DECEMBER 2023 125 Ruthar Drive Newark, DE 19711 302-453-4000
540 South Bedford Street Georgetown, DE 19947 302-856-1006
Nickle News Providing commercial, industrial, service, & residential electrical work since 1986
LUIS RIVERA, RASHAD JONES, LIAM JORDAN, MICHELLE MARTINEZ-VELAZQUEZ, & TROY FITZGERALD Nickle VDC Department
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Community Outreach
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Food Bank of Delaware, First Responder’s Day, & more
Kudos
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"Prepared, methodical, and competent”
Featured Projects
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Millsboro Jeep & DE Museum of Nature & Science
Safety Report
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Winter Safety
Congratulations Student of the Month, a HalfMarathon Racer, & more
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Celebrating the Nickle Elite for Their Long-Time Dedication Feature
The Nickle Elite is a select group of employees who have dedicated five or more years to the company. Once an employee hits the five-year mark, they enter this exclusive group and every other year Nickle hosts an Elite Dinner to celebrate everyone’s long-time commitment. The dinner began in 2011 when a now-retired Nickle employee was the first to hit a 20-year milestone. At the time, the Nickle Elite was only for those who had been with the company for a decade or more and that first 2011 dinner included just 10 Elite members. By the next celebration in 2013, the number of Elite members had doubled, proving employee loyalty to Nickle. As the world, and business itself, transformed, it became increasingly more important to recognize employees who had dedicated their time to Nickle. Jobhopping has become popular among younger generations, so even a five-year commitment is worth celebrating. Which is why in 2014, Nickle opened the Elite group to those who have been with the company for five or more years. Nickle now has 85 Elite members who have dedicated a total of 1,064 years to the company. On average, the Elite spend almost 13 years with Nickle, which far exceeds the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ national reported average of four years’ tenure at a company. This year the company celebrated with a casino night themed gala that included food, drinks, and “funny money” gambling. Nickle’s success is heavily rooted in its employee’s loyalty and we look forward to seeing the Elite group grow year after year. (cont. on next page)
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Vice President's Corner Jeromy Newton Chief Operating Officer
As we mark the passing of another year, it's essential to take a moment to reflect on the journey we've made and express gratitude for everything that surrounds us. In a world often filled with uncertainties and challenges, practicing gratitude serves as a powerful anchor, grounding us in life’s currents. In the midst of global events beyond our control, it becomes even more crucial to foster a spirit of thankfulness. Regardless of the external circumstances, let us pause and appreciate the abundance of positivity and accomplishments from this year. Within Nickle, the heartbeat of our success lies in the dedication and hard work of our exceptional team. This year, more than ever, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to each member of our staff. Their resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment have propelled us forward, overcoming obstacles and achieving milestones such as Top Workplace in Delaware, ENR Magazine Top Specialty Contractor, numerous Excellence in Construction awards, community volunteerism, Craft Championship Apprentice winners, and much more. As we approach the end of this year, let's unite in finishing strong. Despite the external distractions that may try to divert our attention, let us remain focused on our collective goals. By maintaining a steadfast commitment to excellence, we not only weather the storms but emerge stronger on the other side.
“Don’t let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.” - John Wooden
Let gratitude be the thread that binds us together, weaving a narrative of resilience and shared success. Here's to concluding the year with gratitude in our hearts and a determination to face the future with strength and promise. 2
DECEMBER 2023
Community Outreach Delaware Food Bank Nickle employees volunteered at the Delaware Food Bank in Milford, DE this fall. They packed boxes of food for those in need. Thank you to the employees for your volunteerism and dedicating your time. First Responder’s Day In October, Nickle helped celebrate First Responder’s Day by bringing food and other goodies to the Cheswold Fire Company, Christiana Fire Company, and Millsboro Fire Company. Thank you to all the brave men and women for keeping our community safe. Toys 4 Tots In November Nickle helped Toys 4 Tots put together stocking stuffers and sort other gifts for the organization. Earlier this year, Nickle asked employees to donate small stocking stuffers for Toys 4 Tots and it was inspiring to see all of the donations we collected. We were happy to help brighten the holiday season for local children in need. Veterans Trust Fund For the eighth year in a row, Nickle and its employees raised money for Friends of Delaware Veterans, Inc. to support the organization's trust fund. The fund provides financial assistance to pre-screened veterans for healthcare needs, housing support, educational and training programs, and other financial emergencies. Nickle matched, dollar for dollar, what every employee donated and we're happy to say we were able to give a total of $6,160 this year.
