Hawaii Construction Career Day Guide

Serving Hawaii’s Building IndustryFor 100 Years

THE 2008HAWAII CONSTRUCTIONCAREER GUIDEContentsPlanning Committee Members:BF Tile, Inc.City & County of Honolulu, Department of Community ServicesCement & Concrete Products IndustryD.R. Horton – Schuler DivisionDepartment of Business Economic Development & TourismDepartment of TransportationDepartment of Labor & Industrial RelationsFederal Highway AdministrationFloor Layers Apprenticeship ProgramGeneral Contractors Association of Hawai‘iGlaziers Apprenticeship ProgramHawai‘i Carpenters UnionHawai‘i Electricians Trust FundHawai‘i Laborers Training ProgramHawai‘i Local Technical Assistance ProgramHawai‘i Sheet Metal Workers Training FundKaikor Construction Co., Inc.Kiewit Building GroupLaborers International Union of North America Local 368National Association of Women in ConstructionOperating Engineers – Local 3Plumbers Training ProgramRoofers Union Local 221S & M Sakamoto, Inc.Safety Systems Hawai‘i, Inc.The Pacific Resource PartnershipTransition! Hawai‘iUniversity of Hawai‘i, College of EngineeringUniversity of Hawai‘i, School of ArchitectureUniversity of Hawai‘i, Honolulu Community CollegePublisherRaymond NishigayaEditorAimee Harrisaharris@id8hawaii.comProject Freelance WriterAlice KeesingGraphic DesignerEllen CorpuzAccount ExecutiveSara Uyenosuyeno@id8hawaii.comContact: (808) 591-6286Advertising: (808) 596-3342Circulation: (808) 596-33536 1416 18Information & Resources2 President’s Message26 Agenda: Hawai‘i Construction CareerDays (Back Cover)25 Mahalo to Our SponsorsFeatures4 Construction Industry Report18 Career Blueprint20 Building a Career24 Pau Hana PayDepartments6 Q&A with Ameron Hawai‘i10 Q&A with Kiewit Corporation8 Q&A with General ContractorsAssociation of Hawai‘i12 Q&A with Office of Hawaiian Affairs(OHA)Trade Secrets14 Hawai‘i Carpenters Union15 Operating Engineers – Local 316 Hawai‘i Sheet Metal WorkersTraining Fund16 Honolulu Community College,Construction Academy201

ConstructionIndustry Report CardEmployment:There were 39,350 people employed in Hawai‘i’s natural resources,mining and construction sector in the second quarter of 2008. That’s up1.7 percent since the same quarter last year.Pay:As of May 2007, workers in Hawai‘i’s construction and extractionoccupations earned a mean hourly wage of $25.60 and a mean annualpay of $53,250. That’s above the mean hourly wage and annual pay forall occupations in Hawai‘i, which were $19.33 and $40,200, respectively.Benefits:Construction workers often enjoy good benefits packages won by theirunions. Sheet metal workers, for example, enjoy a fringe benefit packagethat gives them $22.24 per hour on top of their regular pay. This coverseverything from medical to pension.Hours:Typical work hours are 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with a quick half-hour lunchbreak.Industry Worth:Construction is one of the state’s biggest earners. The total dollar valuefor the industry in 2007 was an estimated $3.4 billion.The Forecast:Slow growth. From 2006 to 2016, the construction industry is expectedto continue growing, although not at the heated rate of recent years.Industry Challenges:The construction industry follows the ups and downs of the stateeconomy. Additional challenges facing the industry include the risingprice of materials and petroleum. For the individual worker, this canmean downtime between jobs, too.4Photo: Pacific Resource Partnership/Keola Lai

Opportunities:Commercial projects are down inthis slow economy, but there are stillpockets of growth. Kapolei continuesto experience a lot of developmentin all sectors. Industry expert KyleChock, who heads up The PacificResource Partnership, sees futureopportunities in continued militaryinvestments and civic projects likemass transit, the University of Hawai‘iWest O‘ahu campus and harbor andairport improvements.“(These) will help sustain the industryduring this downturn and continueto drive demand for skilled youngworkers,” he says.“It’s no secret that thestate’s economy is slowingdown. The credit marketis tightening, we’ve beenrocked by a series ofmajor layoffs and businessclosures, the energy crisishas people concerned, andglobal demand for resourcesis driving up the cost ofconstruction. But despite allof that, we still see areas ofgrowth and I believe thatlong-term, the constructionindustry will remain a topsource of good jobs inHawai‘i.”- Kyle Chock,Executive Director,The Pacific Resource Partnership.Sources: 2007 State ofHawai‘i Data Book, stateDepartment of Business,Economic Development andTourism; Hawai‘i WorkforceInformer, state Departmentof Labor and IndustrialRelations; Bureau of LaborStatistics, U.S. Departmentof Labor.LAY THE FOUNDATION TO A GREAT FUTURE ATHONOLULU COMMUNITY COLLEGEOur campus has a long standing reputation in Hawai‘i’s construction industry asthe place to come for all of your education and training needs. HCC is home to over20 apprentice trades programs, the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard apprenticeshipprogram, as well as 7 degree granting construction related programs. In additionto offering the best technical education in the state, we also provide a wide rangeof classes that will give you a broad, comprehensive education that will serve youwell in college and take you from the job site to the boardroom.HCC’s building and trades related programs include:• Architectural, Engineering, and CAD Technologies• Carpentry Technology• Electrical Installation and Maintenance Technology• Occupational and Environmental Safety Management• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology• Sheet Metal and Plastics Technology• Welding TechnologySTART BUILDING YOUR TOMORROW TODAY!For more information contact our admissions counselor at845-9190 or at admissions@hcc.hawaii.edu.Interested in learning skills that can lead you to a great career?Want to learn more about the construction industry?The University of Hawai‘i Community Colleges in partnership with high schoolsthroughout the state have created the Construction Academy. The ConstructionAcademy’s mission is to prepare high school students with the technical,academic, and workplace skills necessary to pursue a career in the constructionindustry, including areas such as engineering, architecture, planning, and thetraditional construction fields. The program is designed to give you a hands-onapproach to skills in math, communication, technology, problem-solving, andmost importantly teamwork.See your high school counselor today for more information.

