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United Contractors Magazine January/February 2026

Page 1


LEA DER SHIP Intentional

FOR A NEW ERA

“..a belief that every contractor deserves a voice in the room and a seat at the table. This is the core of who we are and what we stand for. It will never change.”

Everything You Need. Plus Equipment.

From

From safety/operator training and equipment management technologies, to custom solutions engineered to meet specialized job requirements, United Rentals offers much more than just the world’s largest rental fleet. It takes a lot to get the job done right. We’re here to help.

fleet. It takes a lot to get the job done right. We’re here to

BAKERSFIELD

BAKERSFIELD

3340 Allen Rd.

3340 Allen Rd.

Bakersfield, CA 93314 (661)631-5777

Bakersfield, CA 93314 (661)631-5777

CONCORD

CONCORD

5151 Port Chicago Highway Concord, CA 94520 (925)822-0366

5151 Port Chicago Highway Concord, CA 94520 (925)822-0366

FRESNO

FRESNO

5704 S. Toyota Place Fresno, CA 93275 (559)442-8989

5704 S. Toyota Place Fresno, CA 93275 (559)442-8989

HAYWARD

HAYWARD

4125 Breakwater Avenue Hayward, CA 94545 (510)786-9506

4125 Breakwater Avenue Hayward, CA 94545 (510)786-9506

RENO

SALT LAKE CITY

SALT LAKE CITY

1135 S. Pioneer Road Salt Lake City, UT 84104 (801)886-0586

1135 S. Pioneer Road Salt Lake City, UT 84104 (801)886-0586

SAN JOSE 2969 Daylight Way San Jose, CA 95111 (408)224-1052

SAN JOSE 2969 Daylight Way San Jose, CA 95111 (408)224-1052

SAN LUIS OBISPO

SAN LUIS OBISPO

635 Tank Farm Road San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805)543-0113

635 Tank Farm Road San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805)543-0113

TURLOCK

TURLOCK

2800 N. Golden State Blvd. Turlock, CA 95382 (209)632-5084

2800 N. Golden State Blvd. Turlock, CA 95382 (209)632-5084

SANTA ROSA

SANTA ROSA

3963 Santa Rosa Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 95407 (707)523-2350

3963 Santa Rosa Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 95407 (707)523-2350

SAN FRANCISCO

SAN FRANCISCO

251 Shaw Road

251 Shaw Road

South San Francisco, CA 94080 (415)642-2350

South San Francisco, CA 94080 (415)642-2350

Competent Person and Confined Space Training Offered

RENO 12905 Old Virginia Road Reno, NV 89521 (775)348-0140

12905 Old Virginia Road Reno, NV 89521 (775)348-0140

SACRAMENTO

SACRAMENTO

8565 Elder Creek Road Sacramento, CA 95828 (916)383-7475

8565 Elder Creek Road Sacramento, CA 95828 (916)383-7475

2026 UNITED CONTRACTORS BOARD OFFICERS

President.... ........................................... Alan Guy, Anvil Builders VP/President-Elect Greg Goebel, Jr., Goebel Construction, Inc. Secretary/Treasurer. .......Michael Gates, DeSilva Gates Construction, LLC Secretary/Treasurer-Elect. Sean Castillo, Toro Enterprises, Inc. Past President. Kurt Eddy, Pavement Recycling Systems, Inc. Associate Director. Elizabeth Torrez, Tenna Associate Director-Elect Matt Hennagin, Baker Tilly

UNITED CONTRACTORS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

BILL BOYD, SULLY-MILLER CONTRACTING COMPANY; BRYN BURKE, DEES BURKE ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTORS, LLC; KATIE CONDON, CONDONJOHNSON & ASSOCIATES, INC.; LISA DE FREITAS SUNDBERG, PLATINUM PIPELINE, INC.; DERMOT FALLON, BULK EXCHANGE; BRENT FOGG, GRANITE CONSTRUCTION COMPANY; THIEL HARRYMAN, UNDERGROUND CONSTRUCTION CO., INC.; MATT LOVINGIER, JMH ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION, INC.; DANIEL RODRIGUEZ, BAY CITIES PAVING & GRADING, INC.

UCON LEADERS | UNITED CONTRACTORS COMMITTEE CHAIRS ASSOCIATES: ELIZABETH TORREZ (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR), TENNA | MATT HENNAGIN (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR-ELECT), BAKER TILLY | 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: KARISSA FOX, (CO-CHAIR), AMERICAN CIVIL CONSTRUCTORS WEST COAST LLC; SCOTT SALANDI, (CO-CHAIR) ALKEME INSURANCE SERVICES, INC. | REGIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL: MICHAEL PRLICH (CHAIR), MIKE PRLICH & SONS, INC.; GARRETT FRANCIS (CHAIR), GUARDIAN TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS

