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Hey MBEXers, happy New Year! I hope 2026 is off to a strong start. You may have noticed David kicking things off last week. No, I'm not going anywhere, but this will be a regular switch-up. David will be back for the first issue of each month, and then it's back to my regularly scheduled programming (corny jokes, Taylor Swift references, and coffee requests included 😉).
I've been thinking about a word to set the tone for the year ahead, and I keep landing on persevere. In an industry that knows tight schedules, shifting conditions, and the occasional curveball better than most, perseverance isn't just a word. It's a skill. Here's to showing up, pushing forward, and building something solid together in 2026, because perseverance is easier when you've got the right plans, the right people, and MBEX backing you up.
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Five Quick Things To Know & Do This Week:
1.) So You Missed the Renewal Deadline... - Lucky for you, there's still time to renew for 2026! Please call Julie at (612) 381-2627 to provide payment information over the phone. Still prefer to send a check? Please do, but let us know payment is on the way so we can temporarily reinstate your Plan Room access.
2.) Construction Leads - As of November, Minnesota gained more than 40,700 jobs over the year, up 1.3%, which is faster than the nation's employment growth. Seven supersectors posted positive annual growth, led by Construction, up 11,600 jobs (or 8.3%).
3.) Celebrate Stu - After 23 years of dedicated service, Stu Thompson retired as CEO of The Builders Group (TBG) on January 1, 2026. While stepping away from the CEO role, Stu will continue serving as President of the TBG Education Foundation. Congratulations to Stu, and we thank him for his service and leadership in our industry.
4.) For the HVAC Pros - How HVAC contractors can stand out in a rapidly evolving industry with a focus on smart technologies, engaging with diverse communities, and investing in workforce development through mentoring and educational institution partnerships.
5.) Laughs in Jobsite Hours - For anyone who's already put in a full day before 9:00am ⌚ 🥱 ☕
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Inside Issue No. 2:
• Annual Meeting: Five great reasons why you should attend (if you're not already registered)
• Labor Law Updates: Eight essential workplace items for your January to-do list
• New Members: Which companies joined the Exchange to close out 2025
• Year-End Signals: Stabilization, persistent constraints & areas of opportunity heading into 2026, according to the experts at Sage Economics
• Upcoming Events: Online Plan Room Demo (1/15), Annual Meeting & Luncheon (1/21) & Meet the Estimators+ (2/4)
• Project Notice: Engineering & Construction Innovations (ECI) seeks participation from certified DBE / MCUB / Targeted Group Business (TGB) subcontractors and suppliers
• Five Headlines: Backlog Indicator inches higher in December; Three key sectors that will drive nonresidential construction spending in 2026; Navigating cost pressures and regulatory hurdles in the new year; Lawyers offer advice as PFML law takes effect in Minnesota; and An important year ahead for the infrastructure world
• Project of the Week: Boston Scientific plans expansion at Maple Grove campus
• Industry Event: State Procurement Opportunity Fair - Friday, February 6 - MnDOT Training & Conference Center - Presented by Minnesota's Department of Administration and APEX Accelerator
• Project Download: Updated project information for the week of January 7-13
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5 Great Reasons to be at the Annual Meeting & Luncheon
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If you only make time for one MBEX event this winter, January 21 should be it.
The MBEX Annual Meeting & Luncheon isn't just a box to check; it's where the Exchange pauses, looks ahead, and sets the tone for the year to come. Here's why it's worth blocking your calendar:
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Date: Wednesday, January 21
Time:
• 11:00am - Registration & Social
• 11:30am - Lunch Served
• 11:45am - Program
Location: Golden Valley Country Club (7001 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley, Minn., 55427)
Cost: $50 per person | $275 per table of six
REGISTER BY: January 14 @ 3:00pm
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👀 Be the First to See What's Next for MBEX
We'll be officially unveiling MBEX's new name and logo at the Annual Meeting. This isn't just a visual refresh. It reflects where the Exchange is headed and how we continue to evolve with our industry. You'll want to say you were there when it debuts!
