Episode 193-In this episode of The Build Zone podcast, we’re joined by Haley Moyers, Director of Workforce Programs and Initiatives at Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), to talk about one of the most exciting events shaping the next generation of construction leaders: the ABC National Construction Management Competition.

Every year, this competition brings together some of the brightest construction management students from across the country to test their skills in a high-pressure, real-world simulation of what it takes to successfully run a construction project. From project scheduling and safety planning to estimating, logistics, and team presentations, the competition challenges students to think like real construction managers—because for a few intense days, that’s exactly what they become.

Haley pulls back the curtain on how the competition works, what students experience when they step into the arena, and why the event has become such an important bridge between education and industry. She shares how teams are tasked with solving complex construction problems, building project strategies, and presenting their solutions to panels of experienced industry professionals.

But this episode isn’t just about the competition itself—it’s about the bigger mission behind it. Haley explains how programs like this help prepare the next generation of construction leaders while giving companies a chance to see emerging talent in action. For many students, participating in the ABC National Construction Management Competition is more than a class project—it’s a career-defining experience that opens doors to internships, job offers, and lifelong industry connections.

We also talk about the importance of workforce development in the construction industry and how initiatives from Associated Builders and Contractors are helping strengthen the pipeline of skilled professionals entering the field. Haley shares insight into the role collaboration between educators, industry leaders, and organizations plays in building the future of construction.

Whether you’re a student considering a career in construction management, an educator preparing the next generation, or an industry professional passionate about workforce development, this conversation offers an inside look at how the industry is investing in its future.

Tune in to hear how Haley Moyers and the team at Associated Builders and Contractors are creating opportunities for students to showcase their skills, gain real-world experience, and compete at the highest level through the ABC National Construction Management Competition.

Listen to the full episode here- https://www.abcma.org/Membership/The-Build-Zone-Podcast

Learn more about ABC Massachusetts visit www.abcma.org

Please visit our sponsors:

Presenting Sponsor Ryan Foye: https://www.abcma.org/Membership/ABC-Insurance-Programs/ABC-Self-Insured-Workers-Compensation-Group-SIG

Lightning Round Sponsor: https://attaintechnology.com/

#abcmeritshopproud

#thebuildzonepodcast

#passion

#ConstructionManagement

#FutureOfConstruction

#SkilledTrades

#WorkforceDevelopment

#ConstructionCareers

#BuildYourFuture

#NextGenBuilders

#ConstructionIndustry

#ABCNational

#ConstructionEducation

#TradeCareers

#BuiltByTheBest

#ConstructionLeadership

#CareerInConstruction

#ConstructionStudents

#WorkforcePipeline

#MeritShop

#ABCConstruction

#ProjectManagement

#BuildersOfTomorrow

Episode 192-In this inspiring episode of The Build Zone Podcast, brought to you by the ABC Self Insured Group, we shine a spotlight on the people helping shape the future of the construction industry—starting with this week’s guest, Sarah Reinhard. Sarah is a Business Development Representative at Structis and was recently nominated in recognition of Women in Construction Week—a well-deserved acknowledgment of the work she’s doing to move the industry forward.

During our conversation, Sarah shares her unique journey into construction and how she found her place in a field that continues to evolve and welcome more diverse voices. Like many people in the trades, her path wasn’t perfectly linear—but it was driven by curiosity, determination, and a willingness to learn. She talks about the experiences that shaped her career and how those moments ultimately led her to Structis, where she now helps connect people, projects, and opportunities across the industry.

We also dive into what business development really looks like in the construction world. Sarah explains how relationship-building, communication, and trust are essential components of successful projects long before a shovel hits the ground. She offers an inside look at how professionals in her role support contractors, partners, and clients while helping organizations grow strategically.

Of course, we couldn’t talk to Sarah without discussing the importance of Women in Construction Week. She shares what the nomination means to her personally and why recognizing women in the industry is so important—not just for visibility, but for encouraging the next generation to see construction as a place where they belong. From mentorship to leadership opportunities, Sarah highlights the progress that’s been made and the work that still lies ahead.

Listeners will also hear Sarah’s perspective on what makes the construction community special. She talks about the pride that comes with building something tangible, the collaboration required across every trade, and the sense of accomplishment that comes when a project finally comes together.

Whether you’re already working in construction, considering a career in the trades, or simply curious about the people behind the projects that shape our communities, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.

Tune in for a conversation about opportunity, perseverance, and the growing impact of women helping lead the construction industry into the future.

#WomenInConstruction

#WomenInConstructionWeek

#ConstructionCareers

#SkilledTrades

#ConstructionIndustry

#TradesCareers

#WomenInTrades

#FutureOfConstruction

#BuildYourFuture

#ConstructionLeadership

Listen to the full episode here- https://www.abcma.org/Membership/The-Build-Zone-Podcast

Learn more about ABC Massachusetts visit www.abcma.org

Please visit our sponsors:

Presenting Sponsor Ryan Foye: https://www.abcma.org/Membership/ABC-Insurance-Programs/ABC-Self-Insured-Workers-Compensation-Group-SIG

Lightning Round Sponsor: https://attaintechnology.com/

Episode 191-In this powerful and eye-opening episode of The Build Zone Podcast, brought to you by the ABC Self Insured Group, we sit down with David Tibbetts, Chief Safety Officer at Highwire, to talk about one of the most important — yet often overlooked — topics in the skilled trades: safety. Whether you’re on the jobsite every day, leading a crew, or working to build the next generation of trades professionals, this conversation is packed with insight, real-world experience, and practical takeaways you won’t want to miss.

David brings decades of experience in construction, risk management, and safety leadership to the table. He shares his personal journey into the industry, the moments that shaped his passion for protecting workers, and why he believes safety is not just a compliance requirement, but a culture that starts with people. From near-miss stories to leadership lessons learned the hard way, David reminds us that every safety rule is written in response to a real human experience.

We dive into how technology is transforming jobsite safety and how companies can use data to move from reactive to proactive safety strategies. David explains how organizations can better identify risk, improve communication, and create environments where workers feel empowered to speak up. He also challenges leaders to rethink their approach, shifting from enforcement to engagement, and from checklists to meaningful conversations.

For instructors, apprentices, and industry leaders, this episode highlights the critical role education plays in building safer futures. David discusses why safety training must start early, how mentorship impacts long-term outcomes, and why the next generation of trades professionals has an opportunity to raise the bar even higher.

We also explore the business case for safety — how strong safety cultures improve productivity, retention, and reputation. David breaks down common misconceptions and shares actionable steps any company, regardless of size, can implement immediately.

This episode is a reminder that safety is not just about policies or procedures. It’s about people, families, and the responsibility we all share to make sure everyone goes home at the end of the day. If you care about leadership, culture, and the future of the skilled trades, this is a conversation you need to hear.

You can learn more about Highwire by checking out his website here >> https://www.highwire.com/

Listen to the full episode here- https://www.abcma.org/Membership/The-Build-Zone-Podcast

Learn more about ABC Massachusetts visit www.abcma.org

Please visit our sponsors:

Presenting Sponsor: https://www.abcma.org/Membership/ABC-Insurance-Programs/ABC-Self-Insured-Workers-Compensation-Group-SIG

Lightning Round Sponsor: https://attaintechnology.com/

#thebuildzonepodcast

#abcmeritshopproud

#ConstructionSafety

#SafetyFirst

#WorkplaceSafety

#SafetyCulture

#SafetyTraining

#WorkersSafety

#HealthAndSafety

#SiteSafety

#ConstructionIndustry

#SafetyLeadership