Chair of the Board Steven Kearns James Craft & Son, Inc.
Chair-Elect Ed Engle Smucker Company
1st Vice Chair Jeff Witmer Pathway Business Advisors
2nd Vice Chair Robb Beiler Wohlsen Construction Company
Secretary Aimée Deraco Brubaker
Treasurer Timothy A. Kershner, CPA Walz Group
Immediate Past Chair Guy Kingree, III Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.
2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jeff Albright
Corbin Beittel Warfel Construction Company
Jeff Bright Offit Kurman
Stephanie Conway Keystruct Construction, A Viocity Company
Kevin Eshleman SLC Excavating, LLC
Michael L. Fiore Leonard S. Fiore, Inc.
Brian Floyd MPB Insurance & Risk Management
Ken Funk Arthur Funk & Sons, Inc.
John H. Hykes, II B&B Integrations
Anthony Leer Leer Electric, Inc.
Michael Metz-Topodas Saul Ewing LLP
Patrick Snyder Peoples Security Bank & Trust
Lee L. Summers, Jr. C Mechanical Services
Kevin VanPelt S&T Bank
Jan L. Wagner Wagman Construction, Inc.
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
GROWTH STARTS HERE: MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR ABC KEYSTONE MEMBERSHIP
BY: STEVEN KEARNS
Spring has sprung, and by the time you’re reading this, we’ve wrapped up our 2026 renewal process and shifted our focus from retention to growth: recruiting new members and deepening our connection with the ones we already have.
For many of you, renewing at ABC Keystone is a foregone conclusion. You’re engaged. You invest in your teams through our training and education programs. You show up at networking events. You put members of your team on committees and help steer this organization forward. You already know the value, you live it.
Every year during the renewal cycle, it gives me a chance to reflect on what makes membership here so meaningful and to think about how we can do a better job making sure every member finds their way into that experience. Because the truth is that the more you put into ABC Keystone, the more you get out of it. And there is a lot here to take advantage of.
Think about what’s available to you. On the training side, we offer apprenticeships, craft-specific courses, the Superintendent Training Program, Crew Leader training, and personalized programs built around your company’s specific needs. Safety training, including OSHA 10 and 30-Hour certifications and safety consultations, is right at your fingertips. The STEP Program helps companies build a culture of safety that protects both your people and your bottom line.
On the business development side, the Regional Construction Wake-Up Calls, networking events, and our interactive membership directory are all designed to open doors and build relationships that translate into real opportunity. These Wake-Up Calls are held throughout our 35-county footprint. They’re convenient, free, and consistently worth your time. The Executive Leader Contractor Peer Group gives ownership and senior leadership a genuine sounding board, a room full of people who understand the challenges you’re facing because they’re facing them too.
And for those who want to engage at the bigger-picture level, our advocacy work through the PAC, Free Enterprise Alliance, and the ABC Action App keeps you connected to the legislative fights that directly affect how we operate every single day.
Membership at ABC Keystone isn’t just a line item on your budget. It’s an investment in your people, your business, and the future of this industry. And like any investment, the returns grow when you’re actively engaged. The resources are here. The community is here. We want to make sure every member is finding the programs and connections that make this worthwhile for them.
If you haven’t explored everything available, now is a great time to do so. Bring someone to the next event or attend your first one. Put a team member on a committee. Enroll an apprentice. Take a course. Visit abckeystone.org/member-benefits and see the full picture.
There’s a lot here. Let’s make sure you’re getting it all.
BUILD YOUR TEAM WITH ABC
Strength Starts With Your Workforce
ABC Keystone helps contractors build skilled, compliant workforces through registered apprenticeship. We provide the guidance and support you need to succeed—now and into the future.
Grow and Develop Your Workforce with ABC Keystone.
Create your own workforce through formalized training.
Increase productivity, safety & profits.
Expand your workers' knowledge base.
To learn more about how ABC Keystone can help build your workforce for today and tomorrow contact Randy Doxzon at randy@abckeystone.org.
FROM THE PRESIDENT-CEO
MORE
HEADLINES?
