Thank you for your help in producing this edition of High Spirit.
Kathy Abernethy
Alicia Allamena
Rick Bennett
Maureen Cruz
Kyle Gaskill
Shannan Givler
Greg High
Steve High
Randy Horning
Carolyne Jordan
Mary Kreider
Tina McGinnis
Ronnie Medlock
Dave Nicholas
Stephanie Reese
Elaine Richard
Laurie Salzmann
Fritz Shaak
Mike Shirk
Jenni Simmons
Robin Stauffer
Bob Walsh
Chuck Weyland
● A Message From The High
❖ Recognizing S. Dale High for Over Half a Century of Leadership and Entrepreneurship
❖ The Third Generation of the High Family Honors S. Dale High with a Leadership Center
❖ Paula R. Crowley Named Non-Executive Chair of the High Boards
A Message From The Chief
❖ Our Five Strategic Priorities
Industry Leadership...........
❖ HCG Event Showcases 1200 Intrepid
❖ High Focuses on Talent Development
❖ HSS Does Its Part to Keep the New New York Bridge On Schedule
❖ HHL’s Third SpringHill Suites is Born!
❖ HSSC Completes ERP System Upgrade
❖ HSS Holds Open House and Health Fair
❖ A Day in the Life at HEHSC
❖ HCC Begins Construction of a New Hotel
❖ Summit Highlights the Best in Workplace Safety Practices
❖ They Give Good Measure!
● Rene Acosta Bonilla, Leadperson, HCG, Denver, PA
● Mary A. Garrison, Guest Services Representative, HHL, SpringHill Suites-Ewing, NJ
● Jeffrey K. Hash, Utility Operator, HSS, Lancaster, PA
● Paul A. Rogers, Senior Systems Analyst, HCL, Lancaster, PA
● Gregory M. Weitzel, Planner/Expediter, HSS, Lancaster, PA
● David W. Bosch, Design Team Leader, George W. Burnley, Senior Engineer, and William L. Whary, Architectural Engineer, HCG, Denver, PA
❖ High Honors and Awards ● Environmental Stewardship...... ....18 - 19
❖ HCG Improves Stormwater Quality
❖ HSSC Updates Its Recycling Program
❖ High Co-Workers Join the Race Against Racism
❖ High Adopts-A-Kindergarten
❖ HTL Joins the Make-A-Wish Convoy and Sets a World Record
- 21
ON THE COVER: Paula R. Crowley was elected non-executive Chair of the High Boards, succeeding S. Dale High, who was elected Chair Emeritus. Read about these significant changes to High’s governance structure on page 3.
High Spirit is published as a service to High® co-workers and retirees, and their families.
Submissions, comments, and suggestions are welcome and should be submitted to:
Laurie M. Newmoyer, Editor lnewmoyer@high.net ● (717) 293-4479
See this, and past editions of High Spirit, on High Home!
By Steve, Greg, and Suzanne High
2016 marks the High companies’ 85th year in business. We are excited about reaching this milestone! In addition to this important anniversary, we are also proud to recognize S. Dale High, our father, for over half a century (53 years) of service with the High companies.
During his tenure, Dale provided the leadership and entrepreneurial spirit necessary to diversify the company into the many businesses and industries that we are involved in today. Without Dale’s vision, most of us would not have the jobs that we have today or be able to say that we work for a company that truly cares about coworkers, families, and the community.
The High Philosophy was also created under Dale’s leadership (in conjunction with co-workers) in an effort to capture the culture of the High companies. Up until that time, the culture of High was understood, but it had never before been put into words in the form of a philosophy statement.
We want to take this opportunity to pause and say ‘thank you’ to Dale for his many contributions to the family, the company, and the community. Dale has positively impacted so many people in so many ways, and we are truly grateful for his efforts and accomplishments over the years.
On Monday, June 6, 2016, ground was broken for a special project in Greenfield Corporate Center. With funding from the third generation of the High Family — Steve, Greg, and Suzanne High—The S. Dale High Leadership Center will be a tangible and long-lasting way to recognize and thank Dale High for his outstanding leadership and entrepreneurship of the High companies, as well as his many contributions to Central Pennsylvania and the Lancaster community. The project is located near the entrance to the Corporate Center at 1861 William Penn Way, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
The existing 3,411 square-foot building is undergoing extensive renovations and will be converted into office space to serve The S. Dale High Family Office and The S. Dale High Family Foundation. A new addition consisting of approximately 6,400 square feet will feature a 132-seat state-of-the-art auditorium that can accommodate a wide array of events. The new addition will also include a main lobby space which will feature “The High Story,” a pictorial history of the High companies, as well as a 1929 REO Speedwagon truck. This truck is identical to High Welding Company’s first truck, and is being restored by High Transit LLC.
Completion of The S. Dale High Leadership Center is planned for Spring 2017.
