Spirit
As you have been reading in the news, our economy has been hit with “the perfect storm” and within a two week period in November, management saw the ripple effect at High Concrete Group LLC when multiple customers cancelled projects that were in backlog.
During this time, High Steel Service Center LLC also experienced a significant slowdown in orders.
All of these factors left the management of High Concrete Group and High Steel Service Center (supported by the Board of Directors of High Industries Inc.) with an agonizing decision as they were suddenly faced with production gaps in early 2009 that could not be immediately filled. The High Family cares about all our co-workers and we were extremely disappointed by these unexpected events. The Executive Committee had to make some very difficult decisions and took action supported by the High Family, the Board, and assisted by the entire organization to help preserve the long- term health of the company.
A Message From The High Family Council
In fact, we are planning for the next 100 yearsso these plans are very different from those we had considered in the past! We are working as a team with a number of family business consultants to help shape the future of our company, and it is a very exciting process. While it is not possible to know what challenges lie in front of us over the next century, we do know that as an ownership group, we are committed to our company’s future. As we work through this current economic period of uncertainty, we are focused on the longer-term opportunities that we have as an organization in the years ahead. In the current market, we need to continue to focus our efforts on identifying and securing work opportunities, improving our operational process efficiencies, and most importantly, meeting and exceeding our customers’ expectations.
The High ® companies continue to have strong balance sheets despite the current changes in markets and customer demand. Our organizational diversity and our conservative approach to risk will see us through this period of unprecedented economic change. We thank each of you for your continued effort, support, and commitment during this time, and we look forward to the future at the High companies.
The High Family Council
Dale High Sadie High
Greg High Suzanne High Steve High
The High Family remains firmly committed to our core values and The High Philosophy. As many of you know because you have been actively involved in the process, we are working closely as a family, in conjunction with the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee, to define a long-term future vision and strategic plan. This goes beyond a threeyear operational plan and focuses more on ensuring our ability to be competitive in a global marketplace far beyond the second, third, and fourth generations. 1
Celebrating A Life: Erma D. High
October 7, 2008, was the end of an era. Mrs. Erma D. High, beloved Mother, Grandmother, and Great-Grandmother, passed away at the age of 99. Born on May 2, 1909, she was an important part of her families’ lives, both personally and professionally. As a wife, she supported Sanford H. High as he built a successful business. Her sons, Calvin, Don, and Dale, enjoyed her loving care, as did her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
On the occasion of her memorial service, Dale High was both honored and humbled to pay tribute to his mother with these heartfelt words . . .
All mothers are special - each in their own way. We, as a family, want to share with you something of what makes our Mother and Grandmother so special to us.
Our mother was sweet. She was gentle and kind. She cared about others. Years ago at our Strasburg house, homeless individuals would show up regularly because they would never be denied a meal from her.
Erma was always content, courteous, and grateful. She felt life’s abundance and was appreciative. There was always a ready “thank you” that carried over to her days at Landis Homes where caregivers were always appreciated, and she told them so.
She taught Sunday School at Mellinger Mennonite Church occasionally and loved to listen to Sunday School meditations on the radio Saturday evenings. Scrabble was a favorite game of hers and she was quite proficient. As she aged, at times I was tempted to “back off” a bit, only to find myself soundly beaten.
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the strength of my life: of whom shall I be afraid?
Mother was frugal. She darned socks, sewed patches, and did not want to use anything new until the old was truly worn out. She always wanted to be self-reliant. She was disappointed that she never learned to drive a car and ever more disappointed that she was unable to finish high school. She was bright and had excellent grades, but her father felt her help was needed at home on the family farm in Gap.
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Mother always wanted her pocket book nearby, especially as she aged, as a sort of security blanket. Recently, while in the hospital, she asked for her pocket book so that she could pay “to get out of here”.
Psalm 27:1
When we lived in Strasburg, Mother would take us on the bus to shop in Lancaster at Garvin’s or Hager’s Department Stores, and even occasionally, when the budget permitted, to Watt & Shand - known then as “the New York store” to those in the countryside.
We always knew that our mother loved and supported us and our families, but we also knew that she would be very careful not to intervene with her opinions unless they were solicited.
