News Page
Did you know that we run an industry-leading fabrication shop in-house? With 40,000 SF of fabrication and dry material storage, the shop features a welder fit up table, TigerStop, plumber plasma cutter, tip tig station, copper cutting station, thread-o-let station, pre-pull station, steel welding bays, and more. Our staff completes work for the entire region in a centralized and controlled environment, creating prefabricated skids and racks that are delivered to job sites just-in-time throughout the Puget Sound region. (Cinematography by Tim Rice Photography.)
To celebrate topping out at the Washington State Convention Center Addition project, we asked our project superintendent, Erik Broughton, to tell us a little about the project to date. He shared, “It’s a one-of-a-kind project that now has nearly 50 Auburn Mechanical craft workers on-site from Local 32 Plumbers & Pipefitters and Local 7 Heat & Frost Insulators. We’ve overcome every project challenge to date, from high bay installs to an aggressive schedule, all while providing the owner with the highest craftsmanship. All along, the crew’s morale is higher than ever, and they’re eager to get the job done. What’s not to like about this project? The key, now, is to finish the Auburn Mechanical way — strong!” (Aerial photo by Tim Rice Photography.)
Our 8th Annual Charity Golf Classic is in the books! All proceeds from the event will benefit the American Heart Association and the Auburn Fook Bank. Thank you to our sponsors, volunteers, and attendees for joining us. More than ever, we appreciated getting to spend time with our Auburn Mechanical and industry friends. We can’t wait until next year!
What do you get when you combine great employees, cornhole, sunshine and a pizza truck? One well-deserved happy hour — Auburn Mechanical style! We’re thankful events are slowly making a comeback! Congratulations to our cornhole winners, Ben and Jesse. #HappyHour
The Seattle Municipal Tower (SMT) chiller replacement project involved detailed coordination and a full-building shutdown in downtown Seattle. Of note, we safely placed chillers that, in total, weighed 159,200 pounds and had a tonnage of 4,200. Great work, team! #WhenPerfomanceCounts
Where’s the photos of the machines? What kind of chillers
The Washington State Convention Center is our largest job to date. With increased opportunity comes the need for increased vigilance. Senior Project Manager, Christine Hadman shares, “The project has hundreds of workers on site. It takes significant effort, from all involved, to plan and implement our Zero Incident mindset and safety procedures. Our number one goal is for all of our team members to stay safe!” #Safety
BUILDING LOW-INCOME HOUSING IN SEATTLE - We asked project manager David Hasleth to give an update about his work in the Yesler Terrace neighborhood. He shared, “Over the past five years, Auburn Mechanical has partnered with Seattle Housing Authority and Andersen Construction to deliver projects for the Yesler Terrace Redevelopment. The three redevelopment projects that we have worked on are Hoa Mai Gardens, Red Cedar and Hinoki (currently in progress). In total, these buildings have provided over 300 new low-income apartments and have helped redefine the landscape of the Yesler Terrace neighborhood. The Auburn Mechanical team is truly proud to have been a continuous partner with the SHA-Andersen team to help make their vision for the neighborhood a reality.”
Pictured are sheet metal, mechanical piping, plumbing and boiler installation photos from our design-build construction work at Hinoki. #WhenPerformanceCounts
Great Work!
Safety shouldn’t be discussed just during a certain week or month but throughout the entire year. On each of our job sites, our crews participate in daily toolbox talks highlighting best safety practices and the plan for the day. Preparation is key to avoid incidents and surprises on the job site. Pictured is a photo from the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic huddle. Cameron T., Project Foreman, shares, “Our commitment to safety is the measure of how we value our team members and our responsibility for their wellbeing.” #ConstructionSafetyWeek #ConstructionSafetyMonth
“The key to delivering a successful project is all in the preparation,” shares UWT LCER Project Manager Josh L. Maury W., Sr. Mechanical Engineer, shared a great photo while on the job site to determine the feasibility of installing mechanical equipment and associated ductwork on the roof of the historical building. The project team was concerned with the space available on the roof for the equipment and large ductwork as well as a pathway from the roof to the first floor. With planning and teamwork, our design was able to indicate an achievable pathway by running the ductwork within the interconnected buildings and up an existing shaft that led up to an adjacent rooftop. Great job, team! #WhenPerformanceCounts
As part of our Construction Safety Month efforts, Auburn held an administrative team huddle to discuss safety initiatives planned for the month of May as well as friendly reminders of our “Zero Incident Mindset.” This month, Auburn’s management personnel will be visiting each job site to discuss important safety concepts including if you see something then say something, be present, mental health awareness, and practicing safety at home and at work. When performance counts, safety is the measure. #ConstructionSafetyWeek #ConstructionSafetyMonth
It is well known that a company’s culture starts at the very top. Luckily, our president, Stacy Johnson, is an outstanding advocate for creating and maintaining a proactive safety culture. Stacy shares, “Safety is a team effort. A successful safety culture is a partnership between the company and its employees. Employees trust that the company will provide the education and tools necessary for a safe work environment. In turn, the company trusts that all employees (regardless of position) will implement proactive measures to ensure everyone is safe. We are all in this together.”
