United Contractors Magazine September 2024

S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 4 I S S U E / V O L U M E 2 3 0

UNITEDCONTRACTORS.ORG

“Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast.”

— PETE DRUCKER

WHY CULTURE MATTERS

___________________ Up Front: 40 Years of Growth, Culture & Care p.6 _________________________ Saddle Up! UCON’s BBQ & Chili Cook-Off p.16 ___________________ R E L E N T L E S S LY C O M M I T T E D . S I N C E 1 9 7 0 .

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CONTRACTORS 2024 UNITED CONTRACTORS BOARD OFFICERS President...................................Kevin Hester, McGuire and Hester VP/President-Elect.........Kurt Eddy, Pavement Recycling Systems, Inc. Secretary/Treasurer.......Juan C. Arrequin, Bay Line Cutting & Coring, Inc. Sec/Treas-Elect.........................Greg Goebel Jr., Goebel Construction, Inc.

IN THIS ISSUE

SEPTEMBER 2024 VOLUME 230 06 UP FRONT

40 Years of Growth, Culture & Care

by Mark Breslin | UCON CEO

UNITED CONTRACTORS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

KELLY ATTEBERY, F & M BANK; TOM BARR, GHILOTTI BROS., INC.; DALE R. BREEN, MIDSTATE BARRIER, INC.; BRYN BURKE, DEES BURKE ENGINEERING; SEAN CASTILLO, TORO ENTERPRISES, INC.; RITA VIGIL FERGUSON, G & F CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.; GARRETT FRANCIS, GUARDIAN TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS; MICHAEL GATES, DESILVA GATES CONSTRUCTION, LLC; ALAN GUY, ANVIL BUILDERS; MATT LOVINGIER, JMH ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION, INC.; MICHAEL PRLICH, MIKE PRLICH & SONS, INC.; KEVIN REIMERS, WOODRUFF-SAWYER & CO.

Culture & Engagement—Empowers Our People & Our Industry

by Kevin Hester | McGuire and Hester | UCON 2024 President

12 LABOR

Do You Know What UCON’s Labor & Member Services Can Do For You?

UCON LEADERS | UNITED CONTRACTORS COMMITTEE CHAIRS

ASSOCIATES: KELLY ATTEBERY (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR), F & M BANK. | KEVIN REIMERS (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR-ELECT), WOODRUFF-SAWYER & CO. CALTRANS: MICHAEL GHILOTTI (CHAIR), GHILOTTI BROS., INC. | LEGISLATIVE: ROB LAYNE, (CHAIR), O.C. JONES & SONS, INC. | POLITICAL ACTION (PAC): GEORGE FURNANZ (CHAIR), STACY WITBECK; STEVE CONCANNON (VICE-CHAIR) PAVEMENT RECYCLING SYSTEMS, INC. | SAFETY & INSURANCE: KEITH OXFORD, (CHAIR), MONTEREY MECHANICAL COMPANY | SF CITY CONTRACTOR LIAISON: MIKE GHILOTTI (CHAIR), GHILOTTI BROS., INC., MIGUEL GALARZA (CHAIR), YERBA BUENA ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION, INC. | SCHOLARSHIP: TRONY FULLER, (CHAIR), WEST COAST SAND & GRAVEL | REGIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL: MICHAEL PRLICH (CHAIR), MIKE PRLICH & SONS, INC.; GARRETT FRANCIS (CHAIR), GUARDIAN TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS

Effective Union Pre-Job Conferences

by Lucia Mixon and Dilpreet Mayall

18 FACES

UCON’s BBQ & Chili Cook-Off

UNITED CONTRACTORS STAFF

MARK BRESLIN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER; EMILY COHEN, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT; TEJEL PATEL, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO CEO; AURORA PRASAD, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO EVP; VICTOR SELLA, VICE PRESIDENT OF LABOR RELATIONS; MELISSA GUTWALD, VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS; CLAY O’NEAL, REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENT, SOUTHERN CA; RAY BACA, REGIONAL DIRECTOR, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA; ANGELICA GOUIG, DIRECTOR OF EVENTS & EDUCATION; RUBY VARNADORE, SENIOR LABOR CONTRACTS MANAGER; DILPREET MAYALL, LABOR RELATIONS ADVOCATE; LUCIA MIXON, CONTRACTOR MEMBER SERVICES, SOUTHERN CA; SANDRA KAYA, ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIALIST TO LABOR & MEMBER SERVICES; DENISE RAMIREZ, ONLINE SERVICES MANAGER; EMMY MCCONNELL, SENIOR ACCOUNTANT; MICHELLE HANNIGAN, BOOKKEEPER; GABRIELLE GONZALEZ, OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA; CHRISTINE TRAINA, EVENT MANAGER; RACHEL ORAA, EVENT ASSISTANT; AVANTI MEHTA, EDUCATION ASSISTANT; MICHELLE VEJBY, MARCOM MANAGER; EDDIE BERNACCHI, UCON CHIEF LOBBYIST; MIKE DONLON, CHIEF SAFETY CONSULTANT; DREW DELANEY, MIKE BUCKANTZ, REGULATORY CONSULTANTS; DAMIAN BREEN, REGULATORY CONSULTANT United Contractors Magazine (ISSN: 2166-3777) is published monthly, 10x a year, by United Contractors, 17 Crow Canyon Court, Suite 100, San Ramon, CA 94583; 2401 East Katella Ave., Suite 500, Anaheim, CA 92806. Editorial comments, letters, and article submissions are welcomed and encouraged. Correspondence should be directed to the United Contractors office at the above address, by phone at (925) 855-7900, or by e-mail at info@unitedcontractors. org. Reproduction of editorial material in this issue is permitted if accompanied by proper source credit. Periodicals postage paid at San Ramon, CA and other offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to: United Contractors Magazine, 17 Crow Canyon Court, Suite 100, San Ramon, CA 94583. © 2024 Published in the U.S.A.

28 CULTURE & EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT

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more inside 32

NEXT UP UCON Advocacy Auction Preview

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LEARN UCON’s Scholarship Award Winners

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MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES

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LAST CALL

U N I T E D C O N T R AC TO R S . O R G

SEPTEMBER 2024

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By Mark Breslin UCON CEO

40 YEARS OF GROWTH, CULTURE & CARE 40 years ago, I walked into a little office in Dublin, California, to interview for a job. 105 people applied. All wanting to be the association’s Field Rep. A fancy name for an entry-level position. The 6 contractors interviewing me wore jeans, boots, and Rolexes. They also had no bullshit looks on their faces. I wore a burgundy Pierre Cardin 3-piece suit. I drove a 1981 yellow Toyota. I wanted it bad. At the end, I didn’t care about the pay, terms, or benefits. I knew right then I wanted to work for those guys—no matter what. And those people turned out to be all of you. One of the best life decisions I ever made.

Last week I was reflecting on the 40 years since that day. Kinda patting myself on the back for not getting fired yet. Then I realized that at least half my UCON team wasn’t born on the day I took the job.

That fact is a powerful indicator for me and many of you out there. A generation of leadership has come and should soon make way for the next one. Many of us senior leaders have done our part to improve the industry, contributed as best we could, and hopefully made a difference. But a new generation must emerge. Room must be made for them with elders leaving both ego and time on the table. And there it is. After 40 years at the grind, my white flag goes up.

Not one of surrender, but the one signifying the last lap of this remarkable race I have run. At the end of 2025, they will wave my checkered flag at UCON. As I walk off the track for the very last time, I will reflect with gratitude on all you have done for and with me (See opposite page).

What will the future look like for UCON? A culture created and driven by the members. The hard-charging UCON culture will sustain the organization if we remain focused and relentless in our advocacy for our industry. UCON’s success started with just four small contractors in 1970. Now, we are 500 union contractors, 6

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strong and unified. This is a reflection of common beliefs between all of you. A belief that collaboration and unity of purpose and action can coexist with intense competition.

That a greater good is served by the many, all pulling in the same direction. That “status quo,” “don’t piss anyone off” or the path of least resistance are not acceptable. That urgency and action are always going to be the colors we wear.

And finally that every member matters and will be treated with respect and care—no matter what. These are the beliefs that drive UCON. So in around a year and a half, when I reflect on what will come next, I have no doubts.

I see the same passion and intensity in the eyes of our young leaders across our industry. The burning desire to be more and better. This will not diminish. Our years of growth and success have been the proving grounds for where we find ourselves today—arguably one of the best and most successful construction associations in the entire United States.

