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Utility Support Services (USS)

Innovative Solutions. Reliable Infrastructure. Trusted Support.

Our Mission

At Utility Support Services (USS), we are committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative solutions for utility infrastructure.
Grounded in integrity, responsibility, and excellence, we prioritize the wellbeing of our employees and the communities we serve. Through expertise in inspections, engineering, vegetation management, and emergency response, we enhance efficiency and resilience across the utility sector. By fostering a culture of transparency, safety, and continuous improvement, we exceed expectations and stand as a trusted partner in powering the future.

Our Story

Utility Support Services is proud to be part of the Amdrea Holdings family, an alliance founded on shared values of integrity, innovation, and unwavering commitment to safety. Born from a vision to bring forward-thinking solutions to utility infrastructure, USS was guided by a mission of reliability and trust from day one.

Our journey continues to be fueled by a dedication to excellence, building a capable, values-driven team who show up each day ready to serve communities and clients with responsibility, transparency, and resilience. As we grow, our focus remains clear: delivering safe, efficient, and innovative support to utilities across the nation.

SDVOSB Benefits

What Are the Advantages of Working with an SDVOSB?

Working with a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) like Utility Support Services (USS) offers numerous advantages, supported by rigorous standards and significant benefits.

Certified Excellence

  • Achieving SDVOSB certification requires rigorous vetting by the Veterans Administration (VA). This ensures that an SDVOSB has met high standards of integrity and reliability.
  • The VA allocates a substantial portion of its contracts specifically for SDVOSBs, reflecting a strong commitment to veteran-owned businesses.

Government Contracting Advantages

  • The Veterans Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development Act of 1999 mandates that the federal government aim to award at least 3% of the total value of all its prime contract and subcontract awards to SDVOSBs.
  • For government agencies, engaging with Utility Support Services (USS) helps fulfill this critical regulatory requirement, aligning with the Executive Order signed by President George W. Bush in 2004, which mandates agencies to strategize meeting SDVOSB contracting goals.
  • By partnering with SDVOSBs, government agencies can more effectively achieve their contracting objectives and demonstrate a commitment to supporting veteran-owned businesses.

SDVOSBs and Private Sector Partnerships

  • For large private businesses aiming to become prime contractors on government projects, partnering with an SDVOSB like Utility Support Services (USS) offers a strategic advantage. Many government contracts require prime contractors to meet small business participation goals.
  • Including an SDVOSB as a subcontractor can significantly enhance a bid, particularly for contracts with the Department of Defense (DoD), which values the knowledge and experience of veterans in executing military-based projects.
  • The DoD and other federal agencies often have increased confidence in SDVOSBs due to their understanding of military goals and operations.

Community Impact

  • Partnering with Utility Support Services (USS) means contributing to the veteran community. Utility Support Services (USS) is committed to hiring veterans, thus providing valuable employment opportunities and supporting the transition of veterans to civilian careers.
  • This commitment not only benefits individual veterans but also strengthens the broader veteran community, embodying the principle of “paying it forward.”

Bottom Line

Whether driven by financial incentives, patriotic duty, or a combination of both, partnering with an SDVOSB like Utility Support Services (USS) makes sound business sense. It aligns with regulatory requirements, enhances competitive advantage in government contracting, and supports veteran empowerment and employment.

Safety

Our safety performance is a source of pride for us. We continuously strive for improvement and remain vigilant against the hazards inherent in our industry.
Safety
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    Zero dart or IR
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    Rating of “A” on ISN Networld for all clients
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    OSHA 20 ET&D training
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    Rescue and Emergency Management Program
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    Leadership development program
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    DPI GGA Certified
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    Defensive driving and scorecard system

Our Services

USS provides industry-leading utility support services for utility infrastructure, offering innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and reliability.
Our expert teams deliver specialized services in inspections, engineering, vegetation management, traffic control, and emergency response. With a focus on quality and operational excellence, USS ensures that utility systems remain robust, compliant, and cost-effective.
Pole Inspection

Pole Inspection

USS has extensive experience in pole inspections, specializing in wood, concrete, and steel structures.

