for your help in producing this edition of High Spirit.
Rose Crandall
Joy Dickson
Jeff Fisher
Shannan Givler
Tara Gustafson
Steve High
Randy Horning
Durelle Leaman
Aidalis Lopez
Lisa Masters
Kristina Mory
Sharon Murry
Dave Nicholas
Stephanie Reese
Elaine Richard
Laurie Salzmann
Fritz Shaak
Jennifer Soto
Megan Spatz
Robin Stauffer
Rich Truxel
Kaela Vogan
Sue Weniger
Rebecca Werner
On the Cover
High Concrete
Group LLC broke ground for an exciting manufacturing revitalization project. Read about it on page 5.
High Spirit Fall 2019 In this issue...
l A Message From The Chief Executive Officer
F Your Safety is a High Priority!
l Industry Leadership
F Grand Prizes Awarded for Good Measure
F Luxury Apartments Break Ground at Charlotte’s Mallard Pointe
F Project Osprey Marks a Manufacturing Revitalization for HCG
F StructureCare: Being Innovative Leaders
F HSS Lancaster Recertified as a VPP Star Participant
F HCC Completes Bowers Center at Elizabethtown College
F PSP and HREG Unveil the New Lancaster Marriott East Tower
F Operational Improvements Support “Bright” Future for HSSC
F HSS Hosts Annual Steel Day and Fall Open House
F Eberle Honored by ARTBA for His Contributions to Workplace Safety
F They Give Good Measure
l Cynthia Figueroa, Hostess, HHL, SpringHill Suites, Mt. Laurel, NJ
l Gregory N. Hill, CNC Tech Operator, HSS, Lancaster, PA
l Robert J. Hoelscher, Accounting Manager, HCL, Lancaster, PA
l Benton A. Levengood, Industrial Engineer, HSS, Lancaster, PA
l Jeremy C. Eberle, Kenneth M. Eberle, Richard J. Fuhrman
Dale R. Jones, John E. Schroeder, and Joshua M. Shetrompf
First Aid Team Members, HSS, Lancaster, PA
l Harry A. Nash, Design Engineer, HCG, Denver, PA
l Aaron C. Vassar, Ironworker, HSE, Lancaster, PA
l K. Grant Weaber, Inbound Material Receiver, HSSC, Lancaster, PA
l Courtny R. Byerts, Ada L. Figueroa Rivera, Marah G. Gandia, Angel D. Hall, April D. LaFosse, Huong T. Le, Angelina McDonald, Maria I. Mendez-Rosario, Sharon L. Preston, Alba Santiago, Patricia M. Stewart, Patricia M. Stewart, Amy R. Wareham, Carol A. Wolford, and Kylie N. Wolgamuth Housekeeping Team, HHL, Hampton Inn-York, Pennsylvania
l Chad Hollandsworth, Senior Accountant; Laura Vasko, Accounting Manager; and Eric L. Westcott, Manager of Business Intelligence, HCL, Lancaster, PA
F High Honors and Awards
F Wynegar Named Forty Under 40
l Community Commitment
F High Foundation Awards Grant to LancasterHistory
F Williamsport Team’s Grand Slam Parade Float Hits a Home Run
F HCG Supports the Mighty Mehal Foundation
F HSS Lends Its Expertise to 9/11 Memorial Installation
F High Co-Workers Join United Way’s Day of Caring
F United Way Campaign Supported by Generous High Co-Workers and Retirees
F High Foundation Awards College Scholarships
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Your Safety is a High Priority!
As we reflect on 2019 and the year ahead, one of the many sources of pride is your commitment to safety. A safe workplace requires us to be aware of potential unsafe situations and to be prepared to act quickly and appropriately. To that end, we have invested in training for all coworkers, including improving the frequency of fire drills, expanding opportunities for co-workers to receive cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automated external defibrillator (AED) training, and by providing active shooter training.
FIRST AID AND CPR/AED TRAINING
Approximately 350 High co-workers are currently trained and certified in First Aid, CPR, and AED across the High companies. That’s more than 15% of our co-workers! And as a further demonstration of our co-workers’ commitment to safety, 2020 will mark the 50th anniversary of the Lancaster High Steel Structures (HSS) First Aid Team.
In 2019 we put a big emphasis on expanding the 1-hour hands-on only CPR and AED training sessions, with about 170 co-workers attending this training, and others have made a longer-term commitment as part of a company First Aid Team. We should all be extremely proud of these accomplishments.
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) takes about 320,000 lives annually in the United States. The national average of surviving a SCA is 10% or less. When the appropriate steps are taken quickly – 1) calling 9-1-1, 2) performing high-quality CPR, and 3) administering an AED within the first minute – the survival rate skyrockets to 90% or more!
Earlier this year, six members of the HSS First Aid Team worked together to administer CPR and an AED to a coworker who experienced a heart attack and sudden cardiac arrest – and saved his life! (You can read more about it on page 14.) This is an example of how very important it is to have these skills and the confidence to use them.
ACTIVE SHOOTER TRAINING
Given that these events are on the rise and are highly publicized, we felt it was important to provide basic training to all our co-workers in 2019. Some of you also expressed a desire for this training in the last Co-Worker Engagement Survey.
Mary Jo Dietrich (GAL) observes Fran Richards’ (GAL) CPR technique.
Mike Shirk
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Active shooter events are unpredictable and evolve quickly. Unlike a building evacuation where we would typically ask co-workers to exit the building calmly and proceed to outside assembly areas, an active shooter event is chaotic and without a single pre-programmed response.
The training we provided stresses the “Run, Hide, Fight” principles: Run to a safe location, if possible; Hide when this is the best option available; or as a last resort, Fight.
