[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Whether on or off a construction site, we understand that communities are built with more than tools and precision. They are also built by people who shape the places we call home. Our communities are the thread that connects us with one another. That is why supporting the well-being of communities, both near and far, continues to drive our core values.With our commitment to making a difference, Findorff avidly volunteers for The Hunger Task Force. Located in Milwaukee, this free and local food bank is Wisconsin’s leading anti-hunger organization. Since fall 2018, Findorff has helped assemble over 2,200 boxes to stock food. This translates into a month’s worth of healthy food free of charge for low-income seniors in Milwaukee.In the famous words of Mahatma Gandhi, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world,” and Findorff is proud to continuously partake in small acts of kindness that bring about monumental rewards.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1532027784860{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1532028074358{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text el_class=”related-portfolio-posts-heading”]
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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When you think about an active construction site, you may picture bulldozers, masons, cement mixers, and the like. While this is accurate, there are emerging trends that are reshaping the industry. Today, many parts of a building can be assembled miles away from a construction site. In Findorff’s case, we are proud to support such building efforts with our Prefabrication Shop.Spanning 19,000 square feet, our Prefabrication Shop hums along at a busy pace supporting projects throughout the Midwest. It is also instrumental in meeting project demands. “We understand that our clients need efficient, fast, and cost-effective building solutions,” says Findorff Prefabrication and Construction Process Manager Justin Mitten. “Through prefabrication, we are streamlining construction by assembling building components in a controlled environment offsite. In turn, Findorff is better equipped to create a ROI for our clients.”There are four key areas where we see such benefits.
Prefabrication Benefits:
- Maximize scope: Prefabrication makes it possible to assemble building parts while other construction activities are underway. As this can lead to a reduction in schedule, the time saved can be used to expand the project scope while still meeting a targeted end date.
- Support speed-to-market goals: Our clients hire Findorff to construct buildings that support their organizational goals. School districts may need to address growth, while science-and-technology companies may need more innovative offices or production capacity. Regardless of the reason, we understand the need for their projects to be completed on time. The earlier a building can open its doors, the faster our clients can conduct business, support staff, generate sales, and more!
- Enhance jobsite safety: Prefabrication eliminates exposure to jobsite hazards. By assembling building components offsite, we have seen significant reductions in injuries. For example, over 30,000 hours have been worked at Findorff’s Prefabrication Shop without a single lost-time or OSHA recordable incident in the last two years.
- Create cost savings through manufacturing principles: A controlled environment like our Prefabrication Shop offers the opportunity for automation and lean manufacturing principles during construction. In turn, we can perform both repetitive and complex tasks, that are typically time consuming, more quickly with greater quality. This then translates into cost savings for our clients.
“These benefits make prefabrication a viable cost- and time-saving resource,” explains Mitten. “We are also experiencing a surge in the prefabrication of more than just individual building components. For example, rather than assembling separate walls or building systems, there is a focus on prefabricating entire rooms and buildings before a shovel even hits the ground.” Such construction is representative of modular building, which is quickly becoming a preferred delivery method for owners in the hospitality, housing, and healthcare markets. This is because of the enhanced quality and reduced schedules modular construction offers. For example, Findorff is currently working on two security buildings for Fort McCoy that are being built entirely at Findorff’s Prefabrication Shop, then will be shipped to the jobsite.If you are considering prefabrication for your next project, there are several factors to consider for successful results.
Creating Successful Results Through Prefabrication:
- Early involvement is key: Findorff finds the most success by engaging with the design team and key stakeholders early on. Collaborating on the design of a project with the buy-in of those who will execute design is critical to avoid costly redesign and value-engineering efforts.
- Follow an integrated project approach: An integrated team encourages collaboration from all. This is important as it leads to an overall understanding of project goals. It also helps identify opportunities where both prefabrication and modular construction can benefit a project.