Kudos Foreman Blake Anderson was recognized by Whiting-Turner for his dedication to safety: “Consistent every day making sure he is wearing a hardhat, working boots and protective glasses. Also reminding his crew each day of these things as well. Great job Blake.” Service Foremen Kevin Sheldon and Dan Harrison were given a glowing review from Beebe Healthcare: “[They] were prepared, methodical and competent in their completion of the installation of the new feeders and connections to the RTU installation. No issues.” A representative from Delaware State University sent kudos to Apprentice Hayden Gusement, Mechanic Cory Howitt, and Service Foreman Hunter Poisson: “Hunter and his crew have done great work and are a pleasure to work with on the various main campus work orders.” Apprentice Jaxon Lankford and Mechanic Mike Lehman were recognized by Ben Rodgers from College Town Communities: “Nickle responded to their emergency panel issue with an urgency he’s yet to experience with other vendors. Mike and Jaxon were great!”
DECEMBER 2023
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Featured Project Millsboro Jeep Dealership Owner: Preston Automotive Group Architect: AWB Engineers Engineer: AWB Engineers CM/GC: JOB Construction Project Manager: Dan Peralta Project Management Asst: Lauren Jock Foreman: JT Tharp The building was given all new lighting throughout the show room and new parking lot lighting as well. New power and circuits were provided to power up work stations, signs, computers, and cell phone charging for customers. The building also features a six bay shop where vehicles can easily be worked on by the dealer themselves.
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DECEMBER 2023
Featured Project Delaware Museum of Nature & Science
Award Winner
Owner: Delaware Museum of Natural History Architect: JacobsWyper Architects Engineer: DEDC, Inc. CM/GC: Bancroft Construction Company Project Manager: Ken Emmons Project Management Asst: Lauren Jock Foreman: Joey Rinarelli Previously named the Delaware Museum of Natural History, the building underwent a Museum Metamorphosis in 2021 & 2022. Nickle electricians renovated the first floor to include north and south galleries, bathrooms, a main corridor, and shops with new lighting and controls, power and receptacles, and fire alarm. Nickle also upgraded all existing lighting to LED on the first and second floors. The new Delaware Museum of Nature & Science opened in May 2022 and Nickle won an ABC Excellence in Construction award for this project in November 2023.
DECEMBER 2023
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Safety Report Paul Woodland Director of Safety
Seasons Greetings! We are kicking off another winter season. Although we’ve been experiencing milder conditions the past few winters, it’s best to be prepared and mindful of our surroundings. Whether on a jobsite, at home, or traveling we face hazards that we can plan for. Dress In Layers - Pay attention to the weather forecast and dress appropriately; blood flows to the core of your body to maintain its temperature, leaving your extremities vulnerable to frost bite. An inner layer of wool will help keep moisture away from your body and maintain warmth. Driving Conditions - The weather forecast will alert you to potential driving hazards: snow, ice, rain, strong winds, and extremely low temperatures all present difficulties. Check your car’s tires, wipers, batteries, and antifreeze now to avoid being stranded. Stock your car with an emergency road kit. Slippery Walking Surfaces - One of the most common causes of winter injuries are slips and falls. Spread deicer before the precipitation starts. Wear proper footwear and use a slower, wider pace when walking. Keep both hands free for balance. Muscle Strains - Cold weather decreases blood flow to our muscles, causing them to tighten up. Stretching before you begin shoveling or working in the cold will help prevent muscle soreness and strains. These are just a few of the ways we can keep each other safe heading into 2024. We want every employee, customer, friend, and families to have the healthiest year ahead. Let’s continue to look out for each other and protect against complacency in the upcoming New Year!
