2025 Minnesota Construction Summit

7:30-9:00 am

Jason Kunz

KEYNOTE

Building Tomorrow: The Future of Construction Leadership

In an era of rapid transformation, the construction industry stands at a crossroads. The call for change has never been more urgent, but the key to unlocking a brighter future lies in the heart of effective leadership. Your leadership.

Join us for an inspiring keynote that challenges norms and inspires a focus on where we need to go, rather than an emphasis on what's in the way. This session is an invitation to move beyond traditional approaches and cultivate environments that empower every worker to take ownership and contribute to your company's success.

With compelling stories and cutting-edge research, we will highlight how your leadership can drive a shift in both mindset and practice. As we spotlight strategies rooted in Human and Organizational Performance (H&OP), you'll discover how fostering a culture of collaboration, engagement, and well-being can drive retention, mitigate risk, and advance your operations.

This isn’t merely a presentation, it’s an invitation to action, a glimpse into the future. A future that sees people not as they are, but as they could be, one that meets people where they're at, then does the hard work to send them home better.

9:15-10:15 am

Dean Thomson, Mark Becker

Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Playbook

In this program, prominent construction lawyers Dean B. Thomson and Mark R. Becker, both of Fabyanske, Westra, Hart & Thomson, discuss tools that contractors can implement to reduce the risk of project disasters, and to mitigate the risk if a disaster occurs.   The program will focus on contractual risk management provisions, insurance claims, and navigating the claims, investigation, and dispute resolution process all while keeping the job rolling.

1.0 CLE applied for

9:15-10:15 am

Jeff Shoaf

Federal Regulatory Policy Update

The Washington D.C. landscape is always changing and the 2024 election results are sure to greatly influence both the policy and regulatory environments. Attendees will hear an insider’s perspective from AGC of America’s new CEO, Jeff Shoaf, covering everything you need to know about what is happening in Washington and how AGC of America is engaging to protect your interests. Takeaways will include increased knowledge and understanding of new legislative and regulatory details and an enlightened perspective of the importance of industry advocacy at the federal level.  

9:15-10:15 am

Jay Tyrrell

Are You Covered When it Comes to Equipment Operation?

Whether you rent or own your equipment, from scissor lifts to forklifts, as an employer you have a responsibility to ensure safe use and operation of equipment. This session will help you understand the rules surrounding the training of equipment operators and ensure your company is compliant. You’ll also discover the pros and cons of renting vs. buying, as well as tips to save money on your next rental. 

9:15-10:15 am

Panelists:
Aalayah Traub
Peyton Kringlie
Tyler Myrom

Technology Adoption Made Simple: Lessons for Construction Firms at All Stages

In this session, industry leaders will demystify technology adoption, providing practical lessons for construction firms at every stage of their tech journey. Panelists will share insights on selecting the right tools, overcoming common implementation challenges, and creating a roadmap for sustainable technology integration. Whether you're just starting or looking to optimize existing systems, you'll walk away with actionable strategies to enhance efficiency and drive growth in your business.

11:00-12:00 noon

Phyllis Karasov, Amy Court

Governance and Inclusion: Navigating Affirmative Action and ESG Regulations to Promote Inclusive and Responsible Cultures

Modern efforts to promote inclusion, responsibility in construction cultures is finding new resistance in laws that limit affirmative action and ESG investing (environmental issues, social issues, and corporate governance). This session will explore the conflict between business and social pressures to instill a culture of care and responsibility in our workplace with the legal principles of equal protection and fiduciary duty that obstruct these efforts.

1.0 Elimination of Bias CLE applied for

11:00-12:00 noon

Curt Turgeon

Beyond Buzzwords: Government-related Efforts to Curb Carbon in Construction

Federal and state agencies are implementing policy changes to promote green construction materials, clean energy projects, and procurement processes in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Whether you work in the building or transportation construction markets, this session will cover current opportunities and future policy-level actions in the commercial building and transportation-related infrastructure space. Join the presentation to hear insights from government leaders on the current “Buy Clean” Task Force, federal programs such as the Inflation Reduction Act, opportunities from the Federal Highway Administration, and new financing opportunities for green projects.

11:00-12:00 noon

Jon Eichman

Fall-Free Zone

Are your workers protected? Join Jon Eichman, Training Manager at 3M DBI Sala to learn about fall protection blunders and best practices.

