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Everything You Need. Plus Equipment.
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.
BAKERSFIELD
3340 Allen Rd.
Bakersfield, CA 93314 (661)631-5777
CONCORD
5151 Port Chicago Highway Concord, CA 94520 (925)822-0366
FRESNO
5704 S. Toyota Place Fresno, CA 93275 (559)442-8989
HAYWARD
4125 Breakwater Avenue Hayward, CA 94545 (510)786-9506
RENO 12905 Old Virginia Road Reno, NV 89521 (775)348-0140
SACRAMENTO
8565 Elder Creek Road Sacramento, CA 95828 (916)383-7475
SALT LAKE CITY
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 LUIS OBISPO
635 Tank Farm Road San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805)543-0113
TURLOCK
2800 N. Golden State Blvd. Turlock, CA 95382 (209)632-5084
SANTA ROSA
3963 Santa Rosa Ave. Santa Rosa, CA 95407 (707)523-2350
SAN FRANCISCO
251 Shaw Road
South San Francisco, CA 94080 (415)642-2350
INFRASTRUCTURE WE BUILD
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)
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; TEJEL PATEL, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO CEO; AURORA PRASAD, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO EVP; VICTOR SELLA, VICE PRESIDENT OF LABOR RELATIONS; MELISSA GUTWALD, VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS; CLAY O’NEAL, VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS; 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; DILPREET MAYALL, LABOR RELATIONS ADVOCATE; LIZ CASTRO, LABOR CONTRACTS MANAGER; LUCIA MIXON, CONTRACTOR MEMBER SERVICES, SOUTHERN CA; SANDRA KAYA, ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIALIST TO LABOR & MEMBER SERVICES; DENISE RAMIREZ, ONLINE SERVICES MANAGER; EMMY MCCONNELL, SENIOR ACCOUNTANT; MICHELLE HANNIGAN, BOOKKEEPER; GABRIELLE GONZALEZ, OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA; CHRISTINE TRAINA, EVENT MANAGER; RACHEL ORAA, 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
By Kurt Eddy Pavement Recycling Systems, Inc. UCON 2025 President
A KEY TO STAYING AHEAD: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
When I learned the first issue I would writing the Up Front for as the current Board President, is primarily focused on Professional Development, it reminded me of an article I read years ago. Within that article was a cartoon depicting a conversation between a CEO and an CFO. The CFO says, “What if we invest in all these people and they leave?” The CEO responded, “What if we don’t and they stay!” I chuckled as I read that, however, the point was driven home in a way that has stuck with me ever since.
Professional development is one of the keys to staying ahead in this complex environment.
Safety is, and will remain, a top priority for all of us, given the inherent highrisk nature of our projects. Investment in the development our people is essential for maintaining
Our industry faces unique challenges. Whether building highways, bridges, dams, or large-scale utility systems, contractors must navigate a dynamic landscape of evolving technologies, stringent regulatory requirements, and fluctuating market conditions. Professional development is one of the keys to staying ahead in this complex environment.
Additionally, we are encountering an escalating skills gap as experienced workers and leaders approach retirement. Ongoing investment in our workforce is essential for attracting and retaining skilled professionals. Contractors who prioritize employee training, certification programs, and career development opportunities foster a workplace culture that attracts top talent. Notably, younger generations consider these development opportunities indispensable and view them as essential pathways for career advancement.
rigorous safety standards. Regular training sessions are imperative as they ensure our teams are informed about the latest safety protocols, enhance project management capabilities, and keep us up-to-date with regulatory changes. Prioritizing safety education not only safeguards our workforce but also reduces the likelihood of costly incidents and project delays. Therefore, it should be an integral part of our development programs.
I encourage each of you to explore the many resources available to you as members. It is said that leaders are readers and lifelong learners. We set an example for our peers and elevate the standards of our industry. Let us work together to create a culture of continuous improvement. When we invest in professional development, we build a stronger, safer, and more innovative industry for generations to come.
Sincerely,
It is said that leaders are readers and lifelong learners. We set an example for our peers and elevate the standards of our industry.
Kurt Eddy, Pavement Recycling Systems, Inc.
