07.10
2026

Thackray Crane Rental Recognized Among the ACT100 Top Crane & Transport Companies in North America

A Milestone Built on Nearly 80 Years of Excellence

Thackray Crane Rental is proud to announce its recognition in the American Cranes & Transport (ACT) ACT100, an annual list recognizing the Top 100 Crane & Transport Companies in North America.

This achievement reflects decades of dedication to safety, reliability, professionalism, and exceptional service. While the recognition celebrates the company’s continued growth, it also serves as a testament to the employees, customers, and partners who have made Thackray Crane Rental a trusted name in the crane and heavy lifting industry.

What Is the ACT100?

Published annually by American Cranes & Transport, the ACT100 is one of the crane industry’s most respected rankings. The list highlights the largest and most established crane and specialized transport companies throughout North America, recognizing organizations that play a vital role in supporting construction, infrastructure, industrial, manufacturing, utility, and energy projects.

Being included among the ACT100 demonstrates a company’s ability to consistently deliver dependable lifting solutions while maintaining the highest standards of safety, operational excellence, and customer service.

Nearly Eight Decades of Trusted Service

Since 1947, Thackray Crane Rental has been helping customers safely complete some of the region’s most challenging lifting projects. Over nearly 80 years, the company has grown while remaining true to the values that have defined it since day one: integrity, reliability, and putting customers first.

Today, Thackray proudly serves Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland with a modern fleet of cranes, certified operators, experienced rigging professionals, trucking and transport services, warehousing, and comprehensive project support.

Whether assisting with structural steel erection, HVAC installations, bridge construction, industrial maintenance, precast concrete placement, telecommunications work, or specialized heavy lifting, every project receives the same commitment to careful planning and safe execution

A Recognition That Belongs to the Entire Team

While the ACT100 recognition is an important company milestone, it truly belongs to every member of the Thackray team.

From crane operators and CDL drivers to mechanics, project managers, dispatchers, riggers, office staff, and leadership, every employee contributes to the company’s reputation for excellence. Their professionalism, experience, and commitment to safety make it possible to successfully complete complex projects every day.

Equally important are the customers and partners who continue to place their trust in Thackray Crane Rental. Long-standing relationships built over generations have been instrumental in helping the company grow while maintaining the personalized service of a family-owned business.

Looking Toward the Future

As the construction and infrastructure industries continue to evolve, Thackray Crane Rental remains committed to investing in its people, equipment, and capabilities to better serve customers throughout the region.

Recognition in the ACT100 is not simply a reflection of past accomplishments—it’s motivation to continue delivering the safe, dependable crane and transport services customers have come to expect for nearly eight decades.

Thackray Crane Rental extends its sincere thanks to its dedicated employees, loyal customers, and valued industry partners for making this achievement possible.

We are honored to be recognized among the Top 100 Crane & Transport Companies in North America and look forward to continuing to support the projects that help build our communities for years to come.

07.08
2026

Steel Beam Installation for New Frankford Avenue Condominium Development in Philadelphia, PA

Supporting Structural Steel Installation in Philadelphia

Urban construction projects often present unique challenges, especially when space is limited and every movement must be carefully planned. Recently, Thackray Crane Rental supported the construction of a new condominium development along Frankford Avenue in Philadelphia, providing crane services for the installation of structural steel beams that will form the framework of the building.

With restricted site access, neighboring buildings, and active city surroundings, the project required detailed coordination, experienced personnel, and the right equipment to safely execute the lifts.

Navigating Tight Access Conditions

One of the biggest challenges of this project was the limited working space available on site. Like many construction projects in Philadelphia, the jobsite offered very little room for crane setup, material staging, and lift operations.

Before work began, the Thackray team carefully evaluated the site layout, crane positioning requirements, lift paths, and material placement strategy to ensure every beam could be safely delivered and set into position without disrupting surrounding structures or ongoing construction activities.

Careful planning is often what separates a successful urban lift from a difficult one, and this project was no exception.

