NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Greg Vital, R-East Brainerd, has been named the 2026 Legislator of the Year by the Associated General Contractors of East Tennessee (AGC East Tennessee), in recognition of her leadership on policies that support the state’s construction industry and promote responsible development across the region.
The Legislator of the Year award recognizes elected officials who demonstrate strong leadership and partnership with the construction industry while advancing policies that benefit Tennessee’s workforce, economy and communities. This year, Helton-Haynes was honored for her continued advocacy on legislation that strengthens the construction sector while protecting consumers and supporting the workforce that builds Tennessee’s communities.
“It is an honor to be recognized by the men and women who help build and maintain the infrastructure that keeps our state moving forward,” said Helton-Haynes. “Tennessee’s construction professionals play a direct role not only in our economy, but in the development of our communities. I’m pleased to be recognized for my efforts to encourage responsible development, workforce opportunities and a strong business climate for this essential industry.”
Associated General Contractors of East Tennessee represents general contractors, specialty contractors, suppliers and service providers throughout the region. Through advocacy, workforce development and industry partnerships, the organization works to strengthen the construction industry and ensure the continued growth of the region’s infrastructure and building sector. Construction contributes about $23 billion annually to Tennessee’s GDP, which accounts for roughly 4.3% of the state’s economy, and the construction industry employing more than 162,000 Tennesseans, the construction industry’s economic footprint continues to play a vital role in driving job creation, infrastructure development and economic growth across the Volunteer State.
Helton-Haynes looks forward to being a consistent advocate for policies that promote economic development, support skilled trades and ensure Tennessee’s regulatory environment allows the construction industry to thrive while maintaining high standards for quality of life and public safety.
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