The Merit Shop Spokesman - ABC Keystone - August 2022

Merit Shop The

August • 2022

Spokesman A Monthly Publication of ABC Keystone

Advocacy: A Core Mission of ABC

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Progress: A Mid-Year Review

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Recess By a Different Name PA Lawmakers Look to Connect with You!

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ABC Keystone Leadership 2022 Executive Committee:

CHAIR of the BOARD – Keith Eldredge, CPA, RKL

CHAIR-ELECT – Steve Conway, Pyramid Construction Services, Inc., A Quandel Company

1st VICE CHAIR – John Lehmann, Poole Anderson Construction, LLC 2nd VICE CHAIR – Guy Kingree

SECRETARY – Steven Kearns, James Craft & Son, Inc

TREASURER – Timothy A. Kershner, CPA, Walz Group

IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR – Cleo Weaver, Delainco Realty, LLC

2022 Board of Directors:

Eli Ace, Nexen Construction, LLC Robb Beiler, Quality Buildings LLC Jeff Bright, Saxton & Stump Lawyers and Consultants Roger S. Brubaker, Meadow Valley Electric, Inc. Douglas M. Dvorchak, Murray Ed Engle, Smucker Company Joe Finkey, Martin’s Flooring, Inc. Brian Floyd Wayne Fuhrman, The Witmer Group Michael B. Funck Ken Funk, Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc. John H. Hykes II, B&B Integrations David H. Oblender, Engle-Hambright & Davies, Inc. James Stephens, CFSP, 11400 Inc. Bethany Tesché, Houck Services, Inc. Jan L. Wagner, Wagman Construction, Inc.

G. David Sload, President-CEO

ABC Keystone | 135 Shellyland Road, Manheim, PA 17545 (717) 653-8106 | abckeystone.org The Merit Shop Spokesman is published 12 times a year by Associated Builders & Contractors, Keystone Chapter.

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

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

Merit Shop The

Spokesman Contents

2 Message from the Chair 3 Message from the President-CEO 5 Advocacy Update 7 Keystone Chapter Calendar 9 Keeping Construction Crews Safe 11 Nittany Valley Regional Photos 13 Government Affairs Resources 15 Chapter STEP Members 17 Newest Members & Anniversaries 19 Member Spotlight 20 Member News 21 Young Professionals Spotlight

A Message from the Chair

ADVOCACY A Core Mission of ABC

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olitics continue to dominate the news cycle, whether it is about gun violence vs. the 2nd amendment, abortion rights vs. the rights of the unborn, inflation, or unemployment rates. All these issues will impact each of us personally and the businesses we own.

You have heard me talk about the various issues that ABC Keystone and ABC National are championing to help the merit shop contractor. One of the greatest benefits of your membership is the advocacy that is provided to your business on the local and federal level. ABC Keystone publishes a monthly Advocacy blog that often shares the bills moving through the various chambers. This blog can be viewed on the Chapter's website (abckeystone.org). ABC National publishes on their website (abc. org) the federal issues they are following, involved with, or challenging. I find it insightful to read these articles monthly to understand the landscape of our political environment and the impact these issues will have on our businesses.

One of our industry's biggest challenges is workforce development. ABC National has estimated that there will be a shortage of approximately 665,000 construction workers this year. They estimate 1.2 million construction workers will leave their jobs in 2022. I am constantly asked about the labor force, "Where are the new workers coming from, how are we going to be able to complete work with the shortage we have, and what are others experiencing?"

One of the legislative items that will have a negative impact on our workforce is H.R. 4521, The America Competes Act, that passed the House 222-210. ABC National opposes this bill and says it is bad for workers and merit shop contractors. The bill includes a card-check provision, expands prevailing wage and restricts access to the Nation’s registered apprenticeship system for nonunion workers.

Based on industry data, 87% of the construction workforce are nonunion workers, however the current administration believes that these polices will improve workforce and increase employment. If nothing else, the Democrats come up with great names for bills that make the majority of the people think these bills are positive for workers and for businesses.

ABC Keystone continues to fight for merit shop contractors on the apprenticeship ratio requirements in PA. For those new to ABC or who do not understand the ratio requirements, here is an overview. For most trades in PA, nonunion contractors are required to have four journeymen for each apprentice. For a union contractor, most are allowed to have only one journeyman to one apprentice.

