By cornellroofing Charity and Community Involvement • Commercial Roofing and Sheet Metal Kansas City • General • Products & Information • Projects 0 Comments

Longevity: 4 Keys to 94 Years in Business

Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal is among a handful of locally owned and operated businesses in Kansas that have sustained across multiple generations, nearing or past the 100-year mark. As a business that has been operating for over 94 years and is still growing, we are sometimes asked about our key to success. This kind of longevity can’t be attributed to one single key; it involves many factors in addition to sheer hard work and determination.

 

 

 

Here are four keys to our success at Cornell:

Team of Champions

The people at Cornell are what drives our success. Our engaged group of skilled professionals are passionate about their crafts. We’re united in delivering the highest quality results for our customers. Giving your team the respect they deserve and resources they need to grow and thrive in their careers will go a long way.

Innovation

Change is the one constant in business. Being open to new ideas, methods, technologies and processes not only gives you a competitive edge, it can also help you improve your service to customers and optimize your bottom line. 

Flexibility

Expect the unexpected. As so many companies have seen over the last year, changes outside your control can drastically impact your business. Consider the what-ifs, have a contingency plan, get creative and be ready to shift gears as needed to protect your business and continue your commitment to customers.

Community

Never forget where you came from. Being involved in your community is not only good for business, it is vital to creating an environment for success in which your company – and your community – can thrive. This includes investing time and donating to local community efforts as well as supporting industry associations that provide resources for your company and team. 

 

Whether you’ve been in business nine months or over 90 years, these keys can help you stay grounded and serve as a foundation for growth. At Cornell, we are excited for what the future holds and celebrating the milestones ahead. To learn more about Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal, visit www.CornellRoofing.com or call 816-252-8300.

By cornellroofing Charity and Community Involvement • Commercial Roofing and Sheet Metal Kansas City • Products & Information • Projects 0 Comments

Finding the Positives: A Look Back at 2020

Just about anyone will tell you they are ready to be done with 2020. It was a challenging year for so many. Despite the trauma and drama of the year, there were still positives to be found. People and businesses discovered ways to be resourceful to take care of customers and each other. In the commercial roofing industry, Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal is fortunate we were able to keep our crews working and building for the future. 

 

Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal had wins to be celebrated in 2020. We began the year with the momentum of hitting a major milestone of 1,000 jobs completed in 2019, as well as being recognized as the third-largest roofing company and 23rd-largest woman-owned business in the Kansas City region. This year, we were also able to continue our legacy of giving back to our community with Cornell’s first $25,000 gift to the Builders’ Association Scholarship Foundation to support career development in the trades. In addition, our Owner and President, Mary McNamara was honored as a 2020 Rainmaker by Ingram’s Magazine for her leadership in Kansas City business.

 

For Cornell, our most shining moments in 2020 are the many projects our expert crews were able to work on and complete. Cornell crews were hands-on in projects that enhanced the commercial infrastructure landscape, transformed the skyline and helped support the economic development of Kansas City. We could not be more proud to play a part. Just a few of the major projects completed in 2020 and/or currently in process include:

  • Children’s Mercy Research Institute 
  • Harry S. Truman Presidential Library
  • Fort Osage School District (High School, Fire Prairie, Elm Grove)
  • Kansas City Zoo (Meerkat, Sting Ray and Elephant Exhibits)
  • Commerce Tower
  • Kansas City Missouri City Hall
  • Loews Convention Center
  • Kansas City Museum
  • McCownGordon Construction Offices (sheet metal)

 

As a company that has been in business for nearly 100 years, Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal has weathered many changes and tumultuous years. 2020 challenged us all, but also proved we can still rise to the challenge. And there are always positives, you just need to look for them. Here’s to the promise of a new year and a bright 2021 ahead!

 

To learn more about Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal, click here About Us or call 816-252-8300.

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Re-roofing City Hall – Cornell Roofing

Commercial roofing, commercial roofers, KCC roofing, Kansas City Roofers, KCChambersThe challenge:

Facing the re-roofing of City Hall in Kansas City. The building opened at a cost of around six-million dollars. This was 30% over budget, but hey, these were the Pendergast years. Such spending was not uncommon given the 30 million-dollar bond package that was pushed through with many cries of tampering and fraud. This funded City Hall, Municipal Auditorium and numerous additional projects at the time.

At 30 stories and 443 feet, KC’s City Hall is the third largest building in the city. It is also still one of the tallest city halls in the nation. When it was completed in 1937, it was the tallest building in the state. The sheer height created some special challenges Commercial roofing, commercial roofers, KCC roofing, Kansas City Roofers, KCChambersfor Cornell Roofing. From both safety and equipment standpoints, our team was up to the challenge!

Iconic Architecture:

Neoclassic architecture with incredible interior and exterior art deco details and imported stone from around the world, made the building one of the most beautiful to this day. The story of the development of the city’s third city hall (the first two were in what is now the River Market), is still impressive to this day, leaving many first-time visitors in awe.

