Tag: construction

K-12 Bond Projects: From Planning to Ribbon Cutting

Posted on May 20, 2025

When school districts launch a K-12 bond program, the real work begins long before construction crews break ground and continues long after the final ribbon is cut. HPM specializes in helping K-12 districts navigate every phase of the journey with a comprehensive, data-informed and community-driven approach to facility planning and execution. 

Planning: Building the Blueprint for Success 

Effective capital planning starts with a strong foundation. Successful K-12 bond programs are rooted in comprehensive facility planning—customized to reflect each district’s unique challenges, opportunities and values. 

Our “Blueprint for Success” begins with a close look at the district’s infrastructure, assessing not only the physical condition of buildings but also how well they support educational goals, community expectations and long-term operational efficiency. 

The Four-Legged Stool: A Balanced Planning Model 

We often compare our planning philosophy to a four-legged stool: the seat represents the facilities themselves, supported by four essential pillars: 

  • Educational Framework: Curriculum, Programs, Delivery Models and Policy 
  • Demographics: Enrollment and the data that impact enrollment 
  • Condition: Physical Condition and Educational Adequacy 
  • Funding: Ability to fund and sources of funding 

Each “leg” is equally important. Add the element of community and stakeholder involvement that reflects the culture and values of the district and that sets the foundation for a successful planning process. 

What Sets HPM Apart in the Planning Phase 

Our team leverages a wide array of tools and services to ensure districts are fully informed and prepared to maximize their K-12 bond funding: 

Standards Development and Needs Assessments

We start by engaging stakeholders to develop clear, objective standards for school facilities. These guide design professionals and ensure consistency across projects. Our process is collaborative and grounded in practical constraints, such as available funding and district priorities. 

Functional Assessments

We evaluate how facilities function day to day, using real usage data, space analyses and field inspections to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement. This ensures each space aligns with the district’s educational mission and evolving needs. 

Facility Condition Assessments (FCA)

Our FCAs are actionable, defensible, and sustainable. We collect granular data from an objective perspective to translate directly into maintenance, repair, or capital project planning—avoiding redundant assessments and providing a clear plan and guidance, extending the value of our work well beyond the planning phase. 

Educational Specifications & Adequacy Assessments

HPM’s Adequacy Assessments include real time and projected costs for both constructable and non-constructable educational inadequacies. This unique approach to reporting allows our clients to incorporate the Condition Assessment data alongside the Adequacy Assessment data that provides a total cost picture of facility conditions in the district. Along with accurate costing, Our Educational Adequacy Index (EAI) allows districts to compare needs across buildings, helping to prioritize investments with clarity and confidence. 

Communications & Community Outreach

Our team looks forward to the opportunity to work with a local community and established district committees. We work alongside school district communications teams to create transparent, engaging and inclusive outreach strategies. From surveys and community meetings to board presentations, we help build the foundation of trust that a successful bond program requires. 

Geographic and Site Analysis

Using GIS mapping and site analysis, we help districts understand how geography and land-use impact facility decisions. Our elevation analysis helps determine how the site’s topography will impact construction and design. By addressing these questions and providing clear insights, we help you make informed decisions about your project’s feasibility and planning. 

From Concept to Completion: A Track Record of Results 

Districts across the country have trusted HPM to lead the planning phase of their K-12 bond programs: 

Fort Worth ISD, TX: Working with a 15% decline in enrollment, our recommendations included: aligning enrollment with academic programs in addition to closures and consolidations for improved utilizations, resulting in operational savings and avoiding deferred maintenance costs in excess of $77 million in five years. 

Richmond County Schools, GA: Identified strategies that could reduce O&M expenses by $15 million over 10 years. 

Nampa School District, ID: Developed a long-term plan to address declining enrollment and operational inefficiencies, realizing $3 million in annual savings. 

Start with Planning. End with Success. 

The planning phase may seem like a small slice of your K-12 bond program timeline—but it defines everything that follows. By partnering with HPM early, districts gain a trusted advisor, a data-driven strategist and a passionate advocate for student success. 

