
Michael
Brian
Ken
John
Anthony
Matthew
Lee
Jan

Michael
Brian
Ken
John
Anthony
Matthew
Lee
Jan
Congratulations to the 2024 graduating class which consists of 86 apprentices! With the current labor shortage, this annual event is more important than ever as it showcases the women and men who have chosen careers in the trades. Let's come together to cheer them on!
If you've ever been to the ABC National Convention and Craft Competition, you know how inspiring it is. I highly recommend attending. Let's show our apprentices our support and gratitude as they embark on their journey to become the next wave of skilled craft professionals. They will be the ones building our communities and so much more in the future.
We all have a part to play in spreading the word. Let's use our companies and social media platforms to excite and inspire the next wave of potential apprentices.
This newly created event has everything we need. From leadership to the safety committee, there's something for everyone. With fantastic keynote and breakout session speakers discussing topics related to Total Human Health, Safety Protection, and more, this event is not to be missed!
Knowledge is power, and this event will help us accelerate our efforts to support our people and companies. It's time to change the narrative that Merit shop contractors are unsafe and address the fact that the construction industry has the highest rate of suicide among all industries.
Don't miss out on this opportunity!
At ABC Keystone we're exploring the potential of technology. And why wouldn't we? It's one of the most essential aspects of our daily business operations.
From traditional tools like project management, scheduling, and field management software to cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality and AI, the landscape is evolving rapidly. It's crucial to stay informed about the latest advancements and learn from others' successes.
That's why Keystone is hosting a full day of speakers, sponsors, and tools for you to explore. Industry professionals will be on hand to guide us through what's available and help us navigate the decision-making process when selecting new products to evaluate and implement. We encourage company leadership, including project managers and technologists, to attend.
Additionally, we'll be forming a technology committee for 2025 and will be looking for candidates at the conference. If you're interested, this is an event you won't want to miss. We'll also be surveying attendees to determine what technology training and support Keystone can provide to members in 2025 and beyond. Your input will help shape our future initiatives.
Stay tuned
In the wake of President Biden's tenure, concerns about the overreach of executive power and its implications for businesses have come to the forefront. Promises of unity and bipartisanship have seemingly given way to a series of executive orders and regulatory measures that could fundamentally alter the landscape of American enterprise. With the administration's focus on bolstering unions and enacting stringent regulations, the future of free enterprise hangs in the balance.
One of the most alarming aspects of the Biden administration's approach is its utilization of executive orders and regulatory maneuvers to enact sweeping changes, circumventing the traditional legislative process. Despite campaign pledges of inclusivity, these actions have raised concerns about the erosion of democratic principles and the imposition of policies that could adversely affect businesses and their employees.
At the heart of the matter is the administration's fervent support for organized labor, evidenced by President Biden's declaration to be the most union-friendly president in history. While this may resonate with a segment of the workforce, the ramifications for businesses, particularly those adhering to the Merit Shop philosophy, are profound.
A closer look at recent regulatory developments reveals a pattern of measures that threaten the foundations of free enterprise:
Rules on Union Organizing:
The National Labor Relations Board's (NLRB) new rules on union organizing have raised eyebrows by stripping employees of the right to a secret ballot and imposing tighter deadlines for employer responses. Critics argue that these changes set labor law back decades, undermining the principles of fairness and democratic representation.
Changes to how wages are calculated and benefits handled in Davis-Bacon projects have significant implications for businesses operating in the construction sector. The alteration of longstanding practices could disrupt project planning and strain employer-employee relations.
The Department of Labor's (DOL) new overtime rule, impacting salaried employees earning below a certain threshold, introduces added financial burdens for businesses already grappling with economic uncertainties. Compliance with these regulations could strain budgets and hinder operational flexibility.
The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) ban on noncompete clauses not only affects employee contracts but also introduces uncertainties in project and vendor agreements. The broad scope of this measure could impede innovation and
hinder businesses' ability to protect intellectual property.
Despite promoting apprenticeship as a means to educate the future workforce, the DOL's new rule could stifle the expansion of apprenticeship programs and deter employer participation. This could exacerbate skills gaps and hinder economic growth.
