 |
KEYNOTE: Aaron Witt
Founder, BuildWitt
Aaron Witt grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona, without a thought of who builds our world. That was until a construction project appeared in his neighborhood... Following high school, he started working on the same project as a laborer, and he was hooked.
After earning an engineering degree and a short career in construction, Aaron started telling Dirt World stories on social media for fun under the "BuildWitt" name. One follower became one hundred, and one hundred became millions...
Today, BuildWitt is a leading construction software company helping hundreds of Dirt World businesses train their workforce. Aaron's job is simple—grow their brand, which is now one of the most influential in the construction industry, as big as possible.
To do so, he travels to construction and mining operations worldwide to tell the stories of those who keep our world moving, generating nearly one billion views annually online!
|
 |
KEYNOTE: Zach Giglio
CEO, GCM
Zach Giglio is CEO of GCM, an award-winning agency that helps organizations use AI to become more efficient and profitable. He is Wharton-certified in AI strategy, a TEDx speaker, and serves on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s AI curriculum committee. As a frequent keynote speaker, Zach leads AI trainings and implementation programs for companies and associations nationwide. He lives in Charleston, S.C., where he balances his work with a love for travel, storytelling, and family life.
|
 |
Stacy Arnold
Director of Safety & CHASE, AGC of Minnesota
Advocator and mentor for contractors trying to raise the bar for Safety. As a diligent, insightful, collaborative leader she provides guidance and innovative solutions to practical challenges that can become barriers to safe work practices. With her perceptive knowledge combined with her keen attention to detail and communication skills, she upholds safety to the highest standard.
|
 |
Mark Becker
Shareholder, Fabyanske, Westra, Hart & Thomson, P.A.
Mark Becker is a leading construction lawyer recognized for his skillful advocacy and professionalism in resolving his clients’ most challenging construction related disputes or negotiating their most significant construction contracts. Mark’s experience and practice focus in innovative early mediation methods of dispute resolution sets him apart from other lawyers with a traditional litigation-centric focus. Through his effective early mediation advocacy, Mark has successfully resolved many high-stakes, multi-party, and complex construction disputes for his clients before the onset of the most significant litigation expense. Mark employs early case evaluation, quantitative analysis, and strategic planning methods to guide clients through their disputes. Mark has significant experience in public procurement and public contracts. Mark brought the first Qui Tam whistleblower claim under the Minnesota False Claims Act, achieving an important settlement that benefited over 240 Minnesota public entities.
|
 |
Michael Beer
Assistant Commissioner, Engineering Services, Minnesota Department of Transportation
Michael Beer received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Civil Engineering from the University of Minnesota. He spent two years with Caltrans (California Department of Transportation) in Project Management and Construction. He has spent twenty-eight years with MnDOT (Minnesota Department of Transportation) in various leadership roles in Materials, Construction, Design Build, Engineering Services, and the Project Director of the $690 million St. Croix River Crossing project. Michael is currently the Assistant Commissioner for MnDOT’s Engineering Services Division.
|
 |
Jevon Bindman
Partner, Maslon
Jevon Bindman, a litigation partner with Maslon LLP in Minneapolis, works with clients in a range of industries, with a focus on representing stakeholders in construction and real estate matters and assisting policyholders in insurance coverage disputes, including at the appellate level. He has established himself as a thought leader in the Minnesota legal community, co-authoring four volumes of the Minnesota Practice Series—the seminal treatise on Minnesota law and procedure—including the Minnesota Handbook of Courtroom Evidence and Civil Rules Annotated. Jevon was selected to join the Construction Lawyers Society of America as an associate fellow, and he received the national 2025 Holt Gwyn Writing Award for best construction article by the American College of Construction Lawyers.
|
 |
Shae Birkey
Safety Leadership Advisor, Caterpillar Safety Services
Shae has more than 20 years of Environmental, Health, and Safety experience working in consulting, governmental, commercial, industrial, and private industry settings. His range of work experiences, from front line field positions to corporate management roles allows him to empathize and connect with employees and leaders at all levels. His current role as a Safety Leadership Adviser and Industry Account Manager with Caterpillar Safety Services allows him to bring his passion of educating and challenging customers on people-related topics to light. He holds a Master of Science degree with an emphasis on leadership skill development from the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign and is a Certified Safety Professional.
