Of all the business sectors in America, the construction industry has been one of the hardest for minorities to enter and succeed in. Mr. Taylor Cotton, the late executive director of Black Contractors United, often said of the industry, "It's a big boys' game and little boys don't play on this field."

It takes a person of unusual substance to succeed in the industry; it takes twice as much fortitude if the contractor is a minority or woman.

Black Contractors United proudly presents this African American Construction Hall of Fame to honor those extraordinary individuals who played a pivotal role in developing and cultivating the African American presence within the construction industry.

These heroes refused to accept limits, took control and changed the direction of their lives and destinies, and subsequently improved the condition of African Americans in the field.

We honor those who paved this road that we walk on so that we may look back strength from their courage and determination ... and to remind us that the improvements we make today will greatly affect the journey of those who will travel this road in the future.