In my opinion, culture is now the most powerful differentiating competitive factor for businesses today.

This is even more important in a world of diminished talent and waning commitment. At UCON our culture of performance has always defined us—and always will.

The team working for you is a reflection of a culture of service, care, connection, belief, and passion. It is the fire that has burned bright to light the way of the industry’s future and one that I believe will be sustained for another 40 years to come.

Mark Breslin, UCON CEO

UCON Board Approves CEO Transition Plan 2025 The UCON Board of Directors received and approved a plan for CEO transition from Mark Breslin at their 2024 Mid-Year Strategic Planning meeting. The plan, an update of multiple versions now 5 years in the making, is timed to be implemented while the association is at the peak of its historical performance. At every success measure of UCON’s growth, member satisfaction, resources, leadership pipeline and staffing, the organization is at its highest level of performance and continues to exceed member expectations.

The plan for CEO transition will be carried out over 2025 and conclude with Mark’s retirement at the end of 2025—approximately 16 months ahead. This transition, long in the planning, follows the trend within the industry and individual member companies of the changing generational leadership. At the core of the presentation to the Board was the need for the preservation of the solid values, disciplined governance and commitment to taking action for the industry.

More details on the transition will be forthcoming in 2025 and questions regarding the plan can be directed to Mark or any of the UCON Officers. We encourage you to check out Mark’s personal video message here (scan QR code), or at www.UnitedContractors.org

SEPTEMBER 2024

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By Kevin Hester McGuire and Hester UCON 2024 President

CULTURE & ENGAGEMENT—EMPOWERS OUR PEOPLE & OUR INDUSTRY First and foremost, I want to congratulate Mark on his 40 years of service at UCON. Mark has been at the helm of our association for four decades and has built an unbelievable organization that will continue to assist and uplift union contractors as we navigate our industry’s known and unknown issues and concerns.

Mark’s contributions to UCON have allowed, and will continue to allow, us to concentrate on building amazing projects and creating incredible companies for the next 40+ years.

there. We need to have meaningful conversations with them and be truthful if there are pathways of achieving their wants/goals. When we see common goals and/or opportunities that fit, we need to show our employees that we are willing to invest in their development and the company’s future. This investment will lead to engaged and highly productive employees, stronger retention, reduced costs of attracting and training new talent, and more importantly, creating a strong company culture that we all are striving to be a part of.

Mark has been able to accomplish this by cultivating a culture that many of us ought to duplicate in our organizations. He concentrates on empowering individuals that work for UCON and encourages them to stretch beyond their comfort level so they can see what is on the other side of uncomfortable. He gives them the rope to stretch but is available to pick them up if they stumble, and, more importantly, celebrates them when they conquer the challenge. It is an understatement to say that the environment that Mark has created at UCON begins with him empowering everyone with a can-do attitude.

We all know that our most important resource is our PEOPLE, but many times we drop the ball and fail to show them our appreciation. Just like many other things in life, we concentrate on what we WANT (i.e. new territory, new projects, increased revenue, new market sector) instead of vocalizing how grateful we are for what we have and the individuals that helped get us here.

How can we bring some of that UCON Culture Magic into our organizations? As mentioned in many previous articles, shifts in company culture require a consistent commitment from top leaders in your company. You cannot create an engaged employee culture by sending out an email or newsletter that says, “We are now an employee-first company moving forward.” Many of us wish it was that easy……if it was that easy, then our companies would not need senior leadership.

Crafting an engaged workforce takes time and commitment. We need to have continuous communication with all our employees (coworkers) and keep them updated on where the company is going and how they fit in, so both the company and employee can reach their goals. We need to be aware of our coworkers’ wants and help guide their path to get 8

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We need leaders at all levels to be aware of their teams’ successes and setbacks. We need our leaders to show their appreciation for their teams especially when there might be a setback. We need to reinforce the fact that we have their “backs” when have amazing wins or very tough losses. By publicly and consistently showing our support and appreciation, we are building stronger teams ready to conquer the next challenge and at the same time building an incredible company culture that will help lead our companies for years to come.

As we celebrate Mark’s 40th anniversary, I want each of you to challenge yourself and your organization and see how you can bring some of UCON’s magic into your organization.

Sincerely,

Kevin Hester McGuire and Hester | UCON 2024 President

“Mark, celebrating your 40-year anniversary with United Contractors is a momentous occasion, not just for you but for all of us who have the opportunity to work alongside you.

It is fitting that this month’s magazine is all about culture; Few people in our industry have made such a profound and lasting impact on its culture as you have. Your unwavering dedication, vision, and belief in the potential of others, even when the path wasn’t clear, have transformed UCON and the lives of those who have worked here. On behalf of the entire UCON team, past and present, I want to express our deepest gratitude for your leadership, mentorship, and the culture you have built—a culture that will continue to inspire us for generations to come. With Gratitude & Celebration, on behalf of the whole UCON Team!

— Emily Cohen, UCON EVP

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Contributed by UCON’s Labor and Member Services Team

DO YOU KNOW...

WHAT UCON LABOR & MEMBER SERVICES CAN DO FOR YOU? •

Overtime & Special Shift Rules (N. CA and S. CA)

•

CBA Subcontracting Rules (N. CA and S. CA)

•

Mastering PLAs and Pre-Jobs

•

Legal Armor: How to Harness your Union Agreement against PAGA and Legal Claims

•

Mastering the Workers’ Comp Maze

Training & Development

Contact: Any member of the UCON Labor & Member Services Team – LaborTeam@unitedcontractors.org, (925) 855-7900

“Do I pay for the entire shift when the crew worked only two hours?” “What if our job is cancelled due to rain or bad weather?” “Is work on a Saturday overtime or double time?” Do these questions sound familiar?

We can provide individualized payroll training to familiarize your payroll team with the resources that can answer these questions and more. We will meet with your payroll team to walk through specific questions and review our resources. Here are some of the personalized trainings we provide: •

Union Payroll Rules – 1 hour

•

PLAs, Pre-Jobs, & Jurisdictional Disputes – 30 minutes

•

Skilled & Trained Workforce – 30 minutes

•

CBA Subcontracting Rules – 30 minutes

•

Best Practices: Dispatching, Hiring, Lay-offs, & Termination – 30 minutes

•

Basics & Best Practices: Apprenticeship – 45 minutes

•

Mastering Prevailing Wage: CPRs to 3rd Party Compliance – 45 minutes

UCON members can also find recorded versions of the following webinars in our online Education Library that any of your staff can watch on demand:

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HR/Workforce Issues As an employer, you encounter many challenges in managing your workforce. From determining which employment laws apply to you and some or all of your employees to navigating each union’s dispatch and transfer rules to managing substance abuse policies

Photo courtesy Stacy and Witbeck/Ghilotti Bros. A Joint Venture

U

CON’s “help desk” is always here to assist you.

Our members’ needs come first, and a rapid response is one of our core values. Did you know that there are service areas that you and your staff may not be utilizing fully? These are ways that the Labor & Member Services Team can assist you that may not immediately spring to mind.

to understanding and leveraging apprenticeship requirements and opportunities, UCON can help.

Contact: Any member of the UCON Labor & Member Services Team – LaborTeam@unitedcontractors.org, (925) 855-7900

Strategic Planning Think of UCON as one of your professional advisors, and use us as a partner in incorporating labor relations in your overall business structure. We can assist you with leadership development, succession planning, workforce development, and other facets of strategic planning to make your business more successful and prepared for the future.

Contact: Victor Sella – (510) 362-6959 vsella@unitedcontractors.org,

Trust Fund Audit/Delinquency Assistance Is your trust fund audit costing you more than it should? UCON provides union contractors with tools, language, best practices, and more to reduce liability and effectively respond during the trust fund audit process. Call us if you have any concerns, or need assistance getting an audit settled or dealing with any other trust fund issues—the sooner you call us, the sooner we can help you.

your business? Contact us if you are not signed up, and if you are signed up, make sure that you adjust spam filters so that you don’t miss out. Furthermore, our website has 600+ valuable resources available 24/7, in our members-only Contractor Resources Library. All member employees can sign up for a member log-in— make sure your team is all on board.

Contact: Sandra Kaya – skaya@unitedcontractors.org, (925) 725-6695

Legal Referrals United Contractors offers a wealth of information on many industry issues, however, there are some legal matters in which an attorney’s advice is needed. One of the many benefits of UCON membership is a legal referral for a phone call, up to 30 minutes, with an attorney. A member may use this benefit once or twice a year. Simply contact Labor and Member Services and we will have an attorney reach out to you, usually within 48 hours.

