"Outstanding leaders go out of their way to boost the self-esteem of their personnel. If people believe in themselves, it's amazing what they can accomplish."

— Sam Walton

LEARN TO LEAD

Empowering Leadership: Boosting Self-Esteem for Outstanding Results

Sam Walton's insightful observation on leadership emphasizes the critical role of a leader in elevating the self-esteem of their team. This approach is more than a strategy; it's a philosophy that transforms the workplace environment and unlocks the potential of individuals.

Understanding the Power of Self-Esteem in the Workplace

Self-esteem is a cornerstone of personal achievement. When leaders invest in building the self-confidence of their team members, they create a fertile ground for creativity, innovation, and higher productivity.

The Role of the Leader

An effective leader is a catalyst for the growth and development of their team. By recognizing and valuing the individual strengths and contributions of each member, leaders can foster a sense of belonging and significance among their personnel.

Creating a Positive Ripple Effect

The impact of boosting self-esteem goes beyond individual performance. It creates a positive workplace culture where team members feel valued and respected. This environment encourages collaboration, mutual support, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Sam Walton's Legacy of Inspirational Leadership

Sam Walton's leadership style serves as a timeless model. His focus on uplifting the self-esteem of his employees contributed significantly to building a successful and resilient organization.

In conclusion, Walton's philosophy underscores a fundamental truth: when leaders focus on elevating the self-esteem of their personnel, they unlock a powerful force for achieving outstanding results. This approach is a testament to the transformative power of positive and empowering leadership.

Wannemacher Jensen Architects, Inc.

CONSTRUCTION KNOWLEDGE

Revolutionizing Municipal Projects: The Power of Phased Design-Build

Innovative Project Delivery for Community Impact

Municipalities are embracing innovative project delivery methods to revolutionize collaboration, accelerate schedules, and enhance cost-effectiveness. Among these methods, the phased design-build delivery approach has emerged as a game-changer, offering a dynamic way to improve projects and better serve communities.

Unleashing the Potential of Phased Design-Build

The phased design-build delivery method is a construction approach that divides a project into phases, allowing construction to commence in one phase while design work continues in subsequent stages. This innovative method is gaining popularity as municipalities seek to streamline construction processes and deliver projects that align more closely with residents' needs.

Unlike traditional contract delivery methods, phased design-build combines elements of both design-build and traditional design-bid-build methods. This hybrid approach fosters a more iterative, collaborative, and expedited design and construction process.

Florida Legislature Paves the Way for Progress

Recent amendments to Florida Statute 337.11 highlight the growing acceptance and utilization of the phased design-build approach. The state legislature's endorsement of this method signals its potential to reshape how construction projects are managed and executed. This move reflects a willingness among departments of transportation and municipalities to explore alternative methods for better project outcomes.

Empowering Communities Through Collaborative Improvement

At its core, phased design-build offers municipalities an exciting opportunity to actively participate in the design development process. This method encourages open communication and collaboration among the design-build team, owners, and the community. Residents can contribute valuable insights and ideas, creating a project that truly reflects their needs and aspirations.

With a single point of contact and responsibility, municipalities can ensure that improvements are not only desired but also achievable within the given budget. This collaborative approach empowers communities and ensures that projects align with the unique characteristics and requirements of the local area.

Benefits Amplified: Collaboration, Speed, and Transparency

Collaboration: Phased design-build fosters collaboration between owners and the design-build team. Owners actively participate in design development, ensuring projects align with community needs.

Accelerated Schedule: Proactive scheduling identifies material lead times and releases bid packages early, accelerating project timelines and delivery.

Bid Transparency: Streamlining the procurement process encourages competition and exposes unit costs between qualified contractors. This transparency in bidding supports local contractors and promotes value assurance.

Engineered Success: Transforming Municipal Projects

Municipalities are experiencing newfound success with the phased design-build delivery method. Its collaboration-focused approach, accelerated schedules, and transparent bidding processes are revolutionizing project planning, execution, and delivery.

As this innovative approach gains traction, it promises to reshape the modern engineering and construction landscape. Phased design-build stands as a testament to the power of innovation in driving positive change for municipalities and the communities they serve. Embrace the future of project delivery – embrace the phased design-build approach.

