July 2026_Spokesman

JULY 2026

BUILDING AMERICA'S FUTURE WORKFORCE

ABC KEYSTONE LEADERSHIP 2026 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

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Chair of the Board

Steven Kearns James Craft & Son, Inc.

PROUDLY PUBLISHED

BY ABC KEYSTONE

Chair-Elect

Ed Engle Smucker Company

1st Vice Chair

Jeff Witmer Pathway Business Advisors

Message from the Chair

2nd Vice Chair

Robb Beiler Wohlsen Construction Company

Secretary

Aimée Deraco Brubaker

Treasurer

Timothy A. Kershner, CPA Walz Group

Immediate Past Chair

Guy Kingree, III Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.

5 From the President-CEO 6 Building America's Future Workforce 9 Advocacy Update 10 Ask an Accountant

2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jeff Albright

E.R. Stuebner, Inc.

Corbin Beittel

Warfel Construction Company

Jeff Bright

Offit Kurman

Stephanie Conway

Keystruct Construction, A Viocity Company

Kevin Eshleman

SLC Excavating, LLC

Michael L. Fiore

Leonard S. Fiore, Inc.

Brian Floyd

MPB Insurance & Risk Management

Ken Funk

Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc.

John H. Hykes, II

B&B Integrations

20 Merit Shop Proud

Anthony Leer

Leer Electric, Inc.

Michael Metz-Topodas

Saul Ewing LLP

22 Anniversaries

Patrick Snyder

Peoples Security Bank & Trust

Lee L. Summers, Jr.

C Mechanical Services

Kevin VanPelt

S&T Bank

Jan L. Wagner

Wagman Construction, Inc.

12 STEP Participants 15 Committee Update: Safety 18 Calendar of Events 19 New Members

G. David Sload, President-CEO

Manheim Office 135 Shellyland Rd. Manheim, PA 17545

Howard Office 898 N. Eagle Valley Rd. Howard, PA 16841 Harrisburg Office 800 North Third St., Suite 407 Harrisburg, PA 17102

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

Articles of interest, member news, press releases, and advertising placement requests may be submitted to the editor: Rebecca Wolf Director of Communications & Marketing rebecca@abckeystone.org | (717) 653-8106

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR MERIT SHOP CONTRACTORS; THE BUILDERS OF AMERICA'S FUTURE BY: STEVEN KEARNS

I have just returned from the ABC Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., and the city is alive with anticipation. By the time you read this, America will have celebrated its 250th birthday. This milestone had me reflecting on what the merit shop contractor has contributed to this great nation, and what an organization like ABC has meant to that story.

The numbers alone make a powerful statement.

Ninety percent of contractors in the United States are merit shop contractors, which means the merit shop performs the vast majority of construction work in this country. Step outside any major metropolitan area, and that work is done almost exclusively by merit shop contractors.

In many ways, the merit shop story is the American story: it begins with hiring the best workers you can find, paying them as much as you can afford, and the belief that if you take care of your people, everything else follows. Conditions in those early days were often hard, and wages reflected the times, but those contractors provided for their families and cared for their people as best they could. When the labor movement emerged and unions came around, it raised the bar for everyone, and the industry was better for it.

That dynamic is woven deep into Pennsylvania’s own story. Long before ABC was formally established in 1950, merit shop contractors were building the infrastructure that defined the Northeast: the steel mills and foundries of Pittsburgh, the rail lines that stitched the region together, the industrial plants that kept the nation running through two world wars.

Pennsylvania earned the name the Keystone State for a reason: it was the load-bearing state, the one everything else depended on. ABC Keystone carries that legacy today, representing over 667 member companies across 35 counties in Central Pennsylvania, all grounded in the same belief those early contractors held: that the best work comes from the best people, hired and advanced on merit.

Over the last fifty years, the merit shop has built a record it should be proud of. No sector of the industry has stepped up more. The merit shop has steadily and substantially grown its share of construction work,

not because the union sector weakened on its own, but because merit shop contractors rose to meet the challenge. They took workforce development seriously, invested in their people, and built something that could compete on every front.

Today, it is genuinely the best time in history to be a worker in the construction trades. Opportunities are abundant, wages and benefits in the merit shop are competitive with any employer in the market, and programs like ABC’s apprenticeship training put state-of-the-art skills within reach of anyone willing to work for them. It is the result of decades of deliberate investment in our workforce, driven by the values that define the merit shop: hire the best, develop their skills, and treat them right.