Olmsted Hydroelectric Plan, Provo UT China Basin Park, San Francisco CA
UCON-OE3 INDUSTRY PARTNER MEETING (IPM)
January 31, 2025
United Contractors met with Operating Engineers Local 3 (OE3) for an Industry Partner Meeting (IPM), fostering collaboration between contractors and union leadership. The meeting provided a forum for discussing industry outlooks, workforce challenges, legislative priorities, and apprenticeship training. Key topics included workforce shortages, recruitment strategies, the impact of federal funding on infrastructure projects, and upcoming legislation affecting the construction industry. UCON and OE3 remain committed to strengthening industry partnerships and addressing shared challenges through open dialogue and cooperation.
UPCOMING WEBINARS: LABOR ESSENTIALS
Advance your knowledge and skills on mastering the complexities of your union agreements—tailored for ops, PMs, estimators, HR professionals, etc. Recordings of webinars on other topics are available to members in our Professional Development Library.
CBA Payroll Rules (N.CA)
April 22 - Tuesday, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
CBA Payroll Rules (S.CA) April 29 - Tuesday, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost: Member: FREE | Non-Member: $100
Explore overtime, special shift, and other rules under your regional Master Agreements (offered separately for Northern CA and Southern CA).
Taught by UCON’s Victor Sella, VP of Labor Relations!
THE UCON CONTRACTOR RESOURCES LIBRARY— UCON EXPERTISE 24/7
Do all of your employees know about UCON’s Contractor Resources Library (CRL)? This valuable member benefit is available to all of your company’s employees, providing guidance and answering questions on a wide variety of subjects critical to their work.
Accessible from UCON’s website, the CRL contains items crafted by UCON to fit the unique needs of union contractors. Log-in credentials are required, which any member’s employees can create on our website—WWW.UNITEDCONTRACTORS.ORG.
Contact the UCON Labor Team with any issues, or for a quick website tutorial.
All UCON member employees have access to the CRL. Log-in credentials are required.Contact our Labor Team for assistance, or to learn more: LaborTeam@unitedcontractors.org
TOP DOWNLOADS
Many of our members have downloaded these items this year. Make sure your staff knows that these are all easily available to them—a quick link on our home page now makes it even easier to access the rate sheets and CBAs.
• Wage & Fringe Benefit Rate Sheets – Available for all of the agreements we are signed to (also available on UCON’s homepage in “Union Agreement & Rates”).
• Master Labor Agreements – All of the UCON collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), including specialty agreements. Summaries of Modification are also available for new agreements (also available on UCON’s homepage in “Union Agreement & Rates”).
• Union Payroll Reference Guides – Available for both Northern and Southern California, as well as for the Laborers’ specialty work (Traffic Control, Highway Improvement, & Landscape), these guides provide a deep dive into union payroll. From holidays to meal and rest periods, special shifts and overtime. Updated for the 2025 holidays, and now also include San Diego provisions.
• Subcontract Agreements, including One-Job and Trucking – Templates created by legal counsel Leonidou & Rosin to be compliant with current laws and to contain recommended language to protect your business.
Questions? Contact: LaborTeam@unitedcontractors.org
• Trucking Prevailing Wages Reference Chart – Trying to figure out if on-/ off-haul work on one of your projects is covered by prevailing wages? This chart will help.
• AB 5 Recommendations for Construction Trucking Services –Short guide providing a quick list of best practices and due diligence recommendations. Updated for the 2025 changes to AB 5.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
By Angelica Gouig, Director of Member Experience, and Avanti Mehta, Education Coordinator
EDUCATION & TRAINING
UCON PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
CLASSES FOR EVERY LEVEL
United Contractors (UCON) has streamlined access to professional development for its members. In 2024, over 2,800 participants from more than 260 companies registered for our courses—with several sold-out
94% of employees say they would stay longer at a company that invests in their learning and development
programs including Fearless Field Leader, Project Management Career Advancement (PMCA), and Project Engineer Bootcamp; several classes rated 5/5.
40+ CLASSES FOR ALL LEVELS
For 2025, UCON has curated over 40 classes focusing on skills development, leadership, safety, and other pertinent topics tailored for all organizational levels—from top management to project managers, superintendents, forepersons, and more. As a member, you have access to these offerings, most at no additional cost, plus more classes on-demand in UCON’s Education Library.
SCAN QR CODE | REGISTER: UNITEDCONTRACTORS.ORG/CALENDAR
REGISTER FOR THESE AND MORE UPCOMING CLASSES!