The High Boards of Directors elected Paula R. Crowley to become non-executive Chair of the High Boards starting in March 2016. As a nine-year member of the Boards of High Industries Inc. and High Real Estate Group LLC, Paula is deeply familiar with all of High’s businesses, the High Family, and The High Philosophy. She succeeds S. Dale High, who has served as executive Chair since 1977. Dale was elected Chair Emeritus by the High Boards, and remains active in the business, participating in strategic planning, government relations, and business development.
Paula’s election to Chair of the Boards of Directors is especially significant in that she is the first non-family member to hold this position. Her appointment gives High an organization and governance structure built for the long-term, and is the last major step in a well-planned, multi-phase transition that has been underway for several years. When The High Family Council laid out its 100-Year Vision in 2010, it committed to remain as family-owned companies guided by The High Philosophy. This new governance structure was designed to ensure that High prospers far beyond the tenure of any single leader, and through many economic and generational lifecycles.
Paula has been on the cutting-edge of real estate development throughout her career. In 1985, she co-founded a national, fullservice healthcare development company based in Wilmington, Delaware. The company evolved into Anchor Health Properties, where she served as Chief Executive Officer for many years, and currently serves as its Chair.
A member of the American College of Healthcare Executives, Paula speaks nationally on the topics of customerfocused design, merchandizing healthcare services like a retailer, and creating investment value from healthcare real estate. She has received several industry awards, and was recently recognized by the Real Estate Forum – Women of Influence as one of the top 45 female executives making a difference in commercial real estate.
Paula graduated from Middlebury College with a Bachelor of Arts degree, earned a Masters in City Planning from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School.
Let me start with adding my thanks to Dale High for his unparalleled leadership over the last 53 years, and my congratulations to Paula Crowley on her appointment as Chair of the Boards. I have worked with Paula for several years on the boards and have a great appreciation for her capabilities and passion for High. This transition was an important final step in ensuring the High companies have a governance structure built for the long-term, and is one of many things that excite me about our future!
Speaking of the future, here you will find a high-level summary of our five strategic priorities for the next three to five years. At the highest level, these are the areas we will be differentially focused on to ensure we have the strongest, most exciting businesses possible. Living The High Philosophy underpins them all. As I write this, we are wrapping up our strategic planning process for the year, and there are detailed plans underlying each of these priorities.
In reading this edition of High Spirit, you will start to see elements of each of these priorities in action. This is just a sample. There are many more that we will share in future editions and through other communication methods. I look forward to sharing more about these priorities and our progress against them in my various travels and visits with co-workers.
I like to regularly remind us all that what we do really matters – to customers, co-workers, families, and communities. Delivering on these priorities will enable us to make a very positive impact for many! Thank you for doing your part in strengthening the High companies and for your commitment to living The High Philosophy every day.
In May, thousands of architects from all over the world met in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for the 2016 annual AIA Convention. High Concrete Group LLC took this opportunity to not only exhibit at the trade show, but also to showcase the 1200 Intrepid project at the nearby Philadelphia Navy Yard. This first-of-itskind office building, designed by worldrenowned European architect Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), has been making waves far beyond the port. As seen in the picture below, the type of geometry is incredibly unique and complex. HCG’s Denver team stepped up to the challenge, developing an innovative new system to turn this idea into reality and fabricating the structure on time for the opening.
HCG offered an evening of entertainment, fun, and learning, just outside the 1200 Intrepid building, where 300 guests enjoyed the amazing site and discussed the innovative aspects of the project.
Many High teams collaborated to make the event happen. High Transit LLC shipped full-size sample panels to the event site, enabling architects to get a better understanding of the variety of color, finish, and shape options available through precast. Both the Denver, Pennsylvania, and Springboro, Ohio, plants created samples specifically for this use. The Engineering team created a beautiful 3D printed model for display, and other HCG co-workers helped to set up and tear down, as well as answer customer questions during the event. Referring to the project and the event, BIG principal Kai-Uwe Bergmann said “High Concrete is incredibly dedicated on all levels…there was care taken in the factory, through the transportation, and into the installation. Then, once it was actually up, which was a very short time, we had a great celebration!”
For more photos of the entire soiree, visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/HighConcrete.
The last year has brought with it a focus on talent development and associated investment well beyond what most companies are doing – encapsulated in our strategic priority of Supercharging Talent Development! This focus stems from a desire to develop our co-workers, prepare for many upcoming retirements, support the growth of our businesses, and make the High companies an even greater place to work. In support of this priority, Kathy Prime, Chief Talent and Development Officer, and Courtney Kunes, Training Tech Coordinator, have joined the Organization and Talent Development team. Jeff Fisher, Corporate Safety Manager, and Mary Kreider, Administrative Coordinator, are also part of the team that is partnering with our business and human resource leaders to provide new opportunities for coworkers to grow within the High companies.
