New Class Schedule Coming Soon!
Charlotte Build Expo
December 11 - 12, 2024
Charlotte Convention Center, Hall C
Get Directions
Exhibit Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Classes Start at 9:30 a.m. Each Day
As a Division 1 Football player in the powerful Southeastern Conference (SEC) Scott has seen first hand the behind-the-scenes system that is being constantly updated and refined to ensure that athletically talented 16 and 17 adolescents choose the right team.
Remodeler and home builder owners are in a season of work where they have a choice: see the next generation as a hindrance with excuses like “they won’t work”, or to see this new generation as an opportunity to pivot with a renewed mindset like “I’m excited to see how they own the mission!”
There is a shortage of workers for the old-school methodologies but there is not a shortage of people willing to work…towards the right mission.
This life-changing and engaging keynote pulls from our work with hundreds of owners and gets you on the path to building a powerhouse team.
You will be equipped to beat chaos with predictability, and to build a business that brings stability, life, and time for what matters most.
Learning Objectives
- Learn The 3 Foundational Layers Of EVERY Contracting Business
- Understand the 5 Non-Negotiables Of Building And Leading A Vision-Centered Team
- Discover the key elements of powerhouse recruiting that will have you speaking to a younger generation the way they wish to be spoken to!
Target Audience: Architects, General Contractors, Subcontractors, Builders, and Remodelers
People, people, people! How do we find the right people to hire? How do we find ANY people to hire?
The Boomers retired early, and the emerging generations are much more selective in the work they choose. How can you find the right people, recruit them the right way, share the right vision, and then onboard them the right way that aligns with the right mission?
Reimagine the business of your contracting firm with this engaging keynote talk drawing from our work with hundreds of contractor owners that led to our proprietary and proven roadmap.
This roadmap will equip you to beat chaos with predictability, and to build the team that will build the business to make time for what matters most.
Learning Objectives
- Learn the one culprit that keeps us from experience the deep work and flow that we want but can’t see to find
- Discover the 4 systems that all business owners must implement…regardless of size or scope
- Uncover the secret to a great culture that keeps and promotes great people
Target Audience: Architects, General Contractors, Subcontractors, Builders, and Remodelers
We’re seeing volatile pricing formats, supply chain interruption and rising interest rates. This usually ends in tough economic conditions, resulting in construction industry challenges. Knowing the best way to stay ahead of these changes and keep your business moving forward is difficult. We’ll look at the methods successful contractors use to weather shifting economic conditions. We’ll cover:
- Increasing your portion of the market pie
- Getting a competitive advantage
- Managing customer expectations
- Structuring your sales effort
- How to balance sales and marketing efforts
You’ll come away from this session with a better understanding of what it will take to grow in both revenue and profitability in these times. Sales is the most important aspect of your business. Everything else simply follows that lead.
Beating the Low Bid Process
9:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m. | Room W209A
Target Audience: Architects, General Contractors, Subcontractors, Builders, and Remodelers
His DVD series can literally be used as an individual or corporate training program. He's been featured on CNN and in USAToday as well as dozens of media outlets across the country. Tom is extremely entertaining in his approach and well studied in the dynamics that occur in bidding, quoting and developing customer brand loyalty. His high energy approach combined with practical applications can bring results immediately after his seminars.
His corporation, Seal the Deal, is sought after by trade associations, contractors, corporations, suppliers, construction expos and publications regularly. He currently writes for 4 publications, has 20 regular contractor clients and speaks to in excess of 10,000 construction industry individuals a year. Tom turned a Caterpillar rental territory from 2.5Mil to 10Mil in revenue in 18 months while raising margins by 2%! He also trained 325 sales reps for a 750 Mil nationwide equipment firm. In his first sales position at 19 years of age he took a 150K contractor sales territory to 2.5Mil in 1 year. His customized training programs hit areas targeted for improvement head on. He knows how to get people to buy and manage a sales effort to success!
Don't Kill your Golden Goose-Lawsuit Protection, Tax Reduction & Estate Planning Strategies to Protect & Perpetuate your Business
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room 111
Discover the tools you can use to become invincible to lawsuits, save thousands in taxes, and achieve financial peace of mind. By the end of the presentation you will know how to:
- Protect 100% of your assets from lawsuits. You will learn how to make yourself so unattractive to a plaintiff attorney that they will never pursue a lawsuit against you.
- Save thousands of dollars each year in taxes. You will learn five tax reduction strategies most people fail to utilize, which could save you more than $10,000 each year in taxes.
- Avoid probate and eliminate all estate taxes.
You will be taken through a checklist of items that are important to every estate and business succession plan. You will learn what you should be doing now to prepare for successful business and estate secession.
Larry Oxenham, Author, Senior Advisor Larry Oxenham is one of America's top asset protection experts, having helped thousands of professionals achieve financial peace of mind by teaching them how to properly structure their assets for lawsuit protection and tax reduction.
He has authored and co-authored several articles and books on the subject including The Asset Protection Bible and How to Achieve Financial Peace of Mind through Asset Protection. His career has been credited with helping thousands of people save millions of dollars. Larry Oxenham is a nationally recognized speaker who has trained thousands of professionals at hundreds of conventions, conferences and seminars across the country.
Senior Advisor, American Society for Asset Protection Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association
The Secret Gen Z Language: Getting the Next Generation Excited To Work And Lead
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W201A
We’ve been led to buy the myth that a “good” custom homebuilding company is more “luck of the draw” and less “intentional sowing and fertilizing”.
This eye-opening educational workshop will help to uncover what the next generation really wants and what elements lead to business health versus disease. You will leave empowered with a tool that you can implement immediately providing a clear roadmap to multi-generational engagement in the custom homebuilding workplace.
After this workshop you will have clarity on the true difference within the generations, how to listen and speak to your team with a compelling language, and what elements are needed for each team member to thrive day to day.
Learning Objectives
- Learn the one action you can take to connect with someone younger than you immediately
- Understand what “mistakes” all new generations are looking to correct…and how to not be offended
- Discover the language of multi-generations so your words are heard
Target Audience: Homebuilders, Remodelers, Contractors
Quickbooks for Contractors - Beginner
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W201B
This class is an overview of how contractors can utilize the QuickBooks functionality to facilitate job costing, payroll, receivables and the overall benefits of either the online or desktop applications.
Target Audience: Contractors, Subcontractors, and anyone curious about the features & benefits of QuickBooks.
Google Partner and Chief Marketing Officer Teaching "The Google Demands Of Your Website"
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W209C
Logical strategies you can apply in minutes, during the session.
A proven SEO expert is teaching what he has done time and time again. Want proof? Google “Fractional CMO __(add your city name here)___" and see www.jrcmo.com rank on page 1 for your city. Joshua Ramsey will show you how to do it yourself as well.
• What is CRO and how to apply it
• Build Your USP (unique selling position) that will draw increased engagement
• Pre-register through build expo or at www.JRcmo.com for a website analysis providing pinpointed solutions for YOUR WEBSITE
A Google Certified Partner, Joshua's teaches interactive conferences based on material received from Google. Plus hear real life stories of success and failures that business owners have had. These powerful, interactive conferences are jammed packed with information that Joshua received during weekly meetings with Google. This is information every business owner needs to know.
Before becoming a Google Partner, Joshua was an outsourced CMO for several large U.S. based companies. As a CMO over the last 9 years, Joshua has managed over $2.5 million in AdWords and Digital Marketing Budgets and managed more than 2,800 campaigns. As a Bing Partner and Google Certified Partner, Joshua attends national conferences with some of the other great minds that influence SEO, digital marketing, and social media. Today, Joshua speaks all over the country helping businesses improve every element of their marketing.
Automating your Processes with QuickBooks and Apps for Contractors - Level 1
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room 106
We are living in a time that requires efficiency and organization. Having tons of paperwork and loose ends that take up your time and effort to grow and be more efficient is not the ideal picture. Join my class and learn all about being financially efficient with QuickBooks and the Apps. Learn what is the right QuickBooks for you and the different apps that are available for your builder's business. Learn the solutions that can completely change your perspective about accounting and project management.
