United Contractors Magazine March/April 2026

Building Beyond Tomorrow M A R C H / A P R I L 2 0 2 6 I S S U E / V O L U M E 2 3 1

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TODAY’S CONSTRUCTION LEADERS ARE EMBRACING INNOVATION WHILE STRENGTHENING WHAT MATTERS MOST. ..the construction industry is not about to be replaced by AI...

YOU CANNOT AUTOMATE JUDGMENT, EXPERIENCE, AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE FIELD. Alan Guy, Anvil Builders UCON 2026 President

UP FRONT AI in Construction: Don’t Panic. Get Practical. p.6

FACES Legacy Luncheon p.14 DIG Awards p.34

NEXT UP UCON’s 5th Annual Public Works Summit p.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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IN THIS ISSUE

MARCH/APRIL 2026 VOLUME 231 2026 UNITED CONTRACTORS BOARD OFFICERS President................................................ Alan Guy, Anvil Builders VP/President-Elect........... Greg Goebel, Jr., Goebel Construction, Inc. Secretary/Treasurer.........Michael Gates, DeSilva Gates Construction, LLC Secretary/Treasurer-Elect...............Sean Castillo, Toro Enterprises, Inc. Past President................. Kurt Eddy, Pavement Recycling Systems, Inc. Associate Director....................................... Elizabeth Torrez, Tenna Associate Director-Elect........................... Matt Hennagin, Baker Tilly

UNITED CONTRACTORS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

6 UP FRONT

AI in Construction: Don’t Panic. Get Practical.

by Alan Guy | Anvil Builders | UCON 2026 President

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LABOR • •

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

• •

Successful LCPtracker Training Team Member Spotlight: Liz Castro, Labor Contracts Manager Upcoming Webinars: Labor Essentials UCON’s CRL

by UCON Labor & Member Services

UCON LEADERS | UNITED CONTRACTORS COMMITTEE CHAIRS

ASSOCIATES: ELIZABETH TORREZ (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR), TENNA | MATT HENNAGIN (ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR-ELECT), BAKER TILLY | CALTRANS: MICHAEL GHILOTTI (CHAIR), GHILOTTI BROS., INC. | LEGISLATIVE: ROB LAYNE, (CHAIR), O.C. JONES & SONS, INC. | POLITICAL ACTION (PAC): GEORGE FURNANZ (CHAIR), STACY WITBECK; STEVE CONCANNON (VICE-CHAIR) PAVEMENT RECYCLING SYSTEMS, INC. | SAFETY & INSURANCE: KEITH OXFORD, (CHAIR), MONTEREY MECHANICAL COMPANY | SF CITY CONTRACTOR LIAISON: MIKE GHILOTTI (CHAIR), GHILOTTI BROS., INC., MIGUEL GALARZA (CHAIR), YERBA BUENA ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION, INC. | SCHOLARSHIP: KARISSA FOX, (CO-CHAIR), AMERICAN CIVIL CONSTRUCTORS WEST COAST LLC; SCOTT SALANDI, (CO-CHAIR) ALKEME INSURANCE SERVICES, INC. | REGIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL: MICHAEL PRLICH (CHAIR), MIKE PRLICH & SONS, INC.; GARRETT FRANCIS (CHAIR), PAVEMENT RECYCLING SYSTEMS, INC.

UNITED CONTRACTORS STAFF

EMILY COHEN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER; CLAY O’NEAL, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER; MELISSA GUTWALD, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER; VICTOR SELLA, VICE PRESIDENT OF CONTRACTOR ENGAGEMENT; DEREK BORGHI, DIRECTOR OF LABOR RELATIONS; GUS FLORES, DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS; RAY BACA, DIRECTOR OF AGENCY RELATIONS; ANGELICA GOUIG, DIRECTOR OF MEMBER EXPERIENCE; DENISE RAMIREZ, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS; RUBY VARNADORE, SENIOR LABOR CONTRACTS MANAGER; LIZ CASTRO, LABOR CONTRACTS MANAGER LUCIA MIXON, SENIOR MEMBER RELATIONS MANAGER; TERESA OSSO, LABOR RELATIONS MANAGER; SANDRA KAYA, ADMINISTRATIVE SPECIALIST TO LABOR & MEMBER SERVICES; EMMY MCCONNELL, ACCOUNTING MANAGER; MICHELLE HANNIGAN, BOOKKEEPER; GABRIELLE GONZALEZ, OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA; CHRISTINE TRAINA, EVENTS MANAGER; RACHEL ORAA, EVENTS COORDINATOR; LUKE HARDY, EVENTS COORDINATOR; MICHELLE VEJBY, MARKETING MANAGER; EDDIE BERNACCHI, UCON CHIEF LOBBYIST; MIKE DONLON, CHIEF SAFETY CONSULTANT; DREW DELANEY, MIKE BUCKANTZ, REGULATORY CONSULTANTS; DAMIAN BREEN, REGULATORY CONSULTANT United Contractors Magazine (ISSN: 2166-3777) is published bimonthly, 6x 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. © 2026 Published in the U.S.A.

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FACES UCON’s Legacy Luncheon - Installation of the Board of Directors

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AI IN CONSTRUCTION - FEATURE

34

FACES 2026 DIG Awards: Honoring Mladen Buntich Jr., of Mladen Buntich Construction Co., Inc.

more inside 30 44 50 52 56 60

NEXT UP - UCON Professional Development NEXT UP - UCON Events NEXT UP - UCON Public Works Summit FACES - UCONnect - Manteca MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES LAST CALL - Is it Real? Or is it AI?

Cover Image Created with DALL•E

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

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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By Alan Guy Anvil Builders UCON 2026 President

AI IN CONSTRUCTION:

DON’T PANIC. GET PRACTICAL.

O

ne of the three priorities I set for myself during my time as UCON President was to better understand artificial intelligence—not from a headline perspective, but from a practical, contractor’s point of view.

About six months ago, I had a moment of panic. For the first time in my career, I felt like we might be significantly behind in technology.

Everyone was talking about AI. Every company seemed to have a solution. And unlike most things in construction, you couldn’t just search “best AI tools” and get a clear answer, because every search engine now has its own AI layered into it.

So, I did what most of us do. I turned to my network. What I found was something that felt very familiar— not unlike the dot-com era. There are startups everywhere, each claiming to be “changing the game,” offering solutions for everything from estimating to project management to field operations.

My first realization.

We didn’t even speak the language.

Terms like “AI agents” versus “agentic AI” were being thrown around constantly. For those unfamiliar, AI agents are specialized tools that perform specific tasks, while agentic AI is positioned as a broader system that can reason, plan, and

Whether we like it or not, people inside our organizations are already using tools like ChatGPT, Grok, and others to help with emails, documents, and problem-solving.

In some cases, they are uploading sensitive company information without realizing the implications.

A friend of mine who has worked for several successful software companies told me he had finally landed at “the one.” That gave me coordinate multiple tasks, essentially some confidence, and our team acting as an AI “project manager.” leaned in and started evaluating what was actually out there.

It sounds impressive.

