Client Spotlight – Excel Glass and Granite

Granite-and-stone-specialists-Excel Granite-and-GlassFor the past 70 years, Excel Glass and Granite has progressed with technology, skilled labor training and design expertise to bring the newest designs in the Kitchen and Bath Industry. We offer a variety of the latest in quartz and granite from which to choose.

The Excel Glass Division, a full-service installer and fabricator of commercial and residential glass provides custom shower doors, shower door enclosures, custom mirrors, replacement glass and much more. Featuring the area’s largest selection of custom mirrors in any size, shape or color, the company specializes in the custom design, manufacturing and installation of framed or unframed mirrors to match any specification.

Excel Hospitality Stone works with construction companies, project managers and commercial developers in providing granite, stone and/or glass products to fulfill multi-unit or hotel project needs by furnishing and installing countertops, sinks, vanity bases, shower bases, and L.E.D. Mirrors.

Granite-and-stone-specialists-Excel-Granite-and-Glass-Foundry-at-41stA recent commercial project highlights construction of The Foundry at 41st, featuring a variety of apartment types from nano units to two bedrooms providing luxury living in the heart of one of the hippest neighborhoods. The open floorplan design features an incredible list of amenities, including high-end apartment features and finishes. Working with Fort Willow Developers and Walnut Capital, Excel Hospitality Stone provided 171 apartments with 209 vanities, mirrors and porcelain sinks, 26 shower doors and 171 kitchen quartz tops and stainless sinks for this high end apartment complex.

Versatile, customizable and reliable – experience the “Excellence of Excel!”

Client Spotlight – Markosky Engineering Group, Inc.

Client-Spotlight-MarkoskyFounded in 1999, The Markosky Engineering Group, Inc. (Markosky) a woman-owned business, provides civil engineering, environmental services and construction services to public and private sector clients. Services include roadway design, traffic engineering, bridge design, environmental services, cultural resources, NBIS bridge inspection, construction inspection, site development, municipal engineering, and oil & gas environmental engineering and permitting services.

The versatile and experienced staff is dedicated to finding the best solutions to meet the client/project needs. Markosky is certified by the Pennsylvania Unified Certification Program (PAUCP) and the PA Department of General Services as a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise. Currently the company employs over 60 professionals working in the organization.

Photo Credit: Richard Cochrane from McTish, Kunkel & Associates.
Photo Credit: Richard Cochrane from McTish, Kunkel & Associates.

One of Markosky’s most recent projects was the SR 0980, Section 139 project included the realignment of the southern approach of PA 980 to form a ‘plus’ intersection and constructing a new bridge carrying the Montour trail over the intersection to fully separate trail-using families, pedestrians and bicyclists from surface motor vehicle traffic. The new 379’ bridge is a three-span composite steel girder structure, which provides the necessary vertical clearances for both PA 980 and PA 50 while meeting the Trail’s requirement of a maximum approach grade. The new bridge also completes the final Montour Trail gap in Washington County, the heavily traveled central part of the Trail.

The project incorporated numerous innovative and unique aspects including the adaptive reuse of the only remaining portion of the original two-girder structure built in 1913 by the Montour Railroad. Additionally, the project incorporated geosynthetic reinforced slope (GRS) embankments for the trail approaches in order to increase the clearance of the new bridge over the roadways without increasing the embankment footprint thereby avoiding impacts to adjacent properties and the environment.

Markosky invests in our future by supporting groups that benefit children such as the Laurel Highlands Council Boy Scouts of America, Community Foundation Alleghenies, Dreams Go ON Trail Ride, STAT, Inc. LVHS Alliance of Student Athletes, Ligonier Camp & Conference Center to name a few.

Staff members mentor 7th & 8th graders in a project-based learning program. Students use their imagination, research, and engineering design to compete in the completion of a model Future City Tests of Engineering Aptitude, Mathematics, and Science (TEAM+S). This national engineering competition involves problem-solving skills, collaboration, analytical thinking and multidimensional problem-solving solutions. Moving to the high school level, Markosky provides job shadowing opportunities for career exploration. At a corporate level, they participated as a “Speed Coach” for Mentoring Monday event hosted by the Pittsburgh Business Times bringing women together to network, receive career advice, tips and guidance.

