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Issue No. 46 • Wednesday, November 19, 2025 • www.mbex.org
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In honor of Play Monopoly Day (November 19), I've given the classic board game an MBEX twist: 🎲 ♟️ 🃏
Welcome to Construction Monopoly: MBEX Edition, where project leads are power, coffee is currency, and only the savviest builder will make it from schematic design to substantial completion. You'll battle delays, outmaneuver competitors, and charm your way through every RFI and Change Order the industry throws at you.
Choose your token: be the Hard Hat, the Tower Crane, the Bidding Laptop, the Survey Tripod, or the coveted MBEX Coffee Mug. Roll your way through the board and climb your way to major projects like High-Rise Towers and Stadium Builds. Cash in on the unmatched power of the MBEX Online Plan Room, the crown jewel property where real legends are made.
Along the way, pull Member Benefits cards that boost your connections and your bank account, or tackle chaotic-but-accurate Project Leads cards, because bid dates move, addenda drop at 4:59pm, and sometimes the inspector simply does not show up. Pass GO to collect your progress billing, but don't forget: retainage is always withheld and added to the pot waiting at MBEX Headquarters.
With laughter, luck (and a little strategic sabotage 😉), you'll navigate networking events, pre-bid conferences, and the occasional OSHA Hold for safety retraining (there's always one who shows up to the jobsite without their PPE) --- all while trying to finish on time, under budget, and ahead of every other contractor at the table.
Bid boldly; build brilliantly; don't let retainage break your spirit; and know MBEX is always in your corner rooting for you!
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Five Quick Things To Know & Do This Week:
1.) Upcoming Office Closures - MBEX will be closed next week on Thursday, November 27 & Friday, November 28, for the Thanksgiving holiday. Please plan ahead and know we'll be back to regular business hours on Monday, December 1.
2.) LEED v5 - The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) opened certification to the LEED v5 rating system and announced new tools and resources. Scorecards focused on LEED v5's core impact areas --- decarbonization, quality of life, and ecological conservation and restoration --- are available to help guide project teams in planning goals and intent.
3.) New Hires & Promotions - There are a few new faces around the MBEX construction community!
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Matthew Semerad has joined the team at AET as a Principal Project Manager in their Construction Services Group.
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The Center for Energy & Environment announced the promotion of Ashley Robertson to Director of Marketing, making her the newest member of CEE's leadership team.
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JE Dunn Construction recently hired Heather Weerheim to their Midwest Client Solutions team as a Client Solutions Manager.
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Knutson Construction announced the promotion of Casey Sarver to Senior Vice President of People & Culture.
4.) Underground Appreciation - Whether you call it the subway, the metro, or the tube, more than 65 countries around the world have subway systems. Not only do they ferry millions of passengers across sprawling metropolises every day, but they look good doing it. Take a look at 20 of the coolest subway systems.
5.) Be Humble - Everybody's got to start somewhere... 😜 📐
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Inside This Issue:
• Plan Room Demo: Join us Thursday morning for our next live walk-through of our Online Plan Room
• Shrinking Pipeline: Dodge Momentum Index for nonresidential construction fell in October
• Renewal Time: Membership renewals for 2026 are now underway
• AI-Proof: Entry-level jobs that are more resistant to AI automation (spoiler: a few trades are included)
• Upcoming Events: Bluebeam Revu courses (12/1, 12/2 & 12/3); 2026 Construction Economic Update & Forecast with Construction Executive (12/10), and Holiday Party North (12/18)
• Five Headlines: Pre-shutdown nonresidential spending down in August; How contractors can strengthen jobsite security and prevent theft; Upcoming Blatnik Bridge project lacks DBE goals; Robotic inspections gaining ground within the industry; and Scientists create "superwood" ten times stronger than steel
• Project of the Week: $30M housing project advances at Winona State University
• Industry Event: Beyond The Bid: Embracing Change, Driving Impact - Presented by Minnesota Department of Administration's Office of Equity in Procurement - Thursday, November 20
• Member Benefits: Get 25% off exclusively at Sherwin-Williams through 12/31
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Dive Deeper with MBEX's Online Plan Room
| | Join MBEX staff for a live walk-through of our Online Plan Room to learn the basics, refresh yourself on its tools, or explore if our plan room would benefit your business. | | | | |
Date: Thursday, November 20
Location: Virtual via Zoom
Time: 9:00am - 10:00am
Cost: Free! Open to MBEX Members & Non-members
REGISTRATION DEADLINE:
Wednesday, November 19 @ 3:30pm
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From navigating the Deskpad and setting up project search filters, to adding oneself to a bidders list and creating email notifications on tracked projects of interest, this one-hour session is a great overview of our digital platform.
