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Celebrating Women in Construction: Meet Project Engineer, Olivia Grunseich

3/11/2022

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March is Women's History Month, a month where we acknowledge women's historical contributions and recognize the sacrifices made by women, to help make the world, and our country, a more inclusive and diverse place.  Meet Project Engineer, Olivia Grunseich, a bright and shining star at BPGS Construction who's been working on the Lower Hill Redevelopment project for nearly two and a half years. She spent her early days orchestrating  community outreach efforts focused on minority and women owned businesses (M/WBEs). This critical work effort opened up a direct communication line to Lower Hill job training and employment opportunities, now funneled through the First Source Center. 

"Initially, I put a lot of time into building our M/WBE database of Pittsburgh companies, and spent a lot of time assisting our internal team because I became the person that basically had a hand in everything. As time went on and we started growing our partners and team, I was able to dive deeper into the development / construction realm, and began focusing more on tracking our development budget, schedules, and report metrics," says Oliva.   

Acting as Development Coordinator for the Lower Hill Redevelopment, Olivia draws from her educational background in civil engineering and construction management to navigate the development process. She attributes her success to date on past projects and says by educating herself on things like contracts, RFI’s and schedules it has helped her have a better understanding of how everything works allowing her to have a better overall understanding of the project. "I’m excited to see through the different stages of construction and development for each of the projects on the Lower Hill and hope to gain a better understanding with each day," she says.

While acknowledging the wealth of knowledge gained working in collaboration with the development team and many consultants, she notes her time spent working alongside BPGS Construction Manager Matt Corace as some of the most impactful thus far;

"Matt has one of the toughest jobs and still puts aside time to teach me about construction. As the construction manager for the project, and a native Pittsburgher, Matt has taught me so much over the years and I really admire his drive and attention to details." 

Similarly, Olivia has taken on a "teacher" role coaching small construction business owners in a two part class on bidding and estimating. For the second year in a row she is working with Riverside Center for Innovation BizFIT Tier II Construction cohort.

For women currently in or considering entering the construction field, Olivia's shares these words of encouragement: 

"My advice for other women is to not dismiss your own thoughts and feelings. It can be very intimidating to be the only woman in a room full of men, but in a lot of situations, you bring a whole different perspective to the table. Building confidence is so important when working in a male-dominated field and the first step to succeeding is by trusting your own ideas and contributions."

Firms interested in construction opportunities click here 
Individuals interesting in construction opportunities should go to the First Source Center 
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Construction Inclusion Week 2021

10/18/2021

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Break the Cycle
View as Webpage
Bring Construction Inclusion Week to Life at Your Company!

In 2020, a group of general contractors created a consortium titled "Time for Change" with a single purpose: identifying ways to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in construction.

Through this effort, Construction Inclusion Week was born.

PURPOSE:
  • To stand united in setting expectations and promoting consistent behavior.

  • To champion inclusion that empowers us to reach our full potential, fueling innovation and connection with our employees, clients, and communities we serve.

  • To harness and leverage the capabilities and global reach of the construction industry and its affiliates, to cultivate and perpetuate diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Monday, October 18
Leadership Commitment & Accountability
Create an environment where everyone feels empowered to be their full authentic selves.
  • CIRT Roundtable Video
  • Toolbox Talk- Committing to a Culture of Care
  • Toolbox Talk- Building a Culture of Care
  • Toolbox Talk- Leading a Culture of Care
  • Table Talk- Courageous Conversations
  • Table Talk- A Business Case for D&I
Tuesday, October 19
Unconscious Bias
Education and understanding the implications of unconscious bias, is critical to cultivating a culture of inclusion and belonging. It is important to recognize not all unconscious bias is bad and unconscious bias is an inherent trait of being human. Unconscious bias is the brains way of efficiently filtering and organizing information. In its simplest form it can be benign, helping us to easily decide what to have for lunch. In its most complex form it can be insidious, manifesting in reinforcing or enabling negative stereotypes. In the first example we can quickly decide on the food we like. In the latter example, this can lead to exclusionary and harmful behavior. Defining unconscious bias, recognizing how it can manifest in the workplace and engaging steps to mitigate are the building blocks to creating and maintaining a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment.

