2nd Vice Chair Jeff Witmer Pathway Business Advisors
Secretary Robb Beiler Wohlsen Construction Company
Treasurer Timothy A. Kershner, CPA Walz Group
Immediate Past Chair John Lehmann Poole Anderson Construction, LLC
2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Corbin Beittel Warfel Construction Company
Jeff Bright Offit Kurman
Nora Brooks Alternative HR, LLC
Steve Conway Pyramid Construction Services, LLC A Quandel Company
Aimée Deraco Brubaker, Inc.
Scott Duke The Witmer Group
Michael L. Fiore Leonard S. Fiore, Inc.
Brian Floyd EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
Ken Funk Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc.
John H. Hykes, II B&B Integrations
Anthony Leer Leer Electric, Inc.
Michael Metz-Topodas Saul Ewing LLP
Patrick Snyder Peoples Security Bank & Trust
Lee L. Summers, Jr. C Mechanical Services
Kevin VanPelt S&T Bank
Jan L. Wagner Wagman Construction, Inc.
Scott Wengrenovich Murray
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
FOSTERING STRONGER CONNECTIONS Collaboration and Engagement Within Keystone
BY: GUY KINGREE
As we look to the future of Keystone, improving collaboration and engagement across our members is an important goal. While this task may seem simple, it has the potential to make a big difference in the success of our organization. Over the years, we've done a great job connecting with members, gathering feedback,
and addressing their concerns. However, there’s always room to do more, and now is the perfect time to take things further.
Keystone’s strengths lie in our ability to stay in touch with members through feedback, events that encourage connections, and a variety of learning opportunities. These efforts have helped us engage many of our members, but we believe we can reach even more.
As I take on the role of Chair, my goal is to make engagement more personal and meaningful. I believe that clear communication, trust, and relationship-building can help strengthen collaboration within our community. To build on what we already do well, I’m challenging our Board to go beyond just providing quarterly updates. I want us to take a more active approach, with outreach that includes phone calls, personalized letters, and even informal meet-and-greet events.
While it’s not possible to connect with all 600+ members regularly, creating more ways to communicate will help us understand their needs and concerns better. This will allow us to adjust our programs and services to better meet their goals. Listening closely to our members will also make sure their voices are heard and considered in our decision-making process.
Another important step is ensuring members know about the different ways they can get involved. Whether it’s through committees, leadership roles, or industry discussions, we want to give our members the chance to help shape the future of the organization. When members feel they have a say in what happens, they are more likely to get involved and stay active.
By focusing on engagement and showing the real benefits of membership, we can build a stronger sense of community at Keystone. This will lead to better retention and more participation from members across the organization. In the end, collaboration and engagement are key to a thriving community, and by prioritizing these efforts, we will help Keystone grow and succeed in the years to come.
FROM THE CEO/ PRESIDENT
BE PART OF THE ABC HEALTH & SAFETY ALLIANCE!
BY: G. DAVID SLOAD
The ABC Health and Safety Alliance—a prestigious mark of excellence—features members who actively participate in the ABC STEP Health and Safety Management System annually, demonstrate a long-term commitment to health and safety, and uphold health and safety as a core company value.
All ABC health and safety programs, including STEP, the National Health and Safety Excellence Awards, ABC’s Total Human Health Initiative, and the ABC Health and Safety Leadership Forum, fall under the new ABC Health and Safety Alliance.
Who doesn’t want their employees to return home safely, both physically and mentally? The new STEP application gives you a better, simpler way to evaluate how your company’s policies and procedures lead to a safe and healthy workforce and, in turn, a better bottom line. The new process can be completed in less than 30 minutes.
Unlike the previous STEP process, this one is not about an award but about building a safety and health culture. In addition to STEP, there is an ongoing focus on “Total Human Health.” Total Human Health ensures that we are working with our employees to be physically and mentally healthy.
In 2025, the Keystone Inclusion, Diversity and Merit committee will be rolling out initiatives and training focusing on mental health and its effects on our industry. It is no longer a secret: the construction industry leads the way in employee suicides. We need to understand why and work to change that narrative. This is a tough conversation. Only by confronting it can we change it.
Take the first STEP! Apply Today!
Ensure employees are returning home safe to families and loved ones every day. Submit your STEP safety self-assessment in as little as 30 minutes! There is no cost to participate.
Career and Technical Education Month®, or CTE Month®, is "a public awareness campaign that takes place each February to celebrate the value of CTE and the achievements and accomplishments of CTE programs across the country."
What is CTE?
