Are You Operating in a Vacuum?

When I first started out in underground utility construction with my father, I was 17 years old. I think it is accurate to say that I was totally focused on the daily work and virtually oblivious to outside events that might affect that work. That kind of thinking and behavior pretty much epitomizes the expression “operating in a vacuum.” As I grew older and the company expanded, I realized that I needed additional skills and knowledge to operate more effectively. At the same time, I realized that what I was doing represented only a small part of the utility construction industry and that I could enhance my company’s standing by actively participating in the industry as a whole. When I joined NUCA, I also learned that my issues were shared by contractors in other segments of the industry.

Gaining exposure to the big picture, I began to see not only how government laws and regulations and policies directly affected my company, but also how contractors working together could influence the thinking of politicians. Regardless of political persuasion, anyone who earns a paycheck from our industry can reap the benefits of having a collective “contractor position” advanced by NUCA. The association not only lobbies individual lawmakers, but also presents the underground utility’s position in testimony before critical congressional committees. Whatever the issue — infrastructure investment, stimulus disbursements, card check legislation, affordable small business health care, withholding tax on government contracts, federal estate tax, etc. — NUCA is on Capitol Hill every day advancing legislation favorable to the industry and fighting legislation that is not. And don’t forget about federal agencies, where regulations absolutely impact your operations and ultimately your bottom line. Whether it’s EPA, OSHA or the Department of Transportation (to name a few), NUCA is constantly monitoring regulations proposed by federal agencies and weighing in to make sure our voice is heard.

I have focused here on what NUCA does for its members in the legislative and regulatory arena; there are of course many other tangible benefits the association provides in terms of safety programs and initiatives, professional education, resources, etc. Read the introduction to the enclosed Membership Directory for all the details (p. 26).
The overall point I want to make is that there’s more to being in business than just cranking out the jobs in your little corner of the world. Once I joined NUCA, I ceased operating in that kind of vacuum. I now consider myself to be an informed contractor, armed with the information and support I need not only to stay competitive in tough economic times, but also to play an active role in shaping the future of the utility construction industry.

Feeling lonely out there on your own? Then it’s time to join NUCA.

Regards,


     Lyle Schellenberg