CHAPTER NEWS Winter Volume
Attract • Build • Conserve
Trades Day and Roadshows ABC South Texas played a vital role at San Antonio Trades Day, working alongside the Workforce Development Committee to help deliver a meaningful, hands-on experience for students exploring careers in construction. In partnership with Construction Industry Education Foundation (CIEF), the San Antonio Chapter of AGC, San Antonio American Subcontractors Association, and MCA-SMACNA of San Antonio, Trades Day welcomed more than 1,000 students from school districts across Texas meeting members across all associations. A highlight of the event was the Build Competition, coordinated by ABC South Texas’ Workforce Development Committee. Eight student teams spent four hours demonstrating teamwork, planning, safety, and quality while completing a hands-on construction build. The competition gave students a real-world look at what it takes to succeed in the skilled trades and reinforced the value of collaboration and craftsmanship. Beyond Trades Day, the Workforce Development Committee has launched roadshows to local high schools, taking the construction industry directly into classrooms. These roadshows introduce students to high-demand skilled trades, outline career pathways, and highlight training and apprenticeship opportunities available throughout the region. With Texas facing a shortage of nearly 198,000 skilled trades professionals, these initiatives are more important than ever. Through Trades Day, high school roadshows, and continued collaboration with industry partners, ABC South Texas is actively helping close the workforce gap and recruit the next generation of builders, leaders, and innovators. Get Involved: Members who are passionate about workforce development are encouraged to join the Workforce Development Committee, which meets monthly at the ABC office on the third Wednesday of every month at 3:00 p.m. Your involvement helps shape the future of our industry and ensures opportunity continues to grow for years to come.
January 1, 2026
Included in this issue 2 Message from the Chapter President
4 Chili Cook-off 5 Metric & Scorecard Update 7 Letter from Board Chairman 8 Excellence in Construction 9 New Members 10 Legal Update 11 Safety Corner 12 Accounting Update 15 Backlog Indicator 17 Training & Committees 2026 Annual Sponsorship Program The ABC South Texas Annual Sponsorship Program is a convenient, value added, marketing, events, education and training package that allows member companies to increase their exposure in the chapter and industry while saving money and making sponsorship decisions once for the entire year. Deadline to sign-up is January 31, 2026. Don’t miss out on this excellent opportunity.
The ABC South Texas Chapter News is published by the South Texas Chapter, Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC). ABC is a national non-profit trade association of contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and associates who share common interest in advancing the construction industry by aggressively supporting the merit shop philosophy. For advertising inquiries contact the chapter office at (210) 342-1992. Send comments or questions to 814 Arion Parkway, Suite 111, San Antonio, Texas 78216.
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ABC STX Chapter News
Message from the Chapter President
Diamond Sponsors
Message from the Chapter President Michelle Seward Davis As we close out another remarkable year, I want to sincerely thank you for your continued support and commitment to ABC South Texas. As a volunteer driven organization, everything we accomplish is made possible by the leadership, service, and engagement of our members, volunteers, board, and staff. This year reflected growth, innovation, and momentum. Together, we strengthened advocacy efforts to protect fair and open competition, expanded workforce development and apprenticeship opportunities, elevated safety and education programming, and fostered meaningful connections through business development and leadership initiatives. From sold out events to record participation, the energy across our chapter has been inspiring. We also remained committed to giving back. Whether supporting veterans, responding to community needs, or investing in future generations of the skilled trades, our members demonstrated that ABC is about more than building projects. Our mission is about building people, businesses, and communities. I am deeply grateful to our Chairman, Board of Directors, committee leaders, affinity groups, sponsors, and partners for their dedication to advancing our mission. I am equally thankful for our staff, whose passion and professionalism turn vision into action every day. As we look ahead, we do so with confidence and purpose. ABC South Texas is well positioned to continue leading by advocating for our members, strengthening the merit shop philosophy, and developing the next generation of craft professionals. Thank you for your trust and involvement. I am honored to serve as your President, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the year ahead.
Wishing you and your families a healthy and successful New Year as we continue building a strong future together, grounded in purpose, faith, and community.