  • Tool Box Talk1- Microaggressions
  • Toolbox Talk 2- Building an Inclusive Culture
  • Table Talk 1- Trusted 10
  • Table Talk 2- Blind Spots
Wednesday, Octboer 20
Supplier Diversity

What is supplier diversity and why it is important?

Supplier diversity is a business practice that refers to the inclusion of businesses owned by diverse individuals or groups in the procurement of goods and services. A diverse supplier is generally defined as a business that’s at least 51% owned and operated by an individual that’s part of a traditionally underrepresented or underserved group. Common classifications are minority-owned business enterprises (MBEs), woman-owned business enterprises (WBEs), and small-business enterprises (SBEs). Businesses owned by other minority groups, such as LGBQT+, veterans, and persons with disabilities, may also be considered diverse suppliers. 

  • ToolBox/Table Talk 1 - The Why of Supplier Diversity
  • ToolBox/Table Talk 2 - How To Guide on Outreach
  • ToolBox/Table Talk 3- How to Source Diverse Firms
  • Intentional Spending At Home
  • Supplier Diversity Coloring Sheets

Thursday, October 21
Jobsite Culture

When it comes to jobsite culture, it has to be practiced and lived daily. Everyone has to be about it and not just talk about it.

Establishing and maintaining a positive jobsite culture means that everyone gets to experience a work place that is inclusive and respectful. We know what a good jobsite culture feels like – it’s the job that everyone wants to be on because it looks and feels welcoming. We also know that a good culture leads to a safer and more productive job, one that provides higher value to our client and allows each and every worker to perform their best work. 
  • ToolBox Talk1- Sustaining the Right Behavior
  • ToolBox Talk 2- Build Belonging
  • ToolBox Talk 3- Diversity at Work
  • ToolBox Talk 4- Respectful Workplaces
  • Toolbox Talk 5 - Mental Health

Friday, October 22
Community Engagement & Philanthropy

Whether through in-person volunteering, cash donations, employee giving or
sponsorships, we are in a unique position to create positive change.

The HBCU Foundation
The HBCU Foundation is a charitable organization, whose aim is to provide scholarships, internships and career opportunities to deserving students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The HBCU Foundation’s programs and scholarships increase the likelihood that students will be accepted into college, as well as graduate, fully prepared to lead. Learn more.

Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh
Rebuilding Together Pittsburgh was launched by the MBA and the Carpenters Union in 1993 as an organization that repairs and renovates the homes of seniors, veterans, and persons with physical disabilities. The repairs are completely cost-free to the homeowners, thanks to the support and generosity of many MBA members, local building trades unions, Pittsburgh schools, and corporations looking to lend a helping hand. Learn more.

ACE Mentor Program
ACE Mentor Program helps to mentor high school students nationwide by encouraging these students to pursue careers in Architectural, Construction and Engineering. Since the program was launched in 1994, it has awarded more than 12 million dollars in scholarships and continues to be the construction industry's fastest growing high school mentor program. Learn more.

Junior Achievement
JA of Western Pennsylvania's volunteer-delivered, kindergarten-12th grade programs foster workforce development, entrepreneurship and financial literacy skills, and use experiential learning to inspire students in our community to dream big and reach their potential. Learn more.