On this 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we are not just celebrating what has been built, we are staking a claim on what comes next. The infrastructure demands of the next twentyfive years are staggering: energy, transportation, housing, and manufacturing coming back to American soil. The merit shop has always been at its best when the work is hardest. Possibility is not enough on its own; it has to be turned into something real, something you can stand in or drive on or flip a switch to power. That is what we do. That is what we have always done. And on the occasion of America’s 250th birthday, we are just getting started.

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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

13 3

FROM THE PRESIDENT-CEO RED INK BUDGETS AND COSTLY LEGISLATION: PENNSYLVANIA TAXPAYERS DESERVE BETTER BY: G. DAVID SLOAD

As this issue goes to print, Pennsylvania's state budget may or may not be finalized. Regardless of when an agreement is reached, one fact remains clear: the Governor's proposed budget spends more than $4 billion beyond projected revenues.

Every contractor, business owner, and taxpayer understands a simple financial principle: You cannot continually spend more than you bring in. When expenses outpace revenue, something has to give.

In government, that often means depleting reserves, increasing taxes, or creating new revenue streams that place additional burdens on employers and taxpayers.

At ABC Keystone, we believe responsible budgeting matters because every dollar spent by government ultimately comes from Pennsylvania's businesses and families.

Unfortunately, concerns do not stop with the state budget. The Pennsylvania Senate recently passed SB 908, legislation that expands prevailing wage requirements to certain off-site fabrication used on publicly funded construction projects. ABC Keystone, along with the Pennsylvania Chamber, the PA Manufacturers' Association, county commissioners, and many others, opposed this legislation because it will drive up the cost of public construction without improving quality, safety, or project outcomes.

Independent estimates indicate the bill could increase public construction costs by 5% to 15%. That means fewer projects can be completed with existing taxpayer dollars, reducing the overall value of public investment at a time when infrastructure needs continue to grow.

The good news is there is still time to act.

SB 908 now awaits consideration in the House Labor & Industry Committee. If it advances, the full House of Representatives will have the opportunity to vote on the measure. We encourage every ABC Keystone member to contact their state representative and respectfully ask them to oppose this legislation.

If your legislator believes the bill addresses an existing problem, encourage them to examine the legislation carefully. ABC Keystone has completed an in-depth analysis of the bill and stands ready to provide lawmakers with information on its practical impact on taxpayers, contractors, and Pennsylvania's construction industry.

Affordability continues to be one of the top concerns for Pennsylvania families and employers. Government should be focused on maximizing the value of every taxpayer dollar, not adopting policies that increase costs and reduce the number of projects that can be delivered.

Advocacy is one of the greatest benefits of your ABC Keystone membership, but it is most effective when our members engage. Your voice matters. Contact your elected officials, stay informed, and help ensure Pennsylvania remains a place where businesses can compete, taxpayers receive value, and merit shop contractors continue to build our communities.

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BUILDING AMERICA’S FUTURE WORKFORCE As demand for artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure continues to accelerate, the construction industry faces a critical challenge: developing the skilled workforce needed to build and maintain the data centers powering America’s future.

travel assistance, housing, and living stipends. The training begins with career readiness and safety education before moving into five weeks of handson construction training that includes both core construction skills and craft-specific instruction.

To help address that challenge, Meta and Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) have launched an ambitious new initiative, America’s Workforce Academy, a $115 million investment designed to create career pathways for thousands of future construction professionals.

Upon successful completion, participants are offered employment opportunities with contractors working on Meta projects, providing a direct pathway from training to career placement.

The program will initially launch in Indiana, Louisiana, Ohio, and Texas, with the goal of establishing a scalable workforce development model that can be expanded nationwide.

Meeting a Growing Workforce Need The rapid expansion of data center construction has created significant demand for skilled craft professionals. America’s Workforce Academy was developed to help fill that gap by connecting job seekers directly to career opportunities on major construction projects.

Participants who complete the application process and qualify for the program receive scholarships, 6

“America’s Workforce Academy is a transformational endeavor creating incredible construction-ready careers,” said Michael Bellaman, ABC President and CEO. “ABC is proud to work with Meta, CBRE, and academy community partners to welcome all who want to build their career dreams as a professional in construction.”

