A family person first, Henley Construction President and 2024 Associated Builders and Contractors National Chair Buddy Henley has always prioritized his relationships—with his father, daughters, employees, ABC national committee counterparts and chapter members—because he knows people drive ABC’s success. This truth became even more evident to Henley throughout his year of leadership. As ABC enters its 75th year of service to the construction industry, Henley reflects on his time at the helm and prepares to pass the torch.
TOP OF THE LIST
2024 was a remarkable year—not just for ABC, but for the construction industry. Henley had his hands full with challenges like the skilled-labor shortage, the housing crisis, mental-health risks for construction workers, inflation and an election year. Despite the challenges, his outlook remained positive:
“We have four parts of our strategic plan. Total human health is high on the list, if not the most important. This year, we had a record number of STEP participants and achieved a record contractor percentage. People are taking safety seriously, ensuring everyone goes home safe every night. Our AQC program is thriving as well.
“Political advocacy was also a primary focus because it was an election year. The PAC and FEA committees, chapter staff and government affairs team stepped up. We had a record cycle for PAC donations and sold 126 flag badges. A rising tide lifts all ships, and with political challenges reduced, other aspects like workforce development and total human health become more achievable for our members.”
NOT AN OBLIGATION, BUT A PRIVILEGE
As president of his family’s construction company and an ABC veteran with chapter, regional and national experience, Henley is no stranger to travel. However, this year brought travel demands to a new level—which was both challenging and rewarding:
“It was more travel than in the past. But it was great to see the best practices that the different chapters were implementing. I remember visiting the Greater Houston chapter, where 450 high-school students attended an event introducing them to the construction industry. Watching kids operate heavy machinery and seeing their excitement was inspiring. Greater Houston has been running this program since the 1990s.
“That experience made me want to start something similar in our region. Visiting chapters, attending workforce development, networking and political events is energizing. I want to go back and see even more.”
TAKING CENTER STAGE
Anyone who has met Buddy Henley knows he is a people person—gregarious, approachable and a natural communicator. But even he admits that stepping into the national spotlight was a growth experience:
“This year has been one of the most fun periods of my life. After being sidelined by ankle surgery for two years, returning was refreshing. Convention was the kickoff—speaking in front of 2,000 people felt like being pushed out of an airplane. While I was never afraid of public speaking, I improved as the year progressed. It was a significant personal and professional growth experience.”
HENLEY AND HENLEY
As a founding member of the Metro Washington chapter, Robert Henley—Buddy Henley’s father and Henley Construction’s founder—was proud to see his son elected to the position of ABC National Chair.
“He’s everything that ABC stands for,” Buddy Henley says. “The values my father instilled in me—ethics, respect, safety and people development—align perfectly with ABC’s mission. I know he is proud.”
Henley also reflected on how his father’s leadership influenced his ability to balance his national responsibilities with running Henley Construction.
“One day, I will retire, and someone else will run this company. This year was a test run for our internal processes. We learned a lot about what works, what does not and where we need to build support. It was a valuable exercise, but I am excited to return to work here.”
While Henley looks forward to resuming his full-time role at Henley Construction, he plans to remain actively involved with ABC.
“I will serve as the immediate past chair and stay involved. I love this association and believe in its mission,” he says. “You will not see me riding off into the sunset anytime soon.”
75 YEARS AND COUNTING
As Henley passes the National Chair title to David Pugh this year, he does so with confidence:
“[2025] is a milestone year—ABC’s 75th anniversary. David has a huge responsibility, but he is prepared, and I will support him. I look forward to celebrating ABC’s centennial someday, but 2025 will be something special.”
BACK TO BASICS
As Henley’s term as the national chair ends, he is eager to return to his roots in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Henley Construction recently completed significant projects, including the new Neelsville Middle School, and maintains a strong backlog for the future.
“We’ve landed a few exciting projects recently, and I’m looking forward to diving back in,” he says.
Henley also looks forward to personal milestones: watching his two daughters graduate from college and celebrating his father’s 91st birthday.
Reflecting on his time as ABC National Chair, Henley shares his key takeaway:
“I learned so much about business, leadership and member values. The more you invest in ABC, the more you get back. It is not about the board members or the chair—it is about the association, the team and the relationships. It is about getting involved and taking advantage of all the training and programs to help grow your business and develop your people. If I could do it again, I would—though I would [hope to] be available to visit even more chapters.”
With a successful year behind him and exciting opportunities ahead, Buddy Henley leaves a legacy of leadership, vision and a deep commitment to people—ensuring ABC’s continued success.
To learn more about ABC Convention 2025, visit abc.org/convention.
COMING SOON: A MAN WITH A PLAN: 2025 ABC NATIONAL CHAIR DAVID PUGH
