The Merit Shop Spokesman - August 2021 - ABC Keystone

Merit Shop The

August • 2021

Spokesman A Monthly Publication of ABC Keystone

Energize Through Activism!

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Setting New Goals What’s Next for ABC?

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Building Connections & Growing Your Business!

ABC Keystone Leadership 2021 Executive Committee:

CHAIR of the BOARD – Cleo Weaver, Triangle Refrigeration Co. CHAIR-ELECT – Keith L. Eldredge, CPA, RKL LLP

1st VICE CHAIR – Steve Conway, Pyramid Construction Services, Inc., a Quandel Enterprises Company

2nd VICE CHAIR – John Lehmann, Poole Anderson Construction, LLC SECRETARY – Guy Kingree, Warfel Construction Company TREASURER – Timothy A. Kershner, CPA, Walz Group

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR – Roger S. Brubaker, Meadow Valley Electric, Inc.

2021 Board of Directors:

Doug Detwiler, DeRock Electric Company Douglas M. Dvorchak, Murray Ed Engle, Smucker Company Brian Floyd, Gunn-Mowery, LLC Wayne Fuhrman, The Witmer Group Michael B. Funck, Wohlsen Construction Company Ken Funk, Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc. John H. Hykes II, B & B Integrations Steven Kearns, James Craft & Son, Inc. Michael D. Monaco, Mowery David H. Oblender, Engle-Hambright & Davies, Inc. Jon Sensenig, Speedwell Construction, Inc. James Stephens, CFSP, Clark Associates, Inc. Bethany Tesché, Houck Services, Inc. Jan L. Wagner Thomas O. Williams, Esq., Reager & Adler, P.C.

G. David Sload, President-CEO ABC Keystone | 135 Shellyland Road, Manheim, PA 17545 (717) 653-8106 | abckeystone.org

The Merit Shop Spokesman is published 12 times a year by Associated Builders & Contractors, Keystone Chapter.

Articles of interest, member news, press releases, and advertising placement requests may be submitted to the Editor/Designer: Kristi Pronovost Director of Marketing & Communications ABC Keystone kristi@abckeystone.org (717) 653-8106

Connect with ABC on Social Media! @ABCKeystonePA LinkedIn.com/company/abckeystone @ABCKeystone @ABCKeystone

Merit Shop The

Spokesman Contents

2 Message from the Chair 3 Message from the President-CEO 5 ABC Networking 7 Technology Update 8 Advocacy Update 11 Chapter Calendar 14 Safety Update 15 Meet a Graduate 17 New Members & Anniversaries 18 Member Spotlight 19 Member News 21 YP Spotlight 22 ABC’s Student Chapter

Energize

A Message from the Chair

Through Activism!

T o my fellow construction industry friends: is it just me, or are you, too, sensing an unfair trend in the policies and practices of the current administration? It sure seems like they are creating an atmosphere that is highly toxic for free enterprise!

I ask you to consider a current bill that is requiring all large government jobs to have a PLA (Project Labor Agreement).

Simply interpreted, this means that only union contractors may bid the job. The ramifications of this are obvious – the end of free enterprise as we know it! The passage of this bill means that over 80% of contractors are unable to bid government jobs, and for ABC especially, this is unacceptable.

Let me be clear, ABC is not anti-union, rather it is profree enterprise, ensuring a level playing field for all. Union contractors and non-union contractors should be free to bid on the same specifications resulting in the contractor with the best value winning the project. We do not need or want the government telling us who can or cannot bid on publiclyfunded jobs. I hate to think what will happen if we allow this.

Ultimately, it means we will not have the ability to bid on these projects, or we will have to become union to do so!

Since it is a fact that the Biden Administration is attempting to tilt the playing field, we, as freedom loving Americans, need to effectively influence our laws and policies. It is the only way to maintain a viable free enterprise environment that we can all function within.

How, you ask? It is through a powerful thing called Advocacy.

As your Chair, I am so very thankful that this year we have reorganized ABC PA, creating a unified arm that covers the entire state. This arm advocates for the causes of all ABC Chapters in Pennsylvania, at both the state and federal level.

Our advocates are David Greineder, ABC PA Director of Government Affairs, and Austin Cawley, ABC PA Deputy Director of Government Affairs, both of whom are employees of ABC PA. I sincerely hope many of you understand the importance of personally getting to know those speaking on our behalf in the halls of Congress. Please feel free to call or

email them to learn more - just begin the conversation.

Do not let the thought ‘it’s summer, and our representatives and senators are not working’ lull you into sitting back and letting the opposition gain the upper hand. This is far from the truth, as our elected officials are in their home districts talking to their constituents and making many decisions regarding the way they will vote. I challenge you to talk to your local representative, senator, or any person of influence about relevant policy, so they are aware of your stance. You can be sure somebody with an opposing position has already done so.

Well, now that we have our assignments, let us intentionally energize our ABC “It Factor” and become activists, bringing about the policies we need to let freedom ring and keep free enterprise alive and thriving!

