Sonny Maken, COO, Associated Builders and Contractors Florida East Coast Chapter, Inc.

Sonny Maken, COO of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), talked to Invest: about the association’s growth milestones and how they align with the rapid growth in the South Florida region. He also described ABC’s political influence and the role apprenticeships play in fueling the workforce pipeline.

What have been some recent milestones and achievements for ABC in the Miami region?

Our organization has experienced unprecedented growth across every key metric — membership, political influence, and engagement. In 2024 alone, we hosted nearly 100 events, drawing over 8,800 attendees. Our commitment to making a difference extends beyond our industry; through our ABC Cares Foundation, we raised nearly $400,000 in disaster relief for North Carolina and are actively fundraising for wildfire recovery efforts in California — all the while supporting the families and workers who were injured or fatally hurt on the job site.

Recognizing the critical need for mental health support in construction, we launched a groundbreaking mental health app in partnership with a healthcare provider, ensuring workers have access to essential services.

On the political front, 2024 was a defining year. ABC raised $800,000 to support candidates who champion free enterprise and workforce development. We endorsed over 70 candidates, with an overwhelming success rate — only two did not win their races.

Innovation continues to drive our growth. We launched The Obvious podcast, which is quickly gaining traction, providing thought leadership and industry insights to a broader audience. Meanwhile, ABC Institute remains the largest provider of apprenticeship education in Florida, training workers in seven trades across 10 locations, solidifying our role in shaping the future workforce.

Every initiative and every achievement underscores our commitment to expanding ABC’s impact. And we’re just getting started.

How would you describe the state of the commercial construction industry in Florida, and what are some of the major trends shaping the market?

Florida’s rapid population growth is reshaping the construction landscape, driving demand across multiple sectors. Commercial construction is thriving, with mixed-use developments leading the way. Data centers, warehouses, and last-mile distribution hubs are expanding at an unprecedented pace. Multifamily construction is also surging, with Miami at the forefront, boasting the highest number of units under development in the state.

A major trend we’re seeing is the redevelopment of malls and shopping centers, transforming underutilized spaces into vibrant, multi-purpose destinations. The scale of growth is staggering. When I moved to Florida in 2001, I could drive from West Palm Beach to Miami in an hour — now, that’s unthinkable. Back then, Brickell was just emerging, and South Beach was the prime destination. Today, the development boom has reshaped the entire region, and it’s not slowing down.

Florida remains one of the most business-friendly states in the country, with low taxes, minimal regulations, and an economy that welcomes growth. While prices in Downtown Miami and Brickell have soared, real estate beyond the urban core remains relatively affordable, making Florida an attractive place for both businesses and residents. Growth here isn’t a trend — it’s a long-term reality.

What are the biggest challenges facing contractors and builders, and how is ABC helping members navigate potential headwinds?

The construction industry thrives on predictability and stability — businesses need assurance that shifting economic conditions won’t disrupt their ability to operate. Under the previous administration, excessive regulations and burdensome policies created significant challenges, forcing us to fight back to protect free enterprise. With the new administration, we’ve regained some stability, particularly as the Biden-era project labor agreements and regulatory hurdles in public contracts have been rolled back.

That said, workforce development and material costs remain pressing issues. While certain areas of the construction cycle have stabilized, and some material prices have declined, challenges persist. Growth comes with a critical need for skilled labor—as Florida expands, so does construction, and that demands a larger, more skilled workforce. One unique challenge is that many experienced workers immigrate from countries where construction practices differ from U.S. standards, requiring additional training and upskilling.

That’s where ABC plays a pivotal role. As Florida’s largest provider of apprenticeship education, ABC Institute is actively shaping the next generation of skilled workers. With over 900 students enrolled in pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs, we are producing a workforce that transitions from apprentices to journeymen — the equivalent of earning a bachelor’s degree in the trades.

Insurance will remain a headwind, and not just for property owners. Lawmakers will have to find a creative, market-driven solution to the insurance crisis.  

