The RK Cares HERO Fund, a grant program from the RK Cares Foundation, was started to encourage RK employees to help one another. It is an emergency relief fund that is a resource for RK employees and/or their immediate family members when they experience financial hardships such as medical emergencies, the death of a family member and loss of housing or transportation due to unexpected circumstances. RK employees donate collectively to support co-workers and their families to help each other recover and rebuild.

HERO
H – Helping
E – Employees
R – Rebuild, Recover, Restore, Renew, Repair, Reduce, Rally, Return and….
O – Overcome

Since 2019, the RK Cares HERO Fund has granted $350,000 to over 170 employees or their immediate families. In 2023 alone, over $125,000 was granted to RK employees in need. After an initial $25,000 grant from the RK Foundation, the HERO Fund has been entirely funded by employee payroll donations and internal fundraisers. RK employees have donated almost $400,000 to help their co-workers in need.

The breakdown of assistance is:

• – Bereavement = 21%
• – Emergency Housing or Transportation = 28%
• – Medical = 47%

The RK Cares HERO Fund is a corporate social responsibility program of RK. The HERO Fund is part of the RK Cares Foundation, which is a 501(c)(3), that oversees RK’s philanthropic efforts, as well as employee and community outreach and engagement.

Some of the leading causes of death in the construction industry are falls and electrocution. But a lesser-known leading cause is suicide. In fact, the industry has one of the highest suicide rates compared to other industries — in 2016, the suicide rate for men was 49.4/100,000, which is almost twice the total suicide rate for civilian working men in 32 states. Research is still needed to know why exactly this is the case. However, possible factors include the job strain and long work hours associated with construction.

There are already institutions that are ready to support the industry and give direct help to construction workers in need. But there are a few things you can also do inside your company to protect your workers’ mental health. Below are some of them:

Make the workplace a safe space

Mental health and the workplace are closely related — unhealthy working conditions will affect an employee’s mental health. This can change their attitude and behavior, which will also affect their work and relationships with their coworkers, adding to the negative atmosphere. As such, it’s important to create a healthy work environment in the first place. Some things you can do are give stress management training for high-risk jobs, improve senior leadership engagement, and perform regular well-being checks. It would also be a good idea to openly discuss mental health in the workplace to show workers that they can ask for support if they need it. You should have zero tolerance for bullying as well.

Watch out for warning signs

The construction industry has many occupational hazards — from collapsing trenches causing serious injuries and death, to the prolonged use of handheld power tools that can cause hand-arm vibration syndrome — so it’s natural to pay attention to decreasing the risk of physical injury. However, other workplace-related health conditions can also include psychological injuries. Some factors that can negatively affect a worker’s mental health are workplace conflict and bullying. Psychological injuries are harder to spot than physical injuries, but it becomes easier with time. Some warning signs include a decrease in productivity, tardiness, isolation from coworkers, and an increase in conflict with coworkers. Once you notice these signs in a worker, you should immediately respond to them to prevent the situation from getting worse.

Provide resources

The stigma around mental health can make it difficult for people to seek help. Because of this, it would be a good move to provide everyone with resources and tools to manage mental health. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has a list of resources, which includes how to start a conversation on mental health in the industry and tips for dealing with stress. You can also include counseling and other mental health services in your employees’ benefits package. Alongside this, offering mental health days or flexible work hours makes it easier for them to attend therapy or medical appointments.

Offer first-aid training for mental health

It’s also important to train team leaders and workers to spot warning signs and offer the right kind of help. AT RK, mental health training is offered to the human resources and safety staff, which teaches its professionals how to assess the risk of harm, listen with no judgment, give reassurance, and encourage colleagues to seek professional help and support strategies.

Article written by Robbie Joanne

For the exclusive use of rkindustries.com

Men in the construction industry account for the majority of suicides in the workforce. The social pressures on men to suppress their feelings encourage workers to suffer in silence. A webinar hosted by Caterpillar Inc., “Mental Health on the Jobsite,” explains that the tough-guy mentality that exists in the industry and the ideals of self-sufficiency that draw people to this type of work are the same personality traits that create a high-risk culture where people are unable or unwilling to seek treatment for mental health conditions.

The construction industry is also known to have volatile working conditions like long hours and constant job relocation, which can result in poor connections to family and friends. In addition, the physical demands and feelings of isolation on the job can lead to self-medication through alcohol, drugs or opioids, which increases the likelihood of suicide.

Lastly, during the height of COVID-19, layoffs and seasonal work increased while the industry balanced itself between health and economic security. The added stress of unemployment can create an unprecedented amount of insecurity that affect emotional and mental health.

