We’re now mid-year, and what a strong start we’ve had! ABC Greater Houston has been buzzing with activity, growth, and energy. Our members have spoken clearly: value matters—and we’ve responded by focusing deeply on how we engage and support our members from day one.
At the start of 2025, ABC Greater Houston recommitted itself to the Four Pillars Initiative—a chapter-wide effort focused on Workforce Development, Safety, Membership Development, and Political Advocacy. Under the Membership Development pillar, one major enhancement stands out: the Ambassador Program, designed to connect board and committee members directly with new members in a more meaningful, personalized way.
What Is the Ambassador Program?
Launched this year, the Ambassador Program pairs each new or recently joined member—typically within their first three years—with a designated staff member and committee liaison to ensure early and meaningful connection. The goal? Foster early engagement, open communication, and personalized support that helps new members feel welcomed and informed.
Ambassadors are encouraged to:
- Personally welcome new members.
- Invite them to attend a low-cost ABC event—as a guest of the ambassador.
- Encourage participation in committees, peer groups, classes, and networking opportunities.
- Check in regularly, including a final touchpoint at the ABC Planning Conference.
“Our goal is not just to grow membership—it’s to grow engaged membership,” says Michelle Allison of Marsh McLennan, Chair of the Member Services Committee. “By connecting new members with experienced leadership, we’re building trust and offering immediate access to ABC’s resources. It’s our way of saying, ‘You’re not in this alone.’”
Vice Chair Carlos Ruiz of Performance Contractors agrees. “This program ensures that new members understand everything ABC has to offer from the start. We want to eliminate the learning curve and get them plugged in quickly—because we’ve all seen how powerful this community can be when it’s activated.”
The Member Services Commitment
This year also marks a new chapter for Member Services at ABC Greater Houston. With the addition of Mylene Pham as Director of Membership and Vanessa Leyva as Member Services Manager, the chapter has doubled down on personalized, face-to-face engagement. As part of our renewed commitment to member engagement, Mylene has been meeting face-to-face with members at their offices—listening, learning, and asking meaningful questions. Is ABC meeting your expectations? Which events, trainings, or committees best support your team’s growth? Where can we do better? These one-on-one visits are more than just check-ins—they’re shaping the future of our programs and ensuring that every member’s voice is heard and valued.
Board Members Taking the Lead
Beyond the Ambassador Program, our Board of Directors has each taken on a deeper role in member outreach. Every board member has been assigned a team of new or lightly engaged members, reinforcing a culture where connection and accountability matter. This initiative helps make our leadership more accessible and responsive—strengthening the bond between new members and the heartbeat of our chapter.
A Mid-Year Recap Worth Celebrating
Here’s a quick look at how we’ve delivered on the promise of value so far in 2025:
- January: Our State of the Industry Breakfast kicked off the year with expert insights from Pat Kiley on the economic outlook for construction.
- February: ABC Texas Chapters met in Austin for Legislative Day, advancing fair competition and merit shop values with state legislators.
- Throughout Q1: The Unlocking Success Series brought fresh tools for leadership, employee engagement, and motivation. Linda Carter’s Leadership Forum course empowered members to grow personally and professionally.
- March: Women in Construction Week was celebrated with an inspiring event hosted in collaboration with LOGIC and NAWIC, spotlighting women leaders across our industry.
- Ongoing: Cybersecurity Training Courses—powered by PreActive IT—help our members defend against today’s digital risks.
- Spring Events: Despite weather delays, members showed up in full force for our rescheduled Golf Tournament, Spring Clay Shoot, and Crawfish Boil & Cornhole Tournament.
The Road Ahead: Engagement is Everything
As we move into the second half of the year, we encourage you to connect with your assigned board ambassador or reach out to Mylene for a one-on-one visit. There’s no better way to stay informed, share your needs, and make the most of your membership. Whether you’re new to ABC or a longtime supporter, remember: membership is what you make of it—and we’re here to make sure you succeed.