Brad Marsh Joins Brinkman Construction as Vice President of Organizational Development
Brinkman Construction has welcomed Brad Marsh as its new Vice President of Organizational Development, a leadership role focused on strengthening the company’s people strategies and supporting its continued growth.
Bringing more than two decades of experience in human resources and organizational leadership, Marsh has built his career helping companies grow through thoughtful talent development and culture-focused initiatives. His background spans both the construction and technology sectors, including senior leadership roles at Saunders Construction, The Broe Group, Haselden Construction, Sun Microsystems, and TTEC. Marsh also served on the Board of Trustees for Contractors Health Trust and the Centennial State Carpenters. Additionally, he was involved with Prosper Colorado Leadership Council and Colorado Inclusive Economy.
In his new role, Marsh will lead efforts that support the full employee experience, from recruitment and development to long-term engagement. He will also help refine internal systems that connect people, operations, and performance to ensure Brinkman Construction continues to evolve in a sustainable and intentional way.
“I’ve always believed organizational development is about taking the strong systems, people, and culture you already have and making them better,” said Marsh. “Brinkman Construction has an incredible foundation built by a team of passionate, high-performing individuals. I’m excited to help shape the next chapter of growth while protecting the culture that makes this company such a special place to work.”
A core part of his approach centers on maintaining what makes Brinkman Construction unique, even as the company continues to grow. He values collaboration, curiosity, and continuous improvement, and is committed to supporting both field and office teams through people-first solutions.
“Brad brings a strong mix of industry experience and genuine appreciation for the people who drive this work,” said Brinkman Construction President and CEO Jim Ciesla. “His perspective on team development and organizational alignment will be an important asset as we continue to grow while maintaining the culture that defines who we are.”
Throughout his career, Marsh has championed leadership development and mental health initiatives, helping organizations build healthier, more supportive workplaces. He looks forward to continuing this focus at Brinkman Construction and contributing to the company’s long-term success.
Brinkman Construction Breaks Ground on NOVEL HiFi, a 347-Unit Residential Community in Broomfield
Brinkman Construction has officially broken ground on NOVEL HiFi, a 536,373 SF multi-family community located at FlatIron Crossing in Broomfield, Colorado. The project is a partnership between The Macerich Company and Crescent Communities, with residential design services provided by Craine Architecture. Through this redevelopment, Crescent Communities and Macerich are collaborating to create a dynamic environment that blends living, shopping, and culture in one walkable campus.
The six-story community will feature 347 apartment homes, including studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units. The residential buildings will wrap around a 500-space structured parking facility, blending functionality with thoughtful design.
Residents will have access to a variety of modern amenities, including an interior courtyard and pool, a fitness center, and a spacious great room for gatherings. In addition, a 42,000-square-foot post-tensioned deck will sit above future retail space, strengthening the connection between the residential and mixed-use elements of the larger FlatIron Crossing redevelopment.
“This groundbreaking represents an exciting milestone for Brinkman Construction and our partners,” said Vice President of Operations Mark Christensen, “NOVEL HiFi will provide much-needed housing in Broomfield while offering residents exceptional amenities and a strong connection to the surrounding community.”
NOVEL HiFi is part of a larger vision to reimagine FlatIron Crossing, bringing new housing options to one of the region’s most dynamic growth areas. This multi-family project, set to open in 2027, is just the beginning of a multi-phase development that will feature curated retail, lively dining, dynamic entertainment, and welcoming outdoor spaces.
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.
Brinkman Construction Helps Bring Student-Built Home to Life through Hard Hats for Habitat
Brinkman Construction is proud to continue our involvement with Hard Hats for Habitat, a collaborative program where construction companies across Northern Colorado raise funds to help sponsor homes for people in need. This unique initiative is part of Habitat for Humanity’s broader mission and ties directly into Poudre High School’s Geometry in Construction program, a hands-on class that integrates math with real-world building experience.
This year, students in the Geometry in Construction course applied what they learned in the classroom to build the framing of a Habitat home over the course of the school year. Brinkman Construction partnered with other local construction companies to help sponsor this year’s home, located in the Heartside Hill neighborhood in Fort Collins. This growing neighborhood is rooted in collaboration, built on land donated by Heart of the Rockies Christian Church, and includes affordable apartments by CARE Housing, housing for L’Arche Northern Colorado, and a shared community building.
Students and volunteers recently completed the wood framing for the house, which was then transported by crane to the Heartside Hill neighborhood. Senior Superintendent Alex Creighton played a key role in guiding the students throughout the building process, mentoring them on construction best practices and offering insights into the industry.
