Casin Swann (Secretary) Pavement Restorations, Inc.
Thomas Ford (Member) Massey Electric Company
Bryan Hay (Immediate Past Chair) SKANSKA
Justin Marcus (Past Chair) JOSEPH Construction
2025 Board of Directors
Tyler Baldridge BELL Construction
Andy Farmer Rodefer Moss
Steve Garner Blount Excavating
Thomas Hall Sherrard, Roe, Voigt, Harbison
Kirk Johnson Stowers Cat Machinery
Griff Irby Carter Group
Brent Neal F.E. Neal & Co.
Richard Smith Smith & Cashion
Michael Walker, Jr. Walker Electric
Ray Wallace Gaylor Electric
John Warner ABEC Electric
Roger White Rackley Roofing
LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
STEVEN BISHOP
Dear ABC Greater Members & Partners,
At ABC Greater Tennessee, workforce development is a key component of our mission. As the construction industry faces ongoing labor shortages, our commitment to equipping the next generation with the skills needed to succeed has never been more important. Through our Construction Trades Academies in Nashville and Knoxville, along with other workforce initiatives, we are transforming lives by providing high-quality construction training to individuals seeking a fresh start and a career with purpose. We are also assisting our member companies to train their employees up to provide the highest quality work in the construction industry.
ABC Greater Tennessee is dedicated to fostering a highly skilled, safety-conscious workforce through NCCER-accredited courses and Tennessee accredited pre-apprenticeship programs, as well as various other industry-recognized certifications. These initiatives help develop the next generation of construction professionals, ensuring our industry remains strong, competitive, and ready for the future. Whether we’re training new workers, upskilling existing employees, or advocating for policies that support workforce growth, we remain committed to building a pipeline of talent that drives economic success.
This May, we are proud to celebrate another incredible milestone—the 2nd Annual BuildFree TN Graduation Gala. This event is more than just a ceremony; it celebrates our hard-working apprentices as they graduate to become journeymen and women in their chosen fields. By removing financial barriers and partnering with industry leaders, ABC Greater Tennessee is preparing skilled professionals who are ready to contribute on day one.
In addition, we are excited to announce an upgrade to our curriculum in the Fall through NCCER Connect. We believe that this change in curriculum will provide a more challenging learning experience for our apprentices, and improve upon the options we now provide. In doing so, ABC Greater Tennessee can really stand out among competitors in the trades training field by educating our young men and women with a quality, certifiable education, and provide them with the tools necessary to succeed as we enter an ever-changing industry environment.
We invite you to join us in celebrating this achievement and supporting the continued success of our workforce development initiatives. Your involvement, whether as an employer, member, or partner, will help to strengthen our industry and chapter moving forward.
For the Merit Shop, Steven Bishop 2025 ABC Greater Tennessee Board Chairman
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT | NETWORKING | INDUSTRY SPECIFIC CONTENT
The NEXGEN Leadership Training Program is a six class series designed to enhance the leadership skills and industry knowledge of emerging high-potential construction professionals. Through these 6 educational sessions which incorporate leadership training, relationship building, and community involvement activities, ABC's NEXGEN program prepares professionals for current and future leadership roles within the industry and ABC. Additional activities might be added throughout the year.
PROGRAM TOPICS
What is ABC?
Comunity Involvement activities
The Politics of Construction
Understanding Construction Law
What It Means to Be a Leader in Construction
PROGRAM COMPLETION & COMMITTMENT
In order to recieve a certi cate of completion of the ABC Greater Tennessee NEXGEN program, attendees must attend a minimum of 5 courses. For those not seeking a certi cate, individual registration for individual classes are available.
*Completion of the NEXGEN program is a requirement for consideration for a Top Young Construction Professional award
ISO 9001: 2009
9001:
ABC STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Rachel Gorecki Marketing &
Member Services Manager
Q: Tell us about yourself?