REGISTER AT UNITEDCONTRACTORS.ORG/CALENDAR
Questions? Contact UCON’s education team: Angelica Gouig, Director of Member Experience, agouig@unitedcontractors.org, (925) 362-7309, or Avanti Mehta, Education Coordinator, amehta@unitedcontractors.org, (925) 725-6365.
MARCH 20
APRIL 15
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Browse our 2025 Course Catalog—scan code (p. 12), or: unitedcontractors.org/calendar 2025 COURSE CATALO5
APRIL 22
SOLD-OUT!
Project Engineer BootcampQ1 - Series
Session 1: Thursday, March 20
Session 2: Thursday, March 27
Session 3: Thursday, April 3
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Instructor: Paul Stout, Power Summit
Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: 100 Cost Member: Early Bird: $500 | Standard: $515 - Non-Member: Early Bird: $600 | Standard: $615 (Call for other sessions)
APRIL 24
Dictator to Coach: How to have Coaching Conversations
Thursday, April 24
2:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Instructor: Eric Anderton, Construction Genius
Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost: Member: FREE | Non-Member: $100
Ways Technology & Insurance Collaborate to Dramatically Reduce Risk
Tuesday, April 15
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Instructor: Russ Young, Tenna
Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost: Member: FREE | Non-Member: $100
APRIL 29
CBA Payroll Rules (S.CA)
Tuesday, April 29
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Instructor: Victor Sella, UCON VP, Labor Relations
Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost: Member: FREE | Non-Member: $100
(See also page 8)
CBA Payroll Rules (N.CA)
Tuesday, April 22
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Instructor: Victor Sella, UCON VP, Labor Relations
Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited
Cost: Member: FREE | Non-Member: $100 (See also page 8)
MAY 8
How to Give and Receive Feedback
Thursday, May 8
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Instructor: Cody Miller, Elevate Performance
Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost: Member: FREE | Non-Member: $100
MAY 15 Atomic Values
Thursday, May 15
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Instructor: John Petersen, Threshold Rising
Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost: Member: FREE | Non-Member: $100
MAY 20 CBA Subcontracting Rules (N.CA and S.CA)
Tuesday, May 20
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Instructor: Victor Sella, UCON VP, Labor Relations
Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost: Member: FREE | Non-Member: $100
This innovative program reveals the essentials of Construction Project Management with an engaging and interactive learning environment that encourages team collaboration and will increase overall job performance.
JUNE 5
Skilled & Trained Workforce
Thursday, June 5
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Instructor: Victor Sella, UCON VP, Labor Relations
Class Style: Virtual | Class Limit: Unlimited Cost: Member: FREE | Non-Member: $100
UCON’s Top-Rated Project Management Career Advancement (PMCA) Program— Back In-Person!
MARCH 12 - MAY 28 (ANAHEIM - IN-PERSON) Weekly on Wednesdays, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
JUNE 17 - AUGUST 26 (SAN RAMON - IN-PERSON) Weekly on Tuesdays, 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
AUGUST 7 - NOVEMBER 6 (VIRTUAL) Weekly on Thursdays, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Contact UCON’s Education Coordinator, Avanti Mehta for more information: amehta@unitedcontractors.org, (925) 725-6365
OCTOBER 10
SHERATON FAIRPLEX HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER POMONA, CA
There is no other program in the construction industry that provides a more comprehensive, uniquely focused people skills training specifically for construction Foremen.
Taught by Mark Breslin, UCON’s CEO
AUGUST 14 SAN RAMON MARRIOTT SAN RAMON, CA
SCAN TO REGISTER
“These 3 hours of your time will open your eyes to untapped success.”
“I wish I had the opportunity to take this training earlier in my career.”
UCON’S 2025 CRAB FEED
One Shell of a Night!
Thank you to everyone who joined us Thursday, February 6, at the San Ramon Marriott for our annual Crab Feed! Despite the rain, over 700 members, union leaders, and affiliates enjoyed a “shell-ebration” of networking, reconnecting, and indulging in a whopping 2,850 lbs of fresh Dungeness Crab. The whiskey tastings and fresh donuts were also a hit, making it a “crab-tivating” evening for all. 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, UCON Annual Sponsors, and Volunteers for helping to make this one of UCON’s most-loved and attended events—join us for more clawsome events in 2025!