Chapter Staff Michelle Seward Davis President president@abcsouthtexas.org Dana Stone Accounting bookkeeper@abcsouthtexas.org Shalon LeBlanc Workforce, Apprenticeship & Education Director shalon@abcsouthtexas.org Leah Villarreal Safety, Workforce & Apprenticeship leah@abcsouthtexas.org Mary Delaney Events & Membership events@abcsouthtexas.org Chantel Wilmer Admin Assistant frontdesk@abcsouthtexas.org
Sponsors, Leadership, Events
Annual Sponsors Platinum Acrisure Jack Laurence Lynwood TDIndustries
Gold Harvey-Cleary Metro MK Marlow Noble SpawGlass
Silver ADKF American Interiors Cokinos Dewalt San Antonio Masonry & Steel VIA Metropolitan Transit
Bronze Beck Landfill Bee Done Rental Flo-Aire Galaxy Builders Mobile Air Preferred Climate Control Quarter Moon RSM Satterfield & Pontikes Terracon WS&P Insurance
ABC STX Chapter News
3
Board of Directors
Upcoming Events, Q4
Executive Committee
THURSDAY January 22, 2026 Apprenticeship & WFD Happy Hour ABC Office, 4:00 PM
Chris Martinez, Chairman Central Electric Mark Baublit, 1st Vice Chair Marksmen General Contractors Drew Addison, 2nd Vice Chair Acrisure Matt Delgado, Treasurer MidFirst Bank Jim Robertson, Secretary Americrane Jason Harmon, Past Chairman VIA Metropolitan Transit Bob Kilgore, Chapter Attorney Gardner Law Firm David Cupit Marek Brothers Systems Eddie McDuff Flo-Aire Service, Inc. Justin Kuehler Jack Laurence Corporation Joel Frederick Quarter Moon Plumbing Rusty Medlin Joeris General Contractors Justin Kanas Noble Texas Builders Rob Huddleston AiRCO Mechanical Brent Hawley TDIndustries Jonathan Bradley SpawGlass Tess Shelton Nichiha Chris Christians IV Lynwood Building Materials John Cruz Broadway Bank Will Holisky ATKG Ryan Speer Marsh McLennan Christian Trevino Cokinos
TUESDAY January 27, 2026 Annual Member Luncheon & Board Installation Witte Museum, 11:15 AM THURSDAY January 29, 2026 VitalCog Training ABC Office, 9:00 AM WEDNESDAY February 5, 2026 Membership HH TBD, 5:00 PM TUESDAY February 17, 2026 Lunch & Learn ABC Office, 11:30 AM WEDNESDAY February 18, 2026 Development Services, CPS & SAWS ABC Office, 7:30 AM THURSDAY February 19, 2026 Leadership Forum Kick-Off ABC Office, 8:00 AM WEDNESDAY March 4, 2026 Sporting Clay & BBQ Cook-off National Gun Club WEDNESDAY - FRIDAY March 18-20 National Convention Salt Lake City, Utah TUESDAY March 25, 2026 Lunch & Learn ABC Office, 11:30 AM
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ABC STX Chapter News
Chili Cook-off
Chili Cook-off
A Record Setting Event Filled with Competition and Community
We had a record 27 teams show up, all vying to take home the bragging rights at our 2025 Chili Cook Off. The day kicked off with goosebumps as a member of Joe McCabe & The Irish Goodbyes performed the National Anthem on saxophone, never missing a beat even as jets flew overhead during routine practice flights. From live music entertaining those in attendance to incredible food and desserts, it was a fun-filled day enjoyed by all. A sincere thank you to our Chili Cook-Off Committee for their time, planning, and attention to detail that made this event run smoothly from start to finish. We also extend our appreciation to the judges who took on the difficult task of sampling and scoring so many outstanding entries. Your service and commitment are truly appreciated. Thank you to everyone who participated, volunteered, sponsored, and attended. Your support continues to make this event a highlight for our members and community. Once again, our sponsors played a major role in making this event a success. Thank you to CEMEX, Airco San Antonio, A/C Technical Services, LLC, Robins & Morton, WS&P Insurance: Walthall Sachse & Pipes Inc., American Interiors, Inc., San Antonio Masonry & Steel, MAREK, White Cap, Lynwood Building Materials Inc., and Allied Fire Protection. We also appreciate DEWALT, Mills Bros Masonry Contracting LLC, and Caution Concrete Coring for contributing to our prize giveaways.
1st Place Chili: Smithers Merchant Builders
Stein Champ Rachel Berger
Stein Champ Michael McAndrews
2nd Place Chili: WS&P Insurance
Top Dessert: Satterfield & Pontikes
Best Decorated Booth: MK Marlow Company
Top Jalapeno Dish: AiRCO San Antonio
Scorecard Update
ABC STX Chapter News
5
COMMUNICATION:
2025 METRICS AND STANDARDS COMMUNICATION
TRAINING
ADVOCACY
• Outsource social media to ensure professional, consistent posting. • Enhance the website for improved user experience and functionality. • Create and share podcast shorts to engage audiences. • Ensure consistent and timely communication with members. • Expand distribution list to include elected officials for broader outreach.
