News + Insights
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In February 2023, job openings in construction jumped by 129,000. However, despite the number of available jobs, the industry continues to have a labor shortage. This shortage is expected to continue into 2024, and it is estimated that 342,000 new workers
STEM curriculum is at the forefront of district, educator, and parent minds. While the emphasis on these programs is not novel, how education space facilitates STEM learning and teaching has become the subject of scrutiny.A recent study suggests that the f
The West Michigan Construction Institute (WMCI) offers training, education and national certification for students interested in a career in construction. WMCI provides both classroom and hands-on learning, connecting students with industry experts. This s
Rockford has long been committed to diversity, equity and inclusion in the construction industry throughout West Michigan. As leaders in DEI, we have established several intentional programs and initiatives that support an array of underrepresented populations, including our flagship program, Dimensions, which we launched in 2017.
Construction ProcessThe design of the Complex was inspired by the refraction that occurs when light hits water. The 46,287 sq. ft. building will consist of concrete foundations, precast wall panels, precast roof double T’s that are 97’ long and weigh 120,0
Anchoring the end of Monroe Center, GRAM has been key to the transformation of the once neglected street. Since the city’s founding, Monroe Avenue has unofficially served as Grand Rapids’ main street, seeing much transformation including the Monroe Avenue
Alex Beck has always been a problem solver. Since he was a kid, he loved completing puzzles, taking things apart to see how they worked and putting them back together again. From those curious roots, Beck has come to work at Rockford Construction after beginning his career as a mechanical engineer.
Designing and building a new K-12 athletic facility requires careful planning and consideration to ensure functionality, safety and sustainability. Athletic facilities are significantly more complex to construct than typical classrooms and common spaces, and partnering early with an experienced construction manager can make all the difference in your project outcome.
thought leadership
Design-Build Expert: How Rockford Provides Value for Health and Well-Being Projects
From hospitals to research labs, pharmacies, dental facilities and more, engaging a design-build professional at the onset of a project significantly benefits the project owner. A design-build approach results in added value through collectively working wi
A career in construction is one that can be extremely rewarding, as the building process allows workers to see concepts brought to fruition while having an impact on the community. However, the field can also be challenging. Like many jobs that involve physical labor, construction firms focus on safety and protecting their team members from physical injuries. Now, more companies like Rockford are taking steps to help construction workers with their mental health as well.
When thinking of sustainable and “green” facilities, historic sites are often misconceived as being inefficient and consumers of large amounts of energy. However, experts in historic preservation have said historic buildings are innately sustainable, as many have been designed to utilize natural light, heating and cooling, and were built with traditional materials that have longer lifespans. In fact, findings show that restoring historic facilities is “greener” overall when compared to demolition and new construction.
Design-build is appropriate for large and complex projects with difficult schedules that require the most efficient turnaround. The traditional approach of design, bid then build is linear, and any delay in that process slows or even stops the project alto
In 1987, Rockford Construction’s CEO, Mike VanGessel, started the company with a vision to assist in the revitalization of Grand Rapids through philanthropy, strategic local partnerships, and community engagement. In the 35+ subsequent years, Rockford has made significant investment in the city, breathing new life into neighborhoods and serving as a catalyst for continued growth.
Meet Danielle O’Brien, project coordinator at Rockford who started with the company in the Rockford Development Group before moving to construction. She has a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, Winona State University.
Meet Gabryelle Giddens, assistant project manager at Rockford, Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering, Michigan State University. "I am an assistant project manager in Rockford’s Detroit office. Some of my responsibilities include assisting with the management of project documents, RFI’s and submittals, cost management and coordinating activities happening on project sites and with the client.
Meet Camryn Kolar, project engineer at Rockford, Bachelor’s in Construction Management, Ferris State University. "In my position as a project engineer, I deal with a lot of the day-to-day tasks and challenges onsite. I document the work completed each day, communicate with the owner on any updates, and answer any questions the trades have through interpretation of the plans or a formal RFI to the architect.
