The Voice of the Open Shop In New York State
From Buffalo to Watertown to the Eastern Tip of Long Island, ABC is the Leading Association Representing open/merit shop construction firms in New York State
A Message From Our President
ABC invites you to explore the many advantages that come with being an active member of our organization. Since 1971, ABC has proudly served merit shop contractors across New York, building a legacy of promoting free enterprise and advocating for the construction industry. With over five decades of experience, we have become the leading voice for contractors who value merit and excellence in their work.
At ABC Empire State Chapter, we are relentless in our commitment to supporting our members. We understand the challenges you face, and we’re here to ensure you have the resources, advocacy, and support you need to thrive in today’s competitive environment.
Here’s what we’ve accomplished recently:
- Advocacy and Legal Victories: We continue to fight for a level playing field, challenging Project Labor Agreements and securing major legal wins against attempts to obscure PLA studies.
- Timely Updates and Resources: We provide our members with crucial updates on state and federal policies, keeping you informed on issues that matter most to your business, including health, safety, and compliance.
- Comprehensive Training Programs: Our chapter offers a wide range of custom training options, from webinars to in-person and online courses. These programs are designed to ensure your workforce is equipped with the skills and knowledge to stay safe, compliant, and competitive.
- Pioneering Apprenticeship Programs: We’ve launched the largest Multiple Employer Apprenticeship Program in New York State history, approved by the New York State Department of Labor, to help build the next generation of skilled professionals.
- Celebrating Excellence: We honor the outstanding achievements of our members through events like the Construction Excellence Awards, showcasing the best projects and celebrating milestones within our community.
ABC membership offers tangible benefits, from networking opportunities and safety resources to educational workshops and legislative advocacy. Our mission is to break down the barriers that hinder your company’s growth and success.
As we look to the future, one thing remains certain: ABC Empire State Chapter will always stand by our members. We are unwavering in our dedication to advancing the merit shop philosophy and ensuring your voice is heard.
We invite you to join us and become an integral part of a thriving community dedicated to excellence in construction.
Partner with us today and let’s build the future together.
Brian Sampson
President, ABC Empire State Chapter
What We Believe in:
The law should protect the right of employees to work regardless of race, color, creed, age, sex, national origin or membership or non-membership in a labor organization.
It is incumbent upon all branches of government to be responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars and we believe that government should award contracts only to the lowest responsible bidder. The destiny of all Americans can be best served by cooperation, reconciliation and following the tenants of free enterprise and a democratic government.
What We Stand Against:
We oppose violence, coercion, intimidation and the denial of the rights of employees and employers.
We oppose unjust pressure to violate these principles.
We oppose government intervention in the free market by creating an uneven playing field. Government shouldn’t be in the business of picking winners and losers.
Monopolies or any kind of price or wage fixing, in either the public or private sector, are detrimental to our system of free enterprise.
Our Multiple Employer Apprenticeship Program dramatically increases your ability to bid and win work.
Currently, we’re offering craft training
in the following apprenticeships:
- Operator
- Electrician
- Carpenter
- Plumber
- Sheet Metal Worker
- Painter & Decorator
- Iron Worker
- Construction Craft Laborer
- Drywall Taper (Finisher)
- Roofer
Why Join ABC?
From resources for keeping teams current on skills and certifications, to political advocacy on the municipal, state, and federal levels, ABC’s Empire State Chapter provides our members with a single, unified voice. Our membership believes in the importance of working with other ABC members on projects and advancing open-shop construction interests in New York State. Together, we can continue to advance the merit shop in New York State