Construction required the raising of the roof height to accomodate a new full-sized gymnasium. The project created new space for classrooms, a computer lab, and an outdoor play area for neighborhood children. This is the first phase of a two-phase project for Bethesda...
Site work for the new building included the demotion of several standing buildings including a former grocery store, a pharmacy and a restaurant. The 39,000 sq. ft. building features six multi-use classrooms, eight cooking stations in a teaching kitchen, an indoor...
Projects included kitchen upgrades in the Kelly Apartments, and renovations to the Registrar’s office at Old Main, the Art & Math Rooms, and Nursing Department at Kline Hall of Science Building. Job well done. A pleasure working with your staff. Russ EhrichProject...
This new 10,000 square-foot facility houses the administrative and support services for its current and future growth needs. The project was completed in five months after ground breaking. It’s always a pleasure to work with you guys! Robert Laughner and Mayur...
This three-story, 36,000-square-foot facility includes two-elevated office floors along with covered on grade parking. The building features a masonry exterior complimenting the adjacent neighborhood buildings. The building’s interior features a central lobby with...
As Director of Field Operations, Steve oversees our entire field staff. He provides oversight for daily on-site project execution, ensuring projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget. His focus is with our superintendents, field teams, resources, and quality, bridging strategic goals with site-level delivery and improving field leadership/processes. Steve supports superintendents, foremen, and field staff; conducts performance reviews and develops training programs for field leadership. He ensures efficient coordination between teams, enforces safety protocols, and resolves operational roadblocks.
Steve places a particular emphasis on construction best practices and safety and is an integral player in the execution of our safety culture, which has allowed our firm to become a leader in the industry.
Leadership
Gregory J.Bara
CPA Controller
With over 18 years of experience in public accounting and 7 years in the public school system, Greg brings a strong foundation in financial operations and business management. For the past two years, he has been applying his expertise in the construction industry, focusing on improving financial processes and operational efficiency.
Greg's core strengths include accounting, financial reporting, cash management, and business management. Greg is an actively licensed CPA in the state of Maryland.
Greg is passionate about driving improvements and streamlining systems to increase efficiency and accuracy. His current goals center on enhancing the financial process—particularly in Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, and overall financial reporting—to better support the company's growth and success.
Leadership
Shawn A. Nicholson
PE, CEM, CMVP, PMVA Director of Project Development
Shawn Nicholson serves as the Director of Project Development, bringing over a decade of expertise in energy efficiency to the commercial, industrial, and government sectors. Known for his innovative approach, Shawn works closely with clients to uncover inefficiencies and implement tailored solutions that enhance performance, reduce costs, and drive sustainability.
Shawn’s collaborative style and ability to connect with facility managers, operations teams, and vendors ensure seamless project execution and lasting relationships. Whether it’s optimizing building systems, upgrading equipment, or integrating advanced energy technologies, Shawn is dedicated to delivering practical solutions that align with clients’ long-term goals.
Passionate about creating value through energy-efficient strategies, Shawn has become a trusted partner for clients seeking to improve their operations while embracing cost-effective, forward-thinking solutions.
Leadership
VanceMartin, Jr.
President
Vance Martin is responsible for Performance Construction Company's operations and developing our corporate strategy. He works closely with the Quandel Enterprises executive team and board of directors to innovate, implement, and strengthen our initiatives in response to the ever-changing landscape of the construction industry. Vance joined the Performance team with more than two decades of experience in the industry, predominantly serving in executive and managerial roles with a focus on concrete construction in municipal, commercial, and industrial settings.
Vance is known for successfully providing transformational leadership to well-established construction firms. As the previous owner of a successful construction business with additional leadership experience and extensive technical strengths in managing projects from conception through to close-out, he has unique insights into improving efficiencies, maximizing budgets, and developing workforces for organizations and individual projects.
Vance is a US Navy veteran who has served as a second class petty officer and communications specialist with top-secret clearance.
Leadership
Nick Bagdonis
Vice President, Quandel Energy Solutions and Strategic Projects
Nick leads the Quandel Energy Solutions business and guides strategic initiatives that support the company’s long-term vision, growth, and market positioning for larger initiatives. He is responsible for shaping the direction of Quandel Energy Solutions, driving business development, and coordinating complex strategic projects across business units, aligning efforts to deliver value, drive innovation, and manage change as Quandel expands its services in energy, infrastructure, and sustainable solutions.
With a foundation rooted in construction, engineering management, and skilled-trades experience, Nick brings a unique blend of technical insight and strategic perspective to the executive team. He champions Quandel’s core values of Safety, Integrity, Exceptional Service, Commitment to Excellence, and Team, striving to embed those principles across the Energy Solutions division. In his role, Nick works to foster a collaborative environment, reinforce standards of excellence, support long-term client partnerships, and position Quandel to meet emerging energy and infrastructure challenges, building future-focused solutions grounded in trust, quality, and shared purpose.
Leadership
Wayne Gutermuth
PE, CCCA, LEED AP Project Executive
Wayne, a seasoned professional engineer, was promoted to the role of Project Executive at J. Vinton Schafer, a Quandel Company (JVS) in 2023. Wayne brings a wealth of experience in successfully managing diverse construction projects. His expertise encompasses pre-construction scheduling, constructability reviews, and comprehensive project management responsibilities, ensuring the seamless coordination of production, quality control, safety, cost control, and schedule monitoring. Wayne's unique engineering perspective has been instrumental in providing clients with services such as structural design, contract document preparation, cost estimates, and meticulous field inspections. As Project Executive, Wayne now leads the team, prioritizing quality control and timely project completion while actively contributing to the mentorship and development of the company's future talent. His commitment to client satisfaction, coupled with strategic leadership, positions Wayne as a key driver of success for J. Vinton Schafer.
Leadership
Sarah Knehr
CHC Project Executive and Healthcare Team Leader
Sarah is a respected leader in the construction industry with a focus on resolving issues promptly and efficiently. Her natural leadership skills have earned her respect from her peers, clients, and trade partners. She has gained tremendous field experience from managing larger projects from the field.
Sarah specializes in healthcare construction and understands the unique challenges and opportunities that come with building the future of healthcare for our communities. Her "can do" attitude and willingness to work, coupled with her ability to provide guidance and support to each level of management, has made her an asset to Quandel. She maintains regular communication with staff and project teams, and overcomes challenges through a systematic, analytical, and diligent approach, drawing on knowledge gained through experience and education.
Sarah joined Quandel in 2012, and her experience includes working as an owner's representative, project manager, and senior project manager. In her role as project executive, she continues to grow the company's healthcare market and serve clients by overseeing daily operations and formulating strategies for future growth. As the primary liaison to our healthcare clients, she enjoys being involved from the beginning stages of a client’s vision to seeing it come to fruition.
Performance Construction
Mechanical / Process
Performance Construction is a heavy, environmental construction company who has the manpower and equipment to provide:
Excavation for tanks and building footers.
Excavation and installation of process, sewer, and storm piping.
Forming and pouring of concrete tanks, equipment foundations, and process buildings.
Unloading, rigging, setting, installing, and starting up of numerous types of process equipment including:
Pumps and blowers
Aeration systems
Screens, filters, grinders, and grit removal equipment
Conveyors and sludge handling equipment
Digester gas equipment and mixing equipment
Chemical feed equipment and Polymer feed equipment
Ultra-filtration and reverse osmosis equipment
Ultraviolet, chlorination, and ozone equipment
Process instrumentation, process control, and process safety equipment
Installation of both underground and above ground piping systems including ductile iron, copper, stainless steel, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), and other more exotic systems.