A cornerstone of Auburn’s long-term business strategy is a zero-incident mindset, and we are committed to creating safe work environments for our people, subcontractors, customers and the surrounding community. This year, we are dedicating the entire month of May to host Construction Safety Month.
Darrel Zak, Auburn Mechanical’s Safety Director shares, “Ultimately, there are three main reasons individuals are motivated to be safe: for yourself, your family and your co-workers. Construction Safety Month, for me, is about taking a little extra time to focus on the importance of safety in both the mind and body. Safety is important in everything we do, both at work and at home. Be present, be focused and be safe, always.”
Are you looking to join a fun, rewarding and culture-oriented company? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, exciting environment? Look no further!
We’re looking to hire a project manager in our Special Projects Group. The ideal candidate is an excellent verbal and written communicator, is highly organized with leadership characteristics, and possesses strong time management skills. A Bachelor’s degree in business, architecture or construction management with five to ten years of related experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience) is required. #NowHiring
auburnmechanical.com/connect/#AuburnCareers
Progress at the Washington State Convention Center!
The Auburn crew successfully flew our fully fabricated 16-inch generator exhaust and thimble into place on the roof. Erik B., plumber superintendent shared his excitement, “This was a significant accomplishment! All pieces came fully welded from our fabrication shop, the crane picked into place and it was spot on. There was zero margin for error when you have a piece of pipe weighing 4,100 pounds 300 feet in the air.”
The crane pick took significant planning and a couple of stressful moments, but we did it! #WhenPerformanceCounts
We’re looking to add an estimator to our estimating department. The ideal candidate enjoys and excels in managing every detail, has the ability to work independently, ability to communicate and work together as a team, and strong organizational skills. The preferred candidate should have an associate degree and a minimum of four years of experience in construction estimating, four years of mechanical construction field experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. #NowHiring
auburnmechanical.com/connect/#AuburnCareers
Brady S. is a senior project manager at Auburn Mechanical, celebrating his five-year anniversary this month! Brady shares that he’s always enjoyed building things and taking on new challenges, which led him to his career path. He says, “It’s a rewarding career. It provides limitless opportunities to grow as a professional and a leader.”
During his five years at Auburn Mechanical, Brady has been a part of several projects, including numerous Microsoft projects, 1165 Eastlake, Seattle Children’s – Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic/Tiny Tots Daycare, and multiple Seattle Genetics projects.
He enjoys working at Auburn Mechanical because of the challenges faced every day, constant learning, and the family-oriented culture. Thank you for all your hard work over the past several years, Brady!
This grease interceptor was pre-cast in seven different sections weighing a total of 100,000 pounds. It has a capacity of 7,000 gallons and receives most of its grease waste from the 9,500 square foot kitchen. This installation required nine Auburn Mechanical field employees, four semi-truck deliveries, a road closure, and a special mobile crane.
Check out the video, filmed by project engineer Garrett H., to see how our Auburn Mechanical field team installed this interceptor.
Wow, nice job!
Another job well done by our Pure Water division! Keep up the great work! #WhenPerformanceCounts
Have you heard about the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic and Tiny Tots Early Childhood Development Center projects? These two projects are located within the Orenda at Othello Square development. When completed, the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic will support the local community with approximately 35,000 square feet of pediatric medical care, mental health, dental services, nutrition, sports medicine, physical therapy and occupational therapy, and the Tiny Tots Development Center will provide the community with high-quality preschool services.
Auburn Mechanical is proud to be a partner on these two exciting projects by providing mechanical pre-construction and construction services. Our project team is hard at work installing variable refrigerant flow, recirculating gas-powered hot water, medical gas, vacuum, and compressed air systems. Great work, team!
We’re currently seeking to fill our Senior Project Manager – Engineering role. This position requires a diverse skill set, overseeing protocols, strategy, and procedures related to Auburn Mechanical’s engineering and design practice. Could this be the career move for you? Learn more at: auburnmechanical.com/connect/#AuburnCareers
Are you looking to join a fun, rewarding and culture-oriented company? Look no further!
