Category: News

Representatives from Powers & Sons joined administrators and teachers from Northwest Indiana Lighthouse Charter Schools to celebrate their latest expansion project in June.

ADMINISTRATION BUILDING

• Location: 1775 W. 41st Avenue | Gary, IN
• Client: Northwest Indiana Lighthouse Charter Schools

Powers & Sons will oversee all site preparation work, including excavation, drainage and groundwater control,  and utilities installation. When complete, the new two-story, three-elevation structure will feature a shallow-spread foundation for subsurface stability and reach a height of 24.5 feet.

Northwest Indiana Lighthouse Charter Schools opened its doors in 2005 to serve K-5 scholars and families in Gary. Since then, they have expanded to serve K-12 students from five locations. The administration building will be their sixth property and will allow the school’s administrative team to be closer to faculty, staff, and students.

 

Powers & Sons was honored to join Over the Rainbow (OTR) Association, church leaders, and supporters to kick-off our second new affordable housing community for residents with physical challenges. The apartments are designated for those whose incomes are at or below 30% of the area median income.

LAKEVIEW LANDING APARTMENTS

• Location: 835 W. Addison Street | Chicago
• Clients: OTR Association & Lake View Lutheran Church

The building features ground-level worship and church space. Inside each unit, pull-under sinks, lower appliances, and easy-to-reach outlets, window latches, and door handles facilitate maximum mobility.

Through its resident services program, OTR staff will provide residents with assistance with navigating insurance benefits, learning how to budget, and seeking educational and employment assistance through community resources. OTR’s program helps ensure residents stay housed and that they have a strong support system in place.

Don’t let our name fool you—we may be Powers & Sons Construction, but over 25 percent of our team are women and they have a major impact on our success.

Individually, the women of Powers & Sons each bring unique strengths, skills, and superpowers to the table. Collectively, they represent an impressive range of education and experience in fields like accounting, business administration, civil engineering, construction management, construction technology, finance, and project management.

To celebrate Women in Construction Week in March, we asked some colleagues why they are proud to be women in construction. Here’s what they had to say!

 

Representatives of Powers & Sons were on hand March 30 to celebrate the 2024 grand opening and ribbon-cutting at the new Glendale Branch Library. Powers & Sons was the construction manager for the new, stand-alone, 24,800 SF facility. Located on the former site of the John Strange Elementary school at 3660 E. 62nd St. in Indianapolis, the new library marks the migration of the Glendale Branch from the Glendale Mall where the library had been housed for the past 20 years.

Projected to welcome 225,000 to 250,000 patrons annually, the building features soaring glass walls, three small group or study rooms, a large space-themed children’s area, enclosed courtyard space, an expanded teen area and braille collection, increased access to computers and technology, a community meeting room with seating for up to 100, and drive-up material returns. The new library houses the second largest collection of physical materials after the Central Library downtown.

The Glendale Branch marks the third new library Powers & Sons has constructed for the Indianapolis Public Library (IPL). Like the West Perry Branch Library completed by Powers & Sons in 2021, the Glendale Branch is seeking LEED Silver certification through the United States Green Building Council. It is anticipated, however, that the Glendale Branch will surpass LEED Silver and achieve LEED Gold status.

Powers & Sons’ work in K-12 construction spans nearly a dozen school districts and a combined project value of nearly three quarters of a billion dollars. But more impressive than our stats are our people. Director of Estimating Chris Kerns and Program Coordinator Felicia Hernandez both bring immeasurable value to each district and school we serve.

In his role as director of estimating, Chris is responsible for what one would expect, developing bid packages, soliciting bids, and developing estimates. What you wouldn’t expect is the thoughtful approach he brings to K-12 construction beyond the numbers.

In today’s tight subcontractor market, when competitors are struggling to get one or two bids per package, Powers & Sons has maintained an average of three or more bids per package which, in turn, provides our clients with the best possible value. To achieve these results, Chris goes beyond the blueprints.

