Our Story

Perry Co. Excavating's story began in 2010. The closure of a local excavation company resulted in limited options for the community's excavation needs. Our president, Tara-Dawn Hazen, is a proactive entrepreneur, always looking for a new venture. This opportunity was markedly different from her other businesses. It also presented a new and monumental obstacle. The excavation industry is predominately men. She saw this as a challenge, which further fueled her determination to demonstrate that women could excel in this field.

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Using her savings, she provided a loan to the company for the purchase of a pre-owned triaxle and excavation equipment, which was the start of Perry Co. Excavating.  The first woman-owned excavation business in her local community.

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Although Tara-Dawn was familiar with the dynamics of start-ups, this one posed a new and unique learning curve. Her management approach evolved continuously as the business progressed. One of her most formidable tasks was mastering the operation of the machinery, driving the trucks, and performing excavation. Despite being incredibly intimidating for her, her determination to succeed drove her forward. Fortunately, her then-boyfriend, now husband, had extensive experience in excavation. This proved invaluable in helping her steer the company in the right direction.

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Tara-Dawn original plans were to expand the business in 2020. This plan was swiftly disrupted by the COVID pandemic. As a result, she shifted her focus towards obtaining her woman-owned business certifications, a goal she had aspired to achieve for many years. Obtaining these certifications can be difficult and requires significant effort and time, especially when one chooses not to utilize the assistance of an attorney or consulting firm. Consequently, getting the certifications was repeatedly relegated to a low priority. Nevertheless, by 2024, she was successfully awarded certifications as a WBE, DBE, SBE, SB, SDB, WOSB, and EDWOSB.  ​​​

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​​Tara-Dawn has always had a passion for animals, especially horses. She previously owned Outlaw Stables, a full-service hunter/jumper riding and training facility, as well as an import/export business. Along with Perry Co. Excavating, she also owns Pampered Pooch by TD, an online store specializing in custom dog collars. While managing the business development, planning, and growth of Perry Co. Excavating, Tara-Dawn remains actively involved in animal rescue and philanthropic efforts. 

Additionally, she dedicates her time to various volunteer organizations, serves on several boards, and coordinates an annual charity project each year. 

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Perry County Excavating's current focus is expanding its hauling and trucking division and establishing collaborative partnerships as a subcontractor on state and federal projects. They also offer a wide range of excavating services to both residential and commercial clients. Their operations are focused in the Central Pennsylvania region, specifically in Perry, Juniata, Cumberland, Dauphin, Snyder, Northumberland, Lebanon, Lancaster, Franklin, Adams, and York counties.

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