Creating Opportunities Through Education The academy is designed to serve a wide range of individuals seeking meaningful careers, including recent high school graduates, veterans, career changers, and others interested in entering the construction industry.

By leveraging ABC’s extensive educational network, the program will be delivered through existing chapter

training centers in key markets such as Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Columbus, Ohio; Indianapolis; and Houston.

The initiative builds upon ABC’s long-standing commitment to workforce development and competency-based training. Through its network of 67 chapters and more than 800 apprenticeship, craft, safety, and management education programs, ABC has spent decades helping contractors recruit, train, and retain skilled workers.

multiple competencies, they are starting a lifelong career in construction with near limitless possibilities.”

For ABC member contractors, the initiative reinforces a broader industry commitment to developing the people who build America’s critical infrastructure.

Through apprenticeship programs, craft training, safety education, and leadership development, contractors

“This new program is an innovative talent solution that is a critical part of addressing the construction industry’s ongoing workforce shortage,” noted ABC leadership. “Utilizing ABC’s proven educational ecosystem allows us to quickly launch programs in key markets while maintaining the high standards required by today’s construction industry.”

Building America’s Next Generation of Infrastructure Meta leaders view the program as an important investment not only in workers, but also in America’s economic competitiveness.

“The AI revolution is bringing change but also historic opportunities,” said Meta President and Vice-Chairman Dina Powell McCormick. “Skilled workers electrified rural America one pole at a time. They manned the factories that built the arsenal that won World War II. Now a new generation will pour the foundations and lay the fiber that secures American strength in this new age.”

The academy’s workforce development model focuses on three primary objectives: • Building a sustainable talent pipeline that aligns industry needs with workforce training.

• Delivering accelerated, industry-aligned training that prepares participants for immediate employment.

• Ensuring workers understand safety expectations and can contribute productively from their first day on the jobsite.

A Long-Term Career, Not Just a Job While many participants may begin their careers on data center projects, the skills gained through the academy extend far beyond a single market sector.

continue to invest in creating opportunities that support workers, their families, and the communities they serve.

As technology continues to reshape the economy, programs like America’s Workforce Academy demonstrate how industry partnerships can create meaningful solutions to workforce challenges while opening doors to rewarding careers.

For individuals interested in helping build the infrastructure that powers America’s digital future, the opportunity has never been greater.

To learn more about America’s Workforce Academy please visit abc.org.

“The sustained demand for data center construction technicians means the industry needs an all-of-theabove approach to address workforce shortages,” Bellaman said. “These new entrants may be beginning their careers on data center projects, but by learning 721

SOUTHEAST REGION

SUMMER OUTDOOR MIXER AUGUST 4, 2026

John Wright Restaurant | Wrightsville, PA Enjoy an evening of networking, outdoor games, and conversation with members in a relaxed summer setting.

ABC KEYSTONE

CLAY SHOOT

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 Blue Ridge Sportsman Club | Harrisburg, PA Take aim at one of our most popular networking events featuring sporting clays, friendly competition, and great connections.

Presented by:

SAVE THE DATE!

SAVE THE DATE!

ABC KEYSTONE

EXCLLENCE IN CONSTRUCTION

OCTOBER 1, 2026

NOVEMBER 5, 2026

ABC Keystone | Manheim, PA

Spooky Nook Sports | Manheim, PA

Mark your calendar for an evening of tailgating, networking, food, drinks and fun with fellow ABC Keystone members.

Join us as we celebrate the region's top construction projects, honor industry excellence, and connect with construction leaders.

TAILGATE PARTY

AWARDS

Presented by:

CONNECT

Build relationships that last.

ABCKEYSTONE.ORG

COLLABORATE

Share ideas and solve challenges.

GROW

Strengthen your business and network

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ADVOCACY UPDATE DO ELECTIONS HAVE CONSEQUENCES? BY: JIM WILLSHIER, DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

“Elections have consequences” is now a cliché. People usually mean that there are repercussions for electing a candidate or a party that gains control of a branch of government. That is not shocking news.

There is a better question to ask after seeing how this past legislative session played out: Can the inverse of that statement be true? Can a candidate or party create consequences out of fear of losing re-election? If that is possible, it quickly becomes a slippery slope: whether they are casting votes and creating legislation that truly represent their constituents or are just plain politicking.

