Day One from the BuildIT Executive Planning Session in Jackson Hole, WY

As AEC industry leaders from across the US arrived in Jackson Hole for BuildIT’s National Strategic Planning Session, they were greeted with the grandeur that only Mother Nature can provide.  If you have been to Grand Teton National Park, you know what we mean.

Day One Focused on a range of topics including Project Funding from the perspective of public agencies, design/consulting firms, general and specialty contractors.  As one person said: “if projects aren’t funded, then nobody works.” The next major topic focused on Workforce Development, Training and Retention, which is critical to all our stakeholders.  BuildIT highlighted our collaborations with Nor Cal Carpenters Union, AGC of California, and  Regional Workforce Programs throughout the Western US, which serve as National Role Models for engaging our LGBT/Allied communities.

The highlight of the day for all was the participation of Phil Washington, CEO of Denver International Airport and Co-Founder of the Equity in Infrastructure Project. Mr. Washington’s remarks to the group focused on acknowledging the past, navigating the present, and planning for the future. BuildIT is profoundly honored that Mr. Washington took the time from his demanding schedule to join us. His impact within the AEC industry goes well beyond the borders of the US and the perspectives he shared with us on Day One have the room buzzing on Day Two!

Of course, the success of any strategic planning session rests largely on the person leading the discussions. Ange Matthews, CEO of LeaderSauce, led our group of AEC industry leaders through the ideation and prioritization process, which will become part of the updates to our 20-year Business Plan.