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Warfel Celebrates 115 Year Anniversary

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Warfel Construction Launches 115 Years of Gratitude Campaign in Celebration of Milestone Anniversary

East Petersburg, PA – Warfel Construction is proud to announce the launch of its 115 Years of Gratitude campaign, celebrating 115 years of building relationships, strengthening communities, and creating lasting impact across the Mid-Atlantic region.

Founded in 1911 and headquartered in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Warfel has spent more than a century serving clients and communities through a people-first approach centered around trust, collaboration, and its long-standing mission of building Clients for Life.

A Campaign Centered Around Gratitude

The campaign officially launches with a new brand video and storytelling initiative focused on the people behind Warfel’s journey — including employees, clients, trade partners, and community members who have helped shape the company’s story over generations.

“As we reflect on our history, we recognize that this milestone is not just about the buildings we’ve constructed — it’s about the relationships built along the way,” said Conlan Swope, President of Warfel Construction. “We’re incredibly grateful to the people who have trusted, partnered with, and grown alongside us throughout our journey.”

Growing with Purpose

Over the last several years, Warfel has continued to grow strategically while remaining grounded in the values that have defined the company for generations. The company expanded its regional presence with the addition of its Paoli office in 2019, its Winchester, Virginia, office in 2022, and, most recently, its State College office in 2024 — allowing Warfel to better serve clients and communities across the Mid-Atlantic region.

Alongside this growth, Warfel has continued investing in its people, strengthening its safety culture, and expanding its senior leadership team with leaders representing all areas of the business to support the company’s long-term vision and strategic direction.

Throughout its history, Warfel has remained resilient through defining moments that shaped both the industry and the communities it serves — including the 2008 recession and the COVID-19 pandemic — navigating challenges together through collaboration, adaptability, and a continued commitment to its people and partners.

As the company grows, its commitment remains the same: to ensure every client experience reflects the care, consistency, and integrity that define the Warfel experience.

Honoring the Past While Building the Future

The 115 Years of Gratitude campaign will continue throughout the year with a series of stories, videos, employee spotlights, community features, and partnership highlights that celebrate the people and relationships behind Warfel’s legacy.

The campaign also coincides with America’s 250th anniversary celebration, reinforcing Warfel’s connection to more than a century of growth, progress, and community-building.

“While we’re proud of where we’ve been, we’re even more excited about where we’re going,” said Matt Hartzler, CEO of Warfel Construction. “This campaign is ultimately about gratitude — and about continuing to build meaningful relationships for generations to come.”

Watch the Anniversary Video:

About Warfel Construction

Warfel Construction is a full-service commercial construction management company headquartered in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Since 1911, Warfel has partnered with clients across senior living, healthcare, higher education, and commercial sectors to deliver spaces that strengthen communities and create lasting impact. Guided by its mission of building Clients for Life, Warfel is committed to fostering trusted relationships, delivering exceptional experiences, and building with purpose.

Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church Celebrates Wall Signing

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A Meaningful Moment During the Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church Renovation in Winchester, VA

On Wednesday, May 6, members of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church gathered at their historic church renovation project in Winchester, Virginia, to leave their mark on a space that has served generations of worshippers and will continue to support the community for years to come.

As part of the ongoing renovation of the church’s communal spaces and offices, representatives from the congregation council, church staff, and the renovation task group participated in a special wall-signing ceremony. The event included a prayer and blessing for the renovation project, guided tours of construction progress, and an opportunity for attendees to write messages directly on the walls before the next phase of construction begins.

For a congregation with roots dating back to 1753, the event represented more than a construction milestone. Every signature, prayer, and handwritten message became part of the church’s ongoing story — preserved within the walls of a historic space shaped by faith, community, and connection for more than 270 years.

Preserving the History and Legacy of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church

The wall-signing ceremony followed another meaningful project milestone, completed earlier this year. In March, Warfel Construction partnered with Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church to place a time capsule within the building renovation.

The time capsule contains messages, prayers, and reflections from current members of the congregation, preserving a snapshot of today’s church community for future generations.

Together, the wall signing and time capsule installation highlight the deeper purpose behind the renovation project. Beyond updating and improving the church facility, the project honors the people, traditions, and shared experiences that have shaped Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church throughout its long history in Winchester, Virginia.

