AGC Georgia is The Construction Association, building the best and most innovative contractor association in Georgia.
MISSION
AGC Georgia is The Construction Association, building a robust industry through advocacy, workforce development, safety, relationships, and benefits.
ORGANIZATION PROFILE
AGC Georgia is the statewide trade association of choice for commercial construction professionals and the industry at large. Our primary role is simply to help make a stronger construction industry by providing members access to the resources and tools they need to improve their businesses. Our collective voice and clout allow us to advocate for policies and programs that protect the best interests of the construction industry.
AGC Georgia member firms perform the majority of the commercial construction work in Georgia and include nearly 650 of the top general contractors, residential/light commercial builders, construction managers, design-builders, municipal-utility contractors, heavy and highway contractors, specialty contractors, service providers, and suppliers.
We are one of AGC of America‘s 88 chapters that represents 28,000+ firms nationwide. AGC Georgia members are automatically enrolled as members of the national association.
MEMBER SERVICES AND ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
• Industry Advocacy and Representation
• Safety
• Education & Training
• Professional/Leadership Development
• Young Leadership Program
• Governmental Affairs & Agency Relationships
• Workforce Development
• Executive Alliance
• Workers‘ Compensation Program
• Retirement Savings Plan
• Networking & Building Relationships
• Career Development
• Marketing Opportunities
• Industry & Association News
• Economic Resources
• Contract Documents
• Award & Recognition Programs
• Member Savings/Discounts
• Community Service/Giving Back
• Development of Industry Best Practices
Joe Tuggle, President
Tuggle Construction, LLC
Peachtree City, Ga.
2024-2025 President
AGC Georgia
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
As I wrap up my term as president of AGC Georgia, I find myself reflecting on the many chapters of my career and how this association has been a constant through them all. My journey began back in 1982, just after I graduated from Auburn University and started work with one of our industry’s most engaged member firms. Since that first job, every company I’ve had the privilege of working for has proudly maintained its membership with AGC Georgia. That says something about the caliber of the people I’ve worked with – and about how deeply I believe in the mission of this organization.
Over the years, I’ve learned a great deal from those who came before me. Many of AGC Georgia’s past leaders have served as mentors, and I’ve always been grateful for the wisdom they shared – whether through formal board meetings or quick conversations at jobsite visits or annual conventions. Their example shaped my own leadership path, and I’m honored to have had the chance to give back.
This past year, I had the distinct privilege of serving as President during one of the most important milestones in our association’s history: the leadership transition brought about by Mike Dunham’s retirement. Having been involved with AGC Georgia since before Mike started his tenure in 1995, I can tell you – his impact is immeasurable. His 30 years of steady, strategic leadership have positioned us for continued success, and I’m proud to have been a part of ensuring that transition goes smoothly.
“This past year, I had the distinct privilege of serving as President during one of the most important milestones in our association‘s history: the leadership transition brought about by Mike Dunham‘s retirement.”
I’m also proud of what we accomplished together during my term. With the support of our Board of Directors, we allocated more than $115,000 in reserves to support the passage of critical Tort Reform legislation – an investment that strengthens our entire industry. It’s rewarding to see AGC Georgia’s efforts are paying off with unprecedented support for K-12 construction education. For the first time ever, more than $1 million was included in this year’s base state budget for programs that introduce elementary through high school students to construction careers – thanks to the proven success of our Skills Challenges and school outreach efforts.
The Central Georgia Skills Challenge holds a special place in my heart. I was there in its early days, and seeing it grow to serve nearly 25 high school programs and hundreds of students is one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Watching young people discover this industry, develop skills, and find purpose – there’s nothing quite like it.
To my fellow Executive Committee members, thank you. Over the past four years, we’ve built more than just policy and plans – we’ve built real friendships, and I’m grateful for each of you. As I pass the gavel, I do so with confidence in our future, pride in our past, and deep appreciation for all this association has meant to me. It has truly been the honor of a lifetime.
CEO’S MESSAGE
I don’t usually spend much time looking in the rearview mirror – but this moment feels different. This marks my 30th Report to Members … and it will also be my last. As many of you already know, I’ll be retiring later this year.
