ABOUT US

Andrew McManus is the Vice President of Major Projects of Underground Construction Co., Inc. and oversees all facets of major projects from outreach to estimation to management and close-out. Prior to current role, Andrew worked his way up through the company, starting as a project engineer, project manager, division manager of electric to vice president of electric. With 27 years in the construction industry, 24 with Underground, Andrew has grown with the company, both professionally and personally. As a third generation Undergrounder, he feels at home working alongside his friends to provide the best possible construction solutions, crowning Underground as his second home. Andrew earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering with a minor in Economics from Duke University. 

Andrew Nortz is the Vice President of the Electrical Civil and Line Operations. He is responsible for operational oversight of the electrical division and preserves the company’s strategic goals, core values, and beliefs. Andrew is involved in the development and implementation of organizational structure, reporting relationships, and accountability for critical company metrics. He is acute to anticipating and preparing for future needs of the division. Upon graduating from San Luis Obispo for Construction Management, he accepted a project manager position for a commercial builder in the public works sector where he managed new construction, seismic retrofit work and critical infrastructure improvement. He later became the vice president of operations and was an integral part of the company’s growth for more than a decade. Andrew serves as a member of the Construction Management Advisory Council at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. He also serves on the Industry Advisory Board for the Construction Resource Center, an organization that provides hands-on technical assistance to contractors, tradesperson, and future construction professionals.

Aric Hicklin is the Estimating and Business Development Manager for Underground Construction Co., Inc. Having been with Underground for 16 years, Aric held positions as a project engineer and project manager before stepping into his current role. For Aric, the camaraderie keeps him at Underground, but he also appreciates the work-life balance that comes with being an Undergrounder. With his experience in his previous positions, as well as having been exposed to construction all his life, Aric is proficient at providing multi-million dollar estimates of various pipeline, gas, electric distribution and transmission projects and programs. Aric earned his Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, Environmental Issues from California State University, Chico. Furthering his education and knowledge in construction, Aric completed the Advanced Management Program for both the Associated General Contractors of America as well as the Financial Modeling Institute. 

Ben Lyon is the Senior Director for the Northern California gas transmission and distribution operations. With 28 years in the industry, Ben has the experience to strategically lead his team and the gas division. As part of executive management, Ben is proud to collaborate with some of the most intelligent and qualified professionals to provide the best construction solutions. Throughout his 22-year career at Underground, Ben has assumed positions leading up to his managerial role as project engineer, project manager and senior project manager. In addition to his contribution to Underground as a division manager, Ben has been actively involved in PG&E’s Alliance Partnership for over 10 years. 

Brian Donecker is the Vice President of Health & Safety & Training for Underground Construction Co., Inc. Brian oversees the health and safety of over 500 craft and salaried workers and ensures that client specifications and industry standards are met by developing, organizing, and providing focused, multi-disciplinary OQ training groups. Brian brings with him over twenty years of experience in heavy civil infrastructure, railway, mining, and roadway construction. Previously, Brian served as a safety engineer, safety specialist, area safety manager, district safety manager and safety project manager for various contractors. His expertise of health and safety enhances his ability to interpret and communicate new standards and regulations from essential safety and health administrations such as OSHA, Cal OSHA, MSHA, DOT, PHMSA, and EPA. Brian received his Bachelors of Health Science in Occupational Health and Safety from California State University, Fresno in 1997.

Chad Hardesty is the Chief Operating Officer for Underground Construction Co., Inc. He began his career in the natural gas industry in 1995 when he became a laborer for a utility company. Shortly after, he assumed positions as a welder, foreman, and superintendent. After 11 years with the utility company, Chad had the opportunity to work as a contractor for projects throughout the country, which ultimately brought him to Underground in 2013. He began his Underground career as a superintendent, where he noticed leadership’s solid foundation of integrity, honesty and strong morals that contributed to the family feel of the company. From his beginning, Chad earned promotions to his current role as COO. Chad recognizes and appreciates the opportunity to work with such talent at Underground and feels empowered to do his best work by being surrounded by coworkers that make him want to do better. 

