August 10, 2026

Dear Members and Friends of SLC3,

This past weekend, I had the joy of hosting my daughter's baby shower. In just a couple of months, our family will welcome a girl, and it reminded me how quickly life moves—and how important it is to prepare the next generation.

That feeling carries over into the work we do every day.

The longer I do this work, the more I want to share what I've learned, provide meaningful training, and help others grow. There always seems to be another challenge to solve, another topic to discuss, another opportunity to strengthen our workforce and our workplace culture.

That's why I encourage you to spend a few minutes with the articles in this month's newsletter. They touch on important issues facing our workforce today, but more importantly, they offer ideas, resources, and practical steps YOU can put into action.

As an organization, we're always looking at the bigger picture across our region. We know the challenges. We hear your concerns. And behind the scenes, we're working with partners to help create solutions that move us forward.

Our promise has always been to provide value—not just information, but education, best practices and resources that help our members and region succeed. That commitment hasn't changed.

Everything we do is guided by our four organizational pillars: Innovation, Education, Equity & Empowerment, and Collaboration. Those aren't just words on a page—they're the reason we're here and the lens through which we approach every program, partnership and initiative.

If those values resonate with you and you're not yet a member, I'd encourage you to consider joining us. Ask yourself: Am I connected to an organization that's not only talking about the future of our workforce, but actively helping shape it?

And while you're thinking about getting involved, don't forget to register for our upcoming events. They're a great way to learn, connect with others and be part of the conversations that are making a difference across our region.

Thank you for being part of this community. Together, we're building something that will benefit not only today's workforce, but the generations that follow.

Warmly,

Kelly

Kelly Jackson

Executive Director

St. Louis Council of Construction Consumers (SLC3)

"Together, we're building the workforce our future deserves."

AT A GLANCE...

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

News & Updates

Don't Be SLC3's Best-Kept Secret

The Visionaries Behind St. Louis Centre

KIDstruction Week 2026 Raises $1 Million+ for St. Louis Children’s Hospital

Training & Education

AI: Did You Know?

Leadership Isn't a Title-It's a Daily Habit

Leadership Connect Series Kickoff

Evolving Equity: Building Opportunity Through Inclusive Partnerships

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LAST CHANCE TO PICK UP ORGANIZATION

BAG OF TRICKS!

On the Go: Organization and Life Hacks

Ready to simplify your schedule, clear the clutter and approach life with greater intention?

Join SLC3 on Thursday, August 13, for an engaging lunch program with coach Dawn Baumgartner. Dawn will share practical organization strategies and life hacks designed to help attendees break down complex challenges, overcome barriers and navigate change with confidence.

Networking begins at 11 a.m., followed by lunch and the program at 11:30 a.m. at Bristol Seafood Grill in Creve Coeur. Registration is $50 for SLC3 members and $70 for guests.

Why it matters to SLC3 members: Construction professionals balance demanding schedules, evolving projects and competing priorities every day. This program offers useful tools to reduce overwhelm, work more intentionally and create greater clarity both professionally and personally.

Thursday, August 13 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Bristol Seafood Grill | 11801 Olive Blvd., Creve Coeur

JOIN US: Winning projects requires more than technical expertise—it takes the confidence to communicate your ideas, influence decisions and build lasting trust.

Join SLC3 for Constructing Communication Confidence: Win the Room Before You Win the Work, a high-impact, interactive session featuring executive communication coach Dallas Amsden, SLC3’s most requested speaker.

Dallas will share proven strategies to help you present with clarity, manage nerves under pressure and make your message memorable in every room you enter.

You’ll leave ready to:

Speak confidently in high-stakes meetings and presentations
Present your ideas with clarity and impact
Build trust through authentic communication
Stand out during interviews and project pursuits
Communicate in ways people remember—and act on

Event Details:

Thursday, August 27, 2026

Greenbriar Hills Country Club

12665 Big Bend Blvd.

Kirkwood, MO 63122

Schedule:

7:30 a.m. — Registration

8:00 a.m. — Plated breakfast

8:00–10:00 a.m. — Program

Registration:

SLC3 Members: $65

Non-Members: $80

Whether you’re presenting to a client, leading a meeting or pursuing your next project, stronger communication can help you become a stronger leader—and win the work.

Join us for 2nd Friday Coffee & Networking at JEMA—a relaxed morning designed to help you make new connections, exchange ideas and build opportunities with fellow industry professionals.

