Raising The Bar. A New Era of Leadership Begins for UCON

I came to UCON 16 years ago to interview for Director of Government Relations. 

Back then, it was the Engineering & Utility Contractors Association (EUCA). I had no idea what it was or what it stood for. But the job posting caught my attention. It was brief. A little odd. And… well… honest: 

“Contractors association seeking next Director of Government Relations. Join a great team. Work for a remarkable industry. Must be willing to work hard. No drama. No bullshit.” 

I was a young legislative aide. Ambitious. Determined. And, on paper, clearly underqualified for “Director” of anything. 

When they hired me, I remember thinking two things: 

1. This organization must be crazy for hiring me. 
2. How will I grow this small, regional contractors' association into the largest, most effective, and influential organization for union contractors in the state of California? 

Sixteen years later, I can say without hesitation: it has been a privilege to work alongside you to build UCON into what it is today: 

• The most experienced and effective labor relations organization for union contractors. 
• California’s most influential and results-driven political advocacy organization for the construction industry. 
• A trusted partner committed to growing market share and strengthening the future of union construction. 
• The go-to association for direct, front-line support, expertise, and trusted resources. 
• The best relationship-building and problem-solving organization in the state. 

As I step into the role of CEO, I do so with deep gratitude and a clear sense of responsibility to you, your companies, your teams, and the industry we serve. 

As I look ahead, rooted in our values and clear in our mission and vision, here are my promises: 

What Will Never Change at UCON 

“The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.” 
—Stephen Covey 

UCON’s differentiator has always been, and will always be, our deep, personal commitment to our members and to the union construction industry. The level of relentless support, advocacy, and access UCON provides is not accidental. It is intentional. It reflects a founder’s mentality rooted in staying close to our members and a belief that every contractor deserves a voice in the room and a seat at the table. This is the core of who we are and what we stand for. It will never change. 

My Personal Commitment as CEO 

“Never confuse activity with impact.” 
—John Wooden 

UCON will never become a passive association. We will never lead from a podium. We will build solutions alongside our members, grounded in real-world experience, guided by relentless focus and determination, and measured by outcomes that matter to you and your businesses. 

Anchored in our values of Drive, Integrity, Authenticity, Connection, and Care, and driven by our vision to be the most trusted and transformational construction association in the nation, UCON will continue to deliver unmatched ROI and industry leadership that actually movesthe needle. 

One thing to know: my commitment is personal. To you. To your people. To your companies. And to protecting the future of union construction. 

What Must Evolve 

“If you’re not growing, you’re dying.” 

While UCON’s values are unmovable, the environment we operate within is not. The needs of our members and the industry are changing. Fast. The pressures are real. And standing still is not an option. 

The good news is that UCON is nimble; built to quickly shift toward the most important challenges facing our industry and to take bold, meaningful action when and where it matters most. 

UCON’s growth must translate into your growth. That means focusing where it counts: 

• Building the most effective labor relations and government advocacy programs across California, while striving to become the most trusted and impactful association for union-signatory contractors in the nation 
• Launching the industry’s most transformative leadership development programs—supporting the next generation of leaders from the field to the C-suite 
• Leading coalitions to solve our biggest challenges, together. We will work with our labor, agency, political, and organizational partners across the state and nation to tackle our industry’s most complex issues, from workforce development to regulatory burdens. 
• Expanding and deepening member connection to UCON by elevating the experiences, services, support, and engagement opportunities we provide. From front-line support to expanded UCONnect events across California, expect more ways to engage with us at every level. 

There are many associations you can belong to. UCON will always strive to be something different: your trusted partner and one of your greatest strategic advantages. 

Thank you for your trust and commitment. 

With Gratitude, 

Emily Cohen, UCON CEO

I Want to Hear From You

• What should we start doing? 
• What should we be doing more of? 
• What should we do differently, or stop doing altogether? 
• What services and support matter most to you right now? 
• What should UCON be focused on to best protect and advance union contractors today, and into the future? 

Email me, call me (925) 362-7304, connect with me on LInkedIn . Or reach out to any member of our Team. We are here for you.