Celebrate the return of our personal freedoms by taking some vacation time with your family, then come back home and fight for your business freedoms. Hats off to David and Austin as they fight for us and alongside of us!

All the best to you this August - be safe and prosperous!

“

ABC is not anti-union, rather it is pro-free enterprise, ensuring a level playing field for all.”

Cleo Weaver 2021 Chair of the Board Triangle Refrigeration Co. cweaver@trianglerefrigeration.com (717) 656-2711

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Hear from the President-CEO

Where Are We Going Next?

You Can Be Part of the Answer!

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he Keystone Chapter has a long tradition of raising the bar. From its beginnings, to where we are today, the Chapter has been forwardthinking and planning strategically. The members of ABC Keystone have always looked to raise the bar and avoid the status quo. This has been a factor that creates the “It” factor.

There are two books that have resonated with me during my career. One that I read in the late 70s titled “If It Ain’t Broke, Break It,” and a second that I read in the 90s, “Good to Great.” In both books, the main premise is as follows: you always need to be evolving and changing to remain relevant in your space. Sixty-three years of Chapter leadership and the members of ABC Keystone have insured we not only have stayed relevant, but we have become a major player in the construction industry.

This is how you can become part of the answers and the guidance of the Keystone Chapter for the next three years. Our facilitated strategic planning will take place on September 15 and 16 at the Chapter facility. These sessions will include all board members, committee chairs, staff and any members who would like to participate. Yes, we want you, the members of your Chapter, to be part of developing the big “What’s Next” for ABC Keystone. We only ask two things: be present for the entirety of the sessions and come with ideas and an open mind.

I am excited to see where the Keystone Chapter is going next. Are you part of the answer? If so, please register to attend ABC Keystone’s Strategic Planning!

Register at: abckeystone.org.

Things move exponentially faster today due to current technology and the information world in which we live.

What the Chapter has accomplished in the last five years is greater than what was accomplished during the previous ten years, which is even greater than that accomplished during the previous twenty years. So, what is next for the Keystone Chapter? What is our next BHAG (big, hairy, audacious goal)? How can we better support and help our members grow and be more successful?

It is in ABC Keystone’s DNA to dream, envision, plan and execute. But as with any great company or organization, it takes a roadmap. As we prepare for 2022, we once again start with a new three-year strategic plan. To begin this process, we will look at our Vision, Mission, and Value Proposition statements. Are they still relevant? Do they need to be tweaked? Or do they need an overhaul?

These statements will drive our strategic initiatives for the next three years.

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G. David Sload President-CEO dave@abckeystone.org (717) 653-8106

SAVE

with ABC! Are you taking advantage of your exclusive membership discounts?

Contact mike@abckeystone.org to learn more!

abc.org

ULTIMATE ACCOUNTABILITY IS OUR PROMISE TO DELIVER TAILORED,

PERSONAL AND EXPERT SERVICES TO OUR CLIENTS ON EVERY JOB, EVERY TIME. OUR PROFESSIONALS ASSIST CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES BY: · Auditing Employee Benefit Packages · Creating Bid Models · Segregating Property, Plant and Equipment Costs · Analyzing Overhead Costs

walzgroupcpa.com 17606

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717.392.8200

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· Overhead Analysis · Planning for Business Succession · Obtaining Resources and Financing · Maximizing Bond Capacity

2929 Lititz Pike, PO Box 5555, Lancaster, PA

Growing Connections & Building Your Business!

By: Emily Winslow Director of Events & Sponsorships

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nowing that networking is an integral part of your ABC membership, ABC Keystone has worked through the challenges of the pandemic to continue providing business development opportunities. Now that we are back in full swing, there are plenty of events coming up for you to connect with your fellow ABC Keystone members.

We recently brought back our biggest networking event, ABC Keystone’s Summer Outdoor Mixer presented by Saxton & Stump Lawyers and Consultants. This event is always a huge hit and consistently draws nearly - and often more than - 300 attendees. The Summer Mixer is one of the events we utilize to welcome new members to ABC Keystone. Thank you for attending!

Our first event back in person last year (2020) was ABC Keystone’s Clay Shoot presented by OSS Health, and it was a successful event. After a summer of virtual networking, it was clear that members were awaiting the chance to meet faceto-face again. We are once again looking forward to another great Clay Shoot this year at Central Penn Sporting Clays on September 23. One of our Events Committee members made us aware of the shortage of ammo, and we worked with Central Penn Sporting Clays to secure the ammo for the event.

No need to worry about that affecting the event!

We are also excited to bring back ABC Keystone’s Tailgate Party presented by Barley Snyder, to be held this year on October 14. Start making your home brews and perfecting your chili recipes for this growing event! You will also want to scope out the best partner for the cornhole tournament. There are so many things to do at this event in the ABC Keystone parking lot it is no wonder that attendance has been increasing every year as the word gets out about how great an event it is for networking.

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Our Excellence in Construction Awards (EIC), to be held on November 3, will highlight projects completed by ABC Keystone members around Central Pennsylvania and beyond. What better way to meet contractor members than to attend and congratulate them on their hard work and awardwinning projects? We take pride in the work our members do, and EIC is truly a celebration of each and every member of ABC Keystone.