11:00-12:00 noon

Matthew Semerad

AI Demystified: The Basics of Artificial Intelligence and its Forthcoming Role in the Construction Industry

This session will provide an accessible introduction to AI for construction professionals and decision-makers. It will explore key AI concepts, including machine learning and predictive analytics, and discuss how these technologies are shaping the future of construction through improved efficiency, safety, and project management. Attendees will gain insights into the practical applications of AI that are transforming the construction landscape today and in the near future.

1:30-2:30 pm

Jonathan Zentner, Rachel Zentner

Your Project, Your Team. Making the Most of Your Most Valuable Asset: The Mind

You won’t want to miss the dynamic brother and sister duo as they discuss the power of the mind as it relates to managing people and managing stress.  Listen, learn, and laugh along with Jon and Rachel, siblings who grew up riding their big wheels together through the streets of North Central Wisconsin navigating a strong family tree that includes: lawyers, doctors, engineers, teachers, and factory workers.  Personalities that have helped them manage projects, teams, and mental health in their careers as a construction law attorney and professional counselor.  Jon and Rachel will focus the educational session on mental health and substance use, addiction and/or mental health issues that impact your ability to be at your best.  We will provide ideas on stress management and tips to help build up others in your office and on your team to reduce the risk of stress-related problems.

1.0 Mental Health CLE applied for

1:30-2:30 pm

Inside and Outside the Dome: MN Political Panel

Gain exclusive insights of the legislative agenda from those shaping it at the MN State Capitol. The 2025 Legislature will be a month into their Session. Join us to hear their perspectives on issues that matter to the construction community and all Minnesotans.

1:30-2:30 pm

Stacy Arnold

Foundations for Safety Leadership

What is an effective leader? Often we promote the best performers, not the best leaders. During this interactive session we will cover 5 critical leadership skills that can improve climate and outcomes in your organization. We will not only go through the FSL curriculum, but I will show you how you can bring this training in house for free!

1:30-2:30 pm

Panelists:
Casey Savlov
Kyle Wilkerson
Dick Zhang

Robots at Work:  Successes and Challenges in Construction Automation

This is a dynamic panel discussion featuring industry leaders who are pioneering the use of robotics to enhance productivity on construction sites. The panelists will share firsthand experiences with innovative technologies such as lift assistant robots for masonry work, crane load assist robots, autonomous roller compactors, and jobsite layout robots. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the real-world successes and challenges of implementing robotics in construction, as well as explore future trends shaping the industry

2:45-3:45 pm

Kyle Willems, John Holper

Ethical Traps in the Post-COVID Construction Industry

Kyle and John are going to discuss the latest ethics problems that the construction industry has faced since the end of the COVID pandemic. Using examples, they will highlight some new post-COVID challenges that the construction industry is facing and the ethical traps that are created by these challenges. The session is designed to fulfill CLE requirements and will discuss legal implications and application of the rules of professional conduct, but the session has broad applicability for engineers, architects, owners/developers, business leaders and managers, superintendents, and employees.

1.0 Ethics CLE applied for

2:45-3:45 pm

Kori Shingles, Taylor Boileau

The Opportunity Case for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in Construction 

In an industry long characterized by homogeneity, the construction sector stands at a pivotal moment. This presentation delves into the transformative potential of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within construction, highlighting how embracing these principles can drive innovation, enhance project outcomes, and foster a more dynamic workforce.

2:45-3:45 pm

Lisa Hollingsworth

The Case for CHASE Roundtable

Learn what the CHASE program is all about! Hear from contractors that have realized the benefits of working towards “Best in Class Safety Programs” and get all your questions answered why YOU should join CHASE.

2:45-3:45 pm

James Boileau

Safety in Technology

Session description coming soon!

8:00-9:30 am

Dr. Mark Seeley & Sven Sundgaard

KEYNOTE

A Global and Local Perspective on Climate Change: Evidence and Consequence

Meteorologist Sven Sundgaard will have just returned from Antarctica and has traveled to the Arctic numerous times. While these places might seem far away, their impacts are far-reaching. Sven will explain how Minnesota fits into the global climate picture. Dr. Mark Seeley will describe evidence for the pace of climate change in Minnesota and surrounding geography, along with changes in the frequency of extreme weather and climate episodes. Dr. Seeley will also describe the work of the Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership Program which is working to accelerate our adaptation strategies and responses.

9:45-10:45 am

Construction & Conflict: Simple Ways to Resolve Disputes

In the high-pressure world of construction, conflicts can arise quickly and escalate, affecting project timelines, team morale, and ultimately, the bottom line. However, when handled effectively, conflict can be a catalyst for growth, innovation, and stronger team dynamics. This session will empower leaders to navigate disputes with confidence and transform challenges into opportunities.

