Come be a part of the 2nd Annual ABC Illinois Construction Summit!
Join us on November 7, 2024, at the Holiday Inn Chicago-Elk Grove for our 2nd Annual ABC Illinois Construction Summit! We will have breakout sessions with special guest speakers that will focus on topics relevant to you and your business. Don't wait! Register today to secure your spot.
ABC Illinois Events are for ABC Members and invited guests only.
This highly anticipated event will be held at Holiday Inn Chicago-Elk Grove located at 1000 Busse Rd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007. We have special pricing for rooms if you would like to book a hotel room. Click here to book your room. 1-888-HOLIDAY ( 1-888-465-4329 )
Registration: 8:00am - 8:45am
Welcome & Economic Outlook: 8:45am - 9:45am
Chris Kuehl, Armada
Dr. Chris Kuehl is a Managing Director of Armada Corporate Intelligence. He provides forecasts and strategic guidance for a wide variety of corporate clients around the world. He is the economist for several national and international organizations. He is also the economic analyst for several state accounting societies. Prior to starting Armada in 1999 he was a professor of economics and finance for 15 years. He holds advanced degrees in economics, Soviet studies and East Asian studies. Chris is the co-author of The Flagship and the Strategic Intelligence System - both publications from Armada. He is also responsible for Fabrinomics from the FMA and The Advisor for ASA.
Breakout Session 1: 10:00am - 11AM
Build Health & Safety Engagement Through Leadership
Greg Sizemore, ABC National
According to research by Associated Builders and Contractors, Top Management's involvement in a company's health and safety programs can have up to a 54% positive impact on safety performance. A leader's involvement should be the foundation upon which a health and safety culture is built. If a leaders is not involved, someone else is defining your health and safety culture.
Greg Sizemore is the vice president of health, safety, environment and workforce development for ABC. Greg is a leader in the construction industry and business community on safety, total human health and workforce development. Prior to joining ABC in 2015, Sizemore worked at Zachry Industrial, where he played an integral role in the formation of Zachry’s competency-based safety, professional and craft workforce development programs. Greg also developed several new initiatives, including a craft university that targeted the construction industry’s critical crafts areas and a competency-based craft advancement and safety program. Prior to his time at Zachry, Sizemore held several management positions at BE&K Construction Co. in Birmingham, Alabama. Sizemore is also a volunteer leader in the safety and workforce development space. He is a past chair of the ABC National Craft Championships Committee and NCCER Workforce Development Committee. Currently, he serves on the Occupational Health and Safety Administration’s Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health and the board of directors of NCCER and chairs the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention.
Magnetic Leadership
Mike Bellamen, ABC National
In this session participants explore and breakdown a definition of Leadership introduced by management consultant Alan Medville – “The authentic expression of who you are in such a way that creates the conditions for others to achieve”. As a student of leadership, Bellaman creates a participative atmosphere which enables robust debate about what makes or does not make a great and “magnetic” leader. If you want to improve your leadership, this session will give you some fundamentals to work with.
Mike Bellamen has served as President and CEO of ABC since 2011. A 1985 graduate of Pennsylvania State University, Bellaman earned a bachelor’s in architectural engineering and spent more than two decades in the construction industry before joining ABC. Under his leadership, ABC has deployed a five-year, association-wide strategic planning framework to align all chapters and members which, over the last decade, has led to results including; growing contractor membership by 7%, increasing the number of fair and open competition states by 1,100% and the number of right-to-work states by 22%, and expanding Free Enterprise Alliance fundraising by 200%. Bellaman has also launched initiatives that have strengthened ABC members’ value proposition, such as a construction technology and innovation initiative, a grassroots political advocacy app, growing national recognition for the National Craft Championships and Construction Management Competition, and deploying an inclusion, diversity, and merit strategy.
Inflation Reduction Act
Ben Brubeck, ABC National
On Aug. 29, 2023, the U.S. Treasury Department issued a controversial proposed rule and FAQs to provide additional guidance regarding prevailing wage and government-registered apprenticeship requirements that must be satisfied by private developers to be eligible for more than $270 billion worth of federal tax incentives in the Inflation Reduction Act for the construction of clean energy projects. Learn about ABC’s comments and concerns on the proposal and what to expect from the forthcoming final rule and other significant Biden administration regulations overhauling the Davis-Bacon Act and government-registered apprenticeships.
Ben Brubeck is vice president of regulatory, labor and state affairs at the Associated Builders and Contractors. A recognized expert in procurement, labor and employment issues impacting the construction industry, Mr. Brubeck has extensive experience with the Davis-Bacon Act, state prevailing wage laws, project labor agreements and regulations affecting federal contractors. He also serves as vice president of policy for the National Council for Public-Private Partnerships. Prior to joining ABC, Mr. Brubeck was the 2003 James A. Finnegan Foundation Fellow for the Pennsylvania House Appropriations Committee.