The Right Equipment for the Job

To complete the steel erection work, Thackray deployed a TMS900E hydraulic truck crane, providing the reach, lifting capacity, and maneuverability necessary to operate efficiently within the confined jobsite.

The crane was strategically positioned to allow steel members to be lifted from staging areas and accurately placed onto the developing structural framework. Throughout the project, operators worked closely with ironworkers and site personnel to maintain safe communication and precise load control during every lift.

Supporting Philadelphia’s Continued Growth

Drone imagery captured throughout the project highlights the complexity of the operation, showing the crane working within a narrow construction footprint while placing steel decking and structural members onto the expanding framework of the building.

As Philadelphia continues to experience residential and mixed-use development growth, projects like this demonstrate the importance of partnering with experienced crane professionals who understand the unique challenges of urban construction environments

Trusted Crane Services for Complex Construction Projects

Since 1947, Thackray Crane Rental has provided crane rental, lifting, transportation, and logistics services throughout Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and the surrounding region. From steel erection and structural framing to HVAC installations and heavy industrial lifts, our team has the equipment, experience, and planning expertise necessary to execute challenging projects safely and efficiently.

If your upcoming project requires crane services in a confined urban environment, contact Thackray Crane Rental to discuss how our team can help bring your project to life.

Thackray Crane Rental
844-99-CRANE
Serving Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware & Beyond

05.14
2026

Thackray Crane Completes Ferris Wheel Assembly at Morey’s Pier

As the summer season approaches in Wildwood, NJ, one of the most iconic sights on the boardwalk is once again taking shape—thanks to the expertise and precision of Thackray Crane Rental.

From April 27 through May 6, Thackray completed Phase 2 of a multi-stage project at Morey’s Pier, successfully reassembling a massive Ferris wheel after offseason repairs and refinishing. Even better—the project was completed ahead of schedule, ensuring the attraction is ready to welcome visitors for the busy summer months.

Phase 2: Rebuilding What Was Carefully Taken Apart

This project marked the second phase of a larger effort.

Back in the fall, Thackray crews disassembled the Ferris wheel, allowing for structural repairs and a full repaint to prepare the ride for years of continued operation. With that work complete, the focus shifted this spring to safely and efficiently bringing the structure back to life.

That meant lifting and assembling:

  • The main drum (hub) of the Ferris wheel
  • All spokes/forks that extend outward to support the ride
  • Additional structural components required for full reassembly

Each piece required careful handling, precise rigging, and exact placement to ensure everything aligned perfectly.

The Equipment: Grove RT875E

To get the job done, Thackray deployed a Grove RT875E rough terrain crane. This rough terrain crane is a versatile and powerful machine well-suited for challenging environments like this one.

With its strong lifting capacity and mobility, the RT875E allowed the crew to:

  • Operate efficiently in tight quarters on the pier
  • Handle heavy, high-reaching lifts
  • Maintain stability on a non-traditional surface like a boardwalk structure

Working on the Edge: Tight Quarters on the Boardwalk

This wasn’t your typical jobsite.

Positioned directly on the pier, the team had to navigate:

  • Limited space between existing structures and rides
  • Boardwalk constraints, requiring careful planning for crane setup and load distribution
  • Height and reach challenges, given the scale of the Ferris wheel
  • Constant awareness of surrounding attractions and infrastructure

Every move had to be expertly calculated as there was no room for error.

Precision Lifting at Every Stage

Reassembling a Ferris wheel is as much about precision as it is power.

Each lift required:

  • Detailed lift planning and sequencing
  • Expert rigging configurations
  • Seamless communication between operators and crew
  • Careful alignment of structural components at elevation

From setting the main drum to positioning each spoke, the process demanded total coordination to ensure the structure came together safely and correctly.

Ahead of Schedule, Ready for Summer

Despite the complexity of the job and the challenging environment, Thackray completed the project ahead of schedule. This is a testament to the team’s planning, experience, and execution.

With the Ferris wheel now reassembled and standing tall once again, Morey’s Pier is ready to welcome guests for another unforgettable summer along the Jersey Shore.