9:45-10:45 am

Emily Beardall

Economic and Construction Market Update: Flow to Negotiations

The construction industry has seen recent volatile swings in economic conditions and related market fluctuations that have caused disruption and introduced change. Noted and renowned FMI Consulting construction industry analyst Emily Beardsall will walk you through the critical changes occurring in national and regional construction markets and discuss the key factors and change dynamics that are shaping our industry. This session will help participants gain better insight into what is on the horizon for the construction economy and  construction businesses.

9:45-10:45 am

Austin Eden
Kristin Gustafson

The Rise of the Climate Economy and How Contractors Can Benefit From Available Energy Incentives and Other Credits/Incentives

Congress recently passed unprecedented energy legislation ushering in the upcoming Climate Economy.  During this session you will learn about the Climate Economy and available energy incentives and other business credits and incentives that apply to businesses and some incentives for tax exempt organizations. Each of these provisions have specific target audiences, benefits, and unique characteristics, which are valuable financial tools for the construction industry.

9:45-10:45 am

Nicole Pillow & Jeff Williams

Evolving Through Change: Inspiring Leadership Excellence (Part 1)

Dive into this transformative workshop to discover the powerful role of emotional intelligence (EI) in fostering leadership and enhancing personal and professional growth. In this session, you'll gain essential tools and insights to effectively utilize EI, empowering you to cultivate a vibrant culture of empowerment. You will focus on deepening your awareness of yourself and others, sharpening your perceptions, and amplifying the impact of your decisions. Designed to improve your management, communication, and conflict-resolution abilities, this workshop will enrich your interactions and elevate your professional capabilities. Applying these strategies to your daily awareness and decision-making processes will strengthen relationships and extend your impact and influence across all areas of your life.

11:00-12:00 pm

Melissa DeLay

The Power of Email & How to Make Your Words Work For You

The quick rise of the internet as our primary business communication tool has sparked a new era of interpersonal problems in the modern workforce. While it’s highly beneficial to build authentic, loyal relationships with customers and colleagues via email, text or social media, it can be difficult to maintain an appropriate level of professional familiarity. During this interactive workshop, you'll learn how to sell more, improve perceptions and get results over email—no matter what situations arise.

11:00-12:00 pm

Steve Sampson Brown

Boom Town: The Proliferation of the Rochester Construction Market

The southeastern medical – and now construction - hub has been referred to as a “mini-mega city” for good reason. Hear from city-leaders about it’s progress and how government and the Mayo Clinic’s investments are creating a ripple effect in the market.

11:00-12:00 pm

Alissa Daire Nelson

Workplace Wellbeing: Building a Safer and Thriving Construction Industry

In the construction industry, leaders understand that caring for their people is not just important—it’s a matter of life and death. With death by suicide affecting construction workers at four times the rate of the general population, in large part driven by work-related stresses (like seasonal work, demanding schedules, and workplace injuries), it is an issue the industry has a responsibility to address head on. Addressing these challenges requires a deep commitment to workplace wellbeing, which can mitigate the impact of stress and reduce the risk of suicide. While many organizations view wellbeing initiatives as “nice-to-have,” the truth is that investing in employee wellbeing is a strategic advantage that saves lives. There are many financial benefits as well. For every dollar spent on employee wellbeing, companies see a return of $2.30 and reduce the significant costs associated with burnout, injury, and turnover.

This session equips construction leaders with the tools to create a thriving, psychologically safe workplace where workers feel valued, supported, and are less likely to experience burnout or mental health crises. By addressing wellbeing from the top down, leaders can transform their organizations into places where employees want to work—and where they feel safe enough to ask for help when they need it most.

11:00-12:00 pm

Nicole Pillow & Jeff Williams

Evolving Through Change: Inspiring Leadership Excellence (Part 2)

Dive into this transformative workshop to discover the powerful role of emotional intelligence (EI) in fostering leadership and enhancing personal and professional growth. In this session, you'll gain essential tools and insights to effectively utilize EI, empowering you to cultivate a vibrant culture of empowerment. You will focus on deepening your awareness of yourself and others, sharpening your perceptions, and amplifying the impact of your decisions. Designed to improve your management, communication, and conflict-resolution abilities, this workshop will enrich your interactions and elevate your professional capabilities. Applying these strategies to your daily awareness and decision-making processes will strengthen relationships and extend your impact and influence across all areas of your life.