One of the things I’m most proud of – maybe even more than any single initiative or project – is that we’ve approached this transition with the same strategic care and foresight that have guided all our work over the years. Together, we committed to getting it right.
I announced my retirement a year ago, and since then, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with our Board and a dedicated search committee to find the right person to carry this work forward. I’m happy to say we found that person in Zach Fields, who’s already been stepping into the role and getting to know this association from the inside out. I know you’ll welcome him with the same support you’ve given me throughout the years.
I could run through a list of milestones from my tenure, but what I’m most proud of is how this report shows why AGC Georgia has been one of the premier construction associations in the country and how that momentum will carry you far into the future. I hope you’ll take time to review our most recent successes highlighted on the following pages.
In 1995, the younger me had no idea how deeply rewarding the next 30 years would be. Thank you for the privilege of serving this great association and its remarkable and talented members.
“I could run through a list of milestones from my tenure, but what I’m most proud of is how this report shows why AGC Georgia has been one of the premier construction associations in the country and how that momentum will carry you far into the future.”
None of our progress – none of the big wins or quiet victories – would’ve been possible without a talented staff and a deeply committed group of member volunteers. I’ve always been a bigpicture guy, and the AGC Georgia team members have filled in the details – pulling off incredible events, connecting with students, improving safety across the industry, and helping our member companies operate at the highest level. They’ve turned vision into reality, year after year.
You might be wondering what’s next for me. Well, I’ve never been one to sit still for long. I’m looking forward to proudly serving as head of transportation and chief snack officer for my grandkids’ sports teams. I’ll enjoy slowing the pace a bit and spending more time on the things that matter most – family and friends.
Thank you for your support and friendship. This has been a wonderful journey for Debbie, our girls, and me.
Wishing you all the best,
Michael T. Dunham
Chief Executive Officer
AGC Georgia
MILESTONES MOMENTUM
AGC Georgia members operate in one of the most complex and demanding business environments in the country. From shifting regulations to intricate project logistics, the challenges are real – and relentless. As the voice of Georgia’s construction industry, we have never shied away from that complexity. Instead, we’ve embraced it, setting ambitious milestones and consistently delivering results that help our members succeed and move the industry forward. That focus has fueled our momentum in strong markets and sustained us through tougher times. Today, we’re not just well-positioned for the future – we’re building it.
CHAMPIONING INDUSTRY INTERESTS
AGC Georgia committed significant resources as our leaders joined with other business stakeholders to help pass Tort Reform (Senate Bills 68 & 69) during the 2025 Legislative Session. Members and staff attended Governor Kemp’s signing ceremony in April 2025.
With a strong, unified voice, AGC Georgia shapes legislation and regulatory policy year after year. Our reputation is built on trust and integrity as we cultivate relationships with lawmakers and agency leaders. We identify threats to our industry and educate policymakers before harmful proposals can gain traction. By engaging early, we ensure that our industry’s perspective is heard and understood. Because our credibility is widely recognized, we’re often called on to brief officials outside our industry – they know they can rely on AGC Georgia for clear, informed insight.
