October 14, 2022

AGC's Culture of CARE supports Construction Inclusion Week

Members of the Associated General Contractors across the state and nation will participate in Construction Inclusion Week, Oct. 17-21. An inclusive jobsite culture is a key to being able to attract, retain and develop the best talent for the industry, both in the workforce and supplier partnerships. AGC, the construction association, encourages contractors to use this week to build on what it calls a company's own “Culture of CARE,” where everybody feels valued, safe, welcome and included.

During this week, partners of Construction Inclusion Week will come together to provide contractors a myriad of resources to help them advance where ever they may be in their diversity, equity, and inclusion journey. Supporting Construction Inclusion Week, AGC's Culture of CARE program provides a calendar of daily resources to support companies who want to increase their commitment to diversity and inclusion, foster a sense of belonging among the workforce, increase partnerships with diverse suppliers and subcontractors, advance inclusive jobsite culture, and engage with the community.

Locally owned Lydig Construction and Absher Construction are typical of companies who are striving for a more inclusive construction industry.

“Lydig Construction supports Construction Inclusion Week and is encouraged by these local and national efforts to increase diversity and cultivate inclusion,” said Diahnna Núñez, who leads inclusion strategy and outreach at Lydig. “Here, a Culture of CARE involves everyone — from the most seasoned superintendent to the newest contract administrator, from the most senior leader to the newest subcontractor apprentice. For us, it is about daily behaviors and decision making that get us the most inclusive outcomes and experience.”

Stephanie Caldwell, director of diversity, equity, and community engagement at Absher, echoed those sentiments.

“Absher Construction Company's commitment to inclusion is at the core of who we are,” Caldwell said. “We value the unique differences of all Absher associates by leaving everything open — our doors, our hearts and our minds. We actively participate in conversations that will have lasting tangible impacts to promoting diversity and inclusion within Absher and beyond.”

AGC of Washington applauds all the workplaces who join in Construction Inclusion Week. Visit the Construction Inclusion Week, and Culture of CARE Inclusion Week web pages for information, planning resources, and materials aimed at increasing diversity and inclusion awareness in your company.

Sonja Forster manages the Seattle District of the AGC of Washington.