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But when we started applying it to real construction workflows, things got more grounded. One of the first use cases we explored was simple: taking handwritten field reports, scanning them, and converting them into structured data. Some of our teams still rely on paper for time and production tracking—and that’s the reality of our industry.

The technology worked—about 98% accuracy. But here’s the interesting part: it was priced just below what it would cost us to have a person do it. That’s when it clicked.

We’ve had versions of this technology for years—OCR, PDF converters, data extraction tools.

The difference now is that AI is packaging and marketing it in a new way, often built on top of the same large models from a handful of major tech companies.

Shortly after our evaluation, that startup was acquired for a significant sum. So yeah, he did land at ‘the one’!

That tells you everything you need to know about where this market is headed: there are a lot of companies, there will be consolidation, and many of them won’t make it.

Getting everyone’s attention.

Talking with peers across the industry, the consensus is the same: • Everyone is trying to figure it out.

• At the same time, one of the biggest concerns I hear isn’t capability—it’s data security.

Whether we like it or not, people inside our organizations are already using tools like ChatGPT, Grok, and others to help with emails, documents, and problem-solving. In some cases, they are uploading sensitive company information without realizing the implications.

That should get everyone’s attention.

Without clear policies and controlled systems, that data can become exposed in ways most companies are not prepared for.

Many organizations are beginning to standardize around tools like Microsoft Copilot because they offer more controlled environments. Regardless of the platform, every company should be thinking seriously about governance, training, and internal guidelines.

Where we are today.

So where does that leave us? In my view, the construction industry is not about to be replaced by AI. In fact, most studies continue to show that our workforce is among the least likely to be fully displaced. This is a physical, complex, risk-driven business. You cannot automate judgment, experience, and accountability in the field.

But parts of what we do will absolutely evolve.

Office functions—estimating support, compliance, Continued on next page MARCH/APRIL 2026

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documentation, reporting—are already being impacted. As owners continue to increase administrative requirements, AI will likely play a role in helping manage that burden.

In the field, we will continue to see gradual advancements like autonomous equipment, better data capture, and improved coordination, but not an overnight transformation.

Don’t Panic.

So what should we do? Don’t panic. Don’t chase every new tool. Start small. Test real use cases, and understand what actually creates value in your organization.

And most importantly, share what you learn.

One of the strengths of UCON has always been collaboration among competitors for the betterment of the industry. This is no different.

As part of that effort, I would like to see UCON form a working group focused on AI—evaluating tools, sharing experiences, and providing practical guidance to our membership. If this is something you are interested in participating in, I encourage you to get involved.

Technology will continue to evolve.

There will be noise.

There will be hype.

There will be real opportunity.

But at the end of the day, this industry will still be built by people.

The companies that succeed won’t be the ones that adopt AI the fastest.

They’ll be the ones that apply it thoughtfully, protect their businesses, and continue to support the people doing the work in the field.

That hasn’t changed.

And it won’t.

Alan Guy, Anvil Builders UCON 2026 President

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In my view, the construction industry is not about to be replaced by AI. In fact, most studies continue to show that our workforce is among the least likely to be fully displaced. This is a physical, complex, risk-driven business.

You cannot automate judgment, experience, and accountability in the field.

But parts of what we do will absolutely evolve.

Building the Foundation of Tomorrow, Today We build the complex, end-to-end infrastructure that keeps our communities connected.

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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Member-Only LCPtracker Training

Make LCPtracker Work for You Certified payroll doesn’t have to slow you down.

UCON’s exclusive partnership with LCPtracker brings hands-on training to help contractors simplify compliance and improve efficiency.

UCON’s partnership with LCPtracker is designed to help contractors turn compliance into a smoother, more manageable process. Our latest training, only available to UCON members, focused on real-world use of the Contractor/Subcontractor module—taught by UCON’s Liz Castro and LCPtracker.

What attendees walked away with: • • •

Faster, more efficient payroll reporting Fewer compliance risks and errors Greater confidence managing public works requirements

This is just the beginning. More LCPtracker trainings are being added based on member demand—ensuring our members’ teams have the compliance support they need, from HR to payroll, and everything in between.

Interested in the next session?

Contact LaborTeam@unitedcontractors.org

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Simplify the Complex LABOR ESSENTIALS WEBINARS UCON’s Labor Essentials webinar series focuses on helping your team better understand and manage union agreements with confidence.

Built for operations, project teams, estimators, and HR professionals, each session delivers practical insights you can use right away.

UCON LABOR TEAM SPOTLIGHT

LIZ CASTRO

LABOR CONTRACTS MANAGER YEARS IN INDUSTRY : 25 YEARS DOING UNION PAYROLL : 18 YEARS DOING CERTIFIED PAYROLL & PUBLIC WORKS COMPLIANCE : 10 FUN FACT : My hobby is quilting, and my

latest project is a t-shirt quilt.

Why attend: • • •

“United Contractors was a lifeline for me when I was a member and had an urgent payroll issue on payroll day.

I truly enjoy providing the same exceptional service to members. Plus, I understand the work they do from an inside perspective, and I can help train people on compliance and provide tips and guidance from my own experience.”

UNITEDCONTRACTORS.ORG/CALENDAR

Stay ahead of union requirements Reduce risk and uncertainty Strengthen your team’s expertise

Mastering Prevailing Wage CPRs to 3rd Party Compliance May 12, 2026 | 12:00PM - 1:00PM Mastering Meal & Rest Periods May 26, 2026 | 12:00PM - 1:00PM Grievance Procedures and Dispute Resolution June 18, 2026 | 12:00PM - 1:00PM CBA Subcontracting Rules August 4, 2026 | 12:00PM - 1:00PM Need a customized training for your organization? Contact Victor Sella, VP of Contractor Engagement, for a personalized training to fit your team’s unique needs.

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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Contributed by UCON’s Labor and Member Services Team

UCON’S CONTRACTOR RESOURCES LIBRARY – EXPERTISE 24/7

over 25,000 downloads annually

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.

Available on UCON’s website, the CRL contains items crafted by UCON to fit the unique needs of union contractors.

Need A Quick Tutorial?

Log-in credentials are required, which any member’s employees can create on UNITEDCONTRACTORS.ORG/ EMPLOYEE-REGISTRATION. Contact LaborTeam@unitedcontractors.org with any issues or for a quick website tutorial.

TOP DOWNLOADS These are our top downloaded items this year!

Make sure your staff knows that these are all easily available to them on our website. From the home page, click on the Union Agreements & Rates link to access all UCON agreements and rate sheets.

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• • • • • •

Wage & Fringe Benefit Rate Sheets Master Labor Agreements Union Payroll Reference Guides Trucking Prevailing Wages Reference Chart Labor & HR Bulletins Subcontract Agreements, including One-Job and Trucking

DON’T MISS THESE VALUABLE RESOURCES IN UCON’S CRL UCON’s Labor Team highlights some valuable items that members may be missing: • Apprenticeship Basics for Public Works – Step-by-step compliance guidance, forms, and apprenticeship program contacts.

• Skilled & Trained Workforce Guide – Overview, Q&A, craft program details, and a sample reporting form.

• Subcontracting Requirements & Procedures – Union subcontracting rules, best practices, and agreement highlights.

