Tim Wilson

It is the mission of the Springfield Contractors Association to further the interests of the local construction industry, while providing a safe work environment for employees and the general public. We further strive to cultivate working relationships with local government agencies, community leaders, architects and engineers. Fulfillment of this mission is pivotal to the development of our community.

In what specific ways is the mission achieved?

Primarily through our committees, staff and board of directors. Our committees meet monthly with architects, Southwest Missouri State University, Springfield R-XII Schools, Ozarks Technical Community College, local government agencies and numerous others. The other committees deal with issues vital to our members’ businesses – safety, event and award committees. These volunteers work hard to resolve issues and generate a good working environment for our members and their employees. They help to promote our industry to the community. I have never met a more dedicated group of individuals. Thanks to them we are able to accomplish our mission. For more information, visit our Web site at www.springfieldcontractors.org.

Who can join SCA? How many members are there?

Any company that has a business interest in the local construction industry can be a member. All that is required is to

submit the membership application, along with first-year dues. Members must be sponsored by two other members and

be approved by the board.

Currently, we have 410 member firms representing more than 10,000 local employees.

What goals do you have as SCA president?

Continue to strengthen our relationships with local government, schools and universities; update and improve our Web site and continue to build our membership and get more young people involved in our organization.

What major issues do SCA members face?

Insurance cost, raw material instability and manpower are some of the biggest issues facing our members today. Insurance costs continue to escalate, and controlling these costs is imperative to our businesses. Raw material instability has driven the price of materials up considerably and, in some cases, with no guarantee as to the price when purchased. Finding enough qualified employees to handle the work continues to be troublesome.

What is SCA’s role in dealing with these issues?

We currently have the Safety Group Insurance Plan to help members with their insurance. Our safety committee also provides education opportunities regarding safety, training and controlling these costs. We have been able to work with some (architects and owners) on allowing for material price concerns. Through Salute to Construction, we promote our industry to young people throughout our community. We also award several scholarships each year and work with the SMS Construction Club. Also, our members take every opportunity to speak to young people at area schools.