Chris Hudson is the Operations Manager for Underground Construction Co., Inc. and is instrumental in leading the electrical division in its growth trajectory and success. He currently leads a team of 20 management and support staff personnel and supervises over 150 craft labor employees. Chris is responsible for profit and loss performance, scheduling, training and inventory control. By generating daily reports and designing performance metrics, Chris supports senior leadership and offers sound recommendations for corrective actions and improvements, as well as advanced tactical and strategic business goals. Prior to his role as operations manager, Chris served as a project engineer and project manager where he trained team personnel, managed complex project schedules for internal crews and subcontractors, and completed multi-million dollars estimates and budgets. Chris received both his Bachelor of Science in Construction Management and his Master of Business Administration in Project Management from California State University, Chico. 

Chris Ronco is the President of Underground Construction Co. Inc., one of the oldest and most respected construction firms in the West. As President of Underground, Chris provides leadership, direction and guidance to Underground’s senior management team and oversees all operations of Underground Construction Co., Inc. and its subsidiaries. Chris earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Santa Clara University and has served in the oil, gas and utility industry for 35 years. Throughout his 25 years with Underground, Chris held several positions in the company, starting out as a project engineer, before ascending to his current role as president. For Chris, the best parts of being an Undergrounder are the people, the common values and the heavy emphasis we place on safety. 

Craig Besa is the Director of Quality for Underground Construction Co., Inc., overseeing and upholding the companywide commitment to safety and quality, from operator qualification (OQ) training to quality inspections in the field to ensure pipeline regulatory compliance. Craig brings with him 33 years of experience in the natural gas transmission and distribution pipeline industry. Before joining the Underground team six years ago, he served as a safety and quality corporate auditor and conducted investigations of construction crew activities to ensure safety and quality standards were met. Craig holds certifications in OSHA 500, three operation qualification proctors/evaluator certification for three different OQ providers Industrial Training Solutions (ITS), Veriforce, and Energy Worldnet (EWN). 

David Crow is the Director of Safety for California. He oversees the health and safety for over 750 craft and salaried employees and is directly responsible for a department staff of 14 safety professionals. David provides safety leadership to the division managers, project managers and general superintendents of Underground by developing applicable training initiatives, programs and procedures to maintain and provide relevant safety reports and investigations. Under his direction, David ensures that departmental budgets are established with emphasis on strategic planning. As part of senior leadership, David sees firsthand Underground’s generational commitment to the construction industry and its unmatched quality. David completed the Safety and Risk Management program from California State University, Bakersfield and is a certified Utility Safety Professional (USOLN) and Certified Safety Professional (CSP Designation). 

Geline Rabaino-Le is the Senior Director of Electric Civil. She oversees and leads the electrical distribution civil operations across Northern California. Her responsibilities include safe and high-quality construction solutions, project management, field operations, subcontractors, cost controls, estimating, process implementation, and divisional profit and loss performance. Before joining Underground, Geline assumed various engineer positions working for a land development company, private commercial design company and a bay area municipality. She started her career with Underground as a project engineer assisting on gas and electric projects. She then became a project manager in the gas distribution division before becoming division manager. As a 12-year Undergrounder, she appreciates the opportunity to exercise her skills to help lead the company in a collaborative and healthy environment, the company’s values and the sense of “home” where people genuinely root for each other’s success. Geline holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from University of Davis, California and is a Registered Professional Civil Engineer. 

Imran Malik serves as the Director of Project Controls at Underground Construction Co., Inc. to oversee various sectors, including Gas Transmission, Gas Distribution, Electrical Civil and Line, Major Projects, Sewer Camera Inspections, San Diego Group, Ontario, and IMC. One of his key tasks is to establish and implement a comprehensive set of tools, techniques, and processes that effectively measure and control project constraints across all divisions, such as time, cost, scope, risk, and resources, ensuring seamless coordination throughout the project lifecycle. Imran is adept at analyzing data to forecast and project various trends, as well as identifying potential issues and risks, enabling corrective measures. Imran is instrumental in preparing project claims and has always volunteered for teaching internal processes to new incoming Project Management Teams. Before assuming his role as Director of Project Controls, Imran served as a Project Engineer (PE), Project Manager (PM), and Program Director on a wide range of construction projects, including building construction, roads, tunneling, and airports. Throughout his seven-year tenure at Underground Construction Co., Inc. Imran has found a sense of stability and opportunities of professional advancement and development within the company. He has fostered and built strong relationships that extend beyond the professional realm, supporting and guiding him in various aspects of his life. Imran holds two Bachelor of Science degrees, one in Physics and Mathematics, another in Civil Engineering along with two Masters of Business Administration with a specialization in Supply Chain Management and second in Finance. In addition to his educational achievements, Imran is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and has earned his Total Quality Management (TQM) certification. Imran honorably served in the Pakistan Army for 24 years, during which he commanded a Battalion.