We work on pumping stations and water/wastewater treatment plants for both public and private, as well as landfill leachate treatment plants.
Performance Construction
General Trades
While our team can self-perform work as a general contractor or subcontractor, we offer a team of skilled general trades craftsmen. Our team of general tradesmen, who are skilled carpenters and labors, provide services from rough framing to finishes. Our tradesmen are knowledgeable of their craft, are cost-conscious, and do their best to minimize cost impacts as much as possible and keep the project on schedule.
Services include, but are not limited to:
Rough carpentry
Wood and metal framing
Drywall installation
Ceilings, doors, frames, hardware, and casework installation
Specialties
Furniture, fixtures, and equipment installation
Performance Construction
Site Work
Earthwork with Purpose Site excavation has evolved into a complex task that has the potential to disrupt a project’s momentum. Our team has experience with a variety of site excavation services such as, site clearing, site erosion and post erosion controls, site grading, site utilities, and excavation and backfill for foundations, and we have extensive experience in the water and wastewater industries. Our team has completed complicated excavations at various depths for water, sewer lines, and new building foundations to support water and wastewater infrastructure. Our solutions to complex problems sets us apart, and our knowledge helps us guide our clients through the construction process. While regulations are ever changing, we offer the knowledge required to navigate the intricacies of your project. From early site development planning and permitting to responsive and accurate estimating, we are equipped to start your project off on the right foot. Our experienced team manages site development projects of various sizes. We are prepared with equipment, a consistent safety record, and the expertise to maximize results. From simple land alteration, grading, and clearing, to complex site development and utility projects, we have the experience. Let us use our experience and knowledge to lay the groundwork for your next project.
Quandel Construction
Virtual Design & Construction
Keeping Projects on Track See digital models of your buildings and job sites before construction even starts. Our Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) team focuses on creating a collaborative environment with our clients to deliver customized and innovative construction solutions. We use the latest technology in our VDC process to streamline the delivery of our projects in an integrated and Lean approach. This approach allows for enhanced communication, efficient collaboration with our trade partners, and the effective use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) expertise for overall project coordination.
BIM is a digital representation of a structure’s physical and functional properties. This technology enables us to design a project virtually, track progress, optimize processes, minimize waste, and validate installations. This allows for improved quality as well as a decrease in risk as workflow becomes more efficient. By using BIM during the design process, we can identify conflicts, address coordination issues, and create clear metrics against the program’s goals.
We work together with stakeholders to determine optimal outcomes. We sit down with your team and develop a BIM execution plan for the project. We approach BIM as a process to mitigate risks. During this process, we use digital tools to create virtual models of buildings. The model acts as a single source of information containing existing condition details, proposed designs, and coordinated work plans during construction. These digital models are then evaluated before ground is broken, allowing project teams to optimize building construction. Through 3D digital modeling, stakeholders can see and address issues before they ever become a reality, preventing costly mistakes during construction. By integrating forward-thinking designers and contractors into the BIM process, conflicts are detected and corrected quickly saving you money and time.
Capabilities
Performance models
Product and work processes
Organizational modeling
Building information modeling
3D digital modeling
3D printing
Virtual walk-throughs
Quandel Construction
Owner's Representation
We Are an Extension of Your Staff Many owners trust us to manage and execute projects on their behalf. We understand that taking on a new design and construction project comes with a lot of uncertainty. Our team has the experience to guide you through the construction process. As an Owner’s representative, we are an extension of your staff. We represent you throughout the process of a project, including site selection, design, entitlements, permitting, and construction. We serve as a liaison to manage and execute the project on your behalf, carrying out your best interests while adding value. By partnering with Quandel Construction, you have access to our industry knowledge and experience that will guide you through the construction process while coordinating the actions of the parties involved in your construction project.
Quandel Construction
General Construction
A Reputation Built on Excellence Subcontractor prequalification, coordination, scheduling, punch lists, training, and more. Over the years, our firm has created a name for itself as a builder of excellence. A professional workforce with years of experience and accomplishment allows us to take blueprints and turn them into projects that meet or exceed our clients’ expectations. As your general contractor, we work with you on budgets, timelines, logistics, and oversight. We take the lead and work with subcontractors and vendors, executing each project with efficiency and a “whatever it takes” attitude.
Services Provided:
Subcontractor prequalification
Submittal procedures
Construction conferences
Safety
Coordination of inspection and testing
Construction scheduling
Change order management
Quality control
Punch list inspections
Operational systems check
As-build documents
Operation and maintenance training
Quandel Construction
Construction Management
Knowledgeable Construction Partners We construct your projects on time and within budget while meeting your needs. At Quandel Construction, we have the experience and capabilities to manage various project types. Our management style comes down to collaborating effectively with the right people. We take a client-centered collaborative approach to each project we manage with a focus on listening, communicating with integrity, and adding value.
Our construction management project approach focuses on areas of responsibility that revolve around project management, cost management, quality management, project/contract administration, and project safety programs. We are an extension of your staff. From preconstruction through project closeout, our focus is to finish your project on time, within budget, and to your satisfaction. Using experienced team members and continuous project monitoring, we set a foundation for a successful construction management process.
Ranging from building core and shell design to construction and interior fit-out, we provide clients with early cost input and accelerated construction opportunities. Our experience and local market knowledge add value while delivering efficiencies from previous projects to your project.
Services Provided:
Alternative delivery methods
Budget validation and cost control
Constructability reviews
Value engineering
Schedule analysis
Alternative Delivery Methods
A Better Way to Build Choosing the best delivery method for your project does not have to be a difficult task. Depending on your project needs, desire for involvement in decisions, and risk tolerance, there is a delivery system that is right for your project. Some considerations when determining your project approach include:
Is it a strictly cost-driven approach?
Is it a schedule-driven approach?
Who will hold the risk?
Who will ultimately be accountable?
Design-Bid-Build
A linear design-bid-build process where the Owner selects an architect/engineer to fully document the project criteria and design prior to bidding. The lowest responsive and responsible general contractor (single prime) is awarded the contract. Bids are based on the original plans; any changes to the plans and specifications are administered by change order above and beyond the bid.
Construction Manager At-Risk
A contractor is hired through a best value selection process before or during the design phase. The Owner, architect, and construction manager are a collaborative team from planning through construction with a primary emphasis on integrating design and construction. The construction manager provides a guaranteed maximum price (GMP). The construction manager solicits competitive bids from prequalified subcontractors holding the subcontracts for construction.
Construction Manager Agency
A construction manager is hired as an Owner’s agent through a qualifications-based selection process during the design phase. The construction manager provides estimates before or during design, assists with bidding, and coordinates prime contractors during construction. The Owner bids and holds the construction contracts. The construction manager agent is paid based on hourly rates or a fee. This is in addition to the general contractor or prime contractor fee.
Design-Build
An Owner contracts and collaborates with a single design-builder for the project. The design-build team includes the architect, engineer, and construction manager. The design-build team complete the design and a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) is provided. The design-build team solicits bids from prequalified subcontractors and holds the subcontracts for construction.