Q: What do you like about working forAmeron?A: There is a lot of pride within the company. Ourcompany is celebrating 100 years in Hawai‘i this year. Wehave multi-generations of workers here. I am fortunate tobe involved with many aspects of the company and to besupported by experienced and knowledgeable people. Myboss, for example, has 42 years of service with Ameron.Q: What is your education andtraining background?A: I was born in Honolulu and graduated from KailuaHigh. I then attended Honolulu Community College andGeneral Motors Technical School in California. Engines andmechanical devices have always fascinated me. I have alwayshad an interest in how things work. Attending technicalschool in California exposed me to mechanics outside ofHawai‘i. Some of the students were very knowledgeableabout the carburetors and ignition systems of the time. I wasimpressed and this pushed me to study harder.Q: How does one become asuperintendent?A: I received formal automotive mechanical training,worked as an auto mechanic, marine machinist-mechanic,construction equipment mechanic, welder, diesel truckmechanic and worked myself up to mechanical andoperational management positions over the years. WhenI came to Ameron, I started in maintenance managementpositions, and then moved to my present position.Q: What are your goals?A: I place great importance on improving our operationto the best of our abilities before we hand it off to the nextgeneration of employees. Continuing the company’s legacy isvery important to me.Q: What are the working conditions likeat the quarry?A: Our employees work in the plant or outside in the quarry.We have heavy equipment operators, plant operators, mechanicsand welders. We have two shifts per day to meet our productionneeds. Safety is first and foremost at the quarry as we work withmachinery, conveyors, rock crushers and heavy equipment.Q: Does your mechanical backgroundhelp in your work as asuperintendent?A: Yes. We have a vast array of equipment here at the quarry—both mobile equipment and plant equipment. Because of mybackground I am able to grasp and understand the operationof the machinery. I may be in management now, but I am stillfascinated by all the different equipment we use here.Q: What personal skills do you need inyour position?A: Good organizational and communication skills areimportant. Passion and initiative are also things that will helpyou succeed.Q: What advice can you offer tostudents interested in entering theindustry?A: Whatever field you get into, learn all you can. Even inless than ideal situations, there is much to be learned from thatexperience. Strive to be a good listener and seek out people whoare experienced and knowledgeable.7

J. Gerry MajkutAge: 49Position: PresidentCompany: General Contractors Association of Hawai‘iGeneral contractors from the four major islands formed theGeneral Contractors Association of Hawai‘i in 1932. Seventy-six years later, theassociation has 540 corporate members. The majority of them are contractors,who perform all types of construction, but the membership also includesmaterial and equipment dealers, financial institutions, surveyors, attorneys,engineers, consultants, and insurance and bonding companies.Affiliated with the national Associated General Contractors of America, GCAHawai‘i offers services to its members while also promoting and improvingthe industry. The association is a voice for the construction industry at thestate capitol. Its Build Hawai‘i Awards recognizes the best of the best in theconstruction industry. The GCA also manages a medical plan and offerseducational seminars and training programs. And, in a business where safety isparamount, the GCA holds safety workshops and certification training as wellas an annual construction safety awards program.J. Gerry Majkut was elected president of the GCA in January this year.“If you enjoy working withpeople, like day-to-daychallenges, enjoy workingoutside at times and beingpart of a team; this is agreat business to be in.”Q: What is your role as president?A: As president of the GCA, I serve as one of the representatives for Hawai‘i at thenational Association of General Contractors of America annual meeting. I am alsoresponsible for conducting our monthly meetings, representing the GCA at activitiesand functions, and working with the GCA executive vice president, Johnny Higa, andthe GCA board members as we address the concerns and issues in our industry.Q: What do you enjoy about your job?A: As president of the GCA, I am fortunate to be able to meet and interact with a lotof people in our industry. I am able to learn more about the overall industry and theissues we face.Q: What do you do when you’re not taking careof association business?A: Membership participation in the GCA is voluntary soevery GCA member also has full-time responsibilities at theirown place of work. I am a senior vice president at Dick PacificConstruction, where I am responsible for Hawai‘i and Guamoperations.Q: What is your background and training?A: You could say I grew up in the construction industry,starting with my summer jobs in college. I am originally from theMainland and relocated to Hawai‘i in 1999. My undergraduate8degree is from Clarion University of Pennsylvania, and I receivedmy Masters from Jacksonville University in Florida. Initially, Iwas involved in the mechanical aspects of our industry (steamfitters, plumbers, boilermakers) and steel erection, followed bywork in the civil and building industry. Most of my career andtraining after college has been on the project site. There is atremendous amount of knowledge that is gained from working atthe project sites.Q: Are you seeing any new trends in thebusiness?A: The use of technology is growing rapidly, especially in areasof computer modeling, GPS and building materials.