Built on Experience, Delivered with Precision

Projects like this highlight what sets Thackray Crane Rental apart:

  • Decades of experience in complex structural lifts
  • The ability to adapt to tight, high-traffic environments
  • A commitment to safety, efficiency, and precision on every job

From disassembly to reassembly, Thackray played a critical role in ensuring this landmark attraction is ready to spin once again.

Need a Team That Can Handle the Tough Jobs?

Whether it’s a high-profile attraction, a tight urban site, or a complex structural lift, Thackray Crane Rental has the equipment, expertise, and team to get it done right.

Contact us today to learn how we can support your next project.

01.22
2026
Thackray Crane Abington, PA Hospital Cooling Tower Install Blog Overview Images

Critical Infrastructure Upgrade – Cooling Tower Replacement at Abington Hospital

When critical infrastructure is on the line, there’s no room for guesswork. At Thackray Crane, we understand that successful projects demand more than just lifting power — they require careful planning, coordinated logistics, and a team that knows how to operate seamlessly in high-stakes environments.

We recently supported Abington Hospital – Jefferson Health with a major cooling tower replacement at the Toll Pavilion. The project involved removing an aging unit and setting a new cooling tower system on the hospital rooftop. While the lift itself was substantial, the real story is how Thackray delivered a complete, end-to-end solution that kept the project on schedule and minimized disruption to daily hospital operations.

Choosing the Right Crane: Liebherr LTM 1400-7.1

Operating within an active hospital campus requires precision and absolute attention to safety. To reach the Toll Pavilion rooftop while maintaining proper clearances and stability, Thackray deployed our 500-ton Liebherr LTM 1400-7.1.

This all-terrain mobile crane is one of the most powerful and versatile assets in our fleet. With its exceptional lifting capacity and reach, the LTM 1400-7.1 was the ideal choice to safely hoist the cooling tower components over the parapet and set them accurately onto their structural supports.

More Than a Lift: Warehousing and Heavy Transport

Long before the crane arrived on site, Thackray was already supporting the project behind the scenes. To streamline the process for the mechanical contractor and hospital staff, we managed the equipment logistics from start to finish.

Services provided included:

  • Warehousing & Storage: The new cooling tower components were received and stored at Thackray’s secure facility, ensuring they were protected and readily available when the site was fully prepared for installation.
  • Heavy Transport & Hauling: When installation day arrived, Thackray’s trucking division handled the oversized loads, hauling the equipment directly from our warehouse to Abington Hospital with precision timing.

Coordinated Execution from Start to Finish

Lift day was executed as a two-phase operation. Our crew first rigged and removed the existing cooling tower components. Once the rooftop was cleared, the LTM 1400-7.1 went to work, hoisting the new units directly from the transport trucks and setting them into place.

By providing warehousing, trucking, and crane services under one roof, Thackray Crane ensured tighter scheduling, fewer handoffs, and a smoother overall operation — all while keeping hospital activity running safely and efficiently.

If you’re planning a complex HVAC upgrade or infrastructure project, Thackray Crane has the experience and in-house capabilities to get it done right. Contact our team to learn how our crane rental, transport, and warehousing solutions can support your next project.

01.13
2026
Thackray Crane Pherris Wheel Philadelphia Zoo Blog

Thackray Crane Supports New Pherris Wheel Installation at the Philadelphia Zoo

Thackray Crane is proud to have supported yet another high-profile crane services project in Philadelphia at one of the city’s most iconic destinations — the Philadelphia Zoo. Our team recently completed crane operations to assist with the base foundation assembly of the Zoo’s new Ferris Wheel, an exciting new attraction now fully assembled and featured that now replaces the Zoo’s famous ballon.

For this project, Thackray Crane deployed a Liebherr LTM 1045-3.1 all-terrain crane, a highly versatile machine ideal for urban construction sites that demand precision, mobility, and safety. The crane was used to carefully lift and set critical foundation components, ensuring a stable base for the Ferris Wheel’s base structure assembly.