• Technical & Soft Skills • GC & Sub Best Practices Panel discussion • Financial Statements, Forecasting & WIP • Documentation • Personal Finance • Mental Health Awareness
• Mayoral Panel with AGC (March/ April) • Business Coalition efforts for Mayoral race • City Council invites to joint Member jobsites with AGC. • Engagement at Texas & National LegCon • RGA meetings with City Council
PAC / FEA
MEMBERSHIP
2024 $70,350 2025 $100,000
GROW BY 20%
2024: 166 2025: 200 COMMUNITY
OUTREACH • Invite Elected Officials to ABC events. • Host School counselors on Jobsite Tours to showcase career opportunities. • Organize Touching Trucks Day and community service events with Affinity Groups. • Utilize VR Headsets for immersive industry experiences.
APPRENTICESHIP
STEP
GROW BY 15%
GROW BY 88%
2024: 149 2025: 171
2024: 41 2025: 77
PROGRAMS &
COMMITTEES
EVENTS
• Board Members Recruit Successors for committee involvement. • Develop Scorecards for committees and the baardroom to track progress. • Create a clear Charter for each committee to define purpose and goals. • Provide Periodic Updates from committees to the Board. • Enhance UTSA CM Student Outreach for future Leadership and engagement.
• Dynamic Speaker Series • Continue to grow & expand TCCI event • Family Picnic: Engage families and foster relationships with the ABC community. • Exclusive Team Bonding & Leadership Event • Lunch & Learns: Expanding sessions on topics such as veterans outreach, immigration and workforce best practices.
Note: Goals & Metrics from 2024 will continue in 2025.
STEP √ 56 members completed STEP application - record number for the chapter attributed through training and outreach PROGRAMS & COMMITTEES:
√ UTSA Competition Team was supported by the Board and Members √ Committees each have their own metric goals √ February Committee update with the Chairman √ Board member recruitment and committee involvement on-going √ Committee chairs/ co-chairs reporting to board monthly √ FLI guest lectures for UTSA Capstone Class √ ACCE Mentorship with UTSA Student
COMMUNITY OUTREACH: √ VR Headset used at career fairs √ County Commissioner Moody performed the 2025 Board Installation √ ABC was an active participant in the Alamo Trades Day with 140 Students √ Flood relief efforts over $100,000 raised from members √ CTE Bootcamp √ ABC partnered with UTSA for STEM Shadowing Event √ Partnered with Alamo Workforce for Vet Career Fair √ Partnered with Boys and Girls Club √ Trades Day over 1,000 students √ Roadshows with High School Students √ Wreaths Across America √ Dress for Success Clothing Drive √ Construct a Kids Christmas √ Upward Transitions
√ Website revamped and outsourced - will go live January 2026. √ Social Media grew by 2,013 followers and 323,000 views in 2025
√ Weekly update sent to members with links to event registration TRAINING:
√ Safety Topics & Training: full calendar √ Leadership Forum √ Intelligent Leadership √ Advanced Communication for the Field √ Blueprint Reading √ Resilience by Design √ Leadership that Lasts √ Forged Leadership √ Business Development & Branding √ Specialty topics: VIA Transit Update, Feb Leadership, March ICE Raids and I-9’s, April Cybersecurity, May Texas Lien Law Update, May Legal & Regulatory, June Policy, Politics & Perspective, July Document Crunch, Aug Spurs Sports & Entertainment, Sept Polished Concrete, Oct Surety Bonds & Industry Update, Nov Digital Twin, Dec √ LOGIC & FLI Education Topics to date: Leadership, Personal Finance Pt. 2, Understanding the Construction Process, Jobsite Tour, Technology Best Practices, Working with Different Generations, Self-protection & Handguns, Financial Literacy & Legacy Planning, Soft Skills & Communication, Panel with Past Chairs and Bee Organized
ADVOCACY:
√ Texas LEGCON: January 28-29; 25 participants and 24 visits with elected officials/ staff √ Business Coalition Mayoral Event √ Joint Mayoral Event w/ AGC, May 19 √ National LEGCON: June 24-25; 12 participants with 9 visits with elected officials/ staff √ Protest on CCR for Trades Advisory Council joined by 8 organizations and protested 2 other CCR’s √ Patriots & Politics: Six elected officials √ Jobsite visits with elected officials
MEMBERSHIP: √ √ √ √ √
Annual retention ended at 91% Contractor retention at 96% New Members: 34 Anniversaries celebrated monthly Membership Committee Engagement
PAC/ FEA: GOAL ACHIEVED- 104%
√ $77,760 raised State & National PAC √ FEA: $27,063
APPRENTICESHIP: GOAL ACHIEVED- 103% √ 176 students enrolled
EVENTS √ √ √ √
Dynamic Speakers: Dee Ann Turner Lunch & Learns - see training Family Picnic - June Team Building & Leadership - Forged Leadership - November
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ABC STX Chapter News
Quarterly Recap
Quarterly Recap Continued on Pages 16-19
ABC partnered again with Noble Charities for Annual Fishing Tournament giving back to the community
Polished Concrete Lunch & Learn by Allegiance Floors
LOGIC October Meeting: BEE Organized
AEC Mega Mixer
Joint Luncheon with SMPS - NEISD Bond Program
Bi-Monthly Updates with SAWS, CPS & SA DSD
Letter from Board Chairman
ABC STX Chapter News
Letter from Board Chairman Chris Martinez, Chairman