We’re hiring for an experienced human resources coordinator. The ideal candidate would have a bachelor's degree in human resources or a related field or two-four years of related experience and training. The candidate needs a working knowledge of generally accepted human resources concepts and the SHRM Body of Knowledge. #NowHiring
auburnmechanical.com/connect/#AuburnCareers
We are proud to partner with the Y Social Impact Centerto host The Art of Resiliency virtual event on March 25, 2021. At the heart of the Social Impact Center’s work is the belief that all people deserve access to the things they need to live happy, safe and independent lives. To learn more and register for the virtual event, visit bit.ly/3vAfDlA.
Y Social Impact Center Virtual Benefit
Here for You: The Art of ResiliencyI’ll be there 😊
We’re proud to have been part of the citizenM Hotel project, which was just awarded Seattle DJC’s Building of the Year. We were the full-mechanical contractor on the project, which resulted in the first hotel in Seattle with fully modular hotel rooms. The lobby, offices, and building infrastructure were built traditionally, and the guest rooms were installed using modular construction techniques. Congratulations to Gensler, Mortenson, Arup, Coughlin Porter Lundeen, Prime Electric, Polcom Group, and the entire project team!
Renee D. is an estimator at Auburn Mechanical who also previously worked for us as a BIM specialist. As a creative designer, she meandered into the industry after a family member introduced her to 3D modeling programs. She knew nothing about the construction industry but became interested in learning more. Renee enjoys the construction industry because of the consistent work, job security, and opportunities to learn new things. She also finds it rewarding to be able to walk into a space that she had a part in creating. Renee enjoys working at Auburn Mechanical because the company sets big goals and she appreciates working for a company that is not content to remain where they are while not fearing change.
Thank you for all your hard work, Renee! #WomenInConstruction
Samarah R. is a senior project manager at Auburn Mechanical with a background in estimating. She didn’t originally intend to join the construction industry; she had a degree in law and justice but was given the opportunity to work for a construction company that was willing to provide on-the-job training. Fourteen years later, she is still learning and enjoying the industry. Samarah enjoys the construction industry because it is ever evolving and continually provides new opportunities for her to learn. She enjoys working at Auburn Mechanical because she believes that the overall culture and employee happiness makes working here enjoyable.
Thank you for all your hard work, Samarah! #WomenInConstruction
Christina H. is a steamfitter apprentice and joined the trades because she wanted to be empowered and was once told she could never be a welder — so she had to prove them wrong! Christina enjoys the construction industry because she is able to work with her hands and take a step back at the end of the day to see what she’s accomplished. Christina enjoys working at Auburn Mechanical because she enjoys the people; and thinks everyone is accepting and easy to work with.
Thank you for all your hard work, Christina! #WomenInConstruction
Christine H. is a senior project manager at Auburn Mechanical and has been with us for nearly 20 years. Her passion for the industry started while working part-time for Auburn Mechanical in high school, answering phones and filing. Despite being in the construction industry for 20 years, she shares that she feels like she is learning something new every day by leading unique projects challenging her in different ways. Christine enjoys working at Auburn Mechanical because of the culture and people. She shares, “The team atmosphere has brought amazing talent to the company, who all seem to have a team mentality that encourages collaboration and problem-solving.”
Thank you for all your hard work, Christine! #WomenInConstruction
Beth W. is a plumber journeyman at Auburn Mechanical and has been with us for nearly 20 years. Her passion for the industry comes from her father, who was a plumber for over 45 years. Beth enjoys the construction industry because of the great benefits, people and schedule. She enjoys working at Auburn Mechanical because we continue to maintain communication and cohesiveness within the organization, despite the company’s growth.
Thank you for all your hard work, Beth! #WomenInConstruction
The construction industry has a history of being a male-dominant field. The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) seeks to change this by educating women about the vast opportunities in the construction industry.
We’re kicking off Women in Construction week the only way we know how—by highlighting several of our hardworking, highly-skilled and resilient female employees. These women, along with all of our employees, exemplify determination each and every day, when performance counts. We are so grateful for all of you, both in the field and in the office.
The number of women working in construction is increasing. According to the NAWIC, women represented 1,106,919 workers in the industry in 2018, which is up from 807,000 in 2010. Let’s keep that number on the rise! #WomenInConstruction
Each year Auburn Mechanical employees nominate their peers, various projects, and company innovations/initiatives for our Culture in Action awards. The Culture in Action awards are intended to recognize the recipient for exemplary demonstration of the company’s cultural values.