IF I DIDN’T KNOW BETTER, I’D SAY SHAPIRO IS RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT
BY: G. DAVID SLOAD
At the end of last month’s article I said I would focus this month on the presumptive Republican gubernatorial candidate. But with all the media exposure our current Governor is creating I thought another month of his actions would be worth noting. A day doesn’t go by that he is not on social media or on a national platform.
We know there is at times an intersection between State and Federal policies. However, the Governor rarely misses an opportunity to weigh in on all things National. We have major issues in the commonwealth that need to be focused on and therefore need a full-time Governor.
The Budget
While he might claim it is out of his hands, he needs to come to the table now and not wait until June. How are we going to reconcile the $5 billion structural shortfall? How can you put revenue into a budget when legislation does not exist to generate those budgeted revenues? His budget seeks more funding for education. It’s tough to argue with that, but with all the increases in education funding you would think there would be an improvement in outcomes. Instead of focusing on money, our governor should be working on real solutions
Workforce Development
The good news is that he continues to bring major companies and new construction to the commonwealth. There is enough work to go around for both union and non-union companies. However, the Governor continues to push both State agencies and private developers to build only with unions (just follow the campaign contributions). He claims to want to represent all residents of the Commonwealth, yet he has no problem discriminating against 90% of construction workers that choose not to be signatory to a union.
Winner & Losers
GRID is just another of the Governor’s programs that will lead to winners and losers. This is the Governors Responsible Infrastructure Development standards. If you can meet the standards, he expedites your permitting. Will one of the standards be a mandated project labor agreement? Knowing the workforce shortage that already exists this could turn out to be the Governor’s Reckless Infrastructure Disaster.
One might say that ABC is against this Governor. From a construction industry perspective, he and others in his administration have done everything possible to only promote the accomplishments of the minority of the industry. While we have tried to engage in conversations and suggestions that will improve the industry, the workforce, and help all Pennsylvanians, we have been ignored. There are very good union and nonunion contractors in Pennsylvania, and both contribute to the success of the construction industry. We need a Governor that 1) is full-time and 2) wants to represent and engage with all stakeholders in the commonwealth.
Stay informed, stay involved and make your voice heard. Together, we can protect and strengthen the merit shop in Pennsylvania.
Spring Mixer Southeast Region
Presented by Barley Snyder
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
BierHall Brewing Company Lancaster, PA
Spring Mixer North Region
Sponsorships Available! Presented by Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman PC
Rusty Rail Brewing Company Mifflinburg, PA
Safety Summit
ABC Keystone Manheim Office
Golf Outing Southeast Region
Iron Valley Golf Club Lebanon, PA
ABC Keystone Night at Williams Grove Speedway
Williams Grove Speedway Mechanicsburg, PA
Golf Outing North Region
11:00 am - 7:30 pm 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm 7:30 am - 7:30 pm 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
PENNSYLVANIA’S 2026 BUILDING CODE UPDATE: WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOUR UPCOMING PROJECTS
Pennsylvania has moved into a new regulatory era with the statewide adoption of the 2021 International Codes (I-Codes), which became effective on January 1, 2026, as part of the latest Uniform Construction Code (UCC) update. This change affects every sector of the construction industry—owners, contractors, architects, engineers and design teams—by introducing updated requirements for structural integrity, energy performance, fire protection and mechanical systems.
Which Code Applies to Your Project?
All projects designed or constructed on or after January 1, 2026, must comply with the 2021 I-Codes. However, Pennsylvania’s UCC includes an important transitional rule:
• If a design or construction contract was executed before January 1, 2026, the project may still proceed under the 2018 UCC—but only if the permit application is submitted:
- Within six months of the effective date, or
- Within a shorter timeframe if a municipality has adopted a more restrictive ordinance.
This transition provision, found in UCC § 304(c)(4), can materially affect projects that are already underway but not yet permitted. A missed deadline could unintentionally shift a project into the newer code cycle, triggering redesigns, added costs and schedule impacts.
Key Areas Where the 2021 Codes May Affect Your Work
Construction professionals should anticipate adjustments in several areas as jurisdictions begin enforcing the updated standards:
• Plan review and approval timelines — Code officials may require additional time as they adapt to the new provisions.
• Material and system specifications — Energy efficiency, fire protection and mechanical system requirements may drive changes in product selection.
