressions, cut hard trowel time in half, eliminate surface bleed, and never spray water on top again.WHERE TO BUY: Call to find a dealer near you or buy direct 916.472.6250. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube & LinkedInwww.rattlestick.netRattle StickRattle Stick916-472-6250 | rattlestick@sbcglobal.net | 69 Lincoln Blvd., Suite A-311, Lincoln, CA 95648

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202183company profileRockwheel AmericasRockwheel AmericasFor more than 50 years, Alpine has been a trusted supplier of equipment for the construction, environmental, underground, and mining sectors. Rockwheel Americas of the Alpine Equipment Group offers its premier product: The Rockwheel line of hydraulic rock and concrete grinding attachments. Rockwheels are powerful and precise rotary grinders with tremendous torque allowing for rapid and precise removal of rock and concrete, filling the niche between bucket excavation, hammers, and blasting. A wide product line is available to equip excavators from the 1-ton to 75+ ton class. Included in the Rockwheel lineup is the patented Cutter Bucket combination, which is a revolutionary tool for rock trenching. Customized, innovative hydraulic rotary Soil Mixing attachments are offered for use in remediation, stabilization, and solidification projects around the world. NEWEST PRODUCTSRockwheel Americas’ newest products include the Rockcrusher and Rockscreener lines. Acquired from Hartl Crushers, these work tools have been proven over many years to be the most robust and productive crushing and screening buckets on the market. These products are available for excavators from 15 to 50+ tons. Several advantages distinguish this crusher bucket from its competitors, including a unique Quattro movement with up-thrust that produces high throughput of consistent cubical shaped material with minimal fines, and the reverse function making it easy to clear jams. Also, the RockCrusher has a massive crushing plate surface area that is up to 40% greater than other units on the market. Applications include demolition, excavation, quarries, recycling, natural stone processing, and trenching a pipeline construction. Crush, reuse, and recycle material on-site using an attachment rather than mobilizing expensive crushing plants. Accessories include dust suppression system, central greasing, magnet, and remote cameras. All products are available on a rental basis. Dealer inquiries welcome!

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com84company profileSunflower Boat & Barge of Dubuque, Iowa, is a one-stop-shop for contractors working over the water. Sunflower maintains an extensive fleet of marine construction equipment and related accessories available for lease. Sunflower expanded its fleet in 2021 by adding a new construction spud barge built in house. This custom 140 ft x 44 ft spud barge is the latest in Sunflower’s custom build spud barge process, which also includes spud barges measuring 120 ft x 54 ft, 120 ft x 40 ft, and 150 ft x 60 ft. Designed specifically for carrying large cranes and excavators, these new barges will provide optimal work platforms for bridge building contractors or anyone else needing large and strong platforms. Planned expansion for 2022 includes additional 600 hp truckable tugboats along with a commitment to continue repowering its towing fleet with a goal of reducing its emissions. Sunflower Boat & Barge’s existing fleet includes numerous inland river crane barges, material barges, and deck/spud barges of various sizes. Sunflower also leases portable sectional barges, available in four different sizes (3 ft, 4 ft, 5 ft, and 7 ft hull depths), allowing for configuration of a work platform that fits each customer’s unique needs and also allowing access to nearly every inland water. Sectional barge platforms can be designed to support projects ranging from floating plant operations for painting and drilling jobs all the way up to configurations designed to handle heavy cranes. In addition to barges, Sunflower has traditional tugboats ranging in size from 300 hp to 1,800 hp, as well as truckable tugboats from 300 hp to 600 hp.Hydraulic dredges? Yep, they have them too, again, in a range of sizes to fit the requirements of your project. Dredges vary from 8 inches up 20 inches. Crawler cranes ranging from 45 ton to 450 ton are also available for lease and can be loaded to barges from their facility in Dubuque, Iowa. Additional equipment available includes spuds, spudwells, and spud winches, as well as long reach excavators, dredge pipe, and heavy rigging and lifting gear. For more information, visit www.sunflowerboatandbarge.com.Sunflower Boat & BargeSunflower Boat & Bargewww.sunflowerboatandbarge.com • 563-583-0556• Sectional Barges• Spud Barges from 75x32 to 195x70• Hydraulic Dredges• Truckable Tugboats from 300 – 600 hp• Traditional Tugboats• Support EquipmentAvailable for Lease:

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202185company profileAmerican Technical Publishers (ATP) provides effective trainingmaterials for current and future technicians and skilledtradesworkers in the construction, electrical, mechanical, andmaintenance industries. Our high-quality technical trainingmaterials are widely used in apprenticeship, industrial training,and career and technical education programs across the UnitedStates. ATP works directly with authors in industry and thetrades to present technical content and detailed illustrations inan easy-to-understand format that promotes both the learningand retention of knowledge and skills. We offer both printand digital products in a variety of formats to suit a variety ofinstructional settings.ATP’s mission is to help individuals attain employment andadvance in their careers by using the latest information andtechnology to create effective, high-quality technical trainingmaterials. We strive to develop creative, engaging, and effectivetraining products that enable individuals to attain the skills thathelp promote a better quality of life, and continue the transfer ofknowledge from generation to generation. American Technical PublishersLocated in Springfield, Illinois, BedLock Safety Products, LLC manufactures and fabricates all of its products. Its flagship product is the BedLock dump truck bed safety device system. This system is unique and has been awarded utility patent #6905174. The device keeps the truck bed from falling when elevated. When unsecured or improper dump beds fall, injuries and/or fatalities happen. A safety and health information bulletin (SHIB) was issued by OSHA to alert servicers of dump or hydraulic trucks about the hazards of falling dump truck beds. For more information, call 217.553.0963, or visit www.bedlocksafety.com.PROVIDING SAFETY PRODUCTS THAT ARE UNIQUE, TESTED AND PROVENwww.bedlocksafety.com ▲ 217-553-0963 KEEP SERVICE PERSONNEL SAFEwith the innovative Bedlock Dump Truck Safety Device System!THE ORIGINAL PATENT#6905174BedLock Safety ProductsWith the BedLock Safety device, service personnel are kept safe from falling dump truck beds.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com86company profileGet more work done, faster with the Dual Dozer from HitchDoc. Push or pull material and grade in any direction with the dual-sided cutting edge. Rear mounted wheels make maneuvering around obstacles easy and allow you to place material closer to edges as well as provide a smooth, level finish without leaving tracks that need to be smoothed over manually.The Dual Dozer works with all industry-leading machine controls at the highest levels, including laser receivers, slope and sonic tracers, GPS, and 3D mapping. For skid steer applications, hydraulic connections use standard quick couplers. HitchDoc has been proudly manufacturing the Dual Dozer from American steel in the heart of the Midwest for more than 20 years and works with a trusted dealer network. Dealer opportunities are available. For more information, visit www.hitchdoc.com.HitchDocMake the grade with a Dual Dozer from HitchDoc.InSite Elevation is an easy-to-use earthwork take-off and GPS modeling solution for busy earthwork estimators. We help businesses of all sizes save time and earn more on commercial, residential, and landscaping projects. Quickly and accurately calculate cut and fill, stripping, strata quantities, paving and concrete materials, topsoil re-spread, areas, lengths, trench excavation, and backfill. High-quality graphics and easy-to-read reports provide hard graphic evidence of all calculations. InSite Elevation also creates GPS machine control and staking files without the complexity and necessity of a CAD program.We understand you’re busy and don’t have time to waste. We provide free onboard training and technical support with purchase to get you up and running quickly. Let us show you how InSite Elevation is designed to produce accurate sitework take-offs so you can bid with confidence. Visit www.insitesoftware.com or call 877.746.7483 to request a live demo.InSite Software

www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202187www.mcsmag.com NOVEMBER 202187company profileHeaters from L.B. White are engineered to meet the unique requirements of jobsites at every phase of construction. From early stages when electrical is not easy to access, to finishing steps when ducted air is convenient, and countless scenarios in between—there’s an L.B. White heater for the job. From headquarters in Wisconsin, L.B. White offers more than 65 years of leadership in heat manufacturing and engineering. From fully welding heat exchangers to test firing every heater before it ships, quality and safety practices have set L.B. White products apart since 1952. Heaters are backed by an industry-leading manufacturer’s warranty. An onsite Tech Support team, with more than 15 years of hands-on heat engineering experience, serves as a year-round resource, too. To learn more about what heaters fit your job, go to LBWhite.com/find-dealer to find a dealer near you. For product information, like owner’s manuals and a free heat calculator, go to www.lbwhite.com or call 608.783.5691.L.B. White CompanyInnovative Heating SolutionsMBW, Inc. has been manufacturing one of the construction industry’s most interesting lines of small compaction and concrete equipment right here in the USA. Located in Slinger, Wisconsin, production began more than 50 years ago with its introduction of a lower maintenance vibratory plate compactor. MBW does not simply duplicate designs developed by others. MBW begins each new engineering project with the assumption that significant progress can be made in terms of improved productivity, reduced maintenance, longer life, enhanced user safety, and lower long-term cost of ownership. MBW backs its products with a 1-year warranty. Today, the company’s product line encompasses a variety of soil compaction products including single direction vibratory plates, gas and air rammers, skid steer roller attachments, and a mini-excavator wheel attachment. The concrete side includes a gas engine or electric Powered by M18™ REDLITHIUM™ vibratory wet screed with bar options from 4 ft to 18 ft, truss screeds, three sizes of walk-behind power trowels, and a 5 ft ride-on power trowel. www.mbw.comMBW, Inc.