|
 |
Jake Bloedow
Fractional CIO, Thriveon
Jake Bloedow is a Fractional Chief Information Officer at Thriveon. He partners with executives to align technology with business goals, ensuring scalability, security, and profitability. Jake brings deep expertise in IT leadership, guiding organizations to eliminate technology frustrations, improve operational efficiency, and maximize the value of their IT investments. Known for his consultative approach, he helps companies turn technology into a true business advantage. As a thought leader on IT strategy and cybersecurity readiness, Jake frequently advises executives navigating the challenges of growth, compliance, and digital transformation.
|
 |
Sam Bloedow
CEO, Thriveon
Sam Bloedow is the Founder and CEO of Thriveon, the leading IT provider in Minnesota. With a mission to empower people to create business success with information and technology, over the last two decades Sam has built Thriveon into the go-to partner for midsize companies seeking enterprise-level IT results. Under his leadership, Thriveon has pioneered a Fractional CIO + Cybersecurity + Proactive IT Management model that transforms IT from a constant frustration into a competitive advantage. Thriveon works with construction executives who are frustrated with the lack of IT strategy, under pressure to improve cybersecurity, or tired of IT investments failing to deliver results.
|
 |
Babette Buckner
CEO, Moltron Builders
Babette Buckner is the CEO of Moltron Builders, a family-run commercial and civil construction firm based in the Twin Cities. With more than thirty years of experience in business and construction, she leads the company’s strategic direction, operations, and workforce development efforts.
Under her leadership, Moltron Builders has become recognized for delivering large-company performance with small-business agility. The company specializes in general contracting, construction management, and design-build services. Babette’s leadership philosophy centers on excellence, inclusion, and partnership, bridging relationships between owners, contractors, and the workforce to achieve high-performing, community-centered outcomes.
A passionate advocate for equity and opportunity in the trades, Babette serves on the boards of WomenVenture and the Association of Women Contractors (AWC). Through these roles, she advances initiatives that expand access to capital, mentorship, and contracting opportunities for
women and underrepresented business owners. Her entrepreneurial journey reflects resilience, collaboration, and a vision of commitment to not only building structures but also pathways for the next generation of construction professionals.
|
 |
Amanda Cefalu
Shareholder, Reinhart
Amanda Cefalu is a litigator and legal adviser who is passionate about protecting employee benefits. As a shareholder in Reinhart’s Employee Benefits and Litigation practices, she handles ERISA litigation and counseling, Taft-Hartley issues, employment law and commercial litigation. She represents and counsels both employers and clients in discrimination claims, retaliation, sexual harassment, FMLA, wrongful discharge and non-compete claims, among others.
|
 |
Josh Cooper
Director of Operations, Knutson Construction Services
Josh joined Knutson in 2018 as a project manager before being promoted to Director of Operations in 2024. He has over 20 years of construction experience with expertise in healthcare and K-12 markets. Josh’s calm demeanor, knowledge base and communication style ensures subcontractors and owners alike are comfortable with each project. His favorite part of every project is turning over the keys to the owner and seeing the smiling faces of those that get to enjoy the new space. Recent projects Josh has worked on include Northfield Public Schools, Rochester Public Schools and Mayo Clinic’s Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Building.
Josh holds a BS in Building Construction from the University of Florida, is a DBIA Associate, and holds LEED AP, BD+C and B+ Best Value certifications. He serves on the MN Laborers Vacation Fund Board of Trustees, completed the AGC Advanced Management program in 2019 and was in the 2022 class of Leadership Greater Rochester.