Target Audience: • Architects • Engineers • Designers • General Contractors • Subcontractors • Commercial Builders • Home Builders • Developers • Real Estate Professionals • Building Managers • State Planners • Spec Writers • Government Agencies • Municipalities • Facility Managers • Property Management Firms • Military/ Corp. of Engineers • and any business owner in the construction industry
Vanessa Vasquez superpower is to bring solid financial education and strong strategies to Entrepreneurs and Accountants. Destroying the kryptonite of small business, which is lack of financial knowledge, Vanessa presents the correct tools and processes for businesses to grow and expand.
Her main focus has always been helping her clients streamline their small business financial management processes through education and the application of technology.
With 20+ years of experience and as a Latina Entrepreneur Wonder Mom, Vanessa recognizes the importance of providing learning opportunities and financial solutions for the rapidly growing small business community all around the globe.
Español
El superpoder de Vanessa Vasquez es brindar educación financiera y estrategias sólidas a empresarios y contadores. Destruyendo la kriptonita de las pequeñas empresas, que es la falta de conocimiento financiero, Vanessa presenta las herramientas y los procesos correctos para que las empresas crezcan y se expandan.
Su enfoque principal siempre ha sido ayudar a sus clientes a optimizar los procesos de gestión financiera de sus pequeñas empresas a través de la educación y la aplicación de tecnología.
Con más de 20 años de experiencia y como una emprendedora latina Mama Maravilla, Vanessa reconoce la importancia de brindar oportunidades de aprendizaje y soluciones financieras para la comunidad de pequeñas empresas de habla hispana en rápido crecimiento.
Electronic Payments 101
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room 116
An inside look and accepting electronic payments - Credit Cards, Debit Cards, E-Checks, ACH, etc.
Using technology to simplify paying vendors and suppliers electronically.
Target Audience: Business Owners, Operations, Financial Managers
In my professional work experience I have spent the last 15 years in executive leadership roles in the financial services industry. I have forged partnerships with Merchant Processing Banks, Authorization Networks, Payment Gateways and Consumer Lending Institutions.
We then present these partnerships to prospective clients to facilitate the collection of payments, paying suppliers and vendors, allow clients to offer consumer loans for their services and save clients money on all of their financial service needs.
Previously I spent 30+ years working in the sporting goods and athletic footwear and apparel industries in several executive management positions including District Sales, Regional Sales, Director and VP of Planning, Allocation, Distribution, Pricing and Inventory Control for major corporations such as Foot Locker, FootAction, and Nike. I held similar VP level positions as Bombay and Kirkland’s.
From Amateur to Unforgettable
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room 118
In this 1 hour presentation General Manager of BoxBrownie.com, Alannah Silva, will walk you through the ways to harness the power of visual marketing to increase interest and sell properties faster!
BoxBrownie.com is fast, reliable, and provides an affordable convenient service to help clients achieve professional photos in no time at all. The system is easy to use and with a 24-hour guarantee, top-quality edited photos are within reach.
Target Audience: Construction Business Owners
Materials Mgmt. & Procurement: Navigating Broken Supply-Chain
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room E216D
This session format is a round table discussion that specifically tackles Supply Chain Management and addresses a wide range of topics:
- What are the main material issues affecting projects right now?
- How has Covid impacted Supply Chains?
- What are companies currently doing to manage this process?
- What can they do to manage this process more effectively?
- What stakeholders are being affected and how are they reacting?
- What challenges come with introducing new technology? How to manage?
- What are some of the ROI of Material Management & Procurement software? What about software in general?
- What is an ideal material management & procurement process?
- What is the future Supply Chain outlook?
Target Audience: Architects, General Contractors, Subcontractors, Builders, and Remodelers
Rob Salvador is the visionary driving force behind DigiBuild, an experienced builder, project manager and construction technologist.
After watching his father struggle as a small subcontractor in the construction industry, Robert eventually started his own construction company that grew into a nationwide commercial contractor. Rob’s experience and passion for construction eventually lead him to search for a better way to manage construction projects using technology. He started DigiBuild in early 2018 to revolutionize construction projects, profits, and people. He has managed over $500M in construction projects and was recently named to the list of “25 Rising Stars in Tech” By Crain’s Chicago Business. He is a frequent speaker and educator for groups like BuiltWorlds and the Construction Institute.
Jerry Horani is the Chief Technology Officer at VCC Construction, a ten-year veteran in the industry. As the CTO, Horani is responsible for developing the overall technology vision for the company, and driving cross-company engineering initiatives and collaboration.
Jerry works in a consultative fashion with other department heads as an advisor of technologies that may improve their efficiency and effectiveness. He provides leadership to department heads in a fashion that supports the company’s culture, mission and values. Jerry conducts research and case studies on leading edge technologies and makes determinations on the probability of implementation.
Estimating Direct and Indirect Costs in Construction
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W201C
Direct and indirect expenses in construction projects: This presentation takes a quick and comprehensive look at all expenses expected in a typical construction project. We identify direct and indirect expenses and list all types of categories under each type. The presentation makes a brief analysis of labor, materials, equipment, overhead, bonds and insurance, profit, contingency, and other expenses. Knowing and estimating these expenses can make or break the contractor’s business. This presentation is a must for contractors and anyone in the construction industry.
Target Audience: Builders and Contractors
Construction project management consultant, author, public speaker, and trainer.
B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in civil engineering specialized in Construction Management.
Experience: Over 26 years diversified:
- Industrial: private and public sectors, in the U.S. and overseas. Positions occupied include project engineer/manager, cost estimator, planner/scheduler, project controls manager, cost manager, training manager.
- Academic: faculty member / professor, head of department.
- Extensive experience in continuing education and professional training around the world. Topics are mainly technical but also include soft skills.
Author of:
- Construction Project Scheduling and Control (currently 3rd edition)
- How to Estimate with Means Data: Basic Skills for Building Construction (currently 4th edition)
- Many articles; technical and other
- Many presentations in professional conferences such as PMI, AACE International, Primavera Users Conference. Also, a public speaker in many local, regional, and international events.
- An authority on project planning, scheduling, and project control; was part of the PMI team that wrote the first Project Scheduling certification (PMI-SP) exam in 2007.
- An advocate of holistic healthy living and sports.
“Can’t We All Just Get Along?” A New Approach to Construction Disputes
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W207A
Chris Osborn, ESQ.
Mediator, Speaker, Conflict Resolution Expert
Conflicts frequently arise during construction projects. Even the best designs, contracts, and processes can't anticipate every potential obstacle on the road to completion. When not handled proactively and shrewdly, such disputes consume huge amounts of time and stress. And if we aren't careful, they can easily erupt into costly litigation.
So, what determines whether a conflict is worked through and resolved amicably, or spirals out of control into an exhausting. expensive, time-consuming process that usually leaves all parties equally unsatisfied?
Drawing on his over two decades of experience in litigating and mediating construction disputes, Chris Osborn's lively, interactive presentations equip construction professionals to:
• Recognize and deploy 5 different STYLES of conflict resolution
• Minimize the impact of STRESS in difficult conversations
• Understand the importance of STORY (both yours and the other person's) when having difficult conversations
• Embody a more powerful form of STRENGTH when navigating through conflict
Project Managers, Superintendents, and HR Personel.
Chris Osborn is co-founder of ReelTime Creative Learning Experiences, an international provider of dynamic, interactive training workshops, conferences, and professional development programs on the most difficult topics, including workplace conflict resolution, negotiation skills, sexual harassment prevention, diversity/inclusion/equity challenges, and ethics and compliance.
Chris is also the principal of Osborn Conflict Resolution, through which he provides mediation, collaborative law, and conflict resolution coaching services. He is a member of the Charlotte panel of Miles Mediation and Arbitration, one of the leading providers of dispute resolution services throughout the southeastern U.S.A..
