Walter Pacholczak has been named Vice President of Government Affairs of the Associated General Contractors of New York State (AGC NYS), the state’s largest statewide contractor association providing advocacy and education for contractors and affiliated firms. “Adding Walter to the AGC NYS team is a major step and sends a strong signal that we are serious about raising our voice and effectiveness on issues impacting New York’s $30 billion a year construction industry,” said AGC NYS President and CEO Mike Elmendorf. “I have had the privilege of working with Walt on various projects over the years and have a great appreciation for his expertise, professionalism and political acumen. He brings to AGC not only a keen understanding of government and strong relationships with its key players, but also an excellent grasp of our industry and its issues, having handled both construction and transportation for the Business Council of New York State.” Prior to joining AGC NYS as Vice President for Government Affairs, Mr. Pacholczak served as Director for Government Affairs at The Business Council of New York State from 2007 to 2011. At the Business Council he directed the lobbying efforts for the construction, transportation, financial services, legal reform and political action committees. Mr. Pacholczak worked closely with former AGC NYS President Jeff Zogg on construction related issues and legal reform. He is a founding Board member and Treasurer of the Lawsuit Reform Alliance of New York. Mr. Pacholczak had worked in the New York State Legislature for over twelve years as Director of Operations for State Senator Martin Golden, Director of Communications for State Senator Jim Alesi, and the New York State Assembly Minority Conference. In 1990, Mr. Pacholczak began his career in politics as a volunteer for former Governor Mario Cuomo and served on numerous Democratic campaigns in New York City. In the mid-1990’s he worked throughout New York State for the Republican Assembly Campaign Committee and guided former Assemblyman Matthew Mirones to victory in 2002. After the Mirones campaign, Mr. Pacholczak served as Campaign Manager in the 2002 election victory of State Senator Martin Golden. Currently, he is the Treasurer of the Albany County Conservative Party. Mr. Pacholczak resides in Guilderland, NY with his wife and two children. He holds a Political Science degree from Wagner College.