PDQ EQUIPMENT'S EVOLUTION
A Legacy of Growth and Innovation from Rentals to a Regional Sales Powerhouse
Recently Named Your New Kubota Dealer for Los Angeles County –Kubota of Los Angeles
CONTENTS
2025 Rental Equipment
A
of Growth and Innovation from Rentals to a Regional Sales Powerhouse
Building Upon a 50 Year Relationship with John Deere and Coastline Equipment to Further a Legacy of Dependability, Hard Work and Determination
LYLES
Turns to Hawthorne Rentals for Heavy Equipment Support on East County Advanced Water Purification Project
PUBLISHER: Kerry Hoover khoover@calcontractor.com
EDITOR: Brian Hoover, Senior Editor
ART DIRECTOR /GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Aldo Myftari SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER: Gerald De Guzman
Driving Earthmoving Solutions Forward: An Interview with Lisa Kelly of Sunbelt Rentals Earth Moving Solutions
Bakersfield
9150 Golden State Hw y. Bakersfield, C A 93308 661. 387.6090
Corona 22099 K nabe Rd
Corona, C A 92883 951 277 7620
Fresno
4501 E . Volvo Ave.
Fresno, C A 93725
559.834.4 420
Lakeside
12345 Mapleview St .
L akeside, C A 92040 619.4 41. 3690
Redding
630 Twin View Boulevard
Redding, C A 96003
530.255.8008
Sacramento
8594 Fruitridge Rd.
Sacramento, C A 95826 916. 504. 2300
San Leandro
194 4 Marina Blvd.
San Leandro, C A 94577 510 357 9131
Turlock
1275 Venture Ln
Turlock , C A 95380
209.410.6710
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PDQ EQUIPMENT'S EVOLUTION A Legacy of Growth and Innovation from Rentals to a Regional Sales Powerhouse
Recently Named Your New Kubota Dealer for Los Angeles County – Kubota of Los
By Brian Hoover, Editor /
As PDQ Equipment, embraces its next chapter, Todd Turner, the thirdgeneration leader of the family business, is preparing to step into a larger leadership role. With his father, Dennis Turner, transitioning into a new phase after years of dedicated service, Todd is set to guide the company forward, building on PDQ’s strong foundation of innovation, growth, and customer service.
The story of PDQ Equipment dates back to 1952, when Bud Turner founded Bud’s Rentals. The company’s original location
was in Norwalk which at the time was oil fields, orange groves, dairies, farms, and dirt roads. At a time when the equipment rental industry was still in its infancy, Bud’s Rentals was among the first businesses of its kind, catering to homeowners, agriculture, and local dairies alongside other pioneers of the industry like Sam’s U-Haul and Acme. Not only did Bud rent equipment, but he also built his own trailers, lawnmowers, and other implements, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and ingenuity.
In 1961, Bud’s Rentals merged with Joe’s Rentals to form PDQ
Enterprises, DBA PDQ Rentals, and in 1969, the company expanded by opening a new location in Santa Fe Springs. Over the next several decades, PDQ continued to grow, establishing a presence in Sun Valley in 2012 and Corona in 2017, solidifying its role as a key player in the Southern California equipment rental market. Throughout its history, the company has adapted to industry changes, technological advancements, and shifting customer demands while maintaining a steadfast commitment to quality service.
Left: Three generations, one mission: Building a legacy of excellence. Dennis and Todd Turner continue to drive PDQ Equipment forward as the newest Kubota dealer for Los Angeles county.
Angeles
Photos by PDQ Equipment
A Changing Industry and a New Generation of Leadership
Dennis Turner, Bud’s son, was no stranger to the equipment rental business, having worked in the family company from a young age. While earning a degree from San Diego State University, Dennis gained industry experience at Metro Rent-It Service (later Hawthorne Rentals) before returning to PDQ when his father suffered a stroke. Under his leadership, PDQ expanded its reach, bringing in its first outside sales, Dave
Benney, representative in 1991 and aggressively growing its market share. Dennis also focused on expanding the company's rental fleet, keeping up with industry innovations, and strengthening relationships with contractors and other businesses that relied on PDQ's services. Dennis brought on business partners, Brian and Susan Miles, that were a major component of the success and growth and recently retired in 2019 after 50 years. Today, Dennis serves as the company CEO.
