The construction industry is experiencing robust growth driven by increasing urbanization, infrastructure development and technological advancements.

These trends have increased the demand for skilled professionals across various construction disciplines–from civil engineering and architecture to project management and sustainable design; the avenues for career progression are diverse and enticing.

However, along with these opportunities, the construction sector has unique challenges that one must navigate. Tight project timelines, budget constraints, safety concerns and regulatory compliance are some of the few hurdles that professionals encounter.

Developing Essential Skills for Success

As the industry becomes increasingly complex and interconnected, mastering these essential skills is paramount for professionals aiming to rise above the competition. 

1. Technical Skills

Whether operating heavy machinery, fine-tuning architectural designs or executing intricate electrical installations, a solid foundation in technical skills ensures efficiency, precision and safety. 

Keeping pace with emerging technologies, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) software or the use of drones on site, empowers you to work smarter and stay ahead of the competition.

2. Project Management Skills

Proficiency in project management methodologies ensures projects are executed on time and within budget, and fosters a culture of accountability and transparency.

Adept project managers anticipate challenges, mitigate risks and adapt seamlessly to changing circumstances, safeguarding project outcomes and client satisfaction.

3. Communication Skills

Construction is a collaborative endeavor that demands effective communication across diverse stakeholders. The ability to convey complex technical information clearly and concisely bridges the gap between architects, engineers, contractors, clients and regulatory authorities. 

Transparent communication ensures alignment of expectations, minimizes misunderstandings and fosters a harmonious working environment. 

4. Leadership Skills

As you rise the career ladder, cultivating leadership skills becomes indispensable. Effective leaders inspire their teams, demonstrate unwavering integrity, and lead by example.

They make well-informed decisions under pressure, using the collective expertise of their teams to overcome challenges. In addition, a true leader empowers their colleagues to excel, fostering a culture of growth and continuous improvement.

Pursuing Relevant Education and Training

Earning a degree in construction management or a related field provides a detailed overview of project planning, cost estimation, risk management and other vital aspects of the industry.

Online courses and certifications allow one to acquire specialized skills that can launch your career to new heights. For example, Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) offer targeted insights directly applicable to the construction landscape.

After having the necessary skills, on-the-job training and apprenticeships (hyperlink to RK Apprenticeship Program page) provide hands-on experience that you can’t replicate in a classroom. Working alongside experienced professionals exposes you to the complexity of construction processes, safety protocols and the art of problem-solving.

Amidst getting hands-on training, construction professionals must embrace a culture of continuous learning to remain relevant and effective.

Building a Strong Professional Network

Industry events, workshops and conferences are vibrant hubs of knowledge exchange, innovation and networking. Also, construction associations and online forums provide ground for networking and collaboration.

By joining reputable organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) (hyperlink), American Institute of Constructors (AIC) or the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA), you can access a network of industry peers, mentorship opportunities and resources to enhance your career trajectory.

In addition, platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram offer construction professionals an avenue to showcase their expertise, engage with thought leaders, and connect with potential collaborators.

Setting Clear Career Goals

A construction project requires a well-defined plan to ensure its successful completion. Short-term goals provide the building blocks, allowing professionals to make incremental progress and cultivate necessary skills.

On the other hand, long-term goals offer a broader perspective, guiding professionals towards milestones such as project management roles or leadership positions.

As a construction professional, identify the technical, leadership and soft skills necessary for your desired role. Mapping out how to acquire these skills through education, training and on-the-job experiences forms the cornerstone of your career advancement.

Also, regularly reassess your goals to help you respond to changing circumstances, emerging opportunities and personal growth. Periodic evaluations provide insights into your progress, enabling you to make necessary adjustments to stay on course.

Gaining Experience and Exposure

The construction industry is a vast landscape with many disciplines, each with unique setbacks. Seeking diverse job opportunities within this ecosystem enriches your skillset and enhances your adaptability and problem-solving capabilities. 

Volunteer for projects that stretch your capabilities to showcase your commitment to personal growth and willingness to step out of your comfort zone. For instance, cross-functional and cross-departmental assignments are invaluable opportunities for construction professionals to broaden their horizons and cultivate a holistic perspective.

Don’t forget to compile a portfolio highlighting your contributions, showcasing innovative solutions and demonstrating the impact of your work. This strategy will garner attention among employers, making it the start of your career in the construction industry.