Josh and his wife Megan have three children. In his free time, Josh is a hunter and fisherman and enjoys family trips up north and down south each year. When he’s not cheering on his kids at their sporting events, he’s likely cheering for the Florida Gators.
|
 |
Amy Court
Managing Partner, Shumaker
Amy Court centers her practice on advising plan trustees and administrators regarding a wide variety of benefit matters, including plan design and amendments, eligibility, enforcement and interpretation of plan provisions, administrative appeals of benefit denials, withdrawal liability, fiduciary responsibility, and prohibited transactions. She identifies potential subrogation claims and ensures health plan assets are recovered in accordance with plan documents and applicable laws and regulations.
|
 |
Danger Boat Productions is a Minneapolis-based creative company that uses improvisational theater to explore big ideas and complex topics. Whether they're unpacking public policy on stage, leading corporate training, or building community through comedy, their work is rooted in the belief that humor opens doors to deeper understanding. Their show has been praised by the Minnesota Star Tribune as "C-SPAN suddenly swarmed by the cast of SNL." With more than 800 performances under their belt, they specialize into turning complex issues into conversation-starters and unforgettable experiences.
|
 |
Melissa DeLay
Owner, TruPerception
Melissa DeLay is a communications strategist and principle owner of award-winning consultant agency TruPerception. She’s also the author of the new book “The Truth About Scandal: The Everyday Guide to Navigating Business Crises”. She’s given over 300 speeches about workplace communication and techniques for improving workplace culture at companies across the U.S., including the Royal Bank of Canada, City of Minneapolis, and the State of Minnesota.
|
 |
Robert Doblar, CEBS
Administrator, Wilson-McShane Corporation
Robert has been with Wilson-McShane Corporation since 2015. He began as a Payroll Auditor and subsequently Fund Administrator out of the Duluth office. He graduated from the University of Minnesota-Duluth with a degree in Mathematics. He attends Trustee meetings and assists in all areas of administration. Robert is certified by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans and the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, as a Certified Employee Benefit Specialist (CEBS).
|
 |
Brian Ellsworth
Section Head of Construction Management, Mayo Clinic
Brian Ellsworth is the Section Head of Construction Management at Mayo Clinic in Rochester. He has a bachelor’s degree in Composite Materials Engineering from Winona State University, and a master’s degree in Construction Engineering from Iowa State University. After being in the healthcare construction delivery field for more than 25 years, Brian is privileged to work with a team of Owner’s Reps and Construction Industry Partners to execute small and large projects in a manner where the needs of the patient are considered. Brian keeps a focus on building relationships, implementing technology, and finding was to help the team make data driven decisions. While not driving a desk, Brian likes to spend is driving a Lund Pro Guide.
|
 |
Alex Etchen
Vice President, Government Relations, Associated General Contractors of America
Alex Etchen is the Vice President of Government Relations at the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of America. In this role, Alex leads all of AGC’s government relations efforts on Capitol Hill. Before being named Vice President of Government Relations, he served as the Senior Director for Infrastructure Advancement at AGC. Prior to joining AGC, Alex served in positions at the U.S. Department of Transportation and the U.S. House of Representatives.
|
 |
Carol Hauschild
Coordinator of Project Management & Purchasing, ISD 196
Carol Hauschild is the Coordinator of Project Management and Purchasing for ISD 196 (Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools), the third-largest school district in Minnesota. She oversees the District’s $538 million bond program and leads districtwide capital projects and procurement activities. Her work emphasizes effective project delivery, fiscal stewardship, and alignment with district priorities.
|
 |
Jody Jacoby
Chief Procurement Officer, Metropolitan Council
Jody Jacoby serves as the Chief Procurement Officer for the Metropolitan Council, bringing more than 25 years of public service experience to the region. She is recognized for her expertise in public procurement and her strong commitment to ethical, transparent, and accountable procurement practices. Jody holds both the NIGP Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP) credential and the Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO) designation, reflecting her leadership, professionalism, and dedication to excellence in the procurement field.
|
 |
Alyx Johnson
Safety Coordinator, C.S. McCrossan Construction
Alyx Johnson has nearly six years of experience in occupational safety, spanning both the mining and construction industries. Her path into the safety field was unconventional—starting as a scale operator in the mining industry after marrying a mine equipment operator. With no formal safety background, Alyx stepped into a compliance role she initially knew little about and quickly discovered a deep passion for protecting people. What began as unfamiliar territory has grown into a meaningful career rooted in care, connection, and purpose.