Left: PDQ started as a small rental shop serving farmers and homeowners—now, they're shaping the future of equipment sales and rentals across Southern California.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Todd Turner also grew up immersed in the family business. He worked in various roles, from maintaining equipment to driving delivery trucks, gaining hands-on experience in every aspect of PDQ’s operations. After graduating from high school in 1999, Todd pursued a business management degree at San Diego State while also working at Hawthorne Rentals. In 2009, he returned home to help his family when his mother fell ill, resuming
Above: PDQ became the official Kubota dealer for Los Angeles county. This isn’t just a milestone—it’s a game-changer. Their goal is to bring the best equipment and service to businesses and homeowners alike.
his work at PDQ Rentals. Over the years, Todd steadily advanced within the company, becoming general manager in 2011, vice president in 2015, and president in 2021. Under his leadership, PDQ has continued to modernize its equipment fleet, embrace digital transformation, and explore new business opportunities.
Todd Turner credits his grandfather, Bud Turner, for instilling a strong work ethic, as he worked seven days a week while his grandmother managed the books. His father, Dennis, followed the same path—hardworking, honest, and a man of his word. This foundation shaped Todd’s own values in business. Since joining the family business, Todd has taken a visionary approach, leading PDQ through its most significant growth in the past 14 years. By refining processes and expanding
the customer base, the company now serves more contractors than homeowners. In rentals and equipment sales, 90% of customers are businesses, while Kubota sales are split 50% business and 50% consumer. PDQ Enterprises and its DBA affiliates operate with seven sales reps and 13 rental reps, covering Santa Barbara to Indio and south to San Diego.
Expanding into Equipment Sales
A major milestone for PDQ came in September 2023 when PDQ Enterprises acquired Pauley Equipment, leading to the establishment of PDQ Equipment. This acquisition allowed PDQ to become an authorized Kubota dealer, operating under the names Kubota of San Diego and Kubota of Temecula. The move significantly expanded PDQ’s footprint, increasing its presence in San
Diego and Southern Riverside counties. PDQ Equipment received great news recently that they have been approved and named the official, licensed Kubota dealer in Los Angeles County, and soon will be operating under the name, Kubota of Los Angeles. “This is big for us, and we are all very excited about becoming the official, full-line Kubota distributor for Los Angeles County,” says Todd Turner. “This new territory addition for Kubota allows us to continue to bring our special brand of service and support to Los Angeles County for the Kubota equipment line.”
Today, PDQ Equipment boasts six locations with a seventh in Southern California. Current locations include Santa Fe Springs, Sun Valley, Corona, Temecula, Escondido, and Vista. The Temecula and Escondido locations { Continued on page 10 }
{ Continued from page 8 }
offer the full line of Kubota machinery, along with rentals, while the other three locations cater to rentals and sales of Takeuchi and Sakai. “We were looking to expand into San Diego County, but many of the independent rental companies had already been acquired,” said Todd. “When the Pauley brothers expressed interest in discussions, we saw an opportunity to grow our rental and sales divisions while maintaining the strong customer relationships Pauley Equipment had already built.”
In addition to Kubota, PDQ is a Takeuchi dealer in Los Angeles and Orange counties, serving wineries, landscapers, general contractors, ranchers and other industries.
Todd Turner explains that since acquiring Pauley Equipment, the company’s sales volume has grown nearly 30%, as it continues to place a strong emphasis on serving the contractor market. The expansion has also allowed PDQ to introduce
Their goal isn’t just to sell equipment—it’s to provide solutions that keep contractors, landscapers, and businesses moving forward. With their Kubota line, their plan is to deliver the best in power, durability, and performance.
more specialized equipment, improve service offerings, and build stronger relationships with contractors, ranchers, homeowners, manufacturers and other suppliers. “We have worked diligently to rebrand our company so that we are known for sales as much as for rentals. We are now in the midst of bringing all sides of the business together under the name PDQ Equipment.”
A Company Culture Rooted in Family Values
At the heart of PDQ Equipment’s success is a deep commitment to its employees. The company’s family-oriented culture has fostered long-term loyalty among its staff, many of whom have been with PDQ for decades. Key team members include operations manager Jon Benney (32 years), sales representative Dave Benney (33 years), and service manager John Croft (44 years). The company
also has a new general manager, Tim Parsons, who has been with the company for seven years, but new to the GM role. “We’re a family business, and we treat our employees like family,” Todd explained. “That’s why we have so many team members who have been with us for decades.”
To show appreciation for its employees, PDQ hosts companywide events, such as trips to Universal Studios and the San Diego Wildlife Park. Employees also enjoy bi-monthly company lunches, further reinforcing the team’s strong sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. Additionally, the company invests in professional development opportunities, ensuring that employees can expand their skill sets and grow within the organization.
Looking Toward the Future
As PDQ Equipment moves forward, the company remains focused on innovation and
Above: Reaching new heights—PDQ Equipment provides the right tools for every job, from aerial lifts to earthmoving machines.