Learn more about our planning projects and our expert team.  

HPM Attends Catalyst 2025: Empowering Women in Industry Across Alabama

Posted on May 8, 2025

Last month, women in manufacturing and industrial fields from across Alabama came together for Catalyst — a groundbreaking conference in Huntsville, Ala. designed to address the unique challenges women face in these industries. The event not only offered a space for professional development but also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of leadership, resilience, mentorship and collaboration. 

Leadership, Advocacy, and Resilience Take Center Stage 

Project Manager Kim Plautz noted important themes throughout the conference. 

“The conference kicked off with keynote speaker Karen Johnston (Toyota of North America) who spoke on leadership, advocacy, and resilience; and these three ideas permeated throughout the entire conference and its breakout sessions. I specifically resonated with a lot of the messaging about resilience. It was a welcome encouragement and reminder to constantly seek new learning opportunities and step outside my comfort zone without being afraid to fail,” Plautz said. 

A key takeaway came from a breakout session focused on communicating the value one brings to a team or project — an exercise she described as incredibly valuable. 

“I think being able to naturally and succinctly articulate the value we bring is extremely beneficial, both on an individual level and as an organization,” she said. “I look forward to referencing the tools provided to be able to put this into practice both internally and with our client.” 

Plautz also noted the strong emphasis on mentorship and networking throughout the event. From structured networking receptions to informal connections made during breakout sessions, the conference fostered genuine opportunities for women across the state to connect and support one another. 

Embracing a Growth Mindset 

Taylor Wilson, Assistant Project Manager, left Catalyst energized by the emphasis on mindset — particularly the importance of keeping career development in mind.   

“The importance of a growth mindset was my biggest takeaway from the conference,” Wilson said. “I learned many new strategies on how to take a positive and productive approach to change.” 

The conference continued to emphasize the importance of networking and finding strong mentors as a crucial factor of career growth.  

“A key takeaway from the conference was the importance of having a mentor in this industry. They challenged us all to find a mentor if we did not already have one,” Wilson said.  

Thanks to Catalyst and Manufacture Alabama for a great conference. We’re already looking forward to next year.  

Construction Audit & Advisory: Upcoming Chances to Learn and Connect

Posted on May 5, 2025

HPM’s Audit & Advisory team is hitting the road for May conferences. AAIA’s 35th Annual Conference in Denver and COAA Connect Spring 2025 in Pittsburgh will feature sessions with valuable insights from seasoned experts from our team. 

AAIA 35th Annual Conference 

May 4–7, 2025
Denver, CO
Event Details 

The Annual Association of Airport Internal Auditors (AAIA) Conference invites airport internal auditors from around the world to learn and network each year.  

  • Audit Director Valerie Rogers Smith and Principal Jake Ortego will lead a session on allowances and contingencies. 

Session Highlight:  

Title: Auditing Allowances and Contingency on Construction Projects
Allowances and Contingencies are tools used within construction contracts to address items that are either not defined or cannot be defined at this time; however, will be required to deliver the project’s intended scope. While many contracts provide clear rules for the use of allowance and/or contingency funds and how they will be tracked, it is also not uncommon to have ambiguous contract terms. Additional complexities are possible given that each party can have contract allowances or contingencies including the owner, contractor, subcontractors, and design firms. This presentation will provide an understanding of construction allowances and contingencies as well as an approach to auditing them. The session will include exploring some of the nuances of these contract tools as well as common areas of disagreement on the approval, usage, reconciliation, and tracking of funds.

COAA Connect Spring 2025 

May 7–9, 2025
Pittsburgh, PA
Event Details 

The Construction Owners Association of America (COAA) supports Owners’ success in the design and construction of buildings and facilities through education, information, and collaboration.  

  • Jake Ortego and Andrew Reilly from Carnegie Mellon will lead a session discussing current considerations related to tariffs and rising costs. 

