Building PA Podcast

Join us as Justin shares his journey from starting as a union masonry contractor to acquiring multiple companies, including roofing, insurance, and residential remodeling. He discusses the challenges and rewards of managing various trades, the importance of hiring the right talent, and the evolving landscape of the construction industry.Key topics include:The acquisition process and its impact on legacy businessesThe challenges of finding skilled labor in both residential and commercial sectorsTrends in the construction industry, including the rise of small, one-crew companiesInsights on managing multiple businesses and knowing when to step backWhether you're a seasoned professional in the construction industry or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the complexities of running a successful business.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Robert Torres from Tec Centro, a bilingual workforce development center in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Robert shares insights about the center's mission to provide adult education and training in skilled trades, including facilities maintenance, plumbing, and HVAC. He discusses the importance of addressing workforce challenges in the construction industry and highlights the center's commitment to supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds in their pursuit of meaningful careers. Tune in to learn more about how Tec Centro is making a positive impact in the community and the construction workforce.

Electric construction equipment is already hitting jobsites across Pennsylvania. In this episode, we explore how contractors are testing electric and alternative-fuel equipment, what it means for fleet operations, and why the future of construction may be closer than you think. Plus, learn about available funding, real-world pilot projects, and practical steps for getting started.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin delve into a critical and timely topic: mental health in the construction industry. Joined by two esteemed guests from Minnesota, Tim Worke from AGC Minnesota and Cheri Quinn from Mercury Creative Group, the discussion centers around the innovative Minnesota Construction Mental Health Alliance.We kick off the episode by acknowledging the growing importance of mental health awareness within the construction sector, a topic that has gained traction across the country. Tim and Cheri introduce the concept of the Minnesota Construction Mental Health Alliance, emphasizing that this initiative is not just another program but a collaborative effort aimed at systemic change. The term "alliance" is pivotal, as it signifies a partnership among industry leaders to address mental health challenges from a leadership perspective, rather than merely providing resources or awareness.Tim elaborates on the unique three-legged stool approach of the alliance, which includes project owners, contractors, and labor representatives. This model seeks to engage project owners—often overlooked in discussions about mental health—by highlighting their role in creating project conditions that can lead to stress and mental health issues among workers. The conversation reveals a stark reality: individuals entering the construction workforce today are five times more likely to die by suicide than from job site accidents, underscoring the urgent need for cultural change within the industry.As the discussion unfolds, we explore the challenges of bringing diverse stakeholders to the table and fostering a shared vision. Tim and Cheri share insights on the initial hurdles of overcoming blame and finger-pointing among different parties, ultimately leading to a collective commitment to change. They highlight the importance of creating a culture where mental health is valued equally alongside physical safety, drawing parallels to the evolution of safety standards in the industry.The episode also touches on the practical steps being taken to fund and support this initiative, including the establishment of a 501c6 organization to manage resources and a recent grant that will help implement mental health training programs. Tim and Cheri express their hope that this model can serve as a blueprint for other states and organizations looking to address similar issues.As we wrap up, Jon and Chris reflect on the inspiring work being done in Minnesota and the potential for broader impact across the construction industry. They invite listeners to engage with Tim and Cheri for further discussion and collaboration, emphasizing the importance of collective action in tackling mental health challenges.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin dive into an inspiring conversation with Marcus Vega, the 2026 KCA Labor Champion and recipient of the Thomas George Memorial Community Service Award. Recorded live from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, the episode highlights Marcus's remarkable journey in the construction industry, spanning nearly 35 years.We kick off the episode with a light-hearted banter between Jon and Chris, setting a friendly tone before introducing Marcus. Jon shares a brief overview of Marcus's impressive background, which includes starting in basement waterproofing, transitioning to drywall and framing, and ultimately moving into construction management with Alexander, a family-owned company. Throughout the episode, we explore the significance of the Thomas George Award, which recognizes labor leaders who contribute positively to their communities. Marcus expresses his gratitude for the award, emphasizing that his actions stem from a genuine desire to make a difference rather than seeking recognition. His humility and dedication to being a positive role model resonate deeply, showcasing the values that underpin the construction industry.Join us for this uplifting episode that not only celebrates Marcus's achievements but also highlights the vital role of mentorship and community service in the construction industry. Don't forget to follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook, and visit buildingpapodcast.com to subscribe for more inspiring stories from the world of construction.