UNITED CONTRACTORS STAFF EMILY COHEN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER; CLAY O’NEAL, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER; MELISSA GUTWALD, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER; VICTOR SELLA, VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTRACTOR ENGAGEMENT; DEREK BORGHI, DIRECTOR OF LABOR RELATIONS; GUS FLORES, DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS; RAY BACA, DIRECTOR OF AGENCY RELATIONS; ANGELICA GOUIG, DIRECTOR OF MEMBER EXPERIENCE; DENISE RAMIREZ, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS; RUBY VARNADORE, SENIOR LABOR CONTRACTS MANAGER; LIZ CASTRO, LABOR CONTRACTS MANAGER LUCIA MIXON, SENIOR MEMBER RELATIONS MANAGER; TERESA OSSO, LABOR RELATIONS MANAGER; SANDRA KAYA, ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIALIST TO LABOR & MEMBER SERVICES; EMMY MCCONNELL, ACCOUNTING MANAGER; MICHELLE HANNIGAN, BOOKKEEPER; GABRIELLE GONZALEZ, OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA; CHRISTINE TRAINA, EVENTS MANAGER; RACHEL ORAA, EVENTS COORDINATOR; LUKE HARDY, EVENTS COORDINATOR; MICHELLE VEJBY, MARKETING MANAGER; EDDIE BERNACCHI, UCON CHIEF LOBBYIST; MIKE DONLON, CHIEF SAFETY CONSULTANT; DREW DELANEY, MIKE BUCKANTZ, REGULATORY CONSULTANTS; DAMIAN BREEN, REGULATORY CONSULTANT

“Never confuse activity with impact.”
— John Wooden

RAISING THE BAR. A NEW ERA OF LEADERSHIP BEGINS FOR UCON

Icame to UCON 16 years ago to interview for Director of Government Relations. Back then, it was the Engineering & Utility Contractors Association (EUCA). I had no idea what it was or what it stood for. But the job posting caught my attention. It was brief. A little odd. And… well… honest:

“Contractors association seeking next Director of Government Relations. Join a great team. Work for a remarkable industry. Must be willing to work hard. No drama. No bullshit.”

I was a young legislative aide. Ambitious. Determined. And, on paper, clearly underqualified for “Director” of anything.

When they hired me, I remember thinking two things:

1. This organization must be crazy for hiring me.

2. How will I grow this small, regional contractors’ association into the largest, most effective, and influential organization for union contractors in the state of California?

Sixteen years later, I can say without hesitation: it has been a privilege to work alongside you to build UCON into what it is today:

• The most experienced and effective labor relations organization for union contractors.

• California’s most influential and results-driven political advocacy organization for the construction industry.

• A trusted partner committed to growing market share and strengthening the future of union construction.

• The go-to association for direct, front-line support, expertise, and trusted resources.

• The best relationship-building and problem-solving organization in the state.

As I step into the role of CEO, I do so with deep gratitude and a clear sense of responsibility to you, your companies, your teams, and the industry we serve.

As I look ahead, rooted in our values and clear in our mission and vision, here are my promises:

What Will Never Change at UCON

“The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.”

—Stephen Covey

UCON’s differentiator has always been, and will always be, our deep, personal commitment to our members and to the union construction industry. The level of relentless support, advocacy, and access UCON provides is not accidental. It is intentional. It reflects a founder’s mentality rooted in staying close to our members and a belief that every contractor deserves a voice in the room and a seat at the table. This is the core of who we are and what we stand for. It will never change.

My Personal Commitment as CEO

“Never confuse activity with impact.”

—John Wooden

UCON will never become a passive association. We will never lead from a podium. We will build solutions alongside our members, grounded in realworld experience, guided by relentless focus and determination, and measured by outcomes that matter to you and your businesses.

Anchored in our values of Drive, Integrity, Authenticity, Connection, and Care, and driven by our vision to be the most trusted and transformational construction association in the nation, UCON will continue to deliver unmatched ROI and industry leadership that actually moves the needle.

One thing to know: my commitment is personal. To you. To your people. To your companies. And to protecting the future of union construction.

What Must Evolve

“If you’re not growing, you’re dying.”

While UCON’s values are unmovable, the environment we operate within is not. The needs of our members and the industry are changing. Fast. The pressures are real. And standing still is not an option.

The good news is that UCON is nimble; built to quickly shift toward the most important challenges facing our industry and to take bold, meaningful action when and where it matters most.

UCON’s growth must translate into your growth. That means focusing where it counts:

• Building the most effective labor relations and government advocacy programs across California, while striving to become the most trusted and impactful association for union-signatory contractors in the nation

• Launching the industry’s most transformative leadership development programs—supporting the next generation of leaders from the field to the C-suite

• Leading coalitions to solve our biggest challenges, together. We will work with our labor, agency, political, and organizational partners across the state and nation to tackle our industry’s most complex issues, from workforce development to regulatory burdens.

• Expanding and deepening member connection to UCON by elevating the experiences, services, support, and engagement opportunities we provide. From front-line support to expanded UCONnect events

across California, expect more ways to engage with us at every level.

There are many associations you can belong to. UCON will always strive to be something different: your trusted partner and one of your greatest strategic advantages.

As we head into this year together, and on behalf of the our entire team, thank you for your trust and committment to UCON.

I want to hear from you

• What should we start doing?

• What should we be doing more of?

• What should we do differently?

• What services and support matter most to you right now?

• What should UCON be focused on to best protect and advance union contractors today, and into the future?

Email (ecohen@unitedcontractors. org), call me at (925) 855-7900, or scan the QR code to email message me directly—reach out to me or to any member of our team. We are here for you.

We build the complex, end-to-end infrastructure that keeps our communities connected.

UCON’S 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS: LEADERSHIP THAT MOVES THE INDUSTRY FORWARD

With more than 750 union contractors and industry partners across California, UCON exists to empower, educate, and advocate for the heavy civil construction community. At the heart of that mission is a group of leaders who shape our direction and ensure our impact continues to grow.

Our Board of Directors is more than a governing body — it is the backbone of our association. Democratically elected and deeply engaged, these contractors represent companies of every size and region, each bringing an equal voice and a distinct perspective to the table. Together, they set the strategic vision, uphold strong governance, and ensure UCON remains responsive, relevant, and relentlessly member-focused.

