Ergon Supports a Circular Economy

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Ergon President & CEO has contributed a LinkedIn article for Earth Day, highlighting Ergon’s efforts to support a circular economy and ensure a more sustainable future. Read the featured article below, and learn about Ergon’s efforts to continue Doing Right with our products, for our planet, by our people and through our principles.

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By focusing on our part in the circular economy, Ergon is redefining waste as opportunity and stretching the idea of “end use” by constantly seeking to get the most value out of our products and raw materials.

At Ergon, our vision is to be the world’s preferred partner for innovative and specialized solutions that drive customer success. This vision is more important than ever as our customers face increased demand for solutions that deliver a more sustainable future.

In observance of Earth Month, I want to highlight Ergon’s commitment to Doing Right with our products, for our planet, by our people and through our principles. I continue to be amazed at our team’s dedication to building a more sustainable future for generations to come, including our efforts toward creating circular economies. This concept ensures that our products are constantly being recycled and reused. For instance, used oil (from post-consumer use) can be re-refined and then used in lubricants. At the end of their use, the lubricants can again be sent for re-refining. This continual cycle reduces waste and other negative impacts on the environment and communities in which we serve.

Specialty Solutions for a Sustainable Future
Companies within our Energy & Specialty Solutions (ESS) business segment are committed to providing renewable and recycled materials to meet industry standards and customer needs amid a growing push for sustainable products.

To further our commitment to supporting a circular economy, Ergon’s Process Oils Inc. and Ergon Refining Inc. (ERI), our naphthenic refinery in Vicksburg, Mississippi, have obtained International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) PLUS. Ergon International is currently in the process of obtaining ISCC PLUS certification as well.

ISCC is globally recognized in the certification of sustainable feedstocks, acknowledging that an entire supply chain meets stringent sustainability requirements. For a business to obtain certification, companies must show traceability of ISCC-certified materials from procurement through their production and/or distribution along the supply chain. Suppliers and customers must also be ISCC certified, completing the circular economy.

Paving the Way
Through our Pavement & Coating Resources (PCR) business segment, Ergon provides solutions to enhance the performance of one of the most recycled materials — asphalt. Our preservation and maintenance product offerings include binders for various recycled asphalt treatments. These treatments reduce the amount of asphalt sent to landfills — thus contributing to the circular economy.

Through PCR’s laboratories and other partnerships, Ergon continues to research and develop technologies that make roads last longer and allow for a reduction in energy and emissions related to road construction. Additionally, due to the versatility of asphalt, our team is currently developing innovative ways to expand its use in other applications. Recently, representatives from PCR’s Crafco, Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions (Ergon A&E) and our state-of-the-art laboratory, Paragon Technical Services, collaborated with the Ergon ESS company, Resinall Corp, to develop a product that allows asphalt roofing shingles to be recycled as opposed to being sent to landfills in the future.

PCR companies are also utilizing recycled tires as part of our roadway solutions, including Ergon A&E’s Hybrid Ground Tire Rubber Asphalt Mix and Crafco’s patented pavement sealant. Such solutions provide an alternative for end-of-life tires that keeps them from being sent to landfills as well.

Logistics of the Circular Economy
Storage and transportation are key components of the circular economy because products must make it to their final destinations to have an impact. Ergon’s strategic logistics network within our Integrated Services & Logistics segment ensures products are stored in facilities and terminals that meet regulations for quality control and are transported under rigorous standards in a timely manner. These measures are how we maintain the quality of the products, ensure safe handling from storage to transport, and help reduce emissions and other environmental impacts associated with supply chain management.

Coming Together
Ergon’s focus on a circular economy signifies a comprehensive approach to addressing both environmental and economic challenges. Through conserving natural resources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing landfill usage, we aim for a cleaner future to protect our communities. Additionally, Ergon continues to monitor energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, even committing to decrease carbon emissions by 25% by 2026 at ERI.

I am so proud of the Ergon family’s efforts in creating sustainable solutions. I am also incredibly thankful for our suppliers, partners and customers for their collaborative efforts in helping to foster a circular economy.

Together, let’s continue to make a meaningful difference for our planet every day.

Ergon Construction Group: Growth Rooted in Relationships

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The Ergon family of companies is committed to providing innovative and specialized solutions that drive customer success. In keeping with the organization-wide goal to be the world’s premier partner for progress, learn how Ergon Construction Group’s commitment to building relationships has led to tremendous growth opportunities, allowing them to expand into more markets with additional service offerings to meet evolving customer needs.

