TDIndustries' Six-Year Reign: A Blueprint for Construction Excellence

DALLAS, TX – March 03, 2026 – For the sixth consecutive year, TDIndustries has been named the nation's top-performing plumbing and HVAC contractor by the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). The Dallas-based mechanical construction and facilities services firm also secured the No. 16 spot on ABC's overall 2026 Top Performers list, a distinction that underscores a sustained legacy of excellence as the company celebrates its 80th anniversary.

The annual ABC rankings are a rigorous benchmark in the construction industry, evaluating member firms on their achievements in safety, quality, project excellence, and community involvement. Unlike revenue-based lists, ABC's rankings are determined by the number of hours worked, a metric that reflects a company's scale, consistent project delivery, and the sheer volume of its workforce's effort.

"This honor reflects the leadership, discipline and care our employee-owners bring to their work every day," said TDIndustries CEO Frank Musolino. "As TDIndustries celebrates 80 years, we remain focused on operational excellence and continuous improvement. TDIndustries was built on servant leadership and a belief in developing people, and those principles allow us to exceed our clients' expectations with unparalleled expertise and quality, providing meaningful value to our communities."

The Strategic Pillars of Safety and Quality

TDIndustries' consistent recognition is not a matter of chance but the result of a deeply embedded strategic commitment to safety and quality. To even qualify for the ABC Top Performers list, companies must achieve at least Gold status in the STEP Safety Management System. TDIndustries has surpassed this, earning Diamond Status, the program's highest level.

According to ABC's data, STEP Diamond participants are, on average, 688% safer than the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics industry average. This commitment translates into tangible benefits beyond employee well-being. Industry studies from OSHA suggest that for every dollar invested in effective safety programs, companies can see a return of $4 to $6, primarily through reduced costs associated with injuries, illnesses, and project disruptions. A superior safety record leads to a lower Experience Modification Rate (EMR), which directly reduces workers' compensation insurance premiums, a significant operational expense in construction.

Furthermore, TDIndustries holds the Accredited Quality Contractor (AQC) credential from ABC. This certification is not merely a plaque on the wall; it is an annual verification of the firm's excellence in quality control, talent management, craft education, and community relations. The AQC credential signals to clients that the contractor adheres to the highest standards, which can be a decisive factor in securing high-value projects.

"These contractors—that build the nation's most enduring, innovative, high-quality construction projects—develop smart strategies that create a clear path for success, regardless of the circumstances," noted Michael Bellaman, ABC president and CEO, in a statement about the Top Performers. He highlighted that these firms embrace competition, cultivate positive company culture, and prioritize safety and workforce development.

Powered by People: The Employee-Ownership Advantage

At the core of TDIndustries' success is a unique corporate structure and philosophy that sets it apart: the company is 100% employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Every employee is a "Partner," holding a direct stake in the company's performance. This model, combined with a foundational philosophy of "servant leadership," creates a powerful engine for engagement and excellence.

Introduced by founder Jack Lowe Sr. in the 1970s, servant leadership prioritizes the growth and well-being of employees, with leaders acting as mentors and standard-bearers. This people-first approach has earned the firm a spot on Fortune magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For" list for 21 consecutive years.

The ESOP model directly aligns individual effort with collective success. TDIndustries annually contributes a significant portion of its profits to employee ESOP and 401(k) accounts, creating a tangible link between daily work and long-term financial reward. This structure fosters a culture of mutual accountability and encourages a long-term perspective, free from the short-term pressures of external shareholders. Research on employee-owned companies consistently shows higher productivity, increased profitability, and lower employee turnover—all factors contributing to TDIndustries' ability to maintain its top ranking.

This investment in people is critical in an industry facing a persistent workforce shortage. By offering robust training, clear career paths, and a stake in the outcome, TDIndustries has created a powerful recruitment and retention tool, ensuring it has the skilled talent necessary to execute complex projects.

Building the Future Amidst Industry Shifts

TDIndustries' long-term success is also a testament to its ability to adapt and lead within a rapidly evolving industry. The mechanical construction sector is currently navigating significant shifts, including the push for decarbonization, the integration of smart building technologies, and the rapid growth of specialized facilities like data centers.

Expertise in areas such as Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) systems, low-GWP refrigerants, and building electrification is no longer optional but essential. TDIndustries' commitment to continuous improvement and workforce development positions it to meet these new demands. The firm’s project portfolio is a testament to its capabilities, featuring iconic and complex structures across the Southwest, including AT&T Stadium, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, DFW Airport, Phoenix's State Farm Stadium, and numerous healthcare and data center facilities.

While TDIndustries tops the plumbing and HVAC specialty list, the overall ABC Top Performers list is led by industrial giants like Turner Industries Group and MMR Constructors, highlighting the competitive landscape. Yet, by mastering its niche and building a resilient, people-powered organization, TDIndustries has crafted a durable model for excellence. Its six-year reign is more than just an award; it is a case study in how strategic investments in safety, quality, and human capital create an unshakeable foundation for enduring success.