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Hey MBEXers! I've returned from my travels in the final frontier and survived a tsunami to tell the tale (true story!). While coming back to work after a long vacation is never fun, it is nice settling back into routine: checking my email first thing, brewing that first cup of coffee, choosing my podcast of the day, then plowing into my to-do list (which usually includes talking with a few of you lovely folks). We also have the big office move coming up (more on that below), and I still have a couple drawers to empty and a small stack of files to purge. Adding to my to-do list now...after I finish this cup of coffee. Hey, it's best when it's hot! 😉 ☕ 🗂️
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Five Quick Things To Know & Do This Week:
1.) More Clay Action - Join MBEX in Duluth at Old Vermillion Trail on September 10 for Sporting Clays North for an afternoon filled with clay-breaking excitement. Shooter packages include 100 clays, a post-shoot social, dinner, awards, and door prizes.
2.) Weak Labor Demand - Contractors had 246,000 open positions to fill at the end of June, an increase of 14,000 openings from May, according to new data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While open positions are rising, the overall share of unfilled construction jobs remains low compared to recent years --- and hiring continues to trend downward.
3.) Now Subject to Tariffs - Effective August 18th, the Trump administration widened the reach of its 50% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports by adding hundreds of derivative products to the list of goods subject to the levies. The Bureau of Industry and Security added 407 product codes to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, including truck trailers and certain car parts, as well as numerous household appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashing machines, stoves, and ovens.
4.) Urban vs Rural - Why building a mile in the city isn't the same as building a mile in the country.
5.) Kind Reminder - No matter your title, always remember to treat every person on the job site with respect. You never know what petty revenge may be waiting 😇 🤭
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Inside This Issue:
• Pull!: A recap of last week's Sporting Clays Scholarship Fundraiser event
• Backlog: July saw a rise to 8.8-months, up from 8.7-months in June
• Moving Update: Key dates to know regarding MBEX's upcoming office move
• AI Action: 10 key strategic takeaways for adapting to the AI era
• Events: Online Plan Room Demo, Bluebeam Revu courses (1-7), & Labor Day closure
• Five Headlines: Latest Producer Price Index offers little relief; How states are competing for multi-billion dollar data center projects; Robots assist with painting and drywall finishing on 100,000-square-foot Netflix House project; OSHA's top 10 citations in 2024; and 10 strategies for contractors in uncertain economic times
• Project of the Week: Wedding & event venue reuse planned for historic mansion in Cottage Grove
• Industry Event: Construction Talent Acquisition Conference - November 11 & 12 - Renaissance Minneapolis Bloomington Hotel
• Member Benefit: Latest Verizon Business offers for small & medium businesses
| | RECAP: Sporting Clays Fundraiser Hits The Mark | | |
Last Thursday, members of the Minnesota Builders Exchange gathered at Game Unlimited in Hudson, Wisc., for our 29th annual Sporting Clays Scholarship Fundraiser; and what a day it was.
Despite a little rain, 140 shooters came and took aim at the event, combining friendly competition, networking, and plenty of laughs out on the course.
But beyond the clay-breaking fun, the real win of the day was the support shown for the MBEX / TBG Construction Scholarship Fund, which helps the next generation of construction professionals pursue their education and career goals. For the 2025-2026 scholarship, we awarded $24,000 to 18 students representing 11 different schools across Minnesota. These individual scholarships range from $1,000-$2,000, and the recipients are studying carpentry, electrical, HVAC, heavy equipment operation, construction management, and more.
From seasoned sharpshooters to first-time participants, everyone brought their best energy --- and left with new connections and great memories (and maybe a few sore shoulders).
A big thank-you goes out to our participants, sponsors, and volunteers who helped make the day such a success!
