November 20, 2025 – Thomas Murphy, Vice President at Power & Construction Group of Scottsville, has been elected chair of the Associated Builders and Contractors' (ABC) National Board of Directors, marking a significant achievement for the Rochester-area construction industry.
Murphy's appointment represents recognition of his strategic vision and leadership within the merit shop construction community. According to the Rochester Business Journal, Murphy had previously served as chair-elect, secretary, and northeast region vice chair of ABC, and completed three terms as chair of the board of directors for the Empire State chapter.
As national chair, Murphy will spearhead ABC's advocacy efforts on a national scale. ABC has 23,000 members across 67 chapters, making it one of the largest construction industry organizations in the United States. Murphy's leadership provides Rochester-area contractors direct influence over national construction policy, advocacy, and industry standards.
"Starting my construction career in the field and learning the importance of every position on a jobsite makes me appreciate how the merit shop gives everyone the opportunity to rise from laborer to industry leader," Murphy stated in a news release. His hands-on experience in construction provides valuable perspective as he guides the organization.
Murphy has committed to advancing ABC's political advocacy to champion free enterprise, defend worker choice and support small business. Additionally, he plans to expand the Accredited Quality Contractor (AQC) program, which recognizes companies demonstrating commitment to corporate responsibility, safety, and business ethics.
These initiatives directly benefit construction firms by advocating for policies that reduce regulatory burdens, protect merit-based hiring practices, and recognize industry excellence.
Scott Ingalls, CEO of Power & Construction Group, praised Murphy's appointment: "We couldn't be prouder of 'Murph' as he steps into this national leadership role to represent the merit shop. At P&CG, Murph has been instrumental in helping us think more strategically, strengthen our culture and deliver greater value to our customers. We know he'll bring that same vision and dedication to ABC."
Under Murphy's leadership at Power & Construction Group, the company has strengthened its strategic business planning, corporate culture, and customer value delivery—competencies he will bring to his national role.
Founded in 1950, ABC operates under the merit shop philosophy, which emphasizes open competition, worker choice, and free enterprise principles. The organization focuses on helping construction companies develop people, win work, and deliver projects safely, ethically, and profitably.
Murphy's leadership underscores the merit shop model's effectiveness in developing strong business leaders from field-level positions—a pathway that strengthens the entire construction industry.
Rochester has established itself as a hub of construction industry leadership. The region has produced multiple contractors honored for excellence by ABC, and Murphy's elevation to the national board further solidifies Rochester's place in the national construction conversation.
This achievement also demonstrates the depth of talent in Rochester's construction sector and provides opportunities for local contractors to connect with national standards, best practices, and policy initiatives through Murphy's leadership platform.
As ABC national chair, Murphy will lead the organization through critical issues affecting construction contractors nationwide, including labor availability, regulatory compliance, supply chain challenges, and infrastructure investment opportunities. His background in strategic planning positions him well to address these sector-wide challenges.
Source: Rochester Business Journal, November 20, 2025
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