Congratulations to Justin P., Nick D., Will W., and Jeanette J. for winning Innovative Idea of the Year! Their implementation of Procore, a single source of project data, has already benefitted our organization in the first year of implementation by optimizing the sharing of project documents and information. Procore is endearingly referred to as the “Cadillac of project management and field software” because of its ease of use and scalability. The software is mobile and cross-platform, meaning people can use it both on a traditional PC and via mobile devices (bringing critical project information to the field). Additionally, information is cloud-based, meaning that data is safe and secure at an offsite location.
Each year Auburn Mechanical employees nominate their peers, various projects, and company innovations/initiatives for our Culture in Action awards. The Culture in Action awards are intended to recognize the recipient for exemplary demonstration of the company’s cultural values.
Congratulations to Joe K. for winning the 2020 Rookie of the Year award! Joe's forward-thinking and constant pursuit to be on the cutting edge of how we are operating along with the work he has done with our database are things that will allow us to continue being one of the top mechanical contractors in the area. He listens and treats every individual with the utmost respect.
Joe shares, "Awards and acknowledgments are great, but results are better. If you thought what we did in 2020 was impressive, just wait until you see what we do in 2021!"
Auburn Mechanical is excited to continue supporting future female leaders and investing in our youth. Thank you for your contributions, Christine!CREW Seattle would like to send a big thank you to Auburn Mechanical and Christine Hadman, Sr. PM, Auburn Mechanical for their contributions to “The Future of CRE is Female” Campaign. Auburn Mechanical is a women-owned business specializing in design-build, full-mechanical construction in the greater Seattle region. Their contributions support career advancement for future female leaders in commercial real estate.
You, too, can help us ensure the future of CRE is female by making a donation to the CREW Network Foundation scholarship program! Click here: crewnetwork.org/foundation/donate
#webuildthis #commercialrealestatewomen #thefutureofcreisfemale #scholarships #support
Each year Auburn Mechanical employees nominate their peers, various projects, and company innovations/initiatives for our Culture in Action awards. The Culture in Action awards are intended to recognize the recipient for exemplary demonstration of the company’s cultural values.
Congratulations to Jeanne M. for winning the 2020 Office Culture in Action award! Jeanne immerses herself in her work and takes it personally. She is diligent, knowledgeable, a troubleshooter, and is the go-to person for the Service Department. Jeanne takes ownership of everything she does.
Jeanne shares, "I am really honored to be the recipient of this award. I have worked here for seven years and am proud of all we have accomplished together and excited for what the future holds!"
Congratulations Jeanne!!
Congratulations to Kevin G. for winning the 2020 Field Culture in Action Award! Kevin embodies Auburn Mechanical’s performance and innovation values. He consistently strives to put the best interests of the company and his crew first and is great to work with.
Kevin shares, "It's great to be recognized amongst the team of individuals here. Auburn Mechanical holds great renown in town for our workplace culture, and every single team member is responsible for its cultivation and growth over the years because it is important to us all, and that's why I enjoy working here."
The nomination was open to all field and union employees that represent our core values in action: leadership, integrity and honesty, teamwork and collaboration, safety, work ethic, commitment and job pride, accountability, creativeness to solve problems, and community service.
Good job Kevin Grice!
Congratulations Kevin!
So happy that you are part of the team Kevin! Congratulations & great work pal!!
Congratulations Kevin 👏 we need role models
Congratulations Kevin! 🎉
Kevin appreciate your contribution to our culture and values
Congrats Sir!
Thee Kevin Grice
Congratulations to the UW Kincaid Hall project team on winning Project of the Year! This project encompassed a complex scope of work at a high level and represents the capacity of Auburn Mechanical as a full-service firm. Based on the delivery method of the job, and some of the challenges and obstacles that needed to be overcome, this project stands out as the most notable and best candidate for Project of the Year.
UW Kincaid Hall is a 77,000 square foot structure built originally in 1969 for the University of Washington Zoology Department. The progressive design-build renovation includes the demolition and abatement of existing building systems and rebuilding the interior as office and clinical space for the Psychology and Biology Departments. The project is projected to be completed in 2021.
Projects were nominated for creativity in design or operational delivery, team collaboration, execution and delivery, customer satisfaction, safety, performance and scope.
JORDAN GUTHRIE CELEBRATES
18 YEARS AT AUBURN MECHANICAL
We would like to congratulate plumbing superintendent Jordan Guthrie for 18 years at the company! He is a skilled superintendent, having worked on complex projects throughout the Puget Sound. To celebrate the occasion, we asked him to explain the pride he has working for Auburn Mechanical and driving a “red truck.” He responded, “As you go through the apprenticeship, you look up to those who are in charge, those who make the calls and those who are successful not only at work but also in their home life. Being in a ‘red truck’ signifies that you’ve made it, and there are hundreds of open doors awaiting you and your future.”
