On a cold, 20 degree day in December I met Luke Young in Goldendale for a tour of the work our Construction Management team is inspecting and managing for BPA. The project, Big Eddy - Knight No.1 is a 500 kV line and is 29 miles in length. It starts at Big Eddy substation in The Dalles, OR and terminates at the Knight substation in Goldendale, WA. The piece of the project I visited is referred to as "Big Eddy Knight Last 14 Miles" because it consists of construction on miles 15-29 (the last 14 miles).

After meeting Vadim Kasko at the project trailer and ensuring I was equipped with the essential safety tools, Luke began our tour.  He introduced me to the representatives from the Contractor and BPA.  I learned a little about Luke and his years of experience inspecting transmission lines across the Country.  I also learned Luke welcomed a new baby this year and was balancing being away from home and getting the work done. Luke is a rare breed - faithfully optimistic  When I quizzed him on how we, corporate MacKay Sposito, can do better, Luke maintained his posture of positivity and thankfulness.  It was quite a treat to spend a couple of hours with Luke while he patiently explained how the 120 foot towers were constructed, how often they climbed to inspect the construction (YIKES) and how much he enjoys his job.

This past month our fearless leader, Tim Schauer, was asked to contribute an article to the Vancouver Business Journal.  They asked him to share his thoughts regarding the economic outlook for our industry in the coming year. The article is below.

At the turning of the year, as we reflect on the road our businesses just traveled while attempting to forecast the road ahead, I’m struck with the ever-present truth that the only certainty is uncertainty. I suggest that your willingness to plan for uncertainty is the biggest influencer for any economic forecast. The economy is recovering with some vigor, but it’s a different economy. Businesses and their employees are spending money differently – from advertising, to borrowing, to organization participation. The old economy isn’t coming back. Like a successful new year’s diet (keyword: successful), the necessary changes can’t be temporary until you feel better. To stay successful, behavior has to evolve permanently.

I hope you enjoy this holiday video message as an example of our gratitude for your support and contributions to our success over our forty years history. We are looking forward to 2015 with great optimism and we wish you all the best in your holiday season and beyond.

Sincerely,