We are starting to see the answer to that question. In roughly 3 months, there will be a concrete answer from the remainder of the legislative session and this year’s election.

In just the 2025-26 legislative session alone, ABC has seen several House Republicans and Senate Republicans vote to expand prevailing wage and to confuse worker misclassification, while at the same time ignoring apprenticeship ratios as a way to create jobs when we need them. The combination makes our membership livid, especially when the outcome creates an uneven playing field for merit shop workers.

The reason for these votes is not a secret. It’s the fear of repercussions from unions in modern political elections: their use of political action contributions as a carrot or stick, depending on the issue, and any other means to cost election votes. The legislators are not falling in line to represent their own constituents. Instead, we are seeing republicans (and, yes, also democrats) vote against their district to appease unions. It’s important to note that legislators are voting to appease unions, not necessarily union contractors or union workers, on these issues.

A case study is this June’s senate vote to expand prevailing wage to offsite prefabrication (Senate Bill 908), where we saw Sen. Malone (D-Lancaster), Sen. Argall (R-Carbon/Schuylkill), Sen. Pennycuick (R-Berks/Chester/ Montgomery), and Sen. Rothman (R-Cumberland/Perry) vote against their district. They are predominantly represented by merit shop workers in districts that have few union members. But they voted with unions either for their own re-election or to help their party control the Senate.

As we approach fall and get closer to Election Day, please keep in mind that elections have consequences.

Take a look at voting records and talk to the candidates about their legislative votes. It is clear that the consequences of our last election are growing for merit shops, but you still have a voice.

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Professional Perspectives

ASK AN ACCOUNTANT BY: DANIEL T. MASSEY, CPA, WALZ GROUP

TARIFF RELIEF ACT 2026 What Does the Recent Supreme Court Ruling on Tariffs Mean for Your Business?

Earlier this year, the Supreme Court of the United States issued a ruling that negated some of the impacts of tariffs that have been in place over the last year or more.

Naturally, we’ve had clients asking: • What does this actually mean for us?

Is There a Way to Get Tariff Money Back?

Yes. There may be. There is now a portal that went into service on April 20, 2026, where companies that have paid tariffs may be able to recover some of those funds.

This aligns with ongoing federal processes tied to tariff refunds and trade adjustments, which are typically administered through agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection and guided by federal trade rulings.

Who Qualifies for Tariff Refunds?

A couple of important things to know: • You must have paid the tariffs directly • You must have been the importer of • The tariffs must have been instituted as a result of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Previously existing tariffs are not likely eligible for refund.

If you are paying a supplier who simply marked up their invoice to include tariffs, you likely cannot claim those funds back directly.

This is consistent with federal guidance. Refund claims are generally limited to the party that originally paid the tariff to the government.

What If Tariffs Were Passed Through a Supplier?

If you didn’t pay tariffs directly, you’re not necessarily out of options.

If you paid a supplier who included tariffs in their pricing, you may be able to negotiate a lower price going forward or negotiate a portion of the refund that the supplier was granted.

If your supplier is now receiving tariff relief, there is a reasonable expectation that: • Their costs go down • Some of that benefit can be passed through to you This becomes a business negotiation opportunity, not just a tax or compliance issue.

Are There Opportunities to Recover Cash or Improve Margins?

Yes, and this is where businesses should pay attention. There are plenty of opportunities here for funds coming back to you, either through: 10

• Direct refunds if eligible • Improved vendor pricing • Strategic renegotiation of contracts For many companies, this is not just about compliance. It is about cash flow and margin improvement.

Where Can You Find Reliable Information on Tariff Relief?

There are a number of places to learn more about how this process works.

A strong starting point: • The U.S. Chamber of Commerce website You can also reference federal resources like: • U.S. Customs and Border Protection for tariff-specific procedures These sources provide credible and up-to-date guidance on eligibility and next steps.

What Should You Do Next?

