Features
By the time this article is read, it may be largely irrelevant. Policy is shifting daily, market volatility is acute and general economic instability is making risky what has generally been a rather strong postpandemic construction marketplace.
‘It’s Just How I Live’: ABC’s 2025 Craft Professional of the Year, Chris Weaver
Craft Professional Chris Weaver: ‘I want to leave this industry better than I found it. That means teaching, empowering and always pushing for excellence.’
Going the Extra Mile: ABC’s 2025 Craft Instructor of the Year Derek Robbins
ABC’s 2025 Craft Instructor of the Year Derek Robbins ‘Teaching kind of found me. Looking back now, that road seems like a no-brainer for me.’
Lead by Learning: ABC’s 2025 Young Professional of the Year Ray Wallace
With a nearly 10-year U.S. Army career and over 10 years in the construction industry, Ray Wallace knows a thing or two about hard work—and as a testament to that work ethic, the 39-year-old father of three was recently named ABC’s 2025 Young Professional of the Year.
Best of the Best: ABC’S 2025 Construction Workforce Awards
One is a veteran who says he’s learned more about leadership by listening than he ever has by talking. Another started out as a craftsman before realizing that his true passion was actually teaching his trade. And the third is a seasoned craft pro who wants his team to know that the sky’s the limit when it comes to their future in the construction industry.
Financial Foundations: Why Less Than 40% of Construction Companies Founded in 2011 Are Still Open Today
Common cracks can signal bigger money troubles in the building business—here’s how to avoid them.
Capitalizing on Competition: ABC 2025 Top Performers Answer Compelling Questions
ABC's 2025 Top Performer contractors share insights from their years of experience competing in this industry.
Long Shot: Chandra Wakeland’s Leap of Faith Into Construction Ownership
Chandra Wakeland founded Wakeland Electric at just 25 years old, defying everyone who doubted her and proving that being a successful woman in the male-dominated construction industry is achievable for anyone—they just have to want it badly enough.









