United Contractors Magazine July 2025

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UNITEDCONTRACTORS.ORG

A Safety Culture

INDUSTRY CORE VALUE #1 —SPECIAL SAFETY EDITION— UCON’s R.E.A.L. Safety Award Winners p.12

FACES: UCONnect,

ThrowDown for Education p.42, 50 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

2025 UNITED CONTRACTORS BOARD OFFICERS

President....................Kurt Eddy, Pavement Recycling Systems, Inc. VP/President-Elect.................................... Alan Guy, Anvil Builders Secretary/Treasurer...............Greg Goebel Jr., Goebel Construction, Inc. Sec/Treas-Elect...................Michael Gates, DeSilva Gates Construction, LLC

UNITED CONTRACTORS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

JUAN ARREQUIN, BAY LINE CUTTING & CORING, INC. (PAST SECRETARY/ TREASURER); TOM BARR, GHILOTTI BROS., INC.; BRYN BURKE, DEES BURKE ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTORS, LLC; SEAN CASTILLO, TORO ENTERPRISES, INC.; DERMOT FALLON, FOUNDATION CONSTRUCTORS, INC.; RITA VIGIL FERGUSON, G & F CONCRETE CUTTING, INC.; BRENT FOGG, GRANITE CONSTRUCTION COMPANY; MICHAEL GATES, DESILVA GATES CONSTRUCTION, LLC; KEVIN HESTER, MCGUIRE HESTER (PAST PRESIDENT, 2024); MATT LOVINGIER, JMH ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION, INC.; DANIEL RODRIGUEZ, BAY CITIES PAVING & GRADING, INC.; KEVIN REIMERS, WOODRUFF-SAWYER & CO. (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR); ELIZABETH TORREZ, TENNA (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR-ELECT)

IN THIS ISSUE JULY 2025 VOLUME 231 6 UP FRONT Caution—Never Sneeze While Sitting on the Toilet

by Kurt Eddy | Pavement Recycling Systems, Inc. | UCON 2025 President

8 LABOR Contract Corner: 2025 Union Rate Allocations Meal & Rest Periods on the Jobsite

by UCON’s Labor Relations Team

UCON LEADERS | UNITED CONTRACTORS COMMITTEE CHAIRS

ASSOCIATES: KEVIN REIMERS (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR), WOODRUFFSAWYER & CO. | ELIZABETH TORREZ (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR-ELECT), TENNA | 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), ARGENT MATERIALS INC. | REGIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL: MICHAEL PRLICH (CHAIR), MIKE PRLICH & SONS, INC.; GARRETT FRANCIS (CHAIR), GUARDIAN TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS

UNITED CONTRACTORS STAFF

MARK BRESLIN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER; EMILY COHEN, EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, 2026 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER; TEJEL PATEL, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO CEO; AURORA PRASAD, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO EVP; CLAY O’NEAL, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER; MELISSA GUTWALD, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER; VICTOR SELLA, VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTRACTOR ENGAGEMENT; GUS FLORES, DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS; RAY BACA, DIRECTOR OF AGENCY RELATIONS; DEREK BORGHI, DIRECTOR OF LABOR RELATIONS; ANGELICA GOUIG, DIRECTOR OF MEMBER EXPERIENCE; RUBY VARNADORE, SENIOR LABOR CONTRACTS MANAGER; LIZ CASTRO, LABOR CONTRACTS MANAGER; LUCIA MIXON, CONTRACTOR ENGAGEMENT SPECIALIST; 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, EVENTS COORDINATOR; LUKE HARDY, EVENTS COORDINATOR; AVANTI MEHTA, EDUCATION COORDINATOR; 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. © 2025 Published in the U.S.A.

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SAFETY

R.E.A.L. Safety awards

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE, AWARENESS & LEADERSHIP IN SAFETY

SPECIAL FEATURE: UCON SAFETY AWARDS

42 FACES

UCONnect - Santa Clara

46 NEXT UP

UCON Professional and Leadership Development— Upcoming Classes

50 FACES

UCON’s ThrowDown for Education Cornhole Tournament

more inside

MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES 58 LAST CALL: UCON Golf Tournaments—Register/Sponsor!

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Cover Image: Safety Huddle, Underground Construction Co., Inc.

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

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Kurt Eddy Pavement Recycling Systems, Inc. UCON 2025 President

CAUTION—NEVER SNEEZE WHILE SITTING ON THE TOILET!

N

ow that I have your attention with a visual that you can never clear from you mind, let’s talk about safety. SAFETY IS A PROFIT CENTER— it is also a morale booster, which in turn boosts profits.

Most of us that have been in the industry for some time have seen the improvements that have been made in our safety programs. That said, our industry has plenty of room for more improvement.

Our industry considers a 0.32 TRIR (Total Recordable Incident Rate) a world class number and one that we should be proud to obtain. But what if we applied the same number to the number of successful landings that occur at your nearest international airport? In other words, if the successful landing rate at LAX or SFO or any other specific international airport consistently had a 99.68% chance of successful landing over a twelve-month period, how comfortable would we be landing there?

These airports run off a zero-fail rate while doing busy complex operations 24/7. The frustration we as leaders in the industry should have is why do we not have the same expectations as the aviation industry. Is it in our culture to accept these numbers as the cost of doing business?

Perhaps, as leaders we are tasked with building and fostering the cultures within our organizations.

employees.

Encourage employees to participate in safety programs, report hazards, and contribute suggestions for improvement. This can be achieved through safety committees, regular safety meetings, and open communication channels.

3. Comprehensive Training

Regular and comprehensive training ensures that employees are well-informed about safety protocols and procedures. Training should cover a range of topics, from basic safety practices to emergency response plans. It is important to update training materials regularly to reflect any changes in regulations or procedures.

4. Continuous Improvement

A strong safety culture should be at the top of everyone’s list. Below are some tips that we can use while evaluating the strength of (our own) safety culture.

A world-class safety culture requires a commitment to continuous improvement. Organizations should regularly assess their safety performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions. This can be facilitated through regular audits, inspections, and employee feedback.

1. Leadership Commitment

5. Clear Policies and Procedures

2. Employee Involvement

6. Recognition and Rewards

Strong leadership commitment is vital for implementing a safety culture. Leaders must demonstrate their dedication to safety through their actions, decisions, and communications. This includes setting clear safety goals, providing necessary resources, and regularly reviewing safety performance.

