Meet The Staff: Veronica Rager, Livermore Project Manager

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Meet The Staff: Veronica Rager, Livermore Project Manager

Meet Veronica Rager, Livermore Project Manager. Learn more about her journey, her role at BSK, and some fun facts about her life. With a 14-year career with BSK, Veronica’s story is filled with growth and plenty of camaraderie.  Let’s dive in!

Meet The Staff: Veronica Rager, Livermore Project Manager

Interviewer: Hi Veronica! Can you tell me a little about where you are from. Where is your hometown and where did you go to school?

Veronica: I was born in Livermore, CA and grew up in the Bay Area. I went to San Lorenzo High and transferred to Livermore High before I started 11th grade where I graduated from in 95’.

Interviewer: How long have you worked for BSK and what do you do for the organization?

Veronica: I’ve been with BSK for 14 years, I was hired for the receptionist position in 2010, moved on to dispatching (which I really enjoy doing) and then did project assistant and now I’m a project manager. It’s been such an exciting journey with all different types of emotions.

Interviewer: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Veronica: I enjoy working with our BSK team, they are amazing! I love how management and coworkers help push you in the right direction that is best for you, they are the best support system.  I enjoy working with our clients, and I have built some good relationships.

Interviewer: Can you tell us your favorite on the job story?

Veronica: I have so many fun memories, like when we started our Wall of Shame, or back in the pre-COVID days when the office would get together after hours for appetizers and drinks. The banter and camaraderie in our office make it such a great place to work.

Interviewer: Thank you so much for answering all these questions today. Can we leave off by you relaying some fun facts about yourself?

Veronica: I have two boys, I’m a baseball mom, I have 20+ tattoos. You can find me at I’m at the baseball field cheering and watching my youngest son living his best life. In my spare time (I don’t have much of it) I also enjoy crafting and making quilts.

 

 

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Meet the BSK Staff: Darlene West, OD Coordinator

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For this week’s Meet the Staff segment, we’re delighted to introduce Darlene, a dedicated and long-serving member of the BSK Associates team. With roots in Colorado Springs and a diverse background that spans the globe thanks to her father’s Air Force career, Darlene has called Battle Ground, WA, her home for the past 28 years. She brings a wealth of experience and a passion for employee engagement to her role as OD Coordinator, where she excels in fostering a supportive and connected workplace. Join us as we learn more about Darlene’s journey, her contributions to BSK, and some fun personal anecdotes that highlight her vibrant personality.

Interviewer: Hi Darlene! Can you tell me a little about where you are from. Where is your hometown and where did you go to school?

Darlene: I was born in Colorado Springs at the Air Force Academy. My father was in the Air Force, and I have lived all over the world. For the last 28 years I have called Battle Ground, WA my hometown. I graduated in 1981 from Burkburnett High School in Wichita Falls, TX and then went on to get my Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University.

Interviewer: How long have you worked for BSK and what do you do for the organization?

Darlene: I have worked for BSK for almost 10 years in January of 2025. I started out in 2015 as a log in Technician in VAL, got promoted to Log in Tech II, and then in 2019 I started working half time between the analytical division and HR as the Wellness Coordinator. In 2021 I took on the full-time role of OD Coordinator and now work remotely from home. As the OD Coordinator I am responsible for everything from Wellness to OD administrative work, committees and councils, employee engagement and employee coaching and training.

Interviewer: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Darlene: I enjoy engaging with our employees on many different issues and levels. We have great employees that work at BSK and I love making sure our employees feel a part of the company. I also enjoy seeing the growth in individuals within the company.

Interviewer: Can you tell us about your favorite on the job story?

Darlene: I have many favorite on the job stories, but I guess my favorite was when I was still in the lab and a customer sent me flowers and candy for helping her with a time sensitive issue. It made me feel good to know there are still people out there who value good customer service and professionalism and validated my work ethic which I have strived my whole career to achieve.

Interviewer: Thank you for answering all these questions today. Can we leave off by you relaying some fun facts about yourself?

Darlene: I am a mother and grandmother and enjoy spending time with my grandchildren who only live a mile from me. My husband and I also enjoy taking our camper out on getaways. We recently drove it down to Texas for the Solar Eclipse in April and were in the path of totality which was an amazing experience.

Meet the Staff

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Meet the BSK Staff: Andy Neufeld, Project Manager

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Meet Andy, a seasoned professional with a passion for all things mechanical and a career spanning 25 years at BSK Associates. From his early days on a family farm in Oklahoma to overseeing projects as a Project Manager for our Fresno office, Andy’s journey is a testament to his dedication and expertise. Join us as we uncover Andy’s story, showcasing his unwavering commitment to his work and his clients.

