ABC South Texas Chapter Newsletter - Winter Volume by Michelle Davis

Winter Volume

A Year in Review

CHAPTER NEWS

Attract

• Build • Conserve

This year, our focus was on rebuilding and re-branding to ensure our members received maximum value in the areas of advocacy, business development, and education. Central to this effort was the unwavering support of an engaged Board of Directors, whose leadership and collaboration with staff provided the foundation for our success. Together, we strengthened our committees and affinity groups, (Future Leaders and LOGIC), by implementing structured meetings, robust programs, and leadership support through staff and Board liaisons. These efforts fostered growth, engagement, and meaningful collaboration across the organization.

Advocacy: A Powerful Voice for Our Industry

Our Government Affairs Committee achieved notable milestones this year, including:

• Meeting with local, state, and national elected officials in over 25 visits.

• Raising over $70,000 in local, state, and national PAC and FEA funds.

• Rejoined the San Antonio Business Coalition and Responsible Growth Alliance to strengthen our partnerships in the community and industry.

• Actively supported Proposition C at the local level.

• Partnered with AGC to address proposed local union requirements and the DOL wage survey.

• Brought back the bi-monthly meetings with Development Services, SAWS and CPS to ensure our members are receiving the latest updates and having their voices heard.

Business Development: Growing Together

We focused on growth and visibility for our members and organization by:

• Welcomed 32 new members and engaged with members through appreciation visits by the Board, Membership committee members and staff.

• Produced a comprehensive membership guide, new member orientation and launched a quarterly newsletter.

• Created impactful video content, including a year-in-review video and promotional videos for STEP and the apprenticeship program.

• Expanded our reach on social media platforms.

• Hosted a successful Dynamic Speaker Series and ensured our Lunch and Learns featured subject matter experts.

• Partnered with Noble Texas Charities Annual Fishing Tournament.

• Refreshed and energized networking events and joined with other associations for the best networking impact for members.

Education: Developing Current and Future Generation of Leaders

Our education initiatives saw significant growth, with new programs designed to meet the diverse needs of our members:

• Launched the Leadership Forum for mid-level managers, covering nine sessions.

• Introduced Intelligent Leadership for VP to CEO-level leaders and Advanced Communication training for field professionals.

• Conducted over 27 safety trainings and certifications to ensure workforce safety and compliance.

• Strengthened workforce development outreach through initiatives such as the CTE Bootcamp, successful and collaborative Trades and Career Day, numerous high school and university visits including career fairs, and participated on the UTSA Advisory CM Board.

Community Engagement remains a core value and the chapter engaged in meaningful community outreach with initiatives like Alamo Trades, a Coat and Toiletry Drive for CAM, rejoined Construct a Kid’s Christmas, and supported our veterans.

This year’s achievements reflect the dedication of our Board, volunteers, committees, members, staff, and leadership. Together, we have strengthened our foundation and positioned ourselves for even greater success in the year ahead. Thank you for being an integral part of our journey.

January 1, 2025

2025 Annual Sponsorship Program

The ABC South Texas Annual Program is a convenient, value added, marketing, events, education and training package that allows member companies to increase their exposure in the chapter and industry while saving money and making sponsorship decisions once for the entire year. Deadline to sign-up in January 31, 2025. Don’t miss out on this Excellent Opportunity!

The ABC South Texas Chapter News is published by the South Texas Chapter, Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC). ABC is a national non-profit trade association of contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and associates who share common interest in advancing the construction industry by aggressively supporting the merit shop philosophy. For advertising inquiries contact the chapter office at (210) 342-1992. Send comments or questions to 814 Arion Parkway, Suite 111, San Antonio, Texas 78216.

Message from the Chapter President

Michelle Seward Davis

The Importance of Joining a Committee

One of the most powerful ways to engage with our chapter is by joining a committee or affinity group. This message has been consistently shared at every meeting, event, and new member orientation because we believe it holds the key to a truly transformative experience. Many members first join for the networking opportunities, but they often discover something much deeper along the way—their true passion. This journey of discovery can be life-changing. By joining a committee, you can find your "WHY"—a purpose that drives and fulfills you both personally and professionally. Let’s break down our committee and affinity group structure to show how you can get involved and make an impact. Each of these groups meets monthly with a clear and structured focus, and we welcome all members to join.

