January 2025_Spokesman

Page 1


A Monthly Publication of ABC Keystone

2025 CHAIR OF THE BOARD
"I am committed to preserving what makes ABC Keystone exceptional."

2025 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chair of the Board Guy Kingree, III

Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.

Chair-Elect Steven Kearns James Craft & Son, Inc.

1st Vice Chair Ed Engle Smucker Company

2nd Vice Chair

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

GUY KINGREE, III

2025 CHAIR OF THE BOARD

Shaping the Future of ABC Keystone

Guy Kingree, III, is the incoming Chair of the Board for ABC Keystone, a prestigious position that marks the culmination of years of dedication to both the association and the construction industry. Kingree's journey with ABC Keystone has been nothing short of impactful. Having served as the 2024 Chair-Elect and 2nd Vice Chair, his deep commitment to advancing the construction industry through ABC Keystone’s mission is evident.

As a Project Executive at Benchmark Construction Co., Inc., Kingree brings a wealth of experience and strategic insight to his leadership role at ABC Keystone. He plays a pivotal role in overseeing complex projects, ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality, budget, and timeline. His leadership extends beyond project management; he actively drives business development initiatives, cultivating long-term relationships with clients and partners alike. This hands-on approach has positioned him as a key figure in the company's growth and success.

As Kingree prepares to take the helm as Chair of the Board in 2025, the organization will honor his leadership at the Inaugural Gala & Annual Meeting, a momentous event set for January 10, 2025. With his guidance, ABC Keystone is poised to continue its legacy of championing the construction industry and fostering the success of its members.

In this exclusive interview, our incoming chair shares his vision for the year ahead, outlining key priorities and goals to guide ABC Keystone and the construction industry through 2025.

Q: What made you decide to run for board leadership?

I decided to run for the Board of Directors because I am passionate about getting more involved in the industry and helping shape its future. My goal at the time was to deepen my understanding of the key issues surrounding merit shop construction and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the challenges and opportunities surrounding it. By volunteering, I could actively support and advocate for the industry's interests while also gaining invaluable experience to continue to help me grow personally and professionally. As a young professional (I guess I can still say that), I recognize the unique opportunity to bring a fresh perspective to an organization that represents many members.

Q: What are your top priorities for the upcoming year as Chair of the Board?

Where to begin? If I had to highlight a few key priorities for this year, my main focus is to introduce fresh perspectives while enhancing the strong foundation already established by ABC Keystone. First, I am eager to help lead the implementation of a Total Human Health Committee and Initiative. With the increasing mental health challenges faced by our industry and its workers, I believe it's time to expand the focus beyond Safety. ABC Keystone can be a leading force in driving positive change for the well-being of our members.

Second, I want to deepen the Board of Directors' engagement with the members we serve. While the Keystone staff does an excellent job reaching out for valuable feedback and the Board contributes to these efforts, I see an opportunity to foster more direct communication and create stronger connections. By expanding opportunities for interaction, feedback, and collaboration, we can ensure the Board is better aligned with the needs and concerns of our members, leading to more responsive and effective leadership. Finally, I’m committed to ensuring Keystone remains proactive in tackling legislation that impacts our members' ability to do business and compete for work. Over the past year, we've made significant strides in addressing harmful legislation

- Continued

by working closely with local and state lawmakers to advocate for our interests. I want to keep this momentum going, maintaining an offensive mindset to clear legislative hurdles and support the continued success of our membership.

Q: What lasting changes or achievements would you like to see as a result of your time as Chair?

As Chair, my goal is to make a meaningful impact by focusing on initiatives that will support the longterm success and sustainability of our organization and its members. By strengthening our connection with the membership, I want to build trust and improve communication between the Board and members to drive greater engagement, involvement, retention, and growth. As the construction industry continues to evolve, it will be essential for us to stay ahead of the curve in technology, safety, and best practices, ensuring our members are prepared to adapt to changes and remain competitive.

I will also continue to advocate for the industry and be proactive in our approach to policy. Our goal

will be to advance policies that support our industry, rather than constantly defending against challenges. Through these efforts, we will empower our members, encourage growth, and solidify our leadership in the construction sector.