It is equally important that we all remain vigilant and support High’s Zero Tolerance policy on Workplace Violence. In most workplace violence incidents, Managers, Supervisors, or coworkers know beforehand that something is “off” with a fellow co-worker prior to an actual incident. Please follow the “SEE SOMETHING … SAY SOMETHING” guidelines and immediately alert your Supervisor or Human Resources if you believe a co-worker is exhibiting any type of indicators of potential violent behavior.
Thank you for attending training on this very difficult issue. Our hope is that each of you will think about your individual work environment and how you would react and respond if ever faced with an active shooter or workplace violence situation.
We will continue to look for new and expanded training opportunities in areas that impact our co-workers. In the meantime, we also encourage feedback from all of you on training that you would find helpful. Again, thank you to all co-workers who have attended these training sessions and for walking the talk when it comes to being “Each Others’ Keepers!”
Bill Odoms (HEHSC) teaches members of the High Leadership Council proper use of an AED.
John O’Quinn (HSS) performs CPR as Frank Schutte (HCL), and Steve Evans (HAL) watch.
Ken Hornbeck (HAL) and Mike Shirk prepare to administer the AED.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Grand Prizes Awarded for Good Measure
Good Measure Award winners for the period beginning on August 1, 2018, through July 31, 2019, were invited to attend the 2019 High Forum. At that time, two Grand Prize winners were announced to recognize the best of the best in Good Measure. This year’s winners are:
Harry A. Nash
Design Engineer
High Concrete Group LLC, Denver, Pennsylvania
Jeremy C. Eberle
Kenneth M. Eberle
Richard J. Fuhrman
Dale R. Jones
John E. Schroeder
Joshua M Shetrompf
First Aid Team Members
High Steel Structures LLC, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Grand Prize winners were scored by High’s Executive Committee using a weighted scoring system based on The High Philosophy and other factors. To read about their Good Measure-worthy achievements, see pages 16 and 17 in this issue of High Spirit.
Congratulations to Jeremy, Ken, Richard, Dale, John, Josh, and Harry, and to all of our Good Measure Award winners! Your commitment to The High Philosophy, the company, its customers, and our co-workers, exemplifies the pinnacle of Good Measure.
Mark Fitzgerald, HREG President and COO; Dale Jones, HSS; Harry Nash, HCG; Ken Eberle, HSS; Richard Fuhrman, HSS; John Schroeder, HSS; Josh Shetrompf, HSS; Jeremy Eberle, HSS; and Jeff Sterner, HII President and COO.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Luxury Apartments Break Ground at Charlotte’s Mallard Pointe
High Real Estate Group LLC held a groundbreaking for a new luxury, four-story apartment complex in the Charlotte, North Carolina, suburb of Mallard Pointe. Located on an 11.76-acre tract at 11030 David Taylor Drive, Mallard Pointe will offer 260 one-, two-, and three-bedroom units with upscale finishes in three elevatored buildings. The apartments will be available for lease in Fall 2020, and will be managed by HREG affiliate, High Associates Ltd.
Participating in the ground breaking for the Mallard Pointe community were: Mike Shirk, High CEO; Mark Fitzgerald, HREG; Brad Mowbray, HAL; Greg Phipps, City of Charlotte Council Member; Andrew Basile, HAL Director of Acquisitions; and Jim Oswald, SVP/CRE Manager for BB&T.
“The community at Mallard Pointe
will provide the luxury lifestyle that is in demand among millennials and baby boomers,” said Brad Mowbray, HAL’s Senior Vice President and Managing Director - Residential Division. “This is an outstanding project that addresses the high end of the Charlotte rental market.”
Mallard Pointe comprises 270,690 square feet and is located within a short walk of the Cochrane Commons shopping center, which is anchored by a Harris Teeter grocery store. The site abuts University Research Park, is proximate to I-485 and I-85, and is a 30-minute drive from downtown. The major attractions of Reedy Creek Nature Center & Nature Preserve, Sea Life Center-Charlotte and Charlotte Motor Speedway are nearby, as are Mallard Creek High School and several large employers including the University of North Carolina. Residents will have a short drive to five golf courses and the retail shopping corridors on I-85 and I-77.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
The apartments will feature high-end interior appointments including quartz countertops and Slate GE® ENERGYSTAR® appliances, under-cabinet lighting, and shower stalls in select units. Mallard Pointe amenities will include a pool with outdoor kitchen and fire pit, fitness center and yoga studio, bike storage and repair facilities, pet-friendly amenities such as a dog park and pet spa, resident storage, nearby walking trails, and recreational open space.
“Apartments are an important part of our growth strategy,” said Mark Fitzgerald, President and Chief Operating Officer of HREG. “While we develop and acquire residential properties across multiple rental price points and geographies, this product is proven to meet the needs of growing markets like Charlotte.”
Project Osprey Marks a Manufacturing Revitalization for HCG
On July 17, 2019, High Concrete Group LLC broke ground on “Project Osprey,” an $8 million manufacturing revitalization of its Denver, Pennsylvania, plant. The scope of this project involves switching production of architectural products to the larger structural products building in order to better utilize space, streamline operations, and maximize capacity for the growing architectural market. The challenge is to maintain current project workload during the move.
This manufacturing revitalization project is projected to increase Lancaster County revenue by as much as $50 million annually, provide employment for 50 to 70 people, and is being completed without the need for government subsidies. The facility will utilize the latest manufacturing technology in the industry, increase output, and improve productivity.
According to HCG President J. Seroky, “Project Osprey signals our commitment to invest in technology that keeps High at the forefront of innovation in the precast market.” In addition to boosting HCG’s architectural precast manufacturing capacity and efficiency, the expansion will lower the site’s carbon footprint, improve working conditions, and create job opportunities.
Project Osprey is scheduled for completion in mid-2020.