Safety should be a collaborative effort involving all 6

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Establishing clear and concise safety policies and procedures is essential. These documents should outline the expectations for employee behavior, provide guidelines for safe practices, and specify the consequences of non-compliance. Ensure that all employees have easy access to these documents and understand their contents.

Recognizing and rewarding safe behavior can motivate

employees to prioritize safety. Implement a reward system that acknowledges individuals or teams who demonstrate a commitment to safety. This can include monetary rewards, certificates, or public recognition.

7. Technology and Innovation

Utilize technology and innovative solutions to enhance safety. This can include implementing safety management software, using wearable safety devices, or employing advanced monitoring systems. Staying abreast of technological advancements can help organizations maintain a cutting-edge safety culture.

8. Health and Wellbeing

A holistic approach to safety considers the overall health and wellbeing of employees. Promote mental health awareness, provide access to wellness programs, and encourage work-life balance. A healthy workforce is more likely to be a safe workforce.

Fortunately for us United Contractors has extensive resources available to all us, please visit the website and

log in to the Contractor Resources Library, or ask anyone at UCON for assistance and they will be glad to help.

Creating a world-class safety culture requires a comprehensive and ongoing commitment to safety at all levels of an organization. As leaders we owe it to our employees, the public and the industry to do our part in building that zero-fail culture. Read on in this issue as it highlights UCON’s R.E.A.L Safety Award Winners from 2024 Projects and you will see firsthand the commitment to this safety culture.

And finally, if your curious about my opening statement headline, ask me about it over a couple of beers, I will share the full story, and prove that accidents can happen anywhere! Be Safe!

Kurt Eddy, Pavement Recycling Systems, Inc. UCON 2025 President

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By UCON’s Labor and Member Services Team

CONTRACT CORNER:

2025 UNION RATE ALLOCATIONS United Contractors has received wage and fringe benefit allocations from the unions for the 2025 Master Agreement increases (unless negotiations are still in process). Notifications have been sent out to our contractor members in bulletins, and members can easily find all the new rate sheets on our Union Agreements and Rates page, as well as download them from our Contractor Resources Library.

Updates to the DIR’s prevailing wage determinations will not be reflected until September 1, unless they are already under the predetermined increases.

Future negotiated increases beyond 2025 (for bidding purposes) are also available in the Contractor Resources Library. Contact the UCON Labor & Member Services team at (925) 855-7900 or LaborTeam@unitedcontractors. org if you have any questions.

MEAL & REST PERIODS ON THE JOBSITE

Getting Ahead of Your Obligations Before They Get Ahead of You In construction, there are countless operational constraints that make it challenging for your field employees to meet meal and rest period obligations.

Consequently, meal and rest period claims are the most common and costly in the industry because of inconsistent field practices and, at times, false claims.

While the nature of construction can easily be blamed, the difference between contractors who win or lose such

claims comes down to your company’s policies and practices. In other words, meal and rest period liabilities are often avoidable, especially if you know how to navigate this issue. UCON can help.

If you are looking for more information, guidance, or a review of your policies and practices—contact any member of our team at (925) 855-7900 or LaborTeam@ unitedcontractors.org with questions on meal and rest periods.

UCON MEMBER RESOURCES Check out these key UCON resources, available to you FREE in our Contractor Resources Library. Download them today: • UCON Meal & Rest Period Guidelines • UCON Meal & Rest Period Compliance & FAQ Chart • UCON Union Meal Period Charts – N. CA & S. CA • UCON Union Rest Period Charts – N. CA & S. CA

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R.E.A.L. Safety awards 2024 winners

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE, AWARENESS & LEADERSHIP IN SAFETY

CONGRATULATIONS TO UCON’S 2024 SAFETY AWARD WINNERS

U

nited Contractors (UCON) is proud to announce the winners of the 2024 R.E.A.L. Safety Awards.

This prestigious program Recognizes Excellence, Awareness, and Leadership in Safety within the construction industry.

Each year, the R.E.A.L. Safety Awards highlight the exceptional efforts of union-signatory contractors committed to safeguarding their workforce and prioritizing injury prevention. These awards emphasize the industry’s ongoing dedication to proactive, highimpact safety practices that benefit workers across California.

UCON’s R.E.A.L. Safety Awards: Recognizing Excellence, Awareness and Leadership in Safety!

Established by United Contractors two decades ago, the R.E.A.L. Safety Awards are an integral part of UCON’s mission to educate, empower, and support California’s union contractors. The Safety Awards Program, administered by UCON’s Safety & Insurance Committee, is open annually at the beginning of each year for all UCON contractor members to apply. The entries get screened and then forwarded to a panel of judges volunteered from our UCON Safety and Insurance Committee, who review these entries anonymously. Winners are

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This year, the program received a record number of applications—more than any year since the program began twenty years ago. The volume and quality of submissions reflect the growing emphasis on workplace safety throughout the union construction industry.

Contractors across the state are raising the bar, and UCON is proud to shine a light on several of these companies leading the way in Safety.

The winning organizations are shown on the following pages, where they share their safety philosophy and vision, and the employees who make it happen.

chosen within several different categories including man-hours worked, most improved safety rating, safety hero, most unique project and “Team Zero” achievement.

For more information about United Contractors and the R.E.A.L. Safety Awards, and the UCON Safety & Insurance Committee, contact: Ray Baca, UCON Director of Agency Relations (657) 439-6161 Michael Donlon, UCON Chief Safety Consultant Keith Oxford, Monterey Mechanical Co., UCON Safety & Insurance Committee Chairperson

Category: 1,000,000+ Man-Hours: Granite Construction Company “Safety is the foundation of how we operate at Granite. It is a core value that reflects our belief that the safety and well-being of our people, our partners, and the public is our greatest responsibility. We commit to preventing injury and illness and continuously improving safety and health performance by implementing our Safety and Health Management System (SHMS) which provides incident prevention requirements for all operations. Our strong safety culture supports and encourages our employees to watch out for themselves and others. Preventing incidents is more than just good business—it is our moral obligation.”

— Kyle Larkin, President/CEO; Dave Hulverson, SVP Safety, Health, Environmental and Quality, Granite Construction Company

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R.E.A.L. Safety awards

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE, AWARENESS & LEADERSHIP IN SAFETY

Category: 1,000,000+ Man-Hours: Stacy Witbeck “Our safety philosophy centers on leadership at every level, starting from the frontline, where crews actively push safety up through the organization, creating genuine buy-in and shared responsibility.

