In today’s job market, the idea of pursuing a trade as a “backup” plan is outdated and short-sighted. The reality is that skilled trades are essential, offering stability, high earning potential, and a clear path for advancement. This is especially true in the civil construction and excavation sectors, where the demand for qualified workers far exceeds the supply. If you’re looking for a career with growth opportunities, financial rewards, and job security, the trades should be at the top of your list—not a fallback option.

The Growing Demand for Skilled Workers

Across the civil construction and excavation industries, there’s a pressing need for skilled tradespeople. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the construction sector is one of the fastest-growing fields, driven by the need to repair aging infrastructure and accommodate expanding populations. As older workers retire, the gap between the demand for and supply of skilled labor is widening, creating a wealth of opportunities for new entrants to the field.

Career Paths in Civil and Excavation Construction

The civil and excavation construction industries offer a variety of career paths, each with its own set of skills and specialties. Here are some of the key roles that are in high demand:

• Laborers: The backbone of any construction project, laborers handle a wide range of tasks, from site preparation to demolition. In the excavation field, laborers are responsible for tasks like digging trenches, moving materials, and ensuring safety protocols are followed on-site. This role offers a solid entry point into the industry with opportunities for advancement.
• Equipment Operators: These skilled professionals operate heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, and loaders. Equipment operators play a crucial role in civil construction projects, handling everything from earthmoving and grading to paving and demolition. Mastering these machines requires specialized training and offers excellent earning potential and job security.
• Foremen: Foremen are the leaders on the ground, responsible for managing teams, overseeing operations, and ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget. In the excavation sector, foremen coordinate between laborers and equipment operators, making sure that everything runs smoothly. This role demands experience, leadership skills, and a deep understanding of the construction process, making it a highly rewarding career path.

Financial Stability and Job Security

One of the key advantages of pursuing a career in civil and excavation construction is financial stability. Unlike many college graduates who face student loan debt and uncertain job prospects, tradespeople often enter the workforce quickly, earning competitive wages right from the start. As you gain experience and take on more specialized roles, your earning potential grows significantly. For example, skilled equipment operators and experienced foremen can earn substantial salaries, often exceeding those of many jobs requiring a four-year degree.

In addition to competitive pay, the job security in the trades is unparalleled. The demand for infrastructure improvement isn’t going away anytime soon, and as long as there’s a need to build, repair, and maintain, there will be a need for skilled tradespeople.

More Than Just a Job

Working in civil and excavation construction offers more than just a paycheck. It provides the satisfaction of seeing the tangible results of your work—whether it’s a newly constructed road, a sturdy foundation, or a completed excavation project. The pride that comes from knowing you played a vital role in building something that will stand the test of time is a unique reward that few other careers can offer.

Conclusion: Building Your Future with BERG Construction

At Berg Construction in Morgantown, PA, we recognize the crucial role that skilled tradespeople play in our success. Whether you’re a laborer, equipment operator, or foreman, the civil and excavation construction industries offer career paths that are stable, lucrative, and fulfilling. With a growing demand for skilled workers, now is the perfect time to consider a trade—not as a backup plan, but as a first-choice career.

If you’re looking to take the next step in your career, we’re actively seeking dedicated laborers, equipment operators, and foremen to join our team. Don’t miss the opportunity to build your future with us. Learn more about our open roles. 

At Berg Construction, we are fortunate to have a team of people with diverse skill sets that allow us to approach our projects with innovation. One of our standout capabilities is our expertise in seismic refraction, a geophysical method that allows us to accurately analyze subsurface conditions and enhance the efficiency and safety of our projects. With a dedicated staff geologist serving as our Director of Geotechnology, we are among the few companies in the Northeast equipped with the programs and expertise to utilize this technology effectively.

Understanding Seismic Refraction

Seismic refraction is the oldest geophysical technology still in use today. Its origins date back to World War I, but it became established as a prospecting method in the 1920s and 30s due to its successes in the Gulf region of the United States. This method was initially used for oil exploration, enabling the detection of salt domes in the United States, mapping large structures in Iran, and discovering oil fields in the Algerian Sahara.

The primary advantage of seismic refraction is its non-invasive nature. It allows us to get a ‘snapshot’ of what lies beneath the surface without the need for drilling or heavy equipment. This is particularly useful in our industry, where understanding subsurface conditions can significantly impact project planning and execution.

