This blog series will introduce our audience to some of the brightest and most dedicated young professionals in the PCI Mid-Atlantic chapter. These individuals contribute to the exciting future of our dynamic industry every day. Get a behind-the-scenes look into their lives and innovative career path.
About Phil!
I started off my career at Fastenal in Audubon, PA working in industrial/construction supply sales. During my time there, I quickly became passionate about purchasing and sourcing. Realizing that I had a lot of interest in the supply chain field, I then spent time at Universal Concrete and SS Industries in Pottstown/Collegeville, PA, where I gained a lot of valuable knowledge and experience. In 2019 the opportunity came up at High Concrete in Denver, PA and I have been there ever since as a supply chain specialist. In my free time, I enjoy working on various projects out in my garage. I also recently finished renovating our house in Fleetwood, PA.
PCI-MA: How do you have fun at work?
Phil: I’ve found the best way to have fun is to keep a good mix of office, plant, and field time. There is nothing more exciting about a job where you can work behind a computer one day, go into the plant the next, and then head to a jobsite the following week. Working for both High Concrete and its subsidiary StructureCare has provided a nice balance between all three.
PCI-MA: Tell us about one of your proudest work accomplishments.
Phil: When the pandemic first hit, Pennsylvania shut down non-essential businesses. Since High Concrete is considered essential, we were able to stay open. Unfortunately, a large number of our vendors were not considered essential and were forced to close. Within 24 hours, the purchasing team was able to bring in enough material so the plant could keep producing for the coming weeks. Being able to pull off such a difficult task in a short amount of time is one of our team’s proudest achievements.
PCI-MA: What is one thing you like most about your career in the precast industry?
Phil: The precast world is big, but unlike most industries, the community feels small and tightly knit. All precasters seem to have one common goal: to promote precast to capture larger market share against competing building materials. PCI has been a great resource to connect with other precast professionals and build relationships, which in turn helps our industry continue to thrive.
PCI-MA: What advice would you give someone just entering the workforce and the construction industry?
Phil: Regardless of what industry or field you decide to enter, make it a point to spend time with each department during your onboarding process. Knowing how your role supports the rest of the organization will make it much easier to understand the big picture.
About High Concrete Group
High Concrete Group is a PCI-certified “AA” producer of architectural precast concrete and a manufacturer of structural precast concrete, committed to driving innovation, delivering quality, and building trustworthy relationships. Since 1957, High Concrete Group has served a variety of structure types, including parking, healthcare, government, office, multifamily, data center, education, and mixed-use facilities. Our market reach spans throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest, with precast concrete production facilities in Denver, Pennsylvania and Springboro, Ohio. Whether you're an architect, general contractor, construction manager, or engineer, precast concrete from High Concrete Group can benefit your project in a number of ways. Our precast concrete offers design flexibility, improved safety, reliable performance, long-lasting durability, and unbeatable cost savings.
Want to learn more about a career in precast? Check out our workforce Career Center for job descriptions, career paths, job listings, and other helpful resources.
