740+

Members Throughout California

60M

Man-Hours Statewide

98%

Member Retention

Contractor Resource Library

An Exclusive Contractor Member Benefit: Search for hundreds of resources in our library.

2023 UCON Fall Scholarship Award Winners

United Contractors is proud to announce the 2023 Fall Scholarship Awards Program recipients. The following students are being recognized by the Les Weed Memorial Scholarship fund, which recognizes individuals making a difference within our organization and industry:

The Results Are In!

Thank you to all of our members who responded to our annual membership survey. Your input helps us to continue exceeding your expectations and delivering the highest level of service in the industry.

We are thrilled to report our best results to date. Click images below to see how we did.

2023 CONTRACTOR MEMBER SATISFACTION SURVEY:

Workplace Violence Prevention Plan Template 2024

Per Senate Bill 553, every workplace is required to have a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan in place. This information needs to be readily available to all employees and from each manager and supervisor. The plan ensures that all employees, including supervisors and managers, adhere to work practices designed to secure the workplace environment.

New California Construction General Permit

New Best Management Practices Requirements

The new Construction General Permit went into effect on September 1, 2023. 

Below, we are looking at changes to the Best Management Practices (BMP). 

2023 UCON Scorecard

Welcome to the eagerly awaited unveiling of the 2023 UCON Scorecard, your comprehensive legislative guide to our organization's achievements and progress over the past year.

Legislative Update

The Legislature returned from its four-week summer break on Monday, August 14 to begin their final month of the 2023 session. By-and-large policy committee deadlines have passed and for virtually all bills that remain alive, they are either awaiting consideration on the floor in the second house or – for measures with fiscal impacts – are awaiting hearing in the Appropriations Committee.

2023 Fall Scholarship Awards Program

UCON's Scholarship Program will be offering a fall season of awards this year. Up to $12,000 will be distrbuted. Applications will be accepted from Friday, September 15th - Thursday, October 19th. To be added to our mailing list, contact Denise Ramirez

Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Grant Relief Program now LIVE

After much anticipation, The California Small Business and Nonprofit COVID-19 Relief Grant Program (to pay for COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave) is now taking applications. After significant advocacy from United Contractors, the State of California built and funded the program in the Budget Act of 2022 (AB-178) and authorized it through Assembly Bill 152 in September 2022.

The website for the program has been officially launched and is now taking applications. 

APPLY NOW

Congratulations to UCON'S 2023 Scholarship Program Recipients

United Contractors Scholarship Committee is proud to announce the 2023 UCON Scholarship Awards Program winners. A record of $60,000 total will be distributed to the following sixteen students, who are being recognized not only for their academic achievements but also for their contributions to the communities they plan to serve.

Safety Alert: Heat Illness Prevention Resources

This year has proven to be one of the hottest ones on record. To protect yourself and your employees, make sure you have your Heat Illness Prevention Plan in place. Heat illness can result if precautions are not taken. 

Governor's $180B Infrastructure Streamlining Proposal Passed

On June 26, California’s State Legislature agreed to advance Governor Newsom’s streamlining package that will accelerate delivery of transportation, water, and energy infrastructure projects, unlocking $180 billion in funds over the next decade. 

California Construction General Permit: A Deeper Look

In a previous issue, we let you know that the new Construction General Permit will go into effect on September 1, 2023.  Over the next couple of months, we are going to take a more in-depth look at the changes. The revised inspection requirements follow.

CARB Approved Amendments to the Off-road Diesel Regulation

Amendments to CARB’s Off-road Diesel Regulation

As mentioned in a previous issue, the California Air Resources Board approved amendments to the Off-road Diesel Regulation. The amendments included new requirements which start on January 1, 2024.

Speak Up on Important Issues Facing Union Contractors

Please visit UCON's Grassroots Advocacy Center to make your voice heard on these three important issues that directly impact union contractors.

