Merit Shop The
April • 2021
Spokesman A Monthly Publication of ABC Keystone
Wake Up & Plan For Your Future
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Best of the Best: ABC Keystone’s ‘It Factor’
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Employee Development Matters ABC Keystone Has You Covered
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ABC Keystone Leadership 2021 Executive Committee: CHAIR of the BOARD – Cleo Weaver, Triangle Refrigeration Co. CHAIR-ELECT – Keith L. Eldredge, CPA, RKL LLP
1st VICE CHAIR – Steve Conway, Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.
2nd VICE CHAIR – John Lehmann, Poole Anderson Construction, LLC SECRETARY – Guy Kingree, Warfel Construction Company TREASURER – Timothy A. Kershner, CPA, Walz Group
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR – Roger S. Brubaker, Meadow Valley Electric, Inc.
2021 Board of Directors: Doug Detwiler, DeRock Electric Company Douglas M. Dvorchak, Murray Ed Engle, Smucker Company Brian Floyd, Gunn-Mowery, LLC Wayne Fuhrman, The Witmer Group Michael B. Funck, Wohlsen Construction Company Ken Funk, Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc. John H. Hykes II, B & B Integrations Steven Kearns, James Craft & Son, Inc. Michael D. Monaco, Mowery David H. Oblender, Engle-Hambright & Davies, Inc. Jon Sensenig, Speedwell Construction, Inc. James Stephens, CFSP, Clark Associates, Inc. Bethany Tesché, Houck Services, Inc. Jan L. Wagner, Kinsley Construction, Inc. Thomas O. Williams, Esq., Reager & Adler, P.C.
G. David Sload, President-CEO ABC Keystone | 135 Shellyland Road, Manheim, PA 17545 (717) 653-8106 | abckeystone.org The Merit Shop Spokesman is published 12 times a year by Associated Builders & Contractors, Keystone Chapter. Articles of interest, member news, press releases, and advertising placement requests may be submitted to the Editor/Designer: Kristi Pronovost Director of Marketing & Communications ABC Keystone kristi@abckeystone.org (717) 653-8106
Connect with ABC on Social Media! facebook.com/ABCKeystonePA LinkedIn.com/company/abckeystone @ABCKeystone @ABCKeystone
Merit Shop The
Spokesman Contents
2 Message from the Chair 3 Message from the President-CEO 5 Advocacy Update 7 Chapter Calendar 9 New Members & Anniversaries 11 Meet the Generals Photos 13 Member News 17 Young Professionals Spotlight 18 Young Professionals LeaderTrak 19 Career Development at ABC
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A Message from the Chair
Hey You, Wake Up!”
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magine waking up in bed, disorientated, wondering “What time is it?” The answer reverberates in your mind – “It’s 2021!” A bit confused, you rub your sleepy eyes and mumble, “So what?” Then, in clear authoritative tones, you hear, “What are you going to do with the rest of your life?” So many need a solid answer to that question! Everyone needs a career or a purpose to get up in the morning. In today’s fantasy world of TV, video games, 24-hour news, and Hollywood’s imaginary world, purpose seems like a dream. Drones, electric cars, computers, and many other things make reality seem far away! Well, let’s get back to reality, not ‘Reality TV’ (which is really far from reality). Let’s instead get hitched up to actual reality and chart our journey and our destination. I want to challenge all to write down your vision. Without vision, people will perish or, perhaps, float aimlessly downstream with the current. It takes a live fish with a vision to go upstream (even dead fish go downstream). I have known far too many people that realized much too late that they never charted nor realized a vision for their work life. All they ended up with was a job, not a career. That would be a sad awakening for anyone in their later years. How well I recall fond memories of working on a project all day and then taking the time to savor the joy of my day’s accomplishment, allowing a moment to say to myself, “that is nice work!” Even the Creator of our universe took stock at the end of each day and said, “It is good!” It is my hope that each manager, leader, and entrepreneur will find time and resources to develop the careers of our next generation. Speaking of resources, you are looking at one of the best! Career development starts early in life (as in a visit as a youth to the Hands-on-House, Children’s Museum of Lancaster) by discovering interests and natural abilities and later developing them through education into a truly satisfying career. As in any experience, be willing to evaluate honestly to see if the initial path you have chosen is bringing you energy or draining your
tank. Don’t be afraid to change course to find the satisfaction you need, recognizing that quitting is not an option, but change is. As your Chair, I would like to call out your “It factor” and encourage you to use this opportunity of changing political and economic climate to transform our industry for the better. Get and stay involved politically, and make it a point to communicate with your congressmen and congresswomen – they really need to hear from you! Remember, if they don’t hear from you, someone with not-so-great ideas will get their ear, and the outcome will not be good for our industry. So, stay involved politically and let your politicians know what “It” is that we need. We all just weathered a tough year together, and though ABC is stronger because of it, we can’t let up on our engagement and recruitment – you are needed! Thank you for being and staying involved, because we all know that an engaged member is a member who benefits highly from their investment. Keep promoting the value of ABC Membership! Likewise, a loud and enthusiastic shout out goes to our ABC Keystone staff and leadership! You are so tremendously effective in what you do. We could not do “It” without you!
