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Issue No. 4 • Wednesday, January 29, 2025 • www.mbex.org

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Fun Fact: Sixty-seven years ago today, the first patent for the iconic 2x4 LEGO brick was filed by Godtfred Kirk Christiansen. Now, if someone shared they had never once in their life played with LEGOs, I'd have a really, really, reeeally hard time believing them. I mean, I STILL play with Legos (those Star Wars kits are pretty cool, folks 😜). | | |
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By Ashlee
Membership & Communications Manager
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Five Quick Things To Know / Do This Week:
1.) FINAL REMINDER: Okay, folks, this is it. The grace period is over. This is our final weekly reminder to renew your MBEX membership for 2025. If you haven't done so by January 31 (this Friday), your company's access to the Online Plan Room will be turned off and you'll stop receiving this wonderful weekly newsletter. Call Julie at (612) 381-2627 today!
2.) CELEBRATE: Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) is celebrating its 75-year anniversary this year (the organization officially turns 75 on June 1, 2025). Happy (early) Anniversary, ABC!
3.) BEEF UP SECURITY: Today is National Data Privacy Day. Make sure your company's data is safe and out of harm's way.
4.) ICYMI: Boldt has launched Bildt, a modular and prefabrication manufacturer, in response to interest from facility owners, general contractors, and architects who want to reduce project costs and increase speed to market.
5.) SHARE: Frontdoor, in partnership with BlueRecruit, has launched a new trade school scholarship program. Open to students nationwide, scholarships will be awarded based on the applicants' demonstrated commitment to the industry --- including acceptance and enrollment in a trade school, a letter of recommendation, and a video essay. Selected students will be awarded funds specific to their education and degree progress.
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Inside This Issue:
• Next Week: Meet The Estimators with MBEX, MCA, and MSA
• How Many?: Anticipated demand for construction services in 2025, per ABC report
• New Members: Meet the companies who joined in December
• Member Meetups: We're hitting the road to connect with you
• MBEX Events: Join us in February at an upcoming event
• NOW HIRING: Berwald Roofing seeks commercial roofing estimator / project manager
• Five Headlines: Architecture billings remain flat, apprenticeships expand access to living wages, complying with OSHA's new PPE standard; plus two more
• Project of the Week: High school 'activity centers' planned for Apple Valley
• Industry Event: Construction Meet & Eat in Duluth on February 7
• Member Benefit: Circle K's fleet fueling program
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NEXT WEEK: Meet the Estimators+ | |
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Join us, together with the Minnesota Construction Association (MCA) and Minnesota Subcontractors Association (MSA), for an opportunity that is bringing together construction professionals for an exclusive networking event.

• DATE: Wednesday, February 5
• TIME: 2:00pm - 5:00pm
• LOCATION: Gresser Companies (3 Checkered Flag Blvd, Shakopee, Minn., 55379)
• COST: MBEX / MCA / MSA Members - Free | Non-Members - $15
This is a unique chance to meet estimators from General and Prime Contractors, gain valuable insights into their bidding and procurement processes, and learn best practices for successfully doing business with them.
Here are the General Contractors and Professional / Subcontractors attending (as of January 28):

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- Ancoats
- Boldt
- Donlar Construction
- Doran
- Greiner
- Greystone Construction
- JE Dunn
- Kraus-Anderson
- Knutson Construction

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- Loeffler Construction
- Market & Johnson
- Mavo Systems
- McGough
- Mortenson
- PCL Construction
- RJM Construction
- Sun Control of Minnesota
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There are also opportunities for a company to market and promote their business as an exhibitor and to become an event sponsor.

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How Many New Workers Will Construction Need in 2025 & 2026? | |
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To meet anticipated demand for construction services, the construction industry will need to attract 439,000 net new workers in 2025, according to a proprietary model developed and released on January 24, 2025, by Associated Builders and Contractors.
In 2026, the industry will need to bring in 499,000 new workers as spending picks up in response to presumed lower interest rates.
If the industry fails to attract this number of workers, industrywide labor cost escalation will accelerate, exacerbating already high construction costs and reducing the volume of work that is financially feasible, according to Anirban Basu, ABC's Chief Economist.
ABC's model uses the historical relationship between inflation-adjusted construction spending growth, sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau's Construction Put in Place Survey, and payroll construction employment, sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, to convert anticipated increases in construction outlays into demand for construction workers at a rate of approximately 3,550 jobs per billion dollars of additional spending.
The model also incorporates the current level of job openings, unemployment, and projected industry retirements and exits into its computations.

