NUCA Convenes in Tucson for 2026 National Convention

The National Utility Contractors Association (NUCA) hosted a successful 2026 National Convention Feb. 10-13. The event brought together utility contractors and other NUCA members in a quiet, scenic setting at the Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa in the Catalina Foothills of Tucson, Arizona.  

NUCA’s National Convention is the association’s annual event for members, NUCA National Partners, chapters and affiliates. The week included several opportunities for association/industry updates, networking, awards presentations, meetings and family time.

Educational sessions and discussions focused on issues closely followed by NUCA, along with priorities for the year.

On Feb. 12, NUCA formally awarded its Ditchdigger of the Year Award (2025) to Tony Privitera, executive vice president of Kansas City-based contractor Mark One Electric Co. and past chairman of NUCA.

The Associate Member of the Year Award (2025) was formally presented to Phil Goodwin, director of marketing services at U.S. Pipe.

Both Privitera and Goodwin delivered inspiring acceptance speeches about the importance of advocating for the utility construction industry around the country. Additionally, they discussed the importance of advocacy in Washington, D.C.

The winner of NUCA’s Job Tops project award for 2025 was the Twin Peaks Rattlesnake Pass Widening in the category of Excavation Site Development. This project was completed by Gilbert, Arizona-based Hunter Contracting.

The chairman’s shovel was officially passed to incoming chairman David Howell of Midwest Mole. He takes over for outgoing chairman Kevin Cripps. 

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