Dear Readers,
I am focusing on a positive outlook and hoping to inspire you as well.
Finding Opportunity When the Road Gets Rocky
They say when one door closes, another one opens. Sometimes, it’s not the door you expected—but it may lead to something better. In challenging or uncertain times, it’s easy to focus on what’s dim. But if we shift our perspective, we may find entirely new paths opening up—paths that allow more small businesses to flourish and create a stronger, more inclusive industry.
One thing I hear repeatedly from both buyers and providers of design and construction is that it’s all about relationships. Absolutely. But here’s the truth: before a relationship can grow, there must be opportunity, acceptance, and initiative—from both sides.
At SLC3, we are fully committed to building opportunities and providing resources to all organizations in our membership. Our members have the ability to meet just about every business need in our industry. But initiative is key—you have to show up.
Relationships don’t bloom overnight or after one handshake. They’re like a garden—you have to water it, tend it, and nurture it. And if a garden isn’t thriving where it’s planted, sometimes it’s time to plant it somewhere else. There are always other opportunities waiting to be cultivated.
The truth is, there is so much opportunity within the SLC3 to connect, collaborate, and learn—but we can’t help you if we don’t hear from you. So, tell us:
· What could we do for you?
· What do you want to learn more about?
· What events would you like to see us host?
And while you’re thinking about that—look at our current calendar. Mark those dates. Block your time. Don’t let “something else” take priority over your own growth and success.
Learning and building relationships are not “extras” in this industry—they are essential to everyone’s success. Let’s keep the doors of opportunity wide open… and let’s walk through them together.
My best always,
Kelly
KELLY JACKSON
Executive Director
|
|
Mark Your Calendars – Exciting Events Ahead!
📅 AUGUST 25: Owner Members ONLY Chat (2-3PM) @ ZOOM
RSVP HERE
📅 AUGUST 28: Women's Leadership Lunch
RSVP HERE
| | Want to sponsor our newsletters? Contact us! 40-50% Open Rates! Great opportunity for visibility and showing support! | |
We ended July with a wonderful afternoon connecting with an inspiring group of women. A special thank you to our Executive Director, Kelly Jackson, for her insightful presentation, Thriving in Mind. From exploring brain dominance to understanding our unique leadership styles, her talk left us with fresh perspectives and practical takeaways.
It was an event filled with great food, great company, and meaningful conversation—what more could we ask for?
If you couldn’t make it, mark your calendar for our next Women’s Leadership Lunch on August 28th. Details coming soon!
| |
2ND FRIDAY COFFEE CREW!
We were thrilled to welcome you to SLC3 HQ for our August 2nd Friday Coffee Networking event. It was a great morning filled with fresh coffee and new AND re-connections. We’re proud to provide a space where industry professionals can connect and learn what a great resource we all are to each other! Join us next time! If you are not a member, come and connect with us! It's a perfect opportunity to check us out!
| | REGISTRATION OPENS AUGUST 18TH! | |
ARE YOU LOADED?
DOWNLOAD ALREADY!
| | | Just go to your app store and search for MemberPlus. Then enter your username and password for InfoHub. This will gain your entry to our app which looks like the image! Please let us know if you have difficulty as we want all our members to have access! | |
Chesterfield library to be demolished, rebuilt
As part of the Downtown Chesterfield development, the St. Louis County Library’s Samuel C. Sachs branch will be demolished and rebuilt.
Lamar Johnson Collaborative, in partnership with Stock & Associates Consulting Engineers Inc., submitted an amended site development plan for two lots on the 4.25-acre tract southwest of Chesterfield Parkway West and Burkhardt Place.
The new, modern 20,700-square-foot library will feature a rectangular design with a curved roofline. It will sit at the southwest corner of Burkhardt Place and Veterans Place Drive, according to City Planner, Isaak Simmers.
Proposed changes were made with the goal of preserving the existing park landscaping near the pavilion and making minor adjustments to the park and garden layout. The design includes pedestrian walkways that link the library to surrounding sites, such as the renovated park, and the garden.
The library’s two existing curb cuts on Burkhardt and Veterans Place will close with the redevelopment, replacing them with a new single access point that connects the parking area to Main Circle Drive.
Plans also include an additional parking area at the northwest corner of Burkhardt Place and West Chesterfield Parkway, along with a looped drive for improved traffic flow. The lot will include three ADA spaces and four EV charging stations.
“The site has been redesigned to support vehicular, pedestrian, and bicycle circulation,” Simmers said.
The Planning Commission recommended approval of the amended plan at its July 28 meeting.
| | | |
BJC Outpatient Center in Edwardsville Completes Major Expansion
A major expansion to the BJC Outpatient Center in Edwardsville is now complete, marking another milestone in the ongoing collaboration between BJC HealthCare and a team of local design and construction partners.
