Hey there, MBEXers --- if last week felt like a tough one, you're not alone. We all hit a few bumps now and then (occupational hazard, right?). But here's your friendly reminder: you've handled challenges before, and you'll do it again --- with grit, hustle, and maybe a VERY strong cup of coffee or five. No matter what the coming weeks and months throw your way, MBEX has your back. We're here to help you stay connected, supported, and moving forward. Now let's roll up those sleeves and get back to building 🦺 ☕ 💪 | | | | |
By Ashlee
Membership & Communications Manager
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Five Quick Things To Know & Do This Week:
1.) Calling all estimators! Take your bidding game to the next level with UChapter2's Construction Estimating Principles & Application course happening this Friday (April 11). This virtual and interactive half-day workshop is open to both MBEX and non-MBEX members 💻
2.) ICYMI - Registration is now open for our annual Twin Cities Golf Tournament on June 17 at Oak Glen Golf Course in Stillwater, and spots are filling fast. Round up your foursome; the early birdie catches the worm ⛳
3.) Meyer Borgman Johnson, a local engineering firm, earned a "National Recognition Award for exemplary engineering achievement" at the American Council of Engineering Companies' (ACEC) 58th annual Engineering Excellence Awards for their work on the Minnesota Zoo's Treetop Trail project in Apple Valley 🏆
4.) MnDOT announced its 2025 construction season and it includes nearly 80 planned road and bridge projects, plus 51 projects that will improve airports, water ports, railroad crossings, and transit infrastructure 🚧
5.) When the floor plans meet a grande latte...☕🤭
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Inside This Issue:
• Spring Social: Join us at Golden Valley Country Club on April 16
• Jobs Report: Construction employment grows a mere 1.8% in March
• Tips & Tricks: Update member company information via the Online Plan Room
• Tariff Updates: How the latest tariffs are affecting key construction materials
• Upcoming: Reading Construction Docs, Spring Social, Online Plan Room Demos
• Five Headlines: HVAC and plumbing sectors to be hit hard by latest tariffs, understanding the impact of tariffs on construction contracts, the new rules of transparency in commercial trades, the battle to bring more women into construction could be lost under Trump, & the cost of lumber rises to its highest level since Covid
• Project of the Week: 'Innovation Hub' seeks state bonding money in Shakopee
• Industry Event: Ramsey County CERT Small Business Open House - April 10
• Member Benefit: 401(k) MEP Program with BLD Connection
| | NEXT WEEK: MBEX Spring Social - April 16 | | |
What better way to to celebrate and welcome spring than by attending the MBEX Spring Social next week? Join us for an event not to be missed!
📅 DATE: Wednesday, April 16
🕘 TIME: 3:00pm - Check In & Networking | 5:00pm - Program & Guest Speakers | 5:35pm - Raffle Winners Announced & Door Prize Giveaways
📍 LOCATION: Golden Valley Country Club (7001 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley, Minn., 55427)
💲 COST: $65 per person
The MBEX Spring Social is not just another networking opportunity --- it's a chance to connect with industry peers, exchange indeas, and foster relationships that can propel your business forward.
Whether you're a seasoned industry pro or just starting out, we want to see you at the Golden Valley Country Club.
Here's what you can expect:
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Connect with fellow MBEX members and fellow construction professionals in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Make new connections and strengthen existing relationships as you discuss the latest trends and opportunities in the commercial sector throughout Minnesota.
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At a time when building and infrastructure funding has regained traction at many levels of government, contractor teams are also expected to manage the reputation risks that have emerged in an era of social media and hyper-partisan politics.
Todd Rapp & Sean Oyaas of Rapp Strategies will discuss why community outreach and public engagement have become defining characteristics of successful public construction projects and are increasingly a primary reason why teams get selected.
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Who doesn't love a chance to win?
Spring Social attendees will have ample opportunities to go home with well-earned prizes from our mystery Wine & Spirits Pull, our 50/50 cash raffle, and door prize giveaways.