Integrated Project Delivery
The integrated project delivery (IPD) process allows the Owner, design, and construction team to use information, such as incorporating building information modeling, in an integrated environment, to increase efficiency and support new ways of working. Based on Lean construction principles, IPD is the reliance on knowledge integration that adds value through maximizing efficiency and collaboration of those involved. Given that IPD encompasses collaborative processes that rely on the collective expertise of the extended project stakeholders (including designers, builders, subcontractors, and owners), the effects of design decisions can be easily understood, increasing the level of project success.
Quandel Construction
Preconstruction Services
First Step in Planning We help our clients know what to expect and when by providing a step-by-step roadmap for getting the project done. Early preconstruction services and project controls lay the foundation for a successful project. We facilitate the design and approval process throughout preconstruction, efficiently allocating resources, defining responsibilities, and facilitating collaboration to bring out the best work of the team members to focus on meeting the program, budget, and schedule objectives.
Working as an extension of your team, we provide services during the project’s planning, design, and documentation phases that contribute directly to project success. We detail how each service interrelates to the roles and responsibilities of the Owner and the project team. We work closely with our clients to align our goals to the goals of the Owner’s building program.
The following are some of the essential preconstruction services we offer:
Existing condition analysis
Building information modeling
Constructability analysis and review
Cost estimating and control
Scheduling, phasing, and logistics
Systems analysis - initial versus life cycle costs
Cash flow analysis
Material procurement
Risk management
Subcontractor prequalification and selection
Quandel Construction
Project Planning
Planning a construction project starts way before plans are drawn. We lead, manage, and execute a construction project from design to building completion. Our impact on a project’s outcome is greatest at the planning stage. Our ability to optimize results starts with a defined construction plan incorporating scope and costs for informed decision-making. Led by our preconstruction manager, the team will work to understand the owner’s vision and objectives for their project. Starting with initial project phasing, we collaborate with the design team and the Owner using our experience to evaluate various phasing and sequencing options, including the people, resources, and budget for the project. Leadership drives the process. After assessing project variables, we create a comprehensive project plan that clarifies programmatic and budgetary objectives.
Our team strives to understand the final desired project outcome and define the steps required to achieve that outcome during project planning. In this step, we analyze and select the method and the order of work for a specific project. We identify construction activities, develop the construction schedule, and plan out the team structure. From working with a client on finding the property to develop to creating a visual sketch or building information model of the conceptual design to project close out, we are a trusted and valued partner to our clients. Proper planning is a roadmap for success, reduces the potential for change orders, contains cost overruns, and limits liability.
Benefits
Leverages the experience of our team early in the design process
Minimizes cost by the efficient deployment of available resources
Alignment of the project design, budget, and schedule
Encourages innovation and creativity among the team, fostering a more collaborative approach
J. Vinton Schafer
Virtual Design & Construction
Keeping Projects on Track See digital models of your buildings and job sites before construction even starts. Our Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) team focuses on creating a collaborative environment with our clients to deliver customized and innovative construction solutions. We use the latest technology in our VDC process to streamline the delivery of our projects in an integrated and Lean approach. This approach allows for enhanced communication, efficient collaboration with our trade partners, and the effective use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) expertise for overall project coordination.
BIM is a digital representation of a structure’s physical and functional properties. This technology enables us to design a project virtually, track progress, optimize processes, minimize waste, and validate installations. This allows for improved quality as well as a decrease in risk as workflow becomes more efficient. By using BIM during the design process, we can identify conflicts, address coordination issues, and create clear metrics against the program’s goals.
We work together with stakeholders to determine optimal outcomes. We sit down with your team and develop a BIM execution plan for the project. We approach BIM as a process to mitigate risks. During this process, we use digital tools to create virtual models of buildings. The model acts as a single source of information containing existing condition details, proposed designs, and coordinated work plans during construction. These digital models are then evaluated before ground is broken, allowing project teams to optimize building construction. Through 3D digital modeling, stakeholders can see and address issues before they become a reality, preventing costly mistakes during construction. By integrating forward-thinking designers and contractors into the BIM process, conflicts are detected and corrected quickly saving you money and time.
Capabilities
Performance models
Product and work processes
Organizational modeling
Building information modeling
3D digital modeling
3D printing
Virtual walk-throughs
J. Vinton Schafer
Owner's Representation
We Are an Extension of Your Staff Many owners trust us to manage and execute projects on their behalf. We understand that taking on a new design and construction project comes with a lot of uncertainty. Our team has the experience to guide you through the construction process. As an Owner’s representative, we are an extension of your staff. We represent you throughout the process of a project, including site selection, design, entitlements, permitting, and construction. We serve as a liaison to manage and execute the project on your behalf, carrying out your best interests while adding value. By partnering with J. Vinton Schafer, you have access to our industry knowledge and experience that will guide you through the construction process while coordinating the actions of the parties involved in your construction project.
J. Vinton Schafer
General Construction
A Reputation Built on Excellence Subcontractor prequalification, coordination, scheduling, punch lists, training, and more. Over the years, our firm has created a name for itself as a builder of excellence. A professional workforce with years of experience and accomplishment allows us to take blueprints and turn them into projects that meet or exceed our clients’ expectations. As your general contractor, we work with you on budgets, timelines, logistics, and oversight. We take the lead and work with subcontractors and vendors, executing each project with efficiency and a “whatever it takes” attitude.
Services Provided:
Subcontractor prequalification
Submittal procedures
Construction conferences
Safety
Coordination of inspection and testing
Construction scheduling
Change order management
Quality control
Punch list inspections
Operational systems check
As-build documents
Operation and maintenance training
J. Vinton Schafer
Construction Management
Knowledgeable Construction Partners We construct your projects on time and within budget while meeting your needs. At J. Vinton Schafer, we have the experience and capabilities to manage various project types. Our management style comes down to collaborating effectively with the right people. We take a client-centered collaborative approach to each project with a focus on listening, communicating with integrity, and adding value.
Our construction management project approach focuses on areas of responsibility that revolve around project management, cost management, quality management, project/contract administration, and project safety programs. We are an extension of your staff. From preconstruction through project closeout, our focus is to finish your project on time, within budget, and to your satisfaction. Using experienced team members and continuous project monitoring, we set a foundation for a successful construction management process.
Ranging from building core and shell design to construction and interior fit-out, we provide clients with early cost input and accelerated construction opportunities. Our experience and local market knowledge add value while delivering efficiencies from previous projects to your project.
Services Provided:
Alternative delivery methods
Budget validation and cost control
Constructability reviews
Value engineering
Schedule analysis
Alternative Delivery Methods
A Better Way to Build Choosing the best delivery method for your project does not have to be a difficult task. Depending on your project needs, desire for involvement in decisions, and risk tolerance, there is a delivery system that is right for your project. Some considerations when determining your project approach include:
Is it a strictly cost-driven approach?
Is it a schedule-driven approach?
Who will hold the risk?
Who will ultimately be accountable?
Design-Bid-Build A linear design-bid-build process where the Owner selects an architect/engineer to fully document the project criteria and design prior to bidding. The lowest responsive and responsible general contractor (single prime) is awarded the contract. Bids are based on the original plans; any changes to the plans and specifications are administered by change order above and beyond the bid.
Construction Manager At-Risk A contractor is hired through a best value selection process before or during the design phase. The Owner, architect, and construction manager are a collaborative team from planning through construction with a primary emphasis on integrating design and construction. The construction manager provides a guaranteed maximum price (GMP). The construction manager solicits competitive bids from prequalified subcontractors holding the subcontracts for construction.
