Young Leader Spotlight: Elevating Future Generations
The construction industry has always been the backbone of our communities, shaping the spaces where we live, work and thrive. As young leaders, we carry the responsibility of not only maintaining that legacy but also elevating it for future generations. I’m filled with pride to be the 2025 Chair of the CAGC Young Leaders, a group open to members and non-members, and I am so proud of what we have accomplished year-to-date. With over 400 young leader members (and growing) we have already done so much, and I am looking forward to a busy fall with networking events, luncheons, and my favorite, the Young Leader Conference in November.
2024 was a remarkable year for us. Together, we’ve tackled challenges head-on, from supply chain disruptions to workforce development hurdles. Through collaboration, resilience and innovation, we’ve turned obstacles into opportunities, proving that the Young Leaders of the CAGC are not just the future but the present drivers of progress.
Looking ahead, 2025 presents us with exciting opportunities. It’s a year for us to double down on three key priorities:
#1: Effective Leadership Skills: Technology is revolutionizing our industry, but we cannot lose sight of the personal skills that transcend all the growth and challenges. At the root of it all, construction is still all about PEOPLE. As young leaders, we must champion these advancements while ensuring that our projects are not only safe and efficient but also environments that people want to work in and produce.
#2: Workforce Development: The next generation of builders, engineers and visionaries is watching us. Let’s continue to invest in mentorship, training programs and outreach initiatives that inspire young talent to join our industry.
#3: Community Impact: At the heart of everything we do is our commitment to the communities we serve. Let’s lead projects that go beyond buildings — projects that improve lives and create lasting legacies.
I want to take a moment to thank our mentors, companies and the entire CAGC family for their unwavering support. Together, we’ve created an environment where young leaders can grow, learn and lead with confidence.
As we move forward, let us remain united, driven by purpose and steadfast in our mission to build a better tomorrow. Remember, leadership is not about the position we hold but the impact we make.
About the Author – Lindsay Smith, CRIS, is Corporate Risk Manager with Palmetto Corp., a fully-integrated construction company providing best-in-class paving services and complete site-development solutions throughout South Carolina. She is based in the Greater Myrtle Beach area.
Want to get involved in CAGC’s Young Leader Program? Contact CAGC’s Chelsea Andujar at candujar@carolinasagc.org.