Safety Committee

Focus: Monthly discussions on singular safety topics.

Goals: Foster open collaboration, share best practices, and promote participation in the STEP program.

Membership Committee

Focus: Member appreciation, recruitment, and engagement.

Goals: Develop ideas for events, improve communication, and enhance social media strategies.

Workforce Development Committee

Focus: Planning and executing impactful outreach events and initiatives.

Goals: Host Construction Career and Trades Days, collaborate with school districts, organize boot camps for CTE instructors, and deliver education for field professionals.

Government Affairs Committee

Focus: Advocacy at all levels.

Goals: Review proposed legislation, meet with elected officials, educate them on industry issues, and lead fundraising efforts for PAC and FEA.

LOGIC (Ladies Operating for Growth in Construction)

Focus: Empowering women in construction.

Goals: Foster mentoring relationships, deliver educational sessions, support community service initiatives, and promote events.

Future Leaders

Focus: Developing and empowering individuals in the industry.

Goals: Build networks, strengthen relationships, growth through education, encourage community service, and support UTSA CM outreach.

Getting involved in a committee is more than just a commitment—it’s an opportunity to connect, grow, and lead. These groups are the lifeblood of our chapter, providing members with the chance to make a meaningful difference. I encourage you to find a committee or affinity group that aligns with your passion and join us in shaping the future of our industry.

Let’s find your WHY together!

Chapter Staff Diamond Sponsors

Michelle Seward Davis President president@abcsouthtexas.org Dana Stone Accounting bookkeeper@abcsouthtexas.org Leah Villarreal Safety, Workforce, & Apprenticeship leah@abcsouthtexas.org Mary Delaney Events & Membership events@abcsouthtexas.org

Chantel Wilmer Admin Assistant frontdesk@abcsouthtexas.org

Annual Sponsors

Platinum

AiRCO

Americrane

Central Builders

Central Electric

Lynwood

Milwaukee

Gold

Alpha Building Corp

Dausin Electric

Gardner Law Firm

Harvey-Cleary

MK Marlow

SpawGlass

Silver

American Interiors

Cokinos

Dewalt

San Antonio Masonry & Steel

Bronze

Beck Landfill / Dispose-all

Quarter Moon

RSM

Board

of Directors Upcoming Events, Q1

Executive Committee

Jason Harmon, Chairman VIA Transportation

Chris Martinez, 1st Vice Chair Central Electric

Mark Baublit, 2nd Vice Chair

Marksmen General Contractors

Matt Delgado, Treasurer MidFirst Bank

Drew Addison, Secretary Acrisure

Bob Kilgore, Chapter Attorney

Gardner Law Firm

Board of Directors

David Cupit, Contractor Marek Brothers Systems

Eddie McDuff, Contractor Flo-Aire Service, Inc.

Russel Harder, Contractor

Bartlett Cocke General Contractors

Chris Christians IV, Supplier Lynwood Building Materials

Joel Frederick, Contractor Quarter Moon Plumbing

Rusty Medlin, Contractor Joeris General Contractors

Jim Robertson, Supplier Americrane Rentals

Rob Huddleston, Contractor AiRCO Mechanical

Brent Hawley, Contractor TDIndustries

Jonathan Bradley, Contractor SpawGlass

Leland Rocchio, Industry Professional

Frio Construction Consulting

WEDNESDAY

January 22, Membership2025Luncheon & New Board Installation Economic Outlook by PNC Club at Sonterra, 11:15 AM

