safety – Building Pennsylvania

Chris Sheehan of Penn Installations Honored as a KCA Top Young Leader Award Winner

HARRISBURG, PA — The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) proudly recognized Chris Sheehan of Penn Installations as a recipient of the 2026 KCA Top Young Leader Award during the annual Construction Celebration, honoring his outstanding leadership on the construction jobsite and his dedicated service to the community.

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The KCA Top Young Leader Award recognizes emerging professionals who exemplify leadership, professionalism, safety, and service while helping shape the future of Pennsylvania’s commercial construction industry.

As a leader at Penn Installations, Sheehan has earned the respect of coworkers and industry partners in his position as a Project Manager through his commitment to quality workmanship, teamwork, and maintaining the highest standards of safety. Away from the jobsite, he continues his commitment to serving others as an active volunteer firefighter with the Dauntless Fire Department, demonstrating the same dedication and selflessness that define his professional career.

“Chris represents the best of Pennsylvania’s next generation of construction leaders,” said Jon O’Brien, Executive Director of the Keystone Contractors Association. “Whether he’s helping build important projects across the Commonwealth or answering the call as a volunteer firefighter, Chris demonstrates leadership through service. His commitment to safety, teamwork, and giving back to his community makes him an outstanding recipient of the KCA Young Leader Award.”

When receiving this honor, Sheehan credited the mentors, coworkers, and fellow firefighters who have influenced his personal and professional development. He thanked the great teammates and mentors at Penn Installations who have challenged him to grow both professionally and personally. Plus, serving with the Dauntless Fire Department has also taught him the importance of teamwork, preparation, and putting others first.

The Top Young Leader Award is presented annually during KCA’s Construction Celebration to recognize emerging professionals who demonstrate excellence not only in their careers but also through their commitment to making a positive difference beyond the workplace. By recognizing leaders like Sheehan, KCA celebrates the values that strengthen Pennsylvania’s construction industry and the communities it serves.

About Penn Installations

Penn Installations, headquartered in Summerhill, Pennsylvania, is a leading construction subcontractor serving commercial and industrial projects throughout Pennsylvania. The company is recognized for its commitment to quality workmanship, workplace safety, and developing the next generation of construction professionals. For more information please visit https://www.penninstall.com/.

About the Keystone Contractors Association

The Keystone Contractors Association is a leading Pennsylvania commercial construction association, representing construction contractors and industry partners. KCA advances workforce development, safety, education, and advocacy efforts to strengthen Pennsylvania’s construction industry and build the next generation of construction professionals.

Media Contact:
Jon O’Brien
Executive Director
Keystone Contractors Association
Phone: 717-731-6272
Email: Jon@KeystoneContractors.com

GM McCrossin Recognized for Most Improved Safety Performance at KCA Construction Celebration

HARRISBURG, PA — The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) proudly recognized G.M. McCrossin, Inc. with its Most Improved Safety Performance Award during the 2026 Construction Celebration, honoring the company’s remarkable progress in workplace safety since the previous KCA Safety Awards program.

The award recognizes a contractor that has demonstrated the greatest improvement in its safety performance over the past year, reflecting a strong commitment to continuous improvement, employee engagement, and building a culture where safety is the highest priority.

G.M. McCrossin President Robert Leahey accepted the award on behalf of the company during the annual celebration, which brought together construction leaders, contractors, labor partners, elected officials, and industry stakeholders from across Pennsylvania.

Headquartered in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, G.M. McCrossin is one of the Commonwealth’s leading heavy highway and infrastructure contractors, completing complex transportation and infrastructure projects while maintaining a strong commitment to protecting its workforce.

“One of the hallmarks of a great safety culture is the willingness to continually improve,” said Jon O’Brien, Executive Director of the Keystone Contractors Association. “G.M. McCrossin’s progress over the past year demonstrates that safety excellence is a journey built on leadership, accountability, training, and the dedication of every employee. We congratulate Robert Leahey and the entire G.M. McCrossin team for earning this well-deserved recognition.”