Chris was certified by the N.C. Dispute Resolution Commission as a Superior Court mediator in 2009, and has assisted numerous clients to reach amicable resolutions in a wide variety of disputes involving construction claims, employment law, business breakups, and inheritance disputes.
From 2012-2015, Chris was an Assistant Professor at the Charlotte School of Law, where he taught “Interviewing, Client Counseling, and Negotiations,” Civil Procedure, Contracts, and “Problems in Practice: Commercial Transactions.”
Prior to teaching law school, Chris was an associate and shareholder of Horack Talley Pharr & Lowndes, PA, where he chaired the Litigation Practice Group and handled construction and real estate litigation, business litigation, and employment disputes across North Carolina.
Financing Rehabs & Builds in Today’s Market
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W207BC
Ronald Cannucci
Inside Account Executive | Finance of America Commercial
Leveraging short-term bridge loans for construction & rehab properties is the key to success in today’s market. Find out your options and how to strategically profit while utilizing financing.
Target Audience: Homebuilders, Retrofitters/Remodelers, and Residential Real Estate Investors
Ronnie is an experienced inside account executive with a background in multiple facets of lending. An investor himself, he understands the numbers and decisions that go into making a favorable deal. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, attending church, playing sports, and being outdoors.
Finance of America Commercial provides short-term Fix & Flip, Bridge, and Construction loans, as well as long-term Single & Portfolio Rental loans to residential real estate investors across the country, helping our clients overcome traditional financing hurdles and build long-term wealth through real estate investment.
Custom Building & Remodeling: Profitability in Today’s Market
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W207D
Bob Cain
Business Unit Leader | ECI Software Solution
Custom building and remodeling projects aren’t for the faint of heart. These projects involve a lot of moving parts and today’s margins are tighter than ever. From bids and budgets to schedules, selections, and the actual construction process, there are many areas builders could be leaking profits on delays, miscommunications, or missed details. In this session, Bob will share the common areas builders can improve profitability and the tech tools that can help pinpoint inefficiencies so builders can adapt to create a stronger business for tomorrow.
Target Audience: Custom Homebuilders, Remodelers, and Trade Contractors
The 5 Reasons Your Workers Don’t Wear Fall Protection
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. |
Real opinions from real workers on why they might forgo life saving gear, and what you can do to get them back in compliance.
Target Audience: Safety Managers
Get Visible, Get Credible : Get More Customers
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room E219BC
Word of mouth has always been the foundation for the acquisition of new customers for businesses but in our internet age, word of mouth is transformed because of reviews sites like Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Online reviews are now one of the biggest ranking factors in a local search.
Being credible is only one piece of the puzzle though. Your business also needs to be found online when people are searching for a specific business near them. Are you at the top of the Google Map Pack? If not you are invisible and all of those great reviews are not doing you much good.
In this seminar, we share numerous tips and best practices to not only become credible but visible online. We will also discuss the system that has been tried and tested in many businesses to help take their company to the next level.
Learning objectives:
- Understand the importance of taking control of your online presence
- Learn software programs that help manage your reputation
- See why your business may not be ranking as high as it could be
- Discuss ways in which reviews can manifest online
- Develop strategies for garnering positive reviews
Target Audience: All Building and Construction Professionals
After studying Leadership and Development at Texas A&M University, Javier founded, ran, and sold his own successful valet parking company. This sparked his desire to help start-ups achieve their goals. He has helped dozens of small businesses reach success from launching new items & patents to creating demand for their products. He has an affinity for the construction industry
and helping business owners find new customers through their review management. He now works at Birdeye as an account manager involved in the construction segment. During his free time, he loves playing soccer, traveling, and firing up the BBQ pit.
Behavioral Based Safety Leadership
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room E219D
What is Behavioral Based Safety and why is it vital in your organization?
Behavioral Based Safety identifies the cause of unsafe behaviors and then applies research-based techniques to eliminate this behavior. Whether your organization uses a top-down measure, a bottom-up technique, or a group collective, applying effective behavioral-based applications will reduce hazards and create or enhance your safety culture.
Target Audience: All Managerial Staff and Supervision, Project Managers, and Foreman
Mr. Vick is a career Environmental Safety and Health Administrator. Since September 2001, he has served as a subject matter expert on OSHA, E.P.A., and state safety regulatory matters. Mr. Vick has a proven track record of creating and fostering environments that are vigilant about safety and hazard avoidance, creating safe workplaces that enable the successful completion of large-scale projects. Mr. Vick’s certifications include MESH (Manager of Environmental Safety and Health), Homeland Security III (CHS III), and Security Management and Fire Safety. He is also an OSHA authorized Construction (500) and General Industry (501) outreach trainer. Shiron has a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Health and Safety.
Automating your Processes with QuickBooks and Apps for Contractors - Level 2
1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. | Room 106
Learn how to be efficient with the tools and resources available for automation. When you finish this class, you will know how to use QuickBooks, how to properly set up QuickBooks, and how to troubleshoot for proper job profitability reporting. Join me to unfold the world of apps and how they work for your benefit. Understand the ecosystem available for you and how you can be more productive right now.
Target Audience: • Architects • Engineers • Designers • General Contractors • Subcontractors • Commercial Builders • Home Builders • Developers • Real Estate Professionals • Building Managers • State Planners • Spec Writers • Government Agencies • Municipalities • Facility Managers • Property Management Firms • Military/ Corp. of Engineers • and any business owner in the construction industry
Vanessa Vasquez superpower is to bring solid financial education and strong strategies to Entrepreneurs and Accountants. Destroying the kryptonite of small business, which is lack of financial knowledge, Vanessa presents the correct tools and processes for businesses to grow and expand.
Her main focus has always been helping her clients streamline their small business financial management processes through education and the application of technology.
With 20+ years of experience and as a Latina Entrepreneur Wonder Mom, Vanessa recognizes the importance of providing learning opportunities and financial solutions for the rapidly growing small business community all around the globe.
Español
El superpoder de Vanessa Vasquez es brindar educación financiera y estrategias sólidas a empresarios y contadores. Destruyendo la kriptonita de las pequeñas empresas, que es la falta de conocimiento financiero, Vanessa presenta las herramientas y los procesos correctos para que las empresas crezcan y se expandan.
Su enfoque principal siempre ha sido ayudar a sus clientes a optimizar los procesos de gestión financiera de sus pequeñas empresas a través de la educación y la aplicación de tecnología.
Con más de 20 años de experiencia y como una emprendedora latina Mama Maravilla, Vanessa reconoce la importancia de brindar oportunidades de aprendizaje y soluciones financieras para la comunidad de pequeñas empresas de habla hispana en rápido crecimiento.
Job Costing to Guarantee Profitability
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W201D
Alex Morales
COO | JobTread
Have you ever wondered “what went wrong” when your actual profit margin fell short of your target? It’s time to identify the exact sources of the problem. Through accurate and timely job costing, you will be more in control of your finances for each job and find ways to stop your slipping profit.
Target Audience: Builders, Contractors, Remodelers, Specialty Contractors, Business Owners
Alex serves as the COO for JobTread. In this role, he is responsible for the daily operations of the business including sales, marketing, financial growth and development, research, and human resources.
Prior to JobTread, Alex co-founded Morales & Stone with a mission to help struggling homeowners solve their real estate problems. While at Morales and Stone, he managed all of the company's financials, sales & marketing efforts, construction and remodel projects, as well as the resales / dispositions for all properties acquired.
Prior to co-founding Morales & Stone, Alex spent seven years as the VP of Sales & Marketing for a software platform called OrgSync. During his time at the Company he supported driving new sales growth and helped expand the business from fewer than 30 customers to more than 650 customers across 13 countries.
Prior to joining OrgSync, Alex spent two years in Investment Banking as an Analyst for MHT Partners. During his time with the Company he helped execute Mergers & Acquisitions transactions for high growth, tech-enabled companies.