In the photo are: Scott Russell, East Cocalico Township; Jeff Sterner, HII; Mike Shirk, High; Sean Dixon, HCG; Paula Crowley, Former Chair of the Board, High; Phoenix Rann, HCG; Dale High, High; J. Seroky, HCG; Alan Fry, Board of East Cocalico Township Commissioners; and Josh Parsons, Lancaster County Commissioners.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
StructureCare: Being Innovative Leaders
To increase sales and provide its clients with excellent service, StructureCare needed a scalable solution to support the company‘s continued growth. With support from High’s Information Technology Team and a third-party vendor, custom Client Tracking Tools were developed. These tools specifically provide information related to client services and budgeting.
The Client Service Tracker provides a central location to maintain data related to all active service plans and SC’s client obligations. The specific services tracked include inspections, condition monitoring, training, repair allowance, and technical support. This level of detail supports reporting that is shared with each client on an annual basis and provides a summary of the value clients receive over the life of the service plan. Clients can see the services that have been completed, and the recommended actions to be taken in order to proactively maintain each parking garage.
The Client Budget Tracker allows for version control of recommended multiyear repair budgets over the life of the service plan and provides a tool for Client Service Managers to review the impact of decisions clients have made compared to SC’s recommendations. The Tracker details initial probable costs as shown in assessment, how they compare to actual spend, and the negative financial impact of choosing to defer spending to a period later than recommended. This impact is compelling and supports the benefits of SC’s predictive management approach versus a traditionally reactive industry.
Together, these new tools enable SC to track contract obligations, make informed and accurate service and budget recommendations, and provide clients with best-inclass customer service. In this way, StructureCare is leading the way in innovation!
HSS Lancaster Recertified as a VPP Star Participant
On June 4, 2019, OSHA arrived at High Steel Structures LLC’s Lancaster, Pennsylvania, facility for a comprehensive three-day review of its safety and health management system. The review consisted of a wall-to-wall OSHA compliance inspection, as well as a review of co-worker involvement in the safety process. Part of the review involved co-workers from Quality Control, the First Aid Team, and High Steel University, who offered presentations on the various ways in which safety is integrated into HSS’s ongoing operations. Following OSHA’s evaluation, it was determined that HSS met the criteria for recertification as a VPP (Voluntary Protection Program) Star Participant!
VPP promotes effective worksite-based safety and health. In the VPP, management, labor, and OSHA establish cooperative relationships at workplaces that have implemented a comprehensive safety and health management system. Approval into VPP is OSHA’s official recognition of the outstanding efforts of employers and employees who have achieved exemplary occupational safety and
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
health. Participants of VPP serve as models for other employers and workers by operating excellent safety and health management programs that go above and beyond compliance.
In the United States, approximately 5.9 million companies are eligible to participate in the VPP; however, there are only 1,327 VPP Star Participants, with just 102 in Pennsylvania as of October 31, 2018. That means less than 0.0002% of companies have the exemplary safety and health management system to qualify and achieve this designation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, HSS Lancaster continues to perform better than the national average in Total Case Incident Rate (TCIR) and Day Away Restricted Time (DART) incidents in its industry.
A special thank you goes out to Scott Fisher, Craig Myers and Pat Risser, who partnered with the OSHA VPP team, guided OSHA inspectors through the facility, and answered questions. And thank you to all HSS Lancaster co-workers and the leadership team for your continued support and dedication in making this a safe place to work and for your commitment to our Drive to Zero incidents. You truly demonstrate what it means to be “each other’s keeper!”
HCC Completes Bowers Center at
Elizabethtown College
High Construction Company recently completed work for a $21 million project for Elizabethtown College’s new Bowers Center for Sports, Fitness, and Well-being. The beautiful new facility is located on the college’s campus, off East Cedar Street in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, and is its largest construction project to date.
Spanning 81,900 square feet, the new center encourages the well-being of students with an array of fitness and wellness spaces, including: a field house with tennis courts; a basketball court; an indoor track; areas for yoga, weight training, and group fitness; locker rooms; a cafe and lounge; and a demonstration kitchen, among other amenities. Work began in June 2018, and was completed in time for the Fall 2019 semester.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
PSP and HREG Unveil the New Lancaster Marriott East Tower
A ceremonial ribbon-cutting on August 30, 2019, marked the formal opening of the new East Tower of the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square. With a 12-story, soaring glass façade topped by a sophisticated roof-top bar, the new East Tower rolls out a spectacular venue to welcome visitors to the Red Rose City’s historic district.
Led by Penn Square Partners and High Real Estate Group LLC, the project team included architect Carry Cooper Inc., general contractor High Construction Company, and owner the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Lancaster. The 87,000 square-foot expansion capitalizes on the exciting downtown vibe and food fervor with two new restaurants; Plough, located at street level and featuring an open kitchen and modern-American menu, and The Exchange, a sleek rooftop bar presenting sharable plates and inventive cocktails with panoramic views of the city and beyond. This $39.4 million expansion and refurbishment project adds 117 guest rooms equipped with advanced amenities and a signature Marriott M Club Lounge.
Shane Zimmerman, Executive Vice President and Treasurer, Steinman Communication; Dale High and Mike Shirk, High; Danene Sorace, Lancaster City Mayor; Mark Fitzgerald, HREG; Tom Smithgall, HAL retired; and Kevin Malloy, Executive Director, Lancaster County Convention Center Authority.
This event also elebrated the 10th anniversary of the Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square and Convention Center. Since its opening in June 2009, it has been a catalyst for more than $1 billion in economic development. According to Mark Fitzgerald, President and COO of HREG, “This project gave others the confidence to make significant investment in Lancaster City.”
The new East Tower can be seen to the left of the orignal hotel tower.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Operational Improvements Support A “Bright” Future for HSSC
In 2016, High Steel Service Center LLC launched a new line of stainless steel and aluminum products. Referred to as “bright” metals because of their surface-critical finishes and end-use applications, this line has grown 800 percent in only three years. To support demand of these higher value products, HSSC has been making capital investments and process improvements. In addition, Randy Horning, Operations Manager, and Gary Hambright, Stainless and Aluminum Product Manager, are working together with customers, equipment manufacturers, producing mills, and co-workers to improve product quality and service levels to support this new product growth.