“WE
SAW A LOT OF PEOPLE WE KNOW FROM INDUSTRY, AND THE CRAB WAS PLENTIFUL AND REALLY FRESH AND PREPARED WELL! WE HAD A GREAT TIME.”
GRANITE CONSTRUCTION
“UCON
HITS A HOME RUN AT EVERY EVENT!”
ANDREW PAULAZZO, INTERSTATE CONCRETE PUMPING CO.
“GREAT EVENT, I HOPE TO ATTEND MORE UCON EVENTS IN THE FUTURE”
ARREGUIN, BAY LINE CUTTING & CORINGPAPÉ MACHINERY
ESTEVAN
“GREAT VENUE, GREAT FOOD AND DRINK AND MORE NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES THAN EVER BEFORE!”
TERESA DIAS
PETERSON TRUCKS/PETERSON IDEALEASE
“INDOORS WAS THE WAY TO GO!! I HAD THE BEST TIME EVER! THE FOOD WAS GREAT AND THE ATMOSPHERE WAS WARM AND INVITING. I LOVED SEEING EVERYONE. UNITED CONTRACTORS THROW THE CRE’ME DE LA CRE’ME OF ALL CRAB FEEDS. THEY’RE SIMPLY THE BEST”
RENEE PEPPARS, WESTERN STATES OIL
Thank You to our Event Chairperson and our Fantastic Volunteers:
Event Chair
Will Murphy | Argent Materials
Kelly Attebery | F&M Bank
Teresa Dias | Peterson Trucks, Inc.
Trony Fuller | Argent Materials
Donita Granado | Graniterock
Dave Heier | Moss Adams LLP
Matt Hennagin | Moss Adams LLP
Isaac Johnston | Travelers
Matthew Lockie | McGowan
Keith Lovitt | The Hartford
Roger Mason | Sweeney Mason LLP
Donnie Mayjoffo | Andreini & Company
Erik Pierce | California Bank of Commerce
Ted Pumphrey | Pape Machinery
Russell Rigler | CLA
Keary Sullivan | F&M Bank
Brett vonKrakau | Dynamic Office & Accounting Solutions/Dynamic Technical Partners
Deb Wilson | Smith Currie Oles
Special Thank You to:
• Construct Your Image for their work on the sponsor signs and UCON swag
• 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
• Gold Bar Spirits
• Harvey’s Donuts
• Winslow & Associates
• UCON’s 2025 Annual Sponsors
“ONCE
AGAIN, GREAT TIME BY ALL! THANK YOU TO ALL THE UCON STAFF, EVENT SPONSORS, AND ATTENDEES FOR MAKING IT HAPPEN.”
JAMES TROUP, MONTEREY MECHANICAL CO
UP
By Ray Baca Director of Agency Relations
ATTEND UCON’S 4 TH ANNUAL PUBLIC WORKS SUMMIT
The highly anticipated 4th Annual United Contractors Public Works Summit is on May 1st, 2025, at the Anaheim Hilton (see opposite page). We are excited to announce that Caltrans Director Tony Tavares will be the Summit Keynote Speaker. The event will also feature speakers from multiple agencies, including, Caltrans, Los Angeles World Airports, LA Metro, Metropolitan Water District, Port of Los Angeles, Port of Long Beach, Orange County Transit Authority, Orange County Water District, San Diego Association of Governments, and more.
When it comes to public works infrastructure projects, regardless of the scale, industry leaders face many challenges along the way to completion. While the Public Works Summit will not solve all these issues,
“I have attended the UCON Public Works Summit for the last three years, and I learn different things every time I go. Public Works is an important part of the Southern California construction market, and all contractors can benefit from the information gained there. I would greatly recommend that all members plan to attend the 2025 Summit.”
Dave Sorem, Partner at Mike Bubalo Construction Company
it will offer the opportunity to connect with those who can offer clarity and insight into the challenges and help mitigate the effect on the industry.
Additionally, the 2025 UCON Public Works Summit offers attendees a chance to gain a clear view into the vast construction market potential of the SoCal region by getting an inside look at billions of dollars of projects coming down the pipeline and information on how to bid on and win these opportunities.
Spend time at the Summit building connections with those you work with, both directly and indirectly, including prime contractors, subcontractors, union leaders, agency leaders and managers, associated firms, United Contractors staff, and more. We hope to see you there!