The executive order mandating Project Labor Agreements (PLAs) on federal projects over a certain threshold has sparked controversy, with critics alleging discrimination against the majority of the construction workforce. This move runs counter to principles of fairness and equal opportunity.
In response to these regulatory challenges, organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors are mobilizing to defend the interests of businesses and promote the principles of free enterprise. Legal challenges against overreaching mandates underscore the importance of advocacy and engagement in the political process.
Looking ahead, the stakes are high for businesses as they navigate a landscape shaped by government policies and regulations. The enduring principle that "elections have consequences" rings true, emphasizing the need for active participation in shaping the future of business-friendly policies. In conclusion, the Biden administration's approach to governance has raised concerns about the preservation of free enterprise and the rights of businesses to operate without undue interference. As stakeholders grapple with the implications of regulatory changes, the imperative to safeguard democratic principles and economic freedoms has never been more pressing. Business leaders must heed the call to action: engage in politics or risk the erosion of the foundations upon which free enterprise thrives.
"Associated Builders and Contractors is mobilizing to defend the interests of businesses and promote the principles of free enterprise."
• Create your own workforce through formalized training.
• Increase productivity, safety & profits.
• Expand your workers' knowledge base.
• Bid work more competitively.
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. Contact us today to learn more today. ABCKEYSTONE.ORG
Anyone following Pennsylvania politics or news in recent history has likely felt like the world is losing its grip. Heading into a major election in 2024 has only exacerbated the situation.
We have witnessed a number of wild policies that seem more like problems seeking solutions (often creating crises in the process) or plain pandering to labor groups. Unfortunately, these policies have had a harmful effect on merit shops.
In the past month, we have seen even more of this ahead of the Primary Election, most notably with Governor Shapiro announcing that he is directing all state agencies to undertake capital projects under a Project Labor Agreement (PLA). While ABC is mounting a strong response to that announcement, it also highlights a major disconnect in governing, despite this being an election year.
For those keeping score, the governor has signed few bills into law, last year’s budget process was ugly, and this year does not look any better or timelier, with partisanship growing by the day.
Announcing an intent to implement a PLA in this environment, without being more focused on a state budget or the related policy issues that typically facilitate a budget deal, is counterproductive. It may electrify a base of labor supporters and help push that energy further into election cycles, but it is not a solution to the challenges facing Pennsylvania.
The only way to change course is for individuals to take a lead in changing the discourse, both at the ballot box and by engaging with public officials. The message is clear: this is not acceptable, and it needs to change.
As a coalition, all of ABC needs to push back against this status quo by surpassing the energy of Big Labor. We ask you to pay close attention to our communications in the next few weeks as we issue more calls to action on key bills that may move, so you can share your concerns with legislators. Join our campaign against PLAs, participate in legislator meetings both in Washington (ABC’s LegCon in June) and at home with local offices, and watch our list of endorsed candidates for November’s elections.
If you have any questions about how to get involved or what you can do, please contact Jim at jim@abckeystone.org.
n 1983, Jerry Harding and Lowell Yost merged their agencies, laying the foundation for our present-day company. Since then, their mission remains unchanged. As a leading independent agency, Harding-Yost is dedicated to upholding the company's core values. The mission is to provide the highest level of insurance integrity to their clients, the companies they represent, and the community they proudly serve.
We asked Daniel Trump, Partner, Commercial Account Executive about how being an ABC Keystone Member has impacted the business.
What about your company makes you most proud?
Our agency's ownership remains in-house, a conscious choice that preserves our independence, fuels our organic growth, and enables us to quickly respond to our customers' needs. This deliberate approach allows us to maintain the culture we've diligently fostered—a culture of community, customer care, employee fulfillment, and strong partnerships with carriers.
What are your company’s core values?
We are proud to be a trusted local agency. Harding-Yost Insurance is a dynamic independent insurance agency, serving clients throughout Pennsylvania and neighboring states. With over 30 professional members on our team, we are dedicated to upholding our founding core values while maintaining the highest level of insurance integrity.
What sets your company apart from its competitors?
HYI is a standout player in the independent insurance agency landscape. As a dynamic regional
agency, we've grown to over 30 employees while maintaining our local, mid-size identity. Our expertise, product offerings, and carrier partnerships rank among the best in the industry. Importantly, we've opted to remain independent, resisting pressures to sell to private equity or larger entities, and keeping ownership in-house.
