Business Details
Your Trusted Partner for Construction Industry Solutions in the Carolinas
ABC Carolinas serves as the voice of the merit shop construction industry, representing contractors, employees, and businesses dedicated to advancing free enterprise. We protect and strengthen principles of fair competition through advocacy, education, and training. Our members believe in freedom to manage companies without coercion, hiring based on merit, and awarding contracts to the lowest responsible bidder. We provide safety and professional development training, advocate for fair regulations, and promote a culture of safety and ethical practices.Our mission equips professionals to develop people, win work, and deliver projects safely, ethically, and profitably. We envision a future where the Carolinas thrive as a hub for construction excellence defined by free enterprise and integrity. Our values prioritize safety, integrity, and profitability to ensure a thriving industry. Members gain access to networking, workforce training, legislative advocacy, and business growth initiatives. We champion merit shop principles, fair competition, and industry advancement across North and South Carolina.
Services
Safety Training
Workforce Development
Government Advocacy
Networking Events
Apprenticeship Programs
Legislative Representation
Project Management Training
Craft Education
Peer Groups
Safety Certification
Highlights and features
- We provide industry-leading safety training programs like STEP to reduce workplace incidents.
- Our workforce development initiatives connect contractors with skilled labor through apprenticeships.
- We advocate for fair regulations and combat restrictive Project Labor Agreements (PLAs).
- Members gain exclusive access to networking events and industry partnerships.
- Our legislative advocacy protects merit shop principles at state and federal levels.
What people say
Second to none
Perfect environment
Solid return on investment
Highest quality subcontractors
Unmatched industry leadership
Services
Safety Training
Our safety training programs equip construction professionals with skills to maintain secure job sites. Through STEP certification and OSHA partnerships, we reduce risks and improve compliance. Participants learn hazard identification, emergency protocols, and regulatory standards to ensure workplace safety.
Workforce Development
We develop skilled construction workers through apprenticeships and craft education. Programs combine hands-on training with classroom instruction to meet industry demands. Our initiatives connect contractors with trained labor while reducing workforce shortages across the Carolinas.
Government Advocacy
Our advocacy team influences legislation affecting construction businesses. We combat restrictive PLAs, promote merit shop principles, and support pro-business policies. Members gain representation in regulatory discussions to protect industry freedoms at all government levels.
Networking Events
Regional councils and chapter events foster connections between contractors, suppliers, and professionals. These gatherings enable knowledge sharing, partnership opportunities, and collaborative problem-solving to strengthen the Carolinas' construction community.
Apprenticeship Programs
Our apprenticeships provide paid, on-the-job training in construction trades. Participants earn while learning electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other skilled crafts. Programs meet national standards to produce job-ready professionals for the industry's future needs.
People
Christi Powell
President & CEO
Christi Powell leads ABC Carolinas with over 20 years of industry experience, driving strategic initiatives to advance merit shop principles and member success.
Kristen Powell
Vice President
Kristen Powell oversees operations and member relations, leveraging her construction expertise to strengthen advocacy efforts and expand workforce development programs.
Angela Gardner
Vice President of Workforce Development
Angela Gardner directs workforce initiatives, including apprenticeships and training partnerships, to address labor shortages and enhance career pathways in construction.
Sara Breeggemann
Director of Workforce Development & Safety
Sara Breeggemann manages safety programs and training, implementing STEP initiatives to improve industry safety standards and reduce workplace incidents.
Elise Ussery
Director of Government Affairs
Elise Ussery leads legislative advocacy, protecting merit shop interests through policy reform and representing members in regulatory discussions at state and federal levels.
Questions
What does ABC Carolinas do for construction businesses?
We provide safety training, workforce development, legislative advocacy, and networking to support merit shop contractors across North and South Carolina.
How can I join ABC Carolinas?
Visit our website to complete a membership application and gain access to training programs, advocacy resources, and industry networking opportunities.
What safety programs do you offer?
Our STEP certification program reduces workplace incidents through benchmarking, while OSHA partnerships deliver compliance training and safety audits.
Do you offer apprenticeship opportunities?
Yes, we provide paid apprenticeships in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other trades, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
How does ABC Carolinas advocate for members?
We influence legislation, combat restrictive PLAs, and promote merit shop principles through grassroots campaigns and direct engagement with policymakers.
What events do you host?
We organize networking mixers, safety workshops, legislative forums, and regional council meetings to connect industry professionals across the Carolinas.
Videos