PUBLIC WORKS SUMMIT
Connecting California Contractors and Public Works Agencies
MAY 1, 2025 | HILTON ANAHEIM, 777 W. CONVENTION WAY
7:00AM - 3:30PM - Breakfast and Lunch Provided
Early Bird Ticket (until Apr. 1) $150/ member ; $250/ non-member
Standard Ticket (until Apr. 25) $165/member; $265/non-member
• BUILD RELATIONSHIPS WITH AGENCIES
• ENGAGE WITH YOUR PEERS
• LEARN ABOUT INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES
SCAN QR CODE TO REGISTER | SPONSOR
SCAN TO REGISTER
THANK YOU TO UCON’S 2025 ANNUAL SPONSORS
people. principles. progress.
By Denise Ramirez, Online Services Manager, Scholarship Committee Liaison
UCON’S SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Empowering Future Leaders—Unlock Your Future with a United Contractors Scholarship
e are excited to announce that UCON’s Scholarship Awards Program is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 school year.
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 and trades.
• Applicants may also be students pursuing a major in civil engineering or construction management at a college located in California (UCON affiliation is not required).
• Students enrolled in heavy construction trade schools in California are also eligible (no UCON affiliation necessary). Minimum 3.0 GPA required.
• Please note: International students are not eligible for this scholarship. Past winners are not eligible to apply. Must graduate in 2025 or later.
To Apply: www.unitedcontractors.org/scholarship Deadline: Friday April 18
Award Amounts: The exact scholarship amounts have not been finalized, but they are expected to range from $3,000 to $10,000 per recipient. A number of scholarships will be distributed, with the committee having awarded over $60,000 annually to students in previous years.
For more details, visit www.unitedcontractors.org/ scholarship or contact Denise Ramirez at dramirez@ unitedcontractors.org.
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
PROTECTING OUR FUTURE
please join us for two special evenings to benefit the ucon pac
southern california: april 10, 2025 Thursday, 5:00 - 8:00pm
Location: Orange Hill Restaurant, Orange, CA
northern california: may 29, 2025 Thursday, 5:00 - 8:00pm
Location: Alamo, CA, home of Mark Breslin, UCON CEO
Support of 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 Aurora Prasad, aprasad@unitedcontractors.org.
By Nufar Sharon, Smith Currie Oles
MANAGING TARIFF RISKS IN CALIFORNIA CONSTRUCTION
The implementation of new tariffs on imported goods, including steel and aluminum, will have significant impacts on the construction industry and its supply chain. As global trade conditions change, businesses must adjust to higher costs, potential delays, and market instability. One of the most immediate implications of these tariffs is the rising price of essential raw materials, including steel, aluminum, lumber, and concrete. Contractors and developers will experience increased project costs, potentially leading to budget overruns, delays, and even the postponement or cancellation of projects due to financial constraints.
COST IMPACTS
One of the most direct effects of tariffs on the construction industry is the surge in material costs. For example, when tariffs are imposed on steel and aluminum, the prices of these vital materials rise, impacting not only raw material costs but also the prices of finished products such as beams, pipes, construction hardware, finishing hardware, and other structural elements. This, in turn, forces construction companies to contend with higher expenses, which can lead to inflated project budgets and increased costs for clients and consumers. Small and mid-sized construction firms may be affected disproportionately, as they have less financial flexibility to absorb sudden cost increases compared to larger companies.
SUPPLY CHAIN IMPACTS
In addition, tariffs can significantly impact supply chains in the construction industry by driving up material costs, disrupting sourcing strategies, and
causing project delays. Many essential construction materials, such as steel, aluminum, lumber, and concrete are frequently imported, and tariffs on these materials can inflate costs, straining project budgets. As a result, contractors and developers may be forced to seek alternative suppliers or shift to domestically produced materials, which can introduce higher costs or compatibility issues with existing designs. Additionally, tariffs can create supply chain disruptions by delaying the delivery of critical materials and equipment, ultimately slowing down construction schedules and increasing labor costs. Companies that depend on just-in-time (JIT) inventory management may face unpredictable lead times, necessitating the stockpiling of materials at increased storage costs. Furthermore, the regulatory complexities associated with tariffs add administrative burdens, requiring construction firms to navigate evolving trade policies, customs procedures, and compliance measures. In some instances, tariffs may lead companies to reconsider their sourcing strategies, potentially shifting the
production of prefabricated or modular components to domestic markets, altering cost structures within the industry. While tariffs can offer temporary protection for domestic manufacturers, they may also reduce competition, resulting in inflated material prices that impact affordability for contractors, developers, and consumers. The uncertainty surrounding tariffs can further disrupt long-term supplier relationships, leading to shortages and delays that extend project timelines and escalate costs. Unpredictable material availability may force companies to maintain larger inventories, tying up capital that could otherwise support other operational needs. Ultimately, tariffs introduce financial and logistical challenges that shape the efficiency, cost, and stability of supply chains in the construction industry.
