[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E461]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN HONOR OF ASSOCIATED BUILDERS AND CONTRACTORS OF GREATER HOUSTON 50TH 
                              ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEVIN BRADY

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 12, 2019

  Mr. BRADY. Madam Speaker, today, I rise in recognition of the 50th 
Anniversary of the Associated Builders and Contractors of Greater 
Houston. For the last half-century, this group has contributed greatly 
to the construction and advancement of the Greater Houston Area and I 
thank them for their work in growing our community.
  Founded in 1969, the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of 
Greater Houston provides leadership development and craft training for 
both the commercial and industrial construction industries. The Greater 
Houston Chapter of ABC is comprised of over 450 locally owned 
construction and assembly firms, representing thousands of skilled 
professionals in the Greater Houston Area.
  The mission of ABC of Greater Houston is to defend and represent its 
members' right to work, as well as protecting free enterprise within 
the construction industry. ABC of Greater Houston is also committed to 
promoting safe work environments and occupational practices, and leads 
the country in members active in the Safety Training Evaluation Process 
(STEP) program--a unique initiative started in 1989 to dramatically 
improve safety performance in the construction industry.
  ABC of Greater Houston is committed to tackling our nation's 
workforce problem through the Construction and Maintenance Education 
Foundation (CMEF). This exceptional foundation formulates partnerships 
between industrial leaders and contractors to tackle the shortage of 
skilled workers in the construction sector.
  Today, the American economy is booming, in no small part because of 
leadership from outstanding organizations like ABC of Greater Houston. 
Through their innovative programs that enhance industry partnerships 
and promote free enterprise, ABC has provided opportunities for 
economic and educational growth among members, workers, and industry 
professionals.
  This year marks 50 incredible years of industry advancement by ABC of 
Greater Houston. I am proud to join everyone in our community in 
celebrating their 50th Anniversary, and thanking them for the work they 
do for builders and contractors in the Houston area, across Texas, and 
throughout the country. I am sure their next 50 years will be even more 
successful.

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