In addition to the networking events on the schedule, keep an eye out for information about the 2022 C.O.R.E. Sponsorship Program. C.O.R.E. is an excellent way to enhance your brand with fellow ABC Keystone members. You gain exposure at events and can use your flex dollars towards registration to attend in person. If you plan on attending multiple events during the year, a C.O.R.E. sponsorship is definitely something to consider as part of your marketing strategy.

If you have any questions about upcoming events and/or C.O.R.E. sponsorship, please reach out to us. We look forward to seeing you at the next event!

2021

Build Your Business Relationships with

C. .R.E.

Contacts • Opportunities • Resources • Education

Become a 2022 C.O.R.E. Sponsor!

Contact: emily@abckeystone.org

ABC Keystone’s Clay Shoot Presented by: OSS Health!

Test Your Clay Shooting Skills & Network with ABC Members!

Thursday, September 23, 2021 9 am & 1 pm flights

at Central Penn Sporting Clays, Wellsville

Register: abckeystone.org

ABC Keystone’s Tailgate Party Presented by Barley Snyder!

Sample Tailgate Food & Homebrews!

Compete in Cornhole!

Thursday, October 14, 2021 4 pm - 7 pm

at ABC Keystone, Manheim

Register: abckeystone.org

Current State of Drone Usage in Construction Following FAA Ruling

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By: By Brian Cooper and Jackie Robinson | Construction Executive Contributors

rone-powered solutions are reliable eyes in sky used to survey, map, inspect and monitor projects and people on a jobsite, and even provide imagery to help market the work. Drones essentially allow for a fully digital and automated way to capture, analyze and share data, and new technology is making complex workflows simpler to process.

They are so commonplace that the construction industry has recently become one of the largest commercial sectors supporting drone enhancement and development.

Drones and other aerial technology give construction managers a faster, more efficient and cost-effective way to monitor and take action whether it’s to address workplace safety concerns for their crews, communicate in real-time with analytics or help identify as-built versus as-planned or designed projects. Perhaps most importantly, automated technology can help keep key stakeholders informed about whether the project is on-time and on-track.

It’s commonly known that regulation of any of kind may slow the adoption of sophisticated technology, but monitoring updates and changes from the Federal Aviation Administration is critical. The FAA approved its first set of regulations governing the use of small, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), or drones, in construction or other commercial operations effective in 2016. Since then, the agency has been working to evaluate and propose rules that would dictate drone usage and operations over people and at night.

The aptly named Operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems Over People (Part 107) ruling which went into effect in April 2021 states, “Drone pilots operating under Part 107 may fly at night, over people and moving vehicles without a waiver as long as they meet the requirements defined in the rule. Airspace authorizations are still required for night operations in controlled airspace under 400 feet,” according to the FAA website.

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For the construction industry, this means that the FAA can issue waivers to certain requirements of Part 107 if an operator demonstrates they can fly safely under the waiver without endangering other aircraft, people or property on the ground or in the air. However, additional airman certification may be required for a Pilot in Command (or PIC), including obtaining a Remote Pilot Certificate with a UAS rating, online training for licensed pilots who have completed a flight review in the past 24 months, background security checks, Remote Pilot Certificate and Rating Application and recurrent training every 24 months.

PIC’s must also make their drones available for inspection

and testing by the FAA, supply records as requested and report to the FAA on any incidents of serious injury, loss of consciousness or property damage of at least $500 within 10 days.

With improved technology like artificial intelligence, 3D imaging and others may come increased or emerging risk.

As the FAA continues to test and propose new regulations and drone technology advances at a rapid pace, construction executives must make sure they are conducting their own evaluation of emerging risks on jobsites to protect their people, property and profits.

One new technology the industry is keeping a close eye on is cloud-based connected drones and anti-collision technology.

As demand for multiple drones increases, more sophisticated training and low-cost technological solutions will be paramount for the industry.

Compliance with FAA regulations aside, key risks include workplace safety and even potential increases in cyber threats. Anyone may be able to get their hands on a drone in 2021, but the operation and safety of piloting one demands technical skills that should be learned through required certifications to ensure safety standards are met on the ground and in the air.

Further, the large amount of information generated from drone solutions means data transfer systems should be secured and evaluated for additional risk. With increased reliance on technology like drones, contractors are more at risk for cyberattacks. Imagine a ransomware attack where all data is frozen for several days. While some fieldwork may continue, none of the back-office work relating to submittals, changes or requests for information might take place.

It is imperative that construction managers are working with an insurance brokerage and legal and risk management teams specializing in a particular industry or geography. Whether a construction management team is just starting out with drone-powered solutions, securing budget for upgrades or ready to jump on the next wave of technology, a strong team that understands current and emerging risks can make a big difference to the bottom line.

Reprinted from Construction Executive, July 27, 2021, a publication of Associated Builders and Contractors. Copyright 2021. All rights reserved.

CRAFT COMPETITION Watch ABC Keystone’s Top Apprentices Compete!

