The American Subcontractors Association is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Founded on the principle of “Better Construction Through Fair Construction,” ASA has spent the last six decades championing ethical business practices, safety in the workplace and a more equitable construction environment. Through education, advocacy, networking and professional growth, the Association has built a national community dedicated to elevating the voices and interests of subcontractors across the industry.
“For 60 years, ASA has stood as a powerful advocate for subcontractors and specialty contractors who are essential to the success of every construction project,” says Richard Bright, CEO of ASA. “Our legacy is rooted in fairness, integrity, and the belief that when subcontractors are treated equitably, the entire construction industry is stronger.”
ASA's work and legacy
Through its advocacy efforts, the Association has played a meaningful role in protecting subcontractor rights, including recent legal actions supported by the ASA Subcontractors Legal Defense Fund that strengthened prompt payment protections and reinforced fair treatment under the law. ASA has also helped advance subcontractor-friendly legislation, including the elimination of retainage requirements in New Mexico.
“The elimination of retainage in New Mexico has been a meaningful step forward for subcontractors,” says Denise Mello, President of Sealant Specialists Inc. and a member of ASA’s Finance Committee. “Retainage can tie up critical cash flow for months or even years, creating unnecessary financial strain on businesses that are already delivering the work. Even today, some contractors attempt to disguise retainage as ‘close-out’ or ‘punch list’ withholding, but establishing fair line items billed at the end of a project instead of withholding progress payments makes cash flow more predictable and manageable. Policies like this help subcontractors operate more sustainably and confidently.”
ASA continues to expand partnerships with sponsors and solution providers, connecting members with tools, services and resources that help them operate more efficiently and competitively in an evolving construction landscape.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we are equally focused on the future,” says Andrew Christ, President of ASA. “ASA is committed to expanding opportunities, embracing innovation, and ensuring our members have the resources, connections, and voice they need to succeed in a rapidly changing construction environment.”
While honoring this milestone, ASA looks to the future with a vision for growth that sparks innovation and brings the construction community closer together. With the support of its members, alliance partners, and sponsors, ASA remains dedicated to building a stronger, more sustainable construction industry.
ASA invites its partners, sponsors and industry allies to join in celebrating 60 years.