Located at the intersection of Troy Road and Governors Parkway, the 23,000-square-foot expansion enhances the existing medical facility with new, state-of-the-art services. The addition includes four gastrointestinal procedure rooms, an MRI suite, CT scan, X-ray, mammography machine, blood draw lab, and a new non-oncology infusion suite with four infusion bays. Twelve new exam rooms were also added within the original outpatient center.
IMPACT Strategies, Inc. served as the design-builder for the project, overseeing the renovation of a previously vacant shell space adjacent to the original facility. The expansion represents a continued commitment to improving access to high-quality healthcare in the Edwardsville community.
Among the key contributors to the project was Introba, which provided MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) engineering services for both the original outpatient center and the new expansion. The firm called the project a “full circle moment,” highlighting its long-term partnership with BJC HealthCare and its fellow collaborators: IMPACT Strategies, Archimages, and David Mason + Associates.
“Our continued collaboration with this team is delivering exceptional healthcare environments for the community, and we’re excited for what’s ahead,” Introba shared on social media.
The Edwardsville expansion is the latest in a series of successful projects between BJC HealthCare and IMPACT Strategies, as the organizations continue to invest in modernizing outpatient care across the region.
| | | |
We Kickoff OSHA's 2025 Safe + Sound Week
Safe + Sound Week is a nationwide event held each August that recognizes the successes of workplace safety and health programs and offers information and ideas on how to keep America’s workers safe. This year Safe + Sound Week will focus primarily on emergency preparedness and response, a critical topic in construction.
OSHA, along with its partners, is encouraging businesses of all sizes to participate in activities that help identify hazards, develop response plans, and build a culture of proactive safety awareness.
Participation is open to all industries and is especially relevant for sectors with elevated risk. Free toolkits, planning guides, and checklists are available to support participants in customizing their approach.
Safe + Sound Week is a great opportunity to showcase your company’s commitment to workplace safety and highlight the strength of your safety culture. Effective safety and health programs help identify and address hazards early, reducing risks, supporting long-term sustainability, and strengthening your bottom line.
SLC3 is participating, are you?
| | | |
Construction Updates (STL Region) | | | |
ATTENTION HERE!
Above are example searches for the report we can provide to our members for project opportunities. From concept to bid. The top image shows the most recent search for concept or current bid. The second is a snapshot of 18,680 projects we found. Want to see more? Watch for your email with the membership code.
| |
What Keeps Owners Up at Night? Top Concerns on Construction Projects-and How to Address Them |
Whether you’re building a hospital wing, renovating a campus, or launching a new facility from the ground up, construction projects are major investments—and major stress triggers—for owners.
Budget and schedule? Absolutely. But that’s just the start.
Today’s owners care about the entire experience—from safety and inclusion to communication and accountability. They want a team that doesn’t just build things right—but builds relationships right.
Here are the top concerns we consistently hear from owners, and what project teams can do to meet (and exceed) expectations:
Budget: Predictability Over Perfection
What Owners Want: A realistic number they can plan around—not a fantasy followed by endless change orders.
What Works:
- Detailed preconstruction planning
- Transparent estimates with built-in contingencies
- Regular budget reviews and early warnings, not late excuses
Schedule: Time Is Money
What Owners Want: Timely delivery that aligns with operational needs (and doesn’t trigger penalties or PR nightmares).
What Works:
- Honest scheduling with room for weather, materials, and scope creep
- Proactive tracking and mitigation—not reactive finger-pointing
- Visual schedule updates owners can actually understand
Safety: No Compromises
What Owners Want: Every worker going home safe—and a project that doesn’t land them in the news for the wrong reasons.
What Works:
- Strong safety culture from day one
- Accountability at all levels, including subcontractors
- Transparent reporting and communication
Communication: Don’t Make Me Chase You
What Owners Want: To be in the loop without digging for answers.
What Works:
CONTINUED ON WEBSITE...
| | | |
Back to School: How to Keep Learning When You're Not in a Classroom Anymore |
Just because you’ve left school doesn’t mean you’ve stopped being a student. In the fast-evolving industries, continuous learning isn’t optional, it’s essential.
From new digital tools to shifting workforce expectations, staying current helps you stay competitive. But learning doesn’t have to mean going back to school. It doesn’t even require formal classes and certifications, although those can be helpful too. Continued learning and development can become a mindset that is built into your work environment.
Here are simple ways to build learning into your day:
-
Listen while you work: Try industry podcasts or audio books during your commute or routine tasks.
-
Attend events: SLC3 offers tools such as webinars, LU and PDH credits, and insider insights (like this blog that you’re reading now).
-
Schedule a learning hour: Block time regularly to explore a new trend, software, or regulation. This could be monthly or even as frequent as on a weekly basis, depending on your schedule.
-
Ask more questions: Mentorship doesn’t have to be formal. Start by asking someone how they learned what they know.