What are your top 3 goals for your company?
1. To be a trusted, independentlyowned agency and a respected leader in the insurance industry.
2. To provide exceptional value and service to our customers, fostering trusted relationships with both customers and carrier partners.
3. To cultivate an outstanding workplace culture that prioritizes employee value, offering flexibility, employment perks, growth opportunities, collaborative teamwork, and community engagement.
"Being part of ABC has allowed us to forge new relationships while strengthening existing ones."
What exciting projects are on the horizon at your company?
In 2017, we relocated our company to a historic silk factory building in downtown Denver, which we renovated to accommodate our expanding team. Due to our continued growth, we have just completed our third office expansion and are already eager to start planning our fourth!
What do you consider to be your company's greatest achievement?
Over the past 40 years, we have evolved from a small agency with six employees to a thriving team of over 30 professionals. In the last six years alone, we have doubled our workforce,
establishing ourselves as a key player in Pennsylvania's insurance landscape. Despite the competitive industry, we have sustained organic growth while remaining independent.
How do you measure the success of your company?
• Retaining our engaged and committed employees who consistently provide exceptional service.
• Fostering long-term partnerships with insurance carriers and customers.
• Growing with existing clients who trust us with additional insurance requirements such as employee benefits and business insurance.
• Providing protection to our clients when unforeseen events occur.
How has being an ABC Member made an impact on your company?
Being part of ABC has allowed us to forge new relationships while strengthening existing ones. It offers an excellent opportunity to network in a relaxed atmosphere with friends, peers, and clients.
What advice would you give to potential and current ABC Members?
Prioritize integrity in all your dealings with customers, prospects, partners, and employees. While this may not always lead to immediate gains, it ensures sustainable longterm growth, value, and pride.
Would you like to be featured in our Membership Spotlight?
Contact: Rebecca Wolf Director of Marketing & CommunicationsBe a part of a one-of-a-kind experience at the ABC Keystone Safety Sumit, where we bring together industry professionals from around Central Pennsylvania. Our program provides you with access to the most up-to-date information and resources on construction safety and health.
You'll have the opportunity to interact with experts in the field, learn from their experiences, and discover new tools that will help you create a safe working environment.
Safety Professionals, Human Resource Managers, CEOs, Operations Managers, and Field Employees.
BREAK OUT SESSIONS TO KEEP YOUR EMPLOYEES HEALTHY & SAFE
• Recognizing and Understanding Substance Abuse in the Workplace and at Home
• Mitigate the Top 10+ OSHA Injuries & Accidents
• Exoskeletons: What are they, and how can they help?
• Use of Drones/Robots in Construction
OPPORTUNITIES TO CONNECT
• STEP Luncheon
• Networking Happy Hour
• Lead Exposure in Construction: The Persistent Problem
• Introduction to Respiratory Protection
• Mental Health
• ABC of Fall Protection
• Human Performance Basics: The Implementation of Human and Organizational Performance Measures-
On Thursday, May 16, ABC Keystone will celebrate the graduation of 86 apprentices from our registered apprenticeship program, marking a significant milestone in each of their careers.
This is an extraordinary achievement for each of these individuals! Reaching this milestone requires hard work, dedication, drive, and commitment to their trade.
To the Class of 2024, congratulations on your accomplishments! On behalf of ABC Keystone Apprenticeship & Training Trust, we wish you all success and happiness in the future.
For more information on the Apprenticeship Program, contact Cindy DeWire, Director of Apprenticeship at cindyd@abckeystone.org
As an Emerging Leader, how has your involvement with ABC Keystone helped you?
I've been a committee member of ABC for three years now. Having grown up in the industry and in Lancaster County, I've known about the Chapter since I was young. During my time with ABC Keystone, I've had the opportunity to meet and connect with numerous professionals, make new friends, and contribute to making Central PA a better place. Being a part of ABC Keystone has been incredibly valuable to me.
Daniel Redcay Project Engineer
Q:
What role do you play in your organization?