Meet the BSK Staff: Andy Neufeld, Project ManagerInterviewer: Hi Andy! Can you tell me a little about where you are from. Where is your hometown and where did you go to school?

Andy: I was born in Fresno, but my family moved back to the family farm in Oklahoma shortly after I was born. We moved back to Fresno just before I started school and went through elementary school there. We then moved to Delano and I went to junior high and high school there, graduating in 1980.

Interviewer: How long have you worked for BSK and what do you do for the organization?

Andy: I just celebrated my 25-year anniversary with BSK on April 7. I started as a part-time lab tech in Fresno while I was going back to Fresno State to finish my degree. I started doing some field work and eventually moved into the office as an Assistant Project Manager, then Project Manager.

Interviewer: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Andy: I enjoy interacting with the clients, learning what it is that they need from us and providing it. When the project wraps up and the client is happy and appreciative, that’s a great feeling for me.

Interviewer: Can you tell us your favorite on the job story?

Andy: After 25 years, you have a lot of on-the-job stories, but, in general, walking a jobsite when it’s nearing completion is always a satisfying thing to do. I think the most memorable was at the Save Mart Center at Fresno State, walking the cat walks near the ceiling looking down at the interior of the theater was amazing.

Interviewer: Thank you so much for answering all these questions today. Can we leave off by you relaying some fun facts about yourself?

Andy: I’ve always been interested in just about anything mechanical. I got my pilot’s license in 1988 and my aircraft mechanic’s license in 1994. I’ve restored two old airplanes (a 1959 Cessna 150 and a 1966 Piper Cherokee). I love old cars, original or custom, and have restored several over the years. I currently have a 1967 Chevelle SS that is semi-stock and have done all the restoration work myself.

Meet the BSK Staff

Meet the BSK Staff: Jessica Madrigal, Client Services Tech II

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Get ready to meet Jessica Madrigal, a valued member of our team at BSK Associates! Jessica brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to her role in Client Services, where she plays a pivotal role in our day-to-day operations. Follow us as we uncover Jessica’s journey from her beginnings as a courier to her current role as Client Services Tech II, showcasing her dedication and hard work. Jessica’s story is a testament to the opportunities for growth and development here at BSK Associates. Stay tuned as we explore Jessica’s favorite on-the-job moments and learn more about her interests outside of work. Join us in celebrating Jessica’s contributions to our team and the positive impact she makes every day!

Meet the BSK Staff: Jessica Madrigal, Client Services Tech II

Interviewer: Hi Jessica! Can you tell me a little about where you are from? Where is your hometown and where did you go to school?

Jessica: Yes, of course! I was born in Vancouver, Washington. My family moved to a town called Battle Ground, Washington when I was four years old. I started school at Maple Grove Primary and then graduated from Battle Ground High School in 2012.

Interviewer: How long have you worked for BSK and what do you do for the organization?

Jessica: I have worked at BSK for two years, and this year, 2024, will mark my third year here. I got to BSK because my brother, Amador Madrigal, who worked at the VAL location as a glass cleaner, knew I was looking for a job. So, I applied at BSK and started as a courier in 2021. Then, a position became available for a login tech, and I took the opportunity to step up for the company. A couple of months went by, and I got promoted to Client Services I. Now, I am a Client Services Tech II.

Interviewer: Can you tell us about your favorite on-the-job story?

Jessica: Yes, one of my favorite on-the-job stories is about a client who occasionally brings in samples. He was saying that he was grateful for the work we do. Then, he said he would bring pizzas, and we were expecting small pizzas. When he came back, he brought in four big boxes of pizzas and sodas to show his appreciation for our hard work.

Interviewer: Thank you so much for answering all these questions today. Can we leave off with you sharing some fun facts about yourself?

Jessica: I spend time with my three pets. I have one dog named Kira, and I like to take her out on hikes. I also own two cats named Puma and Riskers. I recently started traveling to new places, beginning with a trip to Australia in 2023 with my best friend. One of my future goals is to travel to Japan in 2025.

Meet the BSK Staff

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn. Explore our other projects here! Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.

Why Stormwater Testing Matters and How BSK Can Help.

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Why Stormwater Testing Matters and How BSK Can Help

Why Stormwater Testing Matters and How BSK Can Help

As the skies open and rain pours down, the importance of effective stormwater management becomes increasingly apparent, especially in regions like Southern and Central California where recent weather patterns have led to widespread flooding. At BSK Associates, we understand the critical role that stormwater testing plays in safeguarding our communities and environment against the adverse effects of excess rainfall.

