Clark College Commits to Jobsite Wellness in New Ways
The Pacific Northwest’s Clark College Advanced Manufacturing Center, a 49,000-square-foot structure set for completion in late 2024, is pushing the envelope on exploring deeper levels of the Contractor’s Commitment. This program is a groundbreaking framework that emphasizes the importance of how buildings are constructed and the well-being of both construction teams and future occupants. It was designed to revolutionize sustainable building practices, and encompasses five key categories - jobsite wellness, carbon reduction, waste management, water management, and material selection.
“The Advanced Manufacturing Center not only focuses on sustainable construction practices but also serves as the perfect testing ground for the implementation of the Commitment's deliverables,” says Portland’s Director of Operations, Kyle Paulsen.
One of the key success factors on the ground is the implementation of a progressive design-build construction delivery method. This approach allowed the project team to use the Contractor’s Commitment framework during preconstruction for innovative planning, fostering collaboration with trade partners to devise innovative solutions for waste management, carbon reduction, and jobsite wellness. Examples include partnering with a local recycling program to divert more than just construction and demolition waste, organizing team-building events to reinforce inclusivity, and implementing solutions for better stormwater management and erosion control.
Mortenson's commitment to safety and jobsite wellness as company standards allows us to stand out in the industry and exceed the ‘good’ level of the Contractor's Commitment framework, without much additional effort. Especially noteworthy are our mental health resources and our recent commitment to leverage plumbed restrooms where possible. These facilities provide a more comfortable and hygienic environment for workers, especially for our female team members and craft workers.
Waste management practices directly tie into jobsite wellness, with the collective decision to eschew single-use water bottles in favor of reusable options and water stations. This move not only reduces waste but also addresses potential health hazards associated with plastic bottles.
Mortenson's commitment extends beyond its own efforts, emphasizing the importance of engagement from trade partners. “The collaborative approach has resulted in innovative solutions that benefit everyone involved, demonstrating a shared responsibility for creating attractive, healthy, and productive construction environments,” says Mike Dickey, senior project manager in Mortenson’s Portland office.
In addition to the Contractor’s Commitment, The Advanced Manufacturing Center also aims for LEED Silver certification, providing design flexibility that accommodates various instructional and community needs, and is a testament to its forward-thinking approach. Aubrey Mollett, assistant project manager at Mortenson said, “It stands as a beacon for innovative education in manufacturing trades, demonstrating how sustainable construction practices can be seamlessly integrated into transformative projects.”
For more information on Mortenson’s sustainable building efforts, visit our corporate social responsibility program page, Building for the Greater Good.