Jason Vaughn Promoted to Vice President at Brinkman Construction
Brinkman Construction is proud to announce the promotion of Jason Vaughn to Vice President. Vaughn will lead the company’s Northern Colorado and Southeastern Wyoming efforts, overseeing business development, preconstruction, and operations in the region.
With more than 12 years at Brinkman Construction, Vaughn brings extensive experience and a strong track record of success in key roles including Construction Executive, Director of Preconstruction and Project Manager. His leadership and expertise have been instrumental in managing complex projects across multiple product types throughout the Colorado Front Range.
Vaughn’s leadership is defined by a strong commitment to relationship-building and early project engagement, ensuring seamless collaboration between preconstruction and operations. His cross-functional experience provides him with a comprehensive perspective, enabling him to develop strategies that drive efficient execution and deliver impactful results.
Vaughn holds a bachelor’s degree in construction management from Colorado State University and is a LEED Accredited Professional, reinforcing his dedication to innovation and sustainability in the construction industry. He was also recently recognized as a BizWest 40 Under Forty honoree, underscoring his contributions to the industry and community.
“Jason’s leadership and deep understanding of our operations make him the ideal choice to lead our efforts in the north,” says Jim Ciesla, President & CEO of Brinkman Construction. “We are confident in his ability to drive growth and continue delivering exceptional value to our operations and partners in the region.”
Vaughn steps into his new role at an exciting time for Brinkman Construction, as the company celebrates its 20-year anniversary, and reinforces its commitment to delivering exceptional service across a variety of industries, including multi-family, healthcare, office, industrial, and restaurant/brewery projects.
Sabrina Mantz Advances Leadership Excellence Through AGC of Colorado’s Executive Leadership Academy
Brinkman Construction is excited to recognize Construction Executive Sabrina Mantz for her graduation from the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Colorado’s Executive Leadership Academy, an accomplishment that highlights her dedication to growth as a leader in the construction industry. This program is designed to equip leaders with the skills and strategies needed to drive success in their organization.
The Executive Leadership Academy is a highly selective program aimed at preparing the next generation of leaders for executive roles within the construction sector. With a cohort of 32 participants from 26 companies, the academy offers an intensive two-day training that addresses critical topics impacting the industry, including leadership strategies, risk management, dispute resolution, and high-performing team dynamics. The sessions are guided by 13 experienced industry advisors who generously contribute their time and expertise to the program.
During the academy, attendees like Sabrina had the opportunity to deepen their knowledge on essential areas such as managing surety, financial strategies, workforce development, and crisis management. Each topic is designed to build the skills and confidence needed to tackle complex challenges and influence meaningful change within the workplace.
Sabrina’s participation not only reflects her drive to excel in her role but also highlights her contributions to the continued growth and success of Brinkman Construction. The tools she gained through this program will undoubtedly enhance her ability to lead effectively in an industry that demands strategic thinking and adaptability.
The Executive Leadership Academy also emphasizes the importance of collaboration and networking, providing ample opportunities for leaders to connect, share experiences, and build lasting relationships. By fostering these connections, the academy plays a vital role in shaping a stronger, more innovative construction community.
Brinkman Construction is incredibly proud of Sabrina for earning her place in such an impactful program. Her dedication to leadership development is a testament to the value she consistently brings to her team and the industry.
Sarah Treadway Joins Brinkman Construction Board of Directors
Brinkman Construction is pleased to announce that Sarah Treadway, a respected leader with over two decades of experience in real estate and hospitality, has joined its board of directors.
Currently President and Co-CEO of Stout Street Hospitality, Treadway has a strong track record of operational excellence, managing $75M in revenue across seven P&Ls and leading a team of 700 employees. She has owned and managed six hotels, navigated loan modifications during economic challenges, and maintained a 95% team retention rate through hands-on leadership during the pandemic. Her ability to balance financial success with a commitment to people makes her an excellent addition to the Brinkman Construction board.
“Sarah’s expertise and insights will provide significant value to Brinkman Construction as we continue on our growth path,” said Jim Ciesla, President and CEO of Brinkman Construction. “Her extensive experience in organizational development, leadership, and strategic decision-making aligns seamlessly with our goals, and we are excited to leverage her perspective as we work to strengthen initiatives that drive value for our employee-owners and clients.”
Treadway will contribute her broad expertise to advising Brinkman Construction’s executive team, assisting with strategic organizational development, and supporting initiatives to safeguard and grow the share value of the company’s Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
“Joining Brinkman Construction’s board is an honor,” said Sarah Treadway. “I look forward to supporting their mission and contributing to the continued success of their organization.”