A Personal Connection to the Church Renovation Project

For Warfel Construction Project Manager David Betz, the church renovation project also carries personal meaning.

David attended Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church with his family as a child. Eighteen years later, he returned with his wife and nine-month-old daughter for an Ash Wednesday service, reconnecting with a church community that continues to make people feel welcome.

Today, David is proud to help lead the renovation project, contributing to the preservation and future of a church that has impacted so many lives across generations.

 

Warfel Earns 2025 ABC National Health and Safety Excellence Merit Award

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East Petersburg, PA – Warfel Construction has been named a recipient of a 2025 National Health and Safety Excellence Merit Award from Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). The award was presented at the 36th annual Excellence in Construction® Awards during ABC Convention 2026 in Salt Lake City on March 19, 2026.

Warfel was one of just 59 contractors nationwide recognized for exceptional safety performance and a strong, proactive approach to health and safety across its operations.

A Culture Built Around People

For Warfel, the recognition reflects a culture built around people.

“At Warfel, safety is deeply personal,” said Conlan Swope, President of Warfel Construction. “It’s about people looking out for one another and taking responsibility for the environments we create every day. Our teams don’t approach safety as a requirement — they see it as part of how we care for each other. This recognition reflects that shared commitment.”

The National Health and Safety Excellence Award honors ABC member firms that demonstrate strong safety performance, innovation, and leadership. Award recipients were selected from companies that achieved Diamond, Platinum, or Gold status in ABC’s STEP® Health and Safety Management System, based on 2024 performance data. Applicants were evaluated on key indicators, including incident rates, leading safety practices, program innovation, and a comprehensive review conducted by ABC’s National Health and Safety Committee.

Measured Performance, Consistent Approach

Warfel achieved Platinum status in ABC’s STEP® Health and Safety Management System for 2025, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining safety performance well above industry averages. With an Experience Modification Rate (EMR) of 0.586 — significantly below the industry benchmark of 1.0 — the company’s results reflect a consistent, disciplined approach to risk management and the protection of its people.

“Safety means more than getting through the day without an incident,” said Jason Beiler, Director of Safety at Warfel Construction. “It’s about creating an environment where people can do their best work and return home supported in every sense.”

Advancing Total Human Health

Warfel’s safety approach is grounded in its Total Human Health philosophy, recognizing that safety extends beyond physical conditions on the jobsite. By supporting mental well-being, financial stability, and work-life balance, Warfel creates an environment where employees are better equipped to perform safely and effectively.

This commitment is reinforced through proactive planning, ongoing training, leadership accountability, and empowering employees with Stop Work Authority — ensuring every individual has both the responsibility and the confidence to act when something doesn’t feel right.

What This Means for Clients and Partners

For clients and partners, Warfel’s approach results in more than strong safety performance. It creates project environments defined by trust, stability, and clear communication — helping teams stay aligned, reduce risk, and deliver consistent outcomes.

While Warfel is honored to receive national recognition, the company remains focused on the work ahead.

“Recognition like this is meaningful,” said Swope, “but it’s really a reflection of what our teams do every day. Our focus remains on continuing to learn, improve, and support one another so that safety stays at the center of everything we do.”

About Warfel Construction Company

Warfel Construction is a full-service construction management firm based in East Petersburg, Pennsylvania. The company serves clients in senior living, healthcare, higher education, and commercial sectors across Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, and surrounding states. Guided by a people-first culture and a mission to build Clients for Life®, Warfel delivers complex projects with collaboration, innovation, and integrity. Learn more at warfelcc.com.

 

Warfel Highlights Growth of Women During Women in Construction Week

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East Petersburg, PA — In recognition of Women in Construction Week, Warfel Construction celebrated the women who are helping build not only projects, but stronger teams and a stronger industry. Throughout the week, the company hosted and participated in events designed to strengthen connection, mentorship, and opportunity across the construction community.

Building Industry Connections

This year, Warfel welcomed members of the NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) South Central PA Chapter #386 to tour West End Place Apartments in Lancaster, PA. The event took place on Monday, March 2, 2026. The visit was especially meaningful, as the same group toured the project in 2025 and returned this year to see the building nearing completion.

