Groundbreak Carolinas

GroundBreak Carolinas

Your source for construction industry news in the Carolinas

Seamon Whiteside

Business | Featured | People

ABC Carolinas Announces New Leadership Team and Expanded Roles to Strengthen Regional Impact

by GroundBreak Carolinas Staff on

The Board of Directors for Associated Builders and Contractors of the Carolinas (ABC Carolinas) proudly announces several new appointments and expanded roles within its leadership team, reinforcing the organization’s mission to serve and advance the merit shop construction industry across both North and South Carolina.

The merit shop philosophy is the belief that people and companies succeed based on free enterprise principles within the free market system, which is characterized by open and fair competition and diverse participants.

These strategic leadership updates, effective July 2025, reflect ABC Carolinas’ commitment to deepening its impact in key areas, including government affairs, workforce development, membership, and business operations.

New and Expanded Roles Include:

  • Christi Powell, President & CEO – Bringing years of industry leadership and strategic vision to guide ABC Carolinas into its next chapter of growth.
  • Elise Ussery, Director of Government Affairs – Leading advocacy efforts and legislative engagement across state and local levels.
  • Angela Gardner, Vice President of Workforce Development – Spearheading initiatives to build and support a strong, inclusive construction workforce.
  • Kristen Powell, Vice President – Spearheading member engagement and retention strategies for the ABC Carolinas chapter.

“This is an incredible team of leaders who bring fresh energy, deep expertise, and a shared passion for the construction industry,” said Christi Powell, President & CEO, ABC Carolinas. “Together, we are well-positioned to expand our reach, better serve our members, and make a significant impact in both North and South Carolina.”

With a renewed focus on advocacy, education, workforce, and community, ABC Carolinas continues to be a driving force for progress and opportunity in the construction sector.

The 2025 ABC Carolinas Convention, themed Behind the Hard Hat: Collaboration in Construction, will be held August 6-8in Myrtle Beach, SC. The convention provides the perfect opportunity for construction industry leaders to meet the team, expand their network, and gain inspiration from the future of construction. Register Here  

About ABC Carolinas

Associated Builders and Contractors of the Carolinas (ABC Carolinas) represents general contractors, construction management firms, specialty contractors, various material and equipment suppliers, and service providers all dedicated to the construction industry in North and South Carolina. Based in Charlotte, NC, ABC Carolinas is one of 67 chapters of ABC, a national association representing more than 23,000 members. South Carolina has three regional ABC councils – Midlands, Upstate and Lowcountry. North Carolina has four regional councils – Charlotte, Triad, Triangle and Coastal. For more information and news, visit www.abccarolinas.org and www.abc.org. Follow along on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.