The 2024 Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) National Convention was held in Kissimmee, Florida, in March and brought together professionals in the construction industry, along with hosting the Construction Management Competition and the National Craft Championships. Here are some of our team’s key takeaways from the event.
Leading Operation Excellence
This session was led by Gregg Schoppman, principal and Florida consulting manager for FMI, whose presentation focused on a company’s “toolbox.”
According to Schoppman, it is important to evaluate the tools you have in your toolbox as a company, not only in the field but also across all departments. As slow or fast as the industry moves, it is important to take a step back and focus on the business instead of getting caught just working in the business.
The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly
Anirban Basu, chairman and CEO of Sage Policy Group, led this session, which covered various economic topics along with an economic update and forecast for 2024 in the construction industry.
Basu noted there is a generational transfer of wealth happening that has never been seen before, so it is important that you have a succession plan for your company. There are a multitude of approaches for transitioning your business, so research and find the best plan.
Casinos & Car Dealers
This session led by Schoppman focused on how companies use and don’t use the data they have available for managing their company.
According to Schoppman, having a consistent process that can be applied across the company can create more synergies between teams, which can lead to high operating effectiveness. In addition, having a strong project leader to follow the process can motivate teams and drive results. Buy-in from all levels is a critical factor.
The State of the Construction Technology & How AI Is Shaping the Future
Chris Durso, editor in chief of Construction Executive magazine, led this session and examined the ways technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are playing a role in the construction industry.
Durso noted that AI products are sweeping the nation, and the construction industry is not excluded. Whether you are a large firm or a small firm, there are various tools available that, if integrated into your processes, can help increase efficiencies and drive results. Just like construction equipment or software, AI is a tool that, if applied correctly, could be an asset to your organization.
In addition to the sessions, the 2024 ABC National Convention brought together industry leaders and talent from across the country to connect and compete on various levels across the construction craft and construction management industries. The convention attracted a record number of attendees, and we look forward to attending next year’s event in Las Vegas.
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