Findorff’s prefabrication efforts can certainly be a valuable resource for your next project. Regardless of the scope, our end goal is to be a trusted partner that supports your needs.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1532027784860{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1532028074358{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text el_class=”related-portfolio-posts-heading”]
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Each summer, Findorff takes the opportunity to reflect on our core values. This month, we recognize the value of character and how it plays a role in our company. Specifically, it is in our nature to think green every day. Findorff has a long history of honoring the natural environment along with the people who depend on it. We understand the importance of taking a holistic approach to sustainability not only during construction, but also for the many generations after. Looking at construction through this lens is one way we are helping make a lasting impact.
For example, we are helping build Wisconsin’s first net-zero school. A net-zero building uses a combination of energy-efficient systems and on-site-energy generation to create at least as much energy as it consumes. This sustainable approach will be used by the Oregon School District for its new elementary school, which will open in 2020.While this project is currently under construction, Findorff has been actively reducing our environmental footprint for decades. We look to minimize waste, reuse and recycle materials, manage air quality and erosion control, and use responsibly sourced materials. We also utilize thermal imaging technology paired with our drones. This validates energy-efficient buildings as well as ensures high indoor-air quality and positive occupant-health outcomes.
Through such efforts, we roll up our sleeves to take care of our community, make a difference, and focus on the next generation. That’s what our character is all about.
Stay tuned next month as we highlight another one of our core values, community.
Pictured above: Gabrielle, soon to attend kindergarten, plants a tree near the construction site of Oregon School District’s new elementary school.
Findorff is fortunate to have several projects receive recognition from year to year for their quality craftsmanship. Most recently, In Business, The Daily Reporter, and Milwaukee Business Journal recognized several buildings we proudly constructed. They include:
- American Family Insurance’s The Spark: The Spark is a nine-story, 158,000-square-foot building developed by American Family Insurance. It features creative and collaborative office spaces, plus is home to StartingBlock Madison. The Spark is pursuing LEED® Certification and was developed around standards set by the International WELL Being Institute. Eppstein Uhen Architects and Potter Lawson were the project’s architects. In Business named this building the Most Innovative Green Solution. The Spark also received a Top Projects Award from The Daily Reporter.
- Marquette University’s The Commons: The Commons is a new, state-of-the-art, co-ed residence hall. Spanning 292,000 square feet, the facility includes 9-story and 12-story towers made up of single and double rooms. A 650-seat dining and community space joins the two towers as an inviting area for students to eat and socialize. The project’s architects were Workshop Architects and Design Collective. This Commons was recognized as the Best New Development in Education by In Business, Best New Development in Education by the Milwaukee Business Journal, and received a Top Projects Award from The Daily Reporter.
- Summit Credit Union – Monona: Summit Credit Union’s new branch in Monona is a 4,000-square-foot steel structure with a 1,000-square-foot drive up canopy. This project was designed by Strang and includes interesting architectural features that are common throughout many updated Summit Credit Union locations. In Business awarded this project the Best New Development in Retail.
- Sun Prairie Area School District’s Token Springs and Meadow View Elementary Schools: In 2016, the District passed a referendum for two new schools to support its growing community. These buildings are Token Springs and Meadow View Elementary Schools. Combined, they span over 240,000 square feet. Both have themed spaces for each grade level and were designed with sustainable building features. Eppstein Uhen Architects served as the project’s architect. The schools received a Top Projects Award from The Daily Reporter.
Findorff’s talented people play a significant role in the Company’s success, both on the job and in the community. We are proud to announce several promotions of four new Senior Project Managers:
- Dave Chmielewski: Dave brings over a decade of experience to his new role as a Senior Project Manager. He has been involved with several notable projects in the Madison area. They include multiple buildings for Epic Systems Corporation, plus UW-Madison‘s Chazen Art Museum addition and Gordon Commons Dining & Events Center. Dave is also a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers. During his free time, Dave enjoys attending Badger football games and other UW-Madison athletic events to support his alma mater. He also has volunteered for Habitat for Humanity and Hammer with a Heart. Dave lives in Madison with his wife Jaime, and children Malorie and Audrey.