Right: Built for performance, ready for any challenge— their fleet keeps projects moving forward with efficiency and power.
expansion. With a rental fleet valued at $150 million and more than 2,500 machines available, PDQ Equipment serves a broad region stretching from Santa Barbara to the U.S.-Mexico border and as far east as Indio. The rental company offers an extensive range of equipment brands, including Takeuchi, Kubota, Multiquip, JLG, Sullair, and Sakai, ensuring that customers have access to topquality machines for their rental, sales, and service needs. “If you asked me a few years ago whether we’d have six locations, I would’ve said no way,” Todd admitted. “But we’re always open to new opportunities. I believe that part of our success is in the fact that we are an independent equipment company with strong family values, but large enough to be a reliable partner for companies of any size.”
PDQ positions itself as a one-stop shop, offering rentals, equipment sales, servicing, and parts supply. The company carries
brands like Takeuchi and Kubota for compact equipment, while John Deere, Hitachi, and Case dominate its larger fleet. With a $150 million rental fleet of 2,500+ machines, PDQ is also the Sakai dealer for Southern California and a Takeuchi dealer for Los Angeles and Orange County.
Since acquiring Pauley Equipment and becoming a Kubota dealer, PDQ's volume has grown by 35%, driven by the contractor market, competitive pricing, and strong financing programs. Todd emphasizes PDQ’s aggressive pursuit of market share in the construction industry.
Commitment to Excellent Customer Service
One of PDQ’s defining characteristics is its unwavering commitment to customer service. The company operates 24-hour stores in Santa Fe Springs and Corona to meet customers’ urgent needs. If a requested machine
isn’t available, PDQ is willing to purchase it to ensure customer satisfaction. Additionally, PDQ continues to invest in its digital infrastructure, offering online rental and purchase options to streamline the customer experience. “Our goal is to treat every customer fairly, no matter their size,” Todd emphasized. “Just read our reviews. We’re here to make our customer’s rental or equipment purchase experience easier and more productive.”
With nearly 75 years of experience in the industry, PDQ Equipment remains a trusted name in equipment rentals and sales. As Todd Turner takes the helm, the company is well-positioned to continue its legacy of growth, innovation, and excellence in service for generations to come. For more information on PDQ For more information on PDQ Equipment check out their website at www.PDQEquipment.com. Cc
LOS ANGELES!
Exciting news! Our Sun Valley branch is now the of cial Kubota dealer for Los Angeles. Stay tuned for our grand opening!
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PDQ EQUIPMENT: YOUR TRUSTED KUBOTA DEALER ACROSS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
PDQ Equipment, family-owned since 1952, is growing! Now serving Southern California with six locations, including Kubota dealers in Los Angeles, Temecula, and San Diego. Visit us for all your equipment needs!
R&G GRADING & RENTALS, INC.
R&G Grading & Rentals, Inc. has been a cornerstone of the Southern California construction industry for nearly five decades. Bobby Goddard founded the company in 1976 while he was still in high school. The company has grown into a well-respected grading and excavation firm with a reputation for reliability and excellence.
Bobby's journey began while working for an equipment rental company after school, on weekends, and during summer breaks. As customer requests for tractor work increased, he saw an opportunity. Purchasing a used John Deere track loader, Bobby started taking
on side jobs in his community. His father’s two used D8 dozers provided additional resources, allowing him to take on more projects. By the time he graduated high school in 1978, he was ready to expand, but financing a new machine proved to be a challenge.
Determined, Bobby approached multiple major equipment distributors in 1979 but was consistently offered used machines. His final stop at Lougee-Michael Equipment (now Coastline Equipment) in Oxnard changed everything. Jim Lougee, after
Building Upon a 50 Year Relationship with John Deere and Coastline Equipment to Further a Legacy of Dependability, Hard Work and Determination
hearing Bobby’s story, made him an offer: secure three signed contracts, and he would co-sign on a new John Deere 450C dozer. Bobby delivered, and true to his word, Lougee backed him. At Lougee’s retirement party years later, Bobby admitted to fabricating the contracts, to which Lougee responded, “Yeah, I know you faked those contracts.” That handshake deal forged a lifelong relationship with John Deere and Coastline Equipment, marking nearly 50 years of business together.
By Brian Hoover, Editor / Photos by Edward Carreon, Carreon Photography
Above: Alan Goddard, Vice President, (left) and Bobby Goddard, President, R&G Grading & Rentals, Inc.
Building a Business, One Job at a Time
Bobby started as a skilled equipment operator but had to learn the administrative side of the business as he progressed. As R&G grew, so did its fleet. He added backhoes, excavators, and dozers, taking on increasingly complex projects. Today, the company specializes in grading and excavation, working primarily within a 75-mile radius of Agoura Hills, covering Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
“We don’t use scrapers,” Bobby said. “Everything is done with excavators and articulated rock trucks. Right now, we are grading and excavating for private apartment building projects, as well as underground utility excavation.”
