A group of students from The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) recently got an idea of the scope and possible impact of the multi-billion dollar Baha Mar development during a recent tour of the Cable Beach development.
Students of the Electrical Installation I and II classes were guided by one of Baha Mar’s Project Coordinators, Ralph Burrows, who is a product of BTVI. In 2011, he was selected by BTVI to join a team working on the Baha Mar construction site, and just over two years later, he coordinates construction site teams to discover the best and fastest solutions when challenges arise.
BTVI’s Dean of Construction Trades, Alexander Darville, expressed pride in the role Mr. Burrows plays, stating that it serves as motivation for current students.
“Hearing Mr. Burrows talk was powerful and an inspiration to those on tour,” he said.
“Also, the students get an appreciation of the industrial aspect of construction, but the same principles apply. They get the exposure, including the coordination of work. It made the tour advantageous for them. It’s a privilege for them to walk on site and see what’s the big buzz about Baha Mar,” said Mr. Darville.
Electrical Installation student, Kendra Dorsett felt privileged to be a part of the experience.
“This is more construction exposure, to see how a commercial building is built, the time it takes and what components it requires. It’s an experience everyone should have,” said Ms. Dorsett.
The aspiring Electrical Engineer added: “If it wasn’t for BTVI, I may not have been able to do this tour; they are affording me this opportunity.”
For Electrical Installation student, Jerrard Rolle, the tour allowed him to see an up close and personal view of what is to be a world-class development.
“The tour is insightful. I didn’t expect Baha Mar to be so big. So much time and effort are put into the structure and schedule. It helps me understand the importance of time management,” he said.
Meanwhile, BTVI is in discussions with the Ministry of Housing to conduct training; hence, Mr. Darville and consultant at the ministry, Beverly Nairn, opted to have the teams tour simultaneously.
Ms. Nairn thought it important that her inspectors see the level of work being done at Baha Mar.
“There is a big difference in big projects like this compared to a little house, in terms of what you look for and actual materials used. We are trying to expand their knowledge beyond residential, but towards industrial and commercial projects,” said Ms. Nairn.
Furthermore, Senior Building Inspector at the ministry, Carolyn King-Williams noted how impressed she was with Baha Mar’s emphasis on safety.
“There was the safety briefing, signs and the right equipment – no exceptions,” stated Ms. King-Williams.
“Also, they believe in taking authority to tell contractors to take it down if it isn’t done the right way. They believe in doing things right, especially satisfying stakeholders,” she said.
The ministry inspectors along with BTVI students toured Baha Mar’s convention centre, casino floor, the Grand Hyatt and the Mondrian construction sites.
The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI)
Caption: Students of Baha Mar along with inspectors of the Ministry of Housing recently got a tour of the multi-billion dollar development.
