Benchmark Group Newsletter | December 2015
Your Project Team of Choice | www.teamofchoice.com
BENCHMARK GROUP
NAMED RUNNER UP FOR
BEST ENGINEERING FIRM
In December, CitiScapes
Magazine released its
annual “Best of
Northwest Arkansas”
for 2015.
Benchmark Group is
proud to be honored
as Runner Up for the
best Engineering firm in
Northwest Arkansas!
Benchmark Group Newsletter | December 2015
MESSAGE
FROM OUR
LEADERSHIP
Benchmark Group has a
long history of making
improvements to our business, and in 2015 we have
gotten back to doing that at a more normal level
again.
We have gained new Clients and new Staff.
We have a number of major improvements
underway that are focused on quality and
efficiency for our Clients, including IT platforms,
accounting software, and Revit platform and
methods.
I am confident that our leadership has been
making good judgements along the way and that
we are advancing in exactly the right direction. I
am also confident that we have the skill to execute
these improvements.
I am proud of our entire Staff for continuing to serve
our Clients so well, even as we have been making
so many transitions.
Paul C. Parks, President
ROGERS FARMER’S MARKET
Benchmark Group is proud to be the design firm for the City of Rogers’
new year-round Farmer’s Market project. “There is an incredible energy
and vibrancy in downtown Rogers along with that warm, friendly small
town feel. We are fortunate to be a part of this exciting new project with
the City of Rogers and Main Street Rogers. It will be a welcome addition
to the community.” – Michele Love. The designers on the project are
Thomas Laskaris, Kate Phillips, Casey Clippinger, and Hannah Fraser.
Benchmark Group | 1805 N. 2nd Street | Rogers, AR 72756 | 479.636.5004
LATEST IN TRENDS AND
TECHNOLOGY
Benchmark Group is committed to giving you results worth
bragging about. With new technology and creative minds
behind the scenes of every project, we transform your vision
into a reality.
We recommend you read this article by Open Design Alliance
President Neil Peterson.
ht tp://w w w.eng i nee r i ng.com/Design Sof t wa re/Design Sof t wa reA r ticles/
ArticleID/10762/The-Present-and-Future-of-DWG.aspx
BG SPOTLIGHT
Benchmark Group Newsletter | December 2015
Scott Ward
Q: How many years have you been
working with Benchmark Group?
A: I started with BG in March of 2009
so almost 7 years.
Q: Tell us about your role with BG.
A: I am the Vice President in charge of production. As a
member of the Senior Management Team, I am involved in the
overall management of the company. I also work closely with
the Accounting Department in support of BG’s invoicing and
collections process. Currently, I am filling the role of Director
of Marketing, where I oversee all production and marketing
activities at BG.
Q: What are the most important decisions you make as a leader
at Benchmark Group?
ENGINEERING NEWS
Benchmark Group continues to grow and expand our horizons.
We believe in making the right leadership decisions to benefit
both our Staff and our Clients in everything we do. In order to
do so, we must know the needs of our Staff and Clients as well
as how to manage and lead our teams to success. This can be
a delicate balance but we believe at Benchmark Group that
the strong leadership required is found within our Staff including
designers, managers, administrative staff, executives, and
professionals. Whether it is leading a project, working with other
designers to ensure a design is properly coordinated with the
utmost quality, or leading the company to new opportunities,
our Benchmark team supports one another, strives to make our
clients happy, and continues to focus on success. If you would
like to join our dynamic team or would like us to help make your
vision/project a reality please contact us via our website at:
www.teamofchoice.com
Have a blessed New Year!
Jason Adams, Program Director
ARCHITECTURAL NEWS
“As we say goodbye to 2015, the Architecture department is
very thankful to have welcomed several new Staff Members to
the team. They bring new experiences, ideas, and skill sets to
our group. We are looking forward to 2016 with plans to expand
both our Interior Design and Architectural programs to include
new types of projects and diversify our client base. If you are
ready to begin a design project or plan a new look for your
business, contact us today!”
A: I am responsible for leading production staff and supporting
them in their roles. Also right now I am leading a campaign
to create a one year, five year and ten year strategic plan in
collaboration with the production teams. It is a company-wide
endeavor with multiple small group meetings and the creation
of an oversight committee. This process will help us to create
a work environment that is inspiring, inquisitive, innovative
and creative; that is diverse in background and thought; and
develops trusted working relationships and partnerships, through
collaboration. The goal of this endeavor is to support our passion
for the profession, commitment to our clients, and empower us
to be thought leaders.
Q: What is your favorite thing about working here?
A: I enjoy problem solving with the staff to produce successful
projects and grow the firm.
Q: Can you name a person who had a tremendous impact on
you as a leader and why?
A: It is really hard to name just one person. Over the past 40 years,
I have been influenced by many great people. My Gramma
showed me the value of compassion. My Uncle helped me focus
my life and was an amazing counselor through some difficult
times. And Tony Hawk, who is currently my executive coach and
helping me to continue to improve my leadership skill set. The
one person who has been present through all of my life and is my
cornerstone is Jesus Christ. His watchful care has been constant
and his example of Servant Leadership is inspiring.
Q: Can you give us some examples of ongoing innovation within
Benchmark Group - either in architecture, engineering or both?
A: Production staff of both engineering and architecture
have process reviews so that best practices are shared and
implemented on an ongoing basis. Our leadership is always
anticipating and seizing new opportunities to add services.
Q: When you are not working, what do you enjoy doing in your
spare time?
A: Spending time with family is my greatest joy. I also like to read
and when time permits do some painting and sketching. I love
the outdoors and like to go hiking in the Ozark hills.