❌ OPPOSE Proposed Lead standards revisions, which would present significant costs to contractors and invasive medical and privacy requirements for workers.

❌ OPPOSE SB 365, which would limit the rights of union contractors who collectively bargain.

Click to make your voice heard!

Hot Topics for the Construction Industry

On April 24, 2023, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation. This regulation transitions High Priority Fleets, those with 50 or more trucks or companies with $50 million in revenue with one truck, to zero-emission trucks by 2045. This is the end user regulation to CARB’s zero-emission truck strategy, the first of which, the Advanced Clean Trucks Regulation, was directed at truck manufacturers and was issued a waiver by the United States Environmental Protection Agency in March 2023.

Hot Topics for the Construction Industry

This is a reminder that the Storm Water Annual Report for industrial facilities for the 2022-2023 reporting period is due July 15, 2023.  This requirement only applies to facilities that are currently enrolled under the General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Industrial Activities.  The Water Board has created the following guide to assist dischargers with the reporting.

Hot Topics for the Construction Industry

On September 8, 2022, the California State Water Resources Control Board approved the new Construction General Permit, an NPDES permit regulating stormwater discharges from construction sites.  The new permit will go into effect on September 1, 2023.  However, projects that secure coverage under the current permit prior to September 1, 2023, will be grandfathered to the old permit for two years after the effective date.  

Hot Topics for the Construction Industry

On March 31, 2023, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) granted California waivers for two California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations aimed at reducing emissions standards for new heavy-duty vehicles. 

Uniquely as a state, California can pass air quality regulations more stringent than that of federal regulations. For California’s more stringent regulations on motor vehicle however, the US EPA must grant these regulations waivers.

Hot Topics for the Construction Industry

In January of 2023, CARB instituted a new regulation called the Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Regulation.   This is a new program to test the emissions systems of nearly all diesel and alternative fuel vehicles over 14,000 lbs. GVW operates in California.  This program includes personal vehicles as well.

Hot Topics for the Construction Industry

Given the recent SVB failure, UCON’s Associate Members from F&M Bank and Heritage Bank of Commerce provided talking points for you and your banker.

Contact your banker – If they have not already reached out to you.

Questions to ask your financial institution:

United Contractors & ECA Join Forces in Merger

United Contractors (UCON) and Engineering Contractors Association (ECA) have finalized a merger-acquisition that will result in ECA joining UCON. The merger will enhance the voice of union-signatory heavy-civil construction contractors across the state while expanding services, advocacy, and support for all UCON members. 

Permanent Cal/OSHA Covid-19 Regulations Now in Effect

The permanent COVID-19 prevention regulations approved by the Cal/OSHA Standards Board on December 15, 2022, became effective as of February 3, 2023. This new regulation will remain in effect through February 3, 2025. The recordkeeping requirements will remain in effect until February 3, 2026.

Emily Cohen & Sue Dyer: Bringing Women Into Construction

We were excited to help kick off Sue Dyer's Bringing Women into Construction series on her Lead With Trust podcast. During the episode, UCON's EVP, Emily Cohen and Sue discuss the reasons why the number of women in construction, percentage-wise, is abysmal. They discuss the workforce and talent shortage currently being experienced by the industry and the conversations and solutions that they hope will arise from this series. 

Governor's 2023-24 Budget Released

The Governor's January budget was released on January 10, and is just the beginning of a month-long budget process. The following from Kiana Valentine of Transportation California and Politico Group is an analysis of the Governor’s January Budget for 2023-24, and how it relates specifically to transportation and infrastructure related programs and our industry.

AB 1851 & Prevailing Wage Trucking Compliance

As we roll into 2023, we continue to receive questions on what, if any, impact AB 1851 has on the industry and day-to-day operations. The detailed explanation below serves as a primer of what happened and what, if anything, your company needs to do. 