KEYNOTE: Jason Kunz

Principal Consultant, The Kunz Company

With over a decade of experience with the 3M company in a variety of technical and leadership roles, Jason Kunz demonstrates his passion for the safety and health profession across multiple platforms. A forward-thinker, with the objective to elevate the safety, health and well-being of all workers, Jason uses his voice to amplify the profession and the professional. His life journey, blessings, and struggles have inspired a commitment to building professional communities that ensure an empowerment of their people. Jason is a husband, co-founder of Best Christmas Ever speaker, coach, and community advocate. He's a CIH and CSP, but mostly grateful to have a J-O-B and work with some of the most passionate people on the planet. Married since 2019, Jason and his wife Malia recently welcomed their first child and call Minneapolis-Saint Paul home.

KEYNOTE: Dr. Mark Seeley

Professor Emeritus, University of Minnesota

Dr. Mark Seeley is the former Extension Climatologist and Professor Emeritus of the Department of Soil, Water, and Climate at the University of Minnesota from 1978 to 2018. In his role as Extension Climatologist and Meteorologist Dr. Seeley managed the Weather and Climate Education Program, as well as doing research and teaching. He has served as a weekly commentator on Minnesota Public Radio’s “Morning Edition” news program and written the weekly newsletter (blog) “Minnesota WeatherTalk” since 1992.  Dr. Seeley has helped Twin Cities Public Television (TPT) produce award-winning documentaries on Minnesota’s most memorable historical weather events, and on how climate change is affecting the state’s infrastructure and natural resources.  He is author of Minnesota Weather Almanac (1st edition published by the Minnesota Historical Society Press in 2006 and second edition published in 2015), and co-author (with Don Breneman) of Voyageur Skies: Weather and the Wilderness in Minnesota’s National Park (Afton Press, 2011), an award-winning book about the state’s only national park. 

KEYNOTE: Sven Sundgaard

Meteorologist, Minnesota Public Radio and Bring Me the News.com

Sven Sundgaard has been a meteorologist for more than two decades, most of which has been spent broadcasting in the Twin Cities. He’s currently a meteorologist for Minnesota Public Radio, and digital news and information platform, Bring me the News.com.

Sven received his degree in meteorology from St. Cloud State in 2003. His research in thermodynamics won several undergraduate research awards.

He is passionate about conservation, climate change and social justice issues and tying those together for local and global perspectives. He's combined these topics with his travels around the world which includes all seven continents. He has done climate & conservation reports all the way from the Arctic and Antarctic to the jungles of the Amazon, the Great Barrier Reef and the arid interior of Africa. He’s raised money on behalf of numerous non-profit organizations and conservation based initiatives.

Stacy Arnold

Director of Safety & CHASE, AGC of Minnesota

Advocator and mentor for contractors trying to raise the bar for Safety. As a diligent, insightful, collaborative leader she provides guidance and innovative solutions to practical challenges that can become barriers to safe work practices. With her perceptive knowledge combined with her keen attention to detail and communication skills, she upholds safety to the highest standard.

Emily Beardall

Senior Consultant, FMI Corporation

Emily Beardall develops creative analytical tools that deliver powerful solutions for FMI’s clients as a senior consultant. She is committed to utilizing these strategic tools to improve company performance and profitability.
In addition to leading client engagements, Emily is responsible for FMI’s quarterly construction activity forecast for Canada and other thought leadership pieces. She an expert in the design/build space and a sought after speaker on this and other topics.

Before joining FMI, Emily was a volunteer consultant for Entrepreneurship Empowerment in South Africa. In that position, she spent a summer working with a general contractor to improve day-to-day operations and to develop a strategic plan to manage Cape Town’s booming market.

Emily holds a Master of Business Administration and Management, from the University of Florida Hough Graduate School of Business. She earned her Bachelor of Arts, Economics from the University of Florida.

Mark Becker

Partner, Fabyanske, Westra, Hart & Thomson

Mark R. Becker is a shareholder at Fabyanske, Westra, Hart & Thomson.  He is a fellow of the American College of Construction Lawyers.  He is a current director on the board of the AGC of MN board, and is a former chair of the Construction Section of the Minnesota State Bar Association.

Taylor Boileau

Founder, The Blueprint for Change LLC

Taylor Boileau is an industry advocate and founder of The Blueprint for Change, a company on a mission to improve construction culture one conversation at a time. Since 2016, she’s worked her way up from field engineer to superintendent, confronting construction culture challenges head-on by helping rewrite the ASCE code of ethics, leading jobsites, giving national presentations, and building support networks. Whether hosting her podcast or sparking meaningful conversations, Taylor inspires others to take action and make lasting change in the industry.

