Overview
USIC, headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, is the leading provider of underground utility locating (811) services in the United States. It operates across 48 states, serving over 1,400 utilities and municipalities nationwide. The company's core mission is to prevent damage and service disruptions to underground utilities, ensuring community safety. USIC employs more than 10,000 technicians dedicated to these efforts, performing over 80 million locates annually.
Ownership and Financials
USIC is owned equally by private equity firms Partners Group and Kohlberg & Company. Recent valuations place the company's worth at approximately $4.1 billion. The company benefitted from a significant private equity investment of $2.1 billion on August 10, 2022. Financial reports indicate annual revenues of approximately $1.6 billion, with peak revenues reaching $7.0 billion in 2023.
Services and Operations
USIC provides a comprehensive suite of services focused on public utility locating and underground infrastructure damage prevention. This includes services through its affiliates such as Blood Hound, Reconn Utility Services, and On Target Utility Services, which offer specialized solutions for utility protection and infrastructure management.
Leadership
USIC's leadership is pivotal in directing its strategic efforts and operational success. Key leaders include:
- Yuvbir Singh, President & CEO, a former GE executive, drives corporate strategy.
- Pavan Bhalla, Chief Financial Officer, brings financial expertise from previous roles, including Vialto Partners.
- Richard Batelaan, Chief Operating Officer, with a background in telecom and IT.
- Craig Haydamack, Chief Human Resources Officer, championing diversity and inclusion initiatives.
- Dane Dodd, Executive Vice President, leads Advanced Infrastructure Solutions.
- Rob Taylor, EVP, manages Commercial Operations.
- Deborah Lloyd, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, oversees legal affairs and governance.
- David Parker, VP of Corporate Affairs, focuses on stakeholder communication.
Strategic Initiatives
USIC is dedicated to core values such as safety, integrity, and excellence, while committing to environmental responsibility and community involvement. The company's alignment with charitable organizations and sustainability initiatives embodies its corporate ethos.
Recent Achievements
USIC's inclusion in Forbes' 2025 List of America's Best Large Employers underscores its commitment to high standards and employee satisfaction.
Market Position and Competitive Landscape
USIC operates in a competitive landscape alongside key players like:
- Exodigo: Specializes in advanced, non-intrusive underground mapping technology.
- Penhall Company: Engages in concrete services.
- UtiliQuest: Known for underground utility damage prevention.
- Advanced Underground Utility Locating Inc.: Prioritizes accuracy and technology.
USIC is reputed for leading in CEO performance metrics, frequently holding top positions in leadership rankings.
Competitor Profiling
USIC pursues strategic mergers and acquisitions to bolster its service capabilities, a strategy echoed by competitors like Penhall and UtiliQuest. This expansion is pivotal in maintaining its industry-leading position.
Industry Trends
The global utility locator market, valued at USD 842.5 million in 2023, is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2024 to 2030. Growth drivers include increased infrastructure projects and technological advancements like ground-penetrating radar (GPR), electromagnetic fields (EMF), and GPS integration. Regulatory requirements for pre-excavation utility location continue to enhance the demand for these services.
Strategic Insights
USIC's strategy centers on leveraging technological innovations and expanding market presence through acquisitions. Collaborations with broadband authorities for national infrastructure development highlight its proactive strategy in integrating utility locating with broader industry needs. These initiatives, along with continuous technology advancement, position USIC to capitalize on upcoming market growth and regulatory developments.