Most recently he delved into the history of George Washington Carver 87 Montessori School in Indianapolis. The school holds a place of prominence in the fabric of the community it has served for more than 90 years. Opened in 1936 to address student overflow from segregated schools and later renamed in honor of the renowned African American scientist, the school is historically significant.

Kerns says, “Over the last year, I’ve told the history of George Washington Carver and School 87. Carver went through a lot of adversity to become known as one of the nation’s top scientists, just as School 87 faced many challenges over the years to become a key component of the neighborhood. When I talk to these contractors, I can see the look in their eyes. When they know the history and see the substantial impact the project is going to make, they want to be a part of it just as much as we do.”

Each time Powers & Sons works on a school, we realize and appreciate the impact the project has on current and future students. We also see a unique opportunity to inform students about career options after high school. That’s where Program Coordinator Felicia Hernandez comes in.

In her role as program coordinator, Felicia leads our Next Gen internship program. She works with school career counselors in each of the districts in which we’re performing work to seek out students interested in construction and offer an opportunity for a summer internship. She collects student applications and resumes and, with the help of a committee, selects our summer interns. The internships are designed to expose students to all facets of construction, from behind-the-scenes administrative work to project management, field supervision, and labor on the jobsite. Additionally, the internship provides opportunities for connecting with fellow students and with staff members in a mentor/mentee relationship.

Powers & Sons Construction is proud to be a part of K-12 projects that positively impact students and the communities we serve. We’re even prouder of the value our team members bring to the table in ways that our clients don’t expect, through subcontractor procurement and our Next Gen internship program.

National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) is a great opportunity to learn about the benefits of apprenticeships and apprenticeship programs. This year, NAW is November 13-19 and the theme is “Registered Apprenticeships: Superhighways to Good Jobs.”

According to the U.S. Department of Labor and apprenticeship.gov, apprenticeship programs are a proven, industry-driven training model that provides a critical talent pipeline of skilled workers. The pipeline is a direct route for addressing local, regional, and national workforce shortages while also providing an earn-while-you-learn program for participants. Apprenticeships lead to long-lasting, stable, and in-demand careers with good salaries and benefits.

Hiring apprentices is a key component of Powers & Sons’ talent development strategy. “Apprenticeships are essential for building strong local economies, advancing gender and racial equity, supporting underserved communities, and providing the training needed for successful careers,” explains President & COO Claude Powers. Two programs he recommends in the Northwest Indiana and Chicago region are:

• Indiana Kentucky Ohio Regional Council of Carpenters
• We Build Northwest Indiana Registered Apprenticeships

Who is a typical apprentice? Meet Candace.

Q: What skills are you gaining?

A: Every day is different and depends on the journeyman teaching me. One thing I’ve noticed is that as I gain skills, I’m able to independently develop my own pace on the job. There is less anxiety as my knowledge increases. I’m also getting stronger in my ability to identify all components that I need to start or complete on a project. When I know I’m working with wood, I know I’ll need a saw, driver or drill, screws, and nails. That’s a really simple example, but it continues throughout the work day. My supervisors expect me to think ahead and be proactive.

Q: What concepts are you learning?

A: One fun thing is exploring the intended purpose of materials, then gaining the confidence and power to manipulate them into what I need. Once I know and understand the material, I know the extent to which I can push it and myself. I’m also learning to visualize shapes into structures.

Q: Do you believe construction is a good career path, especially for women?

A: I don’t think any particular career path is good or bad, per se. To me, the true question is what are you willing to do to push yourself, perfect your craft, and build a reputation? Carpentry is a career path that requires confidence. It is a craft that requires attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a sense of passion and pride in your work. In the beginning, I think some of the guys doubted whether I could hold my own. But I show up each day with a growing sense of confidence and knowing I can accomplish what’s required. I encourage anyone who is curious about the world of construction to do their research, then give it a try. There are lots of different trades, so see which ones interest you the most. I also encourage people to not let gender expectations or a traditional sense of gender roles determine their career path. In life, most things are about your work ethic, not chromosomes.