Born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, I kicked off life with Primanti Bros sandwiches and Point Park University. After a three-year pit stop in Portland, MN, I followed my family down to Tennessee in 2023, trading my snow boots for sweet tea and loving every minute of it!
Q: What is your favorite ABC event?
EIC, hands down! There’s nothing like watching all the hard work come to life, celebrating our members’ amazing accomplishments, and being surrounded by so much energy and talent.
Q: What is your favorite part of working at ABC?
Q: How long have you been with ABC?
Joined in September 2023 as an Administrative Assistant, recently leveled up to Marketing and Member Services Manager.
Q: What is your favorite tv show/movie?
One of my all-time favorite movies is Walk the Line. As for TV series, I find myself watching shows like The Gentleman, and Bridgerton.
Q: What hobbies do you have?
I’m all about crafting, whether it's embroidery, macramé, or whatever sparks my creativity. Live music is my jam and cooking meals for my friends and family is always a great moment. I’m also always on the hunt for hidden thrift gems because you never know when you’ll stumble upon the next vintage goldmine!
Q: What is your favorite sports team?
I’m all about the Pittsburgh Penguins, but hey, I’ll happily cheer on the Preds too!
My favorite part of working at ABC? Without a doubt, our team. We’re like a big, supportive family, celebrating wins together, tackling challenges, and helping each other grow both professionally and personally. Behind the scenes, there’s so much passion and drive, it’s contagious. Plus, I get to connect with so many talented members who support our association, which makes the work even more rewarding and exciting!
Q: What do you enjoy most in your free time?
I’m always outdoors, no matter the season, whether I’m hiking, camping, kayaking, or snowboarding. I do miss the snow a bit since moving to Tennessee. I also find real joy in giving back to the community by volunteering at local gardens or more recently, assisting those affected by Hurricane Helene in Erwin, TN.
Q: Do you have any pets?
FUN FACT:
Camping near the summit of Mount Shasta, I woke up to find myself above the clouds.
I don’t have pets of my own... yet, but I’ve unintentionally started a pet-sitting business, so I get to love on plenty of furry friends! It’s l ike I’m a pet aunt without the permanent commitment.
Q: Who is your favorite singer/songwriter/ band?
I’ve got a lot of influences, but I’d say the foundation of my taste in music was shaped by the Grateful Dead, Led Zeppelin, and Slightly Stoopid.
ABC Greater Tennessee sits down
with Senator Bill Hagerty
By: Clay Crownover, President & CEO Associated Builders and Contractors Greater Tennessee
With the start of a new presidential administration, as well as a new Congress. ABC Greater Tennessee sat down with Tennessee Senator Bill Hagerty to discuss what Tennessee contractors can expect in 2025 and beyond.
United States Senator Bill Hagerty was elected to the U.S. Senate in 2020 and is currently serving his first term representing the state of Tennessee. His committee assignments include: U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, & Urban Affairs; U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations; U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations; and the U.S. Senate Committee on Rules & Administration. Prior to his election to the U.S. Senate, Hagerty served as the U.S. Ambassador to Japan, the world’s third largest economy and America’s closest ally in the region.
With DOGE at the center of the news, do you think there is a willingness in Congress to work with them to cut $2 trillion from the federal budget?
My Republican colleagues and I in Congress most certainly have the appetite for cutting wasteful, abusive, and fraudulent spending within the federal government. In just the first month of the Trump Administration taking office, Elon Musk and DOGE have uncovered vast amounts of spending that provide no benefit to the American taxpayer. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government (FSGG), and a member of the Senate DOGE caucus, I look forward to working with my colleagues on reducing and cutting even more wasteful spending that is uncovered. In my prior role in the Governor’s cabinet in Tennessee, where I served as Commissioner of Economic and Community Development, I slashed over 10 percent of the positions in the department I inherited. After streamlining the department, we saw our performance dramatically improve to a point where Tennessee is now at the forefront of economic development metrics.