The strength of UCON has always reflected the strength of its leadership. The collective experience, innovation, grit, and commitment of our Board members fuel progress not just for our association, but for the entire union construction industry. Because of their leadership — past and present — UCON continues to evolve, advocate boldly, and build the future of our industry.

Please join us in welcoming and celebrating the 2026 UCON Board of Directors.

ALAN GUY

2026 President Anvil Builders

Member Since 2012

KURT EDDY

Past President 2025 Pavement Recycling Systems, Inc.

Member Since 2008

SEAN CASTILLO

Secretary/Treasurer-Elect

Toro Enterprises, Inc.

Member Since 2020

BILL BOYD

Sully-Miller Contracting Company

Member Since 2021

GREG GOEBEL JR.

Vice-President/President-Elect

Goebel Construction, Inc.

Member Since 2014

MICHAEL GATES

Secretary/Treasurer

DeSilva Gates Construction, LLC

Member Since 1994

ELIZABETH TORREZ Associate Director

Tenna

Member Since 2020

Dees Burke Engineering Constructors, LLC

Member Since 2016

KATIE CONDON Condon-Johnson & Associates, Inc.

Member Since 1998

THIEL HARRYMAN Underground Construction Co., Inc. Member Since 2013

LISA DE FREITAS SUNDBERG Platinum Pipeline, Inc. Member Since 2008

MATT HENNAGIN

Associate Director-Elect Baker Tilly Member Since 1995

DERMOT FALLON Bulk Exchange Member Since 2023

MATT LOVINGIER JMH Engineering and Construction, Inc. Member Since 2020

BRENT FOGG Granite Construction Company

Member Since 2007

DANIEL RODRIGUEZ Bay Cities Paving & Grading, Inc.

Member Since 1997

Join Us For United Contractors

luncheon

INSTALLATION OF THE 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS (the day before the dig awards!)

Join us in beautiful Laguna Niguel for our Legacy Luncheon, where we celebrate leadership and install our 2026 Board of Directors—stay for the DIG Awards the following evening. See pages 36-37.

Friday March 13 , 2026 Luncheon 11 am - 2 pm

Business Attire

LEADER PROFILE:

ALAN GUY ANVIL BUILDERS

President Q&A

UCON’S 2026 PRESIDENT

What is one of your primary goals this year as President?

There are three reasons this year feels especially meaningful.

First, I have the honor of serving as President during a historic transition for UCON with the appointment of our first new CEO in 40 years. Emily and I joined our respective organizations around the same time, and it has been inspiring to watch her grow alongside the association. Having served on the interview committee, I gained a deep appreciation for the unique skill set required to lead UCON—balancing politics, membership, and labor relations. Emily is exceptionally prepared for this role, and I am confident she will lead UCON to new heights.

“One of the most important principles I live by is leading by example and remembering that we all work for the field. The office does not install the work—our job is to support the teams in the field by providing them with the information, resources, and clear path they need to succeed.”

Alan Guy, 2026 UCON Board President

believe there is no reason for alarm—but there is value in understanding how AI may support our office operations in the future. I would like to form committees to evaluate what tools are truly relevant and provide thoughtful recommendations to our membership.

What do you feel is one of the most significant issues facing the industry?

Second, this is a pivotal time for women in construction. We need more women entering our industry at every level, from the trades to the C-suite. With Emily now serving as CEO, this creates a perfect opportunity for UCON to place renewed focus on advancing women in construction and supporting their longterm success.

Third, there is growing conversation around artificial intelligence and its role in our industry. As someone who grew up bridging technology for my parents’ generation, I understand both the excitement and uncertainty surrounding AI. After spending time learning more about it, I

One of the most pressing issues we face is the retirement of many experienced baby boomers, which is creating a significant knowledge gap across our industry. It is critical that we continue mentoring the next generation and learning how to effectively engage and work with younger professionals to ensure a smooth transition of skills, leadership, and experience.

A favorite thing about working in this industry?

What I love most about this industry is the people and the opportunity to solve complex problems every day. Construction is a challenging and rewarding business, and the relationships you build along the way are truly special.

from labor relations support to educational programs and events. The UCON networking opportunities are invaluable. The association plays a vital role in strengthening both our company and the industry as a whole.

What are some leadership principles that have contributed to your success?

One of the most important principles I live by is leading by example and remembering that we all work for the field. The office does not install the work—our job is to support the teams in the field by providing them with the information, resources, and clear path they need to succeed.

I am also proud that within our company, we have had journeymen advance into senior leadership roles. That growth demonstrates that there is a path forward for everyone willing to work hard, continue learning, and take on new challenges.

Impactful

mentor, or who are you inspired by?

One of my earliest and most impactful mentors was my first boss while I was in college at UC Davis.

During the summers, I worked as an apprentice framer building custom homes. Those summers taught me lessons that have stayed with me throughout my career—that being on time is already late, the value of learning a trade and putting quality work in place, and most importantly, the importance of respecting the people who do the work in the field every day. That experience shaped the way I lead and reinforced my belief that successful companies are built by the men and women in the field, and leadership’s role is to support them.

I am also deeply inspired by the leaders and companies who are willing to take risks and build something from nothing. When we started Anvil in July of 2010, we had $10,000 and entered the industry at what was arguably the worst possible time — the absolute bottom of the construction market. At that point, it felt almost impossible to imagine building a large, successful company in this industry. Fifteen years later, Anvil is far bigger than I ever imagined it could be.