- Steve Gay: As part of Steve’s 20-year career, he has been greatly involved with Findorff’s educational projects. He has managed construction efforts for various school districts, including those for DeForest, Juda, McFarland, and Oregon. Steve was also part of the team to rebuild the University of Iowa’s School of Music after serious flooding destroyed the original facility. Steve additionally serves as an AGC Leadership Representative, plus coaches his boys’ baseball and soccer teams. Outside of work, he enjoys having fun outdoors with his family. He currently resides in DeForest with his wife Brooke, and children Jack and Luke.
- Matt Stadelman: Having worked in construction for nearly 10 years, Matt’s career is comprised of several major projects. These include the School of Nursing at UW-Madison, Edgewater Hotel, and Oregon School District. He has even crossed the border into gopher territory to help manage the construction of Hub on Campus – Minneapolis, a 26-story residence hall near the University of Minnesota. Matt is also a registered LEED® Green Associate. He enjoys spending time outdoors, working on home projects, and serving as a Rosenberry Ambassador for the United Way. Matt currently resides in Cottage Grove with his wife Nikky.
- Aaron Zutz: With 9 years of experience working in construction management, Aaron is a LEED® Accredited Professional and has been involved with a variety of projects. Most recently, he has had a growing role in managing the construction of educational facilities. They include several buildings for the DeForest Area and Middleton-Cross Plains Area School Districts, plus the upcoming new Verona Area High School. Aaron resides in Madison and enjoys running, camping, and woodworking.
Congratulations Dave, Steve, Matt, and Aaron on your well-deserved promotions!
This spring marked the completion of two notable facilities built by Findorff. The Claims Building for Sentry Insurance and Headquarters for Summit Credit Union officially opened their doors for business. We are grateful to have been part of such notable work and valuable partnerships.
Findorff’s relationship with Sentry Insurance started almost five decades ago. Nearly 100 guests attended, including Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, as Sentry celebrated its new building, which is adjacent to its main office. Spanning seven stories and 285,000 square feet, the Claims Building reflects the company’s progressive attitude toward the nature of its work and the character of the workplace. The office will also support its growing staff and become a landmark in Central Wisconsin.
The new Headquarters for Summit Credit Union is one of several projects Findorff completed for this member-owned financial cooperative. There was a good deal of celebration with several hundred people in attendance taking in the new building. It features 160,000 square feet of office space and 30,000 square feet of underground parking. It has an open design, fitness areas with outdoor walking paths and a sports court, in-house cafeteria, as well as a celebration room, auditorium, full-scale branch with theming, and drive-through tellers. This state-of-the art building is also pursing LEED® Silver Certification.
Make sure to check out Findorff’s corporate experience if you’re interested in learning more about our work.
Three of our finest were recently recognized for the roles they play in the construction industry. Findorff is proud to share this trifecta of recognition.
Senior Project Manager Eric Plautz was recently named part of In Business magazine’s 2019 40 Under 40 class. Having worked 18 years for Findorff, he has led efforts on various high-profile projects, including many unique facilities on the Epic Campus. Of all the projects that Eric has worked on throughout his career, he is most proud of the work he and his team accomplished at Country View Elementary School in Verona following damage from a level-three tornado in 2014. “In my job, I get to build neat things for people all the time,” says Eric. “Although we only put a building back to the way it was for this project, I never have felt such gratitude and received such a heartfelt thank you as I did from the School staff once we completed construction.” Project Manager Dan Weiss recently received recognition as a Rising Young Professional by The Daily Reporter. In the last few years, Dan has been involved with several significant projects including Marquette University’s – The Commons, Mequon-Thiensville School District, and Alverno College. “I enjoy the change of pace from the office to the field, problem solving, and learning new things every day,” explains Dan. “Project management is a rewarding profession. It offers the chance to directly experience a project’s progress from start to finish, work through all the challenges along the way, as well as see happy building owners and occupants at the end of each project.
