Tag: Program Management

Home for the Holidays: Helping a Louisiana Resort Reopen on Time

Posted on November 23, 2021

At HPM, we’re dedicated to leading a project every step of the way—striving to ensure that the owner’s vision comes to life on time, within budget, and beyond expectations. For our clients in the hospitality industry, the pressure to complete projects on time is often intensified by peak seasons and holiday travel.

In 2020, the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana came to us with a difficult timeline for the renovation of its Coushatta Casino Resort, which had suffered significant damage caused by Hurricane Laura that August. The Notah Begay III Junior Golf Championship was scheduled for the following November and Christmas season occupancy for the Seven Clans Hotel was also a top priority. The Coushatta Tribe initially hired a restoration contractor to do the work, and while the demolition and removal of wet and damaged materials progressed quickly, the restoration effort faltered, leaving no area of the hotel occupiable.

It quickly became evident to the tribe leadership that they were lacking the planning and organizational manpower needed to get the work completed on time, so they sought a program manager with the necessary experience to lead the way. HPM was hired to oversee the restoration of 160 guestrooms and other ancillary buildings.

Our services included:
• temporary furniture relocation
• identification of materials and furniture needed
• installation of new finishes and reinstallation of furniture
• coordination of contractor’s work activities with on-going hotel operations
• development of the construction schedule for restoration contractors
• tracking and reporting progress of rooms on each floor
• identification of temporary finish materials to overcome materials
procurement issues
• verification of work completion and acceptance
• coordination of the turnover of completed rooms floor by floor and wing by wing
• review of change orders and pay applications
• expedition of long-lead materials

HPM also coordinated the restoration and roof repairs of other buildings on the resort campus, including the golf clubhouse, restaurant and lounge, golf course comfort stations, human resources and training offices, and other miscellaneous buildings.

HPM’s efforts enabled the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana to reopen its casino and resort facilities efficiently, host the Notah Begay III Junior Golf Championship as scheduled, and welcome guests back in time for the holidays.

Through effective project management, HPM leads construction projects to completion on time and within budget while maintaining safety, achieving quality, and maximizing our clients’ resources.

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Image courtesy of https://www.coushattacasinoresort.com

Project Success and School Spirit at Hyatt Place TCU

Posted on November 16, 2021

The new six-story Hyatt Place Fort Worth/TCU is the first and only hotel located directly adjacent to the Texas Christian University campus, making it a popular place for out-of-town fans and alumni to stay. Its unique location called for an equally unique design, one that is distinctly inspired by the university’s history, mascot, and colors. The 113,000 square-foot, $40 million hotel development includes 150 guestrooms, a 6th-floor rooftop bar and restaurant, Top Golf Swing Suites, an expanded lobby and first-floor bar, extensive meeting and ballroom spaces with catering kitchen, and an outdoor pool and gym.

Once the project came to fruition, a former TCU board member recognized the need for an experienced owner’s representative to oversee this unique and challenging project. As a trusted advisor to TCU, HPM was introduced and accepted the challenge.

HPM procured and managed the various team members including but not limited to the general contractor, architect, designers, operator, furniture, equipment, interior and exterior signage, security, audiovisual, food and beverage, acoustic consultant, envelope consultant, access control, technology, warehouse, moving, commissioning and final turn over.

We also coordinated and managed municipality efforts, compliance with TCU’s guidelines and design standards, cash flow, brand communication and approvals, bank inspectors and the model room process.

Having experience in leading hotel developments, HPM was able to provide solutions and value options when city codes and urban development requirements changed during design and planning. The project overcame additional planning approval time, budget and scope additions through HPM’s efficient and effective leadership.

In addition to the standard build-out procedures, special pre-planning for the design had to be implemented to accommodate changes in sanitary precautions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, the dining area in the lobby of the building was originally designed to feature a buffet-style setup. In response to the challenges and lifestyle changes created by COVID-19, changes were made to install sneeze guards and other modifications to allow for prepackaged food service and to adhere to safety protocols related to self-served meals. HPM remained agile, ensuring that the project moved forward and delivered on schedule, despite the challenges of designing and constructing a hotel during a pandemic.

Through effective project management, HPM led Hyatt Place Fort Worth/TCU to completion on time and within budget, while maintaining safety, achieving quality, and maximizing our client’s resources.