Jason Bowen is the Chief Financial Officer of Underground Construction Co., Inc. where he oversees the company’s accounting, finance, and information technology functions. AS CFO, Jason is responsible for the fiscal health of Underground, supporting the financial operations, financial planning, analysis, reporting, business systems and compliance. Before joining Underground five years ago, Jason worked for global engineering firms assuming chief financial officer and controller positions. Having worked with different personalities throughout his 20 years in the architecture, engineering and construction industry, Jason is proud to be working in a family environment alongside some of the best people in the industry. 

Joe Froome is the Director of Field Safety for the Northern California region of Underground Construction Co., Inc. Joe began his career with UCCo in October 2021 as a Field Safety Representative in the Electric Division and was promoted to Safety Manager in the Gas Division in May 2022. Boasting an extensive background spanning over 25 years in field safety, Joe has garnered comprehensive experience across various facets of large-scale construction projects, supported by a multitude of construction certifications. His approach to safety is a profound commitment to the well-being of individuals that goes beyond the workplace, emphasizing the importance of returning home safely each day. For Joe, safety is not a matter of compliance with regulations and policies; rather, it is a belief in fostering a safety-centric work culture, empowering individuals to make sound choices, executing their responsibilities, and producing high-quality work safely. Joe takes pride in collaborating with an exceptional team of individuals who share a unified commitment to promoting and maintaining a culture of safety.

Josh Deleon serves as the Director of the Equipment Division for Underground Construction Co., Inc. With a wealth of experience and expertise in the industry, Josh is responsible for overseeing all fleet and warehouse activities, as well as managing the procurement of equipment for the company’s operations. Josh’s journey with Underground Construction began at the young age of 19, and he has since dedicated 15 years of his career to the company’s success. His story is one of progression and determination, starting as a part-time apprentice mechanic and steadily working his way up the ranks. He has held positions such as shop mechanic, field mechanic, shop foreman, equipment superintendent, equipment manager and equipment manager of California operations, showcasing his ability to adapt and excel in various roles within the organization. Throughout his tenure, Josh has developed a deep sense of loyalty and dedication to Underground Construction. He attributes his commitment to the company’s continuous growth and the multitude of expansive project opportunities it offers. For Josh, the most rewarding aspect of being an Undergrounder is the opportunity to witness and contribute to the collaboration of diverse personalities, all working together towards a shared goal.

John Dollman is the Director of San Diego operations, overseeing the gas and electric distribution and transmission. John started his career in supply management at San Diego Gas & Electric in 2007. In the span of ten years, John was promoted to several roles, from design and planning to project construction management. He transitioned to the contractor side of the utility industry in 2017 in an operations leadership and business development position. Soon after he was recruited to Underground in 2020 to establish and direct the San Diego division. He appreciates the close family feel of the company and shares the emphasis on safety. He is an alumnus of University of San Diego, earning his Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a Supply Chain Management Minor. His professional achievements include Leadership ‘N’ Soul – Executive 1×1 Coaching (2020), SDG&E Best in Class certificate (2018), SDG&E planner designer certificate (2011), SDG&E DBE mentoring award (2010). 