Safety is ingrained in our culture, guiding every decision and interaction from the first day an employee joins us.

We focus on setting the right example through consistent,

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risk-aware behavior by supervisors, reinforcing accepted norms that prioritize safe work. Safety walks are not just about finding issues but celebrating great work and engaging teams in meaningful safety conversations.

This culture, supported by leadership and embraced by all, continuously improves our safety performance and workplace well-being.”

— Clayton Gilliland, President, Stacy Witbeck

Category: 1,000,000+ Man-Hours: Sully-Miller Contracting Company “At Sully-Miller Contracting Company, safety is more than a priority—it’s a core value that guides every aspect of our operations. We believe that every employee deserves to go home safely each day, and we achieve this by promoting a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and proactive risk management.

Our teams are empowered through training, engagement, and leadership support to identify and correct hazards before incidents occur. By integrating safety into our daily decisions and long-term strategies, we demonstrate that safety excellence drives operational excellence. We hold ourselves and our partners to the highest standards because we understand that safety is a shared responsibility. This commitment to safety has become the foundation of our success and a source of pride for every member of our team.”

— Brian G. DeTinne, Sr. Director of Safety & Risk Management, Sully-Miller Contracting Company J U LY 2 0 2 5

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Category: 500,001–1,000,000 Man-Hours: Condon-Johnson & Associates, Inc. “Condon-Johnson & Associates is honored to be selected by the UCON safety committee as a winner of the 2024 R.E.A.L Safety Award for our commitment to safety, a value that has guided us from the very beginning.

After 50 years, millions of man-hours, and the addition of thousands of workers, Condon-Johnson has kept safety at its core. It has brought us to a .49 Experience Modification Rate, a standard unlikely to be met by many.

This remarkable milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to safety and to each other. Training, planning, and the expertise of experience are only valuable when people use those tools in the field. A family started a company, and then the company became the family.”

— James Johnson, President; Ramona Griffin, Safety Manager, Condon-Johnson & Associates, Inc.

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Category: 500,001–1,000,000 Man-Hours: Ghilotti Bros, Inc. “We are thrilled and humbled to receive the prestigious 2024 R.E.A.L. Safety Award from UCON. At Ghilotti Bros., safety isn’t just a priority—it’s ingrained in everything we do. It’s the bedrock of our operations and the heartbeat of our daily culture. We empower every member of our team to work safely and to take pride in maintaining our collective commitment to safety excellence.

Our journey doesn’t end here; we continuously evolve and innovate to set new benchmarks in protecting our valued team members, subcontractors, and the community. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our teams across the Bay Area. Together, we strive relentlessly to improve, ensuring a safer and stronger future for everyone.”

— Mike Ghilotti, President & CEO, Ghilotti Bros, Inc.

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Category: 500,001–1,000,000 Man-Hours: Mountain Cascade, Inc. “At Mountain Cascade, Inc., safety is not just a priority—it’s a core value. We believe that all incidents are preventable and that every team member has the right to work in a safe and healthy environment.

Through proactive risk management, continuous training, and a culture of accountability, we are committed to achieving zero incidents. Safety is everyone’s responsibility, and together, we ensure that it is embedded in everything we do.”

— Duke Fuller, Owner, and Rickey Arslanian, Safety Director

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Preston Milpitas Team

Category: 500,001–1,000,000 Man-Hours: Preston Pipelines Infrastructure, LLC “We are committed to providing a safe work environment for all our employees. Safety is not just a priority—it is a core value that guides every decision we make. We believe every incident is preventable and that maintaining a safe workplace is a shared responsibility. We demand that safety never be compromised, no matter the circumstance. Through continuous training, open communication, and proactive risk management, we strive to ensure that everyone goes home safe every day.”

— David Ristedt, Safety Director, Preston Pipelines Infrastructure, LLC

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R.E.A.L. Safety awards

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE, AWARENESS & LEADERSHIP IN SAFETY

Category: 250,001-500,000 Man-Hours: Anvil Builders “Anvil Builders is committed to fostering a culture of safety where every employee is empowered to take ownership of their well-being and the well-being of their team. We believe that our employees are our greatest asset and that all incidents are preventable through proactive planning, continuous training, and open communication. Safety is not a program, it’s a core value that influences every decision we make in the field and in the office. Under the leadership of CEO Alan Guy and Safety Director Tony Burnham, we uphold the highest safety standards while continually evolving our practices to meet the demands of a dynamic industry. At Anvil Builders, safety is the foundation of our success and a shared responsibility across the entire organization.”

— Tony Burnham, Safety Director, Anvil Builders

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Category: 250,001-500,000 Man-Hours: Monterey Mechanical Co. “Monterey Mechanical’s number one priority is worker safety. Inclusion and collaboration are achieved at all levels through the acceptance of diverse opinions and ideas. Creating a psychosocial environment where it is a safe place to question or disagree without recourse. Our idea of “Beyond Zero” is below and can be achieved.

Beyond Zero is a goal Monterey Mechanical strives to achieve at all our facilities and job sites. Beyond Zero is achieved by creating an inclusive and collaborative environment in our workplace. Creating a culture that enables “ALL” to have a say in their safety and health, every person has a voice in their safety and the planning of the tasks they are to perform.

Engaging ALL workers at all levels to ensure that the work performed is effectively planned and communicated prior to the start of the task. Where everyone understands the methods and procedures to ensure they have a safe working environment and that each worker has the right to stop any unsafe act without threat of reprisal. Monterey Mechanical is dedicated to the belief that all workplace incidents, including occupational injuries and illnesses, can be prevented.”

“There is nothing permanent except change.” – Heraclitus.

— Keith M. Oxford, Safety Director, Monterey Mechanical Co.

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R.E.A.L. Safety awards

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE, AWARENESS & LEADERSHIP IN SAFETY

Category: 250,001-500,000 Man-Hours: St. Francis Electric LLC “At St. Francis Electric, safety isn’t just a requirement—it’s a culture embedded into every aspect of our operations. We’ve maintained an exceptional safety rating by investing heavily in employee training, conducting daily Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), and performing regular jobsite audits. Our team understands that safety starts before the workday begins, which is why every crew is equipped with the tools and knowledge to identify and control risks proactively.

