[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Hey Brian,

Depending on responses MFAA would be more than happy to coordinate an onsite facility tour at a school so we can all see and learn. Anyone that has a recent project that is 2-5 years old please connect with Brian on your answers and me if you want to host a facility tour.

Thanks

Ken Wertz

MFAA Exec

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Quick search for plumbing jobs in your area seem that you are right on the mark for the rate of pay. Did you include all the benefits that come with working for a school? No more freezing winters roughing in houses, show up to the same location vs. traveling all around the Cape, retirement, sick leave, longevity?

Private work in the trades often doesn’t offer those options so maybe adjust your posting to include benefits more along with a narrative that your work culture is focused on helping kids every day.

Good luck,

Ken Wertz

MFAA Exec Director

Former School Licensed Plumber 1999-2001

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Hello everyone,

Event information is on the main event page. Here is snapshot schedule for you.

https://oldmfaa.avatar-development.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Fall-Conference-Schedule-2023-.pdf

Thanks,

Ken

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Big news update for the MFAA FAll Conference:

We had to cancel E.L.Harvey tour for space issues… but I’m happy to let everyone know that we have replaced this portion of the program with an even better tour!!!!

Tuesday the 17th at 2pm we will be touring the Doherty Memorial High School Construction Project in Worcester!!! Anyone that is attending Tuesday will be provided transport to and from the DCU to the jobsite and back, a snazzy MFAA hardhat, and a backstage tour hosted by Fontaine Brothers and coordinated by the heroic scrambled last minute work of our own Rich Ikonen from the Worcester Public Schools!

So bring your curiosity, close toes shoes as it is an active job site, and a keen facilities eye to pick up anything that would benefit future projects.

 

Every forward!

 

Ken

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Please everyone keep in mind this is only a stop gap process as portable and window AC units do not provide the appropriate fresh air. You will have your, what are likely unit vent heaters, drawing in 90 degree air with high humidity and your window units will be combating that to drop the temp.

Not an easy answer but please remember the importance of IAQ is not just thermal comfort but CO2 levels controlled by the introduction of fresh air makeup and exhaust…

Good luck out there everyone. No easy answer for sure.

 

Ken

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

We have two options if the first one fills up. This info is also listed on the event page for registrations.

Hilton Garden Inn Worcester

35 Major Taylor Blvd, Worcester, MA

Room Block code: MFAA  (expires 9/25)

$159 per night

508-753-5700

 

Courtyard Worcester  (by Marriott)

72 Grove St., Worcester, MA

Room Block code: MFAA

$199 per night

https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1694175800217&key=GRP&app=resvlink

508-363-0300

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Hey Mike,

I’m speaking in Missouri this week for their facilities conference where I’ll be chatting with them, Kansas, Arkansas, and similar states that deal with this all the time. I’ll do some digging for everyone.

For now here is the MA guidance: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/tornado-safety-tips#:~:text=If%20you%20are%20in%20a,of%20a%20sturdy%2C%20nearby%20building.

Who would have thought we’d be talking about this?!

Be well,

Ken

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Hey Brian,

Never easy for sure. Keep in mind why they are eating all over the building… they need it!!!

https://www.publicschoolreview.com/blog/how-diet-and-nutrition-impact-a-childs-learning-ability#:~:text=Children%20with%20insufficient%20diets%20are,disabilities%2C%20and%20other%20medical%20complications.

Eric’s  work arounds on being proactive with barrels, along with training teachers and kids importance of cleaning up, should hopefully help you make conditions better as you will not be able to eliminate food sources for sure. Educate and communicate how to help reduce pests while still focusing on student learning, which requires snacks and food…

Good luck and keep us posted on how you make out.

Ken

 

 

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Hey Todd,

Suburban Glass and Mirror does this work and are on state contract and one of our corporate sponsors:

 

Suburban Glass & Mirror/ Masonry Restoration & Waterproofing
Joe Prendergast, President
2 Powdermill Road
Maynard, MA 01754
Work Phone: (800) 696-0051
Cell Phone: (617) 799-7608
Email: jjprendy@aol.com

http://suburbangmw.com/

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Hey Vedad,

I’d be remiss if I didn’t plug the MFAA’s custodial training that we just wrapped up! We partner with DLS to complete annual RTK, BBP, and Asbestos Refresher with a sprinkle of HAZ COMM / ladder safety / or whatever hot button is hitting our members each year. This year we training and certified close to 500 custodians in 4 locations across Massachusetts….

A full day of professional development for our custodial teams does more than provide required training, it recharges their batteries, provides collegiality, confirms to them that they are appreciated, and has them going back to their districts knowing they make a difference everyday.

Good luck and I’ll be posting videos of the trainings for people to access that were already registered that couldn’t attend for whatever reason.

Be well,

Ken

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Here is the quick link that you can get to from our homepage drop down menu…

 

Sponsors

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

You should check with MIIA as they may have suggestions and cover this through a grant.

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Christina,

Wishing you and your family all the best on your return to private sector. You have been a force in our industry and have helped the continued growth of the MFAA over the years.

Be well and you new employer is lucky to have you.

Ken

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Hello everyone,

Reminder that we are having regional meetings this month in several locations across the state. We would love to see you all in person at one of these meetings and would appreciate you taking a couple seconds to register if you haven’t already.

May Chapter Meetings

There is also another amazing learning opportunity on Wednesday May 24th “Future Schools Summit”. If you want to learn more about the future of our buildings, Zero Energy, Carbon Reduction, and updates on the IRA funds that are poised to help our infrastructure this is the event for you. Space is limited so if you are interested please register soon.

New England Future Schools Summit May 24 Framingham

 

[Ken Wertz, MFAA Exec]

Hey Todd,

http://rpoconnell.com/controls

They are the regional rep for Delta and likely the team you can call for help and support and hopefully give you some ideas for tech support companies as well.

Good luck,

Ken