Avoid Weather Delays with Early Planning and Prefabrication

Posted on November 9, 2021

By Kyle Talley, HPM Electrical Preconstruction Manager

It’s cold and raining, yet I have miles of duct bank to go. In this blog post, we will discuss a planning option to avert schedule delays due to concrete-encased duct bank installations that must wait on good weather.

The cold and rainy season is well upon us and for most construction projects the thought of installing any significant length of underground concrete-encased duct banks is simply out of the realm of possibility. After all, we need minimum levels of dryness and warmth for the proper setting of the concrete. If current weather conditions do not meet these minimum requirements, we simply must wait until weather conditions improve. However, our construction schedules cannot always conform to the current weather situation. Sometimes we simply must get that duct bank installed in the dead of winter to maintain a tight schedule. With forethought, this potential situation does not have to impact your schedule. In fact, a longtime construction buzzword has presented the potential solution: prefabrication.

For many years now, prefabrication has been used to mitigate some of the risks and delays incurred with onsite construction. The use of an offsite location with more controlled conditions has become a tried and true method for both quality assurance and schedule enhancement. A prefabricated concrete-encased duct bank is a product that could very well help a project maintain a tight schedule while also allowing the actual installation to occur in conditions that otherwise would not allow. The sections of the duct bank are built offsite to the specifications of the project and then shipped to the job site. The onsite crew opens a trench, lowers the duct bank sections into the trench, joins the sections together, covers the trench, and the installation is done. The time-consuming work was completed offsite.

This allows prefabrication to be a solution to our weather-constrained schedule issue but also presents a challenge: planning. For this solution to work, the construction team must be able to anticipate the problem a minimum of six weeks in advance – the typical lead time for a prefabricated duct bank. The other main constraint to prefabricated duct banks is cost, mainly due to shipping. This potential solution will not be cheaper than a cast-in-place duct bank. The construction team will need a cost versus benefit analysis exercise to determine which installation method is best for the project.

HPM’s Preconstruction Services set the table for a successful project and make the entire building process easier for the owner. We offer expertise in planning a construction project before the actual construction begins, including feasibility studies, cost analyses, estimating, master scheduling, and design team structure and selection. The Preconstruction team includes mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering (MEP) specialists. Visit our Preconstruction Services page by clicking the button below to learn more.

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Should You Consider a Specialist for Your Construction Audit?

Posted on October 27, 2021

By Vinson Chapman, Vice President, Construction Audit & Advisory Services

Auditing construction contracts can be complex. The expertise involved is significantly different than typical audits performed by CPAs and involves evaluating subjective estimates, identifying ambiguous terms of the contract, and noting contractual incentives where the owner’s and the general contractor’s interests may not be aligned. A construction audit also requires obtaining and evaluating all the appropriate evidence to support the audit findings. This is not legal work or work performed by an architect.

A detailed analytical review of completed contracts and contracts in progress will provide meaningful information and focus on potential problem areas. Our Construction Audit & Advisory Services combine the skills of owner’s advocate, owner’s representative, program manager, and construction auditor.

Case Study Example

In the case of one independent K-12 school district in northeast Texas, the review of an extension of time by the general contractor/CM and a general financial audit required the expertise of HPM’s hybrid Contract Services, which included both project management and audit expertise.

When the GC/CM fell behind on schedule, their default was to request additional time through weather delays in order to avoid liquidated damages and redirect attention to the reality of the problem areas.

The project management audit review of the contract language and the potential weather impact on the critical path of the schedule resulted in the following:

The contractor did not provide the required documentation during construction for their intent to make a claim for more time per the contract.
The contractor did not provide evidence that there were abnormal (greater than average rain days) periods of weather. This data is measurable and a typical required deliverable in a change order request by the GC/CM.
The contractor’s critical path schedule was not affected by any claimed abnormal weather after review of the installation of work.

Project management issues were the reason behind a significant portion of the Contract Services Audit resulting in a credit back to the school district from the General Contractor/CM. Additional monies were recovered from the financial audit resulting in a total of over 5% of the construction contract value being returned to the district.

This example is somewhat typical of our standard audit findings of between 1% and 5% of the contract value. Obviously, savings of this type are well in excess of the fee to perform these hybrid services. The expertise for these services was not available from the district’s attorney or architect, and without the added HPM support, the district couldn’t defend the GC/CM’s requests. Our specialized knowledge and experience made it possible.

HPM provides peace of mind and confidence you paid the right price for your construction spend.