TUESDAY-WEDNESDAY

January 28-29, 2025

Texas Legislative Conference Austin, Texas

WEDNESDAY

February 5, 2025

Rodeo Kickoff Happy Hour Gather Brewing, 5 PM

WEDNESDAY

February 19, 2025

Update with Development Services, SAWS & CPS ABC Office, 7:30 AM

THURSDAY

February 20, 2025

Lunch & Learn: VIA Update ABC Office, 11:30 AM

Monday-Thursday

February 24-27, 2025

National ABC Conference

Las Vegas

SATURDAY

March 1, 2025

Alamo Trades Day

Boys and Girls Club

WEDNESDAY

March 5, 2025

Clay Shoot & BBQ Cook-off supporting VETS

National Gun Club

TUESDAY

March 25, 2025

Lunch & Learn: Leadership with Retired Navy Seal, Eric Lundquist ABC Office, 11:30 AM

Building the Future

Engaging Students to Address the Skilled Labor Shortage

The skilled labor shortage continues to challenge the construction industry, making events like the 2024 Construction Careers & Trades Day more critical than ever. By engaging nearly 900 students with hands-on activities, student build-out competition, industry insights, and real-world applications, we’re inspiring the next generation to consider rewarding careers in construction.

This year’s event was a testament to the power of collaboration. ABC, alongside CIEF, AGC, SAMA, and ASA, worked tirelessly to showcase the diverse opportunities in our field. From skilled trades to cutting-edge technology, the construction industry offers pathways that promise stability, growth, and fulfillment.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the ABC members and the record number of volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to making this event a success. Special recognition goes to Stacey Gunderson with Marek for her exceptional leadership. We were also honored to have Texas Representatives Mark Dorazio and John Lujan join us, showing their support for workforce development initiatives.

Together, we’re building a pipeline of talent ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow and laying the foundation for a stronger, more vibrant construction workforce. If you would like to be part of the planning for the 2025 event, please join the Workforce Development Committee to learn more.

STEP

√ Safety Committee completed 2 trainings

√ 41 Applications to date and Members are encouraged to participate through the end of the year.

COMMUNITY

OUTREACH:

√ Construct a Kids Christmas: joined with trade organizations for December 6, 2024 event

√ High School Trades: 14 career fairs and presentations completed

√ WFD: outreach with Workforce Solutions Alamo, Teacher Bootcamp completed

√ ABC Student Chapters: A.C.E. presenting to the Board in April, Chapter sponsored UTSA Competition team, Chapter hosted TAMU team during working sessions, UTSA CM Advisory Board and Accredidation meeting

PROGRAMS & COMMITTEES:

√ All existing committees have been reengaged and calendar of events/ meetings are scheduled for 2024

√ Board Liaisons: Assigned

√ Past Chairs: January 3 meeting and plans for future involvement

√ Committees continue to grow and expand

√ LOGIC & FLI are back and thriving with a calendar of events scheduled

EVENTS

√ Dynamic Speakers: Retired Navy Seal, Will Chesney, June 19th

√ TCCI: partnered with CEIF, ASA, AGC and other community partners

√ Add Value: continuous improvement of events and programs

√ STEP Awards presented at EIC with a special presentation to highlighting safety

The Metric and Scorecard was introduced to Membership at the January Board Installment Luncheon. Below is the Q1, Q2 & Q3 progress by category. Q4 progress is in bold.

COMMUNICATION:

√ Social Media: Weekly posts/ new followers

√ Updates: President is using social media, events and email to communicate regularly

√ Newsletter: How do you like it?

√ Membership Appreciation

√ Website: Checkout the changes!

TRAINING:

√ Safety Topics & Training: full calendar

√ Professional Leadership graduation, July 10 and Senior Executive Sessions completed in August.

√ Field leadership: Communication class in May. Curriculum is being developed for teamwork and leadership.

