Boston – The Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts (AGC MA) announces a slate of activities to mark Construction Inclusion Week 2023 (Oct. 16-20).
AGC MA’s 3rd Annual Diversity Summit will take place on Oct. 17 from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Boston University’s Agganis Arena. This year’s event, titled “Hold the Door Open,” will connect underrepresented business entities (UBEs) to opportunities for access and financing as well as other resources providers. Highlights will include:
- A screening of the first installment of AGC MA’s multi-part “Open Door” video series, highlighting challenges faced by underrepresented business entities and the resources available to support them.
- A panel discussion on critical issues of access and financing within the construction industry and best strategies to address them.
- A networking session connecting UBEs with experts in access, financing, certification, bonding and insurance, and administration.
On Friday, Oct. 20, AGC MA will expand its STEM-based partnership program with Boston Public Schools to establish awareness of and pathways to rewarding future construction career opportunities. The program began last year at Mattahunt Elementary School in Mattapan when area construction leaders joined 5th grade students for an engaging and interactive event. The program grew to include 6th graders at Mattahunt and will expand further this year with events at three elementary schools: Mattahunt Elementary, Lyndon Pilot School in West Roxbury and Mario Umana Academy in East Boston.
Additional Construction Inclusion Week events will include:
- A networking “Open House” at Siena Construction Company on Monday, Oct. 16 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.;
- A tour of The Embrace on Boston Common, commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King, on Wednesday, Oct. 18 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. by MassDesign and Skanska who helped plan and install the sculpture;
- A Stand Down for Respect event led by Lee Kennedy Company at an MIT job site to discuss how respect and inclusion enhance jobsite safety culture, on Oct. 19.
“Construction Inclusion Week is about ensuring everyone has a sense of belonging in our industry,” said AGC MA CEO, John Ferrante. “This includes supporting the many diverse people and voices in our industry, inspiring the next generation to see themselves in our industry, and holding the door open for those trying to join our industry. We’re looking forward to an important and inspiring week accomplishing all these things.”