This consistent commitment to safety, from leadership to field personnel, has helped us build a reputation for reliability and responsibility on every jobsite.”

— Guy Smith, President, St. Francis Electric LLC

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Proud Partners in Building American Infrastructure.

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R.E.A.L. Safety awards

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE, AWARENESS & LEADERSHIP IN SAFETY

Category: 100,001-250,000 Man-Hours: California Engineering Contractors, Inc. “California Engineering Contractors, Inc. (CEC) employs a team of like-minded individuals that make up the heart and soul of the company. With that in mind, CEC endeavors to provide safe, challenging, and rewarding work for its employees. “Teamwork” provides the framework from which CEC approaches safety. This belief is espoused by the owner and is promoted and supported at all levels from senior management to the newest apprentice. CEC is committed to maintaining safety at work and supporting successful projects by providing necessary planning, supervision, knowledge, training, equipment, tools, and rewarding work experiences. CEC employees at all levels share responsibility for safety for themselves and their fellow workers. Each is tasked with anticipating, recognizing and reporting hazards, performing their work safely in accordance with company policies, procedures, and expectations, and complying with all applicable laws and regulations.

— Wahid Tadros, President; Michael McKinney, Safety Director, California Engineering Contractors, Inc.

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Category: 100,001-250,000 Man-Hours: Foundation Constructors, Inc. “For Foundation, safety isn’t just a rulebook—it’s engraved in everything we do, a philosophy we’ve lived by since 1971. We believe our excellence in Environmental, Health, and Safety (EH&S) comes from a genuine care for our team. From the beginning of every project, our team meticulously builds our plans and processes, always working to make sure everyone stays safe, healthy, and our environment stays clean. You’ll hear it from us every day: “Safety First.” It’s how we start, and it’s how we make sure every single workday ends the right way.”

— Rusty Wiech, Safety Director, Foundation Constructors, Inc.

Category: 100,001-250,000 Man-Hours: KDW Construction, LLC “At KDW, safety is more than a priority—it’s a shared responsibility embedded in every level of our work. From pre-task planning to field execution, our crews lead with accountability, communication, and care for one another, which continues to drive our outstanding safety record.”

— DJ Woods, Owner, KDW Construction, LLC “TEAM ZERO” recognizes those having a zero incident rate for the 2024 year.

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R.E.A.L. Safety awards

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE, AWARENESS & LEADERSHIP IN SAFETY

Category: Up to 100,000 Man-Hours: Western Water Constructors, Inc. “At Western Water, we take our work personally—because we’re proud of what we build and the people we build it with. We’re more than a crew—we’re family—and that means we look out for each other every step of the way. Safety isn’t just a rule; it’s how we show we care. We believe doing great work starts with staying safe. When we finish a job, we want to know it was done right, done safely, and done with pride.”

— Owners: Josh McGarva, Luke McGarva, Eli McGarva, Ken Kreischer; and Safety Director, Lisa Gamache, Western Water Constructors, Inc.

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Category: Up to 100,000 Man-Hours: Hoseley Corporation “Hoseley’s number one priority is our employees’ safety. Our Safety Culture is to ensure each individual employee is provided with the proper safety trainings, tools, and equipment to complete their work in a safe manner and to voice their concerns of recognized unsafe situations. At the end of the day, Safety is instrumental to our success, we want our employees to feel safe at work and to go home to their families.”

— Daniel Wanner, President, Hoseley Corporation

ROBT. BURNS General Engineering Contractor, Inc.

Category: Up to 100,000 Man-Hours: Fax (209) 943-1718 E-mail: request@robertburnsconstruction.com www.robertburnsconstruction.com Robert Burns Robert Burns President Construction, Inc. Mark Burns Vice President 2501 N. Wigwam Drive Stockton, CA 95205

Phone (209) 943-6969

“Robert Burns Construction is very proud to be the recipient of both the 2024 R.E.A.L. Safety Award by United Contractors in the Up to 100,000 Man-Hours category as well as the Team-Zero Safety Achievement Award. Here at Robert Burns Construction, Inc. Safety is always our top priority whether it is our field crew on a job site, or our office personal. Whenever an employee notifies us about hazards we act promptly to correct the issue. This goes for minor safety problems as well as larger, more dangerous ones.

Our employees are among the business’ most valuable assets, so their safety, health and well being are essential to the success of the company.”

— Gary Purcell, President, Robert Burns Construction, Inc. “TEAM ZERO” recognizes those having a zero incident rate for the 2024 year.

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Category: Most Unique Safety Project Foundation Constructors, Inc. “The Galinas Creek project required the design and construction of a floating bridge just to get equipment, material, and project personnel to the site. We’re especially proud to have been recognized for this work, earning a Most Unique Safety Project award for our efforts.

For Foundation, safety isn’t just a rulebook—it’s engraved in everything we do, a philosophy we’ve lived by since 1971. We believe our excellence in Environmental, Health, and Safety (EH&S) comes from a genuine care for our team. From the beginning of every project, our team meticulously builds our plans and processes, always working to make sure everyone stays safe, healthy, and our environment stays clean. You’ll hear it from us every day: “Safety First.” It’s how we start, and it’s how we make sure every single workday ends the right way.”

— Rusty Wiech, Safety Director, Foundation Constructors, Inc.

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Category: Most Unique Safety Project Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. “Kiewit’s safety philosophy centers on one powerful goal: Nobody Gets Hurt. We lead with proactive, craftdriven safety programs and a culture of accountability that puts people first. By embedding Life-Saving Actions (LSAs) into every phase of work, we create safe, highperforming environments that protect our people and the surrounding public—while delivering lasting results for our clients and communities.

This approach was crucial during the Klamath River Dam Removal Project—the largest dam removal and river restoration effort in U.S. history. The team faced challenging conditions, including aging infrastructure, mountainous terrain and tight deadlines. Despite these obstacles, they successfully removed four dams in less than two years, completing the project a month ahead of schedule. Safety was built into every step through strong field leadership, detailed planning, hands-on training and close coordination with partners. Crews worked across multiple sites, stayed aligned through daily planning and strong communication and completed the project with zero recordable injuries.”

— Alicia Edson, Senior Vice President Safety Kiewit Infrastructure West Co.

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Category: Most Unique Safety Project Sierra Mountain Construction, Inc. “Surrounded by water and full of unique risks, the Briones Outlet Tower Seismic Upgrade Project called for thoughtful coordination and creative problem solving. From barge mounted crane work to custom access and satellite communications, the team tackled every challenge safely and with zero incidents.