Now, here's a look at who took home bragging rights and a few of the day's big prizes:
TEAM SCORES
• 349 - Tenet
• 344 - C D Tile & Stone
• 340 - KW Scaffold & Insulation
• 335 - Harris Company -Team 1
• 333 - Dem-Con Companies
• 333 - McGough Construction - Team 2
• 329 - NYCO
• 328 - American Engineering Testing - Team 2
• 326 - Parkos Construction - Team 1
• 323 - American Engineering Testing - Team 1
• 316 - Market & Johnson
• 313 - Parkos Construction - Team 2
• 311 - Neo Electrical Solutions
• 301 - Grazzini Brothers
• 299 - Shaw / Stewart Lumber Company
• 290 - Harris Company - Team 2
• 286 - Mulcahy Nickolaus
• 281 - Bolander & Sons / Gwizdala & Associates
• 278 - Infinity Scaffold
• 275 - John A. Knutson & Company
• 271 - McGough Construction - Team 1
• 237 - Ziegler Rental
• 168 - RMS Rentals
• NC - Carciofini Company
• NC - Marsh McLennan Agency
INDIVIDUAL AWARDS
• Class A (90-100): Joe Clem, American Engineering Testing
• Class B (70-89): Shannon Bauer, Harris Company
• Class C (50-69): Mitchel Lowder, McGough Construction
• Parkos Class Winner: Amy Bratulich, Grazzini Brothers
50/50 CASH RAFFLE: $725
• Todd Kirby, Tenet
SUPERCASH RAFFLE: $500
• Heather Jensen, RMS Rentals
MULLIGAN 50/50 CASH RAFFLE: $168
• Shannon Bauer, Harris Company
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Let's give a one more big thank-you to our Sporting Clay Scholarship Fundraiser event sponsors:
| | Premier Cornerstone Partner | | Bronze Cornerstone Partner | | |
Door Prize Sponsors
Alliance Bank, Dem-Con Companies, Grazzini Brothers, Harris Company, John A Knutson & Company, KW Scaffold & Insulation, McGough Construction, Parkos Construction & RMS Rentals
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Check out more photos from the clay shoot, and find more upcoming MBEX events at mbex.org.
| | REPORT: Construction Backlog Indicator Rises | | |
ABC reported on August 12th that its Construction Backlog Indicator rose to 8.8-months in July, according to its member survey conducted July 24-August 4. The reading is up 0.4-months since July 2024.
Backlog is up on a year-over-year basis in every region except for the South. Despite the lack of growth, backlog in the South remains significantly longer than in any other region.
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"Backlog continued to rise in July despite the ongoing decline in construction spending," according to ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu. "Backlog in the infrastructure category has also increased considerably over the past year, and public construction activity has outperformed the private sector over the past several months."
ABC's Construction Confidence Index reading for sales and profit margins declined in July, while the reading for staffing levels rose to the highest level since April.
The readings for all three components remain above the threshold of 50, indicating expectations for growth over the next six months.
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KEY DATES FOR MBEX'S UPCOMING MOVE
What Members Need to Know
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As mentioned in previous issues, MBEX is moving to a new office space and our last day in our current space at 1123 Glenwood Avenue is August 28, 2025.
With the excitement of change comes a short transition period, including a move of our server. Here are key dates and what to expect in the days ahead.
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 28 @ 2:00pm
Starting at 2:00pm, our Online Plan Room services will be suspended temporarily for a few hours as our server is moved from our old office location to the new. We anticipate this move to take several hours, with services returning in the evening between 7:00pm / 8:00pm that same day. These plans are fluid and may change between now and August 28th, and we will keep members updated via mbex.org and pop-up messages in the Online Plan Room.
Thank you for your patience and understanding in advance, and we highly encourage you to make plans accordingly.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 29
The last of any MBEX furniture, boxed-up office goods, and supplies will be moved out of the Glenwood Avenue space.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1
MBEX will be closed in observance of the Labor Day holiday.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 - FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
MBEX staff will work remotely while our new office space at Bell Plaza is completed along with waiting for our office furniture to be delivered.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
Staff officially moves into new offices at Bell Plaza in Bloomington.
MBEX's new address will be as follows: 3800 American Boulevard West, STE 780, Bloomington, Minn., 55431. Our phone numbers will remain the same.
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Change is scary, but this modern space will provide a terrific atmosphere for our staff and members, offering conference facilities for future training sessions, member gatherings, and meetings as well as being conveniently located and easy-to-access. We're greatly looking forward to this new chapter and serving you from this new location.
As with any transition, there will be growing pains; we will do our best to communicate any changes and potential service disruptions as we learn of them with you quickly and efficiently so you may plan accordingly on your end.
Thank you for your continued membership and support. Our address may be changing, but our commitment to serving you remains as strong as ever.
| | How Commercial Construction Company's Can Tackle "America's AI Action Plan" | | |
Artificial intelligence (AI) isn't just a buzzword in Silicon Valley anymore; it's clearly made it's way onto construction job sites and into boardrooms.
With the federal government's recently released AI Action Plan laying out funding priorities, workforce initiatives, and infrastructure goals, commercial construction companies have a lot to gain (and prepare for). From tax incentives and training programs to project opportunities in data centers and power systems, this plan could reshape how our industry hires, builds, and competes.
