APCA Journal 2nd Quarter 2025

The Publication for Merit Shop Pipeline Contractors AMERICAN PIPELINE CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION 2nd Quarter 2025 APCA Convention Draws Big Crowd in Scottsdale Coalition Sues Oregon Governor Over PLA Mandate APCA Pushes Back Against Harmful Labor Bills APCA Past President William Schettine Delivers His Hall of Fame Induction Speech at the Annual Convention Complying with the ADA When Managing Employees with Alcoholism Trump Administration 2.0 Reshapes Washington in First 100 Days

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PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 5 Officer Directors Official Publication of the American Pipeline Contractors Association Board of Directors Publication Staff PO Box 638 Churchton, MD 20733 (703) 212-7745 • www.americanpipeline.org ©2025 American Pipeline Contractors Association Nick Bertram Jomax Construction Co., Inc. Mike Castle, Jr. Castle Paul Cook. Sunland Construction, Inc. Scott Coppersmith (Advisory) Mears Group, Inc. David Dacus (Advisory) Troy Construction, LLC Taylor Dacus Troy Construction, LLC Shannon Driver Holloman Corporation Ricky Dyess M.G. Dyess, Inc. John Fluharty (Advisory) Troy Construction, LLC Adam Nietsche Pumpco, Inc. Sean Renfro (Advisory) Sunland Construction, Inc. Aaron Simon (Advisory) Troy Construction, LLC Roy Weaver Weaver, LLC Publisher Timothy Wagner Editor Michael Ancell Associate Editor Caroline Ferguson Advertising Sales Stacy Bowdring Information Technology Greg Smela Accounting James Wagner Layout & Design Joseph Wagner Government Affairs Ben Brubeck Government Affairs Jaime Steve President Kevin LaBauve WHC Energy Services President-Elect Nick Bruno Bi-Con Services Vice President Chris Jones HardRock Infrastructure Services Secretary/Treasurer Patrick McRae Mears Group, Inc. AMERICAN PIPELINE CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION 2nd Quarter 2025 Trump Administration 2.0 Reshapes Washington in First 100 Days 7 By Ben Brubeck The breakneck speed of policy changes during the first 100 days of President Donald J. Trump’s second term is keeping federal government stakeholders and beltway insiders on their toes and presents new opportunities for APCA members and their energy industry customers. APCA Convention Draws Big Crowd in Scottsdale 17 Persuaded by a packed educational program, lots of networking opportunities, and an industry revitalized by President Trump, more than 345 APCA members—including 40 first-time attendees—traveled to Scottsdale in March for the association’s 54th Annual Convention. Education has been a key component of APCA’s growth in recent years, and in Scottsdale members took part in sessions on leadership, financial management, government affairs, workforce development, employment law, and the incredible work of Natural Allies for a Clean Energy Future. Human Resources | By Greg Guidry 12 Contract Law | By John Grayson 14 Safety Watch 32 News Briefs 34 APCA Member News 43 Industry Calendar 46 New APCA Members 46 Advertiser Index 46

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PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 7 Inside Washington Continued on page 8 The breakneck speed of policy changes during the first 100 days of President Donald J. Trump’s second term is keeping federal government stakeholders and beltway insiders on their toes and presents new opportunities for American Pipeline Contractors Association members and their energy industry customers. A Flurry of Pro-Energy Executive Orders and Litigation President Trump signed a record 142 executive orders (EOs) in the first 100 days, besting the high watermark of 42 EOs issued by President Joe Biden and 32 EOs issued by the first Trump administration during their initial 100 days in office. Trump 2.0’s Day 1 EOs targeted Biden positions on DEI, immigration, climate, foreign policy, defense, federal workforce, energy, and additional areas of policy disagreement. Of interest to APCA members, President Trump signed a trio of EOs with potential benefits to America’s natural gas production: • EO 14153, Unleashing Alaska’s Extraordinary Resource Potential, prioritizes the development of Alaska’s liquified natural gas (LNG) potential, including the sale of LNG to other parts of the United States. • EO 14156, Declaring a National Energy Emergency, promotes the development of fossil fuels and infrastructure, including natural gas, for domestic use and allies. • EO 14154, Unleashing American Energy, lifts the Biden administration’s controversial January 2024 pause on LNG exports, promotes deepwater ports for LNG exports, and encourages domestic natural gas production. It also aims to create more efficient permitting by reforming the Council on Environmental Quality regulations concerning the National Environmental Policy Act. Federal agencies are now tasked with implementing these policies, which may allow APCA’s government affairs team to provide feedback to shape eventual regulations and policies. Of note, many of these EOs have generated public controversy and litigation from interested parties. For example, the Unleashing American Energy EO commands federal agencies to temporarily pause the disbursement of certain funds appropriated through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of 2021 related to the green new deal. Related regulatory action by White House Office of Management and Budget and cabinet-level agencies has kickstarted litigation and caused some uncertainty regarding the status of contract awards and federal funding disbursements under the IIJA and IRA. Trump Administration 2.0 Reshapes Washington in First 100 Days Jaime Steve Government Affairs Solutions jsteve@gasolutions.net (202) 841-5493 Ben Brubeck Government Affairs Solutions bbrubeck@gasolutions.net (703) 472-7850

