Actual Customer Review from KCM Concrete Pumping
I went to World of Concrete without ever having seen a concrete pump in person, let alone operated one. My goal was to meet people in the industry, learn as much as I could, and decide if concrete pumping was something I truly wanted to pursue.
While I was there, I signed up for the American Concrete Pumping Association’s Line Pump Operator Safety Course. That’s where I met Chris Pernicano Sr., who was teaching the class. I learned a tremendous amount, passed the certification exam, and became an ACPA-certified line pump operator. But the biggest takeaway from the experience was meeting Chris Sr., Chris Jr., and Todd from Pernicano’s Line Pumps and San Diego Concrete Pumping.
Chris offered to bring me out to San Diego for hands-on training and to help me find the right pump to purchase. A few months later, I took him up on that offer.
They Didn’t Just Sell Me a Pump—They Helped Me Build a Business
From Zero Experience to Confident Owner: How Pernicano’s Set Me Up for Success
When my dad and I arrived in San Diego, Chris had an entire week thoughtfully planned with one goal in mind: giving me the knowledge and confidence to succeed. Throughout the week, we covered pump setup for a variety of jobs, operation, maintenance, and—most importantly—safety for both the operator and everyone on the job site. The training took place on real job sites, in the shop, and during planning meetings, making it an intensive hands-on experience.
It was a lot to absorb, but Chris and his entire team made it clear there were no stupid questions. They were willing to explain anything as many times as necessary until I fully understood it. Throughout the week, Chris regularly checked in to see what I wanted to review and where I had questions. He also made it clear that once I returned home, I could call him anytime if I needed help.
Another purpose of the trip was to look at several pumps I might purchase. What impressed me most was that, despite all the time and effort Chris invested in me, I never once felt pressured to buy a pump from Pernicano’s. It was obvious that his priority was making sure I ended up with a reliable machine that, combined with the training, would set me up for long-term success.
I ultimately purchased a 2023 SCHWING SP 500. Before it left their shop, Chris made sure it was as close to new as possible to minimize downtime from the start. In addition to a thorough inspection and general maintenance, they installed new mud cups, cutting rings, wheels, and brakes. Even better, they used that work as an opportunity to teach me how to perform those maintenance items myself. Chris also spent time explaining what to watch for during routine operation to maximize the pump’s reliability and longevity.
Beyond the pump itself, we talked extensively about the types of jobs I expected to encounter in my market. Based on those conversations, Chris helped me put together the right package of reducers, hose, clamps, and other accessories so I would be prepared for the majority of the work I’d be doing.
Since returning home to Michigan and starting my own concrete pumping company, I’ve felt confident—not only in my equipment, but in the training I received from Chris and everyone at Pernicano’s Line Pumps. Even after the sale, Chris has continued to answer the phone whenever I’ve had questions, whether it’s about planning a job, troubleshooting a blockage, or dealing with an alarm on the pump.
I can’t thank Chris Pernicano and everyone at Pernicano’s Line Pumps and San Diego Concrete Pumping enough for the time, knowledge, and genuine investment they made in my success. They didn’t just sell me a pump—they gave me the confidence and foundation to build a business. I truly believe I wouldn’t be where I am today in concrete pumping without my experience at Pernicano’s.
Michael Morfitt
KCM Concrete Pumping
Howell, Michigan
