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Equipment

This quarter, we've expanded the equipment shop team in anticipation of the upcoming delivery of our new haul truck. We're excited to announce that a brand-new Kenworth T880 is on its way, and we've already secured a Landoll trailer for it. Glen Love has joined our team and is eagerly awaiting the truck's arrival. While Glen is new to PGC, he brings almost three decades of valuable heavy haul experience with him. Welcome aboard, Glen!

The Austin chapter of the National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA) recently conducted live trench training at the PGC shop. NUCA gathered top-tier companies to provide a comprehensive nine-station trench training program. Each station delivered crucial information on maintaining the safety of our workers every day. A special acknowledgment goes to Tim Kerin for extending an invitation to Austin Fire and Rescue. To conclude the training, Austin Fire and Rescue conducted a live trench rescue demonstration.

As the weather undergoes changes and temperatures decrease, we extend our gratitude to Tim Lyon, Dusty Hale, and Victor Pierce for their dedication to keeping our equipment fueled and operating at peak performance. Whether it's jump-starting equipment in the dark or conducting preventive maintenance in challenging conditions, these individuals consistently go above and beyond for us.
Human Resources

This past quarter we welcomed Tiffany Albarez, who has recently taken on the role of Human Resources Manager. Tiffany brings a wealth of experience and a passion for fostering a positive work environment.

Tiffany is happily married and a proud mother of three sons. She holds a bachelor's degree in management with a specialization in HR from West Texas A&M University. Demonstrating her commitment to continuous learning, Tiffany is set to embark on a master's program in Computer Information Systems and Business Analytics starting in January.

With over seven years of expertise in operations and HR, Tiffany has a proven track record of overseeing organizational operations to meet business goals and projections. Her ability to influence strategic decisions within operational teams and provide expert insight has been instrumental in completing strategic initiatives. Tiffany is particularly passionate about employment law and sees herself as a valuable resource for those in leadership positions.

Notably, Tiffany holds the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) credential, further showcasing her dedication to staying current with industry best practices. We are thrilled to have Tiffany on board, and we look forward to benefiting from her skills, knowledge, and commitment to fostering a thriving workplace.
Learning & Development

At PGC, we are thrilled to offer comprehensive training opportunities to all our employees even before their first day on the job. We believe that training is of paramount importance, and this permeates from the top down within our organization.
 
One source of our pride is our exceptional learning management system, HEI Academy, accessible at hei.hcsslms.com. This online training platform serves as a hub for all employees, providing access to a wealth of resources including our standardized procedures. Beyond procedures, the HEI Academy offers a diverse range of courses that employees can take advantage of, such as leadership development programs, training on our cutting-edge field systems, and much more.
 
To access these trainings, go to HEI Academy (hei.hcsslms.com), enter your PGC email address, as well as the password you use to access your email. If you do not have an PGC email address, enter the email you use for PGC communication. Your password is temporarily set as Password1.
 
Should you have any questions or require assistance in accessing our learning management system, HEI Academy, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at heiacademy@heicivil.com.

NUCA Live Trench Training Recap

This quarter, we hosted the National Utility Contractor Association (NUCA) Live Trench Training at our shop in Lockhart, Texas. Attendees rotated through 10 training sessions, in English and Spanish, including underground utility locates, sloping and benching, trench boxes, emergency preparedness, and more.
Exciting News: Introducing Our New Referral Program!
We're thrilled to roll out a new way to participate in our rewarding Referral Program! Help us expand our remarkable team and earn a referral bonus.

What's It All About?
Our revamped Referral Program empowers you to refer amazing candidates and add them to active jobs directly to earn bonuses once they are hired and remain with the company for 90 days. Join forces with the amazing individuals who make this place special.

How Does It Work?
The program begins today! Look out for the Teamtailor invitation in your inbox and check your spam/junk folders just in case.

  1. Check Out the Jobs: Explore exciting roles on Teamtailor via your employee dashboard.
  2. Spread the Word: Click "Refer a Candidate" at the bottom of your Employee Dashboard, or select a job and hit "Refer a Candidate."
  3. Complete the Form: Complete the New Referral Form – it's quick and easy.
  4. Submit: Click "Add Referral" and you're set!

For visual learners, please click here for a detailed video.

What's in it for You?
Track referrals on your employee dashboard. Once the referral is active 90 days with the company, your well-deserved bonus is yours to enjoy!

We're thrilled about this program. Explore our new career site, spread the word and invite outstanding talent to join our growing family. Let's make a difference together! 
Your Mental Health Matters
Things can become overwhelming at times and can take a toll on our bodies, which makes it extremely important that we recognize when we aren't feeling our best, ensuring we can take the proper measures to get help.
 
If you or someone you know are showing signs or having thoughts of harming themselves, there is help. PGC has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) available for employees and their families to use FREE of charge. 
 