The event brought together women from across the construction community, including representatives from Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, ASA Central PA, Barry Isett & Associates, Inc., Brubaker Inc., EMK Media Solutions, Penn Waste, Mainline Excavating, Waste Connections, The Mula Group, and Tri-Boro Materials, and more. The gathering created space for conversation, shared learning, and continued relationship-building among industry partners.

 

Advancing Mentorship Through Education and Dialogue

Warfel also partnered with NAWIC Philadelphia Chapter #145 for Level Up: Building Strong Mentorships, an interactive panel discussion and educational session held at Immaculata University’s Great Hall. This event took place on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.

The event focused on the power of mentorship and practical strategies for building strong mentor-mentee relationships that drive long-term success. Panelists included leaders from Warfel Construction, Immaculata University, and Gillespie Electric, and the session encouraged meaningful dialogue centered on growth, connection, and leadership development.

 

 

Intentional Growth

These events reflect progress not only across the industry but also within Warfel itself.

Today, women represent 18% of Warfel’s workforce, compared to the construction industry average of 11%. Over the past decade, that represents a 121% increase in female representation at Warfel. In 2016, Warfel employed 24 women; today, that number has grown to 53. Ten years ago, Warfel had no women working in field positions. Today, 10 women serve in field roles across the organization.

That progress has been intentional — rooted in a long-standing commitment to creating opportunities, removing barriers, and building a culture where every team member feels valued and supported. This commitment has also been recognized externally: in 2025, Warfel Construction received the Central Penn Business Journal Empowering Women Award for companies leading the way in supporting women in the workplace.

“At Warfel, growth happens when people are given opportunity, support, and the confidence to lead,” said Conlan Swope, President of Warfel Construction. “We are proud of the women who are building our projects, strengthening our culture, and mentoring the next generation of leaders within our organization. Their leadership and expertise continue to shape who we are as a company.”

 

Investing in Development and Leadership

Warfel’s internal development initiatives play a key role in that growth. Programs such as Elevate — Warfel’s employee development initiative — provide opportunities for team members across all departments to grow both professionally and personally. The program reflects Warfel’s belief that professional development and personal growth go hand in hand, equipping participants with skills that extend beyond the workplace, including navigating challenging conversations, building trust, motivating, and influencing others, and strengthening emotional intelligence.

In addition, Warfel encourages and supports participation in community-based leadership programs such as Lancaster Leadership and the Lancaster Chamber’s Discovering Paths Program, further expanding opportunities for women to contribute, collaborate, and grow throughout the region.

 

 

A Commitment That Extends Beyond Women in Construction Week

Women in Construction Week provides a meaningful opportunity to recognize this progress. But at Warfel, the commitment to developing people and creating pathways for growth continues every day. By investing in diverse perspectives and strong mentorship, the company strengthens collaboration, innovation, and the quality of work delivered to clients and communities.

As Warfel looks ahead, it remains focused on building strong teams, investing in mentorship, and supporting the next generation of women entering the construction industry — in the field, in the office, and throughout the community.

 

About Women in Construction Week

Women in Construction Week, a nationwide initiative founded by the National Association of Women in Construction, brings together national webinars, local chapter events, and regional programs to spotlight the contributions of women in the industry. Programming covers industry trends, ethical workplace practices, career advancement, and negotiation strategies, providing professionals across the construction field with actionable tools. Learn more at https://nawic.org/.

 

About Warfel Construction

Warfel Construction is a full-service construction management firm based in East Petersburg, Pennsylvania. The company serves clients in senior living, healthcare, higher education, and commercial sectors across Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, and surrounding states. Guided by a people-first culture and a mission to build Clients for Life®, Warfel delivers complex projects with collaboration, innovation, and integrity. Learn more at warfelcc.com.

 

 

Luxury Senior Living in Virginia: Warfel Brings SVWC Villas to Life

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New Luxury Villas Elevate Senior Living at Virginia Lifecare Community

Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury (SVWC) and Warfel Construction teamed up to bring a $110 million, resident-focused independent living neighborhood to life in northern Shenandoah Valley, Virginia. The Villas expansion offers modern, luxury options for seniors seeking vibrant, comfortable, and connected living.

