Brinkman Construction Completes Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado Renovation in Loveland
Brinkman Construction completed a 3,000 SF healthcare tenant improvement for the Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado in Loveland, Colorado. The renovation transformed an existing open finished space into a modern eye care clinic designed to support patient care and the practice’s daily operations.
The newly completed clinic features dedicated exam rooms, private offices, and staff support spaces that create a more efficient environment for healthcare providers while offering patients a comfortable, welcoming experience. Each area was thoughtfully designed to accommodate the specialized needs of an eye care practice, balancing clinical functionality with a patient-focused environment.
Working alongside Marasco & Associates, the project architect, and Realberry Real Estate Services, Brinkman Construction delivered a space tailored to the Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado’s operational needs. The renovation reflects the importance of careful coordination and attention to detail in healthcare construction, where the built environment plays an essential role in supporting providers and the patients they serve.
The project adds to Brinkman Construction’s growing portfolio of healthcare work throughout Colorado. From specialized medical renovations to outpatient clinics, Brinkman Construction continues to deliver healthcare environments that support evolving care needs and help providers better serve their communities.
Brinkman Construction Breaks Ground on Touchmark on Harmony Ridge
Brinkman Construction has officially broken ground on Touchmark on Harmony Ridge, a new Touchmark senior living community that will provide a full continuum of care for older adults in Fort Collins, Colorado.
Designed by LRS Architects, the 308,000 SF first phase of this development will include an independent living building with 119 homes as well as an assisted living building with 58 assisted living homes. Additionally, two neighborhoods, each with 16 homes, will support residents in memory care and with enhanced assisted living needs. The thoughtfully planned campus will offer a variety of living options along with shared amenities designed to support connection, wellness, and an active lifestyle.
“We’re honored that Touchmark selected Brinkman Construction to bring this vision to life,” said Jim Ciesla, President and CEO of Brinkman Construction. “Touchmark has built a strong reputation for creating exceptional retirement communities, and we’re excited to partner with their team to deliver a community that will have a lasting impact on Fort Collins.”
Touchmark has been developing and operating full-service retirement communities across the United States and Canada for more than 45 years. As an employee-owned company, Touchmark is committed to enriching the lives of residents through thoughtful design, quality care, and meaningful connections. Touchmark on Harmony Ridge will continue that mission by offering independent living, assisted living, memory care, and a variety of lifestyle amenities within one integrated campus.
Ornella Houssais Recognized as ColoradoBiz Achiever
ColoradoBiz recently recognized Project Manager Ornella Houssais as an Achiever at its annual Icons & Achievers awards program, which honors professionals who are making a significant impact in their industries. While the Icon category recognizes individuals with more than 15 years of experience, the Achiever category celebrates emerging leaders with eight years of experience or less in their field.
The Icons & Achievers program highlights some of Colorado’s most accomplished business professionals and recognizes the next generation of leaders who are helping shape the future of their industries. Ornella was honored alongside fellow award recipients during an evening celebration that included dinner and recognition of each honoree’s accomplishments.
Since joining Brinkman Construction as an intern in 2018, Ornella has built an impressive career marked by technical expertise, leadership, and a commitment to continuous growth. Originally from France, she moved to the United States to pursue graduate studies at the University of Colorado Boulder before starting her career in construction. Throughout her time with Brinkman Construction, she has taken on increasingly complex responsibilities, earning multiple promotions along the way.
In addition to her project leadership, Ornella remains actively involved in industry organizations, mentoring opportunities, and initiatives that support the advancement of women in construction. Her contributions have strengthened project teams and supported professional development while creating meaningful industry connections.
Congratulations, Ornella, on this well-deserved recognition!
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.
John Hammer Promoted to Director of Preconstruction
John Hammer has been promoted from Senior Preconstruction Manager to Director of Preconstruction at Brinkman Construction.
In this role, Hammer will oversee preconstruction efforts across the company’s Denver and Fort Collins offices, supporting alignment and continued growth within the department. He brings more than 20 years of construction experience, along with a strong background in estimating, operations, and team leadership.
“John has been instrumental to the success of our preconstruction team over the past two years, and his leadership will be essential as we enhance preconstruction and estimating capabilities.,” said Mark Christensen, Vice President of Operations at Brinkman Construction.
Hammer joined Brinkman Construction two years ago and previously served as Director of Preconstruction at CFC Construction. His experience also includes roles as a project manager, field engineer, and carpenter foreman. In his new role, he will lead efforts to enhance estimating systems and establish greater consistency across preconstruction processes.
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.
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 Leads Renovation of Aurora Ronald McDonald House
Brinkman Construction is currently leading renovation efforts at the Aurora Ronald McDonald House, 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!