How to Master the Building Construction Tender Process
August 26, 2024
Curious about the Association of General Contractors (AGC)? This post explains how AGC advocates for contractors, provides resources, and creates growth opportunities. Read on to see how AGC membership can benefit you and what events not to miss.
What is the Association of General Contractors?
The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) promotes skill, integrity, and responsibility among its members to improve construction quality and protect the public interest. As a major association in the construction industry, AGC works with its chapters to address the needs and concerns of associated general contractors and other industry professionals so their voices are heard and their interests are represented.
With over 100 years of history, AGC has become a cornerstone of the construction industry. That’s a testament to its dedication to the industry’s growth and development. AGC continues to evolve and adapt to the changing construction landscape to better serve its members and the community.
AGC’s influence goes beyond representation; it shapes the standards and practices of the construction industry. By promoting a culture of continuous improvement and ethics AGC ensures its members have the knowledge and tools to succeed in a competitive and changing environment.
Membership Benefits
Membership in AGC offers many benefits to help you grow your business and yourself. These include:
- Resources
- Training programs
- Advocacy services for general contractors
- Industry news through the AGC Connection app, ConstructorCast podcast, and Constructor magazine.
AGC members get discounts on many services, technology, and products, from car rentals to office supplies that can save you money. The AGC store also has the latest training guides, videos, and publications so you have access to the latest information and best practices.
Exclusive Training Programs
AGC’s commitment to education is evident in its exclusive nationally recognized training programs to help advance careers and improve the industry. These programs not only develop individual professionals but also the industry as a whole. The AGC Education and Research Foundation plays a big role in this effort, supporting construction faculty through programs like the Robert L. Bowen Industry Residency Fund and the Klinger Case Study Fund to bring real-world experience into the classroom.
Since 2011 the foundation has sponsored 53 industry residents, allowing educators to get hands-on field experience with construction companies. This residency program benefits the host companies by getting quality help on projects and enriches the educational experience for students so the transition from the classroom to the real world is seamless.
Networking
One of the biggest benefits of AGC membership is access to networking. AGC hosts many events and virtual connections where industry professionals can connect and share knowledge. These networking opportunities include:
- Industry conferences and trade shows
- Local chapter meetings and events
- Online forums and discussion groups
- Webinars and virtual networking sessions
These are segmented by market so you can connect with peers who have similar interests and challenges around a specific topic including malformed data.
Through these events, members can have meaningful conversations, get industry insights, and explore potential partnerships. Whether it’s a large convention or a focused workshop AGC’s networking opportunities are designed to create a sense of community and camaraderie among construction professionals.
Association of General Contractors 2024 Events
The AGC’s 2024 calendar has many events to help you stay current on industry trends and technology. These include the Annual Convention, the Technology Conference, the Surety Bonding and Construction Risk Management Conference, and more. Each event is designed to give attendees valuable information, practical knowledge, and opportunities to connect with industry leaders.
The AI + Digital Excellence in Construction Virtual Summit is another must-attend, focused on the latest technology and its applications in the construction industry. By attending these events industry professionals can get ahead of the curve, gain new perspectives, and upskill.
Annual Conference
The 2024 AGC Annual Conference will be held at the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage from October 1-4. This is a must-attend event for industry professionals. The conference will feature keynote speakers, education breakout sessions, and the AGC Contractor Solutions Expo so you can learn and connect.
You’ll hear from industry experts, see new solutions, and participate in discussions on current challenges and future trends. The Annual Conference is proof of AGC’s commitment to being a single voice for the construction industry in America.
Regional Workshops
In addition to large events, AGC hosts regional workshops that provide localized training and discussion around specific regional needs. These workshops bring together local industry professionals to share knowledge, solve region-specific challenges, and discuss best practices.
Regional workshops cover various aspects of the construction industry including safety protocols, project management, and emerging technology. Experts present on specific topics and provide in-depth information and practical knowledge that you can apply to your projects.