"Career and technical education, or CTE, is education that directly prepares students for high-wage, highdemand careers. CTE covers many different fields, including health care, information technology, advanced manufacturing, architecture, construction, hospitality, management, and many more. CTE encompasses many different types of education, from classroom learning to certification programs to workbased learning opportunities outside the classroom."
The Keystone Chapter celebrates our CTE partners and students pursuing these high-demand careers, including our pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship classes. For more information on ABC Keystone's educational pathways, please reach out to Randy Doxzon at randy@abckeystone.org
APPRENTICE UPDATE NATIONAL CRAFT CHAMPIONSHIPS
ABC Keystone is incredibly proud to announce that five of our exceptional apprentices will be competing in the prestigious National Craft Championships, February 25-27 in Las Vegas! These talented individuals have worked tirelessly to hone their skills and are now ready to showcase their expertise on the national stage. Their dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence make them stand out, and we couldn’t be more excited for them as they represent ABC Keystone at this highly anticipated event.
The following apprentices will be competing in Las Vegas during the ABC Convention:
Logan Hersh, Plumbing – James Craft & Son, Inc.
Nickolas Gockley, Carpentry – Warfel Construction Company
Carter Rohrer, Electrical – Brubaker, Inc.
Avery Rhine, Sheet Metal – James Craft & Son, Inc.
Jacob Gelsinger, HVAC – Zimmerman Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.
These apprentices have proven themselves as rising stars in their respective trades, and this competition is the perfect opportunity for them to display their talents and skills among the best in the industry. Not only are they competing for the gold, but they are also embodying the spirit of teamwork, craftsmanship, and leadership that ABC Keystone stands for. Their journey is an inspiration to others in the industry and a true testament to the incredible talent emerging from the next generation of professionals.
We wish them the best of luck as they prepare for this exciting challenge—go and show the nation what ABC Keystone’s future looks like!
(L to R): Carter Rohrer, Avery Rhine, Logan Hersh, Nickolas Gockley and Jacob Gelsinger
Zane Browne Chief Executive Officer
28 E Vine Street Lancaster, PA 17602
fetchhomemanagement.com
717-205-2474
zane.b@fetchpm.com
Would you like to be featured in the next Emerging Leaders Spotlight?
Contact: Laura Chanoski laura@abckeystone.org
ZANE BROWNE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, FETCH HOME MANAGEMENT
Tell us a little bit about your company.
Fetch Home Management’s mission is to streamline property ownership for landlords while ensuring positive experiences for tenants. We offer a range of customized services, including rent collection, lease management, property inspections, maintenance coordination, and eviction handling. Additionally, we provide unique service plans like the Laid Back Landlording Package for stress-free property management and the Flipper Special Plan designed for property investors.
Q:
What’s an interesting fact about your business most people don’t know?
An interesting aspect of Fetch Home Management is its expertise in not only managing residential properties but also specializing in Homeowners Association (HOA) management. This distinction sets the company apart from many property management firms. By offering customized services for HOAs, Fetch Home Management helps neighborhoods stay organized and well-maintained, fostering smooth communication between board members, homeowners, and vendors.
Q:
What is the best part about the work you do?
The most rewarding part of my work is embracing the challenges of property management—a field that often goes underappreciated and involves many moving parts. Despite the obstacles we face, the real fulfillment comes from the personal growth it encourages and the opportunity to train and mentor others. Helping team members realize and reach their potential, even when they don’t yet see it themselves, is incredibly fulfilling. Watching them achieve more than they thought possible makes all the hard work truly worth it.
Q: Q:
How has ABC Keystone supported your development as an emerging leader?
ABC Keystone has been crucial in helping Fetch Home Management grow as a leader in the property management industry. Through its educational programs, the company has enhanced its technical knowledge and leadership skills, improving expertise in property management, compliance, and operational efficiency to deliver top-tier service.
Networking opportunities with industry professionals, vendors, and peers have also been instrumental in Fetch Home Management’s growth, leading to valuable connections, new resources, and innovative solutions. These partnerships have strengthened its reputation as a trusted leader in the Lancaster area. ABC Keystone’s support continues to be vital to Fetch Home Management’s path toward sustained growth and excellence.
What are some of your most significant professional accomplishments to date?
One of my proudest professional accomplishments has been growing my business over the past seven years. From the beginning, we relied solely on word-of-mouth referrals, which speaks to the quality of our service and the strong relationships we’ve built with clients. Each year, we’ve steadily expanded our reach and solidified our position in the industry.