Amy Court

Partner, Shumaker Loop & Kendrick

Amy Court is a partner with Shumaker Loop & Kendrick law firm. She centers her practice on advising multi-employer plan trustees and administrators regarding a wide variety of benefit matters, including plan design and amendments, eligibility, enforcement and interpretation of plan provisions, administrative appeals of benefit denials, withdrawal liability, fiduciary responsibility, and prohibited transactions.  An experienced courtroom advocate, Amy also represents plan trustees in litigation of varying size in complexity in both State and Federal Courts at the district and appellate levels, frequently defending them against claims brought by plan participants. She routinely provides risk assessments and strategies necessary for resolving pending disputes, claims, and litigation.

Alissa Daire Nelson

Founder, Chief Strengths Officer, Daire 2 Succeed

Alissa Daire Nelson is founder and Chief Strengths Officer of Daire 2 Succeed, whose mission is to elevate the economy of Minnesota by equipping leaders to successfully cultivate strengths-based cultures of well-being.
She's an accomplished Business and Leadership Coach, Trainer, Facilitator, Speaker, Podcaster, and Author.

She’s a certified Professional Coach (PCC) with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and holds certifications in Strengths Strategy, Xchange Facilitation, Creating Positive Change, and Team Momentum™, and PERMAH™ Workplace Wellbeing.

Her rich background includes serving in healthcare for over a decade, as a Registered Dietitian (RD) and a Registered Nurse (RN). She also serves on the Mounds View School Board and supports the four Minneapolis School District High School Gymnastics teams as a volunteer coach.

But more than anything else she's an exceedingly proud wife and mother of two, who loves helping leaders and teams discover how to own their perfect lopsidedness and amplify their success

Melissa DeLay

Owner, TruPerception

Melissa DeLay is a communications strategist and principle owner of award-winning consultant agency TruPerception. She’s also the author of the new book “The Truth About Scandal: The Everyday Guide to Navigating Business Crises”. She’s given over 300 speeches about workplace communication and techniques for improving workplace culture at companies across the U.S., including the Royal Bank of Canada, City of Minneapolis, and the State of Minnesota.

Austin Eden

Partner, Business Credits and Incentives, Eide Bailly

Austin has over 6 years of experience in the tax consultation space, particularly in finding ways for businesses to reduce their taxes sooner through accelerating depreciation deductions. He simplifies complex tax rules and processes to streamline operations, providing cost benefits to both the firm and his client. Now at Eide Bailly, he is leveraging his past experience to help tax-exempt and taxable organizations maximize the energy credits they deserve.

Jonathan Eichman

Training Manager, 3M DBI Sala

Jon Eichman is 3M Fall Protection’s Training Manager for the US and Canada. In this role, Jon focuses his efforts on 3M field safety specialists, MRA partners, and channel partners to ensure customer facing representatives of DBI Sala and Protecta are properly trained on fall protection applications and 3M’s product offering to assist end-users working at heights.

Kristin Gustafson

Principal/Sustainability & Energy Incentives Leader, Eide Bailly

Kristin leads the Energy Efficiency team at Eide Bailly and is a Professional Engineer licensed in 50 states. She is also a certified building energy modeling professional with over 20 years of consulting experience, and helps clients identify and pursue opportunities for specialty services including 179D, 45L, and Renewable Energy credits. Additionally, she helps clients with reporting requirements as they pursue their carbon accounting, sustainability, and ESG efforts.

Lisa Hollingsworth

Safety Investigator Principal for Partnerships, MN Department of Labor and Industry

Lisa Hollingsworth is a distinguished figure in the construction industry, with a remarkable journey that spans over three decades. With a strong educational foundation and a wealth of hands-on experience, Lisa has made significant contributions to safety and compliance within the field.

Lisa's academic journey led her to St. Mary's University in Winona, MN, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management. Her education laid a solid foundation for her future endeavors in the construction sector.
With an impressive 33-year career in construction, Lisa has worn various hats and has made a lasting impact at each stage of her professional journey. Her career began as a laborer for a precast company, where she spent seven years gaining invaluable insights into the industry from the ground up.

Subsequently, Lisa joined Mortenson, a prominent name in the construction industry, where she dedicated seven years to safety management. Her role as a safety professional allowed her to contribute to the creation of safer work environments and promote best practices in construction safety.

