Brian Jurgens, ABC Mass. Chapter

ABC performs a number of important roles. We provide services that help our member companies succeed, work to improve the construction industry and to ensure a level playing field for merit-shop contractors.

But few of the things we do are more rewarding for those of us involved in ABC than investing in the future leaders of our organization and industry.

This month we will do just that when we launch the Building Our Future Scholarship Program. The annual scholarship will be open to any student nominated by an ABC member who is accepted into or currently enrolled in a construction-related baccalaureate or two-year degree program. Those enrolled in ABC Merit Apprenticeship Program are also eligible.

The scholarship will also honor ABC “legends,” those who have played a critical role in building our organization. Twenty-six past ABC chairmen will be inducted as the first class of legends on November 18th as part of ABC’s Excellence in Construction Awards (EICA) gala at the Westin hotel in Waltham.

It’s only fitting that the legends should be recognized at the annual EICA dinner, where we recognize the very best in construction. This year’s 12 winners once again demonstrate the diversity, versatility and craftsmanship of ABC’s open-shop contractors.

In honor of this important occasion, the popular former Channel 5 anchor, and member of the Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Fame, Susan Wornick will emcee the event.

ABC’s Board of Directors believes it is critically important that we establish and sustain a well-funded scholarship to help children of ABC members meet the increasingly high cost of higher education. The scholarship will also help develop the talent and leadership our industry will need to thrive in the future.

There will be a variety of opportunities to support the Building Our Future Scholarship, and donors will be recognized in a number of high-profile ways. Major donors will receive permanent recognition in the ABC boardroom.

You can sign up to help launch the future of ABC and our industry while also honoring the best of Massachusetts construction and the individuals who built the foundation of a successful association by visiting our website at: http://www.abcma.org/. I look forward to seeing you November 18.

Brian Jurgens is chairman of the Associated Builders & Contractors – Mass. Chapter, Woburn and is a senior vice president at W.T. Kenney Co., Inc., Arlington, Mass.