Along the way, there were people who doubted us and questioned whether we belonged. Turning skepticism into success has always been one of my greatest sources of motivation. That experience continues to inspire me to believe in our teams, push past perceived limits, and help create opportunities for others to succeed.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I enjoy spending time with my wife, Johanna, and our five-year-old daughter, Madeline. Maddie loves to ski and is in the phase of trying just about every sport, which keeps our family very active and busy. Watching her explore new interests has been one of the greatest joys of

UCON PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

LEVEL-UP YOUR LEADERSHIP IN 2026!

As a leader in professional development, UCON offers top-tier in-person and virtual courses designed exclusively for our members. We invite you to take advantage of these engaging opportunities throughout the year—many of them free! Check out several upcoming leadership-focused classes and take your skills to the next level.

Building Blocks for Savings Success

March 11, 2026

12:00pm - 1:00pm

Project Engineer Bootcamp Series [Q1]

March 19 - April 2, 2026

(See next page)

Leading and Managing Change

March 31, 2026

Project Accountant Best Practices

April 16, 2026

2:00pm - 4:00pm

Communicate In A Way You Can Be Heard

April 23, 2026

2:00pm - 4:00pm

The Five Minute Foreman: Mastering the People Side of Construction

April 7, 2026

4:00pm - 8:00pm

Busting Imposter Syndrome: A Workshop for Construction Professionals

April 30, 2026

2:00pm - 4:00pm

Communication Masterclass [Series]

May 7 - May 21, 2026

(See next page)

ENGAGED MEMBERS!

Thank you for taking advantage of UCON’s 2025 Professional Development courses!

THANK YOU TO OUR TOP 5 MEMBER UTILIZERS IN 2025: 1. McGuire and Hester 2. Ghilotti Bros., Inc. 3. Pavement Recyling Systems, Inc. 4. Preston Pipelines, Inc.

5. Vanguard Construction

SIGN YOUR TEAM UP FOR THESE TOP CLASSES:

For any questions on our education programs, or how you can use them to benefit your team, contact Angelica Gouig, Director of Member Experience at UCON, agouig@unitedcontractors.org

With UCON’s support, your people succeed at every level, leading to stronger communication across teams and partners and more consistent project execution. Don’t miss these upcoming series, consistently rated (5/5):

PROJECT ENGINEER BOOTCAMP

Gain a clear understanding of the Project Engineer role, from core responsibilities to best practices for day-to-day success.

Instructor: Paul Stout, Power Summit

Q1 Sessions: 10:00am - 1:00pm

Session 1 | March 19

Session 2 | March 26

Session 3 | April 2

Q3 Sessions: 10:00am - 1:00pm

Session 1 | September 15

Session 2 | September 22

Session 3 | September 29

COMMUNICATIONS

MASTERCLASS SERIES

Master the art of communication with clear, confident, and empathetic strategies.

Instructor: Eric Herdman, LLC

Target Audience: leaders, managers, supervisors

Limit 25 participants

Sessions: 10:00am - 1:00pm

Session 1 | May 7

Session 2 | May 14

Session 3 | May 21

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

CAREER ADVANCEMENT [IN PERSON, ANAHEIM]

UCON’s PMCA program offers top instructors and engaging, interactive content that will give your team a competitive advantage.

Limit 20 participants

13-Week Program August 26 - November 11

“...something every leader and manager should take.”

— PMCA Participant, 2025

A LEGACY WORTH CELEBRATING: MARK BRESLIN’S RETIREMENT CELEBRATION

After more than four decades of visionary leadership, unwavering advocacy, and steadfast commitment to our members, UCON gathered to celebrate the extraordinary career of CEO Mark Breslin.

This wasn’t simply a retirement party. This was an evening filled with laughter, stories, gratitude, and deep appreciation for a leader who helped shape not only this organization, but California’s union construction industry.

Colleagues, board members, industry partners, union leaders, and longtime friends came together to honor the impact Mark has had on generations of contractors and the culture he built at UCON—one rooted in integrity, grit, collaboration, and service. From heartfelt remarks to lighthearted moments, the night reflected the very spirit Mark instilled in this organization: bold leadership paired with genuine connection.

As you turn the pages, you’ll see more than snapshots from a celebration. You’ll see the people, the partnerships, and the community that Mark helped strengthen over four decades. You’ll see a room full of gratitude.

And you’ll see a legacy that will continue to shape UCON for years to come.

TO WATCH THE TRIBUTE VIDEO FOR MARK, SCAN

THIS QR CODE: WORDS, SCAN

THIS QR CODE:

UCON’S LABOR RELATIONS TEAM

nited Contractors Labor & Member Services team is a valuable resource for contractors statewide, assisting key management, administrative and field staff on a daily basis.

With over 100 years of combined construction labor relations experience, UCON’s Labor & Member Services team will help you navigate Labor, HR, Payroll, and much more. We handle thousands of member calls every year, and are committed to providing accurate and thoughtful answers to your questions. If we don’t have the answer, we will find it. Areas that we regularly assist our

Prevailing wage compliance, including apprenticeship

• Contract interpretation for payroll and job manning/ bidding—shift work, subcontracting, etc.

• Hiring, discipline and termination

• Union substance abuse policies

• Legal support and more

Any member of the Labor Team can help you! Contact us at (925) 855-7900, LaborTeam@unitedcontractors.org (pictured above at Mark Breslin’s Retirement Celebration, left to right): Teresa Osso, Labor Relations Manager; Lucia Mixon, Senior Member Relations Manager; Sandra Kaya, Labor & Member Services Administrative Specialist; Derek Borghi, Director of Labor Relations; Ruby Varnadore, PHR, Senior Labor Contracts Manager; Liz Castro, Labor Contracts Manager.

