We have so many good things to talk about in this issue that I’ll just get right to the point. You can follow along by reading our digital magazine.
Because many wall and ceiling contracting companies are trying to do more work with fewer people, we are starting to notice a few trends. Although it is not new to the industry, it does seem that lean construction methods are being more widely adopted. This trend is the in the spotlight in our story that begins on page 34, which focuses on the success that T.J. Wies Contracting, Inc. has had using lean construction. Tim Wies, the company owner, says that construction companies of any size can go lean, and his story is sure to inspire you to at least consider jumping on the lean bandwagon.
Another trend we’re seeing is prefabrication, and Mark L. Johnson takes this subject on in his InSync column on page 22. Prefab, wall panelization shops are popping up all over the country as contractors seek out ways to do more with less.
Next, take a break and relax as you enjoy the unique architecture, design and interior work done by The Raymond Group on the Wallis Annenberg Hall at the University of Southern California. Raymond performed the EIFS work, the metal framing, drywall and taping, fireproofing and much more on this $150 million, 88-square-foot building. If the cover of this issue caught your eye, go to page 44 immediately!
Speaking of great design, have you noticed the new look of AWCI’s website, www.awci.org? We’ve made some big changes, and we’re eager to share the details with you. The educational opportunities alone are worth a quick glance, but you’ll also find many other valuable industry resources at your fingertips with just the click of a mouse button. Flip to page 49 for details.
Finally, we welcome back a writer you may remember from many years ago, S.S. Saucerman. His piece about a day in the life of a construction estimator (page 55) will definitely put a smile on your face. He is also the peculiar mind behind the “Pat Hetick” cartoon panels you’ve been enjoying in our Construction Trends department for almost a year.
Before I go, I’ll borrow a page from AWCI President Hinson’s column and welcome you to New Orleans for AWCI’s Convention & INTEX Expo (assuming you’re attending). This issue of AWCI’s Construction Dimensions is the only magazine distributed to every attendee, so it’s a great honor to welcome new readers as well as our staunch, long-time supporters. If you’d like to meet to talk with me about the magazine, you may find me walking the exhibit hall or in booth #817 at the INTEX Expo, April 18–19. See you there!