September 18 7:30 am - 2:00 pm Projects in full swing by noon.

Winners announced at 2:30 pm.

at ABC Keystone

Carpentry Competitors: • Michael Harker, Wohlsen Construction Company • Zane Richards, Benchmark Construction Co., Inc. • Haley Shuman, Benchmark Construction Co., Inc. Electrical Competitors: • John Friel, CV Services, Inc. • Jason Green, Lancaster Plumbing and Heating • Jeremy Landis, Meadow Valley Electric, Inc. • Cory Zimmerman, Tekrins, Inc.

Attention

Contractors!

Support the Competitors!

No cost to attend!

Arrive when you can!

Open to the public!

HVAC Competitors: • Andrew Speicher W.C. Eshenaur and Son, Inc. Plumbing Competitors: • Jeffrey Deimler, Jr., George D. Boyer & Sons, Inc. • Benjamin Martinke, Zimmerman Plumbing, Heating & A.C., Inc. • Joe Mazzur, Brubaker, Inc. • Melissa Turano, Protech Mechanical Contractors, Inc.

Apprenticeship can help you!

• Create your own

workforce

through formalized training

• Increase

productivity, safety, and profits

• Expand your workers’

knowledge base

• Bid work more

competitively

Forabckeystone.org more information: CindyD@abckeystone.org cindyd@abckeystone.org

Advocacy Update By: David G. Greineder, IOM ABC Pennsylvania Director of Government Affairs

Don’t Sit On the Sidelines

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ugust is typically a time where state and federal elected officials are on recess and preparing for the fall sessions. While this year is no exception, it does not mean we are taking a break representing your interests.

Over the summer, ABC of Pennsylvania staff will be working on internal and externals affairs.

Internally, we are in the planning stages of preparing for upcoming in-person advocacy events, along with other administrative functions of the board, including nominating a new slate of officers for 2022 and drafting an operating budget. Externally, we are excited that House Labor & Industry Committee members will be visiting and touring ABC members’ facilities in August and September to learn about their apprenticeship programs and participate in a business roundtable on workforce development issues. We are also working through the board of directors to provide comments on ABC-lead legislation that will bring an end to the discriminatory journeyworker-to-apprentice ratio with the goal of establishing parity between joint and non-joint programs.

As we work hard representing your interests in Harrisburg and Washington, D.C., we also need to be diligent about preparing for 2022. In four short months, we will be entering a whopper of a mid-term election year. In Pennsylvania, voters will be electing a new governor and U.S. Senator, along with state representatives and senators.

Next November, new boundaries of state legislative districts and congressional districts will be in effect. ABC will keep members apprised of the new maps once they are released – which is not expected until later in the year.

There is no doubt Pennsylvania will be a key state in determining the majorities in the U.S. House and U.S. Senate. Millions of dollars will be flowing into the commonwealth from special interests on all sides of the political spectrum. ABC needs to do its part to ensure your voice is heard and pro-business/free enterprise candidates are elected to office. Fundraising will be key for the remainder of this year and into next year. The Keystone

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Chapter has several options for you to consider engaging in this way:

• PA ABC PAC: This political committee options accepts private donations only. There is no limit in the amount you can contribute. Every candidate we support is vetted through ABC boards and committees to ensure there is a commitment to defend free enterprise.

• Advancing the American Dream Fund: This option accepts corporate or private donations. There is no limit to the amount you can contribute. This fund is aimed at issue advocacy by highlighting candidates that are committed to the merit shop philosophy. All activities and materials are thoroughly vetted through our leadership to ensure your contributions are directed appropriately and invested wisely.

As you know, it is extremely important ABC continues to support candidates that defend free enterprise and free markets. We are committed to engaging our passionate advocates seeking change and we will continue to do so.

We can’t do it without you! Stay connected so you don’t miss out an opportunity to get involved.

If you are not signed-up to receive email alerts, please download the “ABC Action App” from the app store on your mobile device, or at abc.org/abcaction.

Take Action Today!

Learn more:

abc.org

Chapter Calendar - Register Today!

August 8/11 - ABC Human Resources Contractor Peer Group Starts 8/11 - OSHA 30-Hour Construction 8/17 - ABC Keystone’s Safety Awards Presented by Cohen Seglias Pallas

Greenhall & Furman PC 8/18 - Employment Assessments Part of the Human Resources Management Academy 8/20 - Competent Person for Jobsite Safety Inspections 8/24 - Rough Terrain Forklift Training 8/26 - Adult AED, CPR & Basic Medic First Aid 8/30 - Mobile Elevating Work Platform (Aerial Lift) Training

September 9/1 - Conflict Management Part of the Professional Development Series 9/10 - Adult AED, CPR & Basic Medic First Aid 9/13 - Competent Person for Confined Space Entry 9/14 - Misclassification & Independent Contractor Hot Topic Seminar: What You Need to Know Starts 9/15 - ABC Keystone’s Strategic Planning 9/15 - Coaching Employees, Performance Feedback & Appraisals Part of the Human Resources Management Academy Starts 9/15 - Project Management Starts 9/15 - Basic Blueprint Reading 9/16 - Planning & Scheduling Part of the Superintendent Training Program (STP) 9/20 - Mobile Elevating Work Platform (Aerial Lift) Training 9/21 - Project Planning & Execution Part of the Understanding the Construction Process Series Starts 9/22 - OSHA 30-Hour Construction 9/23 - ABC Keystone’s Clay Shoot Presented by OSS Health 9/24 - Rough Terrain Forklift Training Starts 9/28 - SalesWorks!

