Kyle McDonald, a Delray Beach, Fla.-based project manager at Western Specialty Contractors, recently joined the CoatingsPro Interview Series of podcasts to discuss his 12-year career in the coatings industry.
As part of the extended conversion, McDonald emphasized the importance of structural coatings for preserving concrete structures—and especially in Florida's harsh climate.
He highlighted Western’s extensive experience and nationwide presence, noting their role in restoring iconic buildings (including a project at The Esplanade, as featured in CoatingsPro’s November 2024 print issue).
McDonald stressed the significance of collaboration between engineers, owners, and contractors to achieve cost-effective solutions. He also addressed industry trends, such as the use of polyurethane methacrylate (PUMA) and urethane systems, as well as the importance of recruiting and retaining skilled workers to meet future challenges in concrete restoration.
A summary of that conversation is available with assistance from transcription service Otter.ai, and the complete episode can be listened to below.
Western Specialty Contractors and Its Operations
McDonald describes St. Louis, Mo.-based Western as a nationwide company with a history of over 100 years. The group specializes in the restoration and maintenance of various building envelopes, including roofing, coatings, sealants, and masonry. McDonald highlights Western’s extensive footprint across the United States and its long-standing presence in Florida.
The discussion then shifts to the unique challenges of concrete restoration in different climates, particularly in Florida.
Challenges and Solutions in Concrete Restoration
McDonald discusses the unique factors of concrete as a substrate, especially in different climates. He explains the impact of post-tensioned concrete and the rapid corrosion of steel in a salt environment.
McDonald emphasizes the importance of preserving concrete structures and how that can prevent rapid deterioration. The conversation touches on recent hurricanes in Florida and their impact on concrete structures.
Memorable Projects and Collaborative Efforts
McDonald shares his thoughts on what makes a project memorable, highlighting the importance of collaboration between contractors, engineers, and owners. He recounts the Broward Financial Center project, which was impacted by Hurricane Wilma and featured as an award winner.
McDonald then describes The Esplanade project by emphasizing the unique challenges and successful collaboration efforts to achieve cost-effective solutions. The discussion includes an examination of the importance of quick, effective solutions and the role of product manufacturers in achieving project goals.
Industry Trends and Material Selection
McDonald discusses trends in material selection and the importance of balancing product life and cost. He explains the features of polyurethane methacrylate (PUMA) and urethane systems and their potential application times and windows. McDonald then mentions growing interest in penetrating coatings with warranties for crack repair.
The conversation highlights the need for new technologies and the importance of protecting concrete initially, in order to prevent costly repairs later.
Workforce Development and Retention
McDonald emphasizes the importance of having the right crew members for project success. He discusses Western’s strategies for recruiting and retaining talented individuals, including relocation opportunities within the company.
As part of the conversation, he highlights the value of institutional knowledge and the importance of industry safety. The discussion includes the challenges of workforce development and the need for new talent to incorporate with existing knowledge.
Recruitment as a Tool for the Future
McDonald shares his thoughts on the industry’s future by emphasizing the importance of workforce recruitment and technology.
He discusses the need for new talent to incorporate with existing knowledge, as well as the increasing role of technology in advancing the industry. As McDonald sees it, addressing small problems early can prevent larger, more costly issues later.
The conversation then touches on the need for blue-collar recruitment and making the industry appealing to the next generation.
Career Satisfaction and Industry Appeal
Finally, McDonald shares his personal journey from an English and political science major in college to achieving a successful career in the coatings industry. Specifically, he finds fulfillment in the challenges, rewards, and problem-solving aspects of the construction industry.
Other factors include financial benefits and the pride in seeing completed projects.
The discussion wraps up by emphasizing the importance of making the industry appealing to young people, and specifically its potential for a rewarding career.
Editor’s note: Listen to more CoatingsPro Interview Series podcasts at www.coatingspromag.com/podcasts.