ABC Keystone is exploring many ways to advance a bill that will put merit shop contractors on parity with union contractors. In June, Barb Gleim, R-Cumberland, introduced a bill that would set the default ratio at a 3:1 for all contractors. ABC PA has supported this bill to try and get parity. Our preference is a 1:1 ratio as approved by the federal government, but we will take a parity to help bring attention to the issue.

ABC Keystone and ABC National are fighting for your rights. Consider downloading the ABC Action App. This will keep you up to date with the national issues and allow you to send letters directly to your elected officials. You can also sign-up at ABC.org to receive alerts or the weekly update.

Advocacy is one of the core missions of ABC. The Keystone Chapter and ABC National are committed to the merit shop philosophy. There are many ways to get involved or get informed, and we invite you to reach out and gain more information. Learn the issues and vote.

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ABC Keystone and ABC National are fighting for your rights.

Keith Eldredge, CPA 2022 Chair of the Board RKL keldredge@rklcpa.com (717) 843-3804

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PROGRESS a mid-year review

Hear from the President-CEO the consolidated area, known as our Nittany Valley Region. This regional council will help us focus on the needs of members in that region. We already have networking events set up in Nittany Valley for August and September. This will provide a great opportunity for all Keystone members to network together.

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t is hard to believe that over half of 2022 has gone by. With this, ABC Keystone needs to look at how we are doing in terms of the strategic initiatives we set forth at the beginning of the year. The four areas we review are Political Influence, Continuous Growth & Value, Safety & Health, and Being the Leading Force in Workforce Development Education & Training.

I am happy to say we are moving in a positive direction in all four areas. Political Influence is tough to measure since it seems nothing gets accomplished in Washington or Harrisburg. The Keystone Chapter continues to chip away at making our presence known. The number of contacts made through our Voter Voice app continues to grow. As a result, our lobbying team make more contacts prior to legislation being discussed than ever before.

Our PAC and Independent Expenditure funds are higher currently then the same time last year. This is a very important election cycle.

When we consider Continuous Growth & Value, I’m pleased to report that the Keystone Chapter reached membership growth* during the month of July for the second straight year. Membership growth is the result of both excellent member retention (92.4%, the third highest in our Chapter’s 63-year history) and robust new member enrollment. Additionally, ABC Keystone has had the privilege of consolidating the ABC Central PA Chapter into our Chapter this year, and the addition of their 84 member firms brings the Keystone Chapter membership to 625 as of this writing.

This consolidation provides members with the valuable opportunity to reach an even greater group of contractors with advocacy, education, and networking.

We are completing the setup of a regional council in

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STEP continues to be the leading push under Safety and Health. The data we gather from STEP helps us fight when the unions say we are not safe. Currently, 25.36% of our contractors participate, but we need more. Our goal for this year is 35% of contractor members enrolled in STEP by year end. The STEP application can be filled out until the end of October, so you still have time. If you aren’t sure where or how to enroll, please reach out to us at the ABC office.

Last, but certainly not least, to review is Education and Training. We continue to hold robust training opportunities with classes often at full capacity.

Apprenticeship numbers are high again this year, and we continue to make improvements to the program that make it one of the best registered programs around. Our outreach to high schools and middle schools continues, and we are starting to see some of these young people enter our industry.

The first six months have been busy. Thanks to the staff, the Board and our members we have had continued success. We know we have much work to do as we complete 2022 and prepare for 2023. Help us help you by continuing to communicate what you need from your association.

ABC Keystone is a member-driven association. You are the key to our success.

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Help us help you by continuing to communicate what you need of your *The Keystone Chapter’s Membership Growth in 2021 and 2022 are exclusive association. of the referenced consolidation.

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

ABC Keystone Committees Building Minds. Building Skills. Building Futures.

BUILDING LEADERS. “Joining a committee provides you the opportunity to engage with industry colleagues to work collectively supporting a common mission. With such deep involvement, committee service opens doors to gaining full value from the ABC experience. Focusing on what you can do for ABC creates the space for ABC to do something for you. Volunteering on a committee puts you in a position not only to contribute to ABC’s mission, but to also direct it and create industry-wide change.”

- Michael Metz-Topodas, Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman PC

• • • •

Gain valuable leadership experience Create or strengthen business relationships Put your ideas into action Have a direct impact on industry issues SAVE the DATE: All Committee Kick-off, 1/12/23

Now is the perfect time to get involved!

Call (717) 653-8106 to sign up!

