Tag: construction management

HPM’s Andrew Betts Promoted to Senior Program Manager

Posted on October 5, 2021

As HPM continues to grow and develop our teams on various accounts and throughout the US, ascribing to the company’s vision and effectively carrying it out become preeminent characteristics of those in leadership. For his willingness to see and develop the potential in our people, our business, our markets and our clients, Andrew Betts has relocated from Fairhope, Alabama, to Austin, Texas, and has been promoted from Senior Project Manager to Senior Program Manager. He will be the account leader for our most recent K-12 program at Manor ISD in Manor near Austin.

When Andrew was hired at HPM eight years ago in Mobile, AL, the company looked very different. We had just successfully landed the Airbus A320 program and were experiencing significant growth potential along the Gulf Coast of Alabama and in the aviation world. Andrew came to us from an electrical subcontractor that was working on the Gulf Quest Maritime Museum project. Andrew’s leadership skills stood out on that project and he was quickly recognized by Jared Scheeter and Mike McKenny, who were leading the HPM effort for that project. Mike and Jared recruited Andrew for several months until the appropriate time for him to make the move to HPM.

“Hired initially as a Project Engineer for the Airbus account, Andrew’s attention to detail, positive attitude, and collaborative leadership style allowed him to grow quickly, through two successful Airbus projects and a successful HAECO project, from Project Engineer to Senior Project Manager,” says James Adams, HPM Vice President of the Western Region. “While in Mobile, Andrew helped develop and implement tools and processes that now serve as the deliverables HPM provides to almost every client.”

We’ve been named one of the Best Medium-Sized Companies to Work For in America by Great Places to Work multiple years running. Interested in joining our team? Learn more by clicking the button below.

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HPM’s Taylor Thorn Promoted to Program Executive

Posted on October 4, 2021

In our business line, the ability to build strong, impactful relationships is crucial to our success and growth at HPM. Whether these relationships are with owners, design teams or even internally, it takes a true leader to possess the ability to forge meaningful connections with everyone he or she meets. Taylor Thorn is the perfect embodiment of this quality, known for his ability to effortlessly convey that HPM can provide solutions to meet any client’s needs. He has quickly become a go-to resource for clients and colleagues looking for assistance in solving complex challenges. This dedication to maintaining strong relationships both inside and outside of our firm is the driving force behind Taylor’s promotion to Program Executive.

“Taylor lives HPM’s core values every day, through his dedication and care for his clients, his community and his teams,” said Brooks Ballentine, HPM’s Director of the East Region. “Along with his determined work ethic, infectious attitude and can-do approach, Taylor puts relationships at the forefront of all of his actions as he strives to exceed client expectations.”

In his previous role, Taylor provided oversight on more than 10 programs executed out of the Birmingham office, and was responsible for managing client partnerships, program staffing and internal controls and reporting. He joined HPM in 2012 as a project manager on the University of Alabama (UA) account team and has quickly grown in his professional career as a part of our firm. Throughout his nine years here, he has provided oversight and leadership for multiple programs in addition to UA including Regions, the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, Calhoun Community College, Buffalo Rock, Ole Miss, National Cement and Avanti Polar Lipids.

“Taylor’s passion for his work and for supporting his teammates through any and all challenges is what sets him apart from the rest,” said Frank Marsac, HPM Vice President of Operations. “This is evident through his reliability, drive to be the best in the business and his willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need. This promotion is well deserved, and I look forward to seeing what great things Taylor will accomplish for our company as he grows his impact across our industry.”

Taylor graduated from Auburn University with a B.S. in construction management and is also a graduate of the Hoar Leadership Council. He is a Certified Construction Manager (CCM).

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HPM’s Alana Abbott Promoted to Administrative Assistant

Posted on September 30, 2021

The next time you visit HPM’s headquarters office in Birmingham, you may notice a new face behind the front desk where office assistant Alana Abbott has greeted guests since she joined HPM in May 2020, but don’t worry! Alana’s dedication and team player attitude have earned her a promotion to Administrative Assistant and a new office down the hall.

“Alana’s promotion comes as no surprise,” says Jaclyn Decker, HPM Executive Assistant. “Since her first day at HPM, she has gone above and beyond for all of our employees and clients.”

