Company News Summer 2023
A Letter From the President Summer 2023 We have entered the second half of what so far has been a good 2023. Our work volume is up and if we continue to work SAFELY and bring our projects in on time, we are hoping to have another successful year. I encourage everyone to keep their focus on the finish line of their projects and do everything we can to complete these jobs with no SAFETY incidents. We have had another successful summer of working some college interns and some of these have already accepted offers to come to work full time with State Utility after graduation. I also encourage everyone to always continue to be on the lookout for potential State Utility employees who would be a good fit for our company. No one can sell the benefit of being a member of the State Utility Family more than all of you who work here, OUR EMPLOYEE OWNERS. In the upcoming pages, you will come across a few elements that I would like to address. First Congratulations to all of you for helping us to receive the North Carolina Department of Labors Gold Safety Award for the second year in a row. We are also one of the recipients of the CAGC’s Annual Safety Awards presented at the Summer Summit Conference. Let’s keep up the good work and go for 3 years in row. You will also see that we have been fortunate to continue to pick up projects to add to our backlog. We feel confident that the amount of work we have on hand will keep us busy for at a minimum 18-24 months with some more good job prospects out there that we hope to land. We all like to feel good that there is another job waiting for us once we complete the one we are on. As I wrap up, we will soon start some of our year end planning which will be here before we know it. We are hoping once again this year to have everyone here at the Monroe Office for a BBQ. We are shooting for December 15. More details wil come as we finalize the date and the plans. I also want to continue to thank all of our family members who support us all during our time away from home and the long hours worked. We continue to pray for the SAFETY and PROSPERITY of all our State Utility Family. President
We were selected by Charlotte Water to complete this project via Progressive Design Build Delivery method. One of the main reasons we were selected for this project is because we have a Plant and Line Division capable of handling this scope of work. Total contract value for this project including the Clarke Creek Pump Station and work at McDowell Wastewater Treatment Plant is $61,660,663.00, making it the largest project that State Utility has ever had under contract. Interesting Facts: Contract Amount $20.4 Million Peak Employees : 9 Start Date: March 2023 Completion Date: May 2024 Clarke Creek Force Main and Water Main Project - Charlotte, NC Project Spotlight Line FY-17 Street Main Project Charlotte, NC Justin Collins This is a progressive design build project with Charlotte Water. The purpose for this project is to divert flow going into Cabarrus County to a different basin within Charlotte Water to be able to continue development in the Huntersville area. The line work consists of installing 21,800’ of 16” forcemain, 5,300’ of 18” gravity sewer, and 1700’ of 30” gravity sewer. Our Plant Division is also constructing a 1 MGD pump station as part of this project and upgrading the McDowell Wastewater treatment plant. Dave Burleson David Mangum David Burnette Ashton Blackey Tyler Crook Scott Sullivan Gregorio Abundez Charles Moon Michael Kennedy Chad Smith Osvaldo Ortiz Dylan Mascho Martin Morgan Kasey Triance Kelly Trump
Project Spotlight Plant This project required various upgrades and modifications be made to the existing Headworks Facility. This work involved structural rehabilitation, including concrete surface repairs and corrosion protection lining for interior channels, flumes, tanks, and access covers. Odor control piping modifications were made, and a new Eutek Headcell was installed in Grit Tank No. 1, with necessary slide gate adjustments. Electrical systems underwent rehabilitation, replacing corroded light poles, fixtures, receptacles, and raceways, along with a new exterior personnel door and exhaust fan for the Electrical Room. Structural rehabilitation of the existing Drain Pumping Station was carried out, and miscellaneous sitework involved demolition, pavement modifications, and yard piping. Lastly, a new Headworks Facility permanent 36" DIP Bypass Main was constructed, significantly enhancing overall functionality and reliability. Greenville Utilities Commission Headworks Facility Improvements Project Description: Manuel Fuente Arturo Perez Oscar Rodriguez Thomas Ward Tommy Matthews Jeff Dyke Impressive Fact: A portion of the work consisted of the installation of a permanent 36” DIP Bypass. The Bypass involved the installation of a 36” Linestop, (1) 48” Plug Valve, (1) 42” Plug Valve, (2) 36” Plug Valves and (2) 18” Plug Valves. Start Date: April 2022 Completion Date: February 2023 Contract Amount: $3.5 Million SU Employees : 7
