Construction Leader Advocates for Skilled Trades Workforce Development

Kelvin Enfinger Jr., Vice President of Greenhut Construction and 2025 Chair of ABC Florida, represents a leadership model grounded in practical field experience that addresses the construction industry's most pressing workforce challenges. His career trajectory from tradesman to C-suite executive provides a blueprint for sustainable industry leadership at a time when skilled labor shortages threaten project timelines and quality.

Enfinger's leadership philosophy stems directly from his early years working in various skilled trades. Starting in the field gave him unique insight into daily operations that now informs his decision-making on multi-million dollar projects across healthcare, aviation, education, industrial and office sectors. This hands-on foundation enables practical problem-solving when complications arise, whether dealing with underground contamination at a site or logistical challenges in congested environments.

As ABC Florida's chair, Enfinger confronts the industry's critical challenge of attracting young talent to skilled trades. He identifies a societal shift toward higher education as contributing to the workforce gap, noting that many individuals could thrive in trades without accumulating student debt. While artificial intelligence automates some white-collar jobs, Enfinger emphasizes that skilled trades remain resistant to such displacement. He points out that AI cannot replace plumbers, electricians, HVAC technicians, carpenters, or others who work with their hands.

Greenhut Construction's local contractor advantage reflects Enfinger's commitment to community-focused development. The company's Choose Local, Choose Greenhut tagline represents more than marketing, embodying deep knowledge of Northwest Florida conditions, established community partnerships, and economic benefits that circulate within the region. When clients contract with Greenhut, they engage a local general contractor using local subcontractors with local employees, keeping tax dollars within the community.

This local expertise proves valuable on projects throughout the Pensacola market, where Greenhut regularly navigates budget constraints, complex structures, and unique site conditions. Recent completions include the Leonardo MRO hangar facility, Myrtle Grove Elementary School, and the American Magic Facility, all finished in 2025. Enfinger expresses particular pride in healthcare and education facilities, viewing them as legacy projects that continue serving communities long after completion.

Enfinger's advocacy extends to policy engagement through ABC's Capitol Days, where he discusses industry issues with Florida lawmakers. His primary concern involves immigration reform, specifically merit-based visa programs for construction workers. He advocates for expediting visas through merit-based programs for individuals without criminal records who contribute to the workforce and seek to build lives in the country.

For aspiring construction leaders, Enfinger advises continuous learning, mentorship, and attentive listening. He credits his own career development to strong mentors and immersive learning about industry aspects. As Northwest Florida experiences growth in aerospace, manufacturing, and distribution sectors, Enfinger remains optimistic about construction's future when paired with renewed commitment to skilled trades education and workforce development.

Enfinger's approach offers a sustainable leadership model for an industry often criticized for short-term thinking. By combining field experience with community commitment and workforce advocacy, he demonstrates how construction leadership can address immediate challenges while building lasting community legacies. His perspective highlights the enduring value of hands-on knowledge in an increasingly automated world, positioning skilled trades as both economically viable career paths and essential components of community development.