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Recent expansion of Ergon Construction Group Inc., comprised of Alliant Construction (Alliant) and ISO Services, is rooted in customer relationships. “We are trying to build relationships more than we’re trying to build one specific project,” said Nathan Witt, President of Ergon Construction Group. “With everyone we work for, every relationship we establish, whether it’s a building owner or an architect on Alliant’s side, or an industrial plant on ISO Services’ side, our goal is to be a long-term partner in their success.”

Evolving to Meet Customer Needs

When determining the next steps for growth, Ergon Construction Group simply listens to the customers. Recognizing the importance of craft service accessibility, ISO Services (previously ISO Panels) expanded their scaffolding capabilities in 2018. Then, in 2020, Ergon Maintenance Services and ISO Panels merged into ISO Services, integrating industrial services and offering more comprehensive solutions. Additionally, in the same year, the division added leaders dedicated to expanding their coating services. “Customers frequently asked, ‘Do you offer this?’ And in the industrial world, plants and customers want fewer contractors, so we eventually decided to add that service to our offerings,” said Witt. This strategic decision underscores the company’s commitment to actively listening and responding to market demands. According to Chad Watts, VP & General Manager of ISO Services, “The best way to tell what service a new customer needs is to listen to them and then take every opportunity to show what we can do.”

Similarly, Alliant has diversified their service offerings, transitioning from their traditional focus on commercial projects to embracing opportunities in schools, warehouses and government-funded projects. “We want to make sure we have every tool in our toolbox that our customers need,” said Andy Measells, VP & General Manager of Alliant. As a result, Alliant has recently established a new regional office in Memphis, further extending their reach into the Mississippi, Tennessee and Arkansas markets.

Employees Leading the Growth

With most of the employees directly engaging with customers, Ergon Construction Group aims to Win With People through their solid relationships and trust built on the construction site. Measells emphasized that they made a firm decision early on when starting Alliant — to lead with integrity and honesty, a principle deeply ingrained in the values of the Ergon and Lampton family. This dedication to being transparent and reliable has since generated an abundance of repeat customers. “Our clients know they can trust what we tell them,” Measells said. “We’re not only going to do a good job, but we’re also going to behave professionally while at those places.” This trust extends to the caliber of skilled individuals representing the company. From the Craftsmen to the General Managers, each employee embodies Ergon’s core value of Respectful Relationships while showcasing their expertise. Watts refers to their skills as “artwork,” a testament to their meticulous workmanship and problem-solving abilities.

Additionally, while highlighting their comprehensive understanding of what it means to own, operate and maintain industrial plants and commercial buildings, Witt emphasizes the importance of having an “owner’s mindset” — a perspective that sets them apart from competitors. Unlike competitors who may prioritize a quick turnover, Ergon Construction Group remains steadfast in a commitment to lasting quality and building it right the first time, every time.

Navigating Future Growth

Looking ahead, future growth strategies for Ergon Construction Group focus on organic growth, including geographic and market expansions. Particularly within Alliant, the company is anticipating project expansion into federal and medical markets, whereas the ISO Services division aims to synchronize service capabilities across all their locations, including their latest location in Ennis, Texas. With a workforce doubling in recent years, the company recognizes customers’ demand for expertise in project management, quality control and safety. “You’ve got to be a certain size business to have this type of talent, so we’re forced to grow. We must grow,” said Watts. Due to the people-centric nature of the construction industry, prioritizing people is a major component of the company’s growth objectives. Moving forward, Ergon Construction Group remains committed to striking the right balance between growth and maintaining the integrity and values of their workforce — all while staying focused on being the ultimate service provider for customers. By doing so, Ergon Construction Group is keeping the collective mission of the Ergon family of companies, which is to meet needs, support families and serve customers, at the forefront of their journey toward Purposeful Growth.

A Captain’s Career — Meet Magnolia Marine Transport’s David Hays

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Captain David Hays is retiring from Ergon’s Magnolia Marine Transport Company (MMT) after over 45 years of service. Read about his journey from Green Deckhand to retired Captain.

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“My dad paid $90 for me to go to Deckhand school in Greenville, Mississippi. After I finished, MMT called me and offered me a job on a petroleum barge,” said Captain David Hays.

Captain Hays has been on the water almost his entire life, but his journey with MMT began on February 27, 1978, along the Arkansas River with a busted suitcase.

