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. 

ECA has served underground and heavy construction professionals in Southern California since 1976, providing regionally focused advocacy, education, and labor relations.  

“UCON’s growth in southern California combined with our aligned values, genuine commitment to our members, and dedication to serving only union-signatory contractors made the merger with ECA a natural fit for UCON,” said Ron Bianchini, UCON’s 2023 President.  “We are thrilled to represent our newest UCON members across the southern California region, while continuing to build upon the incredible work of ECA over the past 50 years.”  

“Merging with UCON is the right move at the right time,” said Michael Prlich, ECA President. “Over the past year of discussions, we’ve seen first-hand how dedicated UCON is to their mission, to their members, and to the growth of the union-signatory construction industry. They offer outstanding member services and support in advocacy, labor relations, education, safety & regulatory, and events. We know UCON will build upon ECA’s legacy in the region while delivering the same high-level of service and support they are known for. We are proud to join with them and know our members are in good hands.”  

As part of the transition, ECA’s Executive Director, Ray Baca, will join United Contractors as the Southern CA Regional Director of Government Relations. “We are excited to welcome Ray Baca to the UCON team,” said Emily Cohen, Executive Vice President for UCON who oversees government relations & political advocacy for the organization. “Ray has a demonstrated record of success, and I am confident he will help us deepen our impact and strengthen our voice across the region.” 

Alongside his Board and membership, Mr. Baca was an integral part of overseeing the merger. “There is a strong, mutually beneficial relationship here and I’m proud to have helped steer this successful transition,” said Mr. Baca.  “I am looking forward to the positive impact and experience ECA members will have, and to the growth and future of UCON.” 

“The merger reflects UCON’s commitment to California’s union contractors and industry leadership. We continue to grow by delivering first-class service without compromise to our members, of all sizes and across all regions,” said UCON CEO, Mark Breslin. “We are privileged to have earned the trust and support of ECA’s contractors.”

As part of UCON’s long-standing commitment to strong governance, the organization has established a Regional Executive Council (REC) in Southern California. It will be directly supported by UCON Regional Vice President, Clay O’Neal. The REC will be responsible for oversight of UCON’s plans, initiatives, and activities related to Southern California. Michael Prlich of Mike Prlich & Sons and Garrett Francis of Fryman Management will join United Contractors’ 2023-2024 Board of Directors. Additionally, Dave Sorem of Mike Bubalo Construction Co., Inc. and Brandon Pensick of Ferreira Construction Co., Inc. will join UCON’s REC.  

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United Contractors (UCON,) established in 1975, is California’s premier construction trade association representing heavy civil engineering contractors across the state. UCON is a member-driven organization that protects, educates, and empowers California’s union contractors with labor relations, political advocacy, HR support, safety & regulatory services, professional & leadership development, and industry networking. UCON represents more than 600 construction and associate firms across the state.