Contact: Any member of the UCON Labor & Member Services Team – LaborTeam@unitedcontractors.org, (925) 855-7900

Contact: Ruby Varnadore – (925) 362-7310 rvarnadore@ unitedcontractors.org, or Dilpreet Mayall – (925) 303-4388, dmayall@ unitedcontractors.org

Bulletins and Website Are you and other personnel on the list to receive critical e-mail updates on human resources, labor, payroll and legal developments that impact SEPTEMBER 2024

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Contributed by Lucia Mixon, Contractor Member Services, Southern CA, Dilpreet Mayall, Labor Relations Advocate

EFFECTIVE UNION PRE-JOB CONFERENCES

P

re-job conferences are often required by many of the construction trade unions, based on dollar amount or other criteria. We are seeing an increase on the number of pre-jobs being requested by the unions and expect this to continue. The objective of a pre-job conference is for Prime or Subcontractors and the unions involved to have a common understanding of the project, the scope of work, and how the job will be manned, as well as to communicate and resolve any issues which may arise before the project starts. This helps to establish an effective working relationship and to minimize problems so that the project is costeffective, completed on time and beneficial to all parties, particularly the owner of the project.

The following tips for conducting an effective pre-job meeting apply whether the contractor conducts the meeting or uses UCON staff to facilitate the meeting.

Before the Meeting: •

Set up the pre-job meeting well in advance of the start of the project.

•

Insure all the parties receive a copy of the completed pre-job form with a subcontractor list.

•

Request the parties provide any issues in advance if possible

At the Meeting •

Set up a functional room to hold the meeting.

•

Start the meeting with introductions, explanations of roles, and a sign in-sheet.

•

Make a presentation of the project details including scope, time frames, manning levels, and processes, in order to address local issues and concerns.

•

Request trades identify any issues at the meeting regarding jurisdiction, manning needs, dispatching process, travelers, etc.

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Ask each participant if they have any questions or concerns.

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•

Provide a contact document listing project managers, superintendents and phone contact numbers. Collect business cards from Building Trade Representatives.

•

Best Practices: –

What to say: “historic assignment of work”

–

What not to say: “composite crew”

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Work towards your status quo – “we’re going to abide by the CBAs we’re signed to”

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Make your assignment and get out of the middle – it’s the assigned union’s job to defend your assignment

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Do not commit when you’re not able to – “we haven’t decided yet” is a valid response

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Don’t exceed your obligations

After the Meeting •

Provide a copy of the minutes to all parties within five days of the meeting.

Pre-jobs can also be conducted by conference call or video conference. The same tips apply.

Members can get additional information (union requirements, UCON’s pre-job conference forms) in our online Contractor Resources Library. If you need help setting up a pre-job conference, contact (925) 855-7900, dmayall@unitedcontractors.org, or lmixon@unitedcontractors.org.

UCON MEMBERS: Want quick training for your team on prejobs and PLAs (Project Labor Agreements)?

Visit the UCON Education Library online and search with the “Labor” filter.

“Mastering PLAs and Pre-Jobs” will help your team become more fluent in navigating PLAs and setting up for success on the project with pre-jobs.

Thank YOU for joining us and almost 1,200 of your “friends” at UCON’s Annual BBQ and Chili Cook-Off Thursday, August 1st! The Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton was smokin’ with UCON contractor and associate members, affiliates, union, and industry leaders embracing the Western vibe. The weather was perfect for an evening of networking and reconnecting with friends, colleagues, partners, and even competitors. Many saddled-up for a challenge and rode the mechanical bull, while others rested their hats and took a break in our beer garden corral—but the highlight continues to be our spicy UCON Chili Cook-Off! There’s nothing better than some good, fun competition and that’s what our 15 teams brought with them—along with the heat! Our five winners (see pages 20-21) earned bragging rights, and secured their spots as Pepper Masters in our 2025 competition!

Thank you for continuing to make the UCON BBQ one of the largest construction events of its kind, showcasing the companies and people that make this industry great!

We look forward to seeing you at our next event. Thank you to all of the sponsors and attending companies (see Last Call, pages 52-53)!

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SEPTEMBER 2024

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CHILI COOK-OFF— BEST IN THE WEST! Thank you to our Chili Cook-Off Competitors this year!

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 18

City Rise Inc. (DBA City Rise Traffic): City Rise Ranch CliftonLarsonAllen LLP: Chili Loving Accountants Condon-Johnson & Associates, Inc.: CJA Drill-In and Chill-In Corrpro Companies, Inc.: The Galvanized Gourmets - Chili Conduction Crew Dynamic Office & Accounting Solutions/Dynamic Technical Partners: Cluckin’ Good Chili Evans Brothers, Inc.: Spicy Love Herc Rentals: Herc Rentals McGuire and Hester: McHester Fire Moss Adams LLP: Cooking the Books Pacific States Environmental Contractors, Inc.: Pac’N Heat Paulson Cox Construction, Inc.: Chili Construction Carne Robert A. Bothman Construction: UCON’t Beat Bothman’s Chili Veteran Pipeline Construction: Veteran Chili Chargers Volvo Construction Equipment & Services: The Flavor Excavators Wheeler Accountants LLP: Chili Chili Bang Bang W W W.U N I T E D C O N T R AC T O R S . O R G

CHILI COOK-OFF...and the winners are...

Congratulations to UCON’s 2024 Chili Cook-Off Winners: • • • • •

1st Place - Judges’ Choice Best Chili: Chili Loving Accountants–CLA 2nd Place - Judges’ Choice Best Chili: Pac’N Heat–Pacific States Environmental Contractors Inc. 3rd Place - Judges’ Choice Best Chili: Chili Chili Bang Bang– Wheeler Accountants LLP People’s Choice Best Chili: UCON’t Beat Bothman’s Chili– Robert A. Bothman Construction People’s Choice Best Booth: Pac’N Heat–Pacific States Environmental Contractors Inc.

Thank you to our amazing CHILI COOK-OFF JUDGES • Captain Jim Gill, Firefighters Union • Daniel Massie, Executive Chef, Wente Vineyards • Bob Moglia, BBQ Pitmaster • Joseph L. Paire, III, Executive Chef, Claremont Club and Spa

SEPTEMBER 2024

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THANK YOU 2024 BBQ SPONSORS STAGE SPONSOR

PARKING LOT SPONSOR

3 color left chest ABOVE POCKET -chrome yellow -white underbase -black 4" wide

3 color left chest ABOVE POCKET -chrome yellow -white underbase -black 4" wide

BAR SPONSOR

DESSERT SPONSORS

BEER SPONSORS

3 color left chest ABOVE POCKET -chrome yellow -white underbase -black 4.23" wide

HYDRATION SPONSORS MIST SPONSORS CENTERPIECE SPONSORS

SEPTEMBER 2024

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Thank you to our Volunteers!

Matthew Hennagin, Moss Adams LLP (Event Chair) Travis Adams, Farwest Corrosion Control Company Kelly Attebery, F & M Bank Lisa De Garmo, Dynamic Office & Accounting Solutions Teresa Dias, Peterson Trucks/Peterson Idealease Lindsey Eppler, Logoboss LLC Donita Granado, Graniterock Company Dave Heier, Moss Adams LLP Andrew Holloway, Woodruff-Sawyer & Co. Roger Mason, Sweeney Mason LLP Ilene Mason, Los Gatos Eye Care Susana Medellin, Farwest Corrosion Control Company Jeff Nahass, UB Equipment Corporation Erik Pierce, California Bank of Commerce Kevin Reimers, Woodruff-Sawyer & Co. Russell Rigler, CLA Keary Sullivan, F & M Bank David Ternes, CLA Brett vonKrakau, Dynamic Office & Accounting Solutions Sean Xavier, CNA Surety Hiromi Young, Allen Construction Group LLP

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SEPTEMBER 2024

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SPECIAL THANK YOU’S! Thank you to our UCON 2024 Annual Sponsors (see page 35).

Thank you to Construct Your Image for event signage and BBQ T-shirts, Brad Kinney Productions, the Alameda County Fairgrounds, Winslow & Associates, E-Facilities, and Breslow Imaging for photography, and capturing the UCON culture and community at the BBQ! ______________________ “The event that I look forward to every year! It’s so much fun. Everyone is there to have a good time and eat some good food! I love seeing how everyone comes to show-up and show-out, especially the chili competitors!”

