Andrew McManus

Vice President of Major Projects

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

President

Andrew Nortz is the President of Underground Construction Co., Inc. 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.

Art DeLeon

Director of the DOT Fleet

Art DeLeon serves as Underground Construction Co., Inc.’s Director of the Department of Transportation (DOT Fleet), where he ensures compliance with DOT and FMCSA drug testing requirements. His responsibilities include overseeing employee DOT training for new daily vehicle inspection reports, managing electronic logbooks, tracking vehicle registrations, and maintaining drivers’ licenses for Class A, B, and C drivers. He is also responsible for monitoring driver medical cards, motor vehicle reports (MVR), conducting annual driver reviews, and performing field yard inspections.

Art’s extensive career spans over 40 years, starting right out of high school, working for a trenching company and a commercial building company. Most of his career has been with Underground Construction Co., Inc., working across various sectors including telecommunications, gas (plastic and steel), electric dry duct, the operation of the first bore machines, Bay Area refineries, and airport fueling projects. His journey with UCCo began on a joint venture project that supplied drinking water from the San Luis Reservoir to the Coyote Reservoir in Santa Clara. His commitment to the construction industry and dedication to safety is evident, having worked in safety roles for 34 years. He also served in the US Army and reserves.

Art takes pride in training and supporting his team, addressing daily challenges, and promoting a safety-first culture. He values working alongside team members who share his commitment to safety and believes that UCCo has the best fleet and equipment on the West Coast. Art is passionate about contributing to UCCo’s mission of building America and enjoys collaborating with other skilled Undergrounders.

Dr. Avery Fox

Director of Safety, SoCal Division

Dr. Avery Fox is the Director of Safety for the SoCal Division at Underground Construction Co., Inc., overseeing comprehensive health and safety programs for more than 250 craft and salaried employees and leading a department staff of four safety professionals.

Dr. Fox has nearly a decade of occupational safety and health experience in the pipeline, oil and gas, and utility construction industries. Dr. Fox started his career as a safety coordinator for Quanta Services, Inc., based in Houston, Texas, traveling worldwide to various electrical power, pipeline, industrial, and telecommunications projects. He was the Director of Safety, Health, and Environmental for T.G. Mercer Consulting Services, Inc. and MTS Quanta, LLC – both Quanta Services’ companies – headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, spanning projects nationwide from 2018 to 2023. He led efforts in T.G. Mercer’s achievement of Superior Company Safety Performance in 2020, 2021, and 2022, awarded by the Pipeline Contractors Association (PLCA).

In addition, Dr. Fox serves as the Student Section Liaison between the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) San Diego Chapter and numerous universities and colleges to build mentorship programs and provide guidance for students seeking occupational safety and health practitioner careers.
Dr. Fox earned a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Safety and Health and a Master of Science in Occupational Safety and Health from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant, Oklahoma. In addition, Dr. Fox earned a Doctor of Education in Public Health from the American College of Education. Dr. Fox holds the Graduate Safety Practitioner (GSP), Certified Safety Professional (CSP), and Electrical Power Safety Excellence (EPSE) credentials.

Brian Donecker

Vice President of Health & Safety & Training/em>

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 is directly responsible for 14 safety professionals and supporting staff. He 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. Before his directorial debut, 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 Bachelor of Health Science in Occupational Health and Safety from California State University Chico in 1997.

David Crow

Director of Safety Operations

David Crow is the Director of Safety Operations. 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).

Imran Malik

Director of Project Controls

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

Chief Financial Officer

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.

Josh DeLeon

Director of Equipment Division

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.

Kenneth Helle

Vice President of Gas Operations

Kenneth Helle serves as the Vice President of Gas Operations at Underground Construction Co., Inc., overseeing gas transmission and distribution operations while fostering strong client relations. Kenneth’s tenure in the industry began as a pipeline welder working for various contractors as a proud member of UA Local 32. Prior to assuming his current position, he served as the operations manager at Infrasource Construction LLC and general manager of Special Projects at Q3 (Primoris), further solidifying his reputation as a capable leader within the sector. In his new position at Underground Construction Co., Inc. Kenneth takes pride in being an “Undergrounder” and cherishes the opportunity to work alongside a talented team within a well-established organization. He values the resources and expertise surrounding him, recognizing them as essential components in maintaining the company’s leadership position in the natural gas industry.

Mark Pracanica

Director of Operations, Southern California

Mark Pracanica serves as the Director of Operations for Southern California, overseeing gas and civil work projects from the Vista Office in San Diego. With a career that began in the field as a laborer, Mark has gained extensive experience managing a variety of projects across the globe, including fueling systems, civil, electrical, and mechanical projects in locations such as Guam, Hawaii, and Australia.

Mark brings over 14 years of experience within the Quanta Family, including six years at Nova Group, where he held roles ranging from laborer to mechanical foreman, project engineer, project manager, and senior project manager. His dedication and hands-on experience have contributed to his expertise in leading complex projects and advancing company objectives.

Throughout his career, Mark has valued the opportunity to work on diverse projects and contribute to the growth of the companies he has served. He is particularly passionate about collaborating with colleagues who share his drive and determination to excel in the industry.

Mike Kress

Senior Director Electric Line Operations

Mike Kress serves as the Senior Director of Electric Line Operations at Underground Construction Co., Inc., where he leads and oversees electrical line operations throughout Northern California. With a career spanning over 39 years in the utility industry, Mike initially started as a Lineman and has progressed through various roles, showcasing his dedication and expertise. As senior director, Mike is responsible for ensuring the safe execution of operations, efficient scheduling, comprehensive training programs, maintaining high-quality standards, effective project management, cost controls, accurate estimating, divisional profit and loss performance, and continuous process improvement. Having held positions such as construction supervisor, compliance supervisor, gas and electric superintendent, director of general construction, director of customer service delivery, director of the bay area region, and senior director of general construction and contractors, Mike brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the industry to his leadership role. Since joining Underground Construction Co., Inc. over a year ago, Mike has found a sense of belonging and has actively contributed to the company’s success. His certifications include Lean Six Sigma-Green Belt, NEMS, and Incident Command System 200, 400, IS368, ICS300, IS 700, IS 800, and SEMS 600.

Ray Lemen

Director of Operations Support

Ray Lemen is a seasoned professional in the realm of Underground Construction Co., Inc., boasting over three decades of experience with the company. Currently holding the title of Director of Operations Support, he oversees the Operations Support department, playing a pivotal role in facilitating the smooth onboarding process and providing comprehensive support for field operations.

Having spent his entire career at UCCo, Ray has transitioned through various positions, starting from a laborer and progressing to positions such as Foreman, Superintendent, General Superintendent, and Operations Process Manager. This multifaceted experience equips him with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved at Underground Construction Co., Inc. Beyond the projects and workload, he is proud of the company’s culture, values, and most notably, their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of every individual, a value he passionately upholds.

For Ray, the best part of being an Undergrounder lies in the people he works alongside, the vibrant culture they foster, and their steadfast dedication to ensuring that each member of the team returns home safely every day.

Rick McLaughlin

Senior Director of Special Projects

Rick McLaughlin is the Senior Director of Special Projects, 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, Project Manager, and most recently as the Division Manager of Transmission Electric. 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.

Thiel Harryman

Vice President, Business Administration

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.