NEWSROOM

James (Jim) Elmer, founder and president of James W. Elmer Construction Co., Spokane, Wash., Feb. 3 was sworn in as ABC national chairman at ABC’s 2010 National Convention in San Diego. The ceremony occurred during ABC’s national board of directors meeting. Elmer officially began his one-year term as chairman on Jan. 1.

“ABC is pleased to have Jim as the association’s leader in 2010,” said ABC President and CEO Kirk Pickerel. “Jim’s 25 years of involvement with ABC have given him the background necessary to use ABC’s influence to best advocate on behalf of its membership.  He is a real asset to ABC and the merit shop construction industry as a whole.”  

Beginning his involvement with ABC in 1986, Elmer has served as chairman of several committees, including the Government Affairs Coordinating Committee. In addition, he has served as a member of ABC’s board of directors and the Legislative Committee. In 1998, ABC presented him with the National Grassroots Member of the Year Award.  

At the chapter level, Elmer served as 1991 chairman of ABC’s Inland Pacific chapter. In 1998, the chapter awarded him the Bo Engstrom Award for extraordinary service.  

Elmer’s 38 years of construction experience includes working on several heavy industrial construction projects involving fossil fuel and nuclear power plants. In 1990, Elmer incorporated James W. Elmer Construction Co., which specializes in design-build commercial, light industrial, multifamily and tenant improvement projects. Prior to that, he spent five years as partner and president of a dual shop general contracting firm. Elmer received his bachelor’s degree in construction management from Washington State University.