Prior to joining MHT Partners, Alex worked as an Analyst for JP Morgan in the Private Bank where he assisted with the management of assets for high net worth individuals.
Alex attended The University of Texas at Austin and graduated at the top of his class with a BBA in Finance and a Minor in Accounting.
Making Bigger Profit Margins and Improving Cashflow in Construction Industry
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W209B
Elizaveta Taylor
Owner | Beyond Books Solutions
Everyone is in business to make money. High profit margins are not easy to come by if you do not know your numbers. Your numbers can tell you a story on whether you are charging the right markup, going over budget on your projects or have overhead that is running wild. We also know that cash is king. Well cash flow is the lifeboat of the company and you need to make sure you are taking necessary steps to improve it throughout the year. Job costing is another big component that would help you make sure that every project you run is successful. So we are going to discuss how to increase your profit margins, improve your cashflow and set up and track your job costing correctly. Right now is the right time to finally get your numbers under control, put the right systems in place and grow your business!
Target Audience: Any Construction Company Business Owner
When I realized my passion for numbers and helping business owners I earned my Masters degree in Accounting and became QuickBooks Certified Pro Advisor. I started Beyond Books Solutions almost 5 years ago.
I have also been running several businesses for over 15 years so I know how hard it is for a business owner to carry all the weight and perform multiple tasks at the same time. I understand the struggle of trying to have work-life balance and trying to excel in all the aspects of business. I started Beyond Books Solutions almost 5 years ago and have an amazing team of bookkeepers helping our clients. For us every partnership is unique. We provide personalized approach to each client, because we care about their success. We offer ideas on the proactive approach that will help clients achieve their business goals.
PVC101 – The Benefits & Uses of Cellular PVC | 1 AIA Credit
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. |
Upon completion of this course, architects and participants will understand:
- Properties of cellular PVC
- Cellular PVC micro-ingredients
- Key differences between high and low-quality cellular PVC
- Ease of use and adaptability
- Common and unique end-use applications
- Painting, staining, and laminating options
- PVC’s contributions to Sustainability
- Properties of Cellular PVC Trim
- Are all cellular PVC Trims the same?
- Working With PVC
- Uses & Applications
- Residential – Exterior & Interior
- Commercial
- Multi-Family
- Historical Preservation
- Dark paint technology for cellular PVC trim
- New trim surface technology - Film Laminates
- PVC’s contribution to Sustainability
Target Audience: Builders, Contractors and Architects in Commercial and Residential applications.
Rich Maurer is the Southeast Regional Sales Manager for Versatex Building Products. The territory spans from North & South Carolina, through Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi.
For over ten years, Rich has grown the territory by developing all aspects of the business. By focusing on distribution and stocking dealer development, he has expanded the business throughout the Southeast Region. By raising the awareness and training builders, remodelers and contractors on the benefits found in using PVC products, Versatex has been able to provide these craftsmen with beautiful products that also offer their clients the benefit of low maintenance.
Most importantly, Rich has worked with the architectural community throughout the region to ensure architects and designers have the facts, knowledge, comfort level, and confidence to use valuable cellular PVC products in their designs.
Rich lives in Greenville, SC, and can’t make a living playing golf…thus, he will be presenting here today!
10 Minute Marketing Strategy Plan
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room W209C
A fractional CMO that ranks on page one in your city for the term, "Fractional CMO __(add your city name here)___" is coming to teach and tell you exactly how to rank on page one and also give you a 10 min action plan that will propel your business forward exponentially.
Get your own 10 minute action plan that will drastically improve your marketing. Then stay for the round table of other businesses similar to your industry on what they are doing and how they can improve through new techniques taught by Joshua Ramsey.
Target Audience: All building and construction professionals
A Google Certified Partner, Joshua's teaches interactive conferences based on material received from Google. Plus hear real life stories of success and failures that business owners have had. These powerful, interactive conferences are jammed packed with information that Joshua received during weekly meetings with Google. This is information every business owner needs to know.
Before becoming a Google Partner, Joshua was an outsourced CMO for several large U.S. based companies. As a CMO over the last 9 years, Joshua has managed over $2.5 million in AdWords and Digital Marketing Budgets and managed more than 2,800 campaigns. As a Bing Partner and Google Certified Partner, Joshua attends national conferences with some of the other great minds that influence SEO, digital marketing, and social media. Today, Joshua speaks all over the country helping businesses improve every element of their marketing.
Quickbooks for Contractors - Beginner
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room W201B
This class is an overview of how contractors can utilize the QuickBooks functionality to facilitate job costing, payroll, receivables and the overall benefits of either the online or desktop applications.
Target Audience: Contractors, Subcontractors, and anyone curious about the features & benefits of QuickBooks.
A Better Way to Manage Your Jobs From Start to Finish - JobTread Demo
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room W201D
Zac Spencer
Hector Ponce
Get organized, complete your projects on time, and increase your profits. JobTread is an end- to-end construction management software that helps you manage all of your business processes, from sales and estimating through to project completion. Learn why contractors give JobTread a 5-star review and consider adding JobTread to your toolkit.
Target Audience: Builders, Contractors, Remodelers, Specialty Contractors, Business Owners
Zac Spencer is a highly experienced professional with a diverse background in the construction industry. Having grown up in the construction trades and actively participating in Skills USA during his youth, Zac possesses a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in the field. With years of experience in selling new construction homes and a comprehensive knowledge of remodeling, framing, HVAC, carpentry, and design-build homes, he is driven by a strong passion for helping contractors streamline and simplify their business workflows.
Zac holds an Associates degree in Business/Managerial Economics from Collin College, providing him with a solid foundation in business principles. Additionally, he is a Nationally Certified Fire Fighter and EMT, having successfully completed the Fire Academy at South Plains College. This diverse educational background, combined with his practical experience in the construction industry, equips Zac with a unique perspective and a holistic understanding of the challenges faced by contractors.
Motivated by a desire to assist small to mid-size construction companies in enhancing their operational efficiency, Zac strives to empower them with effective strategies to manage day-to-day tasks more efficiently. His expertise, coupled with his commitment to simplifying and streamlining business processes, positions Zac as a valuable resource for contractors seeking to scale their operations and optimize their performance.
Hector Ponce is a first-generation Mexican-American with a strong passion for improving business operations in the construction industry. Having observed his family and friends struggle to expand their construction businesses due to their reliance on traditional methods such as pen and paper and spreadsheets, Hector developed a deep-rooted desire to challenge existing processes and seek innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
As a forward-thinking advocate of next-generation technology, Hector recognizes the transformative power of technology in simplifying daily tasks and fostering better organization. He has witnessed firsthand the tremendous impact that software solutions can have on construction companies of all sizes, ranging from streamlining data entry processes to consolidating operations within a single system. With an unwavering commitment to helping businesses thrive, Hector is dedicated to assisting construction companies in their growth journey.
Hector Ponce holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from The University of North Texas. To explore how his expertise can contribute to your business's success, schedule a call with Hector today.
Turning Invoicing and Online Payment into Your Competitive Advantage
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room W201C
Founder & CEO | Beam
Learn practical tips from some of the fastest-growing contractors in California on how to take control of invoicing and subcontractor payment so that you can grow your business and increase profitability. In this class, we'll cover:
- The importance of regular invoicing, prompt subcontractor payment, and cash flow management
- Several ways to improve your invoices to reduce back-and-forths and speed up payment
- Systems and tools to organize the subcontractor and vendor payment process for speed and accuracy
- Payment technologies to securely accept payments online
- Contract payment structures and change order management to set you up for success
- And more!
Target Audience: General Contractors, Subcontractors, Builders, and Remodelers
3 C’s for 3 P’s Contracting (Federal), Capital Access, and Counseling can lead you to greater Profitability, Progress, and Prosperity
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room W201A
Mark Dahle
Business Development Specialist | SBA NC District Office
How the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) can help you now! In your quest for greater profits, progress, and prosperity, please consider: Are you getting your share of profitable Federal contracting opportunities? How could greater access to capital boost your business growth plans? How will free counseling and mentoring provided by successful guides lead you to more success faster?
