Latest news with #MEP
Business Wire
20-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Garnett Station Partners Launches Grizzly MEP, a Commercial Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing Services Platform
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Garnett Station Partners ('Garnett Station' or 'GSP'), a New York-based principal investment firm that manages over $3.5 billion of assets, today announced the launch of its newly formed Commercial Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing ('Commercial MEP') services platform, Grizzly MEP, in partnership with industry veteran Kelly Romano, who will serve as Chairman of the Board. The Grizzly MEP platform partners with high-quality service providers to support outsized growth and drive increased efficiency, reliability and customer satisfaction in the highly fragmented Commercial MEP market. As part of today's launch, Grizzly MEP also announced its first partnership with Stiles Heating & Cooling ('Stiles' or 'Stiles Services'), a founder-owned leading provider of HVAC, building controls and plumbing services across Georgia and South Carolina. Through this partnership, Grizzly MEP will leverage Stiles' reputation for high-quality service, long-tenured customer base and strong market position to accelerate growth and expand its reach across geographies, customers and end markets. 'Commercial MEP is an approximately $500 billion market with strong growth drivers, room for consolidation and resilient demand bolstered by an increasing need for sustainable and energy efficient solutions,' said Jordan Garay, Partner at Garnett Station. 'We see tremendous potential in Grizzly MEP, and we are thrilled to be launching this platform in partnership with Kelly. Her 30+ year track record of successfully building businesses across the HVAC and building services space will be a great asset as we scale the platform and source additional targets across the industry.' Ms. Romano commented, 'Grizzly MEP is an exciting opportunity to realize the vast untapped value in the Commercial MEP sector. Through our partnership with Stiles, we are fortunate to have a strong market position in the Southeast with a recognized brand, long-term customer relationships and a reputation for high-quality service. I look forward to working with the GSP team to scale the Grizzly MEP platform and provide customers the reliable, high-quality mechanical, electrical and plumbing services they need to run their operations comfortably and efficiently.' Doug Stiles, Owner of Stiles Services, added, 'We have found a trusted partner in Kelly, Jordan and the entire Garnett Station team. We look forward to partnering with Grizzly MEP and leveraging the platform's resources to expand our business, while furthering our commitment to providing our Georgia and South Carolina communities with best-in-class service.' Croft and Bender served as financial advisor to Stiles. About Garnett Station Partners Garnett Station Partners is a principal investment firm founded in 2013 by Matt Perelman and Alex Sloane that manages over $3.5 billion of assets. Garnett Station partners with experienced and entrepreneurial management teams and strategic investors to build value for its portfolio of growth platforms. The firm draws on its global relationships, operational experience and rigorous diligence process to source, underwrite and manage investments. Core sectors include consumer and business services, health and wellness, automotive, and food and beverage. Garnett Station's culture is based on the principles of entrepreneurship, collaboration, analytical rigor and accountability. For more information, please visit About Grizzly MEP Grizzly MEP is a Commercial Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing ('Commercial MEP') platform focused on partnering with best-in-class founders and management teams across the United States to build a network of leading Commercial MEP service providers. Grizzly MEP is committed to supporting its high-quality, customer-focused businesses with investments in infrastructure, technology and growth. For more information, please visit
Qatar Tribune
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
The Voice of OFWs: DJ Meow, from airwaves icon to community leader
Darlene Regis He has an energy-infused, masculine DJ voice you've likely heard before — a familiar and warm presence on the airwaves that has become instantly recognizable across Qatar's Filipino community. You can catch him on Pinoy Heart Radio (PHR), spot him at media conferences, and see him in action during outreach programs and community events. He is a household name in the Filipino diaspora, popularly known as 'DJ Meow' — but behind the mic is Romeo Esmeria Villegas Jr., a man driven by passion, purpose, and people-first advocacy. DJ Meow has been a cornerstone of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Qatar for over 16 years. As the PHR Founding Chairman, his passion for broadcasting and commitment to community service, creates a platform that resonates with the modern heroes in the Middle East and around the world. Why 'DJ Meow'? Where does the moniker come from? 'It's simple,' he laughs. 'It's from my name — RoMeo. I added a 'W' and it became DJ Meow. It's quirky, catchy, and easy to remember!' From Tambo Pamplona to Qatar's Airwaves Born in Manila, grew up in Bicol, and lived in Tambo Pamplona, Camarines Sur, DJ Meow's journey is a testament to humble beginnings and unwavering determination. 'I am the youngest in a brood of four,' he shares. 'Despite our financial challenges, I worked while studying to support my education, juggling jobs and studies that opened doors to opportunities abroad.' His perseverance paid off, leading him to Qatar, where he initially worked for an MEP company for eight years. 'The transition wasn't easy,' he admits. 'The cultural differences and strict work environment were challenging. But I endured, learned, and grew.' OFW by Day, DJ by Night While many recognize DJ Meow as the voice behind PHR's broadcasts, his primary profession is as a Document Controller and trainer. 'Managing records and ensuring document accuracy is my day job,' he explains. 'Being a DJ is my passion and a way to serve the Filipino community.' 'In 2013, we organized our very first Typhoon Relief Operation in Laguna for over 200 households, and as of now, we have completed 44 outreach programs — both here in Doha and in the Philippines,' he says. 