Time is held for questions at the end, but attendees are also encouraged to interact and bring up questions in real-time throughout the presentation. Bring your specific questions so we can address them, too!
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Project Costs Stymy Construction Planning
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After a streak of record-setting months, the pipeline of future nonresidential construction shrank in October.
The Dodge Momentum Index, which tracks nonresidential projects entering the planning stages and leads actual construction spending by a full year, fell 7.1% last month.
Commercial planning activity declined 2.9% during the month, along with a 15.2% drop in institutional projects, according to the report. Despite the pullback, the index still sits 35% above its year-to-date level from 2024, according to Dodge.
Indeed, compared to October of last year, planning activity climbed 52%, with commercial and institutional up 54% and 49%, respectively. However, if data center projects are excluded, commercial growth would sit at 43%.
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Planning activity softened for other commercial sectors in October as well, including warehouses and hotels. Institutional activity, which covers education projects, also lost momentum in October.
That slowing level of construction planning could continue in the short term, according to Dodge, especially if contractors continue to contend with elevated project costs.
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Renewal Season is Officially Here
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Now is the perfect time to ensure your membership remains active for 2026 and your access to the full suite of MBEX benefits continues uninterrupted.
With a renewal deadline of December 31, 2025, we encourage you to take a moment to review your membership and secure it for the coming year.
Staying connected with MBEX means staying connected to opportunity. From project leads you won't find anywhere else, to networking that builds real business relationships, to educational resources that keep you sharp and competitive, your membership is more than just a listing.
It's an advantage.
Whether you're seeking new work, expanding your network, or tapping into the collective strength of our industry, MBEX is here to support your business, connecting you to the projects and the people behind them.
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We also know that every company's financial setup looks a little different, so we make renewing as seamless as possible.
There are a couple of options for payment:
Mail a check for the full listed amount to MBEX.
- Make sure you are sending it to our new address: 3800 American Blvd W, STE 780, Bloomington, Minn., 55431.
Call Julie at (612) 381-2627 to provide credit card information.
- An additional processing fee will be added to your total with this payment method.
If you have questions about your invoice, our team is ready to help. Please contact Julie directly.
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Top 'AI-Proof' Entry-Level Jobs with Growth Potential
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Recent college graduates and Gen Z workers in general may be facing an entry-level jobs crisis --- but there are some jobs that are more "AI-proof" than others.
Resume Now analyzed recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics as well as O*NET task profile data to identify entry-level jobs that are more resistant to AI automation.
Education requirements were also capped at a bachelor's degree, with some only requiring a certificate or non-college specialized training.
The top AI-proof, entry-level jobs, including median annual pay are:
- Dental Hygienists - $94,260 / year
- Diagnostic Medical Sonographers - $89,340 / year
- Respiratory Therapists - $80,450 / year
- Occupational Therapy Assistants - $66,050 / year
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Wind Turbine Technicians - $62,580 / year
- Surgical Assistants & Technologists - $62,480 / year
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Electricians - $62,350 / year
- Physical Therapist Assistants - $60,050 / year
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Heating, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration Mechanics - $59,810 / year
When the study is controlled for industry and time trends, it found a 10% increase in AI exposure in a job is associated with an 11% drop in demand for entry-level roles --- while accounting for a 7% increase in non-entry level roles.
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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
November 20 - Online Plan Room Demo - Register by 11/19 @ 3:30pm
From navigating the Deskpad, setting up filters, understanding project information, and adding your company to a project's bidders list, this free one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. Register Here
November 27 & 28 - Thanksgiving - MBEX Closed
MBEX will be closed on Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. We'll return to regular business hours on Monday, December 1.