Finally, I am committed to preserving what makes ABC Keystone exceptional. While it's important to introduce new initiatives, we must also stay grounded in the core values and services that have made us great. As Dave often says, I will work to ensure we continue to embody the "IT" factor that sets us apart.

FROM THE CEO/ PRESIDENT

WHAT DO 66 AND 75 HAVE IN COMMON?

Back in 1950, seven contractors came together with one goal in mind: to work without union influence. These contractors were facing pressure and being forced into using union labor. With guidance from Charles Mullan, they founded Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), marking the start of what has become the most successful construction trade association today.

In 2000, I had the honor of serving as Keystone’s Board Chair and taking part in ABC’s 50th anniversary celebrations in Baltimore, where it all began. It was incredible to be part of an association that had overcome so much—coercion, intimidation, and even violence—in its fight for the "Merit Shop" philosophy. It was a real milestone.

Now, we’re gearing up to celebrate ABC’s 75th anniversary, with a whole year of events, including special happenings at the National conferences: the Convention, Legislative Conference, and Leadership Institute. The big event will be the ABC 75th Anniversary Gala on June 24th at the Waldorf Astoria in Washington, D.C. Mark your calendars—ABC is planning a surprise special guest!

But what does this have to do with 66? Well, in 1959, just nine years after ABC was founded, seven contractors in Lancaster County, PA, were also dealing with union challenges. With help from ABC National, they formed the Keystone Chapter, becoming the first chapter outside of Maryland. Since then, Keystone has continued to fight for the same principles that led to ABC’s founding. Today, we’re a High Performing Chapter and the third largest in the country.

As we celebrate our past, we also have our eye on the future. The Keystone Chapter is kicking off an exciting 2025-2027 strategic plan with key goals:

• Increase Political Involvement

• Enhance Communication and Deliver Member Value

• Become the go-to Resource for Safety and Wellbeing in the Construction Industry

• Grow the Workforce with Strong Workforce Development, Partnerships, and Measurable Initiatives

We need your involvement to make these goals happen. Join a committee, attend upcoming forums, get engaged in the political arena, and help shape the future of Keystone. Your contribution will be key in determining where we’ll be when we celebrate our 75th anniversary.

Thanks for everything you’ve done to make Keystone successful and thank you in advance for everything you’ll do to keep moving our mission forward!

2025 LEADERSHIP TEAM

Being a leader at ABC embodies values such as Integrity, Strength, Quality, and Principle—values deeply rooted in Keystone’s foundation and core principles.

With 65 years of tradition and success, ABC Keystone has evolved from overcoming challenges to free enterprise to today, being recognized nationwide as one of the leading chapters within ABC.

We are excited to introduce our 2025 Leadership Team!

Officers of the Board

Immediate Past Chair
John Lehmann Poole Anderson Construction, LLC
Guy Kingree, III
Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.
Steven Kearns James Craft & Son, Inc
2nd Vice Chair
Jeff Witmer Pathway Business Advisors
Treasurer Timothy Kershner, CPA Walz Group
Secretary Robb Beiler Wohlsen Construction Company
1st Vice Chair
Ed Engle Smucker Company

Board of Directors

Brian Floyd EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants
Jan L. Wagner Wagman Construction, Inc.
Kevin VanPelt S&T Bank
Patrick Snyder Peoples Security Bank & Trust
Nora Brooks Alternative HR, LLC
Steve Conway Pyramid Construction Services, LLC A Quandel Company
Aimée Deraco Brubaker, Inc.
Lee L. Summers, Jr. C Mechanical Services
Scott Wengrenovich Murray
Jeff Bright Offit Kurman
Corbin Beittel Warfel Construction Company
Ken Funk Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc.
Anthony Leer Leer Electric, Inc.
Michael Metz-Topodas Saul Ewing LLP
John H. Hykes, II B&B Integrations
Michael Fiore Leonard S. Fiore, Inc.
Scott Duke The Witmer Group

MEMBERS RENEWED THROUGH 12/20/24

11400 Inc.

1-800 Water Damage of Harrisburg, PA

AD&C Enterprises, LLC

APR Supply Co.

Abel Construction Co., Inc.

Acuity Advisors and CPAs, LLP

ADMAR Supply Company, Inc.