A Legacy of Enriched Senior Living
For nearly 40 years, SVWC has focused on providing seniors with a lifestyle full of dignity, comfort, and community. As a faith-based, not-for-profit lifecare retirement community, SVWC offers independent living with access to advanced healthcare services. Today, over 500 residents call its 87-acre wooded campus home.

Recognizing a growing demand for more retirement housing options, SVWC envisioned the Villas: a neighborhood of stylish, independent living units with tree-lined streets and convenient access to amenities. They partnered with Warfel Construction and SFCS to make that vision a reality.

Connecting People to Community Through Thoughtful Design

SVWC aimed for a small-scale, private feel, with no more than ten luxury apartments per building. The Villas feature 12 different floor plans, ranging from one- to two-bedroom units between 1,200 and over 2,000 square feet.

As construction manager, Warfel guided the project from concept to completion. With a strong background in senior living projects, Warfel understands what matters most to lifecare communities and their residents. Both SVWC and Warfel share similar missions — “Connected for Life” and “Clients for Life” — creating a foundation of trust and collaboration.

Originally planned as a single 20-month phase, the project was divided into two 18-month phases due to COVID-19. Construction began in April 2022, with the second phase approved in July 2023.

Building Trust in Local Markets
Warfel opened a Virginia office in Old Town Winchester in 2022, bringing the company closer to trade partners and the community. For a first major Virginia project, Warfel prioritized local connections, ensuring fair treatment, prompt payment, and open communication with all trades.

Close collaboration, weekly look-ahead planning, and BIM coordination minimized field revisions and maximized efficiency. Warfel also proactively addressed supply chain challenges, sourcing critical components to keep the project on time and on budget.

“The Villas was the best example of teamwork I have experienced on any project,” said Sheila Snyder, Senior Project Director at Warfel Construction.

Minimizing Disruption for Residents and Neighbors
Building near an active campus required careful planning. Activities like rock blasting were communicated in advance, permits and surveys were completed, and neighbor concerns were promptly addressed.

Delivering Vibrant Living and Long-Term Value
Completed on schedule and on budget in late 2024, the Villas provide a new premium option for independent living in the Shenandoah Valley. Each unit includes open floor plans, natural light, large patios, energy efficiency, personal garages, and scenic views. Entry fees range from $327,000 to $880,000.

To prioritize comfort and privacy, the Villas feature high sound attenuation, with over-engineered floor-to-floor construction. Residents even coined the acronym VILLA: Very Impressive Leisurely Living Apartments.

“Warfel brought to fruition the strategic concepts for the project, allowing the campus to expand while maintaining its natural environment,” said Sheila Snyder.

A Lasting Commitment
Warfel’s support continues beyond construction, with the team actively participating in the Winchester community through sponsorships and partnerships.

“The Villas at SVWC reflects our dedication to delivering high-quality construction while fostering lasting relationships with our clients and communities,” said Steve Davis, Vice President, Virginia at Warfel Construction.

With shared values and a commitment to excellence, SVWC and Warfel have created a luxury senior living neighborhood that will serve generations of retirees for years to come.

Warfel Recognized Among ABC’s 2025 Top Performers

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East Petersburg, PA — Warfel Construction is honored to be recognized on the Associated Builders and Contractors’ 2025 Top Performers lists.

Warfel ranked:

  • #93 on the ABC Top 250 Performers list
  • #38 out of 196 Top General Contractors
  • #19 among Top Healthcare Contractors nationwide

Established in 2018, ABC’s Top Performers program recognizes contractor members for excellence in safety, quality, project performance, and leadership across the construction industry.

“For Warfel, this recognition reflects the character and commitment of our team,” said Conlan Swope, President of Warfel Construction. “Every hour represented in these rankings stands for the care our people bring to their work, the trust our clients place in us, and the partnerships that make meaningful projects possible. We’re proud of what this represents — not just in performance, but in how we show up for one another and for the communities we serve.”

Commitment to Safety and Quality Standards

As an ABC Top Performer, Warfel’s achieved Platinum status in ABC’s STEP® Health and Safety Management System and maintains the Accredited Quality Contractor (AQC) credential. These programs recognize contractors committed to industry-leading safety practices, workforce development, quality standards, and community engagement.