Importance of Mental Health on the Jobsite

Mentally healthy workers are important for a construction jobsite because it reinforces the safety and well-being of a crew. A happy and healthy workforce is a more productive workforce. Some of the key signs of mental distress are lethargy, lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating or absenteeism. By advocating for mental health and wellness on the jobsite, crew members are more likely to feel supported and stay in the workforce, encouraging others to look into the construction industry as a career option.

Understanding Mental Health

Mental health is an ongoing balancing act and does not always have to be related to illness. Negative mental health can be due to personal loss, financial issues, relationship problems, etc. and can affect a person’s mental well-being and ability to concentrate. Risky environments, operating dangerous heavy equipment, distractions or an inability to focus puts workers and the public at risk.

Creating environments where people feel comfortable sharing what is happening their lives can empower fellow coworkers to check in on their crewmates, therefore building a safer workspace for themselves and others.

Management as an Advocate for Change

Management has a responsibility for the overall well-being of its employees. Encouraging everyone to be aware of their surroundings and environments is the first step in creating a sense of belonging and community. In the construction industry, shifting the culture from one of discipline to one with consideration for employee mental health and well-being can be a key area to help push workers toward seeking help. By listening, showing compassion and empathy, and being prepared to offer resources, leaders and employees can support each other to prevent suicide and seek help.

List of What to Watch for on a Jobsite:

What people are saying

• Are they talking about suicide?
• Are they talking about feeling depressed or anxious?
• Do they say they feel like a burden to others?

What people are doing

• Increased absenteeism
• Unexplained productivity or performance decline
• Removing themselves from social situations like eating lunch with coworkers
• Acting more recklessly or with disregard for safety protocols

What’s going on in their lives

• Are we hearing about stressors when they talk about their life?
• Do we know that they are going through a divorce, or maybe having difficulty with a child?
• Were they recently laid off?
• Did they experience a major loss?

We Need to Talk About Suicide in the Construction Industry, accessed September 4, 2021, For Construction Pros

Electric vehicle technology and infrastructure are continuing to develop, and are becoming increasingly accessible. Sales are projected to increase by as much as 70% in 2021. As we move toward a more environmentally sustainable future, we can expect electric vehicles to be a major part of it.

Electric vehicles (also known as plug-in electric vehicles, or EVs for short) derive all or part of their power from an electric grid. This includes AEVs (all-electric vehicles) and PHEVs (plug-in hybrid electric vehicles). AEVs are powered by one or more electric motors, and store their electricity in batteries. PHEVs, on the other hand, use batteries to power an electric motor which is charged by an electrical grid, but use conventional fuel to power the internal combustion engine.

With EVs becoming increasingly popular, consumers wonder what the future looks like for internal combustion engines. Fortunately, combustion engines are able to be completely replaced by electric engines. This is known as an electric vehicle conversion. This process requires removing the combustion engine and all its connected components, and replacing them with an electric engine and batteries. Most gasoline-powered vehicles can be converted to electric, but converting a highly aerodynamic car yields the best results. The cost of an electric vehicle retrofit varies based on the type of vehicle and the parts that are needed.

There is also an increased demand for home EV chargers as well as EV charging stations. This has led to the development of EV charging networks, like Electrify America. These networks have locations all across the United States, providing convenient charging stations for people on the go. RK Electrical has the ability to install EV chargers in your home or business. Contact us at 303.785.6934 or rkelectrical@rkindustries.com to learn more!

Forecast: 2021 US EV Sales To Increase 70% Year Over Year, CleanTechnica, 10/30/20
Converting Your Car to an Electric Vehicle, Treehugger, 5/13/20
Comparing Public Electric Vehicle Charging Networks, MYEV, Accessed 7/27/21
Explaining Electric & Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles, Environmental Protection Agency, Accessed 7/27/21

Companies are always on the lookout for employees who will stay long-term and are committed to growing and improving. Likewise, employees want to work for companies that will provide them with opportunities to develop their skills.

Mentorships are a great way to help employees, both new and experienced, expand their knowledge and personal development. They focus on positive workplace behavior and performance, providing employees with the training needed to be successful.

Traditionally, mentoring relationships have involved senior employees guiding their younger colleagues, but hierarchy and age aren’t necessarily important in modern workforces. As long as mentors have experience that can help others learn, this is all that matters. For instance, younger employees can teach older employees about ever-changing technology in the workplace.

Successful mentoring relationships can also naturally create a rich multigeneration office culture by combining the top qualities of each participant. Senior employees traditionally have a great work ethic, loyalty and dedication. Whereas, younger employees may come to work with new ideas and passion. Together, they can make for a positive and effective team.