Providing professional crane rental services in Philadelphia requires detailed planning, experienced operators, and a strong commitment to safety. Even with the Philadelphia Zoo remaining open to the public during the work, our team coordinated closely with project partners to carefully plan each lift, ensuring operations were executed safely, efficiently, and on schedule with minimal impact to daily activities.

Now complete, the “Pherris Wheel” is a new striking feature at the Philadelphia Zoo and represents an exciting addition to the Zoo’s grounds. Being part of a project that enhances a major cultural landmark made this job especially meaningful for the Thackray Crane team.

From all-terrain crane rentals to complex commercial and specialty lifts, Thackray Crane is proud to support construction and infrastructure projects throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding region. This project highlights our ability to deliver safe, precise crane services for unique installations in high-visibility locations.

We’re honored to have played a role in bringing this new attraction to life and look forward to continuing to support projects that shape the communities we serve.

12.18
2025
Thackray Crane Installs the Giant Philly Menorah at Independence Mall - Main Blog Image

Lifting Spirits High: Thackray Crane Installs the Giant Philly Menorah at Independence Mall

The holiday season in Philadelphia is built on tradition, community, and history—and Thackray Crane was proud to play a role in one of the city’s most meaningful annual celebrations: the installation of the giant Philly Menorah at Independence Mall.

Helping bring this iconic symbol of Hanukkah to life in the heart of Center City is the kind of project we’re honored to support. It’s a reminder that the work we do extends beyond the jobsite and into the moments that bring people together.

A Historic Location, Carefully Executed

This year’s menorah installation took place at Independence Mall on 6th Street between Market and Arch, adjacent to the Independence Visitor Center and just steps from the Liberty Bell. Working in such a high-profile, high-traffic area requires careful planning, precise coordination, and experienced operators who understand the importance of doing the job safely and efficiently.

Our team worked closely to ensure the lift was completed smoothly while respecting the surrounding historic landmarks and busy Center City environment.

Full-Service Support: Hauling and Lifting

As with many of our projects, success started well before the crane was set. Thackray Crane handled both the transportation and lifting for the menorah installation.

The disassembled sections were delivered to the site using one of our Western Star tractors hauling a flatbed trailer, navigating Center City streets with care to safely transport the oversized components.

Once on site, our Link-Belt 65|HT hydraulic truck crane took over. This 65-ton crane was the ideal fit for the job, offering the reach, capacity, and maneuverability required for the tight urban setting. Its four-axle design allowed our operators to position the crane efficiently while providing the control needed to place each section of the menorah with precision.

Proud to Support the Philadelphia Community

Watching the menorah rise against the backdrop of Independence Mall is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. At Thackray Crane, we’re proud to support projects that celebrate culture, tradition, and community—especially in a city as historic as Philadelphia.

From all of us at Thackray Crane, we wish everyone a joyful Hanukkah and a safe, happy holiday season.

11.18
2025
Thackray Crane Rental - Planning a Lift

Planning a Lift – What Happens Before the Crane Arrives

Planning a Lift – What Happens Before the Crane Arrives

When you see a Thackray crane on site, ready to hoist tons of steel, HVAC units, or construction materials high into the air, it might look like everything came together overnight. But behind every successful lift is extensive planning, coordination, and expertise that begins long before the crane ever arrives.

At Thackray Crane, we handle every detail of your project from start to finish—ensuring each lift is completed safely, efficiently, and on schedule.

Site Visits & Project Assessment

Every project can begin with a site visit upon request. Our experienced professionals visit the job site to assess site conditions such as access points, overhead obstructions, and load radius requirements. These details help determine the right crane for the job—whether that’s a 35-ton boom truck or a 500-ton all-terrain crane.

During this phase, our team can help evaluate rigging requirements and identify potential challenges early, allowing for a lift plan that’s both safe and cost-effective.