The Most Improved Safety Performance Award highlights the belief that every contractor—regardless of size or previous performance—can strengthen its safety culture through a commitment to learning, continuous evaluation, and investing in its people.

“We are honored to receive this recognition from the Keystone Contractors Association,” said Robert Leahey, President of G.M. McCrossin, Inc. “Improving safety requires commitment from every member of our organization. This award reflects the hard work of our employees, supervisors, and leadership team who have embraced the responsibility of looking out for one another every day. While we are proud of this achievement, we remain committed to continually raising the bar and ensuring every employee returns home safely.”

The Keystone Contractors Association’s annual Safety Awards recognize contractors that exemplify excellence in workplace safety and encourage continuous improvement across Pennsylvania’s commercial construction industry.

About G.M. McCrossin, Inc.

G.M. McCrossin, Inc., headquartered in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, is a leading heavy highway and infrastructure contractor serving clients throughout Pennsylvania. The company specializes in roadways, bridges, utilities, and transportation infrastructure while maintaining a strong commitment to quality, innovation, and workplace safety.

About the Keystone Contractors Association

Media Contact:
Jon O’Brien
Executive Director
Keystone Contractors Association
717-731-6272
Jon@KeystoneContractors.com

Pennsylvania Construction Recap – The Top Stories for the Week Ending July 24, 2026

Here are the top Pennsylvania construction stories this week. To read this newsletter on a new platform click: PA’s Top Construction Stories.

Philadelphia Energy Retrofit Program Creates Major Construction Opportunities: A significant municipal energy modernization program is underway that will renovate 14 city-owned buildings through Pennsylvania’s Guaranteed Energy Savings Act (GESA). Construction began this summer and is expected to create approximately 300 jobs, with more than half of the work performed by local contractors. Mechanical, HVAC, electrical, and building systems contractors are expected to benefit. READ MORE.

Large Project Opportunities Continue to Enter the Bidding Pipeline: Commercial contractors seeking new work continue to see opportunities across Pennsylvania in healthcare, education, industrial, municipal, and mixed-use developments. Project lead services are reporting a steady flow of commercial projects available for bidding throughout the state. READ MORE.

Commonwealth recently announced nearly $445 million in RACP funding for 356 projects statewide: Pennsylvania is the only state in the Northeast with a growing economy, based on analysis done by Moody’s Analytics, and the region’s top state for business, according to CNBC. This RACP funding strengthens communities by assisting with construction jobs. READ MORE.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed & Keep Building Pennsylvania!

Rocky Bleier Construction Group Receives KCA Safety Award for Outstanding Safety Performance

HARRISBURG, PA — The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) proudly announced that Rocky Bleier Construction Group has been named the recipient of the 2025 Safety Award for the safest general contractor in Pennsylvania among companies reporting between 50,000 and 100,000 work hours.

The award was presented during KCA’s annual Construction Celebration, where construction industry leaders from across the Commonwealth gathered to recognize companies that exemplify excellence in safety, workforce development, and leadership within Pennsylvania’s commercial construction industry.

Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Rocky Bleier Construction Group has earned a strong reputation for delivering high-quality commercial construction projects while fostering a workplace culture where safety is a core value. The company’s commitment to employee training, proactive planning, and accountability has helped establish one of the safest work environments in the Commonwealth.

The KCA Safety Award recognizes general contractors that achieve exceptional safety performance while completing a significant volume of construction work. Companies receiving this honor demonstrate that protecting workers is fundamental to successful project delivery and long-term business excellence.

“Rocky Bleier Construction Group has built a culture where safety is embedded into every aspect of its operations,” said Jon O’Brien, Executive Director of the Keystone Contractors Association. “Receiving Pennsylvania’s top safety award among general contractors with between 50,000 and 100,000 work hours is an outstanding accomplishment. This recognition reflects the company’s dedication to protecting its employees, supporting its clients, and setting a standard of excellence for the entire construction industry.”

Rocky Bleier Construction Group attributes the award to the commitment of its employees, project managers, field supervisors, and leadership team, who work together every day to ensure every jobsite operates safely and efficiently. Safety is the foundation of everything they do and this award reflects their commitment to continuously strengthening their safety culture.