THE “HOW” OF UCON LABOR RELATIONS

A snapshot of UCON Labor Relations: how we do what we do:

RESPONDING TO MEMBER NEEDS

• Prioritize timely response to member questions and issues (3,500+ handled per year).

• Support field, office, and management staff with personalized solutions

• Offer 24/7 contractor assistance through unitedcontractors.org and our Contractor Resources Library (25,000+ downloads this past year).

LABOR RELATIONS STRATEGY

• Develop partnerships with union reps statewide to support your work as union contractors.

• Optimize your use of CBA rules to enhance competitiveness and avoid liability.

• Host Industry Partners Meetings to connect contractors and union reps statewide.

• Manage CBA negotiations with 11 unions statewide.

TEAM SPOTLIGHT

OF LABOR RELATIONS

YEARS IN INDUSTRY : 12 years

YEARS FACILITATING/CONDUCTING UNION NEGOTIATIONS : Since 2018 (7 years)

BUSINESS SUPPORT

• Advocate for contractors’ needs with owners, agencies, and unions statewide.

• Provide on-call, personal support to your organization.

• Partner on all HR and other employee-related decisions.

• Act as watchdog advocate for legal and regulatory issues.

• Keep you informed on industry changes and trends with bulletins.

• Simplify contracts and laws with user-friendly guides and charts (over 200 available).

• Improve your bottom line and increase your competitiveness with UCON webinars and resources. Contact us today. We are here to serve you—

WHY UCON? Labor relations isn’t always black and white. When you find yourself in the gray area, call UCON—we live in the gray. I’m committed to delivering practical, straightforward solutions that help our members operate with confidence. Plus, my team is the best in the industry—we are here for you: LaborTeam@unitedcontractors.org.

FUN FACT : I won both the NorCal Laborers and SoCal Laborers clay shoots in the same year (2024); I’m a Purple Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Contributed by UCON’s Labor and Member Services Team

CONTRACT CORNER

Union Increase Amounts for Bidding Purposes Only

The following wage and fringe benefit increases will be effective in June or July of 2026 for the Master Agreements for the crafts listed below. These total amounts are for bidding purposes only. UCON will notify our members on how the increases are to be allocated as soon as that information is confirmed. Increases marked “TBD” mean that the agreement is being negotiated this year.

STATEWIDE

Note on

CRAB FEED

Thank you to everyone who joined us Thursday, February 5, at the San Ramon Marriott for our annual Crab Feed! Over 700 members, union leaders, and affiliates enjoyed a “shell-ebration” of networking, reconnecting, and indulging in almost 3,000 lbs of fresh Dungeness Crab.

Connecting and reconnecting with so many friends, building relationships, and meeting new people who all work in this great industry together is what Crab Feed is all about.

Thank you to all the Crab Feed sponsors (page 33), UCON Annual Sponsors (page 35), and Volunteers for helping to make this one of UCON’s most-loved and attended events—join us for more clawsome events in 2026!

EVENTS. AND THE GROUP THAT ATTENDS DOES SO ANNUALLY, SO IT IS A MINI REUNION OF FRIENDS EVERY YEAR.”

NATIONAL TRENCH SAFETY, JEFF SUITOS

Thank You to our Event Chairperson and our Fantastic Volunteers:

Event Chair

Rachael Brown | Sweeney Mason LLP

Kelly Attebery | F&M Bank

Lindsey Eppler | LogoBoss LLC

Donita Granado | Graniterock

Dave Heier | Baker Tilly

Matt Hennagin | Baker Tilly

Bebe Hildreth | Lockton Insurance Brokers, LLC

Isaac Johnston | Travelers

Jason Krankota | Corpay

Donnie Mayjoffo | Trucordia

Mckenzie Meyn | LogoBoss LLC

Will Murphy | Argent Materials, Inc.

Russell Rigler | CLA

Kelli Schneider | Enterprise Fleet Management

Sierra Sipila | National Trench Safety

Sophia Stuart | Dynamic Office & Accounting Solutions/Dynamic Technical Partners

Keary Sullivan | F&M Bank

Brett VonKrakau | Dynamic Office & Accounting Solutions/Dynamic Technical Partners

Deb Wilson | Smith Currie Oles LLP

Special Thank You to:

• Calitho and Prestige Printing for their work on the signage

• Brad Kinney Productions for providing the AV for the event

• Breslow Imaging for capturing the event in photographs

• San Ramon Marriott for their exceptional service

• Harvey’s Donuts

• Winslow & Associates

• UCON’s 2026 Annual Sponsors

Nearly 4,000 people from 450+ companies UCON’s events statewide last year in 2025. Don’t miss out! Save the dates for 2026 events—see Last Call on pages 56-57.

We have also added more “UCONnect” events this year—a great networking experience. Our UCONnects are free, happyhours, bringing together the constractor community. See pages 42-48 for more information!

If you have any event questions, contact any member of our UCON events’ team (925) 855-7900.

THANK YOU TO UCON’S 2026 ANNUAL SPONSORS

M Z

ATTEND UCON’S 5 TH ANNUAL PUBLIC WORKS SUMMIT

Don’t miss United Contractors Public Works Summit on May 28th, 2026, at the Anaheim Hilton.

WHY YOU NEED TO BE THERE:

• Discover Industry Opportunities: Get insider updates on California’s public works projects and trends.

• Connect with Industry Leaders: Meet prime contractors, subcontractors, union leaders, and agency executives.

• Gain Expert Insights: Hear strategies and solutions from top decision-makers shaping the industry.