A standout achievement occurred during a three-year period when we doubled our sales and experienced substantial growth. Starting as a small team of just two, we’ve since grown to a staff of 14. This growth wasn’t just about increasing numbers—it involved overcoming new challenges, fostering a strong company culture, and developing the systems necessary to support our expansion.
WINTER & SPRING TOPIC: 128 KEYS TO MERIT SHOP POLICY IN 2025
How ABC can move our policy priorities in the state legislature with a split legislature and narrow majority
PRESENTER: Jim Willshier, Director of Government Affairs, ABC Keystone
Pennsylvania is uniquely positioned with a split legislature—Republican control in the Senate and a Democratic majority in the House—yet neither chamber holds a significant enough majority to push through a unified agenda. At the same time, the state still has outdated, anti-competitive labor laws that have been in place since the 1960s, which urgently need modernization. This Wake-Up Call will cover:
• An overview of current laws and regulations that are hindering merit shops and taxpayers, along with why these policies must be updated.
• A look at how ABC successfully opposed harmful policies pushed by organized labor and legislators from both parties last year.
• Key highlights of this year’s proposed state budget and its potential impact on the business community.
• An outline of ABC’s legislative priorities for the year and how we might leverage the narrow majorities to push for compromise that benefits all workers in Pennsylvania.
MARCH 11 Southwest Region
Leonard S. Fiore, Inc. Altoona, PA
APRIL 3 Nittany Valley
Nittany Valley Office Howard, PA
For More Information Contact:
Mike Bachman, Director of Membership mike@abckeystone.org
MARCH 12 North Region
Zartman Construction Northumberland, PA
APRIL 8 Southeast Region
Manheim Office Manheim, PA
NITTANY VALLEY MANHEIM
MARCH 6
Location: Axemann Brewery, Bellefonte, PA
MARCH 19
Location: Manheim Office, Manheim, PA
Specialty Contractors, Architects, Engineers, Site Designers, and Suppliers: Meet multiple general contractors!
General Contractors will have booth displays set up, giving attendees the opportunity to work the room at their own pace and have one-on-one and meaningful conversations to make connections and grow their network.
• Showcase your team’s quality work and proficiency.
• Promote your company and build your business.
• Strengthen relationships with industry-leading General Contractors.
• Gain first-hand information on upcoming projects and bid qualifications.
ELITE SPONSORS
DIAMOND SPONSORS
SAPPHIRE SPONSORS
PREMIER SPONSORS
ADVOCACY UPDATE
NEW YEAR, NEW SESSION
BY: JIM WILLSHIER, DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
As 2025 begins, a new legislative session is underway. All newly elected legislators have been sworn in, and the operational rules for governance have been adopted. The process of setting up the legislative branch is in full swing.
The narrow one-seat Democratic majority has been known since the election, but recent events have made this margin more complex. At the end of 2024, one House Democrat suffered a serious health condition and has sadly passed away, creating a temporary even split in the House. On the Senate side, Republicans hold a more comfortable majority but face a short-term loss of one seat. Lancaster Senator Ryan Aument resigned to take a position outside the legislature, triggering a special election in March.
While these political dynamics may interest enthusiasts, the key takeaway is that majorities are hanging by a thread during one of the most politically charged moments in recent history. This marks the start of the legislative session, as Governor Shapiro works to finalize his proposed budget for February. His budget will include negotiations on policy priorities and counteroffers from the legislature. Importantly, this is Shapiro’s final budget before running for re-election next year, meaning he’ll likely keep his proposals more conservative (conventional wisdom suggests avoiding tax increases or controversial moves in an election year). This is further complicated by the need for strategic wins to bolster his potential 2028 presidential run.
Where does that leave ABC? An optimist might say we’re in a strong position to advocate for bipartisan compromise that supports the growth of skilled trades workers through apprenticeship programs, and for increasing local government spending power by adjusting the prevailing wage threshold, among other longstanding ABC priorities. For more information on how we might help your company and workforce, visit our website to learn about our upcoming Wake Up Call series, which will focus on legislative and policy updates.
Build Your Team.
Grow and Develop Your Workforce with ABC Keystone.
The construction industry is constantly evolving. To stay relevant, companies must continually grow their talent. ABC Keystone understands that making employee development a priority within a company culture ensures the team remains well-informed on industry trends, recent developments, and best practices.
• Create your own workforce through formalized training.
• Increase productivity, safety & profits.
• Expand your workers' knowledge base.
• Bid work more competitively.
