About Associated builders and contractors of ri
Associated Builders and Contractors of RI: The Voice of the Merit Shop in Construction Industry
Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. (ABC) is a national trade association representing more than 21,000 members from all specialties within the construction industry. ABC's mission is to promote free enterprise by advancing the merit shop philosophy in the construction industry through education, advocacy, and business services.
In Rhode Island, Associated Builders and Contractors of RI (ABCRI) serves as a leading voice for merit shop contractors. ABCRI represents over 100 member companies that employ thousands of workers throughout Rhode Island. These companies are committed to providing high-quality construction services while promoting fair competition based on merit.
The Merit Shop Philosophy
The merit shop philosophy is based on the belief that people should be hired and promoted based on their skills, knowledge, and performance rather than their membership in a labor union or other affiliation. This approach promotes open competition among contractors regardless of their size or affiliation.
Merit shop contractors believe that they can provide better value to clients by offering competitive pricing without sacrificing quality or safety standards. They also believe that employees should have the freedom to choose whether or not they want to join a union without fear of discrimination or retaliation.
Education and Training
One of ABCRI's primary goals is to provide education and training opportunities for its members. Through its apprenticeship program, ABCRI offers training in various trades such as carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, HVAC systems installation among others.
ABCRI also provides continuing education courses for its members covering topics such as safety regulations compliance updates; project management; leadership development; legal issues affecting construction businesses; marketing strategies among others.
Advocacy
Another important role played by ABCRI is advocating for policies that promote fair competition within the construction industry while protecting workers' rights. The organization works closely with policymakers at both state and federal levels to ensure that laws are enacted which support free enterprise principles while safeguarding the interests of its members.
ABCRI also provides legal support to its members in case of disputes with clients, employees, or other contractors. The organization has a team of experienced attorneys who can provide guidance and representation in various legal matters affecting construction businesses.
Business Services
ABCRI offers a range of business services to its members aimed at helping them grow their businesses while reducing costs. These services include group insurance plans; workers' compensation insurance; retirement plans; payroll processing among others.
By pooling resources, ABCRI is able to negotiate better rates for these services than individual companies would be able to obtain on their own. This allows member companies to save money while still providing high-quality benefits and services to their employees.
Conclusion
Associated Builders and Contractors of RI is an organization that plays a vital role in promoting the merit shop philosophy within the construction industry. Through education, advocacy, and business services, ABCRI helps its members grow their businesses while promoting fair competition based on merit. If you are a contractor looking for an organization that will represent your interests while providing valuable resources and support, then Associated Builders and Contractors of RI is the right choice for you!