“The first boat I stepped on was at Lock No. 4 on the Arkansas River. I threw my suitcase on the boat, and it busted wide open,” Hays said, foreshadowing the difficulties he would face while adjusting to life as a 19-year-old Deckhand.

“After my first stint on the water, I called my dad and told him it wasn’t for me, and he said, ‘You can handle it,’” said Hays. His father’s words were motivation enough for him to continue tow boating, which turned out to be a lucrative career that has taken him far, figuratively and literally speaking. “I’ve been just about everywhere you can take a towboat with Magnolia Marine,” said Hays.

By 1992, Hays had advanced to the position of Captain, steering the M/V Dorothy Lee. “As Captain, I was responsible for everything, including company equipment, crew welfare and safety, and boat and tow safety for 24 hours a day, six hours on, six hours off,” he said.

Hays held the position of Captain for 31 years and is a testament to MMT’s commitment to purposeful employee growth. Those who want to advance in their careers at MMT are put on a clear path from Green Deckhand to Captain/Pilot.

When asked about his experience with MMT, Hays responded, “I think Magnolia Marine is an excellent company. They will do anything to make your job better, easier and safer. They have taken care of me over the years.”

Now, 45 years later, Hays is sailing into a well-deserved retirement. He made his final voyage recently and exited the M/V Mari Lampton for the last time as Captain in Cairo, Illinois. We’re proud to have been a part of this chapter in Hays’s life and wish him well.

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Reflecting on a Career Well Spent

According to Hays, his favorite river to travel is either the Ohio or Tennessee River because of the calmer atmosphere of the journey and the beautiful views of nature. His favorite day on the water was steak day each Saturday.

When asked what advice he would give to Green Deckhands aspiring to be a Captain one day, Hays said, “If you’re having trouble adjusting, hang in there, because things change and you’ll get new opportunities.”

Hays’s legacy lives strong in the lives of those he impacted during his tenure as Captain for over three decades. He is looking forward to a relaxing retirement in Hot Springs, Arkansas.

If you are interested in a career with MMT, visit magnoliamarine.com/careers/.

Doing Right in the Driver’s Seat

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Ergon’s truck drivers do a remarkable job of representing our organization and driving our legacy of quality products and exceptional service. In recognition of December as National Giving Month, we highlight Ergon Trucking’s Randy Shelton and share how he exemplifies our core value of Selfless Leadership. He is a shining example of how our drivers go the extra mile for others.

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Randy Shelton of Flowood, Mississippi, has been a professional truck driver for 32 years. It’s all he’s ever wanted to do. “I’ve wanted to do this since I was a child,” said Shelton. He joined Ergon Trucking in 2019 as a driver for the Vicksburg, Mississippi, terminal. “I love Ergon,” said Shelton. It’s a great company. I learned that firsthand. There are a lot of really good people who work here. We also have the best customers.”

While Shelton is quick to praise the generosity of his fellow coworkers, Ergon is equally as proud to have him as part of the family. Shelton has been praised by employers, coworkers and strangers for his giving heart. His desire to give back and help others is in keeping with Ergon’s mission to meet needs, support families and serve customers.

“I always try to give in a lot of areas in my life — I’m blessed,” said Shelton. “I try to take care of people when I can. When I’m provided with the opportunity to give back, I take it. The Lord and Ergon take care of me, so I can take care of others.”

As a driver, Shelton is provided with many opportunities to give back to people. And he has taken full advantage of these opportunities in recent weeks. Shelton was recently provided with a situation to give back when a wreck occurred on the road. He pulled over and stopped to help a group of women stay calm after the accident, and he changed their tire. He worked with the officer on the scene to transfer their groceries and call their loved ones for help.

From helping stranded motorists to honking the horn on his big rig and putting smiles on the faces of children he passes on the road, Shelton is able to connect his profession and passion for people, making for a fulfilling life. “You’re put in situations every day; it’s how you react in those situations that makes the best of it,” said Shelton.

When asked about advice he would give to the new generation of truck drivers, Shelton said, “Be courteous to the other drivers. Slow down, be cautious, be safe.”

Interested in working for Ergon Trucking where you’re guaranteed great pay, benefits and frequent home time? Visit driveforergon.com.

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Shelton Off the Road

Shelton loves to drive through Arizona and the western United States. His favorite meal on the road is hamburger steak with potatoes and gravy. To pass time on the road, he listens to movie soundtracks.