Target Audience: All building and construction professionals
Mark holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, double major in Finance and Management as well as his Juris Doctorate (JD) from the University of South Carolina. He worked in the construction industry holding an Unlimited General Construction Licensed in South Carolina before attending law school. Mark practiced law in the private sector for over 30 years, in the areas of builder law, construction liens, real estate transactions, tax, and business law. Mark also worked for Hilton Grand Vacations in its real estate department and still maintains his Florida Real Estate Broker certification.
Mark began working for SBA 3 over years ago and worked with the EIDL (Economic Injury Disaster Loan) program as an Attorney Advisor before working for the SVOG (Shuttered Venue Operator Grant) program. He worked analyzing grant applications and funding hundreds of millions of dollars in grants to Broadway, local museums, movie theaters, and community live theaters all over the country to sustain the Arts professions through the pandemic. He is currently North Carolina’s sole Business Development Specialist in the SBA Charlotte NC District Office where he facilitates Federal contracting and certification approvals.
Internet 101 for Contractors
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room E220D
Not sure what to do about your online presence? The Internet has changed consumer behavior. Your potential customers are looking for you online. (Yes, even your referrals!) Can they easily find you? If they can, are they getting a current and professional image of your business? In this informative and casual session, you will learn what matters today and how to use the Internet to build your business - bring your questions!
- How much do websites cost?
- The basics of an effective website
- Why you need a website even if you’re busy
- How Google works and what's new in search
- SEO - Search Engine Optimization made simple
- Q&A: Ask what you want. Learn from an industry veteran
Target Audience: Contractors, Home Builders, Architects, and Small Business Owners
Steve got into the website business in the early days of the Internet and in 1998, he started his first web development company - Z57 Internet Solutions. The company received national recognition including being in Inc. Magazine, Forbes, and Entrepreneur Magazine. Z57 made the Inc. 5000 several times as one of the fastest growing companies in the country. Steve led the growth of the company from start up to over 225 employees. The company was one of the largest web design firms in the nation and built over 40,000 websites in the 14 years Steve was the owner.
After selling the company and taking some time off, Steve started ZDigital. ZDigital offers websites and Internet marketing services to contractors, architects and designers across the US. ZDigital helps business owners with new website design, website redesigns and other Internet marketing services including Google and Facebook ads, social media management, SEO and more. To contact Steve or to learn more about ZDigital, visit www.ZDigital.com
The 60-Minute Marketing Plan
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room E216A
How to create a company story that sells.
Target Audience: Residential and commercial contractors
South Carolina 811: The One-Call Center’s Role in Underground Facility Damage Prevention
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room E216D
South Carolina 811: The One-Call Center’s Role in Underground Facility Damage Prevention As more infrastructure facilities are being built or relocated underground across the nation, the importance of “calling before you dig” has never been greater. South Carolina 811 is the state’s one-call center connecting excavators to underground utility operators in order to ensure safe and non-damaging digging projects. This presentation is SC811’s standard training for industry stakeholders and the general public. It highlights SC811’s purpose, its process, its role in damage prevention, and the resources it offers. The presentation will conclude with a brief section on gas and pipeline safety.
Target Audience: Excavators, Utility Operators, Locators, First Responders
$2,500 or $5,000 Per Residence
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room E216C
Don’t leave money on the table!
From single-family, to multifamily high-rises, let us help you navigate The Federal Energy Efficiency Incentives.
Target Audience: Homebuilders, Retrofitters/Remodelers, and Residential Real Estate Investors.
Travis is the Chief Executive Officer for ICS Inspectors, LLC residing in Houston, Texas. Travis leads his teams of RESNET Raters across the country, building Energy Rating and Consulting programs for homebuilders, retrofitters, and residential real estate developers. For real estate investors, property owners, home builders, and professionals within the construction industry, his vast expertise in tax planning has massively reduced taxpayers’ bills. He has helped with cost segregation studies and fixed asset reviews for building owners in numerous industries. As an advisor, Travis has assisted real estate professionals across our country in every single state, and aided architects, engineers, and contractors with §179D Energy Efficient Commercial Building Deduction for their governmental and public projects.
Travis studied Business Management at St. Andrews University in Laurinburg, North Carolina. While there, he competed in the NCAA Cross Country National Championships. In his free time, Travis fosters pets for animal rescues. Over the years, he’s personally helped more than 500 animals find their forever families.
Rick Stone is the Director of Sales for ICS Inspectors, LLC. Rick has tremendous enthusiasm for building relationships and assisting clients achieve their goals. Prior to ICS, Rick successfully developed platforms and programs as a trusted advisor within Fortune 500 companies throughout his 25 years of leading and developing. As a proven consultant, Rick helps his clients take advantage of wide ranges of lucrative incentives from local, state, and municipal initiatives through Federal EPAct Credits and Deductions for real estate investors, developers, and property owners, to the Employee Retention Tax Credit for businesses and industries impacted by COVID-19.
Rick and his family reside in Stephenville, Texas. He enjoys spending time with his family, watching football games, and traveling. Rick proudly served his country as a non-commissioned officer in The U.S. Marine Corps.
Common Construction Sales Mistakes
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W209A
Target Audience: Architects, General Contractors, Subcontractors, Builders, and Remodelers.
His DVD series can literally be used as an individual or corporate training program. He's been featured on CNN and in USAToday as well as dozens of media outlets across the country. Tom is extremely entertaining in his approach and well studied in the dynamics that occur in bidding, quoting and developing customer brand loyalty. His high energy approach combined with practical applications can bring results immediately after his seminars.
His corporation, Seal the Deal, is sought after by trade associations, contractors, corporations, suppliers, construction expos and publications regularly. He currently writes for 4 publications, has 20 regular contractor clients and speaks to in excess of 10,000 construction industry individuals a year. Tom turned a Caterpillar rental territory from 2.5Mil to 10Mil in revenue in 18 months while raising margins by 2%! He also trained 325 sales reps for a 750 Mil nationwide equipment firm. In his first sales position at 19 yrs of age he took a 150K contractor sales territory to 2.5Mil in 1 year. His customized training programs hit areas targeted for improvement head on. He knows how to get people to buy and manage a sales effort to success!
Culture Is NOT An Accident: How To Build Your Culture On One Sheet Of Paper
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W201A
The culture of your business is a DIRECT RESULT of the ingredients that you allow to enter into the building. Good ingredients equal good culture, and vice versa. Culture is more than ping pong tables and bean bag chairs. Culture is about relationships, connection, and communication.
Culture will determine the joy that we find in running our business. We all want a great culture, and we know we have to work for it…but how? Most strategies include a cross-your-fingers approach.
This fun and surprising workshop will remove the confusion around great culture, and provide you the action and clarity you need to build a culture that you are proud of and that all generations want to be a part of.
Learning Objectives
- Clarify the elements of great culture, and identify distracting elements of bad culture so you can focus on the elements of great culture
- Walk away with a one page visual of building great culture in your business starting tomorrow
- Discover the motivation to stop wasting time and money on team outings and bonus plans that rarely move the needle
Target Audience: Homebuilders, Remodelers, Contractors
Quickbooks for Contractors - Advanced
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W201B
This class is an overview of how contractors can utilize the QuickBooks functionality to facilitate job costing, payroll, receivables and the overall benefits of either the online or desktop applications.
Target Audience: Contractors, Subcontractors, and anyone curious about the features & benefits of QuickBooks.
Google Partner and Chief Marketing Officer Teaching "The Google Demands Of Your Website"
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W209C
Logical strategies you can apply in minutes, during the session.
A proven SEO expert is teaching what he has done time and time again. Want proof? Google “Fractional CMO __(add your city name here)___" and see www.jrcmo.com rank on page 1 for your city. Joshua Ramsey will show you how to do it yourself as well.