2025 Board of Directors ABC Family and Friends, 2025 was truly a year to remember. As I close my final letter as Board Chair, I return to the words I began with at the start of this journey: “A rising tide lifts all ships.” If you are reading this, you are the reason we continue to rise. Congratulations to each of you and to everyone who helped make this year so impactful. I am deeply honored and blessed to have met so many incredible people who believe in strengthening our industry and those who work within it. Together, we celebrated record attendance at events, expanded training and leadership development, engaged in meaningful conversations about life lessons, and continued the growth of our Dynamic Speaker Series. We also placed a strong emphasis on Total Human Health, recognizing that strong businesses are built by healthy, supported people. A comprehensive summary of our progress and accomplishments can be found in the 2025 Metrics and Standards on Page 5, which reflect measurable outcomes across communication, training, advocacy, membership, PAC/FEA, apprenticeship, STEP, community outreach, programs and committees, and events. I encourage you to stay involved or get even more engaged. You will get out of this industry what you put into it, lifetime friendships, shared laughter, and lasting memories. As we look ahead, incoming Board Chair Mark Baublit and our Board of Directors are prepared and energized for 2026. Remember, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Godspeed into the New Year. Chris R. Martinez Central Electric
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ABC STX Chapter News
Excellence in Construction
Excellence in Construction Awards Celebration of Industry Champions - continued on page 13 & 14 This year’s Excellence in Construction (EIC) Awards were held at the iconic Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, delivering a high energy, racing themed celebration that reflected the precision, performance and drive of South Texas’ merit shop construction industry. The program recognized an impressive slate of achievements. The chapter proudly celebrated 25 Eagle Awards, honoring top tier projects that exemplify excellence in craftsmanship, innovation, safety and teamwork. In addition, 54 companies were recognized as STEP participants, spanning Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Diamond levels, demonstrating a strong, chapter wide commitment to world class safety culture and continuous improvement. The evening also highlighted Chapter Awards for individuals from member companies and the prestigious Chairman’s Award. These honors celebrated exceptional service, leadership and commitment, recognizing individuals whose dedication strengthens the chapter, supports fellow members and advances the industry as a whole. From the checkered flag details to the momentum in the room, the night underscored a shared message. South Texas contractors are not only keeping pace, they are setting it. A sincere thank you to the EIC Planning Committee for their time, creativity and dedication in delivering an outstanding event. Congratulations to all Eagle Award winners, STEP participants and individual honorees. Your achievements continue to push our industry forward, full throttle, together.
New Member of the Year Corey Huffman WS&P Insurance
Industry Professional of the Year Heather Osborn MEMCO
General Contractor of the Year Mark Baublit Marksmen General Contractors
Suppliers of the Year Enrique Carrasquero, Milwaukee Jorge Gomez, DEWALT
Volunteer of the Year Ana Owens Acrisure
Specialty Contractors: Exteriors Chamberlain Building Alpha Installation & Waterproofing
Subcontractor of the Year Jim Robertson Americrane
Chairman’s Award Adrian Lopez Workforce Solutions Alamo
Specialty Contractors: Interiors Bill Miller BBQ Headquarters MK Marlow
2025 New Members
ABC STX Chapter News
Benefits of Membership
Welcome New Members
• Access to ABC Insurance Trust: Health, Ancillary, Retirement regardless of company size • Discounts: Tech, Members and Employees • National Peer Groups • Employee Development through Committee Involvement and Affinity Groups • Peer to peer collaboration • Exclusive networking events and programs - build your relationships • STEP, Safety Training, Total Mental Health • Apprenticeship Program & Professional Development for management & field • Strong Advocacy: National, State and local level - always defending the Merit Shop Philosophy • Industry Recognition: Accredited Quality Contractor, Top Performers, STEP Levels, Excellence in Construction
Alert 360 Allied Fire Protection Bandy Contractors CCS Construction Staffing Central Texas CFO’s, LLC Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing Clearfield Construction ClearFunds, Inc. CM Consulting Core Electrical DBI Consulting, LLC Enterprise Electric, LLC Federal Solutions Compnay LLC Ford of Boerne Galindo & Boyd, LLC Guadalupe Readymix Halo Contractors JLA Communications, LLC Keeley Construction Longhorn Commercial Roofing, LLC Mercho Services NSC Staffing On-Site Health & Safety Partners Real Estate Primetime Fire Protection Quality Labor Management, LLC Recon Services Safety Mojo STBP, Inc T.W. Hicks, Inc. Talent Corporation, LLC Temporary Wall Systems Viking Rentals WS&P Insurance
MEASURE. STRENGTHEN. BUILD. Measure your performance on key components. Strengthen and expand best practices. Build your health and safety culture.