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Advocacy Update

Recess by a Different Name By: David G. Greineder, IOM ABC Pennsylvania Director of Government Affairs

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ou may have heard the term “August recess” from our advocacy team, but it’s not like the recess you remember from grade school. It is a time when legislative sessions are on break in Harrisburg and Washington, D.C. to allow lawmakers to travel their districts. In an election year, politicians maximize this time to meet with constituents and talk about issues important to them.

ABC will use this time to meet with as many of our elected officials as possible to let them know what is impacting your business. There is no shortage of issues – from inflation, supply chain challenges, the cost of fuel, to the skilled workforce shortage, your representatives need to be educated on what “keeps you up at night.” Don’t be shy or think they know. While our association members are tied to the construction industry broadly, each member is facing unique and nuanced issues.

As we work hard representing your interests the rest of this year, the ABC Pennsylvania board is preparing for 2023. In four short months, we will be entering a “new

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world.” Pennsylvania voters will have elected a new U.S. Senator and governor. Over 54 new state legislators will be taking the oath of office. The new year will be ripe with opportunities to educate “freshman” elected officials about your business and presence in the community, but we also need to be prepared with a robust legislative agenda to engage with new and re-elected members. To that end, the ABC Pennsylvania board is working through objectives and goals. While your issues won’t change, we know our focus and strategies will depending on who wins the election.

Regarding the election, ABC will be preparing materials, information, and resources for your use. Each chapter will disseminate the tools to members, both in hard copy and electronic format. Each member will be able to use that information to share with their employees and other contacts they have, to the extent they are comfortable. We encourage all members to be engaged this election year.

Speaking of elections, we know running for office is an expensive venture, and we need to support candidates

Advocacy Update that support our issues. Tens of millions of dollars have already been poured into the commonwealth from special interests on all sides of the political spectrum.

ABC needs to do its part to ensure your voice is heard and pro-business/free enterprise candidates are elected.

The Keystone Chapter has several options for you to consider:

appropriately and invested wisely.

• Casino Night: Thursday, September 8 from 6 to 11 pm at the ABC Keystone Chapter Headquarters (135 Shellyland Road, Manheim, PA). Your state or national PAC badge is your admission to attend.

If you have any questions about legislation or ABC’s positions on issues, please contact David Greineder, IOM, at davidg@-abcpa.org.

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

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

We can’t do it without you!

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

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Keystone Chapter Calendar Career Development Education, Safety Training & Networking

August

September

8/2 - ABC Keystone’s Summer Outdoor Mixer - Presented by Saxton & Stump Lawyers and Consultants 8/3 - Providing Quality Customer Service - Part of the Professional Development Series Starts 8/8 - S alesWorks!

8/15 - Adult First Aid/CPR/AED - SOLD OUT! 8/16 - ABC Keystone’s Safety Recognition Breakfast - Presented

by Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman PC 8/17 - Employment Assessments - Part of the Human Resources Management Academy 8/18 - Competent Person for Jobsite Safety Inspections 8/22 - OSHA 10-Hour Construction 8/25 - ABC Keystone's Nittany Valley Mixer - Presenting Sponsor Available!

8/26 - R ough Terrain Forklift Training - SOLD OUT!

9/7 - Positive Assertiveness - Part of the Professional Development Series 9/9 - Competent Person for Excavation and Trenching 9/12 - Rough Terrain Forklift Training Starts 9/14 - Project Management 9/14 - ABC Human Resources Contractor Peer Group Starts 9/14 - Basic Blueprint Reading 9/14 - Keystone Chapter Strategic Planning 9/15 - Adult First Aid/CPR/AED Starts 9/15 - C ommunications - Part of the Superintendent Training Program (STP) 9/16 - Competent Person for Confined Space Entry 9/21 - Coaching Employees, Performance Feedback & Appraisals Part of the Human Resources Management Academy 9/22 - “What Was I Thinking?” How to Make Better Decisions So You Can Live and Lead with Confidence 9/22 - ABC Keystone’s Clay Shoot - Presenting Sponsor Available!

9/23 - Mobile Elevating Work Platform (Aerial Lift) Training 9/29 - ABC Keystone’s Clay Shoot - Nittany Valley Region Presenting Sponsor Available!

Register Today!

abckeystone.org

Save the Date!

10/1 - ABC Keystone’s Local Apprenticeship Craft Competition 10/13 - ABC Keystone’s Tailgate Party Presented by Barley Snyder 11/10 - 33rd Annual Excellence in Construction Awards Presenting Sponsor Available!

