ABC Convention 2025

Monday, Feb. 24, 2025

7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. National Committee Meetings

9 a.m.-5 p.m. Registration Open

Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025

7 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Registration Open
Registration will close from 5:30-6:45 p.m.

8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. National Board of Directors Registration

8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Construction Management Competition

The Construction Management Competition provides competing university and college teams an opportunity to experience a real-world construction project with unique characteristics and challenges. Participating teams assemble a general contracting firm that represents their school and ABC student chapter in the competition.

8:30 a.m.-3:15 p.m. National Board of Directors Meeting
Meeting includes industry and regional breakouts, member-to-member sessions and a chapter presidents’ business meeting.

12:15-1:45 p.m. Association Excellence Awards

The Association Excellence Awards luncheon recognizes and celebrates chapter achievement in membership growth and retention, STEP^® participation and other major accomplishments for 2024.

National board members, proxies and chapter presidents receive a complimentary ticket to this event, which is the official lunch for the National Board of Directors meeting. Other convention attendees interested in attending this pre-convention event must purchase a ticket during the registration process.

Sponsored by

Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025

6 a.m.-4 p.m. Registration Open

7:30-10 a.m. National Board of Directors Registration

8-10 a.m. National Board of Directors Meeting

8 a.m-3 p.m. Exhibit Hall

Watch Last Year’s
Convention Highlights! Network with more than 75 exhibitors and register for multiple giveaways throughout the hall! Become a part of the mission at Roc Solid Foundation and help build a backyard playset for a family fighting pediatric cancer. You'll find out why Roc Solis says, "play defeats cancer," and we guarantee you will see what hope looks like for the childhood cancer community.

Then, stop by the ABC Member Engagement booth to connect with members from across ABC’s chapters and pick up your official 75th anniversary swag!

8 a.m.-3 p.m. National Craft Championships

ABC presents the National Craft Championships annually to highlight the achievements of the people who represent the future of the construction industry. Exceptional craft trainees and apprentices travel from across the country to demonstrate their superior skills, training and safe work practices and compete for top honors in their chosen craft. For training sponsors, employers and ABC chapters, the NCC demonstrates a staunch commitment to the career paths the construction industry offers. Viewing from 8-11 a.m.

Official Tool Sponsor

9:15-10 a.m. Industry Insight Sessions View Sessions
Open to full convention attendees only.

9:15–10 a.m.
Blueprints to Bottom Lines: Turning Data Insights Into Construction Success

Speakers: Daniel Ivanhoe, IT Product Owner, McCarthy Holdings, Inc.; Rohan Jawali, Founder and CEO, Joist AI; David Pratt, Director of Corporate and Operational Technology, Robins & Morton

Technology is transforming construction, enabling teams to turn raw data into actionable insights for better decision-making and operational efficiency. Learn how integrating corporate and operational technology improves collaboration and project outcomes and how to select tools that maximize ROI and drive sustainable growth, plus see workflows that convert complex data into productivity-boosting solutions. You will get actionable takeaways to help contractors leverage data-driven tools and optimize operations in today’s technology-driven construction landscape.

Sponsored by

9:15–10 a.m.
Transform Your Approach to Prevailing Wage Work

Speaker: Nathaniel Peniston, Vice President, The Contractors Plan

Unlock the keys to profitability and workforce retention on federal projects by mastering prevailing wage compliance. This dynamic session breaks down the Davis-Bacon final rule and certified payroll essentials to help you avoid costly violations. Discover how to implement compliant paid time off policies, structure competitive benefits packages that meet fringe requirements and prepare for wage inspections with confidence. Get practical tools, best practices and insights to turn compliance challenges into strategic advantages.

9:15–10 a.m.
Mind Over Matter: Developing a Personal Protective Mindset

Speakers: Dr. Seth Hickerson, CEO, My Steady Mind; Rob McKinney, Construction Safety Evangelist, SALUS

A strong mind is as essential as a construction hard hat. Learn how cognitive fitness training reduces stress, anxiety and anger, improving safety performance on construction sites. Learn practical techniques like meditation, breathwork and journaling, and discover tools like the My Steady Mind program to help workers develop mental resilience. Walk away with actionable strategies and innovative app-based solutions to cultivate a safer, more focused and mentally fit workforce.

9:15–10 a.m.
How To Engage Gen Z: The Toolbelt Generation

Speaker: Jennifer Dewees, President, Maryland Center for Construction Education & Innovation

After decades of decline, the construction industry is seeing a shift—Gen Z is ready to build! With trade school enrollments rising and government support for apprenticeships growing, now is the time to attract the next generation of skilled workers. Discover practical strategies to engage Gen Z, showcase career opportunities and get the “toolbelt generation” excited to join your team. Don’t miss this chance to fuel your workforce with fresh talent!

