Construction Safety Week is an annual event celebrated across the construction industry, highlighting the importance of safety protocols and practices in the workplace. To accompany this year’s “Value Every Voice” theme, Kitchell is gearing up for a week full of safety-focused activities, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to the well-being of their employees.

One of the cornerstone initiatives during Construction Safety Week is a series of stand-downs scheduled across all Kitchell job sites. These stand-downs provide an invaluable opportunity for workers to pause, reflect, and engage in discussions about safety procedures and potential hazards. Our teams are also participating in the National Safety Stand Down on May 8th, joining hands with industry peers to amplify the message of safety across the nation.

In addition to stand-downs, Kitchell has organized multiple demonstrations in collaboration with our partners and vendors, specifically focusing on fall protection. “Falls are one of the most common accidents in the construction industry,” said Eric Vogt, Kitchell’s Director of Safety. “By partnering with experts and showcasing the latest in fall protection equipment and techniques, we are equipping our workforce with the knowledge and tools necessary to mitigate this risk effectively.

Safety stand down and demonstration at one of Kitchell’s job sites during last year’s Construction Safety Week.

Hard hat stickers and other materials will be distributed to reinforce our safety message and empower employees to identify and address unsafe work conditions proactively. These stickers serve as constant reminders of Kitchell’s dedication to fostering a culture of safety where every voice matters. By encouraging workers to speak up and report any safety concerns they encounter, Kitchell is fostering an environment where safety is not just a priority but a shared responsibility.

Construction Safety Week is not merely a time for lip service; it’s an opportunity for action and meaningful change. “At Kitchell, we uphold a commitment to value every voice and engage our employees in safety initiatives,” said Kitchell Contractors President, Chris Kirch. “In doing so, we’re not just safeguarding lives; we’re setting a gold standard of excellence for the entire construction industry.”

Together, we can construct not just buildings, but also an enduring culture of safety that impacts everyone who sets foot on our job sites.

Corey Harris joins Kitchell as Director of Business Development for Southern California. With over two decades of experience in the construction industry, Corey brings unparalleled expertise in business development, strategic partnerships and client relationship management to his new role.

As the Business Development Director for Southern California at Kitchell, Corey will play a pivotal role in driving the company’s growth and success in the region. His responsibilities will include identifying, qualifying, and pursuing new business opportunities while nurturing existing client relationships to ensure long-term partnerships and project success. Additionally, Corey will focus on fostering and developing new client relationships to expand Kitchell’s footprint in the Southern California construction industry.

Corey’s journey from his early career experiences as a Quality Assurance Manager with the United States Army Corps of Engineers to his most recent role as a Business Development Manager at A1 Management & Inspection Inc. (A1MI) underscores his dedication to the construction management industry. His transition from roles primarily focused on quality assurance and control to business development reflects his passion for making meaningful connections and contributing to the industry’s growth.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Corey is actively engaged in various industry organizations, including serving as the Vice-Chair of the D.E.I.B. Committee and member of the Internship Committee at CMAA Southern California. He also participates as a mentor for Dorsey High School in the Mentorship Program of A.C.E. Los Angeles and is a member of the National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC) and The Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) SoCal Chapter.

Outside of work, Corey enjoys playing golf, attending bible classes and indulging in his passion for action movies, martial arts, anime and comics. He is actively involved in his community, volunteering with the Special Needs Network alongside his family.

With Corey’s extensive industry engagement and commitment to excellence, Kitchell is poised to build on our strong portfolio of current work and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the Southern California construction management landscape. Corey’s insights into the region’s future trends, including the focus on our core markets and his background with infrastructure enhancements, will further strengthen Kitchell’s position as a leader in the field.

“We are thrilled to welcome Corey Harris to the Kitchell team,” said Geoff Bachanas, Vice President of Southern California at Kitchell. “His proven track record and dedication to excellence make him an invaluable asset as we continue to pursue growth and success in the Southern California construction management industry.”

Welcome to the team Corey!

To connect with Corey: charris@kitchell.com