With facilities spanning across the West Coast, BSK Associates is at the forefront of engineering and analytical solutions, particularly in stormwater management. Our state-of-the-art analytical lab specializes in stormwater testing, offering comprehensive services to assess and monitor water quality in the face of changing weather conditions.

Why is stormwater testing so crucial, especially during times of heavy rainfall? The answer lies in understanding the potential risks associated with stormwater runoff. When rain falls on urban and industrial areas, it picks up various pollutants such as oils, chemicals, sediment, and debris before flowing into drainage systems and ultimately into rivers, lakes, and oceans. Without proper management, this polluted runoff can have devastating effects on aquatic ecosystems, public health, and infrastructure.

By conducting thorough stormwater testing, we can identify and quantify the pollutants present in runoff, allowing us to develop tailored mitigation strategies and adhere to regulatory compliance plans. Our advanced analytical techniques enable us to detect even trace amounts of contaminants, ensuring that our clients meet stringent environmental standards and regulations.

In addition to regulatory compliance, stormwater testing also plays a crucial role in proactive risk management and sustainability initiatives. By monitoring water quality over time, we can track trends, identify emerging pollutants, and assess the effectiveness of stormwater management practices. This data-driven approach not only helps mitigate environmental risks but also enhances the overall resilience of our communities to extreme weather events.

At BSK Associates, we are committed to providing our clients with reliable and accurate stormwater testing services to address the challenges posed by climate change and urbanization. Our team of experts leverages state-of-the-art technology and industry best practices to deliver actionable insights and solutions that protect both people and the planet.

Follow the link provided for a comprehensive guideline on stormwater rules set forth by the EPA  Stormwater Rules and Notices | US EPA. To meet your National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, NPDES, requirement click here. Lastly, here is your guide for the California Storm Water Program.

As we continue to weather the storms of uncertainty, let BSK Associates be your trusted partner in stormwater management. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive testing services and how we can help safeguard your community against the impacts of heavy rainfall.

In conclusion, stormwater testing is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s a critical component of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. By investing in proactive testing and monitoring, we can build resilient communities that are better equipped to handle the challenges of a changing climate. Let BSK Associates be your partner in navigating these challenges and ensuring a brighter, cleaner future for generations to come.

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BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Additionally, explore some of our projects here!

Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.

Don’t forget to check out our opportunities page! You too can work for an amazing ESOP organization!!!

BSK Associates Expands Presence with Opening of South Bay Area Office in San Jose

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BSK Associates Expands Presence with Opening of South Bay Area Office in San Jose

 

BSK Associates, a leading engineering and analytical consulting firm, proudly announces the grand opening of its newest location, the South Bay Area Office, situated at 2510 Seaboard Avenue, San Jose, CA 95131. This strategic expansion underscores BSK’s commitment to better serve clients and employees while reinforcing its influential presence in the region.

BSK Associates has been a strong force in the South Bay Area for several years, and the opening of the new office reflects the company’s dedication to enhancing local services. BSK, known for its dynamic community of engineers, scientists, and construction professionals, sees the South Bay Area as a pivotal hub for infrastructure development, making it an ideal location for the company’s continued growth.

Over the past four years, BSK has experienced remarkable expansion, marked by the establishment of four new offices. This growth is highlighted by the grand opening of two new Fresno locations for both our corporate office and analytical laboratory. Additionally, two new service center hubs have been opened in Visalia and Tracy. The company’s success is attributed to its unwavering commitment to excellence and the diverse range of services it offers, including engineering, analytical consulting, construction management, construction materials inspection and testing, and environmental professional services.

“The decision to open the South Bay Area Office has been a long-standing vision, we want to leverage the firm’s quality services against the numerous opportunities available in the region.” Said Cristiano Melo, Livermore Branch Manager at BSK Associates.

BSK Associates has actively pursued on-call contracts in the South Bay, including collaborations with Santa Clara County, the Town of Los Gatos, and the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority, along with various project-specific contracts. The establishment of the South Bay Area Office will allow BSK to fulfill the requirements of these contracts, ensuring a local presence, reduced travel charges, and quicker response times.

“We are excited to announce the opening of our South Bay Area Office in San Jose. This expansion represents a significant milestone for BSK Associates, enabling us to better serve our clients and strengthen our ties within the vibrant engineering and construction community of the South Bay Area,” said Tim Rodriguez, Chief Operating Officer at BSK Associates.