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Discover Events, Education & Training at ABC! Register Online: abckeystone.org SAVE the DATE! 10/14 - ABC Keystone’s Tailgate Party Presented by Barley Snyder 11/3 - ABC Keystone’s Excellence in Construction Awards

We Can Customize Training for You! We Strive to Meet Your Unique Training Needs

Contact Us Today!

(717) 653-8106 Barbara Holtzapple (Career Development)

& Kevin Keith (Safety)

Exclusive Member Discounts!

Learn more: abc.org

Share Your Connection to ABC! ABC Logos are available to members at no cost!

Order your vehicle and hard hat stickers and add the ABC logo to your website and email signature.

Contact kristi@abckeystone.org to learn more!

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ABC Keystone’s Safety Awards Presented by: Tuesday, August 17, 2021

7:30 am: Breakfast 8:00 – 9:30 am: Program & Safety Forum at ABC Keystone

Celebrate Members’ Commitment to Safety!

Includes Safety Forum!

Hear from Kevin Chambers, Area Director, U.S. Department of Labor/Occupational Safety & Health Administration – Harrisburg Area Office; Phil Ireland, Director of Safety, Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.; and Kevin Keith, Director of Safety, ABC Keystone

Register Online! abckeystone.org

Begin Your STEP Journey Today!

Learn more: abcstep.org

BETTER MORE PREPARED

Insurance & Bonding Risk Management Health Benefits Wealth Management 3rd Party Administration

SECURE

Call our Construction Services Division

We give you a strategic advantage to anticipate and prepare for future challenges, opportunities, and growth.

717.397.9600 | 800.533.5271 murrayins.com

OSHA Releases Updated COVID-19 Guide

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n July 12, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s Alliance program released an updated guide containing COVID-19 guidance and resources for employers from a variety of agencies including the DOL, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Additionally, the guide includes input from industry groups on best practices for COVID-19 safety in the workplace.

additional industry-specific COVID-19 resources grouped by industry, such as the construction sector. As with previous versions, it is intended as a resource and is not comprehensive.

Please remember to stay up-to-date with the most current guidance, which can be accessed at osha.gov/coronavirus.

OSHA has included a list of general COVID-19 resources grouped by agency, including those on the OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard, along with updated enforcement policies, and sections on reopening workplaces, cloth face coverings and respiratory protection, vaccines, and 14

Meet a

Congratulations to Gary Dupler, 2021 Electrical Graduate!

Graduate!

Gary is the first graduate from his class to have taken and passed his National Standard Journeyman License Exam. This is a very difficult four-hour, 80 question exam.

Theodore Jacobs

R.S. Martin, Inc./Varner Systems, Inc. 2021 Electrical Graduate What led you to your craft?

I was always very interested in electrical work.

What is your favorite part of your career choice?

I enjoy coming across problems and then gaining confidence in my abilities when I solve them.

What advice do you have for future apprentices?

Gary works for Leo Kob Co., Inc. as an electrician and was a fully engaged Apprentice in ABC Keystone’s program. He graduated this past May, but his desire to further his qualifications has not stopped.

The many hours and hard work put into apprenticeship classes and on-the-job training are paying off for Gary! As the first graduate this year to pass his licensing exam, ABC honored his accomplishment with a Carhartt bag and Milwaukee drill.

Well done, Gary!

If you don’t enjoy what you’re doing, follow another path.

Guy Nitchman Andrew Belisario

Benchmark Construction Co., Inc. 2021 Carpentry Graduate What led you to your craft?

Growing up working with my grandfather on projects gave me the interest in the construction field.

What is your favorite part of your career choice?

I enjoy getting to see the project come together from beginning to end.

Conewago Enterprises, Inc. 2021 Carpentry Graduate What led you to your craft?

I’ve always liked working outside.

What is your favorite part of your career choice?

I like using the skills I learn on the job to help me accomplish work at home, also.

What advice do you have for future apprentices?

Always be willing to learn new things.

What advice do you have for future apprentices?

There are tough days in this field of work just as there are in any field - but if you love it, stay with it.

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2021

Class of

Marod Dobrzyn

J.D. Eckman, Inc. 2021 Craft Laborer Graduate What led you to your craft?

I was working at a grocery store trying to pursue electrical construction.

What is your favorite part of your career choice?

Jackhammering and being outside while building bridges are both enjoyable.

What advice do you have for future apprentices?

Ask questions and don’t be afraid to speak up. The dumbest question is the question never asked.

Jason Bryant

Leo Kob Co., Inc. 2021 Plumbing Graduate What led you to your craft?

I liked having the ability to use my hands and get dirty.