If your business has been impacted by tariffs over the past year: • Review whether you paid tariffs directly • Identify vendors who may have passed through tariff costs • Explore refund eligibility through the available portal • Consider renegotiating supplier agreements

2026 Verified STEP Participants Assurance Media, LLC B&B Integrations Benchmark Construction Co., Inc. Brubaker C.M. High, Inc. Capital Coating, Inc. CB Construction Services, Inc. CCS Building Group Clark Contractors, Inc. CLARK, Inc. COMPANY Conexus, Inc. James Craft & Son, Inc. D.E. Gemmill, Inc. DenTech Industrial DeRock Electric Company

As verified by ABC National as of July 2026

Dolan Construction, Inc. E.R. Stuebner, Inc. EA Roofing Co. EG Stoltzfus Construction, LLC Flyway Excavating, Inc. Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc. Glenn O. Hawbaker, Inc. Gorski Engineering, Inc. H&K Group, Inc. Hayden Power Group Hursh Painting Co., Inc. J.F. Sobieski Mechanical Contractors, Inc. JEM Group, LLC John E. Fullerton, Inc. Johnston Construction Company Kessel Construction, Inc.

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.

WWW.ABC.ORG/ABCSTEP 12

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Get More Out of Your Health and Safety Program

Keystruct Construction, A Viocity Company Lancaster County Timber Frames, Inc. Lebanon Valley Electric, Inc. Leer Electric, Inc. Leo Kob Co., Inc. Leonard S. Fiore, Inc. LEW Site Construction, LLC M. Potteiger, Inc. MVE Group MYCO Mechanical, Inc. Paramount Contracting, Inc. Pincus Elevator Company, Inc. Quality Buildings, LLC Quandel Enterprises, LLC Quarry View Building Group S&S Structures, Inc.

Scenic Ridge Company Schlouch Incorporated Smucker Company Tabora Painting, LLC The Tri-M Group, LLC The Tuckey Companies Wagman Construction, Inc. Warfel Construction Company Wenrich Painting, Inc. White Rose Interiors, LLC Wickersham Construction and Engineering, Inc. Wohlsen Construction Company Zartman Construction, Inc. Zebby Sulecki, Inc. Zook Interiors, LLC

Map your journey at abc.org/topperformers.

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NEW SEMINAR!

Understanding and Addressing Substance Use Disorders in the Workplace Substance use and mental health challenges can impact employee safety, productivity, and overall workplace culture. In this seminar attendees will gain practical knowledge and tools to recognize potential concerns, respond appropriately, and foster a supportive work environment that encourages employees to seek help while maintaining workplace safety and accountability.

• Identify signs of impairment and substance use • Understand the substance use spectrum • Reduce stigma and encourage support-seeking • Implement balanced safety-focused policies • Leverage EAPs and peer support resources • Foster a recovery-friendly workplace Learn more at ABCKEYSTONE.ORG.

FREE Member Seminar Upcoming Dates: August 6 | 8:00 am - 9:00 am September 3 | 8:00 am - 9:00 am October 1 | 8:00 am - 9:00 am November 5 | 8:00 am - 9:00 am

Committee Update

SAFETY TRAINING Be Ready When Every Second Counts Construction sites are built on preparation. Hard hats, fall protection, lockout/tagout procedures, and daily safety meetings all help prevent accidents, but even the safest jobsite can experience an unexpected medical emergency.

When someone suffers a cardiac arrest, severe injury, choking incident, or other life-threatening emergency, the actions taken during the first few minutes can make all the difference. That is why First Aid, CPR, and AED training is one of the most valuable investments a company can make in its workforce.

ABC Keystone's First Aid/CPR/AED Training equips participants with the knowledge and confidence to respond quickly and effectively until professional medical help arrives. Through hands-on instruction, participants learn how to recognize common medical emergencies, perform high-quality CPR, use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), and provide basic first aid for injuries and illnesses.

Successful participants earn their Emergency Care & Safety Institute (ECSI) First Aid/CPR/AED Certification, a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates competency in emergency response techniques.

Beyond earning a certification, this training helps create a stronger safety culture. Employees who know how to respond in an emergency are better prepared to protect their coworkers, clients, and even family members at home. Confidence, quick thinking, and proper training can help reduce the severity of injuries and, in some cases, save lives.

Whether you are a field employee, supervisor, office professional, or safety leader, First Aid/CPR/AED training provides practical skills that extend far beyond the workplace.

At ABC Keystone, safety is more than meeting compliance requirements. It is about ensuring every employee has the tools and training needed to respond when it matters most.

When emergencies happen, preparation saves lives.