We Can CUSTOMIZE TRAINING for Your Team's Unique Needs!

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CONTACT US TODAY! (717) 653-8106

Barbara Holtzapple barbara@abckeykstone.org

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Get a demo and find out more at grudiassociates.com.

Test Your Clay Shooting Skills & Network with ABC Members!

Choose your location or attend both!

Thursday, September 22, 2022

Thursday, September 29, 2022

at Central Penn Sporting Clays, Wellsville

at Shenecoy Sportsmen, Huntingdon

9 am & 1 pm flights; 50 rounds

1 pm flight; 100 rounds

Register: abckeystone.org

Keep Construction Crews SAFE

by Considering the Condition of Your Machinery

By Jason Bliss, Construction Executive Contributor

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hen people think of safety on a jobsite, they often think of safety glasses, hard hats and caution signs–and rightfully so. It is important to remember the condition of your machinery is paramount to keeping your crew safe.

equipment to operate as expected. This will help minimize unforeseen breakdowns that may impact the operator’s safety.

From bulldozers to cranes, numerous machines help get a project done. In addition to keeping your team out of harm’s way, machinery is a significant expense. You want your equipment operating at peak performance. If you don’t correctly take care of the equipment, you could experience the last thing anyone wants–project delays. You can make small changes on your jobsite when choosing your oil to ultimately create a safer environment for the entire team.

A lubricant is as a substance, such as an oil or grease, used to minimize friction, especially in an engine or component. Ensuring you utilize the correct lubricant in the right application on heavy pieces of construction equipment can minimize a failure that can create an accident.

API Requirements The American Petroleum Institute (API) is the leading national trade association that represents all aspects of America's oil and natural gas industry.

API’s certification marks identify quality motor oils for gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles and equipment.

Oil products displaying these marks meet performance requirements set by U.S. and international vehicle and engine manufacturers and the lubricant industry.

Hundreds of companies worldwide participate in the voluntary program, which is backed by a marketplace sampling and testing program.

Utilizing an oil that not only meets API requirements but exceeds these requirements will allow your

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Correct Product Choice

While some may think it could be easier to buy one oil or grease product company-wide and use it across machinery, oils and greases are specifically formulated for environments and machine types.

A jobsite in northern Wisconsin should perhaps not use the same products as a site in southern Florida.

In the long run, you’ll save time, money and safety by choosing products that are formulated for the machine and construction conditions.

Proactive Oil Sample Program Establishing an oil sample program helps maximize equipment’s lifespan by monitoring performance and using those insights to inform better maintenance decisions. In order for the program to provide a machine’s current and future state, samples should be taken consistently and track the exact hours/miles

in which the piece of equipment is tested. While this may take time and effort from your team, it provides a company proactive approach to equipment maintenance and performance.

This process also increases the likelihood that equipment will perform at optimum levels. This will help The Accredited Quality Contractor program was launched in 1993. It is a program which prevent untimely breakdowns, which could potentially cause operator injury or injury to a fellowthose jobsite worker. publicly recognizes and honors construction firms which have documented their

commitment in five key areas of corporate responsibility: Bliss, Jason. “Keep Construction Crews Safe by Considering

Condition of Your Machinery.” Construction Executive, 6 • the Quality Jul. 2022, • Safety https://www.constructionexec.com/article/keepconstruction-crews-safe-by-considering-the-condition-of(STEP Gold, Platinum, or Diamond Level Required) your-machinery.

• Employee Benefits • Construction Training Executive is a publication of Associated Builders and Contractors. Copyright 2020. All rights • reserved.

Community Relations and Diversity

Current ABC Keystone AQC Members:* • • • • • • • •

Benchmark Construction Co., Inc. Hayden Power Group Keystruct Construction, A Viocity Company Allan Myers Poole Anderson Construction, LLC Quandel Enterprises, Inc. Wagman Construction, Inc. Wohlsen Construction Company *as of 7/1/22

ABC Keystone’s Customized Education & Training Strengthen Your Workforce – Your Way Through ABC Keystone’s Customized Education and Training Solutions • • • • •

Convenient location – your place of business or ABC Flexibility of scheduling Cost effective Greater access to specialized trainers, subjects, seminars, and classes Program content customized to your specific needs

Our most requested customized offerings: • • • • • •

Blueprint Reading Professional Development/Interpersonal Skills Dynamic Crew Leadership Superintendent Skills/Productive Conflict Leadership Development/Communications Safety Training

For more information, please contact:

barbara@abckeystone.org | (717) 653-8106 | barbara@abckeystone.org

Our Members Say it Best: “The customized education from ABC Keystone made it possible to schedule the training close to our facility and had a very positive impact on our operation, and it was easier to schedule everyone that needed the education. We minimized lost time on jobs due to reduced travel, and we saved wages that would have normally been paid for travel time to ABC’s facility. Additionally, being able to complete the education as a dedicated group helped to improve camaraderie and teamwork within the company.”