AGC GEORGIA IN THE LEGISLATURE
AGC Georgia Initiated Bills Signed Into Law
HB 137 Public works advertising threshold increased from $100K to $250K
HB 635 Updates contractor licensing process
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
$1,000,000 included in 2026 state budget for K-12 construction education
POLITICAL
ACTION COMMITTEE CONTRIBUTIONS
95% of AGC Georgia members contribute to the PAC
$95,500 to 152 candidates for Georgia Legislature
$11,500 to state-wide candidates
97% of supported candidates won their races
BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS
236
General Assembly guests invited to reception at 191 Club
STAYING IN TOUCH AT BREAKFASTS, LUNCHES & DINNERS
• House Governmental Affairs Committee Dinner
• Senate State & Local Government Dinner
• Joint House & Senate Education Dinner
• House Judiciary Committee Dinner
• Senate State & Local Government Dinner
• House Democrats Women’s Breakfast
• Senate Government Oversight Dinner
• House Regulated Industries Dinner
• House Technology & Infrastructure Innovation Lunch
• Legislative Counsel Lunch
• House Ag Committee Dinner
60
Industry specific bills tracked out of more than 3,000 introduced in 2025
Victory for Business Community
Invested $115,000 for passage of Tort Reform
Senate Bills 68 & 69
CODE CHANGES
• Testified before the State Codes Advisory Committee
• Eliminated code requirements for AFCIs in kitchens & laundries
1
Legislative Day for AGC Georgia members, including presentations from Board of Regents, GSFIC and GaDOE
TESTIMONY, SPEECHES
& CONTACTS
100+ Hours spent engaging in legislative committee discussion and testimony on bills of interest
2 Staff members addressed Construction section of the Georgia Bar Association
Daily Contact with legislators and state officials
Often Met with Georgia Chamber of Commerce and Competitive Georgia to align goals
House Bill 137 Signing Ceremony
EXPANDING CIRCLES, BUILDING INFLUENCE
Industry relationships are developed in a variety of ways. From participating in conferences to committee meetings to charitable events and social outings, members grow their networks. The weather was perfect at the 2025 Winter Meeting for this group of members to enjoy snowmobiling in Park City.
We’re stronger together. Whether it’s leaning on colleagues to overcome challenges or discovering new sources for talent and materials, connecting with fellow industry professionals makes the job not only easier, but more rewarding. Many industry veterans say the relationships they’ve built through AGC Georgia are among their most valued – both professionally and personally. Each year, AGC Georgia hosts a range of events designed to spark new connections and deepen long-standing ties across the construction community.
“No one can whistle a symphony.”
– H. E. Luccock, Yale professor & Methodist minister
91.2%
Member firms are engaged with services and programs
CREATING CONNECTIONS
1,417
Members registered for networking events over the past year
• Members First – Prime networking opportunities across Georgia
• Bases & Business – Network in private setting at Braves game
• Marketplace – Members shine a light on their offerings and invite you to connect
• Building Georgia Legislative Day – Be on hand to greet legislators as they start their day
• Women in Construction – Social events in March during “Women in Construction Week”
WINTER MEETING
83/22
83 people from 22 firms held peer-to-peer discussions and then hit the slopes
ANNUAL CONVENTION
629/98
629 people from 98 firms enjoyed family fun. Relaxed atmosphere makes networking easy
FALL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
148/58
148 people from 58 firms. Enjoy getting to know your peers in a smaller venue while growing your leadership skills
MEMBER OUTREACH
612
staff visits to member offices & jobsites. Perfect time to be heard and maximize engagement opportunities
WHERE ENGAGEMENT MEETS IMPACT
Professionals enrolled in the Executive Alliance program benefit from in-depth leadership retreats three times a year. AGC Georgia offers a variety of opportunities for team members to elevate their skills and careers, regardless of their role, experience level, or professional path.
AGC Georgia helps move your teams forward by delivering essential skills training and knowledge at every level. Safety education remains a core part of our mission, alongside cultivating leadership within your company. Some of our classes keep your workforce safe, healthy and on the job, while others focus on building leadership expertise and developing the next generation of industry champions.
EDUCATION
712 total participants
83 unique courses held
8 courses a month
49% of participants were virtual attendees
153 unique companies used our training services
36% Specialty Contractor participants
64% General Contractor participants
63% participants from metro Atlanta
37% participants from outside metro Atlanta
EXECUTIVE ALLIANCE
79/48 79 top-level executives from 48 firms
3 Leadership Retreats
SAFETY
> 40 contractor firms are represented on the AGC Georgia Safety Committee and Southeast Georgia Shared Interest Group. Participants benefit from connections with peers for best practice sharing and open dialogue with engaged OSHA compliance officers during regularly held meetings. General and specialty contractors collaborate to elevate conversations on creating the safest workplaces for project field teams.
104/50 104 safety professionals from 50 member firms joined 400 others at Georgia’s largest annual Safety Conference in Savannah. The program was co-hosted by AGC Georgia and The Home Depot over three days.
598/50 598 superintendents and foremen representing 50 general and specialty contractors were honored with the Amerson Supervisor Safety Award in 2025.
