Commercial Contractors - Membership association

Who is ABC, Greater Michigan Chapter?

Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is a national association with 68 chapters representing 25,000 merit shop construction and construction-related firms across the United States. The Greater Michigan Chapter is one of three ABC Chapters in Michigan with 250+ member companies. These member businesses have joined together to advance the construction industry by supporting the philosophy of merit shop construction and the free enterprise system. On more information on membership and to apply to become a member, click here.

What type of workforce and professional training is available to ABC Members?

The construction industry is not a rigid pathway—rather it allows for limitless opportunities for students, veterans, re-entry and second careers to reach their full potential by building a career in construction. Once in the industry, workers have the opportunity to participate in multi-skill training, where they can learn more than one skill to give themselves a competitive advantage and fund their future.

The Greater Michigan Construction Academy (GMCA) – ABC Members receive a discount on training at GMCA. The Academy has 3 main training campuses in Lansing, Midland and Saginaw and teaches 11 different trades. GMCA is accredited by NCCER.

Davenport University – Davenport and the Greater Michigan Chapter has teamed together to offer its members a 20% discount on tuition and other training programs. This discount applies to ABC member companies, their employees, their spouses and dependents.

Is there any exclusive discounts and benefits if I become an ABC Member?

YES! ABC/GMC has partnered with a number of local companies so members can save money and grow. Discounts are available on marketing and training, plus benefits of wellness, workers compensation, insurance and MORE! Click here for more information.

What type of events and networking opportunities are available?

ABC/GMC holds 25+ annual meetings and events to provide the opportunity to network with industry peers, including owners. Topics include safety, education & training and construction industry and more. Additional annual events include our Greatness & Gratitude Celebration, BIG Golf Outing, Spring Golf Outing and Holiday Networking Event. Click here to see our event calendar.

ABC Cares, Make-A-Wish Fundraiser – For over 30 years the Greater Michigan Chapter has conducted this annual event and has raised over $.5 million for 90+ Michigan kids in need. ABC member companies, along with local businesses attend the event, sponsor, donate items and more to make this event possible.

Is there any type of awards or national recognition I could apply for as a member?

Yes there are a number of state and national award programs available, here are the most popular for construction related companies:

Pete Crawford Safety Leader of the Year Award Applications will be reviewed for the following qualifications: 1) Nominee possesses all understanding of, and follows all safety measures; 2) The understanding of worksite hazards and incident management; 3) Reviews reports and analyzes trends; 4) Ensures corporate safety rules and OSHA regulations; 5) Ensures policies and procedures are in place at all times for all workers; 6) Maintains injury rates below those posted by Bureau of Labor & Statistics for national average; 7) Ensures training of employees as required by OSHA regulations; 8) Provides the necessary tools for any needs personnel may have.

Tradesmen International Craft Professional of the Year Award 

Eligibility requirements:

• Nominees must be currently employed by an ABC Greater Michigan member firm in good standing.
• At least 90% of the nominees’ daily job duties must include the use of tools and equipment. Office, corporate, or management personnel not limited to but including project managers, engineers, sales representatives, estimators, or other non-field positions are ineligible.
• Nominees must currently possess a journey-level designation and be able to provide proof of their designation. In lieu of a Journeyman’s license, you may submit a signed letter from your company stating that your nominee is a Journeyman as described by your organization.
• Self-nominations are prohibited.

Safety Training Evaluation Process (STEP) – STEP is the standard for developing world-class safety programs in construction. STEP members prove that world-class safety is achievable with a company-wide commitment to safety as a core value. Applying world-class processes dramatically improves safety performance among participants regardless of company size or type of work. ABC/GMC STEP award winners are recognized yearly at the Greatness & Gratitude Awards Gala.

Excellence in Construction (EIC) – ABC/GMC started is local EIC awards competition about 5 years ago. This award recognizes and promotes the quality workmanship by our very own merit shop contractors and their employees. ABC/GMC EIC winners are recognized yearly at the Greatness & Gratitude Awards Gala.

Do I have to be a ‘construction’ company to join as an ABC Member?

The simple answer is no. We have a wide-range of construction related companies that are members from general contractors to painters. We also have a number of banks and other local businesses that are members for their own reasons. If you are wanting to connect your business and do business with contractors and/or support the contractor community, you could become an ABC Member!