WORKSAFE, a first-in-the-nation safety program designed to identify jobsite hazards before work begins in order to create safer work environments, reached a milestone - its 100th project. The 100th project is the exterior window replacement of the EMC Insurance Companies and Hub Tower buildings in downtown Des Moines. An event commemorating the milestone was held on October 10th at the EMC Insurance Companies headquarters.  Governor Branstad and Lt. Governor Reynolds; Teresa Wahlert, Iowa Workforce Development Director; Michael Mauro, Labor Commissioner; and Kevin Hovik with EMC Insurance Companies participated in the event.

In his statement, Governor Branstad said, "WORKSAFE is proof that when government and private industry work together toward a same goal and share a similar mission, the results will have a positive impact for all involved.  This program shows us how best to approach public-private partnerships." 

As expected, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has extended the deadline for crane operator certification requirements in the Cranes and Derricks in Construction final rule that was originally published Aug. 9, 2010.  The three year extension requires crane operators to be certified by November 10, 2017. The rule also extends by three years the employer's responsibility to ensure that crane operators are competent to operate a crane safely. For additional information, CLICK HERE.

Master Builders of Iowa is working with a crane training provider to assure we are able to provide the appropriate operator training required for MBI member firms within the three year timeline.

MBI has teamed up and partnered with United Fire Group, headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to create and launch the first Association endorsed, dividend paying property casualty program.  MBI members work hard to guarantee their business is safe, and we're working hard to ensure they're rewarded. This exclusive, customizable insurance program with UFG and MBI is the return on the investment contractors receive for ensuring the safety of their business. UFG individually rates each policy to safeguard the quality of our safety dividend, to make sure contractors get what they deserve. 

The product is available through your local agents, so we encourage you to call and find out more today.

In just under a month, MBI will debut the latest in construction leadership training that association members have access to this training season!  Do you want to be part of an innovative and interactive leadership series that will provide you with a great start to your construction leadership career, or do you want to get up to spread on some of the most critical topics in the construction industry?  Cornerstone Academy is designed to introduce attendees to several facets of the commercial construction industry while providing them with a wealth of valuable information and priceless resources.  A solid understanding of the topics included in this program are vital to the success of every commercial construction company therefore also critical for the success of the employees who are leading these firms. This is an excellent opportunity to see a detailed overview of many important aspects of the commercial construction industry as well as receiving fundamental information.

Topics covered in Cornerstone Academy include industry education, public affairs, insurance, finances & taxes, lead and asbestos hazards, labor relations, safety, construction law, human relations, cultural diversity, ethical bidding practices, and more.

We encourage you to take advantage of this exciting opportunity to develop individual leaders within your firm, and as a result, improve your entire team.

CLICK HERE for more information and to register. 

MBI strives for excellence when it comes to providing our members with quality service.  Members can only take advantage of the services and benefits MBI has to offer if they are knowledgeable about what they are and how to obtain them.  In November, MBI staff members will be traveling across the state, delivering a 1-hour program in 6 different locations.

We invite you and members of your firm to attend your local area luncheon and take advantage of this opportunity to learn about these new programs and services will benefit your organization and your industry.  You will be afforded the opportunity to ask questions, give input, as well as network with your peers and colleagues.  We encourage members to attend with our promise to deliver lunch on us along with a 60-minute guarantee.

CLICK HERE to register and see the list of dates and locations

The MBI Annual Winter Conference that is held every February is a great event to get your name in front a large targeted audience.  Annually, the conference brings in 800 - 1,200 commercial construction industry professionals from throughout Iowa and the surrounding states.  The MBI Winter Conference offers professional development leadership and safety training opportunities that encompass a broad range of subjects with high-quality, experienced presenters. The conference also plays host to all of the Association's awards presentations, a trade show and the annual membership meeting.  We are inviting you to become a sponsor of this popular annual event!  The MBI Annual Winter Conference will be held February 23- 25, 2015 at the Meadows Events & Conference Center in Altoona, Iowa.  The remaining sponsorship packages for 2015 are outlined in the flyer linked below and we encourage you to take a look at what opportunities you might be interested in.  

Follow this link to view the sponsorships available at the Annual Winter Conference -- http://www.mbionline.com/files/public/documents/2015_Winter_Conference_Sponsorships_Flyer_-_web.pdf

Thank you for your consideration in supporting the Iowa construction industry through sponsorships!