What’s Keeping You Up at Night?
March 12, 2024
The National Demolition Association’s (NDA’s) 2024 convention in San Antonio, held March 6-9, 2024, included a panel discussion where industry leaders discussed the challenges and opportunities facing the demolition sector. Moderated by Richard Adamo, the panel comprised Drew Lammers, Brian McKinney, LaJuan Counts, Michael Rutt and Kerry Nazario.
Pictured, from left: Drew Lammers, Brian McKinney, Richard Adamo, LaJuan Counts, Michael Rutt and Kerry Nazario.
Addressing Workforce Challenges
Brian McKinney, CEO of Gayanga Co., underscored the pressing issue of workforce dynamics. As seasoned professionals age, there’s a dearth of younger talent to fill crucial roles. Engaging the next generation is paramount.
“We’re in an industry with amazing talented professionals, and as they get older there aren’t as many young people to fill those roles,” he said. “How do we engage them?”
McKinney highlighted the importance of understanding their preferences, emphasizing quality of life and work-life balance.
Drew Lammers, vice president of outside operations at Cohen USA, echoed McKinney’s sentiments, stressing the significance of prioritizing employees’ health and safety. Lammers emphasized the need for consistent safety training, not just at work but also in employees’ personal lives, to prevent accidents and ensure continuity in the workforce.
“The majority of accidents happen home, not in our workplace, because we do such a good job of training and putting good stuff in their head. But as soon as they get in their truck and go home, they don’t think about it,” Lammers said.
Navigating Regulatory Challenges
McKinney also touched upon regulatory hurdles that keep industry leaders awake at night. Regulations often lag behind industry advancements and fail to account for the practicalities and costs of compliance. Finding a balance between safety regulations and operational efficiency remains a constant challenge.
Maintaining Integrity and Public Trust
LaJuan Counts, director of the Construction and Demolition Department in the city of Detroit, brought a unique perspective as a departmental owner. Counts emphasized the dual responsibility of ensuring job sustainability while upholding public trust. His department’s mandate to "work themselves out of work" necessitates strategic planning to transition employees post-project while prioritizing public safety and trust.
Adapting to Changing Conditions
Kerry Nazario, vice president of operations at Target Contractors LLC, highlighted the importance of adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry. As conditions change, preparedness and effective communication become critical. Ensuring teams are well-equipped to identify and respond to changes is imperative for project success.
The Importance of Collaboration
Michael Rutt, superintendent at Remedial Construction Services, L.P., emphasized the collaborative nature of the demolition industry. Success hinges on effective teamwork and communication. Rutt stressed the importance of timing in operations, cautioning against rushing processes to avoid complications.
Embracing Technology and Collaboration
Panelists acknowledged the role of technology in streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency. McKinney advocated for the adoption of artificial intelligence and business intelligence to automate tasks and improve decision-making. The panel emphasized the need for a collaborative approach, sharing best practices and lessons learned to drive industry-wide improvement.
Engaging the Next Generation
Bridging the gap between generations and attracting younger talent emerged as a recurring theme. Counts emphasized the importance of exposure and community engagement to showcase demolition as a viable career path, particularly to underrepresented demographics. Panelists emphasized the need for mentorship programs and incentivization to groom and retain talent.
Maintaining Industry Excellence
The panel discussion at Demolition San Antonio illuminated the multifaceted challenges and innovative solutions within the industry. From workforce dynamics to regulatory compliance and fostering the next generation of talent, industry leaders underscored the importance of collaboration, adaptability and integrity in navigating an ever-evolving landscape. As the demolition industry continues to evolve, embracing technological advancements and prioritizing safety and sustainability will be pivotal in driving progress and maintaining industry excellence.