Congrats Jordan Guthrie!!!
Way to go Jordan Guthrie. Congrats.
🎆Congratulations🎆
Congratulations to my brother, Jordan Guthrie. Well deserved! ❤️
So very proud of my son. He’s always been a good role model. Thank you for giving him recognition. 🍀
Definitely someone worth looking up to. Learned a lot from this guy both professionally and personally.
👍
Remember that huge storm a few weeks back? Our Service Division was hard at work responding to customer needs associated with the storm, which included significant flooding, power outages that impacted HVAC systems, and critical client services. We want to thank our HVAC and plumbing service technicians who worked long hours to take care of our customers. Thank you for your hard work and dedication!
#WhenPerformanceCounts
Black History Month is a time to reflect and celebrate individuals from the Black community that have made a difference in our society. Madam C.J. Walker, America’s first Black woman millionaire, was an entrepreneur, philanthropist and activist. As a women-owned business, we aspire to be as courageous, determined and empowering as she was in the 1800s. This month is a time to reflect on our actions and strive to create a tolerant, understanding and inclusive society for all communities. #BlackHistoryMonth
Thank you, Christine, for supporting future female leaders!
#FutureFemaleLeadersOne of the many benefits of CREW Network is the ability to connect with and support #FutureFemaleLeaders. CREW Seattle’s Christine Hadman has donated in CREW Buddy Clara Kobashigawa's honor.
"I have the privilege of being paired with Clara as her CREW buddy through the Foundations Committee. Clara is currently attending the University of Washington and pursuing a degree in Communications. It is exciting and energizing to connect with Clara while she explores career opportunities and begins her CREW journey. I’m happy to pay it forward and make a donation in Clara’s name to the CREW Network Scholarship, supporting future female leaders as they pursue university-level education that will lead to careers in commercial real estate."
Do you know of a future female leader or a fearless female leader you'd like to honor by contributing to the Foundation’s scholarship program in their name? Scroll down to the "CREW Network Foundation Scholarships" to donate: crewnetwork.org/foundation/donate
#webuildthis #scholarships #futureofcre #seattlecre #commercialrealestatewomen #chooseCRE #GoDawgs #UDub
Our safety director has summarized some great advice about driving safely in the rain. Check it out!
SAFETY TIPS: WET WEATHER DRIVING
“Singing in the rain is fun. But driving? For some people, it’s anxiety-producing.” According to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration statistics, approximately 70% of weather-related crashes happen on wet pavement. Here are a few driving tips that can improve road safety outcomes:
— “SLOW YOUR ROLL: Reducing your speed will greatly improve your stopping distance if you need to brake suddenly. You’ll also reduce the risk of hydroplaning.”
— “MAINTAIN A SAFE DISTANCE: Be prepared for longer stopping distances on wet pavement. Because other cars may not have proper tires for wet weather driving, be extra alert at stop signs and red lights.”
— “TURN OFF CRUISE CONTROL: Ironically, on rain-slick surfaces, cruise control may cause you to lose control. You might think it’ll help you stay at one steady speed, but if you hydroplane while you’re in cruise control, your car will actually go faster.”
— AVOID HYDROPLANING: “Reduce your speed in heavy rain or where water may pool on the road. If you feel your vehicle starting to hydroplane (riding on the surface of the water), take your foot off the accelerator, but don’t hit your brakes. If you have a manual transmission, push in the clutch, and let the vehicle slow down until control is regained.”
— “GO SMOOTHLY: When braking, accelerating or turning, avoid jerky, abrupt movements.”
SOURCES:
consumerautopartsonline.com/wp/?p=118
www.bridgestoneamericas.com/en/corporate-social-responsibility/safety/driving-safely/wet-weather-...
AUBURN BY THE NUMBERS: 235
Auburn has worked on 235 special projects in 2020. Auburn’s special projects are run by our dedicated Special Projects Group, which focuses on quicker, smaller projects than our Major Projects Division.
#AuburnByTheNumbers #WhenPerformanceCounts
We would like to wish our clients, employees, vendors, and community a happy holiday season!
Our mental health is vital to our well-being and even our physical well-being. This month, during a holiday season like no other, our safety director wanted to focus his safety reminders on staying positive during a stressful time.
“It can be difficult to stay positive in these stressful times, but good mental health is essential. By practicing the following beneficial mental health habits, you will be more resilient and able to cope with today’s new normal: exercise, eat healthily, learn something new, ensure proper sleep, meditate, laugh, and seek professional help if you need to.”