√ Specialty topics:

Cybersecurity, February

Artificial Unleashed, April 16

Joint LEAN session, April 19

Navigating a High Risk, Post Pandemic Market, May 15

Succession Planning, July 31

Legal & Regulatory, Aug 13

Human Wellness, Sept 5

Culture Index, Sept 12

Surety & Economic Update, Oct 10

√ LOGIC & FLI Education Topics to date: Leadership & Networking

√ Field visits with Retired Navy Seal, Eric Lunquist to explore 2025 opportunities

ADVOCACY:

√ ABC is reengaged with RGA, Business Coalition and establishing relationships with Alamo Colleges for Mentor Protegee and Workforce Solution Alamo

√ National LEGCON: June 25-26

√ Government Affairs program continues to be strong and has met with City Manager, City Council, Workforce Development, SAWS, CPS, SARA

√ Worked with AGC, ASA and AIA to find common ground

√ AGC Joint Luncheon, DOL Survey Joint Luncheon April 1

MEMBERSHIP:

√ Annual retention ended at 95.7% based on revenue.

√ Membership Appreciation Q3 & Q4

√ New Members thru Q4: 32

√ Anniversaries celebrated monthly

PAC:

√ $46,317 has been raised to date

√ FEA: $24,015

APPRENTICESHIP:

√ Enrollment is complete & 53 new Level 1 Students

√ Graduation dinner: July 19

Quarterly Recap

Continued on Pages 20-21

LOGIC: Delivered collected Coats & Toiletries in October to CAM and November Session focused on personal safety and self-awareness

Future Leaders: Interactive session on Leadership covering topics on Self-Leadership, Finding Your Why and Calm is Contagious

ABC South Texas united with the San Antonio Business Coalition to support PROP C and participated at the City Hall Press Conference

Partnered with Noble Texas Charities to support their Annual Charity Fishing Tournament. Executive Team took 2nd Place overall!

Clay Shoot and Dove Hunt supporting VETS

Letter from Board Chairman

Jason Harmon, Chairman

It has been an incredible honor and privilege to serve as your Chairman over the past two years. This journey has been deeply rewarding, and I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the board, volunteers, committees, members, and staff for your unwavering support and commitment to our mission of merit shop and free enterprise. Your dedication and efforts have been the cornerstone of our collective success.

Serving in this role has given me the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the extraordinary passion, commitment, and collaboration that define this organization. Together, we have worked tirelessly to advance the South Texas Chapter with a shared vision of strengthening both our industry and our community. From the challenges we’ve faced to the milestones we’ve achieved, every step has been a testament to the strength of our mission and the resilience of our membership.

We have made tremendous progress in advancing our goals. Whether through advocacy efforts, enhancing business development opportunities, or strengthening educational programs, we have worked collectively to create meaningful impact for our members and the broader construction community. Each initiative, large or small, has been fueled by a shared commitment to the principles that unite us as a merit shop organization.

As my term comes to an end, I am excited to pass the torch to the next Chairman, Chris Martinez of Central Electric. Chris brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and vision to this role. I have no doubt that his leadership will continue to propel the South Texas Chapter to even greater heights. Chris’s deep understanding of our industry and his passion for our mission make him the ideal person to lead us into the future. I am confident he will inspire and guide this organization with integrity and purpose.

As I reflect on my time as Chairman, I am filled with pride and gratitude. Pride for what we’ve accomplished together and gratitude for the trust you have placed in me to lead. This role has been a privilege and a profound learning experience. I am confident that the foundation we’ve built will continue to drive the chapter forward, ensuring a bright and prosperous future for all.

Thank you for allowing me the privilege to serve alongside such an exceptional group of people. It has been an honor to lead, to learn, and to grow with all of you. The journey we’ve shared reaffirms the incredible potential we can achieve when we work together.

Supporting Merit Shop & Free Enterprise

Annual Chili Cook-off

Pickrell Park - October 29, 2024

The Chili Cook-Off brought the heat, with 20 teams battling it out to see who could deliver the best bowl of chili—and who could handle the bragging rights. Of course, no cook-off is complete without a dessert competition to settle the age-old question of who can bake their way to glory, a booth decorating contest to test everyone’s creativity, a jalapeño challenge that separated the spice lovers from the pretenders, and a stein-holding challenge that demanded true grit, willpower, and the survival of the fittest. The dunking booth was new this year, giving attendees the rare chance to soak Board Members and even the President—proving that leadership really does have its ups and downs. The whole event turned into a prime networking opportunity disguised as a day of “serious competition.”