Here are 10 key takeaways, especially for commercial construction companies, for adapting strategically to the AI era:
1.) Pay Attention to Federal Funding Tied to State AI Regulations
The plan proposes withholding AI-related federal funding from states with "burdensome" AI rules --- though undefined, this signals that your operating environment may affect access to public infrastructure dollars. Stay alert to evolving definitions and advocacy efforts in your region.
2.) AI Infrastructure Buildout Means Big Workforce Opportunities
The Plan touts AI infrastructure development --- data centers, chip fabs, power systems --- as a source of high-paying jobs. Construction firms should position themselves to support this surge in specialized build projects.
3.) Rising Demand for Skilled Trades --- Electrical, HVAC, etc.
A national push is underway to train electricians, advanced HVAC technicians, and similar critical roles vital for AI infrastructure builds. Companies can benefit from engaging in workforce training programs and apprenticeships.
4.) Leverage DOL and DOE Funding for Training and Apprenticeships
The Departments of Labor, Education, and Commerce are being directed to fund AI literacy and skills training, especially through CTE, workforce training, and apprenticeships. Construction firms should tap into these programs to elevate their teams.
5.) Tax Credits May Support Employer-Led AI Training
The Treasury Department may clarify that AI-related training qualifies under Section 132 of the Internal Revenue Code, potentially enabling tax-free reimbursements to employees. Smart employers can use this to incentivize upskilling.
6.) Prepare for an AI Workforce Research Hub and Market Insights
A new AI Workforce Research Hub under the DOL will continuously monitor labor trends, displacement, wage impacts, and skill gaps. Construction leaders should use this data to forecast demand for talent and adapt recruiting strategies.
7.) Federal Adoption of AI Tools May Reshape Expectations
The Plan mandates that federal agencies ensure employees have access to, and training for, frontier AI models. This could shift expectations across the board, including procurement or regulatory interactions with your company.
8.) Regulatory Rollbacks May Speed Project Approvals
The Action Plan emphasizes deregulation and streamlined permitting for AI-related infrastructure, which may include data centers and energy systems. This could allow faster project launches, if your firm is prepared.
9.) Security and Supply Chain Standards Matter on AI Builds
The Plan calls for stringent security (cyber and physical) and a push for domestic supply chains --- expect rigorous standards for materials, tech and contractor vetting on federally supported AI projects.
10.) Deepen Involvement in AI-Focused Infrastructure Projects
With massive investments --- potentially over $1.5-trillion --- expected in AI infrastructure, there's a rare opportunity for construction firms to lead on large-scale builds. Establishing credibility early in AI infrastructure delivery could set you apart.
The White House's AI Action Plan makes it clear --- it's about to have a very real impact on the construction industry. Whether it's tapping into new funding, preparing your workforce, or positioning your company for AI-driven infrastructure projects, now is the time to start thinking strategically.
Staying informed today will help ensure you're ready to build smarter, faster, and stronger tomorrow.
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NOTE: The information provided here is for general educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Members are encouraged to consult with their own attorneys or legal counsel before making decisions or taking action based on this content.
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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
August 20 - Golf North - Registration is now closed
Please contact Don O'Connor with questions or inquiries about the event: don@mbex.org or (218) 428-2486. Come socialize and network on the greens of Duluth's Ridgeview Country Club for what we FORE-see as a great event.
August 21 - Online Plan Room Demo - Sign Up by 3:30pm on Wed., August 20
From navigating the Deskpad, setting up filters, understanding project information, and adding your company to a project's bidders lists, this free one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. Register Here
August 26 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
Attendees will learn interface navigation including menu dropdowns, toolbars, various tool panels, keyboard shortcuts and a few recommended settings. While learning various markup and measurement tools, several tips and tricks will be shared to increase accuracy and speed. Register Here
August 27 - Bluebeam 2: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
Attendees will go through the standard measurement tools and settings, then move into various customization options and discuss the results in the Markups List. Register Now
August 28 - Bluebeam 3: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
After finishing the Bluebeam Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic) course, attendees will move into creating custom columns, embedding formulas, and information organization. Register Here
August 29 - Bluebeam 4: Document Management & Best Practices
Eliminate wasted time navigating through drawing sets and wondering who has the latest drawings. Register Here
September 1 - Labor Day - MBEX Closed
MBEX will be closed on Monday, September 1 in observance of the Labor Day holiday. We'll return to regular office hours on Tuesday, September 2.