Breakout Session 2: 11:15am - 12:15pm
Media Management: How to Control the Narrative
Erika Walter, ABC National
Every communication has an impact on your business—including your interactions with the media. From the way staff answers the telephone, to your virtual background in interviews, the quality of your emails and the timeliness of responding to inquiries, establishing a reputation as a highly informed, reputable source for media will help establish your business and team as thought leaders to your target audiences and local community. Learn how to develop an effective media relations strategy, develop relationships with the media, craft news releases and talking points and more.
Erika Walter serves as the media relations director for ABC National. In this role, Erika oversees ABC’s brand, strategic goals and the message of the merit shop in the media through media inquiries, news releases and statements, pitches, op-eds and other forms of relationship-building with the press. Since Erika joined ABC National in December 2020, the association’s media hits have increased from 15/day to 57/day. Erika also assists ABC’s 68 chapters achieve strategic messaging goals. Prior to ABC National, Erika served as the communications director for ABC Pelican and ABC of Louisiana, where she led the strategic communications goals of both the chapter and state association. Before ABC, Erika was the press secretary for the Partnership for Public Service, a nonprofit that advocates for the federal workforce, and Rep. Steve Scalise, R-Louisiana, in Washington, D.C. Erika began her career in communications as a writer and producer for Fox News Channel and Fox Business Network.
Staying off the Darkweb
Nick Decker, Egnyte
Nick Decker is the Global Practice Leader for Construction at Egnyte. He is responsible for the growth and support of Egnyte’s general contracting and specialty contracting customers. Nick brings experience in the construction technology and innovation space from time at Bluebeam and Dusty Robotics. He originally comes from the construction and engineering industry, having worked for large contractors Kiewit and AECOM Hunt. Nick holds a Civil Engineering degree and MBA from Purdue University.
What to Expect with State & Federal Politics After the Presidential Election
David Ramirez, Michael Best Strategies
In the aftermath of a presidential election, the political landscape undergoes significant shifts, impacting both state and federal spheres. This informative session is tailored for members of the ABC community and merit-based businesses, offering insights into what to anticipate in the realm of politics following the presidential race. From potential policy changes to shifts in power dynamics, attendees will gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape and how it may affect their interests and operations. Whether you’re a concerned citizen, a policymaker, or an industry professional within the ABC network, this session equips you with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of post-election politics with confidence. Join us as we explore the road ahead and uncover what lies on the horizon for state and federal governance, specifically tailored to ABC members and merit-based businesses.
David focuses on government relations and public policy strategies designed to help clients overcome individual business challenges and implement legislative or regulatory change. His experience in helping to run Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner’s gubernatorial campaign has given him great insight into the political and legislative process.
Prior to joining Michael Best Strategies, David served as a statewide field director in primary and general elections during Governor Rauner’s 2014 campaign. In this capacity, David oversaw 80 offices and 500 workers.
Lunch: 12:15pm - 1:45pm
What to Expect if OSHA Shows Up on the Job Site
Nick Guilfoyle, Allied Safety Group
OSHA is committed to strong, fair, and effective enforcement of safety and health requirements in the workplace. OSHA inspectors, called compliance safety and health officers, are experienced, well-trained industrial hygienists and safety professionals whose goal is to assure compliance with OSHA requirements and help employers and workers reduce on-the-job hazards and prevent injuries, illnesses, and deaths in the workplace. Normally, OSHA conducts inspections without advance notice. In this presentation we will discuss the following:
Types of OSHA Inspections and the Priority.
The Inspection Process from arrival through departure from your site or place of business.
Steps to take following a Citation and Notification of Penalty.
Employer and Employee rights during and following an inspection.
Ways to prevent the risk of compliance problems at your place of business and work sites.
Nick Guilfoyle was USMC in 2002-2013. He entered into the Occupational Safety and Health field in 2016, graduating Magna Cum Lade in 2019 from Columbia Southern University with a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Safety and Health. Currently he holds American Red Cross Instructor certification for Adult and Pediatric First-Aid/CPR/AED, OSHA 10/30 Hour for the Construction Industry Authorized Outreach Trainer, ATSSA TCS, is a MEWP Instructor, and a Competent Persons Trainer.
Breakout Session 3: 2:00pm - 3:15pm
Taking Care of Employees
Adam Bonsky, ABC Insurance Trust
Learn about construction specific and ABC member exclusive employee benefits programs offered through the ABC Insurance Trust. Since 1957, their mission has been to serve ABC members, offering tailored employee benefits and construction-specific services.
