2025 Minnesota Construction Summit Agenda:
Wednesday, February 19, 2025 |
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6:30-7:30 am |
Registration Opens/Breakfast with Exhibitors |
7:30-9:00 am
Jason Kunz |
KEYNOTEBuilding Tomorrow: The Future of Construction LeadershipIn an era of rapid transformation, the construction industry stands at a crossroads. The call for change has never been more urgent, but the key to unlocking a brighter future lies in the heart of effective leadership. Your leadership.
Join us for an inspiring keynote that challenges norms and inspires a focus on where we need to go, rather than an emphasis on what's in the way. This session is an invitation to move beyond traditional approaches and cultivate environments that empower every worker to take ownership and contribute to your company's success.
With compelling stories and cutting-edge research, we will highlight how your leadership can drive a shift in both mindset and practice. As we spotlight strategies rooted in Human and Organizational Performance (H&OP), you'll discover how fostering a culture of collaboration, engagement, and well-being can drive retention, mitigate risk, and advance your operations.
This isn’t merely a presentation, it’s an invitation to action, a glimpse into the future. A future that sees people not as they are, but as they could be, one that meets people where they're at, then does the hard work to send them home better.. |
Time / Speaker(s) | Breakout Session Description |
9:15-10:15 am
Dean Thomson, Mark Becker |
Disaster Prevention and Mitigation PlaybookIn this program, prominent construction lawyers Dean B. Thomson and Mark R. Becker, both of Fabyanske, Westra, Hart & Thomson, discuss tools that contractors can implement to reduce the risk of project disasters, and to mitigate the risk if a disaster occurs. The program will focus on contractual risk management provisions, insurance claims, and navigating the claims, investigation, and dispute resolution process all while keeping the job rolling.
1.0 CLE applied for |
9:15-10:15 am
Jeff Shoaf |
Federal Regulatory Policy UpdateThe Washington D.C. landscape is always changing and the 2024 election results are sure to greatly influence both the policy and regulatory environments. Attendees will hear an insider’s perspective from AGC of America’s new CEO, Jeff Shoaf, covering everything you need to know about what is happening in Washington and how AGC of America is engaging to protect your interests. Takeaways will include increased knowledge and understanding of new legislative and regulatory details and an enlightened perspective of the importance of industry advocacy at the federal level. |
9:15-10:15 am
Jay Tyrrell |
Are You Covered When it Comes to Equipment Operation?Whether you rent or own your equipment, from scissor lifts to forklifts, as an employer you have a responsibility to ensure safe use and operation of equipment. This session will help you understand the rules surrounding the training of equipment operators and ensure your company is compliant. You’ll also discover the pros and cons of renting vs. buying, as well as tips to save money on your next rental. |
9:15-10:15 am
Panelists: |
Technology Adaptation Made Simple: Lessons for Construction Firms at All StagesIn this session, industry leaders will demystify technology adoption, providing practical lessons for construction firms at every stage of their tech journey. Panelists will share insights on selecting the right tools, overcoming common implementation challenges, and creating a roadmap for sustainable technology integration. Whether you're just starting or looking to optimize existing systems, you'll walk away with actionable strategies to enhance efficiency and drive growth in your business. |
10:15-11:00 am |
Break with Exhibitors |
Time / Speaker(s) | Breakout Session Description |
11:00-12:00 noon
Phyllis Karasov, Amy Court |
Governance and Inclusion: Navigating Affirmative Action and ESG Regulations to Promote Inclusive and Responsible CulturesModern efforts to promote inclusion, responsibility in construction cultures is finding new resistance in laws that limit affirmative action and ESG investing (environmental issues, social issues, and corporate governance). This session will explore the conflict between business and social pressures to instill a culture of care and responsibility in our workplace with the legal principles of equal protection and fiduciary duty that obstruct these efforts.