With a worker shortage of 500,000 plus in the construction industry, our members are looking for answers on how to hire those that are here and want to work legally. Do you think there is finally an appetite in Congress, after first securing the borders, to address the worker shortage?
I have the privilege of traveling all across the Volunteer State throughout the year, especially during my annual Economic Development Tour, where I get to meet with small business owners, farmers, manufacturers, blue-collar workers, and our state’s workforce. One of the most prominent things I have heard across the state is how tough it is to find workers in certain industries, construction in particular. Many factors have contributed to the shortage we are seeing. And I’m focused on finding common sense solutions that will help the businesses and workers of our state. I think there is certainly an appetite in Congress to help address this shortage, but what we cannot have isoverregulation or government mandated rules that will actually end up hindering the growth of business and cause even more problems.
With tariff increases under consideration in the Trump administration, how do we balance boosting domestic production and keeping input costs low for federal construction?
Broadly speaking, we need to advance a trade policy that promotes economic growth, and allows us the flexibility to address abusive trade practices by other nations, such as Chinese mercantilism. In other words, it’s vital to pursue fair and reciprocal trade. In his second term, President Trump is negotiating with foreign countries to advance the interests of the American people and the businesses that serve them. His actions on trade policy—combined with deregulation, tax cuts, and other vital pro-growth policies—are key components of his plan to usher in another era of economic prosperity for our nation. As trade flows naturally shift away from places like China—the need to replace all that Chinese production will need to be met by some combination of U.S. domestic production and strengthened trade with America’s allies. And with respect to our allies, I have spoken with many foreign allies in recent weeks to encourage them to look carefully at their tariff and non-tariff barriers in a manner that allows us to harmonize our markets making greater economies of scale available to our industries and making us more competitive against adversaries and predatory nations.
Hagerty cont.
Tennessee politicians attribute Tennessee’s success and recent growth to the state’s pro-business and pro-worker regulatory environment. How can Tennessee maintain this beneficial environment and what can U.S. politicians do to make the country a better place to do business for global companies?
Local, state, and federal policymakers can reduce barriers to economic development. The first area is tax and regulation. When competing for investment, the jurisdiction with the most favorable tax and regulatory environment for businesses will have a serious competitive advantage, plain and simple. Cross-state migration patterns are clear: States that draw the newest residents from other states tend to have much lower tax rates. States losing population are among the most punitive taxers. In Tennessee, we are fortunate to have state and local leaders who understand this, and make decisions accordingly. Another important area is workforce development. Tennessee sets a great example. We’ve attracted a tremendous amount of capital investment into our state. We’re also matching that with new programs through community colleges and technical institutes.
The expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act could have a significant impact on small construction businesses who rely on their provisions to compete and reward their employees. Specifically, Section 199A provides specified individual and family-owned businesses with access to a 20% deduction and ensures they can compete with larger firms. Will this key provision be a priority for Republicans during reconciliation in the 119th Congress and could you see this deduction becoming permanent?
Rest assured, congressional Republicans will continue striving to advance a fiscally responsible proposal that lowers taxes, creates jobs, and drives investment in communities across the nation. These pro-growth policies helped unleash one of the strongest economies we have seen in quite some time. In the years following the bill’s enactment, the U.S. added seven million jobs, median household incomes surged higher, the poverty rate fell to an all-time low, and unemployment dropped to its lowest level in 50 years.
ABC frequently hears that high school counselors across the nation are emphasizing the path to success is a college degree. However, workers in the construction industry with trade school experience remain in strong demand and have access to rewarding career opportunities. Would you recommend a national strategy to bring more people into the trades?
When I travel across Tennessee, I visit several businesses that rely on workers from trade schools, tech schools, and community colleges. Partnerships with these schools are essential to providing businesses with the workforce they need to be successful. Tennessee has done a terrific job in building these partnerships, and our state is in a much better position than most states on the issue. In terms of a national strategy, I think this is best handled at the state level, given the variance of each state’s needs in specific workforce.
