Brinkman Construction Welcomes Mark Beal as Vice President
Brinkman Construction is excited to announce the addition of Mark Beal as Vice President. With extensive experience in construction and development operations, Beal brings a strong background in strategic planning, team leadership, and operational excellence that will support continued success for clients across Colorado.
In his new role, Beal will support ongoing business growth while helping guide operational strategy, team development, and project execution throughout the region. He will work closely with leadership and project teams to strengthen client relationships and identify new opportunities as the Denver team continues to grow.
“Mark brings a thoughtful, operations-driven approach to leadership that aligns well with our core values,” said Jim Ciesla, President & CEO of Brinkman Construction. “His experience and ability to build strong teams will be a great addition as we continue delivering high-quality projects for our clients.”
Beal most recently served as Vice President of Operations at Ryan Companies, where he oversaw construction operations, led pursuit and preconstruction efforts, and supported strategic planning. Prior to that, he held several leadership roles within the organization, including Director of Construction and Team Leader, where he led project teams, managed client relationships, and supported workforce development initiatives.
Throughout his career, Beal has demonstrated a strong focus on process improvement, cost management, and building high-performing teams. He also played a key role in growing Ryan Companies’ operations, including helping establish and expand a new office in the Rocky Mountain region.
“I’m excited to join a company with roots in Colorado, whose leadership is committed to growth in the region and empowers their teams to make decisions that will create new opportunities for our people,” said Mark Beal, Vice President of Brinkman Construction.
Beal’s addition reflects Brinkman Construction’s continued investment in leadership to support long-term growth. His experience and collaborative approach will strengthen the company’s ability to deliver exceptional results for clients while continuing to build a strong local team.
Erik Henry Transitions into New Role as Director of Project Development
Erik Henry has transitioned from Director of Preconstruction to Director of Project Development at Brinkman Construction.
In this role, Henry will lead project development efforts in the Denver market, supporting the company’s continued growth and expanding its presence across key sectors. He brings more than 13 years of construction experience across the Front Range, along with extensive market insight and established industry relationships.
“Erik brings deep market knowledge, strong relationships, and a proven track record that will be tremendous assets as we continue building forward toward our future goals,” said Eric Kesti, Vice President at Brinkman Construction.
Henry joined Brinkman Construction in August of 2024, supporting the Denver preconstruction team while also contributing to project development efforts. In his new capacity, he will focus on cultivating partnerships, identifying new opportunities, and guiding projects from early vision through execution.
Brinkman Construction Completes Aurora Ronald McDonald House Renovation, Enhancing Comfort and Care
Brinkman Construction, in partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Denver and architecture firm Gresham Smith, marked the completion of the Aurora Ronald McDonald House renovation with a ribbon cutting event celebrating the newly transformed space.
The event brought together project partners, staff, supporters, and community members to celebrate the completed renovations. The celebration included brief remarks and a ribbon cutting ceremony, followed by a community open house that allowed guests to tour the facility and experience the welcoming environment.
“Opening the expanded Aurora Ronald McDonald House is a milestone made possible by an extraordinary community that believes every family deserves to stay close to the care their child needs. Our Houses have always been more than buildings—they are sanctuaries of comfort, connection, and hope. Thanks to our supporters, volunteers, and healthcare partners, we can now welcome even more families, offering them rest, strength, and the reassurance that they are never alone on their journey,” said Laura Cordes, CEO, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Denver.
The renovation transformed 10,000 SF on the first floor of the 45-bedroom facility. Updates include six new private bedrooms with bathrooms, relocated play areas, and modernized office and meeting spaces for staff. The improvements allow the Aurora House to better support both families and employees while continuing to provide a sense of comfort and stability.
Brinkman Construction served as the general contractor and worked closely with the Ronald McDonald House-Denver team to complete the renovation within an active facility where families and children were present daily. Safety, communication, and minimal disruption were top priorities throughout the project.
“The Ronald McDonald House Charities-Denver team hosted a great event and having the opportunity to meet many of the donors was an honor. Completing this renovation in an active facility was especially meaningful for our team, and we are privileged to support their incredible mission,” said Brinkman Construction Vice President Eric Kesti.
Designed by Gresham Smith, the renovation thoughtfully balances improved functionality with a welcoming, supportive atmosphere that reflects the mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Denver.