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com88company profileFor more than 60 years, Reef Industries has been manufacturing and fabricating reinforced film laminates and composites. Reef Industries specializes in custom plastic laminates that safeguard and prolong the service life of customers’ investments. Products range from covers that protect equipment during outdoor storage to underground marking tape that ensures buried utilities are protected from accidental dig-ins. Reef Industries provides customers with dependable and proven high-quality materials for long-term performance.Each year, countless building owners suffer the problems associated with material and systems failures due to moisture. Reef Industries’ Griffolyn® vapor barriers and vapor retarders can prevent water vapor from causing poor insulation performance, structural damage, and other moisture-related problems. The main reason for retarding the transmission of water vapor through the building envelope is to prevent water vapor from condensing within the building structure cavities. The Griffolyn polyethylene vapor retarder system’s low permanence keeps moisture from infiltrating the building envelope. For more information, visit reefindustries.com.Reef IndustriesWe make YOUR corporate brand stand out from the rest! Our specialty is high-quality corporate branding of Hard Hats and Protective Head Gear. We customize in the USA with the focus on detail and unique designs for your individual needs:• Corporate Branding• Project Completion • Safety Recognition• Work Appreciation• In Memory Of• For a Cause• Affiliation• Patriotism For more information, call 414.331.1345, email kent@valhallacustomgear.com, or visit valhallacustomgear.com.Valhalla Custom GearCustom Hard Hats for the TradesLet’s design YOUR hard hat!

NOVEMBER 2021 www.mcsmag.com90Dear Stressed-Out Sam,Stress studies indicate feeling stressed increases the risk of heart disease by 40%, the risk of heart attack by 25%, and the risk of stroke by 50%. A great number of other symptoms are caused by stress as well. For the sake of your health, you are wise to seek ways to cope. Although deep down we are aware that stress is not good for us, many of us don’t do much about it. I encourage you to talk with your boss and get professional help as well. Meanwhile, follow these suggestions to help you through common stress-causing situations.✖ BE READY Accept that schedule changes can and will happen. Be open-minded, flexible, and positive about any change. Have fun with your crew identifying the silver linings in any changes you face. Remember, there is good in everything if you look for it.Anticipate any “no shows” and have a Plan A and a Plan B for the day. Do plenty of cross-training to ensure all crew members can do various jobs on the site. Build solid relationships with them, and they won’t let you down. That’s how you can create a work environment they want to be part of for a long time.With the aid of technology, meteorologists have become good at predicting the weather. That means being ready for changes has never been easier. You can’t control the weather, but you can control what you do about it. Simply respond to uncooperative weather by executing the plans you’ve made in preparation for this inevitability. ✖ BE REALISTICMake sure your deadlines are realistic. Set them collaboratively with the people involved in meeting those deadlines. When you’re having difficulty agreeing on a deadline, explain why that timeline isn’t realistic and what it would take to achieve it. You can do the same with unrealistic goals. Determine your priorities and stick with them. You lose credibility and productivity if you set in motion priorities that constantly shift. Become exceptional at delegation, empowerment, and allocation of your time in a way that produces optimal results. Always include time for yourself.Don’t procrastinate. Make all your decisions fair and consistent—and make them for the right reasons. When making decisions, preparation and anticipation are good “wingmen” to have by your side.CLOSING THOUGHT Avoiding stress and reducing your stress levels are critical to your health and well-being. Therefore, be mindful of your diet, exercise, and sleep patterns while finding ways that allow you to be stress free. Because that’s difficult to do on your own, make sure you keep the topic visible. When you do, you’ll find many people willing to help. HEY COACH, I need a little advice on dealing with stress. It seems every day is more stressful for me than the last. I run a concrete construction crew that is constantly pushed to the limit because of changing schedules. Plus, I never know which crew members will show up and, of course, I worry about the weather. With so many things stressing me out, I’m about to explode. Please help.about the coachAs a leadership development expert, Randy Goruk works with construction industry leaders to improve employee engagement and business growth. Register to receive his Leadership Tip of the Week at www.LeadersEdge360.com, or contact him directly to learn how he can help you and your team: randy@LeadersEdge360.com.