Building Scale

We interview successful Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) business leaders to learn how they use people, processes, and technology to scale their businesses.

Opioids & Mental Health: Addressing the Dark Side of Construction with Jon O'Brien - KCA

E85 • Mar 26, 2024 • 55 mins

In this episode, guest Jon O’Brien shares his journey into the construction industry, discusses the impact of opioids on the workforce, and the role of outreach, doctors, and companies in addiction prevention. He emphasizes the importance of employee assistance programs and introduces mental health awareness initiatives. O’Brien also discusses his legislative work, issues with Pennsylvania's separations act, and efforts to change outdated construction laws. The episode concludes with reflections on personal growth.

Key Points

John O'Brien's experience in the construction industry and with the Keystone Contractors Association has led to initiatives like Construction Opioid Awareness Week, aiming to address opioid addiction and mental health issues in the AEC sector by promoting open communication and providing resources.
The Separations Act in Pennsylvania mandates multiple prime contractors for public construction projects, leading to inefficiencies and higher costs, and John is actively working to modernize this century-old procurement law to align with more efficient practices found in other states.
Companies in the AEC industry are increasingly hiring health and wellness managers and implementing programs like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) to support workers with mental health, substance abuse, and personal issues, fostering a healthier work environment and aiding in employee retention.

Connect with Jon O'Brien and KCA - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonobrien7/ Website: https://keystonecontractors.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/KCA_builds Phone: (717) 884-2801 Connect with Justin & Will - Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/ Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration - Website: https://www.spotmigration.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spotmigration Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration Do you want to be a guest on the show? Go to https://buildingscale.net/guests Need to discuss your IT and Cybersecurity Strategy? Go to https://buildingscale.net/help

Speakers

Will Foret

Host • 5%

Justin Neagle

Host • 21%

Jon O’Brien

Guest • 74%

Chapters

0:00	Introduction to the podcast and hosts
1:07	Introduction of the guest, John O’Brien, and his journey into the construction industry
9:07	The impact of opioids on the construction workforce and the role of outreach in addressing addiction
20:14	The role of doctors and construction companies in opioid addiction prevention
29:10	The importance of employee assistance programs in managing addiction and mental health issues
33:30	Introduction of mental health awareness magnets and state level resolutions for construction workers
39:25	Jon O’Brien's work in different legislations and the issue with Pennsylvania's separations act
46:54	Current efforts to change outdated construction laws and the role of universities in researching construction models
50:21	Reflection on personal growth and the value of embracing good advice
53:00	Closing remarks and contact information for Jon O’Brien

Transcript

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