Construction is thriving in just about every corner of California, according to specialty contractors participating in ENR California's annual survey.

In the last few years, California Drywall has experienced a dramatic revenue turnaround while vastly improving its safety record.

Construction is back on track for many, but not all, California specialty contractors, according to a recently conducted ENR California-McGraw Hill Dodge Analytics survey. The top 40 firms participating in the survey reported $5.65 billion in total 2012 revenue. That's up 42% from the $3.97 billion that the same number of companies reported in 2011. Related Links: View the Ranking of California's Top 50 Specialty Contractors View Complete List of Top Specialty Contractors by Market Sectors Specialty Contractor of the Year: ACCO Engineered Systems "Construction is looking up," says Larry Hollis, vice president of business development with San Jose-based Rosendin

After weathering several years of revenue declines, staff cutbacks and shrinking margins, California specialty contractors say they are finally seeing rays of hope, especially in some regions along the coast.

Given that this year's Top Specialty Contractors ranking reflects the revenue decline that general contractors have experienced, it's heartening to hear an official at one top 10 subcontractor declare that he is still “bullish” about opportunities in California.

“Solar energy and health-care projects are the hot markets right now, and we happen to be playing in those markets,” says Larry Hollis, vice president of business development for Rosendin Electric Inc.