“At Gresham Smith, we believe that good design makes a difference. The spaces we create can ease stress, bring people together, and foster the important work that happens every day,” said Kevin Pasewalk, AIA, EDAC, LEED AP, Senior Architect at Gresham Smith. “This project reflects that belief, and our team created a place that continues to offer support, dignity, and community to families when they need it most. I’m proud of what we created together, and even more proud of what it represents—a place of hope, comfort, and compassion.”
The ribbon cutting celebration highlighted the strong collaboration between Ronald McDonald House Charities of Denver, Brinkman Construction, and Gresham Smith, while reinforcing a shared commitment to creating spaces that make a meaningful difference for families in need.
Celebrating 20 Years of Building Trusted Partnerships Across the Front Range
Brinkman Construction is reflecting on 20 years of steady growth, strong partnerships, and a commitment to delivering an elevated client experience across Colorado’s Front Range.
Founded in 2005 in Fort Collins, the company began as an integrated real estate firm providing construction and development services. From the start, Brinkman Construction focused on building lasting relationships and delivering a level of service that encouraged repeat partnerships. President and CEO Jim Ciesla joined shortly after the company’s first project and was integral to driving Brinkman Construction’s direction from the beginning.
“Those early projects taught us that clients hire people, not companies. By putting people first, we built trust that lasts. Today, roughly half of our work comes from repeat clients, reflecting our focus on long-term relationships built over many years,” said Ciesla. “That same mindset has positioned Brinkman Construction for continued growth, allowing us to expand both the company and the scale of our projects as we build on that momentum.”
The past year marked a major milestone in that growth. Brinkman Construction broke ground on NOVEL HiFi in Broomfield, the largest project in company history. The 536,373 SF multi-family development reflects the company’s ability to deliver large-scale, high-quality residential projects in a competitive market. At the same time, Brinkman Construction significantly expanded its healthcare portfolio, completing multiple projects with UCHealth and reinforcing its reputation as a trusted partner in mission-driven environments.
Today, Brinkman Construction is a 100% employee-owned commercial contractor with more than 100 employee-owners delivering complex projects across a broad range of market sectors. With offices in Fort Collins and Wheat Ridge, Brinkman Construction is well positioned to support clients across the Front Range. Looking ahead, the company is focused on continued growth within its strongest sectors, including multi-family, senior living, student housing, healthcare, and tenant improvements. Entering its next phase, Brinkman Construction remains committed to operational excellence, employee ownership, and delivering consistent value for clients.
Brinkman Construction’s Wellness Program: Putting People First
In the fast-paced, high-pressure world of construction, stress often feels like part of the job. At Brinkman Construction, we make employee well-being a top priority, offering programs that help manage stress and give our people the tools they need to be successful in all aspects of life.
Wellness is ingrained in both our structured programs and our daily culture. Our dedicated wellness committee works to support the physical, mental, and financial health of every team member—whether they’re in the office or out on the jobsite.
The committee turns our commitment into action by organizing creative, inclusive initiatives that bring people together and promote healthy habits. Each month, the wellness committee share resources on timely wellness topics ranging from financial education to mental health tips. They've also supplied snacks, thermoses, and lunchboxes to jobsites so our field teams feel supported.
Larger events the committee organizes include a company-wide ski day, participation in bike-to-work day, and a zombie step challenge.The zombie challenge transformed fitness into a high-stakes survival game where teams tracked their daily steps to avoid being “caught” by virtual zombies. If a team didn’t hit the 15,000-step goal, they joined the zombie ranks and began chasing their coworkers. Some teams even gave up on purpose just to join in the chase! The challenge created a fun, competitive environment that boosted camaraderie and encouraged everyone to stay active.
“I love coming up with fun, creative ways to bring our teams together. It’s been a great way to build connections and boost morale. The wellness program has definitely made my experience at Brinkman Construction more engaging and rewarding,” said Alyssa Elijah, project coordinator and wellness committee member.
Along with engaging events, we also place a strong emphasis on mental well-being through interactive trainings led by our Learning and Development Manager, Lisa Marini.
With a background in neuroscience and brain-based coaching, Lisa helps us understand how stress functions in the brain and how to regulate our mental state in high-pressure environments. Her trainings cover topics like emotional regulation, effective communication, leadership development, and quieting the inner critic.