In order to accomplish the task of re-roofing City Hall, Cornell brought in one of the largest cranes in the Midwest. And, we’re not talking about any regular crane. Weighing in at 550 tons, The Blue Hat Crane’s impressive reach allowed the Cornell team to reach the 443 foot roof with height to spare. This allowed our team to safely bring materials up and debris down in order for safety during the process of re-roofing City Hall.

When not in operation, it covered almost the entire South side of the building, along with one lane of Locust street.

The Nitty Gritty:

The assembly of the crane was captured in the video below. Taken from the roof and set to fast motion, it is hard to tell what you are looking at. From this vantage point, men appear to scurry back and forth.  In a little over one minute, you can see the day passing while the re-roofing of City Hall was underway. Look close and you can also see a crane we needed just to assemble this beast! A day-long effort just to prepare for the job ahead.

Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal is proud to play a part in maintaining one of Kansas City’s true architectural masterpieces.

 

 

 

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Cornell’s Andrew Christ Joins ASA Board on DC Fly-In

Commercial Roofing Kansas City, Commercial Sheet Metal FabricatorsCornell’s Andrew Christ, joined the rest of the American Subcontractors Association (ASA), Board as part of a “DC Fly-In” to meet with House and Senate Congressional Members. Eight upcoming legislative issues concerning America’s subcontractors are on the agenda including; Retainage, Bid Listing, and Change Orders.  According to Andrew, “During our fly- in, we met with nine Congressional Members, or their staffs, to inform them we support these issues as an organization.” Andrew added, “Members included; U.S. House Small Business Committee, three U.S. Senators, and four Members of the House of Representatives.”

Mary McNamara, Cornell President, added, “Supporting the industry has always been a part of Cornell’s Mission and Vision. We are proud of the work Andrew and the rest of the ASA Board are doing at the local and national level.” Andrew currently serves as Vice President for the ASA of Greater Kansas City.

The American Subcontractors Association (ASA) is the national trade association promoting the rights and interests of contractors and suppliers. It is dedicated to quality construction, ethical and equitable business practices, safety in the workplace, and industry best-practices. The ASA represents more 2,400 construction subcontractors who employ over 18,000 employees annually impacting buildings and communities across the nation.

For more information on the ASA National click home below:

Home

For more information on the ASA of Greater Kansas City: https://www.subcontractorskansas.com/

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Builders’ Association EXPO Winner!

The 2019 KC Builders’ Association EXPO was another winner as was John Florez of Hodnett Photographers. John took home a new, 4K, 55″ Smart TV! According to John, it will be a timely addition for his home on game day, GO CHIEFS!

In addition to the opportunity to mix and mingle with other trades, suppliers and contractors, Cornell continued its long tradition of support as a Sponsor of The Builders’ Association EXPO 2019.

The Builders’ Association EXPO had some great training and continuing education opportunities as well. Cornell’s Assistant Project Manager, Victor Speers, took full advantage, attending; Construction Technology: What’s Next? Led by McCownGordon’s It Director, Justin Burns and The Softer Side of Cybersecurity, led by Robert Hunter, President of The Hunter Group.

Victor added, “The classes I took were informative, timely and dealt with real-life issues we are facing more and more everyday.”

 

 

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Today Marks the International Women’s Day of 2019

Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal is celebrating the 2019 International Women’s Day (IWD), by supporting this year’s theme; “Balance for Better.” According to the day’s official website, the holiday is “a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.” The first unofficial celebration of the day was in 1911. Beginning in 1913, the IWD has been celebrated each year on March 8th.

A Global Perspective

From its very beginnings in Copenhagen, the IWD has been, and is, a truly global event. The United Nations celebrated the IWD for the first time in 1975. The women’s movement has changed over the long history of the IWD. The globalization of media access, possibly best highlighted by the rapid growth and expansion of social media, has helped heighten the awareness of women’s issues.

A 21st Century Focus

Recognizing much has changed, both here at home and around the globe, the IWD is committed to celebrating more than a day marking the accomplishments of women. That realization is reflected in today’s focus on gender parity, an issue that impacts people in all countries regardless of gender. This focus will remain as one of the IWD’s top priorities moving forward.

All of us at Cornell wish women both here in the Greater Kansas City area and around the globe, a wonderful and prosperous day, not just on March 8th, but throughout the year.  In more and more fields including both the public and private sectors, women are taking on leadership roles, breaking through barriers and working side-by-side with their male counterparts to get the job done.