Lisa's dedication to safety transcended her work with Mortenson. For six years, she worked as a private consultant at Hilmerson Safety Services, further expanding her influence in the field of safety and compliance. For the past 13 years, Lisa has been an integral part of the Minnesota Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MNOSHA) Enforcement. During her tenure, she spent three years conducting enforcement inspections, ensuring that workplaces met the required safety standards. Over the past ten years, Lisa has been an instrumental force in the Cooperative Compliance Program, collaborating closely with the Minnesota Associated General Contractors (MN AGC) and the CHASE Program to promote a culture of safety within the construction industry.

Lisa's extensive experience, combined with her unwavering commitment to safety and compliance, positions her as a respected authority in the construction sector. Her multifaceted career path, from laborer to safety professional to regulatory enforcement, uniquely equips her to provide invaluable insights into the intricacies of construction safety and compliance.
We are honored to have Lisa Hollingsworth as a speaker at our event, where she will share her wealth of knowledge and experiences. Her contributions are sure to enhance our understanding of the critical importance of safety in the construction industry.

John Holper

Shareholder, Bassford Remele

Kyle is a shareholder, member of Board of Directors and co-chair of the construction practice group at the Bassford Remele law firm. He has been a recognized Super Lawyer with expertise in commercial litigation, construction, and real estate matters, and obtaining favorable results through negotiations, litigation (including arbitration, trial and appeals).

Phyllis Karasov

Attorney and Shareholder, Larkin Hoffman

Phyllis Karasov advises businesses on labor and employment matters.  Her clients come from a variety of sectors, including construction.   She provides counsel in all areas of human resources, including hiring, handbooks, regulatory compliance, discrimination, sexual harassment, discipline and termination, Americans with Disabilities Act, OSHA rules and the Family and Medical Leave Act. As a former National Labor Relations Board attorney, Phyllis is often called upon to represent clients in labor union matters including arbitrations, collective bargaining agreements and union contracts.

Peyton Kringlie

Vice President of Corporate Strategy, LS Black Constructors

Peyton Kringlie is a seasoned expert in the construction industry, currently serving as Vice President of Corporate Strategy at LS Black Constructors. He leads the Corporate side of the business, overseeing Finance, Risk, Technology, and Human Resources. His notable contributions include implementing scalable systems that leverage real-time data, enabling timely and informed decision-making, which has significantly boosted the company’s operational efficiency. With extensive experience spanning Supply Chain, Operations, IT, Accounting, and Business Development, Peyton’s multifaceted insight allows him to accurately assess risks in the volatile construction industry. This comprehensive expertise is instrumental in driving LS Black Constructors' continued growth and success.

Yolanda McIntosh

Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, AGC of Minnesota

A Leader in Construction Mental Health, Yolanda Y. McIntosh is the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Associated General Contractors of Minnesota. In her role, Yolanda leads efforts to create more intentional and inclusive initiatives, helping member contractors build equitable business cultures and provide greater opportunities for diverse populations in the building and highway construction industry. Beyond her DEI work, Yolanda is a prominent leader in the construction mental health movement, heading up the VitalCog in Construction suicide prevention training and awareness program for the region.

Yolanda has become a national champion in suicide prevention within the construction industry. Her powerful message, “People like me don’t want to die; we just want the mental pain, turmoil, and anguish in our heads to STOP!” resonates deeply, inspiring change and raising awareness about mental health in construction.

Tyler Myrom

Safety Technician, Duinnick, Inc.

Tyler is a safety professional dedicated to transforming safety practices in the construction industry. As a Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Tyler integrates technology to enhance worker engagement and streamline safety protocols. By leveraging tools such as digital platforms and data-driven solutions, Tyler aims to create smarter, safer job sites. With a focus on utilizing technology to anticipate risks and prevent incidents, Tyler is passionate about advancing the future of safety and fostering a proactive, tech-enabled safety culture in construction.

Nicole Pillow

Empowerment Institute Trainer and Client Manager, Twin Cities Rise; Empowerment Institute

Nicole Pillow is a Certified Master Trainer and Client Manager at the Empowerment Institute at Twin Cities Rise in Minneapolis. Over the past decade, she has dedicated herself to fostering an empowered culture by coaching and inspiring transformative change in thousands of individuals and organizations nationwide. Her extensive expertise in curriculum development for instructional and emotional skills profoundly impacts both professional growth and personal development. As the founder of Inner Beauty Project, LLC, and a professional speaker, Nicole is especially known for designing engaging workshops where participants feel seen, heard, and valued. Her commitment to promoting authentic living has earned her recent features on national platforms such as the Tameron Hall Show and the Jason Show.

