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!
Jeremy Clift Graduates from AGC of Colorado's Executive Leadership Academy
Project Manager Jeremy Clift recently graduated from the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Colorado’s Executive Leadership Academy (ELA), a milestone that reflects his long-term commitment to leadership development within the construction industry.
Jeremy has been actively involved with AGC’s Future Leaders Forum since 2018 and has served on the Future Leaders Forum Steering Committee since 2021. Participating in the Executive Leadership Academy was a natural next step for his career development.
The Executive Leadership Academy is a highly selective program designed to prepare emerging construction leaders for executive-level roles across the industry. Participants engage in intensive leadership training focused on topics such as strategic leadership, financial management, workforce development, risk management, dispute resolution, and building high-performing teams. The program also provides valuable opportunities to collaborate with peers and learn from experienced industry leaders.
Jeremy’s participation in the academy demonstrates his dedication to continuous learning and his investment in strengthening both his leadership skills and the future of the industry. Brinkman Construction is excited to see the impact of this accomplishment as he continues to grow professionally and contribute to the success of the company.
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.
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.