“Director of Project Management Jim Martin was also recognized by The Daily Reporter. In addition to his many industry successes managing multilocation projects, Jim is proud of his work in the community. He has served on the Ronald McDonald House Madison Board since 2014. In 2018, he received the Red Shoe Award as a member of the community whose actions have positively impacted Ronald McDonald House Charities®. In his role on the Construction Cabinet for the Ronald McDonald House, he helped secure $2 million of in-kind donations that are helping expand the local facility to twice its size. “It’s an honor to be able to represent Findorff in the community,” he says. “I appreciate the ability to exercise my professional expertise to help the lives of sick kids and their families become less burdened.
“Congratulations to Eric, Dan, and Jim on their recent honors!”
The beginning of March recognizes and celebrates Women in Construction Week. This exciting week signifies the growing role women play in our industry. Findorff is incredibly proud of its strong female staff and wants to recognize several women from both on and off the jobsite.
- Kallie Anderson: “As a Project Manager, I enjoy how my job is different every day, from creating schedules to coordinating trades onsite with my team that is second to none. I am proud to have a role in teaching Findorff’s younger staff. I love watching them learn.” Outside of work, Kallie is an active member of the American Concrete Institute and an alumni of Leadership AGC. She has also been involved with Special Olympics, Salvation Army, and Rebuilding Greater Milwaukee. Her advice to women in the industry is to do the hard work, keep your nose to the grind, and always do the right thing.
- Carin Benz: As Findorff’s Yard Operations Specialist, Carin is responsible for managing the transfer of equipment and tools from the Yard to Findorff’s various project sites. “I enjoy getting to work not only with my team at the yard, but also the project management staff, and those in the field. Our Yard team is led by a woman, and I feel very lucky to work with her. As a woman in construction, I encourage others to be passionate about their life goals. We are all here to provide leadership, integrity, organization, and professionalism.” Her favorite part about working in construction is witnessing the constant evolution of tools and practices that make the industry a safer and more efficient place to work.
- Jane Braatz: Jane is Findorff’s Controller/Director of Accounting. While she’s as passionate about excellent craftsmanship as those in the field, she measures a project’s success differently. “My role is more focused on assisting the project management team with financial matters including risk mitigation, cost analysis, and accounts receivable. I love seeing a project built by Findorff. The craftsmanship is outstanding! Knowing that I helped with the financial side of a project, I feel as though I was a part of the team.” Jane is the current Madison Chapter President of the Construction Financial Management Association. This offers the chance to mentor those eager to learn about the industry, just as other leaders have done for her.
- Moeko Komoda: Having started as an intern for Findorff, Moeko has been growing in her role ever since. Now a Project Engineer, she works on material procurement, scheduling, budgeting, as well as coordination efforts with field and design teams. She recently passed her Professional Engineering exam, plus is studying for her LEED® Green Associate accreditation and is part of Findorff’s Supervisory Training Program. “As a woman in construction, it means pursuing my interests and challenging myself. I am very proud of every project that I have worked on and am continually amazed by the craftsmanship that goes into construction.” Moeko’s advice to others like her is to own what you don’t know, but also be confident in what you do know and the skills and perspectives you have to offer.
- Lynn Leitner: As a Journeyman Carpenter, Lynn’s work is her passion. However, her career in construction didn’t start right away. She was originally trained and worked as a veterinary technician. Growing up she didn’t realize a career as a female carpenter was possible. Nevertheless, from a young age Lynn loved to create and build things, especially alongside her father who was an electrician. Though it was tough to switch careers, Lynn knew within days of starting her new profession she made the right choice. “Being a carpenter is an opportunity to work with my head, heart, and hands.” She performs a variety of tasks from installing blocking to constructing temporary structures. Lynn is also the Recording Secretary for the Carpenter’s Union 314 and a delegate of the North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters. “My advice for women in construction is to not let challenges of being a female in a male-dominated industry be a roadblock, but rather a hurdle to strengthen yourself for the journey.”
