Associated Builders and Contractors of Florida has named Richard Backa of Baker Construction as its 2026 State Chair, placing the longtime industry leader at the helm of the state’s largest commercial construction association as it prepares for a major policy push in the coming year.
The group represents more than 2,500 general contractors, specialty contractors, associates and suppliers. It advocates for free enterprise, merit-based competition and open markets where projects are awarded on performance, value and workforce capability.
Backa brings more than 43 years of experience in the concrete construction industry, including work with Capform and Baker Construction. He has been active with the ABC Florida Gulf Coast Chapter since 2003 and served as its Chairman in 2022, with additional involvement in the East Coast and Central Florida chapters. He is a graduate of Louisiana Tech University and Louisiana State University.
His project portfolio includes some of the state’s most recognizable commercial and entertainment developments, such as Raymond James Stadium, the Ice Palace, the Kia Center, the Peabody Hotel expansion, Water Street Block C, 400 Central, Porsche Tower, Trump Hollywood and 1450 Brickell, along with Gaylord Palms, Gaylord Texan and multiple Disney projects.
Backa succeeds Kelvin Enfinger of Greenhut Construction Company in Pensacola, who served as the 2025 Chair. Enfinger is a lifelong tradesman and part of a leadership team that has overseen more than six hundred and fifty million dollars in construction across sectors, including retail, health care, aviation and education.
As State Chair, Backa will guide ABC’s advocacy during the 2026 Legislative Session. The association maintains a full-time lobbying team and holds an annual Legislative Conference to underscore how state policy influences project delivery, workforce availability and economic growth.
“In a growing state like Florida, public policy must support timely construction, workforce readiness and a competitive business environment,” Backa said in a statement. “ABC’s mission is to ensure that contractors can compete fairly, build safely and deliver high-quality projects that meet community needs. I look forward to bringing industry experience and a statewide perspective to our advocacy efforts this coming year.”
Throughout 2026, the association plans to focus on issues tied to permitting delays, infrastructure demands, workforce shortages and regulatory mandates affecting project affordability and scheduling. Its priority areas include expanding workforce pipelines, streamlining regulatory requirements and encouraging private sector investment in infrastructure.
“Florida’s continued growth requires a construction industry that can respond quickly, innovate and recruit talent,” Backa said. “We intend to work with lawmakers to promote policies that make that possible.”