Alyx holds a bachelor’s degree in business marketing, which has shaped how she communicates safety in the field—making it relatable, practical, and people-focused. Her marketing background helps her build trust, influence behavior, and connect meaningfully with field employees. She believes deeply in C. S. McCrossan’s core values of Safety, Professionalism, Teamwork, and Continuous Improvement, and works to model those values in every interaction—helping to build a culture of care, accountability, and shared responsibility for everyone’s safety.
|
 |
Scott Johnson
Enterprise Safety Leader, C.S. McCrossan Construction
Scott Johnson has 30 years of experience as C. S. McCrossan’s lead safety professional developing and implementing successful safety programs across diverse highway and civil operations—including grading, sewer and water, bridge and structures, asphalt paving, concrete paving, mining, and light rail projects. At C. S. McCrossan, Scott has been instrumental in advancing a proactive safety culture rooted in the company’s core values: Safety, Teamwork, Continuous Improvement, and Professionalism.
With a master’s degree in industrial safety and hygiene from the University of Minnesota Duluth and a focus in psychology from Concordia College in Moorhead, MN, Scott brings a unique blend of technical expertise and human-centered insight into his work.
|
 |
Phyllis Karasov
Of Counsel, Larkin Hoffman
Phyllis Karasov advises businesses on labor and employment matters. Her clients come from a variety of sectors, including construction, manufacturing, higher education, K-12 private education, nonprofit and healthcare. She provides counsel in all areas of human resources, including hiring, handbooks, regulatory compliance, discrimination, sexual harassment, discipline and termination, Americans with Disabilities Act, OSHA rules and the Family and Medical Leave Act. As a former National Labor Relations Board attorney, Phyllis is often called upon to represent clients in labor union matters including arbitrations, collective bargaining agreements and union contracts. In higher education, Phyllis is an experienced and trained investigator of Title IX complaints.
|
 |
Nena Lenz
Shareholder, Fredrikson & Byron
Nena has a national government contracts and grants practice, with a construction focus. Her clients work on publicly-owned and publicly-funded projects throughout the country. Their projects involve federal, state, local and tribal funding, and ownership. She leads Fredrikson & Byron’s Government Contract and Grants Group. She helps clients pursue and negotiate contracts, understand and comply with regulatory requirements, manage contract changes and terminations, and investigate and resolve allegations of noncompliance. Federal government contractors and grantees are on the frontlines of the ongoing federal executive branch reform efforts, where they face immediate demands to change company policies, budget and program uncertainty, an overhaul of federal procurement rules, and increased scrutiny. Nena is regularly helping clients triage specific business disruptions (such as terminations for convenience) and general uncertainty caused by federal efforts to cut costs, deregulate and shift policy priorities. Nena advises clients on contracts and grants governed by federal regulations, including federal procurement contracts, cooperative agreements and OTAs, federally-assisted construction, and federal grants. She regularly advises clients that are administering projects with a mix of public funding streams, such as a combination of federal and state funding. Nena has represented clients doing business with each federal executive department and dozens of independent agencies, spanning hundreds of federal programs. She has also helped clients doing business with dozens of states and hundreds of local government and quasi-governmental entities.
|
 |
Ike McWaters
Senior Project Manager, Knutson Construction Services
Since joining Knutson in 2023, Ike has become a trusted partner in our K–12 sector, building strong relationships and helping deliver projects that make a meaningful impact on students and their communities. With a BS in Construction Management, Ike loves the hands-on side of the work, watching ideas move from drawings to real-world spaces that truly serve their purpose. Outside the job site, you’ll find him spending time with his family or tackling home improvement projects.
|
 |
Bill Marshall
Program Director, Union Construction Workers' Compensation Program
Prior to becoming Program Director at the UCWCP, Bill spent 13+ years as a Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Judge with the MN Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH). In that time, he presided over and mediated hundreds of MN workers’ compensation claims. Prior to becoming a Judge, Bill represented employees with MN workers’ compensation claims, long-term and short-term disability benefit claims, social security claims, as well as veterans seeking VA benefits. Before Law School, Bill spent over eight years as a Safety and Security Manager at a steel plant in St. Paul (North Star Steel). Bill received his Bachelor of Business Administration, Marketing/Economics, and a Masters in Industrial Safety, both from the University of Minnesota Duluth. He obtained his JD from William Mitchell College of Law. Currently, Bill is a volunteer shopper with Vision Resources for the Blind. He has been a volunteer coach with the Special Olympics, MN Special Hockey, and the Metro League North Baseball League.