As a Project Engineer at Wohlsen, I support both field and office operations. Onsite during construction, I work closely with the superintendent to maintain schedules, uphold high-quality standards, coordinate subcontractors, and prioritize safety. In the office, I assist with various tasks such as submittals, RFIs, change orders, and collecting and organizing closeout documents. Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to creating Raving Fan clients for Wohlsen.
What words of advice do you have for your fellow Emerging Leaders?
Don’t hesitate to reach out, meet people, and get involved in community leadership initiatives. Networking in this industry is invaluable, and ABC is a great place to start.
Why do you wake up and go to work every day?
There are a few reasons why I get up and go to work every day. Firstly, I'm fortunate to have a great group of colleagues at Wohlsen and across the construction industry here in the Central PA region. The construction industry here is tight-knit, with endless overlapping networks, and I love that aspect of our trade. Looking to the future, I'm excited about seeing the projects I've worked on and being able to tell my wife and kids, “Hey, I helped build that.” That sense of fulfillment is really important to me.
1295 Manheim Pike Lancaster, PA 17601
www.wohlsenconstruction.com (717) 205-4669
dredcay@wohlsen.com
Would you like to be featured in the next Emerging Leaders Spotlight?
Contact: Heather Mazur heather@abckeystone.org
(267) 238-4775
ince 1970, OSHA has provided both the employer and employees’ representatives the opportunity to accompany OSHA during its physical inspection, or “walk around,” of the job site. However, on April 1, 2024, OSHA issued a new, final rule that significantly changed the scope of who can participate in the walk around.
Prior to the enactment of this rule, OSHA required employees’ representatives to be employees of the employer unless, in the judgment of the Compliance Safety and Health Officer (CSHO), good cause was shown to establish that a third party was “reasonably necessary to the conduct of an effective and thorough physical inspection of the workplace.” CSHOs usually narrowly applied the exception to safety engineers or industrial hygienists whose specific expertise was necessary to assess a particular condition at the site. However, under the new rule, OSHA clarified that the CSHO may allow any third-party representative to participate in the walk around provided they are “reasonably necessary to the conduct of an effective
and thorough physical inspection of the workplace by virtue of their knowledge, skills, or experience.”
The new rule is intended to make it clear that permissible third-party representation during walk arounds expands well beyond safety engineers and industrial hygienists.
Who can the employees select as their representative under the new rule?
Under the new rule, employees can select a third-party representative whose interests may not be aligned with the employer, such as nonelected union organizers, attorneys, community organizers, interpreters, or activists. Ultimately, the determination of whether those individuals are “reasonably necessary” to conduct the inspection or have the appropriate “knowledge, skills, or experience” to assist lies solely with the CSHO.
What can the employer do if it objects to the employees’ representative?
The new rule does not change the CSHO’s obligation to determine with “reasonable certainty” that the third party is the employees’ representative. In order to do so, the CSHO must consult with a reasonable number of employees in the workplace. Thus, if the employer has an objection to the individual selected, it should request that the CSHO confer with a reasonable number of employees in the workplace to ascertain whether the third party is their selected representative.
What should the employer do if the employees’ representative disrupts the inspection?
Even if the CSHO initially allows the third party to participate in the walk around, it can withdraw its approval and deny the right to accompaniment to any person if their conduct interferes with a fair and orderly inspection. Further, everyone’s conduct during an inspection must not unreasonably disrupt the employer’s operations. Thus, if the employees’ third-party representative is disrupting the inspection
or the employer’s operations, the employer should request that the CSHO prevent the representative from continuing to participate in the walk around.
What other steps should employers take if a thirdparty representative participates in the walk around? If a third-party representative is participating in the walk around, employers should be careful to protect their confidential information and trade secrets from inadvertent disclosure. Critically, the new rule does not change an employer’s right to declare certain areas off-limits to representatives who do not work in that particular area to prevent the disclosure of trade secrets or confidential information. Companies should be prepared to identify areas that contain confidential information or trade secrets at the start of the inspection (during the opening conference) so that third-party representatives do not wander into areas where they can obtain the company’s confidential information.
The new OSHA walk around rule takes effect on May 31, 2024. If you have any other questions about the new OSHA walk around rule, please reach out to the attorneys at Cohen Seglias.