ESPYR is completely confidential and offers help with personal and work-related issues. Call any time 24/7, 365 days a year. Dial 800-869-0276 or visit care.espyr.com.
Password: HEIPGCHSS
Safety

The Safety Department has tightened its Safety procedures at our biggest project in Temple, TX. TTX project team and safety have gone above and beyond OSHA Standards to ensure that our employees are always protected when working alongside deep excavations.

We are pleased to report that PGC's at-fault incident rate has been drastically reduced over the course of the year. With the help of the observation app, our team has been able to cut our trailing twelve-month average in half. As a result of this app, all employees have the capability of eliminating hazards in the workplace. Our use of this app has allowed us to learn where we need to focus more on training.
Safety has been focusing on the implementation of hazard recognition training for all employees in addition to the
observation app. As a result of these efforts, our Operations and Safety Departments aim to create a better and safer future.

In leading the way to a better and safer
future, we would like to recognize some of
the observations submitted.
 
Observation from Daniel Cedillo Crew – Edin Martinez
“Make sure you look where you step. There might be nails sticking up from pieces of wood.”

Observation from Adrian Gonzalez:
“Excavation benched and protected properly. Workers are ready to use all PPE correctly. Jobsite area safe to start working.”
Have a Hazard Recognition
Observation? We encourage you to
submit it here, using this QR code!
Operations

We are thrilled to announce some notable developments within our Plant division that highlight our commitment to growth and excellence.

Join us in extending a warm welcome to Jeff Wolfe, our latest addition to the Plant division. Jeff brings valuable experience and expertise that we are confident will contribute to the continued success of our team. Additionally, we are proud to announce the well-deserved promotion of Ivan De Loera to the position of Assistant Superintendent. Ivan's dedication and hard work have played a significant role in the advancement of our department, and we look forward to witnessing his continued success in this new role.

Our commitment to growth and improvement remains steadfast. The Plant division is actively working on enhancing its capabilities and expanding its reach. As part of this effort, we are back in action at SAWS in San Antonio and are making strides at TTX in Temple, reinforcing our presence in these critical areas.

Our teams are diligently working on multiple projects, including ongoing collaborations with the City of Austin and Tesla. These partnerships underscore our dedication to delivering exceptional results and contributing to the success of these esteemed organizations.

In a strategic move to elevate our services, Don Ischy and Zack Mitchell are now spearheading grade checking and as-builts on projects with the recent addition of survey capabilities. This enhancement aligns with our commitment to staying at the forefront of industry standards and providing comprehensive solutions.

As we near the end of the year, we continue to uphold high standards of excellence, ensuring that each endeavor reflects the quality and dedication synonymous with our Plant division.
Camille's Corner
Staying Safe During the Holiday Season
As we approach the festive season, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of holiday planning, from Thanksgiving gatherings to Christmas festivities. However, it's crucial to remember that, especially in the construction industry, distractions can lead to dangerous situations.

While many of us are adept at juggling tasks during our holiday preparations, it's essential to recognize that multitasking is a risky endeavor in our line of work. The construction industry involves numerous moving parts, and losing focus for even a moment can result in serious accidents. Let's prioritize safety by remaining vigilant and looking out for one another, just as we do throughout the rest of the year.

Here are our top three safety reminders to keep in mind:
  1. Caught-in or Between: A common hazard involves getting caught in or between machinery or equipment. For instance, a worker placing their hand too close to a rotating gear can easily get pulled into the machinery. Awareness of the surroundings and adherence to safety protocols are paramount to prevent such incidents.
  2. Struck-By: Struck-by incidents are another significant concern. This can include a pedestrian being struck by a moving vehicle or an object falling from a higher level and striking a worker below. It's crucial to maintain a heightened awareness of your surroundings to avoid these potentially life-threatening situations.
  3. Slips, Trips, Falls: Incidents related to slips, trips, and falls can occur on various terrains, from normal flat ground to elevated workspaces. Pay special attention to icy or snowy walkways and steps during the winter months. Ensure that pathways and work areas are free from unnecessary debris, dirt, or materials. Even a seemingly minor difference in terrain can be the deciding factor between a near miss and a fall-related injury.

As we celebrate the holidays, let's prioritize safety, both for ourselves and for our fellow team members. By staying vigilant and focusing on these key safety measures, we can ensure a happy and injury-free season. Wishing you all a safe and joyful holiday season!
All Things IT
Phishing Attacks
In our interconnected world, where technology is an integral part of our daily lives, it's crucial to be vigilant against a variety of cyber threats that can compromise our security and privacy. One prevalent form of cyber-attack is phishing, a type of social engineering that tricks individuals into divulging sensitive information or unwittingly installing malicious software, including ransomware.