|
 |
Brittney May
Safety Coordinator, C.S. McCrossan Construction
Brittney May holds a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and Psychology from the University of Minnesota Duluth, along with a Master’s degree in Environmental Health and Safety. She began her career at C.S. McCrossan as a safety intern in August 2024 and joined the team full-time in November of the same year. In her role as Safety Coordinator, Brittney is dedicated to promoting workplace safety, ensuring regulatory compliance, and advancing best practices in environmental health and safety. Her strong academic foundation and hands-on experience reflect her commitment to fostering a proactive safety culture.
|
 |
Geoff Movold
Training Director, Local 49 Training Center
Geoff Movold is Training Director for Local 49 and the AGC of Minnesota Apprenticeship and Training Center with five years of leadership in workforce development and over 30 years of hands-on heavy equipment experience. He specializes in translating field expertise into effective training programs that improve safety, performance, and operational efficiency. Geoff is committed to developing skilled individuals through practical instruction and mentorship, while promoting continuous career improvement.
|
 |
Jesse Orman
Shareholder, Fabyanske, Westra, Hart & Thomson, P.A.
Jesse Orman represents stakeholders in all sectors of the industry including renewable energy, industrial, commercial, multi-family, utility, and highway heavy construction. The foundation of Jesse’s deep legal experience in the construction law space is grounded on 20+ years of litigation work, which informs Jesse’s wide-ranging practice. Jesse counsels clients through contract drafting and negotiation, claims management, and – when necessary – arbitration and litigation, from trial through appeal. Jesse’s broad client base of owners, general contractors, and subcontractors also facilitates a solid understanding of his clients’ businesses and helps Jesse work efficiently to achieve clients’ business objectives. Jesse’s written publications on construction law focus on Minnesota-specific issues including mechanic’s liens and bonds. Jesse has been regularly recognized locally and nationally as one of the top construction litigators in Minnesota.
Jesse is an avid cyclist and also serves on the board of the Twin Cities Fencing Club.
|
 |
Troy Parkinson
Consultant, SagePresence
Troy Parkinson is driven by a deep passion for fostering meaningful connections with individuals, communities, and businesses. He thrives on helping teams express themselves with confidence and clarity. During his two decades in the film and television industry, he worked on projects for HBO, Netflix, Discovery and History. At SagePresence, Troy has coached and trained companies to over $5 billion in project wins, helping teams increase their confidence and communication skills for live, virtual, and hybrid presentations.
|
 |
Ryan Pecinovsky
Business Representative, Northern Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters
Ryan Pecinovsky is a Business Representative with the Northern Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters, bringing more than 30 years of experience in the construction industry. He specializes in highway and heavy civil construction and has worked closely with contracting partners across the United States and Canada. Ryan has represented members of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters since 2016. In addition to his representative role, he has served on executive boards with the Minnesota Transportation Alliance and the Upper Mississippi Waterway Association. He also serves as a trustee for the Carpenters and Joiners Trust Funds.
|
 |
Josh Peterson
Partner, Faegre Drinker
Josh Peterson is a trial lawyer with extensive experience representing clients in courts around the country. He leverages robust trial skills to counsel clients in complex financial, commercial and construction disputes. Josh is also a recognized leader in the practice of federal Indian law. He uses a deep understanding of the law and a practical approach to help clients surmount challenges facing Indian Country.
|
 |
Cheri Quinn
Director of Brand Strategy, Mercury Creative Group
Cheri Quinn is the Director of Brand Strategy at Mercury Creative Group and serves as the lead facilitator for the Minnesota Construction Mental Health Alliance. In this role, Cheri works alongside contractors, labor leaders, public partners, project owners and industry stakeholders to help align mental health efforts across the construction industry and move the conversation from awareness to long-term culture change. She brings a strategic, industry-centered approach to building shared language, leadership alignment, and clear pathways for engagement, ensuring mental health is treated as a core value, on par with physical safety, across Minnesotas's construction workforce.
|
 |
Eric Radel
Construction Operations Manager, Minnesota Department of Administration
Eric heads the construction services team for the Department of Administration, Construction Services division. His division is responsible for 275-300 projects annually for numerous State Agencies.
|
 |
Henning Roedel, Ph.D.
