About Us
Christi Powell
Angela Gardner
Christi Powell has a distinguished career in the building materials sector, with over three decades of leadership experience. As the former WBE Director at 84 Lumber, she was instrumental in boosting revenue growth, establishing key partnerships, and leading initiatives such as Build The Way.
Her work focused on empowering women and minority entrepreneurs, simplifying certifications across the country, and enhancing the company's influence in both commercial and residential construction. Her expertise encompasses a strong background in sales, project management, advocacy, and workforce development, all of which have contributed to the success of small businesses.
As the President and CEO of ABC Carolinas, Christi advocates for contractors, free enterprise, and community engagement. Over the past five years, she has been a key figure in the industry, holding influential positions on boards for organizations like the NY Women Builders Council, the Skilled Trades Alliance, and the Greenville Chamber Board of Advisors. She is also a co-founder and host of the "Women Talk Construction" podcast and the "Women Confidence Builders" non-profit, where she mentors and inspires the next generation of professionals.
Her work has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the 2021 GWBC WBE Advocate of the Year, the 2022 WBE Leadership Award, and the 2022 Top Women in Hardware & Building Supply. These honors reflect her commitment to creating opportunities and fostering economic growth within the industry.
Angela Gardner is a purpose-driven leader with 30+ years of experience shaping the construction industry through brands, relationships, and workforce innovation.
As Vice President of Workforce Development at ABC Carolinas, she’s driving bold initiatives to equip the next generation of craft professionals; blending compliance, training, and hands-on experiences to ensure the industry thrives with opportunity and innovation.
She also co-founded Women Talk Construction, amplifying stories of women in nontraditional careers and creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and empowered.
Angela’s journey spans scaling family businesses, co-founding impactful companies, and mentoring women in the trades. Along the way, her work has been recognized through awards like SC Women in Business, Groundbreakers, Women of Influence, and as a 2023 ABC National IDE Judge. In 2024, she hit the TEDx stage with Christi Powell, delivering “Vision to Victory: Through Blueprints and Breakthroughs.”
Angela believes success is best when it’s
shared. Let’s keep building together!