1.0 Elimination of Bias CLE applied for |
11:00-12:00 noon
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Beyond Buzzwords: Government-related Efforts to Curb Carbon in ConstructionFederal and state agencies are implementing policy changes to promote green construction materials, clean energy projects, and procurement processes in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Whether you work in the building or transportation construction markets, this session will cover current opportunities and future policy-level actions in the commercial building and transportation-related infrastructure space. Join the presentation to hear insights from government leaders on the current “Buy Clean” Task Force, federal programs such as the Inflation Reduction Act, opportunities from the Federal Highway Administration, and new financing opportunities for green projects. |
11:00-12:00 noon
Jon Eichman |
Fall-Free ZoneAre your workers protected? Join Jon Eichman, Training Manager at 3M DBI Sala to learn about fall protection blunders and best practices. |
11:00-12:00 noon
Matthew Semerad
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AI Demystified: The Basics of Artificial Intelligence and its Forthcoming Role in the Construction IndustryThis session will provide an accessible introduction to AI for construction professionals and decision-makers. It will explore key AI concepts, including machine learning and predictive analytics, and discuss how these technologies are shaping the future of construction through improved efficiency, safety, and project management. Attendees will gain insights into the practical applications of AI that are transforming the construction landscape today and in the near future. |
12:00-1:30 pm |
Lunch with Exhibitors |
Time / Speaker(s) | Breakout Session Description |
1:30-2:30 pm
Jonathan Zentner, Rachel Zentner |
Your Project, Your Team. Making the Most of Your Most Valuable Asset: The Mind
You won’t want to miss the dynamic brother and sister duo as they discuss the power of the mind as it relates to managing people and managing stress. Listen, learn, and laugh along with Jon and Rachel, siblings who grew up riding their big wheels together through the streets of North Central Wisconsin navigating a strong family tree that includes: lawyers, doctors, engineers, teachers, and factory workers. Personalities that have helped them manage projects, teams, and mental health in their careers as a construction law attorney and professional counselor. Jon and Rachel will focus the educational session on mental health and substance use, addiction and/or mental health issues that impact your ability to be at your best. We will provide ideas on stress management and tips to help build up others in your office and on your team to reduce the risk of stress-related problems.
1.0 Mental Health CLE applied for |
1:30-2:30 pm
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Inside and Outside the Dome: MN Political PanelGain exclusive insights of the legislative agenda from those shaping it at the MN State Capitol. The 2025 Legislature will be a month into their Session. Join us to hear their perspectives on issues that matter to the construction community and all Minnesotans. |
1:30-2:30 pm
Stacy Arnold |
Foundations for Safety LeadershipWhat is an effective leader? Often we promote the best performers, not the best leaders. During this interactive session we will cover 5 critical leadership skills that can improve climate and outcomes in your organization. We will not only go through the FSL curriculum, but I will show you how you can bring this training in house for free! |
1:30-2:30 pm
Panelists: |
Robots at Work: Successes and Challenges in Construction AutomationThis is a dynamic panel discussion featuring industry leaders who are pioneering the use of robotics to enhance productivity on construction sites. The panelists will share firsthand experiences with innovative technologies such as lift assistant robots for masonry work, crane load assist robots, autonomous roller compactors, and jobsite layout robots. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the real-world successes and challenges of implementing robotics in construction, as well as explore future trends shaping the industry |
2:30-2:45 pm |
Break with Exhibitors |
2:45-3:45 pm
Kyle Willems, John Holper |
Ethical Traps in the Post-COVID Construction Industry
Kyle and John are going to discuss the latest ethics problems that the construction industry has faced since the end of the COVID pandemic. Using examples, they will highlight some new post-COVID challenges that the construction industry is facing and the ethical traps that are created by these challenges. The session is designed to fulfill CLE requirements and will discuss legal implications and application of the rules of professional conduct, but the session has broad applicability for engineers, architects, owners/developers, business leaders and managers, superintendents, and employees.
1.0 Ethics CLE applied for |
2:45-3:45 pm
Kori Shingles |
The Opportunity Case for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in ConstructionIn an industry long characterized by homogeneity, the construction sector stands at a pivotal moment. This presentation delves into the transformative potential of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within construction, highlighting how embracing these principles can drive innovation, enhance project outcomes, and foster a more dynamic workforce. |
2:45-3:45 pm
Lisa Hollingsworth |
The Case for CHASE RoundtableLearn what the CHASE program is all about! Hear from contractors that have realized the benefits of working towards “Best in Class Safety Programs” and get all your questions answered why YOU should join CHASE. |
2:45-3:45 pm
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Safety in TechnologySession description coming soon! |
3:45-6:00 pm |
Platinum Sponsor Networking Reception
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Thursday, February 20, 2025
7:30-8:00 am |
Registration / Breakfast |
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8:00-9:30 am
Mark Seeley & Sven Sundgaard |
KEYNOTEA Global and Local Perspective on Climate Change: Evidence and ConsequenceMeteorologist Sven Sundgaard will have just returned from Antarctica and has traveled to the Arctic numerous times. While these places might seem far away, their impacts are far-reaching. Sven will explain how Minnesota fits into the global climate picture. Dr. Mark Seeley will describe evidence for the pace of climate change in Minnesota and surrounding geography, along with changes in the frequency of extreme weather and climate episodes. Dr. Seeley will also describe the work of the Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership Program which is working to accelerate our adaptation strategies and responses. |
