About Us

Strength in Merit, Success in Construction

Who We Are

Advancing Free Enterprise in Construction

Associated Builders and Contractors is a national construction industry trade association established in 1950 with 67 chapters and more than 23,000 members. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC helps members offer a robust employee value proposition, develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members work. Visit us at abc.org.

The Associated Builders and Contractors of the Carolinas (ABC Carolinas) is committed to protecting and strengthening the principles of fair competition, free enterprise, and opportunity for all. Through advocacy, education, and training, ABC Carolinas works to ensure that our members have the tools, resources, and support needed to succeed.

Our members believe in the freedom to manage their companies and job sites without coercion or unnecessary restrictions. We believe workers should be hired and compensated based on their individual merit, contracts should be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, and ongoing craft and safety training is essential to the future of our industry.

ABC Greater Tennessee

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Our Mission

ABC Carolinas' Mission is to support and advance the merit shop philosophy across the construction industry, equipping its professionals and businesses to "develop people, win work, and deliver work safely, ethically, and profitably" for the benefit of their communities. This involves providing valuable resources like safety and professional development training, advocating for fair industry regulations, offering networking opportunities, and promoting a safe culture to improve the construction community.

Our Vision

To be the catalyst for a strong, highly skilled, and successful construction industry throughout the Carolinas, defined by the principles of free enterprise, ethical practices, and an unwavering commitment to safety, integrity, and profitability. We envision a future where all industry professionals and businesses thrive, making the Carolinas the premier environment for construction excellence.

Our Values

We champion the Merit Shop Philosophy, prioritizing Safety, Integrity, and Profitability to ensure a thriving, successful construction industry that benefits every community in the Carolinas.

ABC Carolinas
Advancing Opportunity and Excellence in the Carolinas

Championing Merit Shop Principles, Fair Competition, and Industry Advancement

At ABC Carolinas, we are more than an association—we are a strong and united network built on the values of safety, integrity, and profitability, dedicated to strengthening the construction industry across the Carolinas. Our commitment goes beyond business success—we are steadfast advocates for the free enterprise system, working to ensure fair competition and honoring the craftsmanship that defines our industry.

Becoming a member means joining a movement that protects merit shop values and expands opportunities for contractors, employees, and businesses alike. Through innovative workforce training, business development resources, legislative advocacy, and a shared vision for progress, ABC Carolinas equips members with the tools and support they need to succeed and thrive in a growing industry.

Strengthening the Carolinas’ Construction Industry

Driving Success Through Training, Advocacy, and Opportunity

Discover the full scope of services we offer—from safety training and workforce development to networking events, legislative advocacy, and business growth initiatives. Our programs are designed to equip members with the tools they need to excel, while advancing the construction industry across the Carolinas with innovation, integrity, and opportunity.
Safety Training That Builds Confidence and Excellence

Protect your team and strengthen every project with our expert-led safety programs. We provide the skills and knowledge needed to ensure safer job sites, reduce risks, and improve efficiency across the Carolinas.

Build Lasting Connections with Industry Leaders

Take advantage of networking events that unite contractors, suppliers, and construction professionals. Grow your relationships, exchange ideas, and stay ahead in a thriving community dedicated to building the future of the Carolinas.

Leading Advocacy for a Stronger Industry

We champion your interests in the legislative process, pushing for fair policies and regulations that protect free enterprise, promote growth, and encourage innovation across the construction industry.

Training and Development for a Stronger Workforce

We provide the resources and assessments needed to sharpen skills, meet industry standards, and help construction professionals excel in their careers.

Workforce Development

Through tailored apprenticeship programs and just-in-time training, we develop a workforce that is skilled, safe, and ready to deliver with efficiency.

construction worker
Our Team

Chapter Staff

Christi Powell

Christi Powell

President & CEO

Kriste Powell

Kristen Powell

Vice President

Mandy Allison

Mandy Allison

Director of Business

Pamela Freeman

Pamela Freeman

Director of Chapter Events and Member Relations

Angela Gardner

Angela Gardner

Vice President of Workforce Development

Jonna Turner

Jonna Turner

Director of Membership

Elise Ussery

Elise Ussery

Director of Government Affairs

Sam Koch

NC Membership Coordinator Triangle | Coastal

Alex Lacovelli

Alex Iacovelli

Workforce Development Manager

Our Team

Board of Directors

Scott Mayer

Scott Mayer

Chairman

BuildingPoint Southeast

Cristi Lewis

Immediate Past Chair

CohnReznick LLP

Angela Carter

Angela Carter

Incoming Chair

Metcon, Inc.

Andy Grayson

Vice Chair

Choate Construction

Nick Krarup

Nick Krarup

Secretary

Samet Corporation

Kevin Clary

Kevin Clary

Treasurer

Starr Electric

Derek Lanning

Derek Lanning

Past Chairs Liason

JE Dunn

Matt Anderson

CECA Liaison

Adams Electric Company

Greg Carlton

Director

Randy Marion Automotive

Phil Constantini

Phil Costantini

Director

Charlotte Glass

Dan Thomas

Dan Thomas

Director

Starr Electric

Rob Beale

Rob Beale

Director

W.M. Jordan

Mike Douglas

Mike Douglas

Director

Unistrut Carolinas

Floyd McCabe

Director

SPC Mechanical

Jason Moore

Director

Rodgers Builders

Lee Nabors

Lee Nabors

Director

Precision Walls

Darryl Thornton

Director

Wyatt Field Services

Andy Abrams

Andy Abrams

Director

Swinerton

Joel Young

Director

Robins & Morton

Gavin Axson

Director

Brasfield & Gorrie

Our Team

Regional Leadership Councils

regional leadership councils

ABC Carolinas is proud to serve members across North and South Carolina through seven Regional Leadership Councils, each dedicated to strengthening the voice of the merit shop at the local level. These councils provide opportunities for members to connect, collaborate, and lead within their communities—ensuring ABC’s mission is represented throughout the Carolinas.

Our Regional Leadership Councils focus on advancing workforce development, networking, political advocacy, and community engagement. Members play a direct role in shaping chapter initiatives and promoting excellence in construction across their regions.

Click on the regions below to learn more and inquire about joining.

South Carolina

North Carolina