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NEW MEMBERS: Look Who Joined in December | |
Before the first month of 2025 is over, please join us in giving a warm welcome to the companies who became members of the Exchange throughout the month of December: | |
Network with MBEX Across Minnesota | |
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This February and March, MBEX is hitting the road to bring networking opportunities directly to you.
We're hosting four casual member meetups across Minnesota, and you're invited to join us for great food, drinks, and even better company.

ROCHESTER
• Tuesday, February 11
• Little Thistle Brewing (2031 14th St NW, Rochester, Minn., 55901)
DULUTH
• Tuesday, February 18
• Mr. D's Bar & Grill (5622 Grand Avenue, Duluth, Minn., 55807)
FARGO / MOORHEAD
• Tuesday, February 25
• Midtown Tavern (2223 Center Avenue, Moorhead, Minn., 56560)
ST. CLOUD
• Tuesday, March 4
• Crooked Pint Ale House (58 Division Street, Waite Park, Minn., 56387)
Partnering with The Builders Group (TBG), the Minnesota Concrete Council, the Electrical Association, and Builders Exchange of Rochester (for Rochester meetup only), these events are the perfect chance to connect with industry professionals, learn about MBEX membership, and meet our team in a casual atmosphere.

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Enjoy a short safety talk by TBG, free appetizers and drinks, prize giveaways, and interactive games. All meetups will be hosted from 3:00pm-6:00pm.
Invite your colleagues—members and non-members alike—and help spread the word about the benefits of MBEX membership and services for the commercial construction industry.
While all of these meetups are free to attend, we kindly ask that you register in advance so we can plan for food and drinks.

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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 event
February 3 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
Attendees will learn interface navigation including menu dropdowns, toolbars, various tool panels, keyboard shortcuts and a few recommended settings. Register Here
February 4 - 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
February 5 - 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
February 5 - Meet the Estimators
Meet and engage with estimators from General and Prime Contractors and gain valuable insights into their bidding and procurement processes. Register Here
February 10 - Bluebeam 4: Document Management & Best Practices
Eliminate wasted time navigating through drawing sets and wondering who has the latest drawings. Register Here
February 11 - Bluebeam 5: Collecting Field Data
Learn to create and place custom punch symbols, quickly embed images or videos, and create summary reports. Register Here
February 11 - MBEX Regional Member Meetup: Rochester
Join us together with The Builders Group (TBG), the Minnesota Concrete Council, and the Electrical Association, and the Builders Exchange of Rochester for a casual gathering with food, drinks, and networking. Register Here
February 12 - Bluebeam 6: Administrative Professionals
Administrative teams have unique document workflows that demand a different set of tools compared to design and construction teams. Register Here
February 13 - Bluebeam 7: Civil Workflows
Yes, there are tools in Bluebeam Revu for Civil Designers and Engineers! Students will learn navigation and markups, flows 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
February 18 - MBEX Regional Member Meetup: Duluth
Join us together with The Builders Group (TBG), the Minnesota Concrete Council, and the Electrical Association for a casual gathering with food, drinks, and networking. Register Here
February 20 - 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 Now
February 25 - MBEX Regional Member Meetup: Fargo / Moorhead
Join us together with The Builders Group (TBG), the Minnesota Concrete Council, and the Electrical Association for a casual gathering with food, drinks, and networking. Register Here
March 4 - MBEX Regional Member Meetup: St. Cloud
Join us together with The Builders Group (TBG), the Minnesota Concrete Council, and the Electrical Association for a casual gathering with food, drinks, and networking. Register Here