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien welcome Ben Connors, the president of the General Building Contractors Association (GBCA), to discuss the current trends and challenges in the construction industry, particularly in the Philadelphia market.We kick off the episode with a warm introduction, highlighting the exciting atmosphere in Philadelphia as the city prepares for the World Cup and celebrates its 250th anniversary of democracy. Ben shares his insights on how these events are energizing the local economy and influencing construction trends.Diving into the construction landscape, Ben notes that the market is experiencing a downtrend, marking the third consecutive year of decreased activity. He explains that historical patterns suggest a potential bottoming out by 2026, with hopes for a rebound in 2027-2028. A significant focus of the conversation is on the rising demand for data centers in the region, which are driving construction activity, particularly in areas surrounding Philadelphia. Ben discusses the challenges posed by the overwhelming demand for power to support these data centers, which has doubled in recent years.As we explore the current projects and market trends, Ben highlights the shift away from commercial office space construction, largely due to the rise of remote work. He emphasizes the importance of specialized work in the industry, noting that contractors with expertise in this area are finding more opportunities. Exciting developments on the horizon include a new arena for the Philadelphia 76ers, a major investment from a Korean shipbuilder at the Navy Yard, and the transformation of the old Philadelphia gas refinery into the Bellwether District, an industrial park.We also discuss the challenges facing GBCA members, including increased competition and thin profit margins in a down market. Ben points out the ongoing struggle against commoditization in construction, particularly in the residential sector, where out-of-town developers are cutting costs.The conversation shifts to technology and the impact of AI on the construction industry. Ben shares how GBCA is embracing AI to enhance member engagement and improve safety outcomes. He highlights the growing interest in AI applications, from estimating to safety chatbots, and the potential for these technologies to revolutionize the industry.As we wrap up the episode, Ben provides insights into ongoing projects in healthcare and education, including the expansion of Children's Hospital and the conversion of the historic Wanamaker building into mixed-use space. He emphasizes the importance of safety in construction and the value of union contractors in delivering high-quality work.This episode is packed with valuable information and insights into the evolving construction landscape in Philadelphia. We thank Ben for joining us and look forward to having him back in the future to continue the conversation.

We’re back with another one—and this time, we’re talking all things building the next generation of the construction workforce.In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, Jon and Chris sit down with Amanda McIsaac from Slippery Rock University to dig into SRU’s brand-new Construction Management program. But first… a little catch-up (yes, Chris finally took a vacation, and yes, we had to give him a hard time about it).Amanda brings over 20 years of industry experience (shoutout CDM Smith) into the classroom, and she walks us through what it actually takes to launch a program from the ground up. We’re talking curriculum that goes beyond the textbook—real-world skills, industry insight, and making sure students are actually ready to hit the jobsite on day one.We get into how the program is structured, why having an industry-driven advisory board matters, and how SRU is blending safety, business, and field experience into one well-rounded degree. Plus, Amanda shares how they’re keeping students engaged with hands-on learning—think site visits, guest speakers, and real connections to the field.One thing that really stood out? Communication. Amanda breaks down why it’s one of the biggest gaps employers are seeing—and how she’s making it a priority to fix that before students graduate.Of course, we also talk safety (because you can’t not), including OSHA training built right into the program, and why that foundation matters for every role in construction.Amanda’s passion for mentoring and developing students is contagious, and if you’ve ever thought about getting into construction—or helping shape the future workforce—you’ll want to hear this. She also gives us a preview of what’s next, including plans for a Bachelor of Applied Science designed for students coming from the trades.Bottom line: this is what it looks like when education and industry actually work together.If you’re interested in getting involved—guest speaking, internships, partnerships—this is your sign to connect. Let’s keep building.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin dive into the world of metal construction with special guest Lee Ann Slattery, the first female board president of the Metal Construction Association (MCA) and a leader at ATAS International.Lee Ann shares her journey within the MCA, highlighting the importance of metal as a sustainable building material and its growing popularity in construction. The discussion covers various types of metal products, including roofing and wall cladding, and the innovative projects the MCA is currently working on, such as installation videos and educational events for architects.Jon and Chris also explore the challenges facing the construction industry, including workforce development and recruitment, and how organizations like the MCA are addressing these issues. Lee Ann emphasizes the value the MCA provides to both the design and contracting communities, showcasing the expertise available through its councils and committees.Listeners will gain insights into the upcoming MetalCon trade show, where industry professionals can learn more about metal construction and its applications. Join us for an informative and engaging conversation that highlights the significance of metal in the construction industry and the strides being made towards inclusivity and education.Don't forget to check out the MCA at metalconstruction.org and learn more about ATAS International!