R&G’s fleet includes 12 excavators ranging from the JD 35G (7,500 lbs) to the massive JD 470 P-Tier (115,000 lb.), as well as John Deere 700, 750, and 850 dozers. They also
operate a surplus Marine Corps
John Deere 850, originally designed for airdrop deployment. The company’s machinery lineup also features skid steers, skip loaders, a motor grader, two backhoes, and a variety of compaction rollers. Recent investments include five new P-Tier excavators and plans to acquire a new crusher.
Major Projects and Community Involvement
One of R&G’s most significant recent projects is a seven-year contract in unincorporated Los Angeles County between Agoura and Malibu. The work involves maintaining Malibou Lake, which requires continuous dredging and debris removal. After the Woolsey Fire, nearly 30,000 cubic yards of dirt filled one end of the lake. The challenge was working under a low bridge while using dozers, excavators, rock trucks, and tracked dumpers.
“We used our brand-new John Deere 470 P-Tier as the primary excavator, along with two JD 350 P-Tiers,” said Alan Goddard, vice president of R&G. “We also had all four of our John Deere dozers on-site at one time or another. The JD 460 P-Tier articulated rock truck was rented from Coastline, along with two Prinoth Panther T14R rotating tracked dumpers. The dumpers could go into the lake and haul material out where traditional rock trucks were too heavy.”
The project requires precise coordination, with up to 10 crew members working during peak operations. “We’re moving 120,000 cubic yards from desilting basins, and it’s easy to get stuck if you’re not aware of your terrain,” Alan said.
According to Alan Goddard, R&G just finished rough grading a good-sized multi-family complex in Ventura. “The earthwork on this particular project was a bit more
Below: John Deere 470 excavator loads a John Deere 460E-II P-series articulated dump truck on the Malibou Lake maintenance jobsite in Los Angeles county.
Right: Bobby Goddard, President, R&G Grading & Rentals, Inc. (left), Carl Stolworthy, Branch Manager, Coastline Equipment, Alan Goddard, Vice President, R&G Grading & Rentals, Inc. and Julio Gomez, Area Sales Manager, Coastline Equipment.
complex than the average job. We ended up stripping two feet of existing material over the entire four-acre site,” says Alan. “So, we excavated 30,000 yards of export and imported 30,000 cubic yards of specialized low expansion index spec material in order to meet the strict soil compaction requirements. Ventura has expansive soils and a high groundwater table, so this process was important for meeting
the structural stability requirement for the new apartments.”
R&G is also currently assisting private homeowners with fire cleanup after the recent fires. “Homeowners want to save as much as possible, including foundations, driveways, and septic systems,” Bobby explained. “Government agencies often clear everything down to dirt, but many people want to salvage what does not need to be replaced. They don’t want to wait on red tape and insurance delays. Time is
more valuable than money to them, and we are doing everything we can to help.”
Growing with Experience
Alan Goddard, who has been around construction equipment since childhood, graduated from Thousand Oaks High School in 2016 and earned a full-ride scholarship to the University of Alabama, where he completed a degree in civil engineering. Alan sees a strategic future for R&G.
{ Continued on page 14 }
Above: John Deere 350 excavator works in alongside a John Deere 335 P-series skid steer, while a Hamm compacts in the background on Malibou Lake maintenance jobsite in Los Angeles county.
Own Less, Make More
Sunbelt Rentals is now a proud Trimble Rental Partner
“My dad jokingly refers to himself as ‘just an operator’ now, when in reality he remains involved in every aspect of the business. I’m happy with the size of our company, but I think my vision will be to focus more on public works projects. That will help keep us diversified when the private sector experiences downturns.”
A Lasting Partnership with Coastline Equipment
For Bobby, loyalty to Coastline Equipment remains a cornerstone of R&G’s operations. “I own and have owned other makes of equipment, but no matter the brand, I purchase it from Coastline,” he said. Working closely with Carl Stolworthy, Oxnard branch manager, and Buck Baird, Coastline’s president and general manager,
Bobby values the dealership’s commitment to service. “After working with Coastline these past five decades, I can tell you that they stand out from the rest. They are honest, helpful, and always willing to do whatever it takes to keep our machines running. Their customer service is unparalleled. It’s not just about the bottom line—they genuinely care about our success.”
That reliability was evident in the past year, as R&G rented numerous articulated dump trucks and other machines from Coastline to keep projects moving. “Downtime is not an option when you have a hundred trucks lined up to be loaded,” says Bobby. “Jim Lougee took a chance on me 46 years ago and now we own and operate more than $15 million of John Deere heavy machinery.