“Participating in Hard Hats for Habitat build days are some of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. Being able to work alongside so many selfless volunteers and see real progress towards bettering someone’s life is rewarding beyond measure,” said Creighton. “Habitat is more than building homes, it’s about building a community. To be able to share knowledge with the next generation at Poudre High School in support of such a great cause is something that everyone should spend a day doing—it was a lot of fun!”
Geometry in Construction is the highest-performing geometry class in the district, offering students hands-on construction experience, exposure to STEM career paths, and a strong sense of community involvement.
Brinkman Construction is honored to be a part of a program that’s building futures. We’re inspired by the students’ hard work and are proud to play a role in turning their work into real-life impact for local residents.
We invite you to join us in supporting this meaningful cause. Donations to the Hard Hats for Habitat program help ensure that these student-built homes become a lasting part of the community. Click here to donate.
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.
Brinkman Construction Leads Renovation of Ronald McDonald House in Aurora
Brinkman Construction is currently leading renovation efforts at the Ronald McDonald House in Aurora, supporting the nonprofit’s mission to provide comfort and care to families during medical crises.
“This renovation ensures more families have a safe, supportive place to stay while their child receives medical care. It’s an investment in their comfort, care, and peace of mind,” said Ronald McDonald House Charities of Denver CEO Laura Cordes.
Designed by architecture firm Gresham Smith, the renovation will transform more than 10,000 square feet on the first floor of the 45-bedroom facility. Updates include the addition of six new private bedrooms with bathrooms, revamped play areas and updated office and meeting spaces for staff. The renovation is focused on improving functionality while preserving the warm, home-like atmosphere families rely on during their stays.
“We feel very fortunate to support and partner with Ronald McDonald House Charities and their incredible mission of caring for families with children who are ill or injured,” said Brinkman Construction Vice President Eric Kesti.
Construction began in early May and is expected to be completed this fall. The project was thoughtfully designed with the unique needs of families and staff in mind.
“Our design focuses on enhancing daily function while maintaining the warm, comforting environment that families depend on,” said Kevin Pasewalk, Senior Architect at Gresham Smith. “We prioritized flexibility, accessibility and thoughtful updates to support both guests and staff.”
With families and children present daily, the Brinkman Construction team is focusing on safety and sensitivity throughout the construction process. Thoughtful signage, protective measures, and kid-friendly viewing windows have been incorporated to help children safely observe the transformation and feel included in the process.
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.
HR Business Partner Lindsey Miller Graduates from Leadership Fort Collins
HR Business Partner Lindsey Miller recently graduated from Leadership Fort Collins (LFC), a comprehensive program designed to educate and motivate leaders who are dedicated to shaping the future of the community. The program, created by the Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce, focuses on developing leaders while teaching them about the history, government, economy, social issues, needs, and opportunities in the city. The group met once a month from September of 2024 through may of 2025 for day-long sessions that encouraged collaboration, critical thinking, and active engagement with the community.
Read the Q&A below to learn more about Lindsey’s experience in the program!
Q: What did you enjoy most about participating in Leadership Fort Collins?
A: What I enjoyed most about Leadership Fort Collins was the opportunity to meet and connect with leaders from a wide range of industries and sectors. Over the 9-month period, you form deep relationships with your classmates and steering committee members which I hope to carry forward in my personal and professional life. I liked how each month focused on a different theme like government, social issues, history, etc. so it provides a well-rounded perspective on how our community operates.
Q: How has Leadership Fort Collins influenced your approach to leadership? What specific skills or knowledge do you plan to apply in your career going forward?
A: During Leadership Fort Collins, we continually came back to the theme of “showing up”. With so many leadership styles and approaches, LFC enforced that leadership begins with intentional presence and action. I’ve learned the power of small, incremental changes and collective action. Going forward, I want to focus on listening to needs of the community, finding where my passions and values align, and committing to take action. Even in the smallest of ways, it is impactful and contributing to a larger mission.
Q: What did you learn about the Fort Collins community that you didn’t know before?
A: So many things! I have a new awareness and appreciation for how many people and roles it takes to make our community run effectively every day. I have more respect for service providers who provide support and resources to underrepresented populations. It was also a good reminder of how interconnected every business is in shaping and growing Fort Collins.
Q: Did you have any opportunities to get further involved with the community during this program?
A: As part of Leadership Fort Collins, my project team and I partnered with Neighbor to Neighbor, a local non-profit organization that focuses on providing sustainable housing, support services, and education to prevent and end homelessness. We focused on fundraising and collecting donated items to create welcome baskets filled with essential household items that each new Neighbor to Neighbor resident receives upon moving into their new home. We also led a Community Garden Clean Up Day at a Neighbor to Neighbor property in North Fort Collins, preparing the space for residents to enjoy gardening this summer!
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.