This project is a true example of what can be accomplished when safety leads every decision.

At Sierra Mountain Construction, safety is more than a priority—it’s a foundational value in all we do. Every job is approached with the mindset that safety comes first, always. Our “Everyone Goes Home Safe” philosophy promotes proactive thinking and shared accountability. We encourage our teams to speak up, take action, and look out for one another. By working together, we create a culture committed to zero incidents and total responsibility.”

– Doug Benton, President; Mike Blewett, Safety Manager, Sierra Mountain Construction, Inc.

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UCON recognizes the following contractor members, who achieved “Team Zero”—having a zero incident rate in 2024:

— CATEGORY: 100,001 TO 250,000 MAN-HOURS —

— CATEGORY: UP TO 100,000 MAN-HOURS —

ROBT. BURNS General Engineering Contractor, Inc. 2501 N. Wigwam Drive Stockton, CA 95205

Phone (209) 943-6969

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Category: Safety Hero of the Year: Rich Poppoff, Equipment Superintendent DeSilva Gates Construction “At DeSilva Gates Construction, Safety is not just a requirement, it’s a defining value embedded into every aspect of our operations. We go beyond compliance to actively promote safety awareness starting at the individual level, in turn creating a company-wide culture of accountability, commitment, and continuous improvement. At the core of our approach is our Production Risk Management (PRM) model. Every employee is trained to identify and avoid hazards by developing actionable plans to mitigate them. PRM is integrated into every phase of the job—from project planning to individual tasks in the field, turning hazard identification and avoidance into a proactive and habitual process.

Rich Poppoff, this year’s UCON Safety Hero of the Year for DeSilva Gates Construction, has continually distinguished himself as a true leader in safety, driving complex and large-scale initiatives that have strengthened safety awareness and culture across the organization.” ­— Elise Agness, Director of Health and Safety, DeSilva Gates Construction

Category: Safety Hero of the Year: Eb Lopez, Senior Safety Manager Preston Pipelines Infrastructure, LLC “At Preston, safety is not just a priority—it is a core value that guides every decision we make. Eb Lopez joined the Preston team over four years ago with no prior construction experience and has since become an indispensable part of the safety team. He has advanced professionally by earning a degree, passing the ASP exam, and preparing for the CSP exam. Eb is well-known for his proactive, hands-on approach; he regularly visits job sites, connects personally with workers, provides bilingual safety training, and plays a key role in fostering a strong safety culture. His leadership, communication skills, and cultural awareness have significantly improved safety practices and reduced incidents. Recognized as a natural leader, he now serves as Senior Safety Manager and a trusted resource within the company.”

— David Ristedt, Safety Director, Preston Pipelines Infrastructure, LLC 32

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Category: Safety Hero of the Year: Anthony Guadagnolo, Operating Foreman Goodfellow Bros. California LLC “The Goodfellow legacy inspires us all, but it’s our unwavering focus on people and safety that truly defines us.

Anthony’s relentless effort in keeping himself, his crew and those around him safe is unmistakable. He really is the total package a construction firm looks for in a Foreman. He blends safety and productivity seamlessly while always finding the time to mentor his people and make them better at not just their current role, but the role they may not yet see for themselves. Anthony truly does set those around him up for success day in, and day out. Goodfellow Bros. is proud to have an asset like him as part of our team!”

— Brian Gates, President, Goodfellow Bros. California LLC

Category: Safety Hero of the Year: Mark Solano, EHFS Manager Laborers Training School of Southern California The Laborers Training School is a non-profit jointly administered labormanagement training trust fund—providing construction training to signatory contractors and LiUNA members in 12 counties in Southern California and the city of Phoenix (AZ). Mark Solano (left, in photo), exemplifies industry safety.

“I attended the Laborers Training School in Anza during the summer of 1980.

Throughout my career, I worked with several respected companies, including Granite and Silverado. My passion for safety ignited during my time at Granite and I later assumed the role of Safety Manager at Griffith Company. This journey led me to serve on the subcommittee for Laborers Local 652 in Santa Ana in a management capacity. There I learned of the safety position at the Laborers Training School. Recognizing it as my calling, I embraced the opportunity to be part of a program that imparts knowledge, experience, and safety values to young apprentices. It is an honor and privilege to serve Laborer and Local unions and contractors across Southern California.”

— Mark Solano, EHFS Manager, Laborers Training School of Southern California J U LY 2 0 2 5

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R.E.A.L. Safety awards

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE, AWARENESS & LEADERSHIP IN SAFETY

Category: Most Improved Safety Rating Goodfellow Bros.

California, LLC “At Goodfellow Bros., we are committed to protecting our employees like family because they are family. As a fourthgeneration, family-run company, we don’t view safety as just a program—it’s a core part of who we are. The Goodfellow Way is built on trust, accountability, and genuine care for one another.

This award reflects our proactive training, clearly defined standards, and daily dedication to ensuring every member of our team returns home safely. The Goodfellow legacy inspires us all, but it’s our unwavering focus on people and safety that truly defines us.”

— Brian Gates, President, Goodfellow Bros. California LLC

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Category: Most Improved Safety Rating KDW Construction, LLC “Our safety culture at KDW is built on trust, visibility, and continuous improvement. By empowering our teams to speak up, lead by example, and support one another every day, we’ve created a work environment where safety excellence is the natural outcome.”

— DJ Woods, Owner, KDW Construction, LLC

Preston Sacramento Team

Category: Most Improved Safety Rating Preston Pipelines Infrastructure, LLC “We are committed to providing a safe work environment for all our employees.

Safety is not just a priority—it is a core value that guides every decision we make.

We believe every incident is preventable and that maintaining a safe workplace is a shared responsibility. We demand that safety never be compromised, no matter the circumstance. Through continuous training, open communication, and proactive risk management, we strive to ensure that everyone goes home safe every day.”

— David Ristedt, Safety Director, Preston Pipelines Infrastructure, LLC J U LY 2 0 2 5

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HOW CONSTRUCTION FIRMS MUST MANAGE SAFETY RISKS IN ROAD WORK ZONES

By Mark Wooditch, HUB International Photo courtesy Kiewit Infrastructure West Co.