Cleo Weaver 2021 Chair of the Board Triangle Refrigeration Co. cweaver@trianglerefrigeration.com (717) 656-2711 2
Hear from the President-CEO
Best of the Best W
henever I return from an ABC National event, I like to reflect on what I learned and how the Keystone Chapter compares with other chapters. This year’s National Convention was held March 9-10, in Grapevine, Texas. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, there was no National Craft Competition this year. Therefore, our team of five competitors did not get the opportunity to compete with their peers from around the country. We will be prepared in 2022 to compete with the “Best of the Best.” One annual event that did take place was the National Excellence in Construction© (EIC) Awards. Year after year, as I sit and watch the pictures of the winning projects up on the screen, I am both amazed and proud. I am amazed at the beauty and complexity of the projects and proud to be part of an association that truly builds America. ABC Keystone was well-represented this year, as is often the case. Wohlsen Construction Company took home two Excellence awards, and Keystruct Construction, LLC took home one Excellence award. ABC Keystone also saw Legacy Electric, LLC take home a Merit award. In addition, Wickersham Construction and Engineering, Inc. took home a Merit award in Safety. Not a bad night for Keystone Chapter members. Let’s not rest on our awards from this year. Let’s get ready for next year’s National EIC competition by getting your projects entered in the ABC Keystone Chapter competition. Applications are due June 4, with awards being handed out on November 3, at ABC Keystone’s EIC Awards Gala. If you need help or
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have questions, please reach out to Emily Winslow here at the Chapter office. Who will qualify to compete with the “Best of the Best” from around the country? When I am at a National event, I also get to spend time with my peers - other Chapter Presidents. We sit and talk about the good, the bad and the ugly. To say the least, this past year has been quite different. When I return to the home office and reflect, I realize how lucky I am to serve at ABC Keystone. We have an engaged membership and engaged Board members that help drive the Keystone Chapter to its success. ABC Keystone is definitely in the class of the “Best of the Best.” You, the members, have made it so and will continue to expect nothing less. Here’s to YOU, the members of ABC Keystone. You are the “Best.” G. David Sload President-CEO dave@abckeystone.org (717) 653-8106
Submission Timeline
Start Preparing Now for your 2021 Award Entries! ✓ Complete 2021 STEP Application - find the link on abckeystone.org. STEP membership is a scoring factor in ABC Chapter and National EIC©Awards. ✓ Complete an “Intent to Submit” form per project and return to emily@abckeystone.org. Due April 16, 2021
✓ Submit entries via Dropbox and finalize payment to ABC Keystone. Due June 4, 2021 ✓ Attend the 2021 EIC Awards Gala on November 3, 2021! Forms available online at abckeystone.org
Advocacy
By: David G. Greineder, IOM ABC Pennsylvania Director of Government Affairs
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n mid-March, the legislature returned from the budget hearing recess to begin the spring session. The government affairs team has been working with the legislature and promoting our public policy agenda, as approved by the ABC of Pennsylvania board of directors. The following updates are a few areas of focus on which the government affairs team is working: Journeyperson-to Apprentice Ratios (HB 536): ABC of Pennsylvania was invited to brief a small group of legislators appointed by the House Majority Leader to serve on an economic recovery subcommittee on workforce development. The task force is charged with reviewing legislative proposals that will improve workforce development. The meeting went well. Legislators asked good questions and asked us to provide supplemental information. There is a growing interest on moving this bill, and we will continue to tack onto the momentum. Staff is in the process of reaching out to partner organizations to gear them up for the big push, as we want the support list to be as large as possible. Construction Contract Indemnity (HB 424): ABC of Pennsylvania is working with stakeholders to advance legislation that would require construction contracting entities to be responsible for their own negligence. In other words, the legislation would prohibit indemnification clauses in construction contracts. This legislation would align with 41 other states that have similar laws and is being vetted with the new committee chairman. We will keep ABC members posted on any developments. Freshman Legislators: ABC of Pennsylvania chapters continue to meet with newly elected legislators. The calls are going well and have provided an opportunity for ABC members to introduce themselves and their companies to new legislators. Taxing Marcellus Shale: ABC of Pennsylvania continues to participate in calls with the Marcellus Shale coalition to oppose shale taxes. The calls have been productive, and all indications point to the issue not having enough support to pass the legislature, despite the governor’s call for an extraction tax.