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

Beyond the Classroom: New York Institute of Technology's Impactful Initiatives

Innovative Collaborations for Community Impact

New York Institute of Technology (New York Tech) transcends traditional academic boundaries to make a positive impact on communities. Through vast interdisciplinary collaborations, faculty and students evolve as architects, engineers, therapists, and doctors, turning ideas into innovative solutions to address challenges within the populations they serve.

Addressing Global Health Challenges

In 2020, the World Health Organization identified neurological disorders as the leading global cause of disability. Leveraging their expertise, New York Tech's faculty and students are actively contributing to the understanding of autism spectrum disorder and Parkinson’s disease.

Empowering Health and Wellness Advocates

Alexander Lopez, an Army veteran, attorney, licensed occupational therapist, and Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy at New York Tech, envisions a world where health, wellness, and justice prevail. Attracted by the university’s commitment to collaboration and multidisciplinary research, Lopez emphasizes the power of collective contributions in driving lasting change within communities.

One notable collaboration is with Inclusive Sports and Fitness (ISF), a nonprofit gym founded by Lopez. The gym focuses on improving social, emotional, cognitive, and sensorimotor abilities in children with developmental and intellectual disorders through occupational therapies and targeted exercise interventions.

Advancing Research for Positive Outcomes

Supported by a New York Tech grant, a clinical trial led by Lopez, in collaboration with faculty from the College of Engineering and Computing Sciences, aims to monitor brain performance in ISF athletes with autism. Wearable technology and algorithms will be used to assess how occupational therapy interventions enhance sensory processing and coordination, to personalize treatment plans.

Jacinda Ayres, a New York Tech doctoral student, collaborates with Lopez to study the impact of high-intensity running programs and sensory motor integration on cognition, behavior, and social, and emotional regulation in children with disabilities. The positive outcomes observed extend beyond physical improvements to include enhanced confidence and social engagement.

Expanding Perspectives in Architecture

New York Tech's unique opportunities extend beyond healthcare into architecture. Joel Stuart, a graduate with a master’s in architecture, health, and design, redefines architecture as a field addressing more than just building design. Collaborating with professors, including Athina Papadopoulou and Christian Pongratz, Stuart explores how inclusive spaces like ISF can inspire innovative design solutions for healthcare facilities.

Stuart's research focuses on reducing noise levels at ISF using eco-friendly biomaterials. By incorporating clay walls and moss, he aims to create an environment that not only addresses sound concerns but also enhances the well-being of ISF athletes.

Pioneering Parkinson’s Research and Support

Adena Leder, Director of the Parkinson’s Program at New York Tech, leads research efforts on Parkinson’s disease. Beyond her scientific contributions, Leder manages an on-campus exercise program, Rock Steady Boxing, and moderates a Zoom support group for young women diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s.

Kelsey Fisher, a student at New York Tech's College of Osteopathic Medicine, actively participates in Leder’s support group and research on young women with Parkinson’s. Fisher’s involvement exemplifies the hands-on, holistic approach to medicine fostered at New York Tech, where students actively contribute to impactful research and community support initiatives.

Innovating and Impacting Lives Globally

From groundbreaking neurological research to reimagining architectural spaces and providing support for Parkinson’s patients, the New York Institute of Technology's commitment to innovative collaborations goes beyond the classroom. By empowering faculty and students to transcend traditional career paths, New York Tech is contributing to positive outcomes and pioneering solutions for diverse and complex challenges in the communities it serves.

A comprehensive guide to the skills needed in the ever-evolving world of work. It explores topics like adaptability, creativity, and emotional intelligence, offering practical advice to thrive in the future job market.

THE DIG ECONOMY

Breaking Ground: Tackling Mental Health in the Construction Industry

Facing the Crisis Head-On

The construction industry, known for its tough and demanding nature, is grappling with a rising mental health crisis. With the highest rates of suicide and drug overdose among all occupations in the United States, it's evident that the well-being of construction workers requires urgent attention. As a leader in this field, understanding and responding to mental health is not just a moral imperative but a crucial step in saving lives.

Unveiling the Silent Struggles

Behind the hard hats and on the bustling construction sites, mental health concerns often remain unspoken. The Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention reveals alarming statistics: approximately 1,000 construction workers die on job sites each year and over 5,000 die by suicide annually. A multitude of factors contributes to this crisis.

Challenges of the Job: Construction workers endure physically demanding conditions, seasonal layoffs, severe weather, and extended periods away from their support networks. The nomadic nature of moving from one job site to another can strain relationships, leading to isolation and exhaustion.