10:15-11 a.m. Industry Insight Sessions View Sessions
Open to full convention attendees only.

10:15–11 a.m.
Well Built: How the Top 2% of Construction Contractors Create Superior Value, Profits and Excellence

Speaker: Chad Prinkey, Founder, Well Built Construction Consulting

The construction industry faces tight margins, talent shortages and market volatility—but top contractors consistently achieve double or triple the profits. What’s their secret? Learn the proven systems and cultural strategies that set elite contractors apart. You will receive a step-by-step roadmap to build competitive advantages, maximize profitability and achieve long-term success. Learn how to transform your business and join the top 2% of the industry.

10:15–11 a.m.
From Stigma to Support: Becoming a Recovery-Friendly Workplace

Speaker: Jennifer Landon, Vice President of Leadership & Total Human Health Initiatives, ABC New Hampshire/Vermont Chapter

The construction industry faces some of the highest rates of substance use disorders. Workplace-supported recovery provides structure, purpose and access to resources, helping workers in recovery while improving safety, productivity and profits. Learn how to break down stigma, foster an inclusive environment and create policies that prevent substance-related incidents, boost morale and benefit your bottom line. Explore how to tackle this critical issue and build healthier, safer jobsites for everyone.

10:15–11 a.m.
The Human + AI Partnership in Construction

Speaker: Zach Giglio, CEO, GCM

Artificial intelligence has the potential to transform construction processes. This session explores how AI, paired with human expertise, can revolutionize workflows, improve project outcomes and enhance client satisfaction. Attendees will discover innovative ways to streamline client interactions and automate administrative tasks to increase efficiency. Real-world examples will show how to optimize project management, resource utilization and safety protocols, ensuring technology complements expertise rather than replacing it.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Viewing of the Construction Management Competition Presentations

Cheer on the teams! At the end of the day’s competition, a short list of teams will be selected to move on to the next round. All convention attendees are invited and encouraged to stop by to see the teams at work during competition day. You also won’t want to miss the final presentations showcasing the top teams!

11:15 a.m.-12 p.m. Industry Insight Sessions View Sessions
Open to full convention attendees only.

11:15 a.m.–12 p.m.
AI, Metaverse, Blockchain and the Future of the Construction Industry

Speaker: Paul Doherty, Registered Architect, CSI, CDT, IFMA Fellow, DFC Senior Fellow, The Digit Group

Singularity is when Artificial Intelligence and Humans merge into a singular process entity that creates opportunities for humans to have Superhero powers in business. Construction is about to be hit with this new reality. Are you prepared? Explore definitions, real world case studies and successful Singularity construction implementations from around the world. Join us for a first of its kind, unique, insightful and inspiring session that will entertain, educate and stimulate attendees to explore emerging technologies like AI, Blockchain and Digital Twins that are providing a new reality for construction in ways that seem like magic, but are today’s reality.

11:15 a.m.–12 p.m.
The 10 Biggest Winning and Losing Behaviors in Business Development

Speakers: Randy Fichera, Vice President Commercial Services Division, Barnhill Building Group; Hal Routh, President & Founder, Equalizer9

In construction, success hinges on consistently winning high-quality projects with great clients. Best-in-class firms maintain 45%-plus win rates—even in downturns. Learn the 10 winning behaviors that drive sustainable growth and profits and contrast those with 10 losing behaviors. Get proven strategies from veteran executives who’ve secured over $5 billion in projects and discover how to recession-proof your business, outperform competitors and become the go-to firm for premium opportunities.

11:15 a.m.–12 p.m.
Don’t Fear the Assessment: Building Competent, Confident Construction Teams

Speakers: David Linquist, Director of Construction Operations, Burns & McDonnell; Fernanda Lopes, Section Manager: Construction Initiatives, Burns & McDonnell; Jeff Rashall, Vice President, Burns & McDonnell; Chad Whetro, Workforce Development Director, Burns & McDonnell

Skill assessments can feel intimidating, but when framed as tools for growth, they empower craftpersons to take control of their careers. This session explores how to create a positive, supportive culture around assessments by focusing on skill-building, merit-based advancement and professional development. Learn strategies for constructive feedback, confidentiality and clear communication to remove fear and stigma. Discover how recognizing achievements and fostering continuous learning can motivate workers, validate skills and drive career success.

12-3 p.m. Viewing of the National Craft Championships and Lunch
Lunch in Exhibit Hall for full convention and social ticket holders only.