BSK Associates, an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) company, is deeply committed to community engagement and believes in giving back to the communities we serve. We recognize the direct link between community well-being and the success of BSK and its employees. Our community involvement goals focus on making the most positive impact through personal, office, and firm-sponsored activities. As an ESOP, we empower our employees to continue making a difference in their communities.

With a firm foundation built on growth and a commitment to delivering high-quality services, BSK Associates looks forward to making a positive impact in the South Bay Area.

For further information, please contact us.

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BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Additionally, explore some of our projects here!

Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.

Don’t forget to check out our opportunities page! You too can work for an amazing ESOP organization!!!

Safety Reminder for Adverse Weather Conditions

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Safety Reminder: As provided by OSHA, here are some key tips to ensure worker safety during adverse weather conditions:

  • Daily weather forecast monitoring.
  • Being aware of approaching hurricanes and storms.
  • Training workers to identify signs of approaching bad weather conditions – such as thunder in the distance, dark clouds, increasing wind speeds, etc.
  • Securing loose objects and other materials at the worksite.
  • Ensuring workers wear proper protective clothing such as rain gear, anti-slip soled shoes, ribbed gloves, etc.
  • Ensuring workers are equipped with proper personal fall protection systems.
  • Securing worksites with adverse weather safeguards.
  • Providing areas for safe shelter at open worksites.
  • Temporary cessation of work at heights or on scaffolding.
  • Rescheduling or rearranging work tasks so that workers are not exposed to the elements.
  • Temporary stoppage of electrical work and the use of heavy machinery.
  • Securing excavation areas and trenches.
  • Gathering workers for a quick review of safety protocols and emergency procedures and exits.
  • Wearing bright and reflective safety jackets or outer clothing to ensure being visible when carrying out work tasks.
  • Using equipment and tools that are designed to be used in wet weather conditions.
  • Ensuring employees are trained to identify and safeguard against cold stress.

Remember, safety is our top priority at BSK. Let’s work together to ensure everyone stays safe, rain or shine! At BSK we own our safety.

For more information visit Winter Weather – Cold Stress | Occupational Safety and Health Administration (osha.gov)

Safety Reminder for Adverse Weather Conditions

BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn.

Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.

Don’t forget to check out our opportunities page! You too can work for an amazing ESOP organization!!!

 

 

Lead and Copper Rule Explained

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Lead and Copper Rule Explained

The Lead and Copper Rule is an EPA regulation established as a tool to protect public drinking water. The rule sets a maximum contaminant level goal of zero. Additionally, it requires public water systems to employ a treatment technique that reduces corrosion of plumbing materials that contain lead and copper. Lastly, this rule regulates the amount of lead and copper allowed in public drinking water at the tap.

What Makes the Rule so Important?

Lead and copper in our drinking water can lead to significant health problems. These health problems range from a simple stomachache to significant brain damage. Furthermore, prevention is tricky as copper and lead contamination in our drinking water is caused by corrosion in our piping. Thus, this contaminant can easily become a major concern.

Why Should You Use BSK For Your Lead and Copper Testing?

BSK Associates has served as a trusted source for copper and lead testing since 1991, when introduced by the EPA. Since the copper and lead rule infancy BSK has offered our clients competitive pricing, convenient locations all along the west coast, and help with field testing if needed. BSK is your one stop shop for copper and lead testing. Give us a call today and let us make sure you are at compliant lead and copper levels!

Lead and Copper Rule Explained

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BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Additionally, explore our other projects here!

Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.

Don’t forget to check out our opportunities page! You too can work for an amazing ESOP organization!!!

Meadows Field Airport

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Meadows Field Airport

From 2016 to current BSK has provide geotechnical investigation and construction material testing to support Meadows Field Airport on their major design and construction projects. The work on Runway 12L-30R has been completed in three phases over four years. The runway opening means the airport can more effectively keep the takeoff and landing of heavier commercial aircraft separate from smaller, lighter planes. Having both runways open and operating also helps keep Meadows flexible as demand grows and circumstances change.

The cost of this third and final phase of the runway project including construction, administration, inspection, and material testing was $14.5 million. In total, the cost of rehabilitating Meadows Field’s main runway is nearing $50 million.