When he is home, Shelton loves to spend time with his wife and practice his music. “I’m a musician, I love music and I’m an 80s child,” said Shelton. “I’ve been playing guitar since I was 14 years old. I can play bass guitar, piano and the drums.”

Our Industry Involvement

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A Commitment to the Industries We Serve

Ergon has made a commitment to be actively involved in the industries we serve. This involvement is important because our subject matter experts have a wealth of knowledge to contribute to their respective fields. The Ergon family’s participation in the advancement of our industries further emphasizes and extends our core value of Purposeful Growth and our knowledge-sharing culture for a greater impact. The following are just a few of many associations in which employees across Ergon business segments are a part.

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Leaders within Ergon’s Energy & Specialty Solutions (ESS) and Integrated Services & Logistics business segments are involved with a variety of associations, including but not limited to the American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers (AFPM) trade association, the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) International and the International Liquid Terminals Association (ILTA).

AFPM

AFPM is the leading trade association representing fuels, petrochemicals and midstream companies. Through AFPM, members have access to information and updates on how to ensure improved, safer and more sustainable products that keep America moving forward. Ergon is proud to contribute to the pool of industry leaders dedicated to advocating and establishing guidelines to help businesses navigate the petroleum refining and petrochemical sectors well into the future.

ASTM International

Leaders of companies within Ergon’s ESS business segment serve on committees and subcommittees for ASTM International, which is an association that publishes production and testing standards covering a variety of materials, systems and products to encourage safety and consistency among manufacturers. Learn about Ergon’s Dr. Griffin Burk and his appointment as Chair of the ASTM D27.01 subcommittee here: https://ergon.com/updates/ergons-griffin-burk-named-chair-of-astm-d2701-subcommittee-27-01-23.

ILTA

Members of Ergon’s Integrated Services & Logistics (ISL) business segment are actively involved within ILTA, an organization that serves as an advocate and asset for the liquid terminal industry. ILTA represents the interests of this industry in Congress and federal agencies. Joel Pastorek, Executive Vice President – Integrated Services & Logistics for Ergon Inc., is one of a few active members of ILTA. Read his spotlight feature here: https://www.ilta.org/News-Resources/Press-Releases/ArtMID/15134/ArticleID/2508/Member-Feature-Joel-Pastorek.

Improving America’s Infrastructure

Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions employees are involved and hold positions within various city, county, state and national roadway infrastructure associations. Additionally, these leaders have been instrumental in advocating for pavement preservation across the United States since the 1990s. This advocacy includes contributing time, knowledge and resources to various associations committed to helping agencies understand pavement preservation principles and adopt the strategic and cost-effective approach to improving their roadway networks. Such organizations include FP2, formerly known as the Foundation for Pavement Preservation, of which Ergon’s Mark Ishee is President, the Asphalt Institute, of which Ergon’s Baxter Burns and Patrick Nation are past Chairs, the Asphalt Emulsion Manufacturers Association, the International Slurry Surfacing Association and the Asphalt Recycling & Reclaiming Association, to name a few. By utilizing pavement preservation treatments, agencies can extend road life, save tax dollars and improve quality of life for residents. We are happy to encourage and help agencies start their preservation journeys.

The Ergon family’s involvement spans across countless industries and impacts millions of lives. Organizations featured here only scratch the surface of our commitment to being an asset in the industries we serve. If you are interested in working for a place that encourages employees to get involved and make an impact, visit our careers page at https://ergon.com/ergonCareers.

Ergon Acquires EnLink Midstream – Ohio River Valley Operations

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Flowood, Miss. – Ergon, Inc. (Ergon) has purchased EnLink Midstream – Ohio River Valley Operations (EnLink – ORV), which will now operate as Ergon Midstream, LLC (Ergon Midstream). The transaction is effective as of today, November 1, 2023.

EnLink Midstream – ORV has provided crude and condensate midstream services to Ergon and has been integral in delivering a significant portion of our crude supply to our existing terminal network to optimize crude deliveries to Ergon’s Newell, West Virginia, refinery (Ergon – West Virginia, Inc.). This acquisition positions Ergon to continue expanding our midstream services to support and meet the needs of current and future customers in the Ohio River Valley and Appalachian Region.