🎤 Get the Full State-of-the-Exchange Update (Minus the Email Overload)
In one concise session, you'll hear key updates on MBEX operations, initiatives, and priorities...all without having to scroll through your inbox. It's the fastest way to understand how your membership is working for you and what's coming down the pipeline.
🗳️ Help Shape MBEX's Future Leadership
Members will be asked to vote on a proposed amendment to the Board's nominating process, which impacts how future Boards are formed. This is your opportunity to weigh in on how MBEX governance changes, because member input matters here.
🤝 Meet the New Board & Thank the Outgoing One
We'll be revealing election results and introducing the newly elected 2026 Board of Directors, and recognizing the 2025 Board members who've dedicated their time and leadership to the Exchange. It's an important moment of continuity and appreciation.
🏅 Celebrate the People Who Make MBEX Work
We'll wrap in one of our favorite traditions: honoring MBEX members who go above and beyond. The Volunteer of the Year and Distinguished Member awards are always a highlight and a reminder that MBEX is powered by people who make a difference in the industry.
Add in a solid lunch, great conversations, and a room full of industry peers, and you've got more than a few pretty strong reasons to join us.
A special shout-out to our Annual Meeting & Luncheon sponsors:
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Door Prize Sponsors
Alliance Bank, Culligan Ultrapure Northfield, RMS Rentals, St. Cloud Acoustics & W. L. Hall
| | We hope to see you on January 21. | | | Event Sponsorship opportunities are also available, ranging from $100 - $500. View further details within the event's registration form. Questions should be directed to Melanie at melanie@mbex.org or (612) 381-2628. | | |
Eight Essential Workplace Items for your January To-Do List
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At MBEX, we’re committed to helping our members stay ahead of the changes shaping our industry, including the rapid updates coming out of the administration on labor and employment rules.
With rules changing quickly (and sometimes without much warning), staying compliant takes a bit of planning and a good heads-up on what actually matters.
Below is a quick rundown of key developments that happened in December, along with a short checklist of items you'll want on your radar for January and the months ahead.
1.) Warm Up With a Workplace Law Refresher
Did you keep up with all the labor and employment law updates in 2025? Take this 2025 Workplace Law Quiz to brush up on last year's developments and put yourself in the best position to take on 2026.
2.) Look Ahead to What 2026 May Bring for Employers
This comprehensive FP Forecast 2026 report includes workplace law predictions for the new year from thought leaders across practice areas and industry teams. Consider it a roadmap to help you strategize and prepare.
3.) Double-Check January Effective Dates
More than 50 new state workplace laws kicked in at the turn of the year, and several "Big Beautiful Bill" provisions that just took effect impact employers nationwide. Review this Employer Cheat Sheet for Workplace Laws Effective January 1, 2026, to make sure you didn't miss anything.
4.) Catch Up on Last Month's Major National Labor Relations Board Updates
First, an appeals court ruled that employers can't use injunctions to challenge NLRB authority, and another appeals court greenlit presidential removal of NLRB officers. The Senate confirmations of two new Labor Board members finally restored the NLRB to a functioning quorum. Here's what to expect from the federal labor law landscape in 2026.
5.) Learn the Latest AI Lingo and Legal News
The president signed a sweeping executive order in December that targets state AI regulation. In addition, you should become well-versed in the terms below:
6.) Get Familiar with a Critical Pending SCOTUS Case
The Supreme Court could soon issue a decision in Trump v. Slaughter, a high-stakes case that could set the stage for a workplace regulation shake-up. Here are some predictions on the case's outcome and how it could impact employers for years to come.
7.) Stay Ahead of the Latest Consumer Privacy Trend
An increasing number of consumers are exercising their data privacy rights through an "authorized agent," a designated third party that submits requests on the consumer's behalf to access, delete, or limit the use of their personal and private information. Here's what you need to know about this new trend and how to get ahead of the curve.