Catch the second half of the action happening at the ABC National Craft Championships! These competitors exemplify the best of the best from across the nation. Plus, exhibitors will be on hand to connect and share the latest industry technology, products and services. Viewing from 12-3 p.m.

New this year! Become a part of the mission at Roc Solid Foundation and help build a backyard playset for a family fighting pediatric cancer. You'll find out why Roc Solid says, "play defeats cancer," and we guarantee you will see what hope looks like for the childhood cancer community.

Official Tool Sponsor

5:30-9 p.m. Excellence in Construction® Awards Gala
Separate ticketed event.

The 35^th Annual National Excellence in Construction Awards Gala celebrates the best in merit shop construction, honoring the most outstanding construction projects and contractors of the year for their remarkable achievements in leadership, safety, innovation and inclusion, diversity and merit.

Program Sponsor

Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025

7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Registration Open

8:30-9:45 a.m. Morning Keynote Breakfast With Justin Wren
Open to full convention and social ticket holders only.

After battling depression, thoughts of suicide and drug addiction, Wren experienced a life-changing journey living with the Mbuti Pygmy people of the Congo Basin Rainforest. Wren has a deep-seated belief in and ability to empower people to stoke the fire that is within us all. Be inspired and empowered to take action that leads to deeper purpose, high performance and long-lasting change and impact. Justin “The Big Pygmy” Wren is a 10-time state champion, five-time All-American, two-time national champion wrestler, Ultimate Fighting Championship veteran and has been inducted into the Black Belt Magazine Hall of Fame. He is a best-selling book author, humanitarian and founder and CEO of the nonprofit Fight for the Forgotten.

10-10:45 a.m. Industry Insight Sessions View Sessions
Open to full convention attendees only.

10-10:45 a.m.
Surviving the Life-or-Death Gap

Speaker: Joseph Hileman, Co-Founder, Blue U Defense, LLC

Surviving a violent incident is 90% mental and 10% physical. Learn to master decision-making under pressure, understand the dynamics of violence and recognize warning signs. Topics include practical personal defense strategies, awareness, avoidance and insights into the mindset of aggressors. Equip yourself and your team with effective, easy-to-apply tactics to stay safe both on and off the job, without extensive training or physical preparation.

10-10:45 a.m.
Elevators 101: Making the Right Choice for Your Project

Speakers: Dayne Eisele, Safety & Training Compliance Director, Delaware Elevator; William D. McGrath, President, South Jersey Elevator; William R. McGrath, Vice President—Residential Division, South Jersey Elevator; Ellie Webb, Human Resources Director, Delaware Elevator

Moderator:Samantha DeAlmedia Roman, President & CEO, ABC New Jersey chapter

Navigating your next elevator project? Learn the difference between proprietary and nonproprietary systems, the benefits of an open market and how to avoid being locked into costly, brand-specific services. Explore vertical transportation options that align with your project’s budget and needs. Plus, discover how the Elevator Contractors Council connects you with trusted member companies in your area. Wrap up with an open Q&A to address your specific challenges and concerns.

11 a.m.-12 p.m. Monetary Masala
Open to full convention and social ticket holders only.

Has the Federal Reserve engineered a soft landing or is stagflation on the way? Can America continue to pace the advanced world, or will expanding indebtedness, policy uncertainty and over-extended asset values prove our collective undoing? This presentation focuses on U.S. and regional economic performance with an eye toward discussing emerging risks to what has thus far been an economy that has surprised to the upside.

Anirban Basu is chairman and CEO of Sage Policy Group Inc., an economic and policy consulting firm in Baltimore. He is also chief economist for ABC.

5-7 p.m. Careers in Construction Awards

Watch dreams come true at the Careers in Construction Awards, where the winners of the Construction Management Competition and National Craft Championships take center stage for a celebration you won’t soon forget. Honor the best in merit shop construction during this high-energy event.

7:15-10 p.m. Closing Night Celebration
Full convention, social, celebration combo and closing night celebration ticket holders only.

Friday Night Lights! Theme: Team ABC!

Sport your favorite team jersey and comfy shoes to celebrate indoors on the field at Allegiant Stadium, or, support the local Vegas team and sport up in silver and black! Wrap up ABC Convention 2025 with an electric touchdown of a closing night celebration at the iconic Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Celebrate, connect and enjoy an incredible evening in one of the most thrilling venues—it’s the perfect finale to an extraordinary convention. Featuring stadium tours, VIP experiences and more, this will be an unforgettable night.

Presented by

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Strategic Partners

Platinum Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Media Sponsor