Adapting to Technological Advancements

Adapting to technological innovations is no longer an option – it’s a necessity. Building Information Modeling (BIM) has revolutionized the construction industry. It facilitates efficient planning, visualization and collaboration throughout the project lifecycle.

The construction management software also streamlines processes and fosters transparency. This integration allows professionals to optimize resource allocation, track progress in realtime and mitigate potential risks. Also, embracing automation can reduce labor costs, increase safety and accelerate project timelines.

Excel in Safety Practices

Safety is a commitment to the well-being of workers, the protection of assets and the preservation of reputation. Obtaining certifications such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 30-Hour Construction Training or the Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) designation demonstrates a deep understanding of safety protocols and regulations.

Staying updated with safety regulations and guidelines ensure construction workers remain well-versed in the latest safety protocols. By fostering a culture where safety is ingrained in every action and decision, construction professionals create an environment that minimizes risks and maximizes productivity.

Showcase Soft Skills

Construction sites are dynamic ecosystems where diverse personalities, opinions and interests converge. Proficiency in conflict resolution techniques – active listening, empathy and negotiation–eases tensions and paves the way for constructive collaboration.

In addition, effective problem-solving and decision-making under pressure keep projects on track amidst uncertainty. By showcasing a knack for innovative problem-solving, you position yourself as a reliable anchor, ready to guide projects through turbulent seasons to successful completion.

Becoming Familiar with Sustainable Practices

Green construction principles embody the shift in how projects are conceived, planned and executed. By prioritizing environmental responsibility, construction professionals can create structures that minimize their ecological footprint.

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is a gold standard for sustainable construction. Understanding LEED and its various certification levels equips professionals with the tools to design and execute projects that comply with the highest environmental standards.

LEED-certified buildings prioritize energy efficiency, reduced water consumption, improved indoor air quality and other sustainable attributes. Also, embracing sustainable materials reduces resource depletion and promotes eco-friendliness.

Experience RK

RK Industries offers manufacturing, fabrication, construction and building service solutions. In addition, we are education contributors, offering career development programs to solve the industry’s labor shortage and grow our employee’s careers. Contact us today for more information on how to build your career with RK.

Every business needs reliable and safe electrical systems. But did you know that many of the electrical problems in your building can be prevented with a full-service electrical panel check? Let’s look at some of the issues our qualified RK Service technicians will inspect and how we can help keep your business safe from potential hazards and costly repairs.

What does a full-service electrical panel check involve?

A full-service panel check will give you peace of mind knowing that your facility’s circuits, breakers, GFCIs, disconnects, and wiring practices are up to code. With our electrical service panel checklist, our technicians will conduct thermal imaging tests, torque specifications tests, physical testing and amperage load checks of your electrical systems. These tests ensure that potential issues are caught before they become a significant problem for your business.

In addition to the panel checklist, RK Service technicians can conduct a visual walk-through, looking for issues such as proper exit lighting, exterior safety lighting, emergency lighting checks and missing GFCI/ARC fault locations. By doing so, technicians can notify you of any safety measures that must be taken to protect you and your customers from potential dangers lurking within your facility.

Benefits of regular electrical panel checks

Regularly scheduled inspections are essential for keeping your business safe and up to code. By periodically checking all aspects of your electrical system, including wiring practices, you can detect any future problems before they become serious hazards, requiring extensive repairs or even replacement parts. Inspections will give you peace of mind knowing that everything is running smoothly regarding power and energy usage in your building or office space, saving time and money!

Maintain safety, efficiency and code compliance with RK Service

At RK Service, we understand how important it is for business owners to keep their facilities safe and running efficiently. That’s why we offer full-service electrical panel checks, including thermal imaging tests, torque specifications tests, physical testing, and amperage load checks. In addition, RK Service technicians will provide a visual walk-through service looking for items such as exit lighting working properly, exterior safety lighting, emergency lighting checks, and missing GFCI/ARC fault locations.

By having regular electrical inspections done by qualified professionals, you can rest assured that any issue will be identified before it becomes a significant problem, keeping your business safe, efficient and compliant with local codes.

Contact us today for more information on our full-service electrical panel checking service!

Every year, suicide rates in the United States climb higher and higher. On average, there are 133 suicides per day and according to a study by the CDC, over 47,000 people in the United States died by suicide each year.

