Key Takeaways
- The Excellence in Construction Awards are ABC’s premier merit shop project recognition, featuring two tiers: Award of Excellence and Award of Merit, plus the iconic American Eagle trophy
- Judges evaluate projects on quality, innovation, safety, and on-time/on-budget delivery—regional winners advance to National EIC competition
- ABC Ohio Valley’s EIC and Safety Excellence Awards reinforce merit shop philosophy, where 9 of 10 construction workers are non-union
- The May 13, 2026, Gathering of Eagles Gala at Sharonville Convention Center (5:00–9:00 PM, black-tie optional) features Thomas “Murph” Murphy’s keynote and record submissions
- Register at web.ovabc.org, submit Eagle display photos by May 1 to megan@ovabc.org, or contact vickie@ovabc.org / 800-686-6440
Excellence in Construction Awards: The Pinnacle of Merit Shop Project Recognition
The Excellence in Construction Awards represent the most prestigious program within the merit shop construction sector, celebrating exceptional craftsmanship and project excellence. ABC chapters nationwide run regional EIC competitions annually, creating a consistent standard that feeds into the National Excellence in Construction Awards.
For ABC Ohio Valley’s 300+ member firms across Southwest Ohio, Northern Kentucky, and Southeastern Indiana, an EIC win operates as third-party proof of superior performance—a credibility multiplier in proposals and interviews.
What the Excellence in Construction Awards Recognize
The construction awards program features two core tiers:
- Award of Excellence: The highest honor, with recipients receiving the distinguished American Eagle trophy
- Award of Merit: Significant distinction for highly competitive entries
Winning an EIC Award positions contractors among the “Best of the Best,” potentially leading to national-level opportunities. Regional winners can advance to compete in the National Excellence in Construction Awards.
Judging Criteria and Safety Excellence
Projects are evaluated based on criteria like complexity, safety, and innovation. Judges use a point system assessing:
| Criteria | Evaluation Method |
|---|---|
| Quality | Narratives, photos, technical descriptions |
| Innovation | Prefabrication, lean techniques, new technologies |
| Safety | STEP data, TRIR, DART, EMR metrics |
| Schedule/Budget | Documentation, owner references |
Winning projects average nearly seven times safer than industry average. The Chapter Safety Excellence Awards complement EIC recognition through STEP Safety Management System submissions.
The Merit Shop Philosophy in Action
These awards embody ABC’s merit shop philosophy—recognition goes to teams delivering the best value, not to those based on labor affiliation. In the Ohio Valley region, roughly 9 of 10 construction workers are non-union, making this a level playing field essential.
2026 Gathering of Eagles Gala: May 13, Sharonville Convention Center
ABC Ohio Valley received a record number of EIC submissions for 2026. The gala runs 5:00–9:00 PM with Thomas “Murph” Murphy, Chairman of ABC’s National Board, delivering the keynote at 6:20 PM.
Program highlights:
- 5:00 PM: Networking reception
- 6:25 PM: Craft Professional and Woman of the Year recognition
- 7:25 PM: TOOLS 2.0 workforce pipeline announcement
- 8:45 PM: Gathering of Eagles Winner reveal
Pricing: Tables of 8 at $1,200 | Half tables at $650 | Single tickets at $175
Register here. All submissions must be completed through an online portal. Submit Eagle display photos to megan@ovabc.org by May 1.
Major sponsors include Messer Construction Co., Danis Building Construction, Conger Construction Group, Ferguson Construction Company, and TP Mechanical Contractors.
Next Steps
Contact Vickie Palmer at vickie@ovabc.org or 800-686-6440. Non-members: explore ABC Ohio Valley membership as your entry to future EIC competition.
FAQ
Who is eligible to submit projects?
ABC Ohio Valley members in good standing with projects completed within the eligibility window and located within the chapter’s service territory.
Do I need to be a finalist to attend the gala?
No—attendance is open to members, prospective members, owners, and sponsors for networking and recognition.
What does “black-tie optional” mean?
Tuxedos and gowns are welcome, but dark suits and cocktail attire are equally appropriate and common.
Can I bring clients as guests?
Yes—member firms are encouraged to host owners, architects, and trade partners at their tables.