A People-First Philosophy in Action

At Warfel, these commitments are rooted in a people-first philosophy. The company believes that when employees feel supported, valued, and empowered, exceptional work follows. By prioritizing total human health, leadership development, and meaningful career pathways, Warfel strives to create an environment where individuals can grow personally and professionally — and where strong relationships lead to better outcomes on every project.

Warfel has been an active member of ABC, participating in programs and initiatives that strengthen the construction workforce and advance industry standards. The company’s continued involvement reflects its commitment to responsible growth, meaningful career opportunities, and building projects that positively impact the communities it serves.

Honored as an ABC Top Performer

“ABC Top Performers represent contractors who embrace accountability, invest in their people and continuously raise the bar,” said Michael Bellaman, ABC president and CEO. “Congratulations to Warfel Construction for earning this recognition.”

The eighth-annual ABC Top Performers list ranks companies based on work hours reported in their 2025 STEP applications. Rankings include top-performing contractors across multiple market sectors, including healthcare, education, industrial, and infrastructure.

ABC’s 2025 Top Performers are presented by Construction Executive, ABC’s award-winning magazine for the business of construction. The full lists can be viewed at abc.org/topperformers.

About Warfel Construction

Warfel Construction is a full-service construction management firm based in East Petersburg, Pennsylvania. The company serves clients in senior living, healthcare, higher education, and commercial sectors across Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, and surrounding states. Guided by a people-first culture and a mission to build Clients for Life®, Warfel delivers complex projects with collaboration, innovation, and integrity. Learn more at warfelcc.com.

Celebrating 20 Years of Dedication: Chris Shriner

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Celebrating 20 Years of Dedication: Chris Shriner

At Warfel, long-term commitment doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built through trust, teamwork, and a shared pride in the work we do. This month, we’re proud to celebrate Chris Shriner’s 20-year anniversary, recognizing not only his career growth but the steady presence and leadership he’s brought to our field teams over the years.

Chris’s journey with Warfel began before many careers even start — while he was still in high school.

From Co-Op Student to Superintendent

Chris joined Warfel through a Co-Op program with CTC during his senior year of high school. Starting out as a carpenter helper, he worked his way through the apprenticeship program, became a carpenter, and steadily took on more responsibility, serving as an acting foreman, foreman, and eventually a superintendent.

His career path is a testament to the growth he has earned through hard work, learning on the job, and consistently showing up for his team.

“I’ve held a lot of different roles, and each one comes with new challenges and perspectives,” Chris shared. “There’s always something new to learn in the field, and you have to be willing to adapt.”

A Project That Stands Out

When asked about the project he’s most proud of, Chris points to the Campus Facade Renovations at Beaumont at Bryn Mawr — a complex renovation that required patience, flexibility, and close coordination with residents who remained in their homes throughout construction.

Removing façades and windows while residents were living in their units meant navigating unknowns daily. Despite those challenges, the team completed the project two months early and, just as importantly, built strong relationships with the client along the way.

For Chris, success isn’t just about finishing a job — it’s about how you get there and the trust you build in the process.

Learning From the People Around You

Working alongside experienced superintendents and foremen gave him mentors he could learn from and lean on — many of whom became teammates and friends.

One full-circle moment came when Chris started his career working under Jimmy Spence as a carpenter’s helper, and then years later, he worked alongside him as a teammate at Beaumont.

“That experience meant a lot,” Chris said. “Working with long-tenured people and learning from them really helps you grow.”

He also credits teammates, including Jason Noll, Andy Smith, Doug McCain, Joel Kline, Jason Rineer, Ramon and Brandon Pabon, Andy Bechtold, Craig Hartz, Traves Gift, and Josh Levan, for influencing his career along the way.

Advice for the Next Generation

When asked what advice he’d give someone starting at Warfel today, Chris keeps it simple — and true to the culture we value.

“Lean on your team when you need help,” he said. “There are a lot of great people here. It truly is a team atmosphere.”

That mindset has played a role in his success — and in the way he supports others.