Research has shown that workers who have a mentor enjoy greater job satisfaction, and mentors learn from those they are guiding. But, mentoring in the workplace not only benefits the mentors and mentored, it also benefits companies with increased employee retention and knowledge sharing. On top of that, mentoring programs have shown to increase company diversity, with participation expanding minority representation in management-level positions.

Top Benefits of Mentorship in the Workplace

Something important to note is that mentoring relationships should never be forced. This can cause employees to resent the idea as an obligatory task. Instead, sharing the positive benefits with employees and offering to help connect them with a mentor, when and if they are ready, is most effective. To be prepared, companies should gather information about employee skills, communication styles and career goals. A major key to successful mentorship relationships is connecting employees who communicate well together, can connect on a personal level and are working toward attaining similar goals.

In the end, mentors need to feel that their time is valued in order to achieve a successful mentorship relationship. Those who are mentored must think of the experience as an investment in their growth, rather than a sure path to promotion.

Each year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. During May, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) joins the national movement to raise awareness about mental health. Together, they fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.

Get Involved and Spread Awareness
Here are some tips on how to get involved and spread awareness:

1. Start a Conversation: it can feel strange or awkward to reach out to someone who may need your assistance, but friends and family may not feel comfortable asking for help. One way to start a conversation is to simply ask, “How are you doing?”
2. Prioritize Your Mental Health: this is an ideal time to reflect on your own mental wellness and to ask yourself, “How are you doing?” If you are not ok, reach out for help.
3. Donate or Volunteer: there are thousands of organizations that help promote mental health, consider donating to one this month.
4. Share Information: sharing information is a fantastic way to spread awareness, maybe consider posting something to your social media!
5. Let Someone Know They Are Not Alone: Many people with mental disorders feel isolated and think no one understands them. Reach out!

Dealing with Stress and Anxiety
Stress is part of being human, and it can help motivate us to get things done. We may sometimes feel anxious, and that’s normal too for a while. But, when we start to feel that way more than several weeks, or if it starts to interfere with home or work life, it’s time to reach out for help. Here are some things that can help manage stress before it gets to be too much.

Getting Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental illness, contact the NAMI HelpLine, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., ET at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or by emailing info@nami.org. Volunteers answer questions, offer support and provide practical next steps. The resources on this page also provide information to address many needs and concerns.

RK strongly believes that mental health is just as important as physical health. RK medical plans now cover out-of-network benefits for mental health. In addition, our employees have access to Teladoc for mental health services, along with our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and other resources.

8 Mental Health Infographics to Raise Awareness, Venngage, 3/10/21

Mental Health Awareness Month, NAMI, accessed 5/1/21

5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH, New Method Wellness, accessed 5/10/21

Being grateful can make people feel more positive and reduces stress. Effectively showing gratitude at work can also make employees and coworkers feel appreciated. From improved productivity to a better work environment, better team relationships and an overall happier workforce, showing gratitude is important in the workplace.

If someone does something special for you, a thank you may not always suffice. Expressing gratitude that conveys your sincere appreciation can make a world of difference. Being authentic is extremely important. If the gesture appears insincere, the praise may seem patronizing, completely defeating the purpose.

Here are the top 8 ways to express genuine gratitude in the workplace:

1. Smile and greet employees and coworkers daily. This simple action sets the tone for the workday.
2. Recognize efforts even if things do not go as planned. Give words of encouragement to your team when you know they have they tried their hardest, regardless of the result.
3. Be respectful of everyone’s time. Don’t call meetings when a simple email would suffice.
4. Offer flexible work arrangements for employees who have proven to be responsible and effective workers.
5. Surprise your team with a special treat, such as lunch or coffee, once a month or after completing a big project.
6. Show your gratitude with words of appreciation and encouragement often. Switch up your vocabulary and be specific. Instead of always saying “thank you,” try “you’re the best for…” or “I couldn’t have done… without you.” Consider listing their characteristics that you admire the most.
7. If you do not feel comfortable expressing your gratitude verbally, write notes to those you want to thank.
8. Share the spotlight and make your gratitude public. Regularly highlight those on your team who contributed to the completion of a big project by praising them in meetings and through a company-wide platform, such as an internal newsletter or bulletin board where employees can post shout-outs.
9. Nothing speaks louder than compensation and promotions. These are key incentives for employees to continue working hard and striving for success.

Being grateful in the workplace is extremely beneficial, not just to employees but also to leadership and the company. By encouraging a culture that emits gratitude, a business can more easily succeed, or even exceed, in its goals.