Bright metal sheet products are processed from master coils on either the stretcher leveler line or multi-cut blanking line. Numerous changes were implemented at both lines to improve quality and increase productivity.
On the Stretcher Leveler Line, the payoff reel was reprogrammed to run with the breaker roll engaged at all times, eliminating scratches to sheet surfaces. A new process for packaging material off-line increases capacity during periods of high demand, and preventive maintenance enhancement of grip feed mechanism significantly reduces machine down time.
On the Multi-Cut Blanking Line, upgrading of leveler controls, hydraulic systems modification of parameters, and use of chrome-plated work rolls, further reduce or eliminate roll marks on metal surfaces. Improvements were made to storage and handling of PVC film and tissue paper applied to certain bright metal products.
Both lines added high-resolution video cameras that allow co-workers to watch how material is responding down the line from the Operator’s Control Station. Banding choppers make handling of master coil scrap banding more efficient, and automatic paper winders for coils purchased with paper interleaving were added.
Bright metal sheet storage and order pulling activities were improved with a new hand-held ink jet printer to efficiently stencil customer-required information on orders, and the addition of a workstation gantry crane that streamlines sheet handling. In Bay 5, sheet storage racking provides an additional 250 storage locations, reconfiguration of underutilized bar product rack gives 80 more storage locations, and a second order-pulling area was added. To move large sheets of aluminum, a vacuum lifter was purchased and is used in conjunction with an overhead crane. Improved training for new order pullers further enhances efficiency.
These investments and process improvements position HSSC to achieve 50 percent growth in tons during 2020 compared to 2019 and ensure its “Bright” future.
Aaron Gregor and Will Barbon pull an aluminum order using the new workstation gantry crane.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
HSS Hosts Annual Steel Day And Fall Open House
On Friday, September 27, 2019, High Steel Structures LLC welcomed 250 guests to its Lancaster, Pennsylvania, facility for its annual Steel Day and Fall Open House. Championed by the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), along with its members and partners, Steel Day is the steel industry’s largest educational and networking function and offers the opportunity for AEC professionals, students, and the general public to gain insight into the value and expertise that the U.S. structural steel industry brings to building and bridge projects.
HSS’s events began with an educational program featuring a presentation on the historic Arlington Memorial Bridge Rehabilitation by Shane Beabes, P.E., Associate VP, Transportation - Complex Bridge Practice, AECOM. As one of the largest transportation projects in National Park Service history, the $227 million rehabilitation of Arlington Memorial Bridge is set to improve the iconic entrance to the nation’s capital. Designed to create a physical and symbolic connection between the North and South, the bridge spans the Potomac River connecting the Lincoln Memorial on the east and Arlington National Cemetery on the west. The bridge’s new draw span features fixed steel girders that will maintain the bridge’s functionality and historic appearance. Fabricated by HSS, the 1,258 tons of new structural steel will extend the useful life of the bridge and reduce maintenance costs.
Other technical session presentations included Bridge Steel Specialist Vin Bartucca, P.E., offering an update from the National Steel Bridge Alliance, and Tom Wandzilak, HSS Business Development Manager, who presented a market and fabrication overview. Following the technical session, Steel Day guests enjoyed a BBQ lunch followed by guided shop tours where guests were able to see the fabrication of projects as they move through the shop processes. Many attendees represented owners and customers of projects HSS was fabricating that day. Guests were also invited to participate in virtual and conventional welding activities as they toured the High Steel University classroom and shop.
Greg Williams led a group through the HSS Plant.
Guests were given an opportunity to complete a welding project.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Eberle Honored by ARTBA for His Contributions to Workplace Safety
Kenneth L. Eberle was one of seven individuals honored for significant contributions to transportation construction safety on America’s roadways by the American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA). Presented during its National Convention in Savannah, Georgia, on September 23, 2019, the lifetime achievement awards celebrate the 40th anniversary of the association’s Traffic Safety Industry Division.
Ken, who was recognized in the Materials and Services Division, served on High Steel Structures LLC’s First Aid Team for more than 40 years, and led safety programs for 20 years at the company’s Lancaster and Williamsport, Pennsylvania, facilities. His dedication to co-worker safety resulted in significant improvements in the company‘s OSHA recordable incident rates, with HSS closing 2018 approximately 50 percent below the three-year average Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) industry incident rate. According to ARTBA, “His engagement and care for fellow workers helped create a positive safety culture across High Steel facilities, as evidenced by the most recent survey showing 87 percent of employees feel their company is a safe place to work.”
In addition to serving on the First Aid Team, Ken was actively involved in the HSS Lancaster facility’s ongoing participation in OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program (VPP), which was originally certified by OSHA in 1983.
Thank you for living The High Philosophy, Ken. By helping to ensure that your co-workers have a safe environment in which to work, you demonstrate respect for them and their families.
Note: Ken retired in August 2019, following more than 46 years of service with High. We wish him all the best!
Ken Eberle, shown with HCL’s Jeff Fisher (left) and Fritz Shaak (right), was honored with a prestigious lifetime achievement award by ARTBA at its National Convention.
Ken with other ARTBA award recipients.
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
They Give Good Measure
Cynthia Figueroa
Hostess, High Hotels Ltd.
SpringHill Suites, Mt. Laurel, NJ
Nominator: Patrick H. Brogan
We are told that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Cindy Figueroa takes that to the next level by engaging with guests and getting to know and understand their dietary needs. To meet her customers’ requirements, she reworked the breakfast menu to include Kosher and gluten-free items, ensuring these foods also met Marriott standards. Cindy even took it a step further by compiling a binder containing ingredient and nutritional information for breakfast items, which is especially important to guests who have food allergies or dietary restrictions.