Coping Mechanisms: Workers, facing these challenges, often resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance abuse. The use of drugs, alcohol, and opioids not only elevates the risk of accidental overdose but also heightens the likelihood of suicidal thoughts and actions.

Cultural Pressures: A culture built on resilience and toughness can inadvertently contribute to the crisis. The expectation to "suck it up" and not show vulnerability creates an environment where mental health issues are kept hidden, fostering burnout.

Leadership Steps for Change

As a leader in the construction industry, you have the power to initiate change and provide support to your workforce. Here are practical steps to address mental health in your organization:

Open Dialogue: Break the silence by fostering a culture of open communication. Conduct focus groups and interviews with key stakeholders to discuss mental health issues and build awareness. Listening to your employees is the first step towards meaningful change.

Addiction Support: Acknowledge the link between construction jobs and substance abuse. Create an environment where those struggling with addiction feel comfortable seeking professional help. Provide training to identify signs of substance abuse and offer alternatives like alcohol-free events.

Wellness Programs: Prioritize mental health in your organization by implementing wellness programs. Train managers to identify signs of distress and refer employees to appropriate resources. Explore online mental health platforms to make services more accessible and flexible.

Crisis Support: Establish crisis support mechanisms through Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) or crisis management teams. Having resources like Concern for grief and trauma support can be crucial in times of need.

Resources for Change

Numerous resources are available to assist employers in addressing mental health in the construction industry. Organizations like the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention, Toolbox Talks, and LivingWorks offer valuable insights and tools for fostering a mentally healthy workplace.

A Wise Business Decision

Prioritizing mental health is not just a moral obligation; it's a strategic business decision. Healthy employees perform better, contribute to a safer work environment, and have fewer unplanned absences. By investing in your team's well-being, you not only protect your workforce but also fortify the foundation of your business.

In a world where tools are essential for a job well done, consider mental health resources as indispensable tools for the success and longevity of your team. A forward-thinking benefits consultant can guide you in selecting impactful benefit options for your employees, ensuring a resilient and thriving workforce. Act now—protect your people, protect your business.

TOOLBOX TALK

Cold Stress Safety Announcement: Navigating the Challenges of Winter Work Environments

As we step into the colder months, it's essential to acknowledge and prepare for the health hazards that come with working in cold environments. The risks associated with cold stress are real and can have severe consequences if not properly managed. Let's come together to ensure our safety and health during this chilly period.

Understanding Cold Stress Health Hazards

• Frostbite: This serious condition is caused by the freezing of the skin and underlying tissues. It typically affects the extremities such as fingers, toes, nose, and ears, leading to loss of feeling and color. Immediate action is crucial: gently warm the affected areas without causing friction and seek medical attention.

• Trench Foot (Immersion Foot): Prolonged exposure to wet and cold conditions can lead to trench foot. It's crucial to keep feet dry and warm, changing out of wet footwear and socks as quickly as possible.

• Hypothermia: This occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing a dangerously low body temperature. Recognize the signs, which include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, and slurred speech. Immediate warming and medical intervention are essential.

Implementing Safe Work Practices in Cold Environments

• Limit Exposure to Extreme Cold: Evaluate work schedules and, where possible, limit the duration and extent of exposure to extreme cold.

• Acclimatization: Gradually increase exposure to cold environments, allowing the body to adapt, especially for those not accustomed to cold conditions.

• Layered Clothing: Emphasize the importance of wearing multiple layers of clothing for insulation. Equally important is keeping these layers dry.

• Regular Breaks: Schedule regular breaks in warm environments to prevent prolonged exposure to the cold.

• Hydration: Encourage drinking warm fluids to maintain body heat and hydration levels.

• Buddy System: Promote a culture where workers monitor each other for signs of cold stress and take immediate action when necessary.

Discussion Points for Team Safety Meetings

1. Identifying Other Cold-Related Hazards: Discuss additional hazards that come with cold weather, such as icy surfaces, and how to mitigate them.

2. Strategies to Mitigate Cold Stress: Share ideas and strategies on further improving working conditions in cold environments.

Safety in cold conditions is a shared responsibility. By being informed and proactive, we can effectively manage the risks of cold stress. Remember, your health and safety are paramount. Stay warm, stay vigilant, and stay safe this winter season!