Dylan Andes

🌟 Exciting Opportunity for Construction Students in Florida! 🌟 We are thrilled to introduce the IIBEC Florida 2024 Scholarship Program, aimed at supporting students pursuing construction-related degrees in Florida. This scholarship is designed to foster education and help cultivate future professionals in the construction industry. Who Can Apply? Florida residents enrolled in construction-related trade or degree programs with at least one term remaining. Students committed to a career in construction and eager to explore the impact of technology like AI on sustainability in the industry. Scholarship Details: 🏆 Awards range from $1,500 to $3,000. 📅 Application Deadline: June 30th. Winners announced by August 1st, with funds disbursed by August 15th. Application Requirements: -Two professor references. -Unofficial transcripts. -A face-to-face panel interview for finalists. An essay on leveraging AI in roofing for enhanced sustainability. This is a non-renewable scholarship with the opportunity to reapply annually. For more details on how to apply, please refer to the flyer attached. Let’s help support the next generation of construction professionals! Please share this post with potential candidates or anyone in your network who could benefit from this scholarship. Together, we can help build a brighter future. #ConstructionEducation #ScholarshipOpportunity #FutureBuilders #SustainabilityInConstruction #IIBECFlorida

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🌟 Exciting Opportunity for Construction Students in Florida! 🌟 We are thrilled to introduce the IIBEC Florida 2024 Scholarship Program, aimed at supporting students pursuing construction-related degrees in Florida. This scholarship is designed to foster education and help cultivate future professionals in the construction industry. Who Can Apply? Florida residents enrolled in construction-related trade or degree programs with at least one term remaining. Students committed to a career in construction and eager to explore the impact of technology like AI on sustainability in the industry. Scholarship Details: 🏆 Awards range from $1,500 to $3,000. 📅 Application Deadline: June 30th. Winners announced by August 1st, with funds disbursed by August 15th. Application Requirements: Two professor references. Unofficial transcripts. A face-to-face panel interview for finalists. An essay on leveraging AI in roofing for enhanced sustainability. This is a non-renewable scholarship with the opportunity to reapply annually. For more details on how to apply, please refer to the flyer attached [Link to flyer]. Let’s help support the next generation of construction professionals! Please share this post with potential candidates or anyone in your network who could benefit from this scholarship. Together, we can help build a brighter future. #ConstructionEducation #ScholarshipOpportunity #FutureBuilders #SustainabilityInConstruction #IIBECFlorida

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Big thanks to Rachel Ebner and Corinne Pohland for visiting the Thornton Tomasetti Tampa office today! Rachel and Corinne are the Business Development Manager and Marketing & Administrative Manager respectively with ARCO/Murray Construction Company. Today they discussed their favorite BD techniques, how to stand out to clients, and the best opportunities to make connections. The conversation was very enlightening and inspiring! Here are some nice takeaways from it: 1. Participate in as many networking events and 1-1 meeting opportunities as possible. Get involved with organizations (in your industry or not). Connections are important even if they are not potential clients. Any connection can refer you to potential clients. 2. Have an effective 1 min elevator pitch ready at all times. 3. Treat people the way you want to be treated, and they will like you and remember you. #AECindustry #BussinessDevelopment #StructuralEngineering #ForensicsEngineering #Networking

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As some of you are aware I serve as the lead Structures Specialist (StS) for the State of Florida's Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) engineering cadre. I have had the privilege to serve as an StS for the last 10 years, being deployed to seven separate hurricane events as well as the Champlain Tower (Surfside) collapse. I am writing today because the State of Florida's US&R teams, primarily composed of firefighters trained in technical rescue, are in need of engineering advisors to support them on search and rescue missions. Much of our work involves performing emergency evaluations of structures following hurricane events, although we are also needed anytime a building has collapsed or is in danger of collapse due to a natural or man-made disaster. It's not a small commitment--prospective StS applicants need to be endorsed by a rescue team, and then they go to California for a solid weeks' worth of training with the US Army Corps of Engineers. Following that they are attached to a team. Even after the initial training, the most effective StS will continue training with their respective fire departments and go on ride-alongs with the tech rescue firefighters to bolster relationships. Although we do get reimbursed for deployments, this is not a role that you take on for money. It's a lot of work, with serious potential for bodily or mental harm. But it's also fun (in some ways), and can come with a sense of satisfaction from serving our state and nation in times of need. In some ways it is a thankless job--but if we don't step up then who will? Prior military service is a plus, but it's definitely not required. Really the biggest requirements are the ability to check your ego, endure physical discomfort, be fit enough to keep up with firefighters, and be willing to serve on the front lines of a disaster. It's not for everyone, but I hope there may be someone who thinks they are up for the challenge. Right now we have immediate openings for the North-Central Florida team based in Ocala / Marion County. Anyone based in Tampa Bay or Orlando could do this, as they just need to live within 2 hours drive time of the team's base. We also potentially have openings in other areas of the state depending on where someone lives. For more information on the program, please see the following link:  https://lnkd.in/eEArYdsU Here is an article recently published by Engineering Florida Magazine. The article starts on Page 44. https://lnkd.in/eg5R2Eb5 Please feel free to share this post. The more Florida engineers we can reach, the better.

