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or a skilled trade in an apprenticeship program, to the emerging leaders rising through their company ranks, AGC CEF is committed to supporting construction professionals throughout their careers by providing training, networking and leadership development opportunities. Without this type of intentional in-


vestment in leadership development, the construction industry risks losing institutional knowledge, professional continuity, and the next generation of leaders. AGC CEF understands that the col-


leagues that professionals meet in their first 10 years often become the partners, clients, and collaborators of their next 30 years in the construction industry. Cultivating those connections is part and parcel of the services and value it brings. In this article, we spotlight three young leaders who exemplify how AGC CEF programs support career growth across the California construction industry. Teir stories provide insight into the diverse pathways into construction careers and the ways that AGC CEF accelerates profes- sional development through mentorship, leadership training, industry connection opportunities, and more.


Investing In


A Shared Commitment to Developing Next Generation Leaders


BY RYAN AUKERMAN, GRIFFITH COMPANY PRESIDENT AND 2026 AGC-CA PRESIDENT


One of the investments I’m most proud of as 2026 President of AGC of Cal- ifornia is the organization’s continued commitment to developing the next generation of industry leaders. This year, our Emerging Leaders Academy and Construction Leaders


Academy have more than doubled in size compared to last year, reflecting both the demand for these programs and our industry’s commitment to grow- ing talent from within. Griffith Company was an early believer in both academies, sending multi-


ple team members through each cohort because we’ve long recognized that leadership development isn’t a one-time investment, but an ongoing commit- ment to our people and the future of our company. As our industry continues to evolve, the companies that will thrive are those that intentionally invest in developing leaders who can build high-performing teams, adapt to change, and position their organizations for long-term success. At Griffith Company, investing in our people has always been one of our


Leadership Pays Off


AGC of California’s leadership academies are helping construc- tion companies strengthen their workforce, improve retention, and prepare the next generation of leaders. Contact Kendra Bilo at BiloK@agc-ca.org to learn more and get your team involved.


core values because we know that when individuals grow, companies grow with them. It’s encouraging to see that same commitment embraced across AGC of California membership, as more companies recognize that developing future leaders is one of the smartest investments we can make for the long- term strength of California’s construction industry.


Ryan J. Aukerman


Ryan J. Aukerman, President , AGC of California


CALIFORNIA CONSTRUCTOR SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026


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