LAS VEGAS, Feb. 26 — Associated Builders and Contractors today named Chris Weaver, site superintendent and electrical foreperson for Western Michigan chapter member Feyen Zylstra, Grand Rapids, Michigan, as the 2025 Craft Professional of the Year. Weaver was honored at ABC Convention 2025 in Las Vegas on Feb. 25.
ABC presents the Craft Professional of the Year award annually to a construction craft professional who excels in their field, demonstrates a passion for the trade, exhibits outstanding leadership qualities and demonstrates a commitment to safety, education and the merit shop philosophy.
“I believe in creating opportunities for all workers—whether that’s individuals changing careers later in life or those from underrepresented communities,” said Weaver. “I’ve seen how people from all walks of life can bring unique perspectives and value to the jobsite, and I am committed to supporting and mentoring them in their career journey.”
“Chris is a problem-solver, a strong leader and a devoted volunteer in his community,” said 2025 Chair of the ABC National Board of Directors David Pugh, partner, Bradley, Birmingham, Alabama. “He also fully supports the merit shop philosophy, believing that hard work, dedication and skill should be recognized and rewarded. We appreciate Chris for what he has invested in the trade, his mentorship and his approach to health, safety and innovation.”
With 21 years of construction experience, Weaver leads and teaches his team to ensure that they can perform their work safely, efficiently and to the highest standards. Overseeing all aspects of the project, he prioritizes clear communication and problem-solving throughout a project so that expectations and goals are aligned. Weaver performs site walkthroughs twice daily to confirm safety protocols are followed and that the quality of work meets Feyen Zylstra’s standards.
My goal is not only to lead projects but also to keep learning and developing the next generation of skilled professionals.
“Mentorship is a big part of my role,” said Weaver. “I dedicate time each week to educating apprentices on specific skills, offering hands-on guidance and fostering their professional development. My goal is not only to lead projects but also to keep learning and developing the next generation of skilled professionals. Education is a lifelong process, and I am always looking for ways to grow, whether it’s through formal training or firsthand experience. By continuously seeking out new learning opportunities, I better serve my team, customers and company.”
Weaver actively mentors new craft professionals and promotes the construction career ladder, strongly believing in investing in the next generation of craft professionals. He participates in career fairs and outreach events at local schools and speaks to students about the benefits of a career in construction and how it can provide a solid, rewarding path without the burden of college debt.
As Craft Professional of the Year, Weaver received a $10,000 cash prize. Co-sponsors of the Craft Professional of the Year are the National Center for Construction Education and Research, the leading nonprofit construction education foundation that provides industry-recognized training, assessment, certification and career development solutions, and Tradesmen International, North America’s premier craft professional staffing resource. Weaver will be profiled in the June issue of Construction Executive magazine.
The Craft Professional of the Year Award is one of numerous ABC award programs that promote lifelong learning and achievement at every level of the construction industry. Learn more about ABC’s commitment to workforce development at workforce.abc.org.
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Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2025, Associated Builders and Contractors is a national construction industry trade association established in 1950 that represents more than 23,000 members. Founded on the merit shop philosophy, ABC and its 67 chapters help members develop people, win work and deliver that work safely, ethically and profitably for the betterment of the communities in which ABC and its members work. Visit us at abc.org.