• Grow Your Network: Build partnerships and expand your business connections.

WHO IS GOING TO ATTEND:

• Prime Contractors and Subcontractors upcoming project opportunities and mark

• Public Works Agency Leaders and Managers responsible for planning, procurement, and delivery of infrastructure projects.

• Union Leaders and Associated Firms engaged in labor relations and compliance within the public works sector.

• Industry Professionals in construction, engineering, and related fields looking to network and grow their business.

Connecting California Contractors and Public Works Agencies

MAY 28, 2026 | HILTON ANAHEIM, 777 W. CONVENTION WAY

7:00AM - 3:30PM - Breakfast and Lunch Provided

May 28, 2026

Hilton Anaheim

PROTECTING OUR FUTURE

please join us for two special evenings to benefit the ucon pac

northern california: may 7, 2026 Thursday, 5:00 - 8:00pm

Location: Special Private Residence Pleasanton, CA

southern california: july 9, 2026 Thursday, 5:00 - 8:00pm

Location: Nixon Library Yorba Linda

Support UCON’s Political Action Committee. Attend one or both special evenings. Enjoy premium wines, food, specialty cocktails & networking with industry leaders.

The UCON Political Action Committee (PAC) exists to improve your business environment by strengthening the political voice of union contractors. For more information, contact Gus Flores, gflores@unitedcontractors.org, unitedcontractors.org/PAC2026

EQUIPPED WITH SUBSITE PIPE & CABLE LOCATORS FOR “PRECISE” POTHOLES AND UTILITY LOCATES. TWO PERSON OPERATION CAN OUTDO THE WORK OF MULTIPLE TRUCKS, AIR COMPRESSOR AND MINI EXCAVATORS.

FEATURES:

COMPACTION TOOLS

FASTER EFFICIENT DAYLIGHTING POTHOLING POLE REPLACEMENT

AIR EXCAVATION

HYDRAULIC JACKHAMMERS HYDRO EXCAVATION

SOFT DIG, WET OR DRY

FULLY TRAVERSING, BUMPER MOUNTED, ASPHALT OR CONCRETE, CORING UNIT

STREET LEGAL FULLY LOADED 7 YARD CAPACITY

UC O Nnect

February 11, 2026, Wednesday | Costa Mesa

March 19, 2026, Thursday | Manteca

April 15, 2026, Wednesday | Sacramento

May 14, 2026, Thursday | East Bay, Pleasanton

June 11, 2026, Thursday | Seal Beach “Beach Bash”

July 23, 2026, Thursday | Santa Clara

July 30, 2026, Wednesday | Riverside

September 17, 2026, Thursday | Laguna Niguel

September 24, 2026, Thursday | Fresno

October 29, 2026, Thursday | Petaluma

November 4, 2026, Wednesday | Pasadena

December 16, 2026, Wednesday | Anaheim

For more information, or to sponsor a UCONnect, Contact Lucia Mixon, lmixon@unitedcontractors.org www.unitedcontractors.org/calendar

DECEMBER 10 TH , PUESTO, ANAHEIM

CONNECTING THE CONTRACTOR COMMUNITY!

UCONnect — You told us you wanted more opportunities to connect across the state—join us at one or more of our UCONnect happy hours!

Thank you to our December, Anaheim sponsor, Dynamic Office & Accounting Solutions/Dynamic

UC O Nnect

FEBRUARY 11 TH , CASA DE ONDA, COSTA MESA

Thank you to our January, Costa Mesa sponsors—it was a great evening to kick-off our 2026 UCONnects: Woodruff-Sawyer, A Gallagher Company, and the Southern California Cement Masons!

UCON’S SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS

Empowering Future Leaders—Unlock Your Future with a United Contractors Scholarship

UCON’s Scholarship Awards Program is accepting applications for the 2026-2027 school year.

Apply: unitedcontractors.org/scholarship

Deadline: Friday April 17

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a United Contractors member affiliate (employee, spouse, or dependent) who is a high school senior or currently attending college—this includes all majors.

• Applicants may also be a in civil engineering or construction management student at a college located in California (UCON affiliation is not required).

• International students are not eligible for this scholarship. Past winners are not eligible to apply. Must graduate in 2026 or later.

Committee has awarded over $70,000 annually to students in previous years.

Award Amounts: Scholarship amounts are expected to range from $3,000 to $10,000 per recipient. A number of scholarships will be distributed. The Scholarship

For more details, visit www.unitedcontractors.org/ scholarship or contact Denise Ramirez at dramirez@ unitedcontractors.org.

Register | Sponsor UCON’s Fundraiser for our Scholarship Awards Program—the ThrowDown for Education Cornhole Tournament! Grab a team and compete while raising money for deserving students. Scan the QR Code, or visit our events calendar!

MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES

JANUARY and FEBRUARY

54 YEARS – 1972

Associate Member:

Peterson Cat

Thomas Lum

53 YEARS – 1973

Associate Member: Gladding, McBean & Co.

Gerardo De La Cerda

51 YEARS – 1975

Associate Member: R.C. Fischer & Co. Dennis Sewell

50 YEARS – 1976

Contractor Members: Mountain Cascade, Inc.

Duke Fuller

Walter C. Smith Co., Inc.

Michael DeBenedetto

45 YEARS – 1981

Associate Member: Papé Machinery

Ron Cote

42 YEARS – 1984

Associate Member: United Rentals

Trench Safety Esperanza Mota

41 YEARS – 1985

Contractor Member: D.W. Young Construction Co., Inc. Christian Young

39 YEARS – 1987

Associate Member: McInerney & Dillon PC William McInerney, Jr.