Be on the Lookout: Weekly Legislative Update Continues in 2025
ABC Greater Tennessee Launches Groundbreaking Dual-Enrollment Program in Knox County
By: George Lokken, Sr. Manager of Workforce Development Associated Builders and Contractors Greater Tennessee
In January, ABC Greater Tennessee launched a dual enrollment program with Knox County Schools. This exciting pilot program will be the first of many to offer valuable skills and credentials to high school students seeking career opportunities in the construction industry after graduation. Eight high school seniors chose to be a part of this inaugural cohort, with all committing to enter the construction field post-graduation, their future is bright.
With the vision of the ABC Trades Academy becoming a regional training hub for the growing need for skilled trades workers in East TN, ABC Greater Tennessee has partnered with Knox County Schools to help provide the necessary resources to support the local construction industry needs. One of the major emphases of these partnerships was to figure how best to connect with local high school
students and get them ready for careers. ABC Greater Tennessee was happy to create a pre-apprenticeship program that not only gave participants hands on experiences but allowed for job site visits and guest speakers that give insight on the many opportunities that are available in the trades.
With the hope that programs like these will not only build up our workforce but create high – wage jobs with zero debt for high school graduates, ABC Greater TN is excited to see how we can build on this program and offer it not only to Knox County but to the Nashville Metro area as well. Getting the next generation excited about careers in the skilled trades and creating opportunities for graduates is work that we are happy to do.
ABC Greater Tennessee Launches Groundbreaking Dual-Enrollment Program to Shape the Future of Skilled Trades
ABC Greater Tennessee is proud to introduce an innovative initiative that is set to transform workforce development in the construction industry. The Regional Dual-Enrollment Training Program, launched at the ABC Construction Trades Academy within the START Center in Knox County, offers high school students a direct pathway to careers in the skilled trades. This pilot program, developed in partnership with Knox County Schools and the Knox County Mayor’s Office, is the first of many designed to equip young individuals with the skills and credentials needed for success in the construction field.
Bridging the Gap: Education Meets Industry
The construction industry remains a vital pillar of our nation’s infrastructure, yet the demand for skilled workers continues to outpace supply. This program aims to address that gap by offering high school students a unique combination of academic learning and hands-on training. Eight high school seniors have joined the inaugural partnership, each committing to pursue a career in construction post-graduation. Their futures are bright, as this initiative provides them with practical experience and industry-recognized credentials, setting them on a path to success.
Through this program, students gain real-world experience in essential trades, including:
• Framing: Understanding the structural backbone of building projects.
• Electrical Work: Learning the skills required to wire homes, businesses, and industrial facilities.
• Mechanical Systems: Exploring HVAC fundamentals and other crucial building systems.
Classes are conducted during the school week by seasoned industry professionals who are passionate about mentoring the next generation. This ensures that students balance their academic responsibilities while preparing for apprenticeships and long-term careers in the construction industry.
Knox County Dual-Enrollment cont.
Strengthening Knox County’s Workforce
The impact of this program extends beyond the students themselves. By investing in workforce development, Knox County is positioning itself as a hub for skilled tradespeople who can meet the region’s construction needs. The program creates a steady pipeline of well-trained workers, easing recruitment challenges for local businesses and contributing to economic growth. Moreover, it instills a sense of community pride, as students participate in projects that directly shape their surroundings.
ABC Greater Tennessee’s vision extends beyond Knox County. With an eye on expansion, the organization aims to replicate this success in the Nashville Metro area and other regions across East Tennessee. By fostering high-wage job opportunities without the burden of student debt, this initiative serves as a model for workforce development in the skilled trades.
Flexible Learning for a Stronger Future
A key feature of the Regional Dual-Enrollment Training Program is its flexibility. Recognizing the diverse needs of today’s students, the program allows participants to earn both high school credit and industry certifications simultaneously. This makes it an invaluable stepping stone for students interested in apprenticeships or further education in construction-related fields. Additionally, job site visits and guest speakers provide insight into the vast career opportunities available in the trades, ensuring that students are well-prepared for their professional journeys.