Brinkman Construction’s dedication to cultivating relationships and driving solutions aligns with Treadway’s approach to leadership. Her promotion of authentic connections between teams and clients will further enhance the company’s ability to deliver on its commitment to service and relationships in the industry.
Jason Vaughn Recognized on BizWest 40 Under Forty List
Brinkman Construction is excited to celebrate Jason Vaughn, Vice President, for being named to the BizWest 40 Under Forty list. This prestigious award recognizes 40 outstanding young leaders from Northern Colorado and the Boulder Valley for their professional achievements and community contributions. Jason’s dedication to excellence and leadership in the construction industry have earned him this well-deserved recognition.
With over 12 years at Brinkman Construction, Jason has played a pivotal role in driving the success of projects across the Colorado Front Range and Southern Wyoming. His extensive experience and strategic leadership have been instrumental in delivering exceptional results on multi-family, healthcare, K-12, commercial office, retail, and brewery projects. Jason’s focus on collaboration creates strong connections among clients, trade partners, and internal teams. This approach keeps projects on track and delivers results that leave a lasting impact.
BizWest’s 40 Under Forty honorees were selected by a panel of previous recipients, with nominations applauding their professional success and volunteer activities. The award not only highlights Jason’s respect and influence within the industry but also recognizes his ongoing efforts in the community. Congratulations on this accomplishment, Jason!
Brinkman Construction Strengthens Denver Presence with Addition of New Leadership
Brinkman Construction is excited to announce the addition of Eric Kesti as Vice President and General Manager of their Denver office. With a career spanning 28 years in the construction industry, Eric brings a wealth
of experience and existing relationships that will significantly bolster Brinkman Construction’s presence throughout the Denver Metro area. In his new role, Eric will lead commercial business development strategies while executing on the long-term vision and growing the company’s Denver employee base and community engagement.
Jim Ciesla, President & CEO of Brinkman Construction, shared his thoughts on the appointment: “Eric’s extensive background and leadership skills provide an invaluable addition to our team. We are thrilled to have him join Brinkman Construction, where his expertise will help us expand our commercial construction services throughout the Front Range.”
Kesti expressed his enthusiasm about joining the team: “I am looking forward to contributing to the growth of our presence in the Denver Metro area. The opportunity to build a new future with such a dedicated and passionate team is incredibly exciting.”
Eric most recently served as the Special Projects Division Manager for Turner Construction Company. He has also served in leadership roles for Kiewit Building Group. He is actively involved in the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, and serves on the Metro Denver EDC Executive Committee, MDEDC Board of Governors and Colorado Space Coalition.
Eric’s arrival marks a significant step in Brinkman Construction’s commitment to growing its presence in the Denver area. His exceptional leadership and team management will pave the way for new positions within the company, further enhancing the company’s ability to deliver elevated construction solutions to clients.
Celebrating National Employee Ownership Month at Brinkman Construction
October marks a significant milestone in the journey of Brinkman Construction. As we welcome this month, we are excited to celebrate National Employee Ownership Month! This occasion is particularly meaningful for us as we commemorate our transformation into a 100% employee-owned company since October 2016.
Our journey as an employee-owned firm extends beyond merely distributing profits among our team members. It signifies the formation of enduring relationships, the creation of opportunities for advancement, and the collective celebration of our successes. In essence, every individual at Brinkman Construction plays a pivotal role in shaping our destiny, both literally and metaphorically.
The ethos of ownership has been instrumental in propelling us toward success. It has cultivated an atmosphere of dedication, shared experiences, and teamwork, which are the building blocks of our enterprise. Our entrepreneurial spirit has not only enabled us to construct remarkable buildings but also fostered robust relationships with our clients and within our team.
Throughout this month, stay tuned to our social media posts as we delve deeper into what employee ownership truly means to us. You will also get a chance to hear firsthand from our team members about their unique experiences and insights of being owners themselves.
The image above captures the memorable moments from our employee ownership kick-off celebration back in 2016. Since then, it has been an extraordinary journey, filled with learning, growth, and accomplishments. As we look forward, we are eager to explore the new avenues that lie ahead.
Let's raise a toast to our collective triumphs and the transformative power of employee ownership! Here's to many more years of shared success and growth at Brinkman Construction.
Congratulations to our Q1 Safest Project Winners!
Congratulations to the Alpine Flats team for winning the Safest Project of the Quarter award for Q1!
We are excited to announce that the Alpine Flats team has won the Q1 Safest Project Award! This is a prestigious recognition that highlights the outstanding efforts of the Alpine Flats team in prioritizing safety above all else. Their dedication to creating a safe working environment for everyone involved is truly commendable.