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Working in construction in Florida has been an incredible journey. Here are some key takeaways that I believe make all the difference: 1. Best Practices Matter 🛠️ Using the right materials and techniques for Florida's unique climate ensures our buildings stand the test of time. It’s all about quality and safety. 2. Communication is Key 📞 Keeping everyone in the loop makes a huge difference. Clear and regular communication helps our team work smoothly and efficiently. 3. Respecting the Environment 🌿 Florida's natural beauty is precious. We strive to use eco-friendly practices to protect our surroundings while building for the future. 4. Safety First, Always 🦺 Making sure our team goes home safe every day is our top priority. Continuous training and safety measures are non-negotiable. 5. Leadership and Teamwork 💪 Great projects come from great teams. Supporting and motivating each other leads to amazing results. Proud to be part of this industry and excited about what we’re building together in Florida. Let’s keep raising the bar! #Construction #ProjectManagement #TeamLeadership #BestPractices #FloridaConstruction

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How Accurate Estimating Made a Difference in a $30MM+ Project Concrete estimation isn’t just about numbers—it’s about precision, timing, and building trust. Recently, we had the opportunity to work on the Burlington Post II, a $30MM+ new construction, mid-rise, affordable housing community in St. Petersburg, Florida. The complexity of the project demanded accuracy and clear communication from the start. The Challenge: The project presented some unique hurdles: - Complex Structures: From foundations to elevated slabs and retaining walls, every detail required precise estimation. - Time Pressure: The client needed a quick turnaround to stay competitive in the bidding process. - Budget Concerns: With fluctuating material costs, controlling the budget without compromising the quality was essential. Our Approach: We knew this project needed more than just a standard estimate. It required careful planning, clear communication, and a focus on both the big picture and the finer details. - Accurate, Detailed Takeoffs: Every cubic yard of concrete and a ton of rebar was accounted for. By breaking down the various elements—pad footings, slabs, and more—we ensured nothing was left to chance. - Visual Clarity: We provided color-coded marked plans that made it easy for the client to visualize the scope of work. This approach improved collaboration and transparency across the entire team. - Contingency Planning: We incorporated room for material cost fluctuations, so the client had a buffer for potential changes without risking the overall budget. The Results: Precision: Our estimate was within 2% of the final costs, giving the client the confidence they needed to move forward. - Timely Delivery: Despite the tight schedule, we delivered ahead of time, allowing the client to submit their bid without delays. - Streamlined Communication: The color-coded plans made it easier to communicate across the teams, leading to fewer miscommunications and smoother coordination. Even GC were briefed using those marked plans. What This Taught Us: Every project has its own set of challenges. For us, it’s not just about delivering an estimate—it’s about ensuring that our clients have the clarity they need to make informed decisions. When the estimate is right, everything else falls into place: timelines, budgets, and trust. Have you ever faced challenges with estimating in complex projects? How do you manage those uncertainties? #ConcreteEstimation #ConstructionProject #Collaboration #PrecisionMatters #EstimatingChallenges #ProjectManagement

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As contractors scale from $1M to $3M to $10M and beyond, the strategies that worked early on often fail at higher levels. Excerpt From: https://lnkd.in/gvyF4XJM Understanding Growth in Construction: Floors and Ceilings: https://lnkd.in/giVKueSt Business of Building Podcast: https://lnkd.in/gx_dkVk8 Each new phase requires a shift in systems, resources, and mindset. The "ceiling" of your current level becomes the "floor" of the next. To sustain growth, leaders must address evolving needs in areas like staffing, purchasing, and operations, especially when growing from $10M to $30M—a leap that transforms the business threefold. Sue Weiler-Doke D. Brown Management #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipStrategies #ScalingBusiness #TeamManagement #ConstructionIndustry #OperationalStrategies #LeadershipTips

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Hey! Today we’re in Florida visiting a contractor and friend who recently completed a renovation without obtaining the required permits. As part of the process to legalize the work, we are conducting a site visit to create an "as-built" drawing. An "as-built" drawing is a set of updated plans that accurately reflect all the modifications made during the renovation, including any changes that deviate from the original design. These drawings are critical for submitting to the local building department to ensure the renovation complies with current codes and regulations. Follow along as we document the current conditions of the property, take precise measurements, and prepare the necessary plans to help our client resolve their permit situation. This is a crucial step in bringing unpermitted work into compliance with municipal requirements, ensuring the safety and legality of the structure. Jupiter Engineering #Renovation #AsBuiltDrawings #SiteVisit #BuildingCompliance #HomeInspections #PermitProcess