September 2 - Bluebeam 5: Collecting Field Data
This Bluebeam class was developed for design and construction professionals in both the office and jobsite looking for ways to build consistency, speed, and accuracy of data collection in creating summary reports. Register Here
September 3 - Bluebeam 6: Administrative Professionals
In just two hours, class attendees will be ready to combine documents, mark for redaction, apply digital signatures, and several other important administrative tasks. Register Here
September 4 - Bluebeam 7: Civil Workflows
Class attendees will go through not only navigation and markups, but workflows like Calibrating Plan & Profile drawings with different X-Y scales, ideas for Cut & Fill calculations, combining several PDFs into one large area map, and adding images. Register Here
September 10 - Sporting Clays North
Get yours shotguns locked and loaded. MBEX is headed north for its annual Sporting Clays North event. Whether an ace shooter or a total rookie, this will be a fun, low-pressure afternoon with colleagues and fellow industry professionals that includes a delicious BBQ buffet for dinner. Register Here
** October 9 - Fall Social
Network with industry professionals, share insights, and build relationships in a relaxed and lively atmosphere at the Oak Ridge Country Club in Hopkins, Minn. Whether catching up with old friends or making new connections, this event is the perfect way to strengthen your ties within the construction community. Register Here
October 29 - MBEX Young Professionals Network (YPN) - Save the Date
From college students, graduates and interns, to those just getting started within the construction industry, the MBEX Young Professionals Network creates a place for emerging young professionals ages 40 and under who are involved in the construction industry to join together at the early stages of their career to connect and begin network. This event will be hosted at Mortenson Construction in Golden Valley, Minn.
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Five construction-related headlines you need to read over the next coffee break.
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ECONOMIC REPORTS
📈 Latest Producer Price Index Report Offers Little Relief
Construction input prices ticked up 0.4% in July, the same increase for nonresidential inputs, according to an ABC analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics' Producer Price Index data. Input prices now sit at 2.2% higher overall and 2.6% higher for nonresidential construction compared to a year ago, according to the report. Copper wire and cable, for example, surged 4.9% in July and 12.2% year-over-year. That price escalation, fueled by trade policy, could compress contractor margins in the months ahead, even as builders still hold a relatively upbeat level of confidence. (Construction Dive)
DATA CENTERS | INDUSTRY TRENDS
💻 How States Are Competing for the Multi-Billion Dollar Data Center Construction Market
Spending on data center construction starts was 48% higher in the first half of the year compared to the same period last year, according to the August ConstructConnect Data Center Report. Growing investment reflect the surging appetite for AI and digital infrastructure worldwide. Understanding the key drivers of data center development, like state incentives and access to affordable power, is crucial for contractors to anticipate demand, craft competitive bids, and position themselves for long-term growth in an expanding market. (ConstructConnect News)
ROBOTICS
🤖 Netflix House Goes Up With Help From Robots That Paint & Finish Drywall
Okibo, a robotics-tools company, has designed the robots being used by Performance Contracting, Inc. (PCI) on the 100,000-square-foot Netflix House project. The robots perform repetitive overhead work, eliminating the need for a lift or scaffold for work up to 12-feet above ground. As a result, finish crews on Netflix House are experiencing a significant reduction in physical burnout and fatigue, according to a press statement from Okibo. In addition, the project has achieved a 5x increase in productivity for Level 4 and Level 5 sanding jobs while meeting quality standards. (Building Design + Construction)
JOBSITE SAFETY
⚠️ Hazards Ahead: OSHA's Top 10 Citations of 2024
The latest information from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration highlights systemic safety challenges that continue to put workers at risk and create business liabilities. Several of OSHA's top 10 violations in 2024 apply directly to construction professionals. Fall protection in particular has held the number one spot for 14 consecutive years, with more than 7,000 citations issued in 2024. Other top citations are similarly rooted in routine jobsite activities, such as incorrect ladder usage, incomplete or outdated hazard communication programs, and missing eye protection. (Construction Executive)
BUSINESS MATTERS
📋 10 Strategies for Contractors in Uncertain Economic Times
Amid economic headwinds, including stubbornly high inflation, a seemingly endless labor crunch, reluctant lenders and a slow-burning crisis in commercial real estate, there's good reason to remain wary. Contractors are looking for ways to keep their heads above water, so here are 10 areas of focus that may help businesses sail through potential troubles ahead. (Construction Business Owner)
| | Event Venue Planned for Historic Cottage Grove Mansion | | |
Read more on Finance & Commerce
A historically significant, 1860s-vintage Cottage Grove mansion that has hosted multiple U.S. presidents is up for reuse as a wedding and event venue, a project that's advancing with help from the city.