abc.org/step
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ABC STX Chapter News
Legal Update
The Long and Winding Road Finally Straightens - Maybe Robert D. Kilgore, Special Counsel, Gardner Law Firm - Chapter Attorney
When Joe Biden was inaugurated in 2021, one of his first acts was to terminate the NLRB’s General Counsel, Peter Robb. (Note: the General Counsel is akin to the agency’s prosecuting attorney; he has extremely broad discretion in determining whether and how to prosecute cases). A sitting General Counsel had never been terminated before his term expired, but Mr. Robb was viewed as pushing the Board into an anti-union/pro-employer agenda. Joe Biden had political debts to pay for his union support, and this was low handing fruit. The legality of Mr. Robb’s termination was litigated, with the courts ultimately deciding the President had the right to terminate a General Counsel with or without cause—even for political reasons. Bob Kilgore is Chapter Counsel for ABC-South Texas. He is Special Counsel to the Gardner Law Firm and is Board Certified (Labor & Employment Law) by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Thus, it came to no one’s surprise that after President Trump was inaugurated, he promptly fired Biden’s choice for General Counsel, Jennifer Abruzzo. Ms. Abruzzo was viewed by many as a pro-union activist who sought to expand the National Labor Relations Act’s definition of “protected concerted activity” to levels beyond reasonable comprehension. President Trump used the precedent established by President Biden to remove this activist. To use an old expression, what was good for the goose was good for the gander.
However, President Trump took an additional swing with his axe. He also terminated one of the members of the Board, Gwenne Wilcox. Ms. Wilcox was also viewed as a friend of Big Labor. Ms. Wilcox challenged her termination because, unlike Mr. Robb and Ms. Abruzzo, she was subject to statutory “for-cause” removal protections. Ms. Wilcox’s case has bounced between district and appeals courts in the District of Columbia. The district court ordered Ms. Wilcox be reinstated, relying on a 1935 Supreme Court decision, Humphrey’s Executor v. United States, which upheld restrictions on the president’s authority to remove officers of certain types of independent agencies. The reinstatement order was stayed (suspended) by the U.S. Supreme Court until the Court of Appeals could fully evaluate the district court’s actions. On December 5, 2025, a three-judge panel of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals overruled the District Court. Congress could not restrict the President’s ability to remove an NLRB member because the NLRB wields “substantial powers that are both executive in nature and different form the powers that Humphrey’s Executor deemed to be merely quasi-legislative or quasi-judicial.” This does not end the Wilcox saga; she has already appealed for en banc review by all the judges in the D.C. Court of Appeals. It is unclear if she will ever be reinstated. When the Supreme Court blocked the reinstatement ruling, a majority of the justices agreed that the Trump administration had likely shown that members of the NLRB “exercise considerable executive power.” The Supreme Court is considering a similar case, Trump v. Slaughter. At issue in that case is whether President Trump’s removal of a Federal Trade Commission member was unlawful or if Humphrey’s Executor should be overruled. The Supreme Court’s ruling in the Slaughter case will go a long way toward determining Ms. Wilcox’s fate. It is also worth noting that the NLRB has been without a quorum of three members for nearly a year. Without a quorum, it could not issue decisions. On December 18, 2025, that was rectified. The NLRB now has a quorum, as the Senate confirmed two new members: Scott Mayer (formerly chief labor counsel at aviation manufacturer Boeing) and James Murphy (a career NLRB attorney). The Senate also confirmed Crystal Carey to serve as the NLRB’s General Counsel. Ms. Carey, who formerly was a partner at a large management-side law
firm, will be instrumental in setting the Board’s agenda moving forward. She is expected to move the Board in a more moderate and employer-friendly direction. Only time will tell.