What is your favorite part of your career choice?

Growing my ability to accomplish challenging tasks is important to me.

What advice do you have for future apprentices?

Learn from everyone you work with no matter how nice or mean they may be!

Raymond Mattei-Torres James Craft & Son, Inc. 2021 HVAC Graduate

What led you to your craft?

What led me to my craft today was exploring for a career that matched with who I am and that would sustain me in the future by having a great demand for employment.

What is your favorite part of your career choice?

My favorite part of my career is being able to visit many different locations and encounter a variety of issues on units. I also like always being active and never stationary.

Travis Miller

Stevens Feed Mill, Inc. 2021 Electrical Graduate What led you to your craft?

I wanted to expand my knowledge.

What advice do you have for future apprentices?

What is your favorite part of your career choice?

My advice for future apprentices is to always be willing to learn and grow in their education and as a person. Never hesitate to ask questions, to stay humble always, and never act as if they know it all.

I enjoy seeing the project come together in the end.

Katie Wilkinson

Meadow Valley Electric, Inc. 2021 Electrical Graduate What led you to your craft?

I wanted to learn a good trade and have a successful career.

What is your favorite part of your career choice?

I get to help others and see a project through till the end result.

What advice do you have for future apprentices?

Study hard and pay attention. Write everything down and listen to the teacher. Keep your head up and work through the problem.

What advice do you have for future apprentices?

Don’t be afraid to learn something new and to always further your education.

Meet more of our graduates in future issues of the Merit Shop Spokesman!

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Welcome to ABC's Newest Members!

Thank you for your support of the merit shop mission!

ADP

Caitlin Sutjak, Sales Account Manager 1301 Virginia Drive, Suite 100 Fort Washington, PA 19034 ph. (717) 574-4803 caitlin.sutjak@ADP.com Sponsor: Tim Kershner, Walz Group

Actalent

Brooke Piechocki, Account Manager 4250 Crums Mill Road Harrisburg, PA 17112 ph. (717) 395-9990 bpiechoc@actalentservices.com Sponsor: Rick Cirilo, Aerotek, Inc.

Anderson Pro Painting

Doug Anderson, President/Owner 18 Railroad Avenue Camp Hill, PA 17011 ph. (717) 860-4977 doug@andersonpropainting.com Sponsor: Doug Detwiler, DeRock Electric Company

Benchmark Site Development, LLC

Whitley East, LLC

Michael Dellostretto, Vice President 2421 Boulevard of the Generals Norristown, PA 19403 ph. (610) 644-1386 mdellostretto@benchmarksite.com Sponsor: Guy Kingree, Warfel Construction Company

Don Engle, General Manager/ Director of QA 64 Hess Road Leola, PA 17540 ph. (717) 656-2081 donengle@whitleyman.com Sponsor: Joe Shimp, Conestoga Construction

Garvey Roark, LLC

Yale Electric Supply Co.

Presence Bank

View a searchable membership directory at abckeystone.org!

Daniel Dewar, Superintendent 600 B Snyder Avenue West Chester, PA 19382 ph. (610) 738-4661 dan@garveyroark.com Sponsor: Guy Kingree, Warfel Construction Company Doug Byers, EVP, Chief Banking Officer 185 East Lincoln Highway Coatesville, PA 19320 ph. (717) 798-2377 dbyers@presencebank.com Sponsors: Brian Tribbit, Stonebridge Financial Group & Jeffrey Kline, Stonebridge Financial Group

Jeff Frazier, Branch Manager 1245 Manheim Pike Lancaster, PA 17601 ph. (717) 299-4444 jfrazier@yaleelectricsupply.com

Download the mobile app at the App Store or Google Play!

Why ABC Keystone? Our Members Say It Best!

Martin’s Flooring, Inc. - Membership Value, Training & Business Development

“ABC Keystone is by far the best construction organization of which we are a part, and our membership is impactful for our sales, operations, and executive teams. The training received and relationships built with other members are life-lasting. ABC has also helped us raise the bar on safety. I don’t know how we did it without them.”

Happy Anniversary!

Congratulations

to these members celebrating milestone anniversaries in August 2021!

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35 Years:

Optimum Controls Corp.

5 Years:

20 Years:

LCS Millwork

EG Stoltzfus Construction, LLC

1 Year:

15 Years:

Clark Associates, Inc. E.K. Services, Inc.

Enginuity LLC Spectra Contract Flooring

AblePay Health Cedar Run Construction, LLC Grudi Associates Yorkaire, Inc. dba The Yorkaire Group

Member Spotlight ZIMMERMAN PLUMBING & HEATING, INC.

Meet the Team!

Tell us about your company!

We take great pride in serving the homeowners of our community with the highest level of professionalism and technical expertise. Our goal is to build long-standing relationships with everyone associated with our business. Located in downtown Mechanicsburg since 1980, Zimmerman Plumbing & Heating, Inc. continues to remain small enough to be personal, but large enough to provide the peace of mind of expert, 24/7 services.

