Program to Expand Jobsite Inclusivity

May 19, 2020

The Associated General Contractors of America is launching a new, nationwide program designed to help expand the diversity of the industry by making job sites more inclusive. The new program, called Culture of CARE (commit, attract, retain and empower), is designed to help firms create more welcoming workplace environments for staff, particularly those from diverse demographic backgrounds.   

“We are asking companies to take bold and visible steps toward creating a more diverse, safe, welcoming and inclusive construction industry,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. This new program will help firms attract the kind of diverse staff that research shows help construction firms become more innovative, safe, effective and profitable.  

The new Culture of CARE program calls on construction firms to sign a pledge to create more welcoming and inclusive workplace cultures. After firms sign the pledge, the association will work with them to provide training and suggested human resources practices designed to help them put action behind their pledge and establish more inclusive workplaces. 

Sandherr noted that the national Culture of CARE program is based on a program first launched by the association’s AGC of Washington chapter in the Pacific Northwest. The national association’s Diversity & Inclusion Council evaluated the Washington state program and determined that it was a powerful tool to support the industry’s efforts to become more diverse and inclusive.