Safety Update
ABC STX Chapter News
11
Building a Smarter Safety Culture in 2026 Samuel Palos, ARM, Acrisure Risk Management - Safety Committee Chair
With the new year comes new challenges and opportunities to strengthen how your organization approaches safety. As technology and workforce expectations evolve, so does the way safety is managed, measured, and embedded into company culture. Below are several emerging safety trends to be aware of and consider implementing in 2026. As technology continues to reshape the construction industry, safety leaders have an opportunity to evaluate not only how hazards are addressed, but how safety culture itself is evolving. Embracing smart technology, mental resilience, and proactive engagement helps build safer, stronger jobsites. ABC South Texas remains committed to empowering our members to protect their teams, their businesses, and the communities they serve. Stay safe and stay informed. Innovation in Safety Technology • Wearables and AI Integration: Smart helmets, exoskeletons, and sensor-enabled wearables can monitor fatigue, posture, and vital signs to help prevent injuries in real time. • AI Driven Video Analytics: Jobsite cameras can detect unsafe behaviors such as missing PPE and alert supervisors immediately, allowing for proactive intervention. Immersive and Virtual Reality Safety Training • Simulated Hazard Environments: Virtual reality training allows workers to practice emergency procedures and navigate high risk scenarios in a controlled, realistic setting. Drones as a Safety Tool • Enhanced Oversight: Drones are increasingly used for aerial inspections, hazard identification, and emergency planning. Thermal imaging and real time visuals improve site awareness while reducing worker exposure. Promoting Psychological Safety and Mental Health • Well Being Initiatives: Employee Assistance Programs, resilience workshops, and mindfulness training help address fatigue, stress, and burnout which directly impact jobsite safety and performance. Diverse and Ergonomic Personal Protective Equipment • Inclusive PPE Solutions: Properly fitting PPE designed for a diverse workforce improves comfort, compliance, and overall protection.
Real Time Data and Predictive Analytics • Safety Foresight: Leveraging data analytics helps identify trends, anticipate risks, and drive continuous improvement before incidents occur. Texas Safety Insights • Drones in Construction: Upskilling programs continue to highlight the role of drones in improving jobsite safety. • Respiratory Fit Testing: Winter conditions reinforce the importance of fit testing and annual compliance. • Cold Weather Precautions: Emphasis on proper layering, slip prevention, and recognizing signs of cold stress. • AI for Small Businesses: Practical AI tools are becoming more accessible for safety monitoring in smaller operations. ABC South Texas Updates • New Member Spotlight: Safety Mojo specializing in AI tools that reinforce positive safety behaviors. • STEP Program: ABC’s Safety Training and Evaluation Process continues to help members benchmark performance and strengthen safety culture. Action Steps for Members • Evaluate: Pilot wearable technology, drone inspections, or AI enabled safety platforms. • Train: Register for VR and AI enhanced safety training and seasonal safety briefings. Contact ABC for list of trainings and certifications. • Support: Strengthen mental health initiatives through EAPs, VITACog training and stress management resources. • Fit and Measure: Review PPE fit and participate in the STEP self assessment process.
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ABC STX Chapter News
Accounting Update
No Tax on Overtime: What Construction Employers Need to Know Mary Arzola, CPA and Tax Manager, RSM
In construction, many of your employees rack up overtime pay. Here’s the
scoop on the new “No Tax on Overtime” provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), effective 2025–2028. What’s changing? • Non-exempt employees earning overtime that exceeds their regular rate of pay under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) can deduct up to $12,500 per year ($25,000 joint) on their Form 1040. • For example, the “extra half” of time-and-a-half qualifies • Deduction is available for both itemizing and non-itemizing taxpayers • This deduction phases out for taxpayers with modified adjusted gross income over $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers). What does this mean for employers? • Payroll actions in 2025 remain unchanged—withhold taxes on tips and overtime as usual. • FICA is not affected: Social Security and Medicare taxes still apply • Employers must report overtime on Form W-2, but separate boxes for these new deductions won’t appear until 2026 • Good news: IRS provided transition relief through Notices 2025 62, so there’s no penalty now for missing the new reporting format on the 2025 W-2. ° While not required for penalty relief, the IRS encourages employers to provide employees with as much information as —such as separate overtime amounts—through Box 14 of Form W-2, supplemental statements, or online portals to help individuals claim the new deductions. • Payroll systems may need to be updated. Most systems already track overtime wages, but new software mapping may be required to capture overtime wages for compliance with the new provision. • Temporary change: These provisions apply only to calendar years 2025–2028, so plan for the sunset. Why it matters in construction: • Many trade roles earn frequent overtime—this helps ease employees’ tax burdens. • Competitive edge: offering clarity on tax benefits boosts morale and supports retention Final Takeaway: Come tax season, your crew could deduct a chunk of their overtime pay and tips from federal taxable income. Communicate with your teams to explain how these deductions may benefit them. Stay ready, stay compliant—and keep building strong! Sources: • IRS offers penalty relief for 2025 tip and overtime reporting requirements- https://rsmus. com/insights/tax-alerts/2025/obbba-no-tax-tips-overtime-penalty-relief.html • IRS Notice 2025-62- “Relief from Certain Penalties Related to Information Reporting Required in Connection with No Tax on Tips and Overtime” • https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/one-big-beautiful-bill-act-tax-deductions-for-working-americans-andseniors • No tax on tips and overtime: What employers should know https://rsmus.com/insights/services/business-tax/no-tax-on-tips-and-overtime-what-employers-should-know.html
Excellence in Construction - continued
ABC STX Chapter News
13
Record Number of STEP Awards
A special highlight of the evening was the recognition of a record number of 54 STEP participants, the highest in the history of the chapter. This achievement reflects an industry wide commitment to proactive safety practices and the continuous improvement of safety programs and culture, including a growing emphasis on mental health. This milestone underscores the chapter’s dedication to leading the way in developing strong safety cultures and protecting the workforce on South Texas jobsites.