Contact us today to learn more.
ABC KEYSTONE STUDENT CHAPTER SPOTLIGHT
ABC CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT COMPETITION
Since December, the team has been preparing hard for the ABC Construction Management Competition (CMC) in Las Vegas, February 25-27. Our efforts have involved completing a detailed quantity takeoff and working together to develop a comprehensive project management plan, logistics strategy, cost estimate, safety plans, and schedule. We've also collaborated with several companies to review our proposal and fine-tune our presentation.
We are incredibly grateful for the strong support we've received from our alums and ABC Keystone members. If any contractors are interested in offering further assistance before the end of February, please feel free to reach out to the team captain, Morgan Littlefield at mhl3@pct.edu.
If you have an interest in presenting to the group, or know of an opportunity that would help broaden the perspective or ready the next generation of our industry, or have any questions about CMA or the Construction Management program at Penn College, please get in touch with us:
Morgan Littlefield, Penn College CMA President mhl3@pct.edu
Wayne Sheppard, Penn College CMA Faculty Advisor wsheppar@pct.edu
STUDENTS ATTEND CMAA CHARTER NIGHT
The Penn College Construction Management Association (CMA) is a proud ABC student chapter and is thankful for the support of the ABC Keystone chapter. The club also is a student chapter for the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). Four students, Morgan Littlefield, Eric Xander, Emilio Stipe, and Jason Wiedl attended the 2025 Central Pennsylvania Chapter Charter Night on January 16th in Harrisburg. Students had the opportunity to engage with industry professionals, share insightful conversations, enjoy some laughs and also presented a review of all of our activities in 2024. Jason Wiedl, a CMA Junior, was also awarded a $1,000 scholarship. Congratulations, Jason!
FEBRUARY
OFFICE EVENTS
2/13 The Power of Motivation Part of the Power of People Series
2/14 Confined Space Entry Operations
2/18 Rough-Terrain Forklift Training
2/18 Overcoming Incivility in the Workplace Part of the Leadership 2.0 Series
2/19 Safety, Security, Health & Leaves of Absence Part of the Human Resources Management Academy
2/24 First Aid/CPR/AED with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification
2/26 Social Media Sucks, But It Works: How to Make It Work for You Part of the Marketing Boot Camp Series
2/13 Human Resources Contractors Peer Group A FOUR PART SERIES
ABC Keystone's The "Building a Better Crew Series" enhances teamwork, communication, and leadership skills for construction teams, improving productivity and safety.
3/12/2025 HR Compliance 8:00 am - 11:00 am
4/9/2025 HR Accommodations 8:00 am - 11:00 am
11/5/2025 Non-Leadership Generational Coworking 8:00 am - 11:00 am
12/3/2025 Culture/Language Barriers 8:00 am - 11:00 am
MARCH
CALENDAR OF EVENTS MARCH
KEYSTONE EVENTS
3/5 Delegating for Results Part of the Professional Development Series
3/6 Scaffold Safety
3/10 Dynamic Crew Leadership
3/11 Regional Construction Wake-up Call: Southwest Region - Altoona, PA
3/11 Attitude Adjustments Part of the Leadership Development Series
3/12 Regional Construction Wake-up Call: North Region - Northumberland, PA
3/12 HR Compliance Part of the Building a Better Crew Series
3/11, 3/12 & 3/13 Construction Wars Presented by Lezzer Lumber
3/13 The Power of Understanding Conflict & Games Playing Part of the Power of People Series
3/18 Motivating Fellow Employees Part of the Leadership 2.0 Series
3/18 First Aid/CPR/AED with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification
3/19 Excavation & Trench Safety for Competent Persons
3/19 HR’s Strategic, Operational & Administrative Roles Part of the Human Resources Management Academy 3/19 Meet the Generals - Manheim Office
3/20 & 4/3
STP: Contract Documents Part of the Superintendent Training Program
3/24 First Aid/CPR/AED with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification
3/24 Bluebeam® Courses: Free Launch Webinar
3/25 & 3/26 ASHE Healthcare Construction Certificate Workshop 3/26 Mobile Elevating Work Platform Training 3/26 Sizing Up Your Digital Footprint Part of the Marketing Boot Camp Series
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
Cargas Systems, Inc.