Cindy makes sure the kitchen is ship shape, receiving a perfect score in the November 2018 Marriott Breakfast and Kitchen Inspection. In addition, there were no violations found during a Health Department annual inspection, which is difficult to achieve.
According to nominator Pat Brogan, “She is positive in her daily work and truly takes ownership of the Food Department.” Cindy is innovative in her approach to food service and values her customers by meeting their dietary needs. Thank you, Cindy, for giving Good Measure!
Gregory N. Hill
CNC Tech Operator
High Steel Structures LLC, Williamsport, PA
Nominator: Tonya L. Baylor
Nominator Tonya Baylor volunteered to learn the CNC Machine to backfill for Greg on the night shift during his scheduled vacation. They worked together for about three weeks, and all went smoothly; however, when Tonya was left to work the machine without Greg, she ran into a problem that hadn’t occurred during training. Thankfully, Greg had given Tonya his cell number in case of emergency. Not wanting to leave the work for the next shift, she called.
Greg answered the call – which was placed during third shift and well into the evening hours. Patiently he provided precise instructions. Greg talked Tonya through the necessary steps and stayed on the phone until they were sure the issue was corrected.
Because of Greg’s knowledge of the equipment, work ethic, and respect for coworkers, he made himself available 24/7 – even while on vacation – helping to get the CNC Machine up and running and the work back on track. His dedication shows that he values customers and co-workers, which are hallmarks of The High Philosophy and Good Measure!
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Robert J. Hoelscher
Accounting Manager
High Company LLC, Lancaster, PA
Nominator: Andrew A. Sims
People sometimes view working in an office environment as pushing papers. For those who perform well, it also involves a keen eye and attention to detail, looking for any mistakes that may impact the company or a client.
Part of Bob’s job includes reviewing credit worthiness of commercial lease tenants. During one review, Bob took a deeper dive into the lease and noted that an early renewal had a rate of $20,000 per month less for the remaining six months of 2019 – catching an important detail while going beyond the scope of his responsibilities. Wanting to ensure the lease was corrected, Bob reached out with this information to Mike Lorelli, High Associates Ltd. Senior Vice President Commercial Asset Management, who then reviewed the lease with the property manager and leasing team.
As a result of Bob’s vigilance and follow-up, the leasing team was able to work with the tenant to push back the lease renewal start date to January 1, 2020. In addition, the leasing agents were able to obtain a rent increase of $1.00 per square foot over the original renewal, resulting in an increase in revenue over the five-year lease of approximately $368,000. Dollar for dollar, that’s Good Measure.
Benton A. Levengood
Industrial Engineer
High Steel Structures LLC, Lancaster, PA
Nominator: Robert A. Cisneros
In today’s business climate, manufacturing companies face real challenges in hiring, training, and maintaining a qualified workforce. For that reason, High Steel Structures LLC launched High Steel University, where new co-workers can learn skills needed to perform their jobs well, and existing co-workers can increase skills.
HSU instructors are co-workers who volunteer to teach these classes, in addition to performing their regularly-assigned duties. So when key co-workers were pulled out of the classroom for pressing assignments, Ben Levengood stepped in to backfill this need. He taught all classes in April and covered most classes through the Spring of 2019 for forty new co-workers. During that time, Ben also led efforts to streamline coursework, which minimized redundancies and reduced the total instructor/student commitment from five to four days, while maintaining course quality.
By teaching co-workers valuable skills so they can do their jobs “right the first time,” by being innovative in his approach to the curriculum, and by making an investment in his co-workers that will secure their future and that of High Steel Structures, Ben demonstrates what it means to give Good Measure!
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Jeremy C. Eberle l Kenneth M. Eberle
Richard J. Fuhrman l Dale R. Jones
John E. Schroeder l Joshua M. Shetrompf
First Aid Team Members
High Steel Structures LLC
Lancaster, PA
Nominator: Robert J. Boyd
When facing a life-threatening emergency, cool heads and skilled hands are key to survival. On January 23, 2019, nominator Bob Boyd experienced first-hand how High Steel Structures’ First Aid Team literally made the difference between life and death.
At the end of his shift, Bob felt ill. As he sat in the locker room, Dale Jones observed that Bob didn’t look well and went to check on him. Bob was having a heart attack and went into cardiac arrest, which is defined as the sudden, unexpected loss of heart function, breathing, and consciousness. Without a second to spare, Dale sprang into action, ordered a Code Blue announcement, and began CPR. Jeremy, Ken, Richard, John, and Josh responded, to helping to perform CPR and administer the AED. Together, the Team managed to revive Bob even before an ambulance arrived.
Had Bob’s health emergency occurred anywhere else, the outcome may have been very different. Because our highly-trained First Aiders are the very definition of Each Other’s Keepers, they are vigilant and ready to provide appropriate medical assistance at a moment’s notice. “Because of their outstanding performance and quick reaction, I am able to continue with my life. My wife and family will be forever grateful,” said Bob. And we here at High are grateful to these gentlemen, as well!
Jeremy C. Eberle
Dale R. Jones
Kenneth M. Eberle
John E. Schroeder
Richard J. Fuhrman
Joshua M. Shetrompf
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Harry A. Nash
Design Engineer
High Concrete Group LLC, Denver, PA
Nominator: David B. Schneider
Architects are often tasked with designing innovative and exciting buildings that garner attention. That was the case with the Penn State University Health Parking Garage project. The initial design concept called for flowing bands of concrete to wrap the structure. While beautiful, the excessive cost and design issues were insurmountable!
Between the architect, engineer of record, and HCG, Harry was the only person who understood all aspects of the unique design. He reviewed the design and then told the architect what HCG could offer. According to nominator Dave Schneider, “Due to the complexity of the pieces involved, every aspect of HCG’s business needed to be addressed.” This Herculean task involved designing 128 unique concrete pieces, and analyzing each for load bearing capabilities, shipping constraints, erection, and economy. Since the design team lost valuable time chasing the original scheme, this tedious and complicated process had to be performed quickly. In the end, everyone was able to agree on a design that, while not the original, will be a truly stunning building.
