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Legalized Marijuana Use Grounds For Termination Within A/E Firms?

MET • March 19, 2014

The legalization of marijuana use in Colorado and Washington is causing an uprising within the A/E marketplace.  It has been reported that firms are trying to determine policies that take in consideration federal and state laws while being mindful of employee and client safety. Speaking with operations and Human Resources executives on the legalized use of marijuana by employees, I am receiving one unified comment:

 

Marijuana use will not be tolerated-whether legal in the state the employee works or not.

 

Civil engineering  and architect employers believe that any potential impaired judgement could lead to fatal design issues or poor decision making. I asked several executives how recreational use of the drug  during personal hours is any different than staff consuming alcohol on their own time. Additionally, I asked “If an employee goes on vacation to Colorado or Washington, then smokes marijuana, returns and tests positive – what will happen?” I received a variety of responses to both these questions, but no clear answer. “Too many shades of gray. Employees need to take responsibility. If they are smoking in a legalized state on vacation, chances are they are smoking at their homes too.”  Emotions are running deep on this topic.

 

The Department of Defense has reported that contractors who test positive for any drug use may lose their security clearance. Similarly, other federal agencies require contractors/engineering firms to drug test staff working on their projects. This would clearly direct firms providing services to those agencies. Liability insurances for many firms are expected to rise.

 

NORML   shares  “ marijuana is the third most popular recreational drug in America (behind only alcohol and tobacco), and has been used by nearly 100 million Americans. According to government surveys, some 25 million Americans have smoked marijuana in the past year, and more than 14 million do so regularly despite harsh laws against its use. Our public policies should reflect this reality, not deny it.”

 

Many states and many more A/E firms will be dealing with this issue in months ahead. What do you think?

The Metzner Group Blog

Embracing Ethical Recruiting: A 2025 Refresher on Integrity & Relationships

By Carol Metzner • January 24, 2025
Being ethical is critical in executive recruitment. An ethical executive recruiter recognizes that their role goes beyond merely filling a position; it is about building meaningful relationships and ensuring the match between candidate and company is genuine and beneficial. This approach is not just a professional obligation but a moral one. Building Relationships: A skilled executive recruiter understands the importance of nurturing relationships with clients and candidates. These relationships are rooted in trust, transparency, and mutual respect. By understanding both parties' needs, values, and aspirations, the recruiter can make informed decisions that lead to successful matches. Focus on Fit: The right match goes beyond qualifications and experience and involves cultural fit and values alignment. Ethical recruiters take the time to grasp the organization's culture and the candidate's personality. They strive to ensure the new hire will thrive in the company's environment and contribute positively to its goals. Integrity and Honesty: Principled recruiters uphold integrity throughout the recruitment process. They provide honest feedback, manage expectations, and avoid practices that could mislead or exploit either party. This includes being transparent about potential challenges and ensuring candidates are fully informed about the roles they are being considered for. Long-Term Success: An ethical recruiter prioritizes long-term success for both the candidate and the company. This means valuing quality over quantity and making placements likely to endure. An ethical match leads to higher job satisfaction, reduced turnover, and a stronger, more cohesive organization. In conclusion, ethical executive recruiters are about much more than filling positions. They foster relationships, ensure a good cultural fit, maintain integrity, and aim for long-term success. By adhering to these principles, recruiters fulfill their professional responsibilities and contribute to the overall well-being of the companies and candidates they serve.

Embrace the Challenge: Take That New Leadership Opportunity!

By Carol Metzner • November 19, 2024
Taking on a new executive role is more than just a career transition—it’s an adventure filled with potential and personal growth. Here’s why you should embrace this opportunity:  1. Growth and Development: A new role challenges you to stretch your capabilities and develop new skills. It’s an invaluable opportunity to broaden your horizons and enhance your leadership toolkit. 2. Fresh Perspectives: A new position brings fresh insights and viewpoints. It allows you to step out of your comfort zone and see the industry differently, fostering innovation and creativity. 3. Expanding Your Network: Embracing a new opportunity connects you with new professionals and mentors. These relationships can offer support, inspiration, and new avenues for collaboration. 4. Driving Impact: You can drive significant change in an executive role. This is your opportunity to implement strategic initiatives and make a lasting impact on the organization. 5. Personal Fulfillment: There is immense satisfaction in taking on new challenges and overcoming them. It boosts your confidence and brings a profoundly fulfilling sense of achievement. Don’t hesitate. Embrace the challenge, take that new executive role, and unlock your potential. The next chapter of your career is waiting—make it count! Let’s discuss this further. Feel free to drop me an update at carol@themetznergroup.com. #Leadership #ExecutiveOpportunities #TakeTheLeap #CivilEngineeringExecutiveSearch Carol A. Metzner The Metzner Group, LLC www.themetznergroup.com
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