Chris Stetler, Acumatica Practice Manager
101 North Queen Street Lancaster, PA 17603
www.cargas.com (717) 560-9928
cstetler@cargas.com
Sponsored By: Jacob Herr Harding-Yost Insurance
Finanta
William Landin, Commercial Real Estate Operations
51 South Duke Street, Suite 300 Lancaster, PA 17602
Abdullah Khan, CEO 2081 East 57th Street New York, NY 10022
www.biddingenterprise.com (610) 647-3852
khan@biddingenterprise.com
Sponsored By: Joe Finkey, Martins Flooring
Mel's Heater Service
David Neslund, President 102 North Hollander Road Gordonville, PA 17529
www.melsheater.com (717) 768-3509
dneslund@melsheater.com
Sponsored By: Jay Elam King Scenic Ridge Company
Miller Bros. Construction, Inc.
Vickie Herb, Office Manager PO Box 472 Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
www.millerbros.com (570) 385-1662
vicki@millerbros.com
Sponsored By: Ed Engle, Smucker Company
MERIT SHOP PROUD
TRI-M ANNOUNCES NEW PRESIDENT & CEO
The Tri-M Group LLC is pleased to announce that Jim Horn and Ron Bauguess are entering a new chapter in their careers. Ron Bauguess was selected by the Board of Directors as the new President and CEO, while Jim Horn has transitioned from President and CEO to Chairman of the Board of Directors.
As President and CEO, Bauguess will have various responsibilities, including chairing the Executive Committee and driving our strategic initiatives. He is dedicated to preserving Tri-M’s strong culture and rich legacy while leading efforts to increase share value, foster growth and inspire the next generation of leaders. "We owe much of Tri-M's success to Tom Musser, our founder, and Jim Horn. Tri-M has a solid foundation, and I'm here to elevate it to the next level," Bauguess stated.
Horn will oversee the Board of Directors. Horn noted that Bauguess has earned the role of President and CEO. “Ron never turned anything down. . . and when you asked him to do something, he always found a way to do it . . .and do it right. Ron’s very people-oriented, very customeroriented, and knows all of Tri-M’s business units,” said Horn.
Bauguess started his career over 36 years ago as an apprentice electrician and has never looked back. His passion has always been working in the electrical field. Through consistent learning and mentorship, along with his knowledge and leadership abilities, Bauguess has progressed through the company in roles such as High Voltage Lineman, Foreperson, Project Manager, Vice President of Electrical Construction, Executive Vice President, and now President and CEO. Bauguess has served as Chairperson of the Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) and on the Boards of the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry and the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce he currently serves on the Board of Independent Electrical Contractors.
Horn started his career as a marine electrician where he learned drafting and design. After joining Tri-M as an electrical designer (becoming the 35th employee), he quickly rose through the ranks by demonstrating a management and leadership style that enabled employees to flourish and exceed our customers' expectations. In 2002, Jim became joint owner of Tri-M with founder, Tom Musser.
Horn has held leadership roles with several organizations, most notably the Eastern Pennsylvania Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), the Southern Chester County Chamber of Commerce, Brandywine Valley YMCA, and Rotary at Longwood.
For inclusion in future issues of the Merit Shop Spokesman, please send your press releases to:
Rebecca Wolf rebecca@abckeytone.org (717) 653-8106
5:00
5:30
SAPPHIRE SPONSORS
2025 C.O.R.E. SPONSORS
PREMIER SPONSORS
PLATINUM SPONSORS
GOLD SPONSORS
Acuity Advisors and CPAs, LLP
Aerotek, Inc.
Barley Snyder
Brubaker, Inc.
EHD
SILVER SPONSORS
Associated Products Services, Inc.
Bertz, Hess & Co.
Brown Plus
C Mechanical Services
BRONZE SPONSORS
Commonwealth Fire Protection Co.
David Miller/Associates, Inc.
ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLC
Remco, Inc.
Garrety Glass, Inc.
Horst Construction Co.
Hursh Painting Co., Inc
Martins Flooring
Milwaukee Tool Company
Fulton Bank
D.E. Gemmill, Inc.
Hess Auctioneers, LLC
Leer Electric, Inc.
MVE Group
M. Potteiger, Inc.
Providence Engineering
RKL LLP
S&T Bank
Paramount Contracting, Inc.
R.A. Walton & Company, Inc.
The Witmer Group
Saul Ewing LLP
Smucker Company
Trout CPA
MARCH 4, 2025
2025 Submission Timeline
Insider's Guide to EIC Entries
APRIL 12, 2025
Intent to Submit Form Due
JUNE 14, 2025
All Entry Materials Due
JUNE 28, 2025
2025 STEP Applications Due*
*STEP membership is a scoring factor in ABC Chapter and National EIC Awards.
