MANAGING THE HUMAN RESOURCE

INTRODUCTION A mong the numerous resources that the supervisor manages—dollars, tools, equipment, job site space, and time, as we have discussed them—the most important, the most valuable, and the most complex resources are the craft workers on the project. No other aspect of management presents as many complexities and challenges as managing the human resources, … Read more

TEAM BUILDING AND MAINTENANCE

INTRODUCTION T eam building is an important tool for the construction supervisor. In Chapter 2, it was recognized that, whereas craft workers work with the tools of their trade, supervisors primarily work with and through people. Managing and organizing people to perform at a high level and to effectively carry out the tasks assigned by … Read more

Oral Communication Introduction

Communication is of critical importance in construction. Poor communication is the root cause of many problems in the industry. Poor communication can impact safety, production, quality, cost, schedule, and all other aspects of a job. Thus, it is important to work to continuously improve communication skills, both oral and written. This chapter will begin by … Read more

Supervision and the Supervisor

INTRODUCTION   The supervisor, and the function and domain of construction supervision, can be defined in a number of different ways. Company policy and company organizational plan certainly will influence the definition within a construction company. Collective bargaining agreements frequently contain their own elements of definition. A variety of different management references likewise contain various … Read more

Moving on Out

+ The Calgary Police Service soon will have a centralized campus with easy parking and centralized operations. By Kelly McCabe “It’s like buying a new home and living in a new community.” > Michael Serediuk, project manager   > Today, the Calgary Police Service has a 180,000-square-foot headquarters in the heart of the city, as … Read more

Built for the Future

+ The expanding Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics wanted an advanced, functional and comfortable space that would encourage discovery. By Staci Davidson “It’s been gratifying to see it all come together, and it will be even more exciting to see people use it the way we have planned.” > Brian Lasher, project manager Perimeter Institute … Read more

Hungry for More

+Hungerford Properties follows a core set of values as it develops and manages properties in numerous markets throughout Western Canada. “We are very cognizant of risk and are continuously focused on minimizing risk and maximizing investor returns.” > Andrew Hungerford, partner Hungerford Properties Headquarters: Vancouver Specialty: Real estate investment, development and management Hungerford Properties is … Read more

Six-Storey Standards

Oris Consulting Ltd. has a huge hand in setting precedent for six-storey, wood-framed structures in Richmond. By Brian Salgado “The advantage is that the experi ence learned from this initial devel opment will make those associated with the work more able to consider future changes to the industry.” > Mike Cooper, project manager Penta Building … Read more

Excellent Reputation

+ Lockerbie & Hole says it earned its reputation as a leading mechanical contractor through its diverse portfolio of projects completed throughout Canada. “Lockerbie & Hole Contracting uses the latest green building practices to complete projects that are environmentally sensitive.” > Lockerbie & Hole Lockerbie & Hole Contracting Ltd Headquarters: Edmonton Services: Plumbing, heating and … Read more

On Solid Footing

The Peter Ross Group of Companies is expanding beyond its Western Canada base by going after government and other high-profile projects. By Jim Harris Peter Ross Group of Companies Revenues: $38 million HQ: Burnaby, B.C. Employees: 110 Specialty: Roofing, waterproofing and flooring The Peter Ross Group of Companies’ relationship with its customers does not end … Read more