Architectural Building Systems was established in 1985 with a clear mission: to utilize the best techniques in the industry, uphold the highest quality standards, and deliver outstanding customer service.
For over 40 years, ABS has provided a wide range of services based on solid relationships cultivated through the successful completion of thousands of successful projects.
We are a multi-generational, full-service general contracting, construction management, and consulting firm founded by three industry veterans who combined their extensive experience and relationships to create a general contracting firm staffed with skilled carpenters. Over time, tenant renovations and specialty contracting developed into a niche that remains a core element of our business.
Today, our focus remains on building client relationships, promoting collaboration, ensuring customer satisfaction, encouraging innovation, delivering the highest quality, and providing exceptional customer service. We continue to offer a full suite of services tailored to meet each client’s and project’s specific requirements.
At ABS, we approach every project with our clients’ best interests. Our team consists of honest and trustworthy construction professionals who are easy to work with and can think on their feet. We strive to ensure that our clients feel comfortable from the initial stages through project completion, and we are always available to provide support afterward.
We are known for our high standards, reliable project execution, and ability to deliver results. Whether you are planning a workplace environment, healthcare facility, academic space, industrial facility, or retail space or need comprehensive consultation services, we welcome the opportunity to discuss your project needs.
Leadership
Michael Smith
President and CEO
With over four decades of experience in construction, Michael developed an early passion for the industry that his grandfather and father chose to make their careers. Michael had the good fortune to work for several major Connecticut Contractors prior to joining Architectural Building Systems in 2000. His depth of knowledge in the industry is a direct result of the people he worked with, who generously shared their expertise and mentored him through the years. He is genuinely grateful for their guidance.
Today, many of those relationships influence the day-to-day operations and direction of the company. Outside of work, Michael continues to advocate for the importance of mentoring and values spending quality time with his family.
Brett Graham
Chief Financial Officer
Brett leads the estimating department at ABS. He began his career with the company in 2006 as a carpenter working in the field. As he gained knowledge and experience, he transitioned into various administrative and management roles, ultimately becoming the head of estimating. Recently, Brett became a partner and plays a crucial role in the company’s strategic growth.
With his in-depth understanding of project details, Brett has earned the respect of both his colleagues and clients. He has the unique ability to recall specifics from design documents, which greatly enhances the firm’s ability to provide accurate and competitive bidding and cost estimates.
In his spare time, Brett is an avid sports fan and a dedicated father, serving as a role model to his two daughters.
Rich Fortunato
Director of Operations
Rich joined the company after a lengthy and successful career as a Partner, VP, and COO at a well-respected construction firm in New England.
His experience establishing and growing a multi-faceted construction company has positioned him as a leader in field operations, estimating, and project management. Rich has a strong commitment to mentoring and educating those around him. Additionally, he possesses a clear communication style and a positive outlook, making him an invaluable asset throughout all phases of the construction process.
Adding Rich and his skill set to ABS is a crucial part of the company’s strategy for continuous improvement and plans to expand its range of services.
Rich holds a commercial master boat captain’s license, and when he’s not pursuing new challenges, he enjoys spending time on the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.