About the Project
Located about six miles from downtown Columbus, the John Glenn Columbus International Airport, previously known as Port Columbus International Airport, serves over seven million people every year. The facility acts primarily as a passenger airport, but is also home to a few private hangars for various companies, now including MPW Industrial Services.
With over 3,000 employees and 70 locations across the country, MPW was looking for an airport to store their two corporate jets. They selected John Glenn Columbus International Airport since it is close to their corporate headquarters, located 30 miles from Columbus. In addition to being close to the corporate headquarters, John Glenn is also known for their flying capabilities and snow removal during the winter months. With previous experience building private hangars and an established relationship with MPW, Renier Construction, Inc. was selected as the general contractor for the project.
Commitment to the Project
Prior to this project, Renier Construction and LaForce did not have much history of working together. LaForce Columbus Office Manager and Account Manager, Jodi Vermaaten, heard about the project and knew that LaForce would be the best fit, and would create an opportunity for LaForce to showcase our skills. She took the time to work closely with Steve Giere from Renier to learn what exactly, down to the hardware finish, they were looking for prior to bidding.
After being awarded the project, Vermaaten remained in close communication with Renier Construction, specifically Project Manager Tony DiBlasi, to ensure the project was completed to their specifications and satisfaction. Through the process Renier was able to see first-hand LaForce’s dedication to our customers and the service provided. For example, late one Friday night, outside of normal work hours, Vermaaten and LaForce installer Michael Clouse were on the jobsite ensuring the facility would be secured, eliminating the concern of a security risk over the weekend.
Vermaaten also attended weekly coordination meetings to know of any changes that would affect LaForce’s scope or delay supplies. “The great communication and coordination between LaForce and Renier helped to supply a great finished project to the customer, MPW,” said LaForce Office Manager and Account Manager, Jodi Vermaaten.
As the job progressed LaForce continued to provide top service to Renier and the John Glenn project. Through the project LaForce has had the opportunity to develop a strong professional relationship with Renier and be recommend for additional projects.
“As a Project Manager, since this project, I always highly recommend LaForce to our Estimators and Senior Management as I would like LaForce to be Renier’s preferred supply vendor,” said Renier Construction Project Manager, Tony DiBlasi. “LaForce makes my job very easy!”
Conclusion
LaForce’s partnership with Renier to meet MPW Industrial’s vision for the private hangar at the John Glenn Columbus International Airport is an example how we work closely with our customers to keep on schedule, build strong relationships, and provide quality service. LaForce is proud to have had the opportunity to provide code compliant doors, frames, hardware, Division 10 products, and more to the new home for MPW Industrial Services corporate jets.
