Submitted by Don Vetter / Nevada Chapter AGC
The history of the Nevada Chapter demanding the best for their members, and the community, began shortly after they were founded. In 1941, the Nevada Chapter urged state officials to establish the State Contractor’s Board, which to this day, ensures that contractors in Nevada are held to a high standard that promotes public confidence in the competency and integrity of their licensees.
In 1967, as a way to recognize leaders in the community and the industry, the Nevada Chapter established the SIR Award to celebrate the Skill, Integrity and Responsibility of its recipients.
Past recipients include the late Senator Paul Laxalt, John Ascuaga, Chris Ault, and former State Senator Bernice Mathews. The award was adopted by the AGC of America and is now used by chapters across the country.
Following the flood of 1997, the AGC established the Contractor’s Auxiliary to support local governments during emergencies. They have been called upon during floods, wildfires and blizzards to help minimize damage and clean-up the aftermath.
Much of the community’s infrastructure is due to the help of AGC members who have fought for sensible growth and investment in infrastructure. They were instrumental in building a modern sewer treatment plant, advocating for new revenue for school construction and two gas tax measures to properly fund our regional highway network. This work also has the added benefit of creating good jobs in the community and providing Nevada families with a middle-class lifestyle that is becoming more difficult to find in this economy.
“The AGC is the heart and the backbone of the community,” said Terry Markwell, who served as the Nevada Chapter President in 1980. “AGC members are always ready to give whatever is necessary to help out. Always ready to fight for what is right as far as the community is concerned and the industry.”
AGC members give time, money and talent every year to any number of causes. Whether through the AGC or it’s affiliate program, the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), AGC members have spearheaded local charity building projects such as Awaken Reno, Truckee Meadows Boys and Girls Club, Veterans Guest House, and rebuilding the entrance to the Grand Army of the Republic Cemetery, Nevada’s only dedicated Civil War cemetery. They have also given time and money to many worthwhile causes such as the Eddy House; The Northern Nevada Children’s Cancer Foundation; the Northern Nevada Food Bank; ACE Charter High School, the Ronald McDonald House and their Partner in Education, Lemelson STEM Academy.
“Nevada Chapter’s contributions to this community are too many to count and have impacted all of us. We will never know the true amount of giving from a membership that never seems to say no,” said Roach. “I’m so proud to be serving as president as we celebrate this anniversary and look forward to how the next generation of construction professionals continue this distinguished legacy.”
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