Q: Can you describe thecurrent status of the constructionindustry in Hawai‘i and how thatwill relate to job opportunitiesfor new high school graduates?A: In the last several years the constructionindustry was really going strong. As with everyindustry there are cycles of high and low activity.Currently there are discussions about what toexpect in the construction market overall. Itis difficult to predict, but when you considerthe amount of construction work that willtake place with the rapid transit project, thelong term plans for the airport and plannedDepartment of Defense projects, there is a lot ofpotential in the pipeline.Q: What are the benefits of a careerin the construction industry?A: The feeling of accomplishment is a bigbenefit. There is a lot of pride when you look at aconstruction project that is finished and can say,“I worked on that building,” or, “I was involvedin the building of that highway.” There is alsoa real sense of teamwork on a project. A groupof people working together can accomplishamazing things and I am fortunate enough to seethat every day in our industry. It is an industrythat cares about the people that work in it. Theworkers here in Hawai‘i take great pride in theirwork. And when you add all that together, itmakes it a very good career.Q: What are the challenges?A: It is a demanding business with completiondates for projects that have to be met. Safety isthe most important aspect of our business and itis always at the forefront. There are also a lot ofvariables that can affect business, including thingslike delivery dates for materials and price increases.Q: What personal skills areimportant in this field?A: The ability to communicate with people isprobably one of the most important.Q: What advice can you offer tostudents interested in enteringthe construction business?A: If you enjoy working with people, likeday-to-day challenges, enjoy working outsideat times and being part of a team; this is a greatbusiness to be in.

Ryan KozumaAge: 32Position: SuperintendentCompany: Kiewit Building Groupwith revenues of more than $6.2 billion last year, Kiewit Corp. isone of the largest employee-owned firms in the nation. It has completedprojects from the Arctic Circle to the Gulf of Mexico, buildinghighways, tunnels, dams, airports, energy plants and high-rises. Last yearForbes magazine named Kiewit Corp. the most admired engineeringconstruction company. Engineering News Record also consistently ranksthe 124-year-old company among the nation’s Top 10 contractors.The company’s commercial arm, the Kiewit Building Group, has been inHawai‘i for more than 50 years—its first job was helping build TriplerHospital. Local boy Ryan Kozuma joined the firm nine years ago as anintern. He was then hired as a field engineer and has since worked hisway up to project engineer and, now, superintendent.Q: Could you describe your job?A: It is my job is to oversee construction and to make sure the work is donesafely, while producing a quality product, within budget and on schedule. It isalso my responsibility to communicate with the owner or with representativesto make sure they are up to speed with the project so that we avoid anysurprises.“There are obviously manytraits any employer looks forin future employees. A fewof the qualities are honesty,drive and to be a quicklearner. At Kiewit BuildingGroup, we look for someonewho can communicateeffectively with others,applies what they learn andwho is accountable for theiractions and decisions.”Q: You also work as an estimator … can you explain whatan estimator does?A: My current position as estimator requires me to quantify differentfeatures of a project—with this information I can price the work Kiewit willperform. This involves reviewing costs from past projects as well as analyzingthe impacts of site conditions and any unique situations. I also price the workof subcontractors and suppliers. I then develop a construction schedule andcalculate the cost of building a project.Q: What projects have you worked on?A: The last two projects I worked on were for the government: one atHickam Air Force Base and one at Schofield Barracks. The project at Hickamconsisted of three operations facilities for the U.S. Air Force C-17 fleet inHawai‘i along with a 290,000-square-foot parking area. The buildings includethe flight simulator, a 15,000-square-foot building for training C-17 pilotswith a state-of-the-art C-17 cockpit replication or simulator. The squadronoperations facility is a 42,000-square-foot building for training in a classroomsetting, which is equipped with forums and an auditorium for formalpresentations. The third building is the consolidated maintenance complex.The C-17 aircraft maintenance staff will use this 25,000-square-foot SPIRIT-10

certified facility for administrative purposesas well as training.The project at Schofield Barracks willprovide the 25th Infantry Division andStryker Brigade Combat Team with an84,954-square-foot vehicle maintenancefacility and 1.77 million square feet oforganizational vehicle parking for anestimated 1,600 vehicles. The maintenancefacility is basically a Jiffy Lube on steroidswith a weld shop, four 20-ton overheadbridge cranes, compressed air lines and 135oil-dispensing guns to service and outfit theStrykers.Q: What do you enjoy aboutyour job?A: I love the problem solving aspect ofthe job—figuring out how can we buildsomething faster, better or safer. Every daythere are different issues, it is rarely exactlythe same. Still, every project faces similarchallenges and I find it interesting to try andadapt solutions from one challenge to fitanother.Q: What do you like aboutworking for Kiewit BuildingGroup?A: I really enjoy the fact that I can walkpast a project and say, “I helped build that.”Kiewit is also a great training company; itoffers many different types of classes for allaspects of construction. There are classesto help you build and manage the work aswell as how to develop people. The depthof the company’s human resources is alsovery valuable. If there is a project to be built,chances are that someone in the 124-yearold,nationwide company has built it before.Buildingmore than roads.Buildingmore than roads.Building GroupQ: What are the opportunitiesfor advancement?A: With Kiewit Building Group thereare many ways to advance—it relies a littleon timing and a lot on the individual.We typically assign responsibility earlyin an employee’s career, especially whenthe individual exhibits responsibility andcommitment.Continues on page 17Kiewit Building Group provides Hawaii with quality preconstruction,general contracting, design-build andconstruction management services. Trust your next projectto a company with an extraordinary record of success.Kiewit Building Group Inc.55 Merchant Street, Suite 1500Honolulu, HI 96813Kiewit Building Group provides Hawaii with quality preconstruction,general contracting, design-build and(808) 457-4500 kiewit.com/building

