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Richard Bright

American Subcontractors Association Celebrates 60 Years of Advancing Fairness, Strength, and Opportunity in Construction

2/13/2026

Alexandria, VA —February 13, 2026 — The American Subcontractors Association (ASA) proudly marks its 60th anniversary, celebrating six decades of leadership, advocacy, and purpose-driven commitment to improving the construction industry for subcontractors, specialty contractors, and suppliers nationwide.

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 strong 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,” said Richard Bright, Chief Executive Officer of the American Subcontractors Association. “Our legacy is rooted in fairness, integrity, and the belief that when subcontractors are treated equitably, the entire construction industry is stronger.”

ASA’s impact continues to be felt across the industry today. 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,” said 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.”

At the same time, ASA remains focused on delivering tangible value to its members beyond advocacy. The Association continues to expand partnerships with industry-leading 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,” Andrew Christ, President of ASA, added. “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 clear 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 for generations to come.

ASA invites its partners, sponsors, and industry allies to join in celebrating 60 years of progress and to share in recognizing the enduring impact of fair construction practices across the nation.

For more information about the American Subcontractors Association, its mission, and membership opportunities, visit www.asaonline.com

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About the American Subcontractors Association

The American Subcontractors Association promotes the rights and interests of subcontractors, specialty contractors, and suppliers by building strength in the community through education, advocacy, networking, and professional growth. ASA is committed to advancing quality construction, ethical business practices, and a safe, fair construction industry.

Media Contact:
Richard Bright
President/CEO, ASA
rbright@asa-hq.com
443-831-2542

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