The Keystone Contractors Association’s annual Safety Awards recognize construction companies that demonstrate outstanding safety performance and reinforce the industry’s commitment to ensuring that every construction professional returns home safely at the end of each workday.

About Rocky Bleier Construction Group

Rocky Bleier Construction Group, headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a commercial construction company serving clients throughout Pennsylvania and beyond. The company provides construction management, general contracting, and related services while emphasizing quality, integrity, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to workplace safety.

About the Keystone Contractors Association

Media Contact:
Jon O’Brien
Executive Director
Keystone Contractors Association
717-731-6272
Jon@KeystoneContractors.com

Mid-State Construction Receives KCA Safety Award for Outstanding Safety Performance

HARRISBURG, PA — The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) proudly announced that Mid-State Construction has been named the recipient of the 2025 Safety Award for the safest general contractor in Pennsylvania among companies reporting under 50,000 work hours.

The award was presented during KCA’s annual Construction Celebration, where construction professionals from across the Commonwealth gathered to recognize excellence in safety, workforce development, and leadership within Pennsylvania’s construction industry.

Headquartered in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Mid-State Construction has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality commercial construction projects while maintaining an unwavering commitment to protecting its employees, trade partners, and clients through a strong culture of safety.

The KCA Safety Award recognizes general contractors that achieve exceptional safety performance while completing a significant volume of construction work. Companies are evaluated on their safety records, demonstrating that outstanding project performance begins with ensuring every worker returns home safely each day.

“Mid State Construction has demonstrated that safety and project success go hand in hand,” said Jon O’Brien, Executive Director of the Keystone Contractors Association. “Earning the top safety award among Pennsylvania general contractors with under 50,000 work hours is an outstanding accomplishment. This recognition reflects a culture where every employee understands that safety is a shared responsibility and a core value.”

Mid-State Construction credits the achievement to the dedication of its employees, supervisors, and project teams who consistently prioritize planning, communication, training, and accountability on every jobsite.

The Keystone Contractors Association’s annual Safety Awards celebrate construction companies that demonstrate outstanding leadership in workplace safety and reinforce the industry’s commitment to protecting the skilled men and women who build Pennsylvania.

About Mid State Construction

Mid State Construction, headquartered in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is a full-service general contractor serving clients throughout Central Pennsylvania and beyond. The company specializes in commercial construction and is recognized for delivering quality projects through experienced leadership, strong client relationships, and an unwavering commitment to workplace safety.

About the Keystone Contractors Association

Media Contact:
Jon O’Brien
Executive Director
Keystone Contractors Association
717-731-6272
Jon@KeystoneContractors.com

Pennsylvania Construction Recap – The Top Stories for the Week Ending July 17, 2026

Here are the top Pennsylvania construction stories this week:

AI Data Centers Continue to Dominate Pennsylvania’s Construction Pipeline: Large-scale AI data center development continues to reshape western and northeastern Pennsylvania because of the state’s available power infrastructure and land. The latest national attention focused on Salem Township, where hundreds of millions of dollars in land acquisitions are fueling future data center construction. READ MORE.

Labor Demand Continues to Increase: The workforce challenge remains one of the industry’s biggest constraints as large industrial projects compete for skilled labor. KCA research indicates strongest demand for: electricians, carpenters, heavy equipment operators, HVAC technicians, concrete finishers and project managers. For a national perspective READ MORE. In Pennsylvania, the KCA made a big workforce development announcement: KCA has an announcement. #BuildtheFuture #ConstructionCareers #KCAbuildsPA.

KCA’s Response to the State Budget: Last weekend the Pennsylvania General Assembly and Governor Shapiro approved the 2026/2027 State Budget. KCA appreciated the fiscal restraint of the budget. Click here to read the entire KCA Statement on the 2026/2027 State Budget.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed & Keep Building Pennsylvania!

Ralph E. Jones, Inc. Receives KCA Safety Award for Outstanding Safety Performance

HARRISBURG, PA — The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) proudly announced that Ralph E. Jones, Inc. has been named the recipient of the 2025 Safety Award for the safest subcontractor in Pennsylvania among companies reporting between 50,000 and 100,000 work hours.