Session Highlight:

Title: Tariffs and Other Escalation Costs … Let’s Discuss
The last few years have seen increased escalation claims due to volatility caused by world events. Most recently, the still TBD impacts of federal tariffs are causing uncertainty and even panic. Entitlement to any portion of these increases is often not clearly defined or understood by all parties. Adding to the confusion, there are many variables to consider … including market trends, procurement schedules, contractual requirements, and delays outside the control of contractors and suppliers. Diligent analysis is the key to making fair and equitable determinations for escalation requests. The session will provide tangible examples and encourage discussion and questions. 

Our team is looking forward to sharing experience and insights this month. Learn more about HPM’s Audit & Advisory team before the conference.  

Meet Laura Tatem: Bringing a Wealth of Audit & Aviation Expertise to HPM

Posted on April 29, 2025

HPM’s Audit & Advisory team recently added Laura Tatem, Senior Associate Auditor to their team. With a deep background in both external and internal auditing – especially within the aviation industry – we sat down with Tatem to learn more about her career journey, standout projects, and what she’s looking forward to in this new chapter. 

Can you tell us about your career and previous experience working with airports and audits? 

“I started my career in public accounting, focusing on external audits for construction companies, government entities, and non-profits in Virginia and Florida. Eventually, I transitioned into Internal Audit and spent 11 years leading the audit department at Tampa International Airport (TPA). 

During my time at TPA, I became very involved in the aviation industry, attending and contributing to conferences and meetings with organizations such as the American Association of Airport Executives, Airports Council International, the Florida Airports Council, and the Association of Airport Internal Auditors. It was an incredible experience that really shaped my professional path.” 

What are some projects you’ve worked on that you’re most proud of? 

“My favorite projects—whether in external or internal auditing—have always been those centered around construction. I loved visiting job sites, seeing how funds were being used, and observing the construction methods firsthand. At TPA, I was fortunate to walk through many impressive sites and collaborate with contractors across various initiatives. 

Some of the standout projects for me include the construction of the Rental Car Facility, the automated train connecting it to the main terminal, and the new airport office building. These projects were not only complex and rewarding but also a lot of fun to be part of.” 

What are you most looking forward to in your new role with HPM? 

“I’m really excited about focusing solely on construction in my role at HPM. I see this as a great opportunity to continue learning, deepen my expertise, and work alongside a talented team. I’m energized by the projects ahead and the people I’ll be working with.”  

Laura’s extensive credentials include Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP), Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA) and AAAE Certified Member (CM). 

In addition, she is a graduate of both Tampa Connection and Leadership Tampa and was named one of the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Award recipients. 

Outside of her work with audit and aviation, Laura is a passionate animal advocate and currently serves on the board of the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. At home, she has three dogs and a 24-year-old turtle.  

HPM is thrilled to welcome Laura to the team. Reach out to our Audit & Advisory group to learn more about our services and how our expertise can serve your next project.  

HPM Celebrates National Construction Safety Week

Posted on May 6, 2024
HPM is proud to join over 250 companies in celebrating National Construction Safety Week for the tenth consecutive year. This annual observance was created to bolster a safety-centered culture across the industry. This year’s theme, Value Every Voice, reminds participants of their responsibility to speak up for safety on site. No matter their role, each person on a job site must be empowered to call attention to potential hazards. Construction Safety Week is a great reminder to take ownership of the health and safety of all working alongside them.

Construction Safety Week 2024

This morning, HPM joined Hoar Construction in hosting a Construction Safety Week breakfast to kick off this year’s festivities. Vice President of Field Operations Mike Pitts shared a meaningful quote, “If you see it, you own it. If you walk by it, you condone it.” Attendees signed a banner pledging to value every voice. All who signed committed to doing their part to ensure safe environments both on and off job sites.

Additional events will be held throughout the week across the company’s footprint. Various instructional training sessions will be held, one of which includes a heavy equipment demonstration at RPI Rentals. HPM looks forward to offering employees numerous opportunities to gather with coworkers this week in recognition of the vital role safety plays in the life of our company.

construction safety

Construction Safety at HPM

Safety is critical to the HPM culture, and the health and safety of anyone in our care is paramount to our overall success. All HPM employees are expected to adhere to the project safety requirements while visiting a job site, and the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is always worn while on site. Safety glasses, hard hats, high-visibility vests, and work shoes are the minimum requirements.