Join Us in Building the Future
ABC Greater Tennessee remains committed to building a robust workforce and creating life-changing opportunities for students. Programs like these not only strengthen our local economy but also cultivate the next generation of builders, electricians, and tradespeople.
Highlights from February 18th Member Luncheon
with Knox County Schools 865 Academies
Moderator: Clay Crownover, President & CEO
(ABC Greater Tennessee)
Panelists:
Amanda Edsell, Farragut HS
Cassidy Taylor, Central HS
Kensey Zimmerman, Fulton HS
Sponsored by:
To learn more about this initiative, contact George Lokken, Senior Manager of Workforce Development in East Tennessee. With extensive experience and a passion for nurturing local talent, George is the go-to resource for students, parents, educators, and industry professionals interested in getting involved. Reach out to him via email at glokken@abctn.org or call 865-433-8323.
Together, we can shape a future where skilled trades flourish, young professionals thrive, and our communities grow stronger.
ABC Greater Tennessee Leads the Way: Donates $11,600 to the Appalachia Service Project to aid in Hurricane Helene Recover
By: Rachel Gorecki, Marketing & Member Services Manager Associated Builders and Contractors Greater Tennessee
Associated Builders and Contractors of Greater Tennessee (ABC Greater Tennessee) chapter is honored to announce that our chapter has donated $11,600 to the Appalachia Service Project (ASP) in Johnson City to support their vital Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. According to the Appalachia Service Project, ABC Greater Tennessee’s donation will go to assist in relief efforts for over 200 families.
This contribution reflects our steadfast commitment to aiding communities in rebuilding after natural disasters and fostering resilience where it is most needed.
A special thank you goes to ABC member Andy Allen of Allen Brothers Construction in Kingsport. Andy represented our membership helping to facilitate this impactful donation. His efforts exemplify the spirit of collaboration and community that define our association and its membership.
ASP has been instrumental in providing disaster recovery services, and we are proud to support their mission of bringing hope and stability to families affected by the hurricane. Together, we are helping to rebuild homes and lives, creating a lasting impact on the region.
We thank all our members who continue to contribute to initiatives like this, showcasing the power of unity and generosity within the construction industry.
(Pictured L-R: Melisa Winburn, ASP CEO; Clay Crownover, ABC Greater TN CEO; Andy Allen; Allen Brothers Construction; Chris Schroeder, ASP VP of New Build and Disaster Recovery)
Sponsors:
BREAKING THE STIGMA
Addressing Mental Health in the Construction Industry
By: Patricia Mason, Sundt Construction
The construction industry is no stranger to challenges, but one of the most pressing issues we face today isn’t just about materials, schedules, or budgets—it’s about mental health.
For those of us who have spent any time in this field, the reasons behind the struggle are clear. Long hours, demanding projects, tight deadlines, budget constraints, time away from home, job insecurity, and a culture that often equates toughness with silence all contribute to the crisis. As a result, construction ranks second in suicide rates by industry, with an alarming 56 deaths per 100,000 workers each year. That’s more than five times the number of fatalities caused by job-site incidents—a sobering reality for a field that prides itself on safety and resilience.
Recognizing the urgent need for change, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) launched new initiatives in 2024 specifically aimed at supporting the construction workforce. Thanks to a $7 million grant from Bechtel Corporation, AFSP has set an ambitious goal: to reach 500,000 construction workers with mental health resources and programming over the next five years. By leveraging scientific research, a public health approach, and strong community engagement, AFSP is providing free education, resources, and opportunities for workers to connect and support one another. Addressing mental health in construction is not just about awareness—it’s about action. That’s why helping high-risk populations, like construction workers, is a priority in AFSP’s 2025 three-year strategic plan. The reality is that workplace safety must go beyond physical hazards; it must include psychological well-being as well.