2022 UCON Legislative Scorecard

September 30 marked the official end of the 2022 Legislative Year. Throughout the year, UCON's Advocacy Team -- guided by our Legislative Committee and Board of Directors -- tracked hundreds of bills and worked to actively oppose or support dozens of bills that impact California's union-signatory contractors.  

2023 Union Holiday Schedules Now Available

The 2023 schedules of recognized union holidays are now available - you can download them by clicking on the links below and also from the UCON Contractor Resources Library. The 2022 schedules are also still available.

Governor Signs AB 152

After significant advocacy from United Contractors, Governor Newsom has signed (AB 152) a budget trailer bill which implements the COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Relief Grant Program.  

Southern California Report

Opportunities & Updates for UCON’s Southern California Contractors

Meet Clay O'Neal, UCON's Regional VP - Southern California, and learn more about our bargaining and advocacy efforts, educational programs, and networking events. Read more...

Take Action

Tell Cal/OSHA that you strongly OPPOSE their drastic proposed Lead standards revisions, which would present significant costs to contractors and invasive medical and privacy requirements for workers. Click here to send a pre-formulated letter to the Cal/OSHA Board. Fact Sheet

United We Stand

UCON Up Front: February 2022, by Joe Sostaric, the Conco Companies, UCON President

I’m writing this article as one of my first acts since being elected as the new President of UCON. First, let me say to all that I am deeply honored and humbled to be given the opportunity to lead this great organization.

The UCON PAC is Our Power

UCON Upfront: October 2021, by Kurt Kniffin, Stacy and Witbeck Inc., UCON 2021 President

The UCON PAC is the one vehicle available to support candidates that support our industry.

2023 UCON Fall Scholarship Award Winners

United Contractors is proud to announce the 2023 Fall Scholarship Awards Program recipients. The following students are being recognized by the Les Weed Memorial Scholarship fund, which recognizes individuals making a difference within our organization and industry:

The Results Are In!

Thank you to all of our members who responded to our annual membership survey. Your input helps us to continue exceeding your expectations and delivering the highest level of service in the industry.

We are thrilled to report our best results to date. Click images below to see how we did.

2023 CONTRACTOR MEMBER SATISFACTION SURVEY:

Workplace Violence Prevention Plan Template 2024

Per Senate Bill 553, every workplace is required to have a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan in place. This information needs to be readily available to all employees and from each manager and supervisor. The plan ensures that all employees, including supervisors and managers, adhere to work practices designed to secure the workplace environment.

New California Construction General Permit

New Best Management Practices Requirements

The new Construction General Permit went into effect on September 1, 2023. 

Below, we are looking at changes to the Best Management Practices (BMP). 

2023 UCON Scorecard

Welcome to the eagerly awaited unveiling of the 2023 UCON Scorecard, your comprehensive legislative guide to our organization's achievements and progress over the past year.

Legislative Update

The Legislature returned from its four-week summer break on Monday, August 14 to begin their final month of the 2023 session. By-and-large policy committee deadlines have passed and for virtually all bills that remain alive, they are either awaiting consideration on the floor in the second house or – for measures with fiscal impacts – are awaiting hearing in the Appropriations Committee.

2023 Fall Scholarship Awards Program

UCON's Scholarship Program will be offering a fall season of awards this year. Up to $12,000 will be distrbuted. Applications will be accepted from Friday, September 15th - Thursday, October 19th. To be added to our mailing list, contact Denise Ramirez

Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Grant Relief Program now LIVE

After much anticipation, The California Small Business and Nonprofit COVID-19 Relief Grant Program (to pay for COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave) is now taking applications. After significant advocacy from United Contractors, the State of California built and funded the program in the Budget Act of 2022 (AB-178) and authorized it through Assembly Bill 152 in September 2022.

The website for the program has been officially launched and is now taking applications. 