Aero Energy

Aerotek, Inc.

All Set Tile & Marble Co. Inc.

Alleghany Industrial Insulation Co.

Allgyer Enterprises, LLC

Allied Mechanical & Electrical

Allison Crane & Rigging, Inc.

Alpha Consulting Engineers, Inc.

American Direct

American Insurance Administrators, LLC, an Alera Group Company

American Testing Laboratories, Inc.

Ames Construction, Inc.

Arch Insurance Group

Ascendance Trucks Pennsylvania, LLC

Atlantic Caisson Corp.

Austin Electric

B&B Integrations

BCF Group, Inc.

BC Supply, LLC

B.N. Excavating, Inc.

B.J. Baldwin Electrical/Mechanical, Inc.

Barley Snyder

Beam's Custom Woodworking & Cabinetry, LLC

Beaver Concrete Construction

Belfry Builders, LLC

Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.

Benchmark Site Development, LLC

Beneco, Part of FuturePlan By Ascensus

Berg Construction, LLC

Bertz, Hess & Co.

Blatt Construction Inc. Dba Blatt Group

Boger Concrete Company

Bohler

Boyer & Ritter LLC

George D. Boyer & Sons, Inc.

Brecknock Builders, LLC

Broderick's Landscape Contracting, LLC

Brooklawn Paving, LLC

Brown's Glass

L.H. Brubaker Appliances

Brubaker, Inc.

Bruce L. Jones Contractor, Inc.

Burnham Holdings, Inc.

C

CB Construction Services, Inc.

CCS Building Group

C Mechanical Services

CV Services, Inc.

Louis P. Canuso

Capital Coating, Inc.

Capitol Door & Hardware Co., Inc.

Cassel

Cedar Electric, Inc.

Cedar Run Construction, LLC

Central Penn Propane, LLC

Centre Concrete Company

Centurion Construction Group, LLC

CH+N Site Construction, Inc.

Cheran, Inc.

Clapp Associates, Inc.

Clark Contractors, Inc.

Clelan Financial Advisors

Clelan's Custom Welding, LLC

Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman PC

Coleman's Custom Floor Service, LLC

Commonwealth Fire Protection Co.

Conewago Enterprises, Inc.

Conewago Manufacturing, LLC

Conexus, Inc.

Construction Specialties

Contractor Benefits Group LLC

COR Construction Services, Inc.

CORL Communications, Inc.

Crane Rentals, LLC

Creative Financial Group

Crownstone Equipment - Bobcat of York, Adams Co. & Lancaster

Custom Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

Cyprium Solutions, Inc.

D&H Electrical Construction, LLC

DM Industries, Inc.

D&T Electric, LLC

DABMAR Company, Inc.

DanCo Construction, LLC

David Miller/Associates, Inc.

DeGol Carpet

Delda Excavation & Demolition, Inc.

Delta Electronics

DenTech Industrial

DeRock Electric Company

Design Data Corporation

Detwiler Roofing

Direct Advisors, a division of HUB Retirement and Wealth Management

DMS Safety Consultants

Dolan Construction, Inc.

Douple Agency, Inc.

Ben Druck Door Co.

Durex Coverings, Inc.

ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLC

E&G Concrete, Inc.

EHD

E.K. Services, Inc.

ELA Group, Inc.

Eagle Rental, Inc.

Earthmovers Unlimited, Inc.

Eastern Alliance Insurance Group

Easy Does It Drywall, Inc.

Ebersole Builders, LLC

Eckert Signs, Inc.

J.D. Eckman, Inc.

Edwards Electric & Telecom, Inc.

ElecTech Contracting, Inc.

Elite Plumbing Heating & AC, LLC

Elkwood Installation Services

EMC Insurance Companies

Energy Transfer Solutions, LLC

Engles & Fahs, Inc.

Ephrata National Bank

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

W.C. Eshenaur and Son, Inc.

Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories

Everound, LLC

R.F. Fager Co.

The Farfield Company

Fidelity Contracting LLC

FieldForce - Rentals, Services, Sales

Leonard S. Fiore, Inc.

First Capital Insulation, Inc.

