National Utility Contractors Association Past President Jay Matricciani passed earlier this week.
Matricciani was CEO of The Matricciani Co., a third-generation utility construction firm based in Baltimore, Md.
Matricciani served in every NUCA leadership position, including president in 1989. He was the 1990 recipient of NUCA's prestigious Ditchdigger of the Year Award and was inducted into the NUCA Hall of Fame in 1996.
Matricciani served for 17 years on the Board of Directors of the Associated Utility Contractors of Maryland Inc., and was AUC president from 1981 to 1983.
His early introduction to the industry spawned a fascination with heavy equipment, for how the machinery worked, why it worked and what it could do. This fascination led him into the position of manager of field operations, which included management of equipment purchases, maintenance and repair.
"To succeed in this business, you have to be willing to work hard, put in long hours and take advantage of every opportunity that's available to learn this industry," Matricciani said in a 1989 NUCA President's message. "In other words, you have to use your mind powerfully. You must be able to think on your feet. You must take responsibility for yourself and your fellow workers. While the work is hard, it builds character."
Matricciani worked tirelessly to further the interests of the industry nationwide. He maintained strong relationships with key lawmakers from Maryland, and was active in NUCA's grassroots lobbying efforts. He was a long-standing member of NUCA's Political Action Committee and a NUCA/PAC President's Club member for 18 years.
"He was an inspirational leader of our industry and a true friend to the members of NUCA throughout this country," said NUCA President Mark Accetturo.