• Trust Fund Audit Action Response Kit – Guidelines, checklists, letter templates, and best practices for audits.

“The Contractor Resources Library is my

go-to whenever I have a doubt or question. It’s also helped me learn more about union regulations since the company’s transition to union. The prerecorded webinars are also amazing!!”

Fatima Melendez Torres R&R Pacific Construction

• Travel Time Pay and Subsistence Overview – Summary of pay and expense rules for work travel.

• Movement of Workers Guide – Procedures for transferring workers between Northern and Southern California.

• Union Substance Abuse Policy Administration Charts (N. CA and S. CA) – Quick reference charts of key components in union policies.

Questions? Contact: LaborTeam@unitedcontractors.org

Building.

Trust.

Tradition.

Since 1887.

www.teichert.com MARCH/APRIL 2026

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INSTALLATION OF THE 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

UCON LEGACY LUNCHEON HONORS LEADERSHIP AND WELCOMES NEW BOARD United Contractors celebrated members and industry leaders at its recent Legacy Luncheon on March 13 at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel. This meaningful gathering honored the organization’s past while formally ushering in its next chapter of leadership.

served as the Installation Officer, paying a heartfelt tribute to UCON’s 2026 Board President, Alan Guy of Anvil Builders. Alan brings with him a deep understanding of the industry and a shared dedication to advancing UCON’s mission.

A highlight of the event was the installation of UCON’s 2026 Board of Directors, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to strong, member driven leadership. Ann Hauer of Anvil Builders and longtime friend of Alan Guy

Rooted in the belief that every contractor deserves a seat at the table, UCON continues to build on decades of leadership and member engagement.

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Congratulations to the 2026 Board of Directors!

Emily Cohen, UCON CEO speaking at the luncheon; Alan Guy being sworn in as UCON 2026 President by Ann Hauer, Anvil Builders, before addressing the attendees.

2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS: OFFICERS

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

BOARD MEMBERS

Bill Boyd, Sully-Miller Contracting Company Bryn Burke, Dees Burke Engineering Constructors, LLC Katie Condon, Condon-Johnson & Associates, Inc. Lisa de Freitas Sundberg, Platinum Pipeline, Inc. Dermot Fallon, Bulk Exchange Brent Fogg, Granite Construction Company Thiel Harryman, Underground Construction Co., Inc. Matt Hennagin, Baker Tilly, Associate Director-Elect Matt Lovingier, JMH Engineering and Construction, Inc. Daniel Rodriguez, Bay Cities Paving & Grading, Inc. Special thank you to our outgoing 2025 board members Juan C. Arrequin, Bay Line Cutting & Coring, Inc. Tom Barr, Ghilotti Bros., Inc. Kevin Hester, McGuire and Hester Kevin Reimers, Gallagher Rita Vigil-Ferguson, G & F Concrete Cutting, Inc.

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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THANK YOU SPONSORS PRESIDENTIAL SPONSORS

CHAMPAGNE SPONSOR

SIGNATURE DRINK SPONSOR

DESSERT SPONSOR

COCKTAIL NAPKIN SPONSOR

DIRECTOR SPONSOR

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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UCON 2025 AWARDEES UCON PRESIDENTS CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE

The Presidents stand apart as those who take on the broadest responsibility for their peers in this organization and across the industry. Their time and commitment and talent are put to work for the many.

Kevin Hester, McGuire and Hester UCON 2024 President

Diplomatic. Dedicated. A true ambassador and a good listener, with a keen eye for detail. Kevin helped navigate UCON through dynamic growth, as we surpassed 500 contractor members under his Presidential year. He embodies the commitment of UCON’s mission, and our values: every member counts, every voice matters, and unity is the kay to our success.

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

Kurt was the last President to serve under Mark Breslin, UCON CEO of 41 years, and that came with quite a bit of responsibility and possibly some pressure. But with Kurt, you wouldn’t know it. As President, Kurt was a man of few words—No fluff. Just action. Kurt taught us the importance of the phrase “founders mentality,” as you grow and scale and evolve, to hold on to the founders mentality that is your core reason for existing. True leadership lessons is one impact that Kurt leaves the UCON Board of Directors.

UCON ASSOCIATES CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE Kevin Reimers, Gallagher

The UCON Board recognizes and awards our Associates’ remarkable contributions to our overall success. Our Associate members’ ideas, energy, talent, and commitment make them a vital part of UCON. Kevin served as Associate Director with energy and thoughtfulness, helping to steward incredibly successful events throughout his term in 2025.

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UCON LEADERSHIP AWARDS

Selected by the membership and presented at the 2026 Legacy Luncheon, these members reprsent some of the most dedicated, talented and committed individuals across UCON and the industry.”

UCON “UNSUNG HERO” AWARDS

This prestigious accolade is given to UCON’s Volunteer of the Year. The “Unsung Hero” Award celebrates the individual(s) whose commitment, positivity, and behind-the-scenes contributions have made a significant and lasting difference.

Teresa Dias, Peterson Trucks, Inc. UCON Unsung Hero

Teresa is the perfect example of impact and relationship building. From her time on the UCON Board as 2023 Associate Director, to her tireless dedication at every UCON event, Teresa’s purpose is helping people and it shows.

She spent her 40+ year career in this industry and is a true trailblazer for all women.

Michael Landucci, Gallagher UCON Unsung Hero

Genuine, kind and thoughtful, Mike cares about people. He has been actively involved with UCON, served as our Associate Director in 2017, served on UCON’s Scholarship Committee for over a decade, and is always willing to step up to serve and support however he can. He regularly volunteers at UCON events, and is a true Associate Ambassador of UCON.

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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INDUSTRY AI:

IT’S NOT NEW— WE’RE JUST FINALLY PAYING ATTENTION Contributed by Cory Fisk, Construction Management Online

I

f you’ve been in construction long enough, you’ve already been using AI. You just didn’t call it that.

When you built schedules in advanced software, when your estimating systems suggested production rates, when clash detection flagged conflicts in models before anyone stepped on site—that was early-stage artificial intelligence working behind the scenes. It didn’t come in like a loud jackhammer. It came in quietly, like a seasoned superintendent who doesn’t say much but keeps the job moving.

I

What’s changed today isn’t the existence of AI. What’s changed is our awareness of it—and more importantly, our ability to interact with it directly.

Now instead of AI being buried inside software, it’s sitting across the table from you. You can ask it questions, challenge it, refine it, and use it to think through problems before they hit the field. That’s a shift. And like every shift in construction, you’ve got two options: adapt and lead, or resist and fall behind.

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This isn’t about replacing people. It’s about upgrading how we think, communicate, and make decisions. It is understanding how to leverage tools to create efficiency in competitive markets.

The companies that figure this out early are going to run tighter projects with less friction.

The Top Generative AI Platforms Through a Construction Manager’s Lens There are a number of tools that are driving this shift.

We are going to stay focused on just a few, get good at them, understand them, and create a strong foundation that will help us evaluate all of the innovation that comes at us in the future.

BRYN BURKE Dees Burke Engineering HINT: Try to look at this, not from a tech perspective— Constructors, LLC but from a construction professional’s perspective.

Member Since 2016 Where do these tools fit on your job?