The award was presented during KCA’s annual Construction Celebration, where construction industry leaders from across the Commonwealth gathered to recognize excellence in safety, workforce development, and leadership in Pennsylvania’s commercial construction industry.

Headquartered in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Ralph E. Jones, Inc. has built a longstanding reputation for delivering quality specialty construction services while maintaining an unwavering commitment to workplace safety. The company has consistently demonstrated that a proactive safety culture is essential to protecting employees and delivering successful projects throughout Pennsylvania.

The KCA Safety Award recognizes subcontractors that achieve exceptional safety performance while completing a significant volume of work. Companies earning this distinction exemplify the highest standards of training, planning, accountability, and employee engagement, proving that safety is fundamental to every successful project.

“Ralph E. Jones, Inc. has earned this recognition through a steadfast commitment to protecting its workforce every day,” said Jon O’Brien, Executive Director of the Keystone Contractors Association. “Achieving Pennsylvania’s top safety record among subcontractors with between 50,000 and 100,000 work hours is an outstanding accomplishment. It reflects a culture where safety is embraced by every employee—from company leadership to the field—and serves as an example for our entire industry.”

During the Construction Celebration awards presentation, company officials said the award reflects the dedication and professionalism of every employee who contributes to maintaining safe jobsites and continuously improving safety practices. Additionally, at the event Ralph E Jones representatives expressed how safety is one of their core values and is woven into every aspect of their work.

The Keystone Contractors Association’s annual Safety Awards recognize contractors that demonstrate outstanding safety performance and reinforce the industry’s commitment to protecting the skilled tradespeople who build Pennsylvania’s schools, hospitals, manufacturing facilities, infrastructure, and commercial buildings.

About Ralph E. Jones, Inc.

Ralph E. Jones, Inc., headquartered in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is a respected specialty construction contractor serving commercial, industrial, healthcare, educational, and institutional clients throughout Pennsylvania. The company is recognized for its quality craftsmanship, experienced workforce, and unwavering commitment to workplace safety. For more information visit: Home Page | Ralph E. Jones, Inc.

About the Keystone Contractors Association

The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) is a leading Pennsylvania commercial construction association representing contractors, specialty contractors, suppliers, and industry partners. KCA is dedicated to advancing the construction industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, safety, and member services while helping build a stronger Pennsylvania.

Media Contact:
Jon O’Brien
Executive Director
Keystone Contractors Association
717-884-2801
Jon@KeystoneContractors.com

Pennsylvania Construction Recap – The Top Stories for the Week Ending July 10, 2026

Here are the top Pennsylvania construction stories this week:

Pennsylvania Demographics Continue to Affect Hiring: The Pennsylvania Chamber continues warning that workforce availability—not unemployment—is becoming the state’s biggest economic challenge. Some notable figures: For every 100 jobs open, only about 77 qualified Pennsylvanians are available; and, an aging workforce and slower population growth are reducing the available labor pool, particularly in the skilled trades. READ MORE.

Northeast Pennsylvania Reports Ongoing Workforce Challenges: A recent regional economic report found construction activity remains relatively strong in Northeast Pennsylvania, but contractors continue identifying workforce shortages as one of the industry’s primary constraints on growth. READ MORE.

KCA Surpasses $100,000 in Scholarships: The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) proudly announced that it has awarded more than $100,000 in college scholarships since launching its scholarship program in 2022, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to developing Pennsylvania’s next generation of construction industry leaders. Designed with a singular mission, the KCA Scholarship Program is unlike any other in the Commonwealth. KCA proudly refers to it as “Pennsylvania’s Scholarship” because every dollar invested stays in Pennsylvania. READ MORE (CPBJ is password protected. If you cannot view article, click to read KCA release).

PHOTO CAPTION: KCA Education Committee Chairman Jim Darr with the 2026 KCA Scholarship winners: Kevin Brown, Lindsay Baer and Keely Nunn.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed & Keep Building Pennsylvania!