As a family owned and operated residential HVAC, plumbing, and electrical company, we provide the best possible solutions to homeowners while following through on our promises and standing behind our work.

Earnest (Earnie) Zimmerman, Owner ezimmerman@ezimmerman.com

Zimmerman Plumbing & Heating, Inc. 110 East Allen Street | Mechanicsburg, PA 17055-3383 www.ezimmerman.com | (717) 697-3528

We have been recognized by both PPL and UGI for our work with energy efficient equipment, nominated as Who’s Who in business

by Susquehanna Style magazine, Reader Rankings Winner through the Central Penn Business Journal, and a 16-year winner of Harrisburg Magazine’s Simply the Best contest. Additionally, we are a six-time Presidents Award winner through the Carrier Corporation and a Mitsubishi Diamond Elite dealer.

Share an interesting fact about your business most people don’t know.

In his 41 years in business, Earnie Zimmerman has never seasonally laid off an employee!

L-R: Earnie Zimmerman, Barb Moffitt, Josh Trayer, Bill Orris, Eric Stambaugh, Jason Koons, and Scott Mease

“As a family member, I was recruited into the industry by Earnie, and I have been with the company for seven years.”

- Tim Kortze, General Manager tkortze@ezimmerman.com

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#ABCMeritShopProud

ABC Keystone Member Barley Snyder Attorney Weber Graduates Leadership Program and Attorney Noetzel Named to Bar Association Council

Luke T. Weber, an attorney in the Barley Snyder Litigation Practice Group, has followed a long line of firm members and has graduated from the Leadership Lancaster program. Weber is one of more than two dozen Barley Snyder professionals that have graduated from Leadership Lancaster, whose mission is to develop outstanding community leadership to support the needs of Lancaster County.

The Pennsylvania Bar Association Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law Section has named Barley Snyder attorney Reilly S. Noetzel to its council. The section is the largest of the 18 in the association. Its members concentrate on advancing the interests of real property and estate planning, as well as probate practitioners, and their clients in Pennsylvania. The council oversees the long-term goals of the group.

Benchmark Construction Co. Inc. Announces Promotion of Kegarise to Vice President of Senior Living

Benchmark Construction Co., Inc. is pleased to announce Kevin Kegarise has been promoted to Vice President of Senior Living. Kegarise joined Benchmark in 2010 as a project estimator and quickly became a key member of the company focusing on providing preconstruction services. Most recently, Kegarise has been providing preconstruction leadership within the Senior Living market group and has served the last year as a Market Executive. As Vice President of Senior Living, Kegarise will be responsible for providing oversight to the performance of Benchmark’s Senior Living market, ensuring the success of projects within the market, and developing new business for future growth.

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News

Boyer & Ritter LLC Named Harrisburg Area’s “Best Accounting Firm” by Susquehanna Style Magazine Readership Susquehanna Style magazine’s annual reader poll to find the “best of the best” in the region has named Boyer & Ritter LLC Best Accounting Firm in the Harrisburg area. A complete list of Best of Harrisburg winners is available in the recent Susquehanna Style magazine. “Our team prides itself on understanding each client’s business needs and helping them solve problems and achieve their goals,’’ said Boyer & Ritter principal and CEO Robert J. Murphy, CPA, CVA/ ABV. “We are honored to be among those selected for the Best of Harrisburg list, which is a testament to our firm’s great team of accounting professionals and support staff.’’

Mowery Continues to Grow Team During Nationwide Labor Shortage

Mowery is proud to announce the addition of six new team members including: • Matthew Byers - Architectural Design Intern • Cody Hair - Senior Estimator • Clay Howe - Project Superintendent • Travis Jumper - Carpenter • Michael Kirk - Assistant Superintendent • Kyle Musika - Assistant Project Superintendent “During the unprecedented labor shortage our nation is facing, we are proud to have developed a company culture that encourages career growth, fosters work-life balance, and offers many remarkable perks, which all appeal to prospective employees,” said David Cross, owner and president of Mowery. “We are lucky to have these six talented individuals join our team and are confident their industry experience, as well as unique skillsets, will help our company continue to serve diverse markets and provide a remarkable customer experience,” added Cross.

#ABCMeritShopProud

Providence Engineering Hires Rebecca C. Thompson

Providence Engineering is pleased to welcome Rebecca C. Thompson to the firm. She has joined Providence’s Business Development team and will be responsible for developing new business opportunities throughout Pennsylvania. With more than 15 years of experience in the AEC industry, Thompson brings an informed and thoughtful approach to business development.

Performance Construction Services, Inc., A Quandel Enterprises Company, Merges with Subsidiary, Susquehanna Supply Company

Performance Construction Services, Inc., a Quandel Company, announces their merger with subsidiary, Susquehanna Supply Company, to form Performance Construction Company.

Integrating the two companies offers an established history of heavy civil contracting and construction services solutions to their clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic market.

Performance Construction Services, Inc. began in 1995 as the self-performing provider for Quandel Construction Group and has evolved over the years as a general contracting company specializing in heavy concrete, bridges, dams, and water and wastewater treatment plants.