When to use it: When you’re reviewing specifications or contracts, this tool helps you identify risks, gaps, and unclear language before they turn into disputes.

Perplexity AI • Like: a research analyst.

• Good for: yy Researching - shows you where those answers come from When to use it: When you’re dealing with code requirements, safety standards, or verifying technical information, this is the tool that helps you avoid guessing.

IN CONSTRUCTION, GUESSING GETS EXPENSIVE. VERIFICATION PROTECTS YOU. ChatGPT • Like: a project manager.

• Good for: yy Draft RFIs yy Write Reports yy Review Scope; Review Issues When to use it: When you need to organize your thoughts or create something from scratch, this is where you go.

Claude

Gemini • Like: your document control manager.

• Good for: yy Helping to summarize information, organize data, and keep communication flowing: working inside your emails, spreadsheets and documents When to use it: When you need efficiency—it’s not flashy, but efficient, and keeps projects from getting bogged down in paperwork.

Microsoft Copilot • Like: an office superintendent.

• A favorite of many organizations because of its security protections.

• Good for: yy Helping you build estimates, analyze data, and streamline communication—Copilot lives inside Excel, Word, and Teams Why use it: It’s not about thinking deeply—it’s about executing faster and cleaner.

Each of these tools can have a role in your daily work tasks.

The mistake people make is trying to use one tool for everything with the expectation that it will provide the same information it would if you used the tools it is best suited for.

The common link? All of these tools require a human. One that is not just asking a question and then copy and pasting.

These tools need to have a human who is using their time saved by checking, evaluating, and modifying their work to ensure it is correct and represents their voice.

See the following pages for a quick reference guide for each tool.

Continued on next page

• Like: a contract administrator.

• Good for: yy Reading long, complex documents and translating into plain language.

THE COMMON LINK? ALL OF THESE TOOLS REQUIRE A HUMAN. ONE THAT IS NOT JUST ASKING A QUESTION...

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AI TOOLS:

Simple Ways to Think About Them: ChatGPT → The creative generalist (best overall balance) Claude → The careful analyst (best for deep thinking + accuracy) Perplexity → The AI Google replacement (best for research + sources) Gemini → The Google-powered assistant (best if you live in Gmail/Drive) Copilot → The Microsoft work assistant (best for Excel, Word, coding)

Quick Recommendations (Real-World): Marketing / communications (your world) → ChatGPT Policy, legal, or labor analysis → Claude Researching contractors, agencies, data → Perplexity If your team lives in Google Workspace → Gemini If your team lives in Microsoft (Excel, Teams) → Copilot

Bridging the Gap: Integrating Generative AI with Construction Software I believe this is a perfect opportunity for companies to elevate their presence by being the first to integrate an Innovation Specialist to their team to coordinate and collaborate construction innovation.

Generative AI and construction software are often treated as separate tools. One lives in your browser. The other lives in your project systems. But the real value comes when you connect them.

Think of it like this. The construction software is your data source. The generative AI is your interpreter.

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One tells you what is happening. The other helps you understand what it means and what to do next.

In the office, this looks like using generative AI to interpret data. Instead of staring at dashboards and trying to make sense of trends, you can ask AI to summarize key risks, identify patterns, and suggest actions. That reduces decision fatigue and speeds up response time.

In the field, integration is more about communication and clarity. A superintendent can use generative AI to draft reports, document issues, and communicate with the team, while tools provide the visual and data-driven backing. One captures the story. The other provides the evidence.

Continued on page 24

UCON MAGAZINE Member Resource Guide

AI Tools Comparison Guide UCON MAGAZINE

Which AI assistant is right for you?

Spring 2026 Edition

Member Resource Guide

THE COMMON LINK? ALL OF THESE TOOLS Which AI assistant is right for you?

REQUIREhow A HUMAN. ONE ISguide NOTtoJUST AI Tools Comparison Guide Spring leading 2026 Edition AI assistants are transforming professionals work.THAT Use this quickly compare today's ASKING A QUESTION... tools and find the right fit — whether for drafting communications, researching, or streamlining daily tasks.

Feature ChatGPT Claude Perplexity Gemini Copilot AI assistants are transforming how professionals work. Use this guide to quickly compare today's leading Creator OpenAI Anthropic Perplexity AI researching, Google or streamlining Microsoft tools and find the right fit — whether for drafting communications, daily tasks.

DeepMind Feature Free Tier Creator Paid Plan /mo Tier Free Best For Paid Plan /mo Key For Best Strengths Key Limitations Strengths Real-Time Limitations Web Image Generation Real-Time Web File / Doc Upload Image

Generation Privacy & File / Doc Data Upload Ideal UCON Privacy & Use Data

Yes ChatGPT — GPT-4o mini OpenAI

Claude Yes — Claude Sonnet Anthropic

YesPerplexity — limited/day Perplexity AI

$20 Plus / $25 Team Yes — GPT-4o

$20 Pro / $25 Team Yes — Claude

$20 Pro

mini Everyday tasks, coding, $20 Pluswriting / $25

Team Plugin Everyday tasks, ecosystem, coding, writing DALL·E, voice mode Plugin Can hallucinate; ecosystem, API costs add DALL·E, voice up mode Yes — ChatGPT Can hallucinate; Search (Plus) API costs add up Yes — DALL·E 3 (Plus) Yes — ChatGPT Search (Plus) Yes — PDF, images, data 3 Yes — DALL·E (Plus) Opt-out; Yes — PDF, enterprise images, data options

Writing, Opt-out; brainstorming, enterprise FAQs options

Sonnet Long docs, analysis, $20 Pro / $25 reasoning Team

Yes — limited/day Research with citedPro sources $20

Gemini Yes — Gemini Flash Google

Copilot Yes — Edge & M365 Microsoft

Flash Google Workspace, $19.99 Advanced multimodal

M365 Microsoft 365 / Office users $30 M365

DeepMind $19.99 Advanced $30 M365 Personal Yes — Gemini Yes — Edge &

Personal Word/Excel/Outl Microsoft 365 / ook, enterprise Office users security

200K context, Long docs, precise, low analysis, hallucination reasoning

Always current, Research with cites sources cited sources

Google Google integration, text Workspace, /image/video multimodal

200K context, No real-time precise, low web on free tier hallucination

Always current, Weaker for cites sources creative/coding tasks

Google Tied to Google integration, text account; varies /image/video

Word/Excel/Outl Needs M365 for ook, enterprise full features security

Yes — web No real-time search tool web on free tier No — not built-in Yes — web

Yes — core Weaker for feature creative/coding tasks No — not built-in Yes — core

Yes — Gemini Tied to Google 1.5+ account; varies Yes — Imagen 3 (Advanced) Yes — Gemini

Yes — via Bing Needs M365 for full features Yes — DALL·E / Designer Yes — via Bing

search tool Yes — PDF, docs, images No — not

built-in No training Yes — PDF, on Pro plan docs, images Reports, policy, No training on communication Pro plan s

feature Limited file support No — not

built-in Query history; Limited file opt-out avail. support Event research, Query history; industryavail. news opt-out

1.5+ Yes — docs, images, video 3 Yes — Imagen (Advanced) Linked to Yes — docs, Google images,account video Data analysis, Linked to presentations Google account

Yes — deep M365 Yes — DALL·E / integration Designer HIPAA & GDPR Yes — deep options M365 avail. integration Board docs, HIPAA & GDPR budgets,avail. options Outlook

Notes: Pricing and features currentReview as of early 2026 and subject to change.