8.) Adjust to the New Immigration Pause & Travel Bans
The current administration announced several policy changes in December that pause immigration benefits impacting at least 25 countries and place restrictions on additional countries. This action will have significant workplace implications, and employers should follow these 5 steps to adjust to the new system.
| | | The information provided here is intended for general informational purposes only. It should not be considered as legal advice. We strongly recommend consulting with your business's attorney or legal advisor before taking any actions based on its content. | | | Welcome to the Minnesota Builders Exchange! | | |
We closed out 2025 with a strong lineup of new companies joining the MBEX community, and we're glad to have them with us. Whether they're diving into early project leads, expanding their networks, or getting more plugged in to Minnesota's commercial construction scene, these new members are officially part of the Exchange and ready to get to work.
Help us give a big MBEX welcome to the newest members of our growing community:
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SAGE ECONOMICS: Year-End Signals & Strategic Takeaways
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Each month, MBEX reviews economic news from trusted industry sources to help members navigate market conditions with confidence.
Sage Economics' December report closes out 2025 with a clearer picture of where commercial construction stands heading into 2026, highlighting stabilization, persistent constraints, and areas of opportunity for disciplined contractors.
Below are Sage Economics' December insights most relevant to commercial builders, subcontractors, suppliers, and service providers.
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Commercial Construction Spending Levels Off
Sage Economics reports that nonresidential commercial construction spending remained largely flat in December. While activity has cooled compared to earlier in 2025, the sector avoided further contraction. Manufacturing-related work, institutional facilities, and infrastructure projects continued to offset softness in office, retail, and warehouse construction.
What This Means for Minnesota Constructors:
Minnesota firms should expect steady, but competitive, bid environments as owners remain selective. Contractors may find the strongest opportunities in healthcare, education, municipal, and federally supported projects. Leveraging MBEX’s Plan Room to identify early-stage commercial and institutional work can help maintain backlog stability.
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Private Investment Remains Cautious
High interest rates and tighter lending standards continued to restrain private commercial development in December. Sage noted that many developers are delaying large-scale projects or pivoting toward phased construction, renovations, or deferred capital improvements rather than ground-up builds.
What This Means for Minnesota Constructors:
Expect longer preconstruction timelines and more scrutiny around project financing. Minnesota contractors can position themselves competitively by offering value engineering, flexible scheduling, and renovation expertise. Firms with strong preconstruction capabilities will be better equipped to help owners move projects forward under constrained capital conditions.
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Labor Market Conditions Stabilize
Construction employment showed signs of stabilization toward year-end, though skilled labor shortages persist. Wage growth remains elevated but has cooled slightly compared to earlier peaks. Specialty trades, including electrical, mechanical, and concrete, continue to experience the most pressure.
What This Means for Minnesota Constructors:
Labor remains a strategic priority. Minnesota firms should continue investing in retention, apprenticeship programs, and workforce development partnerships. Stable employment conditions may allow firms to better plan staffing levels in 2026, but competition for skilled workers will remain intense.
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Materials Pricing Becomes More Predictable
Sage Economics noted that construction material prices remained relatively stable in December. Supply chains are functioning more normally, and contractors are experiencing fewer disruptions than in prior years. However, energy and transportation costs remain potential wildcards heading into 2026.
What This Means for Minnesota Constructors:
More predictable pricing allows for improved estimating accuracy and reduced contingency risk. Minnesota contractors should continue locking in pricing where possible and maintaining close communication with suppliers.
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Manufacturing & Infrastructure Continue to Anchor Demand
Manufacturing construction and public infrastructure remain the strongest segments nationally. While new starts have moderated, ongoing projects continue to support commercial construction activity. Sage emphasized that federally funded and technology-driven projects remain key contributors to sector stability.
What This Means for Minnesota Constructors:
Minnesota’s exposure to advanced manufacturing, data centers, and public infrastructure remains a regional advantage. Contractors should track funding cycles and major institutional announcements closely. Firms aligned with compliance-driven, technical, or publicly funded work are well-positioned entering 2026.
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Economic Growth Slows but Avoids Recession
The broader economy slowed in December, but Sage Economics stopped short of signaling a recession. Consumer spending softened, business confidence moderated, and financial pressures increased for weaker firms, yet overall economic fundamentals remain intact.
What This Means for Minnesota Constructors:
A slower-growth environment rewards disciplined operators. Minnesota contractors should focus on cash flow management, backlog quality, and client diversification. Now is the time to refine operations, strengthen partnerships, and prepare for gradual improvement rather than rapid expansion.
