February saw another wave of membership growth here at MBEX. Last month, we welcomed 17 new companies, each bringing their own unique and wide ranging expertise to our construction community. While most are based right here in Minnesota, a couple hail from outside state lines. Take a moment to reach out and say hi — you might just find your next great industry connection. 🤝 😎 🧰 | | | | |
By Ashlee
Membership & Communications Manager
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Five Quick Things To Know / Do This Week:
1.) This Thursday! Join MBEX staff for a live demonstration of the Online Plan Room at 9:00am over Zoom. This is a free, 60-minute session covering the basics, including setting up project search filters, finding project information, and accessing bidders lists. Please sign up in advance (by 3:30pm on Wednesday, March 19).
2.) Earlier this week, yours truly (aka me!) sent an email to each member company's main contact, asking them to review and update their company records if needed. Missed it? No worries! You can email me or Melanie or check your company's records yourself by following these steps.
3.) Exciting member news: Tony Peterson has been named President of Morcon Construction. With over 20 years at Morcon, Tony has been instrumental in the company's growth, leading major projects and building strong relationships with clients and business partners.
4.) Minnesota employers added 9,600 jobs in January, the largest monthly gain since March 2024, led by Education & Health Services (up 4,300 jobs), Professional & Business Services (1,900 jobs), and Construction (1,200 jobs).
5.) 70° degrees yesterday, Winter Weather Advisory tomorrow. False Spring is officially here.
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Inside This Issue:
• Join Us: MBEX Spring Social (4/16) & MBEX Young Professional Network (5/7)
• Trending: Nonresidential construction spending is holding...for now
• New Members: Meet the companies who joined throughout February
• Challenges: Potential industry hurdles in 2025 and how to stay ahead of them
• MBEX Events: See what's ahead with MBEX
• Five Headlines: Construction job openings drop, not so fresh air with outdoor construction work, the industry's average age rises, federal agency staff cuts could put public safety at risk, and how A.I. agents are streamlining workflows
• Project of the Week: $106M County Library Plan approved in Edina
• Industry Event: Q1 Construction Economic Updates & Forecast on April 2nd
• Member Benefit: Group solutions for outfitting your crew with Ariat Crew
| | Two Can't-Miss MBEX Events This Spring | | |
Spring is heating up with two exciting MBEX events designed to bring our members together for networking, learning, and fun. Whether you're looking to connect with industry peers or engage with the next generation of construction professionals, we've got you covered.
MBEX Spring Social - April 16
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An evening of networking, industry insights, and good company.
📍 Location: Golden Valley Country Club (7001 Golden Valley Road, Golden Valley, Minn., 55427)
⏰ Time: 3:00pm - Doors Open | 5:00pm - Program Begins
💲 Cost: $50 per person (Early Bird thru 4/4)
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Join us on Wednesday, April 16, for the MBEX Spring Social, where industry professionals and fellow MBEX members will come together for an evening of connection and learning. This year’s event features Todd Rapp and Sean Oyaas of Rapp Strategies, who will share key insights on strategic communications in public projects—an essential topic as infrastructure investments increase and public engagement becomes critical to success.
Why attend?
✅ Gain expert insights on public project communications
✅ Build meaningful industry connections
✅ Enjoy a relaxed and engaging atmosphere
Interested in sponsoring this event? Select your sponsorship of choice when registering.
MBEX Young Professionals Network (YPN) Event - May 7
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Empowering the next generation of construction leaders.
📍 Location: The Rusty Bumblebee (10950 Club West Parkway NE, STE 160, Blaine, Minn., 55449)
⏰ Time: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
💲 Cost: $20 per person
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If you're an intern, recent grad, or early in your construction career, this event is for you! Join us on Tuesday, May 7, for an engaging YPN event designed to help young professionals (ages 40 and under) build connections, grow their knowledge, and gain confidence in the industry. Expect valuable conversations, industry insights, and a great opportunity to expand your network in a welcoming environment.
Why attend?
✅ Meet fellow young professionals and industry peers
✅ Gain insights to help advance your career
✅ Strengthen your connections in the construction community
Interested in sponsoring this event and getting your brand in front of the industry’s future leaders? Sponsorship opportunities can be purchased when registering for the event.
| | Now Trending: Nonresidential Construction Spending | | |
Overall nonresidential construction spending has held up fairly well over the past few years, but that's only because of a boom in data center and manufacturing (specifically computer chip manufacturing) construction activity.
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If we look at nonresidential excluding those two categories (the orange area above), you can see that spending is:
- Only modestly higher than at the start of 2020, rising at about a 2% annualized rate over the past five years, and
- Lower than in the middle of 2023, falling about 3.2% over that span.