How Seismic Refraction Works

The seismic refraction process involves several key steps and equipment:

1. Geophones Setup: We deploy 24 geophones, typically in grounding groups of 12, placed in a straight line with equal spacing, usually three feet apart. These geophones are connected to a receiver.
2. Generating Seismic Waves: A seismic wave is generated by striking an aluminum plate on the ground with a heavy striking tool. This ‘hammer’ like tool is equipped with a trigger that is wired to the receiver, signaling the release of the sound wave.
3. Recording Data: The geophones record the arrival times of the seismic waves at different locations. By measuring these arrival times, we can calculate the speed of the seismic waves through various subsurface materials.
4. Interpreting Density Changes: Seismic waves travel at speeds proportional to the density of the material they pass through. When the density changes, the velocity of the waves changes, which is detected by observing the changes in arrival times recorded by the geophones.
5. Software Analysis: The collected data is processed using specialized software to generate density maps of the subsurface materials. These maps provide insights into the composition and structure of the geological layers.

Field Operations and Challenges

Our geotechnical surveys typically involve multiple soundings, usually between seven and eight, at different locations. This is because the subsurface in our region is highly diverse, with varying geology, including rocks and soils. The complexity of the subsurface requires careful planning and interpretation to ensure accurate results.

Applications in Earthmoving and Construction

Seismic refraction data is incredibly valuable in assessing the rippability of the ground by earthmoving equipment. Manufacturers like Caterpillar, Komatsu, and John Deere rate the rippability of their machines based on the seismic velocity of the materials. This information helps us determine the most suitable equipment for different types of materials, ultimately improving efficiency and reducing costs.

For instance, understanding the subsurface conditions can prevent unexpected encounters with rock layers that could slow down production. By using seismic refraction, we can identify whether explosives are necessary or if there is a more cost-effective solution.

Benefits for Project Planning

Utilizing seismic refraction in project planning offers numerous benefits:

• • Risk Reduction: By gaining a clear understanding of the subsurface conditions, we can reduce uncertainties that might impact project costs and timelines.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Knowing the subsurface conditions helps avoid unnecessary excavation or the use of explosives, potentially saving significant expenses.
  • Environmental Friendliness: This technology generates essential data without disturbing the environment, making it an eco-friendly option for subsurface exploration.

 

Comparison With Other Technologies

Seismic refraction complements other geophysical methods like ground-penetrating radar (GPR). While GPR is useful for detecting objects like pipes underground, seismic refraction provides detailed information about the geological structure and density of materials. Together, these technologies offer a comprehensive understanding of subsurface conditions.

Practical Example

Consider a scenario where a company is evaluating a piece of land for potential development. Without disturbing the site, we can use seismic refraction to gather crucial subsurface information. This non-invasive approach helps in making informed decisions about land purchases, minimizing risks and costs associated with unforeseen ground conditions..

Conclusion

Seismic refraction is a versatile and effective technique that continues to be integral to modern geophysical exploration and engineering projects. Its ability to provide valuable insights into subsurface conditions makes it a critical tool in our industry specifically because it enables us to anticipate and address potential challenges before they arise, ensuring smoother and more efficient project execution. By leveraging this technology, we help our clients make informed decisions, manage risks, and optimize project outcomes.

To learn more about our capabilities, read our Services. 

At Berg Construction, our commitment to our local community is fundamental to everything we do.

Last week, we were happy to participate in the 10th Annual Morgantown Carnival – a special event on our town’s annual calendar.

This year, in collaboration with Caernarvon Township, we co-sponsored the live band that provided great entertainment for those in attendance. Alongside our sponsorship, we also brought one of our mini-excavators. This allowed us to provide a hands-on experience for the kids, and share about job opportunities with those interested.

Behind the scenes, our team managed the logistics of transporting our equipment and engaged with attendees throughout the event. Their efforts ensured that our contribution was both meaningful and successful.

Participating in events like the Morgantown Carnival strengthens our connections with the community we are proud to serve. These gatherings provide us with opportunities to interact directly with our neighbors and demonstrate our commitment to supporting local initiatives.

We look forward to next year!

A Journey of Growth, Hard Work, and Community Ties.

On May 19th 2024, we proudly celebrated 20 years of business. From our humble beginnings focusing on demolition and land clearing to expanding into excavation, commercial and residential sitework, waste management, and more, each step has been a testament to our team’s dedication and the support of our local community.