RESOURCES
As a board member of AFSP’s Tennessee chapter and a construction industry professional, I encourage companies, industry leaders, and workers alike to take the next step. If you’re wondering how to implement mental health initiatives within your company, I’d love to help. Feel free to reach out to me at afsptricia@gmail.com—I’m happy to share what has worked, answer questions, and help build a program that fits your team’s needs.
We have built some of the strongest structures in the world, but now it’s time to build something just as important: a culture that prioritizes mental health and dismantles the stigma surrounding it. AFSP is here to empower the industry with research, education, advocacy, and support.
We can change the trajectory of mental health in construction. Let’s work together to make this industry safer—not just physically, but mentally as well.
In an industry where physical risks are well-documented, modern construction safety is evolving to take a more holistic approach by incorporating mental health support, advanced technology, and cultural shifts. As jobsite demands increase and workforce expectations change, companies must adapt to ensure safer, healthier environments for all employees. Here are some key trends shaping the future of construction safety.
Emphasis on Mental Health Resources (Total Human Health)
Historically, construction safety has focused primarily on physical hazards—fall prevention, PPE compliance, and equipment safety. However, in recent years, mental health and well-being have become integral to workplace safety. Construction workers face high-stress environments, long hours, and the pressures of deadlines, which contribute to mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and substance use.
Forward-thinking construction firms are addressing these issues by integrating mental health resources into their safety programs. This includes:
• Providing access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
• Conducting mental health awareness training
• Creating peer support networks and mentorship programs
• Encouraging open conversations about mental well-being to reduce stigma
In 2024 T.W. Frierson rolled out several new programs and enhancements to take care of our most valuable asset—our people! Some highlights include:
• Free short-term mental health counseling through FirstStop Health for all employees and their families
• Sabbatical Program to promote rest and relaxation and to mitigate employee burn-out
• On-site chaplains for additional personal and emotional support
By treating mental health as an essential component of safety, companies can enhance overall worker well-being and productivity.
APPLY FOR STEP
SAFETY FEATURE cont.
Integrating Technology for Real-Time Safety Monitoring Technology is revolutionizing construction safety, with wearables and digital tools playing a crucial role in mitigating risks. These innovations provide real-time data that helps identify potential hazards before they lead to injuries. Key advancements include:
• Wearable Technology: Smart helmets, vests, and watches monitor worker’s vitals, detect falls, and even alert super visors if fatigue levels are high.
• Automated Risk Assessments: AI-powered software can analyze historical safety data to predict potential risks on a job site, allowing for proactive intervention.
• Connected Job Sites: IoT-enabled equipment monitors environmental factors like temperature, air quality, and noise levels, ensuring workers remain in safe conditions.
By leveraging these technologies, construction firms can shift from reactive safety measures to a proactive, data-driven approach.
The Shift in Safety Culture: Communication & Continuous Training Safety is no longer just about checklists and compliance—it is about fostering a culture where every worker, from leadership to laborers, actively participates in creating a safer work environment. This cultural shift involves:
◦ Ongoing Communication: More frequent and transparent safety discussions ensure workers stay informed about evolving hazards and best practices.
◦ Expanded Training Programs: Regular hands-on training, toolbox talks, and interactive safety simulations keep safety knowledge fresh and relevant for all levels. At T.W. Frierson, all field leaders are encouraged to complete the Safety Trained Supervisor Construction (STSC) certification. In 2024, 95% of our field leaders successfully obtained their certification, reinforcing the company's commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
◦ Increased Inspections & Accountability: More frequent site inspections and peer-led safety audits encourage workers to take ownership of safety protocols. In 2024, T.W. Frierson tracked 685 total inspections, logging 4,499 positive observations to celebrate safety-conscious efforts. Additionally, 1,188 negative observations were recorded as opportunities for learning and improvement.
A safety-driven culture improves job site morale and reduces incidents, ultimately saving time and costs associated with workplace injuries.