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Indulge in heavy appetizers and refreshing beverages while you mingle.
Our Spring Social isn't only about business --- it's about enjoying good company, too.
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Sponsorship opportunities are also available for member companies looking to enhance their visibility and demonstrate their commitment to MBEX's construction community. Choose the sponsorship level that best suits your business when registering for the event.
Thank you to the following sponsors who have already committed to supporting our upcoming event:
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- Adolfson & Peterson
- Alliance Bank
- Dark Horse General Contracting
- Dem-Con Companies
- Donlar Construction
- Grazzini Brothers
- JAMAR
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- KW Scaffold & Insulation
- Marsh McLennan Agency
- Mortenson
- Pye Barker Fire & Security
- St. Cloud Acoustics
- Sunbelt Rentals
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Ready to register? It's easy to do; simply click the blue "Register Here" button below to secure your spot today.
| | Construction Workforce Sees Minimal Growth, ABC Reports | | |
The construction industry added 13,000 jobs on net in March, according to an Associated Builders and Contractors analysis of data released on April 4, 2025 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
On a year-over-year basis, industry employment has risen by a mere 143,000 jobs, an increase of 1.8%.
Nonresidential construction employment increased by 22,300 positions on net in March, with growth in 2 of the 3 subsegments. Nonresidential specialty trade added the most jobs, with a monthly increase of 19,300 positions, while heavy and civil engineering added 3,400 jobs. The nonresidential building subsegment lost 400 positions.
The construction unemployment rate decreased to 5.4% in March and is unchanged from one year ago. Unemployment across all industries rose from 4.1% in February to 4.2% last month.
With construction employment up just 1.8% since March 2024, it marks the slowest year-over-year growth in four years, according to ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu.
Construction Employment Statistics: March 2025
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"March's labor market data is a lesser concern in light of the sweeping tariffs announced on April 2nd," said Basu. "What amounts to the largest tax hike since 1968 will reduce construction activity due to rising input costs, shaken business confidence and potentially higher-for-longer interest rates. While contractors were sanguine about the outlook as of last month, according to ABC's Construction Confidence Index, industry expectations are likely to worsen in the coming months."
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MEMBER TIPS & TRICKS:
Updating Your Company Records via the Online Plan Room
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Did you know you can update your company’s information directly through the Online Plan Room?
If you have an assigned plan room login, you can access and edit company details like your business address, phone number, website, remove and/or add personnel, company type, minority designations (DBE, MBE, SBE), and labor affiliations.
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How to Access:
Log in, click the Administration tab, then select Edit Your Company Information from the drop-down menu. Follow the prompts to make updates. If everything is current, simply hit the green Next Step button at the bottom of each section.
Approval Process:
Submitted updates are reviewed and approved by MBEX before going live — usually within one business day. Please don’t submit duplicate requests, as this can delay processing. If we have questions, we’ll reach out to the email address used for the submission.
Once approved, updates will be reflected in your company’s profile.
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If you're more of a visual learner, here's
a step-by-step guide to walk through the process.
View it by clicking the image to the right.
| | | Tariff Updates & Their Construction Industry Impacts | | |
President Trump recently announced new and increased tariffs affecting key construction materials.
The on-again, off-again nature of the Trump Administration's tariff measures are contributing to the economic uncertainty in the construction industry, including short- and long-term price escalation and supply instability.
Recent Tariff Announcements & Administration Updates
• Steel & Aluminum: As of March 12, a 25% tariff on many steel and aluminum imports worldwide is in effect. These tariffs are in addition to a 200% aluminum tariff that has been in place since March 2023.
• Canadian, Mexican & Chinese Construction Materials: President Trump imposed tariffs on imports from major trading partners, including a 25% tariff on Mexican and Canadian imports, a 10% tariff on Canadian energy, and a 20% tariff on Chinese goods. These wide-stepping tariffs affect various construction materials. Furthermore, President Trump imposed docking fees ranging from $500,000 to $1.5-million each time a Chinese-built ship docks at a U.S. port, increasing shipping costs for many Chinese imports.