PROJECT SCHEDULE AND FISCAL IMPACTS
The ripple effects of increased material costs and supply chain disruptions are felt intensely in project timelines and budgets. When material expenses rise, construction firms must either absorb the additional costs or pass them on to clients. Absorbing these expenses can squeeze profit margins and limit investment in new projects or workforce expansion. Conversely, passing the costs on to clients may make new construction projects less appealing, potentially reducing demand for buildings and infrastructure. Government-funded infrastructure projects may also be affected, as increased costs could lead to budget reallocations or project downsizing. In some cases, prolonged delays may trigger contract disputes between contractors, developers, and clients, leading to legal and financial complications.
MITIGATION STRATEGIES—EXISTING CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS
Construction companies can adopt several strategies to mitigate the impact of tariffs. Building strong relationships with suppliers and staying informed about potential trade policy changes are essential to help companies navigate the complexities of tariffs most effectively. Engaging with industry associations and policymakers to advocate for exemptions or trade relief measures may provide regulatory support.
Diversifying suppliers can reduce reliance on a single source of materials and provide alternative options when tariffs are imposed. Exploring alternative materials not subject to tariffs or those less affected by price fluctuations can also be beneficial. Companies will likely consider increasing investment in domestic production or manufacturing partnerships to reduce dependency on imported materials.
Another risk management strategy is for companies to use forward contracts to lock in material prices in advance, providing protection against sudden cost increases. Leveraging technology, such as advanced supply chain management software and predictive analytics, can further help firms anticipate disruptions and plan accordingly.
For cost increases that cannot be avoided, contractors will need to explore their statutory and contractual rights and negotiate with the client to absorb some or all cost increases.
MITIGATION STRATEGIES—FUTURE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS
Contractors should consider modifying their contracts to include price increases and supply chain disruptions as force majeure events entitling the contractor to additional compensation and contract time. Such review and modification is essential before entering into a contract.
CONCLUSION
While tariffs present significant challenges to supply chains and the construction industry, strategic planning and innovative solutions can help businesses minimize disruptions. By staying agile and proactive, firms can maintain project viability, sustain industry growth despite shifting trade policies, and continue delivering essential infrastructure and development projects that drive economic progress.
Nufar Sharon is an attorney with the San Francisco Bay Area office of Smith Currie Oles LLP. Bringing years of active involvement in the construction industry, Nufar Sharon advocates for contractors, subcontractors, owners, engineers, architects, and other professionals in a variety of complex litigation and contracts matters. Visit www. smithcurrie.com, a UCON member since 2016.
By Mike Donlon UCON Chief Safety Consultant
IMPORTANT CHANGES TO THE DIG SAFE ACT
Significant updates to California Government Code 4216, known as the Dig Safe Act, took effect January 1, 2025, impacting safe digging practices across the state. As a contractor, it is essential to understand how these revisions will affect your responsibilities. Here are some of the significant changes:
Operator’s “Response” Clarified
• The operator’s response to a ticket is clarified by referring to the duties listed in 4216.3(a)(1)(A):
• Unless the excavator and operator of the underground utility mutually agree to a later start date and time, or otherwise agree to the sequence and timeframe in which the operator will locate and field mark, an operator shall do one of the following before the legal excavation start date and time:
› Locate and field mark within the area delineated for excavation and, where multiple subsurface installations of the same type are known to exist together, mark the number of subsurface installations.
› To the extent and degree of accuracy that the information is available, provide information to an excavator where the operator’s active or inactive subsurface installations are located.
COUNSEL
Requirements for Starting Excavation
• The operator is required to provide a positive response before the legal start time.
