For Immediate Release: January 28, 2003
For More Information Contact:
Keith Severson, Marketing Services
Manager, 831.768.2063

ACI Designates Local Businessman
Matt McPharlin, Research and Technical Services of Graniterock in Watsonville, CA, has been certified as an ACI Laboratory Testing Technician - Grade I. This certification requires successful completion of a two-hour, closed-book written exam as well as a closed-book performance exam covering twelve ASTM Standards on laboratory testing of concrete and concrete aggregates. It also partially fulfills training requirements imposed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology's Cement and Concrete Reference Laboratory (CCRL) for supervising concrete laboratory technicians. CCRL performs an on-site audit of the Graniterock Research and Technical Services concrete laboratory (quality system, laboratory equipment, and personnel training and testing competency) biennially.

"Matt currently holds three ACI certifications," said Steve Ragan, Manager of Graniterock’s Research and Technical Services Laboratory. "They demonstrate his commitment to his professional development, and to providing exceptional technical service to our customers."

Mr. McPharlin is married to his wife Gina, a small business owner and they live in Salinas, California with their two young daughters Jade and Tia. They enjoy home improvement projects and spending time with their family. Matt relaxes with hobbies that include all things electronic. He enjoys computers and electronics. He graduated from Humboldt State University with a degree in Recreation and a minor in Natural Resources Management and Business.

Graniterock has been headquartered in Watsonville, California, since it’s founding in 1900. The Company’s employees work in branch locations in South San Francisco, Redwood City, San Jose, Salinas, Monterey, Oakland, Watsonville, Felton and Santa Cruz. Graniterock supplies construction materials including ready-mix concrete; hot mix asphalt, building materials, landscaping supplies, rock, sand and gravel. The Company’s Pavex Construction Division is a significant regional heavy engineering contractor building roadways, airports and private commercial and residential projects. Graniterock received the 1992 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award and the 1994 Governor's Golden State Quality Award. The Company has been one of the 100 Best Places to Work in America by Fortune Magazine for five years.