Our role in safety may change from project to project, but it’s HPM’s role as the owners’ representative to verify and understand the contractor’s obligation with every project as it pertains to safety. Our culture requires that we “know the deal” which means we confirm our responsibilities on every new project rather than assuming they are the same as they were on our last project.

HPM’s Field Coordinators play an active role in ensuring safety protocols are strictly adhered to. This protects everyone in proximity to the job site, while also protecting the owner from potential lawsuits. An important factor is ensuring the job site is safe, particularly when located in a highly trafficked area. For instance, HPM manages numerous projects for clients in the K-12 and higher education industries. On these projects, students and faculty are often attending classes near active job sites. Field Coordinators add tremendous value in implementing the highest level of safety precautions to protect everyone in the vicinity of the project.

What Does a Field Coordinator Do?

Posted on February 21, 2024

The Ninjas of Program Management

HPM offers a unique approach to program management because of our construction origin. Born of an 80-year-old construction company, we are well-versed not only in managing projects, but also in constructing them. Essential in leveraging our construction management expertise on-site are our Field Coordinators. But just what does a Field Coordinator do? More than anything, their role is to protect the investment of the owner, serving as their eyes and ears on the project. The client’s interests are their interests, and the client’s priorities are their priorities. As the “boots on the ground”, their responsibilities can be summarized in three primary categories.

Schedule

Schedule delays are one of the most common and detrimental threats to construction projects. With a Field Coordinator on site, progress is measured daily. This provides project managers and project controls teams with up-to-date, accurate information to foster better planning, communication and courses for remedial action if necessary. Having a representative on site also provides a level of accountability for all parties working on the project. With clear milestones mapped out and regular assessments taking place, contractors and subcontractors are motivated to deliver projects on time.

Safety

Field Coordination entails a great deal of safety monitoring. Though safety is the ultimate responsibility of the General Contractor, Field Coordinators are there to ensure protocols are being strictly adhered to. This protects the owner from potential lawsuits. An important factor is ensuring the job site is safe, particularly when located in a highly trafficked area. For instance, HPM manages numerous projects for clients in the K-12 and higher education industries. On these projects, students and faculty are often attending classes near active job sites. Field Coordinators add tremendous value in implementing the highest level of safety precautions to protect everyone in the vicinity of the project.

Quality

Another risk accompanying construction projects is verifying the quality with which the project is built. The standard inspection processes employed on most projects require only bi-weekly or monthly walk-throughs. With a full-time Field Coordinator, these inspections happen daily. Even better, the FC walking the project is inspecting with the owner in mind. This means potential trouble spots are evaluated and reported daily, avoiding threats to quality that may be overlooked and cause headaches throughout the lifetime of a building. Having a Field Coordinator is a wise way to guarantee your facility goes beyond meeting a checklist and is built to last!

 

HPM Expands Preconstruction Department Hiring Chance Mitchell

Posted on February 6, 2024

HPM’s in-house preconstruction department continues to grow, most recently bringing Senior Preconstruction Manager, Chance Mitchell on board. Chance will work in the firm’s Huntsville office, serving clients in the North Alabama area and beyond. Chance joins HPM having worked in the industry for fifteen years, but his construction experience goes much deeper than what can be shown on a resume. Born into a family-owned construction business, Chance has been well-versed in the industry for as long as he can remember. He enjoys the fast-paced, people-oriented nature of the industry.

Career Path

Chance previously served as Preconstruction Manager at Doster Construction, providing detailed budget estimates while developing relationships with clients, architects, engineers, and subcontractors. Earlier in his career, he worked on the operations side, managing large-scale federal government projects from start to finish. No matter his role, Chance excels in delivering best-in-class client-centered service.

“As a creative problem-solver, the preconstruction phase is well-suited for my skillset”, said Chance. “I enjoy building relationships with owners in the early stages of a project to catch their vision and carve a path for bringing it to life.”