Mother loved flowers indoors and out - her African violet collection graced our dining
Celebrating A Life: Erma D. High . . .
room, and her flower beds and gardens were a constant source of delight and personal satisfaction.
But whosoever drinketh of the water that I give him shall never thirst: but the water that I give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
She was industrious and selfless. She would cut patches by the thousands for quilts to be sold for charity. She loved the sewing circle at Mellinger’s Church. She would crochet rugs and bandages to be sent abroad for the needy.
The story is true: Newly married, Sanford and Erma High did indeed drop off co-workers at a job site on the way to their honeymoon!
John 4:14
She was pleasant well into old age, even as some dementia began to take its toll. When asked, “How are you?”, she would almost always respond: “Pretty good for an old lady!” She would go on to say, “You keep coming to see me - you know I can’t come to see you.”
At the heart of Mother’s loving spirit was her personal faith that was so central for her. Her well-used Bible was evident in favorite verses that she would put into notebooks, along with poems and sayings that reinforced her values and beliefs. Verses such as those shown in the insets would be among them.
Her personal testimony was evident in her integrity and in how she lived and loved.
We honor our mother, Erma D. High, and celebrate a life that has been a role model of love, kindness, contentment, gratitude, and faith. She brought a sense of peaceand a ray of light in a sometimes frantic world. We believe, as a family, that we have been truly blessed!
and Mrs. Sanford H. High (1980s).
Mrs. High sitting atop a camel (Egypt, 1980).
Mr.
In their Strasburg home: Mrs. High and Calvin.
The High Family: Donald, Erma, Sanford, Dale, and Calvin (1980s).
Company Spotlight: High Transit LLC
High Transit LLC (HTL), an affiliate of High Industries Inc. (HII), was established in 2007 to address the transportation requirements of HII. The requirements are addressed by two different groups within HTL; Shipping and Fleet Maintenance. The Shipping group transports oversize, overweight loads in excess of 300,000 pounds and more than 200 feet in length. The Fleet group works to design, build, and repair specialized transit-related equipment.
Combining these resources has presented its own unique set of challenges and benefits. When asked about their experiences at High, this is what a few of the HTL co-workers had to say:
Michael E. Murry Director
I began my employment at High Steel Structures Inc. (HSSI) in November 1970 as a Truck Washer. Later, I advanced from Mechanic Trainee to Mechanic A, then to Assistant Supervisor, to Supervisor, and then to Manager of the Fleet Maintenance Department. In my current position with HTL, I oversee the Fleet Maintenance and Shipping functions.
The Fleet Maintenance Department has an outstanding safety record. They have not experienced a lost time injury in 25 years, meaning that each Fleet Maintenance co-worker arrived on the job, worked safely, and then returned uninjured to their families. This significant accomplishment should be a source of pride for these safety-conscious co-workers.
The Shipping Department has distinguished itself in Pennsylvania by carrying one of the lowest safe-stat ratings in the state. While a rating of 75 is unsatisfactory, this group maintains an impressive rating of 21. These ratings are based on five consecutive years of
records involving roadside Department of Transportation inspections and recordable accident records. The inspections also include log book recording, correct permitting, and proper equipment maintenance. This is an outstanding accomplishment on the part of coworkers in our Shipping Department.
I have seen significant growth in our fleet during my 38 years with High. In 1970, the fleet consisted of seven trucks and twelve trailers. Today at HTL, there are thirty-one trucks, and more than two hundred trailers.
During my career, I have been fortunate to work and interact with many talented people throughout the High organization. This interaction continues to refresh me, knowing that co-workers are committed to doing their jobs well. I am proud to be a part of this fine company, and honored to work with such a dedicated group of co-workers.
Kyle A. Gaskill Fleet Maintenance Manager
I started with HSSI as a Fleet Maintenance Mechanic in March 1986, holding various positions during my tenure. With the establishment of HTL, I was promoted to Fleet Maintenance Manager.
