Citing the challenges of a difficult work environment, highlighted by more than 80 inches of rain during construction, Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc., presented EYP and Caddell Construction Co. with the Excellence in Construction Eagle Award. The team delivered a design-build project that implemented advanced security and communication technology while setting the standard for safe and sustainable design for U.S. embassy projects worldwide.

ABC's Awards of Excellence Program recognizes outstanding construction projects across the nation in 30 categories, including: Commercial, Healthcare, Industrial and Institutional. Projects are judged by a panel of construction industry experts, ranging from owners to architects, engineers and other industry leaders.

The U.S. Embassy in Panama is the first LEED-certified U.S. embassy. According to the U.S. Green Building Council, the embassy uses a quarter less energy and one-third less water than comparable but traditionally constructed buildings. The project also provided craft training opportunities to local workers.