There’s a lot of competition in the construction industry, and it’s good for business. It helps a company learn, build efficiencies, get better, and grow stronger.

In many cases, our competitors also are our colleagues and even our friends. Membership in various associations helps to bring us together for relationship and business building. Such was the case July 23-25 when a group from Tucker Paving, Inc., attended the 2015 ABC (Associated Builders and Contractors) of Florida State Convention at Sandpearl Resort in Clearwater Beach. Featuring networking, politics, and fun in the Florida sun, the convention theme was “Boots, Chaps, and Cowboy Hats.”

Convention activities included an opening-night reception, a breakfast with state lawmakers, a business development program, Buckaroo Beach Day, a dinner and hoedown, and a final-night reception.

It was very important that we hear from the lawmakers— and that they hear from contractors— because what happens in Tallahassee has a way of impacting everyone in construction and any individual or business needing construction services.

ABC exists in large part to protect members’ business and regulatory rights, while also providing apprenticeship, skills, management, and safety training; networking activities; member discounts; and other benefits. ABC has the strongest network of commercial and industrial contractors in Florida. Five chapter offices serve a total of more than 2,000 companies in every major construction segment— including our specialty, paving and concrete services.

Tucker Paving is pleased to be a part of ABC and happy that the association is helping member companies keep tabs on what’s going on in the state capital.