Pennsylvania Construction Recap – The Top Stories for the Week Ending July 3, 2026

Construction is one of America’s most patriotic industries because we build the nation, live the values that made America great and leave every community stronger than we found it. For 250 years, builders have helped write the American story – and we’re proud to continue that legacy today.

In honor of 250 years of the United States of America, this week’s recap features three reasons why Pennsylvania’s construction industry has a deep tradition of patriotism that is rooted in its history, workforce and mission.

Construction Literally Builds America: No industry has a more direct connection to the nation’s growth than construction. Pennsylvania contractors build and maintain the infrastructure that keeps America moving. Construction professionals don’t just work in America—they build the places where Americans live, work, learn, and serve. That creates a strong sense of pride and purpose.
The Industry Shares America’s Founding Values: Construction reflects many of the same values that have defined America for 250 years. Many contractors are family-owned businesses that have been passed from one generation to the next. Pennsylvania has construction companies that are fourth-, fifth-, and even sixth-generation family businesses. Those traditions mirror the American story of entrepreneurship, perseverance, and building something lasting for future generations. Some of our industry’s values:
- Hard work
- Self-reliance
- Personal responsibility
- Teamwork
- Freedom to build businesses and careers
- Opportunity through the skilled trades
Construction Has a Strong Tradition of Service: The construction workforce has long included military veterans, volunteer firefighters, first responders, coaches, community leaders, and civic volunteers. Many construction professionals see their work as serving their communities, not just earning a living. Building a safer bridge, a new school, or a veterans’ facility has a lasting impact on people’s lives. Construction companies regularly:
- Rebuild communities after a natural disaster.
- Donate time, equipment, and materials to charitable causes.
- Support local schools, youth sports and community organizations.

Happy 250th Birthday America!

Penn Installations Earns KCA’s Highest Safety Honor for Pennsylvania Subcontractors

HARRISBURG, PA — The Keystone Contractors Association (KCA) proudly announced that Penn Installations has been recognized as the as the safest subcontractor in Pennsylvania among companies reporting more than 100,000 work hours in 2025.

The award was presented during KCA’s annual Construction Celebration, where construction leaders from across the Commonwealth gathered to recognize excellence in safety, workforce development, and the building industry.

Based in Summerhill, Pennsylvania, Penn Installations provides construction services on projects throughout the Commonwealth and has established a reputation for delivering quality work while maintaining an unwavering commitment to employee safety.

The KCA Safety Award recognizes subcontractors that demonstrate exceptional safety performance while completing a significant volume of work. Receiving the award reflects a company-wide commitment to protecting employees, investing in training, and fostering a culture where safety is the foundation of every project.

“Penn Installations has set the standard for safety excellence in Pennsylvania’s construction industry,” said Jon O’Brien, Executive Director of the KCA. “Managing more than 100,000 work hours while achieving the Commonwealth’s top safety record is an extraordinary accomplishment. This recognition reflects the dedication of every employee and leader who makes safety the first priority every day.”

Penn Installations credits the award to the commitment of its entire workforce, from field employees to supervisors and management, who work together to ensure every project is completed safely and successfully.

“We are honored to receive this recognition from the Keystone Contractors Association,” said Howard Bernstein, President of Penn Installations. “Safety is more than a program at Penn Installations—it is part of our culture. Every member of our team takes personal responsibility for protecting one another, and this award is a reflection of that shared commitment. We thank KCA for this recognition and remain dedicated to continuous improvement as we serve clients across Pennsylvania.”

The Keystone Contractors Association’s annual Safety Awards recognize contractors whose outstanding safety performance demonstrates that protecting workers is essential to building successful projects and a stronger construction industry.

About Penn Installations

Penn Installations, headquartered in Summerhill, Pennsylvania, is a leading construction subcontractor serving clients throughout Pennsylvania. The company is recognized for its commitment to quality workmanship, dependable service, and an industry-leading culture of safety.

About the Keystone Contractors Association

Media Contact:
Jon O’Brien
Executive Director
Keystone Contractors Association
717-731-6272
Jon@KeystoneContractors.com