One of the most impactful parts of Lisa’s approach is her focus on practical tools and consistent, accessible support. She leads optional weekly “Brain Breaks” for the entire company—15-minute guided meditations or visualizations that give us a reset in the middle of a busy week. She also keeps open calendar hours for one-on-one coaching sessions, where employees can talk through work stress, personal challenges, or anything in between.
“At Brinkman Construction, we don’t just build projects—we build people,” Lisa said. “Prioritizing the well-being of our employee-owners is what sets us apart. Through leadership training rooted in mindfulness and neuroscience, and a culture that champions boundary-setting and mental health, we are creating a workplace where people feel seen, supported, and empowered.”
Our wellness program reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting our people in meaningful, tangible ways. We encourage employees to take care of themselves and each other, creating space for growth and resilience. As the demands of the industry continue to evolve, we remain focused on creating a workplace where well-being comes first and our people feel empowered to show up as their best selves.
Marketing Manager Libby Murphy Graduates from Leadership Northern Colorado
Marketing Manager Libby Murphy recently graduated from the Leadership Northern Colorado program, a regional leadership development initiative designed to build informed and engaged leaders who are ready to shape the future of Northern Colorado.
Jointly hosted by the Fort Collins, Greeley, and Loveland chambers of commerce, Leadership Northern Colorado brings together professionals from across the region to dive into topics that influence our communities like economic development, public policy, education, infrastructure, and regional collaboration. Through monthly full-day sessions, participants explore the complexities and opportunities in Northern Colorado while building connections with fellow leaders from a variety of industries.
Libby was selected to be part of the 2024 cohort, joining a dynamic group of professionals committed to creating meaningful impact in the region. Her participation reflects Brinkman Construction’s ongoing commitment to leadership, community engagement, and the development of forward-thinking professionals.
Below, Libby shares key takeaways and reflections from her experience:
What drew you to the Leadership Northern Colorado program, and how did it align with your professional goals?
I’m constantly looking for ways to better understand the world around me—and Leadership Northern Colorado offered a unique chance to zoom out and see how our region truly operates. I was drawn to the opportunity to explore the interconnected systems that shape Northern Colorado, from education and economic development to infrastructure and policy. It aligned perfectly with my professional goals: to grow as a more strategic leader, expand my regional perspective, and build meaningful connections with others who are just as invested in our community’s future.
The program covers regional topics like economic development, public policy, and collaboration across Northern Colorado. Which session had the biggest impact on you and why?
It’s hard to choose just one—every presentation, panel, tour, and workshop built on the next, illustrating that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. But if I had to pick, the day we focused on education and workforce development stands out. It underscored just how deeply K–12 education shapes the future of our local workforce and community, and the importance of creating opportunities for students going to college, entering the trades, and other avenues. I was especially inspired by Dr. Deirdre Pilch, Superintendent of Greeley-Evans School District. The programs she’s championed are so innovative, and they’re opening doors for students to set them up for extraordinary success.
What did you learn about our region that you didn’t know before?
I was struck by just how interconnected everything is, and how much relationships truly matter. The connections between people, businesses, cities, and agencies aren’t just nice to have—they’re critical to creating meaningful, successful outcomes in our region. The more we collaborate, stay curious, and challenge ourselves to understand new perspectives, the stronger and more resilient our communities become.
How has participating in this program shaped the way you approach your leadership role at Brinkman Construction?
Participating in Leadership Northern Colorado reshaped how I see my role—not just within Brinkman Construction, but within the broader ecosystem we’re part of. I’ve started thinking more like a systems connector, recognizing how our work ties into economic development, education, workforce pipelines, and community resilience. It’s pushed me to lead more strategically, focusing not just on what needs to get done, but why it matters and who it impacts. I’m stepping into conversations with a bigger-picture mindset, looking for long-term value, deeper collaboration, and outcomes that strengthen both our business and our region.
Julie Constance Joins Brinkman Construction as Business Development Manager
Brinkman Construction has welcomed Julie Constance as its new Business Development Manager for Northern Colorado. With extensive experience in connecting clients and developing partnerships, Constance is well equipped to help Brinkman Construction expand its footprint across the region.