Office of Hawaiian AffairsFor 28 years, the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) has createdpolicies and programs that improve the lives and preserve the culture ofall Hawaiians. Through a mix of trust funds and state money, the agencyruns its own programs and supports many other efforts to care for thepeople, the land and the culture of Hawai‘i.OHA is sponsoring the Hawai‘i Construction Career Days through itsCommunity-Based Economic Development (CBED) grants program,which provides up to $50,000 in funding to non-profit organizationsto plan and implement sustainable economic development projects thatserve the Hawaiian community.How does OHA help high school students geton the path to a good career?OHA is not a direct service provider, but it does offer help through itspartners that receive OHA grants and technical assistance. These are someof the partners that assist students with career path choices:Students of the Hāna School Building Program applybasic math and physics skills to construct this hale.Photo: KWO ArchiveOHA is sponsoring the Hawai‘iConstruction Career Daysthrough its Community-BasedEconomic Development (CBED)grants program, which providesup to $50,000 in funding to nonprofitorganizations to plan andimplement sustainable economicdevelopment projects that servethe Hawaiian community.12Nā Pua No‘eau Center for Gifted and Talented NativeHawaiian Youth: A year-long program aimed at identifying studentstrengths and incorporating Hawaiian culture. Counseling and guidanceare given to cohorts through residential summer projects and moreintensive opportunities, including internships, mentoring, and careershadowing. Scholarships are available.College Connections Hawai‘i: Offers counseling, guidance andscholarships with the goal of getting 500 Native Hawaiians into college.Hawaiian-focused charter school funding: Each school providescounseling, guidance and university visits.Ma Ka Hana Ka ‘Ike Hāna Building Program: Provides stipends andwork study opportunities for Hāna youth. Students build communityhomes for kūpuna and help with other community shelter needs.Kōhala Intergenerational Youth Center: Provides mentorship forKōhala youth and career exploration.Pōpoho Nā Pe‘a: Career planning services to youth and adults usingKuder Career Planning Systems. Provides tangible data for programplanning.

Nā Laepua Wai‘anae Media Literacy: A partnershipwith Queen Lili‘uokalani Children’s Center in Wai‘anaeand Searider Productions to provide media literacy (video,animation, graphic design) skills training to Wai‘anae, Kapoleiand Waipahu high school youth.What are OHA’s goals for Hawai‘i’syouth?OHA’s goal is to ensure that Native Hawaiians have access toall education opportunities. Preparing for vocational careers isjust as important as preparing for college. In the last financialyear, OHA has funded these vocational education providers:Hawai‘i Building Association of Hawai‘i Kāpili Pū:Pre-Apprenticeship ProgramHawai‘i Technology Institute: Career Options ProgramWindward Community College: Certified Nurses AidProgramWai‘anae Maritime AcademyMarimed FoundationI am interested in a career but I needtraining and I don’t have the cash to payfor it. Can OHA help?The Economic Development Hale at OHA helps qualifiedborrowers take advantage of career enhancement opportunitiesor educational opportunities through its two loan programs—the Consumer Micro Loan Program and the OHA MālamaLoan Program.The Consumer Micro Loan Program helps Hawaiians withcareer enhancement opportunities, such as CDL licensing,contractor’s exam fees or beauty school. Loans of up to $7,500are available at a fixed 5 percent interest-rate.OHA’s Mālama Loan is another option for educational loansbetween $2,500 and $75,000—you can read more about thisloan in the last answer of this Q&A.Both of these loan programs consider your credit history andyour debt-to-income ratio in order to determine your eligibility,and not everyone will qualify.Your local county and state government may offer otherprograms to help you find or finance training opportunities.One example is O‘ahu Worklinks at www.honolulu-usa.com.Click on the “find jobs” tab near the top-right of the page.How does OHA work with otherorganizations in the community to helpNative Hawaiians get jobs and learnskills about managing their money?One way that OHA helps Hawaiians is by supportingorganizations and agencies that can provide direct serviceto Hawaiians. For example, Alu Like is a non-profit agency,supported in part by OHA, that assists Native Hawaiian youthand adults on all islands in their efforts to achieve social andeconomic self-sufficiency.Just a few of the programs it offers are employment and trainingservices; financial literacy and money management education;individual development accounts; advocacy support; and casemanagement services.Alu Like is a great resource; you can find out more atwww.alulike.org.What if I want to start my own company—can OHA help?OHA provides funds to many start-up entrepreneurs throughits OHA Mālama Loan, which is administered in partnershipwith First Hawaiian Bank. Qualified Native Hawaiian businessowners and aspiring business owners can apply for up to $75,000to help them start or expand their business.A few things to know about the Mālama Loan Program:1) Since it is a loan program, credit is a large factor indetermining your eligibility and oftentimes young peoplehave very little or no credit. This does not necessarily meanyou are ineligible, but you may need an eligible co-signerwho can guarantee the loan for you. This person needs tohave good credit, low debt-to-income ratio and strong assets.If your credit is in a certain range, you may also qualify forfree credit counseling to help you prepare for future financialopportunities.2) If you will be borrowing $25,000 or more for your business,you will need to have some kind of collateral—usually in theform of real estate—to secure the loan.3) You can get an application at any First Hawaiian BankBranch or online at www.fhb.com. A Mālama Loan can be usedfor business, education or home improvement purposes, so besure to use the relevant application.In addition to the Mālama Loan, OHA staff can providereferrals to partner agencies that provide technical assistance,which is sometimes free or low-cost, to help you get started or tostrengthen and improve your existing business. You can contactRobert Crowell at 594-1924 for more information.Photo courtesy of Hawaii Japan Tourism (HTH)13

