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We Help Our Members DEVELOP PEOPLE
ABC is committed to educating craft and management professionals through innovative methods such as just-in-time task training, competency-based progression, work-based learning, and apprenticeships, fostering a safe, skilled, and productive workforce. ABC offers a multitude of programs, seminars, conferences, webinars, and workshops to all active members to increase their knowledge base.
Young Professionals Program
385 Attendees
8 Programs
ABC's Young Professional (YP) program, dedicated to nurturing the next generation in our industry, had a dynamic 2023.
Highlights included:
Golf Tournament Fundraiser: This event was a collaboration with Student Chapters and YP's, aimed at raising funds for the Construction Management Competition. It's not just a golf tournament; it was an opportunity for students to network with professionals, learn about the industry, and showcase their skills in a competitive yet friendly environment.

After-Hours Networking at Solar Bears Hockey Game: An exciting evening planned for industry leaders, Board members, and mentors at a Solar Bears hockey match. This wasn't just a game; it was a chance to build relationships, discuss industry trends, and enjoy a thrilling sports event in a relaxed atmosphere.
Exclusive Tours: Participants had the unique opportunity to visit several significant sites and projects, including:
- Evermore Orlando Resort: A chance to see the inner workings of a major resort.
- OUC Epic Energy Plant: An educational tour focusing on energy production and sustainability.
- Kings Crossing in Sanford: Insight into this specific construction project.
- Tours with industry-leading contractors like PCL Construction Services, Inc., S.I. Goldman Company, Inc., and J. Raymond Construction Corporation: These tours offered a behind-thescenes look at the operations of top construction firms.


Trivia Night at a Local Brewery: This fun and engaging event for Young Professionals tested their knowledge on various topics, including the history of ABC, construction industry jargon, and famous movies. It was a great way to learn, network, and enjoy a casual evening.
Financial and Credit Building Session with Gene Martin from Chase Bank: An informative session helped participants understand and improve their financial health. Gene Martin from Chase Bank provided insights and strategies for building credit and managing finances effectively.

Thanksgiving Food Drive for One Heart for Women and Children: A heartwarming initiative focused on giving back to the community. This food drive supported One Heart for Women and Children, demonstrating the organization's commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.

Each event was crafted to offer entertainment and value, while also nurturing community bonds and professional development, providing Young Professionals with priceless opportunities to connect, learn, and thrive within the merit shop philosophy.
Young Professional Of The Year

Isaac-Joshua Barton
Senior with UCF Student Chapter Constitution Construction Company, LLC
“The future of our industry is in the hands of our young professionals. We as an industry need to attract more young talent, train our young talent, and grow them to be our next generation of leaders. Getting involved with the ABC YP’s is the start of creating this foundation of future growth.”
– Julie Holmes, 2024 ABC CF Chair

NEXGEN Leadership 2023
25 Graduates
18 Companies
The NEXGEN Leadership Program is an avenue to build industry connections, strengthen leadership mind-set, promote teamwork, and spark creative abilities through an array of industry-based classes and experiences.

ABC leadership candidates are among the best and brightest and NEXGEN provides an opportunity to strengthen an industry peer network of leaders within our community.

NEXGEN Leadership Program is an 8-month curriculum designed to enhance participants knowledge through leadership coaching, industry specific content, and peer networking. This program creates experiences with central Florida project leadership, decision makers, model design teams, and a healthy balance of fresh and seasoned industry role models. Off-site locations are often paired with a site tour to align with the session topic.

NEXGEN LEADERSHIP 2024
The graduating class of 2023 had 25 graduates from 18 companies with over 30 companies participating as contributors such as presenters, sponsors, panelists, and venue sponsors. Enrollment for the class of 2024 has 25 participants.
The NEXGEN Class of 2024, comprising 25 students from 23 diverse companies, has had an impressive start. Our first session on September 18, 2023, at the ABC Office, combined interactive activities with insightful learning, including Predictive Index Assessment discussions and a chance for students to meet the Board of Directors.
Continuing the momentum, on October 26, 2023, at TRANE Technologies in Maitland, the class explored our partnership with the Academy of Construction Technologies (ACT). Shel Hart's presentation, "Your Blueprint for Success," was a significant highlight, offering valuable insights to the attendees.

The class then gathered on November 16, 2023, at Gray Robinson in Orlando. This session focused on Public Policy & Political Advocacy, featuring Kenneth Mouradian's perspectives on the US Dept. of Commerce's support for Central Florida's Construction Industry and discussions on immigration policy and ABC's Government Affairs Committee. The day concluded with an inspiring tour of The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
As we reflect on these enriching experiences, we are excitedly promoting the class of 2025, anticipating another year of growth, learning, and community engagement in the NEXGEN program.
Get Your Leaders Involved and Unlock Their Leadership Potential with NEXGEN 2024! Scan QR code or contact training@abccf.org
“The NEXGEN Program enabled me to identify key leadership traits within myself and provided several different professional experiences that would help guide me through some of the leadership challenges within our industry. I highly recommend industry leaders of Central Florida to attend this program no matter what stage of their career they may be in.”