Sometimes a person just needs a chance and the folks at LougeeMichael and now Coastline Equipment were there for me when I needed them most. We’ll be customers for as long as we are working in the earthmoving construction industry.”
Looking Ahead
With an office and yard in both Agoura Hills and Somis, R&G Grading & Rentals, Inc. continues to grow while maintaining its commitment to quality and service. As the company moves forward, the foundation built by Bobby Goddard’s perseverance and Coastline Equipment’s support will ensure its continued success for years to come.
For more information on R&G Grading & Rentals, Inc., please call Alan Goddard at (818) 519-5049. Cc
Right: A rented John Deere 460E-II P-series articulated dump truck hauls debris from the Malibou Lake maintenance jobsite in Los Angeles County.
Left: Coastline Equipment service truck and team member on-site for equipment maintenance.
{ Continued from page 12 }
W. M. LYLES CO. CONTRACTOR
Since 1945
By Brian Hoover, Editor / Photos by W. M. Lyles Co.
Th e East County Advanced Water Purification Program will create a new, local, sustainable, and drought-proof drinking water supply by using state-of-the-art technology to purify recycled water. This will produce up to 30 percent of the region's drinking water. The purification process, similar to systems in Orange County and Oceanside, will remove viruses, bacteria, pharmaceuticals, and other contaminants. It will also be more cost-effective than desalination, requiring one-third of the energy and half the energy required to transport water from Northern California. Purified water production is set to begin in late 2026.
The program is a collaborative effort between Padre Dam Municipal Water District, the City of El Cajon, the County of San Diego, and Helix Water District. It will diversify East County's water supply, reduce dependence on imported water, and provide a reliable drinking water source. This $950 million design-build initiative has secured over $935 million in low-interest loans, grants, and incentives, with efforts ongoing to secure additional funding.
Construction began on the East County Water Purification Project in 2022, with major components including a water recycling facility, biosolids processing, pipelines, and pumping stations. Construction is
W. M. LYLES CO. TURNS TO HAWTHORNE RENTALS FOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT SUPPORT ON EAST COUNTY ADVANCED WATER PURIFICATION PROJECT
taking place in Santee, Lakeside, and other unincorporated areas. Packages 1, 3 and 5 have been contracted to the joint venture of Lyles Construction Group and AECOM. Rod Rodriguez is the Superintendent for Package 3, while Mark Glaszczak serves as the Construction Manager for all three packages.
Package 1 East County Advanced Water Purification Project
Package 1 of the project includes the construction of a water recycling facility capable of treating 16 million gallons per day (MGD) and an advanced water purification facility that will purify 11.5 MGD—enough to supply
Left to Right: Ernie Velasquez, Foreman, W. M. Lyles Co., Rob Hubbard, Rental Representative, Hawthorne Rentals, Rod Rodriguez, Civil Superintendent on Package 3, W. M. Lyles Co., and Erasmo Arambula, Foreman, W. M. Lyles Co.
approximately 50,000 households. Additionally, it includes a solids handling facility, a product water pump station, and a new visitor’s center. Construction on this phase began in July 2022, with completion anticipated in late 2025 or early 2026. The contract amount for Phase 1 of this project is approximately $614.6 million.
Package 3 East County Advanced Water Purification Project
Package 3 involves the retrofit and expansion of the Influent Pump Station and East Mission Gorge Pump Station. It also includes the installation of a 3.5-mile wastewater force main, a 3-mile residuals bypass pipeline, and a 1.7 MGD lift station for the residuals bypass system. Construction began in July 2022, with an expected completion date in summer 2025. The Package 3 $87 million package is also being handled by AECOM and W. M. Lyles Co.
Package 5 East County Advanced
Above: Cat 330D excavator with drilling attachments setting soldier beams with Cat 308E excavator (rented from Hawthorne Rentals) assisting.
Left: Aeriel view of secondary clarifiers and aeration tank excavation on Package 1 on East County Advanced Water Purification Project.
Below: Cat excavators (rented from Hawthorne Rentals) removing asphalt and prepping trench for pipe installation.
Water Purification Project
Package 5 focuses on the construction of a new reservoir and pipeline infrastructure to integrate the purified water into the region’s drinking water system. This package will ensure
the purified water is stored and distributed efficiently. The reservoir will have a capacity of 10 million gallons, and the pipeline network will extend 5 miles to connect to existing distribution systems. Construction is expected to begin
1: W. M. Lyles Co. welding support beams and placing shields with assistance from Cat excavator (rented from Hawthorne Rentals).
