"Safety is at the core of every successful construction project," Otto stated. "It’s crucial that we build environments where people feel safe and supported, and where they can communicate concerns openly." She highlighted that mental health considerations are equally important for maintaining a robust and healthy workforce.
Keynote Insights on Safety Leadership
The awards luncheon featured
Jason Kunz, a recognized leader in safety who encouraged the industry to rethink its approach to safety compliance. Kunz's presentation highlighted the significance of leadership and workplace culture surrounding safety practices, emphasizing strategies for reducing incidents and enhancing overall performance. His insights aim to challenge the industry to look beyond mere compliance toward a more comprehensive framework that nurtures safety and well-being at all organizational levels.
Building a Safer Future
As AGC of California advances its recognition of safety excellence, initiatives like the
Harry Eckstein Safety Professional of the Year Award will continue to spotlight individuals making notable contributions to workplace safety in construction. The recipient of this honor will be announced at the Installation Awards Gala on February 5, 2027, further underscoring the association's ongoing commitment to safety.
The annual CSEA program not only honors the recipients but also provides year-round opportunities for the industry to share innovative safety practices and facilitate collaboration across the California construction sector. The message is clear: safety excellence is a journey, and every project presents an opportunity to improve, innovate, and protect the workforce that builds and maintains California's infrastructure.
2026 Award Winners
Heavy Civil/Highway Division
- - Under 500,000 Worker Hours: Guy F. Atkinson Construction
- - 500,000 to 1.5 Million Worker Hours: Myers & Sons Construction
- - Over 1.5 Million Worker Hours: Teichert Construction
Building Division
- - Under 500,000 Worker Hours: Blach Construction
- - Over 500,000 Worker Hours: Hensel Phelps
Specialty Division
- - Under 900,000 Worker Hours: ISEC, Inc.
- - Over 900,000 Worker Hours: Royal Electric Company
Safety on a High Hazard Project
- - Bali Construction: West Harbor Development, Phase 1
Individual Safety Excellence
- - Individual Safety Effort of a Frontline Foreman: John Kenney, W.M. Lyles
- - Individual Safety Effort of a Project Superintendent: Mike Stein, Myers & Sons
As California's construction industry continues to evolve, benchmarks for safety, innovation, and workforce engagement will shape the future of construction practices. The
AGC of California remains a pivotal force in advocating for enhanced safety measures, and its awards serve as motivation for all companies to strive for excellence in their safety initiatives.
For further insights into the awarded companies and safety practices, please visit
AGC of California’s website.