In the construction industry, building strong, resilient teams is critical to a project’s success. Recognizing companies that prioritize inclusive recruitment, retention, and mentorship practices, the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) National Inclusion, Diversity, and Merit Excellence (IDM) Awards honor members who set the standard in these areas. This prestigious award not only highlights best-in-class leadership but also promotes a culture of inclusivity, diversity, and fairness across the workforce, supply chain, and community.

At ConstructionOwners.com, we believe that a company’s long-term success relies on its ability to attract and retain top talent through inclusive practices. These awards underscore the importance of these efforts, making them a key focus for any construction owner striving to stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry.

What Are the ABC National IDM Awards?

The ABC National IDM Awards shine a spotlight on construction companies leading the charge in:

• Inclusion: Creating a sense of belonging by valuing differences.
• Diversity: Appreciating a range of skills, experiences, and abilities.
• Merit: Ensuring everyone has a fair opportunity to compete and grow.

These companies demonstrate exceptional leadership in crafting innovative recruitment policies, developing retention strategies, and offering top-tier training and mentorship programs.

Why This Award Matters to Construction Owners

For construction owners, these awards are a testament to the commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce, ensuring that employees not only join the team but thrive within it. Strong recruitment and retention strategies directly impact the success of any construction project, ensuring that the best talent remains engaged and that diverse perspectives fuel innovation.

At ConstructionOwners.com, we recognize that a forward-thinking approach to team building is not just a human resources priority but a core business strategy. Companies that excel in recruitment, retention, and mentorship foster an environment where every worker feels valued and has the opportunity to advance, which leads to higher productivity, reduced turnover, and stronger project outcomes.

By participating in the IDM Awards, construction companies gain national recognition, showcasing their leadership in these critical areas. Winners will be featured in Construction Executive magazine, online platforms, and other ABC communications, receiving year-long promotion for their efforts. Additionally, the winners will be celebrated at the 35th Annual Excellence in Construction® Awards Gala, to be held on February 26, 2025, in Las Vegas.

The Significance of Recruitment, Retention, and Mentorship

Winning companies often stand out due to their thoughtful approaches to recruitment and retention. This includes initiatives that attract diverse talent pools, promote equity in career advancement, and offer ongoing mentorship to ensure employees develop the skills necessary for long-term success. Many award-winning firms, such as Hensel Phelps, have been celebrated for their exceptional focus on diversity and inclusion, proving that commitment to these values leads to a stronger and more competitive business.

Mentorship, in particular, plays a pivotal role in empowering the next generation of construction professionals. By creating structured programs that pair experienced industry veterans with younger or less-experienced workers, companies help develop well-rounded employees who are prepared for future leadership roles.

ConstructionOwners.com has consistently championed the importance of such mentorship initiatives. We’ve seen firsthand how pairing newer employees with seasoned professionals creates a culture of continuous learning and growth. This is key not only for the individual’s career but for the company’s ability to foster leadership and resilience within its workforce.

Why Apply for the IDM Awards?

As a construction owner, applying for the IDM Awards gives your company the opportunity to:

• Showcase its commitment to best practices in recruitment, retention, and mentorship.
• Gain recognition as a leader in inclusion and diversity.
• Inspire other industry peers to adopt similar strategies.
• Boost employee morale by celebrating a culture of fairness and growth.

At ConstructionOwners.com, we see this award as a powerful endorsement for companies that invest in their people. In an industry often challenged by labor shortages and high turnover, these initiatives prove that nurturing talent is not just beneficial—it’s essential.

The deadline for applying for the ABC National Inclusion, Diversity, and Merit Excellence Awards is November 15, 2024. If your company is leading the way in these areas, this award provides an excellent platform to elevate your brand and celebrate your efforts in building a more inclusive industry.

Looking Ahead

Winning an IDM Award means being part of a select group of construction companies that demonstrate the industry’s best practices. These companies are honored throughout the year and serve as models for others striving to build strong, diverse, and successful teams. 

ConstructionOwners.com strongly encourages owners to explore this opportunity as a way to showcase their company’s commitment to excellence. For businesses focused on recruitment, retention, and mentorship, applying for this award is a critical step toward solidifying their reputation as industry leaders.

To learn more about the awards and submit an application, visit abc.org/idmawards](abc.org/idmawards. Celebrate your company’s efforts in recruitment, retention, and mentorship, and take the lead in shaping the future of the construction industry.