• The legal start time is two working days, Monday through Friday 8am-5pm excluding holidays.
• The excavator must receive a positive response from the operator before starting the excavation. They cannot just wait 48 hours and start digging.
• An excavator may begin digging before the legal excavation start date and time if each operator on their ticket has fulfilled their obligations under 4216.3(a)(1)(A).
Continued on page 38
Apply for UCON’s Statewide R.E.A.L. Safety Awards, honoring the safest companies in our industry. All UCON contractor members are eligible to apply. Applications are available online through April 15, 2025: https://unitedcontractors.awardsplatform.com For more information, contact Ray Baca, Director of Agency Relations, rbaca@unitedcontractors.org, (657) 281-9720.
Photos above showcase several of UCON’s 2023 R.E.A.L. Safety Award Winners from left to right: Sierra Mountain Construction, Inc., Ghilotti Bros., Inc., Robert A. Bothman Construction, O. C. Jones & Sons, Inc. and Sully-Miller Contracting Company.
When Vacuum Excavation Is Not Allowed by the Operator
• If an operator disagrees with the use of vacuum equipment, they must say so through an Electronic Positive Response to the ticket.
Timeline for Additional Information
• An operator must now provide available, relevant information to the excavator within one working day when:
› the excavator has attempted to expose a marked facility with hand tools, approved power tools, or vacuum excavation and cannot find it, and
› the excavator contacts the operator and requests additional information to locate the facility.
Damage Protocols
• The excavator must immediately call 911 emergency services upon discovering or causing damage to one of the following:
› A gas or hazardous liquid pipeline subsurface installation in which the damage results in the escape of any flammable, toxic, or corrosive gas or liquid.
› A high priority subsurface installation of any kind.
› Note: In some cases, the operator of the high priority subsurface installation may not be required to call 911.
• An excavator should call 911 first, before notifying the operator or 811.
Local Agency Cost Recovery
• If local agencies choose to charge a fee to fulfill their obligations under 4216.3(a)(1), they should consider providing that service for free and must consider certain other factors.
• This fee may be added to the existing permit fees.
Approximate Location
• “Approximate location” is defined as a strip of land not more than 24 inches on either side of the exterior surface of the subsurface installation. It does not mean depth.
The full text of the Bill can be found here: Bill Text - SB-778 Excavations: subsurface installations.
For more information on excavation safety or any safety topic contact the UCON safety consultant, Mike Donlon, at (916) 834-1896 or mdonlon@mdsafetyservice.com.
Photos By Derek Hannah
MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES: MARCH
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 March:
43 YEARS – 1982
Associate Member: Aon Construction Services Group
Le Ronda Gaines
39 YEARS – 1986
Contractor Member: T.D.W. Construction, Inc.
Edmundo Alire, Jr.
32 YEARS – 1993
Associate Member: CNA Surety
Paul Kitchell
31 YEARS – 1994
Associate Member: Cresco Equipment Rentals
Chris Smith
27 YEARS – 1998
Associate Member:
D.P. Nicoli, Inc.
Michael Casas
26 YEARS – 1999
Contractor Member: Central Striping Service, Inc.
James Lesniewski
Associate Member: Harris Blade Rental
Sandy Thomson
23 YEARS – 2002
Contractor Member:
CMC Traffic Control
dba CMC Construction
Brandon Lovell
22 YEARS – 2003
Contractor Member: D.A. Wood Construction, Inc.
Dan Wood, Jr.
Associate Member: Heffernan Insurance Brokers
John Clark
Western Rentals/Scott Equipment
Richard Scott
20 YEARS – 2005
Contractor Member: Argonaut Constructors
Michael Smith, Jr.
Associate Member: Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
Thomas Kovacich
19 YEARS – 2006
Contractor Member: Cal State Constructors, Inc.
Don Cabianca
18 YEARS – 2007
Contractor Member: Tri-Valley Excavating
Mike Garcia
17 YEARS – 2008
Contractor Member:
Inner City Demolition, Inc.
James Campanella
16 YEARS – 2009
Contractor Member: D N B Infrastructure, Inc.
Andre Catellier, P.E.
14 YEARS – 2011
Associate Member: Construction Testing Services
Brenda Harris
13 YEARS – 2012
Contractor Member: Guy F. Atkinson Construction, LLC
Mark Padien
Mocon Corporation
Robert Morow
12 YEARS – 2013
Contractor Members: Roadway Construction, Inc.