Amy Gilliam, Program Director
Benchmark Group | 1805 N. 2nd Street | Rogers, AR 72756 | 479.636.5004
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Benchmark Group Newsletter | December 2015
Benchmark Group was honored to do the lighting, electrical
design and construction administration for the new Veterans
Memorial dedicated on Veterans Day, November 11th
in Veterans Memorial Park in Rogers. Several Staff from
Benchmark attended the ceremony.
Benchmark Group was happy to participate in
“Sponsor-A-Classroom” this year at Gravette Upper
Elementary. This will assist Mrs. Roach’s class in
classroom activities and supplies.
Supercon Presented By NOARK
Held at The Jones Center in Springdale, this was
a day for HR and managers to glean valuable
information on building teams, managing teams,
and much more! We had the pleasure of hearing
several well-known speakers including Tony
Hawk, Michael Brown, Ron Dilbert, and William
Ricky Teague.
FUSE Forum: Work Matters
BG CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON
Benchmark Group held a Christmas Luncheon for all Staff on
December 11th. Staff were paid for the hour long festive event which
was catered by Rib Crib. The menu included Pulled Pork and Beef
Brisket complimented by various
side dishes. Homemade desserts
from Staff topped off a great
meal! Holiday décor and music
added to the fun. All remaining
goodies were taken to our
friends at the NWA Women’s
Shelter.
Benchmark Group sponsored a table of 10
to attend the November program and lunch.
Speakers included Doug McMillon, President
and CEO, Walmart Stores, Inc.; Donnie Smith,
President and CEO, Tyson Foods, Inc.; and John
Roberts, President and CEO, J.B. Hunt Transport,
Inc. From their website ‘…a unique biblical
leadership experience designed to help you
think and act critically about living your faith
at work. Learn from and interact with inspiring
business and thought leaders as they equip you
to close the gap between faith and work.”
The Benchmark team found it very motivational
and inspiring with real life examples of how to
practice faith in the workplace. This will be an
annual event for us!
Benchmark Group | 1805 N. 2nd Street | Rogers, AR 72756 | 479.636.5004
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Benchmark Group Newsletter | December 2015
PEI Convention At The NACS Show
Deltek Vision Insight Conference
Several managers attended the Deltek Vision Insight conference,
geared towards project-based businesses, at the Opryland
Hotel in Nashville TN. They learned about their latest products
and attended several educational sessions. We are excited to
implement some of these new systems at Benchmark Group in
the New Year!
In October, two members of the Benchmark Group
team attended the Petroleum Equipment Institute
(PEI) Convention at the National Association of
Convenience Stores (NACS) show in Las Vegas.
Jason Scates said “It was a great opportunity
to connect with vendors and learn about new
products, regulations, and trends in the industry.”
John Newton said “It was an excellent opportunity
to interact with our various fuel related vendors. We
were able to gain a greater understanding of the
services, products and items that we deal with on
a daily basis. We were also able to address issues
we have experienced face to face. Additionally, it
afforded us an occasion to expand our relationship
with one of our clients.”
Ozark Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Sponsorship
We are proud to be a Gold Sponsor of an organization that offers
incredible opportunities to young musicians in NWA and Missouri.
Check out their website at: http://www.opyo.org/
NWA Workforce Summit 2015
Members of Human Resources and BGU (Training Team)
attended the 2015 NWA Workforce Summit presented by the
Springdale Chamber of Commerce. The Summit provided
information for how we as NWA employers can attract and
retain talent. The speakers offered advice and insight from
employers, educators, as well as seasoned recruiters. It was a
great opportunity to learn, develop, and network with other
area businesses.
The PEI website stated the following regarding the
event: “Record-setting attendance at our sessions
and keynotes had attendees buzzing with new
ideas and fresh perspectives. The trade show
floor was busier than ever with new exhibitors and
cutting-edge products.” “The Petroleum Equipment
Institute is a trade association whose members
manufacture, distribute and service petroleum
marketing and liquid handling equipment.”
We are looking forward to attending next year’s
event in Atlanta!
Benchmark Group | 1805 N. 2nd Street | Rogers, AR 72756 | 479.636.5004
COMMUNITY EVENTS
BG STAFF OPEN HOUSE
OCTOBER 2, 2015
Approximately 200 staff and family members joined us for a staff open house
on October 2nd to celebrate the launch of our new branding and website,
teamofchoice.com. From tables decorated with sparkling pumpkins and fall
leaves, guest enjoyed finger foods and a cake emblazoned with Benchmark
Group’s new logo.
Benchmark Group Newsletter | December 2015
CLIENT RECEPTION &
CHAMBER BUSINESS
AFTER HOURS
JOIN US!
Everyone in attendance received a Benchmark Group tote bag containing lots
of goodies! A $25 gift card was raffled off and Corry Hull of Legacy Capital
Group and Sheldon Long of Benchmark Group’s names were drawn as winners.
A Fall coloring contest was held for children. All children received a coloring
book and Crayons for participating and winners in each category (listed below)
received a $20 Walmart gift card.
•
0-4 years of age: Stella, age 4
•
5-9 years of age: Bella, age 7
•
10-15 years of age: Isaac, age 10
Share in the
Celebration of
Our Rebranding.
Feb. 18, 2016
5:00 - 6:30 PM
Hors D’oeuvres
Drinks
Door Prizes
Event Will Be Held At:
Benchmark Group
1805 N. 2nd St., Rogers, AR
RSVP: 479.636.5004
Benchmark Group | 1805 N. 2nd Street | Rogers, AR 72756 | 479.636.5004