- Ted Garrety, President, Garrety Glass, Inc.

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REGIONAL Construction

WAKE-UP CALL

Thank you to our members for attending the July 19 Construction Wake-up Call at the Nittany Valley Office and to Tom Davies, Harmon & Davies, P.C. for presenting. We also appreciate our generous sponsor of this event, Nexen Construction, LLC!

Join ABC at the next event! abckeystone.org 11

Show Your ABC Keystone Pride!

Hats • Hoodies • Shirts • Golf Towels • Pullovers and More!

Find new items at abckeystone.org

Attention

Contractors!

Build Your Apprenticeship Team! can help you!

• Create your own

workforce

through formalized training

• Increase

productivity, safety, and profits

• Expand your workers’

knowledge base

• Bid work more

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For more information: abckeystone.org cindyd@abckeystone.org

CindyD@abckeystone.org5

2019 Apprenticeship Postcard - Contractors.indd 1

7/9/2019 10:42:06 AM

ABC Pennsylvania Advocacy - Working for YOU! GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS: Representing your interests in Harrisburg and capturing the attention of policymakers.

• Supporting legislation to reform the state’s antiquated apprenticeship training system • Commenting on legislation and regulations that impact the construction industry • Testifying before House and Senate committees • Enhancing your voice through our grassroots advocacy network • Partnering with associations that support our collective goals • Opposing project labor agreements at every level

POLITICAL ACTION:

Supporting champions of the construction industry at all levels of government.

Chapter Political Action Committee (PA ABC PAC) • Invests directly in candidates that believe in free enterprise • Can only accept personal contributions, with no limits

Labor Law Resources Need help?

Staff can assist on questions related to employer and employee rights, labor relations, prevailing wage, and other state labor laws.

Free Legal Consultation Initial connection with an ABC-appointed attorney providing the information you need to handle any next steps in the process.

For more information, please contact: davidg@abcpa.org

Download the ABC Action App! Available at iTunes and GooglePlay

Advancing the American Dream Fund (AADF) • Invests in educating voters on candidate positions.

• Can accept corporate contributions, with no limits National ABC PAC • Invests directly in candidates at the federal level • Can only accept personal contribution, with limits per federal law Free Enterprise Alliance • ABC National’s issue advocacy arm • Can accept corporate and personal contributions, with no limits 13

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BETTER MORE PREPARED

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

Call our Construction Services Division

SECURE

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

717.397.9600 | 800.533.5271 murrayins.com

Look Who is #ABCMeritShopProud to be a Keystone Chapter Member!

Reach out to the Chapter office to receive your ABC member vehicle & hard hat stickers!

Contact: (717) 653-8106

Thank you for your support of ABC! 14

Congrats to ABC Keystone's 2022 STEP Recipients!

As verified by ABC National as of July 2022 Watch future Merit Shop Spokesman issues for updates!

Diamond:

11400 Inc. Allan Myers Commonwealth Fire Protection Co. DeRock Electric Company Keystruct Construction, A Viocity Company Leo Kob Co., Inc. Quandel Enterprises, Inc.

Platinum:

ADMAR Supply Company, Inc. Benchmark Construction Co., Inc. CB Construction Services, Inc. CCS Building Group CLARK, Inc. Conewago Enterprises, Inc. James Craft & Son, Inc. Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc. Garrety Glass, Inc. Hursh Painting Co., Inc. Legacy Electrical Services, Inc. RSR Electric, A Viocity Company Smucker Company The Tri-M Group, LLC

Gold:

Poole Anderson Construction, LLC Warfel Construction Company Zartman Construction, Inc.