More Than a Workplace

Chris was first drawn to Warfel after hearing from his Vo-Tech teacher that it was a reputable company. What’s kept him here for more than two decades is the culture and the people.

“The relationships go beyond just work,” he shared. “You can build friendships here, not just working relationships.”

Over the years, working with different personalities, clients, and teams has helped Chris grow personally as well — learning how to adapt, communicate, and connect with people from all walks of life.

Life Outside the Jobsite

Outside of work, Chris enjoys golfing, fishing, and spending time with family — time he values deeply.

And when it comes to working life, he believes having fun and building relationships matters just as much as the work itself.

“You spend more time with your coworkers than your family,” Chris said. “So it’s important to enjoy who you’re working with and build strong relationships.”

Thank You, Chris

Chris’s 20 years at Warfel reflect what’s possible when dedication meets opportunity — and when people support one another along the way. We’re grateful for his leadership, his steady presence in the field, and the example he sets for the next generation.

Thank you, Chris, for everything you’ve contributed to Warfel over the past 20 years — and for the impact you continue to make every day!

Blueprint for Better Care: Four Ways to improve Behavioral Health Construction

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As the need for behavioral healthcare continues to grow, thoughtful facility design and construction have never been more important. We’re honored that Medical Design & Construction featured insights from our own Rusty Hoffman on how construction teams can help close the treatment gap through safer, more supportive environments.

You can read the original article on Medical Design & Construction here, or continue below for the full version.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

By Rusty Hoffman

The National Institutes of Health estimates that more than 1 in 5 Americans live with a mental illness, amounting to 59.3 million adults in the United States — roughly half of whom can go untreated. Further, Mental Health America’s 2024 State of Mental Health in America report shows that 77% of those reporting substance abuse did not receive any form of treatment. These statistics highlight the urgent need to improve access to behavioral healthcare across the country.

To close the treatment gap and provide more people with the help they need, many communities are expanding mental health services by building new behavioral healthcare facilities or renovating existing ones. However, designing and constructing these facilities is more complex than traditional healthcare or commercial construction. It requires special considerations to meet the unique needs of behavioral health patients, staff and visitors.

In addition to standard healthcare construction challenges, behavioral health projects must address unique risk management requirements to minimize safety risks associated with patient self-harm or aggression, ensure inspection readiness amid regulatory complexity and foster community support for projects that can sometimes spark local concerns.

While every behavioral health project is unique, experienced teams can apply four best practices to overcome these challenges and deliver successful projects that benefit the whole community.

Rethink risk management mindsets

Behavioral healthcare facility construction requires a different approach to risk management than conventional healthcare projects. From the layout of patient rooms to the selection of fixtures, an exceptional level of safety must be built into the facility at every level, even in design elements that seem benign. For example, protruding objects and areas like corners that a patient could use to harm themselves must be eliminated from the room. Ligature-resistant design features like tamper-proof outlets, continuous hinges, impact-resistant glass and recessed casework are standard. Furniture is often bolted to the floor and sealed with pick-proof caulking, while air diffusers are designed with serpentine patterns to prevent concealment or access.

Managing safety risks also includes designing for excellent line of sight throughout the building, so staff can be aware of patient whereabouts at all times. Nurse stations must be central to patient rooms and shared spaces. Construction and design teams need to communicate with the staff who will be using the spaces to understand how everything needs to work, down to how the doors lock and unlock on interlocking vestibules.

The sequencing of construction activities must also be adjusted accordingly. For example, be aware that access for diffuser installation can be through light fixture openings, which needs to happen prior to light installation. It’s also key to arrange psychiatric window installation in conjunction with the sequence of drywall finishing. These activities require careful coordination among trades and suppliers. Clear communication and documentation during this stage will help avoid any potential complications with subcontractors. This is especially critical with tasks like electrical work that must happen in a certain sequence to ensure the safety of all the patient rooms and common areas.

Collaborate closely with trade partners and vendors

With this added complexity, some subcontractors may require extra guidance on behavioral healthcare projects. An experienced contractor will take the time to engage trade partners and vendors thoroughly to ensure behavioral health facility construction is carefully sequenced to avoid introducing elements that put patients, staff or visitors at risk. For instance, light fixtures need to be secured with four all-thread rods from the structure above. But if there are floor-to-ceiling constraints in a particular area, it can complicate installing other systems like plumbing, electrical or ductwork if not planned properly. Ideally, contractors will work with facility teams and trade partners to prepare them for the complexities of the project early in the process with in-depth interviews and detailed prequalification checklists.