But that first chart is not adjusted for inflation. In inflation-adjusted terms, nonresidential construction activity (excluding data centers and manufacturing) is down considerably from both the pre-pandemic level and the April 2023 peak.
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It probably says a lot about the state of society that so much of what we're building is meant to support online activity.
It definitely says a lot about the state of nonresidential construction that spending growth is so concentrated in just two segments. Lower interest rates and looser lending standards cannot come soon enough.
This article was written by Zack Fritz for Sage Economics and posted March 18, 2025.
| | NEW MEMBERS: See Who Joined in February | | |
Halfway through March and it's time to celebrate those new member companies who joined the Exchange throughout the month of February.
Please help us give a warm welcome to the following:
| | Five Construction Challenges to Watch in 2025 | | |
At the halfway point of 2024, U.S. construction spending was down about $1.7 billion from the previous year. While 2025 is expected to bring an 8.5% boost in new projects, there are still some hurdles ahead that could shake up the industry.
Staying ahead of these potential challenges will be key for contractors, suppliers, and builders looking to make the most of the coming year.
1.) Tariffs Could Drive Up Material Costs
During his presidential campaign, President Trump proposed steep tariffs—60% on Chinese goods and up to 20% on imports from other countries. If these go into effect, the cost of materials could climb significantly, putting pressure on budgets.
To stay ahead, contractors should explore domestic suppliers or source from countries with lower tariffs. Looking into alternative materials and finding ways to use resources more efficiently can also help keep costs in check.
2.) Supply Chain Delays Could Slow Down Projects
With potential new tariffs on the horizon and ongoing global trade disruptions—like tensions in the Red Sea—getting materials on time might become even trickier. Longer shipping times and price hikes on imported goods could make planning more difficult.
To avoid costly delays, businesses should diversify their supplier network, consider stockpiling essential materials, and explore tech-driven logistics solutions.
3.) Stricter Immigration Rules Could Worsen Labor Shortages
Immigrants make up about 30% of the U.S. construction workforce, and with immigration policies tightening, finding enough skilled workers could become a bigger challenge, especially in states that rely heavily on immigrant labor.
Companies can get ahead by investing in workforce development programs, offering training to attract new talent, and incorporating automation and other construction technology to help offset labor shortages.
4.) Global Sustainability Rules Could Increase Costs
While the U.S. is expected to ease environmental and sustainability regulations, other countries—including many where the U.S. sources construction materials—are doubling down on stricter ESG (environmental, social, and governance) policies. This could make some imported materials more expensive.
To manage costs, contractors can explore more domestic suppliers or invest in sustainable building practices now to stay ahead of future regulatory shifts.
5.) Interest Rate Uncertainty Could Affect Project Financing
The Federal Reserve has signaled potential interest rate cuts over the next year, from around 4.5% at the end of 2025 to around 3.4% at the end of 2026, short-term borrowing costs remain unpredictable. Higher rates could make financing new construction projects tougher in the near future.
To prepare, firms should focus on smart cash flow management and explore alternative funding options to lower dependency on loans. Locking in rates when favorable and staggering project timelines can also help, when possible.
The Bottom Line
With 2025 shaping up to be a big year for construction growth, staying informed about these challenges can help businesses plan ahead, reduce risks, and keep projects moving forward.
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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
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. Not yet open for registration
April 17 - Reading Construction Documents [Part 2]
Part 2 of this online program taught by UChapter2.
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 will create 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. Save the Date!
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Five construction-related headlines you need to read over the next coffee break.
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ECONOMIC OUTLOOK
👇 Construction Job Openings Drop 42% YOY as Labor Churn Accelerates
U.S. construction measured 236,000 open, unfilled jobs on the last day of January, a 42% drop from the same month in 2024, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics released on March 11th. Though January job openings were up 15% from the end of December, the general decrease in openings in recent months has indicated a trend of uncertainty. (Construction Dive)
JOBSITE SAFETY
😷 Not So Fresh Air - Impacts on Construction Worker Health
As a mostly outdoor profession, construction crews and trade professionals have long taken comfort in the theory that working outdoors provides protection from respiratory concerns, believing they are operating in safe environments. What then are construction industry professionals to do when the air surrounding them is contaminated by elements that threaten their health? (Construction Business Owner)
LABOR & WORKFORCE
🎂 Construction's Average Age Rises While Retirement Plans Lag
The average age of construction workers increased 1.2% from 41.6 to 42.1 from 2011 to 2023, according to CPWR's recently released "Aging and Retirement Trends in the Construction Industry" report. As the average age has risen, so has the number of workers 55 and older. The only years it didn't rise were in 2020, which was likely due to COVID-19 leading to illness or early retirement, and 2023, as more baby boomers hit retirement age. (Equipment World)
INFRASTRUCTURE
⚠️ Critics Warn Staff Cuts at Federal Agencies Overseeing US Dams Could Put Public Safety at Risk
"Reductions-in-force" memos have also been sent to current workers, and more layoffs are expected. Without dam operators, engineers, hydrologists, geologists, researchers, emergency managers and other experts, there is a serious potential for heightened risk to public safety and economic or environmental damage, said one executive director of an association for dam safety. (AP News)
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
🛜 A.I. Army: Trunk Tools on How A.I. Agents are Evolving
A.I. agents are intelligent software tools that automate and optimize specific tasks or workflows. They are leveraging artificial intelligence to streamline processes --- such as document management, RFI creation and schedule tracking --- where data discrepancies lead to delays and rework that can cost millions of dollars. (Construction Executive)
| | Edina Planning Commission Likes What It Sees in $106M County Library Plan | | |
Read more on Finance & Commerce
The Edina Planning Commission had mostly good things to say about the modern, highly sustainable $106.8-million library with an art center project, which would replace an aging nondescript, 1971-vintage Hennepin County Regional Library at 7001 York Avenue South with a new 43,107-square-foot library and a 16,164-square-foot Edina Art Center.