• Budgeting and estimating — Even modest code-driven modifications can influence overall project cost.
• Contract risk allocation — Agreements should clearly identify which code cycle governs and outline responsibility for redesigns or cost impacts tied to regulatory changes.
Steps to Stay Compliant and Avoid Disruptions
Proactive planning is essential during this transition period. Construction teams should:
• Review all active and pending contracts to confirm which code version applies.
• Submit permit applications promptly if the intent is to remain under the 2018 UCC.
• Coordinate with local municipalities to verify whether shorter submission windows apply.
• Update standard contract forms to address code-cycle responsibility and regulatory change impacts.
• Train project teams on new code requirements to prevent inspection delays or rework.
Looking Ahead
Pennsylvania’s adoption of the 2021 I-Codes represents one of the most significant statewide code updates in recent years. While the changes aim to improve safety, sustainability and building performance, they also introduce new compliance challenges. Understanding the transition rules and preparing early can help owners and construction professionals avoid costly surprises and keep projects on track.
ABC Keystone Apprentices Shine at National Craft Championships
We are proud to announce that apprentices representing ABC Keystone and member companies earned top honors at the 2026 National Craft Championships (NCC), held during ABC Convention 2026 in Salt Lake City on March 20.
This year, five individuals from our apprenticeship program demonstrated exceptional skill on the national stage:
Logan Spahr, HVAC
W.C. Eshenaur and Son, Inc.
Ron Stuber, Electrical CPEC, LLC
Ivan Staudt
Carpentry (Silver)
Pyramid Construction Services,LLC, a Quandel Enterprises Company
Chase Burkholder
CMC, Inc.
Plumbing (Gold)
Logan Lippert
James Craft & Son, Inc.
Sheet Metal (Silver)
The 37th annual competition brought together more than 200 of the nation’s top craft professionals to compete across 15 competitions representing 11 trades. Participants completed a rigorous two-hour online exam followed by a sixhour hands-on performance test, showcasing both technical knowledge and practical skill. The event also featured a commercial team competition, where journeylevel professionals from multiple trades collaborated to complete a joint project.
Since its inception in 1987, the National Craft Championships has highlighted the strength of merit shop training and the future of the construction industry. Apprentices and craft professionals
from across the country travel to compete, demonstrating superior craftsmanship, safety practices and a commitment to excellence. For ABC chapters, training sponsors and employers, the competition reinforces the value of investing in workforce development and creating meaningful career pathways.
“There are exciting opportunities to pursue multiple career paths in construction, and this national competition showcases exactly what those paths look like,” said 2026 ABC National Chair Thomas “Murph” Murphy. “These ABC Keystone champions are outstanding in their crafts and have a bright career path ahead of them. Congratulations to the honorees and all competitors, who are true craft professionals.”
Through apprenticeship, craft training, safety education and leadership programs, ABC’s nationwide network supports more than 800 education programs, including over 450 governmentregistered apprenticeships across 20 occupations.
We also recognize the role of industry partners in making events like the NCC possible. Milwaukee Tool, the official tool sponsor since 2019, continues to support competitors by providing tools, PPE, storage and prizes. The competition is further made possible through the dedication of volunteers, sponsors and industry contributors who bring this event to life each year.
These achievements reflect not only the talent of our competitors, but also the strength of the merit shop and the future of our industry.
Committee Update TECHNOLOGY
Constructing the Future: Navigating the AI Frontier in Construction
By: Nina Ancharski
In every corner of our professional and personal lives, the buzz surrounding Artificial Intelligence (AI) is growing louder. It’s touted as a force that will change not just how we work, but how the world moves, and no one wants to be left behind. Yet, for those in the AEC industry, filtering through the noise to find what actually works can be a daunting task. The ABC Keystone Technology Committee understands the challenges businesses face when evaluating new tech, and our committee was created to be one more resource ABC Keystone can offer you. For 2026, one of our goals is to help members gain confidence by evaluating and implementing the role that AI will (or will not) play in your business, and how to be confident and secure.