— Darrel Zak, Safety Director
TEACHING FUTURE INDUSTRY LEADERS
Detailer Nick Bundy was a guest presenter at Central Washington University’s construction management program. Nick, A 15-year industry veteran, said, “When I was asked to be a guest presenter at Central Washington University, I was excited. BIM is extremely valuable to young project managers and is a vital part of the construction industry. I enjoyed teaching them real-world scenarios with our VDC models. We discussed how Auburn Mechanical uses BIM to 3D model and coordinate our systems. I showed them how we use these models to fabricate the mechanical systems that we install. The students at Central Washington University were very involved and asked outstanding questions. I am very grateful to be a part of their learning experience and wish them the best as they make the transition into the project management workforce.”
WE ARE THANKFUL FOR YOU!
Auburn Mechanical is grateful to our clients, employees, vendors and community for helping to create an atmosphere of mutual respect, innovation and exceptional performance during an extraordinary year. This year’s Thanksgiving celebration likely looks different than years past – we wish you a peaceful holiday with your loved ones.
CITIZENM HOTEL WINS AT NAIOP NIGHT OF THE STARS
The full-mechanical, modular hotel project was awarded Hospitality Development of the Year. Congratulations to Gensler, Mortenson, Arup, Coughlin Porter Lundeen, Prime Electric, Polcom Group, and the entire project team!
naiop-wa.secure-platform.com/a/gallery/rounds/10/details/6718
AUBURN USES THE HOLOBUILDER AND 360 CAMERA TECHNOLOGY TO DOCUMENT THE PROGRESS OF PROJECTS AND MITIGATE RISK
Auburn Mechanical recently deployed an Insta360 ONE X camera for use in site documentation, spearheaded by our director of innovation Will Weaver. “We are currently just ‘scratching the surface’ of the capabilities of this technology,” said Will. “I am excited to see how this technology can advance for the future of construction site documentation and see how it can be used in other ways.”
In December of 2019, we decided to use the WSCC project as the first live test case for this new technology, and Will handed over the keys to Doug Dunbar, the project engineer. “Once a week, I will walk the site and take 360 photos as needed where our installation environment has changed, or our installation has seen significant progress,” said Doug. “It is helpful to have all the context of the site, especially when working from home. I get a lot of funny looks and questions about what I am doing, which can be funny. The most common guess is that I am measuring air quality.”
Below is a link to a product demonstration video from the vendor:
We are grateful to our employees, clients, vendors, and fellow citizens who have served our country with honor. We salute you!
HOLIDAY LADDER SAFETY TIPS
1. Check your local weather report. Standing on a ladder in high winds could cause you to lose your balance. In addition, light drizzle can cause your ladder to become slippery. Make sure you pick a dry day with calm winds.
2. Stretch before using the ladder. Stretching your joints and muscles beforehand can help prevent cramps, aches, and pain later.
3. Select the appropriate ladder size for the job. Different jobs require different-sized ladders. If the only way you can get to your gutter to remove leaves or to hang lights is to step on the top step of the ladder, you need to buy a longer ladder.
4. Inspect your ladder. Before using your ladder, make sure it’s in good working order. If you store your ladder in a shed or outside, make sure you double-check it.
5. Start with a firm base. No matter what kind of ladder you’re using, place the base on a firm, solid surface, and avoid slippery, wet, or soft surfaces.
6. Keep your belly button between the rails. Over-stretching on a ladder could cause it to kick out from under you.
7. Be cautious by doors. If you’re working by a door that can open toward the ladder, let your family know you’re working there. A good practice is to tape a large note on the door reminding everyone you’re working.
AUBURN APPROACHING PROJECT COMPLETION AT SEATTLE MUNICIPAL TOWER CHILLER REPLACEMENT PROJECT
We are proud to be providing full-mechanical services for the complete replacement of a 4200 ton chilled water central plan. The chillers themselves weigh 159,200 pounds installed in a mechanical penthouse sitting 14 stories above grade.
AUBURN MECHANICAL PARTICIPATES IN SOCIALLY DISTANCED HEART & STROKE WALK
Over the last few weeks, our employees walked to raise money and awareness for the American Heart Association. Senior Project Manager, Lauri Thoday led the team in our 20th year of participation!
#HeartStrokeWalk
Lauri, what a great fund raiser!!! Congratulations to your effort and Aurburn Mechanical. 💞👍❤
PROJECT UPDATE – UW KINCAID HALL RENOVATION
Check out this time-lapse from last month’s mechanical installation at the UW Kincaid Hall Renovation!