📅 Friday, September 11

⏰ 7:30–9:00 AM

📍 JEMA | 2823 Olive St., St. Louis, MO 63103

🎟️ Free event—registration required

Start your morning with great coffee and even better conversation.

Don't Be SLC3's Best-Kept Secret

You joined SLC3 because you believe in the power of relationships, collaboration, and community.

But here’s a question:

If our members don’t know what you do, how can they refer you, hire you, partner with you, or support your business?

Every month, SLC3 provides opportunities to put your expertise in front of one of the most engaged audiences you’ll find.

You can:

Take the stage as a program speaker.
Sponsor an event and showcase your organization.
Share your knowledge in the SLC3 newsletter.
Promote your company’s job openings.
Celebrate milestones, innovations, and success stories.

These aren’t advertisements—they’re opportunities to contribute, educate, and lead.

The strongest brands aren’t built by staying busy behind the scenes. They’re built by consistently showing up, sharing value, and becoming a familiar, trusted name.

Here’s the truth:

The Visionaries Behind St. Louis Centre

St. Louis Centre was far more than another shopping mall—it was one of the most ambitious urban redevelopment projects undertaken in America during the 1980s.

Conceived as the centerpiece of downtown St. Louis’ revival, it represented a partnership between some of the biggest names in retail, architecture, and construction.

The Developers

The project was spearheaded by The May Department Stores Company, whose Famous-Barr flagship occupied the historic Railway Exchange Building. Rather than abandon downtown for the suburbs, May believed the city’s retail heart could be restored.

To make that vision a reality, May partnered with Melvin Simon & Associates, then one of the nation’s leading shopping center developers (now Simon Property Group).

Together, they developed a $176 million enclosed urban shopping mall that would connect Famous-Barr with the former Stix, Baer & Fuller building (later Dillard’s), creating what was promoted as the largest enclosed urban shopping center in America.

The Architects

J.F. Electric Welcomes Kevin Nesselhauf as Director of Mission Critical

SLC3 is pleased to congratulate Kevin Nesselhauf on joining J.F. Electric, Incorporated as its new Director of Mission Critical. Kevin brings valuable leadership and experience to this growing area of the company and will help lead mission-critical operations, strengthen customer partnerships, and support the continued expansion of J.F. Electric’s capabilities.

We’re always excited to celebrate the people and companies within the SLC3 community who are growing, taking on new challenges, and helping move our industry forward.

Congratulations to Kevin and the entire J.F. Electric team on this exciting new chapter!

NEWS & UPDATES

KIDstruction Week 2026 Raises $1 Million+ for St. Louis Children’s Hospital

The St. Louis built environment community came together in an incredible way for KIDstruction Week 2026.

During this year’s campaign, 210 companies and more than 2,300 tradespeople and employees raised more than $1 million for St. Louis Children’s Hospital, helping support the patients and families who turn to the hospital for expert care and hope when they need it most.

Congratulations to KIDstruction Week Chair Nick Arb, Co-Chair Jenn Abbott, and the thousands of individuals throughout our industry who helped make this remarkable achievement possible.

🎥 Watch the KIDstruction 2026 video

SLC3 Supports Regional Growth Through Collaboration

Economic development is a team effort, and SLC3 is committed to being part of the conversations that shape the future of the St. Louis region.

This week, Executive Director Kelly Jackson and Membership Engagement Manager Morgan McDevitt attended the St. Charles County Economic Development Council's Sixth Annual Awards Luncheon, joining business, civic, and community leaders to celebrate the organizations, projects, and partnerships driving growth throughout St. Charles County.

Events like these strengthen the relationships that fuel investment, innovation, and opportunity across our region. As the voice of construction consumers, SLC3 values every opportunity to connect with economic development partners whose work directly impacts the design, construction, and built environment.

By engaging with leaders across the region, SLC3 continues to advocate for collaboration, support our members, and help build a stronger future for the entire St. Louis metropolitan area.

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT: Steel Rises at Mascoutah High School Expansion

Construction is reaching a significant milestone at Mascoutah High School as structural steel is now being installed for the school's 65,000-square-foot, multi-phase addition and renovation. Led by Poettker Construction in partnership with FGM Architects, the project will deliver expanded academic, athletic, and student-focused spaces designed to support future generations of learners.

As the steel frame takes shape, the project is becoming a visible example of how thoughtful planning, collaboration, and investment in education are transforming communities across the region.