Co-workers collaborated on a problem-solving exercise.
This is a long-term journey, not a singular event. Just one of the several focus areas in the journey is investing in leadership development for our many leaders across High. To that end, we launched the Breakthrough Leadership program in 2015 and the Managing and Leading program in early 2016. Managing and Leading is a new two-day course designed to teach new managers to be effective leaders, and for existing managers to brush up on their skills using a mix of leadership tools, application practice, and case study reviews. In addition, the course explores key leadership topics, including: the role of a manager at High; selecting the right talent; performance management – the purpose and process; and developing co-workers. Managing and Leading also explores how a leader’s performance in building and managing co-workers is linked to organizational culture and strategy, including The High Philosophy.
More than 50 co-workers have participated in the course. Here is a sample of their feedback:
“To be a great leader you can never stop having the appetite to learn. The Managing and Leading course is an excellent learning opportunity for all levels of leadership. The class helped me identify and focus on four actions to strengthen my leadership skills. It also showed me the commitment that High has in developing a profound leadership team at all levels in the organization. It is extremely exciting to be part of a company that recognizes the need for great leaders and has the desire and devotion to enhance this skill set throughout its workforce.”
Rusty Wynegar, High Concrete Group LLC, Plant Manager “The Selecting Talent session of the training has been particularly helpful. I refer to that session prior to interviewing, and feel that I am getting a more detailed response to my questions, and a better feel for the level of talent we are hiring.”
Doug Shiffler, High Steel Structures LLC, Lead Supervisor
High is committed to providing ongoing educational experiences for co-workers as they pursue a lifetime of continuous learning opportunities. The partnership between co-workers and managers, supported by the organization’s resources, will help to further build a workplace and development culture that co-workers find engaging and rewarding. Stay tuned for more programs!
Work on High Steel Structures LLC’s largest project ever is progressing well and will be winding down soon. HSS is providing steel for half of the 20 approach spans on the new three-mile long New NY Bridge, which will replace the existing Tappan Zee Bridge that crosses the Hudson River 25 miles north of New York City. Fabrication, painting, and delivery of the 783 girders, 1,068 sub-stringers, and 2,580 cross frames are 90 percent complete, and Tappan Zee Constructors (TZC) has erected 26 of the 41 spans within the ten units that HSS is providing.
Use of steel for the approach spans has been essential to TZC’s success. Bridge designers chose a 12-foot-deep steel girder as the key element in the approach superstructures. At this depth, TZC could standardize on 350-foot approach spans to keep the number of piers to a minimum, thereby reducing cost, while using girders that could be readily shipped over-the-road. Further, use of steel kept the approaches light, allowing TZC to preassemble large bridge sections up-river and then float the sections, each weighing between 1,100 and 1,200 tons, downstream to the bridge for erection. TZC uses a giant barge crane with a 1,900-ton capacity to lift the sections into place and join them at field bolted connections. The successful fit of these many field splices is a testament to the workmanship of HSS co-workers.
HSS has been successful in fabricating steel for on-time delivery to the assembly site by High Transit LLC. All aspects of this project were meticulously planned and executed well, helping to make it a financial success, in addition to meeting all customer expectations.
The bridge’s westbound lanes are on track to open in 2017, and the entire bridge is planned to open in 2018. To see the daily progress on the bridge, visit http://www.newnybridge.com/webcam, and
See daily progress on the New New York Bridge: See highlights, including HTL delivering steel to the jobsite:
Breaking ground for the new hotel were
HHL’s Russ Urban, Laurèl Rolle, and Stephanie Reese, HCC’s Rick Stoudt, High’s Mike Shirk, dignitaries, including U.S. Congressman Charlie Dent, and Marriott representatives.
This Summer, High Hotels Ltd. broke ground for a new SpringHill Suites by Marriott in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley region. The SpringHill’s fresh, stylish design and spacious suites appeal to business travelers and families alike, making it the perfect choice for visitors to surrounding companies, as well as nearby attractions like Dorney Park, Downtown Bethlehem, and Lehigh University. Russ Urban, President of HHL, said, “We like this particular corridor because of its convenient access to Interstate 78 and the upscale shopping and dining options within The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley. The location is considered to be the premiere business district in the growing Allentown/ Bethlehem market.”
This project is the third SpringHill Suites flag to be added to the HHL portfolio, including a hotel that opened seven years ago in Ewing, New Jersey, and another currently under development in Mt. Laurel, New Jersey.
Greenfield Architects Ltd. designed the hotel, and High
Construction Company is the project’s general contractor. Opening is slated for third quarter 2017.
Co-workers were treated to an SAP (Super Appetizing Pig) Roast to celebrate the successful system upgrade.