Advocacy and Industry Leadership
AGC is a leader in the construction industry. We:
- Improve policies and regulations that impact general contractors and industry professionals
- Promote innovation
- Maintain standards
- Create fair and productive work environments
AGC ensures the construction industry, with a focus on infrastructure projects, continues to grow.
Policy Initiatives
AGC’s policy initiatives are focused on federal projects and compliance with federal regulations and executive orders. The AGC Federal Contractors Conference in Washington, D.C. is the premier event where policy issues are addressed and where federal projects, regulations, and executive orders are discussed.
By working with policymakers and advocating for the construction industry AGC ensures its members have a voice in the legislative and regulatory process. These efforts create a better operating environment for general contractors and industry professionals.
Labor Relations
Labor relations is a key part of AGC’s advocacy work. AGC’s labor relations work includes:
- Negotiating collective bargaining agreements that set labor standards and fair treatment of workers
- Mediation and conflict resolution services to resolve labor-management disputes
- Smooth operations in the industry
Labor relations training helps AGC members learn best practices and labor laws to create fair working conditions. By putting worker safety and well-being first AGC helps create a more productive and peaceful work environment for all.
Resources for Industry Professionals
AGC has many resources to help industry professionals in their daily work. These include:
- Industry reports
- Best practices guides
- Professional development programs
- Case studies for construction management students
All of these are available to download for free in AGC’s Learning Management System and can be found using your Cloudflare Ray ID.
Safety Guidelines
In the construction industry safety comes first and as a site owner AGC is responsible for developing and implementing safety guidelines and protocols to ensure safe working conditions on site. The actions triggered by AGC have created a safer industry environment including a security service and security solution.
The 2024 Construction Safety & Health Conference will bring together safety and health professionals from all sizes of companies to discuss the latest safety practices and compliance requirements.
Technical Support
AGC provides technical support resources by market segment to help members navigate the complex construction industry. Divisions focused on IT, project management, and industry-specific issues provide members with the support they need to advance their careers and company.
Case Studies and Success Stories
Case studies show the tangible benefits of AGC membership. These include increased efficiency, improved safety, career advancement, and business growth. For example, a large construction company saw a 20% increase in project efficiency after using AGC’s resources and training programs. Another member company solved its workforce shortages by using AGC’s advocacy for better labor relations and support.
Small contractors have also seen business growth through AGC’s networking. While individual professionals have gotten certified, which led to career advancement and higher salaries. These success stories show the overall value of AGC membership and its impact on the industry.
How to Join the Association of General Contractors
To become a member of the Association of General Contractors (AGC) you need to go through several steps to prepare yourself to contribute and benefit from this top association. Start by determining what kind of contractor you want to be, general contractor or specialty contractor. Gain industry experience, typically 3 years or more, through formal education, on-the-job construction experience, or apprenticeship.
Next, contact your state’s contractor licensing board to find out what state requirements are and get study materials for any required licensing exams. Many states require an exam that tests your knowledge of current building codes, business management, and state construction laws.
Finally, get your contractor license and surety bond, make sure you meet all state-specific licensing requirements, and submit your application for review.
FAQs
What is the purpose of the Association of General Contractors?
The purpose of the Association of General Contractors is to promote skill, integrity, and responsibility among its members, improve the quality of construction, and protect the public.
What are the benefits of an AGC membership?
AGC membership gives you access to resources, training programs, advocacy services, and discounts on products and services.
Will there be any Association of General Contractors events in 2024?
AGC will have several events in 2024 such as the Annual Convention, Technology Conference, Surety Bonding and Construction Risk Management Conference, and AI + Digital Excellence in Construction Virtual Summit.
How does the AGC support its members in advocacy?
AGC supports its members in advocacy by advocating for the construction industry and working to improve policy and regulatory frameworks to create fair and productive working environments.
How to join the AGC?
To join AGC you need to determine what kind of contractor you want to be, gain industry experience, find out state requirements, pass any required licensing exams, and get your contractor license and surety bond.