Alana will now support the efforts of Program Development across HPM, as well as the Planning Services and Preconstruction Services groups.

“Alana has shown the ability to handle multiple priorities and assignments with great attention to detail,” says Greg Ellis, HPM Vice President of Program Development. “She has good interpersonal skills and works well in a fast paced and constantly changing environment.”

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HPM’s David Jones Promoted to Senior Project Manager

Posted on September 2, 2021

HPM has assisted in the execution of an ongoing capital development program at the University of Alabama since 2004, working alongside the university on projects ranging from high-tech science facilities to world-class sports venues. It takes a special team to assist with such extremely demanding construction projects, and HPMers like David Jones are the reason we are so successful. For his dedication to the client and tenacity in the face of any challenge, David is being promoted to senior project manager.

“During his time with HPM, David has acted in a very high capacity as a project manager who manages a wide variety of projects on campus,” said Trent Hall, HPM senior project manager. “David is always willing to accept new projects of varying complexity and scope and never shies away from a challenge.”

Over the past six months, David has grown in his responsibilities and, in addition to managing his project workload, provides leadership to several team members. David also serves as a valued member of the Senior Leadership Team for HPM’s UA team.

“David has never been afraid to roll up his sleeves and put in long hours to get the job done,” Hall said. “He spent many hours on site during the completion of the Tutwiler Triangle Lot and Capstone Parking Deck projects to ensure their successful completion. He has continually pushed projects across the finish line to ensure they are completed by deadlines set by the University of Alabama.”

Before coming to HPM in 2018, David worked as a construction manager for Gray Construction and a project coordinator and estimator for KBR. He has over 17 years of total construction experience and a degree in construction engineering technology from the University of Southern Mississippi.

“David always goes above and beyond to serve his clients at the University of Alabama,” said Brad Cook, HPM senior program manager. “David has a very strong work ethic and a relentless pursuit for improvement. He truly embodies our core values as a company, which is exemplified in the way he approaches his job every day. I am proud to call David a member of the HPM family.”

We intentionally guide with our values to create a culture that is inclusive, challenging, and supportive at HPM. We’ve been named one of the Best Medium-Sized Companies to Work For in America by Great Places to Work multiple years running. Interested in joining our team? Learn more by clicking the button below.

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HPM’s Medora Gaddes Promoted to Project Manager

Posted on August 11, 2021

Team members who inspire those around them are vital to the success of any organization. Their positivity encourages others to step up and shine. Medora Gaddes is undeniably one of those people. She is not only passionate about leading our clients to success through project management but also serves as HPM’s Talent Development Coordinator, recruiting the next generation of HPM leaders. For her unwavering enthusiasm and leadership, Medora is being promoted from Assistant Project Manager to Project Manager.

“Medora is being promoted due to her hard work and dedication to all things HPM,” said Brennan Bell, HPM Senior Program Manager. “She was put on the Calhoun Community College Sparkman Building project as an Assistant Project Manager (APM) with all of the responsibilities of a Project Manager. Over the course of the project, she has proven to be capable of managing the project with little oversight and has fully gained the trust and respect of the client. She has also been working on building relationships and seeking opportunities with North Alabama-based clients and architects, all while balancing being a new mom.”

Medora first began showing her value at HPM as a Co-Op from 2014 to 2016, assisting with assignments including Walker County High School, Birmingham Intermodal, and even the high-visibility Auburn Pharmacy and Nursing buildings. After her graduation from Auburn with a degree in civil engineering (and a minor in dance), she joined HPM as a Project Engineer in 2017. She immediately began demonstrating leadership qualities, attending events in Huntsville to integrate herself into the local market, and becoming involved with the Chamber of Commerce and the Southern Automotive Women’s Forum. Her project highlights include Calhoun Community College, Abaco, FedEx, Aerojet Rocketdyne Headquarters and Advanced Manufacturing Facility, and the Sand Mountain Park and Amphitheater.

In addition to her project management duties, Medora does a tremendous job leading our recruiting efforts for the company. She spends considerable time making sure that the needs for co-ops, interns, and full-time hires are being met. Medora has expanded our recruiting network and can be counted on to put forward qualified candidates who are great fits for HPM.