Safety should always be the number one priority in any construction project. The Alpine Flats team understood this fundamental principle and went above and beyond to ensure that every worker, trade partner, and visitor on the site could perform their duties without any compromise to their well-being.
The success of the Alpine Flats team was a collective effort. Collaboration and effective communication were key in fostering a safe working environment. The Brinkman Construction team and trade partners should be recognized for their invaluable contributions. By working together, they were able to identify potential hazards, implement necessary precautions, and proactively address any safety concerns that arose during the project.
We take immense pride in our organization's award-winning, safety-first culture. Over the years, our commitment to safety has been acknowledged by esteemed institutions such as the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Colorado and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Since 2019, we have been recognized as a Chase Blue participant, and in 2022, we received the prestigious National AGC Construction Safety Excellence Award.
We strive for a Zero Incident Safety Culture, leaving no room for compromise when it comes to the well-being of our team members.
Winning the Safest Project Award is a remarkable achievement, but it is essential to remember that the true reward lies in knowing that everyone returned home safely each day. The Alpine Flats team has not only completed their project with excellence but has also ensured the well-being of their entire workforce.
Congratulations once again to the Alpine Flats team for their well-deserved Safest Project Award! Your commitment to safety sets a shining example for the entire industry.
Celebrating Women in Construction Week 2023
Happy Women in Construction Week! This special occasion provides an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the incredible contributions of women in the construction industry. At Brinkman Construction, we took the time to come together, celebrate, and appreciate the women who play vital roles in our company. The week was filled with camaraderie, laughter, and shared stories during our afternoon happy hour. As we commemorate this important week, let us reflect on the remarkable impact women have made and continue to make in the construction industry.
Breaking Barriers and Shattering Stereotypes
In an industry traditionally dominated by men, women are breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes to forge a path toward equality. Women at Brinkman Construction not only have a presence in the boardroom, but also in various key positions within our organization. They contribute significantly to our executive, project management, accounting, payroll, marketing, project coordinator, human resources, and risk management teams. Their skills, expertise, and dedication play a crucial role in driving our success.
Impacts of Women in Construction
The increasing presence of women in the construction industry is transforming the landscape and bringing about positive change. Consider the following statistics that highlight the remarkable impact women are making:
1. Equal Pay: Women in the United States, on average, earn 82% of what men make. However, in the construction industry, the gender pay gap is narrower, with women earning an average of 96% of what men make. This trend indicates that the construction sector is prioritizing pay equality more than many other industries.
2. Executive Representation: Among the top 100 construction companies, 44% have women holding executive positions. This figure reflects the growing recognition of women's leadership abilities and the industry's efforts to diversify its leadership roles.
3. Professional and Management Sectors: Approximately 31% of women in the construction field are employed in the professional and management sectors. These positions require specialized skills, experience, and expertise, demonstrating the range of opportunities available to women in construction.
4. Workforce Representation: While there is still progress to be made, women account for about 10% of the construction workforce. This number is steadily increasing, reflecting the industry's efforts to attract and retain female talent.
5. Women-Owned Construction Companies: In an encouraging development, 13% of construction companies are owned by women. This statistic highlights the entrepreneurial spirit and determination of women who have established successful businesses in the construction sector.
6. Workforce Size: Nearly 1 million women currently work in the construction industry, showcasing their substantial presence and valuable contributions. This number emphasizes the growing recognition of women's skills and the industry's willingness to embrace diversity.
As Women in Construction Week comes to a close, we take this moment to honor and celebrate the achievements of women in the construction industry. Brinkman Construction acknowledges the remarkable impact women have made within our company and the industry as a whole. We remain committed to fostering an inclusive environment that promotes equality, diversity, and equal opportunities for everyone. Together, we will continue to pave the way for a future where women in construction thrive.
Jennifer Briggs Joins Brinkman Construction's Board of Directors
Executive leadership consultant Jennifer Briggs has joined the board of directors for Brinkman Construction, a 100% employee-owned commercial general contracting company.
She brings with her two decades of experience in human resources, serves as Chair on the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade’s (COEDIT) Employee Ownership Commission and is an Executive Fellow at Rutgers University Institute for the Study of Employee Ownership and Profit Sharing. Previously, Briggs worked as Vice President of Human Resources and Organizational Development for New Belgium Brewing for more than 12 years. During her time there, she was a key leader in driving a culture of ownership, learning and innovation across the organization.
“Jennifer’s expertise in operations, organizational development and Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) makes her an outstanding addition to our board,” says Jim Ciesla, President and CEO of Brinkman Construction. “We were drawn not only to her experience, but also to her passion for promoting community and financial wellbeing as companies scale. Her direction will have a huge impact on furthering our focus on creating a positive employee experience as well as the big picture strategic planning.”
