A Letter from the Chair

by: shawn worsham, worley

As 2021 ends and 2022 begins, I find myself reflecting on the events of 2021 and wondering what 2022 will bring. With every new year I am refreshed with the optimism of what the future holds and this year is no different, despite natural concerns. The challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic continue to significantly impact our lives as well as our communities, our state, our country, and the world. While at times these challenges have undoubtedly been difficult and perhaps even overwhelming, I am lifted by what we have achieved and have been able to overcome. We were able to move into a sense of normalcy even though it might be slightly different than PreCOVID. Construction continued to be an essential service. Many companies still had work-from-home employees, but most continued the transition back to their offices under the correct safety protocols. As an association we were able to have social events and face-to-face training resumed with over 2000 individuals receiving training. The desire to be dealt with fairly in life and in professional pursuits remains a cornerstone for many individuals and for this association. Trust, honesty, integrity and a sense of fair play are not antiquated beliefs. They are the bedrock of well-regulated communities, associations and business pursuits. Not everything old is obsolete and not everything new is better. They say that change is the only constant. As such we must evolve with the times or be left behind, but we should never lose site of our fundamental beliefs and core values. With all the promise of what the future may hold we still have significant political challenges that could impact business and our association. The renewed emphasis on Labor Agreements that would benefit one group over another is contrary to our most basis tenant of free enterprise. Changes made to the National Labor Board will continue to have impacts that will take resources to fight. Other issues like the vaccine mandate, supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and inflation will continue to impact businesses in 2022. These issues and others will shape and influence the 2022 mid-term elections As we reflect and look to the future, I wanted to repeat some key efforts shared in a previous ABC Pelican newsletter. With your help I have no doubt that our best days are ahead, but we must continue working side by side with our members to: • Ensure this industry continues its essential work during the national health crisis. • Advance the cause of open and fair competition. • Create invaluable and innovative opportunities for our members to connect and sustain strong business relationships. • Develop and educate the next generation of craft professionals. • Prioritize the safety and health of our member companies most valuable assets, their workforce.

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