• Lumber: Lumber imports continue to be subject to fluctuating tariffs. On March 2, President Trump issued an executive order launching an investigation into the impact on U.S. national security and economic stability caused by reliance on imports of timber, lumber, and their derivative products. Derivative products include paper, furniture, and cabinetry. The United States relies on foreign lumber for about 25% of its lumber use, approximately 80% of which is imported from Canada.
• Copper: On February 25, President Trump signed an executive order launching an investigation into the national security and economic stability threats posed by American's dependence on copper imports. The investigation is set to involve the effects of imports of copper in all forms, including but not limited to, raw mined copper, copper concentrates, refined copper, copper alloys, scrap copper, and derivative products. The investigation's results could lead to tariffs on copper.
In addition, retaliatory tariffs from trading partners could further exacerbate economic volatility in the construction industry. U.S. construction equipment and materials that are exported to other countries may face reduced demand due to increased costs from tariffs. This can lead to a decrease in sales for U.S. manufacturers, potentially resulting in lower production levels and job losses within the industry.
Additionally, the imposition of tariffs and the potential for ongoing trade disputes create an uncertain environment for investment. Construction companies may be hesitant to invest in new projects or expand operations due to concerns about future market conditions and costs.
Material Price Increases
The anticipation and implementation of these tariffs have already led to notable price increases for key construction materials. Prices for steel, aluminum, and other essential materials surged in January as contractors rushed to stockpile materials before the tariffs took effect. This trend may further squeeze project budgets, potentially leading to project delays and cancellations.
For projects underway, project owners may be protected under Fixed-Price and Guaranteed Maximum Price contracts, under which contractors may be contractually obligated to absorb the cost. Conversely, Cost-Plus and Time and Materials contracts may expose project owners to higher project costs.
Future projects will likely see contractors incorporating tariff costs into proposed project pricing and contingency budgets, with a reluctance to agree to Fixed Price or Guaranteed Maximum Price contracts without increasing anticipated pricing.
Effects on Existing Supply Chain Disruptions & Project Schedules
Though the construction industry has been facing significant supply chain disruptions unrelated to the tariffs, fluctuating tariffs have fueled concerns about prolonged supply chain issues and project delays.
To mitigate tariff impacts, some contractors are pre-purchasing materials and increasingly sourcing materials domestically, leading to a scarcity in American-made resources. These material shortages and longer lead times may become more common, impacting project schedules.
Contractors and owners may consider material substitutions and incorporation of longer lead times into project schedules to mitigate these challenges.
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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
April 11 - Construction Estimating Principles & Application
Great estimators know that to be competitive and competent in the current market their companies must continually be in search of an edge, asking the question, "How can we approach this project differently than our competition?" Sign Up Here
April 16 - Reading Construction Documents [Part 1]
From navigating title block information to combing through specification documents, participants will learn how to navigate a project and understand the material, construction requirements, and basics of reading construction documentation. Sign Up Here
April 16 - MBEX Spring Social
At this annual social, this MBEX event provides members the opportunity to mingle, network, and deepen connections with other industry professionals. We will also be joined by two special guest speakers: Todd Rapp & Sean Oyaas of Rapp Strategies. Register Here
April 17 - Online Plan Room Demo
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
April 17 - Reading Construction Documents [Part 2]
Part 2 of this online program taught by UChapter2.
May 1 & 2 - Minnesota Construction Teacher Conference
The MCTC engage secondary and post-secondary Career and Technical Education (CTE) educators of the construction trades in cutting-edge professional development supported by the industry. Learn More
May 6 - 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
May 7 - 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
May 7 - Young Professionals Network (YPN)
From college students, graduates and interns, to those just getting started within the construction industry, the MBEX Young Professionals Network creates a forum for emerging young professionals, providing resources to connect and begin networking. Register Now
May 8 - 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
May 26 - Memorial Day
MBEX will be closed in observance of the Memorial Day holiday.