HPM’s audit service professionals offer expertise to secure fair negotiation and billing for client contracts. We perform comprehensive reviews of job costs that often lead to a substantial net savings of project costs. As always, if we can be of service, please do not hesitate to reach out. Click the button below to be directed to our page.

Construction Audit & Advisory Services

HPM Selected as Program Manager for Manor Independent School District’s Capital Projects

Posted on October 20, 2021

We are proud to announce that Manor Independent School District (Manor ISD) has selected HPM to serve as program manager for its capital and facility-based projects. Representing $174 million in new development, these enhancements are the result of a $280 million school bond program approved by voters in Manor, Texas, in November 2019.

HPM will work alongside Manor ISD to provide project management and preconstruction services while ensuring schedule and budget compliance over the next three years. This includes several new classrooms, transportation, and multipurpose facilities.

“Manor has seen tremendous growth over the past decade, underscoring the need for improved educational infrastructure that can support a student body expected to exceed 12,000 students within the next few years,” said Greg Ellis, HPM’s Vice President of Program Development. “We look forward to seeing firsthand the positive impact that this investment will have on the community.”

The partnership is a continuation of HPM’s growth strategy in Central Texas, where it has already built an extensive program management portfolio for K-12 districts including Round Rock Independent School District, Belton Independent School District and Austin Independent School District. HPM’s success is largely attributed to the firm’s full range of services uniquely tailored to meet the demographic and socioeconomic needs of every community it serves.

“Our work is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and HPM is well known for the ability to cater our services to the specific needs of each school district we partner with,” said Derek McSween, Senior Program Development Manager at HPM. “HPM has the expertise to understand the nuances and challenges that come with working in K-12 facility planning and bond implementation, especially as the coronavirus continues to impact regulations. Our team is pleased to play a part in Manor ISD’s growth story by ensuring that its scholars are provided the highest quality academic and recreational facilities possible.”

Greater Austin is one of the fastest-growing major metropolitan areas in the U.S., having increased 34% in population size since 2010 and an impressive 3% in the last year alone. The population of Manor, located just 12 miles northeast of Austin, has grown by more than 160% since 2010, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

“We are grateful to the Manor ISD community for voting to pass the 2019 bond. As we continue to put scholars first, these new state-of-the-art educational facilities will address equity gaps, overcrowding and prepare for the continued population growth,” said Dr. Andre D. Spencer, Manor ISD Superintendent of Schools. “Most importantly, Manor ISD scholars are more than deserving of quality facilities that will enhance their learning environment. We are excited to work alongside HPM for this effort. HPM is truly a remarkable project management partner. It would be almost impossible to complete $280M worth of bond projects without their expertise and dedication to excellence in Manor ISD.”

HPM K-12 Services

HPM’s Gaila Barnett Promoted to Senior Project Manager

Posted on October 20, 2021

Gaila Barnett is a passionate and strategic leader whose ability to tackle new projects with enthusiasm, thoughtfulness and urgency has led to great success for her clients and her team at HPM. Having established strong relationships in Texas, she has played an essential role in growing HPM’s business throughout the state. We are proud to promote Gaila to Senior Project Manager and appreciate her many contributions to the firm over the past two years.

Gaila joined HPM in October of 2019 with over 25 years of experience in design and program management under her belt after leading projects totaling $2 billion across 26 states. Her ability to tailor her approach to meet the needs of individual markets is what sets her apart, along with her impressive experience within the healthcare industry.

Her first project with HPM was the Hyatt Place Hotel at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, a very challenging assignment that Gaila jumped into headfirst. She spent countless hours working to gain an understanding of the project’s history, the team dynamics and the client’s vision. Due to her expertise and commitment to providing the best possible service for the client, this project overcame challenges throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and was a tremendous success for both the owner and HPM.

Since then, Gaila has taken on 41 facility assessments around the state of Texas for one of HPM’s longtime clients in the healthcare sphere, and is working with a partner firm on municipal projects throughout Metro Dallas. Her previous portfolio of healthcare experience and numerous relationships within the sector has also led her to confidently take on the challenge of crafting a plan for HPM to pursue additional healthcare work in markets across the country.

“Gaila has far proven her ability to show extreme ownership of her projects and responsibilities and does what it takes to provide the best possible outcomes for our clients,” said HPM Program Executive Ben Henson. “She consistently showcases all of the qualities that typify strong, effective leaders and is committed to helping HPM remain the best of the best in our industry.”

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 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.”

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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).

Careers at HPM

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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Tag: Program Management

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