TRADE SECRETS: Hawai‘i Carpenters UnionBrains and brawn—that’syour carpenter.When you’re a carpenter, youneed to be creative and skillful as well asphysically able to handle all the lifting,climbing and hefting.“You need to be smart and strong,” saysRon Taketa, the financial secretary andbusiness representative for the Hawai‘iCarpenters Union, Local 745. “It is a veryskilled craft and it takes years of trainingand education and on-the-job experiencein order to become a journeymancarpenter.”While math is probably the mostimportant subject, Taketa encourages highschool students to focus on all their classes,whether it’s English, history or science.“When you get on the worksite, you’reworking with a team of other carpenters andpeople from other trades, so communicationskills are important, interpersonal skills areimportant, being able to listen and learn isimportant,” he says.To enter the union’s apprenticeshipprogram you need your high schooldiploma or equivalent, and to pass an8th-grade math test. The apprenticeshiplasts four years, during which time youearn money on the job during the weekand take a half-day of class on Saturdays ata community college. The class time coversthe academics such as math and blueprintreadingas well as hands-on work learningto use the tools of the trade.After completing the apprenticeship, ajourneyman can earn more than whitecollarworkers with advanced degrees,Taketa points out. The journeyman wageis $36.50 an hour with a full benefitpackage on top. That can add up to ayearly pay packet of $116,000.You do need to be aware that carpentryis a business that goes with the ebb andflow of the economy, so along with thepeaks, there are down times and periodsof layoffs. But the job satisfaction is alwaysthere, Taketa says.“It’s a good industry,” he says. “We buildthings of value to the community. We takethe plans and we turn them into reality.I know a lot of carpenters who are veryproud of the structures they have builtthat are serving the community.”Imagine a roomwith over half a million dollarsworth of tools and equipment.FKS Rentals and Sales is the one-stop-shop where customers rent, buy,or have their construction tools and equipment serviced.14OAHU633 Kakoi StreetHonolulu, Hawaii 96819Ph: (808) 836-2961Fax: (808) 833-0976www.fksrentals.comMAUI441 Alamaha StreetKahului, Maui 96732Ph: (808) 871-7171Fax (808) 871-5839

Hawaiian Cement 1-2h-Construc 8/25/08 2:29 PM Page 1TRADE SECRETS: Operating Engineers Hawai‘iThe first workers on ajob site are usually the operatingengineers. These are the workerswho operate the heavy equipment like thecranes, bulldozers and loaders.“The big toys,” says Pane Meatoga with alaugh. After working in the field himselffor 30 years, Meatoga now heads upOperating Engineers Hawai‘i.“What I really like is you can seesomething change,” Meatoga says. “From araw piece of land, you turn it into a schoolbuilding, an office building, shops, even ahome for a family.”Meatoga encourages high schoolstudents to take more than the minimumrequirements for math and to also focuson reading and comprehension.“And the big thing they need to work on,which is not covered in school, is a goodattitude,” he adds.“You should also know that the industry“And the bigthing theyneed to workon, which isnot coveredin school, is agood attitude.”Pane Meatogagoes up and down so it’s not like you’reworking in a salaried office job,” he says.“When the job is done, you’re doneworking until the next job comes along.We tell our apprentices to put moneyaway because the rainy days will come.”The job is not as physically challengingas that of the guy on the ground with theshovel, but operating engineers need to bein top physical and mental condition.“You’re on these big pieces of equipment,so your co-workers around you, theirlives are in your hands,” Meatoga says.“If you make a wrong move, it could costsomeone’s life.”The union is currently upgrading its entryrequirements, but the core requirementsare a high school diploma or equivalent,current driver’s license and to be 18 yearsor older.Training for construction equipmentoperators includes 6,000 hours ofon-the-job training and 440 hours ofsupplemental-related training in Kahuku,where the union has what Meatogacalls “one of the Cadillac versions ofapprenticeship schools.”Depending on the amount of workavailable, it can take anywhere from twoand-a-halfto four years to complete thosehours.Along with learning how to operate theheavy equipment, apprentices learn howto read blueprints, make calculations andconceptualize the 3D view of the worksite.The union even works with its apprenticeson basic life skills; things that will helpthem build a steady career and life.Hawaiian Cement is proud to supportthe 2008 Hawaii ConstructionCareer DaysREADY’N STEADYAt Hawaiian Cementour customerscome first!CONCRETE/AGGREGATE DIVISION99-1300 Halawa Valley St., Aiea, HI 96701(808) 483-3300 F (808) 486-7587

TRADE SECRETS: Hawai‘i Sheet Metal Workers Training FundSheet metal workers arelike sculptors. They bend, shape,roll and cut pieces of metal tocreate the pieces that go into everythingfrom air conditioning systems todownspouts to metal ornaments. “You’relike a craftsman,” says Rick Paulino.Paulino heads up the apprenticeshipprogram for the Hawai‘i Sheet MetalWorkers Training Fund. The trainingprogram lasts five years, during whichtime you accumulate 10,000 hours on thejob—which is paid—and 1,050 hoursin class. Honolulu Community Collegeoffers the classes, which cover everythingfrom the history of sheet metal work tosafety and blueprint reading.You’ve got to be good at math. Whilecalculators take away a lot of the mentalcalculation, Paulino says you still needto understand the concepts behind thenumbers. Useful classes in high schoolare algebra, geometry, practical physics,Learn how to use a nailgun and read a blueprint beforeyou even graduate from high school.At the Construction Academy, high schoolstudents are getting hands-on experienceand a great start in the industry.Founded in 2004, the academy offers highschool level classes as part of the Industrial& Engineering career pathway—one ofthe six College and Technical Education(CTE) pathways formed by the state’sDepartment of Education (DOE).Students can enter the academy as early astheir freshmanyear or as lateas their senioryear.mechanical drawing and metal shop.“I also tell students to take as muchEnglish as they can,” Paulino says.“Eventually, when you’re the front manof the company, you’ve got to know howto speak with the clients.”“It pays well and there’sa pot of gold at the endof your career.”A good work ethic and teamworkare other essentials. It’s an eight-hourworkday that starts at 7 a.m. You’reoften outside in the heat or working incramped spaces. Patience and care arevital to keep everyone safe on the job.“Like anything with construction, it’sdangerous, you get dirty, you’re in the sun,”Paulino says. But the rewards come fromthe satisfaction of a job well done and ahealthy paycheck at the end of the day.TRADE SECRETS: Hawai‘i Construction AcademyThis year, 16 high schools on O‘ahu havepartnered with Honolulu CommunityCollege and about 950 students areenrolled. Working with a DOE teacherand a HCC instructor, they learn basicsafety, how to operate tools, how tomeasure (twice!) and the right way tohammer a nail. They also explore differentcareers within the construction industry.At the end of the course, students buildreal-world projects such as children’splayhouses and storage sheds. Thishands-on approach requires studentsto apply skills in math, communication,construction technology, problem solvingand, most importantly, teamwork.Students earn elective credits forthe classes and have thechance to earn collegecredit, too.“It’s so hands-on,” saysacademy counselorErica Balbag-Gerard.“It pays well and there’s a pot of gold atthe end of your career,” Paulino says.Apprentices start out earning $12.32 anhour; a supervisor can make $38.50 anhour. On top of that, sheet metal workersget $22.24 an hour in fringe benefits,which includes your pension, medicaland so on.There are many opportunities foradvancement and movement into otherfacets of the job. A journeyman can workhis or her way up to become a foremanor supervisor. You can become a detailer(someone who works out exactly whatpieces are needed based on a set ofdrawings) or a computer-assisted-designoperator, or you can get into testing andbalancing or residential installation.“The possibilities are endless,”Paulino says.“The students get a real kick out ofoperating the tools, but they’re alsolooking at a piece of wood beingtransformed into something that haseveryday use.”The academy also offers a draftingtechnology class that teaches blueprintreading and design software. An electricityand electronics class is also in the pipeline.Academy students benefit from the built-incounseling services that Balbag-Gerardprovides. She covers the admissions processfor schools and apprenticeship programs.Students are shown how to write coverletters, resumes and how to put their bestfoot forward at interviews. Speakers fromthe different unions are also invited to talkto students about their jobs and take themon fieldtrips to see the industry in action.“These classes give students a real sense ofwhat the job is like,” Balbag-Gerard says.“It also opens them up to other careers inthe industry that they might not think ofat first.”16Photo: PacificResourcePartnershipFor more information on participatingschools, call.