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Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative: Akin to a shale tax, the governor is proposing a carbon tax program pursuant to his, unilaterally joining the multi-state Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. The proposed rules are going through a lengthy public comment period and review process. On behalf of our members, ABC of Pennsylvania submitted comments in opposition to the carbon tax program to the Department of Environmental Protection and the Independent Regulatory Review Commission. PRO Act: Turning to the federal level, the U.S. House passed the ABC-opposed “Protecting the Right to Organize” Act by a vote of 225-206. The bill advances to the U.S. Senate where ABC National is working to keep as many Senators as possible in the opposed column.
Mark Your Calendars! Virtual Advocacy Day: ABC of Pennsylvania staff will be hosting a virtual advocacy day on April 12, as the Capitol will still be closed at that time. A pre-event training session will be conducted to ensure ABC members are briefed on the policy issues and understand the logistics of the event. Please register at www.abcpa.org/events or by sending a quick email of your interest to austin@ abckeystone.org. Sponsorship opportunities are also available!
Assembly to unilaterally terminate or extend a disaster emergency declaration—and the powers of Commonwealth agencies to address the disaster regardless of its severity pursuant to that declaration— through passing a concurrent resolution by simple majority, thereby removing the existing check and balance of presenting a resolution to the Governor for approval or disapproval?
May Ballot Questions: Along with municipal elections and statewide judicial elections, voters will be asked a series of ballot questions pertaining to the governor’s emergency powers. The questions are meant to ask the voters if they approve of changes in the emergency declaration process, which currently allows the governor to declare an emergency for 90 days with an unlimited number of extensions.
Shall the Pennsylvania Constitution be amended to change existing law so that: a disaster emergency declaration will expire automatically after 21 days, regardless of the severity of the emergency, unless the General Assembly takes action to extend the disaster emergency; the Governor may not declare a new disaster emergency to respond to the dangers facing the Commonwealth unless the General Assembly passes a concurrent resolution; the General Assembly enacts new laws for disaster management?
Under the proposed constitutional amendments, if the governor declares an emergency, that declaration will expire in 21 days unless extended by the General Assembly. While the Department of State worded the questions in a slanted manner, the goal of the questions is to provide a more balanced approach to the emergency declaration process. The ballot questions are as follows:
ABC has been hard at work advancing our mission in Harrisburg. If you have any questions about legislation or ABC’s position on an issue, please contact David Greineder, IOM, at davidg@abcpa.org or Austin Cawley at austin@abckeystone.org.
Shall the Pennsylvania Constitution be amended to change existing law and increase the power of the General
If you are not signed-up to receive email alerts, please download the “ABC Action App” from the app store on your mobile device, or at abc.org/abcaction.
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Chapter Calendar - Register Today!
APRIL 4/6 - Competent Person for Supported Scaffold Training Starts 4/6 - SalesWorks! 4/7 - Microsoft® Office Training Excel® 2016: Basic Starts 4/8 - OSHA 30-Hour Construction 4/13 - Choose VIRTUAL or IN-PERSON: Building a High Trust Team Part of the Leadership Development Series 4/15 - Executive Leader Contractor Peer Group (CEO/Owners/Executive Leadership)
4/16 - Inaugural Gala for Cleo Weaver
4/20 - VIRTUAL: Prevailing Wage & Davis Bacon No-cost Workshop Presented by Beneco - Free to Attend! 4/21 - VIRTUAL: Executive Leader Contractor Peer Group (CEO/Owners/Executive Leadership) 4/21 - Choose VIRTUAL or IN-PERSON: Employment Laws, Compliance, and Minimizing Risk Part of the Human Resources Management Academy 4/21 - Microsoft® Office Training Excel® 2016: Intermediate I 4/22 - Adult AED, CPR & Basic Medic First Aid
4/28 - VIRTUAL: ABC Keystone Spring Construction Wake-up Call Topic: Workforce Development at ABC
We Can Customize Training for You!