Use of Drones for Safety and Site Inspections
Drones are becoming a game-changer in construction safety, offering an efficient and effective way to monitor job sites while minimizing worker exposure to hazardous conditions. Their applications include:
• Site Inspections & Hazard Detection: Drones can capture high-resolution images and videos of hard-to-reach areas, reducing the need for workers to physically inspect dangerous locations.
• Progress Monitoring & Documentation: Real-time aerial footage helps identify potential safety risks before they become incidents.
• Emergency Response: In the event of an accident, drones can quickly assess the situation and provide crucial information for emergency responders.
T.W. Frierson has embraced drone technology as part of its commitment to safety and efficiency. Recently, 14 team members successfully passed their drone certification/licensing test, further enhancing the company's capabilities in jobsite monitoring and risk assessment.
Conclusion
The construction industry is rapidly evolving, with safety at the forefront of this transformation. By prioritizing mental health, integrating cutting-edge technology, fostering a proactive safety culture, and leveraging drones for risk mitigation, companies can create safer and healthier work environments. As these trends continue to gain momentum, the industry moves closer to a future where safety is not just a requirement but a shared commitment among all stakeholders.
ABC GREATER TENNESSEE VEGAS WITH MULTIPLE NATIONAL AWARDS & its MEMBERS LEAVE
ABC National ChairmanDavid Pugh (Bradley Arant Boult Cummings)
National Association Excellence Awards
ABC Greater Tennessee Chapter
Outstanding Membership Retention Award
Membership Growth Award
Membership Goal Achievement Award
National Careers in Construction Awards
ABC National Young Professional of the Year Ray Wallace- Gaylor Electic & ABC Greater Tennessee Board Member
National Excellence in Construction Awards
2025 ABC National Contractor of the Year Gaylor Electric
Specialty Contractor > Specialty Construction: Commercial > More than $10M
Eagle- Baker Concrete (Nashville Yards)
General Contractor > Institutional > $100 to $250M
Eagle- R.C. Mathews (Thomas F. Frist, Jr. College of Medicine)
Nashville/Brentwood, Tenn. — Jan. 14, 2025 — BELL Construction (BELL) today announced that Chris Bagley, P.E., has been named an additional owner of the company. Bagley, who has served as Civil Division Manager since joining BELL in January 2023, will take on an expanded leadership role, contributing to the company’s strategic direction and continued growth.
Bagley oversees operations for BELL’s Civil Division, specializing in heavy civil grading and utility work. A licensed professional engineer in Tennessee and Texas, he has more than 25 years of expertise in estimating, project management, design and design-build. He brings a wide array of certifications, including Licensed Master Plumber, Licensed Fire Sprinkler Contractor and Licensed Professional Engineer. These qualifications enable BELL to self perform critical infrastructure projects, enhancing efficiency and value for clients.
“Chris’s leadership has been instrumental in advancing our Civil Division, and we’re confident he will continue to positively shape the future of BELL and the communities we serve by building better, one relationship at a time,” said Eric Pyle, President of BELL Construction.
Bagley has worked at construction firms across Tennessee since 1999 and holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Jack Barrett Promoted to Vice President of Self-Performance
With great enthusiasm, T.W. Frierson is delighted to congratulate Jack Barrett on his promotion to Vice President of Self-Performance, a new role to the organization established to support Design Systems Builders, Professional Concrete Solutions, and Armory Door Openings. Since 1958, T.W. Frierson has partnered with clients across the southeast to design, develop and construct world-class facilities for thE world’s leading businesses including FedEx, Polaris, Prologis, and Nissan. Rooted in service, team development, and organizational support, the Vice President of Self-Performance signals a significant milestone as T.W. Frierson pursues excellence in integrated industrial project delivery, and Jack Barrett is the ideal candidate.
Having served in multiple roles, including field leadership in other notable Nashville construction firms, Jack joined T.W. Frierson in 2017. During Jack’s tenure, most recently as Project Executive, he led an operations team in executing several challenging projects, including Project Volt and the Prologis City View project, a landmark in the history of industrial development in Nashville’s core market. Additionally, he championed a refreshed corporate program to pre-qualify T.W. Frierson’s trade partners for multiple metrics, with a heightened emphasis on safety performance.