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 8 Inside Washington Continued from page 7 APCA will closely monitor the outcome of the U.S. Interior Department’s April 23 announcement of emergency permitting procedures to accelerate the development of domestic energy resources and critical minerals by expediting the review and approval of projects. The new DOI permitting procedures aim to take a multi-year process down to just 28 days at most. Other agencies might follow a similar approach, but stakeholders expect litigation from environmental groups to delay its swift implementation by government agencies. Cutting Red Tape, Waste, Fraud, and Abuse As is typical of incoming administrations, President Trump issued a 60-day regulatory freeze allowing new federal agency heads to review active rulemakings carried over from the Biden administration. In addition, President Trump established the Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to snuff out waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government. DOGE cancelled unnecessary government contracts and reduced the federal government workforce, drawing the ire of some lawmakers and media personalities and igniting additional litigation fronts for the Trump administration to fight. Another trio of regulatory-reform EOs signal the Trump administration is serious about cutting red tape and restoring merit-based competition for taxpayer-funded contracts, which should unlock portions of America’s economy burdened by federal government bureaucracy: • EO 14192, Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation, calls on federal agencies to identify 10 existing regulations to be repealed for every new regulation. • EO 14267, Reducing Anti-Competitive Barriers, directs federal agency heads to provide the Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Attorney General a list of anti-competitive regulations by June 18. • EO 14275, Restoring Common Sense to Federal Procurement, gives federal agencies and stakeholders six months to make recommendations for a revolutionary overhaul of the Federal Acquisitions Regulations system that is the foundation of the federal government’s rules for federal contract procurement. These EOs may provide a once-in-a-generation opportunity to address the overly burdensome regulatory and contracting rules from Washington stifling innovation and competition. Tariffs President Trump’s America First Policy tariffs—aimed at reshoring America’s manufacturing industry—resulted in volatile financial markets in April. It raised concerns about exacerbating construction industry material cost inflation, which increased 41 percent between February 2020 and February 2025. It is unclear how long trade negotiations with allied and enemy countries will take and if their results will cause further market swings and inflation. Workforce Development EO 14278, Americans for High-Paying Skilled Trade Jobs of the Future, directs the secretaries of Labor, Education, and Commerce to review and modernize federal workforce programs and align them with the needs of advanced manufacturing and artificial intelligence. It sets the goal of growing the number of government-registered apprentices from 680,000 to 1 million annually—across all industries—as the construction industry is responsible for 36 percent of all indusWhy President Trump’s Energy Agenda Matters • The U.S. currently produces energy to provide for 84 percent of our demand but has to import the rest. • Despite having 1.66 trillion barrels of recoverable oil, the United States is forced to import energy because our policies have locked up our resources. • From 2007 to 2019, increased domestic energy production led to a 45 percent decrease in the price of electricity—saving American families $203 billion annually. • America’s growing population, revitalized manufacturing industry, and increasing use of AI will require vastly more energy. • Since the Biden-Harris administration took office, gasoline prices are up 35.4 percent, natural gas prices are up 29.3 percent, and electricity prices are up 28.5 percent. • The average American family is now forced to pay an additional $1,700 a year for their energy consumption, including gasoline for their cars. • Since January 2021, electricity prices have soared 29.4 percent—about 50 percent more than overall inflation. • A 50 percent increase in domestic oil and gas production by 2050 would result in $25 trillion in GDP growth, over five million more jobs annually, and an increased income of $12,418 for a family of four.

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 9 try apprentices. Notably absent from the Trump administration’s workforce development EO is a mention of Industry Recognized Apprenticeship Programs, a concept the first Trump administration championed via EO and U.S. Department of Labor policy that was eliminated by a subsequent Biden EO. Expect federal agencies to flesh out more details about policies to address America’s skilled labor shortage across all industries, which includes a shortage of 439,000 people in the construction industry, according to analysis by Associated Builders and Contractors. NLRB Shakeup and Labor EOs A series of first-100-day EOs and Biden policy reversals signaled to Washington that the Trump administration is not afraid to push back on the demands of union lobbyists. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has just two sitting members after President Trump took the unprecedented step of firing NLRB member Gwynne Wilcox, a Biden appointee. A final decision is pending from the Supreme Court as to whether Wilcox’s removal was lawful. President Trump followed precedent set by Biden by firing the NLRB’s then-General Counsel (GC), Jennifer Abruzzo, with time left on her four-year term. President Trump then appointed William Cowen as the Acting General Counsel. Cowen already has rolled back many of Abruzzo’s initiatives that elevated the priorities of labor unions. President Trump nominated management-side labor lawyer Crystal Carey to be the agency’s next GC, and no date has been set for her confirmation hearing. Because the NLRB lacks a quorum, pro-union decisions that the agency issued during the Biden administration cannot be rolled back until at least one of the three vacant board seats is filled via Senate confirmation at the end of a board member’s respective staggered five-year term. On March 14, EO 14236, Additional Recissions of Harmful EOs and Actions, eliminated 19 Biden administration EOs, including three union-friendly priorities undermining competition and efficiency in government contracting: • Requiring A minimum wage for federal contractors (EO 14026) • Promoting and requiring registered apprentices on federal Continued on page 10