We Strive to Meet Your Unique Training Needs - Contact Us Today! 7
(717) 653-8106 | Barbara Holtzapple (Career Development) & Kevin Keith (Safety)
abckeystone.org
Discover Events, Education & Training at ABC! Register Online: abckeystone.org
MAY
5/4 - Electrical Safety – Protection Requirements from OSHA & NFPA 70E 5/5 - Delegating for Results – Part of the Professional Development Series 5/5 - Microsoft® Office Training Excel® 2016: Intermediate II Starts 5/5 - Basic Blueprint Reading 5/6 - Adult AED, CPR & Basic Medic First Aid Starts 5/6 - Productive Conflict: Communication, Conflict Resolution & Negotiation Skills Starts 5/10 - Dynamic Crew Leadership 5/11 - Choose VIRTUAL or IN-PERSON: Understanding Financials for Non-Accountants Part of the Leadership Development Series 5/12 - ABC Human Resources Contractor Peer Group
5/13 - ABC Keystone’s Axes & Brews Spring Mixer Presented by Barley Snyder
Starts 5/18 - ASHE Health Care Construction Workshop 5/18 - Virtual Safety Forum: HAZCOM and How to Put Together a Program 5/19 - Choose VIRTUAL or IN-PERSON: Job Descriptions, HR Recordkeeping and Reporting Part of the Human Resources Management Academy 5/19 - Microsoft® Office Training Excel® 2016: Advanced 5/20 - ASHE Certified Health Care Constructor (CHC) Exam Preparation
5/20 - ABC Keystone’s Apprenticeship Graduation & Craft Professionals of the Year Awards Starts 5/24 - OSHA 10-Hour Construction 5/25 - Virtual Training: Submitting Certified Payroll – A No-cost Seminar Presented by Beneco 5/26 - Suicide in Construction: Building Awareness
Starts 5/26 - ABC Keystone’s Construction Wars – A Middle School Hands-on Career Exploration Event Coronavirus (COVID-19) Safety Update:
Your health and safety are our number one priority. Total registration numbers may need to be limited to observe safety requirements, and early registration is encouraged. Thank you in advance for your patience and cooperation.
Save the Date! 6/8 ABC Keystone’s Golf Outing Presented by United Rentals
8/3 ABC Keystone’s Summer Outdoor Mixer Presented by Saxton & Stump Lawyers and Consultants 8
Welcome to ABC's Newest Members! Thank you for your support of the merit shop mission!
Alternate Construction Concepts Kyle Frees, Project Manager 201 Carter Drive, Suite 4 West Chester, PA 19382 ph. (484) 887-0390 kylef@alternateconstructionconcepts.com Sponsor: Guy Kingree, Warfel Construction Company Burgard Todd Burgard, Owner 854 Chestnut Street Columbia, PA 17512 ph. (717) 684-5896 todd@burgardagency.com Dewberry Engineers, Inc. Jonathan Holmes, P.E., Senior Project Manager 100 Sterling Parkway, Suite 201 Mechanicsburg, PA 17050-2903 ph. (717) 240-0344 jdholmes@dewberry.com Sponsor: John H. Hykes, II, B&B Integrations
Energy Transfer Solutions, LLC Shawn Doherty, VP of Operations 1220 Ward Avenue, Suite 300 West Chester, PA 19380 ph. (610) 444-0333 shawnd@etshvac.com SACA/Tec Centro Carlos Graupera, CEO 453 South Lime Street, Suite A Lancaster, PA 17602 ph. (717) 203-8532 cgraupera@sacapa.org Sponsor: David W. Stover, Protech Mechanical Contractors, Inc.
Sahd Metal Recycling Dan Sahd, Co-Owner 1045 Lancaster Avenue Columbia, PA 17512 ph. (717) 684-8506 dan@recycleyourmetal.com Sponsor: Roger S. Brubaker, Meadow Valley Electric, Inc. Vernon Bitzer Associates, Inc. Nick Irons, Outside Sales 980 Thomas Drive Warminster, PA 18974 ph. (215) 443-7500 nirons@vernonbitzer.com Sponsor: James P. Craft, James Craft & Son, Inc.
"When I’m in need of products and services, I always go to ABC members first." - John H. Hykes II, B&B Integrations
View a searchable membership directory at abckeystone.org Download the mobile app at the App Store or Google Play!
Happy Anniversary!
Thank you for your continued support of the merit shop!
Join us in congratulating these members celebrating milestone anniversaries in April 2021:
60 Years:
McCoy Brothers, Inc.
25 Years:
Wenrich Painting, Inc.
Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation
15 Years:
1 Year:
Delda Excavation & Demolition, Inc. Sheet Metal Specialists, LLC
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5 Years: Retro Environmental, Inc.
Reading Bucket Service, LLC
ABC Keystone’s Construction Wake-up Call Wednesday, April 28, 2021 Virtual Networking Event! 8:00 am - 9:15 am Spring 2021 Topic: Workforce Development at ABC Keystone: Filling the Pipeline Discover how ABC is building tomorrow’s workforce & meeting member needs! Speaker: Stephanie Larkin, VP of Education, Safety & Workforce Development, ABC Keystone
No Cost to Attend! Register Online: abckeystone.org
Join ABC at the next event! abckeystone.org
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ABC Keystone’s
Meet the Generals
Thank you for attending!