Incorporating these steps will help you go further in your career, no matter where you are at. SLC3 is a great place to start. As part of our mission, SLC3 wants to add to a culture of continued education as our industry changes. We offer several education programs to foster this. Be sure to stay up to date on our events calendar so you don't miss the chance to register for a program
Improvement doesn’t stop with yourself. You can encourage your whole team to adopt a growth mindset and incorporate learning into their routines.
If you’re in a manager position, here’s how to begin building a learning culture within your team:
CONTINUED ON WEBSITE...
| | | |
Coffee Chats, Not Cold Calls: Rethinking Professional Outreach |
In an age of nonstop notifications, traditional outreach methods like cold calls and generic emails rarely get the warm reception you’re hoping for. If you’re trying to build meaningful professional connections, it’s time to rethink your approach.
Even in a digital world, a face-to-face meet-up goes a long way. Enter the coffee chat: a low-pressure, high-value conversation that prioritizes curiosity, connection, and mutual growth over the hard sell.
Here’s why it works and how to make this approach count:
-
It’s about people, not pitches. A coffee chat isn’t a sales meeting—it’s a relationship starter. The goal isn’t to close a deal, but to learn, listen, and build rapport.
-
Personal, not transactional. A thoughtful message inviting someone to grab coffee (virtually or in-person) feels more intentional than a templated email or cold outreach.
-
Curiosity drives connection. Ask genuine questions about the other person’s work. People remember when you make the conversation about them—not just yourself.
-
The follow-up is easier—and warmer. Once you’ve had a real conversation, your future outreach isn’t “cold” anymore. It’s a continuation of an ongoing discussion.
| | | |
From Blueprint to Bottom Line: Why Project Managers Must Understand Project Finance |
Project managers in the AEC world are masters of many things—juggling schedules, managing subs, responding to RFIs, and navigating client requests like pros. But there’s one critical skill that too often gets left off the toolbox: understanding project finance.
Let’s be real: most PMs weren’t taught how project dollars flow—they were handed a budget and told to “stay within it.” No wonder there’s a gap. But that gap has consequences: blown budgets, missed margins, and frustrated clients.
And here’s the truth bomb: You don’t need to be an accountant to grasp project finance—but you do need to know enough to lead with financial confidence.
Whether you’re managing a design contract or overseeing boots-on-the-ground construction, here’s how you can upskill your project managers and turn them into true financial stewards.
Start with the Why
Before you start throwing spreadsheets at your PMs, explain why financial fluency matters. Show them how understanding project finance:
- Improves profitability
- Boosts client trust
- Strengthens career growth
- Helps them manage risk like a boss
Also clarify their role: they’re not expected to close the books—but they are expected to:
- Track budget vs. actuals
- Prevent scope creep
- Flag financial risks early
Hmmm, I think I understand this all to well.
Once that’s clear, it’s time to dig in.
✅ 5 Actions to Build Financial Fluency in Your PMs
CONTINUED ON WEBSITE...
| | | | |
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team is a go-to resource for anyone looking to build stronger, healthier teams. Told through easy to read fable, it offers practical insights into the common pitfalls that undermine teamwork and how to overcome them. With over 3 million copies sold and translations in 30+ languages, it’s helped teams around the world work more effectively together
Add this to your bookshelf and stay tuned for more insightful reads!
| | | |
SLC3 2025 Officers:
Michael Hargrave, BJC HealthCare - President
Bill Dyer, Avison Young/Pace Properties - 1st Vice President
Vince Nutt, BJC HealthCare - 2nd Vice President
Anna Leavey, Anna Leavey Consulting, LLC - Secretary
Danielle Thomas, Hazelwood SD, Treasurer
Frank Niemerg, Ameren - Immediate Past President
Kelly Jackson, Executive Director
| 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! | If you are considering joining us, contact Kelly Jackson about Membership. Don't miss our member-only activities and perks! | |
Sean Fuller started role as Director of Field Operations at S.M. Wilson
Sean has been named Director of Field Operations at S.M. Wilson. In this role, he will be responsible for overseeing field operations, supporting project teams, and implementing strategies to enhance efficiency and project delivery. Sean brings over 25 years of construction experience to the position.
| | |
Mark Balles started new role as Senior Data Center Consultant at G&W Engineering
Mike Ballas brings 41 years of mission-critical experience, to help G&W Engineering expand their data center capabilities. Balles will lead efforts across architectural services, MEPFP engineering, fire detection and suppression systems, building automation, and access control integration.
| | | SHARE WITH US AND WE WILL SHARE YOUR EVENTS! | |
St. Louis Council of Construction Consumers
301 Sovereign Ct, Suite 101, Ballwin, MO 63011
636.394.6200 | f 636.394.9641 | info@slccc.net | slccc.net
Staff:
Kelly Jackson // Executive Director
Rebecca Hale // Event & Office Manager
Maria DeBellis // Marketing & Membership Coordinator
| | CONNECT, INTERACT & SHARE WITH US! | | Please note unsubscribing from this communication will unsubscribe you from ALL communications from the SLC3. | | | | |