Freejob tiers may Estimates have dailyin usage Suggested Draft bids, RFIs, Research Analyze cost limits.

Use for client emails & contracts, building codes, data & build Excel, Outlook UCON safety checklists summarize labor laws & permit emails & Word Contractors specs & project material costs presentations submittals documents Notes: Pricing and features current as of early 2026 and subject to change. Free tiers may have daily usage limits.

UCON Magazine · Member Resource · Spring 2026

unitedcontractors.org

(Comparison table made with Claude) UCON Magazine · Member Resource · Spring 2026

unitedcontractors.org

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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TOP AI TOOLS FOR CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGEMENT

By Galen Law TheDigitalProjectManager.com On complex projects, where information is coming from every direction—drawings, specs, schedules, field reports—this combination becomes powerful.

It creates alignment between the office and the field, between planning and execution, and between data and decision-making.

Leading the Shift AI is not the solution to everything. But it is a tool that, when used correctly, can elevate how we manage work.

The opportunity in front of us is not just to use AI, but to lead with it. To create systems that reduce chaos, improve communication, and support better decisionmaking.

And it starts the same way every successful project starts.

With a plan.

Not just a plan for the project—but a plan for how your tools, your technology, and your team are going to work together to deliver it. And you can start today.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about the software you buy.

It’s about the system you build.

Construction Management Online is a construction education and knowledge platform dedicated to supporting the full lifecycle of learning in the industry. It bridges the gap between field experience and management expertise by delivering practical, real-world training across estimating, scheduling, project management, leadership, and emerging technologies like AI. Focused on both technical skills and mindset development, it equips professionals at every level with the tools, systems, and strategies needed to grow, lead, and perform in a rapidly evolving construction environment.

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1. MONDAY.COM →

Best for: Customizable Dashboards Key Features: • Gantt chart view • Workload management • Automated workflow builder • Portfolio management

2. WRIKE →

Best for: Project Visibility Key Features: • Custom request forms • Resource bookings • AI agent builder • Wrike Document Editor

3. CMiC →

Best: with single database platform Key Features: • RFI and submittal management • Mobile field applications • Change order tracking • Resource scheduling

Learn more about how AI will impact the construction industry.

Join us at our 2026 Public Works Summit for our UCON Economic Forecast Report with California Economist Mark Schneipp.

REGISTER: UCONSUMMIT.ORG

SEE PG 47

5. ZOHO PROJECTS →

Best for: Multi-phase project tracking

4. SMARTSHEET →

Best for: Automating workflows Key Features: • Gantt chart view • Resource management • Dashboards and reporting • Proofing and annotation tools

Key Features: • Resource utilization chart • Time tracking and timesheets • Issue tracker • Document managmeent Interested in more information, including the pros and cons of the tools listed on this page?

Join their community, and connect to resources: www.thedigitalprojectmanager.com.

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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WHAT’S HOT IN CONSTRUCTION AI A Field-level “heat map” of where AI is gaining traction–and where it hasn’t fully arrived Contributed by Sue Dyer, Construction AI Lab, a Sudyco Initiative Artificial intelligence is rapidly entering the construction industry— but not evenly. While some areas are already seeing real results, others are still experimenting or waiting for the right tools. This field-driven “heat map” from Construction AI Lab cuts through the hype to show where AI is actually gaining traction today—from estimating and project management to emerging opportunities in field operations and the workforce—helping contractors understand where to focus now and what to watch next.

Construction AI Heat Map

Where AI is gaining traction in construction

HEAT LEVEL AREA MOMENTUM

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HOT

Estimating & Precon Project Management VDC / BIM

HIGH ROI / ACTIVE

WARM

Safety Field Documentation Scheduling

GROWING

EMERGING

Trade Workforce Quality Control Materials Tracking

HIGH POTENTIAL

COOL

Small Contractors Public Owners

SLOW ADOPTION

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HOT: Proven Use, Fast Growth These areas are already seeing strong ROI and real adoption: • • • •

Estimating & Preconstruction – AI-powered takeoffs, cost predictions, and bid tools are delivering immediate value.

Project Management – Automating RFIs, meeting notes, and document searches is reducing admin workload.

VDC / BIM – Advanced teams are using AI for clash detection and model analysis.

Executive Strategy – Leadership teams are investing in pilots and AI roadmaps.

WARM: Growing Interest Adoption is starting, but tools are still maturing: • • •

Safety – AI-assisted reporting and predictive insights show strong potential.

Field Documentation – Voice-to-log and automated reporting tools are emerging, but inconsistent.

Scheduling – Delay prediction is promising but not yet fully reliable.

EMERGING: High Potential Low adoption today, but major future impact: • • •

Trade Workforce – Multilingual AI and hands-free tools could transform field communication.

Quality Control – AI inspections are promising but challenged by inconsistent data.

Materials Tracking – Fragmented systems limit adoption—for now.

What This Means for the Field

The places running hottest—estimating, project management, VDC—have something in common: structured data, clear ROI, and engaged leadership.

The places with the most unrealized potential—field documentation, trade workforce, small subcontractors— share a different set of traits: high pain, low solution quality, and underserved users.

For anyone trying to figure out where to focus their AI efforts, the heat map offers a simple framework. Start where the ROI is proven and the tools are ready. But keep your eye on the warm and emerging zones—that’s where the most significant opportunities are still being defined.

Sue Dyer, suedyer@sudyco.com, is the founder of the Construction AI Lab, a sudyco® initiative, where she explores how AI can help construction professionals reduce friction, save time, and stay on top of their work.

Supporting Our Community for Over 30 Years We are a proud supporter of:

COOL: Slower Adoption Barriers—not lack of need—are holding these back: • •

Small Contractors – Limited resources and tool fit slow adoption.

Owners (Public Sector) – Procurement and risk constraints delay implementation.

The takeaway: AI in construction isn’t one trend—it’s many. Start where results are proven, but keep your eye on the field. That’s where the next wave of transformation will happen.

To learn more about community banking, visit your local branch and let one of our relationship managers help you with all your banking needs.

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AI for Processes, But Not for Member Connection Contributed by Michelle Vejby, UCON Marketing Manager

AI

is everywhere right now—on job sites, in boardrooms, and across our industry conversations. If you’ve read recent insights like the Construction AI heat map (on page 26), you know the biggest traction is happening where AI can reduce administrative load and improve efficiency—especially in project management and documentation.

That’s exactly how we’re approaching it at UCON. We use AI as a tool to streamline processes, but never to replace the relationships that define who we are.

Internally, AI helps us move faster and work smarter. We use tools like Microsoft Copilot to clean up emails, summarize information, and quickly locate documents in SharePoint.

It supports our team in capturing meeting notes, organizing schedules, and building templates that keep our communications consistent. AI 28

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tools give us a great starting point for generating ideas and helping get past the blank page so we can focus on delivering value.