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LOOKING AHEAD
Sage Economics anticipates a gradual improvement in commercial construction conditions as inflation eases and borrowing costs slowly decline. Public-sector investment, deferred commercial upgrades, and stabilizing labor conditions are expected to support moderate growth.
For Minnesota constructors, the year ahead favors those who stay informed, plan strategically, and leverage regional intelligence. MBEX members who actively track opportunities, engage early in project planning, and maintain operational flexibility will be best positioned to navigate a steady (but selective) construction market.
| | | The information above was compiled and summarized from Sage Economics' email updates distributed between December 1-31, 2025. Note that more recent reports may offer updated insights, and MBEX members are encouraged to review the latest data as part of their due diligence. | | | |
A valuable benefit of an MBEX membership is invitations to our social and educational events; by being an employee of a member company, you, too, can take advantage and attend any and all MBEX-sponsored events.
** indicates a newly added or updated event
January 15 - Online Plan Room Demo - Register by January 14 @ 2:30pm
From navigating the Deskpad, setting up filters, understanding project information, and adding your company to a project's bidders list, this free one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. Sign Up
January 21 - Annual Meeting & Luncheon - Register by January 14 @ 3:00pm
Kick off the new year by catching up, looking ahead, and celebrating the people who make the Exchange great. This year's meeting comes with something extra special: we'll be unveiling MBEX's new logo and name! We'll also recognize our Volunteer of the Year and Distinguished Member award recipients, thank the outgoing 2025 Board of Directors, and welcome the incoming 2026 Board. Register Here
February 4 - Meet the Estimators & Project Managers
Together with the Minnesota Construction Association (MCA) and Minnesota Subcontractors Association (MSA), we invite you to meet and engage with estimators and project managers from General and Prime Contractors, gain valuable insights into their bidding and procurement processes, and learn best practices for successfully doing business with them. More than a dozen GCs and more than a 100 industry pros are already registered. Register Here
** February 19 - Online Plan Room Demo
From navigating the Deskpad, setting up filters, understanding project information, and adding your company to a project's bidders list, this free one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. Not yet open for registration
** March 4 - Regional Member Meetup: Duluth
We're coming to a city near you in March 2026! In partnership with the Electrical Association, the Minnesota Concrete Council, and The Builders Group, we hope you'll join us for a casual get-together to network with fellow members and connect with these organizations. Register Here
** March 11 - Regional Member Meetup: St. Cloud
We're coming to a city near you in March 2026! In partnership with the Electrical Association, the Minnesota Concrete Council, and The Builders Group, we hope you'll join us for a casual get-together to network with fellow members and connect with these organizations. Register Here
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PROJECT:
Metropolitan Council 1-MN-310 Interceptor Siphon Rehabilitation Project (No. 809203, Contract 24P236A)
BID DEADLINE:
January 20, 2026 @ 2:00pm
BID SUBMISSIONS:
Quotes requested by January 19, 2026,
or earlier if possible.
SEND QUOTE TO:
Chris Kester, Chief Estimator
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The project includes siphon structure rehabilitation, dual 36" CIPP lining, temporary wastewater conveyance, sitework, storm sewer modifications, traffic control, paving, landscaping, erosion control, and restoration as defined in the project documents.
Opportunities for subcontracting and supply include (but are not limited to):
- Traffic Control
- Excavation, Backfill, & Aggregate Supply
- Dewatering / Conveyance
- Construction Staking
- Pavement Sweeping
- Pavement Marking
- Curb & Gutter
- Sewer Cleaning, CCTV & CIPP support
- Concrete, Polymer Concrete, & Structural Rehabilitation
- Storm Sewer Pipe & Drainage Structures
- Erosion & Sediment Control
- Landscaping, Turf Establishment & Restoration
- Bituminous Pavement Milling & Paving
- Fencing & Temporary Barriers
- Trucking & Hauling
- Surveying & Project Documentation
- Material Supply (pipe, castings, erosion materials, aggregate, etc.)
- Portable Facilities (restrooms, handwash stations, etc.)