Bellagala, a provider of wedding services and venues, wants to purchase and rehabilitate the vacant, 10,405-square-foot Cedarhurst Mansion, which occupies part of a 10-acre site at the intersection of 70th Street and Keats Avenue.
The Cottage Grove Economic Development Authority unanimously approved a $100,000 forgivable loan for the project, which could begin as soon as this month and wrap up a year from now.
Next steps include city council review on August 20th.
City documents reveal that Bellagala would spend about $7.6-million to acquire and rehab the property, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. All of the improvements would respect the historic nature of the property, according to the development team.
Described by the city as a "significant architectural and cultural asset" in Cottage Grove, the mansion includes the original wood shutters, two Neo-Classic doric hexastyle porticoes, a rose garden and other notable features.
Though the mansion is in good condition overall, parts of the building are in disrepair. The rehab will improve "accessibility, circulation, and functionality," and upgrade building systems while preserving the mansion's "historical integrity," according to a project narrative.
The project team also plans to add an atrium and make the rose garden a "centerpiece of the site" and the ballroom will be the "primary gathering space."
| | ABOVE PHOTO: The Cedarhurst Mansion, located in Cottage Grove, that Bellagala plans to purchase and transform into a wedding and events venue. | | |
Construction Talent Acquisition Conference
Presented by Project Build Minnesota
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DATES & TIMES: Tuesday, November 11; 5:30pm - 8:00pm | Wednesday, November 12; 8:00am-4:30pm
LOCATION: Renaissance Minneapolis Bloomington Hotel - 5500 American Boulevard West, Bloomington, Minn., 55437
COST: $299
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New this year, Project Build Minnesota (PBM) will host the Construction Talent Acquisition Conference, an event designed for people who are passionate about recruiting and retaining skilled talent.
With expert-led sessions and actionable strategies, this event aims to bring practical tactics and deeper strategy to the work of the talent acquisition leaders in Minnesota's construction companies and others involved in developing Minnesota's construction workforce.
As the construction sector faces the impending retirement of a whole general of experts, too few youth to replace them and competition from other fields, it's vital to bring together educators, industry leaders, and workforce development professionals.
Sponsor This Event | View Working Event Agenda | Download Event Flyer
Contact info@projectbuildmn.org with questions or if you are interested in speaking at this event.
| | Benefit of the Week: Verizon Business | | |
See how your business can benefit from the latest offers from Verizon. MBEX Members who join National Purchasing Partners (NPP) can save big on new devices, data plans, and more.
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Free iPhone or Galaxy
Switch and get the iPhone 16e 128GB or the Samsung Galaxy S25 128 GB for $0 / month. Boost your productivity.
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Exclusive Laptop Offer
Save $200 on a select Microsoft Surface Pro connected laptop on an eligible Verizon data plan.
Learn More
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30% Off Accessories
Purchase 3 or more (max 50) select accessories and receive 30% off. Discount applied instantly.
Learn More
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$600 Off My Biz Plan
Simply bring your smartphone and number and customize your My Biz Plan with $15 in monthly add-on spending.
Learn More
| | | PROJECT INFORMATION + UPDATES | | |
• Total Projects Received at MBEX from 8/11/2025 - 8/15/2025: 66
• Total Project Leads Reported on at MBEX from 8/11/2025 - 8/15/2025: 14
• Total Active Projects Received / Reported on at MBEX as of 8/19/2025: 284
• Total New Projects in the Online Plan Room as of 8/19/2025: 3,551
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 8/13/2025 - 8/19/2025.
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
• August 20 - Golf North
• August 21 - Online Plan Room Demo
• August 26 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
• August 27 - Bluebeam 2: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
• August 28 - Bluebeam 3: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
• August 29 - Bluebeam 4: Document Management & Best Practices
• September 1 - Labor Day - MBEX Closed
• September 2 - Bluebeam 5: Collecting Field Data
• September 3 - Bluebeam 6: Administrative Professionals
• September 4 - Bluebeam 7: Civil Workflows
• September 10 - Sporting Clays North
• September 18 - Online Plan Room Demo
• October 9 - MBEX Fall Social
• October 29 - MBEX Young Professionals Network (YPN)
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Connect with the Builders Exchange: | | |
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, KLJ Engineering; 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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