Pelican Chapter, Associated Builders and Contractors

⚡ Building opportunities closer to home.

At ABC Pelican's Southwest Training Center, we're continuing to invest in the future of our industry by providing hands-on, industry-recognized training for Southwest Louisiana. 🔨

From welding and electrical to instrumentation and more, SWTC offers a variety of programs designed to support both individuals and employers looking to develop their workforce.

One thing that makes SWTC unique? Our accelerated classes. 🚀 These programs allow students to complete multiple levels of training on an expedited schedule, helping craft professionals gain the skills they need and get to work faster.

Because workforce development doesn't stand still, and neither do we. 👏

Explore current course offerings and learn more at www.abctraining.org/swtc

🛠️ Merit Shop Monday 🛠️

Your future should be built on what you can do, not where you come from.

The construction industry offers incredible opportunities for individuals who are willing to learn, work hard, and continue growing their skills.

That’s what the merit shop philosophy is all about. Creating opportunities where advancement is earned through dedication, performance, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re just starting your career, looking for a change, or hoping to take the next step, there’s a place for you in the construction industry.

At ABC Pelican, we’re proud to support the people and programs that help build the next generation of craft professionals. 👷🤝

📣 NOW IN ZACHARY!

Big news! ABC Pelican is bringing industry-recognized training to the Gaynell C. Young Center (Port Hudson), with Electrical ⚡ and Millwright 🔧 classes expected to begin in August.

Whether you're looking to start a new career or sharpen your skills, quality craft training is coming closer to home.

📚 Industry-recognized curriculum
👨‍🏫 Experienced instructors
📍 Convenient Zachary location
📅 Classes expected to start in August

📞 Interested in learning more? Give us a call at 225-752-0088 and let us help you take the next step!

🍽️ Great food, great conversations, and a chance to learn something new. That's what Lunch & Learns are all about!

A big thank you to 180 Pros for hosting yesterday's Lunch & Learn and sharing their expertise with our members. 👏

One of the many benefits of ABC membership is the opportunity to connect with industry peers, exchange ideas, and learn from companies that are helping move our industry forward. These events are a great way to stay informed while building valuable relationships along the way.

Interested in attending a future Lunch & Learn? Or maybe you'd like to host one? We'd love to hear from you!

⭐ FACES OF ABC ⭐

This month, we’re highlighting Blaise Theard, Director of Education for ABC Pelican’s Southwest Training Center.

Blaise plays a key role in keeping our Southwest Training Center running smoothly while helping shape its future. 👏

From managing day-to-day operations and supporting students and instructors to attending career fairs, connecting with industry partners, and helping to oversee the construction of our new training center, Blaise is constantly working to expand opportunities and strengthen workforce development across Southwest Louisiana. His efforts help ensure that the next generation of craft professionals has access to the training and resources they need to succeed.

💬 Fun Fact: Before joining ABC Pelican, Blaise worked at the Golden Nugget as a concierge to the high rollers. 🎰✨ Talk about a career path with some interesting stories!

Thank you, Blaise, for your dedication to workforce development in Southwest Louisiana and for being an important part of the ABC family! 🔧⚡

What a great day at the GBRIA Externship! 🎉

Educators and counselors from across the region came together to learn more about Louisiana’s industrial industry and the many opportunities available right here in our own backyard. 👷‍♀️🛠️

From learning about the wide range of industries that make up Louisiana’s industrial sector to hearing directly from ABC Pelican contractor members through demonstrations and discussions, attendees got a firsthand look at the rewarding careers available to their students.

A big thank you to our participating members for sharing their expertise and to GBRIA for hosting this fantastic event and helping connect education with industry! 👏

🏗️ Southwest Louisiana, we're here!

The Southwest Training Center is more than a building. It's a commitment to the future of our region and the people who call it home.

At ABC Pelican, we're proud to continue investing in Southwest Louisiana through hands-on training, industry partnerships, and opportunities that help students and employers succeed.

Over the coming months, we'll be sharing more about the programs, people, and partnerships that are helping shape the next generation of craft professionals.

We're here, and we're building the current and future workforce of Southwest Louisiana.

💡 Sometimes the little things add up to big savings.

Recently, ABC Pelican member Excel had a great experience using Engine, our travel management benefit designed specifically for construction companies and field crews. On a recent hotel booking, they saved more than $200 compared to other available rates. 💵

Stories like this are a great reminder that membership is about more than events and networking. It's about providing resources and benefits that help our members succeed both in the office and in the field.

With access to discounted hotel rates, flexible booking options, and project-based expense tracking, Engine is just one of the many ways ABC Pelican is working to deliver value to our members.

Have you taken advantage of this benefit yet? 💼✈️

⚡ Southwest Louisiana, this one's for you! ⚡

Our Accelerated Electrical Program at ABC Pelican's Southwest Training Center is designed to help students gain industry-recognized credentials and get job-ready faster.

📍 Southwest Training Center only
📅 Starts July 6
⏰ Monday-Thursday | 8 AM-1 PM
🎓 Earn NCCER Core and Electrical Levels 1-4 credentials
💵 $1,200 total cost with payment plans available

⏳ Enrollment closes June 25, and spots are limited!

Whether you're looking to start a new career or take the next step in the electrical industry, your next opportunity starts here. Contact us today to learn more and reserve your spot! ⚡🔌

🏛️ Legislative Week is about bringing people together to ensure the voice of the merit shop construction industry is represented and heard.

Over the past week, our staff and members had the chance to connect with lawmakers, engage in meaningful conversations, and strengthen relationships with industry peers from across the nation. 🤝 While there was certainly plenty of fun along the way, the real value lies in the connections made and the shared commitment to advancing free enterprise and the future of our industry 🚧✨.

Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this year's Legislative Week a success. Your engagement and advocacy help keep our industry moving forward! 👏

📸 Check out a few highlights from the week!