If we drill down specifically to the construction industry, the problem is even more pronounced. A recent study in January 2020 found that the rate of suicides in construction is the second highest in the country, at approximately 5,500 suicides each year. For every 100,000 construction workers, over 45 will end up committing suicide. This is compared to the national average of over 14, which means that a person working in construction is 3.5 times more likely to take their own life. In fact, construction workers are more likely to die by suicide than from any other cause of death except accidents on the job. 

So why are suicides so prevalent in the construction industry? And what can companies do to provide a safe environment for their employees? Let’s take a closer look at mental health awareness in the construction industry and some of the factors that contribute to the high suicide rate.  

Factors that contribute to the high suicide rate in the construction industry 

Construction work can be incredibly demanding, both mentally and physically. Long hours, tight deadlines, and exposure to dangerous working conditions can all take a toll on a person’s mental health. What’s more, construction workers are often reluctant to seek help for fear of being seen as weak or unable to handle the job. As a result, mental health issues often go unaddressed until they reach a crisis point. 

There are several other factors that contribute to the high suicide rate in the construction industry. For instance, employees who are dissatisfied with their jobs are more likely to experience negative mental health outcomes. Because of the nature of the work, many construction workers feel like they don’t have much control over their lives or their working conditions. This lack of control can lead to feelings of helplessness and despair. 

In addition to these workplace-related factors, some personal factors can contribute to an increased risk of suicide. For example, alcohol abuse is common among construction workers and has been linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Other risk factors include a history of depression or other mental illness, physical illness, financial stressors, relationship problems and a family history of mental illness or suicide. 

Steps to manage and prevent suicide in the workplace

While the reasons for suicide can be complex, there are steps that companies can take to help manage and prevent suicide in the workplace. First, companies need to learn about the warning signs of suicide. These can include changes in mood, withdrawal from social activities, talking about wanting to die and giving away personal belongings. If an employee shows any of these signs, it’s important to create an open and safe environment where they feel comfortable discussing their problems, while also encouraging them to seek professional help.

It’s also important to provide easy access to resources for employees and to create safety guides for dealing with mental health, including actions to take if someone appears to be in danger of harming themselves. By taking these steps, companies can create a culture of safety and support that can help reduce the incidence of suicide in the construction industry.

Creating a safe work environment

Companies can create a safe environment for employees by promoting open communication about mental health struggles, providing access to resources and professional help when needed, and encouraging employees to lean on each other for support without shame or judgment. By raising awareness and taking measures to prevent suicides, we can save lives in the construction industry.

Investing in employee mental health

RK values its employees and understands the importance of creating a work environment that is safe, physically and mentally. Safety is the number one core value at RK and mental health awareness is a big part of the culture whether you are on a jobsite or in the office. We encourage employees to check in with their teammates to let them know you care about their well-being and provide training to help them better understand when to seek help for themselves or their teammates.

Mental health and suicide prevention resources

For information on our Employee Assistance Program, you can call 1.800.327.1850 or visit guidanceresources.com. This is available 24/7 for confidential support.

Crisis Text Line

Text “Hello” to 741741

National Suicide Prevention Hotline

988 OR 1.800.273.8255 (English)

1.888.628.9454 (Espanol)

1.800.273.8255 (Deaf and Hard of Hearing)

Written by Ileana Morales

DISRUPTOR™ IC 2000 modular immersion cooling crypto currency container

June 1, 2022 – RK Mission Critical (RKMC) is an inimitable, American business that focuses on the future. RKMC provides modular solutions for complex ideas, concepts, and designs. The business has boomed in the past four years due to the triple threat of a hand-selected, incomparable engineering team, premier design capabilities, and an unmatched ability to manufacture at scale. In the past two years alone, RKMC has grown from 43 employees to over 240 and doubled its production capacity to deliver over six thousand units annually. What was once a single production plant providing ad hoc services is now over 280,000 square feet of clean manufacturing, integration, and assembly for high volume products across multiple market verticals.

One of the major reasons RKMC has achieved such exponential success in the past years is due to its ability to avoid daunting supply chain barriers. The business has managed to sidestep rising supply chain issues by relying on its sister companies to provide an integrated process that is insulated from the ever-shifting tides in the market. Because RKMC has done the impossible and consistently delivered products on time over the past two years, major players in tech spaces such as data, ag tech, fin tech, and renewable energy choose RKMC to provide modular solutions for their business needs. One example goes by the name of the DISRUPTOR™2000. This product is an air-cooled and code compliant two- megawatt container solution for cryptocurrency mining that is proudly, and fully manufactured in the United States. RKMC is the only business providing this high performing plug and play solution, at scale, for cryptocurrency mining.

