August 2023 Newsletter

NEWSLETTER MONTHLY AUGUST 2023

MAINTAINER SPOTLIGHT: MICKEY WATSON

A JOURNEY CLOSE TO HOME

Mickey, a valued member of our team is from Clewiston, Florida. Mickey’s journey with USSC began just under two years ago when he discovered a position that aligned perfectly with his desire for work closer to home.

During his time here, Mickey made significant strides, notably in his pivotal role in the U.S. Sugar Corporation hydro switch project.

Guiding the transition from RailComm to Train Yard Tech software showcased his dedication and expertise. His most significant achievement, however, is his transformation from a hydro switch novice to a true expert.

As Mickey’s responsibilities expanded, he seamlessly transitioned to mastering USSC property crossings, all while continuing to contribute his knowledge in hydro switches. Overcoming the challenge of understanding the diverse crossing types demonstrated his commitment to hands-on learning and collaboration.

For Mickey, the crux of success lies in maintaining the right mindset and unwavering dedication. Our company’s standout feature, in his view, is the culture of mutual support, aptly described as loyalty. Beyond his remarkable contributions at work, Mickey finds solace in motorcycle trips, fishing, dirt biking, and cherishing moments with his loved ones.

Mickey’s admiration for Travis Pastrana’s TV presence fuels his aspiration to meet him someday and explore the exciting possibilities that such an encounter might hold. Speaking of aspirations, Mickey’s dream vacation involves journeying to the enchanting landscapes of Ireland.

Uniquely, Mickey’s journey is shaped by his adaptation to a hearing solution due to his lack of ear canals, demonstrating his resilience and adaptability. He lives by the poignant quote, “I would rather have loyalty than love,” reflecting his values and commitment to our team.

LOCAL ROOTS, NATIONAL REACH DIRECTIONAL BORING’S COLLABORATIVE GROWTH

We are thrilled to present an exclusive peek into the incredible strides being made by CDL Group of Companies Boring Division. This division stands as a beacon of innovation and proficiency, driving forward the frontiers of horizontal directional drilling and beyond. From the heart of the United States to the intricate landscapes of connectivity, we are at the forefront of transformative projects that impact the nation’s infrastructure.

Servicing Giants of the Industry

Our journey starts with the impressive canvas of HDD. As a distinguished partner, we have been entrusted with the task of serving industry giants like BNSF and UPRR. In this role, we provide invaluable services in installing conduit infrastructure, enabling the seamless flow of fiber optics and the construction of critical signal projects. Our work doesn’t merely connect points on a map; it weaves the threads of connectivity that power modern communication.

A Multifaceted Approach

But that’s not all we do. Our expertise extends far beyond HDD. Within our toolkit lies a plethora of capabilities, including installing bungalows, pull boxes, signals, and detectors. A recent highlight in our repertoire is the turnkey Automatic Equipment Identification sites for BNSF. This venture reflects our dedication to delivering holistic solutions that align with the evolving needs of our partners.

Local Support, Global Impact

As much as our endeavors span across the nation, we are deeply rooted in supporting CDL’s local divisions. Our team of skilled operators and specialized HDD services is always ready to lend a helping hand whenever the call arises. This dedication to collaborative growth underscores our commitment to the CDL family.

Pioneering Growth

Growth is a cornerstone of our identity. Our fleet of five active machines attests to this commitment. A recent acquisition, the AT30 rock drill, exemplifies our pursuit of cutting-edge efficiency. This addition empowers us to confidently navigate rock bores without pneumatic operations, presenting a more efficient and less invasive approach. Our priority remains to provide exceptional service while minimizing impact on customer property.

Empowering Expert Teams

A journey through our evolution wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging our dedicated teams. From humble beginnings with 2-3 person crews, we’ve flourished into five 3-person crews. This strategic growth enables us to provide comprehensive coverage and promptly respond to customer needs.