Vendor relationships can also have a significant impact on the quality and success of a project. Many key products — such as ligature-resistant hardware or psychiatric-grade windows — are produced by only a few manufacturers with potentially long lead times. It can be helpful to work with a construction management partner that has well-established relationships with key vendors and understands the procurement timelines. This allows teams to identify opportunities for early release products, get what they need on time and keep projects running smoothly.

Understand the regulations to be inspection-ready

Overlapping federal, state and local regulatory requirements for behavioral health facilities can be significantly more complex than typical projects. To avoid inspection delays — which can push critical services out for weeks or months — building, design and construction teams need to be fully conversant with regulations for each project and be prepared to manage all the documentation necessary to satisfy all reviewing parties.

Behavioral health construction contractors need to be prepared for multiple rigorous inspections, which include separate inspections for local building codes, state Department of Health regulations and highly detailed multi-day inspections from The Joint Commission. To prepare, teams need to prioritize documentation from day one — maintaining comprehensive submittal records, flame-spread certificates, UL labeling for fire and smoke barriers and life safety punch lists. A construction partner should schedule interim walkthroughs with inspectors at 75% project completion to identify and resolve issues before final inspections.

Proactively informing officials about the unique aspects of a project before inspections is also important. Some officials may not be closely familiar with building code exceptions related to the facility, such as the use of fail-safe versus fail-secure emergency exits, which can be a key factor in emergency response times. Sharing these details ahead of time reduces confusion and ensures a smoother inspection process.

Engage the community

The introduction of behavioral health facilities can sometimes get pushback from community members concerned about safety or property values. While these concerns can often be resolved through public collaboration and education, they can impact the progress of projects if not addressed appropriately.

Community engagement early in the process is critical. Project stakeholders can host public forums, participate in community events and offer site tours before the facility opens. This type of proactive and transparent engagement helps build trust in a project among local residents and can turn initial negative perceptions into support for the facility.

Being available and ready to engage and answer questions at planning commissions and municipal meetings is important, but so are local community events where project leaders can talk directly with the public to build acceptance. Attending seasonal fairs and other events give residents the chance to meet project stakeholders on a more personal level and learn about the value of behavioral health projects in their community.

Collaboration is essential for any team undertaking a behavioral health project. Success depends on the combined efforts of owners, designers, contractors, inspectors and community members to create a facility that is safe, effective and meets the needs of both patients and staff. By adopting these best practices and ensuring all stakeholders understand their importance, projects are more likely to stay on track, resulting in a facility that fosters healing and improves access to behavioral healthcare in the community.

 

Rusty Hoffman, Project Executive

Rusty Hoffman is a Project Executive at Warfel Construction.

About Warfel Construction

Warfel Construction is a people-first construction management firm based in East Petersburg, Pennsylvania. Serving healthcare, senior living, education, and commercial clients across the Mid-Atlantic, Warfel is guided by a mission to build Clients for Life®. For over a century, the company has been committed to delivering complex projects with collaboration, innovation, and integrity. Learn more at warfelcc.com.

Warfel Promotes Ritchey to Lead Continuous Improvement

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Warfel Construction Promotes Dustyn Ritchey to Director of Continuous Improvement

East Petersburg, PA — Warfel Construction is proud to announce Dustyn Ritchey’s promotion to Director of Continuous Improvement. In this role, Dustyn will continue to lead the Quality Team and advance initiatives that uphold the highest standards in project delivery, risk management, and operational excellence across the company.

A Career Built on Growth and Impact

Dustyn joined Warfel in 2019 as a Project Manager, contributing to projects across every sector the company serves—from schools and hospitals to senior living and mixed-use developments. In 2023, he helped establish the Continuous Improvement Manager role, working with leadership to strengthen quality processes and support project teams more proactively. His new director role reflects both his leadership and the company’s commitment to advancing continuous improvement as a core strategy.