Our story began two decades ago with a simple vision, and a lot of hard work. Through the years, we’ve grown alongside our projects, learning and adapting with every challenge that came our way. What started as a small operation has flourished into a business backed by the support of many families, vendors, clients and partners in the industry. All that have helped us to grow into the employer we are today.

The past five years, in particular, have been filled with both trials and triumphs. The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented obstacles, testing our ‘tough-ness’ as a company. Despite these challenges, we persevered, finding new opportunities to showcase our capabilities, including landmark projects like Longwood Gardens.

Throughout it all, our people have been the heart of Berg Construction. We’ve celebrated many milestones together – retirements, promotions, weddings, and many others in between – reminding us of the bonds that unite us beyond our work. Today, our commitment to integrity, teamwork, and the trades industry overall continues to drive us forward, guiding our decisions and shaping our future.

Looking ahead, we are excited about the possibilities. With a growing team and a diverse portfolio of projects, we are eager to continue making a positive difference in Berks County and beyond.

As we celebrate this significant milestone, we extend our gratitude to everyone who has been part of our journey. Here’s to the next 20 years.

Sinkholes are geological phenomena that can strike unexpectedly, causing disruptions for property owners, utility companies, and the surrounding community. In Southeastern Pennsylvania, where limestone and karst topography shape the landscape, sinkholes present recurring concerns that demand comprehensive remediation efforts.

At Berg Construction, our expertise in sinkhole remediation extends across both our residential and commercial divisions, allowing us to gain valuable experience in addressing diverse sinkhole formations and employing effective techniques.

Understanding Sinkholes: Causes and Consequences

Sinkholes emerge when underground limestone dissolves, creating cavities that weaken the earth’s surface. Heavy rainfall, underground water movement, and human activities can all trigger sinkhole formation. In Pennsylvania, with its abundance of limestone deposits, the risk of sinkhole development is particularly high. The consequences vary from minor surface disruptions to significant structural damage, posing risks to infrastructure, homes, natural habitats, and more. Recognizing the signs of sinkhole formation early on is crucial for implementing timely remediation measures.

Assessment and Site Evaluation: The Crucial First Steps in Sinkhole Remediation

The remediation of sinkholes is a complex process that requires a deep understanding of subsurface conditions and potential risks. Comprehensive assessment and site evaluation serve as the initial steps in planning effective remediation strategies. These steps are crucial for several reasons.

Sinkholes often develop due to geological factors such as soluble bedrock, underground water movement, and soil composition. Without a thorough assessment, it’s challenging to pinpoint these subsurface conditions accurately. Professional geologists and engineers employ various techniques such as ground-penetrating radar and borehole investigations to map out the underground landscape, revealing potential sinkhole risks.

Secondly, pinpointing sinkhole risks in specific areas is essential. Not all areas with limestone deposits are prone to sinkhole formation. Through detailed site evaluations, experts can identify specific areas at higher risk of sinkhole development. This targeted approach allows for more focused remediation efforts, saving time and resources while minimizing unnecessary disruptions.

Furthermore, no two sinkhole remediation projects are alike, and each site presents its own set of challenges. A comprehensive assessment provides valuable insights into the nature and extent of sinkhole risks, enabling engineers to design remediation strategies that address the specific needs of the site. Whether it’s utilizing grouting techniques, soil stabilization methods, or subsurface drainage systems, the remediation plan can be customized to effectively mitigate sinkhole hazards.

The Safety Risks Associated

While we rely on the expertise of engineers for initial assessments, we play a vital role in translating that information into actionable safety measures for our workers and equipment. Working alongside engineers, we develop and enforce rigorous safety protocols tailored to each project, ensuring proper equipment operation, site stabilization, and hazard mitigation.

By taking proactive steps, we work to create a safe working environment that prioritizes the well-being of our team and the success of our jobs. Our dedication to safety in all of our projects reflects our commitment to quality, and our responsibility to protect both our personnel and the communities we serve.

Berg Construction’s Multifaceted Approach to Sinkhole Remediation

Sinkhole remediation requires diverse knowledge in an array of techniques, tailored to specific site conditions and objectives. From grouting and soil stabilization to subsurface drainage systems, each method addresses unique challenges associated with effective sinkhole mitigation.

In a recent sinkhole remediation project within our commercial sector, we faced various challenges, including a compromised storm sewer pipe due to sinkhole development underneath sections of the pipe run. To mitigate future sinkhole occurrences within the stormwater basin, we implemented multiple techniques, including compaction grouting and the application of flowable fill directly into voids.