For more on the IWD and how you can get involved and for events surrounding today, click: https://www.internationalwomensday.com/About

There you will find additional links. From watching inspirational videos to lists and videos of women who have made a difference in many areas, the IWD urges us all to think globally but act locally on the issue of gender parity.[fts_facebook type=page id=117559644971824 access_token=EAAP9hArvboQBAG2FnnoJvrmEBJ1rWunhq7rmS5UDStZCPjQ7kj9MTfLdjvppPglZAAr8UhNqs0a3fMXHiYNU11dzyV83xeWI3ZCaaysZBUXgkCGRjcCQu6cxG9w38vBp33F6VTDY8SPXbzZBQLJ0LzZCBynirxJigZAn9OkMZAVEaAZDZD posts=6 description=yes posts_displayed=page_only]

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Winter Weather Can Wreak Havoc on Commercial Roofs!

rust affecting the roofing structure

With this winter’s melting snow and ice, pooling water and now record setting low temperatures, just like your own home, commercial roofing systems need to be inspected for upkeep and maintenance. To stay one step ahead of Mother Nature, (or play a little catch-up!) checking on your commercial roofing system should include roof inspections to check for minor repairs at least twice a year. Cornell Roofing and Sheet Metal offers commercial roof inspections with records and photos of each inspection for the building owner to have and review. If necessary, we can also create a customized Roof Maintenance Program to help in early detection of potential problems, helping to extend the life of your commercial roofing system.

Contact us today to learn more about what we can do to help you maintain the integrity of your commercial roof system!

 

Snow, ice, bitter cold and corrosion, a damaging combination

hole in roofing system due to weather standing water on roofing system

 

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Legacy Development Wins Infrared Scan Giveaway

Commercial roofing kansas city, kansas city commercial roofing, kansas city custom sheet metal,Jeff Leeper, Property Manager for Legacy Development, was presented the Winning Voucher, worth $1,500.00, by Bob Hoover, Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal’s R&M Manager.  Jeff commented, “This  could not have come at a better time! We all know how tough the weather can be on roof systems here in the Midwest and LEGACY manages properties all across the city. So, I already have a building in mind.”

Cornell’s new Infrared camera, with two certified operators on staff, provides a great value compared to third-party offerings. “We know the business and have the kind of expertise that only comes with years of roofing experience” said Bob Hoover, who added, “We are excited that LEGACY won the drawing and look forward to working with Jeff to get a scan done on the building Legacy selects.”

Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal, with over 90 years of roofing experience, continues to deliver on its Mission – to consistently deliver the highest quality commercial roofing and sheet metal products and services in the Kansas City region. “The addition of our new infrared service offering is just another way Cornell shows its ongoing commitment to be the best,” added Mary McNamara, Cornell’s President and CEO.

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Being a Commercial Roof Inspector

cornell-kansascity-commercial-roof-inspections

Being a Commercial Roof Inspector

Ever wonder what it takes to become a certified, professional commercial roof inspector, or even what exactly a commercial roofing inspector does? It involves a lot of training for one and continuing education. All of Cornell’s own team of expert commercial roofing inspectors have gone through all the educational requirements, on-the-job training and are licensed and certified.

But what about all the nitty gritty? Well some of the career requirements include an education level of at least a high school diploma, although most employers prefer postsecondary education as well. And although certain types of certifications are considered voluntary, commercial roofing inspectors are required to be licensed or certified, depending on the state. Previous experience as a roofer is also helpful.

Still interested? Then let’s talk work experience! Most employers require commercial roofing inspectors to have previous industry-related work, such as working as a roofer. Sometimes a bachelor’s degree in areas like engineering, architecture, building inspection or home inspection can substitute for work experience too. There’s also on-the-job training. Many of the procedures are taught on the job by an experienced commercial roofing inspector, things like regulations, inspection methods and ordinances.

Once on the job for a while, many commercial roof inspectors seek to earn voluntary certifications for career advancement and professional growth from organizations like the National Roof Certification and Inspection Association and the International Code Council. Experienced, certified commercial roofing experts help Cornell Roofing & Sheet Metal stay at the top of industry. For more information on joining the Cornell team, contact us!

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The Job of Sheet Metal Worker

header_sheetMetal
The Job of Sheet Metal Worker

Have you considered a career as sheet metal worker? Or even what the average sheet metal worker does on the job?

Sheet metal workers have more effect on your daily life than you probably realize. The most obvious way is by keeping you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They specialize in hearing, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, as well as architectural, industrial and service sheet metal work. Of all the sheet metal specialties, service sheet metal workers are the least construction-related and more technical.

There are also hundred of hours of safety training, including 30 hours of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OHSA), along with continuing education hours that must be completed. Education and training is ongoing in this industry to ensure safety and that sheet metal workers are always up to date with the newest products and technology. But it doesn’t stop there. Sheet metal workers also have a strong understanding of how things work, including air ducts, siding and panels and how to install them. Successful sheet metal workers must also have solid critical –thinking skills, math skills and of course a strong work ethic.

Not only that but the industry is growing too! The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 7-percent employment growth by 2024, meaning 9,400 new jobs for sheet metal workers. And a few other quick stats: The median income for sheet metal workers is $45,750, and the unemployment rate for sheet metal workers is 7.9%

It’s a great time to be a part of our industry!