One key takeaway: there is no single cause-and-effect in this industry. Every challenge is layered with nuance, requiring thoughtful, long-term solutions. We remain focused on advocating for policies that support a strong, skilled workforce and a stable business environment — because when construction thrives, Florida thrives.

What technology innovations are you seeing that members are prioritizing to improve efficiency and productivity?

Construction technology is transforming the industry, driving unprecedented gains in efficiency and productivity. Many of our members have embraced cutting-edge innovations, integrating AI, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) into their operations, and the results have been game-changing.

To ensure we remain at the forefront of workforce development, we’ve incorporated VR and AR technology into our training programs, allowing students to engage in highly immersive, hands-on learning experiences. These tools are not just enhancing education — they are shaping the future of how construction professionals are trained.

AI is another major force reshaping the industry. From optimizing drawings to streamlining permitting processes, AI-driven solutions are improving accuracy and efficiency across the board. However, one fundamental truth remains: construction itself can never be outsourced. Buildings are tangible, physical structures that require skilled professionals on-site. No matter how advanced technology becomes, the hands that build will always be essential.

As innovation continues, the companies that embrace and integrate technology effectively will lead the industry forward. At ABC, we are committed to ensuring that our members and apprentices are prepared not just for today’s construction landscape but for the future of the industry.

Sustainability is an increasing priority. How are your members integrating sustainability practices into their projects?

We are constantly seeking best practices, and technology is driving innovation across the industry. The biggest laggards in resilience? Regulations. While technology has surged ahead, too often, regulations struggle to keep pace. Our members, however, prefer to stay ahead of the curve, adopting cutting-edge solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

A tremendous amount of innovation is being directed toward climate resilience, ensuring structures are stronger and better equipped to protect people. In Florida, we’ve been battling hurricanes for decades, and the construction industry has continuously evolved. After Hurricane Andrew in 1992, building codes were revolutionized, with Miami-Dade establishing some of the world’s most stringent and effective hurricane-resistant standards.  

Sustainability is no longer an afterthought — it’s at the forefront of every decision our members make. The future of construction isn’t just about building stronger structures; it’s about building smarter, more resilient communities. Our industry has proven it can adapt and lead, and we will continue pushing forward with the latest advancements to protect people, property, and the environment.

What are ABC’s top priorities for the next couple of years?

I like to think of ABC as a 50-year-old startup. We are laser-focused on sustaining our growth, and that takes strategy, innovation, and real leadership. Success isn’t just about hitting milestones — it’s about staying ahead of challenges, adapting to market shifts, and delivering results that matter.

At ABC, our focus is clear: strengthen and expand the construction industry while ensuring our members remain competitive and protected from harmful regulations. The biggest threat to our industry isn’t competition—it’s bad policy. Our job is to make sure that doesn’t happen.

One of our biggest priorities is workforce development. The demand for skilled workers is only increasing, and we’re stepping up to meet it. We’re in talks with state agencies to bring apprenticeship programs up the coast, helping train the next generation of skilled tradespeople for one of the most innovative regions in the country. Apprenticeship is the smartest education model out there — it produces high-earning professionals without the burden of student debt. Our electrician program, for example, is a four-year track where students work while they learn, get paid from day one, and graduate earning up to $75,000 a year. 

Beyond workforce development, mental health in construction is a challenge we refuse to ignore. Two years ago, we set out to bring real solutions to the industry, but most mental health platforms relied on AI chatbots, which simply don’t work for people who need real support. So we built something better. We partnered with a tech firm and a clinic to create a platform that connects users with live counselors in real time. This isn’t just about checking a box — it’s about making sure mental health services are accessible to the people who need them most.

At ABC, growth is not just about numbers — it’s about impact. We’re training the next generation, protecting businesses from bad policies, and tackling real industry challenges head-on. Our goal is simple: make sure the construction industry doesn’t just grow, but thrives.