W

ith 396,540 lane miles of roads across the state, heavily trafficked by a big population that really loves its cars, California spends a lot to keep its roadways up. The state invests some $30 billion annually on its transportation infrastructure—and that doesn’t count what’s added through federal spending.

That makes California’s among the nation’s most expensive roadways, but their performance doesn’t measure up, according to The Reason Foundation’s 2025 Annual Highway Report. The state ranks 33rd and 28th for urban and rural road fatality rate, respectively, though its incidents of fatal crashes began trending down in 2024.

What aggravates the safety issue is the added risk of accidents occurring in work zones. Between 2018 and 2022 (the most recent data available), highway work zone crashes resulted in 487 traffic fatalities in California.

The high risk of work zones makes these construction jobs among the most dangerous: California averages 49 road worker fatalities annually, the sixth-most in the country. One worker called it the “most dangerous job” due to moving traffic, “from a 5,000-pound vehicle to an 80,000-pound truck traveling 60-plus miles an hour.”

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The importance of managing work zone risks A host of guidelines on work zone traffic safety set the standards in California, with protocols from national regulators (Occupational Safety and Health and Administration), state (California Department of Transportation) and local, at the Los Angeles and Orange County levels, for example.

Work zone safety is an issue that state legislators have begun focusing, too, with a bill currently under consideration to install automated speed cameras at active highway construction zones. Critics worry about driver privacy and the fairness of automated enforcement, but this solution has been highly effective elsewhere: One test on a Scottish freeway resulted in the speed limit being adhered to by 99% of drivers, versus 40% before installation.

Before starting any road or bridge project, construction firms must prepare traffic control plans (TCPs) for work zones. This is particularly crucial when travel lanes or pedestrian access stand to be affected. TCPs must be approved by the permitting agency. In fact, they are the very basis for securing work permits, as detailed proposals for ensuring safety and minimizing disruption for workers and the public, on foot or in vehicles.

Continued on page 38

UCON Legislative Update—AB 289 Worker Safety at the Forefront: Legislative Progress on Automated Speed Enforcement UCON is proud to have introduced Assembly Bill 289 (Haney) — critical legislation that would authorize the use of Automated Speed Enforcement (ASE) in active highway construction zones. ASE is a proven and effective tool that significantly reduces speeding, accidents, and fatalities in work zones.

AB 289 is gaining strong, bipartisan support in the California Legislature.

The bill is currently in the Senate Committee on Appropriations, and if it advances, it will proceed to the full Senate for a vote before heading to the Governor’s desk for his final signature.

E ON289 Z RK B WOETY A SAF

We will continue to advocate tirelessly for this life-saving measure because no highway worker should risk their life to build and maintain the critical infrastructure that we all rely on every day. For more information, contact Gus Flores, UCON’s Director of Government Relations, (916) 265-9703 gflores@unitedcontractors.org.

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Photo courtesy Sully-Miller Contracting Company Here’s an overview of what goes into the best, most comprehensive TCPs.

Start with the basics In reflecting measures designed to lead to safe work zones, the plan should cover: • Construction management outline. This is done early in the project design phase, detailing the specific ways that the work zone impacts workers, drivers and pedestrians.

• Temporary traffic control plan. This establishes what traffic control measures will be put in place during

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projects, like flaggers, signage and traffic control devices like speed safety cameras.

• Public information plan. It’s important for keeping the public informed of upcoming projects and how and when they may impact traffic and travel routes.

Neglected or poorly executed plans can negatively impact a project, whether through strong public opposition, increased delays or loss of public trust.

An effective plan prioritizes open communication, transparency and engagement with all stakeholders and minimizes disruptions.

Factoring work zone risks into the plan The TCP should reflect a detailed assessment of the

various conditions that will influence the risks in work zone areas. These include:

work zones—and keeping workers and the public at large safe in the process.

• Surrounding environment. Where is the work zone located? If it’s in a city, the rerouting has to anticipate every type of vehicle—from cars to scooters to bicycles—that will be affected. And pedestrian safety should be a high priority. Expecting the unexpected is always the best policy in planning, too. For example, animals running through a rural work zone, especially at night, can cause accidents.

Mark Wooditch is the Los Angeles Orange County construction practice leader for global insurance brokerage Hub International. He spent 30 years at The Wooditch Company, Insurance Services, Inc., with a focus on commercial contractors. In 2023, the practice was sold to HUB. Visit hubinternational.com, a UCON member since 1994.

• The nature of the work. Each worksite task, whether installing signs, flagging, repairing utilities, paving or surveying, should be evaluated for its effect on the overall safety of the worksite. Controls should be put in place before work starts.

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• Work zone characteristics. Lane closings can be confusing to drivers. Changes in road surface can add to the dangers. Road markings may change. Workers must be trained on what to expect and sufficient warning signage about road conditions must be posted.

• Traffic flows. The amount of traffic also influences work zone dangers.

Speeding drivers, flashing lights and heavy equipment on the perimeter can distract drivers and workers alike. Traffic control plans help manage the flow of construction itself, along with vehicles and equipment.

• Traffic control systems. These systems, like point-to-point cameras, are important to work zone safety management, and their placement should be carefully planned out.

Point-to-point cameras, such as those being considered by California legislators, are especially beneficial for work zones.

Currently, 13 states allow their use in school zones and 12, in construction work zones.

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MARCH 2024

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47

JOIN US AT A UCONNECT NEAR YOU! July 31, 2025, Thursday | Westlake Village

THURSDAY, JULY 10TH - SANTA CLARA

September 18, 2025, Thursday | Norco

BAREBOTTLE SANTA CLARA

October 22, 2025, Wednesday | Petaluma

UCON is connecting the contractor community, and we had a great time with everyone who joined us at our UCONnect in Santa Clara!! Thank you to our sponsors, Tenna and Laborers Local 270!

October 30, 2025, Thursday | Pasadena November 20, 2025, Thursday | San Diego December 10, 2025, Wednesday | Anaheim

SCAN FOR FULL CALENDAR

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Check out UCON’s full 2025 calendar of events & opportunities: unitedcontractors.org/calendar

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UCONnect

JULY 10TH - SANTA CLARA

J U LY 2 0 2 5

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UP

By Angelica Gouig, Director of Member Experience

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF UCON’S LEADERSHIP & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CLASSES You’ll find classes focused on Leadership, Safety, Compliance, HR, Construction Specific and more. Most classes are FREE to UCON members. We have highighted several of the classes coming up over the next couple of months. New classes are added throughout the year—go online to UCON’s calendar!