More importantly, AI is helping us be more efficient across our day-to-day work—streamlining projects, meetings, and internal systems so we can spend less time on administrative tasks and more time focused on our mission: empowering, supporting, and advocating for our contractors.

and support our contractors more efficiently. It’s not making decisions for us, but it is helping us process complex information faster and with greater clarity.

At the same time, we are intentional about how we use these tools. We follow clear internal guidelines to protect confidential information and ensure responsible use. AI supports our work, but our standards for privacy, accuracy, and member trust remain unchanged.

I

And here’s the line we won’t cross: member connection.

This industry is built on relationships. Trust is earned through conversations, shared experiences, and showing up for one another. No tool—no matter how advanced—can replace that.

At UCON, AI helps us create more time for those interactions, not less.

Our Labor Relations team is also leveraging AI in a practical way by reviewing and comparing contracts to help identify key differences

So while we will continue to explore and adopt new technologies, our approach is simple: use AI to improve how we work, but never let it replace why we exist: to serve and connect our members.

We use AI as a tool to streamline processes— never to replace the relationships that define who we are.

UCON’s Marketing Manager, and Annual Sponsor Liaison, Michelle has been working with UCON for 25+ years. Meet her at an upcoming UCONnect event (p. 55); contact her at mvejby@ unitedcontractors.org, (925) 413-4038.

UP

By Angelica Gouig Director of Member Experience

Register: unitedcontractors.org/calendar You’ll find classes focused on Leadership, Safety, Compliance, HR, Construction Specific and more. Most classes are FREE to UCON members. For any questions regarding UCON’s programs, contact Angelica Gouig, Director of Member Experience, at agouig@unitedcontractors.org or (925) 362-7309.

Better PMs. Better Projects. Better Profits.

13 Weeks that Change Everything.

UCON’s Project Management Career Advancement (PMCA) Program IN PERSON 13-WEEKS, 1x PER WEEK

SAN RAMON__________ JULY 30 - OCTOBER 22 Thursdays | 2:00 - 5:00 PM ANAHEIM____________ AUGUST 26 - NOVEMBER 11 Wednesdays | 2:00 - 5:00 PM

PMCA Anaheim PMCA San Ramon

Great projects are led, not managed.

This program transforms PMs into leaders who take ownership of outcomes, teams, and the “...every leader and future of their company. manager should take this program.”

— PMCA Participant, 2025

Register: unitedcontractors.org/calendar 30

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UPCOMING WEBINARS Building Blocks for Financial Success Wednesday, May 6 | 12:00pm-1:00pm Instructor: Joseph D. Silla, Westpac Wealth Partners Helping you understand how each decision on your balance sheet and how it can Build or Drain your future wealth.

Communication Masterclass (Series) Thursdays, May 7-21 | 10:00am-1:00pm Session 1: May 7 Session 2: May 14 Session 3: May 21 Instructor: Eric Herdman, LLC Gain a deeper understanding of effective communication principles and strategies, allowing you to inspire and guide your team with empathy, clarity, and purpose.

PART OF UCON’S LABOR ESSENTIALS: Mastering Prevailing Wage CPRs to 3rd Party Compliance Tuesday, May 12 | 12:00pm-1:00pm Instructor: Victor Sella, United Contractors

Mastering Meal & Rest Periods Tuesday, May 26 | 12:00pm-1:00pm Instructors: Victor Sella, United Contractors

Grievance Procedures & Dispute Resolution Thursday, June 18 | 12:00pm-1:00pm Instructors: Victor Sella, and Derek Borghi, United Contractors CA Lic #569352

100% Employee Owned A PRS Holdings Company

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(800) 966-7774 www.pavementrecycling.com MARCH/APRIL 2026

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100% Employee Owned

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Westlake Village, Stockton, CA

Building Excellence in People and Projects

MASS GRADING CONCRETE STRUCTURES FLOOD CONTROL UNDERGROUND RENEWABLE ENERGY ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

WWW.SUKUT.COM

Your Partners In Safety Keeping Crews & Communities Safe for Over 35 Years • Traffic Control Services • Traffic Plans & Permits • Product Sales & Rentals • Towable Portable Restrooms • Temp No Parks & Door Hangers • MUTCD & DOT Compliant Signs

24/7 Service Line (866) 395-2287

cityrisesafety.com

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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37th Annual DIG Awards Celebrates Leadership and Industry Values United Contractors recently hosted the 37th Annual DIG Awards, one of California’s longest-standing traditions honoring leaders whose character and contributions strengthen the construction industry. Since 1988, the DIG Awards—representing Dignity, Integrity, and Generosity— have recognized individuals who embody the very best of construction.

The evening began with remarks from UCON CEO Emily Cohen and AGC CEO Peter Tateishi, setting the tone for a celebration of collaboration and shared purpose.

This year’s honoree, Mladen Buntich, was recognized through reflections from Jon Preciado of the Southern

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California District Council of Laborers, Lee Roesner of Mladen Buntich Construction Co., Inc. and Emily Cohen, CEO, United Contractors, who highlighted both his professional accomplishments and personal character..

A second-generation contractor and President of Mladen Buntich Construction Co., Inc., Mladen has helped grow the company into a leader in innovative construction while remaining deeply committed to family, community, industry advocacy and philanthropy—truly exemplifying the spirit of DIG.

Mladen receives an inspirational standing ovation.

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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2026 DIG Awardee Mladen Buntich, with the Buntich Construction Family

THANK YOU SPONSORS AFTER PARTY SPONSOR

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MARCH/APRIL 2026

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MARCH/APRIL 2026

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Thank you from our UCON Team!

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UP

unitedcontractors.org/calendar

UCON CALENDAR OF EVENTS UCONNECT - EAST BAY - PLEASANTON Thursday, May 14 – Beer Baron

PUBLIC WORKS SUMMIT

Thursday, May 28 – Anaheim Hilton, Anaheim

UCONNECT - SEAL BEACH: THE BEACH BASH! Thursday, June 11 – The Beach House, Seal Beach

THROWDOWN CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT Thursday, June 18 – Wente Vineyards, Livermore

SOUTHERN CA UCON PAC FUNDRAISER Thursday, July 9 – Nixon Library & Museum, Yorba Linda

UCONNECT - SANTA CLARA Thursday, Juy 23 – Puesto Santa Clara

UCONNECT - RIVERSIDE Thursday, July 30 – Dapper

ANNUAL BBQ & CHILI COOK-OFF

Thursday, August 6 – Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton

SAL RUBINO GOLF CLASSIC

Friday, September 11 – Bayonet & Black Horse, Seaside

UCONNECT - LAGUNA NIGUEL Thursday, September 17 – Mozambique

UCONNECT - FRESNO

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

UCON GOLF OPEN

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

UCONNECT - PETALUMA

Thursday, October 29 – Crooked Goat Brewing

UCONNECT - PASADENA

Wednesday, November 4 – Arroyo Chop House

GOVERNMENT ADVOCACY AUCTION

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

UCONNECT - ANAHEIM

Wednesday, December 16 – Puesto Anaheim 44

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

unitedcontractors.org/calendar

REGISTER!