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Silver:

Allied Mechanical & Electrical Bertolet Construction, LLC C.M. High, Inc. CH+N Site Construction Inc. Dolan Construction Inc. Leonard S. Fiore, Inc. John E. Fullerton, Inc. H&S Industrial, A Viocity Company Hayden Power Group High Construction Company Johnston Construction Company Mowery PSI Pumping Solutions, Inc. Paramount Contracting, Inc. M. Potteiger, Inc. S&S Structures, Inc. EG Stoltzfus Construction, LLC Talent Corporation, LLC Vision Mechanical, Inc. Wagman Construction, Inc. Wohlsen Construction Company

Bronze:

B&B Integrations C Mechanical Services Cedar Run Construction, LLC CMC, Inc. Cyprium Solutions, Inc. ESCO Security The Farfield Company Galbraith/Pre-Design, Inc. D.E. Gemmill, Inc. Goodco Mechanical, Inc. Kauffman Kitchens Leer Electric, Inc. Meadow Valley Electric, Inc. Speedwell Construction, Inc. Stuebner, Inc. Susquehanna Valley Construction Corp The Tuckey Companies White Rose Interiors, LLC H.L. Wiker, Inc.

Is Your Company on this List?

Get started with your application today!

abcstep.org

Those who enrolled by July 1 will be recognized at the August 16 Safety Recognition Breakfast presented by Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman PC! Register at: abckeystone.org

ABC Keystone’s Safety Breakfast Presented by: Tuesday, August 16, 2022

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

Network with ABC Safety Leaders

Celebrate Commitment to Safety! Includes Safety Forum!

Register Online: abckeystone.org

ABC Keystone Members Save!

Member-exclusive Hotel Engine Discount Program

This is another tremendous benefit of your membership with Associated Builders and Contractors!

To learn more, visit abckeystone.org/member-benefits or contact: Mike Bachman, Director of Membership | mike@abckeystone.org Your ABC Keystone

Membership Can Pay for Itself with Exclusive Member Discounts!

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Welcome to ABC's Newest Members!

Thank you for your support of the merit shop mission!

BlueCollar Business Coach

Seth Lewis, Principal P.O. Box 334 Grantville, PA 17028 ph. (717) 319-8930 seth@bluecollarbusinesscoach.net

EOS Worldwide - Bill Stratton Bill Stratton, Certified EOS Implementer 128 East Grant Street, Suite 302 Lancaster, PA 17602 ph. (717) 495-1429 bill.stratton@eosworldwide.com

Lebanon Building Supply

Aaron Camara, President 225 N 10th Street Lebanon, PA 17046 ph. (717) 272-4649 aaron@lebanonbuildingsupplycom Sponsor: Robb Beiler, Quality Buildings, LLC

Scheffey Marketing & Communications

Kevin Murphy, President 1837 William Penn Way, Suite 101 Lancaster, PA 17601 ph. (717) 569-8274 kmurphy@scheffey.com Sponsor: Robb Beiler, Quality Buildings, LLC

SmartBuild Construction Solutions, Inc.

Zulqernain Malik, Owner 3-28 Westwyn Court Brampton, ON L6T 4T5 ph. (888) 403-0421 zmalik@smrtbld.com Sponsor: Walter Grudi, Grudi Associates

Trident Development Corporation

Ken Safarowic, Vice President, Eastern Region 175 Market Street, Suite 54 Minneapolis, MN 55405 ph. (267) 718-8025 ken@tridentdevcorp.com Sponsor: Gregory Johnson, The SRS Group

View a searchable membership directory at abckeystone.org!

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

Happy Anniversary!

Congratulations

to these members celebrating milestone anniversaries in August 2022!

55 Years:

Hajoca Corp.

25 Years:

Ben Druck Door Co. Engles & Fahs, Inc.

Gannett Fleming Project Development Corp.

20 Years:

The Shepherd Agency, LLC Sidium Solutions, Inc.

17 7

10 Years:

Burnham Holdings Inc.

1 Year:

Houseal Plumbing

Rissler Masonry, Inc.

Rosenberger North America

5 Years:

Wilkinson & Associates, Inc.

Beneco, Part of FuturePlan

By Ascensus M&R Contracting, Inc.

Slaymaker Rentals & Supply Co.

Steve Waldman Electric, Inc.

Our

"

Members

Say it Best!

Gain a Competitive Edge.

One of our clients asked that we travel to a site of theirs in Mississippi. We were hesitant to do this because it is so far from our home base which means I didn't know anyone in the area, and if something were to go wrong, there would be no safety net. I decided to move forward as my client really needed help with this, but I soon found it's not an easy task to reach out to trades from a great distance.

