Cochran & Mann, a leading commercial painting and wallcovering company headquartered in Frederick, MD, with an operations location in Gaithersburg, is a proud member of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Metro Washington.
A prominent national construction industry trade association, ABC represents over 23,000 members nationwide. The Metro Washington chapter chartered in 1958 as the second in the nation, ranks among the top ten chapters nationwide.
ABC of Metro Washington champions the merit shop philosophy, aiding members in developing their workforce, winning contracts, and delivering projects safely, ethically, and profitably. This philosophy enhances the businesses involved and positively impacts the communities in which they operate.
Membership in the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Metro Washington offers numerous benefits. The association can enhance a company's standing and operations within the construction industry by providing accountability and third-party recognition.
“When we signed up 30 years ago, we were just a 5-person shop with a dream of success.,” stated Mike Cochran, President/Co-Owner of Cochran & Mann. Now a nine-time Subcontractor of the Year Award winner, Cochran & Mann has developed “countless builder relationships that blossomed and are still strong, and the training at every level helped us grow and succeed."
Members Using Members
One key advantage of ABC membership is the exclusive ABC Contractor Referral Program, which connects general contractors (GCs) and subcontractors. This program fosters valuable partnerships and opens up new business opportunities.
Additionally, members benefit from industry publications and membership directories that keep them informed about the latest trends, best practices, and key players in the market.
Networking in the Washington Metro Region
Networking is another critical aspect of ABC membership. The association hosts monthly networking events, allowing members to build relationships and share knowledge through programs like ABC.XYZ Young Professionals and Women Building Washington provide social and educational opportunities tailored to specific groups within the industry.
Safety
Safety is paramount in the construction industry, and ABC provides extensive safety training and resources. The STEP Safety Management System and the SPECS—Strategic Partnership for Excellence in Construction Safety—offer customizable safety solutions. A dedicated Safety Peer Group allows members to share best practices and continuously improve their safety standards.
Cochran & Mann's membership with the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) underscores their strong commitment to construction safety, a core value and a practice they diligently uphold by staying current with building codes and obtaining additional certifications.
Cochran & Mann uses ABC's strong safety reputation to make sure safety rules are followed on their construction sites. It maintains compliance with the latest updates to the International Building Codes, including applications such as luminescent egress marking systems.
As a Permalight Certified Partner, Cochran & Mann exemplifies their dedication to upholding and exceeding safety standards in the field.
Government Affairs
Government affairs support ensures that ABC members' interests are represented at local and state levels. Members benefit from consultations with ABC labor attorneys and access to labor relations resources. A full-time government affairs director monitors legislation in Maryland and DC, advocating for the merit construction industry.
For Cochran & Mann, membership in the ABC of Metro Washington is not just about belonging to a prestigious organization; it's about leveraging these extensive resources and opportunities to continue delivering exceptional service, staying ahead of industry trends, and contributing to the betterment of the construction community.
Cochran & Mann's membership and expertise were highlighted in the Summer 2024 edition of Building Washington Magazine. The feature article, "Trending Wall Finishes: Neutral Colors and Natural Finishes,” showcases the significant role ceiling and wall coverings play in shaping both the aesthetic and functional elements of interior spaces.
ABC and Building Washington Magazine selected Cochran & Mann for this feature due to their proven track record and innovative approach in the commercial paint and wall-covering industry.
Expertise and Trendsetting
The article emphasizes the importance of involving professional wall-covering contractors to bring trend expertise and creativity to commercial projects. Cochran & Mann’s work on Montgomery College’s East County Education Center exemplifies this, featuring the increasing demand for acoustic wall coverings like BuzziBrickBack.
These materials reduce noise and provide a functional, pinboard-like surface, making them ideal for educational settings. Initially available only in gray, these wall coverings now come in various solid colors and striped patterns, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences.
Functional and Sustainable Wall Coverings
Beyond aesthetics, wall coverings serve crucial functional purposes. Environmental engineers often design walls to manage traffic flow or conceal building elements. For example, a utility closet next to a reception desk can be discreetly hidden using wall coverings, seamlessly blending functionality with aesthetics.
Sustainability is also a key consideration. Many wall covering and paint manufacturers are members of the Green Building Council, incorporating recycled and repurposed materials and water-based glues while focusing on durability to meet sustainable building standards. Cochran & Mann aim to stay sustainable even as COVID market challenges have led to price increases and longer lead times due to reduced manufacturers.
Cochran & Mann’s membership with ABC of Metro Washington underscores their commitment to excellence and positions them at the forefront of industry trends. This membership ensures they continue to deliver top-notch services to their clients, leveraging the latest innovations and sustainable practices in the commercial paint and wall-covering industry.
.
Cochran & Mann provides the best commercial painting and wall covering services for Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our meticulous attention to detail, our use of high-quality materials, and our team of skilled professionals.
We understand the unique needs of our commercial clients and strive to deliver results that exceed expectations. Whether it's a large-scale commercial project or a smaller, more specialized job, our goal is to enhance the beauty and functionality of your space with superior craftsmanship and innovative solutions.