“Medora is an enthusiastic team player,” said Brooks Ballentine, HPM Director of the East Region. “Not only does she handle her project management duties, she is active in helping with business development, client entertainment, recruiting, and coordinating our Emerging Leaders Program. She goes above and beyond in everything she does.”

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HPM Talks: 2020 Recap

Posted on December 14, 2020

Shutdowns and social distancing have forced us to think outside the box in order to connect with people in 2020. Meetings, classes, doctors’ appointments, wine tastings—they’ve all gone virtual this year! At HPM, we began a series of webinars called HPM Talks, featuring free training sessions from nationally-recognized experts in planning, design, and construction audit and management.

Stay tuned for further announcements about future Talks topics and special guests. In the meantime, enjoy this recap of our 2020 episodes. Recordings of the webinars and presentation slidedecks are available at the links below.

What to Do With Your Building Projects as a Result of COVID-19
HPM’s Mike Lanier, Greg Ellis and Vince Chapman kicked off the series in April with a webinar on the impact COVID-19 has had on each project phase – planning, construction, closeout – and what owners can and should be doing to prepare for future projects after quarantine ends.

Reducing Risk on Construction Projects
In the COVID-19 environment, have you considered the increased risk of subcontract default? Has the subcontractor risk landscape changed? HPM Vice President of Audit & Contract Services Vince Chapman examined these topics and offered advice to owners in May’s episode.

Putting the Tenant in Charge of Funding and Building
Although teaching a tenant-controlled development concept is a much longer conversation, Mike Lanier, President of HPM, and Shan Gastineau, Senior Director of Stan Johnson Company, lead a discussion in June on this novel approach which eliminates the complexity and removes the intimidation often associated with the alternative.

Planning for Post COVID-19 Facilities in Business, Education & Communities
Greg Ellis, Vice President of Program Development, returned to the HPM Talks virtual stage in July, this time joined by Vice President of Planning Services Tracy Richter. They discussed the major components needed to comprehensively analyze facility needs, and explored examples of successful planning in the growth, decline, and maintenance stages.

Return to School During COVID-19
Hosted by planning expert Tracy Richter, this episode featured a conversation with Dr. Todd Freeman, Superintendent of Vestavia City Schools, who shared what school re-engagement looked like in his Alabama school system.

FedEx Explores the Synergy Between Human and Capital Resources
Our clients have found creative ways to ensure the health and happiness of their customers and team members during this pandemic. October’s webinar brought together HPM VP of Marketing Andi Sims with our FedEx Express clients Donna Cook, VP of Properties and Facilities, and Robbin Page, VP of Human Resources, to discuss how HR and facilities colleagues are galvanizing their perspectives as employees return to work.

GMP Contract Negotiations: Recognizing and Understanding Potential Conflicts of Interest
For the final webinar of the year, Vince Chapman explored the hidden conflicts that can arise when negotiating the terms of a Guaranteed Maximum Price contract with a construction manager or general contractor and offered solutions to make the best contract possible.

We’re proud of the positive feedback we’ve received from our clients and industry partners, and we look forward to continuing this series in the new year. If there is a specific topic you would like for us to explore or if you are interested in a customized virtual training for you and your team, please reach out to us at info@hpmleadership.com.

HPM’s Beginnings: A History Built on Standing in the Gap (Part Two)

Posted on May 15, 2019

By Mike Lanier, President

Welcome back as we turn back time with our founding president reminding us in this two-part series about how HPM was founded and how it continues to grow. You can read Part One of this series posted earlier on our blog.https://hpmleadership.com/hpms-beginnings-a-history-built-on-standing-in-the-gap-part-two/

See Part One Here

In 2013, HPM took to the skies and provided the much-needed boots on the ground in the US for the global aerospace company, Airbus. Our expert staff members embedded themselves within Airbus and became the client’s eyes and ears during the design and construction of their first US manufacturing facility, which has led us to other clients in the aerospace and aviation industry.

Along the time that HPM began making its impression in several industries signaled the time for the company to be organized into its own entity, and HPM was officially structured into an LLC, branded itself apart from the construction company, and offered services separate from industry norms.