FIRST AID/CPR/AED TRAINING with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification

CERTIFICATION

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12 PM - 4 PM

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ABCKEYSTONE.ORG 15 21

JULY

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AUGUST

EVENTS, COURSES & TRAINING

EVENTS, COURSES & TRAINING

7/1

Time Management Part of the Professional Development Series

8/4

Construction Estimating Principles and Application

7/9

VitalCog: Understanding and Addressing Substance Use Disorders in the Workplace

8/4

7/13

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

Summer Outdoor Mixer | Southeast Region Presented by Saxton & Stump Lawyers and Consultants Wrightsville, PA

8/5

7/15

Behavioral-based Interviewing Part of the Human Resources Management Academy

Providing Quality Customer Service Part of the Professional Development Series

8/5

Reading Construction Documents

7/16

Executive Leader Contractor Peer Group

8/6

7/16

VitalCog: Suicide Prevention in the Workplace

VitalCog: Understanding and Addressing Substance Use Disorders in the Workplace

7/16

Bluebeam® Revu Intro

MEMBER SEMINAR

MEMBER SEMINAR

8/11

Bluebeam® Baseline Basics Part of the Bluebeam Series

8/12

Employment Assessments Part of the Human Resources Management Academy

8/13

Bluebeam® Material Takeoffs & Estimates - Basics Part of the Bluebeam Series

8/14

Bluebeam® Materials Takeoffs & Estimates - Advanced Part of the Bluebeam Series

8/18

Bluebeam® Revu for Administrative Professionals Part of the Bluebeam Series

8/18

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

8/20

VitalCog: Suicide Prevention in the Workplace

8/26

Rough-Terrain Forklift Training

MEMBER SEMINAR

MEMBER SEMINAR

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS York Revolution Dave Shea, Director of Special Events

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754 Barr Boulevard Lancaster, PA 17603

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Sponsored by: Brian Floyd

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315 Clover Avenue Lancaster, PA 17602

805 Estelle Drive, Suite 111 Lancaster, PA 17601

(717) 925-0501

(717) 455-3653

www.dvmiller.com

www.hempfieldtech.com Sponsored by: Aimée Deraco, Brubaker

MAKE/FILMS Derek Dienner, EP/Founder

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841 North Prince Street Lancaster, PA 17603

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Sponsored by: Ed Engle, Smucker Company

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MERIT SHOP PROUD VISION MECHANICAL CLAIMS FIRST AMONG LARGE BUSINESSES IN GRCA'S 2026 BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS Vision Mechanical has been named the No. 1 Large Business in the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance's 2026 Business Excellence Awards, recognizing the company's exceptional revenue growth and continued commitment to excellence in the plumbing and HVAC industry.

The annual Business Excellence Awards recognize Berks County companies demonstrating outstanding business growth based on both percentage and dollar revenue increases. Vision Mechanical earned the top ranking in the Large Business category, which includes companies with annual revenues exceeding $1 million.

Founded in 2000 by brothers Barry Unger, President, and Eric Unger, Vice President, Vision Mechanical has grown from a startup of eight employees into a leading mechanical contractor serving Berks, Lebanon, Schuylkill, Lancaster, Lehigh, Bucks, Chester and Montgomery counties.

"This recognition is a reflection of the incredible people who make up Vision Mechanical," said Barry Unger, President of Vision Mechanical. "From the beginning, our goal has been to build a company rooted in trust, integrity and a commitment to excellence. Our team has embraced that vision, and this award belongs to every employee who has helped make our success possible."

A key driver of the company's growth has been its implementation of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), a business management framework that aligns leadership, improves communication and keeps the organization focused on long-term strategic goals. Through EOS, Vision Mechanical achieved its ambitious 10-year growth target in just five years.

"As we've grown, we've learned the importance of working on the business—not just in it," Unger said. "Having the right people in the right roles and giving them the tools to succeed has allowed us to create new opportunities while continuing to deliver exceptional service to our customers."

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Barry Unger, President & Eric Unger, Vice President

Vision Mechanical's investment in workforce development has also played a significant role in its success. The company currently supports approximately 10 apprentices through its apprenticeship program, helping develop the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

"I came through an apprenticeship program myself, so I understand firsthand the value it provides," said Unger. "Developing skilled professionals isn't just good for our company—it's essential for the future of our industry."

The company's continued expansion has also included the acquisition of AP Merkel Plumbing & Heating, strengthening Vision Mechanical's residential service offerings and growing its recurring maintenance and service agreement business.

