MOVING MOUNTAINS


Our Lasting Legacy: The People We Mentor, Develop and Inspire


A


s I write my final President’s column, I’ve spent some time reflecting on what has always


made our industry so remarkable. While construction is often defined by the roads, bridges, water systems, schools, and infrastructure we build, our greatest achievement has always been the people we develop along the way. California’s construction industry


faces an increasing demand for skilled professionals, and meeting that chal- lenge requires more than attracting new talent—it requires investing in people throughout their careers. Workforce development isn’t simply an industry priority; it is essential to the future of every contractor, every project, and every community we serve. One of the most important ways AGC


of California fulfills that responsibility is by supporting career growth at every stage of the construction profession. Trough leadership development, safety education, technical training, project management education, and network- ing opportunities, AGC of California helps individuals build meaningful careers while developing the next gen- eration of industry leaders. When we invest in people, we strengthen our companies, our workforce, and the future of California construction. One of the best examples of this


commitment is CONSTRUCT, AGC of California’s premier annual conference. CONSTRUCT brings together contrac- tors, owners, designers, public agencies, educators, labor partners, and industry leaders from across California to ex- change ideas, address emerging chal- lenges, and share solutions that move


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CALIFORNIA CONSTRUCTOR SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2026


our industry forward. Every time we gather, I’m reminded that the greatest strength of AGC of California isn’t the projects we build—it’s the willingness of our members and industry partners to collaborate and to invest in one another. Griffith Company has long believed in that mission. We proudly support


industry but also successfully enter and remain on those career pathways through expanded supportive services that remove barriers to employment and promote long-term career success. As my term as President comes to


a close, I remain optimistic about the future of our industry. The projects


Through leadership development, safety education, technical training, project management education, and networking opportunities, AGC of California helps individuals build meaningful careers while developing the next generation of industry leaders.


CONSTRUCT through sponsorship, active engagement, and by encouraging employees at every level to attend, learn, and engage with their peers across the industry. I have always viewed CON- STRUCT as one of the most valuable opportunities to strengthen relation- ships, exchange ideas, and invest in the future leaders of California construc- tion. When our companies invest in AGC of California and in one another, our entire industry benefits. Tat same commitment is reflected


in the continued evolution of Build Cal- ifornia. What began as an effort to raise awareness about careers in construction has grown into a comprehensive work- force development initiative. Today, Build California is helping individuals not only discover opportunities in our


we deliver will always matter, but the people we mentor, develop, and inspire will be our lasting legacy. Serving as President of AGC of Cal-


ifornia has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Thank you for the opportunity to represent this re- markable association and its members. Together, we are building far more than infrastructure—we are building careers, strengthening our communi- ties, and preparing the next generation of leaders who will shape California for years to come.


Ryan J. Aukerman


Ryan J. Aukerman, President , AGC of California


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