June 4 - Member Appreciation BBQ
Join MBEX for a casual afternoon of Famous Dave's barbecue, cold beverages, a handful of door prizes, and great company and networking. Register Here
** June 17 - Twin Cities Golf Tournament
Gather a foursome of golfers for a day out on the greens at Oak Glen's course in Stillwater for a par-tee with MBEX, fellow members, coworkers, and clients, complete with a grilled lunch, 18-holes, happy hour, awards and door prize giveaways, and dinner. Register Here
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Five construction-related headlines you need to read over the next coffee break.
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TARIFFS
🔧 Tariffs to Hit HVAC, Plumbing Hard
The tariffs the Trump administration announced on April 2 will lead to higher costs on building materials and HVAC, plumbing, and electrical equipment --- all sectors of the economy integral to facilities operations, according to industry analyst estimates. Building material companies have either already raised prices in anticipation of tariffs or are slated to do so, and appliance makers like LG and Whirlpool are doing the same. (Facilities Dive)
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS
✒️ Trouble With Tariffs: Understanding the Impact on a Construction Contract
The tariffs enacted and proposed by the Trump administration have created a cause for concern among industries worldwide, and the construction sector is no exception. Imported goods are often essential to a construction project, and tariffs can have a dramatic effect on project costs and completion. Understanding the impact of these tariffs -- and proactively managing risks through properly drafted construction contracts --- can help parties on all sides of a project avoid financial difficulties and potential project delays. (J. D. Supra | Butler Snow LLP)
BUSINESS MATTERS
🗃️ The New Rules of Commercial Trades
Today, commercial trades are under pressure to deliver the kind of transparency and responsiveness that customers have come to expect from residential contractors. Residential businesses have spent over a decade perfecting practices like booking confirmations, real-time dispatch updates and reputation management. These practices aren't optional anymore --- they are how trust is built, and trust wins contracts. (Construction Business Owner)
WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION
🥊 The Battle to Bring Women into Construction Could Be Lost Under Trump
Under Biden, the Commerce Department announced its goal to bring a million women into construction jobs, and created a requirement that recipients of large federal grants for semiconductor manufacturing include a plan for child care. The administration had also passed two laws aimed at boosting infrastructure in the country, which created a demand for skilled workers. It was the perfect storm of opportunity and funding for the Chicago Women in Trades (CWIT) to expand their programming to bring more woman into the workforce. But when Donald Trump returned to the White House, the forward momentum collapsed almost overnight. He declared he would dismantle DEI initiatives in the government and create what he calls a color-blind, merit-based society. Two days later, CWIT received word that all of its federal grants were under review. These grants constitute 40% of CWIT's budget, and the loss would jeopardize the future of the nonprofit's work. (AZ Mirror)
CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
🌳 Cost of Lumber Rises to Highest Levels Since Covid Pandemic
In recent weeks, spot market prices for framing lumber were up 14.9% yearly. Prices have been rising due to three primary factors. First, seasonal activity with construction picking up in the spring increases demand for lumber. Second, expected tariffs on Canadian wood has led buyers to stock up, bumping up prices further. Third, concern over weaker demand and looming tariffs led two large lumber companies to slash sawmill production. (Building Design + Construction)
| | 'Innovation Hub' in Shakopee Up For State Bonding Money | | |
Read more on Finance & Commerce
The city of Shakopee and other project supporters want to build the Shakopee Innovation Hub, a 30,000-square-foot, $12-million project, on city-owned property at First Avenue West and Atwood Street in downtown Shakopee.
This new regional business hub would be unlike anything else in Minnesota and could be under construction as soon as next year, but the project hinges on getting funding support from the state.
Among the project partners are Minnesota State University, Mankato, a Minneapolis-based business accelerator program called Beta, the Shakopee Chamber of Commerce, and a group of companies called FounderyMN.
The idea behind the Innovation Hub is to revitalize "Minnesota's entrepreneurial landscape" by "accelerating small business growth and workforce development across Shakopee, Scott County, and six neighboring counties," according to a project narrative.