A Future of Possibilities

CDL Electrics Boring Division is not merely a division; it’s a testament to our commitment to progress, innovation, and excellence. As we traverse the landscape of connectivity, one bore at a time, we are excited about the limitless potential that lies ahead. Our division is a reflection of CDL’s spirit – united, visionary, and steadfast in creating a brighter future.

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

CELEBRATING OUR EXCEPTIONAL TEAM - EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT SERIES

SHAWN SMITH

Shawn is from Oswego, Kansas. His wife Kim, three children, and granddaughter are all important people in his life. Shawn has been with CDL for a year and a half. He progressed from being a laborer, to a foreman, and ultimately to the role of Union Pacific Superintendent. His involvement in the Barstow Yard Job project was pivotal. He successfully tackled the challenge of mastering safety regulations and oversaw the installation of over 37,000 feet of pipe to facilitate new power switches throughout the rail yard. According to Shawn, dedication to hard work and attention to detail are the driving forces behind CDL’s growth.

SHANNON GOFF

Despite having been a part of our team for less than two years, Shannon has demonstrated remarkable growth by taking on substantial responsibilities. Currently, he stands at the forefront of the leadership team driving the Argentine Yard project in Kansas City, KS. This project entails an impressive scope, spanning well over 15,000 feet of boring work. It’s scale continues to expand with new additions on a weekly basis.

LUCAS CLIFFORD

Lucas has been getting the ball rolling and over seeing all of our large projects through out he started the Barstow project. Then came home to get Shannon Goff started on another big boring project in the Argentine Yard in Kansas City, KS. He is now the lead on a joint boring and fiber project in Phoenix, AZ (El Mirage Auto Lot).

SHAWN O’NEAL JOHN ALATROSKY

Shawn has successfully undertaken substantial drilling operations in Houston, TX, on behalf of UPRR (Union Pacific Railroad). Currently, he is playing a crucial role in overseeing the installation of a significant Broken Rail Detection (BRD) system in Louisiana throughout the month of September.

John Alartosky, a seasoned veteran in the field of boring, brings a wealth of experience to our team. Recognizing his expertise, he has been transitioned from the Sign Division to spearhead the expansion of our capabilities, particularly in bolstering our support for UPRR’s extensive boring requirements. Currently, he is in Wyoming, where we are undertaking an ambitious project. This venture entails a substantial undertaking of boring, with plans to traverse a distance exceeding 20 miles, all in service of UPRR’s evolving needs.

SAFEGUARDING YOUR BACK: TIPS TO PREVENT INJURIES AND PAIN

MASTERING PROPER LIFTING TECHNIQUES FOR A STRONGER, HEALTHIER BACK

Eight out of ten Americans will eventually suffer a back injury or have some type of back pain. Back injuries are often difficult to treat and can result in lengthy and costly rehabilitation. It is important to stay healthy and in good shape so that we can do our jobs better and safer.

The back is a network of fragile ligaments, discs, and muscles that can easily be thrown out of order. The back’s complex design breaks down when it’s forced to perform activities it was not designed to do. Lifting with the back twisted or bent just begs for a pulled muscle or ruptured disc. One sure way to risk injuring the back is to lift heavy or bulky loads improperly or unassisted. Never be afraid to ask for help with loads that you know you cannot lift safely. Lift with good sense and a little extra help from a co-worker or mechanical aid when necessary.

Back injuries are extremely painful, and they affect every movement you make. Your back is essential to sitting, standing, walking, and running. A back injury could mean severe pain during all of these activities. The risk of back injury increases during lifting. When lifting is done improperly, you become susceptible to hernias, back injuries, strains, sprains, bruises, and broken bones. To reduce the strain on your back, you must develop safe lifting habits.

STEPS FOR PROPER LIFTING:

Plan ahead before lifting – Knowing what you’re doing and where you’re going will prevent you from making awkward movements while holding something heavy. Clear a path, and if lifting something with another person, make sure both of you agree to the plan.

Lift close to your body – You will be a stronger and more stable lifter if the object is held close to your body rather than at the end of your reach. Make sure you have a firm hold on the object you are lifting, and keep it balanced close to your body.