#WhenPerformanceCounts
DID YOU KNOW THAT WE HAVE A PURE WATER DIVISION?
It’s true – and it’s not common. In fact, we’re the only mechanical contractor in the region that has in-house pure water capabilities. We have been providing the Puget Sound region with pure water services for over a decade. We specialize in providing solutions for many institutions, including the pharmaceutical and life sciences, government, industrial, food and beverage, and microelectronics industries. If you’re interested in learning more, check out our products and capabilities at:
auburnmechanical.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Pure-Water-Division-Auburn-Mechanical-2.pdf
AUTUMN SAFETY REMINDERS FROM SAFETY DIRECTOR DARREL
Our safety director routinely sends non-work-related safety guides to our employees because being safe is a 24/7 job. Below are some Autumn reminders he provided for our employees.
CLEANING YOUR GUTTERS
— Alert your family or a neighbor that you’ll be cleaning the gutters.
— Practice ladder safety. Inspect the ladder for defects, tighten loose parts, maintain three points of contact, never overreach, place the ladder only on a stable and level surface, and enlist help to hold the ladder base.
— Wear safety glasses, gloves, and long sleeves.
— Consider hiring a professional.
TRIMMING BRANCHES
Storms and wind can snap dead branches, which can injure people or damage items in their path.
— Choose tools that are made for trimming trees and make sure your tool is sharp.
— Follow proper trimming procedure according to the size of the limb.
— Wear safety glasses, gloves, and long sleeves.
— If using a ladder, follow the guidelines for ladder safety listed above.
— Consider hiring a professional.
HOME SAFETY CHECK
— Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work.
— Ensure fire extinguishers are functional.
— Check that first aid kits are well-stocked.
AUBURN PERFORMS SAFETY DEMONSTRATION
AT UW KINCAID HALL
As part of National Fall Prevention Awareness Week and Auburn Mechanical’s commitment to continuous safety training and awareness, we performed a safety demonstration on fall hazards and the gear associated with working at heights. Second-year steamfitter apprentice Robert volunteered to demonstrate the equipment.
#Safety
Auburn Mechanical is interested in the lives of our employees outside of work. It’s the individuals who make the team great. Meet Phil Sutlovich, one of our startup and commissioning technicians. We are grateful to have been able to steal Phil away from his professional baseball career…
FUN FACTS
Q: Do you have any pets?
A: We have a bit of a mini-farm: 3 dogs, 2 barn cats, 6 goats, 10 ducks, 4 turkeys, and about 30 chickens.
Q: What are your hobbies?
A: I enjoy camping, riding quads and motorcycles, fishing, hanging around my fire pit and we are season ticket holders for the Seattle Thunderbirds.
Q: What is your work background?
A: I started in the trade in 2000, participated in the service apprenticeship for five years, worked in service construction (installation), and held a position as service manager and service foreman. In the past, I’ve traveled all over the US to perform site surveys and air balancing and commissioning. I’m thankful to be able to come home every day now!
Q: What did you want to be when you were a kid?
A: I really wanted to be a professional baseball player, but I’m not very good... so here I am!
PROJECT IN PROGRESS – UW KINCAID HALL RENOVATION
The mechanical and plumbing, progressive design-build project is scheduled to be complete in the Spring of 2021. The renovation includes the demolition and abatement of existing building systems and rebuilding the interior into office and clinical spaces for the psychology and biology departments. Unique challenges for this existing space include the buildout of an MRI exam room to be used for research, installation of a school bus sized air handling unit and other mechanical equipment in an underground mechanical room with no elevator access, and installing acoustical treatments on terminal units to meet strict noise requirements from the owner.
#WhenPerformanceCounts
#WhenPerformanceCountsLast week Brother George Johnson was at a Federal way public schools site getting in some Trimble layout in the mist for Auburn Mechanical on our one cloudy day of the week! Nice work Brother! #UAProud #Local32
The Washington State Convention Center Addition project was featured by the Mechanical Contractors Association of America on their website. Check out the full article to read about our LEAN approach, focus on sustainability, unique methodologies, and safety protocols.
#WhenPerformanceCounts
This content isn't available right now
When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.
This content isn't available right now
When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.
This content isn't available right now
When this happens, it's usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it or it's been deleted.Some words of advice from our safety director for National Safety Month!
#NationalSafetyMonth
Check out Lease Crutcher Lewis's drone video from the Washington State Convention Center. We're proud to be on the project! #WhenPerformanceCounts
Everyone knows that Auburn employees love to have a great time, especially during the warm summer months. Because of social distancing, we hosted our first virtual happy hour, that of course, included drinks and contests. Thank you to everyone who participated!