Huge thanks to our sponsors and volunteers that made this event a huge success. Sponsors: American Interiors, Joeris General Contractors, CEMEX, Lynwood Building Materials Inc., White Cap, and MK Marlow Company, LLC. Chili Committee and Volunteers: Tess Shelton, Ryan Speer, Cole Wick, Wendy Wedgworth, Sara Stellges, Jordan Lee, Etan Lee, Ana Owens, Members of LOGIC, Future Leaders and the Veteran Community.

1st Place Dessert Challenge, CEMEX

Best Decorated Booth, AiRCO Mechanical

Stein-Holding Contest Winners

1st Place Chili Team, TDIndustries

2nd Place Chili Team, Robins & Morton

Jalapeno Challenge Winner, United Rentals

Braving the Plunge and Having Fun

Benefits of Membership

• Access to ABC Insurance Trust: Health, Ancillary, Retirementregardless of company size

• Discounts: Tech, Members and Employees

• National Peer Groups

• Employee Development through Committee Involvement

• Peer to peer collaboration

• Exclusive networking events and programs - build your relationships

• STEP and Safety Training

• Apprenticeship Program & Professional Development for management & field

• Strong Advocacy: National, State and local level - always defending the Merit Shop Philosophy

• Industry Recognition: Accredited Quality Contractor, Top Performers, STEP Levels, Excellence in Construction

Welcome New & Returning Members

1 Stone Solutions

ACTCO Structures & Logistics

ADKF, PC

Archer Western Construction, LLC

Axis Portable Air

Badger CPA

Bearcom

Bee Done Rentals

Bishop Lifting Products, Inc.

CM Constructors

Equipment Share

Frankenmuth Surety

Gilbane Building Companies

H&E Equipment Services

Holes of San Antonio

Infinity Commercial and Industrial Concrete

JMS CPA, PLLC

JunkStart

L.K. Jordan & Associates

Mobile Air & Power Rentals

Monterrey Iron & Metal

National Trench Safety, LLC

NCE General Contractors, Inc.

Proman Skilled Trades

Pro-Vigil, LLC

Rx Technology

SitePro Rentals

Texas Staffing Solutions

Ultimate LLC

VIA Metropolitan Transit

White Rock Construction Services, LLC

The Suspense is Killing Me: What Employers Can Expect from a Second Trump Administration

Robert D. Kilgore, Special Counsel, Gardner Law Firm - Chapter Attorney

Joe Biden pursued a pro-union agenda from the very beginning of his administration. Literally. Within hours of taking the oath of office, he fired the NLRB’s General Counsel (in essence, the agency’s version of a prosecuting attorney) and replaced him with a pro-union attorney who advocated such broad changes in how the National Labor Relations Act is interpreted that it tilted the playing field sharply in favor of Big Labor. As soon as Biden was able to replace members of the National Labor Relations Board, it began issuing decisions that overturned decades of legal precedent as well as just about every decision rendered by Trump’s appointees to the Board. Similar upheaval occurred at the Department of Labor, which oversees enforcement of wage and hour law.

Just as Rome was not built in a day, change does not occur in the federal bureaucracy overnight. What changes can employers reasonably expect to how existing laws are enforced under a second Trump administration?

1. Expect a Return to a Level Labor Relations Playing Field—Over Time

Just as Biden fired Trump’s NLRB General Counsel within hours of taking office, we can expect Trump to return the favor and replace the current General Counsel with someone who will work to undo much of the policy pushed under the Biden administration.

Due to the staggered nature of the appointment process for individual members of the NLRB, it will take time to appoint a majority who will reflect the policies of a new administration and begin to change rulings that have been made over the past four years.

As for legislative changes, the PRO Act, which (among other things) would have gutted protections to assure workers had the right to make decisions about unionization in a secret ballot election, is not likely to pass now that both houses of Congress are controlled by Republicans.

