ecently, a major construction firm in our area announced it was closing its doors. Over 200 people out of work – ouch; that hurts. I found it remarkable based on the fact we are seeing plenty of work options to pursue, a great backlog

and more overall margin potential than we’ve seen in a decade. How could this firm just go out of business right now, after making it through so many decades and “The Great Recession?” The answer has become fairly clear to me now. I believe the company was led astray:

» They lost their focus on managing risk » They fell prone to greed (more work at any cost) above core principles

» They grew too quickly and became invincible in their own minds » They lost control by simply hiring “warm bodies” to fill empty positions

This is a really good checklist for EV on what to avoid! Counter to our failed competitor, we focus on:

» Doing what we understand and doing it better than everyone else

» Not taking on more than we can deliver exceptionally, regardless of profit potential

» Slow and steady wins the race. Having a clear head - not heading out to sea without having any idea where shore is. PLAN!

» It’s all about the highest quality of people and not giving in to average when you should hold out for exceptional

This all seems so basic but I have to tell you, it’s harder to live out in reality. We don’t like to say “no” to anyone. We love to experience the excitement of growth and minimize the potential risks. Business owners often accept marginal talent because of immediate, pressing need. What EV wants to be known for is its deliberate, contemplative thought about every major step taken. To carefully and diligently vet out critical decisions and to be a leading company for another 70 years (at least!).

Thank you for all of your continued dedication to our mission.

R

The ConnectionEVPS newsletter

86 East Sixth StreetHolland, MI 49423

Phone: 616.392.2383Web: www.evpsinc.com

Volume 1, Issue 5 - July 2014

Your EVPS Team

Meet our New Team Members

H E L L OWithin the past few months, we

have welcomed back several employees as well as added many new faces and trades

around the country. Please join us in welcoming:

George ClaybornSenior Construction

Manager

Madeline Sagorski Communication & Marketing Assistant

Josh SimmonsConstruction Manager

Lou VerzakProduction Specialist

Bruce WilsonFinancial & Asset

Inventory Manager

Mike Novakoski, President & CEO

A Few RemindersReferrals are still welcome! If you know any quality candidates that are in the job market, please forward their info onto Stacy Chatfield at schatfield@evpsinc.com or 616.392.2383 x 445.Also, if you have recently completed any certifications or trainings please email Ali Nedved at anedved@evpsinc.com. We would love to add any addtional qualifications to your resume to better qualify you!

Name Title Phone EmailMike Novakoski President/CEO 616.836.5456 mikenova@elzinga-volkers.comBuddy Simmons Vice President of Operations 616.834.6690 bsimmons@evpsinc.comJames Sheely Director of National Sales 616.212.9916 jsheely@evpsinc.comDave Lamy Operations Executive 773.841.9500 dlamy@evpsinc.comAli Nedved Marketing Assistant 616.894.0921 anedved@evpsinc.comJenna Giha Accounting Assistant 616.395.1427 jgiha@elzinga-volkers.comStacy Chatfield Recruiter 616.813.2916 schatfield@evpsinc.com

Combating Heat Exhaustion Preventing Heat Exhaustion

» Ample sleep/rest prior to work activity » Hydrate well before & during work » Wear light, loose clothing, so sweat

can evaporate » Use sunscreen to prevent sunburn » Stop work activities if you feel your

abilities start to diminish » Do not drink beverages with caffeine » It is easier to prevent heat exhaustion

than it is to treat once symptoms develop » Be mindful of interior non air-

conditioned work areas

Heat Exhuastion Treatment » Stop work activities and rest » Drink cool water or a sport drink » Move to an air conditioned room » Remove extra clothing » Place ice bags under arms

As the temperature continues to increase this summer, please keep in mind the dangers of heat exhaustion. The tips below will help you prevent heat exhausation as well as effectively treat it. If you have any questions, please contact Buddy Simmons at 616.834.6690.

Employee Spotlight | Katrena BouchardHometown: Cereal City - Battle Creek, Michigan

Position: Capital Finance/Engineering/Sustainability Data Analyst at Mondelez International.

Family/Interests: Katrena is married to Scott and together they have three sons ages, 23, 21 and 15. As a family they enjoy disc golfing, live music and festivals and, of course, football in her house full of boys! Katrena also enjoys gardening, cooking at her summer lake house, and frequenting nearby farmers markets.