A Reflection from the Black Contractors Association Alabama Chapter
Black history is more than a celebration—it is a testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and determination of Black Americans who have shaped this nation. The contributions of Black men and women in the commercial construction industry are both historic and ongoing, laying the foundation for future generations to build upon. The individuals highlighted here—Benjamin Banneker, Robert Robinson Taylor, Hattie Scott Peterson, Herman J. Russell, Adrienne Bennett, and Cheryl McKissack Daniel—exemplify the excellence and perseverance that have defined Black contributions to architecture, engineering, and construction. Their legacies serve as beacons of inspiration, urging us to continue forging paths of opportunity and equity in the industry.
Pioneers Who Built the Future
Benjamin Banneker: The Self-Taught Architect of Change
Benjamin Banneker, an African American mathematician, astronomer, and surveyor, played a critical role in the early planning of Washington, D.C. His expertise in surveying and land planning was instrumental in designing the nation’s capital, despite the racial barriers that sought to exclude him. Banneker’s legacy is a reminder that skill and intellect know no bounds, and his contributions laid the groundwork for Black excellence in engineering and architecture.
Robert Robinson Taylor: The First Black Architect
As the first accredited Black architect in the United States, Robert Robinson Taylor broke barriers in higher education and design. A graduate of MIT, he dedicated his career to the advancement of Black students in architecture, serving as a key figure in the development of Tuskegee University’s campus. His work not only shaped physical structures but also fostered opportunities for future generations of Black architects and builders.
Hattie Scott Peterson: Engineering Against the Odds
Hattie Scott Peterson was the first Black woman in the United States to earn a degree in civil engineering. Working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, she paved the way for Black women in a field that was—and remains—predominantly male. Her determination and brilliance challenged gender and racial stereotypes, proving that Black women belong at every level of the construction and engineering industries.
Herman J. Russell: Building an Empire from the Ground Up
Herman J. Russell was a visionary entrepreneur who built one of the largest Black-owned construction firms in the United States, H.J. Russell & Company. His company was instrumental in shaping the skyline of Atlanta, contributing to projects such as the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and the Georgia Dome. His success is a testament to the power of perseverance, business acumen, and the importance of Black-owned enterprises in the construction sector.
Adrienne Bennett: Pioneering in Plumbing Engineering
Adrienne Bennett made history as the first Black female master plumber in the United States. Overcoming racial and gender discrimination, she carved out a space in an industry that had long overlooked Black women. Today, she leads her own construction and plumbing company, mentoring young professionals and advocating for diversity in skilled trades.
Cheryl McKissack Daniel: Carrying a Legacy Forward
Cheryl McKissack Daniel is the CEO of McKissack & McKissack, the nation’s oldest Black-owned architectural, engineering, and construction firm. Under her leadership, the company has taken on high-profile projects, including infrastructure improvements in New York City. She continues the legacy of her family’s 100-year history in construction, proving that Black excellence in commercial building is both historic and forward-moving.
The Foundation Has Been Laid Right—The Future is Bright
These pioneers and many others who remain unsung heroes have cemented Black excellence in the commercial construction industry. The path they carved makes it possible for Black contractors, engineers, architects, and skilled laborers to thrive today.
Yet, challenges persist—Black professionals still face systemic barriers in accessing capital, securing major contracts, and gaining equal opportunities in commercial construction. This is why organizations like the Black Contractors Association Alabama Chapter (BCAAC) are crucial. We are not just fighting for a seat at the table; we are building the table. We are ensuring that Black workers, business owners, and future leaders in construction have the resources, support, and opportunities they need to succeed.
A Call to Action: Be a Part of the Future
The commercial construction industry offers immense opportunities for economic mobility, community development, and generational wealth. As we celebrate Black history, we must also recognize the present and prepare for the future. Black-owned construction businesses play a critical role in closing the racial wealth gap, empowering communities, and ensuring long-term economic stability.
We call upon young Black men and women to explore careers in construction, architecture, and engineering. The industry needs your talent, vision, and innovation.
For those already in the field, mentorship and advocacy are key. We must uplift each other, share knowledge, and create pathways for those who will follow in our footsteps. Supporting Black-owned construction firms, advocating for policy changes, and investing in workforce training programs are tangible ways to honor the legacy of those who paved the way.
Black history in commercial construction is a story of brilliance, determination, and triumph. It is a reminder that despite barriers, Black excellence continues to rise. The future is bright—because the foundation was laid right.
A Message from the President of the Black Contractors Association Alabama Chapter, Jarrod Sims
“As we stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, let us not only celebrate their contributions but also take action to continue their work. We are builders—not just of structures, but of opportunities, communities, and legacies. Let us be intentional in creating spaces for Black excellence to thrive in commercial construction. Now is the time to build. Let’s get to work.”
#BlackHistoryBuiltToLast #BCAAC #UnitedInProgress #NUBCU #GBC