#happyhourathome #socialdistancing2020
The Mechanical Contractors Association of Western Washington recently awarded Auburn Washington Industry Safety Elite (W.I.S.E.) status for our team’s approach to safety.
#SafetyFirst #WhenPerformanceCounts
All over the Puget Sound region, our field teams are providing safe and masterful building services to our clients.
Pictured are Aaron and Petr setting the pipe sleeves in a wall at the Washington State Convention Center Addition and Renovation.
Thank you, Kevin, for sending in your photos!
Thank you to our hard-working field crews for keeping construction projects running. We appreciate your dedication and focus on safety!
Tori Holmes Broughton
It is Nurse Appreciation Day. Make sure to thank a nurse today—their expertise, compassion, and bravery are vital to our community. Thank you!
#ThankYouNurses
Know a super strong special projects manager interested in taking the next step in their career? Check out Auburn's open position for an SPG Business Unit Leader here: auburnmechanical.com/connect/#auburnCareers
Auburn Mechanical’s experts can assess your building systems and recommend the right procedures to reduce contamination and protect customers and employees.
Schedule your building or project assessment today: service@auburnmechanical.com or (253) 838-9780
We're looking to hire a project executive. Follow the link to the application!
bit.ly/3cbw3q6
In support of essential projects, operating facilities, and the greater community, Auburn Mechanical is fabricating portable handwashing stations. These stations come in multiple sizes and quantities to meet any need.
Contact us to discuss which design is right for your facility or project.
Auburn Mechanical Service: Service@auburnmechanical.com
Ongoing Essential Projects: justinpritchett@AuburnMechanical.com
#Seattle #Construction #Stopthespead #Socialdistancing #Covid-19 #EssentialWorkers #Inthistogether
Thank you to our crew at the Washington State Convention Center project for continuing your hard work and adjusting practices to stay safe amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Keep up the great work!
Auburn Mechanical is committed to keeping our employees and clients safe during this health crisis. While it is important to note that there is no “silver bullet” to protect against the virus, there are multiple processes and practices we can utilize together to reduce the spread of infectious diseases like COVID-19. As a result of that mindset, we have implemented a Safe Environments Plan, which is targeted at creating safe and healthy work environments for our employees and customers. Please see the attached PDF created by our engineering manager Randy Stabnow, PE for full details of the plan or call us at (253) 838-9780, and we would be happy to discuss any of your questions.
secureservercdn.net/184.168.47.225/e2a.47e.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/COVID-19-Sa...
During this extraordinary time, we want to remind our valued customers that we are an essential business, in compliance with the governor’s stay at home order.
- Our Service Division is ready to assist with building tune-ups to support enhanced air quality and filtration; essential and critical site services; HVAC, plumbing, and piping repairs, replacements, and modifications.
- Our Special Projects and Major Construction Divisions are continuing operations for projects with an essential business or project designation.
- Our Design Engineering, Service, and Construction Divisions are here to support our clients and our essential infrastructure at this challenging and straining time.
- Safety for our customers, the general public, and our employees is always our first priority. Our employees have been briefed on the current guidelines issued by state and federal agencies and will follow company safety-first protocols.
- From filter changes to lab conversions and temporary facilities—we are here to help.
The Washington State Convention Center Addition and Renovation is growing quickly!
PROJECT UPDATE FROM WASHINGTON STATE CONVENTION Petr, pictured, is on pour watch. The project team is pouring concrete for the Pine Street retail spaces. By proactively observing concrete pours, we prevent plumbing sleeve displacement. Plumbing sleeves are used to place passageways for risers to go through the floor. We put them in place to reduce time and cost coring through concrete. At the convention center, we have nearly 2,000 floor penetrations that we plan to sleeve, some of which are 18 inches in diameter.
Happy Women in Construction Week!
Local 32 highlighted Erin!
#womeninconstructionweek
Happy Women in Construction Week!
We're proud of all the women who work at Auburn Mechanical, including our skilled tradespeople such as Brandi. What a nice post by Local 32!It’s #womeninconstructionweek this week! Here is Sister Brandi Lee, 14 year Plumber and #local32 member. Sister Lee works in the Auburn Mechanical fab shop supporting multiple jobs! You make us #UAProud Sister Lee, keep up the great work! #wicweek2020 #womeninconstruction #unionsisters #local32 #plumbersofinstagram #womanplumber #unionproud #unitedassociation #uaskilledpipetrades #skilledtradesmatter #unionfamily #union #unionplumber #tradeswomen #seattletradeswomen #auburnmechanical #fabshop #unionfabshop #fabshoplife