2. What Happens at the Department of Labor is Murky

It was a BIG surprise when Trump announced his nominee to lead the U.S. Department of Labor: Lori Chavez-DeRemer. She is one of only three Republicans who co-sponsored the PRO Act, and Teamsters President Sean O’Brien publicly backed her nomination to serve in this post. Ms. Chavez-DeRemer has always positioned herself as a supporter of unions and labor rights and is the daughter of a Teamster. However, she was a small business owner before starting her career in politics, and she is expected to toe the line when it comes to policies already endorsed by the President.

In her role as Secretary of Labor, Ms. Chavez-DeRemer really can’t influence what happens at the NLRB. However, she can directly impact wage and hour law— particularly the overtime rule. As you may recall, a federal judge recently blocked the (Biden) overtime rule from taking effect on January 1, which would have increased the minimum salary for exempt employees to $58,656 annually. The current minimum salary is $35,568. Expect history to repeat itself; when Trump was elected in 2020, he withdrew a large salary increase pushed by President Obama’s DOL and replaced it with a much smaller increase (the current minimum). An increase is likely, just not as huge as what Biden tried to require.

Earlier this year the Biden DOL rescinded a Trump-era rule and made it harder for businesses to classify workers as independent contractors. Most everyone (including yours truly) expected the new Trump administration to swing back to its earlier test. However, Chavez-DeRemer’s nomination puts this in doubt, as her support for the PRO Act is inconsistent with the prior (Trump) independent contractor rule. Whether or to what extent Chavez-DeRemer revises the current test for independent contractors will be a true test of whether she will be a friend or foe of business.

Conclusion

Undoubtedly, Donald Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris was a win for the merit shop. However, it remains to be seen the extent to which we will see a return to “the good old days.” Expect change, but it is too soon to say how much change there will be. Stay tuned!

Bob Kilgore is Chapter Counsel for ABC-South Texas. He is Special Counsel to the Gardner Law Firm and is Board Certified (Labor & Employment Law) by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Safe Driving Tips for Fleets

Samuel Palos, ARM, Acrisure Risk Management - Safety Committee Chair

Safe driving is a crucial responsibility for those in the construction industry, as fleet vehicles (e.g., cars, vans and trucks) are commonly used during projects and standard operations. Safe driving practices involve recognizing and addressing common driving hazards, including distractions, speeding, impaired driving, fatigue and adverse weather conditions. Safe driving is a conscious choice that can prevent accidents, save lives and reduce the costs associated with road incidents. It is essential for fleet drivers and all members to practice safe driving through defensive driving techniques, regular vehicle maintenance, adherence to company policies and respectful sharing of the road.

• Stay focused by remaining attentive on the road and avoiding distractions like texting, phone calls, eating and using in-car entertainment systems while driving. Keep conversations and activities with passengers to a minimum.

• Obey speed limits and reduce speed in adverse weather conditions or in areas with heavy pedestrian or cyclist traffic.

• Use turn signals when turning, merging and changing lanes to help other drivers anticipate actions.

• Never drive under the inﬂuence of alcohol, drugs or any substances that impair judgment or reaction times.

• Maintain a safe following distance and increase the following distance in adverse conditions or when operating a large vehicle.

• Wear a seat belt at all times and ensure all occupants in the vehicle wear them.

• Manage fatigue by avoiding driving when tired or drowsy.

• Take regular breaks on long journeys to stay alert.

• Adapt to weather conditions by adjusting speed and driving style to match current weather conditions and, if necessary, avoid driving in hazardous conditions.

• Check blind spots before changing lanes, turning and merging.

• Follow traﬃc rules, signals and signs, including yielding the right of way, obeying traffic lights and stopping at stop signs.

• Pass safely by checking surroundings, mirrors and blind spots. Use turn signals, don’t linger in blind spots and ensure the passed vehicle’s headlights are visible in the rearview mirror before pulling back in front of it. Avoid passing in unsafe conditions, near intersections and in no-passing zones.

