University of Chicago to Reinvent Historic Residence Hall

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CHICAGO, Ill. – Mortenson Construction has been chosen to transform a 1962 landmark building by architect Edward Durrell Stone into the new home for the University of Chicago, Illinois’ Harris School of Public Policy. Working from designs by architect of record Farr Associates and interior consultant Woodhouse Tinucci, Mortenson began construction in April on the renovation and expansion of the renamed Keller Center, which is scheduled to welcome students in January 2019. While retaining and preserving the key features of its original construction, the Keller Center renovation incorporates new ideas and technology in sustainable development. The University and Mortenson set … Read more

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Board Elections, New Chairman Named for Construction Industry Round Table

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CLEAN, Va.  – The Construction Industry Round Table has elected Wayne A. Drinkward as chairman of the organization for a term of one year. He succeeds H. Ralph Hawkins, FAIA, chairman emeritus of HKS, Inc. Drinkward was elected during CIRT’s annual spring meeting, which occurred during Infrastructure Week last month and which also welcomed new directors. Wayne Drinkward, chairman Drinkward is chairman & CEO of Hoffman Corporation. Founded in Portland, Oregon in 1922, Hoffman Construction Company is a privately held, employee-owned general contractor and construction manager. Hoffman works in a wide range of markets, from urban high-rise towers and cultural … Read more

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Field Notes: Staying Safe on Sites

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By Andy Peters Safety is a top priority in the construction industry. Although many general contractors have made good progress to ensure the safety of all workers at every stage of a project, there are still instances where accidents happen. The Construction Industry Institute’s latest report, “Improving Site Safety Performance through Operational Excellence,” indicates the rate of improvement among industry leaders has slowed down. The Total Recordable Incident Rate for the construction industry shows as flat between 2010 and 2013 (range 4.0-3.8). The CII member companies (a subset of the whole construction industry), has also been essentially flat at .43 … Read more

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Making the Grade: Top 10 Tips for Keeping Summer School Construction Projects on Track

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By Joe Lipski Nearly 10 years ago, when the Great Recession clobbered the country, construction was one of the industries that took it the hardest. New building developments all but stopped, and many additions and deferred maintenance projects were put on hold. The slowdown also forced companies to freeze hiring and lay off staff. But, our country is resilient and, today, the construction industry tells a different story. New construction, renovations and upgrades are soaring, putting pressure on building companies to staff and complete projects on time and on budget. There are many reasons why projects may face a time … Read more

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Best Practices: How to Promote, Maintain a Healthy Work Culture

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By Todd Sachse As construction professionals, we spend a lot of time on the process–the technical, logistical and operational details that keep a project moving smoothly and lead to successful outcomes. One piece of the puzzle often overlooked is culture. A healthy work culture can improve communication, increase job satisfaction, boost efficiencies, minimize downtime and, ultimately, make your jobsites safer, more collaborative and more productive. It’s important to recognize that culture isn’t an abstract notion, but a practical, tangible and meaningful piece of the professional lifestyle. There is a direct connection between a positive and productive work culture and a … Read more

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