Saxton & Stump is pleased to announce the addition of attorney Wayne M. Pecht as equity shareholder and CoChair of the Trusts and Estates group, including the Business and Corporate, Tax and Tax Controversy, and Senior Care groups. Pecht has over 40 years of experience in business and tax law, including estate planning.
Warfel Construction Company has secured a new office location in in State College, PA.
Headquartered in East Petersburg, PA, Warfel has expanded its geographic footprint significantly over the past several years by opening new office locations in Paoli, PA and Winchester, VA.
Pecht holds an L.L.M. from Georgetown University Law Center, one of the top tax schools in the country. He is also a Certified Public Accountant frequently holding lectures on wealth preservation, retirement, tax planning, and a variety of business topics. He earned his law degree from Dickinson School of Law, and he graduated from Penn State University with a degree in accounting.
“Wayne has had a remarkable career and we are pleased he has chosen our firm to join our growing Business, Corporate, and Tax groups,” Saxton & Stump CEO James W. Saxton said. “He brings over four decades of business experience and will add tremendous value to our clients.”
Best Lawyers continually names Pecht to its annual “Best Lawyers in America” list in both Trusts & Estates and Business Law.
“We are excited to continue pursuing Clients for Life in the Central Pennsylvania area,” said President Conlan Swope. “This new office location will allow us to more effectively manage projects while providing best-in-class experiences for our clients in this region.”
Warfel’s dynamic strategic plan has fueled continued growth, therefore driving this expansion.
Thoughtfully located, the new office on Stewart Drive will host team members that are active on projects in this region. Additionally, Warfel will be recruiting and onboarding local talent to join the team.
“Advancement opportunities for our people and overall organizational development is at the forefront of everything we do,” said Swope. “This expansion supports that company initiative while giving us the opportunity to better serve our clients.”
The new State College office location will be fully functional by June 1, 2024.
For inclusion in future issues of the Merit Shop Spokesman, please send your press releases to:
rebecca@abckeystone.org
Wayne M. PechtThe Whiting-Turner Contracting Company
Kevin Finkle, Project Manager
4431 North Front Street, Suite 103 Harrisburg, PA 17110
www.whiting-turner.com (443) 250-4223
kevin.finke@whiting-turner.com
Sponsored By: Ed Engle, Smucker Company
Landworks Civil Design, LLC
Joshua C. George, Managing Partner 1406 Third Avenue, Suite 200 York, PA 17403
www.landworkscd.com (866) 523-9757
jgeorge@landworkscd.com
Sponsored By: Jan Wagner Wagman Construction, Inc.
Associated Data & Telecommunications
Steve Ajmeri, President
47 Marchwood Road, Suite 1-K Exton, PA 19341
www.assocdatatelecom.com (717) 484-0301
steve.a@assocdatatelecom.com
Sponsored By: Rick Trumper, GCM, Inc.
Reeb Building Systems, LLC
Juile Reeb, President & CEO 1152 Mae Street #138 Hummelstown, PA 17036
www.reebbuildingsystems.com (717) 689-3712
julie@reebbuildingsystems.com
Sponsored By: Robb Beiler Wohlsen Construction Company
RestorePlus, Inc. Phil Stoltzfus, President-Co Owner PO Box 455 Brownstown, PA 17508
www.restorepluspa.com (223) 217-2002
phil@restorepluspa.com
Sponsored By: Joe Finkey, Martins Flooring Greg Martin, Martins Flooring
Provident Financial Services, Ltd.
Ben Risser, Owner
324 Cobblers Court Lititz, PA 17543
www.providentfinancialservicesltd.com (215) 326-9541
b.risser@providencecapital.org
Sponsored By: Randy Weaver, Weaver Companies, Inc.
Skyworks, LLC
Glenn Sullivan, Territory Manager 6680 Allentown Boulevard Harrisburg, PA 17112
www.skyworksllc.com (717) 657-1346
glenn.sullivan@skyworksllc.com
Beaver Concrete Construction
Tim Spangler, President 1648 Letterkenny Road Chambersburg, PA 17201
www.beaver-concrete.com (717) 264-9186
tspangler@beavercon.net
Junk Lockdown! LLC
Claudia Esquivel, Co-Owner 22 North State Street, Apt A Ephrata, PA 17522
www.junklockdown.com (717) 693-8217
junklockdown@gmail.com
Sponsored By: Rick Trumper, GCM, Inc.
