On Monday, January 22, 2018, the General Building Contractors Association (GBCA) held its Annual Meeting at the Union League of Philadelphia. Over 400 GBCA members and guests came together to celebrate another year of accomplishments for the association and its members. Former Eagles quarterback, Ron Jaworski, was the featured speaker at the event.
At the event, the GBCA celebrated its growth, alongside a strong construction market. At the end of 2017, GBCA boasted 260 members, and also received $160,000 in sponsorships for events and programs from member companies. GBCA made sure that members’ voices were heard in government and industry circles. GBCA members were also able to tell their stories in new and exciting media platforms. Click here to read more from GBCA’s 2017 Annual Report.
Labor and Industry Association leaders were among the evening’s attendees: Matt Cortez & Chris Fiegel, District Council 21 Painters and Allied Trades; Fred Cosenza & Bernard Griggs, Jr., Philadelphia Building Trades Council; Anthony Gallagher, Steamfitters Local Union 420; Tim Brink, Mechanical & Service Contractors Associations – Eastern PA; James Davis, Contractors Association of Eastern Pennsylvania; Rich Harvey, Roofing Contractors Association; Amy Hennessey, Subcontractors Association of Delaware Valley; and Rebecca Johnson, American Institute of Architects Philadelphia.
Several elected officials came as invited guests: Councilman Kenyatta Johnson; Councilwoman Maria D. Quinones Sanchez & Legislative Director Eric Bodzin, Esq.; Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown; Councilman Al Taubenberger & Director of Legislation Christopher G. Wright; Joe Hill, Political Director for Tom Wolf for PA; and Joe Pierce, Political Director for Bob Casey for PA.
Ron Jaworski gave the keynote speech, telling stories from his days as a football player, his role as a sports analyst, and his current work as the owner of several golf courses. His message for GBCA members was to stay committed to their work: to be dedicated and disciplined, to trust in their teams, and to remember that it isn’t only talent that leads to success, but hard work as well.
Jaworski outlined 7 principles for business success:
- Like people, especially those you work with, and let them know that you care.
- Be a good example, including paying attention to details.
- Create an atmosphere where people enjoy working.
- Bring energy to the workplace.
- Build relationships with one another.
- Be sincere.
- Expect the best and be the best. Have clearly defined goals and delegate responsibility.
Overall, Jaworski built upon the room’s excitement for the Philadelphia Eagles going to the Super Bowl LII. Beginning and ending his speech with Eagles chants, Jaworski had over 400 people excited and up on their feet. GBCA members are not only the finest in construction, we’re also proud to be in Philadelphia, and Jaworski closed the evening with that spirit, that civic pride, running strong.
A great evening, indeed.
Click below to see photos from the event!