In this newly established role, Constance will lead business development initiatives in Northern Colorado. She is focused on developing strategic partnerships, securing new business, and enhancing brand visibility within the company’s target markets. Her focus on purposeful growth aligns perfectly with Brinkman Construction’s mission and values.
“I’ve always been passionate about building relationships and creating opportunities that help people and businesses grow together,” said Constance. “What drew me to Brinkman Construction was the strong culture and the people behind it. I’m excited to share that story, deepen connections and help expand our presence across Northern Colorado.”
“Julie is a tremendous cultural addition to our team, bringing valuable experience and well-established relationships within the Northern Colorado market,” said Brinkman Construction Vice President Jason Vaughn. “She approaches her work with an all-in attitude and has built her career on being truly relationship focused. We are excited to welcome Julie to the team and are confident she will make a meaningful impact on our growing company.”
Constance most recently led business development efforts at First American Title, where she spent nearly five years building strategic relationships across the region. Prior to that, she served as a Senior Account Executive at BizWest Media for over a decade following an earlier career in sales. She also held leadership roles in the Weld County community, including serving as board chair for both the Weld Community Foundation and The Women's Fund of Weld County. Constance remains active in the community as a current board member for the High Plains Housing Development Corporation. Her contributions have earned her several accolades, including the Women’s Fund of Weld County Champion for Women Award and the Greeley Area Realtors Association Affiliate of the Year.
Brinkman Construction is confident that Constance’s leadership will bring lasting value to the company and to clients across Northern Colorado. Her arrival represents a continued investment in the region’s growth and in building strong, community-focused partnerships.
Tim Kelleher Recognized as Autodesk 40 Under 40: Champions of Construction Honoree
Brinkman Construction is proud to celebrate Tim Kelleher, Operational Standards and Innovation Manager, for earning a spot on the prestigious Autodesk Construction Cloud's 40 Under 40: Champions of Construction 2024 list. This recognition highlights professionals who are shaping the future of the construction industry through innovation, creativity, and leadership. Tim’s inclusion on this list is a well-deserved acknowledgment of his forward-thinking approach and dedication to advancing the profession.
Throughout his career, Tim has consistently redefined what’s possible in construction operations. His ability to integrate innovative solutions into workflows has set a new standard for efficiency and effectiveness. From pioneering cloud-based project management systems in 2009 to championing BIM/VDC programs for small project applications in 2012, Tim has been ahead of the curve. At Brinkman Construction, he leads initiatives that streamline processes and create opportunities for teams to thrive, including the development of new integrations between Autodesk Construction Cloud and CMiC.
One of Tim’s latest achievements is overseeing the rollout of a new financial management system within Autodesk Construction Cloud. This initiative eliminates time-intensive manual processes and establishes advanced dashboards that provide valuable insights into project performance. Tim focuses on modernization and efficiency, empowering teams at Brinkman Construction to make more informed decisions and achieve superior outcomes on projects of all sizes.
Equally impressive is Tim’s commitment to growth and standardization within the company. He maintains a best practice library to ensure consistent application of tools and workflows across projects and plays a key role in driving the training programs that prepare teams for success. His focus on collaboration and knowledge-sharing has strengthened Brinkman Construction’s ability to deliver exceptional results for its clients. Congratulations on this achievement, Tim!
Celebrating Construction Inclusion Week
As we usher in Construction Inclusion Week, it's time to honor the diversity that underpins our industry, and the resilience that stems from Brinkman Construction’s distinctive architecture: a 100% employee-owned enterprise. This week, we stand united as co-owners, pledging our commitment to shaping an inclusive construction industry—one where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
At Brinkman Construction, we are not just employees; we are owners. Our entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with our pooled experience, sets us apart in the industry. Every team member plays a crucial role in our journey toward success. Our core belief is that when each individual has a stake in the company, we collectively work toward creating superior outcomes for our clients and the communities we serve.
Our structure of employee ownership cultivates a culture steeped in teamwork, responsibility, and shared triumphs. It empowers each one of us with a voice and a vested interest in our collective destiny. Moreover, it resonates strongly with the mission of Construction Inclusion Week: to promote inclusion, diversity, and equity across the breadth of the construction industry.
As we celebrate this week concurrently with Employee Ownership Month, we're not merely acknowledging their individual significance. We're also recognizing the synergy they generate together. Here's to envisioning a future built on the pillars of inclusion, equity, and shared ownership!