33 YEARS – 1993

Associate Member: Jifco, Inc. Jay Forni Jr.

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 January and February:

32 YEARS – 1994

Contractor Members: Goodfellow Bros. California LLC

Brian Gates

RGW Construction, Inc.

Bill Stewart

Talus Construction, Inc. Sharon Alberts

Associate Member: JHS Tax & Consulting Elizabeth Anderson

31 YEARS – 1995

Contractor Member: Ghilotti Bros., Inc. Michael Ghilotti

Associate Member: Baker Tilly Dave Heier

31 YEARS – 1996

Contractor Member: Beliveau Engineering Contractors, Inc. Lawrence Beliveau

29 YEARS – 1997

Contractor Members: Pacific States Environmental Contractors, Inc. Bob McCarrick

Viking Drillers, Inc.

Sherry Montoya

Associate Member: Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers Guy Levinson

28 YEARS – 1998

Contractor Members: Doyle’s Work Company, Inc.

Billy Holler

Viking Construction Company Randy Jenco

27 YEARS – 1999

Contractor Members: Farwest Safety, Inc.

John Ashe

Performance Equipment, Inc. Chris Young

26 YEARS – 2000

Contractor Member: Ray’s Electric Greg Gruendl

Associate Member: Leonidou & Rosin

Professional Corporation A. Robert Rosin

22 YEARS – 2004

Contractor Members: Striping Graphics Tony Lane

Western Traffic Supply, Inc. Ed Ibanez

20 YEARS – 2006

Contractor Members: Disney Construction, Inc.

Rick Disney

Midstate Barrier, Inc.

Dale Breen

Robert A. Bothman

Construction

Brian Bothman

Photo courtesy of Mountain Cascade, Inc.

12 YEARS – 2014

Contractor Members:

Gonsalves & Santucci, Inc.

dba The Conco Companies

19 YEARS – 2007

Contractor Member:

California Trenchless, Inc.

Michael Jardin

Associate Member: Granite ConstructionMaterials Division

Ross Kashiwagi

18 YEARS – 2008

Contractor Members: Con-Quest Contractors, Inc.

Paul Loukianoff

Pacific Coast Drilling Company, Inc.

Aaron Sykes

SpenCon Construction, Inc.

Steve Stahl

Valentine Corp.

Robert Valentine

Associate Member: PACE Supply

Scott Groves

17 YEARS – 2009

Contractor Member: Graniterock

Peter Lemon

16 YEARS – 2010

Contractor Member:

ABSL Construction

Luis Allende

Associate Member: National Trench Safety, LLC

Jeff Suitos

15 YEARS – 2011

Associate Member:

Equip Appraisers LLC

Rob Nowacek

14 YEARS – 2012

Contractor Members:

Anvil Builders

Alan Guy

Hooker Creek, Inc.

Scott Shongood

Mountain F. Enterprises, Inc.

Marcos Gomez

Mozingo Construction, Inc.

Jake Creger

Pacific Excavation, Inc.

Jim Paxin

Associate Member: Sunbelt Rentals

Tiffanie Mendez

13 YEARS – 2013

Contractor Members: D-Line Constructors, Inc.

Matt Certa

Odyssey Environmental Services, Inc.

Rick Oropeza

Associate Members: Ramos Oil Co., Inc.

Robert Feder

TYS, LLP

Tobin Moon

Golden Gate Constructors

Rich Gates

Marina Landscape, Inc.

Robert Cowan

Associate Member: Newfront

Bryan Martin

11 YEARS – 2015

Contractor Members: Cratus, Inc.

Liam Finnegan

Hoseley Corporation

Rusty Hoseley

10 YEARS – 2016

Contractor Members:

Blue Iron Foundations & Shoring, LLC

Melissa Baker

BrightView Landscape Development, Inc.

Tomas Kuehn

Steve Gonsalves

Associate Members: Carpenter Rigging Group

Hugh Yoder

Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation

Reid Olson

Eide Bailly LLP

Nic Waldenmayer

Fisher Phillips

Jason Geller

Heritage Bank of Commerce

Noe Munoz

Philadelphia Insurance Companies

Erin Sullivan

Continued on next page

Photo courtesy of Mozingo Construction, Inc.

8 YEARS – 2018

Contractor Members:

Concrete Demo Works, Inc.

Ed Flores

Innovate Concrete, Inc.

dba Innovate Engineering

J. Ramon Ramirez

Power One LLC

Josh Whittaker

R&S Construction Management Inc.

Teera Nuntaworanuch

7 YEARS – 2019

Contractor Members:

C&N Reinforcing, Inc.

Juan Perez

Independent Structures, Inc.

John Langum

Nor-Cal Concrete, Inc.

Joe Ardave

Associate Members:

Bubba’s Lowbed Service LLC

David Nisich

6 YEARS – 2020

Contractor Members:

Kiewit Infrastructure

West Co.

Eric Patterson

R & M Paving Contractors, Inc.

Anthony Selway

Sequoia Civil, LLC

Michael D. Betti

Toro Enterprises, Inc.

Sean Castillo

Associate Members: Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance

Lindsay Machacek

First Vanguard Rentals & Sales Inc.

Robert Merwin

Hoge Fenton

Heather Larrick

U-Rock Utility Equipment Inc.

Mark Paduveris

5 YEARS – 2021

Contractor Members: Action Sweeping Services, Inc.

Dianna Paris

Capitol Barricade

Dave Sherman

Ground Control Inc.

Ameet Patel

Kiewit Foundations Co.