Harry’s technical understanding of a complex design and the resulting solution demonstrates that he is innovative and values customers. As the go-to-guy for production, shipping, and erection questions, he respects his co-workers, answering quickly and patiently, building trustworthy relationships – both externally and internally – throughout the process. That ticks off quite a few Good Measure boxes!
Aaron C. Vassar
Iron Worker
High Structural Erectors LLC, Lancaster, PA
Nominator: Deborah K. Kupres
When Aaron rented a cottage at Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, for a family getaway, he took Good Measure on the road! That Saturday night while he was outside, he heard a scream from the cottage next door. He ran over and observed a female who had fallen into the fire pit and suffered burns. Aaron, armed with first aid knowledge and training, asked if he could help. With permission from the injured person, he gathered his first aid supply kit and treated the burns, then Googled nearby hospitals to determine where she should be transported.
Aaron reached out to a person in need, respecting their dignity and building a trustworthy relationship in order to render first aid. His quick actions and willingness to help others demonstrates that Good Measure extends well beyond the workplace. Thank you, Aaron, for representing High in such an important way!
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
K. Grant Weaber
Inbound Material Receiver
High Steel Service Center LLC, Lancaster, PA
Nominator: Crissy Anderson
In HSSC’s Receiving Department, Grant wears many hats. Following the retirement of a fellow co-worker, Grant worked numerous hours of overtime to ensure the job was done. With the addition of rail car deliveries beginning in February 2019, his workload increased substantially. While the Receiving Department unloads 12 to 15 trucks daily, Grant is responsible for unloading all rail deliveries, which sometimes amount to 18 trucks per day, in addition to entering the receipts in SAP.
Grant has applied his expertise in SAP to create detailed work instructions which he uses to train other co-workers. Because of his knowledge of shipping documents and materials to be received, Grant has prevented issues that waste time and money, and could create a back-up of other trucks to be unloaded and delays in receiving entry. He contacts vendors if mill certifications and information needed to accurately enter receipts are missing. Grant has even moved office furniture, which was delivered to his area, to the front office.
As the face of Receiving, he has built trustworthy relationships with truck drivers, dispatchers, mills, vendors, and his co-workers. Said nominator Crissy Anderson, “Every interaction with Grant is a positive one.” His high degree of accuracy and attention to detail help make HSSC’s daily operations flow smoothly. When it comes to giving Good Measure, Grant raises the bar!
Courtny R. Byerts l Ada L. Figueroa Rivera
Marah G. Gandia l Angel D. Hall
April D. LaFosse l Huong T. Le
Angelina McDonald l Maria I. Mendez-Rosario
Sharon L. Preston l Alba Santiago
Patricia M. Stewart l Amy R. Wareham
Carol A. Wolford l Kylie N. Wolgamuth
Housekeeping Team, High Hotels Ltd.
Hampton Inn-York, PA
Nominator: Natalie D. Basso
In the hotel business, it’s tough to make every guest happy, but at the Hampton Inn-York, the Housekeeping Team raises the bar for guest satisfaction!
For starters, the hotel is one of HHL’s oldest properties and, at 144 rooms, the largest. Room attendants work extra hard to keep these rooms spotless, and during periods of short-staffing, have cleaned 19 to 28 rooms each per day. On top of that, they consistently score in the mid-80 percent range or better during Hilton inspections, and recently achieved scores of 90-plus percent for room and bathroom
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
cleanliness! That compares to the brand-wide scores in the mid 70 percent range.
This dedicated team pitches in to assist at the front desk or with breakfast when they see a need. And, they’ve volunteered to help at both the Lancaster Courtyard by Marriott and HHL’s newest property, the Residence Inn-Lancaster.
This Team looks for ways to “wow” guests and provide 100 percent satisfaction. Hilton inspection scores confirm it – they give Good Measure!
Courtny R. Byerts
Ada L. Figureoa Rivera
Marah G. Gandia
Angel D. Hall
April D. LaFosse
Huong T. Le
Patricia M. Stewart Amy R. Wareham
Carol A. Wolford Kylie Wolgamuth
Angela McDonald Maria I. Mendez-Rosario Sharon L. Preston Alba Santiago
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Chad A. Hollandsworth
Senior Accountant
Laura Vasko
Accounting Manager
Eric L. Westcott Manager of Business Intelligence
High Company LLC, Lancaster, PA
Nominator: Andrew A. Sims
Late in 2018, Laura proposed an idea for visualization of data to help High Real Estate LLC Residential with access to real time information to improve decision making. She spoke with Eric, who was in the infancy stages of working on visualization for the Commercial Asset Management Team using a Power BI software program. When Laura saw what was being tested, she partnered with Chad and Eric to develop data visualization pages for the Residential Asset Management group.
Laura and Chad worked with Brad Mowbray, Senior Vice President Acquisitions/Residential, to develop operational metrics pages, and then worked with Eric to add needed data to the robust model. The result is a timely and easy to understand and configure real-time view of both financial and operational data that can be used by each Residential Property and Senior Managers.
Laura’s vision, along with Chad and Eric’s expertise, have produced a tool that allows management to spend less time gathering data, and more time finding ways to improve results. This technology may also be leveraged in other HREG areas and asset classes. Thank you for working collaboratively to implement innovative ways to meet HREG’s needs!
High Honors
Aidalis Lopez
earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Albright College. Aidalis joined High in 2007 and serves as Senior HR Specialist for HCL at HCGL’s Denver, Pennsylvania, location.