– Kayla Acha, Pacific States Environmental Contractors, Inc.

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SEPTEMBER 2024

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“The UCON BBQ and Chili Cook-Off is an absolute must-attend. I love how otherwise competitive contractors, labor leaders, and other construction professionals all gather, enjoy each other’s company, and recognize our collective strength comes when we work together to better our industry.”

— Kevin Albanese, Performance Construction Advisors “UCON events are the best for networking and keeping the construction industry engaged.”

— Russ Rigler, CLA “Being a first-time attendee and a new member, everyone was so friendly and made me feel very welcome. I am glad that be part of such an awesome organization. Thank you!”

— Jeni Welch, Radius “UCON events allow me to meet and connect with the people behind the emails!”

— Rachel Carr, BKF Engineers

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CREATE A COMPANY CULTURE THAT DRIVES SUCCESS The Importance of a Strong Culture

Check Level of Communication

Employee Engagement

Safety Priority Optimal

Shift Up: Overdrive Leadership

By Martin C. McCarthy Companies with strong cultures tend to be higher performers. If employees, contractors and subcontractors are happy in an organization, then they will have increased performance and will want to deliver better results. Here’s how contractors can create a strong culture that leads to a strong bottom line.

A

company’s culture drives its success. It is the one thing competition can not duplicate because it is unique to the business. That is one reason why a company’s culture is so important. It is a unique differentiator that can be a competitive advantage or disadvantage.

An organization’s culture is based on the company’s values. Successful companies have values that are meaningful to the organization, which are the shared beliefs that guide all actions. For example, if honesty, integrity and transparency are values that are essential to the company; lying, stealing and being untruthful would not be tolerated. People demonstrating these behaviors would not be welcomed on the jobsite.

Instead, contractors would hire employees, contractors and subcontractors that share the same values of honesty, integrity and transparency.

Organizational culture is defined as a group of internal values and behaviors in a company. It includes experiences, ways of thinking, beliefs and future expectations. It is also intuitive, with repetitive habits 28

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and emotional responses. A company’s culture defines how business is conducted and how people interact with stakeholders, including employees, contractors, subcontractors, customers and the community.

A contractor’s brand and reputation depend on the cultural aspects of the company. If a contractor is known to build a high-quality product using the best materials, taking shortcuts or using less expensive or inferior materials would not be acceptable.

Companies with strong cultures tend to be higher performers. If employees, contractors and subcontractors are happy in an organization, then they will have increased performance and will want to deliver better results. Culture can drive positive traits like mutual respect, trust, taking responsibility, helping others and collaboration. It can also let people know that they are contributing to the success of the company.

Culture is created by the leadership of the organization based on the organization’s corporate governance protocols. Leaders set the tone of the organization.

People watch to see if leaders are living by the values of the company. It is critical that leadership “walks the walk and talks the talk.”

BENEFITS OF A STRONG CULTURE There are many benefits to having a strong company culture, including the following.

•

Talent Running Low

Team Success Rate

Recharge Talent Development

Shared vision and clear mission across the entire organization, leading to everyone working towards common goals.

•

Increased profitability due to enhanced performance.

•

Deceased waste because people are more conscious about working efficiently.

•

Improved retention rates because employees are more engaged and happier on the job.

•

Better and more transparent communication during all stages of the project.

•

More collaboration between leadership, management, supervisors, employees, contractors and subcontractors.

•

Less internal politics and fewer disagreements because everyone has a common vision.

STRATEGIES FOR DEVELOPING A STRONG CULTURE There are a lot of consultants that can provide guidance on how to develop a strong culture.

A consultant might be able to see something in the company that is overlooked by leadership.

Regardless, if a contractor hires a consultant, there are basic steps that will help, including the following Continued on next page

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SEPTEMBER 2024

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Those who strongly agree with “I feel connected to my organization’s culture” are:

3.7x

5.2x

68%

to be engaged at work

to strongly agree they would recommend their organization as a great place to work

to feel burned out at work very often or always

AS LIKELY

STRATEGIES FOR DEVELOPING A STRONG CULTURE (CONT.) 1. Develop a committee to work on company values.

Include people from different areas of the company.

2. Decide what the company should stand for and what values are most important to drive the organization towards its goals.

3. Develop a list of on- and off-brand behaviors based on the company’s values.

AS LIKELY

LESS LIKELY

Gallup 2023; Photo courtesy Chrisp Company

4. Write down behaviors to start doing more and the ones that need to be stopped.

5. Create communication channels to let everyone know about the vision and mission that will drive the company’s culture.

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6. Train employees on what is expected and how they should act to demonstrate that they buy into cultural behaviors and expectations.

7. Recognize people who are living the company’s cultural values. Shout out what they are doing and how it impacts the organization.

8. Develop an incentive program to reward and recognize people who are living by the company’s values.

9. Document your values and behaviors so everyone knows what is expected.

10. Tie values-based behaviors to employee bonuses and compensation.

11. Hire people who will embrace the company’s values.

12. Post the values in common space. Consider opening meetings by reading the values to participants.

Strong communication is essential. Encourage everyone to express their thoughts, even if they may be in conflict.

When people know that they will be listened to and heard, they will be more inclined to make suggestions on how to improve operations and efficiencies. When people communicate freely and openly, problems get solved and challenges are resolved. Companies that are not transparent and do not disseminate information to everyone, do not gain buy in or trust that could lead to an under-performing team, loss of profits and a devalued brand.

Martin C. McCarthy, CPA, CCIFP, is with McCarthy & Co., a leader in construction accounting. CE included McCarthy & Company on its list of 2019 and 2020 Top 50 Construction Accounting Firms. He can be contacted at (610) 828-1900.

This article appears in ConstructionExec.com blog.

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31

UP MEMBER-ONLY BENEFIT: UCON’S PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT LIBRARY

UCON members can access ondemand classes through our Professional Development Library.

Did you know we have over 80 classes available to you as a UCON member? Use these classes as part of your own employee professional and leadership development strategy. For more information contact Avanti Mehta, Education Assistant, (925) 725-6365,

By Angelica Gouig, Director of Events and Education

SEPTEMBER COURSES: SEPTEMBER 12

Increasing Your Influence Thursday, September 12; 2:30pm-4:30pm Instructor: Bill Treasurer, Giant Leap Consulting Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost – Member: Free | Non-member: $100

SEPTEMBER 26

Building Relationships with Labor Compliance 101 Thursday, September 26; 2:30pm-4:30pm Instructor: Paul Stout, Power Summit Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost – Member: FREE | Non-member: $100

OCTOBER COURSES: *Contact Avanti Mehta, Education Assistant, Project Engineer Bootcamp* amehta@unitedcontractors.org, Session 1 | October 7, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm (925) 725-6365, to get on the Session 2 | October 14, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm waitlist for the next Bootcamp!

Session 3 | October 21, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

OCTOBER 6 (SERIES)

T!

OU D L O S

Instructors: Paul Stout, Power Summit; Class Style: Zoom | Class Limit: 25 Cost – Member: $515 Non-member: $615

OCTOBER 24

Legacy or Liability: Navigating the Handover of a Family Construction Business Thursday, October 24; 2:30pm-4:30pm Instructors: Eric Anderton, Construction Genius; Interview with JP Cullen Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost – Member: FREE | Non-member: $100

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TOP UTILIZERS OF UCON’S PROFESSIONAL & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS Thank you to our members who prioritize learning and development for their teams In the digital age, webinars have become a powerful tool for companies to engage with audiences, deliver valuable content, and drive business growth. Thank you to our top utilizers of UCON’s Professional and Leadership Development webinars and using them to their advantage (members shown at right in order of utilization)!

Webinars have become a crucial tool for businesses to connect, educate, and engage with their audiences, across various industries. UCON aims to deliver not only valuable content but also demonstrate how webinars can drive business growth and foster meaningful connections. Stayed tuned as we continue developing more courses for 2025!

1.

2.

3.

4.

Sierra Mountain Construction, Inc. Sonic.net, LLC. Graniterock Frontline General Engineering Construction Inc. 5. Chrisp Company 6. High-Light Electric Inc. 7. Teichert Construction 8. Pavement Recycling Systems, Inc. 9. J&J Acoustics, Inc. 10. American Civil Constructors West Coast LLC 11. Preston Pipelines, Inc. - Preston Electric 12. Garney Pacific, Inc. 13. Ghilotti Bros., Inc.

