Founded in Oakland, California, in 1969 by Ray Dones and Joseph Debro, NAMC is the oldest minority construction trade association in the United States. Members include more than 50 Hall of Fame members and Legacy Contractors from all segments of our social society. Together, we combine annual project capacity of over a billion dollars nationally. The association represents the interests of millions of skilled minority workers across the country. Through a network of local chapters and in collaboration with strategic and corporate partnerships, NAMC assists members with building capacity by providing access to opportunity, advocacy, and contractor development training.
NAMC is proud to be a leading voice for millions of minority trade workers and an advocate for undocumented veterans in the construction industry. Of the 160 million people employed in the United States, more than 31% earn a living directly or indirectly in the construction industry. Hispanics and Latinos make up 30% of these workers, and African Americans represent 8% of workers nationally. Other minorities make up approximately 2% of the workforce. Together, the construction industry workforce includes nearly 10 million minority workers.
The National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC) has a strong foundational history that has established a great legacy for the organization. NAMC’s presence and voice in this industry is of even greater need today than ever before to continue the mission of providing Access (contract & resource opportunities), Advocacy (legislative impact), and Contractor Readiness (training, capacity building, and growth) for our members. The association strives to accomplish its goals in collaboration with major corporate partners, strategic alliances, and public agencies. The presence of NAMC today is a testament to its continuing legacy. The construction market is a relationship-driven industry. Business relationships must be developed; the strategies and approaches for pursuing, winning, and executing business are paramount. The future of NAMC lies in the enhancement of its Student Chapter Program, as well as expanding our relationships with corporate partners to deliver the stated benefits of access, advocacy, and contractor readiness to our membership.