Jason J. Schultz
. . . earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Elizabethtown College. Jason joined the company in 2014 and serves as Area Director of Sales/
Laura Vasko
Chad A. Hollandsworth
Eric L. Westcott
INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP
Marketing for HHL’s Homewood Suites-Harrisburg West in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.
High Awards
Alana Elsey
earned an Award for Excellence in Customer Service from the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce in Princeton, New Jersey. Alana joined HHL in 2018 and serves as Sales Coordinator.
Orchard Ridge
. . . was recognized during the 2019 PAA East Best of Apartment Living Awards. The residential community, located in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, earned first place awards for both Leasing Excellence and Overall Property Excellence.
Wynegar Named Forty Under 40
Russell “Rusty” Wynegar, Vice President of Operations for High Steel Structures LLC, was selected by Central Penn Business Journal as a 2019 “Forty Under 40” award recipient. This award is presented to 40 area business leaders who are under the age of 40.
Rusty joined High Concrete Group LLC, Denver, Pennsylvania, in 2014 as Plant Manager. In 2016, he became Plant Manager for High Steel Structures LLC’s Plant Three in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. His accomplishments while with Plant Three, include:
• Supported steps that reduced OSHA Recordable injuries by 70 percent, and Incident rates and Days Away cases by 50 percent;
• Improved labor performance by 20 percent;
• Reduced rework hours by 30 percent;
• Reduced co-worker turnover by 20 percent; and
• Provided strong leadership during the facility’s expansion and fabrication of approximately 75 percent of the steel for the Tappan Zee Bridge.
In 2018, Rusty was promoted to his current role and relocated to HSS’s Lancaster, Pennsylvania facility where, in addition to managing 358 co-workers either directly or indirectly, he oversees the day-to-day operations to support growth and profitability of the company, and develops and supports its strategic initiatives.
In addition to being recognized at an awards ceremony in November 2019, Rusty and other honorees were profiled in a special supplement to the Central Penn Business Journal.
Congratulations, Rusty, on earning this prestigious recognition.
Community Commitment
High Foundation Awards Grant to LancasterHistory
High Foundation awarded a $75,000 grant to LancasterHistory for the future development of the Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Historic Site. Additionally, the National Endowment for the Humanities provided a $75,000 grant award, one of three Planning Grants awarded in the NEH Historic Places category. These grants will help offset costs associated with an extensive interpretive and master planning process that will ensure the successful completion of a future museum and history center at the Stevens & Smith Site.
“We are delighted to see the seeds for this project planted,“ said High Foundation Chair of the Board, Dale High. “We’re proud to support the work of LancasterHistory, especially as they move toward the creation of a museum and historic site dedicated to sharing the legacy of these two remarkable Americans. It’s an exciting prospect to envision a new, high-caliber museum of history and civil rights in the heart of Lancaster City.”
LancasterHistory’s President & CEO, Tom Ryan said, “On a national level, Congressman Thaddeus Stevens laid the foundation for the Civil Rights Movement of the twentieth century by his role in the creation and passage of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution. These were groundbreaking in that together they: outlawed slavery, granted citizenship to all native born or naturalized individuals, provided equal protection under the law, and gave the vote to all African American adult males. Locally, the story of Stevens and Lydia Hamilton Smith is one of commitment to equality, freedom, and education.”
Key components of the project include:
• Interior restoration and interpretation of the law office of Congressman Thaddeus Stevens and the home he shared with Lydia Hamilton Smith;
• A thorough reconsideration of the roles played by Thaddeus Stevens, Lydia Hamilton Smith, and the surrounding Lancaster community in the national network of freedom seekers known as the Underground Railroad; and
• New interpretive galleries examining the legacies of Stevens and Smith regarding:
• Creation and passage of the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments to the U.S. Constitution;
Community Commitment
• The Civil Rights Movement of the twentieth century which was built upon those amendments; African American female entrepreneurship in nineteenth-century America; and
• The preservation of free public education in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
LancasterHistory anticipates the planning phase of the Stevens & Smith Historic Site project to continue throughout 2019, followed by the launch of a capital campaign in 2020.
Williamsport Team’s Grand Slam Parade Float Hits a Home Run
Every year in August, sixteen divisional Little League teams from all over the world meet at the home of Little League Baseball in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, to compete for the Little League World Series Champion. This series happens over a 10-day stretch, where 32 games are played. The first Little League game ever played was in 1939 in our hometown of Williamsport, and many years later people still travel to our small town to experience this amazing event.
Since Little League is such a huge part of the Williamsport community, High Steel Structures LLC’s Plant Three wanted to be involved in the 15th Annual Grand Slam Parade, the annual kick-off to the Little League World Series. The HSS Co-Worker Activities Committee designed and submitted a float sketch into apply for entry to the parade. A few weeks later it was announced by the Lycoming county Chamber of commerce that HSS had been chosen to take part in the parade! After many meetings, design changes, and hours of work, the HSS float with the theme, Connecting the World One Bridge at a Time, was completed in time for the parade. HSS received the Grand Slam Award, which is presented to the float that best personifies a spirit of dedication, ingenuity, originality, and enthusiasm, and brings the greatest pleasure to and response from the spectators.
Approximately 25 co-workers and family members helped to make this project a reality. Special thanks goes out to High Transit LLC for supplying the truck and trailer, and to Phil Wagner for navigating the float through the parade route. The entire Williamsport Team was thrilled to be part of this annual event that is such an important part of its community.
Robert Ramiza rolls out the baseball that will top the float.
Community Commitment
HCG Supports the Mighty Mehal Foundation
On August 17, 2019, eight High Concrete Group LLC co-workers participated in a stadium-style obstacle course in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Hosted by emPOWERed OCR, challengers battled through the three-mile course which featured more than twenty obstacles, including ramps and bollards provided by HCG.
Proceeds from the event benefit The Mighty Mehal Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides financial assistance to individuals transitioning into recovery houses in Lancaster. HCG was proud to contribute to the event’s success, and participating co-workers enjoyed a fun, competitive, and physically challenging day.