- Snow Removal Services
- Field Office & Administrative Support Facilities
PLEASE NOTE: All quotes will require a signed letter of intent to be submitted with the prime bid.
Project plans and specs can be found inside the Online Plan Room:
- Project Name: 1-MN-310 Interceptor Siphon Rehabilitation - Metropolitan Council
- Project ID: 2025-11FC
- Project Category: Local Government
- Project Type: Rehabilitation
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Five construction-related headlines you need to read over the next coffee break.
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ECONOMIC REPORT
⬆️ Construction Backlog Indicator Inches Higher in December, Fueled by Data Center Momentum
ABC reported on January 13 that its Construction Backlog Indicator rose to 8.2-months in December, up 0.1-months since November. Backlog continues to soar for the largest contractors and fall for the smallest. Contractors with greater than $100-million in annual revenue recorded their highest backlog since 2021, while those with less than $30-million in annual revenue recorded their lowest since 2021. (Associated Builders & Contractors)
OUTLOOK 2026
🔑 Three Key Sectors Will Drive Nonresidential Construction Spending in 2026
Building teams that collaborate early and structure contracts that manage risk effectively are likely to have the most success in 2026, when construction spending growth is expected to slow to an estimated 2.6%. That's the prognosis from PCL Construction's recently released 2026 Construction Industry Outlook. The Outlook identifies three key sectors to watch and how they might influence the industry's overall movement. (Building Design + Construction)
COMMERCIAL BUILDING
😬 How Contractors Can Navigate Cost Pressures, Labor Shortages & Regulatory Hurdles
Several forces are expected to make construction especially challenging in 2026, including cost, labor, regulations and project delivery. These issues will affect owners, contractors, and trades across both vertical and horizontal work. (Construction Dive)
BUSINESS MATTERS | PAID FAMILY MEDICAL LEAVE (PFML) LAW
⚖️ Lawyers Offer Advice as Paid-Leave Law Takes Effect
The Minnesota PFML law took effect January 1, introducing major changes for employers and bringing new obligations. With many months rolling this law out, most employers should have been aware of the coming changes and hopefully prepared. Still, with questions about applicability and scope of the law, some employers are behind. Businesses may feel unprepared for the administrative burden of quarterly reporting and premium payments, but one lawyer advises, "Don't panic." (Finance & Commerce)
INFRASTRUCTURE
⛲ Sustainability, Monitoring & Lifespan Planning Lead the Way
2026 is shaping up to be an important year for the infrastructure world as governments, cities, and private developers deal with growing pressure on aging systems. The goal is no longer to put a project in the ground, but to build something safer and better prepared for the next several decades. Two big trends are driving this change. The first is the push for sustainability that can be proven with real data, and the second is the growing use of predictive, technology-enabled risk management. (For Construction Pros)
| | Boston Scientific Plans Expansion at Maple Grove Campus | | |
Read more on Minneapolis / St. Paul Business Journal
Medtech company Boston Scientific is planning to add 300,000-square-feet of space onto its existing 400,000-square-foot facility at 1 Boston Scientific Way just off Interstate 94, according to documents submitted by Ryan Cos. US Inc. to the city.
The four-story expansion would include training areas, a cafeteria, a fitness center, and lab space on the first floor, as well as labs and office space on the upper floors, the city documents show.
The proposed expansion is intended to aid the growth of Boston Scientific's cardiovascular businesses and allow for more non-manufacturing employees at the facility.
Ryan Cos. developed the first building, which includes corporate offices and research-and-development labs, that opened this past fall.
The addition, which would be located on the east side of that existing building, would blend seamlessly with that facility, with a similar architectural look. The project would include nearly 2,500 parking stalls, a portion of which would have electric-vehicle charging capability.
Site amenities may also include walking paths, ponds, a yard games area, community gardens, seating areas, a pier, food truck parking, and more, according to Ryan's project submittals.
Renderings of the proposed expansion can be found here.
| | ABOVE PHOTO: Rendering of the proposed Boston Scientific expansion by Ryan Cos. US Inc. | |
State Procurement Opportunity Fair
Presented by Minnesota's Department of Administration's APEX Accelerator
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DATE: Friday, February 6
TIME: 9:00am - 1:00pm
LOCATION:
COST: No fee to attend.