Mike Meduna

Statewide Traffic Safety and Signs, Inc. dba AWP Safety

Debbie Riazzi

Steelhead Constructors, JV

Troy Kockrow

Western Water Constructors, Inc.

Ken Kreischer

Associate Member: Davillier-Sloan, Inc.

Jake Sloan

4 YEARS – 2022

Contractor Members: Cal Stripe Inc.

Steve Fleener

DPI Inc.

Brittany DeFreitas

G. Bortolotto & Company, Inc.

Robert Bortolotto

GSW Construction Inc.

Cody Gunning

Tom Mayo Construction, Inc.

Tom D Mayo

Associate Member: Performance Construction Advisors

Kevin Albanese

3 YEARS – 2023

Contractor Members:

Kiewit Shea Traylor, A Joint Venture

Matt Scott

QA Constructors, Inc.

Luis Quinto Allende

Photo courtesy of Midstate Barrier, Inc.

Associate Members:

Bulk Exchange

Ryan Brown

G3 Quality, Inc.

Chris Gerber

Tully Consulting Group

Robin Tully

Western States Oil

Renee Peppars

2 YEARS – 2024

Contractor Members:

City Rise Inc. (DBA City Rise Traffic)

Mariano Pacheco

Dees Hennessey, Inc.

Jason Myers

Foundation

Constructors, Inc.

John Honaker

Foundation Pile Inc.

John Honaker

Granite Industrial

Lawrence Faulkner

Lombardo Diamond Core Drilling Company, Inc.

Richard Long

Marne Construction, Inc.

Ernie Moreno

Ronan Construction, Inc.

Chris Wallace

Ricardo Marrun Construction, Inc. (RMC)

Ricardo Marrun

Thompson Builders Corporation

Paul Thompson

Associate Member:

Global Risk LLC

Mark Kiger

1 YEAR – 2025

Contractor Members:

Alarcon Bohm

Kevin Bohm

Bay Area Hydrovac, LLC

Javier Padilla

Bayside Trenchless Inc.

Guadalupe Guzman

Coastline Construction, Inc.

Bob Avila

GC Construction, LLC dba

GC Concrete

Tom Worthington

GECMS IMS, dba

Giron Construction

Eoin O’Sullivan

Lamon

Construction Co., Inc.

Ken Norton

Merino Landscape Inc.

Chris Merino

Miller Environmental, Inc.

Mindy Peek

Associate Member: Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc.

Jordan Ollanik

Bay Area Propane and Diesel

Brendan Gately

Farwest Corrosion Control Company

Susana Medellin

Merchants Bonding Company

Ted Lee

Shape Inc

Travis Headen

The Quality Firm

Melissa Siciliani

Young and Mikubo LLP

Hiromi Mikubo Young

Purple Line Extension, Los Angeles CA
Four Seasons Residences, Henderson NV
Sketchers Headquarters, Manhattan Beach CA

UCONnect (Happy Hour)

2026 CALENDAR

Save the dates for the following upcoming events and meetings— register, sponsor, and find more (scan QR Code).

CRAB FEED

Thursday, February 5 – Marriott, San Ramon

UCONNECT - COSTA MESA

Wednesday, February 11 – Casa de Onda

LEGACY LUNCHEON

UCON Installation of the Board of Directors Luncheon–Friday, March 13 – Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel

DIG AWARDS

Saturday, March 14 – Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel

UCONNECT - MANTECA

Thursday, March 19 – Brethren Brewing Company

UCONNECT - SACRAMENTO

Wednesday, April 15 – Cafeteria 15L

ThrowDown Cornhole Tournament Scholarship Program Fundraiser

NORTHERN CA UCON PAC FUNDRAISER

Thursday, May 7 – Special Private Residence, Pleasanton

UCONNECT - EAST BAY - PLEASANTON

Thursday, May 14 – Beer Baron

PUBLIC WORKS SUMMIT

Thursday, May 28 – Anaheim Hilton, Anaheim

UCONNECT - SEAL BEACH THE BEACH BASH!

Thursday, June 11 – Location tbd

For our full calendar, including Agency Liaison Meetings, Committee Meetings, Professional and Leadership Development classes, and more, visit unitedcontractors.org/calendar

THROWDOWN CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

Thursday, June 18 – Wente Vineyards, Livermore

SOUTHERN CA UCON PAC FUNDRAISER

Thursday, July 9 – Nixon Library & Museum, Yorba Linda

UCONNECT - SANTA CLARA

Thursday, Juy 23 – Puesto Santa Clara

UCONNECT - RIVERSIDE

Thursday, July 30 – Dapper

ANNUAL BBQ & CHILI COOK-OFF

Thursday, August 6 – Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton

SAL RUBINO GOLF CLASSIC

Friday, September 11 – Bayonet & Black Horse, Seaside

UCONNECT - LAGUNA NIGUEL

Thursday, September 17 – Mozambique

UCONNECT - FRESNO

Thursday, September 24 – Crow & Wolf Brewing Co. Taproom

UCON GOLF OPEN

Tuesday, September 29 – Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club, Mission Viejo

UCONNECT - PETALUMA

Thursday, October 29 – Crooked Goat Brewing

UCONNECT - PASADENA

Wednesday, November 4 – Arroyo Chop House

GOVERNMENT ADVOCACY AUCTION

Saturday, November 7 – The Claremont Club & Spa, Berkeley

UCONNECT - ANAHEIM

Wednesday, December 16 – Puesto Anaheim

UCONGolfOpen
Sal Rubino Golf Classic

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United Contractors Magazine January/February 2026 by United Contractors - Issuu