In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, we sit down with Tina Wolff, the Director of Strategic Development for Kokosing Industrial. Tina shares her extensive experience in the construction industry, focusing on the critical differences between procurement and contract methods.

We explore various approaches, such as design-build and progressive design-build, and discuss how these methods can impact project outcomes. Tina emphasizes the importance of understanding project-specific risks and the role of relationships and trust among all parties involved in ensuring success.

Her insights provide valuable guidance for both small and large contracting firms looking to navigate the complexities of contract management. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the construction industry seeking to enhance their understanding of procurement strategies and foster collaboration for better project results.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Lauren Maggi, a third-year architectural engineering student at Penn State University, who is currently interning on the exciting Beaver Stadium renovation project.

Lauren shares her journey into the field of construction management, highlighting her unique minor in engineering leadership development, which emphasizes the importance of interpersonal skills in engineering roles. As a project engineer intern with Alexander Building Construction, she discusses her responsibilities, including working on submittal documentation, creating RFIs, and participating in quality control and meetings.

The conversation delves into the competitive nature of securing internships in construction, with Lauren expressing her excitement upon learning she would be working on the high-profile Beaver Stadium project. She reflects on how her experience has changed her perspective on the stadium, allowing her to see it through a more critical lens as she recognizes her contributions to the project.

Lauren also emphasizes the value of hands-on experience in education, noting how her internship has enhanced her understanding of technical concepts learned in the classroom. As she looks ahead, she plans to continue her internship and is excited about the opportunity to study abroad in Rome next summer, further enriching her architectural education.

Overall, this episode provides a fresh perspective on the construction industry through the eyes of a future leader, showcasing the importance of internships and real-world experience in shaping the next generation of professionals.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien dive into the important topic of risk management in the construction industry. They are joined by experts Joe Poliafico and Skip Parry, who share their insights on how effective risk management can significantly impact a company's bottom line.

The conversation kicks off with a light-hearted discussion about the changing landscape of Pennsylvania sports, but quickly shifts to the serious business of risk management. Skip provides a comprehensive definition of risk management, emphasizing its financial implications and the moral responsibility of keeping workers safe. Joe adds to the discussion by highlighting the evolving role of safety professionals and the importance of integrating safety into every aspect of a project, from estimating to project closeout.

Listeners will learn about the competitive advantages of sharing risk with subcontractors and how innovative insurance products, like subcontractor default insurance and wrap-up policies, can benefit all parties involved. The episode also touches on the need for better education and training in risk management, encouraging younger professionals to embrace this vital aspect of the construction industry.

Join us for this engaging and informative episode that not only sheds light on the complexities of risk management but also inspires a new generation of safety professionals. Don't miss out on the valuable insights shared by our guests—tune in now to the Building PA Podcast!