Salute to Construction: Springfield Contractors Association

Springfield Contractors Association was formed in 1953 with the purpose of improving relationships, work conditions and job quality throughout the construction industry in southwest Missouri. SCA’s 400 member firms represent a diverse range of products and services and employ nearly 10,000 people in the region. Members are general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, engineers, architects, safety professionals and associate members, all unified to promote the construction industry.

SCA maintains open dialogues to ensure quality for the entire construction process through the various liaison committees that meet regularly with the architectural community, local governments, public works departments, Springfield Public Schools and area colleges and universities.

SCA also proactively supports the preservation of the construction community through the work force development committee, safety committee and Salute to Construction, as well as hosting educational seminars and workshops. The membership of the association recognizes that the opportunity for communication and the exchange of ideas is vital to the long-term health of any organization, which is why SCA holds monthly general meetings and works closely with area chambers of commerce and economic development departments, as well as hosting a variety of social activities.

Last year brought emptier wallets and tighter belts for many SCA members. Obstacles faced by SCA members included job losses, shrinking profit margins, increased competition from outside the area, resource shortages and fewer jobs to bid. Valid questions remain about the future of the local economy, but SCA has helped prepare those involved in building for recovery. Every member has access to the SCA-AIA bid calendar on the association’s Web site, www.springfieldcontractors.org, as well as the employment referral service. Key up-to-date information is shared in the general meetings, seminars and newsletter. Regular and constructive conversation is maintained with major developers and governmental entities through the various association committees.

Springfield is very fortunate to have strong leadership in its business sector, much of which comes from the construction trades. SCA helps cultivate that leadership through its scholarship program and support for the construction and design departments of area colleges and universities. The workforce development committee also has adopted a program to introduce high school students to the various aspects of the industry through construction site field trips and visits to member firms. Investing in the future of not only the construction industry, but southwest Missouri as a whole, is an important mission of SCA.

The variety of functions and goals of Springfield Contractors Association culminates in the celebration and recognition of the construction process through SCA participation in the annual Salute to Construction event. SCA coordinates visits to area schools to promote construction and education about the opportunities available in this field during the Salute Event. SCA also proudly presents two awards at the Salute Banquet: Project of the Year and Developer of the Year.

Brent Beattie is president of Springfield Contractors Association. For more information, visit www.springfieldcontractors.org.

[[In-content Ad]]