APPLY NOW

Congratulations to UCON'S 2023 Scholarship Program Recipients

United Contractors Scholarship Committee is proud to announce the 2023 UCON Scholarship Awards Program winners. A record of $60,000 total will be distributed to the following sixteen students, who are being recognized not only for their academic achievements but also for their contributions to the communities they plan to serve.

Safety Alert: Heat Illness Prevention Resources

This year has proven to be one of the hottest ones on record. To protect yourself and your employees, make sure you have your Heat Illness Prevention Plan in place. Heat illness can result if precautions are not taken. 

Governor's $180B Infrastructure Streamlining Proposal Passed

On June 26, California’s State Legislature agreed to advance Governor Newsom’s streamlining package that will accelerate delivery of transportation, water, and energy infrastructure projects, unlocking $180 billion in funds over the next decade. 

California Construction General Permit: A Deeper Look

In a previous issue, we let you know that the new Construction General Permit will go into effect on September 1, 2023.  Over the next couple of months, we are going to take a more in-depth look at the changes. The revised inspection requirements follow.

CARB Approved Amendments to the Off-road Diesel Regulation

Amendments to CARB’s Off-road Diesel Regulation

As mentioned in a previous issue, the California Air Resources Board approved amendments to the Off-road Diesel Regulation. The amendments included new requirements which start on January 1, 2024.

Speak Up on Important Issues Facing Union Contractors

Please visit UCON's Grassroots Advocacy Center to make your voice heard on these three important issues that directly impact union contractors.

❌ OPPOSE Proposed Lead standards revisions, which would present significant costs to contractors and invasive medical and privacy requirements for workers.

❌ OPPOSE SB 365, which would limit the rights of union contractors who collectively bargain.

Click to make your voice heard!

Hot Topics for the Construction Industry

On April 24, 2023, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved the Advanced Clean Fleets Regulation. This regulation transitions High Priority Fleets, those with 50 or more trucks or companies with $50 million in revenue with one truck, to zero-emission trucks by 2045. This is the end user regulation to CARB’s zero-emission truck strategy, the first of which, the Advanced Clean Trucks Regulation, was directed at truck manufacturers and was issued a waiver by the United States Environmental Protection Agency in March 2023.

Hot Topics for the Construction Industry

This is a reminder that the Storm Water Annual Report for industrial facilities for the 2022-2023 reporting period is due July 15, 2023.  This requirement only applies to facilities that are currently enrolled under the General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Industrial Activities.  The Water Board has created the following guide to assist dischargers with the reporting.

Hot Topics for the Construction Industry

On September 8, 2022, the California State Water Resources Control Board approved the new Construction General Permit, an NPDES permit regulating stormwater discharges from construction sites.  The new permit will go into effect on September 1, 2023.  However, projects that secure coverage under the current permit prior to September 1, 2023, will be grandfathered to the old permit for two years after the effective date.  

Hot Topics for the Construction Industry

On March 31, 2023, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) granted California waivers for two California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations aimed at reducing emissions standards for new heavy-duty vehicles. 

Uniquely as a state, California can pass air quality regulations more stringent than that of federal regulations. For California’s more stringent regulations on motor vehicle however, the US EPA must grant these regulations waivers.

Hot Topics for the Construction Industry

In January of 2023, CARB instituted a new regulation called the Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Regulation.   This is a new program to test the emissions systems of nearly all diesel and alternative fuel vehicles over 14,000 lbs. GVW operates in California.  This program includes personal vehicles as well.

Hot Topics for the Construction Industry

Given the recent SVB failure, UCON’s Associate Members from F&M Bank and Heritage Bank of Commerce provided talking points for you and your banker.

Contact your banker – If they have not already reached out to you.

Questions to ask your financial institution:

United Contractors & ECA Join Forces in Merger

United Contractors (UCON) and Engineering Contractors Association (ECA) have finalized a merger-acquisition that will result in ECA joining UCON. The merger will enhance the voice of union-signatory heavy-civil construction contractors across the state while expanding services, advocacy, and support for all UCON members. 