The HTL team demonstrates ingenuity in solving issues associated with shipping oversize or oddly-shaped products. Coworkers have designed, fabricated, and put into operation, specialized equipment. Their ability to “think outside the box” ensures that products arrive at their destination in a timely fashion, in good condition, and without jeopardizing the safety of our co-workers or the general public. We were recently recognized by the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association (PMTA) with an award for operating the safest specialized hauling fleet in the state. HTL’s Fleet Maintenance also holds one of the best Federal safety ratings in the country.
Company Spotlight: High Transit LLC . . .
With the inception of HTL and my promotion came new challenges, most notably, the budgeting process. This change has also presented me with a great opportunity to meet new co-workers and assist with the needs of other High companies. I look forward to the challenges and successes the future may hold.
Joyce L. Michael Secretary, Fleet Operations
I began my career with HSSI in May 1987 as a part-time coworker, eventually becoming fulltime. My current position entails the oversight of all office activity in the Fleet Maintenance Department, and the renewal of registrations for all company vehicles. In addition, I track vehicle mileage and fuel usage for all High companies.
keen sense of humor at all times. They certainly keep me on my toes!
Philip N. Newcomer
Certified Mechanic
I joined HSSI in 1979 as a part-time coworker, eventually working my way to a full-time position in Fleet Maintenance. My current job responsibilities include working with Shipping and various other departments to maintain our fleet and specialty equipment. I am also a crane operator and recently updated my Certification of Crane Operators (CCO).
I enjoy interacting with parts vendors and delivery people. I also have the opportunity to meet many High co-workers when they bring in their vehicles for service.
As a ten-year member of the High First Aid Team, I am certified in Advanced First Aid, Advanced CPR, Emergency Response, and AED. I typically treat injuries such as cuts, splinters, and smashed fingers, a major occupational hazard here in Fleet Maintenance. As a First Responder, I am first on the scene of an accident and must determine whether injuries can be treated onsite, and whether the co-worker needs to be transported for further medical treatment. If there is an emergency situation, I call “911” and care for the co-worker until medical personnel arrive.
Working with Fleet Maintenance co-workers presents its own unique set of challenges. This tends to be a “spirited” group, and requires a
Loads that exceed a certain length, weight, or width, or “super loads” require a State Police inspection, and pre-trip and police escorting whenever the load moves. Much of my time has been dedicated to assuring permit compliance of the shipments, as well as proper maintenance of equipment. The purchase and use of our portable scales has proven to be a great tool for meeting requirements, and has contributed to our favorable relationship with the Pennsylvania State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement group.
One of the most important accomplishments of our team at HTL Fleet Maintenance is the continued success of our home-built trailers and equipment. This equipment is capable of transporting our products and allows us to make multiple deliveries of super loads in a timely manner. Because we are limited by design and liability issues, there may be a need for commercially-built trailers in the future.
Nearly 30 years have passed since I joined High. At that time, my co-workers called me “The Kid”. They have not called me by that nickname in quite awhile. I can only wonder when that stopped!
Left to right: Phil Newcomer, Joyce Michael, and Kyle Gaskill.
Company Spotlight: High Transit LLC . . .
Donald J. Reed
Logistics Coordinator
In 1999, I was working as an independent driver, hauling steel for HSSI. I came to work for HSSI in 2001 as an Over-The-Road Truck Driver. In 2006, I transferred into the office. In my current position, I work with contractors, and schedule and dispatch shipments and drivers. My team and I also do routing to jobsites and permitting of loads.
Since the transition to HTL, equipment scheduling has presented a challenge. To make the most efficient and cost-effective use of our resources, High Steel Service Center LLC (HSSCL) drivers bring back plate loads for HSSI on what would otherwise have been empty trucks. This provides cost savings in labor and fuel. We also send HSSI drivers to help HSSCL when they have more loads than they can handle.
The creation of HTL has presented exciting possibilities in the expansion of our capabilities and expertise in the heavy haul industry. Road conditions and working with state Departments of Transportation make my job both challenging and interesting. The excellent condition of our equipment, as well as the solid work ethic and professionalism of my co-workers, make HTL a great place to work.
One challenge we face in Shipping is the aging infrastructure. Deterioration will affect a bridge’s ability to carry heavy loads, causing its rating to drop. As ratings fall, we must find alternative routes over which to transport our materials.