STEP Diamond
STEP Platinum
STEP Gold
STEP Silver
STEP Bronze
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ABC STX Chapter News
Mechanical: $2 to $10 Million HCA Methodist - ICU & Rehab TDIndustries
Electrical: $2 to $10 Million CISD Campus Light Upgrades Central Electric
Excellence in Construction - continued
Mechanical: Over $10 Million Christa Santa Rosa Patient Tower Way Mechanical
Electrical: Over $10 Million Methodist Hospital Westover Hills Enterprise Solutions
Public Works / Environmental Alliance Phase 1B Segment E Garney
Special Projects: Less than $2 Million San Antonio Zoo Perimeter Fence Addison Prime
Renovation: Less than $4 Million GVEC Headquarters’ Upper Floor Koehler Company
Renovation: $4 to $10 Million YWCA SA Live & Learn Joeris General Contractors
Community / Public Service Cameron County La Esperanza Park Noble Texas Builders
Healthcare: Less than $10 Million UMC - El Paso Sterile Processing Suite Robins & Morton
Institutional: $5 to $10 Million Hays County Fire Station #4 Koehler Company
Commercial: $2 to $5 Million Rivian Metro
Institutional: $10 to $25 Million St. Mary’s Blank Sheppard SpawGlass
Commercial: $5 to $10 Million La Picosa Town Center Metro
Multi-Family & Condominiums 300 Main Rogers-O’Brien
Specialty Commercial: Over $10 Million The Monarch Hotel Keystone
Renovation: $10 to $100 Million UTRGV Robert & Janet Vacker Stadium Noble Texas Builders
Healthcare: $10 to $25 Million Mariposa Medical Office Jordan Foster
Institutional: $25 to $100 Million SAISD Highlands High School Satterfield & Pontikes
Commercial: $10 to $25 Million HEB Austin 25 Central Builders
Industrial: $15 to $25 Million Boise Cascade Metro
Commercial: Less than $2 Million SKG Healing and Learning Center Metro
Mega Projects over $100 Million Kimpton Santo Harvey Cleary
CBI
ABC STX Chapter News
15
ABC’s Construction Backlog Indicator A Powerful Tool for Business Planning and Advocacy Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) produces the Construction Backlog Indicator (CBI), a forward-looking national economic indicator that measures the amount of work expected to be performed by commercial and industrial contractors in the months ahead. In addition, ABC publishes the Construction Confidence Index, which captures contractors’ expectations related to sales, profit margins, and staffing levels on a monthly basis. Together, these tools form the only reliable leading economic data set focused specifically on the U.S. commercial, institutional, industrial, and infrastructure construction markets. This level of detail provides ABC members with critical insight into emerging economic trends and supports informed business decision-making. When members consistently complete the monthly survey, the CBI becomes an even more powerful resource. The data helps contractors anticipate changes in construction spending, evaluate hiring needs, and plan for future profitability. Increased participation strengthens the accuracy and value of the information available to the entire merit shop construction community. Growing survey participation across all states also allows ABC to expand its analysis at the regional and state level, delivering more localized and actionable intelligence that members can use to guide operations and strategic planning. Beyond its value to contractors, the CBI serves as ABC’s flagship messaging tool. It elevates the visibility of merit shop construction among lawmakers, project owners, lenders, career-seekers, and the media, while drawing attention to key challenges impacting economic growth, including workforce development, regulatory burdens, taxation, and supply chain disruptions. The survey is powered by Qualtrics, distributed around the 20th of each month, and takes approximately three minutes to complete. All responses are kept strictly confidential, and individual contractor names are never released or associated with the data. Participation is limited exclusively to ABC members, ensuring the results accurately reflect the outlook of the merit shop construction industry. Members who need the latest survey link or would like to request participation for colleagues not currently receiving the survey can contact Erika Walter at ewalter@abc.org. Visit abc.org/economics for the Construction Backlog Indicator and Construction Confidence Index, plus analysis of spending, employment, job openings and the Producer Price Index.