Our services include:

  • Ground and Aerial Inspections: Conducted by trained teams and certified drone inspectors.
  • Remedial Treatment & Restoration: Extending asset life and minimizing replacement costs.
  • Steel Asset Life Extension: Identifying and mitigating deterioration in steel structures.
  • Timber Pole Assessment: Evaluating the structural integrity of wooden poles.

Detecting external decay can be challenging, as it may be concealed behind a layer of charring or treated sapwood.

Effective inspection methods include:

  • Probing with Sharp Instruments: To identify decay beneath the surface.
  • Assessing Outer Circumference: As most of the pole’s strength resides in this area.
  • Preventing Failures: By quantifying and addressing external decay, reducing structural risks.
Drone Inspection

Drone Inspection

Our certified drone operators specialize in patrolling both distribution and transmission lines. The use of 3D modeling and industrial photogrammetry enhances asset inspections and site planning for energy infrastructure projects.

Regular drone inspections identify potential issues before they lead to outages. This proactive approach, known as time-based maintenance, involves scheduled inspections at set intervals, allowing timely intervention to prevent failures. By replacing or repairing faulty components before they cause problems, we improve overall grid reliability.

Drones offer several advantages over traditional inspection methods:

  • Enhanced Safety: Eliminates the need for personnel to climb poles or use bucket trucks, reducing fall hazards.
  • Increased Efficiency: Faster inspections with comprehensive coverage.
  • Damage Assessment: Enables real-time condition analysis.
  • Improved Accuracy: Drones capture high-resolution electro-optical (E/O) and infrared (IR) imagery for detailed assessments.
  • Advanced Data Processing: GIS mapping and actionable reports facilitate decision-making.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Our insured, Part 107-licensed pilots ensure adherence to FAA regulations.
Storm Services

Storm Services

Assessment & WireGuard: USS provides 24/7 emergency response to assist utilities in assessing and reporting storm damage.

Our storm response services include:

  • Damage Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation to prioritize restoration efforts.
  • WireGuard Services: Trained personnel for electrical and telecom damage assessments.
  • Crew Dispatch: Coordination of skilled restoration crews.
  • Logistics Support: Ensuring the efficient movement of resources and personnel.
  • Customer Coordination: Facilitating communication between utilities and affected communities.
  • Traffic Control: Managing road safety during restoration efforts.
  • Drone Inspections: Rapid aerial assessments of damaged infrastructure.
  • Vegetation Management Assessment: Identifying storm-related clearance needs.
Traffic Control

Traffic Control

USS employs highly trained and certified traffic control flaggers.

Our traffic control operations include:

  • Lead Flaggers & Supervision: Ensuring efficient and compliant operations.
  • Standard Flagging Operations: Directing safe vehicle and pedestrian flow.
  • Advanced Traffic Control Setups: Implementing complex traffic management solutions.
  • Rolling Slowdowns: Facilitating controlled traffic movement in active work zones.
  • Emergency & Storm Response: Providing immediate traffic control support in crisis situations.

Our traffic control teams provide a wide range of services, including:

  • Standard flagging operations
  • Advanced traffic control setups
  • Rolling slowdowns
  • Emergency and storm response

USS traffic controllers have worked extensively in storm response scenarios across the United States, maintaining safety and order in complex environments.

Thermography

Thermography

Thermographic inspections are essential for overhead utility line maintenance.

Our services include:

  • Enhanced Efficiency & Reliability: Identifies equipment failures before they cause outages.
  • Fault Detection: Pinpoints weak points and hotspots in overhead lines.
  • Infrared (IR) Inspections: Regularly assesses conductors, insulators, and clamps.
  • Trend Analysis: Tracks component deterioration over time to prevent failures.
  • Proactive Maintenance: Reduces downtime by addressing issues before they escalate.
Engineering and Design

Engineering and Design

USS employs industry-leading experts in the engineering and design of utility infrastructure.