Wet Utilities, Dry Utilities, and Soil Management

PrestonPipelines, PrestonElectric, and DirtMarket provide expertise in underground and electrical utility services and soil sampling and import/export solutions across Northern California.

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OCTOBER 3

Fearless Field Leader (San Ramon) Thursday, October 3; 4:30pm-8:00pm Instructor: Mark Breslin, United Contractors Class Style: In-person | Class Limit: 100 Cost – Member: Standard $225; Onsite $275 Non-member: Standard $325; Onsite $375 Location: San Ramon Marriott (2600 Bishop Dr, San Ramon, CA 94583)

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THANK YOU TO UCON’S 2024 ANNUAL SPONSORS

3 color left chest ABOVE POCKET -chrome yellow -white underbase -black 4" wide

PLATINUM

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GOLD

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SILVER

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SEPTEMBER 2024

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Saturday, November 9, 2024 5:00-10:00pm The Claremont Club & Spa, Berkeley, CA Tickets: $350 member, $450 non-member (Early-bird, expires 10/9) $365 member, $465 non-member (Standard) | Tables of 10 available

To donate auction items or for more information, please contact Christine or Rachel at (925) 855-7900, ctraina@unitedcontractors.org, roraa@unitedcontractors.org Scan the QR Code or visit the UCON Auction website to donate packaged items, register, and sponsor.

DONATE | SPONSOR | ATTEND | BID WWW.UNITEDCONTRACTORSAUCTION.COM Scan the QR Code to donate packaged items, register, and sponsor.

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• • • •

Increase public works funding for contractors Protect industry interests inside the Capitol Defend industry against burdensome regulations Improve California’s business climate

YOUR PARTICIPATION IS CRUCIAL The funds raised at this event go towards our aggressive advocacy efforts.

Thanks to your support, UCON’s Political Advocacy Auction is one of the largest industry advocacy fundraisers in California, but this year we are aiming even higher, looking to once again exceed all previous fundraising goals.

Will you help us get there? We invite you to join us as an auction donor, premiere sponsor, and as an attendee at the Annual Advocacy Auction. This event is your event. The success of this event helps ensure the success of our industry.

PREVIEW

Join us in supporting United Contractors Political Advocacy efforts: ATTEND—SPONSOR—DONATE—BID Show your support with a sponsorship (see current sponsors on following page).

E Thank You Kit Sponsor: $10,000 (SOLD OUT - Thank you DeSilva Gates Construction!)

E Mambo Sponsor: $7,500 E Photo Booth Sponsor: $7,500 (SOLD OUT - Thank you Chrisp Company!)

E 360 Video Booth Sponsor: $5,000 E Key Card Sponsor: $5,000 E Afterparty Flip Flop Sponsor: $5,000 E Signature Drink Sponsor: $5,000 (SOLD OUT - Thank you Kiewit Infrastructure West Co.!)

E Salsa Sponsor: $4,000 E Merengue Sponsor: $2,500 E Cocktail Napkin Sponsor: $2,000 (SOLD OUT - Thank you Midtate Barrier, Inc., and Precizion Partners) E Dinner Wine Sponsor: $2,000 E Bar Sponsor: $1,500 E Cha-Cha-Cha Sponsor: $750 Attire: Black-Tie optional.

Room Accommodations: A room block is available at the historic Claremont Hotel & Spa with a group rate of $409/night. Contact reservations at (510) 843-3000 and request the United Contractors room block.

SEPTEMBER 2024

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Auction Sponsors 3 color left chest ABOVE POCKET -chrome yellow -white underbase -black 4" wide

Thank You Kit Sponsor Mambo Sponsors

Photo Booth Sponsor

Signature Drink Sponsor

Salsa Sponsor

Cocktail Napkin Sponsors

3 color left chest ABOVE POCKET -chrome yellow -white underbase -black 4.23" wide

Dinner Wine Sponsors

Bar Sponsors

A special thank you to Ritchie Bros., and Steve Sundberg, RDO Equipment Co. Vermeer for donating their services to our event!

Sponsors & Auction Items Previewed As-Of Publication Printing Date

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WWW.UNITEDCONTRACTORSAUCTION.COM

Auction Item Preview 49ers Luxury Box Tickets

Golden State Warriors Courtside

Wahid Tadros California Engineering Contractors, Inc.

Manuel de Freitas and Lisa de Freitas Sundberg Platinum Pipeline, Inc.

Family Photo Session

by Breslow Imaging Cathy Breslow Breslow Imaging

Sonoma Swirl, Sip, and Savor Hal Stober Gordon N. Ball, Inc.

Wing & Barrel Ranch with Eric Streich Eric Streich Teichert Energy & Utilities Group

Wild Wyoming Aaron Peabody Summit Financial Group, LLC

Pop! Fizz! Clink!

Dom Perignon with Tableside Service Redgwick Construction Company

John Deere Gator Ride-On Toy Mike Preston Preston Pipelines, Inc.

Nomad Grill and Smoker Bret Lawrence Woodruff-Sawyer & Co.

Miami Heat Darren Phelps West Valley Construction

Four Sacramento Kings Tickets with Lounge Access Jason Herrera BFBA, LLP.

Glamping Getaway Leonidou & Rosin Professional Corp.

YETI Tundra Wheeled Cooler Kevin Ghilotti Team Ghilotti, Inc.

Continued on next page

Auction Item Preview 8 Bar Ranch for 8 McGuire and Hester DONATE—There is still time to donate!

Thank you to all who have donated fantastic prizes to help raise funds that support our aggressive efforts on the state and federal level.

Need some donation ideas? Some of our more popular donations have included: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Vacation trips: Hawaii, Disneyland, Mexico, etc…

Cabins and vacation homes: lake/ beach/mountain/river homes etc…

Sports tickets / luxury suites Golf outings to private golf clubs Dinner experiences at personal homes: bocce, poker parties, wine cellar Private airplane access Tickets from a major airline carrier Stylish luggage Winemaker tour & tastings One-week timeshare Hot air balloon ride Helicopter ride Mountain passes and ski / snowboarding lessons Canoe or kayaking family trip White water rafting trip Private boat cruise with cocktails Behind-the-scenes or VIP insiders tour Broadway / Off-Broadway shows Spa packages Special / Unique experiences Adventure excursions

(You can also sponsor a pre-packaged item—view them on our auction website)

A Week in San Francisco Geordge Furnanz Stacy Witbeck

JBL Party Box Kevin Ghilotti Team Ghilotti, Inc.

New Orleans Jazz and Dining Ryan Malloy Trench Shoring Company

Indoor and Outdoor Home Theater Tiffany Stuart Dynamic Office & Accounting Solutions/ Dynamic Technical Partners

San Francisco Giants Game for 12 with Suite Brent Fogg Granite Construction Company

Silverado Golf and Wine Steven Gallyer Pacific Boring, Inc.

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By Denise Ramirez, Online Services Manager, Scholarship Committee Liaison

Congratulations to UCON’s 2024 Scholarship Program Award Winners!

United Contractors (UCON) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2024 UCON Scholarship Awards Program. This year, thirteen exceptional students have been selected to receive a combined total of $48,000 to further their educational and career aspirations. These awards honor their outstanding academic performance and dedication to positively impacting the communities they aim to serve.

Since 1994, UCON’s Scholarship Awards Committee has awarded over $700,000 to member affiliates of our organization and industry.

We are committed to giving back and providing additional resources to those committed to making a difference, for themselves, and our future.

Congratulations to our 2024 recipients!

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Call Hydrovac Specialist Sean Montgomery at 916-200-5179.

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UCON ANNUAL SPONSORSHIP AWARD WINNERS: PLATINUM SCHOLARSHIP AWARD: $5,000 COLE LEWIS College: California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo Major: Construction Management “Thank you so much for selecting me for this prestigious award.

I am so thankful to receive this scholarship, it makes an incredible impact on my educational journey.

Receiving this scholarship heightens my excitement to enter the construction industry upon my graduation.”

Cole’s career goal within the construction industry is to become a project manager for a construction company and create structures that define skylines for decades to come. He aims to be knowledgeable in all things construction from project inception to completion.

Favorite Quote: “Devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning.”—Mitch Albom

GOLD SCHOLARSHIP AWARD: $4,000 ANGEL AGUILAR Western Paving Contracting, Inc. College: Woodbury University Major: Architecture “I am deeply honored and grateful to have been selected to receive this award, and would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved. This recognition is not only a vast personal achievement, but a testament to the collective efforts and support from this remarkable community. Your encouragement and collaboration have been crucial in reaching this milestone. I look forward to continuing our work together with the same passion and drive that have brought us here.”