'It started over 12 years ago as a small platform for Filipino voices and has now grown into a vital community hub,' he adds. Service with Recognition DJ Meow's contributions have not gone unnoticed. He's received multiple recognitions, including the Outstanding Leadership Award, Trainer of the Year, Plaque of Inspiring Change Award and Honors from the Philippine Embassy in Qatar, UFOQ, and AFJQ. 'These recognitions motivate me to continue serving our kababayans,' he says. Under his leadership, PHR was nominated for the 2021 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas under the Office of the President of the Philippines. Exclusive Interview with Qatar Tribune What inspired you to start Pinoy Heart Radio? I wanted to create a platform where Filipinos could feel at home, share their stories, and support each other. PHR was born out of that desire. How do you balance both careers? It's all about passion and purpose. I work all day and serve the community at night. What are some memorable events you've led? Feeding programs, free medical missions, concerts like Parokya ni Edgar and Gloc 9, and outreach during Philippine Independence Day. What's your favorite moment on air? When listeners send messages saying our shows uplift them or our charities helped their families. That's the real reward. What message do you have for fellow Filipinos in Qatar? Never give up. Help others even when you know they can't help you back. That's true service. Looking Ahead As DJ Meow continues to juggle his roles, he remains committed to his mission. 'I'm just happy with what I'm doing right now,' he says. 'If I can make someone's day better through music or kindness, then I've done my part.' His legacy? 'Just to be remembered as a simple, friendly person who used his voice and heart to uplift others,' he concludes. Whether through airwaves, events, or acts of service, Romeo Villegas Jr. – DJ Meow – has built more than just a name. He's built a bridge between hearts in Qatar and the Philippines, one broadcast at a time.
Business Journals
09-05-2025
- Business
- Business Journals
Real-world solutions for manufacturers navigating talent shortages and training barriers
Ask any manufacturer in Southwest Ohio about their biggest challenge today and you'll likely get the same answer: people. The skilled labor shortage is no longer a looming threat, it's a daily reality. And while many businesses are scrambling to plug holes with short-term fixes, the truth is that sustainable workforce development requires a long-term, strategic approach rooted in real-world solutions. At TechSolve, we work with hundreds of manufacturers each year, ranging from small shops to global suppliers and one thing is clear: The companies seeing real results are those investing in talent development as part of their core growth strategy. Why short-term fixes fall short Temporary staffing, sign-on bonuses and crash-course training might fill gaps in the short term, but they rarely build a workforce that's ready for the future. Technology is advancing, supply chains are tightening and customer expectations are rising. Manufacturers need employees who are not just present, but prepared and engaged. To close the skills gap, companies must commit to continuous training and development, upskilling existing employees and building stronger connections with local talent pipelines. A continuous learning culture isn't a quick fix, it's a mindset shift. Local resources are available Southwest Ohio is home to some of the most impactful workforce resources in the country. Yet many manufacturers aren't taking full advantage. Here are three tools we consistently recommend: Ohio TechCred This statewide program reimburses businesses for training employees in tech-focused skills, from CNC programming to cybersecurity and far beyond. Employers choose the credential and training provider, submit a simple online application and get reimbursed once the training is complete. TechCred reduces the financial barrier to upskilling and makes continuous learning more accessible. Career-technical education (CTE) partners When manufacturers and educators collaborate, great things happen. Butler Tech, among others in our region, are leading the way in aligning training with real industry needs, offering programs that prepare students for in-demand careers in manufacturing and logistics. These programs are more than talent pipelines — they're long-term partnerships. TechSolve's workforce services As a designated Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) center, TechSolve helps companies connect the dots between workforce needs and solutions. We work with manufacturers to map out training plans, identify available funding and navigate the often-complex landscape of workforce programs. Whether you're applying for TechCred, partnering with a school or building an internal training model, we're here to guide the process. TechSolve offers in-person and online training programs. Collaboration is the competitive edge Solving the workforce equation isn't just about internal changes, it's about building bridges. Manufacturers who partner with educators, government programs and workforce organizations are creating stronger, more sustainable pipelines. And they're seeing the results in productivity, retention and competitiveness. At TechSolve, we're committed to helping manufacturers build and retain the talent they need to thrive, not just today, but five and 10 years from now. That means sharing best practices, making the most of public resources and helping leadership teams integrate workforce strategy into their overall business plan. The workforce challenge isn't going away, but it can be solved. With the right resources, partnerships, and commitment to long-term success, manufacturers can turn workforce development from a roadblock into a growth driver. We understand the frustration of dealing with skills gaps and turnover – it's costly and disruptive. With the right training and leadership development, your culture can become a driver of growth. To learn how TechSolve can support your workforce strategy, visit our website. Dan Catalano is the president and CEO of TechSolve, a Cincinnati-based organization dedicated to helping manufacturers solve operational challenges through continuous improvement, advanced technology adoption, and workforce development.
