Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is a national trade association representing over 23,000 merit shop contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers, and construction-related professionals in 68 chapters across the United States, including the San Diego Chapter (ABCSD). ABC’s membership is comprised primarily of firms performing work in the industrial, commercial and institutional sectors of construction, across all specialties.  

ABC San Diego was granted formal Chapter status on September 13, 1976. Ten years later, ABCSD created a formal training trust in 1986. One year later, it received state recognition of its first apprenticeship training program.  

ABCSD is located in a state-of-the-art facility in Poway, California, including offices, classrooms, online training labs, and a 11,000 square foot, hands-on construction training lab.

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In 1970, 30 percent of the nation’s construction was performed merit shop and six of the top 400 construction firms were ABC members. Today, the merit shop accounts for more than 85 percent of all construction across the country, and ABC’s membership has grown to include more than half of the top 400 construction companies in the United States. 

Click here to learn more about ABC and the Merit Shop Philosophy.

Click here to learn more about ABC’s recent accomplishments in the 2022 Year in Review report.

About ABCSD FAQs

What is ABC?

Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is a national construction industry trade association established in 1950 that represents more than 23,000 members. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC and its 68 chapters help members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members work.

What is the Merit Shop Philosophy?

The Merit Shop Philosophy encourages open competition and a free enterprise approach to business. Merit Shop contractors believe contracts should be awarded solely on merit, without regard to labor union status. Merit Shop contractors are NOT anti-union; they simply believe the most qualified should prevail.

Where is ABCSD located?

Associated Builders and Contractors San Diego has its offices and its Apprenticeship training facility in a single location in the City of Poway at 13825 Kirkham Way, Poway, California, 92064

How can someone contact ABCSD?

By email: info@abcsd.org
By phone: 858-513-4700
By social media: www.facebook.com/ABCSanDiego
https://twitter.com/abc_sandiego
http://www.instagram.com/ABCSanDiego

How can I sign up for the ABCSD Newsletter?

Click here to sign up for ABCSD’s Weekly Newsletter.