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 10 and federally assisted contracts (EO 14119) • Government-mandated project labor agreements and other union-friendly policies on federally assisted contracts (EO 14126) Stopping President Biden’s anti-competitive and inflationary pro-PLA policy on federally assisted projects is a win for fair and open competition, but it does not prevent blue-state and local governments from mandating PLAs on federally assisted projects, including energy projects of interest to APCA members. It also does not fix the controversial Biden EO 14063 mandating PLAs on direct federal construction contracts of $35 million or more, which is currently subject to legal challenges pending in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims and the U.S. District Court in Jacksonville, Fla. Expect additional activity from the White House and the courts on Biden’s pro-PLA policies in the next 100 days. On March 11, Lori Chavez-DeRemer was sworn in as the 30th U.S. Department of Labor Secretary after a successful bipartisan confirmation vote by the full Senate. During her confirmation hearing, Chavez-DeRemer walked back her support of controversial pro-union legislation and policies she championed while representing voters of Oregon’s 5th Congressional District in the 118th Congress and her failed re-election campaign. Secretary Chavez-DeRemer and her DOL deputies are expected to play a key role implementing President Trump’s workforce development and deregulatory agenda. Ongoing litigation and likely policy changes to Biden pro-labor regulations related to independent contractors, overtime and OSHA’s heat and union walkaround rules are going to be top priorities for the Trump administration’s DOL to address this year. 119th Congress: Confirmations and Budget Reconciliation The 119th Congress spent the first 100 days adapting to new leadership, committee assignments, and Trump administration policies while moving the White House’s agenda primarily through Senate cabinet confirmations and the budget reconciliation process. U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (S.Dak.)—succeeding Sen. Mitch McConnell (Ky.) after an 18-year tenure—has pushed the 53 to 47 Republican Senate majority to rapidly confirm President Trump’s nominees to fill key federal agency leadership positions. All top Trump 2.0 cabinet officials have been confirmed, despite contentious confirmation hearings. To date, 53 of President Trump’s 279 nominees have been confirmed, with many more nominees—and federal judges—expecting confirmation votes in the next 100 days. Despite a slim 220-215 Republican majority and diverse voices of the Republican caucus, House Speaker Mike Johnson (La.) has been artfully moving the Trump agenda forward specific to tax cuts, government spending reductions, border security, defense, Medicaid reforms, and unleashing American energy primarily through the budget reconciliation process. In February, the House and Senate Budget committees passed a budget resolution that includes reconciliation instructions for specific committees to set spending and revenue targets for the budget. During the last week in April, most committees marked-up and reported their bills to the House and Senate Budget committees to compile into one bill. A bicameral conference of party leaders will convene to rectify differences between the eventual House and Senate-passed versions of the legislation. Next, a simple majority vote by the House and Senate is required to send “one big, beautiful bill” to President Trump’s desk by the self-imposed deadline of July 1. The budget reconciliation process must be enacted as early as possible in 2025 so that GOP members of Congress can help voters understand its benefits prior to the 2026 mid-term elections, which traditionally have not been kind to the party occupying the White House. Congress is expected to tackle appropriations bills, infrastructure spending bills, permitting reform, and codifying Trump EOs in to law—where possible—following budget reconciliation. APCA’s government affairs team looks forward to representing your interests before Congress and the Trump administration and welcomes feedback on industry priorities. 7 Inside Washington Continued from page 9

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PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 12 Human Resources Construction industry employers sometimes encounter intoxicated employees at work, or after work, but there are some compliance challenges under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) when managing employees with alcoholism. The following discussion will hopefully be useful should you encounter an employee on your jobsite who is an alcoholic. Introductory Notes: • Alcoholism may be considered a disability under the ADA. • Employers may be required to offer reasonable accommodations to workers with alcoholism. • Employers do not have to permit workers to drink alcohol at work or be impaired during working hours. Discussion The National Institutes of Health defines alcohol use disorder as “a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences.” About 29 million Americans age twelve and over had alcohol use disorder in 2023, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Some workers with alcoholism might qualify for protections under the ADA. Workers may qualify for ADA protections if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity, such as sleeping, eating, concentrating, learning, or performing manual tasks. Alcohol addiction may implicate several of these activities, such that it is categorically considered a disability in many cases. A worker with alcoholism may have other coexisting conditions that could qualify as a disability under the ADA, such as insomnia, depression, or anxiety. If a person’s alcohol addiction qualifies as a disability, an employer must provide a reasonable accommodation, unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the employer or poses a “direct threat” to the health or safety of the employee or others. For an employee with alcoholism, reasonable accommodations may include Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave or sick leave, job restructuring, remote work, modified break schedule, or flexible scheduling to allow time to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, therapy sessions, or even yoga classes. Employers cannot harass or discriminate against employees because of an ADA-qualified disability. However, employers can prohibit workers from consuming alcohol during work hours or being intoxicated during work hours. They can discipline or fire an employee when alcohol use contributes to poor job performance or unprofessional conduct that is not allowed under company policies. Employers cannot ask employees questions about an ADA-qualified disability, including alcoholism, unless it is “job-related and consistent with business necessity.” It is likely that questions about whether a worker can safely perform their job are indeed job-related and consistent with business necessity, particularly if the employee’s behavior is troublesome or unsafe. Unlike random drug tests, employers cannot subject employees to random alcohol tests unless they have reasonable suspicion of alcohol impairment at work. There are exceptions to this rule, particularly for federally regulated safety-sensitive transportation employees, such as truck drivers. Next Steps When an employee is intoxicated at work, there might be signs like slurred speech, stumbling, or breath that smells like alcohol. Employers may want to carefully document the signs they have observed. They can require the employee to take an alcohol test if there is reasonable cause, including the aforementioned signs or a workplace accident. If it is determined that the employee is violating the employer’s drug Greg Guidry Ogletree Deakins Nash Smoak & Stewart greg.guidry@ogletree.com (337) 769-6583 Complying with the ADA When Managing Employees with Alcoholism