Continued from page 11Q: What can someone in yourprofession expect to earn?A: An entry-level engineer withexperience of two years or less canexpect to earn in the range of $45,000 to$65,000, depending on their experienceand skill set.Q: What is your education andtraining background?A: I have a Bachelors of Science inCivil Engineering from the University ofArizona. Before that I went to ‘ĀhuimanuElementary, King Intermediate andPunahou.Q: How does your backgroundin engineering help yourwork as a superintendent?A: I believe my engineering backgroundhelps a little with the technologicalunderstanding of calculations; howevercollege helped me more to developproblem-solving skills.Q: What personal skills do youneed in your profession?A: There are obviously many traits anyemployer looks for in future employees.A few of the qualities are honesty, driveand to be a quick learner. At KiewitBuilding Group, we look for someonewho can communicate effectively withothers, applies what they learn and whois accountable for their actions anddecisions.Q: What advice can you offerto students interestedin entering the profession?A: When applying to colleges, try toget accepted into the school’s College ofEngineering. Contact Kiewit BuildingGroup for our internship program—thiscan be done as early as freshman year. Asklots of questions; when you understandthe “why” you can apply it to all aspects ofthe job. But, most importantly, you needto be passionate about construction.

Career BlueprintWhere are you going?Create your own plan of action in the construction industry.The big move to decide where you’re headed after high school usuallykicks into high gear in your junior year, but well before then youcan start thinking about the direction you might like to go. Whatinterests you? What skills do you have? What are your goals?* There are numerous Web sites where you can match your personalqualities with potential occupations. Try careerconnections.hawaii.edu or careerkokua.org.* Talk to your high school career transition counselor.* Take advantage of career fairs and career exploration days—including this year’s Hawai‘i Construction Career Days (Oct. 23 and24)—and remember, there is no such thing as a dumb question.18Research it.When you find something that peaks your interest, dig deeper. If youthink construction is the place for you, take some time to explore allthe different occupations. It’s a broad industry.* Explore industry and union Web sites to learn more about thedifferent fields.* Check out the occupation at www.hiwi.org, where you cancompare wages and employment forecasts.* Find out if there are options for internships or career shadowing.* Get a part-time job or volunteer in the business. You may not beable to do the job of a carpenter, but you could be an errand or stockperson and learn huge amounts about the business. It will also lookgood on your resume as, in fact, will any work experience, whetherit’s flipping burgers or hammering nails.Don’t get left on the bench.In apprenticeship programs, there is something called “the bench.”It’s an imaginary waiting place where high-scoring applicants areplaced on one end and low-scoring applicants are placed on the otherend. The high-scorers move on to apprenticeships and work; the lowscorers get left on the bench.So don’t dis’ your classes. You need your high school diploma orGED. That algebra class is important. And so is English. Everyemployer wants employees with good communication skills. Inthe construction industry, you don’t just pound nails, you need toPhoto: Pacific Resource PartnershipPhoto: Actus Lend Lease“What you need to understand is thatmany of the apprenticeship programsare very selective and they require youto take a test, and for many of themthis is a math test. They also interviewtheir applicants, so English becomes avery important subject to pay attentionto in school. You can’t just walk into aninterview and say, Hey, brah!”— Erica Balbag-Gerard, Construction Academycounselor