Challenges we face on a daily basis include contacting and obtaining approvals and permits from the various states through which we haul. This involves scheduling police escorts and curfew times, which vary from state-to-state. To add to the scheduling challenge, our drivers are limited in the number of hours they may legally drive in a 24hour period. We work hard to pull all of these elements together to keep our shipments moving.
I feel fortunate to be surrounded by a team of coworkers who understand the job at hand and work together to complete the task, often with tight deadlines. This is truly a great team!
Jeffrey L. Ross
Shipping/Logistics Manager
In 1969 and 1970 while attending college, I began working part-time as a Welder/Fitter at HSSI. After graduating in 1971, I became a fulltime co-worker in Human Resources. During my 37 years with High, I worked in various positions and departments, moving to the Shipping Department in the early 1990s.
In my first full-time position at High, I worked in Human Resources. One day, a co-worker came to my office with a badly injured hand. I decided to transport him to the hospital. After helping the co-worker into an escort vehicle, I noticed the tank was empty. By this time, both the co-worker and I were becoming a bit anxious about the injury, so I hastily filled the tank and headed down Old Philadelphia Pike. Soon, I noticed a huge white cloud of smoke behind us, and by the time we reached Bridgeport, the car had stopped. I had mistakenly filled the tank with diesel! The co-worker eventually made it to the hospital and was none the worse for wear. I, however, took a lot of ribbing for that mistake.
Cheri A. Urban Administrative Coordinator
I began my career ten years ago in the Corporate Safety and Health Department. Part of my responsibilities in Safety and Health included assisting with over-the-road trucking safety issues. Four years later, I transferred to the Shipping Department of HSSI, and am currently an Administrative Coordinator.
Left to right: Jeff Ross, Cheri Urban, and Don Reed.
Company Spotlight: High Transit LLC . . .
Even though I was aware that Shipping was a very busy department and this transition would be hectic, I felt I was up to the challenge. Three months after starting this position, there was a push to ship as much steel as possible before year-end. It was a stressful time, I made it through with the support and encouragement of my co-workers.
When our loads are over certain specifications, which are set by individual states, HTL is required to obtain oversize/overweight permits. While I
was learning to order these permits for Pennsylvania, the Permit Coordinator left unexpectedly. I was on my own for a few months, and learned a lot in a very short time. Since then, I have been solely responsible for all of the permits.
My co-workers are the best thing about my job. We get the job done, pitching in to help each other when needed. With their encouragement and good humor, I am able to refocus, complete the task at hand, and move on to the next challenge. I am glad to be part of this great team!
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) And Affirmative Action
It is the policy of High ® to cooperate to the fullest extent with all applicable regulations of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1966, as amended; the Age Discrimination In Employment Act of 1967, as amended; the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act, as amended; the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; the Civil Rights Act of 1991, as amended; the American with Disabilities Act, as amended; the Family Medical Leave Act, as amended; or any other State, Federal, or local law concerning age, race,
High Honors
Tsex, religion, national origin, disability, or any other form of discrimination.
Further, High will provide equal employment opportunities to all co-workers and applicants for employment and ensure that all personnel actions such as compensation, promotion, benefits, transfer, layoff, recall, demotion, company-sponsored training, education, tuition assistance, social and recreational programs will be administered without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or veteran status.
his column recognizes the ongoing awards, honors, education, and certification of co-workers. To include your honor, or to honor someone else, forward the pertinent information, within three months of completion, to Laurie Newmoyer, High Corporate Services LLC.
Congratulations, David, on this accomplishment.
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High Supports Green Initiative
The following is a reprint of the Green Initiative letter sent out by Nevin D. Cooley, President and Chief Executive Officer, High Real Estate Group LLC. The importance of this initiative warrants repetition of the information.
As you may know, at the High® companies we have always considered responsible environmental stewardship to be a defining goal of our corporate culture and brand. We aspire to this goal in many ways, including reducing energy consumption, initiating new practices that reduce the amount of materials released into the environment, installing naturalized landscape areas on our properties to enhance the condition of waterways, and applying green building design practices.