Johnson's Maintenance Service, LLC
Keron Johnson, President 2314 Grant Street Reading, PA 19606
www.johnsonsmaintenance.com (610) 372-4898
keron@johnsonsmaintenance.com
Everound, LLC
Erik Ryberg, Partner & Senior Solutions Architect 205 Grandview Avenue Camp Hill, PA 17011
www.everound.com (717) 312-5890
eryberg@everound.com
Autodesk
Abbey Spink, Field Events Coordinator 4733 Findley Drive Flowery Branch, GA 30542
www.autodesk.com (866) 457-8635
abbey.spink@autodesk.com
5/15
5/16
5/21
5/22
Allan Myers
Allied Mechanical & Electrical
Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc.
Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.
C.M. High, Inc.
CB Construction Services, Inc.
CCS Building Group
CH+N Site Construction Inc.
CLARK, Inc.
Commonwealth Fire Protection Co.
Conewago Enterprises, Inc.
Conewago Manufacturing, LLC
D.E. Gemmill, Inc.
DenTech Industrial
DeRock Electric Company
Detwiler Roofing
EG Stoltzfus Construction, LLC
Flyway Excavating, Inc.
Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc.
H&S Industrial, A Viocity Company
Hayden Power Group
High Construction Company
Hursh Painting Co., Inc.
James Craft & Son, Inc.
Keystruct Construction, A Viocity Company
Leer Electric, Inc.
Leonard S. Fiore, Inc.
LEW Site Construction LLC
M. Potteiger, Inc.
MVE Group
Pincus Elevator Company, Inc.
Poole Anderson Construction, LLC
Quarry View Building Group
RSR Electric, A Viocity Company
Silvertip, Inc.
Smucker Company
Speedwell Construction, Inc.
Stuebner, Inc.
Susquehanna Valley Construction Corp.
The Tri-M Group, LLC
The Tuckey Companies
The Witmer Group
United Rentals, Inc.
Vision Mechanical, Inc.
Warfel Construction Company
Wohlsen Construction Company
Zartman Construction, Inc.
Congratulations to these members celebrating milestone anniversaries in May 2024!
50 YEARS
Ames Construction, Inc.
45 YEARS
Associated Products Services, Inc.
30 YEARS
Kline's Services, LLC
25 YEARS
Zimmerman & Herr Masonry
20 YEARS
Pincus Elevator Company, Inc.
15 YEARS
Mister Sparky Electric
10 YEARS
Mid-State Paving, LLC
5 YEARS
IntegrityWorks Coaching
Prevailing Wage Solution Center, LLC
1 YEAR DEWALT
The Contractors Plan
Sherwin-Williams Co.
KEYSTONE | June 6, 2024
AM Flight: 7:30 am | PM Flight: 1:30 pm
Iron Valley Golf Club
201 Iron Valley Drive
Lebanon, PA 17042
NITTANY VALLEY | June 27, 2024
One Flight: Registration at 11:00 am
Shotgun Start at 12:00 pm
Mountain View Country Club
310 Elks Club Rd.
Boalsburg, PA 16827
Acuity Advisors and CPAs, LLP
Aerotek
All Set Tile & Marble Co. Inc.
B & B Integrations
Barley Snyder
Associated Products Services, Inc.
Brown Plus
Fulton Bank
D.E. Gemmill, Inc.
Leer Electric, Inc.
Commonwealth Fire Protection Co.
ECS Mid-Atlantic, LLC
Haller Enterprises
Remco Inc.
CB Construction Services, Inc.
EHD
Garrety Glass, Inc.
Hess Auctioneers, LLC
Horst Construction Co.
GR Mitchell, Inc.
Paramount Contracting, Inc.
R.A. Walton & Company, Inc.
The Witmer Group
Hursh Painting Co., Inc.
MVE Group
Martin’s Flooring
M. Potteiger, Inc.
Providence Engineering
RKL
Saul Ewing LLP
Smucker Company
Trout CPA