A new AIA/CES certified course that features building entrance options is being offered for architects, specifiers, interior designers and other design professionals. The AIA/CES program, Architectural Entrances: Managing Liability, Longevity and Looks, is a one-hour accredited course taught by Mats Inc. of Stoughton, MA. Upon completion, participants will be able to: design an effective entrance system, including structural requirements for a wide range of applications; identify, evaluate and specify appropriate products; and oversee installation of entrance systems, including compliance issues. The facilitators for the AIA/CES program, Architectural Entrances, have been trained on CES guidelines and presentation skills and attendees receive one HSW LU hour credit. Based on 35 years of research and experience in industry best practices, this program reviews matting alternatives and describes the Cleanzone™: entrance matting systems for the exterior, vestibule and lobby. Go to www.matsinc.com for more information.
< Faced with stiff competition in the job market, an increasing number of A/E firm leaders and HR directors are offering employees referral compensation bonuses to find new staff members. Data from ZweigWhite's 2007 Policies, Procedures & Benefits Survey of Architecture, Engineering, Planning & Environmental Consulting Firms shows 71 percent of firms compensate current employees for referrals—about 15 percent more than in the last five years. Over the past few years, an increasing number of principals in the A/E industry have reported staff recruitment and retention as one of their top challenges. Considering that 89 percent of firm leaders say referrals and word of mouth are their best sources of new hires, it's not surprising that more firms are offering financial rewards to their employees in an effort to find new staff. These referral bonuses typically range from $500 to $1,750 for each successful referral. Additional details about the survey are available at www.zweigwhite.com.
LATICRETE employees partnered with Habitat for Humanity and helped install ceramic tile floors in two homes in New Haven, CT.