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 13 and alcohol policy by being intoxicated at work, discipline or termination is appropriate, regardless of whether the employee is an alcoholic. Construction industry employers should ensure that their policies and practices do not treat workers who are alcoholics in violation of the above requirements of the federal ADA and/or applicable state laws prohibiting discrimination against disabled workers. 7 Conducting workplace investigations is one of the most challenging and important duties that employers must take on. How the employer investigation team responds to complaints about harassment or other workplace misconduct can have huge legal and practical implications for your company. Below are 10 common workplace investigation mistakes: 1. Ignoring complaints. Failing to take action on a complaint is one of the biggest mistakes employers can make. Choosing not to conduct an investigation after learning of allegedly inappropriate conduct may result in your company being legally responsible for harm caused to an employee, customer, or others due to the inappropriate conduct. You should investigate regardless of how frivolous or unfounded the complaint appears or who complained. Just because a complaint is anonymous does not excuse a failure to investigate. 2. Not having a plan. Create a preliminary plan for the investigation so that you understand the purpose of the investigation. Think about the five Ws: ◆ Why are you investigating? ◆ Who will conduct the investigation? ◆ Who are the witnesses who must be interviewed? ◆ What evidence must be collected? ◆ What is your investigative timeline? 3. Taking too long. Delaying the start of an investigation may lead to employer liability, particularly in harassment and discrimination cases. Deciding to wait to begin an investigation may be viewed as subjecting the employee to additional unlawful behavior. Your timing goal should be to strike a balance between adequately preparing for the investigation and avoiding unreasonably long delays. 4. Not training investigators. Poorly trained investigators can’t promptly respond to complaints, making the inquiry ineffective. Train several employees who can conduct an impartial, professional, and credible investigation. Another option is to use professionals outside your company, including independent investigation professionals or outside attorneys. 5. Accepting half-measures. Conducting a sloppy investigation by failing to interview necessary witnesses, failing to review relevant documents, or ignoring potential issues that come up during the investigation can create just as much legal exposure as not doing an investigation at all. 6. Conducting unlawful searches. Searching an employee’s personal belongings or monitoring certain communications without consent can violate several federal and state laws. Avoid liability by having the right to conduct searches and to monitor activity by having a policy in your employee handbook or policy manual and procuring your employees’ written consent to cooperate in any such activities. 7. Interviewing too aggressively. Aggressive tactics may result in legal claims such as false imprisonment and coerced confessions. More practically, you risk dissuading employees form cooperating in the investigation, thus failing to understand what happened. Conduct interviews in appropriate locations, outline questions in advance, and use open-ended questions when possible to get the entire story. 8. Promising confidentiality. Never promise an employee that his or her complaint will remain confidential. There will always be certain information that must be disclosed in order for a thorough investigation to be completed. 9. Failing to create a report. Document investigation processes and findings to support your company’s action regarding the allegations. Failing to document evidence, results of interviews, and other relevant findings is just as bad as failing to conduct the investigation. It is recommended that you have another management employee present and taking notes in any investigation interview. Prepare a report for every investigation. Include a summary of the matter, the identity of all parties and witnesses, a description of the documents, findings and credibility determinations, and recommended action. 10. Pulling punches at the end. Failing to reach a conclusion and take the necessary steps to address misconduct could expose the employer to legal liability. Once the investigation and report have been completed, a determination should be made regarding whether misconduct occurred and what appropriate actions should be taken. Make sure the complainant does not suffer any adverse employment actions resulting from the determination unless you can prove that the allegations were made in bad faith and/or were fabricated. 7 Workplace Investigation Mistakes to Avoid