The conversation often begins with familiar "AI Agents" like ChatGPT,
Gemini, or Claude that are capable of tasks from drafting emails and company communication, to reviewing complex contracts. However, the true transformation for our industry lies in how AI is being integrated into the software we’re already using every day. Some of these tools are bringing significant shifts in efficiency to reduce manual data entry and increase accuracy in tasks like payroll and accounting. Others can spot errors, like project management tools that see scheduling conflicts before they occur. Meanwhile, computer vision and site-monitoring tools can automatically identify safety hazards and track real-time progress against BIM models out in the field. Rather than replacing professional judgment, these advancements serve as a force multiplier for our skilled teams, but making these decisions can feel overwhelming.
Questions for the Technology Committee?
Scan the QR code to connect directly with a committee member and get the answers you need.
Rather than offering a one-sizefits-all solution, the Technology Committee plans on providing a series of educational opportunities tailored to the unique needs of our members. Our roadmap begins with a foundational overview of the AI landscape, followed by deeper dives comparing specific AI agents and their business suitability. We also look forward to gathering our community for more interactive sessions where we can discuss these tools in a collaborative setting. By focusing on a "humanin-the-loop" approach, we ensure that as these tools are introduced, they remain a supportive system for our professionals while navigating the concerns you may hear around security and accuracy.
As we build our roadmap specifically for the ABC Keystone community, your input is vital to our efforts. Are there specific questions about AI that you would like to ask the committee, or topics that you hope are explored in upcoming sessions? Your feedback is invaluable, and we would love to hear from you! We invite you to scan the QR code below to submit your ideas to help us shape the trajectory of our 2026 AI series.
Pennsylvania College of Technology Places First in ABC National Construction Management Competition
We’re proud to share that our student chapter at Pennsylvania College of Technology placed first in both project management and safety at the Construction Management Competition during ABC Convention 2026 in Salt Lake City on March 20.
The Pennsylvania College of Technology team was one of 30 teams that put their construction project leadership skills to the test by delivering a proposal on the same real-world construction management project.
Team members include:
Jason Wiedl (Senior)
Jake Blatt (Junior)
John Schwear III (Junior)
Austin Pusey (Sophomore)
James Fretz (Senior)
Aaron Almony (Senior)
Favian Frutos-Corona (Sophomore)
“On behalf of ABC Keystone, we are incredibly proud of our Pennsylvania College of Technology Student Chapter for earning first place in both project management and safety at the 2026 Construction Management Competition,” said Dave Sload, President-CEO of ABC Keystone. “Competing against top teams from across the country, these students demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and a true commitment to building safely and effectively. This achievement reflects not only their hard work, but also the strength of workforce development and education within our industry. The future of construction is in great hands.”
This year’s project was the Salt Lake City Convention Center Hotel, known as the Hyatt Regency Salt Lake. Teams were provided access to the project by ABC member contractor Hensel Phelps. The 686,000-square-foot, 25-story hotel includes 517 guest rooms, more than 60,000 square feet of meeting space, a lobby and reception area, a fitness center, multiple restaurants, a market, an outdoor pool, an event terrace and underground parking. In addition
to completing the project on time and within budget, teams were challenged to avoid disrupting operations at the adjacent convention center during construction.
“The construction industry needs to bring in 349,000 new workers this year just to meet demand, and that includes experienced young construction management professionals like these because they
can solve real-world problems so contractors can build quality infrastructure,” said Thomas “Murph” Murphy, 2026 chair of the ABC National Board of Directors and vice president of Power & Construction Group, Scottsville, New York. “This exciting competition gives students valuable, resume-building experience while helping these young leaders achieve their construction career dreams. Congratulations to the Pennsylvania College of Technology.”
All participants are active members of the ABC National Student Chapter Network, which connects ABC chapters with colleges and universities to help build the construction industry’s future workforce.
The competition is led and supported by ABC National’s Construction Management Committee, with a panel of more than 30 industry professionals serving as judges. Judges represented companies including Balfour Beatty, Brasfield & Gorrie, DEWALT, FCI Constructors Inc., Gaylor Electric, Hensel Phelps, Hoar Construction, PCL, Randall Construction and Walt Disney Imagineering.
Presented by:
ABC Keystone's SAFETY SUMMIT
Building a Safer Tomorrow: Join ABC Keystone’s Safety Summit
Safety is more than a requirement in construction—it’s a responsibility we carry for our people, our projects, and our communities. That’s why ABC Keystone’s Safety Summit brings together safety professionals, company leaders, and jobsite experts for a day dedicated to strengthening the culture of safety across our industry.
