Universal Blastco

05/07/2026

At Universal Blastco, safety is not just a program. It’s part of who we are. If you’re part of Team Blastco, you can expect leadership that respects every safety decision and every person’s right to speak up, slow down, or stop work when something doesn’t feel right.

This week is Construction Safety Week, and while safety is our focus every day, this week is a chance to reset and focus on the fundamentals:
👉 Recognize the presence and impact of High Energy / High Hazard / STCKY activities
👉 Respond by putting direct controls in place
👉 Respect every hazard, every person, every life, and every role in safety

The strongest teams are the ones that look out for each other. That’s what being part of Team Blastco means.

05/06/2026

💪Skilled tradespeople are the backbone of our workforce, bringing expertise, craftsmanship, and innovation to every project. Their commitment to quality ensures that every job is done right, while a strong focus on safety protects not just themselves, but everyone around them. We're proud to have many industrial painters, bricklayers, masons, laminators, welders and general laborers on our team! 💪

As the demand for skilled workers continues to grow, let's recognize and support those who dedicate their careers to these essential fields. Join us in promoting the importance of skilled trades, and encourage the next generation to consider these rewarding career paths.

05/04/2026

Why replace steel with fiberglass (FRP)?

✔️It’s lighter (high strength-to-weight ratio)
✔️More flexibility in design
✔️It’s highly corrosion resistant
✔️Low thermal conductivity
✔️Reduced maintenance

Learn more about our FRP solutions at https://isginc.us/frp/

Our FRP team does custom fabrication, installation, repairs and inspection of FRP structures and needs. Experts in paper mill, chemical and power outages.

05/01/2026

We're excited to announce Luis Rios as the Employee Spotlight of the month. His journey with us started back in 2017. Luis exemplifies the spirit of teamwork at Universal Blastco. He's loved being a part of the team and growing into the Supervisor role in the FRP division.

When asked why he loves his job: He said, "I love this type of work because it keeps things interesting. Every job is a little different, and I enjoy being hands on and working with a good crew to get the job done right."

Luis’s communication with the customers and Blastco management makes a significant impact on the flow and efficiency of projects. He keeps his composure and fully accommodates the customers needs. Stress doesn't seem to damper his positive attitude and leadership to keep everyone informed of progress, delays and his crews performance. Luis has won the respect of many management teams and trust from his quality of work.

Outside of work, he enjoys collecting sports cards and staying involved in the hobby from adding to his collection, trading with others, or staying updated on the latest in the sports world.

Congratulations, Luis, on your well deserved recognition!

04/30/2026

🎉We’re thrilled to share that Jasmin Wittenbach from our Lowell, MI office was promoted earlier this year! Jasmin began her journey with us as an administrative assistant for our industrial masonry division (brick, block, and tile) last August. In February, she transitioned into the role of Project Coordinator for our industrial masonry division. Throughout her time with us, Jasmin has displayed incredible enthusiasm and curiosity. She consistently asks insightful questions not only about her duties but also about the processes behind them. Her calm and steady presence has positively impacted our team, earning her great feedback and strong rapport with the crews in the field. Please join us in congratulating Jasmin on this well-deserved promotion!👏✨

04/28/2026

Pickling lines generate highly corrosive fumes that must be safely captured and managed. FRP piping systems are ideal for these environments due to their chemical resistance and durability. See how we installed a complete acid fume suppression system for a steel plant expansion: https://isginc.us/blog/pickling-line-acid-fume-suppression-frp-piping-installation/

Congratulations to our FRP team who worked diligently on this project for 9 months!

Fabricated and installed approx 1,000 linear feet of FRP piping for an acid fume suppression system as part of a major expansion at a steel processing facility.

04/21/2026

The 2026 Coatings and Corrosion Expo last week showcased a variety of innovative equipment that promises to enhance our projects. It was great to meet with our material reps and make plans for potential projects. The facility where the show was held is top-notch, providing our young painters with exceptional hands on training. This invaluable experience prepares them for the roles they'll take on when we hire them for future projects.

International Union of Painters and Allied Trades

04/06/2026

🌷 Hope everyone had a happy Easter! We appreciate our team, clients, and partners and look forward to continued collaboration. Wishing you all a peaceful and productive season! 🌷

04/01/2026

We're excited to announce Ryan Neff as our Employee Spotlight of the Month! Ryan has been a member of the Universal Blastco family for nine years, demonstrating dedication, adaptability, and reliability. In January, Ryan embraced a new role as the Southeast Regional Sales Manager. In this position, he not only continues his work as our Senior Technical Resource for FRP but also takes on the responsibility of selling all Universal Blastco services across the Southeast region. Ryan’s favorite part of his job is the thrill of unpredictability: “You never know what to expect when you start the day; it keeps you on your toes.” This dynamic environment fuels his passion and highlights the endless opportunities for learning and growth.

Outside of work, Ryan cherishes time spent with his wife, Brittney, and their son, Angler. He’s an avid outdoorsman, bowhunter, and angler. He also enjoys mountain biking, motocross, classic cars, and building their home and land, customizing it to meet their interests.

Congratulations Ryan on the well deserved promotion. We appreciate your tenacity and innovative spirit. We look forward to seeing all the great things you will continue to accomplish in this new role!

03/30/2026

This is what happens to concrete when exposed to sulfuric acid. This can be prevented with an appropriate lining over the concrete, or by using polymer concrete. We can help you with both of those options!

03/17/2026

🍀This St. Patrick’s Day, let’s celebrate the spirit of community and good fortune! Whether you’re wearing green, enjoying traditional Irish dishes, or spending time with friends and family, take a moment to appreciate the joy this day brings. May the luck of the Irish be with you.