Founder, Hardhat Robotics
Henning Roedel is a visionary in the field of construction technology, with a career that spans from leading robotics initiatives to pioneering extraterrestrial construction methods. As the founder of Hardhat Robotics, Henning has been instrumental in bringing a physical AI platform to the construction industry. This innovative platform tackles the skilled labor shortage and productivity gap, while addressing critical safety risks. Henning’s passion for technology in construction began at Stanford University and continued through implementing Virtual Design and Construction practices with Scandinavian contractor Veidekke Entreprenad and cutting his teeth in construction tech with ALICE Technologies. His most recent role as the Robotics Lead at DPR Construction was pivotal in crafting and implementing strategies for new technologies, enhancing safety, and boosting productivity on construction sites.
Earning his doctorate in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Stanford University, Henning led innovative research on protein-bound concretes for structural applications, both terrestrial and extraterrestrial, in partnership with NASA Ames Research Center. His academic journey is marked by a Master’s in Construction Management, focusing on Virtual Design and Construction, and a Bachelor’s in Civil and Environmental Engineering from UCLA, with a concentration in structural engineering and hydrology.
Over the past 15 years, Henning has honed an impressive array of technical and business skills. His past endeavors include coordinating enterprise innovation, sales, marketing, and IT, which have allowed him to practice company management and experience rapid growth. Outside of his professional life, Henning is actively involved in lunar development groups, enjoys brewing and cooking, and values spending time hiking and gathering around the table with family. His career is a testament to his commitment to innovation and his belief in the transformative power of technology in construction.
|
 |
Dyanne Ross-Hanson
President & Founder, Exit Planning Strategies, LLC
Dyanne Ross- Hanson is President & Founder of Exit Planning Strategies, LLC. A firm dedicated to helping business owners navigate the most significant financial transaction of their lives, exiting their business. She collaborates with owners and their Advisory Team who are 3-10 years from divesture in capital and/or contribution. Helping to evaluate options and to create an Action Checklist. So that owners can depart on their terms, to their party of choice and for the dollars they deserve.
|
 |
Steve Sampson Brown
Director of Construction, City of Rochester
Steve Sampson Brown is the Director of Construction for the city of Rochester and is responsible for the overall construction coordination for the over $6 billion in private and public development that Rochester will experience over the next 5 years. He oversees the management and delivery of special development projects in downtown Rochester, including Link Rapid Transit and 6th Street Riverfront and Neighborhood investment projects. In this role, Sampson Brown will also be key in supporting the forthcoming City-focused work with Mayo Clinic’s $5 billion Bold. Forward. Unbound initiative, continuing the $585 million public investment through the Destination Medical Center and the $1 billion in other projects.
Prior to joining the Rochester team in 2024, Sampson Brown most recently served as a Project Manager for the City of Dubuque, Iowa and had been with that organization since 2006. In this role, he was responsible for over $200 million in completed capital improvement projects and engineering studies. Sampson Brown has led multiple projects that were statewide, regional and national award-winning.
|
 |
Mike Schechter
General Counsel/Director of Labor Relations, AGC of Minnesota
Mike Schechter is the director of labor relations and general counsel for AGC MN, where he facilitates negotiations with the basic trades on collective bargaining agreements, helps contractors with questions or concerns, and manages the disputes board to resolve differences with the unions.