Attorneys Join Saxton & Stump Lawyers and Consultants’s Growing Team

Saxton & Stump recently welcomed three new associate attorneys expanding the firm’s litigation resources in Lancaster, Harrisburg and Malvern: • Jaskirat Chhatwal (represents clients in commercial disputes, white collar defense and healthcare litigation) • Coulter Ebbert and Lauren Green (will focus on serving

commercial and healthcare clients as well, particularly in

professional liability and product liability cases)

Attorney John P. McBlain has also joined Saxton & Stump, bringing more than two decades of real estate, municipal law and litigation experience. A native of Aldan Borough, McBlain has served in county and community leadership positions and played a key role in numerous large and small real estate development projects that have reshaped Delaware County.

Philadelphia attorney L. Stephen Bowers has joined Saxton and Stump’s Employee Benefits and Executive Compensation team, bringing substantial experience advising employers on benefits law, including matters pertaining to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA).

RKL LLP Welcomes Four New Partners to Firm Leadership and RKL’s Laurie Peer Earns New Credentials RKL LLP recently announced the admission of four new partners to firm leadership: • Travis A. Bieber, CPA - partner in RKL’s Audit Services Group • Benjamin J. Fortner, J.D. - partner in RKL’s

Tax Services Group • Timothy D. Kraft, CPA - partner in RKL’s

Audit Services Group • Joshua L. Weiss, CPA, MST - partner in RKL’s

Tax Services Group

RKL Partner and RKL Wealth Management President Laurie Peer recently earned two new credentials – Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) and Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) – that enhance her personal and professional mission of helping individuals and families successfully achieve their financial and life goals.

For inclusion in future issues of the Merit Shop Spokesman, please send your press releases to: kristi@abckeystone.org 20

Young Professionals

Spotlight

Meet Carson!

What role do you play in your organization?

I’m a Junior Estimator with Meadow Valley Electric, Inc. in Ephrata. I started in this position almost two years ago after working in electrical distribution. I set up bid folders for the estimators and work on getting the power and lighting counts together in preparation for sending them out for pricing from our vendors. Once the counts are completed, I put the totals together in RFPs to our vendors. I contribute to the bid process by assisting the main estimator in measuring and determining the lengths of conduit and wire. My work is completed under the guidance and training of an experienced estimator.

Why do you wake up and go to work every day?

I look forward to the opportunity to increase my knowledge and to interact with my co-workers. As I gain a deeper understanding of the electrical codes, I’m able to apply it to other jobs. My co-workers are supportive, encouraging, and easy to work with.

Where is your favorite place in the world?

My favorite place is Alaska. I’ve been lucky enough to experience the sheer expanse of Denali National Park while riding in a bus on a narrow two-lane road along a 700-foot drop with no guard rails. It was unforgettable. Another highlight was seeing the size of the glaciers in person. I hope that I get the chance to go back sometime in the future. This was my most memorable travel experience, but I enjoy any place where I can get away and relax outdoors.

What are your hobbies?

My Dad and I are currently working on restoring my ‘71 Plymouth Roadrunner. We’ve worked on the engine, completed basic mechanical repairs, replaced interior trim, and repaired electrical wiring. Some interior work, body work, and a paint job remain to be done. I appreciate most classic cars but have a preference for Chrysler Mopars, especially the early 70s body styles.

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Carson Mowery Junior Estimator Meadow Valley Electric, Inc. ABC Keystone YP Committee Member carson@mvegroup.com

Partners Needed:

Millersville University’s Student Chapter of ABC By: Barbara Holtzapple Director of Education

D

id you know that Millersville University has a Student Chapter of ABC?

Undergraduates in Construction Management, Occupational Safety, Applied Engineering, Robotic Control Systems, Technology, Graphic Communications and more get together every other week to network and learn about the construction industry. Many of them come from outside the local area and are pursuing internship and work opportunities with member firms. They are a captive, eager audience for those members who choose to get involved and can become key partners in growing your future workforce moving forward.

What does participation look like?

It can be as easy as attending a Student Chapter meeting on campus to discuss current or interesting projects or providing a “day in the life” presentation. It can mean hosting the students at a jobsite or at your office to give them an inside look at the industry. Or it can take the form of internships

or co-op experiences where individuals are immersed for a time in your project management, estimating or other relevant teams. Mock interviews, mentoring sessions and other on-campus activities are also available. Your participation level is up to you!

We are actively looking to partner with other local colleges and universities through the ABC Student Chapter Network. If you have a connection or active interest in starting a program at another institution, please reach out, and we will explore the possibilities with you.

Whether you would like to learn more about the ABC Student Chapter Program at Millersville University, have any questions about the program, would like to help start a program at another school or are ready to sign up to participate, simply contact Barbara Holtzapple (barbara@abckeystone.org). We look forward to partnering with you!

135 Shellyland Road Manheim, PA 17545

PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID LANCASTER, PA PERMIT #23

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• Get the latest info on education and training • Discover networking opportunities • Stay informed on legislative updates • Follow the apprenticeship happenings • See members in action Visit abckeystone.org for more! #ABCKeystone

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