Seminole State wins gold in quality control at ABC Convention

Seminole State College of Florida earned national recognition after winning first place in the quality control category at the 2026 Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) 2026 Construction Management Competition, outperforming teams from Auburn University, University of Central Florida, University of North Florida and others in this category.

The competition spans two months and is designed to mirror an intricate, real-world project that carries the unique characteristics and problems that would arise during an actual job. Student teams develop a project proposal based on plans, specifications, an RFP and addenda. This year, the committee chose the Hyatt Regency Salt Lake as the project, a massive 25-story hotel with an exterior glass façade. As an added challenge, the student groups had to create their plan to avoid disrupting business operations in the connected convention center.

The Raider Construction Group, made up of Ana Palma de Oliveria, Alva Ortiz, Lance Longoria, Wallace Cardosa Nunes and alternate team member Soraida Nafi, spent the months prior to competition analyzing project documents and meeting with local ABC members for mentorship.

“What began as a team of four has developed into something much larger than just a small group,” said Palma de Oliveria, team captain and president of the ABC Student-Chapter at Seminole State. “Our non-traditional students were fully engaged and deeply committed to our project proposal, treating it as a real-world experience while balancing their classes and careers. Their dedication and professionalism were a key part of our success.”

With the help of their ABC member mentors, the team focused on creating the most realistic proposal and were among the top 10 chosen to present out of the 30 teams that submitted proposals. This marks the third time Seminole State has entered into the competition and the second time being included in the top 10, following last year where they placed third in the quality control and safety sections.

“I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished this year, and I look forward to seeing the Seminole State team continue to raise the bar and gain national recognition for their hard work in the years to come!” said Palma de Oliveria.

The Wharton-Smith Center for Construction at Seminole State and the College’s interior design programs champion integrated learning opportunities. These hands-on experiences provide the students with first-hand knowledge of industry expectations and strengthen skills in preparation, critical thinking and collaboration that are crucial in the construction management field. If you are interested in learning more about the construction management program, visit seminolestate.edu/construction/degrees-programs.