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Join the Department of Administration's Office of Equity in Procurement and APEX Accelerator for an exciting networking event.
You will be able to:
- Meet with buyers from more than 20 agencies to discuss how your business may fit into their upcoming procurement and contracting needs.
- Meet with staff from OEP and APEX Accelerator to learn more about the Small Business Procurement Program and how to compete for business with the State of Minnesota.
- Attend mini-sessions designed to help you grow your understanding of the state contracting process.
Invited agencies include:
- Administration / Office of Equity in Procurement
- APEX Accelerator, Office of State Procurement
- Agriculture
- Commerce
- Corrections
- Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED)
- Governor's Office
- Health
- Higher Education
- Housing Finance Authority
- Human Rights
- Human Services
- Labor & Industry
- Minnesota Management & Budget Mediation Services
- Metropolitan Airport Commission (MAC)
- Metropolitan Council
- Minnesota Correctional Industries (MINNCOR)
- Minnesota IT (MNIT) Services
- Natural Resources
- Pollution Control
- Public Safety
- Revenue
- Transportation
- Veterans Affairs
Questions can be directed to Alevtina Zhaivoronok: Alevtina.Zhaivoronok@state.mn.us | (651) 201-2406
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• Total Projects Received at MBEX from 1/5/2026 - 1/9/2026: 89
• Total Project Leads Reported on at MBEX from 1/5/2026 - 1/9/2026: 33
• Total Active Projects Received / Reported on at MBEX as of 1/13/2026: 408
• Total New Projects in the Online Plan Room as of 1/13/2026: 211
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 1/7/2025 - 1/13/2025.
For information about the Bulletin's content, technical issues, or to place an ad (such as a Minority
Notice, Job Posting, or Event Notice), contact Ashlee, Membership + Communications Manager.
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UPCOMING MBEX EVENTS
• January 15 - Online Plan Room Demo
• January 21 - Annual Meeting & Luncheon
• February 4 - Meet the Estimators
• February 19 - Online Plan Room Demo
• March 4 - Regional Member Meetup: Duluth
• March 11- Regional Member Meetup: St. Cloud
• March 19 - Online Plan Room Demo
• April 15 - Spring Social
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Information within the MBEX Weekly Bulletin are obtained from sources deemed reliable. The Minnesota Builders Exchange (MBEX) does not assume responsibility for its completeness or accuracy. You are urged to check your own sources in addition to the information contained in this publication. This issue contains plans and other bidding information received prior to and including the date noted above. The project data within this newsletter is intended for member company's and their employees use only.
2025 BOARD OFFICERS: President - Heidi Sedlacek, Associated General Contractors of Minnesota; Vice President - Brian Kalla, St. Cloud Acoustics; Treasurer - Sean Ochis, Northern Industrial Insulation; Past President - Mike Carlson, Max Gray Construction
2025 DIRECTORS: Kevin Bohrer, Donlar Construction; Ben Bowman, Adolfson & Peterson; Allie Brady, Veit; David Brandt, Schadegg Mechanical; Amanda Eiynk, BUILD Renewables; Matt Lennartson, RJM Construction; Chris Niemand, Frattalone Companies; Jason Rentmeester, Kraus-Anderson Construction; and Nate Sapik, Benson Electric Company
MBEX STAFF: David Siegel - Executive Director; Julie Miller - Executive Assistant / Project Coordinator / Accounting; Ashlee Hartwig - Membership & Communications Manager; Melanie Hendrickson - Events & Membership Coordinator; Jeff Boelter - Project Acquisition & Plan Room Support; Shauna Baska - Project Reporter & Bidders Lists; Ka Yang - Addenda & Apparent Lows; Peggy Esboldt, Madison Gentil & Michelle Siegel - Project Reporters; Don O'Connor - Independent Event Planning Contractor
You are receiving this email because you are employed by a current member company in good standing or have indicated you wanted to receive MBEX's Weekly Bulletin. Unsubscribe from the Weekly Bulletin
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