Joel Pastorek, President of Ergon Midstream, said: “Ergon has been committed to serving the Ohio River Valley and Appalachian Region since 1997, and we have continuously expanded our midstream service offerings via crude purchasing, trucking, terminaling, barging and crude stabilization services. This acquisition expands our footprint and strategically aligns our companies while further demonstrating our commitment to the region.”

About Ergon
Ergon is a group of privately held companies operating under four primary business segments: Energy & Specialty Solutions, Pavement & Coating Resources, Exploration & Production, and Integrated Services & Logistics, of which Ergon Midstream is a part.

Contact Information
Kathy Potts Vice President – Marketing Communications
601-933-3000
kathy.potts@ergon.com
ergon.com

Meet Chanita Ward — Ergon Driver and Breast Cancer Survivor

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In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, we are featuring a breast cancer survivor who has recently found a home among the Ergon family and is living life to the fullest while encouraging others to do the same.

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MEET CHANITA WARD

Ward is a driver for Ergon Trucking in Vicksburg, Mississippi. She joined the Ergon family in 2022 and agrees it is of the best career decisions she has made. “They actually treat you like family,” said Ward. “I love driving anyway, but as far as the company, this is the best company I’ve ever worked for.” Ward has been driving trucks for 18 years, beginning with flatbed trucks and eventually transitioning to tankers.

In 2013, Ward was diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer and underwent a lumpectomy, one year of chemotherapy and 45 radiation treatments before going into remission in 2015. When asked her perspective following her stint with the disease, Ward said: “It makes you appreciate life a whole lot more. There were a lot of days I could barely even get out of bed. It makes you appreciate the little things like being able to cook, clean and take showers by yourself and having hair. It’s those little things you appreciate in life after you beat it.”

Now, in addition to participating in breast cancer awareness walks and other fundraisers, Ward encourages others to get regular checkups. “I try to encourage people to get mammograms and checkups for early detection,” she said. Ward is also part of a group that shares helpful tips for going through chemotherapy. “If you give somebody an idea of things that worked for you when you went through it, it may help them,” said Ward.

Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Ward moved to Mississippi from Arkansas to work for Ergon Trucking. She has been overwhelmed by the support and family she has gained. She is also grateful to work for a company with a heart of service that puts forth consistent efforts to help others, including helping to fund the fight against breast cancer.

Since 2020, under the leadership of our Ambassador of Breast Cancer Awareness Larry Tomkins, the Ergon family has supported the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer initiative, helping to fund research for a cure as well as partnering with companies to provide transportation for cancer patients who need treatments.

This year, Ergon has a goal to reach $175,500 in donations on behalf of the organization. If you’d like to join us in our efforts, consider donating here: http://main.acsevents.org/goto/ltomkins.

Paul Wentz – Regional Operator Exchange Program

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At Ergon, Purposeful Growth is a core value we strive to live out every day. Ergon management is committed to creating opportunities to further develop employees and set them up for professional and personal advancement. As part of efforts to support employee success, Ergon Terminaling Inc. (ETI) has developed the Regional Operator Exchange Program (ROEP).

The ROEP was initiated by ETI as a way to broaden the experiences of Operators by exposing them to the innerworkings of various terminaling locations. Through this program, Operators can acquire new skills and develop a well-rounded perspective of terminal operations, as one terminal may operate differently from another. Not only does this training help during emergency situations where employees may be needed at various locations, but it is a good opportunity for employees wanting to advance in their careers.

The first Operator to complete the program was Paul Wentz, Operator II, from Chattanooga, Tennessee. Wentz participated in the program for three days at ETI’s Knoxville, Tennessee, terminal. The goal for his exchange was for him to learn enough about the Knoxville terminal to be able to act as a temporary Operator if the need ever arises. During his time in the ROEP, Wentz participated in pump maintenance and replacement, including learning to replace an additive pump, asphalt loading, transfers and shutdown.

Wentz shared that he feels more confident and more equipped for his job because of the program, and that this experience reaffirmed his goal to one day become a Terminal Manager. Wentz commented, “I feel like even though operations may be slightly different at each terminal, the one constant is our commitment to keeping everyone safe and getting the product to customers as quickly and safely as we can.”

Additionally, Wentz felt fully supported by management during his experience and is now working closely with his manager, David Ogletree, to polish some of the smaller details of the program to make it a smoother process for future Operators who want to participate. Ogletree said, “This program is a great opportunity for our Senior Operators to experience the operations of other Ergon facilities and expand their knowledge and skills.”

