Empowering Tomorrow
ABC chapters across the state organized a joint Capitol visit this summer for leaders to gain a better understanding of political advocacy, which is the foundation of ABC. ABC of Michigan president Shane Hernandez led more than 50 leaders throughout the building, meeting with merit shop legislators and familiarizing everyone with the challenges for merit shop workers.
“It’s important we expose you all, the upcoming leadership of these companies, to the issues ABC fights against to protect the jobs merit shops provide,” Hernandez said during the tour. “Some of the bills sitting on the House and Senate floor have the power to shut down companies. Between apprentice ratios, Project Labor Agreements and the threat of mass unionization in general, we have an uphill battle heading into the election this year.”
For a lot of next generation leaders, politics isn’t something so easily followed. With a heated political climate constantly invading social media, family reunions, etc. many under 30 choose to disengage, but do so at a cost.
“It’s highly important the group here today leaves Lansing with an understanding of why ABC is involved in politics,” said ABC SEMI president and CEO Keith Ledbetter. “ABC actively saves jobs and companies from damaging legislation, but it’s necessary our members are active to help us carry out this mission.”
The group spoke with Republican Floor Leader, Representative Bryan Posthumus: Representative Bill Schuette: Republican Leader, Representative Matt Hall and Senate Leader, Senator Aric Nesbitt at the Capitol, and were joined by many other Representatives for lunch at the ABC of Michigan office.
Steve Rau, an estimator for Diamond Custom Painting commented after the day saying it’s a necessity for everyone in the room to leave Lansing and bring awareness to their companies about the key messages from the day.
“It’s easy to walk out today and go back to my job as an estimator for a painting company,” Rau said. “But I think that’s what a lot of people do and it’s not helping us get anywhere. You feel strong about the mission, but it can’t just be whenever you’re engaging with legislators directly. It has to be a regular focus, especially leading into November.”
The Emerging Professionals have also spoken with law professionals who broke down the dos and don’ts to protect the companies they work for. ABC SEMI Chapter Attorney and attorney for Plunkett Cooney Frank Mamat emphasized the proper steps to approach a threat of salting and how to legally navigate it.
“I’ve really learned a lot about leadership, policies and strategy to help push me forward. I’ve really had my eyes opened throughout this program,” said Ken Franklin, partner at National Metal Sales. “I’m ready to bring back my knowledge to the company, and even help others grow by being a better leader and investing in them.”
The 2024 ABC SEMI Emerging Professionals group included 15 eager leaders from a variety of ABC members. The 2025 EP application will open up this winter and will commence in the spring. Be sure to check out abcsemi.org or follow ABC Southeastern Michigan(@abcsoutheasternmi) on Facebook.