The firm volunteered their services at a tree planting event for Flight 93 Memorial Planting Day hosted by the Marcellus Shale Coalition.

Markosky was recently awarded the 2017 Business of The Year Award from the Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce for delivering quality projects, supporting future generations in the sciences and being a steward in the community,

Client Spotlight – Earth Inc.

Earth, Inc.Earth, Inc. is a geotechnical engineering firm that has specialized in highway, bridge work and large scale commercial development since its inception in 1983. The company can provide the complete geotechnical scope from initial field reconnaissance, problem definition, development and monitoring of subsurface exploration programs, laboratory testing, conceptual design, alternatives analysis including cost comparisons, sketch design, pre-final design, final design, and consultation during construction.

Earth, Inc. is accredited by the AASHTO Material Reference Laboratory (AMRL) Accreditation Program for soil testing for both AASHTO and ASTM test methods. The company has maintained the longest accredited program for soil testing in the state of Pennsylvania. There is a laboratory QA/QC program in place including technician training and evaluation, AMRL proficiency testing, and equipment calibration.

Geotechnical and supplementary civil engineering service highlights include:

  • Geotechnical investigations for civil engineering construction
  • Foundation investigations for civil structures including buildings and bridges
  • Geotechnical engineering design including dams, impoundments, site development, roadways, retaining structures, etc.
  • Hydrologic studies and hydraulic analyses and design
  • Groundwater studies
  • Landslide stabilization
  • Acid mine drainage and mine reclamation projects
  • Consulting, monitoring, and testing services during construction

Their many highway and bridge projects include work on Pennsylvania Turnpike expansion projects including the Mon Fayette, Greensburg and Beaver Valley Expressways. In addition to PennDOT reconstruction projects on I-79 and I-70, they have also worked on Pennsylvania Turnpike Mainline and Northeast Extension reconstruction projects as well.

McCandless Crossing, a large scale commercial project located in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, represents recent commercial property development with which Earth, Inc. has been involved since the beginning of the project. Site work design began in 2006 with several phases of grading and subsequent building construction having occurred in the time since. Prior to developer improvements, Earth Inc. worked with highway design consultants, the Town of McCandless and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to widen McKnight Road, Cumberland Road, Babcock Boulevard, and Duncan Avenue, thereby increasing traffic capacity via new turn lanes for the massive undertaking.

Earth, Inc.The Duquesne Incline on Mt. Washington is an iconic symbol in Pittsburgh. In 1996, the Incline experienced a significant rock fall event. Although the Incline did not incur much damage, its long-term stability was threatened. As a result, Earth, Inc. designed a rock fall remediation system consisting of slope netting and rock bolts on two rock faces of suspect stability on the very steep hillside overlooking downtown Pittsburgh; this work also included shotcrete underpinnings of rock overhangs. The construction work was incorporated into the Port Authority of Allegheny County’s contract to perform hillside stabilization along portions of the Conrail railroad shelf.

For ongoing safety and monitoring, Earth, Inc. designed a geotechnical instrumentation system for the hillside upon which the Incline is located, consisting of 10 tilt meters attached to exposed rock faces. Continuous remote reading of the tilt meters is received over time at the upper station of the Incline with automated output being generated to provide baseline data for future comparisons. Alarms have been built into the computerized system to alert Duquesne Incline personnel if unusual movement has occurred, along with providing a warning of possible impending major hillside movement.

Upgrading highways and bridges, creating new commercial communities and stabilizing iconic symbols of Pittsburgh and beyond are among the highlights of Earth Inc.’s geotechnical service capabilities.