Today, Vision Mechanical employs more than 50 team members and continues to focus on sustainable growth while remaining committed to its core mission.

"Our focus has always been about building an enduring legacy for our employees and their families while exceeding our customers' expectations," Unger said.

After placing third in the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance's Business Excellence Awards in 2025, Vision Mechanical advanced to the top spot in 2026, reflecting the company's continued momentum and strategic growth.

WARFEL CONSTRUCTION CONTINUES NATIONAL GROWTH WITH ENR TOP 400 RANKING, REACHING HIGHEST RANKING TO DATE Warfel Construction is proud to announce its recognition on Engineering News-Record’s (ENR) 2026 Top 400 Contractors list, ranking #354 nationally among the largest general contractors in the United States.

The ranking marks Warfel’s highest national placement to date. It reflects the company’s continued growth, strong client partnerships, and commitment to delivering exceptional construction experiences across a diverse portfolio of projects.

ENR’s annual Top 400 Contractors list is one of the construction industry’s most respected national rankings, evaluating firms based on annual revenue generated from contracting activities.

Continued National Growth Warfel has steadily earned national recognition through its continued presence on the ENR Top 400 list over the years: • 2019 — #370 • 2020 — #370 • 2025 — #396 • 2026 — #354 This year’s ranking represents the company’s strongest performance yet and highlights the momentum Warfel continues to build throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond.

A Reflection of Teamwide Commitment “Achieving our highest ranking ever on the ENR Top 400 Contractors list is an exciting milestone for our company,” said Conlan Swope, President of Warfel Construction. “This recognition is a direct reflection of the dedication, talent, and integrity of our entire team.

Every employee plays a role in delivering exceptional results for our clients, and we are incredibly proud of what we continue to accomplish together.”

multiple markets, including senior living, healthcare, higher education, commercial, adaptive reuse projects, and more.

Warfel’s continued investment in innovation, employee development, sustainability, and community impact has helped position the company as a trusted construction partner throughout the region.

Looking Ahead As Warfel continues to grow, the company remains focused on its mission of creating Clients for Life while building spaces that strengthen communities and support future generations.

“We are honored to be recognized among the nation’s top contractors,” said Matthew Hartzler, CEO of Warfel Construction. “This achievement speaks to the strength of our relationships — with our employees, clients, trade partners, and communities. We are grateful for the trust placed in us and excited for the opportunities ahead.”

#ABCMeritShopProud For inclusion in future issues of the Merit Shop Spokesman, please send your press releases to: Rebecca Wolf rebecca@abckeystone.org (717) 653-8106

Founded in 1911, Warfel Construction has built a longstanding reputation for quality construction, trusted relationships, and a people-first approach to business. The company serves clients across 21 21

MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES Congratulations to these members celebrating milestone anniversaries in July 2026!

50 YEARS Heidler Roofing, LLC 45 YEARS Lezzer Lumber B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc. 30 YEARS Simon Lever 20 YEARS Garden Spot Mechanical, Inc. Beam's Custom Woodworking & Cabinetry, LLC 15 YEARS Somerset County Technology Center 5 YEARS Yale Electric Supply Co. Benchmark Site Development, LLC Actalent Garvey Roark, LLC 1 YEAR Jud Firestone Plumbing, LLC H&K Group, Inc. For The Trades Financial Wellness, LLC

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2026 C.O.R.E. SPONSORS DIAMOND SPONSOR

SAPPHIRE SPONSORS

PREMIER SPONSORS

PLATINUM SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

Aerotek, Inc. Assurance Media, LLC Barley Snyder Cargas Systems, Inc. Commonwealth Fire Protection Co.

SILVER SPONSORS Associated Products Services, Inc. Brown Plus emc CPAs Fulton Bank D.E. Gemmill, Inc.

BRONZE SPONSORS David Miller/Associates, Inc. ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLC

EHD Garrety Glass, Inc. Horst Construction Co. Hursh Painting Co., Inc. Martins Flooring

McNees Wallace & Nurick, LLC Poole Anderson Construction, LLC M. Potteiger, Inc. Providence Engineering RKL

S&T Bank Saul Ewing LLP Smucker Company Trout CPA

Leer Electric, Inc. MPB Insurance & Risk Management Paramount Contracting, Inc. Remco Inc. Vision Mechanical, Inc. The Witmer Group

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