8 Cornerstone Summer 2025 agchouston.org S P O T L I G H T O N A N A G C H O U S T O N S T A N D O U T MEET A MEMBER What first inspired you to pursue a career in construction? My father and grandfather were both in the construction industry. They worked as independent contractors, suppliers or employees in various stages of their careers. For as long as I can remember, my brother and I have been on jobsites, with our first jobs being trash cleanup. Work- ing hand in hand with them, we learned the value of doing what you say you will do and the importance of relationships. That’s also where our work ethic was instilled. Being surrounded by contrac- tors my whole life, I never considered any other career. What was your first AGC Houston event, and why did you join? I wasn’t familiar with the AGC for the first nine years of my career. I joined Tellepsen in 1993, and they encouraged me to get involved with the AGC. As I saw and learned more about the value of networking, advocacy, safety, education efforts and workforce develop- ment, I was hooked and haven’t looked back. Can you share a story about a time you benefited from AGC Houston? With Anslow Bryant’s name starting with an A, we were one of the first compa- nies audited when the state redefined what costs could be included in the gross receipts tax calculation. By elim- inating supervision as a cost of work, the increase in taxes would have been significant. We appealed the audit but were not successful. When this issue was brought to the AGC Board, the AGC took the lead in challenging the new definition, as it would impact all contractors. Ulti- mately, the AGC succeeded. I don’t think any of us could have been suc- cessful on our own, but collectively, we were. Did you always know you wanted to be in this industry? Growing up in a family of construction workers, I never considered doing any- thing else. What was your first job in construc- tion? What did you learn? My first job in construction was in elementary school, picking up trash on the jobsite. With my dad and grandfa- ther being independent contractors, my brother and I were exposed to the hands-on part of construction at a very early age. The most important lesson we learned was that if you don’t do your work on time, it impacts others. Who were some of your biggest influences or mentors when starting your career? I’ve been fortunate to work with many leaders, each with a different style. The companies I’ve worked with have also varied in delivery methods — CSP, CM@R and D/B. I’ve experienced many ups and downs in the economy, including unique challenges such as COVID-19, the Great Resignation and tariffs, and For as long as I can remember, my brother and I have been on jobsites, with our first jobs being trash cleanup. Working hand in hand with them, we learned the value of doing what you say you will do and the importance of relationships. James Bryant Partner at Anslow Bryant Construction, Ltd.
