THE MERIT TIMES
THE MERIT TIMES!
The upcoming issue of The Merit Times highlights the people, priorities, and policies shaping California’s construction industry. Leading the issue is a powerful feature on the rise of women in construction, anchored by the inspiring story of Marjorie Del Toro, whose personal experiences with workplace safety drove her to build a nationally recognized safety training company. The article underscores the growing presence of women in the trades, the industry’s progress toward inclusivity, and the tangible benefits of a more diverse workforce. It also explores the opportunities construction offers—from strong wages to leadership pathways— while emphasizing the continued need for mentorship, training, and cultural shifts to sustain long-term growth.
This issue also spotlights the importance of advocacy through ABC of California’s 2026 Legislative Action Day in Sacramento. Bringing together contractors, business leaders, and industry partners, the event provides a critical platform to engage directly with policymakers on issues impacting workforce development, regulation, and infrastructure. With opportunities for networking, training, and coordinated meetings at the State Capitol, Legislative Action Day empowers members to help shape the future of the construction industry. Together, these features reflect a shared focus on building opportunity—through people, policy, and purposeful investment in the next generation of construction professionals.
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About ABC of California
MISSION: ABC of California exists to Protect, Promote, and Advance Free Enterprise, Fair and Open Competition and Workforce Development for all ABC Members in California.
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We’re looking for industry insights, best practices, and updates for the next issue! If you’re interested in submitting an article, email info@abcofca.org and we’ll be in touch!
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BUILDING OPPORTUNITY:
WHY THE RISE OF WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION IS GOOD FOR OUR INDUSTRY
When she was young, two devastating tragedies left Marjorie Del Toro with a visceral understanding of how dangerous workplaces can be when safety is overlooked and how these issues can affect families. Her beloved uncle was electrocuted on a job site when she was twelve. Then, a few years later, her mother, a nursing assistant, was electrocuted by an electric wheelchair, leaving her permanently disabled. The young teen had to manage her mother’s affairs, help to support the household income, and make difficult medical decisions.
These hardships and challenges, however, did not defeat her. On the contrary, Del Toro responded with strength and resolve. “I realized systemic improvements in construction training were not only necessary, but I could play an instrumental
role in making them happen. So I quit my job in 1997 with only 300 dollars in my pocket and an earnest prayer to do God’s work.” With that leap of faith, she launched the California-based ehs International, Inc. (ehsInc), now one of the most successful construction safety training businesses in the U.S.
Celebrating Women in Construction
Del Toro is one of thousands of women who are claiming their place in the construction industry, not because they have to, but because they see opportunity—opportunity for learning, growth, profit, and making a difference. The first week of March marks Women in Construction Week—a time to recognize the growing impact of women across our industry and to recommit ourselves to expanding opportunity in the skilled trades.
As the CEO of ABC San Diego, I’m proud to see more women stepping onto jobsites, leading projects, launching companies, and helping build the infrastructure that keeps our region moving forward.
There is real progress to celebrate, According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, women made up 14.46% of the construction workforce in December 2025— about 1.196 million women—the highest number ever recorded. The U.S. Department of Commerce reported that of the 133,000 construction jobs added from February 2024 to February 2025, 18,000 of them— about 1 in 7—went to women
More Than Just a Job
These numbers matter. They represent electricians, estimators, engineers, project managers, safety professionals, welders, executives, and business owners—roles held by women who have discovered that construction offers much more than just a job. It’s a pathway to opportunities for advancement, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
The good news is that the construction industry offers many of the qualities that job seekers are looking for today. Average hourly earnings in construction are about $40.37, more than $3 higher than the private-sector average, with strong year-over-year growth. Pay equity is comparatively high, and careers in construction are deeply fulfilling. Surveys of construction workers show that they enjoy some of the highest levels of job satisfaction.
ABC member contractors across San Diego are working toward making jobsites more welcoming and supportive of women. That includes providing properly fitted personal protective equipment, implementing inclusive workplace policies, and building mentorship programs that help women advance from entry-level roles into supervision and management. These changes benefit everyone by creating safer, more professional, and more productive workplaces.
Making a Difference
Women in Construction Week—first launched by the National Association of Women in Construction in 1998—gives us the opportunity to highlight these efforts and inspire the next generation. This year, ABC San Diego is partnering with member contractors to host jobsite tours, hands-on tool demonstrations, classroom presentations, and virtual career panels. We’re reaching out to high school and community college students to show them that a construction career today is one that’s technologically driven, collaborative, and full of opportunity.