Phishing attempts can come in various forms, such as deceptive emails, messages, or websites that appear legitimate. Attackers often employ psychological tactics to manipulate individuals into taking actions that could compromise personal or organizational data.

Expanding the Cyber Threat Landscape:

  1. Malware: Malicious software, or malware, encompasses a range of harmful programs designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems. Vigilance against suspicious downloads and attachments is essential to prevent malware infections.
  2. Smishing & Vishing: Smishing involves phishing attacks conducted through SMS or other messaging platforms, while vishing employs voice communication, typically over the phone. Both exploit communication channels to deceive individuals into revealing sensitive information.
  3. Whaling: Whaling targets high-profile individuals within an organization, such as executives or senior management. Attackers craft sophisticated, personalized messages to trick these individuals into disclosing confidential information.
  4. Spear Phishing: Unlike generic phishing attempts, spear phishing is highly targeted and tailored to a specific individual or organization. Attackers leverage personal information to increase the chances of success.
  5. Angler Phishing: Angler phishing involves attackers posing as customer support on social media or other platforms to deceive users into providing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links.
  6. Quishing: Short for voice phishing, quishing involves attackers using phone calls to trick individuals into divulging sensitive information or taking harmful actions.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, it's crucial for individuals and organizations alike to stay informed and adopt proactive measures.

Remember, cybersecurity is a collective effort, and being aware of the various forms of cyber threats empowers us to navigate the digital landscape securely. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and together, we can prevent the advances of cyber adversaries.
DIG DEEP AWARD WINNERS
Our July Dig Deep Award Winner was Delmer!

In the year that Delmer has been with PGC, he has shown exceptional talent, determination, and leadership in the field.

He does a wonderful job exemplifying the company's core values.

We appreciate you, Delmer!
Our August Dig Deep Award Winner was Jonathan. Jonathan consistently exhibits dedication and reliability as an employee.

He is accountable, dependable, and is consistently motivated to contribute to the team's success.

We deeply value his commitment and efforts in support of PGC. Congratulations, Jonathan!
Our September Dig Deep Award Winner was Marco.

Marco is one of our experienced operators.

His commitment to working efficiently and safely makes him an asset to the team.

We appreciate you, Marco!
KEY TAKEAWAYS

Happy Birthday to all our employees with birthdays this quarter: Adrian Figer, Delmer Mejia-Banegas, Eduardo Martinez, Emilio Frias, Francisco Rios, Guillermo Flores, Joshua Boardman, Juan Nunez, Luis Medina, Moises Hernandez, Travis Carson, Angel Rogel, Ann Mastin, Brendan Musser, Carlos Macedo, Daniel Cedillo, Francisco Martinez-Oliveros, Gerardo Olvera, Gustavo Saucedo, Jose Calvillo-Espinosa, Juan Salazar, Miguel Gonzalez, Omar Abelardo, Sergio Sanchez, Victor Pierce, Will Flaherty, Adrian Gonzalez, Adrian Torres, Alberto Martinez, Alexander Grant, Benito Gonzalez, Elizabeth Heinz, Felix Gaitan, Francisco Montoya, Glen Love, Guadalupe Torres, Ivan De Loera, Jacob Maldonado, Juan Hernandez, Margarito Valderrama, Salvador Betancourt, Salvador Carrillo, Samuel Rosales, and Scott McDougal.
Congratulations to all of our employees who are celebrating milestone anniversaries this quarter of 10, 5, and 1 year of service!

Scott McDougal with 10 years of service.

Derek Barker with 5 years of service.

Ann Mastin, Gustavo Saucedo, Jacob Maldonado, Jaime Hernandez, Jorge Villegas, and Jose Barcenas with 1 year of service.
New Faces
There are a lot of new faces at PGC! This quarter we welcomed Jeff Wolfe and Nicholas Scales, as our new Superintendents, William Romans, as our new Senior Project Manager, Dustin White, as our new Safety Specialist, Alberto Martinez, Francisco Bautista, Heriberto Martinez, and Juan Jaimes, as our new Piplayers, Angel Calderon, Manuel Suarez, Michael Forbess, Omar Abelardo, Salvador Betancourt, and Will Flaherty, as our new Operators, Diego Portales, Juan Espinosa, and Mariano Angulo, as our new Laborers, Tiffany Albarez, as our new Human Resources Manager, Ernesto Leyva, as our new Foreman and Glen Love, as our new Driver. Be sure to say hello and give them a warm PGC welcome when you see them!
Have a submission you want featured in the newsletter and social media?
Email or text Tiffany at tiffany.albarez@peabodygeneral.com or 737.308.2846.
PGC Store
We have added even more items to the PGC Store! You can find hats, men's and women's apparel, and more all showcasing our beloved PGC logo.

Take a look and grab some new PGC gear!

Have a request for other items? Please contact Tiffany Albarez.
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