First National Bank

Flow Mechanical, LLC

Forbes & Buchanan, LLC

S.M. Fridy Mechanical Contracting, LLC

Fritz Fire Protection Company

John E. Fullerton, Inc.

Fully Promoted of Lancaster

Fulton Bank

Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc.

D.H. Funk & Sons LLC

GCM, Inc. (General Construction Management, Inc.)

GM Equipment Corp.

GPLA Structural Engineers & Builders

Galbraith Commercial & Industrial Construction

Gallagher

Garden Spot Electric, Inc.

Garden Spot Mechanical, Inc.

Garman Builders, Inc.

Garrety Glass, Inc.

Garvey Roark, LLC

Gas Field Specialists, Inc.

Gassert Mechanical & Industrial Insulation, Inc.

Geisinger Systems Services

Glass Mender Mirror & Plate

John W. Gleim, Jr., Inc.

Moses B. Glick, LLC

D.C. Gohn Associates, Inc.

Goodco Mechanical, Inc.

Gooding Group, LLC

Gorski Engineering, Inc

Greater Johnstown Career & Technology Center

Groff's Heating, A/C & Plbg., Inc.

John E. Groninger, Inc.

Gunn-Mowery, LLC

H2, LLC

HC Quality Doors

H&H Sales Associates, Inc.

HPS Specialties, LLC

HVAC Distributors, Inc.

P.C. Haines, Inc.

Hajoca Corp.

Haller Enterprises

Harding-Yost Insurance

Harmon & Davies, P.C.

Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc.

Hayden Power Group

K.S. Heagy Contractor/Property Maintenance, Inc.

Heidler Roofing, LLC

Herbein + Company, Inc.

Hershey Advisors, P.C.

Hertzler Electric, Inc.

The Hess Agency

Hess Auctioneers, LLC

C.M. High, Inc.

High Construction Company

High Mountain Hardware, Inc.

Hondru Fleet

Horst Construction Co.

Hostetter Supply Co., Inc.

Hummer Turfgrass Systems, Inc.

Hursh Painting Co., Inc.

Hutchinson Excavating, Inc.

IDP Consulting, LLC

Iddings Electric, Inc.

Independent Refrigeration Services, Inc.

Indoor City

Industrial Caulk & Seal, Inc.

IntegrityWorks Coaching

Interstate Fleets, Inc.

Investment Real Estate, LLC

Iron Eagle Excavating, LLC

J&J Heating & Cooling, Inc.

J. Hubler Landscaping, Inc.

Jack Frost Construction, Inc.

Jackson's Window Shoppe

Jericho Group, LLC

Johnston Construction Company

Jones Masonry Restoration Corporation

Just Grind it, LLC

KC Caulking, LLC

KH Electric

K.L. Tyndale, Inc.

Kauffman Kitchens

Kautz Construction Co.

Keller Equipment Sales, Inc.

Kessel Construction, Inc.

Keystone Concrete Cutting

Keystone Fire and Security

Keystone Gun-Krete, LLC

Keystone Steel Structures

Keystruct Construction, A Viocity Company

Kinley Automotive Group

Kinsley Construction, LLC

Leo Kob Co., Inc.

B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc.

Lancaster County Timber Frames, Inc.

Lancaster Electric, Inc.

Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity

Lancaster Stormers

Landworks Civil Design, LLC

LaPorte Painting Inc.

Lebanon Building Supply

Lebanon Valley Electric, Inc.

L.S. Lee, Inc.

Leer Electric, Inc.

LEW Site Construction LLC

Lift, Inc.

Lincoln Pavement Services, Inc.

LINKBANK

RL Livingston, Inc.

M2 Construction, LLC

MKT Metal Manufacturing

MVE Group

M&M Facility Services, LLC

M&T Bank

David M. Maines Assoc. Inc.

Major Builders, Inc.

William S. Malany & Sons, Inc.

MARC-Service, Inc.

RS Martin / Varner Systems, Inc.

Martins Flooring

Masonic Villages

Matchline Mechanical, LLC

McCarty & Son, Inc.

H.B. McClure

McConkey Insurance & Benefits

McCoy Brothers, Inc.

McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC

MDS Engineering

Mervac Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

Midline Mechanical LLC

MidState Mechanical & Electrical, LLC

Mid-State Paving, LLC

Miller Builders' Supply Co.

Mister Sparky Electric

GR Mitchell, Inc.

Mobile Dredging & Video Pipe, Inc.

Modern Art & Plate Glass Co., Inc.

Monarch Products Co., Inc.

Morgan-Keller Concrete

The Motter Agency

Murray

Murry Management Co.

MYCO Mechanical, Inc.

Allan Myers Materials

Navarro Brothers, LLC

B&P Neal Enterprises, Inc.

NEFCO, Inc.

New Enterprise Stone & Lime Co., Inc.

Nittany Building Specialties, Inc.

Nolt Electric, Inc.

North Bay Mechanical, LLC

Northeastern Casework Installations

Northwest Bank

NuTec Design Associates, Inc.

Optics Diagnostic Solutions, LLC

Optimum Controls Corp.

PA Pride Insulation, Inc.

PBCI-Allen Mechanical & Electrical

PDQ Industries

PSQ, Inc.

Paradise Energy Solutions

Paradise Masonry, LLC

Paragon Engineering Services, Inc.

Paramount Contracting, Inc.

Parksite

Pathway Business Advisors

PaulB Hardware

Penn National Insurance Co.

Penn State Mechanical Contractors, Inc.

Penn Stone

Pennsy Supply, Inc.

Pennsylvania College of Technology

Pennsylvania Construction Associates, Inc.

Personal Wealth Advisory, LLC

Philips Brothers Electrical Contractors, Inc.

Pickering Valley Landscape, Inc.

M. Potteiger, Inc.

Power Component Systems, Inc.

Precise Concrete Walls, Inc.

Precision Fire Protection Inc.

Prestige Painting

Princeton Hydro, LLC

Print-O-Stat, Inc.

Pro Max Fence Systems, LLC

PROAC Corporation

Procore

Professional Flooring Systems

Protech Mechanical Contractors, Inc.

Providence Engineering

Provident Financial Services, Ltd.

Quality Buildings, LLC

Quandel Enterprises, LLC

RGS Associates, Inc.

RKL LLP

R.L. Insulation Co., Inc.

RSR Electric, A Viocity Company

Raintree Services, Inc.

Real Services, Inc.

Red Rose Cabinetry, Inc.

Remco, Inc.

Ressler & Mateer, Inc.

RETTEW Associates, Inc.

Riley, Inc.

Paul Risk Construction

Ritz-Craft Commercial (RC2)

River Supply, Inc.

RiverLogic Solutions, LLC

Rogers Electric, Inc.

Rohrer's Quarry, Inc.

Ross Buehler Falk & Company, LLP

Royal Square Development & Construction

SAA Architects, Inc.

SACA/Tec Centro

SLC Excavating, LLC

SMR Mechanical, LLC

The SRS Group

Samaritan Consulting Group

R.E. Sanders, Inc.

Saxton & Stump Lawyers and Consultants

Scenic Ridge Company

Schaedler Yesco

Richard L. Sensenig Co.

Sentry Fire Protection, Inc.

Shank Door, LLC

Sheet Metal Specialists, LLC

Sheetz, Inc.

Sherwin-Williams

Silvertip, Inc.

Simon Lever

Skyworks, LLC

Slaymaker Rentals & Supply Co.

Smart Digital Tech

Smash My Trash - Harrisburg East

Donald B. Smith, Inc.

Keith D. Smith Concrete Contractor, Inc.

Smucker Company

Smucker's Energy

J.C. Snavely & Sons, Inc.

Somerset County Technology Center

Spangler & Boyer Mechanical, Inc.

Speedwell Construction, Inc.

SteelSafe Storage Solutions, LLC

Stephenson Equipment, Inc. (SEI)

Stevens & Lee

Stief Concrete Work, Inc.

Stoltzfus Drywall, LLC

EG Stoltzfus Construction, LLC

E.R. Stuebner, Inc.

Summit Flagging Source

Surface Preparation Technologies, LLC

Susquehanna Valley Construction Corp.

Swift Kennedy & Associates, Inc.

Synergy Employment Group, Inc.