For SLC3 members, it's another reminder of the critical role the design and construction industry plays in creating facilities that will serve students, educators, and families for decades to come.

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT: Rollick Breaks Ground in Downtown West

Holland Construction Services recently celebrated the groundbreaking of Rollick, a six-story, 74-unit mixed-use development in Downtown St. Louis.

The milestone marks another important investment in the continued growth of Downtown West and reflects the collaboration of the city, design team, builders, public partners and development partners who helped bring the project to life.

Projects like Rollick are especially meaningful to the SLC3 community because they demonstrate what’s possible when our region’s construction, design and development professionals work together to strengthen St. Louis. We’re excited to watch Rollick take shape and contribute new energy to Downtown West.

Congratulations to Holland Construction Services and everyone involved in reaching this exciting milestone!

AI: Did You Know?

AI isn't just for writing emails.

You can take a picture of:

A handwritten note
A whiteboard after a meeting
A receipt
A spreadsheet
A piece of equipment

...and ask AI to explain it, organize it, summarize it, or even create a to-do list from it.

Imagine saving 30 minutes every day just by taking a picture.

Leadership Isn't a Title-It's a Daily Habit

Why the strongest leaders start practicing leadership long before the promotion.

The construction industry often talks about developing leaders as if leadership begins the day someone receives a promotion. The reality is much different. Leadership isn’t something that suddenly appears with a new business card or office. It’s built every day through consistent habits long before someone has direct reports.

Every project offers opportunities to lead. Sometimes it’s helping a teammate solve a problem. Sometimes it’s taking ownership of a mistake before someone else finds it. Other times it’s communicating clearly with a customer or stepping in to support a coworker who’s overwhelmed.

These moments may seem small, but they become the foundation of leadership.

One of the biggest challenges organizations face is promoting excellent technical performers into leadership roles without ever helping them develop the people skills the position demands. Technical ability may earn the opportunity, but communication, emotional intelligence, accountability, and trust determine long-term success.

Future leaders should ask themselves a few simple questions every day:

Did I make someone’s job easier today?
Did I communicate clearly?
Did I own my responsibilities without excuses?
Did I help solve problems instead of pointing out problems?
Did I leave my team better than I found it?

These aren’t management questions—they’re leadership questions.

Leadership Connect Series

Leadership Foundations: Great Leaders Are Built, Not Born

Leadership is often associated with titles, authority, or years of experience. In reality, leadership begins long before a promotion. It starts with the daily choices we make—how we communicate, support our teammates, solve problems, and respond to challenges.

At its core, leadership is influence. Every employee can positively influence the people around them, regardless of their position. Whether you’re leading a project, mentoring a new coworker, or simply setting a positive example, you’re demonstrating leadership.

The strongest leaders understand that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about creating an environment where others can succeed. They listen before speaking, ask thoughtful questions, encourage collaboration, and remain open to learning from others.

One of the most important foundations of leadership is self-awareness. Effective leaders know their strengths, recognize areas for growth, and actively seek feedback. They understand how their actions affect those around them and continually work to improve.

Another essential quality is integrity. Trust is earned through consistency. When leaders follow through on commitments, communicate honestly, and treat others with respect, they build credibility that inspires confidence.

Leadership also requires adaptability. Every day brings new challenges, changing priorities, and unexpected obstacles. Successful leaders remain flexible, maintain a positive outlook, and focus on solutions instead of problems.

Perhaps most importantly, great leaders invest in people.

They celebrate successes, provide encouragement during difficult moments, and create opportunities for others to grow. Leadership isn’t measured by personal achievements—it’s measured by the success of the team.

Remember, leadership is not a destination. It’s a lifelong journey of learning, growing, and helping others reach their full potential.

Every conversation, every decision, and every interaction is an opportunity to lead.

Leadership in Action

This week, look for one opportunity each day to practice intentional leadership. Consider:

Encourage a teammate for a job well done.
Volunteer to help solve a problem.
Ask someone for their perspective before offering your own.
Give constructive feedback with kindness and respect.
Take ownership of a challenge instead of waiting for someone else to step in.

Small actions create lasting impact.

Key Takeaways

✔ Leadership is influence—not a job title.

✔ Self-awareness is the foundation of personal growth.

✔ Trust is built through integrity and consistency.

✔ Great leaders focus on solutions, not obstacles.

✔ Leadership is about helping others succeed.

