Chasing Innovation: How PSC’s Commitment to Technology – and People – Drives Our Future
December 5, 2025
At Penn State Construction (PSC), innovation isn’t an abstract idea—it’s a daily practice. It shows up in the equipment we invest in, the training we provide, and the opportunities we create for our team to grow. Today, we’re excited to launch Chasing Innovation, a new series highlighting how PSC stays on the leading edge of construction technology while building an exceptional place to work and develop a career.
To kick off the series, we sat down with Austin Fisher, Estimator and Project Manager, who joined PSC in July. Austin recently completed training on our new RTK-enabled GPS technology—an investment that is transforming how our field teams work and how we deliver accuracy, speed, and reliability for our clients.
A Culture That Exceeds Expectations
Austin came to PSC with high expectations for hard work—his brother already worked here, and he knew the pace and standards would be strong. What surprised him was the culture.
“The culture was better than I could have expected,” Austin shared. “Everyone is very welcoming—happy to talk with you, happy to help, and eager to give you opportunities to prove what you’re capable of.”
That culture is a foundation of why PSC is able to embrace new technologies quickly: employees feel supported, trusted, and empowered to grow.
What Is RTK Technology—and Why Does It Matter?
PSC recently invested in advanced RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) GNSS positioning systems, allowing our teams to work with centimeter-level accuracy on job sites.
In simple terms, here’s how it works:
- A base station sits on the job site as a fixed reference point.
- It measures tiny variations in GPS signals caused by the atmosphere.
- It then broadcasts correction data to the rover units—our handhelds, dozers, and excavators.
- This correction allows operators to know their exact X, Y, and Z positions on a local site grid with incredible precision—down to about half an inch, roughly the size of a golf ball.
This technology dramatically improves accuracy in grading, surveying, trenching, and material measurement.
Training That Builds Capability and Confidence
Austin’s recent RTK training covered everything from setup to advanced field application.
“The training walked us from start to finish—how to set up a Topcon RTK unit, establish control points, pull in job-site data, and connect to satellites,” Austin explained. “We got into topographic surveys, staking points, and using the tech to make sure our accuracy stays within about half an inch.”
The technology isn’t limited to handheld use. PSC’s equipment fleet—including dozers and a newly acquired excavator—can now receive digital models and automatically adjust grading or trench depth as operators work.
“The dozer can automatically tilt, lower, or raise the blade to match the design in the software,” Austin said. “You can cut a perfect 2% slope while you drive. The operator still has to know what they’re doing—the technology doesn’t replace experience—but it elevates what we can achieve.”
And for excavators:
“As you dig a trench, the system keeps a flat bottom and prevents you from going too deep. It takes guesswork out of it.”
Benefits for Our Team—and for Our Clients
This innovation pays off across the board.
For the PSC team:
- Less rework
- Faster learning curves for newer operators
- Confidence in achieving precision grades and elevations
- A more engaging, modern work environment
For clients:
- Higher accuracy
- Faster production
- Better cost control
- Better documentation and measurement
Austin sees it as a strategic advantage—especially for a company of PSC’s size.
“Large companies have this technology. For a smaller company to invest in it…it really sets Penn State Construction and Redrock Construction apart.”
Innovation as an Investment in People
Perhaps the most important part of the RTK rollout is what it signals about PSC’s values.
“I believe ambition allows a company to grow,” Austin said. “When you chase what your clients need, it gives employees more opportunities to learn—and that makes people feel valued.”
He added:
“When you invest in your employees—not just making them feel appreciated, but showing they’re important—it builds loyalty. That’s how you keep good people in this industry. And when you keep talent longer, you deliver more consistent, higher-quality projects.”
The Cool Factor: Advanced Measurement at Our Fingertips
The technology also opens new doors for efficient, data-driven decision-making.
“One of the coolest things we learned was how to compare surfaces in the Pocket 3 software,” Austin shared. “We can calculate how many cubic yards we need to cut or fill, or measure stockpiles with a level of accuracy that wasn’t possible before.”
This means faster estimates, better planning, and clearer communication with clients.
Chasing Innovation—Together
PSC’s adoption of RTK technology is just the beginning. As we continue this series, we’ll highlight new equipment, new training, and the people who make innovation possible.