communicate with a big and busy team, youneed to talk to clients and, when you becomethe boss, you need to write reports.“The key is to start exploringearly.”- Carol Kagimoto, job placementcoordinator, Honolulu CommunityCollege Career & EmploymentCenterGetting in the door.Ah, yes. The resume, the cover letter and thejob interview. Does anyone really enjoy thispart of job seeking? Learn the simple keypoints for each of these, though, and you’ll beoff to a great start.The University of Hawai‘i CareerConnections Web site, careerconnections.hawaii.edu, offers an interactive guidefor each step. This award-winning site issuper-interactive and very user-friendly.It will take you through everything fromcareer exploration to writing a great coverletter and resume. Need to practice thoseinterview skills? Try the über-efficient virtualinterviewer on the Web site.“Time again, industryleaders say that thekey skills they need inyoung workers are goodcommunication skills andthe ability to work creativelyas part of a team. They’relooking for people who cancontribute on day one andwho can grow and learn newskills over time.”— Kyle Chock, ED, The PacificResource PartnershipOnce you’re there.An outstanding concern of employers todayis work ethics. It’s simple stuff: come to workon time, call ahead if you’re going to be outsick, dress appropriately, don’t talk on yourcell phone all day. It may sound simple, but it’simportant and can make all the difference inyour career.“More and more, employers are looking for thesoft skills. They can teach you the trade, but theycan’t teach you to have a positive attitude.”— Carol Kagimoto, job placement coordinator, HonoluluCommunity College Career & Employment CenterWould you rathersit in a classroom orlearn to build one?Enrolling in the Construction Academygives you the chance to do all kinds ofhands-on learning. By taking classes such ascarpentry and welding, you’ll gain new skillsthat you can use toward a career. Aftergraduation, you could be ready for anapprenticeship or the opportunity to continuelearning about a facet of the constructionindustry that you enjoy. If you’re interestedin building your future, contact your schoolcounselor.Photo: Pacific Resource Partnership1001 Bishop Street • ASB Tower, Suite 1501 • Honolulu, HI 96813 • (808) 528-5557 • www.prp-hawaii.com

BUILDINGA CAREERYou know you’d like to work in the constructionindustry, but how do you get in the door? On thefollowing pages, you’ll find some of the differenttracks that you can pursue, from university degrees toapprenticeship training programs.The University of Hawai‘i SystemUH offers numerous opportunitiesacross the Islands for thoseinterested in a career in theconstruction industry.20ARCHITECTUREUniversity of Hawai‘i at Mā noa: Doctor ofArchitectureARCHITECTURAL ENGINEERING &CAD TECHNOLOGYHonolulu Community College: Certificate ofAchievement, Associate in Science-CollegeTransferHawai‘i Community College: Associate inApplied ScienceCARPENTRY TECHNOLOGYHonolulu Community College: Associate inApplied Science, Certificate of AchievementKaua‘i Community College: Associate inApplied Science, Certificate of AchievementHawai‘i Community College: Associate inApplied Science, Certificate of AchievementCIVIL ENGINEERINGUniversity of Hawai‘i at Mā noa: Master ofScience, Doctor of Philosophy, Bachelor ofScienceELECTRICAL INSTALLATION &MAINTENANCE TECHNOLOGYHonolulu Community College: Associate inApplied Science, Certificate of AchievementHawai‘i Community College: Associate inApplied Science, Certificate of AchievementKaua‘i Community College: Certificate ofCompletion, Associate in Applied Science,Certificate of AchievementPhoto: A.C. Kobayashi/Kiewit Building GroupPhoto: Pacific Resource PartnershipFACILITIES ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGYKaua‘i Community College: Certificate ofCompletionPLANNINGUniversity of Hawai‘i at Mā noa: GraduateCertificateUniversity of Hawai‘i at Hilo: UndergraduateCertificateREFRIGERATION & AIR CONDITIONINGTECHNOLOGYHonolulu Community College: Associate inApplied Science, Certificate of AchievementSHEET METAL & PLASTICS TECHNOLOGYHonolulu Community College: Associate inApplied Science, Certificate of AchievementSUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTIONTECHNOLOGYMaui Community College: Associate inApplied Science, Certificate of Achievement,Certificate of CompletionWELDING TECHNOLOGYHonolulu Community College: Certificateof Completion, Associate in Applied Science,Certificate of Achievement

Trade Union ApprenticeshipProgramsBecoming an apprentice canoffer the best of both worlds.You’re out in the workforce— andearning a paycheck—while youcomplete your course of study.Bricklayers & Allied CraftworkersLocal 1 of Hawai‘i InternationalPhone: 845-5949Web: www.hawaiimasonsunion.comCELEBRATING 29 YEARS OFQUALITY CONSTRUCTIONGroup Builders, Inc.General & Specialty ContractorThe Largest Finishing Contractorin the State of HawaiiCarpenters and Joiners of America,United Brotherhood of Local 745Phone: 848-0794Web: www.local745.comCarpet, Linoleum and Soft Tile,Local 926Phone: 943-9665Web: www.dc50.orgDry Wall Tapers, Finishers and AlliedWorkers Local 1944Web: www.dc50.orgElectrical Workers (IBEW) Local 1186Phone: 847-0629Web: www.hawaiielectricians.comAd 1 8/15/08 9:58 AM Page 1Glaziers, Architectural Metal and GlassWorkers Local 1889Phone: 944-8515Web: www.dc50.orgInternational Union of Painters andAllied Trades Local 1791Phone: 947-6606Web: www.dc50.orgIron Workers Union, InternationalAssociation of Bridge, Structural andOrnamental Shopmen’s Local 625Phone: 671-4344Web: www.ironworkers.orgLaborer’s International Union ofNorth America Local 368Phone: 455-7979Web: www.local368.orgOperating Engineers LocalUnion 3 District 17Phone: 845-7871www.oe3.org/trainingRoofers, Waterproofers andAllied Workers Local 221Phone: 847-5757Sheet Metal Workers InternationalAssociation Local 293Phone: 841-6106Continues on page 22Bulldozers. Excavators. Loaders.It’s just another day at the office.At First Hawaiian Bank, we’re proud to support HawaiiConstruction Career Days as they pave the way forfuture generations.fhb.comMember FDIC