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 14 Following the presidential election and into the early part of 2025, the news in the United States and globally was filled with stories about new tariffs imposed by governments around the world. A number of those tariffs will impact infrastructure construction, including pipelines. Many APCA members have been bracing for the impact of these tariffs for months, and that is why much of the tariff-driven price movements have likely played out by now. But even so, a great deal of uncertainty about the extent of the impact of those tariffs remains. Higher tariffs will put further pressure on project budgets by increasing costs on a range of materials used in the pipeline contracting industry, especially steel and heavy equipment. This uncertainty can lead to project delays, budget overruns, or even cancellations. Some experts have predicted that new tariff schemes are expected to significantly increase the cost of new construction projects by approximately 10 percent and delay projects because of supply chain disruptions across the globe. What to Do? Shortly after the election, we began to receive calls from clients concerned about how best to plan for and protect against the impact of the tariffs being discussed. Certainly, concern about increasing costs after a contract is signed is nothing new, but given the heated rhetoric about new tariffs, this issue has come to the forefront. As we often say in these paragraphs, a contract is a mechanism to allocate risk between the parties. No contract can anticipate all risks, but it is clear that increased costs due to tariffs are a likelihood. In a competitive industry like pipelining, simply “pricing in” future tariffs has obvious risks and downsides, since the magnitude of the impact is unknown. Two effective mechanisms to address this issue are the change in law provision and the price adjustment clause. New tariffs, like new taxes, are due to changes in law. Change in law provisions are nothing new in a pipeline construction contract and concern about the impact of new tariffs can be directly addressed with such a provision. Without arguing about whether it is a “tariff” or a “tax,” there is no question that new tariffs are the result of new or changed laws. The following is a change in law provision the contractor can consider: “In the event the contractor suffers (or will suffer) delay and/or incurs (or will incur) additional costs as a result of a change of law (as defined below), the contractor shall be entitled to an adjustment of the contract sum by change order equal to the additional costs incurred (or to be incurred), as well as an adjustment to the contract time to the extent of any delay encountered (or to be encountered), as a result of such change of law. The contractor shall deliver written notice to the owner within ten (10) working days of the date that the contractor a) becomes aware of the change of law and b) is able to reasonably quantify its potential impact on the contract sum and contract time. as used in this section, “change of law” means the coming into effect after the date of execution of this agreement of any law, statute, ordinance, decree, regulation, by-law, rule, directive, license, consent, permit, authorization, concession, or other requirement issued by any authority which has jurisdiction over the contractor, the work, materials, or the project. “Change of Contract Law John L. Grayson Cokinos | Young jgrayson@cokinoslaw.com (713) 535-5573 The Tariff Man Cometh!

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 15 law” shall expressly include, without limitation, changes or increases to applicable taxes, as well as the institution or increase of applicable tariffs.” New tariffs equal increased costs. The cost impact of new tariffs, whether due to changes in law or not, can also be addressed in a cost escalation clause such as the following: “If, during the performance of this agreement, the price or lead time for delivery of materials, goods, or equipment to be provided by contractor pursuant to the terms of this agreement increases, through no fault of contractor, contractor’s compensation shall be equitably adjusted by an amount reasonably necessary to cover any such price increases, as well as overhead and profit on such increases and any additional costs and expenses incurred by contractor arising therefrom. At company’s request, contractor shall provide information reasonably requested by company to document such price increases, such as quotes, invoices, or receipts. Additionally, where the delivery of materials, goods, or equipment is delayed as a result of the shortage or unavailability of such items, and to the extent contractor could not have reasonably anticipated or mitigated such shortage, contractor shall not be liable for any additional costs or damages associated with such delay(s), and the schedule for performance of the work shall be equitably adjusted therefor.” The parties may want to agree on a “trigger point,” setting a certain percentage increase as the point where this clause kicks in. Timing and strict compliance are key. Whatever specific language is used in these clauses, the prudent contractor will be keenly aware of the notice requirements described therein. Even the most generous provisions allowing relief in the face of changes in law or cost escalations will be worthless if the contractor does not comply with the notice provisions. Many times in these pages, we have pointed out how the contract must be strictly complied with. At no point is that more important than here. In conclusion, tariff and cost escalation clauses are good tools to address concern about increased cost and delays due to tariffs. The prudent contractor will carefully review these clauses with counsel and project management to ensure strict compliance. 7 Visit CrossCountryIS.com Or Call 1-855-955-CCIS (2247) Your trusted partner for Innovative Equipment and Quality Supplies. We are committed to excellent customer service and timely project delivery Your One-Stop Shop for Innovative Equipment Rentals and High Quality Construction Supplies Visit CrossCountryIS.com or call 1-855-955-CCIS (2247) Your One-Stop Shop for Innovative Pipeline Equipment and Supplies. We are Committed to Excellent Customer Service and Timely Project Delivery. Visit CrossCountryIS.com or call 1-855-955-CCIS (2247)