Pre Lift Planning

Once the scope is defined, our team develops a detailed lift plan using CAD drawings and 3D lift simulations. This plan outlines crane placement, lift radius, boom configurations, counterweights, and load paths to ensure every move is precise.

With safety at the forefront, our team engineers each lift plan to suit your site’s layout and environmental factors—ensuring full OSHA and municipal compliance before work begins.

Permitting & Coordination

If requested, the logistics team at Thackray Crane manages crane, road, and street closure permits, working directly with local municipalities to help keep your project compliant and on schedule.

We also coordinate with site supervisors, trades, and utilities to minimize disruptions and maintain your timeline.

Material Handling & Rigging Equipment

Thackray’s in-house inventory of rigging equipment and specialized lifting gear means we can handle even the most complex picks with precision and confidence.

Warehousing & Logistics Support

Sometimes, equipment or materials arrive before the site is ready. Thackray offers secure warehousing and storage solutions, allowing you to stage, fabricate, and inspect equipment until the lift date. Our fleet of trucks and lowboys can then transport materials directly to the job site, helping streamline the entire logistics process.

By managing warehousing, transport, and scheduling under one roof, Thackray simplifies coordination and reduces downtime for our clients.

Thackray Safety

Safety is never an afterthought at Thackray—it’s built into everything we do. Our team includes NCCO-certified operators and professionals trained in OSHA standards, and we maintain active membership in the Mid-Atlantic Safety Council, SCRA, and other industry safety organizations.

In addition, our Safety Committee is fully certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Labor, ensuring that every lift is planned and executed with the highest standards of safety in mind.

Your Turnkey Partner in Heavy Lifting

From engineering support and permitting to logistics, warehousing, and final lift execution, Thackray Crane is your turnkey partner for safe, successful projects of any scale.

When you choose Thackray, you’re not just renting a crane—you’re getting a full-service team with decades of experience, unmatched resources, and a commitment to doing the job right the first time.

Ready to plan your next lift?

Contact Thackray Crane today to get started with a trusted partner who handles every detail—before, during, after, and for future lifts.

10.31
2025
Thackray Crane Helps Dismantle Wildwood’s Iconic Ferris Wheel for Renovation

Thackray Crane Helps Dismantle Wildwood’s Iconic Ferris Wheel for Renovation

Thackray Crane recently played a key role in the dismantling of one of the Jersey Shore’s most recognizable landmarks — the 156-foot-tall Ferris wheel at Morey’s Piers in Wildwood, NJ. The massive structure, originally installed in 1985, is undergoing a full refurbishment at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, marking its most extensive maintenance project in nearly 25 years.

To complete the disassembly, Thackray used a Grove RT875E rough-terrain crane, a 75-ton crane known for its power, reach, and maneuverability. The RT875E’s long hydraulic boom and rugged design made it the perfect choice for operating on the pier, where space and stability were critical.

Each component of the Ferris wheel — from the large radial spokes and rim sections to the 16,000-pound central hub — was lifted and loaded onto transport trailers for the trip to Philadelphia. Once at the Navy Yard, the components are being sandblasted, repainted, and reassembled with new hardware to prepare the ride for decades more operation.

Thackray’s experienced team handled every stage of the lift with precision, from planning and rigging to coordination with transport and site crews. The project demonstrated the company’s expertise in tackling complex, one-of-a-kind lifts that require both technical skill and logistical coordination.

When the Giant Wheel returns to Wildwood ahead of the 2026 season, visitors will once again enjoy the sweeping ocean views — thanks in part to the precision work and trusted performance of Thackray Crane.

07.23
2025
Thackray Crane Expands 2025 Fleet with Powerful New Additions - Cover Image

Thackray Crane Expands 2025 Fleet with Powerful New Additions

Thackray Crane Rental, a trusted name in Philadelphia crane rental and rigging since 1947, is proud to announce a major fleet expansion for 2025, adding some of the most advanced and in-demand equipment in the industry. From cutting-edge all-terrain cranes to jobsite-ready telehandlers, boom trucks, and support vehicles, this investment ensures we continue to deliver unmatched performance, reliability, and service for every lift.