Construction Manager Agency A construction manager is hired as an Owner’s agent through a qualifications-based selection process during the design phase. The construction manager provides estimates before or during design, assists with bidding, and coordinates prime contractors during construction. The Owner bids and holds the construction contracts. The construction manager agent is paid based on hourly rates or a fee. This is in addition to the general contractor or prime contractor fee.
Design-Build An Owner contracts and collaborates with a single design-builder for the project. The design-build team includes the architect, engineer, and construction manager. The design-build team complete the design and a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) is provided. The design-build team solicits bids from prequalified subcontractors and holds the subcontracts for construction.
Integrated Project Delivery The integrated project delivery (IPD) process allows the Owner, design, and construction team to use information, such as incorporating building information modeling, in an integrated environment, to increase efficiency and support new ways of working. Based on Lean construction principles, IPD is the reliance on knowledge integration that adds value through maximizing efficiency and collaboration of those involved. Given that IPD encompasses collaborative processes that rely on the collective expertise of the extended project stakeholders (including designers, builders, subcontractors, and owners), the effects of design decisions can be easily understood, increasing the level of project success.
J. Vinton Schafer
Preconstruction Services
First Step in Planning We help our clients know what to expect and when by providing a step-by-step roadmap for getting the project done. Early preconstruction services and project controls lay the foundation for a successful project. We facilitate the design and approval process throughout preconstruction, efficiently allocating resources, defining responsibilities, and facilitating collaboration to bring out the best work of the team members to focus on meeting the program, budget, and schedule objectives.
Working as an extension of your team, we provide services during the project’s planning, design, and documentation phases that contribute directly to project success. We detail how each service interrelates to the roles and responsibilities of the Owner and the project team. We work closely with our clients to align our goals to the goals of the Owner’s building program.
The following are some of the essential preconstruction services we offer:
Existing condition analysis
Building information modeling
Constructability analysis and review
Cost estimating and control
Scheduling, phasing, and logistics
Systems analysis - initial versus life cycle costs
Cash flow analysis
Material procurement
Risk management
Subcontractor prequalification and selection
J. Vinton Schafer
Project Planning
Planning a construction project starts way before plans are drawn. We lead, manage, and execute a construction project from design to building completion. Our impact on a project’s outcome is greatest at the planning stage. Our ability to optimize results starts with a defined construction plan incorporating scope and costs for informed decision-making. Led by our preconstruction manager, the team will work to understand the owner’s vision and objectives for their project. Starting with initial project phasing, we collaborate with the design team and the Owner using our experience to evaluate various phasing and sequencing options, including the people, resources, and budget for the project. Leadership drives the process. After assessing project variables, we create a comprehensive project plan that clarifies programmatic and budgetary objectives.
Our team strives to understand the final desired project outcome and define the steps required to achieve that outcome during project planning. In this step, we analyze and select the method and the order of work for a specific project. We identify construction activities, develop the construction schedule, and plan out the team structure. From working with a client on finding the property to develop to creating a visual sketch or building information model of the conceptual design to project close out, we are a trusted and valued partner to our clients. Proper planning is a roadmap for success, reduces the potential for change orders, contains cost overruns, and limits liability.
Benefits
Leverages the experience of our team early in the design process
Minimizes cost by the efficient deployment of available resources
Alignment of the project design, budget, and schedule
Encourages innovation and creativity among the team, fostering a more collaborative approach
Performance Construction
Concrete Services
Construction Site Integrity Concrete is the foundation of many industrial structures, and it takes an experienced, capable concrete contractor with a proven track record of success to complete the job on time and in budget. We have been meeting the needs of our clients and tailoring our concrete services accordingly since 1995. Our experienced team pairs traditional means and methods with industry technology to meet our clients’ needs with cast-in-place, slab on grade, foundations, and multi-level concrete structures.
We focus on concrete for bridges, dams, building foundations, and water/wastewater treatment plants. Our firm has the equipment, knowledge, and manpower to manage a variety of concrete projects. Our employees have a true understanding of the process from excavation and subgrade preparation to formwork systems and concrete placement.
With the use of concrete best practices that follow national concrete standards, our skilled professionals have extensive knowledge, which is a key component to keeping your construction project on schedule and within budget.
Performance Construction
Self-Performing Workforce
In-House Trades We take steps to employ and properly train the best craftspeople. In addition to our construction management services, we are able to provide craftspeople as part of our services. Their trade-specific experience leads to the successful completion of our projects.
We offer a talented team of craftspeople that can be called upon for a range of projects throughout a construction project. Our team of carpenters, drywallers, painters, and concrete finishers can complete your project with a quality and efficient degree of work. They provide an excellent level of service and craftsmanship to hold the project to quality standards.
Being a self-performing general contractor allows us to better control the life cycle of your project, preconstruction through closeout. Our skilled craftspeople complete construction activities from demolition to drywall. Our scopes include, but are not limited to, demolition, concrete, interiors (including drywall, doors, frames and hardware, casework), rough and finish carpentry, other specialties scopes. Together with our trade partners, our firm’s self-perform teams bring industry-leading safety, craftsmanship, and quality to every project.
Our self-performing capabilities add value to our clients through cost savings, competitive scheduling, and quality. Over the years, we have built a talented team of craft workers. Our self-perform crews have worked together on project after project, which produce quality products through efficient methods. When our own forces are responsible for work on site, we deliver a quality project on time, and on budget.
Self-performing is not the right call for every project but having a self-perform contractor affords many options and added value. Even without self-performing on a project, having self-perform knowledge and experience improves the ability to assess subcontractors’ work and hold them accountable in terms of staffing, scheduling, estimating, and quality. With a value for self-performing work, we are not simply a construction manager, but we offers our clients the expertise of a true builder on every project.
Pyramid Construction
Self-Performing Workforce
In-House Trades
We take steps to employ and properly train the best craftspeople. In addition to our construction management services, we provide craftspeople as part of our services. Their trade-specific experience leads to the successful completion of our projects.
We offer a talented team of craftspeople that can be called upon for a range of projects throughout a construction project. Our team of carpenters, drywallers, painters, and concrete finishers can complete your project with a quality and efficient degree of work. They provide an excellent level of service and craftsmanship to hold the project to quality standards.
Being a self-performing general contractor allows us to better control the life cycle of your project, preconstruction through closeout. Our skilled craftspeople complete construction activities from demolition to drywall. Our scopes include, but are not limited to, demolition, concrete, interiors (including drywall, doors, frames and hardware, casework), rough and finish carpentry, and other specialties scopes. Together with our trade partners, our firm’s self-perform teams bring industry-leading safety, craftsmanship, and quality to every project.
Our self-performing capabilities add value to our clients through cost savings, competitive scheduling, and quality. Over the years, we have built a talented team of craft workers. Our self-perform crews have worked together on project after project, producing quality products through efficient methods. When our own forces are responsible for work on site, we deliver a quality project on time, and on budget.
Self-performing is not the right call for every project but having a self-perform contractor affords many options and adds value. Even without self-performing on a project, having self-perform knowledge and experience improves the ability to assess subcontractors’ work and hold them accountable for staffing, scheduling, estimating, and quality. With a value for self-performing work, we are not simply a construction manager, but we offer our clients the expertise of a true builder on every project.
