Blog Posts
Thank you for Subscribing. A subscription confirmation link has been sent to your email.
ACCNJ Attends the 2025 GSETA Workforce Development Conference
The Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ) was proud to have Education Manager Shamara Gatling-Davila represent the organization at the 2025 Garden State Employment and Training Association (GSETA) Workforce Development Conference, held October 22 and 23, 2025, in Atlantic City. The annual GSETA Conference brings together workforce development professionals, educators, and industry leaders from across New Jersey. The event provides a platform to share best practices, explore new...
Najah ThurstonACCNJ Hosts Career Readiness Learning Lab
On Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ), in conjunction with the Carpenter Contractor Trust (CCT), presented a Learning Lab as part of the New Jersey School Boards Association’s (NJSBA) 2025 Workshop held in Atlantic City. The Learning Lab discussed pathways to construction in the classroom, including vocational schools and degree-related programs in higher education, and was led by ACCNJ Chief Operating Officer Jill Schiff and Education Manager...
Najah ThurstonACCNJ Hosts Second De-Escalation Training Workshop, Back by Popular Demand
On Friday, October 17, 2025, members of the Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ) gathered at the ACCNJ’s office to participate in their latest Educational Workshop Series: De-Escalation Training. After a successful training session this past February which focused on enhancing conflict resolution skills, De-Escalation Training was transformed into a full-day event focused on preventing, identifying, and remediating potential instances of workplace violence.
Najah ThurstonListening Workshop
On August 7, 2025, the Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ) proudly hosted a successful Listening Skills Workshop as part of our Educational Series at the ACCNJ offices in Edison. The session brought together industry professionals and interns alike to focus on one of the most underappreciated yet vital components of effective communication: listening...
Najah ThurstonACCNJ Member Simpson & Brown Participates in UBC Contractor Panel
Last week, June 5-7, 2025, the United Brotherhood of Carpenters (UBC) held their 3rd Year Apprentice Program: Helping Build Our Industries at the Carpenters International Training Center in Las Vegas. During the 3rd Year Apprentice Program, seasoned apprentices gained a greater understanding of the UBC and the construction industry, as well as the role union members play in the success of both. Participants learned how professionalism, productivity, skill, and attitude contribute to their own success and to the...
Najah ThurstonBACNJ Apprentice to Compete in September National Contest Following Win at ACCNJ-Sponsored Atlantic City Regional Bricklaying Contest
Bricks were flying at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City on Thursday, May 22, 2025, as skilled competitors came together at the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (IUBAC) North East Regional Apprentice Contest, for a shot to advance to the national tournament. Aspiring masons raced against the clock in this timed competition to build a brick wall as efficiently and accurately as possible.
Najah ThurstonRaising the Standard: ACCNJ Hosts OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Training
The Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ) is proud to continue its commitment to workplace safety by hosting the OSHA 30 Construction Safety and Health Course. The course took place from May 19th to the 22nd with 35 participants at ACCNJ’s Edison office.
Najah ThurstonACCNJ Attends Carpenters Annual Open House and Skills Competition
On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ) attended the Carpenters’ Annual Open House and Skills Competition at the Carpenters Training Center in Edison. High school students, adult cohorts, and workforce development partners were invited to attend and watch the best-trained, highly skilled union carpenter apprentices compete in an all-day construction competition. Attendees experienced a thrilling showcase of craftsmanship and speed as apprentices competed head-to-head...
Najah ThurstonACCNJ Hosts Employee Accountability Educational Workshop Ahead of Construction Safety Week 2025
On Friday, May 2, 2025, members of the Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ) filled the room to participate in their Educational Workshop Series: Employee Accountability: The Nuts and Bolts of Delegation and Coaching for Better Performance. Accountability is critically important to the union construction industry and vital to maintaining a safe environment across our workplaces. It ensures our workers take responsibility for their actions, decisions, and commitments, and are willing to explain...
Najah ThurstonACCNJ Members and Partners Hike for Suicide Prevention
On Saturday, April 26, the Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ) took part in the Construction Hike for Hope in Bear Mountain, New York. Hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), this powerful event brought together individuals from across the construction industry to raise awareness and funds for suicide prevention - something that impacts far too many in the construction community...
Najah ThurstonACCNJ Member Petillo Companies Wins at America’s Construction Safety Excellence Awards
On April 10, 2025, Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ) member Petillo Companies secured 1st place at Associated General Contractors of America’s (AGC) “Construction Safety Excellence Awards.” Petillo Companies earned their award in the Utility Division as a company with over 750,000 working hours.
Najah ThurstonACCNJ Supports 2025 Annual NJ Work Zone Safety Conference
As a member of the New Jersey Work Zone Safety Partnership (NJWZSP), the Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ) was proud to support the 2025 Annual NJ Work Zone Safety Conference as an exhibitor and event organizer on April 9, 2025.
Najah ThurstonACCNJ Sponsors SkillsUSA State Championship
On March 22, 2025, the Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ) sponsored the 2025 SkillsUSA State Championship. ACCNJ was proud to witness the talent of the next generation of professionals showcased at the Carpenters Training Center in Edison, New Jersey. Ahead of the Championship, ACCNJ donated $1,500 to the New Jersey SkillsUSA chapter, which has close to 8,000 student members...
Najah Thurston