8 Creative Ways to Express Gratitude, Grammarly Blog, 11/23/20
10 Ways To Show Gratitude, Do You, accessed 4/5/21
5 BENEFITS OF GRATITUDE IN THE WORKPLACE (AND HOW TO SHOW IT!), Benefit Express, 11/15/19
How to Show Gratitude in the Workplace, Leadership Excellence, Ltd., 11/25/20

Most people automatically picture a man when thinking of a construction worker. However, women are just as qualified and capable of being successful in the industry. Construction careers require high levels of skill and determination, perfect for anyone who enjoys creating and working with their hands.

Currently, women make up 10.3% of the construction workforce in the U.S. Just two years ago, that number was closer to 9%. While that number has not jumped significantly, it has steadily increased over the past decade.

Although still inadequately represented, 31% of women in the industry hold professional or management roles, many of which have moved into those roles in recent years. This shows that companies have been increasing efforts to promote and educate women about the benefits of working in construction.

Technological advancements, such as hydraulic equipment, have also made brute strength less important to get the job done. Regardless, some men still feel that women cannot carry their share of the workload and some women are concerned they might be considered masculine for working in the industry. Recruitment bias and non-inclusive work cultures also remain a concern.

Despite stigmas, more women are seeing the earning potential and diverse opportunities available in the industry. They are steadily working towards changing views about gender norms and leveling the playing field. Additionally, nearly 87% of women who work in the industry hold office positions, squashing most of the gender concerns.

In recent years, the construction labor shortage has presented an opportunity to hire more women than ever. Diversity is important in solving the labor shortage crisis and research has shown that gender diversity brings economic benefit to companies. Those companies with higher gender diversity in their workforce who have proved to be much more likely to outperform the industry average. Hiring more women in construction is a win-win situation.

Many organizations, like Professional Women in Construction, provide mentorship, networking and opportunities for growth and business development to women in the industry. The goal of Women in Construction Week is to bring awareness to those opportunities, directing interested women to training programs and local mentorship groups, and encouraging women to become role models. By highlighting the value of construction jobs for women, other women and young girls can see the industry as a viable career path.

The RK Apprenticeship Program began an all-female apprentice class last year with great success. If you, or someone you know, is interested in learning more about our apprenticeship program, click here.

The Rise of Women in the Construction Field, National Center for Construction Education & Research, December 3, 2020

How Women in Construction Positively Impact Profits and Collaboration, Digital Builder, March 5, 2020

Just 9.1% of America’s construction workers are women—here’s what it’s like to be one of them, CNBC Make It, January 29, 2019

Women in Construction: The State of the Industry in 2021, Big Rentz, January 19, 2021

To celebrate Women in Construction week, March 7 – 14, a week dedicated to recognizing the talents and contributions of women in the industry, we asked our female leaders to share some of their experiences working in construction. Like many of them, we hope to see more women working at all levels in the industry in the years to come.

Apprenticeships prepare workers for highly skilled construction jobs. Employers invest time and money in hands-on training, often along with regular classes. The model provides valuable real-world experience and educational instruction for workers who would like to break into an industry that is new to them. The end goal of an apprenticeship is attaining national skills standards and becoming licensed in a particular skilled trade.

There are many benefits to apprenticeship. However, many people often overlook apprenticeships, instead opting to attend college or beginning their career with an entry-level position.

Here are the top three reasons to consider an apprenticeship:

1. Learning While Earning
   Going off to college or a trade school can be a great educational experience, but it can cost a lot of money that many simply do not have. On top of that, it can be challenging to hold a full-time job in order to pay for expenses while in school.
   
   Apprentices are paid a basic living wage (the national average is $15/hour) to start while also learning and gaining experience every day. As an apprentice’s skills grow, wage increases and promotions often follow.

2. Access to Ongoing Mentoring
   Apprentices are usually assigned a mentor who is an experienced construction professional. The mentor’s role is to help plan and guide an apprentice’s learning along the way. They provide valuable feedback and support to improve an apprentice’s skills and are always available to answer questions.
3. Increased Future Opportunities
   Being involved with the day-to-day operations of a business during an apprenticeship, which usually takes two to four years to complete, allows apprentices to make connections with many important people within the industry.
   
   Future employers will also see the hard work that was required to complete the apprenticeship and will surely value that education and work ethic when considering hiring an individual.
   
   In addition, apprentices have the potential to earn college credit toward a degree through their apprenticeship program, should they decide to work towards gaining an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree at a later date.

The apprenticeship model prepares workers to compete in today’s economy. The hands-on training keeps apprentices current with innovations and technology. Moreover, the majority of apprentices stay on as full-time employees upon completion of an apprenticeship, allowing for a successful long-term career with a competitive salary without college debt.

The RK Apprenticeship Program helps provide skills for a much needed construction workforce. If you are interested in starting an apprenticeship in construction, click here to learn more about what our program offers.