HSS Lends Its Expertise to 9/11 Memorial Installation
In 2018, South Williamsport Fire Department received a piece of a beam from the World Trade Center and wanted to use it as part of a 9/11 memorial. Needing a base on which to place the beam, they called on High Steel Structures LLC Plant Three for assistance. HSS co-workers fabricated the base and assisted with the installation of the beam.
The Memorial, which is located in front of the SWFD fire hall at 573 Hastings Street, South Williamsport, Pennsylvania, was dedicated in
Above, bollards and stiffbacks for the course were provided by HCG.
Miguel Villegas, Samantha Martin, and Tim and Christie Pugh run to support The Mighty Mehal Foundation.
Community Commitment
September during a ceremony attended by Borough Council Members, South Williamsport Police Department, Loyalsock Volunteer Fire Company, and members of the public.
The plaque reads, “This piece of steel from the Twin Towers is here as a memorial to those whose lives were lost and a testament to the heroism of the members of the New York City Fire Department, New York City Police Department and members of the Port Authority of NY and NJ that made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001. May we never forget 9/11.”
HSS co-workers are proud to assist the South Williamsport Fire Department in bringing this very important remembrance to the community.
High Co-Workers Join the United Way Day of Caring
On Friday, September 6, 2019, five High co-workers participated in the Lancaster County United Way’s Day of Caring. Now in its 28th year, the Day of Caring brings together approximately 1,500 volunteers from across Lancaster County to work on special projects for local non-profit organizations. Volunteers help to improve our communities by painting, landscaping, performing general maintenance and building upgrades, reading to children, and much more.
Once again, High co-workers volunteered their time at historic Woodward Hill Cemetery, resting place of the nation’s 15th president, James Buchanan. They beautified the grounds by pulling weeds and removing downed limbs and trees.
Thank you to our High Associates Ltd. Grounds Maintenance volunteers - Kevin Lantzy, Mark Walton, John Gilbert, Brett Stambaugh, and Marc High - for representing High in this important annual endeavor, and for sharing your landscaping skills to revitalize this local landmark.
Community Commitment
United Way Campaign Supported by Generous High Co-Workers and Retirees
High co-workers and retirees continue to show support for those in need by giving generously to the 2019 United Way Campaign. Companywide, a total of 858 pledges netted $259,227 during High’s annual campaign.
Campaign highlights include:
• High Environmental Health and Safety Consulting Ltd. saw 56 percent of its co-workers pledge to the campaign.
• Greenfield Architects Ltd. had 63 percent co-worker participation.
• High Hotels Ltd. corporate had 78 percent co-worker participation, and 53 percent of all HHL co-workers made pledges.
• Overall, HHL saw the biggest dollar increase of $6,400, and ten of the hotels exceeded their goals.
• All High Companies participated in special events which helped raise a total of $13,629 toward total contributions. This included kick-off events, a rubber duck race, bake sales, Penny Wars, Spanish Food Sales, and pie in the face and pool dunk competitions.
Thank you to High’s Campaign Coordinator Aidalis Lopez (HCL), to company campaign coordinators Shannon Givler (HSS), Sue Weniger (HSS), Linda Sams (HSSC), Carolyne Workinger (HHL), and Brian Lois (HCL), and to all who volunteered or contributed to the 2019 campaign. Your generosity helps United Way provide support to agencies that serve those in need in the communities in which we live and work. Thank you for Living United!
$2,354
$20,301
$72,956
$27,772
$4,231
$3,586
Greenfield Architects Ltd.
High Associates Ltd.
High Company LLC
High Concrete Group LLC
High Construction Company
High Environmental Health and Safety Consulting Ltd.
High Hotels Ltd.
High Steel Service Center LLC
High Steel Structures LLC
High Structural Erectors LLC
High Transit LLC
High Retirees and Others
Community Commitment
High Foundation Awards College Scholarships
High Foundation presented scholarship awards to Kara Wertz of Jersey Shore, Pennsylvania, and Brandon Knepper of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Both students have been awarded $20,000 scholarships, which provide $5,000 per year for four years.
Kara Wertz is the daughter of Larry Wertz, Jr., Quality Control Lead Supervisor with High Steel Structures LLC in Williamsport. Kara graduated from Central Mountain High School where she participated in Marching Band, was Stage Manager for the Drama Club, and was involved in Student Government. She was a member of National Honor Society during her Junior and Senior years. She volunteered with the Millbrook Playhouse and was light and sound board operator for choral and orchestra concerts. Kara plans to pursue a degree in International Development and Social Change from Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts.
Brandon Knepper is the son of Mardell Knepper, Sales Manager for the Hampton Inn in Harrisburg. Brandon graduated from Mechanicsburg Senior High School where he was Team Captain of the Cross Country/Track and Field Team, was a leader of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and participated on the Math Team. Brandon was a member of National Honor Society his Sophomore, Junior, and Senior years. In addition, Brandon participated in Peer Tutoring, volunteered with the Wildcat Foundation and the New Hope Ministries Food Bank, and participated in several mission trips. Brandon plans to pursue degrees in Finance and Computer Science from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
High Foundation is a nonprofit organization that was established by members of the High Family. Its overall mission is to give back to the community by providing support to non-profit organizations in communities in which the High companies do business, and assisting High co-workers in meeting the costs of college education for their children through the High Foundation Scholarship Program.
Left to right: Dean Glick; Robin Stauffer; Gene Otto; Mike Van Belle; Steve High; Suzanne High; S. Dale High; Sadie High; Roger Knepper; Mardell Knepper, Sales Manager, Hampton Inn-Harrisburg; Brandon Knepper; Tracy Shady; Larry Wertz, Jr., Quality Control Lead Supervisor, High Steel Structures LLC; Kara Wertz.