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 17 APCA Convention Draws Big Crowd in Scottsdale Persuaded by a packed educational program, lots of networking opportunities, and an industry revitalized by President Trump, more than 345 APCA members—including 40 first-time attendees—traveled to the newly renovated Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort in March for the association’s 54th Annual Convention. Education has been a key component of APCA’s growth in recent years, and in Scottsdale members took part in sessions on leadership, financial management, government affairs, workforce development, employment law, and the incredible work of Natural Allies for a Clean Energy Future. Contractor members attended the Annual Associate Exhibit & Breakfast to learn about the latest products and services in the industry. Members also tended to association business, explored Scottsdale and the Sonoran Desert, inducted two industry luminaries into its Hall of Fame, and networked throughout the week. Outgoing APCA President Roy Weaver, Weaver, LLC, kicked off the Opening Session by welcoming members to Scottsdale and thanking the people who have enabled the outstanding convention program and much of the association’s growth in recent years. “I would like to thank our sponsors,” he said. “Your generous contributions make a significant difference, and your continued support is the reason we are able to have great events like this.” Weaver then introduced the keynote speaker Alden Mills, a best-selling author, founder of multiple businesses, and threetime Navy SEAL platoon commander, who explained how to persist for greater success. He urged the audience to pursue opportunities that may seem out of reach. “We all like the known, what is comfortable for us. That is where mediocrity lives.” APCA members were up early the next morning for the Member & Spouse Breakfast and then moved to the ballroom for the Government & Industry Affairs Panel, featuring President Weaver; Government Affairs Committee Chair & President-Elect Kevin LaBauve, WHC Energy Services; and the APCA Government Affairs team of Ben Brubeck and Jaime Steve. Weaver and LaBauve reported on the very successful D.C. fly-in in January along with the Power & Communication Contractors Association, where members focused on permit reform, labor and tax issues, and PHMSA reauthorization. Brubeck and Steve discussed the flurry of activity in the first 100 days of President Trump’s second term. Steve noted the Continued on page 18

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 18 positive momentum in the pipeline industry and the business community since last November’s elections: “Just about everything is going in our direction with the Trump administration.” Next up was the Pipeline Construction Workforce Panel, an informative discussion of challenges faced throughout the industry. The session focused on field productivity, the role of mental health in workplace culture, and training pathways and was deftly moderated by Continuum Capital’s Mark Bridgers. Lending their expertise were Will Southerland, Williams; Cesar Ruiz, Learning Alliance Corporation; and Patrick McRae, Mears Group, Inc. That evening, APCA held its 3rd Annual Auction, first a Silent Auction & Reception, followed by a Live Auction & Dinner. The Auction supports Natural Allies for a Clean Energy Future, and this year it was expertly run by auctioneer Gary Seybold, Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, who was assisted by spotters Blair Finstad, Ritchie Bros., and Scott Thompson, Darby Equipment Co. The Trump administration has brought a great deal of optimism to the pipeline construction industry but also a lot of change and a lot of unknowns, which made this an ideal time for APCA contractor members to spend time with associate members, compare notes, and discuss what they’re seeing around the industry. And that’s exactly what they did—in big numbers—on Monday morning during the 7th Annual Associate Exhibit & Breakfast. Following the exhibit, association members heard from Susan Waller, Executive Director of Natural Allies for a Clean Energy Future, which aims to “change the narrative on natural gas” by reaching out to young people, minorities, and Democrats and explaining how it is an indispensable resource in meeting our clean energy goals. “Low-income communities are disproportionately affected by us not having enough pipeline infrastructure,” Waller explained. “It is hurting the most vulnerable communities and people.” Greg Guidry, Ogletree Deakins, presented a session on Recent Developments in Employment Law, where he discussed important developments from the White House, federal agencies, Congress, and the courts. He said that the new Trump administration changed the tenor of his session: “Some of these presentations I give can be very depressing. That’s not the case this year—there is lots of good news for employers.” Opening the convention’s Final Party, President Roy Weaver talked about the “unprecedented headwinds” APCA faced during the Biden administration. “Thanks to the wisdom and leadership of our Past Presidents and Board of Directors, we were well-positioned to tackle the challenges of the past four years,” he said. “APCA members never quit or gave up. Our association stayed resilient through tough times, worked together to overcome challenges, and grew stronger.” Following Weaver’s speech, APCA Executive Director Tim Wagner presented him with APCA’s 2025 APCA Distinguished Service Award, for “his diligent efforts, his faithful service, and his outstanding accomplishments for the members of this association.” Wagner then introduced APCA’s new President, Kevin LaBauve, WHC Energy Services, who thanked Weaver for his “unwavering commitment” as well as outgoing Associate President Brian Tanner, EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants, for his service. APCA’s other 2025-2027 officers are President-Elect Nick Bruno, Bi-Con Services; Vice President Chris Jones, HardRock Infrastructure Services; and Patrick McRae, Mears Group. The new Associates President is Jared Shuler, United Rentals Matting Solutions. To close out the convention, association members welcomed Bill Schettine, Meridien Energy, and Ted Nichols, T&C Rentals, into the APCA Hall of Fame, honoring their many contributions to the association and to the merit shop pipeline construction industry. 7 Provider of Launchers and Receivers for all Pipe Diameters Our Rentals Include: • Pig Launcher Rentals (4”-48”) • Pig Receiver Rentals (4”-48”) • Pig Sales • Valve Rentals 713-906-0271 candacetcrentals17@gmail.com tedbtcrentals@gmail.com www.tcrentalsinc.com P.O. Box 1688 • Tomball, TX 77377 APCA Convention Continued from page 17

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PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 22 Images of APCA 2025 APCA President Roy Weaver, Weaver, LLC, welcomes members to the 2025 APCA Convention at the fabulous Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort in Arizona.