Monty Richmond is the Director of Human Resources for Underground Construction Co., Inc. operations in California, Nevada, Arizona and Hawaii. As director, Monty collaborates with senior leadership to understand and support Underground’s goals and strategies related to staffing, recruiting and retention. For Monty, the best part about being an Undergrounder is the ability to make changes and improve Underground with executive management’s support. By improving the workplace, Underground Construction Co., Inc. can ultimately give back to the communities they serve. His 12 years of experience and comprehensive knowledge of trends, best practices and regulatory changes affords him the insight to oversee all human resources programs at Underground. His deep-seated passion for human resources is evident in his impressive educational background. Monty has earned his Master of Business Administration in Human Resources, Master of Science in Occupational Safety and Health, and Bachelor of Science in Business Management. He is certified as a Human Resources Professional (SHRM-CP), Professional Human Resources Management (PHR); Certified Labor Relations Professional (CLRP); Safety Trained Supervisor (STS) and OSHA Trainer. Monty is a proud member of CA SHRM and NorCal SHRM Chapter and is an Adjunct HR Instructor. 

Rick McLaughlin is the Division Manager of Transmission Electric, pursuing and estimating major projects and electric transmission work, and maintaining and building client relations. Rick was introduced to the construction industry at the age of 16, working side projects during weekends. Throughout his collegiate career at California State University, Chico, Rick served Contra Costa County as a student civil engineer, rating roads and working with the chip seal crews. After graduating in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, Rick worked for a chemical cleaning company as a laborer for six months before joining Underground Construction Co., Inc. Before his current role, Rick assumed positions as a project engineer and project manager. 29 years later, Rick still enjoys coming to work every day with the most ethical people in the industry. The overwhelming support leadership offers encourages Undergrounders to make the right decision, even if they are unpopular or difficult. Rick is a participant of Quanta Services Chairmen’s Challenge. 

Ryan Merkl is the Director of Information Technology for Underground Construction Co., Inc. He brings with him 15 years of experience serving different industries including health care, transportation, advertising, and education. Ryan oversees the daily operations of the IT team and works with executives and managers to direct the current and future technology needs of the company. Ryan’s expertise extends to Quanta Services, Inc. on any technology initiatives and projects, as well as all IT compliance matters. Ryan started out as a senior systems engineer before stepping into his role as the information technology manager. He enjoys the ever-evolving landscape of information technology that challenges him and his team. Ryan looks forward to working with every Undergrounder, crediting the positive work environment to the familial feel of the company, despite its growth over the years. Ryan graduated from Buffalo State with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems. He most recently completed the CompTIA Project and Certification. 

Thiel Harryman serves as the Vice President of Business Administration at Underground Construction Co., Inc. Thiel assumes responsibility for overseeing the organization’s multifaceted operations, encompassing employee development, legal affairs, human resources, contract management, and operational oversight.

Thiel began his journey as an Undergrounder in 1999 as an Intern. Following his graduation from the University of California, Santa Barbara, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, he ventured into the utility power plant industry. Here, he honed his skills as a design and construction management engineer. Thiel officially joined Underground Construction in 2006, where he took on pivotal roles as a Project Engineer and Project Manager. During his tenure, he successfully oversaw complex fueling system projects spanning the United States and Guam.

In 2017, Thiel transitioned to our sister company Nova Group, Inc., as the Vice President of Operations. There, he dedicated six years to providing invaluable support to high-impact projects for the Global Department of Energy and Department of Defense, both domestically and internationally.

In December 2022, Thiel Harryman returned to Underground Construction Co., Inc., where he continues to contribute his expertise. He is also a licensed mechanical engineer in the State of California, further solidifying his professional qualifications and dedication to his field.

Trevor Duhon is the Division Manager of Underground Construction Co., Inc.’s Southwest Division. He oversees logistics and ensures our operations are equipped to fulfill existing obligations. As part of his responsibilities, Trevor maintains relationships with existing clients and vendors while developing new relationships. He develops and nurtures the talent of his team to promote within the company and ensure the company’s future success. Throughout his 22 years of experience in the construction industry, Trevor has held roles as a crew foreman, superintendent, and construction supervisor. Prior to joining Underground, Trevor served as General Superintendent for a sister company within the Quanta family. Trevor’s qualifications include Leadership Training, OSHA 10 and OSHA 30, Southwest Gas OQ, ISNET OQ, Competent Person Training and Certification, Heavy equipment operating, CPR Certified. He is also a Professional Rodeo Athlete.