Thank you to our Sponsors! Diamond Sponsor:
Sapphire Sponsor:
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#ABCMeritShopProud
ABC Keystone Member News Barley Snyder Attorney Kowalski Named to Foundation Board, Company Attorneys Elected to Lancaster Bar Posts, and Partner Tomevi to Helm Legal Publication
The Lancaster Law Foundation has named Barley Snyder attorney Amanda Jabour Kowalski to its board of directors. The foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Lancaster Bar Association. Kowalski’s board position was transitioned to her from Barley Snyder attorney, Sarah Yocum Rider, who served on the board for many years. Two Barley Snyder attorneys have been elected to leadership positions on the Lancaster Bar Association Board of Directors – including the president position. Partner David Freedman, who spent 2020 as the president-elect of the bar association, stepped into the role of president for 2021. The association’s board also installed Barley Snyder attorney Luke Weber as Treasurer. Weber spent 2020 on the board as the chair of the Lancaster Bar Association Young Lawyers Section. Barley Snyder is also pleased to announce that the York Legal Record has named partner Justin A. Tomevi the chair of its publication board. The York Legal Record is the publication of the York County Bar Association (YCBA). Tomevi was previously the board vice chair and has been on the board since 2016.
Bench Dogs Hires New Business Development Managers
Bench Dogs Hires Scott Charney, Business Development Manager, to support its expanding needs and capacities. Charney has over 30 years of experience in relationshipbuilding, corporate expansion, and brand strategy, with extensive agency knowledge. In his role at Bench Dogs, Charney will focus on business development in the Central Pennsylvania region’s commercial sector. Bench Dogs also recently welcomed Phil Wright, Business Development Manager, to its expanding sales team. Wright holds a degree in Industrial Design from Columbus College of Art and Design. Wright’s focus at Bench Dogs will be on business development within the retail industry.
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Kinsley Construction, Inc. Delivering First of Three Renovation Projects for York County Libraries
After 42 years of operating out of a double-wide FEMA trailer, Kreutz Creek Library is getting a new home. Kinsley Construction, Inc. joined the York County Libraries for a virtual groundbreaking ceremony on March 16, to celebrate the start of their renovation project to relocate the library to an 8,800-square-foot building next to their current space. Currently serving 43,000 visitors annually, the library expects to double this number once it moves to its new location this summer.
Leo Kob Co., Inc. Announces New Hires
Ryan Eichelberger has joined the management team of Leo Kob in the role of Plumbing Project Manager/ Plumbing Designer. Ryan’s responsibilities include managing commercial plumbing projects, as well as providing plumbing systems design for design/build customers. Ryan also is responsible for developing design/build plumbing proposals, including drafting design plans. Sherri Hebda joins the management team in a newly developed position as Safety Director/Human Resource Manager. In this dual role, Sherri is responsible for the oversight of the company’s safety program, including the safety committee. Additionally, she oversees Human Resources, administering employee benefits, insurance, Workman’s Comp., etc. Her role also includes new employee recruitment and retention.
Mowery Hires Media Specialist in Business Development, Special Projects Group Administrator, and Special Project Group Project Manager Mowery is pleased to announce the addition of Rhashad Scales to the team as Media Specialist in business development. In his role, Scales will be responsible for photography, videography, video editing and social media. Additionally, Scales will assist with video editing and social
#ABCMeritShopProud media content creation. Nichole Kirby joins the team in her role as Special Projects Group Administrator. Mowery’s Special Projects Group focuses on smaller construction projects that do not require extensive design or oversight. The Special Projects Group can self-perform work in-house saving clients time and money other smaller companies may not be able to provide. Christopher Howells also joins the team in the Special Projects Group as Project Manager. In this position, Howells will be responsible for the administration and management of assigned projects ranging in scope from small repairs to renovations and expansions.
Providence Engineering Corp. Hires Vaughn Silar as Senior Consultant
With more than 30 years of experience in the AEC industry, Vaughn has earned a reputation for building successful businesses and delivering exceptional service to many clients throughout the United States. His commitment to the AEC industry, especially in Central PA, has garnered many longstanding relationships. In his role as Senior Consultant, Vaughn will work closely with the Leadership and Project Management teams at Providence. He will provide high-level strategy as well as guidance on dayto-day operations. Vaughn’s hiring comes as Providence continues to implement its strategic growth plan, while staying focused on client satisfaction and operational simplicity.