Nickle Anniversaries OCTOBER Mark Benson Ryan Wade Fran Kaiser James Headley Dan Peralta Jonathan Harrison Jerry Casey Lucas Findeison Andrew Antinora Anthony Finocchiaro Jeremy Mauck
NOVEMBER 28 years 17 years 16 years 10 years 10 years 8 years 6 years 5 years 4 years 4 years 4 years
Brian Morgan Dave Pipher Jim Klingensmith Jim Scalia Dan Harrison Katelyn Stanitski
DECEMBER 30 years 17 years 16 years 16 years 10 years 3 years
Mike Frieze Jennifer Thompson Scott Hadaway Sherry Perry John DeMatteis
26 years 17 years 13 years 12 years 10 years
Red names indicate Nickle Elite status Employees who have been with the organization for 5+ years
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DECEMBER 2023
Employee Congratulations Jake Anderson and Christian Rothermel recently completed the State Apprenticeship Program and received their Journeymen’s license. On November 15, Leadman Brian Morgan celebrated 30 years of service with Nickle. Service Manager Dan Peralta and Foreman James Headley celebrated 10 years of service with Nickle on October 29. Service Foreman Dan Harrison celebrated 10 years of service with Nickle on November 18. On December 2, Service Manager John DeMatteis celebrated 10 years with Nickle. Mechanic Lucas Findeison celebrated five years of service with Nickle on October 15, officially entering the Nickle Elite. Project Manager Brian Stump got engaged to his girlfriend Lisa Booze. Chief Financial Officer Neal Donaldson ran the Rehoboth Seashore Half Marathon at the beginning of this month, finishing with a time of 1:31:42 and 5th place in his age group. Human Resources & Accounting Co-Op Lamar Underwood was named Co-Op Student of the Month in October by Howard High School of Technology.
Christian Rothermel (right) & Service Manager Dan Peralta
Jacob Anderson (right) & Service Manager Dan Peralta
Project Manager Brian Stump & fiancé Lisa Booze
Dan Peralta (right) & Chief Operations Officer Jeromy Newton
Brian Morgan (middle) with Nickle owners Steve & Debbie Dignan
James Headley (middle) with Nickle owners Steve & Debbie Dignan
Lamar Underwood
DECEMBER 2023
Dan Harrison (middle) with Nickle owners Steve & Debbie Dignan
Lucas Findeison (right) & Project Manager Brandon Cale
Neal Donaldson
John DeMatteis (middle) with Nickle owners Steve & Debbie Dignan
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Three Excellence Awards Added to Nickle’s Portfolio
Nickle At Work
Aiden Wentz at Little Falls
Rob Basara & Jim Klingensmith during a Blueprint Reading Class
Vo-Tech Open House at Hodgson
Jaden McClain
Nickle Electrical Companies is the recipient of two awards from Associated Builders & Contractors Delaware and another from Associated Builders & Contractors Chesapeake Shores. Wor-Wic Community College Applied Technology Building was the big winner this year with an Excellence from ABC Chesapeake Shores and a Merit from ABC Delaware. The new 50,000-square-foot building on the Salisbury, MD campus supports programs within the college’s occupational education division. The building includes flex laboratory spaces for industrial/HVAC, welding, and makerspace. There are also truck driver and welding simulation rooms, classrooms, study spaces, conference rooms, and administrative offices. The project was designed to LEED Silver criteria. The Delaware Museum of Nature & Science received an Excellence award from ABC Delaware this year. Flip to page 5 to read about the project. With the addition of these accolades, Nickle has accrued almost 60 project awards in the past two decades. Congratulations to all parties involved in this year’s awardwinning projects!
Left-Right: ABC Delaware Chairman & Nickle COO Jeromy Newton, Layout Foreman Luis Rivera, VDC Tech Liam Jordan, Foreman Guido Lauer, & Project Manager Brian Stump for the Wor-Wic project.
Blueprint Reading Class
info@nickle.email www.nickleelectrical.com Facebook.com/NickleElectrical Instagram: @NickleElectrical
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Left-Right: Nickle Service Foreman Mark Benson, Jr., Service Management Assistant Lauren Jock, Service Foreman Joey Rinarelli, & ABC Delaware Chairman & Nickle COO Jeromy Newton for the Delaware Museum project.
Want to join the Nickle team? We have a few open positions and are always accepting applications. Scan the QR code to visit our Careers Page and apply today.
DECEMBER 2023 PAGE 2