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🌍 **Join Us in Supporting Mauro Rosales and Balfour Beatty South Florida for Bridges to Prosperity!** 🌍 I am proud to share that my friend and colleague Mauro Rosales will be traveling to Rwanda to represent Balfour Beatty South Florida in partnership with **Bridges to Prosperity (B2P)**, a nonprofit dedicated to connecting rural communities through pedestrian trailbridges. These bridges provide life-changing connectivity, improving access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. 🏗️ The impact of these bridges is enormous. A recent study from the University of Notre Dame found that bridge connectivity increases farm profits by 75%, labor market income by 36%, and household income by 30%. Since its foundation, B2P has built over 450 bridges, positively impacting more than 1.5 million people across 21 countries. Mauro’s mission in Rwanda will help construct a trailbridge that can transform entire communities. These bridges are cost-effective, durable, and safe, providing critical infrastructure for remote areas. ✨ **How You Can Help:** We are seeking sponsorship and support for Mauro’s efforts. By contributing, you’ll be helping to build a better future for rural communities that depend on these bridges for basic needs. Every bit of support goes a long way in making a lasting impact. Please consider contributing to this incredible cause and sharing this post with your networks! Together, we can make a meaningful difference. #BridgeToProsperity #RuralDevelopment #InfrastructureForGood #BalfourBeatty #SocialImpact #SupportTheCause

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The construction industry has become this. The vast majority of job sites have this established business model. This has created an industry that is not appealing for young people to begin a career into! Think about it! Press release: United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of two indictments charging Eduardo Anibal Escobar (44), Carlos Alberto Rodriguez (45), Adelmy Tejada (56), Rene Mauricio Escobar (53), and Juana Nelida Escobar (45), all residents of Orlando, with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit tax fraud. Each wire fraud count carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and each tax fraud count carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison. The indictments also notify the defendants that the United States intends to seek forfeiture of a total of at least $19 million as well as five residential properties located in Orlando, which are proceeds of the alleged wire fraud offenses. According to the indictment, the defendants established companies that purported to supply labor for construction contractors. Florida law requires any business that engages in construction work to secure and maintain workers’ compensation insurance. The defendants applied for workers’ compensation insurance policies to cover a few employees and a minimal payroll. The defendants then entered into agreements with construction work crews, often consisting of undocumented aliens, pursuant to which the defendants submitted paperwork to construction contractors to obtain work for the work crews, falsely representing that the workers were the companies’ employees. The workers then performed construction work under the supervision and direction of the contractors. The contractors wrote payroll checks to the defendants’ companies for this work and provided the checks to work crew leaders. The checks were deposited into bank accounts in the name of the defendants’ companies and the defendants withdrew cash, and sometimes wrote checks, for the workers’ pay and provided the cash and checks to the work crew leaders. However, before turning over the payroll, the defendants deducted a 6% to 8% fee for their services. The funneling of payroll from the contractors to the work crews in this way allowed the contractors and the work crews to disclaim responsibility for ensuring that required payroll taxes were paid, that adequate workers’ compensation insurance was provided, and that the workers were legally authorized to work in the United States. During the period of the alleged conspiracy, the defendants deposited more than 46,000 payroll checks totaling more than $292 million, of which the defendants kept at least $19 million in fees. No one—neither the contractors nor the work crews nor the defendants or their companies—remitted payroll taxes, such as Social Security and Medicare taxes and federal income tax, to the IRS. According to the IRS, the unpaid taxes on the payroll total at least $52 million.

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I’ve helped dozens of construction teams save $Ms+ in schedule delays in the last 6 years. And 1 thing that helps me stay on top of my work is how I plan my personal schedule. Here’s how I do it 👇 First, I start the day by asking “What’s the most important thing today?” This is either going to be client work or business work that “moves the needle”. Let’s say it’s schedule review analysis. Which means I have 8 hours that day to finish it. Then, I look at my day to see if there’s anything else more urgent that might come in. Perhaps I have to finish another task by 12pm. Now, I have only 4 hours to work on the analysis. I then reprioritize my tasks by each hour. And to make sure my focus doesn’t drift away, I always own my morning. - I work out 4x a week - Or go for a walk - Start my day It takes effort and discipline to keep focused without getting pulled away. But staying on top of my personal schedule helps me do the same for my clients. PS. I also pace around my work area whenever I get a chance to hit that 10k steps per day goal. Do you ever do that?

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