|
 |
Clinton Steingraber
Fractional CIO, Thriveon
Clint Steingraber is a Fractional Chief Information Officer at Thriveon, where he partners with business leaders to transform IT into a strategic advantage. Clint helps midsize companies eliminate technology frustrations, improve security, and maximize the value of their IT investments. Drawing on years of experience guiding organizations through digital transformation, Clint is known for his ability to simplify complex technology challenges and deliver clear, actionable strategies that drive growth and efficiency. His deep understanding of the construction industry allows him to expertly align technology with business goals, driving impactful and lasting improvements.
|
 |
Jessi Wagner
Vice President & Deputy General Counsel, McGough
As Vice President and Deputy General Counsel at McGough Construction Co., LLC, Jessi Wagner provides strategic leadership and direct management of the company’s Legal and Risk Management team. In this role, she oversees McGough’s contracting, insurance, and claims management functions, ensuring effective risk mitigation and alignment with business goals.
Prior to joining McGough, Jessi served as a risk manager for another large Minnesota-based general contractor. She holds a Juris Doctor from William Mitchell College of Law and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. In addition to her professional role, Jessi is an adjunct professor in the Construction Management Department at Minnesota State University–Mankato, where she teaches a construction law seminar to future superintendents, project managers, and estimators.
|
 |
Larry Wall
Safety, Health, and Security Manager, C.S. McCrossan Construction
Larry J. Wall is a seasoned Safety, Health, and Security Manager with over 25 years of hands-on experience across heavy civil construction, regulatory compliance, law enforcement, and emergency medical response. He specializes in overseeing safety for large-scale infrastructure projects, ensuring strict adherence to OSHA, MSHA, DOT, and state standards. As a CHST-certified professional, Larry has built a distinguished career focused on risk mitigation, workforce training, safety software integration, and fostering a proactive, top-down safety culture through field engagement. His background in law enforcement and EMS further reflects a lifelong dedication to public and workplace safety.
|
 |
Kyle Willems
Shareholder, Bassford Remele
Kyle Willems serves on Bassford Remele’s board of directors and is co-chair of the firm’s construction and real estate practice group. He is a business litigator who represents clients in construction, real estate, and finance disputes, guiding them through every phase of the process. Kyle’s industry involvement includes leadership roles in the Minnesota State Bar Association and the Associated General Contractors of Minnesota. His work has earned him recognition as the 2025 Minnesota Real Estate Lawyer of the Year, a Top Lawyer by Minnesota Monthly, and a Minnesota Rising Star, in addition to being listed in The Best Lawyers in America.
|
 |
Erik Williams
Principal, Construction Leader, MDA Leadership
Erik Williams is an experienced and passionate talent strategy and leadership development expert who leads the Construction practice at MDA Leadership. For 15 years, he has helped builders across the country become future ready through building and executing intentional practices to identify and develop great leaders. It's one of the greatest privileges of his life to help construction and building leaders achieve their potential to create greater impact for themselves, their teams, and the communities they serve.
|
 |
Tim Worke
CEO, AGC of Minnesota
Tim Worke is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Associated General Contractors of Minnesota, the state’s oldest and largest commercial contracting trade association with over 400 members statewide representing both building and transportation infrastructure market sectors. Prior to being named CEO, Tim served as AGC’s Director of Highways & Transportation from 2003-2017.
The first half of Tim’s career was spent with the Minnesota Department of Transportation working in the areas of legislative relations and policy development. Tim served as the DOT’s Director of Federal Government Relations throughout most of the 1990s and managed the DOT’s Office of Government Relations from 1999-2003 overseeing both state and federal legislative matters for the agency. Tim is a 1985 graduate of the University of Minnesota with B.A Degrees in Political Science and Criminal Justice. Tim and his wife Karen live in Eagan, MN. They have 2 children and 2 grandchildren.
|
 |
Laura Ziegler
Director of Highway/Heavy & Government Affairs, AGC of Minnesota
Laura Ziegler joined AGC of MN in 2018 and serves as the Director of Highway/Heavy & Government Affairs. Laura's role includes being the principal staff resource for managing and directing AGC's legislative policy and regulatory agenda. She represents the construction industry at the Minnesota Legislature and with state agencies, as well as the federal government and Congress. She has a passion for the three P’s: policy, puns, and not the Packers.
|