Construction companies are the fastest-growing employee-owned industry in the United States, with 15% already holding ESOPs. In its sixth year of employee ownership, Brinkman Construction looks to Briggs’s expertise to further raise employee and client satisfaction, while expanding the ESOP.
Continental Properties Expands into the Denver Market
National real estate developer Continental Properties just broke ground on their new Springs at Peña Station development in Denver, Colorado. The Springs at Peña Station community will offer luxury-style apartment living in an ideal location. Brinkman Construction is the project’s general contractor marking their third project together in the Colorado market.
The Springs at Peña Station development will feature gated, garden- and townhome-style studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartment homes with private, ground-level entrances and attached garage options totaling 272 units.
Located only thirty minutes from downtown Denver, the 380,302 SF community will offer amenities such as a resort-style pool, a 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center, community clubhouse with coffee bar, outdoor barbecue area, conference room, car care area and a leash-free dog park with pet spa. Construction completion is schedule for winter of 2024.
Zimmerman Architectural is the design team on the Springs at Peña Station apartments.
Construction Completes on Low-Income Housing Community Fields on 15th
The federal low-income housing tax credit (LIHTC) equity financing and Prospect Properties has officially completed construction on the Fields on 15th Apartments in Longmont, Colorado. The new multi-family community offers five, two- and three- story walk-up buildings for low-income families earning up to 50% to 60% of the area median income.
The 110,000 square-foot development on 4.05 acres includes a mix of one-, two-, three-, and four- bedroom options totaling 88 units with modern touches. Residents can also enjoy quality amenities such as a business center, a community room, an exercise facility, a playground, a picnic area, central laundry, on-site management, and parking spaces.
Brinkman Construction was the project’s general contractor, and Godden Sudik Architects was the design team.
Pictures to come.
Reinventing a New Normal in the Preconstruction Approach
As the nation continues returning to its daily routine, can we accept that the challenges we are facing as an industry may be the, “new normal”? They say, “old habits die hard”, and in the construction world, we are confronted with this reality daily. In an ever-changing world, our industry is experiencing continuous strains on how we’ve traditionally done business. While many products and services are being streamlined, age-old construction practices are being forced to keep up. As a leader in the rapidly developing multi-family sector, we know all too well the market-driven constraints that are increasingly impacting projects.
We are looking inward at our own processes and services to work effectively during this wave of changing market conditions. Material escalations, supply chain shortages, lending requirements, and a declining labor force continues to have significant impacts on every step in the building process. In this uncharted new climate, traditional preconstruction strategies will no longer suffice.
Considering the current trends in this explosive market, we are working with developers and design teams to lead strategies for increased preconstruction productivity and predictability.
Mitigating Escalation
With supply chains being extremely backed up, we are recommending that clients expedite their financial processes to be in a position to secure materials prior to the start of construction, helping to mitigate on-site shortages, delays, and cost premiums. This is a significant shift from the traditional process in which design teams complete drawings prior to contract execution, construction financing being secured, and Construction Administration. Early owner commitments grant us the ability to procure credible trade partners and process submittals; which tends to be one of the requirements to mitigate potential cost escalation. Being prepared to quickly review and turn around these submittals can directly impact what you pay and when you receive your materials. Forethought, communication, and stream-lined decision making helps everyone involved keep projects on-track and on budget.
Overcoming Limited Trade Partner Resources
Due to increased project start volume and current market conditions; traditional trade partner bidding strategies are less effective than they once were. Difficulties locking trades due to current market demand, is at an all-time high and the standard process of bidding at each stage of design if often not achievable.
With the shift construction companies are experiencing in trade partner commitments being anywhere from 6 to 12 months out, it is necessary to have the ability to make subcontractor selections earlier, which increases the security in pricing and confidence in the schedule. To do this, we are pulling contract negotiations forward, so we are prepared to execute an agreement, if necessary, with any key subcontractors or suppliers at any time.
In this new normal, taking a traditional competitive bid process with subcontractors may end up costing you in the long run, potentially paying a premium for less qualified, or altogether unavailable, resources. Earlier owner involvement in the trade partner selections will equate to confidence in project teams and quality work.
These recommendations are not cure-all solutions to all preconstruction approaches as each project is different and the constraints at a specific point in time may vary. With a chance to reflect on tried-and-true practices that have stood the test of time, we are challenging ourselves, our clients, and our trade partners to do something different, embracing change and seeking positive outcomes in a new normal process.