UNITEDCONTRACTORS.ORG/CALENDAR

FOR EDUCATION

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

SCAN TO REGISTER/SPONSOR

THURSDAY

JUNE 18TH

1:30 pm - 6:30 pm UCON’s Scholarship Fundraiser

Wente Vineyards, Livermore - 5050 Arroyo Road Player Tickets - Limited tickets available!

Standard ticket: $230/member | $330/non-member Spectator - Come and network and cheer on your team!)

Standard ticket: $130/member | $230/non-member 45

W W W.U N I T E D C O N T R AC T O R S . O R G MARCH/APRIL 2026

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US & CANADA CONTRACTOR THE LEADING CELLULAR CONCRETE PROVIDER OF CHOICE IN NORTH AMERICA

Purple Line Extension, Los Angeles CA

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VISIT CELL-CRETE Contact us for a presentation (in person or virtually) to learn how cellular concrete can help you achieve your project goals.

WWW.CELL-CRETE.COM Phone: 800-660-8062 Email: info@cell-crete.com

(209) 399-2022

CN C&N REINFORCING, INC. BUILDING CALIFORNIA FROM THE INSIDE OUT

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SOIL STABILIZATION SOLUTIONS

Make the dirt work! www.griffinsoilgroup.com

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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Keynote Speaker: Emily Cohen, CEO, United Contractors

GROUNDBREAKING WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

Pr o d u ce d f o r

by

Your Career. Your Network. Your Next Move.

Premier leadership event for women in construction.

At Groundbreaking Women in Construction, you don’t just attend sessions. You build the skills, connections and confidence to lead at the next level.

You will gain: Powerful Networking

Connect with peers, mentors and decision-makers across every level of the industry.

Career-Advancing Insights

Learn practical leadership, communication and project strategies you can apply immediately.

A Stronger Professional Path

Walk away with tools to grow your role, expand your impact and support your team.

WHAT ATTENDEES SAY: Seeing women in leadership positions showing you what’s possible, helps women envision a continued future in the construction industry.

– Stephanie Germain, PCL Construction

Invest in your growth. Strengthen your network. Lead what’s next.

Register Now at GWICConf.com

Be part of the conversation shaping the future of construction.

JUNE 14-16, 2026 | TOWN AND COUNTRY RESORT, SAN DIEGO, CA 2026 SPONSORS Diamond

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UP

UCON’S 2026 PUBLIC WORKS SUMMIT REGISTER TODAY AT UCONSUMMIT.ORG WHERE CALIFORNIA’S CONTRACTORS, AGENCIES,

SCAN QR CODE TO ACCESS THE AGENDA AND LEARN MORE!

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AND INDUSTRY LEADERS COME TOGETHER. DON’T MISS IT! REGISTER AND SPONSOR AT UCONSUMMIT.ORG.

LEARN MORE AT UCONSUMMIT.ORG

THE #1 PUBLIC WORKS EVENT IN CALIFORNIA FOR CONTRACTORS.

AGENCIES ATTENDING AS OF PRINT MARCH/APRIL 2026

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UCONnect

CONNECTING THE CONTRACTOR COMMUNITY!

MARCH 19TH, MANTECA

THANK YOU TO OUR PRIMARY SPONSOR

AND OUR CO-SPONSORS 73

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SCAN FOR FULL CALENDAR

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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UCONNECT’S ARE FOR EVERYONE! Just walk in the door and we’ll take it from there.

UCONnect MARCH - MANTECA

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You told us you wanted more opportunities to connect across the state—join us at one or more of our free UCONnect happy hours! Contact Lucia Mixon, lmixon@unitedcontractors.org.

Register | Sponsor | Invite Your Peers

unitedcontractors.org/calendar

SCAN FOR FULL CALENDAR

Where We’re Headed Next: May 14, 2026, Thursday | Pleasanton June 11, 2026, Thursday | Seal Beach “Beach Bash” July 23, 2026, Thursday | Santa Clara July 30, 2026, Wednesday | Riverside September 17, 2026, Thursday | Laguna Niguel September 24, 2026, Thursday | Fresno October 29, 2026, Thursday | Petaluma November 4, 2026, Wednesday | Pasadena December 16, 2026, Wednesday | Anaheim

MARCH/APRIL 2026

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MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES: MARCH & APRIL

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 and April:

45 YEARS – 1981

Associate Member: Oldcastle Infrastructure Greg Bull

44 YEARS – 1982 Associate Member: Aon Construction & Infrastructure Nydira Robinson

40 YEARS – 1986

Contractor Member: T.D.W. Construction, Inc. Edmundo Alire, Jr.

36 YEARS – 1990

Associate Member: Volvo Construction Equipment & Services Cheyenne Clements

35 YEARS – 1991 Contractor Member: D’Arcy & Harty Construction, Inc. Mike D’Arcy

34 YEARS – 1992 Contractor Member: Conco-West, Inc. Mike DeRousse

33 YEARS – 1993

Contractor Members: Bauman Landscape and Construction, Inc. Mike Bauman Western Stabilization Ashley Jeffery Associate Member: CNA Surety Paul Kitchell

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Photo courtesy of Bauman Landscape and Construction, Inc.

32 YEARS – 1994

27 YEARS – 1999

21 YEARS – 2005

Associate Members: Cresco Equipment Rentals Chris Smith

Gordon N. Ball, Inc. Hal Stober

Associate Member: Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo Thomas Kovacich

Contractor Member: Nada Pacific Frank Lorenzen

Contractor Members: Central Striping Service, Inc. James Lesniewski

Org Metrics Rob Reaugh

Associate Member: Harris Blade Rental Sandy Thomson

31 YEARS – 1995

26 YEARS – 2000

Associate Members: Sweeney Mason LLP Joseph Sweeney, Esq.

Zurich North America Surety Samantha Mascarenhas

30 YEARS – 1996 Contractor Member: O’Grady Paving, Inc. Tom O’Grady

29 YEARS – 1997 Associate Members: Herc Rentals Inc. Mark Hobson

Vulcan Materials Co., Western Division Jeff Turner

28 YEARS – 1998

Associate Members: Corrpro Companies, Inc. Wes McKinney D.P. Nicoli, Inc. Michael Casas

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Contractor Members: Allen A. Waggoner Construction, Inc. Rocky Myers

Knife River Construction - Stockton Rod Getty

24 YEARS – 2002 Contractor Member: CMC Traffic Control Specialist, LLC dba CMC Construction Brandon Lovell

Associate Members: IAT Surety Edgar Esquivel Rain for Rent Kassidy Sears

23 YEARS – 2003 Contractor Member: D.A. Wood Construction, Inc. Dan Wood, Jr.

Associate Member: Heffernan Insurance Brokers John Clark

Contractor Member: Argonaut Constructors Michael Smith, Jr.

20 YEARS – 2006

Contractor Members: Cal State Constructors, Inc. Don Cabianca Mike Brown Electric Co. Tiffany Howe Associate Member: J.S. Cole Company Peter Almlie

19 YEARS – 2007 Contractor Members: Team Ghilotti, Inc. Kevin Ghilotti Tri-Valley Excavating Mike Garcia

18 YEARS – 2008

Contractor Member: Inner City Demolition, Inc. James Campanella Associate Members: California Bank of Commerce Chris Rudberg DHE Inc. Concrete Equipment Co. Scott Humphrey

Lockton Companies, LLC Emily Newell Rogers Joseph O’Donnell Joe McGowan

17 YEARS – 2009

Contractor Member: D N B Infrastructure, Inc. Andre Catellier, P.E.