2: Cat 315 excavator (rented from Hawthorne Rentals) placing blue 30" RWW pipe.
3: Two Cat excavators working in tandem to place blue 30" RWW pipe.
in early 2025, with completion anticipated by 2027. This package is estimated to cost $55 million and will also be managed by a joint venture between AECOM, Anaergia Services, LLC and W. M. Lyles Co.
Massive Projects Require Lots of Reliable, Dependable Construction Machinery
W. M. Lyles Co. maintains a large fleet of heavy construction machines, but there never seems to be enough to cover the ongoing workload. To supplement their fleet, W. M. Lyles Co. relies on
companies like Hawthorne Rentals to keep their projects on time and on budget. “From my experience it is all about service and support and that is the reason why we keep going back to Caterpillar ® for our heavy equipment rentals and purchases. We are currently renting several machines from Hawthorne Rentals to include everything from skid steers and mini excavators to wheel loaders, dozers, large excavators, water trucks, rollers and various attachments,” says Rodriguez. “Our Hawthorne Rentals representative is Rob
• Cat 239D3 CTL
• Cat 303.5 Excavator
• Cat 305 Excavator
• Cat 308 Excavator
• Cat 309 Excavator
• Cat 315 Excavator
• Cat 325 Excavator
• Cat 335 Excavator
• Cat 930 Wheel Loader
• Cat CB24 Utility Compactor
• Cat CB7 Asphalt Compactor
• Water Truck
• Cat D8 Dozer
• Breaker Hammer for Excavator
• Compaction Wheel for Excavator
• And several more items
* Machines coming on and off the jobsite daily.
Hubbard, and he has done an outstanding job taking care of our needs. Rob has been straight forward and professional with us and he never tries to tell us what we need. I am an equipment operator, and I know what I want on our jobsites and Hawthorne Rentals listens to what I want. We know the lifting capacities and the areas that require mini zero swing or full-size excavators. Rob listens to our needs and provides us with late model, low-hour machines, delivered on time.”
{ Continued on page 24 }
505-20TC TELEHANDLER
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512-56 TELEHANDLER
Designed to place heavy loads with ease and precision, the 512-56 is one of our largest capacity telescopic handlers –now available with no after treatment using the JCB 74HP EcoMAX engine. Also available in 109HP engine.
{ Continued from page 22 }
Glaszczak says that for him it is all about relationships and partnerships in the construction business. “This is a massive project with so many components and moving parts. This job has so much going on simultaneously and that requires a large fleet of all sizes and types of equipment. We are using our owned and rented equipment for excavation, backfill, loading trucks, exporting dirt, and loading our onsite crusher to reduce cobble to 3” minus. Around two-thirds of the fleet we have out here is our own equipment while one-third is being rented from Hawthorne Rentals. Hawthorne has gone above and beyond to keep our crews working with the right equipment for the right application,” says Glaszczak. “You know, the golf outings, lunches and swag are always nice, but I could care less about all that. I want the very best service and support and reliable equipment on my jobsites, and we get that from Hawthorne Rentals and the other Cat® Rental Stores we rely on.”
According to Rodriguez, the response time from Hawthorne Rentals and other Cat Rental Stores has always been exceptional. “In the past, we would have a machine go down and the Cat Rental Store had a new machine loaded onto a truck and on our site, ready to work, within a half-hour. I mean, we may have 13 dump trucks on the jobsite waiting to be loaded, and we have to pay these guys a minimum of four hours, so having a machine that quickly is very important to our bottom line,” says Rodriguez. “I have even had Cat Rentals managers literally drive out water trucks to our jobsites. Rob Hubbard and the folks at Hawthorne Rentals are cut from the same cloth. If we have any issues, Rob dispatches a mechanic to our site immediately. If a major piece of equipment goes down, that is very costly. One of our crews on this project consists of around 11 individuals and can run around $10,000 a day. If they are not working, then we are losing money. That is just the cold hard
truth. Having a reliable rental company as our partner on this project is not just a convenience, it is an absolute necessity. Hawthorne Rentals checks all the boxes, and we are happy to have them as one of our partners in business.”
The East County Advanced Water Purification Project represents W. M. Lyles Co. largest project to date. Established in 1945, W. M. Lyles Co. specializes in water and wastewater energy and environmental construction projects throughout California. The company is based out of Fresno, with offices in Rocklin, Bakersfield and Murrieta. For more information, please visit www.wmlylesco.com or call (559) 441-1900.
For more information or to track the progress of the East County Advanced Water Purification Project, please see the interactive map at www.EastCountyAWP.com. Cc
Above Left: Cat CB7 asphalt compactor (rented from Hawthorne Rentals) compacting trench line.
