We represent the construction industry in Connecticut.
Who We Are
Associated Builders and Contractors of Connecticut (CT ABC) is a membership association representing Merit Shop contractors. Merit Shop Contractors account for over 80% of the construction industry in Connecticut and 86% of the industry nationwide. As a Chapter of ABC National, our 200 members are afforded an effective voice in the political system at the local, state and federal levels.
Merit Shop is free enterprise - the belief that all construction contracts should be awarded to the lowest responsible, qualified bidder based on merit, regardless of the company's non-union or union affiliation. We are a voluntary membership organization working to support the entire construction industry. Our membership is diverse; ranging from some of the largest and most established firms in Connecticut to new firms who have just entered the commercial and public market.
CT ABC was chartered in 1976 as a Chapter of the national Associated Builders and Contractors however it began in 1972 as a part of the Yankee Chapter with 112 members.
Mission Statement
CT ABC is the recognized advocate and defender of merit shop contractors and addresses the unique challenges of our members.
Vision StatementCT ABC is the premiere resource for construction.
2009 Review Project Labor Agreement Prevention-CT ABC won a huge victory in the Town of Trumbull by overturning an $80 million PLA, We continue to be the only voice for the Open Shop fighting discriminatory bidding practices.
Lobbying and Advocacy -
We strengthened our outreach this year at the local, state and federal levels. From our ‘Issues & Eggs’ informal breakfasts with local elected officials to our ‘fly-in’ to Washington D.C. against the Employee Free Choice Act (Card Check), we continue to reach decision makers and represent our members at all levels of government.
Open Shop Salute - Since its start one year ago, we have assisted four military families - everything from a new electrical panel to a new roof. Over 15 companies have participated in our efforts to give back to the families that sacrifice so much for us.
Prevailing Wage 2.0 - CT ABC unveiled a new compliance tool - an online, comprehensive, 3½ hour CT DOL approved course that spells out exactly how to comply with Connecticut’s Prevailing Wage. Dedication to Training- CT ABC founded the Construction Education Center three years ago, which is key to our members’ continued success. The CEC enables members to comply with training mandates - from apprentice requirements to CEUs and OSHA 10. Without the CEC, many Open Shop contractors might be shut out of Connecticut projects. The CEC trained over 1,500 students in 2009! Visit www.thinkconstruction.org for a full list of our courses.
Fairfield County Office-After 36 years as the voice of the Open Shop in the Hartford area, CT ABC expanded its reach and influence - and most importantly its service to members by opening an office in Stratford, CT on April 14, 2009.
Strong Staff & Dedicated Board-Our team is always ready to assist members! Lelah Campo (President), Patricia Torres (Education Director), Suzanne O’Brien (Executive Assistant), Elizabeth Telles (Bookkeeper) Maureen Petrucelli (Education Coordinator) Faith Gavin Kuhn (Regulatory Affairs & Communications Director) and Audra Antrum (Member Services Director). The Board of Directors is an energetic, well qualified representation of our members. They are dedicated to working with staff and committees to improve our industry.
SuccessfulEvents- In 2009, CT ABC set new records for events! Our Annual Dinner was the largest industry event of the year and won a national Award of Excellence. Other innovative events includ After Hours networking across the state, Meet the Generals and Meet the Minority Contractor nights which allow for beneficial networking and joint events with other associations.
Public Relations-As the voice of the open shop contractor, we speak for our industry on TV, radio and in print. We pride ourselves on presenting your viewpoint passionately, professionally and factually. This year we also began our own Public Access TV show - the Construction Connection - which started airing statewide in 2009.
ABC's Code of Ethics- To maintain a standard of performance consistent with the owner's best interest in mind.
- To quote only realistic prices and completion dates and perform accordingly
- To guarantee cooperation to the fullest extent with the architect and other agents of the owner toward fulfillment of contract undertaken.
- To solicit and accept bids and/or quotations only from firms who subscribe to the principles of this Code of Ethics.
- To make all payments promptly within the terms of the contract.
- To observe and foster the highest standards of safety and working conditions for employees.
- To establish realistic wage schedules for employees commensurate with their ability, so that they may enjoy the dignity to which they are entitled.
- To participate actively in the training of skilled tradesmen for the future availability thereof to members of the Association.