News

Maintaining a diverse portfolio of project experience is comprised of two key elements—a team with expertise and an accurate read of the ever-changing markets. It can be said in almost any industry, there are rises and falls in demand, whether anticipated or unexpected. So where does that leave us now, and how does experience and know-how across this diverse group of markets help to keep us prepared for the future?

With the increasing number of women joining the construction industry each year, we interviewed two of our more recent female hires about their journeys leading to a career in a construction, what keeps them here now, and who ultimately inspires them. According to North Central College, “It’s been estimated that anywhere from 20 to 50 percent of students start college as ‘undecided’ in terms of their major. What’s more, upward of 75 percent of college students change their major before they graduate.” So, this information made us think… what brought two of our newest Project Coordinators into the world of construction?

According to a survey by Career Builder and Silkroad Technology, “a good onboarding program leads to 69% of employees staying at least three years”. The importance of this is compounded when considering that the construction industry had one of the highest turnover rates in 2019 at 65%, as documented by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. So armed with that knowledge, how does the industry combat those statistics? We spoke with key onboarding staff to gain insight into our best practices.

As the most diverse state in the Union, California has a reputation for being the melting pot of America. By virtue of its population base, California experiences more global viewpoints and perspectives from its vast make-up of cultures and ethnicities. This diversity is a valuable component of our state’s culture as it lends to innovation and creativity.

During a season of giving, it is only fitting that we reflect upon some of the nonprofit organizations that are vital to our community. Staples has had the privilege of partnering with a variety of nonprofit organizations that have made lasting impressions and bountiful contributions to so many in need. Our interactions with these organizations include both building projects and establishing enduring relationships.

In honor of Veteran’s Day, Staples Construction is celebrating our team members who have made the transition from military service to the field of construction, and the unique perspectives they contribute to our industry. Mark Hodge, Director of Construction for Job Order Contracts of Staples Construction in Northern California, talks of the several ways Staples supports the military, as well as the benefit of hiring veterans.

October is Careers in Construction Month! This month supports awareness of the different paths and opportunities within a career in construction. In honor of this, Staples details the different career paths, benefits of the industry, and preparation encouraged for a career in construction.

Staples Construction recently completed on the Manna Conejo Valley Food Bank located in Thousand Oaks, California. Manna, founded in 1971, is an organization that provides food assistance within the Conejo Valley of Southern California.

We sat down with a few of the estimators at Staples to gain better insight into five best practices of the estimating world. Together we discussed the processes that go into pre-construction, and the important elements factored into estimating. In talking through the major themes of estimating, we were able pull the most notable aspects.

As June was National Safety Month, Staples Construction reflects on the unique aspects of safety within the field of construction and jobsite preparedness. Safety is vital to our profession as there are multitudes of hazards that can occur on jobsites.

The Staples Construction team had the pleasure of joining A Community of Friends, U.S. Vets, and DE Architects, AIA at the groundbreaking ceremony for Ventura Springs – the latest development to come to Ventura County with the distinct aim of housing and serving the veterans of our community.

March is Women's History Month, and we're looking back over the past 30 years at the women who have helped shape our industry. Employees who have been a part of our family the longest recall a time when the office was predominately women. Today, nearly half of Staples' leadership roles are held by women and almost a quarter of its total workforce is female...nearly double the national rate for the industry.

February is Career and Technical Education Month, and Staples is taking a look at one of the paths less travelled, and why it’s more important than ever that it is recognized and encouraged… technical and vocational training.

Staples Construction's Marketing Specialist, Danielle Nguyen, attended her first SMPS Pacific Regional Conference. Here's a look at Danielle's experience as a marketing professional new to the A/E/C industry!

Staples Construction attends the groundbreaking ceremony for the new addition of the Boys and Girls Club of Camarillo.

Staples Construction's Project Manager Ryan Tauro has been awarded one of the Pacific Coast Business Times' 40 Under 40!

Staples Construction takes a look at the impact of cost escalation of lumber, steel, and copper as the economy recovers from a global pandemic and supply shortages. Despite the unknowns, strategic estimating and communication are more essential than ever.

COVID-19 has impacted every market segment imaginable, and construction is no exception. As time passes, and we slowly go back to "normal," it begs the question… Where is the industry headed next? We look at how Staples Construction and the industry as a whole have adapted, and what we can anticipate next.