For the second time, the Massachusetts Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABCMA), in conjunction with its Connecticut counterpart, held a joint “Meet the Generals” event at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Springfield, MA on March 27, 2008.

“Meet the Generals”, an event that utilizes the “speed dating” format, provided subcontractors guaranteed face time with general contractors doing business in both Massachusetts and Connecticut.

“With the motto “Members Using Members” at the forefront, this networking event puts ABC members in the same room to help foster strong relationships within the open-shop construction industry,” said Jim Abbott, Vice President/Director of Membership for ABCMA. “A joint event is a real benefit to both the chapters and the members because it mixes up the pool of attendees geographically, allowing businesses the opportunity to meet others they ordinarily might not.”

Recently showcased at ABC National’s Annual Leadership Institute, the seminar conducted on “Meet the Generals” by both Jim Abbott and Tim Roche from ABC’s Minnesota Chapter was well received by a national audience eager to learn how to hold their own event.

“The fact that ABC National chose to highlight ‘Meet the Generals’ shows its value as a member program,” said Greg Beeman, ABCMA President. “The feedback we have received from members in Massachusetts, and now in Connecticut, reaffirms that position. Our members are excited by the opportunity to meet others in the association who share their belief in operating their businesses based on merit and open competition.”

“This was a great event,” said Eric Forish, past ABCMA Chairman and President of Forish Construction Co., Inc. “I met several companies that may be of value in the future.”