WELCOME, HAWAIICONSTRUCTIONCAREER DAYSPARTICIPANTS!WE ENCOURAGEYOU TO JOINUS IN THECONSTRUCTIONINDUSTRYContinued from page 21Windward Community CollegeEmployment Training CenterETC provides short-term, careerfocusededucation and training withthe goal of preparing students for theworkplace. The classes mix lectureswith demonstration and hands-ontraining. Along with the trade skills,the construction program focuseson safety, teamwork and goodjob performance. Counseling andjob assistance services are alsoavailable.FACILITIES MAINTENANCE/CONSTRUCTIONCourse length: 8 weeksLocation: Windward Community CollegeGoal: Learn basic construction andfacilities maintenance skills.What you’ll cover:* Rough carpentry* Electricity* Plumbing* Drywall* Integrated academics languagedevelopment* Math skills* OSHA outreach course on safetypractices for the general industryINTRODUCTION TO CONSTRUCTIONOCCUPATIONSCourse length: 10 weeksLocation: Kalaeloa(Barbers Point Naval Station)Goal: Prepare for careers in variousareas of the construction industry.What you’ll cover:* Rough carpentry* Finish carpentry* Electricity* Plumbing* Drywall* Painting* Masonry* Integrated academics languagedevelopment* Math skillsPhone: 386-5886 or 371-0397Web: http://etc.hawaii.eduConstruction Training Centerof the PacificThe construction training center isa one-stop comprehensive trainingand education resource center. It isthe workforce development arm ofthe Building Industry Associationof Hawai‘i. The center providesacademic and vocational training,career counseling, job awarenessand other industry supportservices for participants 18 yearsand older.Classes are currently held atvarious high schools as part of theadult education program, but thecenter is in the final design phasefor a new facility in Waipahu.WHAT’S OFFERED:Pre-apprenticeship constructiontrainingContinuing education coursesThe Pre-apprenticeship TrainingProgram (PACT) is a continuingeducation program that givesparticipants an overview of theopportunities and requirements formore than 150 different jobs. It providescareer readiness training so graduatescan be competitive for entry-levelpositions in apprenticeship programs.Participants also have the opportunityto earn nationally recognizedcertificates.Classes are held on evenings andSaturdays.Phone: 847-4666Web: www.biahawaii.org;click on the Education tab.1176 SAND ISLAND PKWY.HONOLULU, HI 96819-4346PHONE: 808-843-0500Photos: Actus Lend Lease

Honolulu Community CollegeCareer and Technical EducationprogramsHonolulu Community College (HCC)is one of the major hubs for careerand technical training in Hawai‘i.Many of the facilities in the Careerand Technical Education programare world class and all are state ofthe art. Industry advisory committeesensure that the training studentsreceive is current and up-to-theminutefor the workforce they willbe entering. HCC also providesinstruction to those who areapprenticing in the different trades.THE PROGRAMSApplied Trades: Gives students in stateor federally approved apprenticeshipprograms the opportunity to attain anAssociate Degree in Applied Science.Architectural, Engineering, and CADTechnologies: Prepares students forimmediate employment as architecturalor engineering drawing technicians. Alsoto prepare for employment in buildingconstruction, interior design drawing,kitchen and bath design drawing,construction supervision, etc.Carpentry Technology: Preparationfor four-year indentured carpentryapprenticeship.Electrical Installation and MaintenanceTechnology: Gives students the entry-levelknowledge and skills to begin a career.Industrial Education: Preparation forindustrial arts teachers in the Departmentof Education.Occupational and Environmental SafetyManagement: Graduates are qualifiedto work as occupational safety andhealth inspectors, safety officers andenvironmental technicians in manydifferent industries.Sheet Metal and Plastics Technology:Preparation for a sheet metalapprenticeship.Welding Technology: Graduates meet theminimum skill standards for entry-levelwelders.Web: http://tech.honolulu.hawaii.edu/index.html

Helping to buildHawaii since 1940PAU HANA PAYWorkers in the construction industry work hard, butthey also get paid well—more than the average Hawai‘iemployee. Here’s a look at the wage estimates for justsome of the jobs out there.Mean hourly Mean annualAll occupations in Hawai‘i $19.33 $40,200Architects, except landscaping $31.88 $66,310and navalBrickmasons & blockmasons $27.83 $57,890Carpenters $27.57 $57,350Cement masons & concrete finishers $27.05 $56,270Civil engineers $34.48 $71,710Construction laborer $21.28 $44,270Construction managers $41.26 $85,830Drywall & ceiling tile installers $26.15 $54,380Electrician $28.36 $59,000Operating engineers & other $30.07 $62,550construction equipment operatorsPainters, construction & $22.27 $46,330maintenanceWelcome toHawaii’sConstructionCareer Day!Roofers $21.26 $44,220Sheet metal workers $25.43 $52,900Supervisors, construction and $37.48 $77,950extraction workersTile & marble setters $26.21 $54,520Source: May 2007 State Occupational Employment and WageEstimates for Hawai‘i from the U.S. Department of Labor’sBureau of Labor Statistics.24Photo: Pacific Resource Partnership

HAWAII CONSTRUCTIONCAREER DAYSOctober 23 and 24, 2008Honolulu Community College847 Dillingham Boulevard, Honolulu, Hawai‘iAGENDA8:30a.m. to 9:00 a.m.9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Session OneRegistration10:00 a.m. to 10:10 a.m. Passing TimeGroup A: Heavy EquipmentGroup B: Educational ExhibitorsGroup C: Construction Trades10:10 a.m. to 11:10 a.m. Session Two11:10 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. Passing TimeGroup B: Heavy EquipmentGroup C: Educational ExhibitorsGroup A: Construction Trades11:20 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. Session Three12:20 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Bento LunchGroup C: Heavy EquipmentGroup A: Educational ExhibitorsGroup B: Construction Trades1:00 p.m. Return to School