  • Toolbox Talk 1- Jobsite Community Engagement
  • Table Talk 1- Directing Community Engagement Efforts in Support of DEI
  • Table Talk 2- Inspiring a More Diverse generation of Builders
  • At Home: Coloring Sheets
Lance Harrell
Director of Workforce Development and Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
lance@mbawpa.org

www.mbawpa.org
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Operators Union Information Session (for Non-Union Companies) - June 08, 2021

6/15/2021

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View the full presentation here:
View and download the presentation PDF​:

Additional Documents

MBA Agreement 2017 - 2022
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Cement Union Information Session (for Non-Union Companies) - June 03, 2021

6/15/2021

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View the full presentation here:
View and download the presentation PDF:

Additional Documents:

OPCMIA Project Agreement - Wages, Fringes
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Laborers Union Information Session (for Non-Union Companies) - June 02, 2021

6/15/2021

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Watch the full presentation here:
View and download the presentation PDF:

Additional Documents

2021 Project Agreement and Rates
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Carpenters Union Information Session (for Non-Union Companies) - June 07, 2021

6/15/2021

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 View the full presentation (video):
View and download the presentation PDF:

Additional Documents:

Example Project Agreement (2019)
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Iron Workers Union Information Session (for Non-Union Companies) - June 11, 2021

6/15/2021

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Watch the presentation here:
View and Download the Presentation PDF: 

Additional Documents: 

Project Agreement and Rates:
​Agreement of Voluntary Recognition:
One Job Agreement:
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Bidder Information Session - Thursday June 24 @ 3PM

6/10/2021

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P.J. Dick, in association with Mascaro and Massaro, for the Lower Hill Redevelopment:  G1 – FNB Financial Center (Pittsburgh, PA)  hosted their third and final Bidder Information Session on Thursday, June 24, 2021 @ 3pm for the upcoming construction.  Session was held virtually via Zoom and registration was required. 

During the session PJ Dick and the project team reviewed upcoming bid and vendor opportunities, project details and schedule, as well as the bid process requirements.  Businesses of all sizes are strongly encouraged to attend.  Attendance is not required to bid.
​
For more project information visit  www.lowerhillredevelopment.com/construction-bidding.html
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FAQ - Construction & Bidding

6/7/2021

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Got Questions? You've come to the right place! Please see the list below for answers to  frequently asked questions.  

Are there union requirements?  
PJ Dick is signatory to the Carpenters, Laborers, Cement Finishers, Operators, and Ironworkers (rebar only).  Direct subcontracting with PJ Dick is accomplished through being a union Subcontractor or a non-union subcontractor with a Union Project Agreement.  Zoom meetings on paths for non-union subcontractors were held for the beginning of June.  Please check this website for the recorded sessions. 

Any non-union companies that want to explore union affiliation must discuss it directly with the union(s) that relate to the type(s) of work performed by the company,

Zoom meetings about the perks of becoming a union contractor have been held already by Riverside Center for Innovation (contact Juan Garrett) and can be very helpful in providing insight about both the union and non-union business models.

Are there bonding requirements?  
For the FNB Financial Center project, a Performance and Payment Bond is required for Subcontracts with PJ Dick > $200k

Are there Prevailing Wages?  
Yes the project will require Prevailing Wages.

Will Certified Payrolls be required?  
Yes Certified Payrolls are required.

Is a Certification required for M/WBEs?  
Yes, to count towards the M/WBE Goals a company is required to have a Certification OR be in the process of becoming Certified.  Direct bids to PJ Dick from an M/W business shall include the Certification or letter stating they are in the process of acquiring a Certification with their bid.

What is CCIP?  
Community Collaboration and Implementation Plan which was developed and memorialized September 11, 2014.  The purpose of the plan is to define specific goals strategies and processes for maximizing the inclusion of the Greater Hill District community and its residents in certain aspects of the redevelopment project.  The plan's intent is to represent an unprecedented level of collaboration for the Southwestern Pennsylvania region with M/WBE goals and Local Resident Inclusion across the redevelopment. Read more about it here

Will this project have RACP Requirements?
Yes portions of the FNB Financial Center are seeking RACP funding.  More specific details are included with the individual Bid Packages for the tracking and documentation requirements.

