Associated General Contractors of America

The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) is the oldest and largest construction trade association in the United States. Founded in 1918, the AGC was established to address the challenges faced by the construction industry during World War I, particularly the need for better coordination and representation of contractors' interests[1][2].

History

The AGC's origins trace back to a meeting called by the United States Chamber of Commerce in Atlantic City in July 1918, where contractors discussed unifying the industry. By November 1918, contractors from across twenty-four states met in Chicago to organize the AGC formally[2]. The organization grew rapidly, with 282 members across twenty-six states and the District of Columbia by June 1919[2].

Throughout its history, the AGC has played a pivotal role in shaping the construction industry through advocacy, education, and collaboration. In the 1920s and 1930s, the AGC expanded its presence with local chapters and contributed to large-scale infrastructure projects, including road and bridge construction[2]. During World War II, the AGC pledged its support to President Roosevelt, contributing to various war-related construction projects[3].

In the latter half of the twentieth century, the AGC focused on addressing industry challenges such as labor relations, technological advancements, and environmental issues. The organization introduced strategic plans in the 1990s that covered topics like "Partnering" to improve project outcomes and released its "Platform for Building America" in 2000[2][3]. In response to the 2008 economic recession, the AGC developed a Construction Industry Recovery Plan to stimulate growth in the sector[2][3].

Mission and Activities

The AGC's mission is to advocate for the construction industry's interests, promote excellence in building practices, and enhance labor conditions[4][5]. It achieves this through various activities:

• Advocacy: The AGC engages with government agencies, such as OSHA and the EPA, to influence legislation and regulations impacting the construction industry[1].
• Education and Training: Members benefit from management education, safety training, and professional development programs[5].
• Community Engagement: The AGC supports local communities through charitable projects and environmental initiatives[3].

Structure and Membership

The organization consists of over 26,000 member firms and is supported by 100 chartered chapters nationwide[2]. The AGC operates both at the national level, with a significant presence in Washington, D.C., and through local chapters that address regional issues[1][5].

Milestones

• 1918: Founded as a response to the construction demands of World War I[2].
• 1923: AGC chapters begin to form across the U.S.[2].
• 1930: AGC becomes an affiliate of the International Federation of Building and Public Works[2].
• 1991: Introduces "Partnering" concept for improved project outcomes[3].
• 2009: Releases a Construction Industry Recovery Plan post-recession[3].
• 2018: Celebrates its 100th anniversary[3].

[1] https://generalcontractor.com/article/what-is-the-associated-general-contractors-of-america/ [2] https://findingaids.hagley.org/repositories/3/resources/1207 [3] https://centennial.agc.org/our-history/ [4] https://agchouston.org/about/legacy [5] https://www.agcmass.org/about-agc-ma/