The Kansas City Business Association President Carlos Nelson Sr. wishes to pay tribute to a titan of the construction industry, the late Mr. Alex Harris. His influence was instrumental in my own journey within the construction sector, serving as a mentor and father figure to me and numerous other young men seeking their path in life. We wish to honor his memory and recognize his significant contributions as a driving force in the construction industry, not just in Kansas City, but across the nation. His legacy continues to inspire and shape our community. Alex Harris, born on May 30th, 1930, in Kistler, West Virginia, to Rayford Harris Sr. and Fannie Mae (Green) Harris, passed away at the age of 90.
Raised in Kistler, West Virginia, Alex moved to Kansas City in 1942. He attended RT Cole Vocational Services High School, where he developed a passion for construction. His father, known as “Pops”, recognized his skills and together they established “Harris & Sons Construction”. Many family members became craftsmen in the construction trade under his guidance.
As his understanding of trade grew, so did his awareness of racial inequality within the industry. Alex became a staunch advocate for minority contractors, earning him the title of “God Father” of the Civil Rights and Contractual Rights Movement within the Construction industry. He founded the Mo-Kan Minority Contractors Association in 1970, serving as Executive Director. The organization provided technical assistance, construction contract opportunities, and minority participation to small to medium minority contractors within the region.
Alex’s commitment to the minority construction industry continued well into his senior years with the rebranding of Mo-Kan as NACCC, where he served as the National Administrator. His passion, love, and respect for the small-medium contractors seeking opportunities in this vocation were unwavering. His voice and presence will forever be missed.