Reza Yazdi
Associate Member: Downey Brand LLP
Sean Filippini
11 YEARS – 2014
Contractor Members: Goebel Construction, Inc. Greg Goebel Jr
Ransome Company Geoff Raaka
Associate Members: Rebel Equipment Enterprises
Robert Lee
Varela, Lee, Metz & Guarino, LLP
Andrew Van Ornum
10 YEARS – 2015
Associate Members: IMA Financial Group, Inc.
Dave Miller
SiTECH NorCal
David Larsson
9 YEARS – 2016
Contractor Members: Bridgeway Civil Constructors, Inc. Gabe Farncroft
Dees Burke Engineering Constructors, LLC Bryn Burke
Associate Members: Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. Mike Heffernan
8 YEARS – 2017
Contractor Members: Atlas Peak Construction
Danny McLean
Interstate Concrete Pumping Co., Inc.
Andrew Paulazzo
Landavazo Bros. Inc.
Ted Landavazo
Malcolm International LLC
Patrick Snyder
Marinship Development Interest LLC
Derek Smith
Photo courtesy of Dees Burke Engineering Constructors, LLC
Associate Members:
LogoBoss
Tim Smith
Peterson Trucks, Inc.
Teresa Dias
Snell & Wilmer LLP
Michael Baker
Turner Surety and Insurance Brokerage, Inc.
Nick Langer
7 YEAR – 2018
Contractor Members: Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc.
Andrew Bader
Bayview Demolition Services, Inc.
Rick Cleveland
Mission Constructors. Inc.
Isabelle Goncio
6 YEARS – 2019
Contractor Members:
Bertco Inc.
Bert Garcia
Kerex Engineering Inc.
Patrick Madden
Main Street Underground, LLC
Ron Bianchini
5 YEARS – 2020
Contractor Members: Brannon Corporation
Paul Brannon
J & M Concrete
Contractors
Dara Kargari
4 YEARS – 2021
Contractor Members:
BC Traffic Specialist (an Infrastripe Company)
Billy Miller
California Rebar Fabricators Incorporated
Michelle Jacobsen
FJ & I Engineering Inc.
Felipe Martinez
Monterey Mechanical Co.
James Troup
Stephen M Silva II
Incorporated dba DaSilva
Underground Construction
Madelyn Holmes
Sterndahl Enterprises, Inc.
Chip Sterndahl
West Concrete, LLC
Natalie Jelavich
Associate Members:
J&J Acoustics, Inc.
Rick Wood
3 YEARS – 2022
Contractor Members:
California Legacy
Well Services, LLC
Sean McNally
Golden State Construction & Utility, Inc.
Mark Doane
GreenCoast Landscapes Inc.
Juan D. Perez
Unified Field Services Corporation
Mike Beaumont
Associate Members: Enoven Truck Body + Equipment
Sam Enochian
Twining, Inc.
Mariel Attento Rhorer
2 YEARS – 2023
Contractor Members:
CS Marine Constructors, Inc.
Jeff Thompson
Castle Contracting LLC
Gavin Huber
Associate Members: NES, Inc.
Tammera McManama
Chessbake Engineering Group
Hugo Villanueva
HCSS
Christina Ter Poorten
1 YEAR – 2024
Contractor Members: J & M Land Restoration, Inc.
Pam Juette
Associate Members: Environmental Communication Strategies
Damian Breen
RDO Equipment Co.
Jesse Ochoa
Roots Supply & Services, Inc
Jake Perez
You told us you wanted more opportunities to connect across the state—join us at one or more UCONnect events and make 2025 the year of connection!.
• March 20 2025, Thursday | Anaheim
• April 24, 2025, Thursday | Sacramento
• May 8, 2025, Thursday | Stockton/Modesto
• June 11, 2025, Wednesday | Seal Beach
• July 10, 2025, Thursday | San Jose
• July 17, 2025, Thursday | San Diego
• July 31, 2025, Thursday | Ventura
• September 18, 2025, Thursday | Riverside
• October 15, 2025, Wednesday | North Bay Area
• October 30, 2025, Thursday | Pasadena
• December 10, 2025, Wednesday | Anaheim
Contact Lucia Mixon, lmixon@unitedcontractors.org