Pyramid Construction
Virtual Design & Construction
Keeping Projects on Track
See digital models of your buildings and job sites before construction even starts. Our Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) team focuses on creating a collaborative environment with our clients to deliver customized and innovative construction solutions. We use the latest technology in our VDC process to streamline the delivery of our projects in an integrated and Lean approach. This approach allows for enhanced communication, efficient collaboration with our trade partners, and the effective use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) expertise for overall project coordination.
BIM is a digital representation of a structure’s physical and functional properties. This technology enables us to design a project virtually, track progress, optimize processes, minimize waste, and validate installations. This allows for improved quality as well as a decrease in risk as workflow becomes more efficient. By using BIM during the design process, we can identify conflicts, address coordination issues, and create clear metrics against the program’s goals.
We work together with stakeholders to determine optimal outcomes. We sit down with your team and develop a BIM execution plan for the project. We approach BIM as a process to mitigate risks. During this process, we use digital tools to create virtual models of buildings. The model acts as a single source of information containing existing condition details, proposed designs, and coordinated work plans during construction. These digital models are then evaluated before ground is broken, allowing project teams to optimize building construction. Through 3D digital modeling, stakeholders can see and address issues before they become a reality, preventing costly mistakes during construction. By integrating forward-thinking designers and contractors into the BIM process, conflicts are detected and corrected quickly saving you money and time.
Capabilities
Performance models
Product and work processes
Organizational modeling
Building information modeling
3D digital modeling
3D printing
Virtual walk-throughs
Pyramid Construction
Owner's Representation
We Are an Extension of Your Staff
Many owners trust us to manage and execute projects on their behalf. We understand that taking on a new design and construction project comes with a lot of uncertainty. Our team has the experience to guide you through the construction process. As an Owner’s representative, we are an extension of your staff. We represent you throughout the process of a project, including site selection, design, entitlements, permitting, and construction. We serve as a liaison to manage and execute the project on your behalf, carrying out your best interests while adding value. By partnering with Pyramid Construction, you have access to our industry knowledge and experience that will guide you through the construction process while coordinating the actions of the parties involved in your construction project.
Pyramid Construction
General Construction
A Reputation Built on Excellence
Subcontractor prequalification, coordination, scheduling, punch lists, training, and more. Over the years, our firm has created a name for itself as a builder of excellence. A professional workforce with years of experience and accomplishment allows us to take blueprints and turn them into projects that meet or exceed our clients’ expectations. As your general contractor, we work with you on budgets, timelines, logistics, and oversight. We take the lead and work with subcontractors and vendors, executing each project with efficiency and a “whatever it takes” attitude.
Services Provided:
Subcontractor prequalification
Submittal procedures
Construction conferences
Safety
Coordination of inspection and testing
Construction scheduling
Change order management
Quality control
Punch list inspections
Operational systems check
As-build documents
Operation and maintenance training
Pyramid Construction
Construction Management
Knowledgeable Construction Partners
We construct your projects on time and within budget while meeting your needs. At Pyramid Construction, we have the experience and capabilities to manage various project types. Our management style comes down to collaborating effectively with the right people. We take a client-centered collaborative approach to each project with a focus on listening, communicating with integrity, and adding value.
Our construction management project approach focuses on areas of responsibility that revolve around project management, cost management, quality management, project/contract administration, and project safety programs. We are an extension of your staff. From preconstruction through project closeout, our focus is to finish your project on time, within budget, and to your satisfaction. Using experienced team members and continuous project monitoring, we set a foundation for a successful construction management process.
Ranging from building core and shell design to construction and interior fit-out, we provide clients with early cost input and accelerated construction opportunities. Our experience and local market knowledge add value while delivering efficiencies from previous projects to your project.
Services Provided:
Alternative delivery methods
Budget validation and cost control
Constructability reviews
Value engineering
Schedule analysis
Alternative Delivery Methods
A Better Way to Build Choosing the best delivery method for your project does not have to be a difficult task. Depending on your project needs, desire for involvement in decisions, and risk tolerance, there is a delivery system that is right for your project. Some considerations when determining your project approach include:
Is it a strictly cost-driven approach?
Is it a schedule-driven approach?
Who will hold the risk?
Who will ultimately be accountable?
Design-Bid-Build A linear design-bid-build process where the Owner selects an architect/engineer to fully document the project criteria and design prior to bidding. The lowest responsive and responsible general contractor (single prime) is awarded the contract. Bids are based on the original plans; any changes to the plans and specifications are administered by change order above and beyond the bid.
Construction Manager At-Risk A contractor is hired through a best value selection process before or during the design phase. The Owner, architect, and construction manager are a collaborative team from planning through construction with a primary emphasis on integrating design and construction. The construction manager provides a guaranteed maximum price (GMP). The construction manager solicits competitive bids from prequalified subcontractors holding the subcontracts for construction.
Construction Manager Agency A construction manager is hired as an Owner’s agent through a qualifications-based selection process during the design phase. The construction manager provides estimates before or during design, assists with bidding, and coordinates prime contractors during construction. The Owner bids and holds the construction contracts. The construction manager agent is paid based on hourly rates or a fee. This is in addition to the general contractor or prime contractor fee.
Design-Build An Owner contracts and collaborates with a single design-builder for the project. The design-build team includes the architect, engineer, and construction manager. The design-build team complete the design and a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) is provided. The design-build team solicits bids from prequalified subcontractors and holds the subcontracts for construction.
Integrated Project Delivery The integrated project delivery (IPD) process allows the Owner, design, and construction team to use information, such as incorporating building information modeling, in an integrated environment to increase efficiency and support new ways of working. Based on Lean construction principles, IPD is the reliance on knowledge integration that adds value through maximizing efficiency and collaboration of those involved. Given that IPD encompasses collaborative processes that rely on the collective expertise of the extended project stakeholders (including designers, builders, subcontractors, and owners), the effects of design decisions can be easily understood, increasing the level of project success.
Pyramid Construction
Preconstruction Services
First Step in Planning
We help our clients know what to expect and when by providing a step-by-step roadmap for getting the project done. Early preconstruction services and project controls lay the foundation for a successful project. We facilitate the design and approval process throughout preconstruction, efficiently allocating resources, defining responsibilities, and facilitating collaboration to bring out the best work of the team members to focus on meeting the program, budget, and schedule objectives.
Working as an extension of your team, we provide services during the project's planning, design, and documentation phases that contribute directly to project success. We detail how each service interrelates to the roles and responsibilities of the Owner and the project team. We work closely with our clients to align our goals to the goals of the Owner’s building program.
The following are some of the essential preconstruction services we offer:
Existing condition analysis
Building information modeling
Constructability analysis and review
Cost estimating and control
Scheduling, phasing, and logistics
Systems analysis - initial versus life cycle costs
Cash flow analysis
Material procurement
Risk management
Subcontractor prequalification and selection
Pyramid Construction
Project Planning
Planning a construction project starts way before plans are drawn. We lead, manage, and execute a construction project from design to building completion. Our impact on a project’s outcome is greatest at the planning stage. Our ability to optimize results starts with a defined construction plan incorporating scope and costs for informed decision-making. Led by our preconstruction manager, the team will work to understand the owner’s vision and objectives for their project. Starting with initial project phasing, we collaborate with the design team and the Owner using our experience to evaluate various phasing and sequencing options, including the people, resources, and budget for the project. Leadership drives the process. After assessing project variables, we create a comprehensive project plan that clarifies programmatic and budgetary objectives.