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Berwald Roofing Company is looking for a detail-oriented and motivated professional to fill the role of Commercial Roofing Estimator / Project Manager. | |
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In this dual role, this position will be responsible for estimating project costs and managing the execution of roofing projects from start to finish. Their expertise in commercial roofing and project management will ensure that Berwald Roofing's projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
Key Responsibilities
- Accurately estimate the costs and materials needed for commercial roofing projects
- Prepare detailed project proposals and bids
- Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources
- See Job Posting for full listing of position's key responsibilities
Qualifications
- 5-years of proven experience as a Commercial Roofing Estimator and/or Project Manager
- In-depth knowledge of commercial roofing systems and materials
- Strong analytical and mathematical skills
- Excellent communication and negotiation abilities
- Proficient in project management and estimating software
- See Job Posting for full listing of desired qualifications
To Apply
Please send your resume and cover letter to info@berwaldroofing.com with the subject line "Commercial Roofing Estimator / Project Manager Application."

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Berwald Roofing Company prides themselves on delivering exceptional roofing solutions to their clients. Their dedication to quality and innovation has made them a trusted name in the industry.
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Five construction-related headlines you need to read over the next coffee break.
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ECONOMIC REPORT
🤔 Architecture Billings Remain Flat, Inquiries Provide Hope
Architecture firms reported a decline in billings in December as the AIA Architecture Billings Index fell to 44.1. The stable level of billings seen in October and November stalled and headed down again to end 2024. (Inside Lighting)
LABOR & WORKFORCE
💰 Registered Apprenticeships Expand Access to Living Wages for Millions
A new study commissioned by the U.S. Department of Labor has revealed that registered apprenticeship programs --- career training alternatives to college in which enrollment has doubled over the past decade --- dramatically increase the ability of participants to afford basic needs in their communities, with union-affiliated programs delivering the biggest gains across all occupational sectors. (Contractor Magazine)
JOBSITE SAFETY
🦺 How to Comply with OSHA's New PPE Standard
At first glance, the rule seems pretty straightforward. Experts say it is, with a few caveats. During the open comment period, legal experts and construction employers took issue with the standard requiring gear to "properly fit," as they found that term tough to define. So, does "proper fit" mean comfort? Most effectively safe fit? And what about universal fit items? (Construction Dive)
SUSTAINABILITY
🪸 From Giant Lego-Style Bricks to Artificial Reefs, How the Construction Industry is Using Tech to Tackle Climate Change
Engin Yesil began manufacturing Renco (short for "renewable composite"), consisting of up to 40% repurposed materials including resin and fiberglass, after a spate of thefts of stolen manhole covers for scrap metal in Turkey. Since 2011 more than 200 buildings in Turkey have been built using Renco blocks, which fit together like Lego bricks and are secured with glue. (CNBC)
BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING (BIM)
⛪ How Did BIM Help Notre-Dame Rise From the Ashes?
The 3D BIM model was created through a combination of laser scanning, photogrammetry, and drone footage, taking over a year to complete. This effort resulted in a detailed 3D BIM model of Notre-Dame's structure as it appeared before the fire. The model was essential in addressing three major challenges: facilitating collaboration among more than 200 companies and 2,000 individuals involved in the project, meeting the ambitious five-year restoration timeline, and overcoming the limited documentation of the cathedral's original design. (Arch Daily)
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High School 'Activity Centers' Up for Approval in Apple Valley | |
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Read more on Finance & Commerce