Utilizing our expertise in sinkhole remediation, we employed compaction grouting to stabilize the subgrade surrounding the pipe run. This technique effectively filled voids and enhanced soil strength, preventing further sinkhole development. Additionally, the application of flowable fill directly into voids played a crucial role in preventing further damage to the area, ensuring the integrity of the stormwater basin.

Our approach to sinkhole remediation encompasses various techniques:

1. Grouting Techniques: Injecting specialized grout formulations into subsurface voids stabilizes the surrounding soil, preventing further sinkhole development. Cementitious and chemical grouts offer versatile solutions, helping to fill voids and enhance soil strength.
2. Soil Stabilization Methods: Reinforcing the soil matrix through compaction, soil mixing, and reinforcement techniques minimizes subsidence risks, protecting infrastructure and property. Utilizing geotextiles, geogrids, and soil additives enhances soil cohesion, mitigating sinkhole formation.
3. Subsurface Drainage Systems: Installing comprehensive drainage networks diverts water away from vulnerable areas, helping to mitigate hydrological risks associated with sinkhole formation. French drains, trenching, and subsurface channels effectively manage groundwater flow, preserving soil integrity and stability.
4. Natural Remediation Approaches: Eco-friendly remediation strategies such as vegetative cover and land reclamation promote ecological balance, help to restore natural habitats, and minimize environmental impacts associated with sinkhole remediation.

Navigating Towards Sustainable Solutions

In our project, we installed inverted filters and concrete collars to stabilize the storm pipe run, facilitating natural groundwater percolation while preventing excess soil movement. This ensured the long-term stability and safety of the remediated area.

Sinkhole remediation poses challenges that demand innovative solutions and collaborative efforts. By embracing proactive assessment techniques and implementing tailored remediation interventions, we can navigate towards sustainable solutions, mitigating sinkhole risks, and preserving the integrity of our beautiful Southeastern PA landscapes.

To learn more about our services, visit: Services

To learn more about careers at Berg Construction, check out our open roles: Careers

Last week, Berg Construction was honored to participate in Community Helper Day at Conestoga Christian School.

Alongside local leaders – the fire department, police, ambulance service, plumbing company, and horse farrier – we had the privilege of engaging with students from kindergarten to third grade. We spent the morning showcasing the essential roles each of our businesses plays in the community.

The joy on their faces as they sat in our mini excavator, enthusiastically honking its horn, was infectious. Their fascination with the capabilities of our dump truck mirrored our own passion for our craft.

For us, community involvement extends beyond our projects; it’s about building lasting relationships and cultivating growth opportunities for the future. Introducing young minds to the dynamic world of construction and heavy machinery represents just one facet of our commitment.

Through initiatives like internships, co-op programs, and on-site training for newcomers to the field, we’re dedicated to fostering a robust workforce and creating pathways for career advancement within our local community.

At Berg Construction, we understand the significance of the trades, and the hard-working individuals who fuel them. That’s why we’re continuously shining a spotlight on their contributions. And on days like Community Helper Day, we’re reminded of the importance of nurturing and encouraging the future community helpers.

As we reflect on this memorable day, we’re grateful for the opportunity to play a part in shaping the minds and aspirations of the next generation. Together, we build a brighter tomorrow.

To learn more about our career opportunities, visit: Careers

Recently, our CEO, Ford Berg, sat down with Joshua D. Mellott of Blackline LTD for an episode of the ‘The Line’ podcast, which is focused on highlighting the skilled trades.

Josh and Ford discuss the art of problem-solving and being a part of the solution, how media plays a major role in the construction industry, and how crucial it is to build a company culture.

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At Berg Construction, our culture is built on simple principles:

– We find experienced people, and trust them with responsibility.

– We work hard, and keep safety ahead of everything we do.

– We teach those with less experience.

– We build with confidence, but aren’t ones to be boastful.

– Every project is another chance to prove ourselves, be creative, and create a great product and experience for the client.

In our social media strategy, we focus on authentically showcasing our team members and the impactful work they do that directly benefits our community. Without them, we wouldn’t be Berg Construction.

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A major takeaway from the podcast: 𝙗𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙤𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙙𝙖𝙮.