Will this project have a Project Labor Agreement (PLA)?  
No there will not be a Project Labor Agreement.

Plasterers & Cement Union Information Session (6/3/2021) Questions: 

What is the employer obligation in regards to dues in a union relationship and also, when are those funds due?
The employer is not responsible for the dues of their employees. Those dues are the responsibility of the employee. The employer must pay union wages and fringe benefits to all employees working on the job. Fringe benefit payment schedules are agreed upon with the specific union. Generally, benefits are paid 30-60 days behind the work. 

How much of a bond would be required?
The bond is dependent of the total contract value. Cameron stated the highest bond his group had ever required was $40,000.

July 2021 FNB Bid Package Information Session (6/24/2021) Questions:

So who is the agency that approves the mbe plan?
The plan is already approved. These goals are what we are using to evaluate bidders to ensure we achieve our goals.
 
As a minority women business does my company qualify for 45 of the goal?
A minority women owned business could qualify for either goal, but not both. The advantage is that you can be placed into whichever category needs more representation.
 
What is the SEAS Function?
They are helping to look at our diversity goals in a different way. The diversity and inclusion goals will now be evaluated 3 different ways.
 
Will there be any opportunities for food/caterer vendors?
That would be an opportunity you would need to speak to the developer, BPG about. Olivia would be happy to speak with you.
 
Does DBE qualify for MBE or WBE?
DBE is a category used by different agencies. On your certification it should state whether you are a MBE or WBE within that DBE category.

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First Source Center Grand Opening - June 8, 5:30 - 7:30 PM

6/2/2021

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Click here to register
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Non-Union Company Info Sessions - June 2021

6/1/2021

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Register by Clicking the Buttons Below

Laborer Union
CARPENTERS UNION
OPERATORS UNION
CEMENT FINISHERS Union
IRON WORKERS UNION

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FNB Bidder Information Session 2 - May 20th at 3PM

5/20/2021

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​PJ Dick, in association with Mascaro and Massaro, will be hosting a bidder information session for the upcoming construction of the G1- FNB Financial Center.
The session will be virtual and registration is required. During the session PJ Dick and the project team will review upcoming bid and vendor opportunities, project details and schedule, as well as the bid process. Businesses of all sizes are strongly encouraged to attend. Attendance is not required for bidding. 
Click here to register
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MWBE Construction Information Session - May 17, 2021

5/11/2021

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​The Buccini/Pollin Group, PJ Dick, and E. Holdings Inc. are hosted a virtual MWBE construction information session for diverse businesses to learn more about current and future opportunities for the Lower Hill Redevelopment Project(s). This session provides more information to minority and women owned businesses interested in construction related work, as well as outline resources available to support current and future business growth. It covers ways to get help with bidding, the bid submittal process, and opportunities for subcontracting with larger firms.

Watch the full presentation below:
For more information:
Email E. Holdings, Inc. at 
diversity@eholdinginc.com 
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Lower Hill Economic Impact Roundtable - March 31, 2021

3/29/2021

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Wednesday, March 31st from 6:00 - 8:00 PM streaming live via Zoom.

​
The development team is working alongside the community and stakeholders to deliver the highest commitments to minority-owned, local businesses and bring economic revitalization to the Hill District for neighborhood initiatives. We invite you to this panel discussion about economic impacts of the redevelopment featuring members of the development team. This virtual event will be moderated by Lower Hill historical consultant, Dr. Kimberly C. Ellis.   
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FNB Financial Center Bidder Information Session Presentation - March 25, 2021

3/26/2021

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PJ Dick, Mascaro and Massaro Construction will conduct multiple potential bidder education forums. During these sessions, bidders will get a glimpse of the project design, the current time line for the project and timeline for bid bid packages. Most importantly potential bidders will be made aware of the goals of the CCIP that apply to the subcontractor and supplier market. This is the first of at least three sessions. 

Watch the recording here:

View and Download the Presentation Deck here:

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