A Message from the ABC Keystone Chair of the Board

BY: ROGER S. BRUBAKER, ABC KEYSTONE 2020 CHAIR OF THE BOARD

I believe it goes without saying that 2020 rolled out differently than anyone could have predicted this time last year! The “Year of COVID” was certainly filled with many challenges and setbacks in our personal freedoms and financial successes. However, based on the high performance of our team at ABC Keystone, along with the continued commitment of our members, it is with great optimism, that I believe opportunity will be knocking on many doors in 2021.

Our state and federal legislative bodies increased the number of free enterprise candidates with wins on November 3, creating great potential for the merit shop’s advocacy objectives regardless of the presidential outcome. There is reason to believe ABC advocacy efforts will reap extensive rewards when we utilize this opportunity to take back the PA governorship in 2022! I am also pleased to report our PA State advocacy organization, ABC PA, has gone through a reorganization process this year. This has included drafting new bylaws and a renewed commitment among all five PA Chapters to work together, creating another opportunity for winning in Harrisburg, rather than just being “in the game.”

ABC Keystone apprenticeship training continues to evolve and expand. A new electrical curriculum was put in place this year and will soon be followed by a fresh look in other trades. An opportunity to expand our regional training should gain traction early next year as demand for training in construction trades continues to grow.

This year, our ABC Keystone staff stepped up during unprecedented times to raise the bar in member services, providing daily and weekly COVID-19 safety updates and going the extra mile by coordinating classes and events during this highly restrictive period. Their efforts, along with those of our committee chairs and member volunteers, have improved member engagement and retention as well as promoted new member growth during an extremely challenging period. Because of their hard work, ABC Keystone has an opportunity to increase membership and expand services for 2021.

And finally, I must thank our Board of Directors! It has truly been an honor to serve as Chair of this passionate group in 2020. This dedicated team supported and approved new initiatives and expenditures, keeping our association in tune with member needs while safeguarding our investments and insuring compliance with state and federal regulations. The Board also approved the installation of solar panels on the Chapter training facility roof. This will reduce the cost of energy for the Chapter for many years to come, as well as provide an opportunity for our apprentices to see and work with an operating alternative energy system. Thank you for your dedication and service to our association.

So, now it is time to say THANK YOU, AGAIN, for making ABC Keystone one of the best chapters in the country! Thank you for continuing the “It Factor” that has helped make this member-driven organization unique. This year certainly has had many unexpected challenges, and I am confident that Cleo Weaver, our incoming 2021 Board Chair, will continue leading our organization head on through future challenges and new opportunities!

Wishing you all a healthy and happy holiday,


Roger S. Brubaker
2020 Chair of the Board
ABC Keystone
Director of Construction Services
Meadow Valley Electric, Inc.
roger@mvegroup.com
(717) 397-9600


The ABC Keystone Chapter would like to thank Roger Brubaker, 2020 Chair of the Board, for his service and leadership during this past year.


Posted December 8, 2020