Strong Foundations | Summer 2019

A Message from Randall Redding

While we continue to pray for the safe keeping of those that endured Hurricane Dorian, it’s clear that the summer heat hasn’t left us yet. I hope you will enjoy this latest issue of RKR’s Strong Foundations newsletter.

Workforce development continues to be a top priority for the construction industry. The first article is about how it’s time for a shift in thinking in how to tackle the issue. As the state works to connect businesses in need with programs that train workforce, we need to look to change the way we think and encourage kids to consider opportunities outside of a traditional four-year college education.

We also interview Laura Boalch, who is the Technical College System of Georgia’s Deputy Commissioner for Economic Development. In addition to discussing with Laura what the colleges provide in terms of training in economic development, she shares programs to impact the industry’s workforce development initiative.

Thanks for your friendship and continued support.

Randall K. Redding
President & CEO

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Workforce Development

Over the past five years, the State of Georgia has focused efforts on economic development and has done a tremendous job of attracting industry to the state. Now, as we look to the future, questions arise about how we continue to maintain the same level of success. One of the challenges born from a strong economy is the continued lack of skilled workforce. We have heard this theme time and time again, specifically within the construction industry. But, as the Georgia economy booms, what is the state doing to connect its economic development efforts with its workforce development initiatives? And, more importantly, what can we do to change the perceptions and encourage today’s youth to explore careers in manufacturing, logistics, construction and other related trades?

[ Read Article ]

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Interview with Laura Boalch, Technical College System of Georgia

Laura Boalch is the Deputy Commissioner for Economic Development (ED). In this role, she works closely with the Economic Development divisions across 22 technical colleges to provide short-term, customized training for business and industry that is designed to fit those needs that fall outside the scope of traditional academic programs. Whether companies are seeking OSHA/workplace safety, computer skills, industrial maintenance training, or leadership/supervisory development, the colleges' ED divisions are equipped to meet their needs. They also offer continuing education and professional development opportunities for a variety of occupational areas.

[ Read Interview ]

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Giving Back to Students, Gaining a Better Prepared Workforce

Casey Pollard, VP of Strategic Planning and Development of R.K. Redding Construction, had the honor of delivering a $1,200 donation from the AGC YLP to the the Construction Technology Program taught by Chad Pruitt at Spalding High School. The donation went towards purchasing materials for Pruitt’s 3rd level coursework. “I can’t thank AGC of Georgia enough for not only the donation, but for what they do for my students and the classroom,” stated Mr. Pruitt. “There is an obvious skills gap in the construction industry and the AGCGA are forming partnerships throughout the state with its member companies and local school systems to get the word out that they want our students.” The AGC considers “workforce development” as a broad umbrella that encompasses both those activities that encourage students in elementary, middle or high school to consider the potential of a career in construction and those that help prepare young people for their first jobs in the industry, either through c...

A Chat With Mike Jett, VP of Honda Precision Parts of Georgia

Q: Share with us a little bit of your background with Honda. A: Mike Jett – I’ve been with Honda for 34 years. Prior to moving to Georgia, I was responsible for strategic planning for North America. My group was responsible for the feasibility studies for Alabama and Georgia facilities. However, my background primarily resided on the manufacturing side. My current role – as VP & Plant Manager – encompasses total operations here as far as manufacturing, with a focus on safety, quality and production. As manager of the entire business of operations at this facility, I drive us towards the core characteristics which we work toward every day. These characteristics include building products of outstanding quality, delivering those to our customers in a way that is safe for our associates and our goal of being a company that society wants to exist. Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job? A: It’s working with the people. The Honda Precision Parts facility has s...

Workforce Readiness - one student at a time (GSBA panel review)

In Case You Missed It! See how one student's life was changed by YouScience. From the panel discussion at the 2015 GSBA/GSSA Annual Conference. Video also available on the R K Redding Vimeo account. Photos Below: Randall Redding speaking on the panel.

Randall Redding Named President of the Georgia Chapter of The Associated General Contractors of America, Inc.

[ Printable Press Release ] Redding is the founder and CEO of R. K. Redding Construction DESTIN, Fla. (June 9, 2014) – R. K. Redding Construction (RKR), a full service, multi-disciplinary construction management and general construction contracting firm, is excited to announce that its President & CEO Randall Redding has ascended to the presidency of AGC Georgia, the statewide Chapter of The Associated General Contractors of America, Inc. (AGC of America) at its annual convention. Outgoing President Dave Cyr officially passed the gavel to Redding, at a ceremony during the convention, who will lead the Chapter from 2014-15. “I am humbled by the opportunity to work with my esteemed colleagues at ACG during the next year,” said Redding. “I look forward to working closely with the AGC Board to accomplishing great things.” Redding started the business in 1991, when he decided to make a difference in his hometown of Bremen, Ga. Today, RKR is an es...

R. K. Redding Construction’s Casey Pollard Selected to Join the Associated General Contractors of America's Construction Leadership Council

BREMEN, Ga. (March 18, 2014) – R. K. Redding Construction (RKR) Project Manager Casey Pollard has been selected by the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of America to serve on its national Leadership Council Steering Committee for a three-year term from 2014-17. Casey also serves on the Board of Directors for AGC Georgia Chapter and as the Chairman of the AGC Georgia Young Leadership Program. “I am honored that my colleagues at AGC have recognized my contributions to the organization by naming me to this committee,” said Pollard. “I’m looking forward to serving in this leadership position during the next three years and helping lead AGC to a successful future.” Pollard has served as Project Manager or Assistant Project Manager for RKR on dozens of projects, including 12 school projects in Paulding County. He oversaw the Burnt Hickory Elementary School, which was awarded First Place in the 2009 AGC Build Georgia Awards. A graduate of the Georgia Institute of Technology, Pollard...

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