This exclusive event is designed to deliver the most current insights, practical resources, and real-world strategies that can be implemented immediately on your jobsites. Whether you’re leading safety initiatives for your company or supporting crews in the field, the Safety Summit offers valuable takeaways to help you elevate your approach.
Learn from Experts, Apply with Confidence
The Safety Summit will bring together industry speakers with firsthand experience addressing the challenges facing today’s construction workforce. Through engaging sessions and discussion, attendees will gain practical insight into managing risk, strengthening communication and enhancing jobsite safety.
The summit will also feature a keynote presentation by Terry L. Choate Jr., co-founder, CEO and president of Blue-U Defense LLC, titled “Effectively Dealing with Two of Today’s Most Significant Threats: Human Trafficking and Drugs.” The presentation will explore risks impacting both jobsites and communities and provide strategies to help industry professionals recognize and respond to these issues.
Breakout Sessions That Matter
This year’s breakout sessions focus on the issues shaping safety today—and tomorrow. Topics include:
• Recognizing Signs of Violence and De-escalation
• Leading Safety Across Generations
• Fall Protection
• I-9, E-Verify and ICE Raids on Jobsites
• Smart PPE
Connect, Collaborate, and Grow
• Construction Fleet Environment
• Understanding the Legal Issues Surrounding Medical Marijuana
• Behavioral Safety
• Emergency Management
Beyond the sessions, the Safety Summit is an opportunity to connect with peers and industry experts who share your commitment to safety. Visit vendor booths to discover the latest tools and solutions, and continue the conversation during a relaxed networking happy hour.
Invest in What Matters Most
At the end of the day, safety is about people. It’s about ensuring that every worker goes home the same way they arrived—safe, healthy, and supported. The ABC Keystone Safety Summit is your opportunity to strengthen that commitment, gain actionable insights, and bring new ideas back to your team.
Join us as we work together to build safer jobsites—and a stronger industry.
Learn more and register today at abckeystone.org.
Understanding and Addressing Substance Use Disorders in the Workplace
Substance use and mental health challenges can impact employee safety, productivity, and overall workplace culture. In this seminar attendees will gain practical knowledge and tools to recognize potential concerns, respond appropriately, and foster a supportive work environment that encourages employees to seek help while maintaining workplace safety and accountability.
• Identify signs of impairment and substance use
• Understand the substance use spectrum
• Reduce stigma and encourage support-seeking
• Implement balanced safety-focused policies
• Leverage EAPs and peer support resources
• Foster a recovery-friendly workplace
Learn more at ABCKEYSTONE.ORG.
FREE Member Seminar
Upcoming Dates:
May 7 | 8:00 am - 9:00 am
June 4 | 8:00 am - 9:00 am
July 9 | 8:00 am - 9:00 am
August 6 | 8:00 am - 9:00 am
ADVOCACY UPDATE
INDEPENDENT CONTRACTING: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW NOW
BY: JIM WILLSHIER, DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
There is continued activity around independent contractor regulations, but one key point remains: the Biden-era Independent Contractor Rule that took effect in 2024 is still in effect today.
The 2024 rule uses a six-factor “economic reality” test to determine whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor. ABC believes this approach is ambiguous and difficult to apply, creating added complexity and potential financial risk for contractors.
Earlier this year, the Trump administration proposed a new Independent Contractor Rule that would rescind and replace the 2024 rule. The proposed rule is intended to provide clearer guidance by emphasizing factors such as control over the work,
ownership of tools and equipment, and the opportunity for profit or loss. ABC supports this proposed change; however, it is still under review and not yet finalized.
The proposed rule is currently open for public comment, which is the first step in a lengthy rulemaking process. We encourage members to review and submit feedback by scanning the QR code included in this article.
Clear classification standards are critical for both employers and independent contractors. They help define tax responsibilities, clarify expectations and reduce the risk of misclassification. Under existing law, key considerations still include control over how work is performed, who provides tools and equipment, financial risk and the nature of the working relationship.