Above Right: Cat 303.5 mini excavator lowered into shoring pit for continued excavation.
Left: Another Cat excavator (rented from Hawthorne Rentals) removing sidewalk slab.
In the dynamic world of construction and heavy equipment rentals, having the right tools for the job is essential. Sunbelt Equipment Rental’s Earth Moving Solutions division is at the forefront of providing reliable and efficient heavy construction machinery to keep projects moving. CalContractor had the opportunity to sit down with Lisa Kelly, District Sales Manager, to discuss how Sunbelt is innovating within the industry, meeting customer needs, and driving success in earthmoving solutions.
A Career Built on Industry Expertise
Lisa Kelly brings a wealth of experience to her role as District Sales Manager of Sunbelt’s Earth Moving Solutions (EMS) division. With a strong background in heavy equipment sales and a passion for customer service, she has been instrumental in ensuring that contractors and construction professionals have access to the best equipment for their projects.
“I’ve always had a passion for construction and the role equipment plays in shaping our infrastructure,” Lisa shared. “Being part of Sunbelt’s Earth Moving Solutions team allows me to work closely with customers to provide tailored solutions that help them maximize productivity and efficiency.”
DRIVING EARTHMOVING SOLUTIONS FORWARD: An Interview with Lisa Kelly of Sunbelt Rentals Earth Moving Solutions
Meeting the Needs of an Evolving Industry
The construction industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies and environmental considerations shaping the way projects are executed. Sunbelt’s EMS division stays ahead by offering a comprehensive range of earthmoving equipment, including excavators, wheel loaders, dozers, motor graders, and more.
“Our customers need reliable equipment that can handle tough job site conditions,” Lisa explained. “At Sunbelt EMS, we ensure our fleet is well-maintained and upto-date with the latest technology. Whether it’s GPS-enabled machines for precision grading or eco-friendly models that reduce emissions, we are committed to helping our customers work smarter.”
Customer-Centric Approach
One of the key factors that set Sunbelt EMS apart is its commitment to customer service. Lisa emphasized that her team prioritizes understanding each client’s specific needs to recommend the best equipment for the job.
“We don’t just rent equipment— we build partnerships,” she said. “Our team takes the time to understand the scope of a project and offer expert guidance. That means providing flexible rental options, on-time deliveries, and 24/7 support to ensure everything runs smoothly.”
The Journey of Lisa Kelly: A Leader in Heavy Equipment Sales
Lisa Kelly and her team of EMS rental and support agents, serve contractors in California, Arizona, and Nevada. Her journey in the construction equipment industry is a testament to perseverance, industry expertise, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Lisa’s career began in 2005 when she transitioned into the construction equipment business after several years as a stay-athome mom. “My father worked for CalPortland Cement as VP of Marketing & Sales, and I had always been fascinated by heavy equipment,” Lisa recalled.
Determined to enter the field, she attended trade shows, educated herself about construction machinery, and eventually landed a position at Coastline Equipment.
Lisa’s persistence paid off as she secured a role in Coastline Equipment’s rental department. In the beginning, Lisa spent most of her days delivering things like buckets and compaction wheels in her company pickup truck. After just nine months, Lisa was given an opportunity to join Coastline’s full line sales team. “I was one of the first women in the country selling heavy John Deere construction equipment,” she noted. She quickly excelled, earning recognition as Salesperson of the Year multiple times. However, the economic downturn of 2008 led her to seek new opportunities.
From LaLonde Equipment Rental to Sunbelt EMS
Lisa’s transition to LaLonde Equipment Rental in 2011 was a pivotal moment in her career. After a conversation with Brian LaLonde at an industry event, she was offered a position and quickly became instrumental in the company’s expansion. She played a key role in opening new branches in Bakersfield and Tracy before returning to the company’s headquarters in Signal Hill in 2021 to serve as General Manager.
Sunbelt acquired Lalonde in August 2022, at which time Lisa was retained and promoted to District Sales Manager for Sunbelt EMS, overseeing a team of rental sales experts and driving Sunbelt’s presence in the California, Arizona and Nevada. “I still prefer to be in
the field selling our rental capabilities,” Lisa said. “Much of my time is spent traveling to our branches, meeting with sales representatives, and engaging with key clients.”
Sunbelt’s Heavy Equipment Fleet and Capabilities
Sunbelt’s EMS fleet is extensive, offering contractors access to high-quality, late-model, low-hour equipment for a variety of applications. “We have an amazing fleet made up of many brands, but we are heavy in John Deere,” Lisa explained. Our fleet includes excavators ranging from 35,000 to 175,000 pounds, wheel loaders from 2.5 to 7 cubic yards, GPSequipped dozers, articulated haul trucks, and a full line of compaction equipment.”
