We’ve heard a lot about the ThredUP mannequins, and now we finally get a look!

Once again, we see the value of building healthy relationships and providing excellence as promised to our beloved customers…they keep coming back for more.

Replace HVAC Framing for Cornell Elementary

File this one under “Yep, we do that.”

A substantial number of our team members spent their summer in school—or rather, working in a school with Marina Mechanical to remove and replace framing for a new HVAC system. Cornell Elementary School is the end-user of the Albany Unified School District, nestled between Berkeley and El Cerrito. Learn more about the school.

We don’t often see our team out in the field with hammers and nails. However, our Carpenter Team was a perfect match for the tenacity and organizational strengths to complete this large-scale carpentry project over the summer break.

Scope of Work

Timeline

The team performed prep and pull-ahead work in March, with full construction operations beginning in June. They completed the project on September 18. At the time of this report, a small crew remains onsite to perform additional change order work, and other items which were delayed due to the late delivery of materials.

Team leaders Shellia and Angel unanimously agreed that the standout achievement during this project was meeting the schedule. The crew’s steadfast commitment is reflected in their 10-hour-a-day, Monday through Saturday agenda required to meet the start-of-school deadline.

As the year begins to wind down, it’s important to discuss an essential but often overlooked aspect of our workplace: mental health. Just as we prioritize physical safety on the job site, it’s crucial to maintain mental well-being on and off the job.

Understanding Mental Health

Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It also influences how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices while out on the job. Mental health issues can come about from various factors such as work-related stress, personal life challenges, or even personal or family health problems.

Signs of Mental Health Struggles

It's essential to recognize the signs that someone may be struggling with their mental health. Look out for changes in behavior, increased absenteeism, a decline in performance, or unusual emotional responses. If you notice these signs in yourself or a colleague, it’s important to act and get help.

How to Support Mental Health

In conclusion, just like physical safety, mental well-being is vital for our productivity and cohesion as a team at SilMan Industries. Remember, it's okay to ask for help or seek support if you or your coworkers show signs of mental health struggles. Let’s prioritize mental health—not just for ourselves but for each other as a team.

If you are struggling, you are not alone. Reach out to a teammate, senior leader, or HR for assistance. Or call or text 988 for anonymous professional support.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue across the campus, I watched my oldest daughter step into a new chapter of her life—college. The excitement across campus stirred a deep reflection within me about the essence of personal branding. It was a reminder that every experience is a fertile ground for cultivating who we are and how we want the world to perceive us.

Each student embodied a unique blend of personalities, styles, and aspirations. Some donned vintage tees that screamed individuality, while others sported polished outfits reflecting ambition. Each choice and interaction was a step in defining their personal brands. It struck me that personal branding is more than just a trend; it’s an ongoing, intentional journey of self-discovery and self-presentation.

“The person we have the greatest power to change is ourselves.”

As the speaker’s words echoed through my mind, I considered the importance of self-awareness in shaping our identities. We consistently experiment with new ideas, explore diverse perspectives, and ultimately define our values. We all hold the reins to this journey.

Our "Personal Brand" isn't merely a reflection of our actions; it's about visibility and the values we choose to represent. As we navigate a vibrant landscape of new experiences and relationships, we must align our intentions with our actions. Whether preparing for a new project, engaging in challenging conversations, or simply sharing a coffee with a teammate, each interaction is an opportunity to build our reputation.

Our Culture and Relationships are built on Trust, which has become the cornerstone of our brand: Trust in your team’s abilities and lean into your integrity and values.

Self Awareness

The way we present ourselves can unlock new levels of success and connection. Your voice, your body language, and your ability to communicate effectively play pivotal roles in how you interact with your peers, family, and even your clients. Self-awareness is the compass that helps us to navigate the complexities of building positive relationships.

It guides us in making intentional decisions that resonate with our true selves.

Community, Team, Friendship

Building a personal brand is also about nurturing relationships. Productive relationships, rooted in trust and effective communication, are essential for growth. They create a network of support that can propel you forward, opening doors to new opportunities and experiences.

Ultimately, this foundation of self-awareness, trust, and intentionality will build a legacy of success. In a world where everyone is crafting their story, I have no doubt that you will emerge with an authentic, impactful, and unique brand of your own.