Leveraging Technology at Rosendin Electric
Challenge
Leverage technology to increase the diversity of the talent pool.
Actions
The journey to increase the diversity of talent at Rosendin began in 2008, with the development of Rosendin's Building Information Modeling (BIM) group. At that time, most contractors subcontracted BIM functions to an outside consultant. Mike Greenawalt, then a Division Manager in Arizona, hired Fred Meeske to begin the BIM group. This group evolved to become the BIM Technology Services team, providing BIM and virtual and augmented reality technology applications for Rosendin's craft workers to use on projects. Members of the BIM Technology Services team include former gamers who bring a diversity of thought and talent to the construction industry. By hiring individuals who studied software development or game development, Rosendin has increased how technology is used in construction. Gamers have developed the natural ability to navigate within 3D spaces. This easily translates to other software applications, especially 3D industry authoring software. The creativity of gamers and their skill in navigating game rules result in the development of tools that make the ideas of our craftspeople real. Game rules are similar to the rules that craft workers, project managers, and designers need to follow to design and build construction projects. We have craftspeople with decades of experience and sound ideas for process improvements and efficiencies. But they often lack some of the technical skills necessary to translate those ideas into today's technology and make it a working reality.
Outcomes
Today, we see tenured field workers collaborating with diverse younger generations with piercings, tattoos, bright-colored hair, some of whom are members of the LGBTQ+ community. Through technology, people who otherwise wouldn't have anything in common have collaborated and formed meaningful working relationships. Technology has proven to be a tool that unites teams rather than dividing.
Contact
Salina Brown, Director of Corporate Marketing
Quote
The existing system is not inclusive of everyone, and acknowledging that is a good first step toward a healthier society. It is essential for us to engage in uncomfortable introspection and have those conversations and discussions. Only by doing so can we truly provide individuals with the opportunity to grow and develop and create better communities. Silence will not solve these issues. It is our responsibility and duty to create future leaders that reflect the diversity of talent seen in the world today.