• What is CRO and how to apply it
• Build Your USP (unique selling position) that will draw increased engagement
• Pre-register through build expo or at www.JRcmo.com for a website analysis providing pinpointed solutions for YOUR WEBSITE
A Google Certified Partner, Joshua's teaches interactive conferences based on material received from Google. Plus hear real life stories of success and failures that business owners have had. These powerful, interactive conferences are jammed packed with information that Joshua received during weekly meetings with Google. This is information every business owner needs to know.
Before becoming a Google Partner, Joshua was an outsourced CMO for several large U.S. based companies. As a CMO over the last 9 years, Joshua has managed over $2.5 million in AdWords and Digital Marketing Budgets and managed more than 2,800 campaigns. As a Bing Partner and Google Certified Partner, Joshua attends national conferences with some of the other great minds that influence SEO, digital marketing, and social media. Today, Joshua speaks all over the country helping businesses improve every element of their marketing.
Productivity Adjustments and its Impact on Cost and Duration
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W201C
Productivity adjustments and its impact on cost and duration. Estimating crew (labor and equipment) productivity is crucial to both the cost and duration of the project. This is why the contractor must make proper adjustments to estimated productivity for each work activity, taking into account all impacting factors such as weather conditions. But adjustments must also be considered with schedule updates because things rarely, if ever, go as planned. This presentation takes a quick look at this process with valuable tips for more accurate cost estimates and schedules.
Target Audience: Builders and Contractors
Construction project management consultant, author, public speaker, and trainer.
B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in civil engineering specialized in Construction Management.
Experience: Over 26 years diversified:
- Industrial: private and public sectors, in the U.S. and overseas. Positions occupied include project engineer/manager, cost estimator, planner/scheduler, project controls manager, cost manager, training manager.
- Academic: faculty member / professor, head of department.
- Extensive experience in continuing education and professional training around the world. Topics are mainly technical but also include soft skills.
Author of:
- Construction Project Scheduling and Control (currently 3rd edition)
- How to Estimate with Means Data: Basic Skills for Building Construction (currently 4th edition)
- Many articles; technical and other
- Many presentations in professional conferences such as PMI, AACE International, Primavera Users Conference. Also, a public speaker in many local, regional, and international events.
- An authority on project planning, scheduling, and project control; was part of the PMI team that wrote the first Project Scheduling certification (PMI-SP) exam in 2007.
- An advocate of holistic healthy living and sports.
Offering Consumer Loans
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room 116
A look at ways to close more business by offering consumer loans for your residential projects.
Target Audience: Business Owners, Operations, Financial Managers
In my professional work experience I have spent the last 15 years in executive leadership roles in the financial services industry. I have forged partnerships with Merchant Processing Banks, Authorization Networks, Payment Gateways and Consumer Lending Institutions.
We then present these partnerships to prospective clients to facilitate the collection of payments, paying suppliers and vendors, allow clients to offer consumer loans for their services and save clients money on all of their financial service needs.
Previously I spent 30+ years working in the sporting goods and athletic footwear and apparel industries in several executive management positions including District Sales, Regional Sales, Director and VP of Planning, Allocation, Distribution, Pricing and Inventory Control for major corporations such as Foot Locker, FootAction, and Nike. I held similar VP level positions as Bombay and Kirkland’s.
Construction Technology Revolution – Panel Discussion
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room E216D
Learn how to implement the latest technology to drive schedule, budget, and safety goals in your company. In this session we will review the latest Construction Technology (ConTech) and explore where the industry is heading. We’ll key in on Material Management, Procurement and Project Management goals that can be driven by simple or advanced technology adoption.
Learning Objectives:
- Walk away with broader understanding of the innovation taking place in the construction industry
- Industry pain points and how technology solves them (i.e., Supply Chain Software)
- How to evaluate what technologies are right for you and how they will drive ROI
- Staff buy-in. Project stakeholders buy-in.
- VR, FTX, Blockchain and AI, OH MY!
Target Audience: Architects, General Contractors, Subcontractors, Builders, and Remodelers
Rob Salvador is the visionary driving force behind DigiBuild, an experienced builder, project manager and construction technologist.
After watching his father struggle as a small subcontractor in the construction industry, Robert eventually started his own construction company that grew into a nationwide commercial contractor. Rob’s experience and passion for construction eventually lead him to search for a better way to manage construction projects using technology. He started DigiBuild in early 2018 to revolutionize construction projects, profits, and people. He has managed over $500M in construction projects and was recently named to the list of “25 Rising Stars in Tech” By Crain’s Chicago Business. He is a frequent speaker and educator for groups like BuiltWorlds and the Construction Institute.
Jerry Horani is the Chief Technology Officer at VCC Construction, a ten-year veteran in the industry. As the CTO, Horani is responsible for developing the overall technology vision for the company, and driving cross-company engineering initiatives and collaboration.
Jerry works in a consultative fashion with other department heads as an advisor of technologies that may improve their efficiency and effectiveness. He provides leadership to department heads in a fashion that supports the company’s culture, mission and values. Jerry conducts research and case studies on leading edge technologies and makes determinations on the probability of implementation.
Behavioral Based Safety Leadership
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room E219D
What is Behavioral Based Safety and why is it vital in your organization?
Behavioral Based Safety identifies the cause of unsafe behaviors and then applies research-based techniques to eliminate this behavior. Whether your organization uses a top-down measure, a bottom-up technique, or a group collective, applying effective behavioral-based applications will reduce hazards and create or enhance your safety culture.
Target Audience: All Managerial Staff and Supervision, Project Managers, and Foreman
Mr. Vick is a career Environmental Safety and Health Administrator. Since September 2001, he has served as a subject matter expert on OSHA, E.P.A., and state safety regulatory matters. Mr. Vick has a proven track record of creating and fostering environments that are vigilant about safety and hazard avoidance, creating safe workplaces that enable the successful completion of large-scale projects. Mr. Vick’s certifications include MESH (Manager of Environmental Safety and Health), Homeland Security III (CHS III), and Security Management and Fire Safety. He is also an OSHA authorized Construction (500) and General Industry (501) outreach trainer. Shiron has a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Health and Safety.
Internet 101 for Contractors
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room E220D
Not sure what to do about your online presence? The Internet has changed consumer behavior. Your potential customers are looking for you online. (Yes, even your referrals!) Can they easily find you? If they can, are they getting a current and professional image of your business? In this informative and casual session, you will learn what matters today and how to use the Internet to build your business - bring your questions!
- How much do websites cost?
- The basics of an effective website
- Why you need a website even if you’re busy
- How Google works and what's new in search
- SEO - Search Engine Optimization made simple
- Q&A: Ask what you want. Learn from an industry veteran
Target Audience: Contractors, Home Builders, Architects, and Small Business Owners
Steve got into the website business in the early days of the Internet and in 1998, he started his first web development company - Z57 Internet Solutions. The company received national recognition including being in Inc. Magazine, Forbes, and Entrepreneur Magazine. Z57 made the Inc. 5000 several times as one of the fastest growing companies in the country. Steve led the growth of the company from start up to over 225 employees. The company was one of the largest web design firms in the nation and built over 40,000 websites in the 14 years Steve was the owner.
After selling the company and taking some time off, Steve started ZDigital. ZDigital offers websites and Internet marketing services to contractors, architects and designers across the US. ZDigital helps business owners with new website design, website redesigns and other Internet marketing services including Google and Facebook ads, social media management, SEO and more. To contact Steve or to learn more about ZDigital, visit www.ZDigital.com
From Estimating to Invoicing, How to Manage Your Jobs More Profitably
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W201D
Alex Morales
COO | JobTread
As a construction business owner it’s important to track and allocate the costs associated with each project to determine profitability. We will explore common challenges in estimating and job costing and how that can affect your overall profitability. You will walk through best practices for estimating and discuss five steps for an effective job costing process. Walk away with actionable takeaways to strengthen the financial operations of your company, close more deals, and position yourself for success.