Because innovation isn’t only about machines and software—it’s about creating a workplace where people can grow, contribute, and take pride in what they build.
At Penn State Construction, craftsmanship isn’t just about what we build — it’s about how we build it, together. From carpenters and truck drivers to design coordinators and compliance specialists, every contribution shapes the quality, integrity, and lasting results we’re known for.
Hiring a commercial contractor in Pennsylvania is a strategic decision. While it's easy to focus on cost estimates and credentials, the most successful projects depend on more than just numbers. They succeed because of partnerships built on clear communication, trust, and shared goals. The right contractor doesn’t just complete a job; they help drive your broader vision forward. In commercial construction, it’s not enough to claim things are done differently. We’ve built our reputation by doing what should be done, every time. Here, we guide you through three key questions to ask any commercial contractor before you sign the dotted line. 1. Do You Understand What I’m Trying to Accomplish? This might be the most important question you’ll ever ask a contractor. It’s not just about blueprints and building codes. It’s about asking: “Do you understand the why behind this project?” Whether you're renovating a healthcare facility to enhance patient comfort, constructing a retail space to reflect your brand, or building a new corporate office to inspire your workforce, your goals go far beyond the materials and mechanics. It’s important to make sure your contractor has the skills, tools, and interest to understand your project’s needs. A qualified commercial contractor should ask the right questions before giving the right answers. They should want to know: • What kind of environment are you trying to create? • How will this project impact your employees, customers, or community? • What challenges are you facing that this space needs to solve? • What does success look like to you, not just in the structure, but in its function? Over the past 15 years, we’ve approached every job by first getting on the same page with our clients. We’re not just there to complete a project; we’re there to understand your vision and translate that into reality. 2. Do You Care About My Project—or More Revenue? This one can be tough to gauge, but it’s critical. A contractor that cares will treat your project like it matters, because it does. Caring shows up in the way your contractor: • Communicates proactively • Responds quickly to issues • Protects your budget while prioritizing quality • Manages timelines and adapts when challenges arise • Makes decisions that serve your goals, not just their margins In this industry, we don’t chase projects—we steward them. That means we take on work we believe in, with people and organizations we genuinely want to support. It also means we don’t disappear once the contract is signed. We’re committed to seeing every detail through without cutting corners or losing sight of what matters. If you’re entrusting your commercial contractor with a space that impacts your people, your clients, and your brand, they should see that as a responsibility, not just a job. 3. How Will I Feel at the End of This Project? You might not think to ask this upfront, but you should. Too many clients walk away from commercial construction projects feeling drained, frustrated, or just “glad it’s over.” But it doesn’t have to be that way. A great contractor understands that the experience of the project is just as important as the outcome. Ask yourself: • Will I feel heard throughout this process? • Will the team be transparent and communicative? • Will the team arrive prepared? • Will I be proud of what we built—not just physically, but collaboratively? • Would I want to work with them again? We’re proud of the fact that many of our clients come back for future projects or refer others. They do this because they had a good experience, even when unexpected problems came up. Construction always comes with hurdles. However, how your contractor handles them makes all the difference. We aim to make the process as smooth, communicative, and rewarding as the final product. That’s how we build lasting relationships, not just buildings. Final Thoughts When choosing a commercial contractor, remember: the best partner is the one who takes the time to understand your goals, cares deeply about your success, and delivers a project experience you’d want to repeat. We’ve built our business around these principles because they’re what every client deserves. We’re here to build more than buildings. We’re here to build trust, understanding, and spaces that serve people well into the future. Built for Tomorrow isn’t just our tagline—it’s our mindset. If you're looking for a partner who’s ready to do things right from the start, we’d love to connect. Let’s talk about how we can bring your next project to life.
