The Utility Contractors Association of Connecticut (UCAC) represents the underground utility and site work construction industry in Connecticut. UCAC is comprised of contractors, vendors, suppliers and manufacturers who support the utility contracting and construction industry. UCAC contractor members perform work to improve and enhance the utility infrastructure.
Advocacy
UCAC represents its members at the state and federal level. UCAC supports business-friendly legislation, bills that improve utility contracting and construction, and funding for infrastructure and capital improvement projects. UCAC opposes legislation that creates impediments to construction and development in the state. UCAC advocates its members’ interests before state agencies that regulate utility contracting and construction, including PURA. UCAC participates in industry coalitions with like-minded organizations, such as the Clean Water Investment Coalition, to help shape policies and decisions that affect the utility construction industry.
Safety
UCAC members take steps necessary to protect the public safety by avoiding damage to underground facilities and maintaining a safe construction site. UCAC offers safety classes, education and license training and compliance programs for members. UCAC participates actively in Call Before You Dig and promotes 811 throughout the state while working cooperatively with public utility companies to protect the public.
Resources
UCAC keeps members informed about news and information relevant to the industry and their businesses through a periodic newsletter, In the Pipeline. UCAC provides periodic alerts about legislation, regulations and issues affecting members. UCAC’s website, www.ucac.pro, provides information to the public about UCAC and activities, programs and events for members. The member directory provides information about contractors, suppliers and vendors active in the organization.
Networking and Events
UCAC sponsors important and timely programs and events on topics relevant to the industry ranging from drug testing in the workplace and on the jobsite to DMV safety and compliance to reducing the cost of workers’ compensation insurance. Such events provide important education and training as well as opportunities for members to network with government officials and industry colleagues. UCAC recognizes members for their achievements and supporters with awards.
Scholarship Program
UCAC awards merit-based scholarships to eligible students who are the children of members and who plan to attend college in the fall. UCAC’s marquee event – the Annual Scholarship Auction – supports the scholarship program in a widelyattended event each fall.
NUCA
UCAC serves as the Connecticut chapter of the National Utility Contractors Association, which provides opportunities to participate at the national level. For example, UCAC participates in NUCA’s annual Washington Summit and Fly-In to the nation’s Capitol, where members meet with members of the Connecticut Congressional delegation and their staff to discuss infrastructure funding and other federal issues affecting UCAC and their businesses. Membership in UCAC provides membership in NUCA and access to additional education, resources, networking and other opportunities. NUCA advocates vigorously in support of infrastructure funding and in opposition to onerous federal regulations. NUCA is a member of several like-minded national industry coalitions. Additionally, contractors can obtain assistance from NUCA on how to handle an OSHA inspection and advice following an incident involving damaged facilities.