Steve Sampson Brown

Director of Construction, City of Rochester

Steve Sampson Brown is the Director of Construction for the city of Rochester and is responsible for the overall construction coordination for the over $6 billion in private and public development that Rochester will experience over the next 5 years. He oversees the management and delivery of special development projects in downtown Rochester, including Link Rapid Transit and 6th Street Riverfront and Neighborhood investment projects. In this role, Sampson Brown will also be key in supporting the forthcoming City-focused work with Mayo Clinic’s $5 billion Bold. Forward. Unbound initiative, continuing the $585 million public investment through the Destination Medical Center and the $1 billion in other projects.
 
Prior to joining the Rochester team in 2024, Sampson Brown most recently served as a Project Manager for the City of Dubuque, Iowa and had been with that organization since 2006. In this role, he was responsible for over $200 million in completed capital improvement projects and engineering studies. Sampson Brown has led multiple projects that were statewide, regional and national award-winning.

Casey Savlov

Executive Vice President, Vita Industrial

Casey Savlov is the Executive Vice-President at Vita Industrial. Vita's mission is to eliminate preventable deaths and accidents in the industrial/construction and aerospace industries through modern technology solutions. For AGC members, Vita Industrial’s Vita Load Navigator offers an opportunity for projects to complete operations on site faster and safer resulting in reduced costs, lower risks, and while increasing worker safety.

Mike Schechter

General Counsel & Director of Labor Relations, AGC of Minnesota

Mike Schechter is the director of labor relations and general counsel for AGC MN, where he facilitates negotiations with the basic trades on collective bargaining agreements, helps contractors with questions or concerns, and manages the disputes board to resolve differences with the unions. 

Matthew Semerad

Director of Safety Services and Education Development, AGC of Minnesota

Semerad has over 25 years of diverse experience in construction, including residential, commercial, industrial, and heavy civil projects. Semerad’s career began in the field as a laborer and has continued through field engineering, project management, Quality Management, and Safety Management.   Matt is currently responsible for providing training through AGC’s supervisor training program, and administrates AGC’s CHASE program.  His previous experience includes projects with the Alberta Ministry of Transportation, Suncor Energy, Shell Global, the Bureau of Reclamation, Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT), Pennsylvania DOT, Massachusetts DOT, and Minnesota’s Metropolitan Council.

Kori Shingles

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager, JE Dunn Construction

Kori Shingles is a dedicated educator and facilitator focused on addressing overlooked barriers and procedural issues. Drawing from her experiences in coaching and recreation management, as well as her perspective as a Black woman in a predominantly white society, she excels as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager. Kori has successfully built relationships in the construction industry, working to improve systems for underrepresented communities.

Jeff Shoaf

Chief Executive Officer, Associated General Contractors of America

Jeff Shoaf is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Associated General Contractors of America. He was selected to be AGC’s CEO in 2023 by a search committee made up of current and past leaders of the national association and assumed the position in April 2024. As the CEO, Shoaf leads a staff of over 65 professionals who work to advocate for, educate and connect the commercial construction industry in the United States, in coordination with the 89 AGC chapters across the nation.
 
Before being selected as CEO, Jeff was Chief Operating Officer (COO) of AGC for the last six years. In that role, he helped oversee day-to-day operations at the trade association, oversaw the implementation of the Board of Director’s Business Plan, and ensured the association’s management and budgeting priorities were met. Departments reporting to him in that role included Finance, HR, IT, BD, Marketing, Meetings and Education.
 
Before taking the post as COO, Jeff worked in AGC’s government relations department as a lobbyist and head of the department for over 20 years. He worked on Capitol Hill prior to joining AGC where he served on the staff of the House Transportation Committee and for Congressman Bud Shuster of Pennsylvania for nearly 8 years. He is a graduate of James Madison University. Jeff lives in Virginia with his wife, has three daughters and two grandchildren.

Dean Thomson

Shareholder, Fabyanske, Westra, Hart & Thomson

Dean B. Thomson is a shareholder at Fabyanske, Westra, Hart & Thomson.  He is currently serving as the president of the American College of Construction Lawyers.  He is a former chair of the Construction Section of the Minnesota State Bar Association.

