Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) named Joel Thames as the Association’s new vice president of health, safety, environment and workforce development. As a key member of ABC’s executive leadership team, Thames will lead health and safety, environment and workforce development initiatives.
Thames brings to ABC 20 years of construction experience and a strong passion for workforce development. He has been an involved member of the association both nationally and locally, holding numerous leadership positions, including past chair of the Trimmer Construction Education Fund Board of Trustees, past board chair of the New Orleans Bayou chapter and past chair of the chapter’s education and training committees. Prior to joining ABC, he was the corporate director of human resources, workforce development, risk management and security for ABC member Performance Contractors Inc., headquartered in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. At Performance, Thames designed and led programs for thousands of construction professionals that enhanced employee skills, promoted career advancement and built sustainable pipelines of talent for the construction industry.
In this key leadership role at ABC, Thames will help ABC to deliver on its long-term strategic priorities in health, safety, environment and workforce development. He will provide subject-matter expertise and operational leadership in these critical areas to support program delivery, member services and industry advancement. He will lead design, development and implementation of innovative education, training and professional development programs.
Published July 2026