With this expanded fleet, we’re better equipped than ever to support construction and infrastructure projects across Philadelphia, Eastern Pennsylvania, South Jersey, Delaware, and the entire Tri-State area.

Explore our latest lineup of additions below:


Supporting & Hauling Vehicles

2025 Ford F-550 Service Truck

Our new Ford F-550 is a fully outfitted mobile service truck designed to keep our equipment running at peak performance. Supporting on-site crane maintenance in Philadelphia and surrounding areas, this truck allows our team to respond quickly to jobsite needs across Delaware County, South Jersey, and Northern Delaware—ensuring minimal downtime for your lift.

International HX620

This heavy-duty hauler is built to handle counterweights, rigging gear, and crane components, making it an essential asset for supporting large crane operations across Eastern PA and the Greater Philadelphia Area. Whether it’s delivering to Center City or transporting materials to an industrial site in Camden, the HX620 gets the job done.

Western Star 49X Tri-Axle

Engineered for both power and mobility, the Western Star 49X Tri-Axle is ideal for navigating tight urban job sites or rural terrain. It’s perfect for hauling crane platforms, rigging supplies, and oversized loads throughout Philadelphia, Montgomery County, and the broader Tri-State region.


Rough Terrain & All-Terrain Cranes

Liebherr LRT 1100-2.1

The 100-ton LRT 1100-2.1 is a rough terrain powerhouse—built for high-performance lifting in off-road environments. With advanced stabilization systems and a telescopic boom reaching 164 feet, this crane is ideal for job sites in South Philadelphia, along the Schuylkill River corridor, and industrial zones throughout South Jersey and Delaware.

Liebherr LTM 1300-6.2

Offering a massive 360-ton lift capacity, the LTM 1300-6.2 is the go-to choice for infrastructure and energy projects in the Philadelphia metro area and beyond. Its long reach and heavy lift power make it ideal for large-scale construction in places like Wilmington, King of Prussia, and Northeast Philly.

Liebherr LTM 1110-5.1

This 5-axle, 125-ton crane is compact enough for tight urban spaces, making it perfect for projects in downtown Philadelphia, Old City, or near the Delaware River waterfront. With quick setup and superior reach, it’s a great solution for general contractors working in busy areas of the Tri-State region.

Tadano AC 4.110-1

The Tadano AC 4.110-1 delivers strong performance in a compact frame—ideal for mobile lifts in suburban Philadelphia, South Jersey industrial parks, or utility work along major corridors like Route 1 and I-295. Its versatility and maneuverability make it one of the most efficient crane options in our fleet.


Boom Trucks

Manitex 30102C

The 30-ton Manitex 30102C is a boom truck that excels at light-duty lifts such as HVAC installs, signage, and structural steel. It’s a staple for fast-paced jobs in Philadelphia neighborhoods, Camden, and along the Main Line, providing flexible crane support without sacrificing performance.

Manitex 35124C

With a 124-foot boom and 35-ton capacity, this truck crane is a reliable solution for mid-size projects across Montgomery County, Chester County, and South Jersey. It’s perfect for roofing lifts, precast installs, and other tasks requiring mobility and strength in one package.


Telehandlers

JCB 512-56

The JCB 512-56 features a 12,000 lb lift capacity and a 56-foot reach, making it ideal for framing and material handling on job sites throughout Bucks County, Delaware County, and the Philadelphia suburbs. It’s a dependable choice for any project needing high-reach capability and fast material placement.

JCB 514-56

For even heavier-duty tasks, the 514-56 steps it up with a 14,000 lb capacity. It’s commonly used on commercial builds and industrial sites in South Jersey, Reading, and along the Delaware River—especially when paired with a crane for larger structural work.


Truck Crane

XCMG XCT35

We’ve added 3 of the versatile XCMG XCT35, a 35-ton truck-mounted crane that’s ready to roll across Philadelphia, Cherry Hill, and Wilmington. With rapid setup, excellent road travel speed, and reliable lifting capacity, it’s ideal for HVAC replacements, light steel erection, and smaller lifts across the Greater Philadelphia and Tri-State areas.