Angel aims to own a design and construction firm that integrates innovative, sustainable practices with cultural and historical contexts. He seeks to reshape perceptions of architecture as challenging by emphasizing resilience in both personal and structural aspects. Passionate about Mesoamerican and Latin American styles, Angel wants to highlight overlooked building techniques and guide aspiring architects. He also envisions creating a scholarship program to support passionate, resilient, and culturally aware individuals entering the field.

Favorite Quote: “Sometimes you gotta be a lion so you can be the lamb you really are.”—Dave Chappelle

SILVER SCHOLARSHIP AWARD: $3,000 GABRIELLE SANDS West Valley Construction Company College: University of California, Davis Major: BioResource and Agricultural Engineering “I am honored to be named a United Contractors Scholarship Award Recipient. This generous support plays a crucial role in my academic and professional journey, allowing me to fully dedicate myself to my studies in BioResource and Agricultural Engineering at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. I am profoundly grateful for your belief in my potential. Thank you for investing in my future and supporting my educational goals.”

Gabrielle’s career goal is to work at the intersection of engineering and environmental sustainability. She aims to contribute to the development of innovative machinery and sustainable waste management solutions.

By leveraging her knowledge and skills, Gabrielle seeks to mitigate environmental impacts, enhance resource efficiency, and support sustainable practices. Ultimately, she aspires to influence industry standards and policies to promote a more sustainable and resilient future.

Favorite Quote: “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t – you’re right.”—Henry Ford

Winners continued on next page

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UCON SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS: CHI NGUYEN, $4,000 Marques General Engineering College: Southern New Hampshire University Major: Accounting

it will be multiplied and seen by many more people that I’ve met to strengthen us all with kindness and hope. Once again, thank you so much for this award.”

“It’s always been a pleasure to work with UCON, and I admire how they support their members and the community. I truly am thankful for being selected to receive an award from an organization I admire. It is a double award because it reaffirms that it is worth all the effort I’ve dedicatedly poured into my chosen career. I will ensure this scholarship’s meaningful vision will not stop here. Instead,

Chi aims to advance her career by specializing in payroll management and gaining broader expertise in accounting.

Her ultimate goal is to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

Favorite Quote: “When you are going through something hard and wonder where God is, remember the teacher is always quiet during a test.”

MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIPS: Bruce W. Woolpert Memorial Scholarship Award from Graniterock, $3,000 MUHAMMAD AHMAD College: California State University, Sacramento Major: Construction Management After obtaining his bachelor’s degree, Muhammad’s career goal is to become a project manager, where he can lead, organize, and train individuals to successfully complete projects with efficacy within the construction industry. He hopes to use his communication skills to work with contractors and clients to oversee tasks and ensure projects deadlines are met within the time constraints.

“I am deeply grateful to the committee for giving me the opportunity to receive the Bruce Woolpert Memorial Scholarship.

This scholarship award will offset my financial burden and help assist my educational journey. I am motivated to keep working hard for the success of my education. I hope to one day to help others in the same way that this award helped me. Thank you again for this wonderful opportunity and for believing in me.”

Favorite Quote: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”—Nelson Mandela 44

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Less Weed Memorial Award, $3,000 KIANA MOKRIAN College: Stanford University, Major: Sustainable Design & Construction “I am immensely grateful for this award and your generosity and I’m honored to have been chosen.

This award will help fund my graduate studies, allowing me to focus on developing my skills as a professional in this field. I look forward to giving back to others in the industry, as you have done for me, in my future.”

Kiana’s career goal is to focus on the development of innovative technologies for cost-effective, energyefficient, and decarbonized buildings and data centers, to ultimately contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive built environment.

Favorite Quote: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams”—Eleanor Roosevelt

AIDEN VARGA, $4,000 California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo Major: Civil Engineering “Whenever I try to sell myself to scholarship committees, I liken myself to an investment. I’m not big on the stock market and don’t have any sort of background in economics, but I know investments are generally supposed to bring money in. By choosing me for this award, you believe that an investment in the “Aiden Varga” stock is a worthwhile one and that I will be giving you something back in the future, be it money, endorsements, or just as an active member of the workforce. I have shown that I am successful in the past, but you, in choosing me, are betting on my success in the future.

That alone is worth so much. You, just from reading my essay and seeing my resume, believe I am worth your $4000. That

is truly incredible, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for this award—I promise I’ll make your investment in me a worthwhile one.”

Aiden hopes to help fight back the issues of climate change and tackle one of our largest challenges; transportation.

He aims to focus on public transit and be an advocate for alternative forms of travel from the car, which he hopes to help - admittedly in a very minor way - fight back against climate change and the looming climate crisis. The incorporation of alternative modes of transit in neighborhoods without many other options, namely lowincome areas, is something he would love to work towards in the future.

Favorite Quote: “Those who give from their excess are generous, but those who give from their substance are truly selfless.”

Mario Ghilotti Family Foundation Award from Ghilotti Bros., Inc., $4,000

David W. Young Memorial Scholarship Award from D.W. Young Construction Co., Inc., $4,000

YOUSIF SAWA College: California State University, Sacramento Major: Construction Management

JAIME LOPEZ FERRERA College: California Polytechnic State California State University, Sacramento Major: Construction Management

“I am very thankful for the help and generosity of UCON’s committee for giving me this award, I feel blessed and lucky to have people like you who support students and acknowledge their commitment and achievements.”

“I am honored I am to have been selected as one of the recipients of your generous scholarship, the David W. Young Memorial Award. Thank you so much for your support and generous gift that will help me achieve my goals. I am the member of my family to attend college, with a plan on receiving a bachelor’s degree in Construction Management with a minor in Business Administration, followed by a master’s degree. I know that all of my goals will remain dreams if I don’t complete my education so I am committed to working hard in school and looking for opportunities to help me turn those goals in to reality.”

Yousif currently is a construction management major at California State University, Sacramento. He is focused on improving construction efficiency and sustainability by promoting collaboration between planners and builders. This effort would aim to reduce carbon emissions in the industry. Recently, Yousif was invited to an assistantship with a professor to advance sustainability and decarbonization in construction.

Favorite Quote: “All human wisdom is contained in these two words - Wait and Hope”

After completing his degree, Jaime hopes to use his experience in the heavy civil sector as a construction management professional who can contribute to his community and the world by building, updating, and maintaining our living environment’s infrastructure.

Favorite Quote: “Just because it’s taking time doesn’t mean it’s not happening.”

SEPTEMBER 2024

45

UCON SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS: JUAN BALSEROS, $3,000 College: University of California, Berkeley Major: Civil Engineering “My passion for Civil Engineering began at 14 with a drafting class, and it has only grown over the years. I’m excited to advance my skills through graduate school to help design and build sustainable, resilient infrastructure. I want to extend a big thank you to the committee and members for this meaningful award. It means a lot to me, as it will help make graduate school more affordable; But more importantly, it shows me that the industry is committed to advancing the engineering profession, especially for those early in their careers.”

Juan’s goal as an early-career engineer is to incorporate sustainable practices within the construction industry. He aims to contribute to projects that not only meet current needs but also foster long-term environmental benefits and positive impacts. He wants to be a part of the new generation of Engineers who will provide new technologies and infrastructure to the country.

Favorite Quote: “Perfection is not attainable. But if we chase perfection we can catch excellence.”

DANIEL DESOTO, $3,000 College: University of California, Berkeley Major: Construction Development & Design “I am deeply grateful to the committee and membership for this award. This scholarship will greatly support my educational journey. Thank you for believing in my potential and providing me with this opportunity.”

Daniel aspires to lead innovative projects that emphasize sustainable building practices and efficient resource management. He hopes to influence the industry by advocating for greener construction methods and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and safety on job sites.

He would like to contribute to the creation of structures that not only meet client needs but also positively impact the environment and communities they serve.

Favorite Quote: “It matters not how strait the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.”

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ISRAEL CARDONEZ HERNANDEZ, $3,000 Pacific Boring College: Fresno City College Major: Communications & Journalism “I am completely grateful for having had the blessing of obtaining this scholarship. Rest assured that I will use the resources I obtain to strengthen my knowledge so that in the future I can expand it with other people.”

Israel’s goal is to leverage his skills for meaningful impact. By advancing his studies, he seeks to contribute to the cultural development of his country, enriching its traditions and values. Additionally, he aspires to use his expertise to extend the reach of the gospel to various nations, fostering crosscultural understanding to promote positive change.