Client Spotlight – Green Seven Technologies

Green-Seven-Technologies

Green Seven Technologies is a IT Managed Service Company. Unlike other technology companies, our philosophy is different in that we are proactive in our management of the clients whose technology programs we manage. Our managed IT service program is an All-Inclusive program model with a fixed monthly fee. We work with a number of government entities, architects and engineering companies that have multiple locations and large data files.

Larger organizations that have an IT department already in place take advantage of the company’s co-managed program. Green Seven Technologies will work hand in hand with your internal IT staff allowing for depth in IT coverage, as well as the ability to handle day-to-day patches and updates, allowing the internal staff to focus on projects.

By using this type of program, our clients have realized up to 40% savings through system upgrade efficiencies, GUARANTEED 7 minute response, and our 24/7/365 advanced remote monitoring program. What this means for your organization is a direct contact to the technicians who work on their systems, no waiting for hours until a person calls back.

Jay-Markey
Jay Markey – President

Due to increased vigilance in hackers attempting to access your system, the Business Disaster Recovery Program offered by Green Seven Technologies is different than the normal file backup. This service backs up not only your files, but the company’s operating system and employee profiles as well. In the event of a disaster, your system can be remotely accessed in minutes versus hours or days.

Many of our clients rely on us to help guide them in understanding various software packages and assist their organization in determining the best option for current and future needs. We have built our reputation on a GUARANTEED 7 minute response and currently have multi-year contracts with a number of clients. For a free network assessment and to learn more about Managed IT Services, contact Jay Markey.

Client Spotlight – Huckestein Mechanical Services

Huckestein-Mechanical-ServicesOwned by Wendy Staso, Huckestein Mechanical Services is the only certified woman-owned and operated mechanical contractor serving Western Pennsylvania, eastern Ohio and Northern West Virginia.

The company designs, builds, services, and maintains non-residential HVAC systems, efficiently moving projects from concept to reality and services from reactive to proactive, optimizing our customers’ investment in and ownership of valuable mechanical assets.

Wendy-P-Staso
Jonathan, CFO; Wendy P Staso, CEO; and Walter, CTO (Chief Therapy Officer)

Huckestein Mechanical Services’ NO CHANGE ORDER PROMISE…For mechanical renovation or replacement projects, regardless of size, engage Huckestein first. When we are the single point of contact, from identifying a need to project through design, engineering and installation, our brand promise is that, under no circumstances will there be change orders within the agreed upon scope of work. This eliminates unnecessary layers of costs, delivers a streamlined process for enhanced project quality and cost savings. Our promise is unique to the industry, so why would you choose any other delivery model for your mechanical project?

Whether it’s an energy conservation measure (ECM), a capital improvement project, or a simple rooftop replacement, at Huckestein we believe that an integrated approach to designing and constructing projects leads to high quality, cost effective, and timely outcomes.

The foundation of a comprehensive service program is Planned Maintenance which is preventive, predictive, and proactive. Planned Maintenance is simply the care and servicing required to maintain equipment and facilities in satisfactory operating condition by providing for systemic inspection, detection, and correction of emerging failures either before they occur or before they develop into major defects.

With a strong history of providing state-of-the-art, real world solutions to the challenges facing today’s businesses in terms of energy optimization, sustainability, and environmental awareness, Huckestein is poised to guide our clients to savings.

Since 1978, Huckestein has been partnering with our customers to help them increase the return on their building investments. Through our SERVICEPLAN™ platform, Huckestein provides HVAC service and maintenance to more than 250 institutional, commercial, and government facilities throughout the tristate area.

Client Spotlight – Hanlon Electric

electrical contractorSince 1930 Hanlon Electric has been known for providing high quality service throughout the Pittsburgh region and beyond.  Hanlon Electric Company is a full-service electrical contractor providing service and maintenance, infrared and power quality testing, new construction, construction renovations, design/build construction as well as data and communication cabling and testing.