ABC will continue to provide updates as the rulemaking process evolves. Once finalized, education sessions will be offered to help members understand and comply with any new requirements.
Scan the QR Codes to view and comment on the new, proposed rule for 2026.
Download the ABC Action app today! ACTION
Stay informed on the latest legislation impacting merit shop policies and the construction industry. With real-time updates and easy access to key issues, you’ll always know what’s happening at the state and federal levels.
2026 Verified STEP Participants
As verified by ABC National as of March 2026
Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.
Brubaker
CCS Building Group
Clark Contractors, Inc.
James Craft & Son, Inc.
D.E. Gemmill, Inc.
DenTech Industrial
Gorski Engineering, Inc.
Hursh Painting Co., Inc.
J.F. Sobieski Mechanical Contractors, Inc.
John E. Fullerton, Inc.
Kessel Construction, Inc.
Lancaster County Timber Frames, Inc.
Lebanon Valley Electric, Inc.
LEW Site Construction, LLC
M. Potteiger, Inc.
Myco Mechanical, Inc.
Pincus Elevator Company, Inc.
Smucker Company
Tabora Painting, LLC
Wagman Construction, Inc.
Warfel Construction Company
Wohlsen Construction Company
APRIL APRIL
EVENTS, COURSES & TRAINING
4/1
4/1
Construction Agreements & Payments Part of the Construction 101 Series
Building Accountability Part of the Professional Development Series
Starts 4/1
Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA)
4/2 Spring Southeast Regional Construction Wake-up Call
ABC Keystone Office Manheim, PA
4/7 First Aid/CPR/AED with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification
4/8 Human Resources Contractor Peer Group
4/8 Insider's Guide to EIC Entries
4/9 The Power of Communications Part of The Power of People Series
4/9 Skills USA State HVAC Competition Hosted by ABC Keystone Volunteer Judges Needed
4/10 Scaffold Safety for Competent Persons
4/10 Rough-Terrain Forklift Training
Starts 4/13
STP: Leadership and Motivation Part of the Superintendent Training Program (STP)
Starts 4/13
Electricity for Refrigeration and HVAC
4/14 VitalCog: Suicide Prevention in the Workplace
4/14 Networking, Referrals & Strategic Alliances Part of the Leadership Development Series
EVENTS, COURSES & TRAINING
4/14
Construction Estimating Principles and Application
4/14 Southeast Region Spring Mixer Presented by Barley Snyder BierHall Brewing Company, Lancaster, PA
4/15
Employment Laws, Compliance, and Minimizing Risk Part of the Human Resources Management Academy
4/15 & 4/16
Reading Construction Documents
Starts 4/15
Basic Blueprint Reading
4/16
4/21
4/21
Executive Leader Contractor Peer Group
Negotiating for Win-Win Outcomes Part of the Leadership 2.0 Series
Bluebeam® Baseline Basics Part of the Bluebeam Series
4/22 Is AI 4U? Part of the Marketing Boot Camp Series
4/23
Bluebeam® Materials Takeoffs & Estimates – Basics Part of the Bluebeam Series
4/24 Bluebeam® Materials Takeoffs & Estimates – Advanced Part of the Bluebeam Series
4/28
4/30
Bluebeam® Revu for Administrative Professionals Part of the Bluebeam Series
North Region Spring Mixer Rusty Rail Brewing Company, Mifflinburg, PA
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
EVENTS, COURSES & TRAINING
5/6 Successfully Navigating Change Part of the Professional Development Series
5/6 Project Planning & Execution Part of the Construction 101 Series
5/7 Hiring Fair
ABC Keystone Office, Manheim, PA
5/7 VitalCog: Understanding and Addressing Substance Use Disorders in the Workplace
5/12 Developing High Trust Teams Part of the Leadership Development Series
5/14 Safety Summit Presented by: Cohen Seglias Pallas Greenhall & Furman PC ABC Keystone Office, Manheim, PA
5/16 Hike for Hope Memorial Lake State Park, Grantville, PA
5/19 Leading a Multigenerational Workforce Part of the Leadership 2.0 Series
5/20 CQM-Certificate Testing
5/20 Job Descriptions, HR Record Keeping and Reporting Part of the Human Resources Management Academy
5/21 VitalCog: Suicide Prevention in the Workplace
5/21 ABC Keystone’s Apprenticeship Graduation & Craft Professional of the Year Ceremony Presented by: Milwaukee Tool WellSpan Park, York, PA
5/26 First Aid/CPR/AED with Emergency Care & Safety Institute Certification
IS AI 4U? April 22, 2026 8:00 am – 10:00 am Marketing Boot Camp Series ABC Keystone Manheim Office
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
WoodCore Engineering, LLC
Mason Brandt, President 2562 Steelton Road Lancaster, PA 17601 (717) 305-6833
www.woodcore.com
mbrandt@woodcore.com
Sponsored by: Elmer Zook Quality Buildings, LLC
Dutchland, LLC
Brad Tekely, General Manager 160 Route 41 Gap, PA 17527 (717) 442-1413
www.dutchlandinc.com
btekely@dutchlandinc.com
Sponsored by: Guy Kingree, III
Benchmark Construction Co., Inc.
