"There’s never a dull moment on this project," says Alfredo Valdez, President of American Safety Group, Inc. (ASG). His firm helps to ensure that workplaces are safe and healthful for all employees. On a project as dynamic as the APM, that requires one important element: communication.
"The way we communicate information on a project of this size is always a challenge," Alfredo explains. "Getting the right information out to the field and properly implementing it daily takes tremendous effort." In addition to the usual health and safety protocols for a major construction project, the ASG team also had to adapt to constantly updating COVID-19 guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Fortunately, Alfredo knows how to make the most from changing plans.
He began his career in the Marine Corps with the intention of joining law enforcement. After being injured while serving overseas, Alfredo had to adjust his career path. He studied Construction Management at ITT Technical Institute, then found work performing security and safety services. While it was not the type of job he had originally planned, Alfredo had found his calling. "From that day," he says, "I never looked back."
As President of ASG, Alfredo understands the value of building a strong culture around health and safety. He also advocates for his fellow veterans, with half of his workforce made up of veteran employees. They are all used to thinking on their feet. When the pandemic first began, Alfredo says, "the team jumped into action to make adjustments and find solutions to ensure personnel safety while keeping the project moving forward."
Alfredo is proud to work collaboratively with LINXS Constructors and LAWA to find solutions using their practical, technical and regulatory expertise. His company is grateful to be part of such a large and unique project. "The ability to look back in a couple of years and say that you were a part of that amazing, successful project is humbling."
American Safety Group, Inc.