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 23 Will Southerland, Manager of Construction at Williams, discusses field productivity during the Pipeline Construction Workforce Panel. Keynote speaker and former Navy SEAL platoon commander Alden Mills preached persistence to the APCA audience. “You’re going to fail; you’re going to stub your toes. The question is how are you going to get up.”

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 24 APCA Hall of Fame inductee Ted Nichols, T&C Rentals, closed out his touching acceptance speech by proclaiming “Drill baby drill!” and the audience loved it. Susan Waller describes how Natural Allies for a Clean Energy Future is changing the narrative on natural gas by explaining how it is an indispensable resource in meeting our nation’s clean energy goals. “Natural gas is not the problem; it’s part of the solution.”

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 25 Discussing excessive worker turnover in the construction industry, APCA Secretary/Treasurer Patrick McRae, Mears Group, says, “If you’re nearing retirement, please pass along your knowledge.” New APCA President Kevin LaBauve, WHC Energy Services, began his term by expressing gratitude to his predecessor Roy Weaver: “Your steadfast dedication has ensured that APCA has had a strong and respected voice in some of the most challenging times our industry has faced. You leave behind a legacy of strength, and for that, we all owe you our thanks.” During the Regular Member Meeting, new APCA Vice President Chris Jones, HardRock Infrastructure Services, talks about the diligent work of the Membership Committee, noting that APCA has grown 33 percent per year over the last two years.

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 26 New APCA government affairs representative Ben Brubeck, left, talks D.C. strategy with Board members Sean Renfro, Sunland Construction; Kevin LaBauve, WHC Energy Services; and Paul Cook, Sunland Construction. Always focused on APCA business, President Roy Weaver, Weaver, LLC, presides over the Board of Directors meeting. Board members and convention sponsors enjoy great weather and a fantastic venue on the convention’s first night. Andy Patron, HELPS, leads a session on Financial Management as part of the APCA Leadership Development Program. Deep in conversation during the Board/Sponsor Reception are Lisa Wagner, APCA, and Mike & Mary Layh, Worldwide Machinery. A lovely evening for a chat during the Board/Sponsor Reception for Bridget Fry, Teresa Dyess, and Ashley Cook.

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 27 APCA Board member Ricky Dyess, M.G. Dyess (left), and Mark Bridgers, Continuum Capital, catch up during the Welcome Reception. APCA members always enjoy the Welcome Reception, where they reconnect with old friends and meet lots of new folks. 6A crowded ballroom and an attentive audience welcomed keynote speaker Alden Mills to the APCA Convention’s Opening Session. Keynoter Alden Mills talks about the value of “highly connected teams” during the Opening Session. Patrick McRae, Mears Group, gets a few laughs from Scott Coppersmith, Mears Group, and Jamie Rodriguez, Lyle Machinery.

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 28 Eric Wassenberg, left, and Board member Nick Bertram, both from Jomax Construction, discuss plans for a busy day at the APCA Convention. Justin Culpepper, Jones Power (right), talks project planning with Joel Brewton, Castle. APCA contractor members crowd into the Associates Exhibit to learn about the industry’s latest products and services. Ben Brubeck, APCA government affairs, reports on President Trump’s busy first 100 days in office and his administration’s impact on pipeline construction businesses. Manuel & Blake Granados, Castle, get the heavy equipment lowdown from Josh Sexton, Komatsu America Corp, during the 7th Annual APCA Associates Exhibit & Breakfast. APCA Past President Taylor Dacus, Troy Construction, weighs in during the Government & Industry Relations Panel. Anne Bruno and Morgan Colbey compare notes following the Government & Industry Relations Panel.

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 29 APCA members always get excited for the Heads or Tails games and a quick 500 bucks during the Live Auction. Good times at the Silent Auction for Zelda Gully, Sunbelt Equipment Marketing, and Harry & Laura New, Troy Construction. During the Pipeline Construction Workforce Panel, APCA Secretary/Treasurer Patrick McRae, Mears Group, describes what pipeline contractors are doing to improve field productivity. Cesar Ruiz, Learning Alliance Corporation, explains his company’s collaboration with APCA to provide Department of Labor-Registered Apprenticeship Programs and customized educational and training solutions. Auctioneer Gary Seybold, Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, tends to the bidding during the 3rd Annual APCA Live Auction. Adam Bowers & Salome McAllen, Seal for Life Industries, and Eric & Darci Vazquez, The Baldwin Group, are all smiles at the APCA Pool Day. Talking pipelines during the Auction Reception are, from left, Mark Mitchell, Mears Group; Will Southerland, Williams; and Nick Bertram, Jomax Construction.

