2026 CAGC Young Leader Mid-Year Update: Growing Together

As we entered 2026, I challenged our Young Leaders to focus on one word: Growth. Now that we have crossed the midpoint of the year, I am proud to say that growth is exactly what I have witnessed throughout our membership.

Growth has shown up in many ways. It has been evident in the relationships we have built, the lessons we have learned, and the opportunities we have created for one another across the Carolinas. Most importantly, it has been demonstrated by our members’ engagement and commitment to continue developing themselves, their companies, and our industry.

This year, Young Leader events have brought members together to network, share experiences, and learn from industry peers. Members have invested in their professional development through educational programs like our sold-out Virtual Leadership Series, jobsite visits such as the NC Museum of History visit hosted by Holt Brothers Construction, Barnhill Building Group, and Balfour Beatty Construction, and leadership-focused discussions at Young Leader Luncheons. The momentum was especially evident during the Construction Summit & Expo this summer, where we celebrated the largest turnout ever for a Young Leader event.  This record attendance reflects our members’ growing engagement and the value they place on connecting with peers across the industry. Each of these opportunities has strengthened the connections that make CAGC such a valuable community.

One area of growth that deserves special recognition is workforce development. As summer comes to a close, many of our member companies have wrapped up their high school and college internship programs. Across the industry, interns have gained hands-on experience, learned from experienced professionals, and discovered the many rewarding career paths available in construction. These programs play a vital role in building the future workforce, and I want to thank the companies and mentors who have dedicated their time and resources to developing the next generation of industry leaders. We have also strengthened our connection to future industry professionals by welcoming CAGC student chapters to District Connect events, giving students opportunities to engage with member companies, build relationships, and see firsthand the value of staying involved with CAGC as they begin their careers.

While we have accomplished a great deal in the first half of the year, there is still plenty to look forward to. The second half of 2026 presents additional opportunities to learn, connect, and grow together. One of the best ways to stay engaged is to register for the CAGC Young Leader Conference in Hilton Head, November 4-6, where we will introduce our NextGen Program as an extension of the Young Leaders. We will have the opportunity to build relationships, gain valuable insight, and continue growing alongside peers from across the Carolinas. I encourage every Young Leader to stay engaged, attend upcoming events, and continue seeking ways to challenge themselves personally and professionally.

To our member companies, sponsors, and CAGC staff, thank you for your continued support of this program. The investment in your Young Leaders is creating a lasting impact across our industry.

As we move into the rest of the year, I remain energized and optimistic about what lies ahead. Let’s keep growing as leaders, as companies, and as an industry. I look forward to seeing all that we accomplish together before the year is complete.

If you would like to join the YL Program for the remainder of 2026, please contact Chelsea Andujar for special rates!

Emily Ellis, Chief Financial Officer for Holt Brothers Construction in Raleigh, NC, is the 2026 Chair of the Carolinas AGC (CAGC) Young Leaders Action Team. The Young Leaders program is for professionals 45 and under to connect, learn, and grow through exclusive programming designed to build future leaders.