Time / Speaker(s) | Breakout Session Description |
9:45-10:45 am Melissa DeLay |
Construction & Conflict: Simple Ways to Resolve DisputesIn the high-pressure world of construction, conflicts can arise quickly and escalate, affecting project timelines, team morale, and ultimately, the bottom line. However, when handled effectively, conflict can be a catalyst for growth, innovation, and stronger team dynamics. This session will empower leaders to navigate disputes with confidence and transform challenges into opportunities. |
9:45-10:45 am
Emily Beardall
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Economic and Construction Market Update: Flow to NegotiationsThe construction industry has seen recent volatile swings in economic conditions and related market fluctuations that have caused disruption and introduced change. Noted and renowned FMI Consulting construction industry analyst Emily Beardsall will walk you through the critical changes occurring in national and regional construction markets and discuss the key factors and change dynamics that are shaping our industry. This session will help participants gain better insight into what is on the horizon for the construction economy and construction businesses. |
9:45-10:45 am
Austin Eden |
The Rise of the Climate Economy and How Contractors Can Benefit From Available Energy Incentives and Other Credits/IncentivesCongress recently passed unprecedented energy legislation ushering in the upcoming Climate Economy. During this session you will learn about the Climate Economy and available energy incentives and other business credits and incentives that apply to businesses and some incentives for tax exempt organizations. Each of these provisions have specific target audiences, benefits, and unique characteristics, which are valuable financial tools for the construction industry. |
9:45-10:45 am
Nicole Pillow & Jeff Williams |
Evolving Through Change: Inspiring Leadership Excellence (Part 1)Dive into this transformative workshop to discover the powerful role of emotional intelligence (EI) in fostering leadership and enhancing personal and professional growth. In this session, you'll gain essential tools and insights to effectively utilize EI, empowering you to cultivate a vibrant culture of empowerment. You will focus on deepening your awareness of yourself and others, sharpening your perceptions, and amplifying the impact of your decisions. Designed to improve your management, communication, and conflict-resolution abilities, this workshop will enrich your interactions and elevate your professional capabilities. Applying these strategies to your daily awareness and decision-making processes will strengthen relationships and extend your impact and influence across all areas of your life. |
10:45-11:00 am |
Break |
Time / Speaker(s) | Breakout Session Description |
11:00-12:00 pm
Melissa DeLay |
The Power of Email & How to Make Your Words Work For YouThe quick rise of the internet as our primary business communication tool has sparked a new era of interpersonal problems in the modern workforce. While it’s highly beneficial to build authentic, loyal relationships with customers and colleagues via email, text or social media, it can be difficult to maintain an appropriate level of professional familiarity. During this interactive workshop, you'll learn how to sell more, improve perceptions and get results over email—no matter what situations arise. |
11:00-12:00 pm
Steve Sampson Brown |
Boom Town: The Proliferation of the Rochester Construction MarketThe southeastern medical – and now construction - hub has been referred to as a “mini-mega city” for good reason. Hear from city-leaders about it’s progress and how government and the Mayo Clinic’s investments are creating a ripple effect in the market. |
11:00-12:00 pm
Alissa Daire Nelson |
Worker Wellbeing: Building a Safer and Thriving Construction IndustryIn the construction industry, leaders understand that caring for their people is not just important—it’s a matter of life and death. With death by suicide affecting construction workers at four times the rate of the general population, in large part driven by work-related stresses (like seasonal work, demanding schedules, and workplace injuries), it is an issue the industry has a responsibility to address head on. Addressing these challenges requires a deep commitment to workplace wellbeing, which can mitigate the impact of stress and reduce the risk of suicide. While many organizations view wellbeing initiatives as “nice-to-have,” the truth is that investing in employee wellbeing is a strategic advantage that saves lives. There are many financial benefits as well. For every dollar spent on employee wellbeing, companies see a return of $2.30 and reduce the significant costs associated with burnout, injury, and turnover. This session equips construction leaders with the tools to create a thriving, psychologically safe workplace where workers feel valued, supported, and are less likely to experience burnout or mental health crises. By addressing wellbeing from the top down, leaders can transform their organizations into places where employees want to work—and where they feel safe enough to ask for help when they need it most. |
11:00-12:00 pm
Nicole Pillow & Jeff Williams |
Evolving Through Change: Inspiring Leadership Excellence (Part 2)Dive into this transformative workshop to discover the powerful role of emotional intelligence (EI) in fostering leadership and enhancing personal and professional growth. In this session, you'll gain essential tools and insights to effectively utilize EI, empowering you to cultivate a vibrant culture of empowerment. You will focus on deepening your awareness of yourself and others, sharpening your perceptions, and amplifying the impact of your decisions. Designed to improve your management, communication, and conflict-resolution abilities, this workshop will enrich your interactions and elevate your professional capabilities. Applying these strategies to your daily awareness and decision-making processes will strengthen relationships and extend your impact and influence across all areas of your life. |
12:00 pm |
Brown Bag Lunch |