ABC Carolinas Convention 2026: Why General Contractors Can’t Afford to Miss This Year’s Event

For many construction leaders, attending a convention means stepping away from projects, clients, deadlines, and the daily demands of running a business. The question every general contractor asks is simple: Will it be worth my time?

ABC Carolinas believes the answer should be measured in results—not attendance numbers.

That philosophy is driving the 2026 ABC Carolinas Construction Convention, taking place August 5-7 at The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa. This year’s event has been intentionally designed around one central question: What do contractors need right now to become stronger leaders, build stronger teams, and position their companies for long-term success?

Under the theme, “If Not You – Then Who?”, the convention will challenge attendees to examine the role leadership plays in every aspect of their business—from culture and workforce development to profitability and growth.

The convention kicks off with keynote speaker Alex Weber, whose message centers on thriving under pressure, embracing change, and leading through adversity. For contractors facing labor shortages, economic uncertainty, tighter margins, and increasing client expectations, adaptability has become a competitive advantage. Weber’s session will challenge attendees to think differently about leadership and the mindset required to move their organizations forward when others stand still.

That focus on leadership continues throughout the convention.

One of the featured sessions, led by construction consultant Chad Prinkey, will move beyond inspiration and into execution. Attendees will work through a process designed to identify a critical challenge within their company and develop a practical 90-day action plan for improvement. The goal is for contractors to leave with more than ideas—they’ll leave with a roadmap.

Contractors will also hear from Thomas “Murph” Murphy, 2026 Chair of the ABC National Board of Directors, who will discuss the importance of contractor engagement and leadership in shaping the future of the industry. At a time when workforce shortages, regulatory challenges, and economic pressures continue to impact construction, strong industry leadership has never been more important.

For companies focused on growth, another highly anticipated session will explore the connection between company culture and business performance. Vincent Neglia of Milwaukee Tool will share insights on creating alignment, accountability, and customer loyalty—factors that often determine whether companies experience sustainable growth or struggle to scale.

Economic uncertainty remains one of the most pressing concerns facing contractors today. To help attendees prepare for what’s ahead, economist Dr. Joey Von Nessen will provide a detailed forecast of economic trends affecting the Carolinas construction market, offering valuable insight into opportunities, risks, and factors expected to influence business decisions in the year ahead.

Beyond the educational content, one of the convention’s greatest values remains the opportunity to connect with fellow contractors who are facing many of the same challenges. Whether discussing workforce retention, succession planning, project delivery, safety, technology, or market conditions, the conversations that happen between sessions often provide just as much value as those taking place on stage.

The convention also creates opportunities to strengthen relationships with industry partners, owners, subcontractors, and suppliers from across North and South Carolina. In an industry built on trust and relationships, those connections often lead to future partnerships and business opportunities.

The most successful contractors are rarely the ones who simply work harder. They are the companies that invest in leadership, strategy, relationships, and continuous improvement.

That’s exactly what this year’s ABC Carolinas Convention is designed to deliver.

Because in today’s construction environment, standing still isn’t an option. The companies that continue to learn, adapt, and lead will be the ones best positioned to win the right work, attract the best people, and remain competitive for years to come.

The question isn’t whether your company can afford to attend.

The question may be whether it can afford not to.

For details, to register or sponsor visit ABC Carolinas 2026 Construction Convention: Join Us!