Permanent Cal/OSHA Covid-19 Regulations Now in Effect

The permanent COVID-19 prevention regulations approved by the Cal/OSHA Standards Board on December 15, 2022, became effective as of February 3, 2023. This new regulation will remain in effect through February 3, 2025. The recordkeeping requirements will remain in effect until February 3, 2026.

Emily Cohen & Sue Dyer: Bringing Women Into Construction

We were excited to help kick off Sue Dyer's Bringing Women into Construction series on her Lead With Trust podcast. During the episode, UCON's EVP, Emily Cohen and Sue discuss the reasons why the number of women in construction, percentage-wise, is abysmal. They discuss the workforce and talent shortage currently being experienced by the industry and the conversations and solutions that they hope will arise from this series. 

Governor's 2023-24 Budget Released

The Governor's January budget was released on January 10, and is just the beginning of a month-long budget process. The following from Kiana Valentine of Transportation California and Politico Group is an analysis of the Governor’s January Budget for 2023-24, and how it relates specifically to transportation and infrastructure related programs and our industry.

AB 1851 & Prevailing Wage Trucking Compliance

As we roll into 2023, we continue to receive questions on what, if any, impact AB 1851 has on the industry and day-to-day operations. The detailed explanation below serves as a primer of what happened and what, if anything, your company needs to do. 

2022 UCON Legislative Scorecard

September 30 marked the official end of the 2022 Legislative Year. Throughout the year, UCON's Advocacy Team -- guided by our Legislative Committee and Board of Directors -- tracked hundreds of bills and worked to actively oppose or support dozens of bills that impact California's union-signatory contractors.  

2023 Union Holiday Schedules Now Available

The 2023 schedules of recognized union holidays are now available - you can download them by clicking on the links below and also from the UCON Contractor Resources Library. The 2022 schedules are also still available.

Governor Signs AB 152

After significant advocacy from United Contractors, Governor Newsom has signed (AB 152) a budget trailer bill which implements the COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Relief Grant Program.  

Southern California Report

Opportunities & Updates for UCON’s Southern California Contractors

Meet Clay O'Neal, UCON's Regional VP - Southern California, and learn more about our bargaining and advocacy efforts, educational programs, and networking events. Read more...

Take Action

Tell Cal/OSHA that you strongly OPPOSE their drastic proposed Lead standards revisions, which would present significant costs to contractors and invasive medical and privacy requirements for workers. Click here to send a pre-formulated letter to the Cal/OSHA Board. Fact Sheet

United We Stand

UCON Up Front: February 2022, by Joe Sostaric, the Conco Companies, UCON President

I’m writing this article as one of my first acts since being elected as the new President of UCON. First, let me say to all that I am deeply honored and humbled to be given the opportunity to lead this great organization.

The UCON PAC is Our Power

UCON Upfront: October 2021, by Kurt Kniffin, Stacy and Witbeck Inc., UCON 2021 President

The UCON PAC is the one vehicle available to support candidates that support our industry.

Why UCON?

Elevate the industry by becoming a part of an association that is run for our members, by our members.

  • Labor Negotiations & HR Solutions
  • Political Advocacy and Industry Funding
  • Connect with top industry leaders
  • Regulatory compliance and safety services
  • Leadership development, virtual education, and relationship building
  • Extensive library of free contractor resources
UCON is an invaluable support system. They are responsive, thorough and offer the peace of mind to move forward.

Karen Silva, Navajo Pipelines, Inc.

UCON is extremely helpful. We always receive accurate and timely guidance. 

Brianna Newton, Veteran Pipeline Construction/Charge EPC

UCON is a platform for Contractors who want to keep this industry thriving. The return to members are tenfold the cost of membership.

Karissa Fox, Smith, Currie & Hancock LLP

Joining United Contractors is one of the most rewarding things I’ve experienced. Come see why.

Trony Fuller, Vulcan Materials Co., Western Division