Using his vast experience, Chance will manage the entire preconstruction process from the initial concept to the final design and contractor selection. He will guide projects from early design until ground-breaking– maintaining the owner’s established budget while implementing phasing and contracting requirements to keep the design team on schedule.

Chance was drawn to the family-oriented culture at HPM, along with the extensive potential for growth. He looks forward to fostering relationships with clients and trade partners while laying strong foundations for projects to be built upon.

Preconstruction at HPM

For almost 30 years, HPM has delivered successful, measurable preconstruction services to projects across the United States. The HPM preconstruction team formulates construction cost data for budget development and verification based on the programmatic requirements. Information from historical cost databases, market surveys, cost verifications, comparative data on the project type and recent experience are utilized to develop a total program budget.

Built to Lead: Iriana Molusky

Posted on September 7, 2023

Meet Iriana Molusky, Assistant Project Manager!

A strategic piece of our growth strategy as a company is our robust Project Management track. Beginning with Project Engineers and scaling all the way up to Program Executives, our PM growth track was crafted to inspire motivation, work ethic and dedication to the process.

Assistant Project Manager, Iriana Molusky has enthusiastically committed to this growth track early on in her career. Iriana is based out of Jupiter, Florida and is currently providing support to a client in the aviation industry. We appreciate Iriana’s drive to develop and take on new challenges. Her leadership skills are strong, and we look forward to watching as she continues to grow and evolve. Continue reading to hear from Iriana as she shares more about her evolving career journey!

 

HPM: What does a typical day at HPM look like for you?

Similar to most of my colleagues on the Project Management track, there is really no such thing as a “typical day” for me. Each day comes with unique opportunities and challenges. On my most recent project, I was able to participate in many different aspects of project management, including change order reviews, creating and managing the master budget, GMP negotiations and pay applications. I find excitement in the constant change that comes with project management!

HPM: What is the best part of your job?

The best part of my job is the multitude of opportunities it affords me to build relationships. Thus far in my career, I have been able to work with an array of Architects and General Contractors, all while forming meaningful friendships within the company.

 

HPM: What is your most memorable HPM project so far?

My most memorable project so far has been Hewson Hall at the University of Alabama. I had the opportunity to see this job through from beginning to end as a co-op, enabling me to appreciate every milestone as the facility progressed. Hewson Hall was my first project to work on with HPM, and I learned so much about project management from the Senior Project Manager on the job, Joshua Bollinger, who served as a great mentor.

HPM: What are the characteristics of a great leader?

A great leader possesses a combination of qualities and skills, such as effective communication, empathy, adaptability, integrity and the ability to inspire and motivate others. They are forward-thinking, open to feedback and capable of making tough decisions while considering the well-being of their team. A great leader leads by example, fosters collaboration and empowers their team members to reach their full potential.

HPM Hosts 5th Annual Emerging Leaders Summer Seminar

Posted on September 5, 2023

HPM Prioritizes Opportunities to Empower and Equip Rising Talent

On July 26-27, 2023, HPM hosted our 5th annual Emerging Leaders Summer Seminar, equipping current college students pursuing careers in construction with the necessary tools to succeed. The program focuses on attracting promising students from groups historically underrepresented in the construction industry. 

Interns and co-ops from across the company’s footprint gathered in Birmingham for this annual event, giving them a chance to build strong connections with peers pursuing similar professional opportunities. Members of this year’s Emerging Leaders class included Mary Claire Besh, Clay Carroll, Casim Ellis, Elli Garcia, Bella Perry, Josh Peters and Braxton Trest. These seven individuals representing five universities were selected for inclusion in the program due to their exemplary educational performance and commitment to demonstrating strong character. Attendees are pursuing an array of majors for their bachelor’s degrees including Building Construction, Civil Engineering, Construction Science Maintenance and Finance.

 

Leadership is an integral part of our DNA at HPM. We continually seek new opportunities to invest in individuals of all ages and backgrounds, providing tools to propel both professional advancement and personal character. We view true leadership as the ability to motivate, unite and effectively communicate with others, inciting positive change in the lives of others. We realize that to be a company comprised of dynamic leaders, we must create intentional time for training and mentorship, developing a team built upon a firm foundation of integrity.