A few years ago, HPM represented the City of Birmingham by managing the design and construction of a new minor league baseball stadium right in the middle of downtown which sparked a revitalization of the area. Now, we have lead the building of several new major and minor league baseball stadiums across the Southeast as well as numerous collegiate sports venues across the US.

As a part of our growth strategy, HPM acquired a construction audit and contracting firm which serves an impressive list of clients including Google, Caesar’s Entertainment, Southwest Airlines, Facebook and Landry’s. The team criss-crosses the country involving themselves in clients’ contract negotiations; conducting interim and final audits to determine reimbursable costs, fees, savings and savings allocations; reviewing pay applications; calculating scheduled damages; and managing claims analysis and defense. We like to say that our audit and contract services provide clients with confidence knowing you paid the right price on your construction spend.

Today, HPMers serve global clients across the US from offices and project sites dotted throughout the country. Our clients continue to work with us on new projects because we have created deep, long-lasting relationships, and we continue to attract innovative and passionate talent because our work and our teams are meaningful, interesting and fun!

HPM was founded by leaders for leaders who lead at every level. We strive to be the perfect partner in every way so that our clients’ organizations achieve success.

My talented colleagues come from all walks of life and expertise – engineers, builders, estimators and designers work alongside accountants, business managers, communications professionals and administrative experts. Every role is important in HPM’s success and our clients’ success.

I believe HPM employees are relationship-driven, problem solvers, and good stewards. We strive to have purpose in our lives and do the right things for our clients and our community. My colleagues take the time to truly get to know our clients and their businesses to provide that ultimate form of servant leadership – the trusted advisor.

HPM’s Beginnings: A History Built on Standing in the Gap (Part One)

Posted on May 14, 2019

By Mike Lanier, President

Join us on this look back in time as our founding president reminds us in this two-part series about how HPM was founded and how it continues to grow.

HPM is in the business of leading. Sometimes, that looks like shepherding more than it does signaling a full-scale charge from the front.

While others in our industry focus on getting plans on paper or aim at the best ways to compile bricks, concrete, and steel, we focus on what’s most important to our clients at any given moment. HPM serves as a trusted advisor who stands in as the owner’s advocate in a capital building program.

And that can look like a lot of different ways to lead and serve.

A Little History

Our unique story of this servant-leadership style began in 1940 when Friend Reed (F.R.) Hoar founded the F.R. Hoar Construction Company in Birmingham, Alabama. Over the decades, the company has grown across the US with new projects, new clients, and new colleagues.

I began my career with Hoar Construction in the mid-1990s doing pre-construction work in the retail industry, and very quickly, I noticed many of our clients needed help beyond that of traditional contractors. I happily provided them the guidance they needed simply because it was the right thing to do.

Rob Burton, CEO of Hoar Holdings (which owns HPM and Hoar Construction), served as the Executive Vice President of Hoar Construction at the time I joined the company. He and I recognized the market needed someone that could help clients reach success by managing all the intricacies of their construction projects – from planning, design, and construction through to owner occupancy.

After a serendipitous lunch with his daughter at her school where a construction project was in disarray, putting students at risk, Rob met with the District Superintendent and offered our services. This led us to pre-construction work for school districts and municipalities who struggled to proceed with projects because they constantly seemed to stay overbudget, behind schedule, and/or beyond their capabilities.

In 1997, Hoar Program Management (HPM) was founded as a division of Hoar Construction to serve as advocates for our clients. During this time, we guided Hoover City School District during all phases of their construction projects which put us on the map in Alabama for K12 and which has now expanded to include school districts throughout the country.

HPM team members now shepherd school superintendents and school boards through the planning, funding and site selection phases of capital bond programs through design and into construction and move-in.

In 2003, we graduated into the corporate world with our partnership with Regions Bank. Regions utilized our program management services to help stay on budget and on schedule while they rolled out new bank branches across their multi-state footprint. More than 15 years later, we still partner with Regions Bank and have expanded our services into interiors planning and move management.

In 2004, HPM made the leap into higher education when a large university in our home state hired us to provide program management support for six different simultaneous construction projects on campus. And, we’re still there today due to our deep relationships with the staff and leadership team and a successful 15-year track record. Since 2004, we have completed more than $2 billion in capital building projects to facilitate the university’s rapid growth.

And that was just the beginning…

Part Two

Tag: construction management

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