Our services include:

  • Asset Knowledge: Ensuring effective management and long-term reliability.
  • Field Engineering & Inspections: Providing expert oversight during construction.
  • Permit Coordination: Streamlining approval processes for regulatory compliance.
  • Cost Estimating: Delivering accurate project budgeting and financial planning.
  • Post-Construction Audits: Evaluating completed projects for quality and efficiency.
  • As-Built Documentation: Maintaining accurate records of completed infrastructure.

USS engineers and designers have extensive experience in:

  • Substation Engineering: Design and maintenance of electrical substations.
  • Transmission Infrastructure: High-voltage line planning and assessment.
  • Distribution Networks: Ensuring efficient delivery of electricity.
  • Civil Construction: Supporting structural integrity and long-term performance.
HydroVac

HydroVac

HydroVac excavation is a non-destructive method used to safely expose underground utilities and clear debris. By using high-pressure water and an industrial vacuum system, HydroVac removes soil and debris while protecting existing infrastructure. This method is essential for preventing damage during excavation, reducing environmental impact, and ensuring worker safety.

Our HydroVac services include:

  • Utility Exposure: Safely uncovering underground utilities.
  • Precision Trenching: Creating trenches without damaging surrounding infrastructure.
  • Slot Trenching for Pole Setting: Preparing precise locations for pole installation.
  • Debris Removal: Clearing obstructions in confined or congested areas.
  • Cold-Weather Excavation: Operating effectively in freezing conditions.
Data Collection

Joint Use – Data Collection

Our Joint Use data collection services provide utilities with detailed asset inventory and compliance assessments. USS collects critical information on pole attachments, clearances, and structural integrity, ensuring regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

Our Joint Use Data Collection services include:

  • Pole Inventory Documentation: Creating accurate records of infrastructure assets.
  • Attachment Assessments: Identifying unauthorized or hazardous pole attachments.
  • GIS-Integrated Mapping: Streamlining asset management through digital mapping.
  • Regulatory Compliance Audits: Ensuring adherence to NESC and FCC guidelines.
Vegetation Management

Vegetation Management

USS offers professional vegetation management services to mitigate the risk of power outages caused by overgrown trees and brush. Our teams assess and implement clearance solutions for transmission and distribution lines, adhering to safety and environmental regulations.

Our Vegetation Management services include:

  • Routine Inspections: Identifying and mitigating vegetation risks.
  • Emergency Storm Response: Clearing debris to restore power quickly.
  • Tree Trimming & Removal: Managing hazardous tree growth near power lines.
  • Right-of-Way (ROW) Maintenance: Ensuring safe and accessible transmission paths.
  • Preventative Pruning: Reducing long-term risks of outages and interference.
Low Voltage Testing

Low Voltage Testing

USS provides specialized low voltage testing services to ensure the safe and efficient operation of electrical distribution systems. Our testing solutions help identify issues before they escalate, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

Our Low Voltage Testing services include:

  • Insulation Resistance Testing: Evaluating the integrity of electrical insulation.
  • Circuit Integrity Assessments: Ensuring circuits function properly under load.
  • Load Testing: Measuring system capacity and identifying weak points.
  • Voltage Drop Analysis: Diagnosing potential power inefficiencies.
  • Safety Compliance Inspections: Verifying adherence to electrical safety standards.
Program and Construction Management

Program and Construction Management

Our program and construction management services support utilities in delivering projects on time and within budget. USS oversees all phases of construction, ensuring compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

Our Program and Construction Management services include:

  • Project Planning & Scheduling: Organizing timelines and milestones.
  • Budgeting & Cost Control: Managing financial resources effectively.
  • Contractor Oversight: Ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
  • Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating project risks.
  • Quality Assurance & Compliance: Monitoring adherence to industry regulations.

With a commitment to innovation, safety, and efficiency, USS provides comprehensive utility support services that keep infrastructure reliable and resilient. Whether through advanced inspections, precise engineering, or rapid emergency response, our experienced teams are dedicated to delivering solutions that meet the evolving needs of the utility industry.

Contact Us

Feel free to reach out to our dedicated team at USS.
We look forward to assisting you with your utility needs.

Corporate headquarters

Southeast Regional Office