Power Management Plan for Phipps Conservatory

Many of you have visited Phipps Conservatory and marveled at the spectacular Winter Light Garden display.  The Phipps team worked with Hanlon Electric to design a robust power management plan and install many of the structures. Phipps met with our journeymen on a weekly basis during installation to review designs and assess the installation progress. This beautiful garden of lights was achieved through the collective collaborations with artists, fabricators and electricians.

electrical-contractor, Hanlon, Phipps-Conservatory

Hanlon Electric specializes in servicing the following industry segments: Commercial/Industrial Construction; Telecommunications, Schools, Universities, Colleges, Theaters and Public Institutions, Hospital and Medical, and Marcellus and Emerging Energy Companies.

A leader in Safety, Priority Service & Building Maintenance, Hanlon Electric provides skilled electrical system service, repair and maintenance by highly trained staff.

Through the “Power of Forward Thinking,” Hanlon bridges technology and energy efficiencies to proactively minimize downtime. The company offers energy audits and assists customers in finding the best energy solution for their given organization.

There is a concerted effort to deliver green energy solutions for our environment.  In response to growing public interest in alternative vehicles, Hanlon has installed numerous electric vehicle (EV) charging stations (EVCS).

For three generations, Hanlon Electric has stood the test of time and delivered.  Companies have come to rely on the expertise of Hanlon Electric.

Client Highlight – Dagostino Electronic Services, Inc.

Dagoinformation communication technology systemsstino Electronic Services, Inc. is a Pittsburgh based company that designs, sells, installs, and maintains information communication technology systems for voice, data, security, IP surveillance, multimedia, fiber optics and structured cabling. Since 1973, DES has implemented innovative and effective solutions for K-12 and higher education, small businesses, large corporations, manufacturing and government.  While partnering with end user customers, as well as contractors, architects, and design firms, DES merges technology from premium providers with comprehensive service and support to give customers the most advanced hardware, software and service solutions that address their technology needs.

As the preferred technology provider for the Pittsburgh Steelers, DES implements everything from the stadium’s cabling infrastructure to telephony and data needs to multimedia and wireless.  Recently the stadium underwent a multi-million dollar wireless upgrade to provide a custom experience to stadium guests.  DES was also an integral part of the South End zone and Champions Club addition, providing cabling, fiber, and multimedia services.

information communication technology systems

Data Centers are the lifeblood of any organization’s data.  DES utilizes best practices in design construction to support customer relocation of equipment from multiple sites and applies green technologies to help to reduce carbon footprint.  The company holds LEED-AP certification and is staffed with five BICSI registered communication distribution designers (RCDD).

Whether you seek a standard telephony solution or one that converges voice, data services, applications or multimedia, a DES solution can be the foundation for the continuing success of any size organization providing end-to-end solutions for your company to accomplish its technology goals.

Client Spotlight – Hancock Architecture & Eisler Landscapes

Hancock Architecture – Designing Character and Functionality

For more than 20 years, Hancock Architecture has worked with businesses, communities, and individuals throughout the tri-state area building a reputation for quality design.

Through innovative solutions and a commitment to detail and sustainability, they have restored historic structures, brought vitality to main streets, and improved the lives of people where they live and work.

Their disciplined approach follows a project from conception through completion. As a small, independent firm, they work collaboratively to achieve a design aesthetic and functionality that fulfills every client’s individual requirements. Their work buildings and interior designs have lasting character and many have won national recognition.

Hancock’s extensive portfolio of work includes industrial businesses, commercial firms, retail, government agencies, non-profit groups, and individuals. Each project is approached with a goal of affordable sustainability – with a balanced consideration of the environment, current technology, and a client’s budget. Buildings are designed to minimize impact on the environment, reduce energy consumption, and be functional in purpose.

Services include:
• Architecture
• Interior Architecture and Design
• Code Compliance Services, including ADA
• Engineering
• Master Planning
• Adaptive Reuse – redesigning old structure for new purposes
• Project Management – turnkey supervision from planning and design through construction

HANCOCK ARCHITECTURE: A View from Inside and Out

Hancock Architecture  Hancock ArchitectureHancock Architecture Hancock Architecture

Hancock Architecture is licensed in Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia. We are certified by the American Institute of Architects and the National Council of Architectural Review Board.