Explore their four unique, members-only programs, unavailable in the open market and built exclusively for ABC members:
The Construction Healthcare Alliance: the first ever healthcare captive built for the construction industry.
The Small Business Healthcare Solution: an ABC member only alternative to the high cost of traditional employee healthcare programs.
Our MetLife national program: offers a wide range of benefits that can provide financial security and peace of mind to ABC contractor employees.
The ABC Multiple Employer Plan: a retirement plan solution that significantly reduces your cost and fiduciary liability while allowing plan design flexibility.
The Trust has solutions for members of all sizes, delivering a comprehensive suite of employee benefits including major medical, ancillary, voluntary and retirement solutions. With their knowledge of the construction industry, they understand the challenges contractors face, such as bidding on projects subject to Davis Bacon and state prevailing wage regulations. Therefore, they can provide additional compliance support to members.
Adam Bonsky is the CEO & President of ABC Insurance Trust. As CEO, Adam leads the organization in providing the best-in-class employee benefits for members of the Associated Builders and Contractors. His commitment to creating positive employee experiences can be seen through his efforts and felt while in conversation with him, and he certainly has the experience needed to deliver on his promises.
Adam has held executive leadership and management roles in organizations ranging from major banks and insurance companies to small and medium-sized entrepreneurial businesses in the Austin area. He has worked at companies such as KeyBank, Transamerica, CNA, Union Bank of California, TriNet and Fringe Benefit Group.
Prevailing Wage 101
Jeff Risch, Amundsen Davis
Join Labor & Employment Attorney, Jeffrey Risch, for a timely webinar discussing and examining prevailing wage law on a state and federal level. Topics will include:
Prevailing Wage Law in Illinois “101” – an Overview and Refresher of the Basics
Contract Disclaimers and Protecting Your Own Bottom Line
Annualization of Fringe Benefits and the Impact on Contractors
Major Differences b/n IL law and Federal Davis-Bacon law
Completing the Certified Transcript of Payroll
Consequences for Non-Compliance (backpay, penalties, interest & debarment)
Case Law Updates/Developments
Dispelling Myths & Legend (what you think you know, may not be accurate)
Jeff has many years of both private practice and in-house counsel experience. In his practice, Jeff handles both employment and traditional labor matters. Such matters include: countering various union tactics; navigating government audits; defending discrimination, retaliation and wrongful termination claims; avoiding employee wage and hour controversies; complying with prevailing wage and minimum wage laws; litigating employment contract disputes and unfair competition controversies; upholding independent contractor and contingent workforce relationships; and negotiating collective bargaining agreements.
Jeff’s legal knowledge is accompanied by his understanding of his clients’ industries, which include construction, banking, manufacturing and food processing, health care (particularly long term care), and transportation, among others. Jeff participates in various trade and professional associations devoted to his clients’ diverse industries. He is passionately committed to helping employers stay up-to-date with legal developments and trends unique to their industry.
Best HR Practices for Small Businesses
Beverly Alfon, Amundsen Davis
You have so much to juggle in operating your small business. It is no wonder that HR practices sometimes get neglected. As your company grows, so do the HR issues that you have deal with. Neglected HR practices will cost you time and money in the long run because failure to comply with ever-changing federal, state, and local employment laws will likely land you in legal trouble. More than the risk factor, of course, understanding the many facets of HR will also bring big returns for your company. The reality is that HR management for small businesses is just as important as it is for big organizations, and the processes are very similar - even if you have only have a handful of employees. During this roundtable discussion, we will cover some do’s and don’ts, recommendations, and best HR practices for small businesses.
Bev is a partner in the Labor and Employment practice group at Amundsen Davis. She strives to understand a client’s business, in order to effectively support it in reaching its goals by preempting and addressing its challenges. She knows that solutions are not one-size-fits all. She spent the first 10 years of her career representing labor unions, their funds, and employees -- but has spent the last 13 years exclusively representing employer and management interests. Armed with this unique perspective, she regularly counsels employers on compliance with ever-changing state/local and federal laws, develops employment policies, assists clients with executing human resources strategies, negotiates employment and separation agreements, conducts internal investigations, conducts due diligence of labor and employment matters in M&A, and advises employers in connection with strategic planning related to collective bargaining, fringe benefit fund audits, and withdrawal liability. She also has extensive experience in defending employers in a wide range of disputes ranging from discrimination and retaliation claims to union picketing, strikes, and unfair labor practice charges.
She is a frequent speaker on labor and employment matters, including seminars for the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, the Chicago-Kent Institute for Law and the Workplace, and various contractor associations. She is also a regular contributor to Amundsen Davis’s Labor and Employment Law Update.
