Charlotte, NC | July 28, 2025 - The Board of Directors for Associated Builders and Contractors of the Carolinas (ABC Carolinas) announced that Christi Powell has joined the organization as President & CEO, along with Angela Gardner as Vice President of Workforce Development. Powell and Gardner are AEC industry veterans who together have built a strong following over the past two years as co-hosts of the trailblazing Women Talk Construction show, consistently ranked one of the Top Construction-Related Podcasts according to Construction Dive.
As they welcomed Powell and Gardner, ABC Carolinas also shared news of two expanded roles within its leadership team, reinforcing the organization’s mission to serve and advance the merit shop construction industry across both North and South Carolina. The merit shop philosophy is the belief that people and companies succeed based on free enterprise principles within the free market system, which is characterized by open and fair competition and diverse participants.
Key Leadership Updates & Enhancements
Effective July 2025, these strategic leadership updates reflect ABC Carolinas’ commitment to deepening its impact in key areas, including government affairs, workforce development, membership, and business operations.
- Christi Powell, President & CEO – Bringing years of industry leadership and strategic vision to guide ABC Carolinas into its next chapter of growth.
- Angela Gardner, Vice President of Workforce Development – Spearheading initiatives to build and support a strong, inclusive construction workforce.
- Kristen Powell, Vice President – Spearheading member engagement and retention strategies for the ABC Carolinas chapter.
- Elise Ussery, Director of Government Affairs – Leading advocacy efforts and legislative engagement across state and local levels.
“This is an incredible team of leaders who bring fresh energy, deep expertise, and a shared passion for the construction industry,” said Christi Powell, President & CEO, ABC Carolinas. “Together, we are well-positioned to expand our reach, better serve our members, and make a significant impact in both North and South Carolina.”
With a renewed focus on advocacy, education, workforce, and community, ABC Carolinas continues to be a driving force for progress and opportunity in the construction sector.
Associated Builders and Contractors of the Carolinas (ABC Carolinas) represents general contractors, construction management firms, specialty contractors, various material and equipment suppliers, and service providers all dedicated to the construction industry in North and South Carolina. Based in Charlotte, NC, ABC Carolinas is one of 67 chapters of ABC, a national association representing more than 23,000 members. South Carolina has three regional ABC councils – Midlands, Upstate and Lowcountry. North Carolina has four regional councils – Charlotte, Triad, Triangle and Coastal. For more information and news, visit www.abccarolinas.org and www.abc.org. Follow along on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.