We’re celebrating women already making a difference in our industry—from apprentices mastering their craft to executives leading complex projects. Nationally, ABC members made up more than half of the all-female honorees in Construction Dive’s 2025 Construction Champions, a testament to the leadership women are bringing to construction firms of all sizes. Our commitment goes beyond a single week. ABC and its members invest heavily in workforce development through initiatives like the Trimmer Construction Education Fund, which distributes grants to support training programs that build a safe, skilled, sustainable, and diverse workforce.
More Work to Be Done
At the same time, construction remains a male-dominated industry, and so there’s still much work to be done to improve parity. Making it a priority to increase the number of women-held jobs and women-owned companies lifts up the whole industry that needs to attract an estimated 349,000 net new workers in 2026 to meet demand for construction services.
San Diego has always been a region that builds boldly. When we ensure women have full access to careers in construction, we are not just creating opportunity, we are building a stronger workforce and future for our community. Here are some priorities to accelerate this progress:
• Expand journeywomen programs and registered apprenticeships that provide clear pathways from entry-level roles into the skilled trades, as structured training, mentorship, and on-the-job learning are proven tools for retention and advancement.
• Invest in targeted outreach and training for new female hires, including partnering with schools, workforce agencies, and community organizations to introduce women to construction careers early and provide the support they need to succeed.
• Continue improving workplace culture with inclusive policies, leadership training, and visible role models to ensure that women who enter the industry choose to stay and grow.
• Tell our story better so that the public understands that our industry offers opportunities for women that span management, technology, safety, communications, and business development.
A Call to Action
Women in Construction Week is a celebration, but it is also a call to action. By expanding training pathways, investing in new talent, and building supportive workplaces, we can open doors for more women while strengthening the entire industry.
“When workplaces are inclusive and supportive, women don’t just participate— they lead,” said Del Toro. “Throughout this country, women head crews, run companies, and manage complex projects. They are professionals who are working on jobsites because they are qualified, capable, and essential.”
I look forward to a time when more young women envision a future in which they are seeking—and excelling at—meaningful careers in construction.
ABC OF CALIFORNIA LEGISLATIVE ACTION DAY 2026
ABC of California invites members and industry leaders to participate in the 2026 Legislative Action Day (LAD) in Sacramento. This important advocacy event brings together merit shop construction professionals from across the state to engage directly with policymakers, discuss key legislative issues, and strengthen the voice of the construction industry at the California State Capitol.
Legislative Action Day provides contractors, business leaders, and industry partners with a unique opportunity to meet face-to-face with state legislators and their staff. These conversations help ensure lawmakers understand how legislation related to workforce policies, project delivery, and industry regulations impacts the companies and workers building California’s infrastructure.
Event Information
The two-day program begins with a networking reception and dinner on Tuesday evening, allowing attendees from across California to connect, share regional perspectives, and align on industry priorities before meeting with legislators.
On Wednesday, participants will take part in advocacy briefings, training sessions, and scheduled meetings with lawmakers and legislative staff at the California State Capitol. These meetings provide a platform for ABC members to discuss key policy issues affecting the merit shop construction community and advocate for fair and open competition within the industry.
Why Attend?
• Legislative Action Day is ABC of California’s flagship advocacy event, giving members the opportunity to directly influence policy decisions that affect their businesses and workforce. Attendees will:
• Receive briefings on key legislative priorities impacting the construction industry
• Learn effective advocacy strategies and how to communicate with legislators
• Participate in coordinated meetings with lawmakers and their staff
• Network with contractors, business leaders, and industry advocates from across California
• Participation is especially impactful during the 2026 election cycle, when policy decisions related to workforce regulation, infrastructure investment, and industry standards will shape the future of California’s construction sector.
Who Should Attend?
ABC encourages participation from:
• ABC member contractors of all sizes
• Project executives and operations leaders
• HR, compliance, and safety professionals
• Chapter board members and volunteer leaders
• Industry partners such as suppliers, bonding companies, and service providers
Be Part of the Conversation
Legislative Action Day is an opportunity for ABC members to ensure their voices are heard on issues that affect their businesses, employees, and the broader construction industry. By meeting directly with policymakers, participants help shape the policies that impact California’s economic and infrastructure future.