POPULAR COURSES INCLUDE:
• Blueprint Reading
• Construction Quality Management
• Construction Supervision Fundamentals
• CPR, First Aid, Narcan and Bloodborne Pathogen Training
• Effective Communication
• Georgia Lien Law
• Microsoft Project Scheduling for Construction
• OSHA 10- and 30-Hour Courses
• Project Manager Development Program
• Supervisory Training Program Series
• Lunch and Learn sessions
YOUNG LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
172/86 172 of the brightest stars from 86 firms
1,180/17
YLP events drew 1,180 participants to 17 social outings, fundraising events for charitable giving and professional development sessions.
READY TO RISE
The future of our workforce depends on the actions we take today. Without continued investment, even the strongest companies risk losing ground. As Warren Buffett wisely said, “Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” By introducing children and teens to the rewarding, high-paying careers our industry offers, we’re laying a strong foundation and inspiring the next generation of builders and leaders.
Carpentry student competes in the West Georgia Skills Challenge hosted in Columbus this past fall.
2024 SKILLS CHALLENGE SERIES
8 Skills Challenges in Northeast Georgia, Metro Atlanta, Central Georgia, Northwest Georgia, West Georgia, Southeast Georgia, South + Southwest Georgia and East Georgia
8 SkillsUSA Georgia qualifying areas: Cabinetmaking, Carpentry, Electrical, Masonry, Plumbing, TeamWorks, Welding and Welding Fabrication
6 additional skill areas, including Blueprint Reading, Heavy Equipment Operations, HVAC, Metal Studs/Drywall, Roofing and Sheet Metal
1,196/104 1,196 student competitors from 104 schools
970 student observers connecting with industry pros
Over $600K cash & in-kind contributions from industry
20% minority student participation
197 winners from Skills Challenges advanced to state competitions
11% of 197 winners qualifying for state competitions were female
330 students placing in their competition received industrygrade tools. Milwaukee and DeWalt donated more than $40K in tools for those winning first or second place.
FREE No costs for students and instructors to participate. The construction industry provides food, materials, handson activities, and prizes.
$215K The Skills Challenge series contributed to construction classrooms for materials, tools and PPE.
ATTRACTING STUDENTS
25 Programs Together with Construction Ready, AGC Georgia supports existing elementary and middle school construction programs and works to help launch new ones. By developing interest in construction early, students are more likely to enroll in high school programs and ultimately pursue careers in the industry.
Students at a Forsyth County elementary school wrote thank-you notes to Mike Dunham after receiving funds to purchase tools for their classroom.
TEACHING TEACHERS
102 Teachers AGC Georgia, Construction Ready, and the Georgia Department of Education’s Career and Technical Education program hosts four summer Camp Trade and Industrial workshops, where industry professionals volunteer to share best practices that high school construction teachers can bring back to the classroom.
PUT YOUR TAXES TO WORK FOR CONSTRUCTION!
$900K redirected to construction education in recent months 40 individuals and corporations are participating $10M growth potential for allocated state tax dollars
Georgia’s Peach Education Tax Credit allows individuals and corporations to direct their tax dollars to a variety of education funds instead of the overall Georgia state budget. One of the program’s funds benefits construction education and workforce development initiatives, managed by Construction Ready and AGC Georgia. The fund is called Innovation in Construction and it supports:
• expanding elementary and middle school construction programs
• opening more high school construction programs
• enhancing curriculum and availability of materials to existing high school construction programs
• strengthening adult training programs to help individuals enter the construction industry with entry-level credentials
• expanding the AGC Georgia Skills Challenges to grow opportunities and remove barriers to participation
QR code to access more information:
RESOURCING OUR MISSION
Together, AGC Georgia members achieve what no single company can accomplish alone. The association advocates for the industry, engages with legislators and regulators, and delivers targeted education and experiences that help professionals grow and companies stay competitive. Sustaining this level of impact requires financial support. Membership dues are vital, but they’re just one part of a broader funding model that includes revenue from events, education programs, and other services. AGC Georgia also manages key resources, including a retirement plan and workers’ compensation program, to support member firms and the well-being of their employees.
