In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin welcome Salomon Moreno-Rosa, the Managing Director of Strategy and Philanthropy at Envoy. The discussion centers around the concept of "Recovery Ready Workplaces" and the importance of fair chance employment, particularly in the construction industry.

Salomon explains that fair chance employment initiatives aim to create inclusive hiring practices that support individuals from the reentry community and those navigating recovery from substance use disorders. He highlights the significance of community-based partnerships, which can help employers tap into new talent pools while providing essential wraparound services such as transportation, housing, and childcare.

The episode delves into the Recovery Ready Workplace series, a program designed to equip employers with the tools and resources needed to foster a supportive work environment. Salomon outlines the structure of the series, which includes virtual modules, downloadable toolkits, and opportunities for one-on-one consultations with HR professionals. The series aims to reduce stigma, improve employee wellness, and ultimately enhance productivity and retention within companies.

Listeners are encouraged to consider the benefits of participating in the series, which is free and accessible to employers across Pennsylvania. Solomon emphasizes that the initiative not only supports employees in recovery but also helps companies reduce turnover and improve workplace morale.

As the episode wraps up, Jon and Chris express their gratitude to Salomon for sharing valuable insights and resources that can help employers navigate workforce development challenges while making a positive impact on their communities.

In this episode of the Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Jon O'Brien and Chris Martin tackle a critical and often overlooked issue in the construction industry: suicide prevention. They are joined by Sonya Bohmann, the Executive Director of the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention (CIASP), who brings her expertise and personal experience to the conversation.

Sonya discusses the significant stigma surrounding mental health in the construction sector, which often prevents workers from seeking help. She emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment where individuals feel safe to express their struggles. The conversation highlights the alarming statistics related to suicide in the industry, with one in nine construction workers knowing someone who has attempted or died by suicide.

The hosts and Sonya delve into the resources available through CIASP, including a new initiative aimed at helping companies develop mental health and wellness programs. They also discuss the importance of community and connection, encouraging listeners to reach out to colleagues and check in on their well-being.

Throughout the episode, Sonya shares valuable insights on recognizing warning signs of mental distress and the importance of open conversations about mental health. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to utilize the resources provided by CIASP and to foster a culture of support within their workplaces.

This episode serves as a powerful reminder that addressing mental health and suicide prevention is not just a personal issue but a collective responsibility within the construction industry.

In the latest episode of Building PA Podcast, co-hosts Chris Martin and Jon O'Brien interview Alexander Papson from Schneider Downs about the Secure Act 2.0. Papson, an investment advisor specializing in retirement plans, discusses how the legislation aims to improve private retirement plans and outlines key provisions, including tax credits for employers and automatic enrollment options. They delve into challenges employers face, such as complying with new rules for long-term part-time employees, and offer resources for both employers and employees interested in understanding the implications of the Secure Act 2.0.