Register and learn more!
ABC OF CALIFORNIA LEGISLATIVE ACTION DAY 2026
ABC CA is delighted to invite members to join us in Sacramento for the 2026 Legislative Action Day (LAD) on April 8, 2026, with a reception and dinner the evening prior on April 7 from 5:00–8:00 PM at The Sutter Club (1220 9th St, Sacramento, CA 95814).
April 8 begins with breakfast at 8:30 AM at the Hyatt Regency Sacramento (1209 L St, Sacramento, CA 95814), followed by a welcome message from ABC CA President Greg Gutierrez. The program will then feature three incredible guest speakers: Republican gubernatorial candidates Steve Hilton and Sheriff Chad Bianco, and Assemblymember Buffy Wicks.
ABC’s lobbyist Michelle Rubalcava will then walk you through ABC’s key bills, as well as tips and tricks on speaking with legislators and their staff members.
Finally, you will be set up in small teams and head over to the Capitol Annex building to meet with legislators and staff. The meetings will all be arranged by ABC staff, and printed copies of our key bills and stances will be provided in advance.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ATTENDING LEGISLATIVE ACTION DAY?
• Policy Impact - Not only does LAD further the goals of ABC CA and all merit-shop groups, but it offers a chance to make connections and insights to what legislators are working on right now. Having more members attend, especially constituents, means that legislators cannot ignore the problems that merit-shop groups face.
• Relationships & Education - You will meet members from all over the state, share best practices, and get the opportunity to share solutions to current issues at hand. LAD training will also empower you to meet with your local legislators, giving you an inside lane to discussing local ordinance and regulations.
• Empowerment & Buy-In - LAD offers something a chance to step into another industry and educate yourself in a controlled, rich environment. Apprentices, and those who wish to move higher up into management, LAD is a perfect place to start.
HOTEL INFORMATION
The Hyatt Regency Sacramento (1209 L St, Sacramento, CA 95814) is the designated hotel for the 2026 LAD event. The discounted room block deadline has passed; however, attendees are still welcome to book directly with the hotel, subject to availability and standard rates.
BOOK YOUR ROOM
ADDITIONAL LOCAL HOTELS
• Hyatt Centric (.2 miles from Sutter Club)
• The Citizen (.3 miles from Sutter Club)
• Residence Inn by Marriott (.5 miles from Sutter Club)
• Holiday Inn (.5 miles from the Sutter Club)
• The Aiden Hotel (.5 miles from Sutter Club)
ABC OF CALIFORNIA A YEAR IN REVIEW
Advocacy remained at the core of our work in 2025.
ABC California continued to represent the voice of merit shop contractors at the State Capitol engaging with policymakers, tracking critical legislation, and advocating for fair and open competition.
This year our highlights Included:
ABC CA LEGISLATIVE ACTION DAY AT THE CAPITOL, MARCH 19TH, 2025
ABC California’s Legislative Action Day brought members directly into the heart of policymaking, connecting contractors, apprentices, and industry leaders with key legislators at the State Capitol.
The day began with a welcome from ABC leadership, followed by remarks from Assemblymember James Gallagher and discussions with both the Problem Solvers Caucus and Moderate Democrats Caucus. These conversations provided a platform to share ABC’s legislative priorities, including key bills impacting the industry, budget considerations, and the negative impacts of project labor agreements (PLAs).
A powerful moment of the day included an apprentice sharing their personal story, highlighting the importance of workforce development and accessible career pathways in construction.
Members also participated in a legislative briefing session to prepare for direct engagement, followed by in-person meetings with lawmakers throughout the afternoon.
Through these efforts, ABC California members reinforced their voice at the Capitol, advocating for fair and open competition and the future of the construction workforce.
ABC CA CONSTRUCTION ROUNDTABLE – OCTOBER 14, 2025
On October 14, 2025, ABC California hosted a Construction Roundtable in Sacramento, bringing together industry leaders and partner organizations for a focused discussion on shared priorities and collaboration.
The session opened with remarks from ABC leadership, followed by introductions from participating associations, including representatives from across the construction community.
A key focus of the roundtable was a collaborative discussion on association priorities, with an emphasis on strengthening the Merit Shop Advocacy Coalition and aligning efforts across organizations.
