We are thrilled to officially welcome you to the next chapter of our journey: OpenCircle Contractors Association. By including Contractors Association back to our name, we connect with our past as Merit Contractors Association while keeping our commitment to why we chose the brand OpenCircle. We are committed to collaboration with our industry stakeholders, government, and members. Together, we are the strength that will encourage investment, attract workers and be the voice of construction.
On July 16, 2026, we celebrated our 40th anniversary with our gala event, 40PROOF, where we officially launched our new look. By restablishing that we are a contractors association, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting you—the builders, innovators, and leaders of the construction industry.
While our name and look have evolved, our core mission remains the same: deliver the exceptional service, trusted benefits, and the industry leadership you have counted on for four decades.
Thank you for being an integral part of our community. Explore this introductory newsletter, check out our improved website, and discover everything OpenCircle Contractors Association has to offer.
The Story, Merit to OpenCircle Contractors Association
You may ask yourself – why the name change?
This has been a common question since we switched to OpenCircle five years ago. In 2021, as the association grew nationally, and to better support our members evolving needs, Merit Contractors Association transformed to OpenCircle – a name reflecting open shop with collaboration and a broader reach for our circle, community, and network. That circle, community and network remains a prominent strategic focus. That said, after four decades we wanted to ensure we clearly recognized our roots and the merit principles we were built on.
With the refreshed look and update to OpenCircle Contractors Association, we showcase our continued commitment to connecting and strengthening the construction industry from coast to coast to coast.
The Hexel Brand
We designed the Hexel to represent the skilled trades and construction idustry. The outer hexagon serves a dual purpose. It forms the O of OpenCircle and mirrors the geometry of a bolt; an essential component that joins and secures. Within it, the C symbolizes a wrench, representing the active tool that strengthens the joint. OpenCircle Contractors Association is proud to offer multiple programs that work to strengthen the careers of our members.
Brand Statements
As we look to the next 40 years, we want to continue building a strong legacy. As part of our new branding we want to introduce our three key statements. Each of the three are uniquely designed to reflect the pillars of why we are in business.
Founded on merit : Formed by 15 members who believed in equality for open shop, and contracts based on merit.
Driven by members : Representing a group of individuals whose hands shape the world around us.
Built for construction : We are here to represent and support our members.
In Closing – A Message from Ross J. Undershute
As we officially step into this exciting new chapter for OpenCircle Contractors Association, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to you our members. Your trust, partnership, and dedication to the construction industry is the driving force behind everything we do.
This updated name and brand is meaningful as we celebrate our 40th anniversary. As we reflect on the past four decades, I am proud of how far we have come together and the strong community we have built.
While our look and name have evolved, our core commitment to supporting your business and your people remains unchanged. As we look ahead to the next chapter, we are laser focused on delivering innovative training opportunities, advocacy for your business needs, providing top-tiered health and dental benefits, and the support you need to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Thank you for being a vital part of our history, and for building the future alongside us.
Warm regards,
Ross J. Undershute
President, OpenCircle Contractors Association
