A Timeline of the History of HCC

Hispanic Contractors of Colorado (HCC) was founded in 1988 and incorporated in 1989. The original founders were:

• Jose Berumen
• Bob Chavez
• Phil Covarrubias
• Jose Garcia
• E.T. LaFore
• Veronica LeDoux
• Pat Marquez
• Gabe Medina
• Bill Montoya
• Bill Torrez

• HCC was formed to established linkages with major Colorado contracting corporations and public agencies, to serve as an advocate for its members and address issues under a united front. HCC also provided workshops and technical assistance to support the growth and relationship building within the A/E/C industry.
• During 1990-1991, HCC adopted a vision management system with cutting-edge quality on all construction projects, attention to detail, total commitment to customer satisfaction and relentless pursuit for excellence as its primary value.
• In May of 1990, the name changed to Hispanic Contractors of Colorado. Member companies participated in the construction of many iconic local projects, including Coors Field, the Pepsi Center and Sports Authority Field at Mile High, as well as other high-profile projects.
• HCC held its first spring golf tournament and the first membership appreciation banquet.
• HCC forged a relationship with AGC/Colorado Chapter. Since 1990, AGC provided office space, mentorship and guidance to the HCC.
• M.A. Mortenson became first major general contractor to join HCC.
• The State of Colorado leaders fought for a DBE program in the landmark US Supreme Court case titled Adarand Constructors, Inc. versus Federico Peña.

• Denver Public Schools became the first public entity to join HCC.
• CBIC focused on building relationships/contracting opportunities.
• HCC members and staff served on Denver’s SBE Task Force and assisted in crafting the first SBE ordinance.
• HCC became the strongest minority construction association in the State of Colorado.
• A scholarship program was established.
• An HCC member becomes the first woman and first Hispanic to serve as AGC/C president—subsequently serves as HCC president.

• HCC surpassed 100 member companies and adds architect/engineering as a membership category.
• HCC launches worker’s compensation program and starts a weekly Spanish language radio show called “Construyendo Tu Futuro.”
• HCC partners with FMI Corporation and received three education grants that created “Grow Colorado” currently known as HCC Contractor Academy.
• HCC changed its logo to emphasize the diversity of its membership, while still honoring its Hispanic roots. HCC represents and advocates for companies from all backgrounds focused on public and commercial construction projects.
• Anti-affirmative-action advocate, Ward Connerly, get Super Tuesday for Equal Rights Campaign on state ballots, including Colorado’s proposed amendment 46.
• HCC was invited to serve on Denver Union Station Advisory Committee.
• RTD becomes an agency member of HCC.

• HCC Contractor Academy received its 501(C)3 status and partners with the Colorado Black Chamber of Commerce.
• HCC representative participates in Construction Empowerment Initiative (CEI) and crafts the 2014 MWBE Ordinance.
• HCC joins VOTE NO on 46 Campaign to preserve diversity programs and witnesses the defeat of this effort to eliminate MWBE programs -the only state to do so.
• Logo and branding changed to emphasize diversity.

• HCC starts the Transportation Committee.
• HCC Contractor Academy (prior known as Grow Colorado) establishes a partnership with Arapahoe Community College for an estimating certificate scholarship and established a partnership with CABPES to mentor under-represented youth in the pursuit of careers in STEM fields.
• HCC celebrates its 25-year anniversary - Past, Present & Future - Mario Carrera – Honorary Chair & Lenee Kock & Marsha Nelson – Co-Chairs.
• Kiewit becomes the first Prime GC at the Platinum Level membership.

• In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic started, affecting the small business community tremendously and the construction industry. The industry as a whole estimates a loss of over $61 billion and a workforce reduction from 7.4 to 6.5 million workers (Deloitte report 1/11/21). The pandemic changed everything and in construction the effects will last for many years to come.
• Governor Jared Polis declares the construction industry is considered essential and can keep running during the pandemic.
• HCC prepares safety manual for Colorado construction businesses in English and Spanish including templates, instruction sheets, essential verification letter and other resources for testing sites, unemployment procedures, OSHA guidelines, and safety materials, such as masks and sanitizers.
• In June of 2020, HCC receives a grant from the Denver Urban Renewal Authority (DURA) to implement virtual trainings, workshops, events, consulting services, and support to small business in recovery efforts within the A/E/C industry.
• June of 2021, HCC holds the first outdoor monthly GMM event in person following safety protocols required and continues to hold events in person on a monthly basis.