#United States #Sacramento #Construction Industry #Safety Awards #AGC California

AGC of California Celebrates Safety Excellence

On October 9, 2025, the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of California honored outstanding safety efforts in the construction industry during the 38th Annual Construction Safety Excellence Awards (CSEA) held at the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells as part of the CONSTRUCT 2025 Annual Conference. This year's ceremony emphasized the strong culture of safety that defines California's construction sector, reflecting an increased dedication to workplace safety.

Growing Commitment to Safety

Peter Tateishi, the CEO of AGC of California, remarked on the program's growth, stating, "The growth of this year's program is a testament to the deep-rooted culture of safety that defines California's construction industry." The event saw a significant increase in applicants and finalists, a clear indication of the industry's heightened commitment to safety and health practices. Several hundred professionals linked to construction, including executives, safety leaders, and students, gathered to acknowledge those who exemplify the highest safety standards.

Ryan Aukerman, the president-elect of AGC California and president of Griffith Company, emphasized the core mission: ensuring every individual returns home safely. He highlighted how safety should not only be about job procedures but also about nurturing the mental and physical well-being of employees. “We know that safety is more than just procedures and equipment; it's also about promoting mental health,” he stated, indicating a shift towards holistic well-being at worksites.

A Focused Luncheon

The awards luncheon included inspiring addresses from key figures in the industry. Devin Caringella, chair of the AGC of California Safety & Health Council, and Doug Rubingh, chief sales officer for HammerTech, set the tone for the event. The keynote speaker, Deborah Ostreicher, founder of Distinguished Communications, delivered a powerful speech on the importance of team-building and effective communication. By enhancing these elements, businesses can foster a safer, more productive work environment.

Special Recognition

At the event, AGC California announced several prestigious awards to individuals and organizations that showcased excellent safety performance. Notable winners included:

• - Individual Safety Effort of a Frontline Foreman: Richard Castro, Hensel Phelps
• - Individual Safety Effort of a Project Superintendent: Armando Hernandez, ISEC, Inc.
• - Safety on a High Hazard Project: Granite Construction for its LAX Runway Rehabilitation Project
• - Building Division Awards:

- Under 500,000 Worker Hours: Blach Construction Company
- 500,000 – 1 Million Worker Hours: Clark Construction Group
- Over 1 Million Worker Hours: Hensel Phelps

• - Heavy Civil/Highway Awards:

- Under 275,000 Worker Hours: Nova Group, Inc.
- 275,000 – 1 Million Worker Hours: Skanska
- Over 1 Million Worker Hours: Granite Construction

• - Specialty Division Awards:

- Under 300,000 Worker Hours: Aldridge Electric
- 300,000 – 1 Million Worker Hours: ISEC, Inc.
- Over 1 Million Worker Hours: Murray Company

Looking Forward

The AGC of California will also bestow its renowned Harry Eckstein Safety Professional of the Year Award during the Installation Awards Gala on January 30, 2026, at Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco. This award honors remarkable individuals whose exceptional leadership and commitment towards safety drive positive change within the construction industry.

With a legacy dating back to 1920, the AGC of California has consistently advocated for construction professionals and raised the relevant standards. Its efforts continue to unite the industry under a shared vision of safety and well-being, ensuring every worker leaves the site safely.

For more information about AGC of California or details on its programs, visit www.agc-ca.org.