December 2 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
Learn interface navigation, including menu dropdowns, toolbars, various tool panels, keyboard shortcuts, and a few recommended settings. Several tips and tricks will be shared to increase accuracy and speed while learning various markup and measurement tools. Register Here
December 3 - Bluebeam 2: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
Go through the standard measurement tools and settings, then move into various customization options and discuss the results in the Markups List. Register Now
December 4 - Bluebeam 3: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
After finishing the Bluebeam Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic) course, move into creating custom columns, embedding formulas, and information organization. Register Here
** December 10 - 2026 Construction Economic Update & Forecast
Anirban Basu, ABC's chief economist, presents on general economic conditions affecting the current construction landscape as well as construction-specific economic indicators, including the hottest regions and market sectors, the latest on materials and labor costs, and predictive indicators such as the AIA's Architecture Billings Index and ABC's Construction Confidence Index and Construction Backlog Indicator. Sign Up Here
December 18 - Online Plan Room Demo
From navigating the Deskpad, setting up filters, understanding project information, and adding your company to a project's bidders list, this free one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. Not yet open for registration
December 18 - Holiday Party North
Gather with fellow industry professionals in Duluth for an evening of celebration as we close out another business year and look ahead to 2026. Register Here
December 24, 25 & 26 - Christmas - MBEX Closed
MBEX will be closed on Wednesday, December 24; Thursday, December 25; and Friday, December 26 for the holiday. Our physical office will be closed, but staff will be working remotely during regular business hours on Monday, December 29; Tuesday, December 30; and Friday, January 2.
December 31 & January 2 - New Year's - MBEX Closed
MBEX will be closed on Wednesday, December 31, and Thursday, January 1. Our physical office will be closed, but staff will be working remotely during regular business hours on Monday, December 29; Tuesday, December 30; and Friday, January 2.
January 21 - Annual Meeting & Luncheon - Save The Date!
Connect with a diverse group of construction professionals, share your expertise with peers who understand your challenges and ambitions, hear the 2026 Board of Directors' announcement, celebrate the achievements of the 2025 Volunteer of the Year and Distinguished Member, enjoy a specially curated menu for lunch, and more.
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Five construction-related headlines you need to read over the next coffee break.
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CONSTRUCTION SPENDING | ECONOMIC REPORT
⤵️ Pre-Shutdown Nonresidential Construction Spending Down in August
ABC reported on November 17th that national nonresidential construction spending decreased 0.2% in August. Spending was down on a monthly basis in 10 of the 16 nonresidential subcategories. Private nonresidential spending was down 0.3%. The manufacturing and commercial categories have been particularly weak in 2025, while momentum remains confined almost exclusively to the data center segment. This data also pertains to August and reflects neither the effects of the government shutdown nor the cost-raising potential of tariffs that were implemented at the start of that month. (Associated Builders & Contractors)
COPPER TARIFFS | JOBSITE SECURITY
🔐 Copper Tariffs & Construction Site Theft: How Contractors Can Strengthen Security and Prevent Losses
With the August 1, 2025 rollout of 50% tariffs on semi-finished copper products entering the U.S., construction sites have suddenly become more desirable targets. What used to be simple materials has suddenly accrued higher theft value on project sites. Direct losses are traced to specific stolen items, whether it be copper wiring, HVAC units, or plumbing parts. They're all expensive, and a nuisance, to replace. But the real cost stems beyond the price of stolen goods to project delays, meaning companies are forced to staff sites and maintain security for a longer period of time. (For Construction Pros)
DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS ENTERPRISES (DBEs)
🫤 Blatnik Bridge Lacks DBE Goals in $1.8B Project
Unlike the Green Line extension in the Twin Cities and other high-profile projects, the Blatnik Bridge project is moving forward without any official goals for participation of small, minority-, or women-owned businesses, which are also known as Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (or DBEs). The Blatnik project, scheduled to begin next year, comes on the heels of a recent decision by the federal government to reconstitute the U.S. Department of Transportation's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise program. Earlier this fall, the DOT published a final ruling that removed race- and gender-based criteria to participate in federal contracts as a DBE business. (Finance & Commerce)
JOBSITE SAFETY | ROBOTICS
🔎 Robotic Inspections Gain Ground in Construction Industry
A new review published in SmartBot presents a major step forward: intelligent inspection robots are now being used to assess the condition of structures, like bridges, roads, dams, and buildings, with greater speed, accuracy, and safety than manual inspections allow. Manual inspections often involving scaffolding and rope access are not only expensive and time-consuming, but can also miss early-stage defects and expose workers to hazardous conditions. For engineers and construction professionals, these systems are quickly becoming essential tools in maintaining complex infrastructure. (AZO Build)
INNOVATIVE BUILDING | SUPERWOOD
💪 Scientists Create 'Superwood' 10x Stronger Than Steel
For the last nine years, material scientist and co-founder of InventWood, Liangbing Hu has been developing a reengineered "superwood" he believes could replace steel. Now, after nearly a decade of perfecting the formula, his reinvention of lumber is finally acailable as a commercial product. "Superwood" attempts to address the mechanical performance of natural wood by chemically treating it to enhance its cellulose --- first boiling it in a mixture of water and chemicals, then compressing it so that it collapses at a cellular level. This process significantly increases the density of the wood, in turn enhancing its strength. According to InventWood, "superwood" is up to 20 times stronger than normal wood. (Family Handyman)
| | Winona State Advances $30M Foundation Hall Housing Project | | |
Read more on Finance & Commerce
The Minnesota State Board of Trustees recently approved plans for a $30-million, 340-bed residence hall at Winona State University, which will rise on a site at the southwest corner of Mark Street and Highway 43 adjacent to the Winona State campus.