Our team strives to understand the final desired project outcome and define the steps required to achieve that outcome during project planning. In this step, we analyze and select the method and the order of work for a specific project. We identify construction activities, develop the construction schedule, and plan out the team structure. From working with a client on finding the property to develop to creating a visual sketch or building information model of the conceptual design to project close out, we are a trusted and valued partner to our clients. Proper planning is a roadmap for success, reduces the potential for change orders, contains cost overruns, and limits liability.
Benefits
Leverages the experience of our team early in the design process
Minimizes cost by the efficient deployment of available resources
Alignment of the project design, budget, and schedule
Encourages innovation and creativity among the team, fostering a more collaborative approach
Leadership
Brian M. Winters
Director of Excavation
Brian has served in the construction industry for over 20 years and gained a unique perspective on the construction industry as a business owner in his 20s and construction company manager in his 30s.
Focused on safety and growth, Brian’s skills in managing excavation and site work services have made him a valuable member of the Performance Construction team. He is dedicated to customer satisfaction and teamwork with a stable foundation of values, morals, and professionalism.
As director of excavation, he is tasked with developing and expanding our excavation and site work services. Some of his responsibilities include overseeing the site work and excavation estimating process and coordinating and managing site work operations.
Leadership
David A. Frace
Director of Estimating
Passionate about construction, Dave has provided estimating services for the industry since 2004. As director of estimating, Dave is responsible for leading and supporting the implementation and execution of our estimating activity. He works closely with our team to manage and produce quality estimates, including hard bids and negotiated work.
Staying engaged with the team, Dave works to develop new standards of efficiency and excellence for project delivery. He is consistently growing the capacity and capability of the estimating team to develop and manage multiple complex project estimates simultaneously, seamlessly transitioning awarded projects from estimating to construction operation, and staying connected with project managers and field engineers throughout the work.
Leadership
Karl E. Kauffman
LEED AP Vice President of Preconstruction & Estimating
Karl provides leadership and support to the preconstruction and estimating team through his knowledge of the current economy, understanding of the local trade markets, and experience of the preconstruction process. His creativity, deep commitment to service, and collaborative style align well with Quandel Construction’s purpose and core values.
Karl is responsible for implementing and managing the estimating and preconstruction efforts within the Quandel Construction team. Previously serving as a senior project manager, Karl used his communication skills to run efficient and timely projects, keep owners informed, and maintain a positive relationship with team members. His technical skills have allowed him to assist in resolving issues and work with various superintendents on planning and implementing the firm’s project schedules.
Karl began his career with Quandel Construction in 2003 and, over the years, has demonstrated a deep understanding of the construction industry.
Leadership
Eric C. Eichenberg
Vice President
Running efficient, timely, and safe projects made Eric an esteemed team member. His strengths in heavy/highway building, heavy concrete, environmental, water/wastewater, leachate, site development and mass excavation, quality control planning, implementation of project schedules, and his knowledge of the current economy and pulse of the local trade market allow him to provide solutions to meet our clients’ needs in their unique circumstances.
As vice president, Eric provides overall oversight and leadership of operations. He has 38 years of experience in the construction industry and began his career with Quandel Enterprises, LLC in 1984. He has served as a carpenter, carpenter foreman, project superintendent, and general superintendent. He currently manages fleet vehicles and equipment.
His experience as a volunteer since 1982 with former Rescue Hook and Ladder Fire Company, now Minersville Fire and Rescue, and serving in the role of fire chief of Minersville from 2001 to present gives him a unique perspective on team building, process efficiencies, and client relations as well as being a superior member of the community.
Leadership
Michael Conchilla
PE, CEM, BEAP Vice President of Operations
Passionate about improving building performance, indoor environments, and problem solving, Mike works closely with his clients to establish financial criteria for evaluating energy and maintenance savings against implementation costs for commercial energy conservation and infrastructure improvement projects.
His education and training as a professional engineer in energy management, engineering, and construction, has afforded him the ability to focus on existing and new commercial and institutional buildings when capital projects or renovations are needed.
Humbled and grateful to provide energy solutions, Mike strives to be a resource, a listener, and a motivator while identifying projects, implementing engineering and economic solutions, integrating design, and providing financial analysis to determine the best-value set of solutions to use in new or retrofit projects.
Leadership
John B. Hayden
PE, CEM Director of Engineering
Motivated and determined, John brings a fresh perspective to cost-effective, life-cycle solutions in the built environment. Using past experiences in consulting engineering, design-build contracting, and performance contracting, John assists clients with improving their building’s asset value while lowering energy and maintenance costs and increasing resiliency. If certification is required for your next project, John can provide integrated design options and solutions.
As director of engineering, John works with public and private sector customers to develop projects to reduce capital, energy, and maintenance costs. He helps accomplish these savings through retro-commissioning of energy-using systems, equipment replacement or upgrade, or designing integrated energy-efficient systems in buildings, including HVAC, plumbing, controls, lighting, building envelope, combined heat and power (CHP), thermal storage, and renewables. The results are the lowest life-cycle solutions considering energy use, long-term maintenance, cash flow, financing resources, and tax consequences.
Leadership
Deborah A. German
Controller
Debbie brings more than 30 years of financial and accounting leadership to the company. She adds a vast knowledge of the industries we serve to our executive team. Passionate about improving business through data, Debbie is a strong advocate for influencing decisions via enhanced technology and metrics.
Leadership
Brian R. Soethe
Chief Estimator
Beginning as an assistant project manager in 2002, Brian progressed to his present position of chief estimator through his hard work, dedication to the industry, and natural ability to learn quickly.
As chief estimator, Brian is responsible for implementing and managing the estimating and preconstruction efforts within the firm, assisting with change orders, and estimating new work during construction. Dependent upon the project at hand, Brian either leads the preconstruction or works in a supportive role to the project’s project manager. He works closely with the project team to develop project budgets, cost estimates, value engineering, line-by-line cost reconciliations, alternative approach analysis, and schedules throughout the various phases of a project – conceptual, schematic, design, and construction.
Leadership
Christopher W. Smith
LEED AP Project Executive
Overseeing preconstruction and planning activities for J. Vinton Schafer, Chris’ expertise in building is demonstrated during preconstruction, construction through completion. During his 20 years in the construction industry, Chris has been involved with construction and renovation projects for education and commercial facilities. From minor facility modifications to multi-million-dollar expansions, his experience and knowledge building for these industries are vast and valuable.
Leadership
Mark P. Salak
Project Executive
A key member in leadership, Mark is responsible for defining the strategy and structure of Quandel Construction and helping the team develop as an organization. Mark provides oversight and direction assisting Quandel Construction in reaching its goals, strategies, and priorities consistent with its core purpose and values.
Mark brings more than 30 years of experience in general construction in the industrial and water/wastewater markets. He works closely with our business development team, estimators, project managers, and superintendents. His enthusiasm, attention to detail, and experience enables our firm to deliver exceptional projects from the ground up.
Leadership
Thomas (Tom) R. Kraft
CCCA, LEED AP BD+C Vice President
Tom, a cornerstone of J. Vinton Schafer since 2004, recently ascended to the role of Vice President in 2023. Starting as a project engineer, Tom's journey showcases his unwavering commitment and leadership. Specializing in PK-12 and higher education, he has evolved into a Project Executive, overseeing quality control, timely project completion, and client satisfaction. Now, as Vice President, Tom not only leads our team but also serves as a mentor, passionately cultivating the talent within our ranks and contributing to the firm's ongoing success. His ability to translate client visions into successfully executed projects reflects his dedication to both client relationships and the growth of our team.