ME Construction
02-05-2025
- Automotive
- ME Construction
McLaren Construction appointed to deliver Dubai Harbour Multi Storey Car Park
Construction McLaren Construction appointed to deliver Dubai Harbour Multi Storey Car Park By This development addresses the growing demand for parking spaces due to population growth, tourism, and urbanisation McLaren Construction has been appointed by Shamal Holding to expand the development of Dubai Harbour with a multi-story car park. This development aims to address the rising demand for parking spaces, which has been driven by population growth, tourism, and urbanisation. This project consists of the full construction of the 31,487sqm, nine storey car park including rooftop parking, with a total capacity of 836 spaces. McLaren will be responsible for delivering the enabling works and all precast structures incorporating delta beams on levels two to eight, as well as all cantilevered in-situ slabs, planters, beams, and roof steel shade structures. McLaren will manage and undertake the MEP installations throughout, including car park management systems, CCTV/security, car park traffic coatings, directional markings, and signage. The contractor will expedite construction of this project by utilising technologies like BIM, structural analysis software, and off-site precast concrete manufacturing. This approach will enable the creation of much needed parking spaces ahead of the global events scheduled for and around the Dubai Harbour in 2026. These events are expected to attract substantial visitors, both during the events and in subsequent years. The multi storey car park is McLaren's second project with Shamal Holding, with the company currently delivering the NAS Community Mall project (Nad Al Sheba Gardens, Dubai) on behalf of the client. Lyndon Hives, Preconstruction Director at McLaren International, said, 'We are very proud to have been appointed on our second project with Shamal Holding. This is testament to the expertise and reliability of our team in delivering complex developments, that are critical in supporting Dubai's growth. The multi-storey car park in Dubai Harbour will add significant parking capacity to an extremely busy area, while its façade will make a positive contribution to the character of the surrounding architecture. Our experience in mobilising a supply chain in Dubai to deliver high-quality built products for our clients means that we can deliver the project at speed to respond to increasing demand in parking spaces.' Dubai Harbour is a seafront destination, integrating residential, lifestyle, hospitality and retail experiences into an community. With its backdrop, accessible location and purpose built foundation, Dubai Harbour continues to evolve, enabling more people to experience seafront living and the region's lifestyle, said a statement.
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
‘I fought back against that': Riley speaks out on manufacturing
BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH) – Congressman Josh Riley says he's helped to reverse federal funding cuts that would have hurt local small and medium-sized manufacturers. Riley was at Eck Plastics in Binghamton earlier this week, sounding the alarm about a prior effort by the Department of Commerce to slash money from the Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program. The MEP program has 460 centers across the country, including the Alliance for Manufacturing and Technology on the SUNY Broome campus. They assist manufacturers with job training, certifications, marketing and market research. Riley was one of 86 members of Congress who signed a letter to the Commerce Secretary opposing the cuts before the Trump administration backtracked. 'I fought back against that. I made the argument that we need those investments to grow American manufacturing and to create jobs in America. And I was really pleased when the administration reversed course and decided to continue to make those investments,' Riley said. ECK Plastic Arts prints and creates plastic component parts for other manufacturers using injection molding, vacuum forming and fabrication. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