Keep your feet shoulder-width apart – A solid base of support is important while lifting. Holding your feet too close together will be unstable, too far apart will hinder movement. Keep the feet about shoulder-width apart and take short steps.

Bend your knees and keep your back straight – Practice the lifting motion before you lift the object and think about your motion before you lift. Focus on keeping your spine straight and raise and lower to the ground by bending your knees.

Tighten your stomach muscles – Tightening your abdominal muscles will hold your back in a good lifting position and will help prevent excessive force on the spine.

Lift with your legs – Your legs are many times stronger than your back muscles—let this strength work in your favor. Again, lower to the ground by bending your knees, not your back. Keep your eyes focused upwards to help keep your back straight.

Get help if you’re straining – If an object is too heavy, or awkward in shape, make sure you have someone around who can help you lift.

Following these principles can help to reduce job-related back injuries and back pain. Using good lifting and working techniques can also improve production and reduce job-related stress.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If an object is too heavy for you to lift, ask a co-worker for help. Know your body’s limitations and don’t overdo it. Whenever possible, avoid lifting altogether; use a mechanical lifting device such as a dolly, hand truck, pallet jack, forklift, front-end loader, or other material-handling device.

EXPANDING OUR TEAM

WELCOMING TALENTED NEW ADDITIONS

Name Position

Marcus Lipetzky Signal Maintainer

Gregory Lechowski Signal Maintainer

Elliott Reece Shipping and Receiving Clerk

Luke Benson Intern

Cody McCoy Signal Maintainer

Name Position

Matthew Cadman Signal Maintainer

Gilbert Ortiz Signal Maintainer

Grant Smith File Clerk

Courtney Watts Signal Maintainer

Miranda Moore Centralized Purchasing Specialist

SEK Overhead Door is now a proud dealer of Lifestyle Screens. This retractable screen seamlessly integrates with your current garage door and introduces a groundbreaking feature: a fully retractable passage door. This advancement allows effortless entry and exit without the need to retract the entire system. Benefiting from a fully spring-loaded design, the Lifestyle garage screen guarantees swift and convenient operation. Experience a seamless transition from your garage to a comfortable, well-lit, and insect-free area in mere seconds. Once your outdoor adventure is complete, simply retract the Lifestyle garage screen and shut your garage door as usual. Simplify your life with this hassle-free solution!

OPEN POSITIONS

Refer a new employee and be paid up to $500 per employee hired based on position. You must fill out a candidate referral form. Payout is in two increments of 60 days of employee hired and 90 days of employee hire date.

Location Title

Joplin, MO Service Electrician

Location Title

Pittsburg, KS Boring Foreman

Pittsburg, KS Boring Locator

Joplin, MO Wire Shop Technician

Joplin, MO Construction Estimator

Joplin, MO Journeyman Electrician

Pittsburg, KS Plumbing Service Technician

Pittsburg, KS Master/Journeyman Plumber

Pittsburg, KS Mechanical Engineer

Pittsburg, KS Journeyman Electrician

Pittsburg, KS Commercial Electrician

Pittsburg, KS HVAC Service Technician

Pittsburg, KS HVAC Service Assistant

Pittsburg, KS Railroad Signal Installer

Pittsburg, KS Master/Journeyman HVAC Technician

Pittsburg, KS Journeyman Plumber

Pittsburg, KS Boring Operator

Pittsburg, KS HVAC Installer

Pittsburg, KS Fiber Optic Technician

Pittsburg, KS Service Electrician

Pittsburg, KS Journeyman Lineman

Humboldt, KS Journeyman Plumber

Humboldt, KS Plumbing Service Technician

Humboldt, KS HVAC Service Assistant

Humboldt, KS HVAC Lead Installer

Humboldt, KS HVAC Installer

Humboldt, KS Master Plumber

Parsons, KS HVAC Service Assistant

Parsons, KS HVAC Installer

Houston, TX Journeyman Electrician