Leadership
Don L. Tracy
CSP Corporate Safety Director
Don leads by example and believes that it is essential to gain trust and respect from colleagues to create a positive working culture, which will enhance and improve the business and its environment.
Don has worked in the environmental health and safety field since 1984. He has worked in various areas, including insurance, municipalities, metal products manufacturing, safety consulting, and large construction projects. Besides the United States, Don has performed work in China, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and South Africa.
As corporate safety director for Quandel Enterprises family of companies, Don is responsible for the safety and environmental operations of all divisions of Quandel. He has developed and implemented a corporate safety program to govern safe operations on our firms’ projects. In addition to creating site-specific safety plans, he prepares and manages tracking/trending reports to accurately determine safety training needs for the organization, visits project sites throughout the organization, and conducts ongoing safety training.
Leadership
P. Robert Strickler
Executive Vice President of Business Development & Marketing
Knowledgeable in various construction delivery methods, design engineering, building commissioning, and energy services, Rob has a strong understanding of the architect, engineer, and construction industry and how Quandel can assist our clients.
Rob is responsible for Quandel’s business development and proposal strategies and is instrumental in driving new business, identifying pursuit opportunities, and building long-term relations with our clients.
As executive vice president of business development and marketing, Rob provides leadership in pursuing projects and preconstruction management services by collaborating with the preconstruction/estimating teams, operations teams, and senior management. He coordinates the preconstruction phase and various target markets, including education, healthcare, and industrial.
Leadership
Michael J. Hogan
Project Executive
A confident professional who is proactive, adaptable, direct, and conscientious, Mike leads project teams in providing professional services that meet industry standards.
Mike has served in the construction industry since 1981, leading project teams and responsible for the performance during design, bidding, construction and phased occupancy, and other elements required to coordinate each project's overall construction. Mike provides input on site issues, schedule development, contract preparation, project pre-planning, project documentation, productivity, close-out, and customer satisfaction.
Leadership
Kevin M. Snoke
PE, CHC Executive Vice President
Blessed to engage his executive experience in multiple facets of the construction industry for Quandel Construction, Kevin brings a “can do” attitude and willingness to work. He provides guidance and support to each management level and maintains regular communication with staff and project teams. Kevin overcomes challenges through a systematic, analytical, and diligent approach - drawing on knowledge gained through experience and education.
Joining Quandel Construction in 2018, Kevin’s 40 years of construction experience includes estimating, project management, preconstruction consultant, and construction operations management for senior housing, healthcare, office, government, education, and institutional projects.
As executive vice president of Quandel Construction, Kevin continues to grow the company’s industrial market and serve our clients by overseeing daily operations and formulating strategies for future growth. As the primary liaison to our industrial clients, he enjoys being involved from the beginning stages of a client’s vision to seeing it come to fruition. Also serving as president of Quandel Energy Solutions, he has been instrumental in determining new services and methods to meet the changing and evolving world of energy in the construction industry.
Leadership
Michael S. Murchie
Executive Vice President
Experienced in various phases of owning, operating, and providing management consulting services to businesses in diversified business segments, Mike was brought on to Quandel’s leadership team as a consultant, executive vice president of Quandel, and vice chair of the board in 2020. Mike oversees the finance and sales of Quandel Enterprises and serves as chief executive officer of J. Vinton Schafer Construction, a Quandel Enterprises Company, where he has been instrumental in J. Vinton Schafer Construction's success including their entry into the acute care construction market. Mike focuses on organization structure, management systems, and financial services and provides guidance on corporate management and process improvements.
Leadership
H. Thomas Gnau
CCM, CCCA, LEED AP BD+C President
Genuine and honest exemplify the qualities and values of Tom. Tom’s knowledge and experience, combined with his reputation as a community leader, greatly benefit J. Vinton Schafer’s team. His collaborative effort with architects, trade contractors, and owners provides economical yet practical building solutions, materials, and methods.
Tom began his career with J. Vinton Schafer as an apprentice in 1981 before moving on to carpenter, foreman, assistant superintendent, superintendent, project engineer, project manager, construction manager, operation manager, and into his present position of president.
As president, Tom provides executive oversight on projects and leads the project team in overall management of the project, including responsibility for the performance of our administration duties throughout the project.
Tom has helped grow the company and services to our clients by overseeing daily operations and formulating strategies for future growth.
Leadership
Jerome T. Urban
Chief Risk Officer
Jerome is focused on enhancing the experience for our clients through innovation, continuous improvement, and delivering on the firm’s commitment to excellence and exceptional service.
Starting his career in the construction industry in 2006 as an entry-level estimator, his excellent leadership and superb business acumen advanced him through assistant project manager, project manager, project executive, vice president of operation, and president and chief executive officer of Performance Construction Company before assuming his current position of chief risk officer for Quandel Enterprises family of Companies.
His keen understanding of the construction business and what it takes to succeed has played a valuable role in our business growth and the firm’s success while his team building, and leadership will be valuable as he grows and scales up our firm with lasting endurance.
As chief risk officer, he works closely with Quandel Enterprise’s executive team and board of directors to innovate, and implement, and strengthen our risk management initiatives in response to the ever-changing landscape of the construction industry. Urban focuses on the management of risks throughout Quandel Enterprises family of companies through improving our process planning and execution work closely with senior management to align processes with organizational goals.
Leadership
Eric Hellman
Vice President of Operations
Dedicated and experienced, Eric has earned respect from both the field staff and project executives for his ability to handle the intense daily operations of a project. His proven ability to deliver efficient and timely projects has made him a very valuable member of Quandel.
In the construction industry since 1982, Eric has worked as a framing carpenter, trim carpenter, framing foreman, and project superintendent where he was exposed to almost every aspect of the industry from prisons to hospitals, forms of construction contracts, including construction manager at-risk, design-build, and general contractor. His strengths include scheduling, project planning, and approach and constructability review.
Now serving as vice president of operations, Eric is responsible for managing our field personnel, equipment, and on-site activities, as well as monitoring project schedules, quality, safety, and risk and implement our job safety program on our firm’s active projects.
His education and experience in the field and in the office have afforded him the ability to see ‘the big picture’ of a construction project, anticipate problems before they occur, and create a positive work environment to help successfully bring the project together.
Leadership
Michael J. Karcutskie
Executive Vice President of Operations
Mike was fortunate to have an opportunity to get involved in commercial construction while in high school. That experience led to a degree in civil/construction engineering technology from Temple University and a strong foundation to grow in the industry.
Mike has been with Quandel Construction since 1999 and has gained the respect of his colleagues, clients, architects, and sub-contractors through a work ethic and drive consistent with the core values of the Quandel organization. His skillset of field experience and technical knowledge, excellent communication skills, and a propensity to lead and solve problems serves Mike well as the leader of the Quandel Construction team.
As executive vice president of operations, Mike’s focus is on mentoring and training our operations staff, process improvement, work acquisition support, risk assessment/management, and daily operations of projects including planning and approach. He is a firm believer in communication, leadership, and solving problems at all levels on behalf of our clients. The “drive to succeed” is contagious, and Mike approaches each day with that in mind.