EISLER LANDSCAPES – Green Rooftops and Sustainability

Founded in 1926, Eisler Nurseries has evolved into one of the region’s foremost production nursery and landscape installation firms now called Eisler Landscapes. As a WBE landscaping company, they have worked with a number of Pittsburgh’s blue list clients and transitioned the firm into commercial landscape construction with strong emphasis on green infrastructure.

Over the course of the past number of years, Eisler Landscapes has evolved into a modern company with a dedicated fleet of the latest equipment, an in-house design team and horticulture, landscaping and construction experts, and 250 acres of nurseries.

Eisler Landscapes is popular with institutions such as the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University as they integrate green infrastructure into their building projects. Amenities with green roofs, outdoor planter’s plazas, roof top gardens combined with outdoor seating and living areas utilize the best management practices for managing storm water run-offs.

The company has long standing employees that have grown with the company. With a staff of horticulturists and landscape professionals, the organization has the resources for all sizes of projects.

Projects in both residential and commercial cross over between manpower, skills and equipment. By having state-of-the-art equipment and skilled staff, it saves the client time and money. Eisler Landscapes bring great value to the table for their customers.

Some recent project highlights:

• Green Roof and David Lawrence Convention Center – high profile green roof.
• East Liberty Town Square – green infrastructure solutions like rain gardens were used
• Eden Hall Campus of Chatham University– greenest college campus in the world
• Green Roof Carnegie Mellon University – Scott Hall project

To review their projects, check out the portfolio page on their website.

McKibbin Consulting, Eisler Landscapse
UPMC Mario Lemieux Center for Blood Cancers. Designed by Pashek Associates, Ltd., and built by Eisler Landscapes and Landau Building Company. Photos by Taktl.

Networking Tips Lead For Business Success

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William Mura of Pedersen & Pedersen, Inc. and Jill McKibbin of McKibbin Consulting. Photo by Joe Wojcik – Pittsburgh Business Times

Did you ever wish you could be in two places at the same time? Do you ever reach networking burnout where one more event just isn’t in the cards? With so many networking opportunities, how can you capitalize on the best events?

Jill McKibbin, owner of McKibbin Consulting, has found a solution to the networking dilemma. She attends events on behalf of her clients. The connections made can then result in appointments and may lead to business.

At a recent Pittsburgh Business Times Corridors of Opportunity event, William Mura of Pedersen & Pedersen, Inc. and Jill McKibbin of McKibbin Consulting, discuss how to grow new business leads for 2016.

McKibbin offers these effective networking tips:

  • Be prepared have an ample supply of business cards, but don’t pass them to everyone in the room. Quality connections versus a quantity of business cards are more beneficial.
  • Follow-up promptly – have some type of process in place when you meet someone at a meeting – either fold the corner of the business card down or make a note on the back of the card.
  • Create a diverse network of business associates and be a giver, offering to make introductions on behalf of others and follow through with that promise.
  • Organize your contacts by category and influence level
  • Befriend gatekeepers, they often hold the key to the executive’s calendar

Develop a passion for connecting influencers in various fields to see how they might compliment and do business with each other. When networking, recognize yourself as a catalyst for helping others and remember the saying – “giver’s gain”. Be genuine if your effort to support business. There is strength in collaboration through individuals of various businesses in a team-setting creating powerful strategy for combined growth.

To learn more about how McKibbin Consulting can help you grow your business, contact 412-498-3572 or email [email protected].

About the Author: Jill McKibbin, of McKibbin Consulting combines sales experience, sales processes, developing ideal business relationships, and contractual skills. These supportive services make increasing business opportunities easier for clients. Through a variety of networks McKibbin has the ability to match any client with a contact or potential opportunity, whatever the need. McKibbin formed a Commercial Industrial Service Trade Group (CIST). With chapters throughout the region, this highly organized networking group brings together a variety of trades to network and pursue construction focused project opportunities.