Of course, the term “green” refers to ways in which we conduct ourselves in relation to the effect we have on the environment. Efforts that our companies are undertaking, or may in the future undertake, include the further reduction of pollutants in our manufacturing and fabricating processes, reduction of energy consumption, increasing our levels of water recycling, reducing the consumption of paper, and designing and building green facilities like the new maintenance facility at High Concrete Group LLC (in the photo), designed by Greenfield Architects Ltd. and built by High Construction Company.
The responsible use of resources is multifaceted, and our green efforts will be expansive, but consider just these facts related to the use of paper:
24 trees are cut down to make a ton of printing and office paper;
We now will work to expand our focus on green actions to further strengthen this key initiative. I am excited to have the opportunity to lead our Green Initiative. As Chairperson of our Green Initiative Steering Committee — a group of co-workers from among the High companies — I look forward to working with this team identifying and implementing ways in which we can maximize our efforts in this important area.
4,100 kilowatt hours of energy, 7,000 gallons of water, 60 pounds of air emissions, and three cubic yards of landfill space are saved when that same ton of paper is made from 100 percent recycled paper;
$1.5 billion and at least 100,000 barrels of oil could be saved annually if companies sent their printers and copying cartridges off for remanufacturing.
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As an organization-wide effort, we encourage each of you to become engaged in the program. If we all play a strong role, our results will be maximized in this important effort — one that is important for us as an organization, important for the communities in which we operate, and important for the world we live in.
And, this will not be an effort with an end date. Our Green Initiative will weave into the fabric of each of our businesses as a long-term strategic initiative — one of which we can be proud and one which our customers, business partners, and fellow community members may appreciate and view as a model for their own efforts.
In the months ahead, we will establish a process for you to contribute ideas as you hear from your respective Green Initiative Committee member regarding ways in which your business unit will be participating, including implementing early elements of the program. I also encourage you to learn more about ways in which we can all contribute to this cause in our lives away from the workplace. Some of you may already be well along this path, and perhaps you will share your expertise with the rest of us. There are vast amounts of resources on this topic, including the “green guide” and “articles” sections of the web site www.greenmatters.com. If you do not have Internet access, please contact Laurie Salzmann, Executive Assistant, for printed copies of this material (which will be printed on two-sides to save paper).
Welcome aboard to this team effort. There is much more to follow as we work together to make a significant impact on protecting our environment and continue to do our part as good stewards in our community.
Tim Guhl Named To “Forty Under 40”
Tim Guhl, Vice President and Controller with High Industries Inc., has been selected by the Central Penn Business Journal as a 2008 Forty Under 40 award recipient for his “commitment to professional excellence and community involvement.”
The Forty Under 40, all business leaders under the age of 40, are selected by an independent judging panel for their notable successes and demonstration of leadership, both within and outside of their chosen field. Tim was nominated for the award earlier this Summer by High’s Corporate Marketing Department.
In addition to being recognized at the awards ceremony in October at the Hilton in Harrisburg, Tim and the other honorees were profiled in a special supplement to the Journal that featured each recipient.
Congratulations, Tim, on this recognition.
High Receives Raffles Award Of Merit
On October 16, 2008, High Industries Inc. was presented with an Award of Merit on behalf of Raffles Insurance, Ltd. The award is given to the top 25 percent of member companies in recognition of
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outstanding achievement in risk control efforts. Each of the 262 member companies is scored on five criteria: loss ratio; risk control assessment score; OSHA total recordable frequency rate; OSHA lost workday case rate; and risk control workshop attendance. These areas are tracked and evaluated for a period of one year. This award was based on the policy period from April 1, 2007, through April 1, 2008.
The Raffles Award of Merit represents the hard work and diligence put forth by all safety and operations co-workers at High. Thank you all for making our companies a safer place in which to work!
Apartment Communities Earn Awards
On Thursday, October 16, 2008, the Apartment Association of Central Pennsylvania held the 2008 Best of Living Awards Celebration at the Radisson Penn Harris in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. For the seventh consecutive year, our Bentley Ridge and Greenfield Estates teams received several awards acknowledging their excellence within the Central Pennsylvania apartment industry.