If you want to learn, Ergon is willing to provide opportunities for you to broaden your horizons. That’s how we support purposeful employee growth.

Daniel Faller Named Division Manager of Alliant Construction’s Regional Office in Memphis

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Alliant Construction, a Division of Ergon Construction Group Inc., is pleased to announce Daniel Faller as Division Manager of Alliant Construction’s new regional office in Memphis, Tennessee.

Daniel has been in the construction industry for over 20 years and has comprehensive experience in all facets of the business. His different roles in the industry and involvement in diverse market sectors make him the ideal leader for Alliant’s expansion into the Greater Memphis area as well as other markets in the region.

Daniel grew up in the Memphis area and attended Mississippi State University where he received a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with an emphasis in Management of Construction and Land Development. He started in the construction business working with a local residential electrician while in high school and college.

While attending Mississippi State, Daniel met his wife, Rachel, and together they have four daughters and reside in Germantown, Tennessee. In his personal time, Daniel enjoys coaching his daughter’s sports teams and planning his family’s next trip to the mountains.

As a respected problem-solver, Daniel enjoys the various challenges of the construction business. He believes in a collaborative approach driven by clear communication and involvement from all team members. Recently, Daniel has obtained extensive experience managing large design-build projects in the industrial market.

Daniel stated, “I am incredibly excited to join Alliant Construction and looking forward to building on our team’s foundation of success as we expand our services into the Greater Memphis Area and additional markets in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas.”

“Daniel is an exceptional addition to Alliant Construction and the Ergon family. Daniel is a highly regarded construction professional, and we are pleased he will help lead our expansion into new markets in the multi-state Greater Memphis region.”

– Nathan Witt, President of Ergon Construction Group

“We are excited to welcome Daniel to Alliant Construction. Daniel’s experience, integrity, and problem-solving approach to doing business make him a perfect fit for our team. We look forward to his continued leadership and success in the years ahead.”

– Andy Measells, Vice President/General Manager of Alliant Construction

About Alliant Construction
Alliant Construction, a division of Ergon Construction Group Inc., is a commercial general contractor headquartered in Flowood, Mississippi, working with private owners, developers, governmental agencies and other partners. We are committed to hard work and continuous improvement as well as the highest standards of safety, quality and service. Alliant team members have proven track records of success and integrity with considerable experience designing, estimating, building and managing projects. Individually and collectively, we take great pride in meeting and exceeding expectations.

About Ergon
Ergon is a family-owned organization comprised of a wide array of businesses. Established in Mississippi in 1954, the Ergon family of companies serves customers in more than 90 countries around the world. Business segments include Energy & Specialty Solutions, Pavement & Coating Resources, Integrated Services & Logistics, and Exploration & Production.

Ergon Terminaling Hosts Fox Township for Annual Drill

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Ergon strives to be a good steward of the environment and in our local communities. It’s a part of our goal of Doing Right — The Ergon Way. Magnolia, Ohio, is home to one of Ergon Terminaling Inc.’s (ETI) facilities and is where we conduct annual spill drills with first responders per the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Administration. “Drills are extremely important because of the nature of what we do and the product we work with,” said Craig Rohr, ETI’s Regional Manager North and drill coordinator.

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Part of caring for the local community is establishing relationships with first responders, like local fire departments and HAZMAT teams, and working together efficiently to address incidents that may impact people, businesses and the environment. “You only perform as well as you practice,” said Rohr.

During any incident, the relationship among first responders and other agencies or companies involved matters and can be the difference in the outcome of a situation. The drills are performed to help ensure that in case of an actual incident, the local team can be far more effective, having already established a working relationship and clear protocols.

On July 12, 2023, ETI conducted a spill drill with the Fox Township Fire Department. This drill consisted of a scenario created by ETI that the Department had to work through. During spill drills, participants are made aware of the necessary notifications to be sent or shared, the various roles of departments/personnel, and spill containment operations. Participants then undergo a simulation in which they have to model each step of the spill containment process as if it were a live event.

ETI plays a role in spill containment throughout Magnolia, depending on the proximity of the incident to our spill containment equipment. For this reason, ETI not only creates the scenarios but must also be involved to learn and recap how to adjust operations during the time of the event.

Participating in drills and responding to incidents are just a few of the ways Ergon is Doing Right to help protect the communities we serve. Lending a helping hand simply because we are in a position to do so is The Ergon Way.