Leadership
Don Deegan
Chief Financial Officer
Known for operational focus, a service mindset, and a collaborative style, Don helps our team drive results through analytics, continuous improvement, and cost reduction. Dedicated to improving business through data, Don is a strong advocate for influencing decisions using technology and metrics. He seeks to partner with leaders to negotiate consensus among disparate interests and is a proactive member of the operating team.
Don brings experience with private equity portfolio companies and in financial and operations with mid-size and large multi-national organizations. His previous experience in logistics, retail/wholesale distribution, manufacturing, and business services add depth to the Quandel team’s approach to the industries we serve.
As chief financial officer, Don is responsible for financial matters, including accounting, budgeting, planning, reporting and analysis, financing cash management, banking and bonding relationships, and insurance/risk management.
Leadership
Gregory Quandel
Chief Executive Officer and President
Integrity always is not only a core value of the Quandel Enterprises family of companies, it exemplifies the character of Greg Quandel. As a fifth-generation leader of Quandel, a family-owned company, Greg stays true to foundational values. A commitment to doing the right thing and sustaining integrity and safety stays fixed with each transition. Greg focuses on preserving the firm’s core purpose and values, while changing with the times.
Starting his career with the company in 2009 as a project manager, Greg’s focus and energy, along with his construction industry experience, propelled him from a concrete truck driver, dispatcher, and project manager to the current day chief executive officer of Quandel Enterprises and president of Quandel Construction Group.
As chief executive officer, Greg provides oversight on projects and is responsible for upholding the firm's commitment to cost, schedule, quality, and function of our finished projects. Passionate about the firm’s culture, he focuses on developing and maintaining the firm’s brand, client relationships, and employee engagement.
Greg serves on multiple not-for-profit boards, including the Greater Harrisburg Chamber of Commerce, the Keystone Contractors Association, and the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business & Industry. Greg is also actively involved with the Capital Region United Way and the American Heart Association.
Leadership
Noble (Bud) Quandel
Executive Chair
Bud has spent a career emulating his namesake; a forward-thinking great-grandfather (Emil Quandel) who founded a small building materials firm in Minersville in 1882. Often referencing a local newspaper story written about his great-grandfather that said he always operated in an “upright manner,” Bud continues that legacy by instilling the core purpose and values of the company in his employees. The firm’s purpose, values, and principles are extremely important to Bud and the firm – to lead, make a difference, and build a better future through safety, integrity, exceptional service, commitment to excellence, and focus on team.
Bud began his construction career as a part-time laborer while attending high school and then as a carpenter apprentice while attending college. Upon graduating college, Bud began his lifelong commitment and selfless service to improving our community through Central Pennsylvania, and in 1976, he became the fourth-generation leader for Quandel.
Bud continues to focus on business and marketing strategies and planning and executing business processes and infrastructure throughout Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania. He is on the Board of the NEPA (Northeastern Pennsylvania) Alliance, a seven-county economic development corporation in the northeast and chairs the Schuylkill County Airport Authority Board, which operates the Schuylkill Regional Airport (Joe Zerbey Field).
Pyramid Construction
Facility Services
Maintenance and Service Solutions are One Call Away. Simplify operations with a single-source provider. Our technicians are qualified to meet your specific facility’s needs. From small office fit outs to door replacements, and anything in between, our facilities services offers solutions tailored to our clients’ needs. Stop your scheduling chaos and take advantage of the ease of a single-source provider. Our technicians and tradespeople are trained and licensed in specific disciplines so the ease of dealing with one contractor and getting one invoice, is matched only by the cost-effectiveness and superior quality you receive from our team. We offer vendor management that includes plumbing, electrical service and repair, and locksmithing.
Job Types include:
Services
After-Hours Response
Carpentry
Preventative Maintenance
General Repair and Maintenance
Office Fitouts
Due Diligence Surveys
ADA Upgrades
Interior Protection During Roof Replacement
Medical/Healthcare Facilities
Building Conditions Study
Multifamily Housing
Property Management
Senior Living Facilities
Preventative Building Maintenance
Educational Facilities
Installations
Service Repairs
Leadership
Michael J. Zellers
Safety Manager / Field Operations Manager
As safety manager, Mike manages safety standards on our jobsites, meeting our firm’s safety standards. Mike works with the corporate safety director to develop site-specific programs, conduct training for project managers and superintendents, review weekly inspections, and perform accident investigations and post-incident follow-up. He manages safety audit report data and uses it to implement new standard operating procedures to help eliminate incidents and injuries on our job sites.
A particular emphasis has been on construction health and safety; Michael has been an integral player in the development of our safety culture, which has allowed our firm to become a leader in the industry.
Leadership
Jennifer R. Smith
Chief Financial Officer
Jen has been actively involved in construction accounting for over 20 years and holds a master’s degree in Business Administration from Penn State University. She is a key addition to our executive leadership team and brings a depth of experience to help lead our organization into the future.
Jen is responsible for building the firm’s financial statements, providing cost analysis on our day-to-day operations, and financial modeling for future growth and investment opportunities.
Leadership
Bruce M. Wiest
Director of Operations
Bruce started his career as a carpenter, progressing to his current role as director of operations. His field experience has given him a unique perspective when approaching project management challenges allowing him to bridge the gap between the field and office operations.
As director of operations, Bruce is responsible for our operations teams and provides guidance and support to execute our work. While meeting the needs of our clients, Bruce assists in the execution of our best practices, management of trade contractors, schedule adherence, and budget management on our projects.
Bruce is actively engaged in several industry organizations, including the Partnership for Career Development and the local chapter of the International Facilities Management Association (IFMA). He also serves as a mentor for the ACE Mentor Program of Central Pennsylvania.
Leadership
Stevyn J. Conway
Vice President
As vice president, Steve provides strategic leadership for the firm while also guiding the firm’s expansion into new markets and targeted growth in existing markets. His responsibilities include establishing and fostering client relationships and advancing the company’s market growth. His operational background allows him to keep our teams focused and provide the proper support throughout the project while supporting creative solutions for today’s complex construction issues.
Steve displays great devotion and commitment to the construction industry, as well as the community. He is actively engaged in the construction industry through his involvement with various organizations, including serving on the Associated Builders and Contractors Keystone Chapter’s Board of Directors. In addition, he serves on ABC’s executive leadership team as the Chair-Elect and will be Chairman of the Board in 2023, and he serves on the Board of Directors for Saint Anne’s Retirement Community.
Leadership
Michael N. Klinepeter
President
Born and raised in Central Pennsylvania, Mike’s commitment and passion for the local construction industry started at a very early age. Now, guided by Pyramid Construction’s founding principles, focused on relationships, and delivering a high level of customer service, he provides guidance and personalized service to some of the region’s most complex commercial construction projects.
A second-generation business unit leader serving as president of Pyramid Construction, a Quandel Enterprises Company, Mike is responsible for defining the strategic goals and vision of the organization, aligning the initiatives and activities of our teams to support them, and managing client expectations. Serving as a single source of accountability for the construction team, Mike delivers customer experience in a way that is true to our founding principles.
He is actively engaged in the community through board-level volunteer efforts with non-profit organizations, industry organizations, and other areas where he can provide his knowledge and experience.
In News, Pyramid ConstructionMay 20, 2026
In News, Pyramid ConstructionMarch 23, 2026
In News, Pyramid ConstructionMarch 23, 2026