Q: What advice would you offer someone who wants to become an apprentice in one of the skilled general trades?

A: Do your research! I joined Chicago Women in Trades, which exposed me to every trade. There are lots of other organizations, as well as things like construction expos and career seminars. Skills can be learned, but it does help to have innate skills and some natural talent. If you want to be an apprentice, be ready to work. You’ll find all kinds of people on the job site. Sometimes, you’ll be rushed and under pressure to meet a deadline. You’ll make mistakes and may even be talked down to because you are new and still learning. Don’t let a learning curve deter you from the project at hand or your long-term goals.

Q: How did you initially become interested in a career in the skilled trades?

A: The housing market was a big influence for me. Discrimination is unfair. Inflated prices are real. Buying a home is filled with strenuous requirements and buyers can face prejudice. As I gain knowledge about the building trades and property development, I want to help bridge the gap to affordable homes. I believe green building and sustainable designs for active, healthy lifestyles can reduce poverty rates in families and communities. So, learning about construction is the first step. Joining the trades is about improving opportunities for me, my community, and those who come after us.

Q: What are your career goals in the next 10 to 15 years?

A: I will be a journeyman and may possibly pursue a role as a business agent (BA) journeyman. For me, a key interest and career goal centers on sustainability. I hope to ultimately be in a position to purchase land and build homes. Maybe even refurbish RVs into tiny homes. I want to take my craft around the world and have fun while doing it. I’ll continue to perfect my skills and gain knowledge that no person or company can take from me. I’ve heard that a lot in the trades and it’s true.

Powers & Sons Construction was honored to join State of Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb, Indiana State Police Superintendent Doug Carter, and law enforcement officials on August 22 as ground was broken on the final phase of a two-year expansion and renovation at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA).

Construction on the initial phase of the project began earlier this year with renovation of existing offices, classrooms, a gymnasium, and an all-new 4,100-square-foot maintenance building.

The final phase of the $87-million project will deliver a 91,500-square-foot 400-bed dormitory, an expanded emergency vehicle operations course and a 14,200-square-foot scenario-based training facility to ILEA’s 300-acre campus in Hendricks County, Indiana.

The scenario-based training facility will feature a flexible design with spaces that can be configured in various ways to simulate different locations and on-the-job training scenarios, like calls to respond to a bank or convenience store.

Powers & Sons, together with Shiel Sexton and CSO Architects, is proud to be a part of this important project, the first major construction project at ILEA in more than 25 years. The planned improvements will expand ILEA’s programs, allowing instructors to provide more in-depth training for law enforcement.

ILEA serves 65 percent of all Indiana police and law enforcement personnel and trains approximately 600 students annually. It is anticipated that upon completion in 2025, ILEA will have one of the top law enforcement training facilities in the country.

For over 40 years, Sarah’s Circle has served Chicago women experiencing homelessness. Their clients include victims of violence and domestic abuse, those struggling with physical and mental health challenges, and low-income women who cannot afford basic necessities like rent, food, and clothing.

Powers & Sons Construction is excited to partner with Sarah’s Circle and expand their capacity to serve. We have been selected as the general contractor for their new development, Sarah’s on Lakeside.

“We know that providing homes for people in need is possible, because Sarah’s Circle has done it for hundreds of women already,” said Kathy Ragnar, executive director of Sarah’s Circle at the June groundbreaking event. “Today, we’re doing more than just building housing—we’re breaking ground on permanent solutions for homelessness.”

PROJECT SCOPE

• Designed by Perkins & Will, Sarah’s on Lakeside features 28 fully furnished, 350 SF studio apartments.
• Residents will share communal areas including a computer lab, demonstration kitchen, and laundry. Multi-purpose rooms will provide space for programming.
• Administrative offices and a conference room with an outdoor terrace will be on the second floor.
• Key activities taking place at the beginning of Q4 2023 include steel framing and installation of wall panels.
•  The 25,500 SF structure is scheduled for substantial completion in Q3 (September) of 2024.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

Through their drop-in daytime support center, a 50-bed interim housing program, a rapid rehousing program, and a growing number of permanent supportive housing units, Sarah’s Circle serves over 600 women each year.