The commission unanimously recommended approval of a conditional use permit, site plan and building height variance for the new building, which features a design that emphasizes transparency, natural lighting, and extensive green space on the 7.75-acre project site.
Design features include daylighting, accessibility via multiple transportation modes, healthy building materials and resilient, native landscaping. A solar array and green roof are planned. Extensive green space and improved connectivity through bike paths and pedestrian trails are embedded in the design.
Designed by MSR Design of Minneapolis, the new library is expected to open in December 2027, according to a Hennepin County spokesperson. Decommissioning is underway, with demolition of the existing building and construction to follow.
JE Dunn is on board as the construction manager for the project.
| | PICTURED ABOVE: Rendering by MSR Design of the new Hennepin County library building at 7001 York Avenue South in Edina featuring a 43,107-square-foot library and a 16,164-square-foot Edina Art Center. | | |
Q1 Construction Economic Update & Forecast
Presented by Construction Executive
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DATE: Wednesday, April 2
TIME: 1:00pm CST | 2:00pm EST
LOCATION: Online
COST: Free
PRESENTER: Anirban Basu, Chief Economist for Associated Builders & Contractors
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Basu’s presentations are designed to inform commercial construction contractors — and those supporting them — of economic conditions that affect the current construction landscape, covering up-to-the-minute information on general economic conditions, such as inflation and interest rates, employment figures and risks lurking in the economy, changes the second Trump administration may bring to tariffs, federal construction spending, and more.
In addition, this presentation aims to arm contractors with a deep understanding of the economic conditions facing the construction industry, such as the hottest regions and market sectors, the latest on the cost of labor and job openings, and how current events are affecting the industry, as well as forward-looking metrics like AIA’s Architecture Billings Index, and ABC’s Construction Confidence Index and Construction Backlog Indicator.
| | Benefit of the Week: Ariat Crew | | Ariat Crew provides a simplified way to buy head-to-toe work apparel and footwear for your entire crew at special National Purchasing Partners (NPP) program pricing. | | |
Your dedicated account manager can help you customize apparel using your company logo with high-quality, custom embroidery on products known for their integrity and quality.
When MBEX Members join NPP, they receive the following Ariat Crew benefits:
- Negotiated discounted program pricing
- Embroidery services
- Customizable online ordering portal
- Free ground shipping on all orders
- Apparel and Flame Resistant Options include T-Shirts & Polos, Button Down Work Shirts, Hoodies & Sweatshirts, Jeans, Work Pants & Shorts, Bibs, Jackets & Vests, Headwear & Accessories
Ariat Crew makes it easy by putting the services you need to outfit your team in one place.
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National Purchasing Partners (NPP) is a trusted savings and solutions provider for businesses and their employees. By leveraging the purchasing power of more than 350,000 members, NPP can provide top discounts and special B2B pricing to businesses of all sizes. NPP members enjoy exclusive deals on a catalog of useful items for both work and play. Membership is free and there is never an obligation to purchase.
Plus, when you enroll via our special NPP sign-up page, MBEX receives a small royalty to further support our member services.
| | PROJECT INFORMATION + UPDATES | | |
• Total Projects Received at MBEX from 3/10/2025 - 3/142025: 117
• Total Project Leads Reported on at MBEX from 3/10/2025 - 3/14/2025: 29
• Total Active Projects Received / Reported on at MBEX as of 3/18/2025: 484
• Total New Projects in the Online Plan Room as of 3/18/2025: 1,426
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 3/12/2025 - 3/18/2025.
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 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
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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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