Listen on Spotify: Ford Berg of Berg Construction x Joshua Mellott of Blackline LTD – Step Up to The Line

Tune in on YouTube: The Line Episode 23 (Media Matters Ft. Ford Berg)

Learn more about our mission: Who We Are

Learn more about our open roles: Careers

This month at Berg Construction, we held our Annual Safety Day, a vital event as we transition from the slower winter season to the busy spring and summer months.

At this year’s Safety Day, our team engaged in a comprehensive series of trainings, covering topics ranging from small tools and retrieval systems to CPR/first aid, fire prevention, temporary traffic controls, and OSHA recordability.

At Berg, we understand that effective and consistent communication plays a critical role in keeping our team safe. By promoting continuous safety dialogue and awareness, we create a safer working environment.

These training sessions are pivotal in ensuring that our workforce has the knowledge and expertise required to prioritize safety on every job site.

We thank our dedicated trainers for their invaluable guidance during the sessions, and our Safety Coordinator, Blair, for orchestrating this important event and bringing our team together.

For more information about our safety initiatives and construction services, visit https://bergconst.com/why-berg/.

Here at Berg, we love serving our community. Everyone on our team agrees when we say giving back is extremely important. Congratulations to Morgantown Arts & Holistic Center on their successful Trunk & Treat event. The Berg Team appreciates the opportunity to participate in this community event.
#teamworkmakesthedreamwork #bergconst #bergconstruction #buildwithberg #ForUsForYouForThem

On March 8, 2022 Berg held its 1^st Annual Years of Service Appreciation Dinner at The Heritage Restaurant.

13 Employees were honored for celebrating 5 to 9 years of service in 2021 to Berg Construction.

The evening began with fellowship, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Ford Berg, CEO greeted employees and their guests and thanked them for their years of service and dedication to the company. Ford’s welcome was followed by a delicious plated meal, desserts and gift presentations to our team and their guests.

At Berg, we build enduring infrastructure so our team, family & community will succeed. One of the biggest benefits of having a great team is having the flexibility to fit in projects that benefit the community. We are proud to partner with Plowville AA to get the Wesley Updike Park ready for the season.

Wearing pink for a purpose! In support of our mission and values, Berg Construction is proud to partner with Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County (BCSS) for the month of November. 
BCSS is a non—profit organization that provides hope, information, and emotional support to everyone affected by breast cancer. BCSS has supported Berks County for 26 years.

BCSS of Berks County has fallen short of their $175,000 fundraising goal for 2020. Please join us in supporting Breast Cancer Support Services of Berks County with a donation this month by clicking the link below to donate.

Donate Here

We were honored to meet with Nina Rowley, a member of BCSS’ Board of Directors and chair of BCSS’ Community Awareness Committee. Nina is a survivor as well and is passionate about what they do at BCSS. BCSS offers over 30 programs, counseling assistance, a telephone support line available in English and Spanish, free educational seminars, support groups, comfort bags, lunch & learns, an extensive lending library and so much more.

To learn more about this great organization, volunteer or become a sponsor, visit their website here.

Berg Construction CEO Ford Berg was recently the special guest on the Dirt Talk podcast, hosted by BuildWitt‘s Aaron Witt. Below are the show notes and the link to the podcast:

“Listen, we don’t expect you to know all this stuff. Ask — there are people with much more experience here who are here to support you. But the minute you say, ‘I got this, and I know this,’ you own that. And if you can’t do that, then that’s a problem. We want you to ask for help and give you whatever support we can, but if you try to be too confident and it doesn’t work, then there’s a different conversation that has to be had.”

From a young age, Ford Berg and his siblings napped in the family camper as their parents tirelessly worked together to grow their logging business. Home-school, hard work, and family-time were blended day in and day out, forging a deep understanding in Ford about what it takes to get the job done right and on time.

While at Temple University, Ford followed in his parents’ footsteps and launched his first business, performing environmental tests in residential developments between classes with his younger brother Luke. During the winters, when construction would slow, he began chasing snow removal jobs to keep a steady cash-flow.

As the business quickly grew, Ford ended up leaving college just three classes short of graduation to focus on building Berg into what it is today. Sixteen years later, Berg Construction handles heavy civil construction, municipal utility work, commercial and residential site development, road construction and asphalt paving, as well as landfill construction projects. And wouldn’t you know, the entire family – including Ford’s parents – all work for the company.

The Berg model is simple — find incredibly talented people with prior business ownership experience and let them run with their divisions. Berg Construction supports four different divisions, with talented leadership teams and a field of committed people.