If you enjoy working with your hands, navigating challenges as they rise, and seeing the tangible results of your efforts, a career in construction might be your perfect fit. The construction industry offers a wide range of hands-on opportunities, some based full-time on job sites and others primarily in an office setting. Whether you're picking up your first set of tools or bringing years of experience to the drafting table, construction offers a path forward and a place where your skills can build something that lasts. There are many job titles that fit under the umbrella of “construction work” including both foundational and emerging roles. Established & Steady Roles: The Backbone of Construction These positions are time-tested and remain vital to every construction project. They're ideal for individuals who want a clear entry point, steady work, and the chance to grow with experience and training. Construction Laborers: Often the first on-site and the last to leave, laborers handle everything from site preparation and demolition to material handling and assisting skilled tradespeople. This role offers stability, on-the-job learning, and a clear path for advancement into more specialized trades. Carpenters: From framing buildings to installing cabinetry and finishes, carpenters shape the structure and details of buildings. This trade is perfect for those who enjoy working with tools and bringing designs to life. Equipment Operators: Operating bulldozers, cranes, backhoes, and other heavy machinery, equipment operators are essential to moving earth, lifting materials, and laying foundations. This is a high-responsibility role that requires both technical know-how and situational awareness.
Culture shouldn’t just be a part of what a construction company does – it should be the foundation of everything they do. In addition to schedules and blueprints, job sites run on people. When you believe this, then you focus on hiring people who are rooted in honor and productivity. Individuals who take pride in their craft. Craftsmen who are intentional about the way they work and the way they treat each other, because that intentionality shows up in the finished product, in client relationships, and the overall atmosphere of the team. We believe this philosophy is what has shaped Penn State Construction and how we are building for tomorrow through three fundamental values. Family First. Always. No matter how our team grows or where the evolving construction industry takes us, one thing stays constant: family comes first. Project Manager and Estimator, Mathias Miller, has been with Penn State Construction for more than 9 years and shares, “Family comes first. That’s never an issue. We encourage our people to have a healthy family life.” Flexibility around family events and personal needs isn’t an exception for us, but rather a priority. We know that when people feel supported in their personal lives, they show up stronger and more engaged at work. Our teams know that beyond being employees, they are people with lives outside of the job site, and we respect that. That mindset is foundational to who we are. When we say we have a family atmosphere, it’s about more than camaraderie. Being a part of a family means having genuine care for each other’s well-being. Respect is Expected. Our sites are productive, focused, and full of collaboration. That’s not by accident. We’ve created a culture where respect is not just encouraged, it’s expected. Whether we’re working side by side in the dirt or planning out the next phase of a project, the attitude is always the same: we’re in this together, and we treat one another considerately. With decades of experience and generations of craftsmen on our team, we know not to take for granted the culture of respect at Penn State Construction. There have been times when members of our team have worked alongside other contractors and been struck by the negativity and disconnect between people in the field and those in the office. That’s not our way. We lift each other up. Every person on our team has a name, not a number, and everyone plays a role in our success. We’re also aware of how we present ourselves. Our tools and equipment are well-maintained, organized, and ready to go each day. That level of professionalism sets the tone for the entire project and reinforces an atmosphere of care, discipline, and excellence in the work we do. The Impact of Culture on Quality At the end of the day, quality is everything. It’s what we’re known for and what we demand of ourselves. We’ve seen too many job sites where corners are cut, punch lists go on forever, and warranties become the cleanup crew. Connecting operational and cultural expectations has a direct impact on the level of craftsmanship brought to every project. One person on the Penn State Construction team who knows the onsite culture more than most is Site Superintendent, Jamie Weaver. According to Jamie, “We have a saying, ‘Good is not good enough. You do your best.’ If you're not doing your best work, then it’s not Penn State quality.” We expect everyone to show up ready to bring their best, every time. That mindset doesn’t come from pressure - it comes from engagement. When our people are happy, feel respected, and invested in what we’re building, the quality naturally follows. It shows in the final product, in the lack of re-works, and how our team celebrates their contributions when a job is complete. We’ve also been intentional about sharing our vision. Since becoming part of EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), we regularly ensure that everyone understands where we’re headed and how they fit into the bigger picture. That clarity has strengthened our team dynamic; made us a more effective organization; and allows us to attract better talent. People want to be a part of something they believe in. When they see our job sites, meet our teams, and experience our culture, they recognize something different. We arrive with a plan. We take care of our people and our equipment. We work with purpose and pride. This is who we are. This is Penn State Construction. And we’re BUILT FOR TOMORROW.