M.H. Eby, Inc.
Andy Weaver, Regional Fleet Manager 1194 Main Street Blue Ball, PA 17506 (717) 354-1446
www.mheby.com andy.weaver@mheby.com
Penn State Health
Denise Hoffman, Facilities Project Specialist 503 North 21st Street Camp Hill, PA 17011 (717) 433-5667
www.pennstatehealth.org
dhoffman6@pennstatehealth.psu.edu
Sponsored by: Jeff Witmer Pathway Business Advisors
River Valley Landscapes, Inc.
Kory Bortner, President 1178 Nursery Road Wrightsville, PA 17368 (717) 252-1894
www.thinkrvl.com
kbortner@rivervalleylandscapes.com
Mobile Video Guard
Shawn Scarlata, Owner
4831 Tesla Drive Unit #G Bowie, MD 20715 (866) 684-7211
SAXTON & STUMP ESTABLISHES DIRECTOR OF APPLIED AI ROLE TO ACCELERATE CLIENT VALUE AND INNOVATION
As artificial intelligence reshapes the delivery of legal and professional services, Saxton & Stump has hired Ian Wood as Director of Applied AI, a newly created leadership role focused on translating emerging technology into measurable client value and operational performance. In this role, Wood is responsible for designing, governing, and scaling AI initiatives across the firm and its affiliates to enhance legal service delivery, business operations, and client experience.
The creation of this role reflects the firm’s long-term investment in technology infrastructure and its commitment to building practical, responsible AI capabilities that enhance efficiency, insight, profitability, and client outcomes. This appointment underscores the firm’s strategic focus on becoming an AI-forward law firm.
“We have been working on a technology, software, and technical infrastructure plan for many years, and we believe someone with Ian’s extensive experience will be instrumental in the incredibly important step of accelerating value for clients,” Saxton & Stump Chairman James W. Saxton said. “Ian’s experience allows us to move from exploration to execution, developing integrated, client-facing solutions while equipping our professionals with powerful, practical AI tools. This is about delivering smarter, faster, and more strategic results for those we serve.”
His work encompasses enterprise technology integration, AI governance, ethical and regulatory compliance, cybersecurity alignment, risk management, and operational modernization. Wood leads cross-departmental initiatives to identify high-impact use cases, implement structured rollouts, and ensure AI deployment drives measurable improvements in efficiency, profitability, and client experience while upholding the highest standards of confidentiality and professional responsibility.
He brings significant experience advising many of the largest and most sophisticated law firms and professional services organizations in the country, where he has implemented and governed AI platforms, built and scaled enterprise project management offices, and led complex, cross-functional transformation initiatives in highly regulated environments.
Wood earned his undergraduate degree from Pennsylvania State University and will graduate in May with an MBA from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University. He holds advanced credentials in AI product management, portfolio management, and program and project management.
“Saxton & Stump has made a deliberate investment in the infrastructure and governance necessary to implement AI responsibly and effectively,” Wood said. “Our shared focus is to remain disciplined in how we prioritize and deploy AI in distinctive ways that set our firm apart, accelerate results for clients, and strengthen our competitive position in the legal market.”
Ian Wood
MILESTONE ANNIVERSARIES
Congratulations to these members celebrating milestone anniversaries in April 2026!