As cryptocurrency mining and options for efficient mining are sweeping the world, the demand for tried and true infrastructure has never been higher. RKMC continues to deliver products to their customers across data, ag tech, fin tech, and renewable energy markets, and in 2022, RKMC took things a step further and released a cutting-edge product in immersion cooling mining called the DISRUPTOR™ IC 2000. The DISRUPTOR™ IC 2000 provides innovative cooling technology for use in high-density data centers and mining operations. Immersion cooling yields a process that is a thousand times more efficient than standard cooling methods, and importantly, allows miners to be overclocked by as much as 25%-55%. The DISRUPTOR™ IC 2000 is the only tested product on the market that successfully eliminates the “bathtub” approach by utilizing a patent-pending design that allows individual control over every miner. True to its roots, RKMC again is the only large-scale manufacturer that is producing an immersion cooling system exclusively in the United States.

RKMC has seen the opportunity for local job growth in the mining industry and is fearlessly leading the way in providing employment across various sectors. The business employs more women than any other manufacturing company in the area and is outpacing the industry standard of just 11% female employees with 18% of its workforce consisting of women. RKMC has managed to do what few manufacturing businesses have done in the past four years: they are growing jobs and centering communities, all while disrupting the product marketplace with unbeatable modular solutions.

Article written by Asma Keeler, Esq, Director, Comms & Compliance, RK Mission Critical

August 9, 2021 – Denver Business Journal recently published an article, “Good Works: RK Industries’ suicide-awareness campaigns lead sector,” featuring RK and its focus on suicide awareness and prevention.

The article states, “RK is committed to suicide prevention and is seen as an industry leader in addressing this issue. To combat the construction industry’s high rate of suicide, RK works to destigmatize mental health, encouraging open communication on the topic. RK has developed tools and resources, including suicide prevention training, for its safety, wellness and HR teams, a pocket card and hard-hat stickers listing suicide hotlines, and “Toolbox Talks” and communications campaigns to raise awareness and provide resources for those in need.”

Click here to read the full story.

Companies are always on the lookout for employees who will stay long-term and are committed to growing and improving. Likewise, employees want to work for companies that will provide them with opportunities to develop their skills.

Mentorships are a great way to help employees, both new and experienced, expand their knowledge and personal development. They focus on positive workplace behavior and performance, providing employees with the training needed to be successful.

Traditionally, mentoring relationships have involved senior employees guiding their younger colleagues, but hierarchy and age aren’t necessarily important in modern workforces. As long as mentors have experience that can help others learn, this is all that matters. For instance, younger employees can teach older employees about ever-changing technology in the workplace.

Successful mentoring relationships can also naturally create a rich multigeneration office culture by combining the top qualities of each participant. Senior employees traditionally have a great work ethic, loyalty and dedication. Whereas, younger employees may come to work with new ideas and passion. Together, they can make for a positive and effective team.

Research has shown that workers who have a mentor enjoy greater job satisfaction, and mentors learn from those they are guiding. But, mentoring in the workplace not only benefits the mentors and mentored, it also benefits companies with increased employee retention and knowledge sharing. On top of that, mentoring programs have shown to increase company diversity, with participation expanding minority representation in management-level positions.

Top Benefits of Mentorship in the Workplace

Mentors
Mentored
Company
  • Better Job Satisfaction
  • Better Job Satisfaction
  • Better Employee Satisfaction
  • Increased Pride
  • Increased Self-confidence
  • Higher Employee Retention
  • Improved Communication Skills
  • Desire to Achieve Goals
  • Diversity of Leadership
  • Improved Knowledge Sharing
  • Skill Development
  • Increased Knowledge Sharing
  • Experience for Leadership Roles
  • Greater Probability of Promotion
  • Improved Company Culture

Something important to note is that mentoring relationships should never be forced. This can cause employees to resent the idea as an obligatory task. Instead, sharing the positive benefits with employees and offering to help connect them with a mentor, when and if they are ready, is most effective. To be prepared, companies should gather information about employee skills, communication styles and career goals. A major key to successful mentorship relationships is connecting employees who communicate well together, can connect on a personal level and are working toward attaining similar goals.

In the end, mentors need to feel that their time is valued in order to achieve a successful mentorship relationship. Those who are mentored must think of the experience as an investment in their growth, rather than a sure path to promotion.