In November of 2015, High Steel Service Center LLC (HSSC) and High Corporate co-workers teamed up to begin a complete business process redesign that is expected to change the game in the service center industry. ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is business process management software that enables HSSC to use a system of integrated applications to manage and automate technology functions for the benefit of co-workers and customers. The result of an evaluation of HSSC’s current state, which included a 34-year-old ERP system, an ideal future state was established. Process improvement, supported by SAP, helped to identify and eliminate non-value added activity and waste, enabling co-workers to work more efficiently.
High Company LLC’s Information Technology Department’s Applications/SAP team, along with external consulting support, helped guide HSSC key users through development, training, and implementation phases. HSSC continues to work closely with IT to identify additional opportunities for improvements.
To celebrate the implementation of the ERP system upgrade, HSSC co-workers were treated to an SAP (Super Appetizing Pig) Roast. Greg High, Mike Shirk, and Jeff Sterner joined in the festivities, recognizing the team for its positive attitude and hard work in making this important project a great success. This upgrade will enable HSSC to operate profitably, adapt continuously, and grow sustainably.
On Saturday, April 30, 2016, High Steel Structures LLC held an Open House and Health Fair at its Lancaster, Pennsylvania, campus. Open to all High co-workers and retirees, family, and friends, the event featured a self-guided tour of the manufacturing facility. Key areas included the Crossframe Robotic Welder, Girder Builder, Ficep Drill, and Farley Burning Machine. The Paint Bay displayed product in its various stages from raw steel to three-coat paint systems. Visitors could sit in a yard crane, or climb into a High Transit LLC truck and blow the horn!
Lafayette Fire Company was on-site, giving visitors hands-on experience putting out a fire with an extinguisher. There were games and face painting for the kids, and families could have their photos taken with the vintage High Welding truck. Kids of all ages were encouraged to enter the contest to test their skills with the Lincoln Electric virtual welder.
Winners were: Kaydence Givler (daughter of Shannan Givler, HSS) in the 13 and under category; Duane Dickson (son of Joy Dickson, HAL) in the over 13 category; and Brian Aument, HSS, for the co-worker welding competition.
Co-workers and family members enjoyed the self-guided plant tour.
Thank you to co-workers and others who helped to plan and execute this successful event: Len Becker, Ken Cooper, Andi Dean, Ken L. Eberle, Ken M. Eberle, Sharon Gillenwater, Shannan Givler, Bryan Jenks, Mary Kreider, Don Lee, Kandy Miller, Mike and Laurie Newmoyer, Mindy Nolt, Bob Orta, Glenn and Ashley Pike, Jenni and Emily Simmons, Mike Sullenburger, Phil Wagner, and Lie Weiler.
A few of the coworkers who helped to plan and execute the Open House and Health Fair took time out for a group photo.
The traditional process of environmental health and safety is applied daily by the HEHSC Team:
ANTICIPATION
Anticipating the types of exposure risks that could be present in the environment.
RECOGNITION
Recognizing signs, symptoms or injuries that are associated with a risk.
EVALUATION
Evaluating risks to determine if they exceed ‘safe’ levels by measuring the risk.
CONTROL
Controlling risks using various methods (PPE, engineering, and administrative) to achieve an acceptable level of risk.
As a consultant, one of the joys of the job is embodied in variety. On any particular day, you can find the High Environmental Health and Safety Consulting Ltd. staff at industrial facilities, construction sites, private residences, grocery stores, hospitals, conference halls, or power plants. They may be crawling into dank, dark places or meeting with the senior leaders in the board room. All this makes answering the inquiry, “What do you do?,” more challenging.
So here is a sampling of the HEHSC Team’s recent projects:
● Ken Reisig monitored non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation exposure to medical center employees who service the RF transmitters on the building’s roof. Exposure to RF transmission, much like your microwave, can cause internal body heating and induce electrical charges into the body.
● Speaking of power, Brandon Dobson could be found walking the grounds of Avon Lake power plant in Ohio where he monitored the safety of many contractors as they installed new pollution control equipment.
● Steve High completed a project that is a reflection of our nation’s drug problem.
A home, raided because of its use as a methamphetamine clandestine drug lab, was uninhabitable due to chemical contamination. After evaluating the property for contamination levels, a remediation and clearance testing plan was developed to assure that the home would be habitable without risk to future occupants.
● Derek Robins was recently at a well-known Pennsylvania brewery evaluating the air quality after complaints of high carbon dioxide surfaced. The brewery’s insurance company asked for assistance in responding quickly to the company’s concerns. The brewing process produces CO2 (not to be confused
with toxic CO) which, at high levels, can depress oxygen and cause some cardiorespiratory impacts.
● Continuing on the topic of beverage-based hazards, Lisa Bolin was at two different wellknown coffee manufacturers sampling for potential exposure to diacetyl, which is generated during the brewing process and is associated with obliterative bronchiolitis, a severe lung disease.
