Archive for May, 2010
Building the Next Generation of Contractors
- Contractor Start Up class at Flynn Center May 2010
“We want you to be successful,” BAC President and IMI Co-Chair Jim Boland told them, “and IU and IMI resources can help you get there.” Having professional contractors enhances the union masonry industry by raising the bar, he noted.
Charlie Otto from Bruster, NY is a 3rd generation bricklayer who has run jobs and is ready for the next level. He knows there is plenty more to learn, especially on the financial end, but he appreciates the program for keeping him focused.
It’s helped Emery Robbins from Cape Cod see how much further he can go, even though he is grateful for the career path he found through BAC. “I’m really seeing that we have all the resources. In every aspect, from training to marketing, we have a professional there for us,” he says. And becoming a good contractor is the best way to give back, he thinks. “I believe my time is best going to be served here as a union contractor, and our goal should be to preserve our members.”
“I left that program knowing that I am a union contractor.”
IMI support for union contractors is an ongoing partnership. Between constantly updated Contractor College courses and plenty of upgrade and certification programs, motivated union contractors can keep on top of their game, and ready to compete with anyone.
Now Performing in Las Vegas - The Building Envelope
Las Vegas got a little greener last week, when Nevada designers attended the IMI Western States Masonry Expo, where they got a custom tutorial on Sustainable Solutions for tile, marble and terrazzo and high performing building envelopes.
“I got a better understanding of sustainability,” says Patrick Gardner, from Worth Group Architects, who appreciated the in-depth lessons on installation methods and aesthetics, and hearing the new issues raised by high performing building envelopes.
Christine Small from SSA Architecture liked learning how to avoid wall problems and the right materials to use to get a high performing wall. For architect Dennis Rusk, it was a lesson in “common sense.” But perhaps the highest praise came from one architect who raved, “It was a lot of stuff I can use immediately.”
Another highlight was the industry panel of manufacturer representatives sharing their perspectives. Our thanks to Arriscraft International, Bonded Materials Company, Custom Building Products, Daltile, Laticrete International Inc., MAPEI, and Noble Company.
Learn more about IMI Sustainable Solutions
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