Construction Industry Community: MCA Leadership Training Academy
Construction Community: MCA Leadership Academy
Few industries are as dynamic, or determined, as the construction world. So while this year’s MCA Leadership Training Academy (LTA) April 27 went virtual, it still delivered on its promise of being a premier industry event for sharing knowledge and building relationships.
The annual event is hosted by the Minnesota Construction Association (MCA), and brings together students, faculty and construction industry professionals for a day of networking, presentations, panels, breakout sessions, a student competition and awards.
A Gathering of Leaders
LTA features experts from all facets of our industry including engineers, entrepreneurs, project managers, owners, developers, contractors and architects, among other thought leaders and disrupters. This year’s highlights included Keynote Speaker Benjamin Jo VandenWymelenberg, founder & CEO of WOODCHUCK USA.
More informal networking sessions gave students the opportunity to network with industry professionals. KA Project Manager Alex Titterud, Assistant Project Manager Josh Carr, and Project Engineer Brendan Ward participated in the KA sponsored “Leadership Lounge” networking event during the day.
Professional Advancement Skill Challenges
The event also included six competitions designed to prepare students for their future careers in construction and gain valuable, real-world skills.
Exploring New Ideas and Best Practices
In addition, LTA provides a forum for connecting with new voices and industry veterans to brainstorm new ideas, emerging trends, strategic takeaways, and best practices.
Ryan Klick and KA’s Matt Stringfellow, MEP Systems Group Manager joined KFI Engineers Principal Randy Christenson and Matt Gardner, VP at Metropolitan Mechanical Contractors, for a panel on Healthy Building Solutions – How COVID 19 is Changing HVAC Design and Construction.
Laurie Trousil, KA’s Director of Inclusion and Diversity, joined a panel including representatives from Ryan Construction, Target and AGC of Minnesota for “Creating the New Normal – Leading During COVID-19 and Social and Political Unrest.”
All in all, “It was a very fun and informative day,” said Ryan Klick, Senior Project Manager at Kraus-Anderson and MCA Board Member and LTA Committee member. “The virtual format provided a great way for the MCA to continue our tradition in providing this exciting event for students and professionals.
“Experiencing LTA first-hand allows participants to see the value of being a part of our organization and community,” Klick continued. “The intent is for everyone to leave with strategic takeaways and connections to pave the way for future success. Thanks to Matt, Brendan, Alex, Josh, and Laurie for taking time out of their busy schedules to step up as leaders and speak for our guests. They all did a great job and made this event a success! And a special thank you to all our sponsors, for making it possible for students to attend this event at no cost.”
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