4 minute read
Building a Better Delaware
Q&A with Jennifer Cohan, president of Associated Builders and Contractors Delaware
WITH ED CAPODANNO’S RETIREMENT, Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Delaware is beginning a new chapter under the leadership of Jen Cohan, who stepped into the role of president in January 2025. With a strong background in public service and a deep commitment to the construction industry, she is ready to lead the organization forward. We caught up with her to learn more about her vision and goals for ABC Delaware.
What inspired you to take on the role of president of Associated Builders and Contractors Delaware, and how have your previous leadership roles prepared you for this position?
I have always been drawn to roles where I can make a meaningful impact, and leading Associated Builders and Contractors Delaware is an incredible opportunity to advocate for one of the most essential industries in our state— construction. My background in public service, particularly as secretary of the Delaware Department of Transportation, has given me deep insight into infrastructure, economic development, and workforce needs. I’ve worked extensively with business leaders, government agencies, and legislators to drive solutions that create jobs and strengthen our economy. This role allows me to continue that work, ensuring Delaware remains a place where builders and contractors can thrive.
What is your vision for driving collaboration between the construction industry and policymakers to ensure sustainable growth for the state?
Collaboration is key to sustainable growth, and my vision is to serve as a bridge between industry leaders and policymakers. Delaware needs policies that encourage private investment, support workforce development, and streamline regulatory processes without unnecessary burdens. I want to foster open conversations where builders and policymakers work together to address infrastructure challenges, workforce shortages, and permitting inefficiencies. We must also promote fair and open competition, ensuring that both union and nonunion contractors have equal opportunities to contribute to the state’s growth.
What do you see as the greatest barriers to launching new development projects in Delaware, and how can they be addressed?
One of the biggest barriers is the lengthy and complex permitting process, which can delay projects and drive up costs. Additionally, workforce shortages make it difficult to meet the growing demand for skilled labor. Addressing these issues requires a multipronged approach: streamlining permitting at the state and local levels, investing in workforce training programs, and ensuring that businesses have access to the resources needed to succeed. ABC Delaware is committed to working with policymakers to find solutions that encourage responsible, efficient development.
What steps do you think are necessary to create a more diverse and affordable housing landscape in Delaware?
Expanding affordable housing requires a mix of strategic policy decisions and industry collaboration. We need to incentivize development in underutilized areas, modernize zoning laws to allow for mixed-use and higher-density projects, and ensure builders have the flexibility to innovate. Workforce housing is also a critical component—by investing in skilled labor training, we can increase the number of professionals able to build high-quality, cost-effective housing. ABC Delaware is dedicated to supporting initiatives that make homeownership more attainable for Delawareans across all income levels.
Are there any policies or strategies from other states that you believe Delaware should adopt to foster a more competitive environment for development?
Many states have successfully implemented policies that Delaware could learn from. For example, states like North Carolina and Texas have created fast-track permitting processes that reduce unnecessary delays. Others have expanded public-private partnerships to fund critical infrastructure projects. Additionally, adopting best practices in workforce development— such as increased investment in apprenticeship programs and technical education—could help address labor shortages and create a pipeline of skilled workers. By embracing these strategies, Delaware can create a more dynamic and competitive environment for development.