Favorite Quote: Romans 8:38 (NLT) “And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.”

KYLE SANDS, $3,000 West Valley Construction Company College: Point Lomo Nazarene University Major: Applied Health Science “ I am very grateful for receiving this scholarship, it will allow me to focus on gaining experience in my field and putting my best foot forward in the classroom instead of putting in extra hours into a part time job.”

Upon graduating in Spring 2025, Kyle hopes to work as either a sports scientist or strength and conditioning coach.

He aims to help develop athletes as efficiently as possible and give them all the tools they need to succeed on the field.

Favorite Quote: “Great things come from hard work and perseverance. No excuses.” —Kobe “Bean” Bryant

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SEPTEMBER 2024

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FROM UCON SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNER TO INDUSTRY LEADER

Catching Up with Steven Gallyer, Pacific Boring

S

eventeen years ago, Steven Gallyer, an impressionable student with aspirations of making a mark in the construction industry, received a UCON Scholarship. Today, he is the proud president of Pacific Boring, and he continues to fulfill those ambitions. Steven’s role can have a diverse range of daily responsibilities—anything from attending insurance meetings to managing dispatch operations. Leading a small business means he is constantly balancing various responsibilities to ensure everything runs smoothly.

for students today. We also explored the impact that UCON’s Scholarship had on him years ago.

We recently connected with Steven to hear about his latest projects, goals, and his words of wisdom

Steven: Since receiving the UCON Scholarship, I’ve achieved several major milestones. I graduated from Fresno State, got my contractor’s license, and even broke 100 in golf. Professionally, I advanced from a shop employee to management, and ultimately, to president of the company. On a personal note, I married a wonderful person, started a family with three children, and deepened my faith. These accomplishments reflect both my personal growth and professional development.

UCON: What are some significant achievements or milestones you’ve reached since receiving the UCON Scholarship, both personally and professionally?

UCON: What are your career aspirations or goals for the near future?

A: My goals for the near future are focused on growth— both for myself and those around me. I’m committed to fostering development within my team and expanding our company’s capabilities.

Steven, third from the right, shown with other UCON Scholarship Award recipients, 2007.

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UCON: What’s a fun fact about yourself, or a favorite quote you live by?

Steven: A fun fact about me is that I’m bilingual in English and Spanish. As for a favorite quote, I love this one by C.S. Lewis: “If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.”

UCON: In what ways have United Contractors, the UCON Scholarship, or any members of this industry influenced your career trajectory?

Steven: The industry and UCON’s Scholarship played a crucial role in my career. My high school ag/mechanics teacher introduced me to Pacific Boring, and it was there that I learned about Construction Management, thanks to Dave Cline. Additionally, John Iles informed me about the UCON (formerly EUCA) scholarship, which was instrumental in helping me graduate debt-free. Coming from a blue-collar, singleincome family, this support was invaluable.

UCON: Based on your experiences, what guidance would you give to someone just starting their career or academic journey? What advice would you give your younger self?

Steven: For those starting their academic journey, I’d recommend finding ways to fund your education, whether that’s by staying at home, attending a junior college, or working part-time. Secure a job in your desired field and apply for every scholarship you can.

Meet with your counselor regularly to stay on track. For those beginning their careers, be patient and focus on doing good, honest work.

As for advice to my younger self, I wouldn’t change much. Reflecting on the past can sometimes distract us from appreciating how our experiences shape who we are. The challenges we face help us grow. The front windshield is larger than the rearview mirror for a reason—looking forward is more important than dwelling on the past.

Thank You! We thank Steven for sharing his experiences and insights. His journey is a powerful reminder that with commitment and support, great things are possible. His story exemplifies the pride we take in witnessing our members evolve from youthful scholarship recipients to influential members in our association. We’re proud to see him not only achieve but continue to thrive as a leader in our industry.

Since 1994, United Contractors has awarded over $700,000 to students affiliated with our association and industry. By supporting these students, we celebrate and acknowledge the contributions of our members.

UCON’s Scholarship Awards Program is offered annually each spring and is open to all UCON member affiliates and students majoring in civil engineering or construction management.

Interested in joining our efforts? Come sit with us on the Scholarship Committee! Our goal is to use UCON’s influence and growth to make opportunities available to students in need.

We meet 4-5 times per year to plan, review applications, and award scholarships to those advancing their education.

For more information about the Scholarship Program or the Scholarship Committee, contact Denise Ramirez at dramirez@unitedcontractors. org.

Thank you to our UCON 2024 Annual Sponsors (see page 37), who allow us to increase our donations and sponsor awards!!

Thank you to UCON’s Memorial Scholarship Award Donors; and special thank you to volunteers and participants of our annual Scholarship ThrowDown, Corn Hole tournament—you make it happen! It is through your donations that our scholarship fund is possible.

SEPTEMBER 2024

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Photo courtesy Joseph J. Albanese, Inc.

MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES: SEPTEMBER United Contractors would like to take this opportunity to recognize and thank the following companies who are celebrating their anniversary of membership with our organization in September:

47 YEARS – 1977

Associate Member: Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers of California, Inc./Gallagher Construction Services Doug Bowring

40 YEARS – 1984 Associate Member: John S. Shelton, Inc. David Shelton

39 YEARS – 1985

Contractor Member: Andreini Brothers, Inc. Mario Andreini Associate Member: Liberty Companies Insurance Brokers Formerly Babcock Insurance Brokerage, Inc. Rob Babcock

33 YEARS – 1991

Associate Member: Thompson Pipe Group Branimir Kovac

30 YEARS – 1994 Contractor Member: J R Pipeline Co., Inc. Juan Renteria

Associate Member: HUB International Insurance Service Inc. Mark Johnson

25 YEARS – 1999 Contractor Members: Cozart Brothers, Inc. Dan Cozart Drill Tech Drilling & Shoring, Inc. Thea Shupe

23 YEARS – 2001

Contractor Member: Andes Construction, Inc. Danilo Mayorga

22 YEARS – 2002 Contractor Members: Griffin Soil Group Bill Howard

J.J.R. Construction, Inc. Carlos Raposo Associate Member: Jensen Precast Jillian Welch

21 YEARS – 2003

Contractor Member: Joseph J. Albanese, Inc. Phil Albanese

19 YEARS – 2005

15 YEARS – 2009

10 YEARS – 2014

14 YEARS – 2010

Steve P. Rados, Inc. Stephen A. Rados

Contractor Member: J D Partners Concrete Jason Eggert Associate Member: Petrinovich Pugh & Company, LLP Kevin Kaefer

13 YEARS – 2011

Contractor Members: Golden State Boring & Pipe Jacking, Inc. Jeff Johnson Sierra Mountain Construction, Inc. Douglas Benton

12 YEARS – 2012

Associate Member: CHIEF Engineering Co., Inc. Jose Aceituno

Contractor Member: E.E. Gilbert Construction, Inc. John Fagundes

11 YEARS – 2013

16 YEARS – 2008

Associate Members: Ogletree Deakins Nash Smoak & Stewart P.C. Robert Roginson

Associate Member: Salamirad, Morrow, Timpane & Dunn LLP Jonathan Dunn

Contractor Member: DMZ Builders Todd Majors

Contractor Members: M.F. Maher, Inc. Michael Maher

Associate Members: Hopkins & Carley, A Law Corporation William Klein Nitro Associates Craig Sorensen

9 YEARS – 2015

Associate Member: The Construction Zone Mindy Serrano

8 YEARS – 2016

Contractor Member: Jensen Landscape Contractor, LLC Jeff Colton

6 YEARS – 2018

Contractor Members: Ford Construction Company, Inc. Nick Jones JD Barlow Construction LLC James Barlow W Contracting Corporation Mandy Maymo

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5 YEARS – 2019

Contractor Member: Precision Directional Boring, Inc. Eric Hanson Associate Members: BFBA, LLP Jason Herrera

4 YEARS – 2020

JV Lucas Paving, Inc Al Perez Techno Coatings, Inc. Alan Pott

Associate Members: Lumber Oleg Pravdin

Tyler Union Jim Nau Wheeler Accountants LLP Michael Gurr

WHAT WE OFFER

Contractor Members: Kilford Engineering Inc. William Tobin Safety Striping Service, Inc. David Preston Associate Member: Tenna LLC Elizabeth Torrez

3 YEARS – 2021

Contractor Member: Odigos Construction, Inc. Shaun Buckman Associate Members: Metropolitan Water District of Southern California John Arena RMA Group, Inc. Tim Saenz

2 YEARS – 2022

Associate Members: Hackett Bonds & Insurance Services Ed Hackett United Site Services Catherine Evangelista

1 YEAR – 2023

Contractor Members: Anrak Corporation Tom Schmidt

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Associated Traffic Safety, Inc. Ken Johnston GeoStructural Engineering Inc. Andre Hawks

SEPTEMBER 2024

51

Chrisp Company Christopher Lee Consulting, LLC Chubb Surety THANK YOU TO ALL OF THE CIFAC - Construction Industry Force Account Council ATTENDING COMPANIES!!!