✔ Every employee has opportunities to lead every day.

Reflection Question

Think about someone who has positively influenced your career.

What qualities made them an effective leader, and how can you demonstrate one of those qualities this week?

This Week's Challenge

Choose one intentional leadership action to complete this week.

Examples:

Recognize a coworker for their contributions.
Ask for feedback on your communication or teamwork.
Help someone learn a new skill.
Volunteer to lead part of a meeting or project.
Take initiative on a task without being asked.

At the end of the week, reflect on one question:

How did your actions positively influence someone else?

Quote of the Week

"Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge."

— Simon Sinek

Evolving Equity: Building Opportunity Through Inclusive Partnerships

The conversation around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion has changed dramatically over the past few years. Many organizations have restructured or eliminated dedicated DEI roles, leaving professionals across industries wondering what comes next.

In the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, the answer may not be to abandon the work, but to evolve it.

Our projects shape communities for generations. That responsibility extends beyond the buildings and infrastructure we create—it includes how we engage people, develop talent, and cultivate partnerships. Equity is not simply about representation; it is about creating fair access to opportunity.

For many firms, this means broadening the focus from DEI programs to Equity Empowerment. It means ensuring that qualified minority-, women-, veteran-, and small-owned businesses have meaningful opportunities to compete, collaborate, and grow.

It means mentoring emerging firms, fostering transparent procurement practices, and investing in relationships that strengthen the entire project team.

Inclusive partnerships are not about lowering standards—they are about expanding opportunity while maintaining excellence. By intentionally engaging a broader network of qualified partners, we bring new perspectives, strengthen community relationships, and contribute to a more resilient regional economy.

This is especially meaningful in regions like St. Louis, where history continues to influence access to opportunity. Our industry has the ability—and the responsibility—to help build pathways that support long-term economic growth and stronger communities.

CALL FOR COMMITTEE MEMBERS? TIME TO HELP...

Much of the work we do is driven by member volunteers, and right now our committees could use a few more voices and helping hands. Committee service offers an opportunity to influence priorities, collaborate with peers, and support initiatives that impact the industry and our region. If you’re willing to get involved—even in a small way—we invite you to sign up.

Committee Info

HELP US KEEP THE PICTURE CURRENT

The construction and development landscape across the region continues to move quickly—and keeping our information accurate and relevant matters.

We’ve recently updated our construction and development listings to reflect new projects, changes in scope, and activity across the greater St. Louis area. These updates help ensure that our members have access to timely, useful insight into what’s being built, redeveloped, and planned throughout the region.

That said, no one has a better pulse on what’s happening than the people working in it every day. If you’re aware of a project that’s underway, planned, or evolving—or if you notice something that needs to be updated—we invite you to share it with us. Your input helps strengthen the resource for everyone.

Keeping this information current is a collaborative effort, and we appreciate your help in making it as accurate and valuable as possible.

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Have something to share? Reach out anytime—we’re always glad to hear from you.

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SLC3 2026 Officers:

Michael Hargrave (BJC Health) - President

Vince Nutt, (BJC Health)- 1st Vice President

Mark Flannery (Bayer), 2nd Vice President

Tiffanie Toles, (Kwame Building Group)

Secretary

Danielle Thomas (Hazelwood SD), Treasurer

Frank Niemerg (Ameren), Immediate Past President

Kelly Jackson, Executive Director

Visit Officers & Board

DON'T FORGET: If you are a member of the SLC3 you can access all our members in the InfoHub. Make sure to login and regularly check it out!

BJC HealthCare Hiring Senior Project Manager – PD&C

BJC HealthCare is seeking an experienced Senior Project Manager – Planning, Design & Construction (PD&C) to help lead complex healthcare construction projects throughout the St. Louis region.

This full-time position operates in an owner’s-representative project management role, overseeing projects from schematic design through closeout and working closely with architects, engineers, consultants, vendors and hospital facilities teams.

The position is remote with a preference for candidates in the St. Louis region and calls for 5–10 years of experience, with construction experience required and healthcare experience preferred. The posted salary range is $83,865.60–$136,593.60 annually, based on qualifications and relevant experience.

For SLC3 members and industry professionals, this is an opportunity to bring construction and project leadership expertise to one of the region’s largest healthcare organizations while helping deliver facilities that directly serve our community.

Interested in learning more or applying? Visit BJC Careers and search Req ID 113486 – Project Manager, PD&C – SR.