ince its foundation in 1948, Associated General Contractors, or AGC, of Alaska has directed its efforts using a simple and effective mission statement: “Advocate, Educate, Promote.” After seventy-five years as an organization, AGC of Alaska and its members have proven that they’re strong enough to weather the storms, nimble enough to pivot when change is on the horizon, and smart enough to find solutions during challenging times. The way AGC of Alaska manages the details of its operations has evolved over the years, but what it hopes to accomplish is still the same.
AGC of Alaska did its part to support the construction industry from the start. The chapter opened offices in Anchorage shortly after receiving its charter. As Alaska grew, so did AGC of Alaska. The original Plans Room opened in Fairbanks in 1951, later expanding to an office location with staff. From 1979 to 1992, Juneau had a branch office, and from 1984 to 2002, Kenai had a contract office.
“By then a lot of subcontractors were working as prime contractors and vice versa,” says Swalling. “The level of inclusivity we have now gives us a much better perspective and a wide range of viewpoints.”
Swalling also remembers parts of the organizational process being much more rudimentary than they are today. Online connectivity was the stuff of science fiction, meaning that activities happened in person. Members visited a physical Plans Room and sat in the same room for board and committee meetings, training, and events. Swalling says in many ways the face-to-face interaction enhanced networking opportunities; however, there were times when sitting in a room with professional peers proved difficult.
He says many processes like elections have become more refined over the years, and technology has increased the level of accessibility. For instance, what used to be a physical plans room is the AGC Online Plans digital service now, and communications software offers many more ways for people to keep in touch throughout the year.
When it comes to advocacy, AGC of Alaska encourages collaboration between members, contractors, related industry professionals, and governmental agencies.
By uniting the construction industry, AGC is able to promote construction legislation, regulation, and standards that benefit Alaska companies. It also serves as a resource to the legislature and governmental agencies as they develop policy.
To promote awareness of the importance of the construction industry’s role in the state, AGC of Alaska has developed a multimedia mix that includes print and online publications, social media, and TV advertisements. Through these channels, the quality work of members, associated networking opportunities, and community involvement are highlighted throughout the state.
-Brian Midyett, Immediate Past President, AGC of Alaska
“We’ll call these people up and ask what they did to overcome a particular obstacle,” says Midyett. “People who become involved in AGC stay involved whether it’s on a local level, statewide, or even further up on a national level.”
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“The only constant thing is change and challenge. And AGC has proven its excellence by evolving to meet those challenges,” says Trivette. “That is the key to its continued success.”