With his strong character and depth of experience, Jack seeks to streamline the external performance and internal integration of a longtime hallmark of T.W. Frierson’s core business—self-performing concrete, steel, and overhead doors and docks. President Kit Ozburn expresses gratitude and admiration for Jack’s continued leadership: “On behalf of all employee-owners at T.W. Frierson, we extend a heartfelt congratulations to Jack, Cindi, and his family for accepting the challenge to serve clients through excellence in self-performance and to enhance the experience of craft labor not only at T.W. Frierson but also throughout our industry.”
Jack himself shares his excitement for this new chapter: “It has been an honor and privilege to serve our clients, trade partners, and fellow Employee Owners in my various roles during my years at TWF. I am so thankful and excited to step into this new opportunity to serve and support our incredible self-performance teams as these men and women work so hard to put quality work in place for our clients each and every day.”
Empowering The Construction Industry: Tennessee's New Law Ushers in Third-Party Building Inspections
In a significant move to streamline construction processes and address housing demands, Tennessee enacted Senate Bill 2100 (SB 2100) in 2024, allowing developers to employ certified third-party professionals for building inspections and plan reviews. This legislation, effective from October 1,2024, aims to expedite project timelines and alleviate bottlenecks in municipal inspection departments.
Understanding the New Law
By: Clay Crownover, President & CEO Associated Builders and Contractors Greater Tennessee
The new inspector law authorizes developers to hire qualified third-party examiners, inspectors, engineers, and professionals instead of relying solely on local or state officials for certain permitting processes. This shift introduces a new dynamic in the construction industry, offering an alternative to traditional governmental oversight.
Key Provisions
The legislation outlines specific procedures and requirements for utilizing third-party services:
•Qualifications: Third-party plans examiners must be registered with the State Fire Marshal’s Office as a registered architect, registered engineer, or certified by the International Code Council (ICC) or National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) as a plans examiner for the type of plans being examined. Similarly, third-party inspectors are required to be registered as a registered architect, registered engineer, or certified by the ICC or NFPA as an inspector for the type of inspection being performed.
•Submission Process: Developers can submit plans reviewed by third-party professionals to municipalities, which then have 10 days to accept, reject with deficiencies, or request more information. If municipalities fail to respond within this period, the review proceeds to the State Fire Marshal's Office under the same timeline and options.
•Inspection Reports: Third-party inspection reports must be submitted within 10 days of the performed inspection. Municipalities have 10 days to accept, reject with deficiencies, or request more information. If municipalities cannot respond within the allotted 10-day period, the review proceeds to the State Fire Marshal's Office under the same timeline and options.
Rationale Behind the Legislation
The introduction of SB 2100 addresses several critical issues:
Expedited Processes: By allowing certified third-party professionals to conduct inspections and plan reviews, the legislation aims to reduce delays associated with limited availability of municipal inspectors, thereby accelerating construction timelines.
Resource Optimization: Municipal inspection departments often face resource constraints. This bill provides an avenue to alleviate their workload, enabling them to focus on other essential services.
Economic Growth: Faster project completions can lead to quicker occupancy and use, promoting economic development and addressing housing shortages more efficiently.
As the law took effect on October 1, 2024, municipalities and the State Fire Marshal's Office have been adapting to the new framework. Standardized forms and procedures are being developed to ensure consistency in submissions and reviews. The success of SB 2100 will largely depend on the effective collaboration between public authorities and private professionals, as well as vigilant monitoring to safeguard public safety and building integrity.
In conclusion, Tennessee's new third party inspector law represents a significant shift in the state's approach to building inspections and plan reviews. By integrating certified third-party professionals into the process, the legislation seeks to enhance efficiency and support the state's growth. However, careful implementation and oversight are crucial to balance the benefits of expedited processes with the imperative of maintaining safety and public trust.