Guided by our core principles of Skill, Integrity and Responsibility, our mission is to be the voice of Georgia’s construction industry, provide valuable member services and promote best construction industry practices.
Members gathered in Central Georgia for a professional development session hosted by the Young Leadership Program.
AGC GEORGIA FUNDING MODEL
DUES REVENUE
$1,658,987 General Contractors
500 Industry Firms donated more than $800K in cash and in-kind donations.
$644,703 Specialty Contractors, Suppliers & Service Providers 53% Portion of $4.345M annual budget derived from membership dues
Member Summary Chart
Most of these contributions support the YLP’s charitable initiatives, the annual high school student Skills Challenge series, and construction education efforts, including professional development for Georgia’s high school construction teachers.
Foundation Mission
• To improve local communities
• To support construction education and workforce development
$230M invested by 6,130 covered employees from 89 member firms
A professional committee meets quarterly for oversight, providing exceptional service to participants.
$20,125,671 annual premium revenue for 2024
279 participating policy holders
$851,309,811 annual payroll from participating companies
$47,650,657 total assets as of 12/31/2024
$22,828,694 liabilities
$24,821,936 policyholder equity
$1,000,000 dividend for 2024
21% increase in dividend given to member policy holders from previous year
$39,225,000 total returned to policy holders since inception 29/32 dividends have been declared 29 out of the last 32 years
Participants enjoy complimentary safety training and the benefits of a workers’ compensation policy that can follow them in 50 states and has the backing of A.M. Best A+ and S&P A+ ratings.
2024-2025 AGC GEORGIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Officers
President – Joe Tuggle
Tuggle Construction, LLC
Peachtree City
Vice President – Mike Macon
Balfour Beatty Construction Atlanta
Secretary – Sean Moxley Garbutt Construction Company Dublin
Directors
Treasurer – Scott Lawrence McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. Atlanta
Trey Anderson
Anderson Construction Company Fort Gaines
Yasmine Antoine
H.J. Russell & Company, Atlanta
Dan Baker
Duffey Southeast, Inc., Cedartown
Mike Bartlett
JE Dunn Construction, Atlanta
Scott Clark
RW Allen Construction, LLC, Augusta
Wes Cobb
Jerry L. Johnson & Associates, Inc.
Morrow
Dave Cyr
Parrish Construction Group, Inc.
Perry
John Derucki
Derucki Construction Company
Roswell
Brett Diamon
Gideon Constructors, Valdosta
Ryce Elliott
Benning Construction Company
Atlanta
Charlie Garbutt
Garbutt Construction Company
Dublin
Bubba Gordy
Ben B. Gordy Construction Co., Inc.
Columbus
Randy Hall
Batson-Cook Company, Atlanta
Mitch Headley
Headley Construction Corporation
Newnan
Michael Heisey
RaLin, Carrollton
Darrin Kines Duffey Southeast, Inc., Cedartown
Beth Lowry
Holder Construction Company Atlanta
Brian Newsome
Albion General Contractors, Inc.
Sandy Springs
Brent Nitschke
Lusk Commercial Contractors, Inc.
Alpharetta
Jacob Patton
All-State Electrical Contractors Macon
Danny Pinyan
The Pinyan Company, Savannah
Casey Pollard
R. K. Redding Construction, Inc. Bremen
Jake Reese
LRA Constructors, Inc., Albany
Wil Rego
Clearview Installations, Douglasville
Dallas Smith
Piedmont Construction Group, LLC Macon
Blake Stalnaker
Sheridan Construction, Macon
Brian Steed Gilbane Building Co., Atlanta
Doug Tabeling
Carroll Daniel, Gainesville
Matt West
West Construction Company
Savannah
Robert Yarbrough
USI Insurance Services, Atlanta
AGC GEORGIA PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Reach our main line by calling 678.298.4100.
Mike Dunham Chief Executive Officer dunham@agcga.org 678.298.4120
Zach Fields
Executive Vice President fields@agcga.org 678.298.4130
Alyson Abercrombie, CAE
Senior Director, Communications and Marketing abercrombie@agcga.org 678.298.4106