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome back Michael Metz-Topodas, a familiar voice from the early days of the podcast. As they celebrate six years and nearly 300 episodes, the trio dives into significant updates regarding OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and its evolving role in the construction industry.Michael begins by discussing the recent appointment of David Keeling as the head of OSHA, highlighting the positive changes he anticipates under Keeling's leadership. With a focus on worker safety, Keeling's administration is set to address pressing issues, particularly the enforcement of heat hazard regulations as the warmer months approach. Michael explains that while a formal heat hazard regulation is still pending, OSHA has introduced a National Emphasis Program to prioritize heat hazards during inspections. This program emphasizes the need for employers to have a heat hazard plan in place, monitor temperatures, and ensure that workers receive adequate breaks and training.Jon and Chris engage with Michael on the practical implications of these changes for construction companies. They discuss the importance of having a comprehensive heat hazard plan and the necessity of documenting compliance efforts. Michael emphasizes that while OSHA may not have a formal regulation in place yet, employers can still face scrutiny under the General Duty Clause, which mandates a safe working environment.The conversation shifts to the broader landscape of OSHA inspections and violations. Michael shares insights into the current enforcement climate, noting that Keeling's collaborative approach aims to balance safety and compliance without overly punitive measures. He introduces the Safety Champions Program, which recognizes employers with robust safety programs, and discusses the potential for OSHA to assist employers in remedying violations on-site.As the episode progresses, the trio explores the role of technology and AI in enhancing safety practices within the industry. Michael envisions a future where OSHA inspectors utilize tablets for real-time data collection, benefiting both inspectors and employers by streamlining the documentation process.Throughout the discussion, Jon, Chris, and Michael emphasize the importance of proactive safety measures and the need for construction companies to prioritize worker safety. They encourage listeners to view compliance not as a burden but as an opportunity to foster a safer work environment. This episode serves as a timely reminder of the evolving landscape of workplace safety and the critical role that effective communication and planning play in protecting workers.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin delve into the critical topic of crisis communications within the construction industry. As they navigate the often tumultuous landscape of construction-related incidents, they emphasize the importance of preparedness and effective communication strategies when faced with emergencies.The episode opens with a somber acknowledgment of recent accidents in Pennsylvania, including a garage collapse in Philadelphia and trenching mishaps that have resulted in fatalities. Jon and Chris reflect on the emotional toll these incidents take on the industry and the necessity of prioritizing safety. They stress that one of the most vital components of safety is having a robust crisis communication plan in place.Chris, who has extensive experience in crisis management and communications, shares insights on the common pitfalls companies face when responding to incidents. He highlights the detrimental impact of the phrase "no comment," urging listeners to adopt a more transparent approach by acknowledging situations and committing to follow up with information. The discussion also touches on the importance of having a designated spokesperson to ensure consistent messaging during a crisis.Throughout the episode, Jon and Chris address frequently asked questions about crisis communication plans, including how long it takes to develop one and the level of detail required. They emphasize that the specifics of a plan should be tailored to the unique challenges faced by different types of contractors.Listeners will gain valuable knowledge about the significance of crisis communication in maintaining trust and credibility, not only with the media but also with stakeholders such as subcontractors and project owners. The episode concludes with a reminder of the potential cost savings associated with having a crisis communication plan, as some insurance policies may offer coverage for crisis management services.Join Jon and Chris as they equip you with the tools and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of crisis communications in the construction industry, ensuring that you are prepared for whatever challenges may arise. Tune in to the Building PA Podcast for this essential conversation and more!