by Peter Gormley
As 2020 gets started, we are ready for an exciting year at the Associated Subcontractors of Massachusetts. In November, we welcomed nine new directors to our board. These members represent an array of skilled trades, come from well-known companies across the region, and bring great experience to our board.
As the new president of ASM, I am eager to continue and build upon our rich history of supporting subcontractors. In 2020, we will deliver programs and education that our members need to be successful in their business, whether the topic is legal, insurance, or safety. And of course, we will always remain active on Beacon Hill, looking out for the interests of subcontractors and their ability to do business in Massachusetts.
This year is particularly important on the legislative side because July 2020 marks the end of this session. Beyond programs and legislative activity, we hope to assist our members by advocating for workforce development and promoting the opportunities that young workers have by joining the trades.
Finally, we must do more to address the opioid epidemic because the impact on construction remains higher than in any other industry. Reducing opioid and substance abuse is not something the association can address alone – it will take a concerted effort of all in the industry to make a meaningful difference.
As for the construction industry, no one has a crystal ball to predict how the market will perform in 2020. Ongoing work and the pipeline of upcoming projects, however, seem to have supplied enough work that 2020 looks to continue the strong pace. Just look at the number of new projects still being announced, not just in Boston, but across the state. For ASM members, it means continuing to keep up with busy schedules and maintaining a skilled workforce, while remaining prepared to adapt to changes in the market.
Here is a glance at what programs we have coming up in the first quarter of 2020.
January – Legal seminar on change orders, and a Safety Roundtable program on fall protection for tools
February – Update from the commissioner of the Division of Capital Asset Management and Maintenance (DCAMM)
March – Economic forum looking at the future of the construction industry in Massachusetts
Peter Gormley
Peter Gormley is president of New England Waterproofing, Inc. and president of Associated Subcontractors of Massachusetts.
