About SWCA
Mission & Values
Since 1946, we have championed a thriving construction industry in Southwest Washington through advocacy, education, and partnerships.
We help our members win more business, become more profitable, train their employees, and build a stronger community.
Please contact us if you would like more information about how these benefits might support your business growth.
Celebrating 75 Years of Southwest Washington Contractors Association in 2021!
In 2021, SWCA celebrated 75 years of supporting commercial, industrial and infrastructure development in Southwest Washington. Please help us develop our living history project - we would love to hear from you if you have a memory about the association. Contact us with your stories - we would love to chat with you and develop an archive of these memories.
History
Since 1946, we have championed a thriving construction industry in Southwest Washington.Â
On February 7, 1946, W.F. Heinrichs, Cecil Hearns, A.R. Nieman, J.T. Scott, Paul Barnes, C. C. White, C. Ed Rath, Larry O. Collins and Everett Hylen associated themselves for the purpose of forming a non-profit corporation to be known as the Vancouver Contractors Association, Inc.
By 1974, the area served by the association included not only Vancouver, but members from Longview, Camas, and Portland. The name was then changed to the Southwest Washington Contractors Association.
Since then, the association has provided the local building industry information about current projects, construction, trends, and expanding markets.
Did you know: SWCA’s meetings used to be held either at the old Stage Coach Inn on Salmon Creek or in the office of member companies.
Architect Dave Hilbrand designed the first SWCA logo.
Photography courtesy of Port of Vancouver USA.