T&J Giftland Trophies

Tabora Painting, LLC

Tekrins, Inc.

Thermolite, Inc.

Ben Thomas Associates, Inc.

Travelers Bond & Specialty Insurance

Triad Engineering, Inc.

Tri-Boro Materials, Inc.

The Tri-M Group, LLC

Triple Crown Corporation

Trout CPA

The Tuckey Companies

Twilight Renewables, LLC

Two Dudes Painting Company

Univest Bank and Trust Co.

UPMC

Utility Services Group, Inc.

Valley Supply, Inc.

Vernon Bitzer Associates, Inc.

Greg A. Vietri, Inc.

WNC CPAs & Consultants, LLC

Waggoner Construction, Inc.

Wagman Construction, Inc.

R.A. Walton & Company, Inc.

Warehaus

Warfel Construction Company

Weaver Associates, Inc.

N R Weaver Masonry, LLC

Weaver Superior Walls

Weidner Construction Services, LLC

Wenrich Painting, Inc.

White Rose Interiors, LLC

Wile Plumbing, Inc.

Wilkinson & Associates, Inc.

Wiring By Wall, Inc.

The Witmer Co.

The Witmer Group

Wohlsen Construction Company

Woolford Kanfer Law, P.C.

Wouch, Maloney & Co., LLP

Yoe Construction, Inc.

York Building Products

York P-B Truss, Inc.

Yorkaire, Inc. dba The Yorkaire Group

J.M. Young & Sons, Inc.

Zephyr Aluminum, LLC

Zimmerman & Herr Masonry

Zimmerman Plumbing & Heating, Inc.

Zook Interiors, LLC

2025 MOCK CRAFT COMPETITION

Watch local craft competition winners take on their final timed, hands-on practical exam before advancing to the National Craft Competition in Las Vegas on February 26. This is an excellent opportunity for members, students, and the community to experience registered apprenticeship trades firsthand. We're excited to gather a large crowd at this FREE public event, matching the impressive turnout seen at the national event!

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 today. ABCKEYSTONE.ORG

ADVOCACY UPDATE

BRINGING IN THE NEW YEAR

As we enter this season of reflection, many of us take a moment to look back on the past year’s achievements and set our sights on the future. For ABC, this is a perfect time to reflect on the outcomes of this past legislative session. Despite the challenges and the tense political climate, we have much to celebrate.

Thanks to the relentless efforts of our grassroots advocacy, we successfully halted 10 union-favored bills—some of which even Democrats admitted were poorly crafted. These bills threatened to create an even more unfair playing field for merit shops, offering solutions rooted more in misconception than in practicality. The proposed policies ranged from broadening prevailing wage requirements to imposing harsh penalties for employee misclassification—issues that became more complicated by the Department of Labor & Industry’s inability to provide clear guidance. While many of these proposals never gained traction, they consumed valuable time and energy as we weighed the potential consequences had they become law. More importantly, they highlighted the increasingly hostile environment toward employers. The victory in stopping these bills is a testament to the immense efforts put forth to protect our industry.

On a more positive note, ABC celebrated the passage of two new laws thanks to our advocacy efforts. Governor Shapiro signed into law two key workforce development/re-entry priorities. The first allows

individuals with low-level criminal offenses, who have remained crime-free for a period of years, to seal their criminal records—providing them with a better chance at securing housing and employment. The second law offers a pathway for individuals to reinstate their driver’s licenses if they were suspended solely due to nonpayment of fines or fees (not related to public safety or driving issues), by completing community service to offset the owed amount. This important measure ensures that individuals can maintain access to transportation and retain the mobility required for employment.

In addition, ABC led a statewide campaign to push back against Governor Shapiro’s extreme proposal to attach Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) to all state projects moving forward. Thanks to our advocacy, this initiative has not advanced since its introduction in the spring.

While challenges will undoubtedly continue in 2025, ABC remains poised to rise to the occasion, advocating for policies that support a fair and thriving industry, ultimately benefiting both our sector and the people of Pennsylvania.

Questions about ABC Government Affairs & Politics?

Contact: Jim Willshier jim@abckeytone.org (717) 653-8106

Download the ABC Action app today!

Stay updated on legislation affecting merit shop policies and receive tailored responses to our legislators.