I decided I would reach out to ABC Keystone for help for help with this project that was so far away. ABC Keystone put me in touch with that area's local Chapter. That Chapter then provided me with a healthy list of members for each needed CSI code. I started making calls, and I had productive conversations with several trades. I was able to build a team in Mississippi from my desk in Mount Joy, PA. I set up a pre-construction meeting, and everyone kept their word, showed up, and provided us with numbers. Today, those teams are on the project, and I couldn’t ask for more.

This is why I joined the ABC; this is why you should be an ABC Member.

It’s not always about what we can see and touch. It’s about needing help and receiving it. Thank you, ABC Keystone!

Rick Trumper, Director of Business Development GCM, Inc. (General Construction Management, Inc.)

#ABCMeritShopProud

Connect to Opportunity.

The production of ABC Keystone's new Membership Directory is wrapping up soon. Don't miss the opportunity to get your company in front of ABC Members!

Our publisher, E&M Consulting, Inc., is in the final stages of putting the Keystone Chapter Membership Directory together, but there is still time to advertise and get your company in front of members!

Contact Ryan Dovenmuehler at E&M Consulting, Inc. at (800) 572-0011 x119 or ryan@eandmsales.com for assistance with sign-up or to answer any questions about advertising.

As always, your support of membership resources is greatly appreciated!

Member Spotlight Hear from Kurt Twiford, Conexus!

Tell us about your company!

Conexus was formed in July 2005 through the purchase of an existing building automation system contractor. Since 2005, Conexus has grown an average of 7% per year and to 33 total team members. Leveraging open protocol technologies, Conexus migrated from a traditional building controls contractor to a smart building technology system integrator, leveraging technology to transform our client’s environments to optimize the comfort, safety and efficiency of their facilities. In order to meet our client’s critical service needs, most customers are within a two-hour radius of our office in Middletown, PA, but some relationships do take us to western PA, Virginia and southern Maryland as well.

Conexus is different from other competitors because of three unique goals: a commitment to using the US Army Corps of Engineers commissioning procedures on every project, a cloudbased control/monitoring solution, and a commitment to open protocols. Although generally system manufacturer agnostic, Conexus uses Distech Controls on the majority of our work.

Thriving on challenging solutions, Conexus serves customers in healthcare, K-12, higher education, industrial, corporate, and Federal/State government agencies.

How did you get involved in the industry?

After two stints in general contracting over 17 years, I (Kurt) quit my full-time job as VP of a regional construction manager and searched full-time to find a company to purchase. It’s an interesting story full of connections, a little bit of mystery, and some good luck as to how I came to form Conexus. I was always intrigued by controls when I visited our construction jobsites, so when the opportunity came along to combine my 17 years of experience running a construction management firm with a fascinating and high-growth segment of the industry, I had to jump at the opportunity to buy an existing controls contractor and form Conexus.

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Kurt A. Twiford, President/CEO

ktwiford@conexus.biz (717) 222-4150

Seth Mills, Director of Operations

smills@conexus.biz, (717) 222-4162

Kyle Gable, Director of Sales/Technical Solutions,

kgable@conexus.biz, (717) 222-4159 www.conexus.biz

How many years have you been with your company?

I purchased an existing firm to form Conexus in 2005. In July of 2022, Conexus celebrated 17 years in business. Kyle Gable, our Director of Sales/ Technical Solutions actually has more than 25 years with Conexus, because we rolled over his tenure from the predecessor company. Seth Mills, our Director of Operations, has been with Conexus for 14 years.

As far as we know: We are the only open-shop building automation system integrator in the region with our own in-house electrician/install crews.

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#ABCMeritShopProud Acuity Advisors & CPAs, LLP Announces Promotion

Acuity Advisors & CPAs announces the promotion of Kayleigh Noll, CPA to Supervisor within the Firm’s Construction Group. In this role, Kayleigh will provide oversight to client compliance solutions and continue to mentor additional team members.

Barley Snyder Board Annoucement

Barley Snyder attorney Susanna Fultz was named to the Board of Directors of ReadingFilm effective June 13.

Fultz, based in Wyomissing, PA, will serve on the board of directors for 2022-23. ReadingFilm is the home of the international film festival, ReadingFilmFEST.

Boyer & Ritter LLC Earns Awards

Boyer & Ritter CPAs and Consultants has been recognized as one of the “Top 100 Organizations” by Pennsylvania Business Central Magazine. Boyer & Ritter was recently named one of the top Mid-Atlantic accounting firms for the sixth year in a row by Accounting Today. It also received a ClearlyRated 2021 Best of Accounting Award for providing superior service based on ratings provided by their clients.

