PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

 

Today, we don’t just carry the legacy forward we build on it boldly.

As the new President of the CBC, I’m stepping into this role with deep respect for our past and a clear vision for our future. We’ve weathered transitions, restructured for stability, and now we’re poised to expand, elevate, and reenergize the organization for this next chapter.

But the real game-changer? We’re investing in people.

Members are gaining more than access…. they’re gaining a platform.
A platform to lead, grow their influence, build strategic relationships, and help shape the future of construction in Chicago. Through curated programming, peer learning, visibility opportunities, and committee engagement, members are now more connected and more empowered than ever before.

Our Committees are the heartbeat of CBC.
They’re not just helping us move forward—they’re actively shaping our future. Through their service, they’re building meaningful relationships, expanding their professional visibility, and gaining valuable leadership experience. We see committee participation as a leadership accelerator where talent rises, teamwork grows, and vision turns into action

Sponsors are no longer just supporters…. they’re strategic partners.
We’re delivering measurable value: targeted exposure to decision-makers, brand alignment with industry excellence, and unique access to Chicago’s most engaged construction professionals. This isn’t just logo placement it’s relationship-building at the highest level.

Our Board is leading from the front.
This is the strongest Board I’ve seen…. focused, engaged, and fully aligned. They’re not just overseeing the organization; they’re actively investing their time, insight, and networks to ensure CBC is built to last. Their leadership is the driving force behind the momentum we’re experiencing today.

Our Board members are among the elite high-flyers of Chicago’s construction community. Now, they’re channeling their influence into building high-impact programs and powerful relationships that support what Chicago’s Mayor calls “the best freaking city in the world.”

This isn’t business as usual… this is a new era!

Our focus is clear:

  • Growing a best-in-class membership reflects the full spectrum of Chicago’s building ecosystem—including developers, architects, engineers, general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and all professional services.
  • Curating flagship events and fresh networking experiences that deliver real value, open new doors, and strengthen high-impact relationships.
  • Championing inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility not just in principle, but through bold, measurable action that shapes the future of our industry.

There’s real momentum here — and if you’ve been waiting for the right time to plug in, this is it.

We’re building the future of Chicago together. Let’s get to work.

Shon Harris
President
LiveWire Construction


CBC Highlights

Are you new to the Chicago Building Congress or would like to get more involved? Here are some highlights:

  • The Future Leaders Committee and events provide a platform for networking, service and connection targeting those who have been in the industry from 5-20 years. All are welcome to events.
  • CBC Discovery Groups offer high-level relationship building, plus personal and professional development. You can learn more on the website.
  • The Merit Award is the premier and prestigious award program recognizing outstanding construction projects each year, and is always looking for volunteer judges to share their expertise and perspective on impactful design and outstanding construction.
  • The CBC Golf Classic is in June with proceeds benefiting two organizations: ACE Mentor Program and ACE Amandla Charter High School.
  • Our monthly events feature construction projects, new technology and topics directly affecting membership. If you have ideas about future events and programming, please let me know or you can reach out directly to RJ Coleman, our Executive Director, at CAM.