A Leadership Style That Inspires

“Stepping into this role reflects an important commitment to continuous improvement at Warfel,” Dustyn said. “I’m humbled by the opportunity to lead our efforts forward, bringing out the best in our people, our processes, our projects, and ultimately, the way we serve our clients.”

Dustyn is known for his collaborative leadership style—listening first, leading by example, and trusting his teams to bring their best ideas forward. Over the past six years, he has exemplified Warfel’s core values by taking ownership of challenges, delivering thoughtful solutions, and mentoring teammates along the way.

Recognition from Leadership

“Dustyn has consistently demonstrated what it means to be people-first,” said Conlan Swope, President of Warfel Construction. “He not only helps us build better projects but also strengthens the relationships and trust that are central to who we are as a company. His leadership will continue to move us forward in meaningful ways.”

“Continuous improvement and risk management go hand in hand,” added Michael Monaco, Vice President of Risk. “Dustyn’s ability to anticipate challenges, create thoughtful strategies, and elevate our teams has been invaluable. I look forward to the progress and innovation he will continue to drive in this new role.”

Life Outside of Work

Dustyn enjoys spending time with his wife and two young sons, often outdoors or building with them.  A fan of nearly all sports, he also enjoys reading and has a passion for the construction industry, staying current on trends and innovations that can improve the way projects are delivered.  Dustyn credits many peers and mentors for his success in the industry; however, most significantly, he credits his parents for his work ethic and compassion, which he witnessed through his youth alongside his sister.

About Warfel Construction

Warfel Construction is a people-first construction management firm based in East Petersburg, Pennsylvania. Serving healthcare, senior living, education, and commercial clients across the Mid-Atlantic, Warfel is guided by a mission to build Clients for Life®. For over a century, the company has been committed to delivering complex projects with collaboration, innovation, and integrity. Learn more at warfelcc.com.

 

Dustyn and Family

Warfel Promotes Mitch Denlinger to Director of Information Technology

Posted on by marketing-admin@warfelcc.com

East Petersburg, PA — Warfel Construction is proud to announce the promotion of Mitch Denlinger to Director of Information Technology. Since joining Warfel in 2023, Mitch has played a key role in advancing the company’s use of technology to better support its people and projects.

A Foundation in Service and Innovation

Mitch, who previously ran his own IT consulting business for more than a decade, has been instrumental in initiatives that improve efficiency and connectivity across job sites. From deploying Starlink internet on remote projects to introducing IT job boxes for trailers, Mitch and his team ensure Warfel’s crews stay connected and equipped in the field. He has also led efforts to adapt artificial intelligence as a tool to increase efficiency and support daily operations.

Building Tools that Support People

“What first drew me to Warfel was the company’s belief in technology as a tool to support people,” Mitch shared. “That mission continues to inspire me. My goal is always to make sure our employees, especially those in the field, have the tools they need to do their jobs more efficiently and effectively.”

Leading with Trust and Collaboration

In his new role, Mitch looks forward to continuing to strengthen Warfel’s IT infrastructure and building a positive team culture rooted in trust and collaboration. “I don’t believe in micro-managing,” Mitch explained. “I want my team to take ownership, work through challenges, and feel proud of their accomplishments. When our IT team thrives, it makes a real difference for everyone at Warfel.”

Warfel President Conlan Swope praised Mitch’s leadership and impact:

“Mitch brings a unique blend of technical expertise and a genuine people-first mindset. His ability to adapt new technologies while ensuring our teams have the tools they need is invaluable.”

A Personal Touch

Outside of work, Mitch enjoys spending time with his family, including his twins who are seniors this year, and pursuing his passion for cars, most recently building one from the ground up with a friend.

Mitch’s promotion reflects Warfel’s people-first culture and ongoing investment in leadership that builds trust, strengthens teams, and supports innovation across the company.

About Warfel Construction

Warfel Construction is a full-service construction management firm based in East Petersburg, Pennsylvania. Warfel serves clients in senior living, healthcare, higher education, and commercial sectors across Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, and nearby states.

Guided by a people-first culture and a mission to build Clients for Life, Warfel is known for delivering complex projects through collaboration, innovation, and integrity. To learn more about Warfel Construction, visit warfelcc.com.