So what is next for the HEHSC Team? They will find out with the next phone call!
High Construction was awarded a $9 million contract for a new Courtyard by Marriott, located at 515 East Chocolate Avenue, Hershey, Pennsylvania. Owned by Bears Creek Hershey Hotel, LLC, the hotel is a joint venture between Shaner Hotels and Chafia Capital Partners, and is the first hotel project awarded to HCC by Shaner Hotels. The 70,000 square-foot hotel will feature four stories and 120 guest rooms.
A groundbreaking celebration, which was attended by project team members, owners, and local dignitaries, was held on May 3, 2016. Construction will wrap up in Spring 2017.
Above: A monitor is placed atop the ladder to measure CO2 in the area of concern.
Left: The small blue box on the coffee grinder is the sampling pump. The white tube picks up the traces of diacetyl.
Above: The owners, design and construction teams, and local dignitaries, broke ground for the new hotel.
Left: During the ceremony, Bob Walsh, HCC’s Vice President of Operations, spoke about the experienced construction team.
Hampton Inn Hampton Inn
Hampton Inn
Hampton Inn Lexington Park, MD
High Associates High High Associates High High
Ltd. Construction Ltd. Construction Services/Building Services/Building Services/Building Services/Building Maintenance Maintenance Lancaster, PA
Presenter: Rob Vasko
Mallard P Mallard P Mallard P Mallard P Mallard Pointe/ ointe/ ointe/ ointe/
P P P P Prosperity Place rosperity Place rosperity Place Place Charlotte, NC
Presenter: Steve Brown
Orchard Ridge Orchard Ridge Orchard Ridge Orchard Ridge Pottstown, PA
Presenters: Seth Perchalski and Kathryn Sylvia SpringHill Suites SpringHill Suites SpringHill Suites SpringHill Suites Ewing, NJ
Presenter: Pat Brogan
T T T T TownePlace Suites ownePlace Suites ownePlace Mechanicsburg, PA
Presenter: David Jacobs
W W W W Westbury Mews estbury Mews estbury Mews Summerville, SC
Presenter: Brenda McDonagh
Y Y York Ridge ork Ridge ork Ridge ork Ridge ork Charlotte, NC
Presenter: Ann Bless
High Concrete High High Group LLC Group LLC Group LLC Springboro, OH
Presenter: Matt Mahonski
High Steel Service High Steel Service High Steel Service High Steel Service High
Center LLC Center LLC Center LLC Center LLC LLC Lancaster, PA
Presenter: Randy Horning
The High Corporate Environmental Health and Safety Department holds an annual Safety Summit to celebrate safety performance achievements of High businesses and properties. This year, the Summit was held on February 26, with co-workers from the 10 Safety Circle winners – two from Manufacturing/ Construction and eight from Hotels/Properties – presenting highlights of their safety programs and records. Members of High’s Executive Committee were also on hand to review safety results and judge the merits of each presentation in order to determine a President’s Safety Award winner in each category.
Some presentations showcased coworkers’ creative talents, while others took a “no-frills” approach.
Mark Fitzgerald, President and COO of High Real Estate Group LLC (second from left), presents the award for Hotels/Properties to SpringHill Suites. Accepting the award is Pat Brogan, General Manager, along with Greg Werner, Assistant General Manager, and Scott Cirello, Chief Engineer.
In the Hotels/Properties category, SpringHill Suites-Ewing, New Jersey, took the award with a remake of the Men Without Hats “Safety Dance” video, featuring most – if not all – of the hotel’s staff in costume. A more simple approach from High Concrete Group LLC’s Springboro, Ohio, plant convinced the judges to present them with the award in the Manufacturing/Construction category, marking the second consecutive year that Springboro has taken the prize.
Thank you to all Safety Circle recipients, and congratulations to the President’s Safety Award winners, for your impressive efforts in safety.
Jeff Sterner, President and COO for High Industries Inc. (right), presents the Manufacturing/Construction award to High Concrete Group LLC, Springboro, Ohio. Accepting the award is Matt Mahonski, Plant Manager, and Misti Black, Senior Human Resource Specialist.
High Concrete Group LLC, Denver, PA
NOMINATOR:Mark Stout
When Rene discovered that a newly-hired co-worker had very little clothing to wear and was in need of help, he took it upon himself to purchase clothing for the co-worker. Not only did Rene give this man a hand up, his actions also inspired others in the department who witnessed his generosity to help, as well.
Rene is known for his positive attitude and willingness to help others, but this act of selflessness sets him apart. He is an outstanding role model for his co-workers, and demonstrates the very best of The High Philosophy each and every day!
KEY POINTS OF THE HIGH
● Respecting the dignity of all co-workers and their families.
● Contributing to a world of beauty and prosperity and peace.