 Your Partner for Crane Rentals in Philadelphia and the Tri-State Area

At Thackray Crane Rental, we proudly serve customers throughout Philadelphia, South Jersey, Delaware, and Eastern Pennsylvania. Our expanded 2025 fleet means more options, faster availability, and better performance for every lift—whether you’re working on a bridge in Camden, a hospital in Wilmington, or a high-rise in Center City Philadelphia.

With certified operators, full-service logistics, and over 75 years of trusted experience, we remain the go-to partner for safe, reliable, and expert crane service in the Tri-State region.  Need a lift in Philadelphia or the surrounding area? Contact Thackray Crane Rental to speak with our team, request a quote, or schedule a job today.

07.09
2025

Building Futures: Thackray Crane Supports MYWIC Camp 2025

For the second year in a row, Thackray Crane Rental proudly partnered with the Mentoring Young Women in Construction (MYWIC) Camp, an incredible program hosted by the NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation.

The camp is held during the summer months and is a free, week-long camp that introduces girls in 7th–12th grades to the diverse and rewarding careers available in the skilled trades—many of which are often overlooked as career paths for young women.

At Thackray, we believe that education comes in many forms—and MYWIC is a wonderful example of what it looks like when you expand the conversation beyond traditional college degrees. This camp opens eyes and builds confidence, helping girls see that they can pursue fulfilling, well-paying careers in fields that have long been male dominated.

Hands-On Learning in Action

As part of our ongoing commitment to lifting the next generation, Thackray got heavily involved with MYWIC 2025 and have campers the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of our most powerful equipment. Our cranes were on-site to hoist the official MYWIC banner high into the air—an exciting visual that kicked off a day filled with learning, teamwork, and hands-on experience.

Under the guidance of our skilled operators, campers got the chance to climb into crane cabs and learn about the controls, safety procedures, and real-world applications of this essential machinery. Many of the girls had never been that close to a crane before, let alone operated the controls—and seeing their reactions was a powerful reminder of why this program matters.

Inspiring the Next Generation

We were thrilled to have Mark W. Thackray serve once again as the camp’s instructor for crane operations, bringing passion, patience, and a deep knowledge of the industry to every interaction. His leadership and enthusiasm helped create a welcoming environment where the girls felt comfortable asking questions and trying something new.

This year, we were especially honored to welcome a father-daughter team to the event: Juan and Celeste Sanchez. Juan is a seasoned crane operator with Thackray, and his daughter Celeste is a fourth-year apprentice, crane oiler, and operator who is blazing a trail for women in the trades.

Together, they shared their experiences, answered questions, and showed the campers what’s possible when skill meets opportunity and support.

Celeste’s presence was particularly impactful for these young girls. Seeing another young woman confidently operating cranes and making a career in construction showed campers firsthand that they, too, belong in this space.

Her story is a living example of MYWIC’s mission: to break barriers, inspire leadership, and create access to long-term, family-sustaining careers.

A Community Effort

MYWIC wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of local construction firms and community partners. From providing equipment and facilities to offering time, mentorship, and logistical support, companies across the region come together each year to make this camp a reality. We’re proud to be part of that network, and especially proud of the Thackray team—including our staff and volunteers—who went above and beyond to make the day meaningful for every camper.

We’re also grateful to the team at the NAWIC Philadelphia Foundation for organizing such a thoughtful, empowering program and continuing to provide young women with new perspectives and opportunities.

Lifting the Future, Together

As the cranes soared and the campers smiled, one thing became clear: the future of construction is in good hands.

These young women are curious, capable, and eager to explore what’s possible. With the right exposure and encouragement, they can—and will—become the project managers, operators, engineers, and leaders of tomorrow.

At Thackray, we’re more than a crane company. We’re builders of opportunity. And we’ll continue to support programs like MYWIC that make space for every young person to rise.