The Winona State University Foundation will build the housing, known as Foundation Hall. Winona State University and the WSU Foundation will enter a long-term lease to operate it.
The project has been described as "a beautiful Z-shaped building" with both programming in the front of the building and programming in the back of the building. Because of the Z-shape, it mirrors a lot of the facilities on campus currently, but it will be set apart by different architectural designs.
The Foundation Hall project will add capacity and modernize campus housing, while enabling the university to renovate existing housing stock. Designed by ESG Architects, Foundation Hall will serve primarily first-year students.
At a meeting of the Minnesota State Board of Trustees in October, Winona State University's president said the school currently has "very old residence halls on campus." They will need to take 300 beds offline so they can start putting air conditioning into the old residence halls. By 2035, all residence halls will be air-conditioned.
Construction is set to begin in February 2026 and wrap up by July 2027.
| | ABOVE PHOTO: ESG Architect's rendering of Foundation Hall, a 340-bed residence hall, to be built for Winona State University. | | |
Beyond the Bid: Embracing Change, Driving Impact
Presented by the Minnesota Department of Administration - Office of Equity in Procurement & APEX Accelerator
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Join the Minnesota Department of Administration's Office of Equity in Procurement (OEP) and APEX Accelerator for a program to learn how government entities and small businesses are adapting to the rapid changes in the government marketplace.
Topics being planned include:
- The Changing Economy: Overview of How It Impacts Government Contracting
- The New Paid Family & Medical Leave Act
- Changes to Small Business Programs in Minnesota
There will also be time for networking with state staff and invited business resources.
If you have questions about the event, please contact Tammy Gaglioti - (651) 201-2430.
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Take advantage of these savings by logging in to the NPP portal, and use your MBEX membership to activate the discount.
Not yet an NPP member? Join here. It's 100% free to sign up with zero obligation to buy.
*Valid on retail sales of retail products only. Discount taken off of list price. Offer excludes previous purchases. Other exclusions may apply.
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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 11/10/2025 - 11/14/2025: 95
• Total Project Leads Reported on at MBEX from 11/10/2025 - 11/14/2025: 20
• Total Active Projects Received / Reported on at MBEX as of 11/18/2025: 371
• Total New Projects in the Online Plan Room as of 11/18/2025: 4,591
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 11/12/2025 - 11/18/2025.
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
• November 20 - Online Plan Room Demo
• November 27 & 28 - MBEX Closed - Thanksgiving
• December 2 - Bluebeam 1: Baseline Basics
• December 3 - Bluebeam 2: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Basic)
• December 4 - Bluebeam 3: Material Takeoffs & Estimates (Advanced)
• December 10 - 2026 Construction Economic Update & Forecast [WEBINAR]
• December 18 - Online Plan Room Demo
• December 18 - Holiday Party North
• December 24, 25 & 26 - MBEX Closed - Christmas
• December 31 & January 1 - MBEX Closed - New Year's
• January 21 - Annual Meeting & Luncheon
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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, BUILD Renewables; 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
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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