Mark Fowler

Shifting Winds

HAS THE SKILLSET OF THE INDUSTRY WORKER CHANGED TO BE MORE GENERAL?

January 4, 2021

The only constant is change. Sometimes, change is slow and unnoticed, until it eventually becomes clear and obvious. A good example would be the training of our trades. Intent and focus of training changes with generations.

The Making of an Apprentice

THE INDUSTRY HAS FACED THE ISSUE OF NOT HAVING ENOUGH SKILLED LABOR FOR FAR TOO LONG, SO THE SMA PUT A LITTLE SOMETHING TOGETHER TO HELP COMBAT THIS ISSUE.

Mark Fowler

December 2, 2020

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Apprenticeship is a formal program that usually involves two to four years of structured instruction, coupled with hands-on training. Many apprenticeship programs are registered within the Department of Labor and have to meet a minimum training criteria established by the government.

What's Urgent vs. What's Important

Recognizing What’s Important And What’s Urgent, And The Consequences Of Not Making That Distinction.

Mark Fowler

November 5, 2020

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Whether you’re a CEO, contractor, project manager, head of sales, superintendent or foreman, you have to make decisions.

Two Wrongs

Academics Don’t Always Understand That The Country Needs Skilled Labor—And That A Computer Won’t Fill That Gap.

Mark Fowler

October 5, 2020

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I have written many times about the skill of a craft and the need for training. America is fighting over the future of the coal industry and its relevance.

Becoming a Great Leader

Every Day Is A Battle In The Construction Industry: So Let's Take A Look At History’s Past Battles And See How We Can Learn From Them.

Mark Fowler

September 8, 2020

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I know many contractors and supervisors feel each day is simply a battle of survival.

Is Adaptability a Concern?

Changes To All Facets Of Careers Is What Moves The World Forward.

Mark Fowler

August 7, 2020

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As we enter another phase of this pandemic, it seems confusion is escalating.

SMA Certification Program & OSHA Update on Silica

Mark Fowler

July 24, 2020

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The year 2020 has not been what we expected. This pandemic has flipped just about everything upside down.

Lost Tribes

We Should Show And Exhibit A lot More Respect For Those That Put Themselves On The Line.

Mark Fowler

July 3, 2020

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According to the study called “Hidden Tribes: A Study in the America’s Polarized Landscape” (by the international group More in Common), experts concluded Americans can be placed into one of seven categories based on their beliefs. From far left to far right, there are progressive activists, traditional liberals, passive liberals, the politically disengaged, moderates, traditional conservatives and devoted conservatives.