2025 CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT TEAM

Join us in supporting the Penn College team as they compete in the National Construction Management Competition at the ABC Convention in Las Vegas, February 25-28, 2025. This prestigious event offers students a chance to tackle real-world challenges and showcase their skills in project management, estimating, safety, quality control and presenting a project.

Last year, our team earned third place in both Estimating and Project Management and was named ABC Student Chapter of the Year.

Help us invest in the future of construction by making a gift today.

ABC KEYSTONE STUDENT CHAPTER SPOTLIGHT

Six dedicated Construction Management Association (CMA) members are diligently preparing for the upcoming, highly anticipated ABC CMC Competition. The team, consisting of Morgan Littlefield, Noah Jumper, Chris Fisher, James Fretz, Jason Wiedl, and Aaron Almony, has exhibited exceptional commitment and professionalism, dedicating a significant portion of their winter break to tackle this rigorous and rewarding challenge. Their unwavering efforts underscore not only their passion for the field of construction management but also their determination to excel in this prestigious competition.

The 2024 competition presents a dynamic, real-world project based at MiraCosta College in Oceanside, California. The project scope includes the design and development of three essential facilities:

1. State-of-the-Art Gymnasium – serving as a central hub for physical fitness, recreation, and athletic activities for students and faculty.

2. Allied Health Facility – purpose-built to support advanced Nursing programs, offering cutting-edge learning environments to train the next generation of healthcare professionals.

3. Kinesiology Building – a specialized facility dedicated to the study of human movement, physical education, and health sciences, fostering innovation and academic excellence in the field.

The team’s primary objective is to execute a comprehensive and highly detailed quantity takeoff for the project. This critical process demands precision, analytical thinking, and an in-depth understanding of construction practices, including evaluating and quantifying the materials, labor, and resources essential for the project’s successful execution. Building upon last year’s achievements, where Penn College proudly placed 3rd in Estimating and 3rd in Project Management, alongside earning the distinguished honor of 2023 Student Chapter of the Year, the team aspires to achieve even greater success this year.

To support their journey to the national competition in Las Vegas, the CMA, and the team are actively

seeking donations to assist with travel expenses. Your generosity would play a pivotal role in helping these talented individuals represent Penn College on a national stage. Any contributions are deeply appreciated, and we look forward to seeing many ABC Keystone companies out west!

Thank you for your continued support and encouragement—we look forward to showcasing our hard work and representing Penn College.

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

JANUARY

EVENTS

1/10 Inaugural Gala & Annual Meeting 2025 Presented by: Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.

1/13 Dynamic Crew Leadership

1/13 First Aid/CPR/AED with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification

1/14 Discovering Your DiSC Style Part of the Leadership Development Series

1/14 Self-Management Part of the Leadership Development Series

1/14 Construction Estimating Principles & Application

1/15 All-Committee Kick-off

1/15 Pay, Benefits, and Other Rewards Part of the Human Resources Management Academy

1/15 & 1/16 Bluebeam® Reading Construction Documents

1/16 The Power of Emotional Intelligence Part of the Power of People Series

1/16, 1/30 & 2/13

STP: Planning & Scheduling 3 Sessions

JANUARY

1/20 Bluebeam Basics

1/21 & 1/22

ASHE Health Care Construction Workshop

1/22 Bluebeam Basics Materials Takeoffs & Estimates

1/22 Stop Marketing. Start Communicreating. Part of the Marketing Boot Camp Series

1/23 & 1/24

Infection Control Risk Management (ICRA) 16-Hour Certificate Course

1/23 Bluebeam Advanced Materials Takeoffs & Estimates

1/28, 1/29, 1/30 & 1/31

Medical Gas and Vacuum Piping Systems 4 Sessions

1/28 Bluebeam for Administrative Professionals

1/28 Fall Protection for Competent Persons

1/29 & 1/30

OSHA 10-Hour Construction

1/29, 1/30, 2/3 & 2/6 OSHA 30-Hour Construction

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

BUILDING A BETTER CREW

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.