Employee Spotlight Eric Harbison - Plant Nick Allen is a dedicated and hardworking employee at State Utility Contractors. Nick has been an integral part of our team at State Utility Contractors for an impressive eight years, dedicating his entire career to the field of Utility Construction. Prior to joining the State Utility family, Nick gained valuable experience working for two local utility contractors, Nicky Construction and Propst Construction. These previous roles allowed Nick to gather extensive knowledge and expertise, preparing him for the challenges and responsibilities he currently undertakes. Nick is currently a superintendent in our Line Division managing our water, and sewer repairs contract with Charlotte Water. His ability to effectively manage his crews, coordinate resources, and navigate complex construction processes has earned him the respect and admiration of both his colleagues and clients alike. Nick Allen - Line Eric is married to his wife, Kimmy, of three years, and has two wonderful children, Leighten (8) and Paisley (4), Eric cherishes his role as a husband and father. In his leisure time, Eric can be found at the dirt bike tracks, where both Leighten and Paisley race hare scrambles. He actively supports his children's interests and shares in their joy and accomplishments. Racing around in his RZR UTV, Eric and his family enjoy the excitement and togetherness that comes with exploring new terrains. We are delighted to shine a spotlight on one of our exceptional employees, Eric Harbison, who has been an integral part of the State Utility family for an impressive 14 years. Eric's journey with us began after gaining valuable experience in various factory jobs on shipping and receiving docks, where he honed his skills in operating forklifts and switch trucks. Currently Eric is serving as a Crane Operator and Foreman in the Plant Division. He is currently playing a crucial role in the construction of the McAlpine Creek WWMF WAS Equalization and Blending Facility and Odor Control Improvements Project. Eric's experience as a crane operator brings a level of precision and efficiency to our projects that is truly commendable. His ability to maneuver heavy equipment with expertise and a sharp attention to detail ensures that operations run smoothly and safely. Thanks for the hard work Eric!! In his free time Nick enjoys spending time with his daughter Lilly who is 16 and his wife of 18 years Camelia. He also enjoys a day on the golf course and has a passion for restoring antique cars. Nick enjoys working at State Utility because “I am part of a great team! We are not just a number here… we all serve a purpose. I have established relationships within our company that will last a lifetime!” Thanks for the hard work and dedication Nick!! Eric loves the “family atmosphere at State Utility, where colleagues offer genuine support in times of need.”
New Jobs Plant Jobs Bid Date Line Jobs Bid Date On Call Water and Sewer Repair and Construction Services Rock Hill, SC $200,000 5-9-23 4-11-23 Cary-Apex WTF Caustic Bldg. Rehabilitation Apex, NC $2.5 Million Saluda County Regional Wastewater System Saluda, SC $35.8 Million 5-10-23 5-19-23 From The Shop Disaster Response Emergency Construction Services 2023 Contracts Onslow County, NC $500,000 Clarke Creek Force Main Charlotte, NC $1.8 Million - Approved GMP Clarke Creek Huntersville-Concord Rd. Water Main Extension, Charlotte, NC $3.4 Million - Approved GMP 5-24-23 Water Transmission Main Improvements and Repairs, Charlotte, NC $11.6 Million - Approved GMP 5-26-23 1-31-23 Cary-Apex WTF Filter Media Replacement, Apex, NC $1.5 Million 3-17-23 McAlpine Creek WWTP-Sludge Thickening Dewatering Facility Charlotte, NC $4.9 Million 5-24-23 Temperature and Cooling System: Monitor the ambient temperature and keep an eye on the equipment's cooling system. High temperatures can cause engines to overheat, leading to breakdowns and damage. Ensure that the cooling system is functioning correctly, check coolant levels regularly, and clean or replace air filters to maintain proper airflow. Fluid Levels and Lubrication: Regularly check all fluid levels, including engine oil, hydraulic fluids, and transmission fluids. Heat can cause fluids to evaporate more quickly, so it's essential to keep them at the recommended levels to prevent equipment malfunctions. Also, ensure proper engine lubrication to reduce friction and wear on moving parts. Tire Pressure and Condition: Heat can affect tire pressure, leading to under-inflation or blowouts. Regularly inspect tires for wear, damage, and correct pressure. Properly inflated and well-maintained tires ensure better traction and stability during operation. Dust and Debris Management: During the summer, construction sites can become dusty due to dry conditions. Dust and debris can accumulate in the equipment's air filters and cooling systems, affecting performance. Regularly clean filters, radiators, and engine bays to maintain efficient operation Scotland Neck WWTP Improvements Scotland Neck, NC $2.9 Million 6-15-23 Operating construction equipment during the summer months requires careful attention to various factors to ensure safety, optimal performance, and prevent potential issues. Here are the top five things to keep track of:
Safety Congratulations to State Utility on receiving the 2022 North Carolina Department of Labor’s Gold Safety Award for the second year in a row. It was an honor to accept this award on our company’s behalf. For State Utility to have as many folks in the field working hard every day and maintaining such high safety standards speaks to your focus on safety and getting the crews home safely. Back to Back North Carolina Department of Labor Gold Safety Awards Hydration starts the night before your shift. Drinking water even when you’re not thirsty will help keep your body able to deal with the increased summer temps. Below are a few things that can help you stay hydrated and focused. Drink water and sport drinks. Too much water can be dangerous, and sports drinks alone can cause you to dehydrate over time. A combo of water and sports drinks will help even out what the body loses during a hot day on the job. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol. Alcohol is made from sugar and can dilute the necessary minerals your body needs to function. Coming to work after consuming to much alcohol the night before can put you in a bad situation the next day at work. Always be mindful of what you are drinking. Many “Hydration” drink mixes are full of salt and sugar that could have adverse effects. As we enter the summer months and with temperatures on the rise, be aware of the necessity of staying hydrated!! Tip # 1 Tip # 2 Tip # 3
Human Resources Log onto your employee portal to view all previous Pay Stubs, W-2’s, Earnings, Vacation Balance as well as Company Announcements. You also have the ability to generate a total compensation report that details all contributions made to you by State Utility on your behalf. Don't forget to take advantage of your Employee Portal! State Utility took part in this year’s NUCA Trench and Excavation Stand Down. During this week Seth and I discussed the things we need to watch out for in our trenches. Our “Trenching by the Numbers” review gives us the opportunity to refresh our knowledge on what we must do to properly protect each other while working in excavations. Excavations can get complicated and being sure that we are protected and compliant can be a difficult task. If there are any questions or concerns, please reach out to Seth or myself and lets work together to make sure we get the job done safely! - Thanks, Jason - 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 - Your Name - - Your Name - 08 - Your Name - NUCA Trench and Excavation Safety Month June 2023. Trench and excavation Stand Down June 19-23rd Slope it - Shore it - Shield it
Announcements We're thrilled to congratulate Michael Kennedy on his well-deserved promotion to Foreman in our Line Division. Michael's commitment to the SU team for a solid 7 years has been truly commendable. He's diligently progressed through various pipeline crew roles, demonstrating careful consideration at every step and earning this promotion. At State Utility, we truly appreciate and recognize the effort and dedication our team members put in – it certainly doesn't go unnoticed. Well done, Michael! · Hernan Hernandez's mother (86) had a heart attack in Honduras. She is recovering but weak. Let's pray for her comfort and healing, and also for Hernan's strength as he works in America while his mother is sick. Hernan is part of the plant division, working on Fred Foster's project. · Arturo Perez had an accident on the way to work in Greenville. He has broken ribs and a fractured neck. Please pray for his speedy recovery. Arturo works in the plant division on Thomas Ward's project. · Darrick Tyler's wife is undergoing immunotherapy treatments for cancer. Let's pray for her strength to handle these treatments. Darrick works in the plant division on Fred Foster's project. · Ingrid Hoover’s daughter Kayla had to have hip surgery, please pray for a speedy recovery. In a positive update, Jorge Garcia received news from his doctor that he is now cancer-free. Let's give thanks for this wonderful outcome. Jorge is also part of the plant division. From Fred Foster: “My wife, Libby, and I would like to express our very strong appreciation for the many prayers offered up during Libby's near-life-ending illness. She has fully recovered and returned to her normal daily activities. On July 3rd, Libby and I celebrated adding another year to our 36-year marriage. I know, she's tough, right? That was followed up with the welcoming of an 8lbs 3oz grandbaby girl on the 4th of July. Thank you all for your support during those trying times. “ Promotion Alert!! Prayers Needed!! Congratulations to Ron Brown for being inducted into the Carolinas AGC Hall of Fame! This award Recognizes and honors prestigious members, both past and present, who have made extraordinary contributions over their careers to CAGC, the construction industry and the community they serve. Ron has a long legacy working with Carolinas AGC and served as Chair for the CAGC Board of Directors in 2019. Let's all congratulate Ron for this prestigious honor!! State Utility has a Hall of Famer!!
Throw Back 1998
Throw Back 1998 Future State Utility Equipment Operator Alert This here is Camden Griffin, Katie Griffin’s son and Melanie Strickland’s grandson! Both work out of our main office. This little guy loves bulldozers, excavators, skid steers, dirt and tractors. Congratulations Eliahanna Luna Tovar born 7/12/2023 to Eduardo Tovar & Elia Sosa. Eliahanna is also the First Grandchild of Project Foreman, Juan Sosa. Eduardo and Juan are currently working on the McAlpine WAS EQ Project. Congratulations to all!