Breakout Session 4: 3:30pm - 4:45pm
Union Organizing Toolkit
Beverly Alfon, Amundsen Davis
Google. Starbucks. Wells Fargo. Even these behemoths of business have not been immune from union organizing and the many legal complications that come with the onset of organizing. As a construction contractor you should always expect to be on a union’s radar. A proper response to union organizing is one that protects employee rights while exercising employer rights. If you don’t know where employer and employee rights start and end in this context, you will have a very difficult and risky time navigating union organizing. During this roundtable discussion, we will cover types of labor union organizing campaigns and nuances in the construction industry, how employers can respond to union campaigns, including permissible and impermissible conduct under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA):
What can employers proactively do to avoid union organizing?
What are the indirect signs of union organizing?
How will your company address organizing and are you ready deploy a rapid response? Why do does this call for “rapid” response?
What will your messaging be – and is it legal?
Contracts & Lien Acts
John Walker, Waveland Law
John concentrates his practice in construction and mechanics lien litigation, contract and commercial disputes, information technology litigation, corporate internal investigations, appeals, tort and products liability law, real estate and property loss, real estate, landlord/tenant, housing, and debtor/creditor law. He has handled hearings, trials and appeals in the state and federal courts, as well as arbitrations before the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the American Arbitration Association, and the International Chamber of Commerce Court of Arbitration.
John has been appointed, and has served, as a court-designated sole arbitrator for the Mortgage Foreclosure/Mechanics Lien Section of the Circuit Court of Cook County. He also frequently serves as an arbitration panelist and panel chairman for the Cook County Mandatory Arbitration Program, and has been appointed a designated mediator for the Chancery Division of the Cook County Circuit Court. All the bar associations in Cook County recently rated Mr. Walker as “Qualified” to serve as a Cook County Circuit Judge.
Recruit & Retain Your Rockstars (Part 2)
Eric Smith, Edge Electrical Systems | Chris Dameron, Aerotek | Malik Khan, Pinnacle Coaching | Brady Pittz, Leapros
Eric Smith has been professionally dedicated to the electrical industry for almost 38 years. He began his career as the warehouse manager for a young and rapidly growing electrical contractor in the mid 80’s. Seeing that advancing in the industry meant learning all its aspects, Eric was accepted into the electrician apprentice program and then established himself as an exceptional electrician with talents that reached far beyond working the field. With a solid 10 years of doing it all in the field, Eric was drawn into numerous administrative and management roles where he excelled in job estimating, safety management, project management and client relations. Success in these roles led to Eric’s promotion to Vice President and eventually a partnership in one of the largest full service electrical contracting firms in the Midwest. With 30 years of progressive growth with the same firm, Eric got an itch to take his core beliefs of hard work, sticking to the basics and building strong relationships with both clients and employees and applying them to his own business. Eric was strongly supported in his vision by his family and with his son Zach and brother Michael, he formed what we know today as Edge Electrical Systems. Eric’s role as President and Chief Electrician placed him in an ideal position to build professional relationships, to oversee all projects and to select and train new team members assuring his clients that they will always receive cutting edge service results.
Chris Dameron has 25 years of working in construction and construction management, and 15 years as a small business owner. After selling his business, he moved into construction staffing. Currently he is the Account Manager for Illinois Construction Trades for Aerotek, the largest staffing company in the country. Chris has been a member of ABC for over four years.
Malik Khan was the 1st in his family to obtain a college degree as well as the first to own businesses. He has come to understand that it is sometimes lonely as an entrepreneur as you are dealing with your Dreams, Struggles and Successes. Currently he holds a Master’s in Organizational Leadership and Change, Certified Business Coach, and a Certified Speaking Professional.
In addition to owning his own businesses, he has worked for various organizations and industries in senior leadership positions. One of which helped over 100 entrepreneurs in the construction industry scale their business.
Brady Pittz is married (Jacque) and two boys under five (Ashton & Dax). Life has been chaotic and fun over the last decade as we moved around the country chasing opportunities, meeting people, and facing new challenges. Professionally, the corporate ladder has provided many opportunities to tackle different roles and gain a breath of experience. I am a firm believer that you never regret taking on new challenges so long as you have the support of your family and are surrounded by great teams of people. For me this was true of the choice to move to Chicago in early 2020 to join the staffing industry by taking over as owner and President of Industrial Skilled Trades & Leapros, Inc.
Sports have always been a big part of my life (despite an inability to grow taller and lifelong habit of fumbling the football). Whether on the field or at work I’ve always been most comfortable working closely with others, trusting and being trusted to execute, and pushing each other to grow. We all have our own areas of expertise and ability to add value.