High
NOMINATOR:Patrick H. Brogan
Two days before Christmas, nominator and hotel General Manager Pat Brogan received a call from a pastor at a local church; a family was living in their car and hoped that he could find a place for them to spend the holiday. Pat told him there was room at the inn, and the father, mother, and three children were invited to stay at the hotel for two nights at no charge.
Mary became the family’s ‘Secret Santa.’ After her shift ended at 9:00 p.m. on Christmas Eve, she went home, prepared food, wrapped toys and clothing, and returned to the hotel at 1:00 a.m. She decorated the door to their room and placed the food and presents there. When she heard voices in the room, she knocked on the door and left.
Upon opening the door, the family was thrilled to discover the gifts and food! In the note to the hotel staff, they said, “This was a great Christmas for us. To see the smiles on our children’s faces when they opened up their gifts brought tears to my eyes. You have treated us like royalty.” Mary’s compassion, generosity, and selflessness were instrumental in turning this family’s scant and stressful holiday into one they will remember with joy and gratitude.
KEY POINTS OF THE HIGH PHIL
KEY POINTS OF THE HIGH PHIL
KEY POINTS OF THE PHIL
KEY POINTS OF THE PHIL
KEY POINTS OF THE HIGH PHILOSOPHY
● Valuing our customers and meeting their needs.
● Contributing to a world of beauty and prosperity and peace.
NOMINATORS:Dale R. Jones with input from Michael E. Schirmer and Gregory M. Weitzel
According to his co-workers, Jeff Hash gets the tough jobs. Most complex work that passes through Plant Two’s South Bay requires an extensive knowledge of welding and fabricating processes. Jeff takes on these challenges, studying blueprints, identifying any areas of difficulty, and developing plans for efficient girder fabrication.
Jeff is also the go-to guy for co-worker training. With his many years of experience, Jeff is able to show seasoned and new co-workers proper or better ways to do the job, always with safety at the forefront. He will come in early to answer any questions the third shift co-workers may have to ensure that all shifts produce a high quality product that is “right the first time.”
Jeff’s attention to detail makes him the go-to guy when HSS has complex girders, as he is one of only a few who are qualified to handle this difficult work. Co-workers count on him to walk them through these tricky jobs, and value his advice for best welding processes. He has an outstanding work ethic, setting the bar high and helping others to achieve this level of excellence. When it comes to Good Measure, Jeff measures up!
● Valuing our customers and meeting their needs.
● Respecting the dignity of all co-workers and their families.
● Energizing our teamwork with participative management.
● Creating an environment for innovation.
● “Right the first time” – High quality products and services.
High Company LLC, Lancaster, PA
NOMINATORS:J. Phoenix Rann and the High Concrete Group LLC Production Management Team and High Company LLC Corporate Accounting and Finance Departments
Paul was a dual GMA nominee whose recognition came from co-workers at both High Concrete Group LLC and High Company LLC. These nominations stem from his ability to take abstract concepts and, using information stored in data warehouse reports (i.e. SSRS), turn them into workable programs that provide valuable information to High SBUs and SRUs.
Paul automated reports which track various production metrics for HCGL, and labor forecasting for the Corporate Accounting and Finance Teams. These reports have been instrumental in: allowing production managers to quickly identify opportunities for improvement; reducing the amount of time
necessary to determine monthly labor adjustments and forecasting; and providing actionable information to analyze variable cost structure and to forecast and control spending.
The generation of this meaningful data has enabled co-workers at all levels of the High organization to participate in evaluating processes and information and to make adjustments that have a positive impact on the bottom line.
“Paul is not only technically competent, but is a true business partner who understands the issues we face and contributes meaningful ideas not thought of by others.” This kind of innovative thinking is an extraordinary example of what it means to Give Good Measure!
KEY
● Valuing our customers and meeting their needs.
● Energizing our teamwork with participative management.
● Creating an environment for innovation.
High Steel Structures LLC, Lancaster, PA
NOMINATOR: Richard Voloshin, Jr.
“Hey, buddy, how can I help you?” That is what you will hear when Greg answers the phone in the Planning office at High Steel Structures LLC (HSS). Whether the caller is a contractor or a co-worker, he is known for being friendly and for going out of his way to be helpful.
When there were issues with the Ohio River Bridge project, Greg traveled to the job site several times, taking measurements for plates and working side-by-side with the contractor to get to the root of the problem. He worked in the Yard to help keep production on schedule, as well as with HSS’s Engineering and Project Management teams, and surveyors and contractors.
Greg spent months at the Williamsport Plant to train Leads, and to improve work flow and drive efficiencies in a positive direction. He trained and helped kick-off Quality Control QN Process, and also went to several facilities to train Supervisors and Planners. He learned the Faro Arm process and used it to help Operations in the Fabrication Bays and Yard. Greg also leads weekly status meetings for complex jobs.
Greg is always willing to help his co-workers, contractors, and customers, and consistently exceeds expectations to provide Good Measure.