15 YEARS – 2011

Associate Member: Construction Testing Services Brenda Harris

14 YEARS – 2012 Contractor Member: Guy F. Atkinson Construction, LLC Mark Padien

13 YEARS – 2013

Contractor Members: Bay Area Concretes, Inc. Jonathan Vasquez KDW Construction, LLC D.J. Woods Roadway Construction Inc. Reza Yazdi

10 YEARS – 2016

Contractor Members: Bridgeway Civil Constructors, Inc. Gabe Farncroft Dees Burke Engineering Constructors, LLC Bryn Burke Associate Members: Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. Dianne Fulgar

9 YEARS – 2017

Marinship Development Interest LLC Derek Smith

QLM, Inc. Darrell Qualls, Jr.

Associate Members: LogoBoss Tim Smith

Contractor Members: Kerex Engineering Inc. Patrick Madden

7 YEARS – 2019

Peterson Trucks, Inc. Karen Stumbaugh

Liffey Electric, Inc. Patrick (Paddy) White

Wheeler Accountants LLP Michael Gurr

Main Street Underground, LLC Ron Bianchini

8 YEARS – 2018

Contractor Members: APB General Engineering Alfred Lee

Sturgeon Electric California LLC Kevin Nelsen

Atlas Peak Construction Danny McLean

Bayview Demolition Services, Inc. Rick Cleveland

Teichert Utilities Tom Griffith

Interstate Concrete Pumping Co., Inc. Andrew Paulazzo

Bear Electrical Solutions, Inc. Andrew Bader

Krew Heavy Civil LLC Patrick Snyder

Mission Constructors. Inc. Dan Harry

Landavazo Bros. Inc. Ted Landavazo

Moreno Trenching, Ltd. Jon Moreno

Contractor Members: Alta Group, Inc. Glenele Obernich

Teichert Waterworks Tom Griffith Traffic Management, Inc. (TMI) Luis Porrello William A. Guthridge & Son, Inc. Richard Lee Guthridge

Associate Members: Downey Brand LLP Sean Filippini

12 YEARS – 2014

Contractor Members: Goebel Construction, Inc. Greg Goebel Jr Ransome Company Jake Schell Associate Members: Varela, Lee, Metz & Guarino, LLP Andrew Van Ornum

11 YEARS – 2015

Associate Members: IMA Financial Group, Inc. Dave Miller SiTECH NorCal David Larsson

MARCH/APRIL 2026

57

MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES: MARCH & APRIL (cont.)

Associate Member: DirtMarket LLC Rob Trujillo

GreenCoast Landscapes Inc. Juan D. Perez

6 YEARS – 2020

Park West Landscape, Inc. Sarah Gallagher

Contractor Members: Brannon Corporation Paul Brannon Daleo Inc. David Levisay J&M Concrete Contractors Dara Kargari

5 YEARS – 2021

Contractor Members: BC Traffic Specialist (an Infrastripe Company) Mike Martin California Rebar Fabricators Incorporated Michelle Jacobsen FJ & I Engineering Inc. Felipe Martinez Hodge Western Corp.

Alex Hodge Monterey Mechanical Co. James Troup West Concrete, LLC Natalie Jelavich Associate Members: J&J Acoustics, Inc. Rick Wood

Park West Rescom, Inc. Jim Tracy Associate Members: Enoven Truck Body + Equipment Sam Enochian Twining, Inc. Mariel Attento Rhorer

3 YEARS – 2023

Contractor Members: Castle Contracting LLC Gavin Huber CS Marine Constructors, Inc. Jeff Thompson Folsom Dam Constructors Wahid Tadros Ghilotti Bros and St. Francis Electric JV Mike Llamas GSB / Obayashi JV David Riccitiello

Photo courtesy of Taylor Jane Construction LP

2 YEARS – 2024

Contractor Members: Basset Engineering Inc Shane McCarthy Castillon Company Eric Castillon J & M Land Restoration, Inc. Pam Juette Moras’ Equipment & Construction Inc. David Mora Associate Members: Environmental Communication Strategies Damian Breen Novus Global Operations, LLC Cody Miller RDO Equipment Co. Jesse Ochoa Roots Supply & Services, Inc Jake Perez

1 YEAR – 2025

Northern Directional Drilling, Inc. Tommy Demus PAL General Engineering Inc. Abd Jahshan Phoenix Boring Construction LLC Thomas Egan R & R Pacific Construction Maria Melendez Spiniello Infrastructure West, Inc Abby Dela Cruz Taylor Jane Construction LP John Souza Union Pavement Services, Inc Doug Ford Associate Members: American Business Bank Kyle Maguire Avidbank Kevin Yasaitis

Santamaria Concrete Inc. Alexander Santamaria

Contractor Members: Advanced Utilities Michael Wegener

Vortex Marine Construction, Inc. Blaise Fettig

Kana Development Group, Inc. Daniel Locke

Contractor Members: California Legacy Well Services, LLC Sean McNally

Associate Members: Chessbake Engineering Group Hugo Villanueva

Lassen Pile Donnavan Kelley

Southern California Group Richard Lambros

Golden State Construction & Utility, Inc. Mark Doane

HCSS Christina Ter Poorten

Magellan Construction Inc. Sal Duran

USA North 811 Matt Dodd

SC Fuels Jasmine Guiao

4 YEARS – 2022

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

MARC Builders LLC dba MARC Engineering Antonio Ruiz

BITCO Insurance Anthony Headley ODRA Road Sweepers Alex Byczynski

WestPac Wealth Partners Joseph Silla

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ON QUALIFYING CAT® WORK TOOL ATTACHMENTS

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Contact your Peterson Cat rep or go to petersoncat.com/specials#attachments for more information. *Financing offer valid through December 31, 2026 and is subject to change without prior notice. Additional terms and conditions may apply. A $1,000 minimum purchase is required. Rental transactions do not count toward $1,000 minimum. Offer does not apply to purchases subject to invoice billing (customer should refer to their Cat Card agreement for invoice billing terms). Balance to be paid in equal monthly installments over selected term. Balance due in full at the end of term. If not paid in full at the end of the term, interest accrues on remaining outstanding balance in accordance with customer’s Cat Card agreement. Late payment charges apply. Financing is subject to credit approval by Caterpillar Financial Commercial Account Corporation. Not all customers will qualify. Special financing offers are subject to change without notice, and additional terms and conditions may apply. Cat Credits can be used on future purchases of parts, service, sales, work tools and rentals of Cat equipment at participating Cat dealers, The Cat Rental Store, parts.cat.com and Cat Central. Availability to use Cat Credits on parts.cat.com and Cat Central varies by Cat dealer.

P207_1225 © 2025 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, LET’S DO THE WORK, VISIONLINK, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Corporate Yellow,” the “Power Edge” and Cat “Modern Hex” trade dress as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.