The firm has been recognized among the 100 Best Places to Work in PA for 13 consecutive years.

Keystruct Construction, A Viocity Company Names New President

Keystruct Construction LLC has named Darin Flohr President. Keystruct is part of the Viocity Group family of companies, and the announcement was made by Chris Miller, President of the Viocity Group. Additionally, Mr. Miller conveyed that Jerry Watson, founder of Keystruct, will be assuming a consultant role until his retirement from the company.

to serving the tax, accounting and financial needs of small business owners and direct firm wide efforts related to quality control, client service and workforce development in this service area.

Saxton & Stump Lawyers and Consultants Completes Merger

Saxton & Stump has announced that its planned merger with Charleston, S.C.-based law firm Spitz & Neville is complete, and the former firm will now do business under the Saxton & Stump name. All the firm’s five attorneys, including Steven Spitz, Elizabeth Palmer, Irish “Ryan” Neville, Jacqueline Egan and Eli Lachenman will practice as a part of Saxton & Stump, along with five other professionals in the office, which is now Saxton & Stump’s South Carolina office in Charleston.

Schaedler Yesco Distribution Purchases New Distribution Center

Schaedler Yesco Distribution, Inc. has announced the purchase of a 90,000 square foot building in Lower Burrell, PA in Westmoreland County. It offers both the space and geographic location to serve the company’s Western PA customers. The company expects to open in Summer 2023.

Wagman Construction, Inc. Begins New Project

Wagman Construction, Inc. joined representatives from Fahrney Keedy on Thursday, June 16, marking the start of the independent living cottage expansion project on the senior living campus. Wagman is serving as construction manager for the project, located in Boonsboro, MD on Route 66.

RKL Names Leader of Small Business Services Group

RKL has named Partner Daniel J. Nickischer, CPA, CCIFP®, leader of the firm’s Small Business Services Group. In this role, Nickischer will lead a team of RKL advisors dedicated

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

22 20

Young Professionals

Spotlight Meet Brent!

Tell us about the role you play in your organization:

Currently I oversee the company’s financial and accounting activities. My job begins with estimating, reviewing quotes received by suppliers, and helping to put together the best proposal possible. Once we are awarded a job, I review and negotiate the subcontract. From there, I put our budget together and send out purchase orders to the suppliers we have awarded. Once the job starts, I manage any change orders as well as process all accounts payable and receivable. Throughout the job’s life, I manage and report on budgeted versus actual costs. The accounting work I do does not stop with direct job costs. I oversee all indirect costs associated with the business, reconcile our accounts, and perform month end journal entries to close our books.

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

I genuinely enjoy what I do and love the culture of Cedar Run. I like to be a part of the entire process, from the inception of a job, helping to work out the issues that arise along the way, and then seeing how we performed at the end. I do well in a fast-paced environment where you need to perform daily to stay ahead of what is coming up next, so I am happy to have found a home at Cedar Run.

How has your involvement in ABC Keystone provided you value in your professional life?

With being in the early stages of my involvement with ABC I am excited to see what doors it will help open for me and the company for which I work. So far, I have met some informative people that have helped the way I look at the business and how I interact with our stakeholders. It has also opened another world

21

Brent Droege

Financial Director & Vice President Cedar Run Construction brent@cedarrunconstruction.com

of networking that I was unaware of before being a part of the construction industry and a part of ABC Keystone.

Currently, I am looking forward to meeting new people at the mixer in August.

What are your hobbies?

Boating and jet skiing with friends and family on the Susquehanna, running, skateboarding and snowboarding

What is your favorite inspirational quote?

“It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed.” - Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of the United States

Share with us a recent, favorite book: Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds

By David Goggins

ABC Keystone Accredited Quality Contractors Members • Allan Myers

• Benchmark Construction Company • Hayden Power Group

• Keystruct Construction LLC • Poole Anderson

• Quandel Enterprises, Inc.

• Wagman Construction, Inc.

• Wohlsen Construction Company

135 Shellyland Road Manheim, PA 17545

PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID LANCASTER, PA PERMIT #23

Connect with ABC Keystone on Social Media!

• Connect with the Chapter’s growing community • Stay informed on legislative updates • Discover education and training • Register for business development events • Follow the latest apprenticeship happenings Visit abckeystone.org for more! #ABCKeystone

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