• Here’s an impact snapshot with facts and statistics.
• Learn more at sarahs-circle.org.

We look forward to delivering a facility that will serve Sarah’s Circle clients and the community for years to come!

As curriculum changes and community needs evolve, K-12 school leaders are considering how to best configure, operate, and design their facilities.

In Indianapolis, the Metropolitan School District of Lawrence Township (MSDLT), Fanning Howey, and Powers & Sons Construction are staying ahead of the curve by ensuring local schools are strong, vibrant, and safe.

The team is working on three CMc projects valued at a combined $82 million. The effort is part of the district’s Blue Ribbon Facilities Plan, a multi-year capital construction and school improvement program.

What’s on the drawing board for 2023? Here’s a quick take.

Belzer Middle School

• Located on East 65^th Street, our work at this school includes installing an underground retention system to accommodate a 16,000 SF new structural addition to house a multi-purpose area.
• About 250,000 SF of new finishes, including cabinetry, flooring, lighting, and fixtures, are being installed in classrooms and offices.
• Major interior renovations will improve the school’s existing media center, two gyms, a cafeteria, and a music area.
• Exterior improvements focus on improving traffic circulation, safety, and parking. Work includes installing new sidewalks, restoring masonry and EFIS, and reconfiguring a parking lot.

Fall Creek Valley Middle School

• This whole-school renovation on East 63^rd Street also includes about 250,000 SF of new finishes and renovations to the school’s media center, gymnasia, cafeteria, and music area.
• Classrooms and pods will be modified to create student maker spaces for each grade level.
• Renovations to the existing softball and baseball fields will include new dugouts and a remodeled concessions building. A new soccer field will be added south of the baseball diamond.
• New exterior features include an overhead entrance canopy. Sidewalks and parking lots will be improved. A new bus turn-around will be built and the main entrance drive will be reconfigured.

Work at Belzer Middle School and Fall Creek Valley Middle School began in July of 2023, with renovations at each school expected to be complete in July of 2025. Both facilities are open during construction.

Lawrence Education & Community Center (LECC)

• This exterior renovation project includes improvements to existing parking lots, sidewalks, pedestrian bridges, tennis courts, and track.
• Two new parking lots are being added to the site.
• Updates are being made to existing PA, clock, and speaker systems inside the facility.
• Final completion is expected in December of 2023.

The 2023 projects continue a multi-year improvement plan that Powers & Sons began in 2019. Earlier work included the construction of a new transportation center and major renovations at two elementary schools and three early learning centers.

Powers & Sons Vice President Kelly Powers Baria and Superintendent David Nicholson are featured in a May 2023 episode of Built to Last, a program sponsored by the Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council and broadcast on WGN Chicago.

Several of the team members leading construction of the Obama Foundation’s new Obama Presidential Center (OPC) in Chicago are interviewed, including Obama Foundation staff and members of the Lakeside Alliance team, which includes Baria and Nicholson.

Nicholson notes the Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council provides valuable educational and leadership training for apprentices. He says, “I thank the president for bringing the project to the community that he came from. There is only going to be one [Obama Presidential Center] and I’m grateful to be a part of it.”

The new OPC was intentionally designed for and will blend with the community. Many spaces will be free for local residents and the general public to enjoy, says Baria.

She believes that four minority-owned contractors forming an alliance with a majority contractor so they can all work together, rather than compete against each other, is unprecedented in Chicago. “We thought that for something as significant as the nation’s first Black president’s legacy library, we needed to approach the work with a different frame of mind,” Baria says.

“When you have a project that is as once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as this, it has the ability to change the trajectory and change the lives of so many young people when you can put the project on your resume,” she adds.

Watch the segment to learn more about the OPC project and how it will have a lasting impact on the south side of Chicago and local residents who live in the Jackson Park area.