SUNBELT RENTALS Earthmoving Solutions
Lisa highlighted Sunbelt’s competitive rental rates and the company’s ability to accommodate specialized equipment needs. “One of the greatest benefits of renting from Sunbelt is that we have it all— from excavators to reach forklifts. If a customer requires a specific machine, we have the buying power to acquire it.”
Commitment to Community and Industry Involvement
Sunbelt’s dedication extends beyond rentals, as the company actively supports contractors and communities. “We participate in numerous trade shows to engage with industry professionals and showcase our offerings,” Lisa said. “Additionally, Sunbelt provides essential equipment such as generators, pumps, light towers, and batteries for disaster response and emergency support.”
One notable partnership is Sunbelt EMS’s contract with the Los Angeles
Western Locations
CA and AZ
• Excavators
• Art Dump Trucks
• Dozers
• Wheel Loaders
• Dirt Rollers
Locations Coming Soon
Department of Water & Power, which has been in place for over a decade. “We provide excavators, backhoes, motor graders, and rollers, and the contract continues to grow,” Lisa noted. “We recently delivered the first two excavators to support the Altadena cleanup efforts and fire response initiatives.”
The Evolution and Future of Sunbelt EMS
Sunbelt Rentals added the Earth Moving Solutions division to meet increasing demand for larger equipment. “Customers were asking for larger excavators and wheel loaders, so Sunbelt strategically acquired top-notch heavy equipment rental companies across the country,” Lisa explained. This included California-based LaLonde Equipment Rental and Tool Shed Rentals located here in Southern California.
Looking ahead, Sunbelt is preparing to open a branch in Las
Backed by a network of more than 1,300 locations across North America, Sunbelt has 17 specialized EMS locations, with more to come.
Vegas, complementing its existing locations in California and Phoenix. “We are building a strong foundation for our floating equipment fleet,” Lisa said. “Our major accounts program offers special rates and rebates for preferred rental customers, and our online app makes ordering and managing equipment more convenient.”
With industry leaders like Lisa Kelly at the helm, Sunbelt Rentals Earth Moving Solutions division is poised for continued growth. Their commitment to innovation, customer service, and industry expertise ensures that Sunbelt remains a trusted partner for construction professionals nationwide. For more information on Sunbelt Rentals and their Earth Moving Solutions division, visit sunbeltrentals.com or call the California headquarters in Signal Hill at (562) 595-6655. Cc
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Industry News
Patrick P. LaPaglia II – Nixon-Egli Equipment Sales
Representative & Leeboy/Rosco Specialist
Nixon-Egli Equipment is pleased to announce the addition of Patrick P. LaPaglia II to their sales team as a LeeBoy/Rosco Specialist. LaPaglia’s territory covers San Luis Obispo, Kern, Santa Barbara, Ventura, Orange, and Los Angeles Counties. LaPaglia brings extensive industry knowledge and a passion for heavy equipment to Nixon-Egli.
Specializing in LeeBoy & Rosco, Wirtgen Group, Maintainer, Felling Trailers, Midland, and Miller Curbers, Patrick is committed to providing top-tier solutions for his customers.
With a background that includes experience at LaPaglia Vineyard & Management and Trinity Equipment, Patrick combines expertise in heavy equipment, agriculture, project development, and materials to serve the evolving needs of California’s construction industry.
Patrick shares, “I met Gavin Singleton, VP of Construction Sales at Nixon-Egli Equipment, through Matt Mendenhall, their Southern California Wirtgen Specialist, at a golf tournament last year. Having known Matt for years and after meeting Gavin, the decision to join their team was an easy one when the opportunity arose. I’m beyond excited to be part of Nixon-Egli Equipment,
where the warm welcome from the entire company has truly felt like joining a family. I look forward to bringing my expertise to the customers of Southern California!”
Nixon-Egli Equipment was founded in 1965 by Jim Nixon and Paul Egli to sell street sweepers, cranes, and pavers to construction companies and municipalities of California. They still specialize in serving those markets, with lines such as Link-Belt cranes, Wirtgen Group (Wirtgen, Vogele, Hamm, and Kleemann) pavers, rollers, mills, recyclers, stabilizers, crushers, and screens, LeeBoy and Rosco pavers, brooms, and distributor trucks, Gradall excavators, Maintainer service bodies, and Elliott Equipment Company boom truck cranes and aerial lifts. They have 2 California branches to serve you - Ontario and Tracy. For more information, please visit their website at www.nixonegli.com. Cc
SONSRAY
Sonsray knows how vital it is to have the right machine for the job. Let our machine specialists help get the tools you need. WHEN & WHERE YOU NEED THEM!