Saxton & Stump Lawyers and Consultants Adds Three Attorneys to Reinforce Business and Tax Law Services and Taps Business and Accounting Innovator Brett Tennis to Spearhead Strategic Growth Initiatives Kathy L. Pape, one of the region’s prominent business leaders and governmental affairs experts, has joined Saxton & Stump. She, along with recent hires Elaine A. Stanko and Richard S. Calabrese, expand the firm’s business and corporate and mergers and acquisitions team to more than 16 attorneys, many of whom are established leaders in the field. In addition, Brett H. Tennis, CPA has joined Saxton & Stump as Vice President of Strategic Alliances to help continue the growth of the firm’s affiliate companies and partners. He will also work alongside the business development team to collaborate with the firm’s attorneys to achieve the highest level of client service.
York Building Products Names New President
York Building Products announces the recent appointment of Dave Semple as President. Dave will lead York’s Aggregate and Masonry concerns and will also be responsible for the Safety and Procurement functions. He will ensure collaboration across all building products businesses.
RKL LLP Partner Wendy Lance Named Leader of Firm’s Tax Services Group
RKL LLP recently announced that Partner Wendy L. Lance, CPA, MST, has been named leader of the firm’s Tax Services Group. In her new role, Lance will develop strategy and manage growth of RKL’s tax workforce and capabilities. She succeeds in this role Tax Partner Robert M. Gratalo, CPA, MST, who stepped down from this leadership role after nearly three and a half years.
SEK CPAs & Advisors Wins 2021 Best of Accounting Award for Service Excellence
SEK, CPAs & Advisors announced today that the firm has won ClearlyRated’s 2021 Best of Accounting® Award. Award winners have proven to be industry leaders in service quality based entirely on ratings from their clients. SEK, CPAs & Advisors received satisfaction scores of 9 or 10 out of 10 from 93% of their clients, significantly higher than the accounting industry average of 43% in 2020. The firm received a Net Promoter® Score of 91.5%, more than 3.9 times the accounting industry average of 23% in 2020.
For inclusion in future issues of the Merit Shop Spokesman, please send your press releases to: kristi@abckeystone.org 14
ABC Keystone’s Inaugural Gala for Cleo Weaver Friday, April 16, 2021
Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square 6:30 pm: Cocktail Reception 7:15 pm: Dinner & Program
• Networking mixer followed by four-course dinner & program • Celebration of the 2021 Board of Directors • Roast of the 2021 Chair of the Board! • Hear from Steve Klessig, 2021 ABC National Chair
Limited Seating Register Early!
abckeystone.org
Prepare
Teams Now for Future Work Changes
By: Sarah Skidmore Construction Executive Magazine Contributor
2020 demonstrated that work evolves, whether we
want to shift or not. Certainty, internal factors—job location, facilities requirement, production standards and more—impact how organizations work, but external factors—public health crises, government regulations and customer requests—have a tremendous impact on how we work. For the past year, businesses in all industries, including construction, were forced to pivot to survive. Teams experienced a shift from office-only to remote-first work environments when possible. Social distancing, air purification, ventilation systems and other safety measures physically impact how we work. The shift to remote work due to the pandemic accelerated the virtual way we work together, which continues to snowball at an unprecedented rate. Even amid these changes, the future of work continues to change. But, what about people, the human capital of any organization? Have business owners considered what emerging skills are critical for your organization’s human talent to continue thriving in the future? Have they considered ways to invest in upskilling or reskilling teams to be ready to excel?
Why is Leadership important to a business? People do not change, nor do organizations evolve overnight (and certainly not new information). Leader development and leadership skills development take time. Development requires an investment in energy and resources. The word investment is vital to the concept. Leader development and leadership skills impact employee loyalty and retention, as well as team culture and collaboration. Ultimately, leader development facilitates greater employee empowerment and engagement in a work context. Gallup research from It’s the Manager (2019) shows that engaged teams outperform disengaged teams by: • 70% fewer safety incidences; • 40% fewer defects (quality issues); and • 20% higher sales. Fewer safety incidences, fewer quality defects and higher sales are all critical to construction businesses.
A Glimpse into the Future of Work
Are teams ready for the future of work?
We only thought leadership skills were necessary in the past; the future will prove how invaluable leadership skills are to an organization’s talent.
Now, the question is, “Is your team ready for the future of work?” Too often, folks view professional development as an expense or cost. But business owners must consider what it may cost their organization to not invest in skills development? What opportunities may organizations miss if they do not invest in upskilling and reskilling team members? Further, business owners should shift their thinking of professional development from a cost to an investment: an investment in the organization’s ability to survive and even thrive in the future work context.