Many students who participate in the program credit the Emerging Leaders Program as a driving factor behind their success in college and as a young professional.

 

“The Emerging Leaders program has enabled me to connect with the leadership team at HPM while learning more about the core values and history of the company as well as opportunities for personal and professional growth,” said Elli Garcia, Co-op participant and student at Mississippi State University. “The program equipped me to better articulate the ins and outs of program management and positioned me for success as I became aware of the many career options available to me. I look forward to continuing to build relationships with leaders at HPM who have the background, industry knowledge and experience to help me reach my full potential.”

A unique aspect of the Emerging Leaders program is the opportunity to witness many of our former co-op students and interns transition into full-time HPM employees building careers in preconstruction, project management, field coordination and beyond.

 

“It is incredibly special to watch students navigate the entire process,” said Anna Dolen, HPM’s Senior Recruiter, who heads up the program. “From hiring interviews to the culmination of the Emerging Leaders Summit, I cherish the opportunity to build relationships with our co-ops and interns and find great satisfaction in watching them develop professionally.”

HPM Holds Ribbon Cuttings for Two New Schools in Manor, Texas

Posted on August 14, 2023

Manor Rise Academy and Manor Early College High School open in time for the school year

Two new schools have officially opened in Manor Independent School District (Manor ISD) in Manor, Texas. Ribbon-cutting ceremonies were held last week for Manor Rise Academy and Manor Early College High School. HPM served as program manager for the projects, providing project management, quality control and preconstruction services, as well as maintaining schedule and budget compliance throughout construction.

MECHS-Ribbon-Cutting

The $45 million Manor Rise Academy is a 116,000-square-foot school on a 40-acre campus on FM 973, set to provide students with new facilities and amenities to enhance their learning environment. The school’s interior includes athletic facilities; a competition gym with seating for up to 500 people; a dedicated gymnasium for physical education classes; a large media center; two art rooms; three maker spaces; performing arts classrooms; and student collaboration areas. Outside the school building, the campus will also house competition-level athletic fields, outdoor learning spaces and playgrounds.

Also opening is the $35.5 million Manor Early College High School, an 85,000-square-foot school situated next to the existing high school on Gregg Manor Road. The early college high school will accommodate around 800 students in grades nine through 12 who have a focus on career and technical education. The school’s open concept will provide a similar educational experience as seen on college campuses and will feature a commons area, coffee shop and cafeteria.

“Education projects require strict scheduling oversight to ensure an on-track completion by the start of the school year, and I am proud of our team at HPM for its dedication to an on-time delivery for Manor ISD. We thank the school district for its invaluable support and collaboration during these projects, and to our partners for ensuring success in the construction of these schools. As we move ahead on additional projects with the school district, we look forward to providing more quality program management services, expanding our footprint further into Manor.”

Ryan Austin, President, HPM
program management services

Manor voters approved a $280 million bond package in November of 2019, focusing on projects to accommodate student growth, address facility upgrades and repairs and improve transportation, security and technology within the district. It is one of the largest bond programs the district has initiated in its history. These projects are helping to accommodate growth in the 9,500-student district, which is expected to grow by 2.5% to 5% each year for the next 10 years, according to district student enrollment projections. 

Greater Austin is one of the fastest-growing major metropolitan areas in the U.S. and was recently projected to surpass San Antonio in population size by 2040, according to the Texas Water Development Board. The population of Manor, located just 12 miles northeast of Austin, has grown by more than 160% since 2010. Manor ISD is anticipating an additional 2,800 students over the next four years, and recognized the need for an experienced and dedicated program manager to oversee the bond program.

Additional project partners for Rise Academy include ADM Architect; Raba Kistner as geotechnical engineer; Civiltude as civil engineer; and Lee Lewis as the general contractor. For Manor Early College High School, partners include Claycomb Associates, Architects; Raba Kistner as geotechnical engineer; and Satterfield & Pontikes as the general contractor.

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