Each year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. During May, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) joins the national movement to raise awareness about mental health. Together, they fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.

Get Involved and Spread Awareness
Here are some tips on how to get involved and spread awareness:

  1. Start a Conversation: it can feel strange or awkward to reach out to someone who may need your assistance, but friends and family may not feel comfortable asking for help. One way to start a conversation is to simply ask, “How are you doing?”
  2. Prioritize Your Mental Health: this is an ideal time to reflect on your own mental wellness and to ask yourself, “How are you doing?” If you are not ok, reach out for help.
  3. Donate or Volunteer: there are thousands of organizations that help promote mental health, consider donating to one this month.
  4. Share Information: sharing information is a fantastic way to spread awareness, maybe consider posting something to your social media!
  5. Let Someone Know They Are Not Alone: Many people with mental disorders feel isolated and think no one understands them. Reach out!

Dealing with Stress and Anxiety
Stress is part of being human, and it can help motivate us to get things done. We may sometimes feel anxious, and that’s normal too for a while. But, when we start to feel that way more than several weeks, or if it starts to interfere with home or work life, it’s time to reach out for help. Here are some things that can help manage stress before it gets to be too much.

Getting Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental illness, contact the NAMI HelpLine, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., ET at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or by emailing info@nami.org. Volunteers answer questions, offer support and provide practical next steps. The resources on this page also provide information to address many needs and concerns.

RK strongly believes that mental health is just as important as physical health. RK medical plans now cover out-of-network benefits for mental health. In addition, our employees have access to Teladoc for mental health services, along with our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and other resources.

8 Mental Health Infographics to Raise Awareness, Venngage, 3/10/21
Mental Health Awareness Month, NAMI, accessed 5/1/21
5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH, New Method Wellness, accessed 5/10/21

February 3, 2021 – RK is happy to share that several RK business unit leaders have been promoted to President and General Manager.

Donnie Hirschfield has been promoted to President and General Manager of RK Steel, LLC. In this role, Hirschfield is responsible for developing innovative strategies for structural and miscellaneous steel fabrication and installation services that create sustainable competitive advantages, establish market share, and provide strong industry leadership for his team. Hirschfield joined RK in 1994 and has worked in various positions, including Vice President of Operations, Operations Manager, and Project Manager.

Jeff Gucker has been promoted to President and General Manager of RK Water, LLC. In this role, Gucker is responsible for diversifying the company’s commercial, industrial, and agricultural water treatment solutions to create sustainable competitive advantages, establish market share, and provide strong industry leadership for his team. Gucker joined RK in 2005 and has over 30 years of experience in the mechanical contracting, water treatment, and service industries.

Rob Cheney has been promoted to President and General Manager of RK Electrical, LLC. In this role, Cheney is responsible for developing and executing the company’s long-term business vision and strategy to establish market share within the electrical commercial contracting industry while providing strong leadership for his team. Cheney joined RK in 2017 and has over 20 years of experience in the construction industry.

Jeff Bushey has been promoted to President and General Manager of RK Service, LLC. In this role, Bushey is responsible for developing innovative strategies for commercial facility services that create sustainable competitive advantages, establish market share and provide strong industry leadership for his team. Bushey joined RK in 2019 and has successfully lead his team by focusing on customer service and company culture.

View our leadership page for more information about RK’s leadership team.

RK is thrilled to share that Jesse Davern, Chief Estimator for RK Mission Critical, has recently won the 2020 Q4 NextGen for Industry award from Thomas, which recognizes the accomplishments of the next generation of industrial leaders on a quarterly basis. Nominated by their peers or managers, these young professionals are driving industry into the future with innovative new ideas, exceptional thought leadership, and meaningful contributions to their area of business.

The news was featured in the article titled, “Building a New Business Division from the Ground Up, Jesse Davern Wins NextGen for Industry,” where Jesse discussed the challenges and successes that he experienced while growing RK Mission Critical from the ground up.

Jesse is a Colorado native who has worked at RK for 11 years. He started out as an intern with RK Mechanical in preconstruction. Later he worked as an estimator, then senior estimator and eventually transitioned to to RK Mission Critical in 2015. He said that one of the biggest factors that led to his growth within the company has been the investment of RK’s executives, as well as the leadership from John Marrinucci, President and GM, RK Mission Critical, on how to build and scale a business. He hopes winning this award will bring RK Mission Critical some recognition and allow everyone on the team to grow together.