City Rise Inc. (DBA City Rise Traffic) Clear Creek Systems AJ Window Shades and Beyond Bayview Demolition Services, Inc. CliftonLarsonAllen LLP Allen A. Waggoner Construction, Inc. Bayview Environmental CMC Traffic Control Specialist, LLC dba Allen Construction Group LLP BFBA, LLP CMC Construction Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. BKF Engineers CNA Surety Anvil Builders Bridgeway Civil Constructors, Inc. Columbia Electric, Inc. Anvil Equipment Company LP Bulk Exchange Condon-Johnson & Associates, Inc. Arch Insurance C&N Reinforcing, Inc. Con-Quest Contractors, Inc. Argent Materials Inc. California Alliance for Jobs Core & Main LP Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers of California Bank of Commerce Corrpro Companies Inc. California, Inc./Gallagher Construction California Engineering Contractors, Inc. D.W. Young Construction Co., Inc. Services Carpenter Funds Administrative Datumate Avidbank Office of Northern California DeSilva Gates Aggregates B2W Software Case Pacific Company DeSilva Gates Construction, LLC Badger Infrastructure Solutions Caterpillar Financial Services DirtMarket LLC Bar None Auction Corporation D-Line Constructors, Inc. Basic Crafts Worker’s Compensation Cell-Crete Corporation Double D Transportation ADR Program CEMEX D.P. Nicoli, Inc. Bay Area Temporary Sanitation Inc. Central Concrete Supply Co., Inc. DPI Inc. Bay Cities Paving & Grading, Inc. Century Group International LLC D’s Trucking Service, Inc. Bay Line Cutting & Coring, Inc Channell Commercial Corp.

Duran & Venables, Inc.

52 W WW WW W..U UN NIITTEED DCCO ON NTTRRAACCTTO ORRSS..O ORRG G

Duran Construction Group Dynamic Office & Accounting Solutions/ Dynamic Technical Partners ECCO E-Facilities Electrical Services Company Elite Building Materials Elite Ready Mix Enoven Truck Body + Equipment EquipmentShare ETEPS Evans Brothers, Inc. F & M Bank Farwest Corrosion Control Company Ferguson Waterworks Ferma Corporation Ferma Greenbox Five Star Bank Flatiron West, Inc. Foundation Constructors, Inc. Frontline General Engineering Construction Inc Garton Tractor, Inc. Ghilotti Bros., Inc. Goodfellow Bros. California, LLC Granite Construction Company Graniterock Great American Insurance Company

CONNECTION, NETWORK, RELATIONSHIPS, FAMILY— THE UCON WAY UCON’s 2024 BBQ:

GSW Construction Inc. Herc Rentals Inc. Herc Trench Solutions Heritage Bank of Commerce Hoseley Corporation Hub International Insurance Service Inc. IAT Insurance Group, Inc. IAT Surety ICONIX Waterworks Inc. Independent Construction Company Interstate Concrete Pumping Co., Inc. J & M, Inc. J. Flores Construction Company, Inc. Jays Demolition Inc J.F. Shea Construction Company, Inc. JHS Tax & Consulting Johnston, Gremaux & Rossi, LLP JS Cole Company Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. KM106 L&W Supply Laborers Funds Administrative Office of Northern California, Inc. Leonidou & Rosin Professional Corp.

Liberty Company Insurance Brokers Liberty Mutual Surety LogoBoss LLC Lombardo Diamond Core Drilling Co, Inc. M & M Foundation & Drilling, Inc Maggiora & Ghilotti, Inc. Marina Landscape, Inc.

Belonging: 1,233 registered! Networking: 3,000+ drinks poured, and 10,000 cheers; Commitment: 25+ volunteers; 22 eventand 61 annual-sponsors; Connection: 35,000 hugs, handshakes shared.

Memories: 1,500+ photos...THANK YOU! Marsh & McLennan Insurance Agency LLC Masters Apparel McGuire and Hester McSherry & Hudson, LLC Merchants Bonding Company Midstate Barrier, Inc. Mission Clay Products LLC Moneric Equipment Rental Monterey Mechanical Co. Moss Adams LLP Mountain Cascade, Inc. Mozingo Construction, Inc. Munich Re Specialty Insurance (MRSI) - Surety MWH Constructors National Trench Safety, LLC Nor Cal Pipeline Services O. C. Jones and Sons, Inc. Oldcastle Infrastructure NorCal Operating Engineers Local No. 3 PACE Supply Pacific Highway Rentals LLC Pacific States Environmental Contractors, Inc. Pacific States Petroleum Paulson Cox Construction, Inc. Penkor Wrecking Performance Construction Advisors Peterson Trucks, Inc. Peterson Cat

Stacy Witbeck Steve P. Rados, Inc. Suarez & Munoz Construction, Inc. Summit Financial Group, LLC Sweeney Mason LLP Team North Construction Services Inc. Teichert Construction Philadelphia Insurance Companies Tennyson Electric, Inc. Pile Drivers Local Union No. 34 TerraCon Constructors, Inc. Pipe and Plant Solutions, Inc. The Conco Companies Plasterers and Cement Masons The Construction Zone Local 300 The Ford Store Morgan Hill Power Engineering Construction Co. The Hartford Preston Pipelines Infrastructure LLC Travelers Preston Pipelines, Inc. Trench Shoring Company Quanta Services Tri-West Tractor, Inc. R.C. Fischer & Co. Twining, Inc. Radius UB Equipment Corp RAM Rick Albert Machinery, Inc. Underground Construction Co., Inc. Ransome Company Underground Republic Water Works Redgwick Construction Co. United Rentals Redwood Fit United Rentals Trench Safety RJS & Associates, Inc. U-Rock Utility Equipment Inc. RMA Group, Inc. U.S. Pipe and Foundry Co. Robert A. Bothman Construction Vanguard Construction Rogers Joseph O’Donnell Viking Construction Company, Inc. Romak Iron Works Vintage Paving Co. Inc. Ruhe CPA Volvo Construction Equipment & Services Santamaria Concrete Inc. Veteran Pipeline Construction (VPC) Sensiba LLP W. R. Forde Associates Inc. Sigma Corporation Wall And Ceiling Alliance Silverado Contractors, Inc. Walsh Construction Company II, LLC Simpson, Garrity, Innes & Jacuzzi, P.C. Western States Oil Smith Currie Oles LLP Wheeler Accountants LLP Sompo International Insurance WMA Landscape Construction Inc. Spencer Fane Woodruff-Sawyer & Co. St. Francis Electric LLC Zurich North America Surety SEPTEMBER 2024

53

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START PLANNING petersoncat.com/special/compact-machine-special 844-349-4353 Financing provided by Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation. *Offer valid from March 1, 2024 through September 30, 2024. Offer only available on purchases of new mini excavators, micro excavators, skid steer loaders, and compact track loaders (excluding models 255 and 265) sold by participating Cat dealers to customers in the USA or Canada. Purchases (both machine and CVA) and machine delivery must occur by September 30, 2024. Offer subject to machine availability. Offer is subject to credit approval by Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation for US customers, and Caterpillar Financial Services Limited for Canadian customers. Not all customers will qualify. The credit $500 USD for CVA purchase can only be applied toward the purchase of a qualifying Cat Customer Value Agreement (CVA). CVA must be at least 2yr/1000hr and must include 1-year Preventative Maintenance Parts Kit, TA1 annual Inspection, signed CVA contract, and Product LinkTM. Amount of CVA credit is the same for all models and cannot exceed the price of the qualifying CVA. Offer may change without prior notice and cannot be combined with any other offers. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Contact your Cat dealer for more details.

P233_0724 ©2024 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, LET’S DO THE WORK, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Corporate Yellow,” the “Power Edge” and Cat “Modern Hex” trade dress, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.