• Perform regular maintenance and routinely inspect fleet vehicles’ brakes, tires, lights and other critical components, repairing them when needed. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper vehicle care.

• Drive defensively and exercise patience, especially in heavy traffic or with slower-moving vehicles.

• Stay calm, as road rage and aggressive behavior can escalate situations and endanger others.

• Watch for pedestrians and cyclists, especially at crosswalks and intersections, and always yield to pedestrians. Give cyclists adequate space when passing them.

• Plan routes in advance, especially for long trips and note alternative routes and potential rest stops.

• Use daytime running lights to increase visibility to other drivers.

• Stay updated on traﬃc and weather conditions, and be prepared for unexpected road closures or detours.

• Respect school zones by being extra cautious and adhering to reduced speed limit laws.

• Avoid driving when under extreme stress or emotional distress, as it can impair focus and decision-making.

Excellence in Construction Gala

The 2024 Excellence in Construction (EIC) Awards celebrated the outstanding achievements of the construction industry’s finest, with a strong emphasis on safety as a cornerstone of success in every project and practice. This year’s event brought together industry leaders, project teams, and supporters to recognize the innovation, quality, and dedication that define our field.

A Night to Remember

Held on November 21, 2024 at the Briscoe Art Museum, the evening was an extraordinary showcase of excellence, highlighting the industry’s unwavering commitment to safety as a foundational value. The venue, symbolic of history and the legacy that the Chapter is building across South Texas, provided a meaningful backdrop for the celebration. With over 300 attendees, the room was filled with anticipation and pride as we celebrated the remarkable projects and individuals who have elevated the standards of construction.

Honoring Excellence

This year’s awards highlighted the best projects across nine categories. The winners represented a diverse array of achievements, each demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship, impact and creativity,

Key highlights of the evening included:

Chapter Awards: Honoring individuals who have gone above and beyond for the Chapter and the construction industry. These exceptional leaders have set new standards of dedication and excellence.

STEP Safety Awards: Recognizing companies and teams for their unwavering commitment to safety and best practices on the job site. Safety continues to be a cornerstone of our industry, ensuring the well-being of workers and the successful completion of projects.

Eagle Awards: Celebrating projects that demonstrated excellence in construction and innovation across various categories.

Recognizing Our Team

A special thank you goes to the dedicated EIC committee and staff who worked tirelessly to organize this year’s Excellence in Construction Awards. Their hard work, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence made this event a resounding success. From planning to execution, their efforts ensured a memorable evening for all attendees. Committee members and volunteers included: April Bruce, Ana Owens, Debbi Hindman, Heather Osborn, Shalon Leblanc, Lucinda Sullivan, Geoffrey Tahuahua, and Ana Grace Husted.

Celebrating Our Sponsors

Events like the EIC Awards would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors: Noble Texas Builders, Robins & Morton, DEX Imaging, Lynwood Building Materials, Quarter Moon Plumbing, Garney Construction and SpawGlass.

Importance of STEP: Safety Program, Recognition & Advocacy

Leadership is the courage to be out front, to challenge the status quo, and to create a culture that is passionate in its belief that all incidents are preventable. A culture where safety is considered a moral obligation— not just for leaders, but for all employees.

This embodies the ABC STEP Safety Management Program, which our members have embraced wholeheartedly. We celebrate you for having the initiative, leadership, commitment, and courage to make this your standard and commend all 2024 recipients.

Participating in STEP also plays an important role in advocacy at the national, state, and local levels. By providing a measurable way to rate ABC members’ safety performance against industry standards, STEP helps educate elected officials and strengthens our ability to advocate for the Merit Shop. This is especially critical when governments propose additional regulations and ordinances, such as Project Labor Agreements or heat ordinances to name a few.

If you’re not currently a STEP participant, we highly encourage you to get involved. The process takes only about 30 minutes to complete, and the Safety Comm first training session on February 12th at noon at the ABC Office. To learn more on the National Website: https://www.abc.org/ABCSTEP