For any questions regarding UCON’s programs, contact Angelica Gouig, Director of Member Experience, at agouig@unitedcontractors.org or (925) 362-7309.

2025 COURSE CATALOG Browse our 2025 Course Catalog—scan code or: unitedcontractors.org/calendar

COUNSEL TO THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY 1999 HARRISON STREET SUITE 1025 OAKLAND, CA 94612 510.903.2001 SMITHCURRIE.COM

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AUGUST 26

Achieving Work-Life Balance Saturday, August 26, 2:30pm-4:30pm Instructor: Eric Herdman, LLC Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost – Member: FREE | Non-member: $100

Register: unitedcontractors.org/calendar

SEPTEMBER 30

Leading and Managing Change

AUGUST 28

SEPTEMBER 9 - 23

Thursday, August 28; 2:30pm-4:30pm Instructor: Eric Anderton, Construction Genius Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost – Member: FREE | Non-member: $100

Tuesdays, 9:00am-12:00pm Session 1 | Sept 9 Session 2 | Sept 16 Session 3 | Sept 23 Instructor: Paul Stout, Power Summit Class Style: Virtual Class Limit: 25 Cost – Member: Early Bird $500; Standard $515; Non-member: $600; Standard $615

SEPTEMBER 4

SEPTEMBER 16

How to Maximize the Performance of Business Development and Sales People

Certified Payroll—Answering Contractors Most Frequently Asked Questions Thursday, September 4; 2:30pm-4:30pm Instructors: Darbi Griffin and Jesse Jimenez, Foundation for Fair Contracting (FFC); and Ruby Varnadore, United Contractors Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost – Member: FREE | Non-member: $100

ALM Project Engineer OST S O Bootcamp [Q3] LD-OU T!

Tuesday, Sept 30; 2:30pm-4:30pm Instructor: Bill Treasurer, Giant Leap Consulting Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost – Member: Free | Non-member: $100

OCTOBER 10

Fearless Field Leader—Pomona Friday, October 10 4:30pm-8:00pm Instructor: Mark Breslin, United Contractors CEO Class Style: In Person | Class Limit: 150 Cost – Member: $225 Non-member: $325 15% discount when purchasing three or more tickets.

Powerbase: Building Strong Business Relationships Tuesday, Sept 16; 2:30pm-4:30pm Instructor: Eric Anderton, Construction Genius Class Style: Virtual Class Limit: Unlimited Cost – Member: Free Non-member: $100

OCTOBER 14

The Life Cycle of Estimating Friday, October 14 2:30pm-4:30pm Instructor: Walead Atiye, Maxim Consulting Group Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost – Member: FREE Non-member: $100 J U LY 2 0 2 5

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Corn-grats all our 2025 Throw Down Winners!

4th Place Midstate Barrier 2 | Mason Crump & Morgan Nicholas 3rd Place Midstate Barrier 1 | Chet Martin & Dan Nicholas 2nd Place Vanguard Construction 2 | Evan Green & Jake Kush 1st Place Anvil MLG Team | Bryan Burnham & Willie Perez

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EVENT RATING

5 / 5

UCON’s Throw Down for Education Cornhole Tournament at Wente Vineyard in Livermore is a fun, friendly competition, and a fundraiser for UCON’s Scholarship Awards Program. Since 1994, UCON has proudly given more than $700,000 in scholarships. This year, UCON awarded $70,000 to 15 exceptional students—four of whom were able to attend the tournament with their families (top photo, receiving their checks!).

Teams had an a-maizing time with nearly 200 players and 100 spectators joining UCON to go head-to-head in a friendly bean bag toss competition. Our Event Chair, Ted Pumphrey, Regional Sales Manager at Papé Machinery, welcomed the teams, and the excitement was corn-tagious. This year the Long Toss competition, sponsored by IMA Financial, resulted in a tie for closest to the hole and a throw-off ensued between Dave Heier (Moss Adams LLP) and Mitchell Bongi (Ghilotti Bros., Inc.) both threw bags landing 14 inches from the hole from 58 feet away. In the end, Dave Heier won the throw-off. Thank you to all who joined to support this great program!

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Another great event by the UCON Staff allowing us all to share more stories.

Best part - raising money to support education while having a wonderful time!

- JAMES TROUP, MONTEREY MECHANICAL CO.

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United Contractors really knows how to put on events! Always wellorganized and fun! Networking at it’s finest. This was my first cornhole tournament, and it won’t be my last.

On to the BBQ! - DONITA GRANADO GRANITEROCK COMPANY

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Amazing event! Great networking with other contractors through playing cornhole. The Wente Vineyards staff were also very nice.

- MATTHEW RAMIREZ, FRONTLINE GENERAL ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION, INC.

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Thank You to Our Volunteers THANK YOU EVENT CHAIRS: JEFF NAHASS, UB EQUIPMENT & TED PUMPHREY, PAPÉ MACHINERY

RACHAEL BROWN SWEENEY MASON LLP LINDSEY EPPLER LOGOBOSS DONITA GRANADO GRANITEROCK COMPANY JASON HERRERA BFBA GLEN HUNGERBUHLER MISSION CLAY PRODUCTS, LLC DAVID MEARS HERITAGE BANK OF COMMERCE WILL MURPHY ARGENT MATERIALS, INC. GARETT OXLEY ALLEN A. WAGGONER CONSTRUCTION, INC. ERIK PIERCE CALIFORNIA BANK OF COMMERCE

THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 ANNUAL SPONSORS (SEE PAGE 49)

MELANI RICKETT ALLEN A. WAGGONER CONSTRUCTION, INC.

SPECIAL THANK YOU:

KELLI SCHNEIDER ENTERPRISE FLEET MANAGEMENT

Brad Kinney Productions

Verace

Breslow Imaging

Wente Vineyard

IMA Financial

Winslow & Associates

SOPHIA STUART DYNAMIC OFFICE & ACCOUNTING SOLUTIONS

The Construction Zone J U LY 2 0 2 5

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Photo courtesy RJS & Associates, Inc.

MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES: JULY 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 July:

51 YEARS – 1974 Contractor Member: Silva’s Pipeline, Inc. Jim Silva

Gallagher & Burk, Inc. David DeSilva Ghilotti Construction Co. Richard Ghilotti

29 YEARS – 1996

Contractor Members: Appian Engineering, Inc. Bob Alvey

25 YEARS – 2000

Contractor Member: Silverado Contractors, Inc. Joe Capriola

22 YEARS – 2003

Contractor Members: C.F. Archibald Paving, Inc. Curtis Archibald

Stevens Creek Quarry, Inc. Mark Mallin

Associate Member: Trench & Traffic Supply, Inc. Michelle Townsend

Esquivel Grading & Paving, Inc. Jamie Phann

31 YEARS – 1994

Contractor Member: Navajo Pipelines, Inc. Karen Silva

18 YEARS – 2007

32 YEARS – 1993

Evans Brothers, Inc. Wil Evans

Associate Member: Woodruff-Sawyer & Co. Bret Lawrence

Contractor Member: Florez Paving Sam Florez

Associate Member: Eighteen Trucking, Inc. Martha DeLeon

16 YEARS – 2009

Associate Member: EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants Jeff Parkhurst

15 YEARS – 2010 Contractor Member: MK Pipelines, Inc. Sean Brennan

14 YEARS – 2011 Contractor Member: Veteran Pipeline Construction Michael Robirds Associate Member: Stevenson Supply Kent Stevenson

13 YEARS – 2012

Contractor Members: Compass Engineering Contractors, Inc. Mike Moore Marques General Engineering, Inc. Brandon Bell Associate Members: Cal-Sierra Pipe, LLC Dan Hobbs Chubb Surety Robert Walsh McSherry & Hudson LLC Chuck Griswold

12 YEARS – 2013

Contractor Members: Underground Construction Co., Inc. Thiel Harryman Valverde Construction, Inc. Ahron A. Valverde

11 YEARS – 2014 56

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Contractor Member: Ferma Corporation Marc Ferrari

Associate Members: RGW Equipment Sales Dane Lowry West Coast Sand & Gravel James Slater

10 YEARS – 2015

Contractor Member: Underwater Resources, Inc. Tom Belcher

Preferred Landscape Landon Massey Sierra Landscape Development, Inc. Kevin Watchler Sully-Miller Contracting Company Bill Boyd

1 YEAR – 2024

Frontline General Engineering Construction Inc Jesus Pedroza

Contractor Members: Ace Sweepers & Water Trucks, Inc

Graniterock-Myers JV Rob Snyder

High-Light Electric Inc. Erwin Mendoza

The Traffic Guys LLC Carlos Moreno

RJS & Associates, Inc.

Contractor Members: JDB & Sons Construction, Inc. James Burke

Associate Members: Global Leadership Alliance (GLA) Corp.

Mery Santos

Studebaker Electric, Inc Lauren Bird

Sinclair General Engineering Construction, Inc. Sean Sinclair

CBIZ Warren Hennagin

9 YEARS – 2016

Associate Members: Security Shoring & Steel Plate Kimberly Liston-Rivera

8 YEARS – 2017

Contractor Member: Minerva Construction, Inc. Noel Kearney Associate Member: Construct Your Image Cole Adams

4 YEARS – 2021

Contractor Members: American Landscape, Inc. Gary Peterson Diversified Landscape Paul Moralez Don H. Mahaffey Drilling Co. Ashley Mahaffey Tullius Kato Landscaping Randy Kato Pac Bay Environmental Services, Inc. Matt Certa Pacific Restoration Group John Richards

Frank M. Booth, Inc. Larry Booth Underground Republic Water Works Kurt Vincelette

3 YEARS – 2022

Contractor Members: Bay Engineering LLC Matt Cox Scapes, Inc. Lane L. Poms

Scott Shepherd

Randy Brown

Chapco Construction LLC Brooke Chappell

Covenant Technical Solutions, Inc. Bill Williams

Associate Members: Corpay Jason Krankota Cujo Construction Inc Sarai Raygoza

Associate Members: Bar None Auction Joshua Seidel Property Partners Private Wealth Management Mark Chandik

Datumate Chaz Ross Munro K2 Lopez Trucking Services, Inc Alyssa Lopez Zanker Road Resource Management Jerame Renteria

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.

Associate Members: BKF Engineers William Paul Coats Surety Insurance Services, Inc. Matthew Coats Hill & Smith, Inc. Jeff Shewmaker

2 YEARS – 2023

Contractor Members: Bragg Companies dba Bragg Crane and Rigging Kelan Bragg

California Concrete Pumping Inc. DBA Associated Concrete Pumping Mike Parigini

Pierre Landscape Monty Khouri J U LY 2 0 2 5

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GOLF

CLASSIC

SEPT 12 F R I DAY

Bayonet and Black Horse Golf Club in Seaside

REGISTER / SPONSOR: UNITEDCONTRACTORS.ORG/CALENDAR

OCT 2

T H U R S DAY Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club Mission Viejo 58

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

TRENCH SHORING COMPANY

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Heavy/Civil Construction Symposium Keys to managing your business during these dynamic economic times FREE IN-PERSON EVENT San Ramon Marriott 2600 Bishop Drive, San Ramon, CA Thursday, September 4, 2025 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Registration at 10:30 a.m.

Lunch provided!

Build Smarter: Equip Your Business for What’s Next Join fellow construction professionals for an afternoon of insight, strategy, and connection. This free in-person event is designed to help civil contractors stay ahead in a fast-changing industry—where margins are tighter, timelines shorter, and technology moves fast.

WHAT YOU’LL GAIN:

FEATURED SPEAKERS:

• Expert Economic Outlook – Learn how tariffs, labor shortages, and AI-driven tech are shaping today’s job costs and tomorrow’s opportunities.

• Michael Kelley, CPA, President – Silvertrek Systems • Brian Kassalen, CCIFP, Principal – Baker Tilly • Patrick Allen, VP – Trimble® • David Larsson, VP – SITECH

• Equipment Optimization – Discover proven methods to turn your fleet into a profit center using insights from Construction Equipment Economics V2.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

• Better Forecasting – Explore practical ways to project revenue and manage costs with clarity and precision.

• Interactive Panel Q&A – Get real answers to your toughest accounting and finance challenges.

• Valuable Networking – Connect with industry leaders, peers, and technology experts.

 SCAN TO REGISTER TODAY! www.sitechnorcal.com

PLUS: Hands-on time with cutting-edge construction tech, including tools for accounting, project management, estimating, and site positioning.

LET’S TALK SHOP: Network together after the event!

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