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ABC STX Chapter News
Quarterly Recap (continued)
Future Leaders November Event: Panel with Past ABC South Texas Chairs
ABC Trust Seminar
ABC Cares Donation to Camp La Junta for Flood Relief
Forged Leadership: Day and Half with former Special Operators
November Lunch & Learn: Surety Bonds & Construction Industry Update presented by Drew Addison with Acrisure
National Board of Directors Meeting and Leadership Conference
LOGIC November Event: Dress for Success Tour and Clothing Donation
Safety Training & Committee Schedules
ABC STX Chapter News
ABC members care about their employees.
d
Bo d
y
in M
Body
Mind
Heart
Soul
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The Total Human Health Initiative encompasses multiple dimensions of health organized within four, simple and easy to remember categories: Body, Heart, Mind, and Soul. This critical link in the ABC STEP Safety Management System® is designed to help members focus and improve the complete health, wellness and livelihood of their employees.
abc.org/thh
2026 QTR 1 Safety Training January 13-15: Advanced Road Inspector 481 January 27-30: OSHA #500 Construction Trainer February 10: Advanced Road Inspector 482 February 10-12: OSHA #3015 Excavation & Trenching February 11-12: Advanced Road Inspector 483 February 24: Qualified Flagger Training & Trainer February 25-26: Traffic Control Supervisor March 17-19: Advanced Road Inspector 484 March 31-April3: OSHA #510 Construction Standards
2026 QTR 1 Committee Meetings Workforce Development 3 PM, ABC Office
January 21 February 18 March 18
Government Affairs 3 PM, ABC Office January 12 February 9 March 9
Membership 9 AM, ABC Office
January 6 February 3 March 3
Safety 12 PM, ABC Office January 14 OSHA Recordkeeping February 18 STEP - How to Overview March 11 Mental Health
Apprenticeship 2 PM, ABC Office
January 21 February 18 March 18
LOGIC
January 8 Kick-off Event Top Golf, 12-2PM February 19 Patrick Lencioni Discussion ABC Office, 4 PM March 12 Women in Construction Panel ABC Office, 12 PM
Future Leaders January 28 Happy Hour Kick-off Elseswhere Too, 5 PM February 4 Find Your Why ABC Office, 12 PM March 4 Clay Shoot & BBQ Cook-off Support National Gun Club
Events Plenty of opportunities to join an events committee: BBQ& Sporting Clays, Golf, Family Event, Chili Cook-off, & EIC.
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ABC STX Chapter News
Quarterly Recap (continued)
December Lunch & Learn: Digital Twin with DBI Consulting, Autodesk and City of San Antonio
Future Leaders and LOGIC December Community Service Event: Wreaths Across America
Here for the Long Haul: Turning Flood Relief T Shirt Sales into Community Impact
Future Leaders and LOGIC Holiday Happy Hour
Construct a Kids Christmas
Board of Directors Appreciation for Service
Quarterly Recap (continued)
ABC STX Chapter News
Milwaukee Members of the Month with Acrisure, Manco and The Koehler Company
Milwaukee Year-end Celebration
New Member Orientation and Appreciation
Texas Representative Lujan toured Joeris jobsite and received ABC State Eagle Award
Rep. Gonzales receives ABC National Eagle Award
UTSA Hardhat Ceremony
District 7 Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito tours Metro jobsite
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ABC STX Chapter News
Apprenticeship Update
Building the Future Through Apprenticeship Your Experience Can Shape the Future of the Construction Industry A strong construction industry depends on well trained, skilled craft professionals, and the apprenticeship program remains a cornerstone of that effort. Through hands on training, mentorship, and industry driven curriculum, the program equips individuals with the skills, confidence, and professionalism needed to succeed on today’s jobsites while building long term career pathways in the skilled trades. The success of the apprenticeship program is strengthened through industry support. A sincere thank you to DeWalt and Milwaukee for their generous donations of industry grade tools, which allow apprentices to train using the same equipment they will encounter in the field. These contributions enhance the learning experience and reinforce a culture of safety, quality, and excellence from day one. Members who are passionate about developing people and strengthening the workforce are encouraged to get involved through the Apprenticeship Committee, which meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 4:00 p.m. at the ABC office. Committee participation provides a direct opportunity to support student success, guide program development, and invest in the future of our industry.
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