Greenfield Estates received an award for Curb Appeal Excellence. Bentley Ridge received multiple awards, including Excellence Awards for Curb Appeal, Maintenance, Star Performer Leasing and Marketing, and Overall Community.
In addition, each community was recognized with a Community Service Recognition Excellence Award for its participation in programs and services that enhance the local community.
These awards are the result of great teams working together to serve the people who call our communities home. Thank you to both teams. Your commitment to this profession is commendable.
A HCGL Projects Earn PPA Awards
precast parking garage built by High Concrete Group LLC (HCGL) has been recognized with an Award of Excellence by the Pennsylvania Parking Association (PPA). The Hawks Landing Saint Joseph’s University Parking Garage and Retail Facility in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, received the annual competition’s award in the “New Design Less than 450 Spaces” division.
The awards were given at the PPA’s 2008 Conference in Pittsburgh. Designed by architect Burt Hill of Philadelphia, the Saint Joseph’s garage is a gateway to the school’s urban campus, transitioning visitors from the busy city to the quiet campus environment. The Gothic-style architecture is in keeping with prominent historic university buildings. First floor retail spaces provide an anchor, making the garage itself a destination. Shoemaker Construction Company of West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, was the general contractor; O’Donnell & Naccarato, Philadelphia, was the structural engineer.
Megan Varano, Diane Carter, Tina McGinnis, John Yoder, Stephanie Dillard, Ginny Bitts, and Karen Edwards.
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The competition recognized six other HCGL projects with Awards of Merit in each of the three New Design Divisions:
• DuPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, Delaware
Award of Merit, New Design More than 1,000 Spaces. Architect: Payette Associates, Inc. Engineer: Walker Parking Consultants. General Contractor/CM: Gilbane Construction Company.
• Hershey Intermodal Commuter Station Garage, Hershey, Pennsylvania
Award of Merit, New Design Less than 450 Spaces. Architect: Buchart Horn, Inc. Engineer: Basco Associates. General Contractor/CM: Lobar, Inc.
• Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network Garage, Allentown, Pennsylvania
Award of Merit, New Design 450 – 1,000 Spaces. Architect: Freeman White, Inc. Engineer: O’Donnell & Naccarato.
• Millersville University Parking Garage, Millersville, Pennsylvania
Award of Merit, New Design Less than 450 Spaces. Architect: Greenfield Architects Ltd. Engineer: Providence Engineering Corporation. General Contractor/CM: High Construction Company.
• Penn National Racetrack Garage, Grantville, Pennsylvania
Award of Merit, New Design More than 1,000 Spaces. Architect: Urban Design Group, Inc. Engineer: Gregory P. Luth and Associates. General Contractor/CM: Penn National Gaming, Inc.
• York Hospital Patient and Visitor Parking Garage, York, Pennsylvania Award of Merit, New Design More than 1,000 Spaces. Architect/Engineer: Timothy Haahs & Associates, Inc.
General Contractor/CM: Alexander Building Construction LLC.
Congratulations on these prestigious awards.
HSSCL Adds To Its Aluminum Product Line
Second only to steel, aluminum is the most frequently used and commercially available metal found in the marketplace. It is light in weight with a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it a good choice for a broad range of manufactured parts. Just about anything that can be made of metal can be made with aluminum.
High Steel Service Center LLC (HSSCL) added Aluminum Flat Rolled to its product line nearly two years ago. In 2008, HSSCL installed a top mounted PVC Film Applicator on its Red Bud Precision Blanking Line. This applicator applies a removable protective film of PVC to the smooth aluminum coil as it is being processed into sheet or precision blanks, keeping the finish from being damaged in our customers’ manufacturing environment. Adding this capability to our processing equipment has allowed HSSCL to supply its product to a clientele whose end product is exposed and highly visible, and therefore must
PPA Award Winner: The Hawks Landing Saint Joseph’s University Parking Garage and Retail Facility in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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be free of defects. These customers include manufacturers of parts or products such as tractor trailer muffler shields, tool cabinets, lighting fixtures, and electrical panels. In stock are a blend of domestic and foreign material from various vendors and mill sources, allowing HSSCL to react quickly and service a wide variety of customer needs.