2/5/2025 HR Compliance

8:00 am - 11:00 am

3/12/2025 HR Accommodations

8:00 am - 11:00 am

11/5/2025 Non-Leadership Generational Coworking

8:00 am - 11:00 am

12/3/2025 Is AI 4U?

8:00 am - 11:00 am

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Alternative HR, LLC

Nora Brooks, HR Consultant PO Box 7207 York, PA 17404

www.Alternative-HR.com

(717) 855-5589

nora@alternative-HR.com

Gilbert Architects

Kyle Cross, Director of Business Development 626 North Charlotte Street Lancaster, PA 17603

www.gilbertarchitects.com (717) 291-1077

k.cross@gilbertarchitects.com

Redhammer LLC

Scott Franchini, Partner

4455 East Camelback Road, E290 Phoenix, AZ 85018

www.redhammer.io (602) 770-8580

sfranchini@redhammer.io

Sponsored By:

Brian Floyd, Principal, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants

Durable Surfaces, LLC

Hunter Lentz, Business Development Manager 223 Fellowship Road Chester Springs, PA 19425

www.durablesurfaces.com (610) 647-3852

hlentz@durablesurfaces.com

Sponsored By: Robb Beiler Wohlsen Construction Company

Peoples Security Bank & Trust

Patrick Snyder, Business Development Officer 830 Norman Drive Lebanon, PA 17042 www.psbt.com (717) 279-2200

patrick.snyder@psbt.com

SALUS Safety

Ian P. Gray, Northeast Lead

800 Fifth Avenue #101-800 Seattle, WA 98104

www.salussafety.io (833) 937-3007

ian.gray@salussafety.io

Sponsored By: John Lehmann Poole Anderson Construction, LLC

MERIT SHOP PROUD

SAXTON & STUMP CEO RECEIVES PENNSYLVANIA SENATE CITATION FOR SUCCESS, SERVICE

Saxton & Stump CEO James W. Saxton has received a special Pennsylvania Senate Citation for recently receiving the Shippensburg University Alumni Award of Distinction and for his contributions to the well-being of the community and the state.

Pennsylvania State Senator Ryan Aument (R-Lancaster) presented Saxton with the Citation at the firm’s Manheim Township headquarters in a special ceremony on Dec. 11. The citation honoring Jim was also sponsored by Senator Greg Rothman (R-Cumberland), whose district includes Shippensburg University. The citation recognizes Saxton as “a shining example of community spirit whose many contributions are worthy of deep gratitude and respect.”

“It’s a great honor to receive this citation from the Pennsylvania Senate,” Saxton said. “As our law firm nears its 10th anniversary, community contribution has been and always will be part of our culture across the organization. I want to thank Senator Aument and Senator Rothman for this prestigious recognition and for all they do for our region and state.”

Saxton has been the CEO of Saxton & Stump since he and others founded the law firm in 2015. Under his direction, the firm has grown to more than 110 attorneys, making it one of the largest firms based in central Pennsylvania. The firm has more than 200 professionals serving more than 40 different industries and business areas. It has also created seven different strategic affiliate companies that complement its legal services and help clients mitigate risk.

In May, Saxton was the undergraduate commencement speaker at Shippensburg University, and in October, his alma mater bestowed him with its Alumni Award of Distinction, which honors the recipients who exemplify excellence within their professional fields, communities and the university. Saxton graduated from Shippensburg in 1979 before graduating from the Duquesne School of Law in 1982.

In the community, Saxton has been a founding board member of the Lancaster Community Health Plan, chairman of the Lancaster YMCA Foundation, president of the Lancaster YMCA Board of Directors, and a past board member of the American Heart Association. In 2014, Jim and his wife Sally received the “Excellence in Philanthropy Award,” presented by the Lancaster General Health Foundation’s Board of Trustees. In 2013, again with Sally, the Central Pennsylvania Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals presented the couple with its “Philanthropist of the Year” award.

MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES

55 YEARS

Paul Risk Construction

40 YEARS

Ross Buehler Falk & Company, LLP

20 YEARS

First National Bank

Valley Supply, Inc.

10 YEARS

Dudes Painting Company

5 YEARS

RiverLogic Solutions, LLC Warehaus

Susquehanna Valley Construction Corp. GCM, Inc.

Construction Management, Inc.)

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