 

County of Kern, Meadows Field Airport Runway 12L-30R Rehabilitation, Bakersfield, CA

BSK provided geotechnical engineering during the design phase and QA construction material testing services during the construction phase of the project. The existing runway is approximately 150 feet wide and is approximately 13,000 feet in length. Nineteen taxiways are included within the limits of the project. BSK’s responsibilities included providing geotechnical data compatible with FAA AC 150/5320-6 Airport Design and Evaluation Requirements. BSK’s geotechnical investigation included a total of sixty-one (61) geotechnical borings at the existing runaway and an additional sixteen (16) core-only locations. Special challenges include coring the existing pavement section with thicknesses up to 24 inches and work within an active runway. BSK’s geotechnical investigation was performed at night between the hours of approximately 12am (midnight) and 5:30am. Site preparation recommendations included subgrade re-compaction recommendations and recommendations for aggregate base placement and compaction. The geotechnical laboratory testing included California Bearing Ratio, particle size, soil corrosivity, in-place moisture content and dry density, Atterberg Limits, and moisture-density relationship testing. During the construction phase of work, BSK provided QA oversight during paving operations including aggregate base course sampling, concrete sampling, laboratory compaction of Marshall briquettes at the production plant, HMA core sample pick up, laboratory testing and preparation of daily field and laboratory test reports.

County of Kern, Meadows Field Airport Taxiway ‘A’ Reconstruction and Rehabilitation, Bakersfield, CA

BSK provided geotechnical engineering investigation, geotechnical laboratory testing during the initial design stage and quality assurance testing services during the construction phases of the project that includes the following facility improvements: Demolishing eight (8) existing taxiways which connect Taxiway ‘A’ to the main facility (approximately 200-feet long and 75’ wide), Constructing two (2) new taxiways between Taxiway A and the main facility (approximately 200-feet long and 75’ wide), Constructing one (1) taxiway parallel to Taxiway ‘A’ in front of the main facility at the apron (approximately 3,800 feet long and 75 feet wide), Reconstruction of the asphalt pavement section will extend for the entire length of Taxiway ‘A’ (approximately 11,400 feet long and 100 feet wide), and Reconstruction of seven (7) taxiways connecting to Taxiway ‘A’ (variable dimensions). BSK’s responsibilities included providing geotechnical data compatible with FAA AC 150/5320-6 Airport Design and Evaluation Requirements. BSK’s geotechnical investigation included a total of seventy-four (74) geotechnical borings at the existing taxiway and an additional eleven (11) core-only locations. Due to work performed at an active runway. BSK’s geotechnical investigation was performed at night between the hours of approximately 12am (midnight) and 5:30am. The geotechnical laboratory testing included California Bearing Ratio, particle size, soil corrosivity, in-place moisture content and dry density, Atterberg Limits, and moisture-density relationship testing.

meadow fields

BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Additionally, explore our other projects here!

Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.
Moreover, don’t forget to check out our job opportunities page for more details.

BSK Associates Grand Opening

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BSK Associates Grand Opening

BSK Associates Grand Opening

BSK Associates is excited to announce the grand opening of our new laboratory and transition of our engineering and corporate offices on May 12, 2023. This change allows all three Fresno facilities to unite on the corner of Laverne and Armstrong. The physical location was strategic as well with close access to two major freeways. This allows easier access for all of our customers and our employees. Additionally, this new location will accommodate future growth in a state-of-the-art facility, designed specifically for environmental lab operations.

Our new analytical lab features an open floorplan. The floorplan has been designed for ideal flow of our processes, communication, and collaboration. It will facilitate and encourage cross training by providing training and collaboration spaces. The 25,600 square feet of open space allows for up to 30% more analytical testing capacity. Furthermore, the new lab will allow for more growth and flexibility to address future analytical needs. With these key features in place, BSK will be able to continue to invest in and serve our community and clients throughout the Western United States at the highest of standards.

BSK Associates Grand Opening

“Having the opportunity to design our space has been very rewarding. Every lab department was consulted in the design of their new space in the new building so the final floor plan is a compilation of great ideas on the part of BSK staff. The process went through several iterations until we all felt we had the perfect lab.”-Belinda Vega, BSK Associates COO of Laboratories.

BSK is very excited to have all Fresno offices in the same location and have the ability for all of our disciplines to easily come together for an even more untied BSK Associates!

BSK Associates Grand Opening

BSK would like to give a special thanks to all of our clients, coworkers, and friends for attending the grand opening. Furthermore, we would like to thank the Fresno Chamber of Commerce for taking photos and participating in the event!

BSK Grand Opening.

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BSK strongly believes in giving back to the communities in which we work. We make sure our community involvement goals have a positive impact on the communities which we serve; because, in the end it’s all about community.

Like us on Facebook. Also, follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. Additionally, explore our other projects here!

Have a question about the services we offer? Check out our webpage @bskassociates.com.

Don’t forget to check out our opportunities page! You too can work for an amazing ESOP organization!!!