As a strategy to grow the aluminum business, Scott Trauger was named Aluminum Flat Rolled Product Specialist, and Chad Martin appointed Aluminum Flat Rolled Product Sponsor. The target account list has grown from 80 accounts in 2007, to 130 accounts in 2008. Our focus on customer service, quality products, and on time delivery, has allowed HSSCL to move successfully into the aluminum market.
The next time you see a Mack or Volvo Truck, take notice of the muffler guards on the exhaust stacks or the grilles. Some of these items are made from our aluminum.
HSSI Fall Open House Deemed A Success
High Steel Structures Inc. (HSSI) Fall Open House was held on Thursday, October 9, 2008. Attended by design consultants and Department of Transportation (DOT) officials from the Mid-Atlantic region, the event’s purpose is to promote the use of steel superstructures in the designs for future bridge projects.
A Technical Market Update was the focus of the morning session. Speakers included Matt Habinecht from ArcelorMittal, Bill McEleney from the National Steel Bridge Alliance, and HSSI co-workers Tom Wandzilak and Ronnie Medlock. The session wrapped up with a question and answer period.
Following a catered lunch at Plant One, guests were divided into small groups, given a safety briefing, and lead on a tour of the fabrication facilities. After the tour, they were given gift bags and treated to refreshments, including Achenbach’s Whoopie Pies, a Lancaster County favorite.
This marks the second year for the Open House. With representatives from New Jersey, New York, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, this event is a marketing tool that aids HSSI in networking with decision makers in the bridge construction process.
Thank you to all HSSI co-workers who contributed to the success of this event.
Presenters (left to right): Ronnie Medlock, HSSI, VP of Technical Services ; Matt Habenicht, Commercial Plate Manager, ArcelorMittal; Bill McEleney, Regional Director, National Steel Bridge Alliance.
Co-workers and attendees enjoyed a catered outdoor barbecue.
HCC Sponsors Golf Invitational
High Construction Company (HCC) sponsored its First Annual Golf Invitational to benefit Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) and Penn State Hershey Children’s Hospital.
Held on Friday, August 22, 2008, at Hershey Links Golf Course in Hummelstown, Pennsylvania, the event was the brainchild of HCC’s President, Matt Twomey, who is also a member of the CMN Advisory Board.
HCC’s Deron Henise and Kathy Abernethy, Director of Estimating and Marketing Coordinator, respectively, organized the event. More than 45 local subcontractors showed their support by providing sponsorships. Numerous local businesses provided nonmonetary donations and prizes for the event. Nearly 80 golfers participated in the scramble.
In addition to its “Children’s Miracle Network Celebration”, CMN relies on events such as this to raise funds for children’s hospitals across North America.
Special thanks go to HCC coworkers Dan Dennis, Amy Martzall, Kevin Miduri, Dan Pietropola, Bob Wagaman, Connie Weaver, and other volunteers who helped to make this a very meaningful and successful event. Their efforts, along with the generosity of participating subcontractors, enabled HCC to raise $15,358.74—more than 50 percent over the $10,000 goal!
THF Gives To Career Center
The High Foundation has contributed toward the purchase of two welding simulators, which have been installed at the Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, campus of the Lancaster County Career and Technology Center (LCCTC).
At the Welding Simulation Training Center, students and steel industry workers will learn welding and safety skills through the use of computer gaming technology. These simulators replicate the act of welding, saving energy and materials over traditional training methods, while assessing the student’s performance. One of these virtual reality simulators is mobile, allowing employers to offer on-site training.
This donation by The High Foundation benefits the community by ensuring that LCCTC students and local industries have the resources to train new welders, and to refresh the skills of existing workers.
Matt Twomey presents a check to CMN representatives, Allison Harvey and Jennifer Groff. On the right of the photo is the Isbell family, whose daughter, Lilly, is now a happy and healthy two-year-old because of medical services made possible by CMN.
Kevin Miduri, in full-golf attire, prepares a perfectly-grilled hot dog for co-worker, Bob Wagaman.