KEY POINTS
● Valuing our customers and meeting their needs.
● Respecting the dignity of all co-workers and their families.
● Energizing our teamwork with participative management.
NOMINATOR:Dave Schneider
Dave, George, and Bill were the primary design team for the recently completed 1200 Intrepid project, one of the most challenging engineering projects ever taken on by HCG. With the team’s expertise in structural design and use of BIM technology tools, they were able to devise a plan that safely transmitted all design forces to either the structure or the foundation. This was no small feat given that the east façade of the building was a stacked load, while at the same time, severely out of plumb. Numerous times during the project, the architect experienced issues, only to discover that HCG’s model was correct.
Additionally, since there were no reference points in space to align the panels, the erection was very complex, and could not be done by conventional means. The HCG team devised a system that allowed the erector to know where to place the panels in space and meet the architectural demands of the building.
Dave, George, and Bill were the key to HCG’s success on this project. With 100 combined years of precast knowledge and expertise in BIM technology, these gentlemen made fabrication and largely error-free erection of this very complicated project a reality.
● Valuing our customers and meeting their needs.
● Strengthening our partnership with suppliers.
● Creating an environment for innovation.
● ”Right the first time” – High quality products and services.
Leah E. Connors
...earned the ARM (Accredited Residential Manager) designation for residential site managers from IREM (Institute of Real Estate Management) in April. Leah joined High Associates Ltd. in 2000, and serves as Community Manager/Operations Specialist.
Jamie T. Gartley
...received his Masters degree in Engineering Management from Penn State University in May. Jamie joined High Steel Structures LLC in 2007, and serves as Plant Manager at HSS’s Williamsport, Pennsylvania, location.
Brett M. Dombach and Joshua M. Supplee
...of High Associates Ltd., earned awards at Maintenance Mania. This program, offered by the National Apartment Association, uses competition to measure the skill of residential maintenance staff.
● Brett earned third place overall. He joined HAL in 2012, and serves as Building Maintenance-Specialized for Bentley Ridge Apartments.
● Josh placed third for Ice Maker Installation and first for Faucet Repair. He joined HAL in 2013, and serves as Residential Maintenance Leadperson for Greenland Village Apartments.
David C. Jacobs
...was the recipient of Marriott’s prestigious Service Excellence Award-General Manager, for leading his team through significant challenges during the TownePlace Suites by Marriott-Harrisburg West/Mechanicsburg’s opening year. David joined High Hotels Ltd. in 1998, and serves as General Manager for the hotel.
Penn Square Grille
...was named a March 2016 Open Table Diners’ Choice Winner. Located within the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and Lancaster County Convention Center in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Penn Square Grille was selected by seasoned diners who were impressed by its cocktails, desserts, and everything in between.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott-Harrisburg West/Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania
...was recognized by Marriott for the following:
● Ranking in the top three of more than 260 hotels in the brand in Maintenance and Upkeep based on guest satisfaction; and
● Earning Platinum Circle honors by placing in the top five percent in the brand for guest satisfaction and for meeting certain other brand audit requirements. It was one of only six TownePlace Suites hotels to achieve this status.
High Concrete Group LLC is implementing a stormwater improvement project at its Denver, Pennsylvania, location. The goal is to reduce levels of Total Suspended Solids (TSS) discharged into Stony Run Creek, a stream south of the facility.
Gannett Fleming was contracted to assess stormwater from various collection points both on- and off-site. Of those on-site points, the Batch Plant was identified as the heaviest loading area for TSS into the Outfall 001 Stormwater Retention Pond (SRP), which discharges into the creek. To improve stormwater quality, short- and long-term plans were developed.
Short-term projects included:
● Placement of double-face barriers adjacent to where the outlet from the Batch Plant emptied into the SRP to slow flow and allow the majority of TSS to drop out of the stormwater, making it easier to remove solids from the SRP.
● Installation of a silt fence across the SRP to help filter out more of the TSS prior to discharge into Outfall 001.
● Elevation of the outfall discharge pipe to allow stormwater to remain in the SRP longer so that even more TSS can settle out.
● Improvements to the outfall itself, including removal of non-native vegetation, and installation of a rock channel to allow stormwater to flow into Stony Run unimpeded.
The improved Outfall.
The long-term plan has been partially completed. A new street sweeper was purchased so that the Batch Plant pad can be cleaned daily. HCG has also installed Gratemaster drain guards in the stormwater inlets to filter out solids from stormwater.
Remaining items in the long term plan include:
● Installation of a stormwater solids interceptor adjacent to the SRP to provide additional TSS drop out of the stormwater collection line that runs from the Batch Plant into the SRP.
● Improving grading in the Batch Plant area and upgrading the treatment system which currently filters out the solids from the process wastewater to help segregate the process water from the stormwater and provide advanced treatment of process water generated from Batch Plant operations.
