You’ve invested a lot in your career. So why not keep that investment growing?

Joining a trade organization has many benefits, and could help you expand your circle of professional contacts, gain recognition for your work, and generate new business opportunities. While many charge annual dues, it’s money well spent.

Trade groups provide access to news in the building and construction industries – whether it’s through monthly magazines or newsletters, emails, or online blogs and forums. Staying informed could give you a leg up on the competition, especially when it comes to up-and-coming trends.

Trade organizations often provide opportunities for education, training and professional development, and organize regular networking events such as conferences and seminars. Some provide access to legal experts, while others offer discounts and special rates to members.

Here are five trade organizations related to the building and contracting trades (some may have regional or local chapters in Florida and Georgia):

—Associated Builders and Contractors: With a membership of more than 21,000 professionals across 70 chapters, Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) advocates for open competition and a free-enterprise approach that awards contracts based on merit (and not union affiliation).

—Associated General Contractors of America: Associated General Contractors of America (known as AGC) represents more than 26,000 firms, including more than 9,000 specialty-contracting firms. Its powerful advocacy wing supports federal infrastructure spending, and its guiding principles include philanthropy and workplace diversity.

—National Association of Home Builders: The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) is comprised of more than 800 state and local associations; about one-third of its members are homebuilders or remodelers. Members can participate in councils that focus on specific disciplines within the home building industry, and have access to a wealth of information and experts.

—National Association of Women in Construction: The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWC) is a network group with a mission to enhance the success of women in the industry. It provides members with opportunities for professional development and leadership training, among other benefits.

—American Subcontractors Association: The American Subcontractors Association (ACA) seeks to improve the business environment in the construction industry through reforms, and represents the interests of subcontractors, specialty contractors, and materials suppliers. It maintains professional standards of practice for members to follow when bidding and executing contracts.

Before joining a trade organization, make sure you have all the licenses you need for your business. A Florida contractor licensing company can help individuals and companies navigate the state’s licensing requirements, with approvals as quick as 10 days. For more information on contractor requirements or to get an application started, visit Florida contractor license . website or call 239-777-1028.