Dear Readers:
As summer begins to wind down, the construction industry is doing what it always does — staying busy, adapting to change and looking ahead to what comes next. For ASA, one of the biggest things on the horizon is SUBExcel, now just a few weeks away – September 29 – October 1 in Bonita Springs, FL.
If you haven’t registered yet, there’s still time. Click here (It’s that easy to start the process!)
SUBExcel is one of the best opportunities of the year to step away from the day-to-day demands of the job and spend time with people who understand the challenges and opportunities facing subcontractors. It brings together industry leaders, business owners, professionals and ASA members from across the country for education, networking and conversations that can continue long after everyone heads home.
Whether you come for the educational sessions, the chance to reconnect with old friends, the opportunity to meet new ones or simply to get a fresh perspective on your business, SUBExcel has something to offer. If it has been sitting on your “maybe” list, now is the time to turn that maybe into a yes. We hope to see you in Bonita Springs, FL.
This month’s issue of The Contractor’s Compass takes on a subject that deserves our attention throughout the year: mental health in construction.
Construction is an industry built on strength, determination and getting the job done. But those same qualities can sometimes make it difficult for people to admit when they are struggling or to ask for help. Long hours, tight schedules, financial pressures, workforce shortages, jobsite demands and the constant responsibility of keeping projects moving can take a toll.
Mental health is not separate from workplace safety, productivity or leadership. It affects all of them.
The articles in this issue are intended to encourage conversation, provide useful information and remind us that looking out for the people around us is part of building a stronger industry. Sometimes that means recognizing when someone is having a difficult time. Sometimes it means creating a workplace where employees know they can speak up. And sometimes it simply means asking a coworker how they are doing — and taking the time to listen to the answer.
As you read through the issue, we also encourage you to take a look at the sponsor advertisements throughout these pages. Our sponsors and industry partners play an important role in supporting ASA and the educational resources, programs and events we are able to provide to our members.
Their ads are more than just space on a page. They represent companies that have chosen to invest in the subcontracting community and support the work ASA is doing. Please take a moment to see who they are, what they offer and how they may be able to help your company.
There is plenty to explore in this issue — important conversations, useful information, supportive industry partners and, just around the corner, SUBExcel.
Enjoy the issue, and we hope to see you in a few weeks!
Tony Vermaas
President, 2026-2027
American Subcontractors Association