Target Audience: Builders, Contractors, Remodelers, Specialty Contractors, Business Owners
Alex serves as the COO for JobTread. In this role, he is responsible for the daily operations of the business including sales, marketing, financial growth and development, research, and human resources.
Prior to JobTread, Alex co-founded Morales & Stone with a mission to help struggling homeowners solve their real estate problems. While at Morales and Stone, he managed all of the company's financials, sales & marketing efforts, construction and remodel projects, as well as the resales / dispositions for all properties acquired.
Prior to co-founding Morales & Stone, Alex spent seven years as the VP of Sales & Marketing for a software platform called OrgSync. During his time at the Company he supported driving new sales growth and helped expand the business from fewer than 30 customers to more than 650 customers across 13 countries.
Prior to joining OrgSync, Alex spent two years in Investment Banking as an Analyst for MHT Partners. During his time with the Company he helped execute Mergers & Acquisitions transactions for high growth, tech-enabled companies.
Prior to joining MHT Partners, Alex worked as an Analyst for JP Morgan in the Private Bank where he assisted with the management of assets for high net worth individuals.
Alex attended The University of Texas at Austin and graduated at the top of his class with a BBA in Finance and a Minor in Accounting.
Making Bigger Profit Margins and Improving Cashflow in Construction Industry
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W209B
Elizaveta Taylor
Owner | Beyond Books Solutions
Everyone is in business to make money. High profit margins are not easy to come by if you do not know your numbers. Your numbers can tell you a story on whether you are charging the right markup, going over budget on your projects or have overhead that is running wild. We also know that cash is king. Well cash flow is the lifeboat of the company and you need to make sure you are taking necessary steps to improve it throughout the year. Job costing is another big component that would help you make sure that every project you run is successful. So we are going to discuss how to increase your profit margins, improve your cashflow and set up and track your job costing correctly. Right now is the right time to finally get your numbers under control, put the right systems in place and grow your business!
Target Audience: Any Construction Company Business Owner
When I realized my passion for numbers and helping business owners I earned my Masters degree in Accounting and became QuickBooks Certified Pro Advisor. I started Beyond Books Solutions almost 5 years ago.
I have also been running several businesses for over 15 years so I know how hard it is for a business owner to carry all the weight and perform multiple tasks at the same time. I understand the struggle of trying to have work-life balance and trying to excel in all the aspects of business. I started Beyond Books Solutions almost 5 years ago and have an amazing team of bookkeepers helping our clients. For us every partnership is unique. We provide personalized approach to each client, because we care about their success. We offer ideas on the proactive approach that will help clients achieve their business goals.
PVC101 – The Benefits & Uses of Cellular PVC | 1 AIA Credit
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W207BC
Upon completion of this course, architects and participants will understand:
- Properties of cellular PVC
- Cellular PVC micro-ingredients
- Key differences between high and low-quality cellular PVC
- Ease of use and adaptability
- Common and unique end-use applications
- Painting, staining, and laminating options
- PVC’s contributions to Sustainability
- Properties of Cellular PVC Trim
- Are all cellular PVC Trims the same?
- Working With PVC
- Uses & Applications
- Residential – Exterior & Interior
- Commercial
- Multi-Family
- Historical Preservation
- Dark paint technology for cellular PVC trim
- New trim surface technology - Film Laminates
- PVC’s contribution to Sustainability
Target Audience: Builders, Contractors and Architects in Commercial and Residential applications.
Rich Maurer is the Southeast Regional Sales Manager for Versatex Building Products. The territory spans from North & South Carolina, through Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi.
For over ten years, Rich has grown the territory by developing all aspects of the business. By focusing on distribution and stocking dealer development, he has expanded the business throughout the Southeast Region. By raising the awareness and training builders, remodelers and contractors on the benefits found in using PVC products, Versatex has been able to provide these craftsmen with beautiful products that also offer their clients the benefit of low maintenance.
Most importantly, Rich has worked with the architectural community throughout the region to ensure architects and designers have the facts, knowledge, comfort level, and confidence to use valuable cellular PVC products in their designs.
Rich lives in Greenville, SC, and can’t make a living playing golf…thus, he will be presenting here today!
Custom Building & Remodeling: Profitability in Today’s Market
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W207D
Bob Cain
Business Unit Leader | ECI Software Solution
Custom building and remodeling projects aren’t for the faint of heart. These projects involve a lot of moving parts and today’s margins are tighter than ever. From bids and budgets to schedules, selections, and the actual construction process, there are many areas builders could be leaking profits on delays, miscommunications, or missed details. In this session, Bob will share the common areas builders can improve profitability and the tech tools that can help pinpoint inefficiencies so builders can adapt to create a stronger business for tomorrow.
Target Audience: Custom Homebuilders, Remodelers, and Trade Contractors
Constructing the Future: Discover ChatGPT and Harness its Power for a Profitable Marketing Future
9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. | Room W207A
Jason Rhoads
CEO & Owner | Rhoads Creative
In the intersection of artificial intelligence and digital marketing, ChatGPT shines as a game-changer. We'll unpack its profound impact on online marketing, exploring its present utility and future potential to deliver better and more profitable leads.
Target Audience: Custom Homebuilders, Remodelers, and Trade Contractors
Jason Rhoads is the proud CEO and owner of Rhoads Creative—a data-first, digital-always marketing agency tailored for home consultation and services companies. He began his career specializing in statistics and analytics for financial service companies and moved to digital marketing over ten years ago. Over the last ten years, he has become an expert in all things digital by creating marketing strategies for companies big and small, resulting in unheard-of results (like a 1,127% increase in ROI).
Rhoads Creative, under Jason’s stewardship, has not only delivered the results but has positioned itself at the forefront of digital marketing innovations:
- A proud Google Certified partner
- Trailblazers in geofencing, being among the first ten agencies globally
- Exclusive members of beta testing teams for Hulu and TikTok advertising
- Actively involved in Chat GPT and OpenAI's beta testing
Beyond Rhoads Creative, his involvement in industry associations like NAHB, 55 Plus Council, and various HBAs, along with my representation of over 100 home consultation and service entities, has enriched me with a breadth of insights. This knowledge drives me to deliver tailored, high-impact campaigns consistently.
“Can’t We All Just Get Along?” A New Approach to Construction Disputes
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room W207A
Chris Osborn, ESQ.
Mediator, Speaker, Conflict Resolution Expert
Conflicts frequently arise during construction projects. Even the best designs, contracts, and processes can't anticipate every potential obstacle on the road to completion. When not handled proactively and shrewdly, such disputes consume huge amounts of time and stress. And if we aren't careful, they can easily erupt into costly litigation.
So, what determines whether a conflict is worked through and resolved amicably, or spirals out of control into an exhausting. expensive, time-consuming process that usually leaves all parties equally unsatisfied?
Drawing on his over two decades of experience in litigating and mediating construction disputes, Chris Osborn's lively, interactive presentations equip construction professionals to:
• Recognize and deploy 5 different STYLES of conflict resolution
• Minimize the impact of STRESS in difficult conversations
• Understand the importance of STORY (both yours and the other person's) when having difficult conversations
• Embody a more powerful form of STRENGTH when navigating through conflict
Project Managers, Superintendents, and HR Personel.
Chris Osborn is co-founder of ReelTime Creative Learning Experiences, an international provider of dynamic, interactive training workshops, conferences, and professional development programs on the most difficult topics, including workplace conflict resolution, negotiation skills, sexual harassment prevention, diversity/inclusion/equity challenges, and ethics and compliance.
Chris is also the principal of Osborn Conflict Resolution, through which he provides mediation, collaborative law, and conflict resolution coaching services. He is a member of the Charlotte panel of Miles Mediation and Arbitration, one of the leading providers of dispute resolution services throughout the southeastern U.S.A..