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 30 Great day at the Gainey Ranch Golf Club for, from left, Erik Platou, CRC-Evans Pipeline International; Huner Dyess, M.G. Dyess; Marv Klein, Vermeer; and Scott Knelp, TT Technologies. Eddy Rivera, Serimax North America (left), and Tyler Rosenberg, Caterpillar Global Pipeline, look primed for a big day on the links. Susan Waller, Natural Allies for a Clean Energy Future, talks about reaching out to new constituencies with a pro-natural-gas message. Conversations between APCA panel sessions can be very informative. Just ask, from left, John Fluharty, Troy Construction; Nick Bruno, Bi-Con Services; Roy Weaver, Weaver, LLC; and Anne Bruno. Greg Guidry, Ogletree Deakins, presents his valuable twice-ayear session on Recent Developments in Employment Law. We’re not sure how this long putt ended up, but we’re assuming that Roger Spee, CRC-Evans Pipeline International, rolled it in! Salut! APCA members toast the Festive Margarita Tour.

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 31 The Nichols family—Candace, Cindy, and Caroline Avegno—join Ted to celebrate his induction into the APCA Hall of Fame. Robert Gwin, Jones Logistics, presents the prize to Alex Burt, Milbar Hydro-Test, for winning the longest drive contest during the APCA Golf Tournament. TJ & Marsha Strickland close out the 2025 APCA Convention in style on the dance floor. Big smiles must mean that Shari LaBauve, Trish Rodriguez, Andrea Nickel, and Luann Finkelstein are enjoying the festivities on the Convention’s closing night. APCA Executive Director Tim Wagner presents the 2025 APCA Distinguished Service Award to outgoing President Roy Weaver, Weaver, LLC. APCA’s 2023-25 Associate leadership, from left, Robert Gwin, Jones Logistics; Jared Shuler, United Rentals Matting Solutions; Brian Tanner, EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants; and Bobby Sanford, RMS Welding Systems. Javen & Stacy Moore, American Augers, enjoy the Final Party. Decked out for the Convention’s Final Party are John & Bridget Fry, Sunbelt Equipment Marketing, Inc.

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 32 Safety Watch As construction activity increases nationwide with the warming weather, so does the risk for roadway workers operating just feet from live traffic. National Work Zone Awareness Week (NWZAW), observed April 21–25 and coordinated annually by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), highlights these risks while promoting best practices for work zone safety. This year’s theme, “Respect the Zone—So We All Get Home,” adds to a broader effort to address the long-term consequences of driver behavior near construction zones. “Everyone plays a role in work zone safety,” Gloria M. Shepherd, Executive Director of the FHWA, said. “Highway workers face some of the toughest conditions because their jobs require them to work in areas very close to high-speed traffic. By staying alert, drivers can help workers do their jobs safely and arrive home when their work is done.” According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 899 individuals—both workers and pedestrians—were killed in work zone crashes in 2023. While this figure represents a nearly seven percent decrease in fatalities between 2021 and 2023, the overall total remains unacceptably high. Furthermore, recent survey results highlight how frequently these incidents occur. In 2024, the Associated General Contractors of America reported that 64 percent of construction workers had experienced a vehicle crash within their work zone. The first official NWZAW was held in 2000, and since then, the FHWA and industry partners have continued to emphasize both public awareness and internal safety protocols as essential components in reducing work zone incidents. It reinforces a critical message: roadway worker safety must remain a top priority across all levels of transportation and infrastructure operations. Sustained attention to planning and vigilance from everyone at a jobsite and on the road can ensure that every worker goes home safe. 7 Respect the Zone — So We All Get Home As of earlier this year, the maximum OSHA penalties for serious and other-than-serious violations will increase from $16,131 to $16,550 per violation. The maximum penalty for willful or repeated violations will increase from $161,323 to $165,514 per violation. Congress passed legislation dictating the increase, the Federal Civil Penalties Inflation Adjustment Act Improvements Act for 2025, which advances the effectiveness of civil monetary penalties and maintains their deterrent effect. Under the act, agencies are required to publish “catch-up” rules that adjust the level of civil monetary penalties and make subsequent annual adjustments for inflation no later than January 15 of each year. 7 US Department of Labor Announces Increased OSHA Penalties

PIPELINE CONTRACTORS JOURNAL | 2nd Quarter 2025 33 The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has announced new administration appointees who will aid Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer in executing President Donald Trump’s mission of putting American workers first. Amanda Wood Laihow will serve as the deputy assistant secretary for OSHA. Most recently, she served as a commissioner for the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission during the first Trump Administration. Wood Laihow previously held the position of director of labor and employment policy at the National Association of Manufacturers and served as deputy general counsel for the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, as well as an assistant general counsel at the U.S. General Services Administration. Michael Asplen will serve as OSHA’s senior policy advisor. He previously served as chief counsel to Commissioner Laihow at the Occupational Safety and Health Review Commission. Before that, he was counsel at the Consumer Product Safety Commission, managed Littler Mendelson’s Workplace Policy Institute, and worked as a policy associate at the National Association of Manufacturers. 7 New OSHA Appointees Amanda Wood Laihow, OSHA Deputy Assistant Secretary

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