The World Economic Forum released The Future of Jobs (2020) report. The authors share essential insights in the report, including the continued pace of technology adoption, automated systems and workforces, and considerable skills gaps between the current workforce and the workforce needed in the next five years. When business owners reflect on their organization, are they ready? Leadership skills are essential for organizations to thrive in the new normal. And, leadership is at the heart of the emerging skills for team members. Prominent emerging skills for workers in the future involve: • leadership and social influence; • complex problem-solving; • analytical thinking and innovation; and • resilience, stress tolerance and flexibility.
Are you ready to partner with a Leadership Doctor? Depending on the organization or context, there are various ways an external vendor may facilitate its team’s growth. Based on client needs, these vendors can create a custom strategy involving learning opportunities such as virtual courses, online training, in-person training, mentorship and even project-based development work. The future is not waiting—start a conversation to develop your organization’s human capital today. Reprinted from Construction Executive, March 2021, a publication of Associated Builders and Contractors. Copyright 2021. All rights reserved.
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Young Professionals
Spotlight
Meet Brian!
As a Young Professional, how has your involvement with ABC Keystone helped you? As a transitioning military member coming back home, ABC has provided me with an extensive network to get involved with local young professionals. ABC has been a great source of networking events and connections to local businesses. I am looking forward to continuing my participation and growing with ABC Keystone and the community in Central PA.
What is your favorite quote? Although a bit longer than your typical quote, the “Man in the Arena” speech from Theodore Roosevelt is one of the most inspirational. It is a great reminder that effort matters and to be careful of your critique of those who are getting things done. I think it also very appropriate for ABC Keystone given the nature of the tough work in which the members are involved.
What words of advice do you have for your fellow YPs?
Brian Tribbitt Financial Advisor Stonebridge Financial Group
ABC Keystone YP Committee Member brian.tribbitt@stonebridgefg.com
Put your yourself out there. Try new things. Make yourself uncomfortable. Without pushing your limits, you will never truly understand what you are made of and what you can accomplish.
Share your suggested reads for YPs:
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If you want some true insights of how we, as humans, make decisions and the unconscious bias we have, read Think Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman. This is a fascinating look at how our brains work to process information.
Securities offered through Triad Advisors, LLC, Member FINRA/ SIPC. Advisory services offered through Triad Hybrid Solutions, LLC, a registered investment advisor. Stonebridge Financial Group, LLC and Triad Advisors, LLC are not affiliated. ABC Keystone is not affiliated with Triad Advisors, LLC.
ABC Young Professionals on ‘Trak’ for Success By: Barbara Holtzapple ABC Keystone Director of Education
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n 2019, the ABC Keystone Young Professionals (YPs) Committee implemented a new program, titled LeaderTrak, to recognize their peers who exemplify the group’s mission: “We will develop the next generation of future leaders through: (1) educating YPs on the overall operations and offerings of ABC, (2) integrating YPs into other areas of ABC that align with their skills/interests, and (3) positioning committed YPs in places of increased responsibility and growing influence within ABC.”
presenting on soft skills, leadership-building exercises or providing “day in the life of” talks to help broaden understanding of industry roles for everyone. Inviting industry leaders to visit meetings and share their perspectives and advice for those wishing to rise to leadership in construction is also a vital way to earn points and enhance the group experience.
To graduate from LeaderTrak, participants must be nominated by a mentor, attend regular committee meetings, and earn points through leadership positions in the YP group. Points are awarded through volunteering with ABC initiatives, participating in educational opportunities, hosting or coordinating YP-specific networking events, writing articles to help educate others, providing mentorship to their peers and introducing young people to the construction industry. Group members are encouraged to share areas of expertise with their fellow YPs through
2019 LeaderTrak Class: • Benjamin Paulding, McKonly & Asbury • Elmer Zook, Quality Buildings, LLC
An inaugural pair of YPs achieved LeaderTrak status in 2019, followed by a larger class in 2020:
2020 LeaderTrak Class: • Eric Garner, Tradesmen International • Lucas Henry, Aerotek, Inc. • Brad Lefever, Wohlsen Construction Company • Brittanie Lewis, Wohlsen Construction Company • Tim Myers, Wohlsen Construction Company • Samantha Nocheck, Clark Associates, Inc. • Cassie Skonieczny, Clark Associates, Inc. The Young Professionals Committee is a great place to start a volunteer journey in ABC Keystone. It is recommended for those in the first few years in the construction industry or those new to ABC. The group meets the first Thursday of the month at 7:30 am, with “Meetings + Mixers” held at member offices quarterly from 3-5 pm. Contact Barbara Holtzapple at the chapter office for more information on the YPs and the LeaderTrak program.