Two new facilities for high school academics, arts and athletics are up for review in Apple Valley, the first of four new "activity centers" coming to the local school district with proceeds from a 2023 bond referendum that funded nearly $500-million worth of construction.
The Apple Valley City Council will consider site plan approvals for both buildings. Included in the plans are an 86,621-square-foot facility at Apple Valley High School, and an 87,400-square-foot center at Eastview High School.
Both buildings will support "academic, arts and athletic activities at the schools, as well as use by community groups," according to the Independent School District 196.
The school district is working with Wold Architects & Engineers on design and Knutson on construction for both projects.
The Eastview building will rise on part of a 57-acre site at 6200 140th Street West in Apple Valley. Located in the northwest corner of the property, the activity center will include gym space, multi-purpose rooms and a walking deck.
At Apple Valley High School, 14450 Hayes Road, a similar new building will occupy part of a 75.6-acre campus, which also includes the high school, ball fields, a stadium, and "several other school operation amenities," according to a city staff report.
The staff report reveals that a 1,680-square-foot skyway will connect the new Apple Valley activity center with the high school, "essentially making them the same building."
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PICTURED ABOVE: A rendering of the planned activity center at Apple Valley High School by Wold Architects & Engineers. | |
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UMD Construction Meet & Eat
Presented by University of Minnesota Duluth - Office for Supplier Diversity
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DATE: Friday, February 7
TIME: 12:00pm - 1:30pm
LOCATION: James S. Malosky Stadium (1336 University Drive, Duluth, Minn. 55812)
COST: Free!
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Connect with key players in the construction industry!
This is an exclusive opportunity to network with Prime Contractors, Diverse Suppliers, and UMD Construction Project Managers and Facilities Management.
Explore collaboration opportunities, build valuable relationships, and engage with experts shaping future construction projects. Come expand your network, contribute to upcoming ventures, and enjoy lunch provided by the Office for Supplier Diversity.
Free parking is available as well.
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Benefit of the Week: Save on Fuel with Circle K Pro | |
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Whether your fleet is small or large, Circle K Pro has you covered.
MBEX Members can save 30-cents off every gallon of fuel for the first 90 days, then 7-cents off every gallon after that, when signing up for a Circle K Pro card.
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Fleet Card Essentials
• Save on every gallon fueled at Circle K --- fuel more and save more.
• Get your drivers to save more with in-store perks.
• No annual or monthly card fees.
• Customer experience support team based in the U.S.
In-Store Perks
• Driver loyalty program for additional savings.
• Refreshing, ice cold Polar Pop.
• Proudly serving America's best coffee.
• Exclusive driver discounts on drinks and food in-store.
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Security & Control
• Odometer and driver PIN prompt at pump.
• Daily / weekly spending limits.
• Driver card limits --- control spend by card.
• API integration with several telematics partners.
• Eliminate collecting paper fuel receipts.
• Itemized list of daily driver purchases.
• Real-time employee spend tracking.

Customer Experience & Service
• Access to 24 / 7 online fleet management tool.
• Customizable fleet reporting and expense tracking.
• Easy online account management.
• Convenient online bill payment.
With over 6,000+ company owned and operated Circle K locations across the United States, Circle K Pro has a dedicated network of business fueling experts ready to support you, whether it is along the route of in the office.
For more information or to sign up, contact Brian Korb, MBEX's accounts representative, at (984) 389-1759 or brian.korb@circlek.com.
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PROJECT INFORMATION + UPDATES | |
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• Total Projects Received at MBEX from 1/20/2025 - 1/24/2025: 114
• Total Project Leads Reported on at MBEX from 1/20/2025 - 1/24/20254: 11
• Total Active Projects Received / Reported on at MBEX as of 1/28/2025: 430
• Total New Projects in the Online Plan Room as of 1/28/2025: 432
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 1/22/2025 - 1/28/2025.
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
• February 3 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
• February 4 - Bluebeam 2: Materials Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
• February 5 - Bluebeam 3: Materials Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
• February 5 - Meet the Estimators
• February 10 - Bluebeam 4: Document Management & Best Practices
• February 11 - Bluebeam 5: Collecting Field Data
• February 11 - Regional Member Meetup: Rochester
• February 12 - Bluebeam 6: Administrative Professionals
• February 13 - Bluebeam 7: Civil Workflows
• February 18 - Regional Member Meetup: Duluth
• February 20 - Online Plan Room Demo
• February 25 - Regional Member Meetup: Fargo / Moorhead
• March 4 - Regional Member Meetup: St. Cloud
• April 16 - MBEX Spring Social
• May 7 - Young Professionals Network (YPN) Networking Event
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Connect with the Builders Exchange: | |
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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, 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, Grazzini Brothers & Company; 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 & IT; Shauna Baska, Peggy Esboldt, Madison Gentil, Michelle Siegel & Ka Yang - 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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