BZI Brings Jobs, Training & Safety Programs to Salinas
BZI®, a nationally recognized leader in steel and construction, has announced a major expansion of its operations in California with a new focus on Salinas. The company’s three-million-square-foot, 21,000-ton steel project in Salinas, combined with its growing presence in Bakersfield, is fueling job creation and economic development throughout the region.
To meet growing workforce demands, BZI will participate in upcoming job fairs in Salinas on April 23 and May 27, 2025. These events will help the company recruit additional skilled professionals, including welders, bolters, ironworkers, deckers, safety representatives, quality control inspectors, estimators, and more.
BZI is recognized across the U.S. for its innovative construction solutions and a commitment to community enhancement. As part of its expansion into Salinas, the company has also launched its Community Contributions Program—a new initiative focused on education, health, wellness, and vocational training that will be rolled out nationally starting in Salinas.
“Our goal is to make a lasting, positive impact in every community where we operate,” said BZI CEO James Barlow. “The jobs we create, the training we provide, and the economic activity we bring are all part of our broader commitment to community growth and well-being.”
In Salinas, the benefits of BZI’s presence are already visible. The company is currently investing over $400,000 per month in employee housing for its local project, providing a direct boost to the local housing market. In addition, local restaurants, food trucks, suppliers, and service providers are seeing a sharp increase in business as they support the daily needs of the construction site.
BZI’s local hiring strategy is a win-win for the company and the region. In addition to bringing new employment opportunities to Salinas, the company is fostering stronger ties with community members and supporting a more resilient local economy.
“BZI—Lifting Steel as We Elevate People and Communities” isn’t just a slogan—it reflects the company’s mission and culture. The Community Contributions Program is grounded in BZI’s core values of trust, respect, and integrity. It aims to support causes and organizations aligned with these principles.
“Supporting education, humanitarian efforts, vocational training, and health and wellness is how we contribute meaningfully to our communities,” said Megan Lamb, BZI’s Community Contributions Manager. “We welcome organizations interested in partnering with us to help further these goals.”
BZI’s team in Salinas will volunteer at the Food Bank for Monterey County at the end of April. The company also plans to announce more local partnerships and program milestones in the coming months as part of its broader national rollout.
The foundation of BZI’s success is its people. To support professional growth, BZI offers benefits that exceed industry standards and provides all employees access to the SteelTech Academy™, a unique technical and leadership training center. The academy delivers certifications in OSHA 10 and 30, equipment operation, fall protection, and specialized welding, among other key skills.
Since its founding in 2021, SteelTech Academy has issued thousands of certifications and consistently logs over 10,000 student contact hours annually. It also hosts a U.S. Department of Labor-certified apprenticeship program to help develop future leaders and skilled trades professionals.
According to Tim Gardiner, SteelTech Academy instructor and apprenticeship director, new hires begin their journey at BZI with a one-to-two-week training program followed by ongoing education, mentoring, and networking support. This holistic approach ensures that employees not only build technical skills but also develop leadership potential and long-term career paths.
“Every team member is given the tools and support to shape a meaningful career,” Gardiner said. “We’re not just teaching skills—we’re investing in people’s futures. It’s deeply rewarding to see how lives are transformed when people are empowered to grow and succeed.”
Safety is another cornerstone of BZI’s operational philosophy. Recognizing that construction is among the most dangerous industries, BZI prioritizes site safety through rigorous protocols, specialized training, and constant team reinforcement. This dedication has earned BZI numerous national safety awards from organizations such as the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC).
The company’s safety performance speaks for itself. BZI currently maintains a Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) of 2.37 and an Experience Modification Rate (EMR) of 0.48—both figures well below industry averages.
Chief Safety Officer Jesus Cadena, who began his career at BZI as a decker, has played a vital role in developing and implementing safety systems that minimize risk. He leads the enforcement of all safety policies and continuously improves training and operational practices to enhance employee protection.
“Our highest priority is to ensure that every employee returns home safe at the end of each day,” said Cadena. “At BZI, safety isn’t just a requirement—it’s a culture. It’s something our entire team embraces and upholds together.”
As BZI continues to grow nationally, its Salinas initiative represents a blueprint for how infrastructure investment, community engagement, and workforce development can work hand-in-hand. The combination of job creation, local economic stimulation, professional training, and social responsibility sets BZI apart in the construction industry.
With strong leadership, deep-rooted values, and a commitment to empowering people, BZI is building more than just steel structures—it’s building stronger communities across the country.