- Crystal White: Being a Laborer for Findorff’s yard operations offers great opportunities every day for Crystal. “I currently specialize in PERI formwork systems inventory and serve as a back-up driver for yard deliveries. I enjoy being in a non-traditional job and taking the path less traveled.” Crystal’s advice for women looking to pursue a career in construction is to get into the industry at an early age and stick with it. Embrace the challenge!
Findorff has exciting news! As we recently opened our new office in Wausau, Joe Schuchardt has been promoted to its General Manager. He will oversee operations and manage a dedicated team to serve our clients local to North Central Wisconsin.
Joe started with Findorff in 2010 as a Senior Project Manager. With over 20 years of experience, he has been instrumental with the day-to-day oversight of construction management activities, ranging from preconstruction to project closeout. He has also worked on various notable projects. They include the 25 West Main development in downtown Madison and several projects for Sentry Insurance in Stevens Point.”
Joe will be a vital asset in leading our Wausau Office,” said Findorff Vice President Jeff McLean. “His experience and relationships with local clients will help us grow in the area as we develop new opportunities.
“During his free time, Joe enjoys being with family and spending time in the great outdoors. He is also one of seven brothers, all of which have a passion for hockey and come together each year in winter for an annual competition on the ice.
The outstanding character of our people drives Findorff’s commitment to quality craftsmanship, as recognized by several recent promotions. We are happy to announce Laura Blood Velotta has been promoted to MEP Group Lead, while Luke Hutchins and Kyle Loest have been both promoted to Directors of Project Management. We are proud of their growth and the leading roles they play on and off the project site.
Luke Hutchins: As a Director of Project Management, Luke is responsible for the day-to-day oversight of construction activities in the Madison office, ranging from preconstruction to project closeout, as well as oversees the development of project staff. He has extensive experience in the construction industry and has been with Findorff since 1999. Several notable projects he worked on include two impressive student-housing towers on the UW-Madison campus: Hub Madison and The James. His community involvement includes supporting Second Harvest Food Bank, AGC of Wisconsin, and United Way. The leading roles Luke has played both in and out of the office even earned him a spot with In Business magazine’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2018. Luke currently resides in Madison with his wife Joanna and two children Max and Lexi.
Laura Blood Velotta, PE, QCxP, LEED AP BD+C: With over 12 years of experience, Laura has a detailed knowledge of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems. As the MEP Group Lead, she will oversee the development of building systems for Findorff’s projects. Since her start at Findorff in 2012, Laura has worked on numerous high-profile buildings throughout the Midwest. Her accomplishments also include being recognized as a Women in Construction Winner by Constructech Magazine, plus volunteering for organizations such as United Way, Habitat for Humanity, and Fetch Wisconsin. Laura currently lives in Madison with her husband Mike, daughter Kate, and giant lapdog Mason.
Kyle Loest: In his new role as a Director of Project Management, Kyle will be leading projects for Findorff’s Milwaukee office and managing teams to help ensure projects successfully complete on time and on budget. Having started with the Company in 2006, he has especially been committed to supporting the construction of complex healthcare systems. He was instrumental in building UW Health at The American Center and Genesis Medical Center. Additionally, he holds a Healthcare Construction Certificate from the American Society for Healthcare Engineering and is an active member in the Wisconsin Healthcare Engineers Association. His accomplishments also include his recognition as ENR Midwest’s Top 20 Under 40 Class of 2015. Additionally, Kyle has been involved in his community with Associated General Contractors (AGC) and United Way, and volunteering for organizations such as Surfrider Foundation of Milwaukee. Kyle currently lives in Milwaukee with his wife Lybra and daughter Finley.
Congratulations Laura, Luke, and Kyle on your well-deserved promotions!