Last week, I had the honor of standing shoulder to shoulder with our newest leaders in Northern California as we launched NHCA’s 8th Standing Chapter. For me, this was more than another ribbon-cutting—it was a homecoming. We began our journey in California with the Los Angeles Chapter, and after expanding this year into cities like Nashville, Denver, and Charlotte, returning to California reminds us and our communities that THE ALLIANCE IS NATIONAL. Wherever there is a city or market in need, we will be there, because our mission is simple yet powerful: to empower the Hispanic workforce in construction.
This launch was also historic as, for the first time, we welcomed the participation of Jim Chavez, National Account Manager representing Lowe’s, one of our newest National Partners. Their presence reinforces what we have always known—Hispanics are not only the backbone of the construction industry in numbers, but also the future of its leadership. To reach that future, we must keep building capacity through education, mentorship, and opportunity, while bringing the right partners alongside us on this journey.
I want to thank Ingrid Verastegui for her leadership of our Northern California Chapter. With this being the third NHCA chapter in California, we are preparing initiatives that will be tested in this state and refined before we roll them out nationwide. Ingrid and her team represent exactly what makes NHCA thrive—dedication, courage, and vision for what Hispanic builders can achieve when given the right tools and community.
September is shaping up to be one of the most impactful months in our history. We kicked off with NorCal’s launch, and next week we’ll be in Nashville for our “Level Up: Your Blueprint to Bigger Bids” event. Soon after, on September 17th, we’ll gather for our Welcome Reception, setting the stage for our biggest event yet: NHCA at Avance, September 18–21.
This conference is designed to grow you into the leadership positions our industry needs filled. The sessions will cover everything from blueprint reading to artificial intelligence in construction, subcontracting with major contractors, and one-on-one conversations with our National Partners. More importantly, it’s where you’ll expand your network, secure opportunities, and leave equipped with the tools to take your company—or your career—to the next level.
If you’re attending, I promise you’ll walk away changed. If you’re not, let me put it plainly: this is one event you cannot afford to miss.
Because at NHCA, we are not just building structures—we are building leaders, businesses, and futures. And together, we are building an industry where Hispanics don’t just participate—they lead.