The city hopes to land $4-million in state bonding money for the project. Additional funding sources would include $2.5-million in federal money and $5.5-million in local support. The state funding bill is being considered for possible inclusion in a state bonding bill.
| | ABOVE PHOTO: Rendering by Gensler of the proposed 30,000-square-foot, $12-million Shakopee Innovation Hub project. | | |
4th Annual CERT Connect Small Business Open House
Presented by Ramsey County
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DATE: Thursday, April 10
TIME: 8:00am-10:30am
LOCATION: Ramsey County Public Works Facility - 1425 Paul Kirkwood Drive, Arden Hills, Minn., 55112
COST: Free - registration is required
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Join Ramsey County at their open house to expand your network, discover new opportunities, and position your business for future success.
This is the perfect opportunity for small business owners to connect with Ramsey County staff and partners involved in construction and development.
Attendees are encouraged to bring business cards and company information to share with representatives from departments like Public Works, Economic Development, and Parks & Recreation. Partners such as the University of Minnesota, Ryan Companies, Frana Construction, St. Paul Port Authority, City of Maplewood, City of Roseville, Habitat for Humanity, and others will also be present to discuss exciting projects like The Heights Development and Rice Creek Commons.
The Central Certification Program (CERT) is dedicated to helping small businesses succeed by streamlining access to jobs and contracts with participating counties and cities. This event is open to all small businesses, even if they are not certified.
| | Benefit of the Week: 401(k) MEP Program with BLD Connection | | |
We 100% get it --- this past week, just glancing at the stock market ticker or hearing someone utter the words "stocks," "market," or --- (dare we even say it) --- "recession" can spike your blood pressure.
The recent tariff announcements and the market's rollercoaster reaction have left many of us wondering: Is my retirement plan okay?
| | Here's where BLD Connection and their 401(k) Multiple Employer Plan (MEP) steps in with some much-needed peace of mind. | | | |
Professional Management
• You're not navigating the market ups and downs alone. The MEP gives you access to experienced fiduciaries and financial advisors who are focused on long-term strategy --- not short-term panic.
Cost Efficiency
• By joining forces with other MBEX members, you benefit from economies of scale, often resulting in lower fees compared to a standalone plan.
Reduced Administrative Burden
• Let's be honest --- compliance and reporting are nobody's favorite pastime. This program lifts much of that weight off your shoulders.
Support When It Matters
• Whether the markets are booming or bumpy, BLD Connection is here with tools, education, and guidance to help out and your team stay on track.
In times like these, a smart, collaborative retirement plan isn't just a benefit --- it's a lifeline. If you're looking to offer more security and support to your employees (and yourself), BLD Connection's MEP is a strong place to start.
Want to learn more? Contact Dan Gardner at (612) 743-4961 or dgardner@osaicwealth.com.
You can also visit www.bldconnection.org (look under 'Insurance & Employee Benefits Programs').
| | PROJECT INFORMATION + UPDATES | | |
• Total Projects Received at MBEX from 3/31/2025 - 4/4/2025: 99
• Total Project Leads Reported on at MBEX from 3/31/2025 - 4/4/2025: 16
• Total Active Projects Received / Reported on at MBEX as of 4/8/2025: 434
• Total New Projects in the Online Plan Room as of 4/8/2025: 1,790
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 4/2/2025 - 4/8/2025.
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
• April 11 - Construction Estimating Principles & Application [Online Course]
• April 16 & 17 - Reading Construction Documents [2-Day Online Course]
• April 16 - MBEX Spring Social
• April 17 - Online Plan Room Demo
• May 1 - Minnesota Construction Teachers Conference
• May 6 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
• May 7 - Bluebeam 2: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
• May 7 - Young Professionals Network (YPN) Networking Event
• May 8 - Bluebeam 3: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
• May 15 - Online Plan Room Demo
• May 26 - Memorial Day - MBEX Closed
• June 4 - Member Appreciation BBQ
• June 17 - Twin Cities Golf Tournament
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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; 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 for MBEX
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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