Aalayah Traub

VDC Manager, Knutson Construction

Over the past 5 years at Knutson, Aalayha has been a leader in identifying and implementing innovative tools and technologies across projects. Her passion for leading edge technology allows her to find unique opportunities to help our project teams and job site be more collaborative, efficient, and innovative. In addition to internal efforts at Knutson, Aalayha brings her passion to the University of Minnesota where she teaches a Building Information Modeling course further showcasing and advocating for technology in the construction industry.

Curt Turgeon

Acting Office Director, Office of Materials and Road Research, Minnesota Department of Transportation

Mr. Turgeon is currently the Director of the Office of Materials and Road Research.  He has spent his 37 career at MnDOT working primarily in the materials and construction fields.  He is the Vice Chair of the AASHTO Committee on Materials and Pavements, and Chair of the AASHTO Technical Subcommittee on Quality and the Environment.  For the past 9 years, he has been a member of the Federal Highway Administration’s Sustainable Pavements Expert Task Group.

Jay Tyrrell

President, Northern Safety L.L.C.

Jay Tyrrell has over 25 years of experience in the equipment and rental business. He is familiar with operation and service of most major brands and has a long history of helping contractors weigh the pros and cons of buying, renting or R.P.O. He focuses his expertise on training: the operator, the trainer and the service technician. Jay is a member of the Minnesota Safety Counsel. 

Kyle S. Willems

Shareholder, Bassford Remele

Kyle is a shareholder, member of Board of Directors and co-chair of the construction practice group at the Bassford Remele law firm. He has been a recognized Super Lawyer with expertise in commercial litigation, construction, and real estate matters, and obtaining favorable results through negotiations, litigation (including arbitration, trial and appeals).

Jeff Williams

Director, Twin Cities Rise; Empowerment Institute

Jeff is the Interim Director of Twin Cities Rise's Empowerment Institute. He got his start in Emotional Intelligence Training Facilitation in 2009 while working with Better Futures MN as Business Operations Director. Over the past 15 years, Jeff has led facilitation for multiple for-profit and non-profit organizations across the country and has spent the last 10 years with Twin Cities Rise. Through Twin Cities Rise, Jeff earned a Master Level Training in Emotional Intelligence Facilitation.

Jeff continues to develop an Emotional Intelligence curriculum, customize training for clients, and train facilitators in best practices. 

Tim Worke

CEO, AGC of Minnesota  

Tim Worke is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Associated General Contractors of Minnesota, the state’s oldest and largest commercial contracting trade association with over 400 members statewide representing both building and transportation infrastructure market sectors.  Prior to being named CEO, Tim served as AGC’s Director of Highways & Transportation from 2003-2017. 

The first half of Tim’s career was spent with the Minnesota Department of Transportation working in the areas of legislative relations and policy development.  Tim served as the DOT’s Director of Federal Government Relations throughout most of the 1990s and managed the DOT’s Office of Government Relations from 1999-2003 overseeing both state and federal legislative matters for the agency.  Tim is a 1985 graduate of the University of Minnesota with B.A Degrees in Political Science and Criminal Justice. Tim and his wife Karen live in Eagan, MN.  They have 2 children and 2 grandchildren.    

Rachel Zentner

Mental Health Therapist

Rachel is a licensed professional counselor and psychotheratipst in private practice. She focuses on mindfulness-based practices that teach clients ways to solve problems, reduce suffering, sustain relationships, and balance achieve balance to improve mental health and wellness.

Jonathan Zentner

Shareholder, Arthur Chapman

Jon is a construction law attorney and shareholder with Arthur Chapman law firm with extensive work on defect claims, contract disputes, additional-insured litigation, and construction injury claims on behalf of general contractors, stucco installers, window manufacturers, framers, roofers, lumber distributors, HVAC installers, excavators, and masons.

Dick Zhang

Cofounder and CEO, Bluelight Machines

Dick, CEO of Bluelight Machines, is on a mission to help operators Get More Done on the jobsite through supervised, retrofit, AI-powered autonomy. They have autonomous machines on dozens of jobsites around the country, from Dollar Generals to mega Car Plants and Data Centers. He comes from 15 years of bringing technology to site work contractors. 

Laura Ziegler

Director of Highway/Heavy & Government Affairs, AGC of Minnesota

Laura Ziegler joined AGC of MN in 2018 and serves as the Director of Highway/Heavy & Government Affairs.  Laura's role includes being the principal staff resource for managing and directing AGC's legislative policy and regulatory agenda.  She represents the construction industry at the Minnesota Legislature and with state agencies, as well as the federal government and Congress. She has a passion for the three P’s: policy, puns, and not the Packers.