The results of the actions taken thus far have significantly improved the quality of the stormwater being discharged to Stony Run Creek from Outfall 001. Completion of the remaining portions of the project is planned for Spring 2017.
Recycling is not new to High Steel Service Center LLC – it has had a two-vendor recycling program in place for some time. One of those vendors was contracted for recycling office paper, cardboard, and an HPDE-type material used to wrap steel coils coming into the plant. These materials were picked up about four times during the year, so it was gathered and stored behind the HSSC facility, creating a less than ideal appearance. In addition, this recycler required that paper and cardboard be kept separate from the HPDE material, making storage even more challenging.
Tim Barna, First Shift Leadperson, noted that some suppliers were moving away from wrapping steel coils with large pieces of the HPDE-type material, instead using HDPE strips with a second layer that was a stretch wrap-type of plastic. The current recycler would not accept co-mingled materials. Because it was too labor-intensive to separate those materials, it was put in the trash.
Tim and Randy Horning, Operations Manager, began looking for other vendors to meet HSSC’s recycling needs. Eagle Disposal, its current recycler of aluminum cans and plastic bottles, was a logical place to start. Katy Eby, Business Development for Eagle, visited HSSC’s facility and was shown the comingled HDPE material, as well as plastic and cardboard products that were not accepted by the other vendor.
Katy developed a program for recycling of all HSSC’s plastic and cardboard products, without having to separate the materials. HSSC purchased a few large bins for collecting the materials in the plant, and Eagle placed an eightyard bin behind the facility where the smaller bins could be emptied. It was quickly discovered that the eight-yard bin was filled almost daily, so a second bin was added, and pick-up doubled to twice weekly.
As a result of Tim’s effort and HSSC’s collaboration with Eagle, HSSC has realized a more than 50 percent reduction in the volume of trash being sent to the landfill. What a great example of The High Philosophy at work!
Randy Horning, Eagle Disposal’s Katy Eby, and Tim Barna pose in front of the recycling bins at HSSC.
The YWCA’s annual Race Against Racism unites communities in an effort to eliminate racism by building awareness and raising funds for antiracism programs. High co-workers in the Lancaster, Pennsylvania, area demonstrated their support by joining the Race on Saturday, April 30, 2016.
Cruz, HCL Senior Human Resource Specialist, who served as the High Team Coordinator, said, “Even though the day started out a bit chilly, members of the Lancaster community were eager to hit the streets for this worthy cause. Co-workers from a number of High companies participated, recruiting family and friends for the High RAR Team. It is a great way to build camaraderie and meet people we may not otherwise have contact with at work.”
Thank you to co-workers, family members, and friends who participated in this important community event, and to Maureen for organizing the High Team
Each year, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology partners with School District of Lancaster for an Adopt-A-Kindergarten program. This year, High joined the partnership by sponsoring the Washington Elementary School kindergarten.
The Adopt-A-Kindergarten program includes in-class, hands-on presentations by Thaddeus Stevens faculty that informs children about specific fields of study. Presentations in the fields of plumbing, CAD, metals fabrication and welding, water and environmental technology (just to name a few), are presented in a fun and engaging way. Once faculty members have visited the classroom, children participate in a campus tour where each child is given a hard hat, Kindergarten students from Washington Elementary School drew pictures and created cards to thank High for its support of Adopt-A-Kindergarten.
goggles, yellow Adopt-A-Kindergarten tee shirt, Thaddeus Stevens College ID card, and lunch. It is hoped that these activities make an impression on the children, and encourages them to complete their secondary education, and consider continuing on to college.
Upon completion of the program, a graduation ceremonyincluding caps and gowns - is held for the children. This year, Mike Shirk, Chief Executive Officer, and Robin Stauffer, Corporate Secretary, attended and had an opportunity to interact with the children. “High is happy to partner with Thaddeus Stevens College and its Adopt-A-Kindergarten Program. Introducing children to career paths at an early age helps build excitement for learning that contributes to life-long success,” said Robin.
This is one more way in which High demonstrates its commitment to education and the Lancaster community.
On Sunday, May 8, 2016, High Transit LLC co-workers joined the Make-a-Wish of Philadelphia and the Susquehanna Valley’s Annual Truck Convoy. With more than 590 trucks, it set a world record for longest convoy, and helped build awareness and raise funds to support the organization’s mission to fulfill wishes for children with life-threatening illnesses.
HTL Over-the-Road Drivers Steve McFadden, Jason Moore, and Keith Reed, along with HTL Delivery Representative Robert Oldham drove the rigs. Mike Bresch, HTL Leadperson, along with the drivers and fleet maintenance co-workers, prepared trucks and trailers to look their best for this important occasion.
Congratulations, gentlemen, for your part in achieving this world record, and thank you for providing your time and skills to support this cause.
