Submitted by the Associated General Contractors of Massachusetts (AGC MA)
In response to the newly emerging COVID-19 pandemic, AGC MA took a proactive lead in 2020 by providing members and the community at large semi-weekly forums and a bi-weekly series addressing the immediate challenges that COVID-19 presented to the workforce, clients, and employees. AGC MA kept members informed daily with critical news and information updates via “The BUZZ,” AGC’s monthly newsletter, social media posts and website portal.
In June of 2020, AGC launched “Diversity Dialogues,” an ongoing series of discussions on racism, social inequality, and bias. AGC MA will continue its work under AGC of America’s Culture of Care program by launching the “Building Respect Campaign,” funded by a grant from MAP, which will offer educational and awareness programs to help build a workforce culture that is equitable and safe for everyone through 2021 and beyond.
Through an additional, existing grant from MCAP, AGC MA’s Workforce Development Taskforce will continue its efforts in a statewide outreach and educational campaign promoting the benefits of careers in construction management. These efforts will encourage students in elementary, middle, or high school to consider a career in construction and assist those who are preparing for their first jobs in the industry. The task force will also focus on educating students, guidance counselors, teachers, parents, and the general public on the opportunities in CM.
AGC MA will continue its work to build awareness to fight opioid use and its stigma by collaborating with OSHA and various industry partners to hold a second statewide Opioid Stand Down day as soon as it is safe to do so.
In 2021, AGC MA will maintain its mission of Building Excellence in the Commonwealth by offering cutting edge safety, technical, educational, and other career advancement programs and services; labor relations and HR support; legislative advocacy; public agency representation; and business development platforms such as networking events and publications for its members.