The Associated Builders and Contractors of Alabama (ABC of Alabama) honored Tim Hightower earlier this week with the prestigious Cornerstone Award during its Annual Excellence in Construction Dinner.

Each year, the Cornerstone Award is presented to an individual who has made a noteworthy contribution to Alabama’s construction industry through leadership in workforce development, government affairs, and overall industry advancement.

ABC of Alabama Chairman Tim Harrison praised Hightower’s impact on the industry. “It does not matter if it is Washington or Montgomery, Tim Hightower commands respect in every room he goes in,” Harrison said. “Tim is immensely respected, and he deserves our gratitude for the first-class way he represents and advocates for our industry.”

In receiving the honor, Hightower reflected on his career and the organization’s influence. “I can’t express enough the important role that ABC plays in ensuring that Alabama’s construction industry succeeds, and this award is immensely humbling,” said Hightower. “I have built my business on being a man of my word, and for my colleagues to recognize my career is truly the honor of a lifetime.”

A Birmingham native, Hightower graduated from West End High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from Jacksonville State University in 1977. Since 1987, he has served as owner and president of Southern Carpet, Hardwood & Tile, leading its growth from a small residential carpet company into one of Alabama’s most diversified commercial flooring firms.

Over his 18 years on the ABC Board, Hightower has served as chairman (2014) and as a member of both the ABC Merit PAC and National PAC Boards for nearly two decades.

Robin Savage, president of Robins & Morton, emphasized Hightower’s lasting contributions to the industry. “Not only has Tim built a strong business that serves clients and the industry well, but he has also given back to the construction industry tenfold for its improvement,” Savage said. “Tim is a first-class individual who recognizes the value of friendship and relationships, and what those mean on a personal and business level. I can’t think of any more deserving individual for this year’s ABC Cornerstone Award.”

ABC of Alabama represents the state’s construction industry, which supports roughly 200,000 jobs and accounts for five percent of Alabama’s economic output. The organization remains committed to advocating for the industry and its workforce across the state.