Chris was certified by the N.C. Dispute Resolution Commission as a Superior Court mediator in 2009, and has assisted numerous clients to reach amicable resolutions in a wide variety of disputes involving construction claims, employment law, business breakups, and inheritance disputes.
From 2012-2015, Chris was an Assistant Professor at the Charlotte School of Law, where he taught “Interviewing, Client Counseling, and Negotiations,” Civil Procedure, Contracts, and “Problems in Practice: Commercial Transactions.”
Prior to teaching law school, Chris was an associate and shareholder of Horack Talley Pharr & Lowndes, PA, where he chaired the Litigation Practice Group and handled construction and real estate litigation, business litigation, and employment disputes across North Carolina.
Quickbooks for Contractors - Advanced
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room W201B
This class is an overview of how contractors can utilize the QuickBooks functionality to facilitate job costing, payroll, receivables and the overall benefits of either the online or desktop applications.
Target Audience: Contractors, Subcontractors, and anyone curious about the features & benefits of QuickBooks.
10 Minute Marketing Strategy Plan
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. |
A fractional CMO that ranks on page one in your city for the term, "Fractional CMO __(add your city name here)___" is coming to teach and tell you exactly how to rank on page one and also give you a 10 min action plan that will propel your business forward exponentially.
Get your own 10 minute action plan that will drastically improve your marketing. Then stay for the round table of other businesses similar to your industry on what they are doing and how they can improve through new techniques taught by Joshua Ramsey.
Target Audience: All building and construction professionals
A Google Certified Partner, Joshua's teaches interactive conferences based on material received from Google. Plus hear real life stories of success and failures that business owners have had. These powerful, interactive conferences are jammed packed with information that Joshua received during weekly meetings with Google. This is information every business owner needs to know.
Before becoming a Google Partner, Joshua was an outsourced CMO for several large U.S. based companies. As a CMO over the last 9 years, Joshua has managed over $2.5 million in AdWords and Digital Marketing Budgets and managed more than 2,800 campaigns. As a Bing Partner and Google Certified Partner, Joshua attends national conferences with some of the other great minds that influence SEO, digital marketing, and social media. Today, Joshua speaks all over the country helping businesses improve every element of their marketing.
A Better Way to Manage Your Jobs From Start to Finish - JobTread Demo
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room W201D
Zac Spencer
Hector Ponce
Get organized, complete your projects on time, and increase your profits. JobTread is an end- to-end construction management software that helps you manage all of your business processes, from sales and estimating through to project completion. Learn why contractors give JobTread a 5-star review and consider adding JobTread to your toolkit.
Target Audience: Builders, Contractors, Remodelers, Specialty Contractors, Business Owners
Zac Spencer is a highly experienced professional with a diverse background in the construction industry. Having grown up in the construction trades and actively participating in Skills USA during his youth, Zac possesses a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in the field. With years of experience in selling new construction homes and a comprehensive knowledge of remodeling, framing, HVAC, carpentry, and design-build homes, he is driven by a strong passion for helping contractors streamline and simplify their business workflows.
Zac holds an Associates degree in Business/Managerial Economics from Collin College, providing him with a solid foundation in business principles. Additionally, he is a Nationally Certified Fire Fighter and EMT, having successfully completed the Fire Academy at South Plains College. This diverse educational background, combined with his practical experience in the construction industry, equips Zac with a unique perspective and a holistic understanding of the challenges faced by contractors.
Motivated by a desire to assist small to mid-size construction companies in enhancing their operational efficiency, Zac strives to empower them with effective strategies to manage day-to-day tasks more efficiently. His expertise, coupled with his commitment to simplifying and streamlining business processes, positions Zac as a valuable resource for contractors seeking to scale their operations and optimize their performance.
Hector Ponce is a first-generation Mexican-American with a strong passion for improving business operations in the construction industry. Having observed his family and friends struggle to expand their construction businesses due to their reliance on traditional methods such as pen and paper and spreadsheets, Hector developed a deep-rooted desire to challenge existing processes and seek innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
As a forward-thinking advocate of next-generation technology, Hector recognizes the transformative power of technology in simplifying daily tasks and fostering better organization. He has witnessed firsthand the tremendous impact that software solutions can have on construction companies of all sizes, ranging from streamlining data entry processes to consolidating operations within a single system. With an unwavering commitment to helping businesses thrive, Hector is dedicated to assisting construction companies in their growth journey.
Hector Ponce holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from The University of North Texas. To explore how his expertise can contribute to your business's success, schedule a call with Hector today.
3 C’s for 3 P’s Contracting (Federal), Capital Access, and Counseling can lead you to greater Profitability, Progress, and Prosperity
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room W201A
Mark Dahle
Business Development Specialist | SBA NC District Office
How the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) can help you now! In your quest for greater profits, progress, and prosperity, please consider: Are you getting your share of profitable Federal contracting opportunities? How could greater access to capital boost your business growth plans? How will free counseling and mentoring provided by successful guides lead you to more success faster?
Target Audience: All building and construction professionals
Mark holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, double major in Finance and Management as well as his Juris Doctorate (JD) from the University of South Carolina. He worked in the construction industry holding an Unlimited General Construction Licensed in South Carolina before attending law school. Mark practiced law in the private sector for over 30 years, in the areas of builder law, construction liens, real estate transactions, tax, and business law. Mark also worked for Hilton Grand Vacations in its real estate department and still maintains his Florida Real Estate Broker certification.
Mark began working for SBA 3 over years ago and worked with the EIDL (Economic Injury Disaster Loan) program as an Attorney Advisor before working for the SVOG (Shuttered Venue Operator Grant) program. He worked analyzing grant applications and funding hundreds of millions of dollars in grants to Broadway, local museums, movie theaters, and community live theaters all over the country to sustain the Arts professions through the pandemic. He is currently North Carolina’s sole Business Development Specialist in the SBA Charlotte NC District Office where he facilitates Federal contracting and certification approvals.
The 6 Videos Contracting Companies Need To Stand Out Amongst Their Competition
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room E216A
Build a strong foundation in video marketing with these 6 videos that will separate your company from the competition.
Target Audience: Residential and commercial contractors
$2,500 or $5,000 Per Residence
2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. | Room E216C
Don’t leave money on the table!
From single-family, to multifamily high-rises, let us help you navigate The Federal Energy Efficiency Incentives.
Target Audience: Homebuilders, Retrofitters/Remodelers, and Residential Real Estate Investors.
Travis is the Chief Executive Officer for ICS Inspectors, LLC residing in Houston, Texas. Travis leads his teams of RESNET Raters across the country, building Energy Rating and Consulting programs for homebuilders, retrofitters, and residential real estate developers. For real estate investors, property owners, home builders, and professionals within the construction industry, his vast expertise in tax planning has massively reduced taxpayers’ bills. He has helped with cost segregation studies and fixed asset reviews for building owners in numerous industries. As an advisor, Travis has assisted real estate professionals across our country in every single state, and aided architects, engineers, and contractors with §179D Energy Efficient Commercial Building Deduction for their governmental and public projects.
Travis studied Business Management at St. Andrews University in Laurinburg, North Carolina. While there, he competed in the NCAA Cross Country National Championships. In his free time, Travis fosters pets for animal rescues. Over the years, he’s personally helped more than 500 animals find their forever families.
Rick Stone is the Director of Sales for ICS Inspectors, LLC. Rick has tremendous enthusiasm for building relationships and assisting clients achieve their goals. Prior to ICS, Rick successfully developed platforms and programs as a trusted advisor within Fortune 500 companies throughout his 25 years of leading and developing. As a proven consultant, Rick helps his clients take advantage of wide ranges of lucrative incentives from local, state, and municipal initiatives through Federal EPAct Credits and Deductions for real estate investors, developers, and property owners, to the Employee Retention Tax Credit for businesses and industries impacted by COVID-19.
Rick and his family reside in Stephenville, Texas. He enjoys spending time with his family, watching football games, and traveling. Rick proudly served his country as a non-commissioned officer in The U.S. Marine Corps.