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Employee Development Matters... By: Barbara Holtzapple ABC Keystone Director of Education
T
he construction industry is constantly evolving. To stay relevant, companies must continually be growing their talent. Making employee development a priority within your company culture ensures your team stays wellinformed on industry trends, recent developments, and best practices. Offering professional development boosts employee engagement, lowers turnover and attracts the top talent you want as part of your growing team. ABC Keystone offers continuing learning opportunities to help nurture your staff and provides a path for their development as industry leaders. Some of ABC’s many offerings include the Leadership Development Series, Franklin Covey offerings such as 7 Habits of Highly Successful People©, Superintendent Training Program, Dynamic Crew Leadership, Microsoft© skills like Excel©, PowerPoint© and Project©, our industryspecific HR Management Academy, Blueprint Reading, SalesWorks, Productive Conflict and the highly successful Professional Development Series which uses role playing activities to hone new interpersonal skills on the spot. New courses in development for the fall include Estimating, Leadership 2.0, Covey’s Speed of Trust©, and Comprehensive Leadership Through DiSC. We also offer Peer Groups for Human Resources and Executive Leaders in our contracting firms. Because people learn differently, and our members are spread out, we have begun hybrid classes that offer in-person as well as virtual attendance. Leadership Development and the HR Management Academy already offer this option. The Executive Leader Peer Group is starting two groups in April:
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In-Person meets the 3rd Thursday quarterly (4/15) and Virtual meets the 3rd Wednesday (4/21). Customized options are also available for most of our training content. Get your team on the same page by training them together at your office, on your schedule. The Education Committee is dedicated to providing new options and developing relevant, vibrant programming for all of our members. In doing so, this team, led by Kevin VanPelt of Walz Group, has added promoting strong mental health to its docket. They have scheduled an industry-wide free webinar “Preventing Suicide in Construction” for May 26, with ABC National VP of Safety & Workforce Development and leading advocate, Greg Sizemore. Enhanced resources for front-line supervisors, sensitivity/ diversity training and dealing with the possibility of legalized recreational marijuana are among other goals for this year. If you have suggestions for the Education Department or would like to join the committee, reach out to Barbara Holtzapple at barbara@abckeystone.org. ABC Keystone’s Education Committee meets the first Tuesday of the month from 7:30-8:30 am. New members and fresh ideas are welcome!
...Develop Your Team! Gain practical skills you can begin to implement immediately! ABC Keystone Education & Training: • Helping companies develop their workforce • Delivering value and substance
• Combining classroom knowledge, real world information, and hands-on instruction • Safety certification to help companies keep employees safe
Take advantage of these opportunities and many more: • Peer Groups for Executive Leaders and HR Pros • Human Resources Academy/Sales
• ASHE HCC, CHC Exam Prep and CEC classes • Leadership Development/Team Building • Interpersonal Skills Development • Excel and PowerPoint
• Estimating and Lean Construction
• Basic and Advanced Blueprint Reading • Superintendent Training Program
• OSHA/Safety Compliance Education
• Trade Specific Skills, Safety and Knowledge • Legal Issues/Project Management
• Crew Leadership for Effective Teams • ...and many more!
Call us for first class education & training solutions!
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Barbara Holtzapple Director of Education barbara@abckeystone.org
(717) 653-8106
Kevin Keith Director of Safety Services kevin@abckeystone.org
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For more information: cindyd@abckeystone.org
ABC Keystone’s Professional Development Series Instructor: David L. Wauls, CCE, Samaritan Business Consulting 8:00 - 11:00 am each session
Developing Interpersonal Skills for Success! Sign up for the entire series at a discount or opt-in to individual sessions!
Seven engaging, interactive sessions provide the specialized knowledge, skills and experience necessary to effectively thrive in today’s marketplace. Develop into a professional with the agility to adapt in all circumstances positively for the best possible outcomes.
May 5, 2021 – Delegating for Results June 2, 2021 – Accountability for Results July 7, 2021 – Managing Change August 4, 2021 – Time Management September 1, 2021 – Conflict Management October 6, 2021 – Quality Customer Service November 3, 2021 – Positive Assertiveness
Choosing technology can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. ABC’s Tech Marketplace brings together a group of technology providers, selected by the Tech and Innovation Committee, ready to partner with ABC members to help them integrate construction technology and innovation into all aspects of their strategic initiatives. Every solution also has an exclusive discount for ABC members.
Contact a Tech Marketplace provider today! abc.org/techmarketplace. Questions email techmarketplace@abc.org
135 Shellyland Road Manheim, PA 17545
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Connect with ABC Keystone on Social Media! • Get the latest info on education and training • Discover networking opportunities • Stay informed on legislative updates • Follow the apprenticeship happenings • See members in action Visit abckeystone.org for more! #ABCKeystone
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