Constructing a Path to the Future

Constructing a Path to the Future

Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Minnesota is using its 100th anniversary to remember its past and construct a path to the future.

5

When AGC’s staff began to plan the centennial anniversary, they wanted to do more than simply throw a party that would be forgotten the next week. Instead, they opted to turn the spotlight on their members and kick off an entire year of celebrations recognizing their industry’s rich history and future potential.

“We’re using the centennial to celebrate our members and also introduce ourselves to a new generation that might not be familiar with us,” explained CEO Tim Worke. “We’re an association of largely family-owned companies that have a lot of history, so there is a lot for us to commemorate.”

AGC of Minnesota was the first state chapter chartered by the Associated General Contractors of America. While the association was established on December 11, 1918, the organization chose to not only recognize that momentous date, but to continue the celebration throughout 2019. Its statewide membership of almost 400 companies is made up of general and specialty contractors, suppliers, and service providers that serve the commercial construction industry.

AGC staff and volunteers began the planning process by pouring over reams of historical documents to inspire activities and events. An opening reception, attended by more than 400 people, kicked off the festivities on December 11, 2018. A legacy and leadership dinner the previous evening honored past board chairs and leadership award recipients.

“We’re using the centennial to celebrate our members and also introduce ourselves to a new generation that might not be familiar with us.”

In late January, AGC invited member employees and their families to enjoy a day at Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall of America. Included in the event were activities to bring attention to the key industry issue of workforce recruitment and retention. In partnership with several member companies and representatives from construction unions, AGC created a hands-on, interactive experience in the rotunda to educate the public about career opportunities in construction, with opportunities for Mall visitors to operate equipment simulators, experience a jobsite through virtual reality, work with real bricks and mortar, and view robotics demonstrations.

In March, AGC installed a historical display in the north corridor of the State Capitol. Incorporating photos, artifacts, written materials, equipment scale models, and informational banners, the display offered an overview of construction’s labor-intensive past and technology rich present.

“The idea was to bring visibility to lawmakers about who we are and what our members can accomplish,” Worke said. “When they appropriate funds for projects, it’s our members that do the work.”

During the two-week public exhibition, association members participated in an advocacy day at the Capitol, which included meeting with legislators in person.

Remaining 2019 centennial events were designed to offer members opportunities to network and further engage with the association. Members can look forward to a Twins game and a St. Croix River cruise highlighting the recently completed Stillwater river crossing. A reception in December will complete the anniversary year.

In order to facilitate increased personal connections with its membership, AGC is also conducting a Member 100 Tour, during which staff will visit member offices and jobsites.

“When a member has an event for their employees, we visit them wherever they are, serve root beer floats made with 1919 root beer, and conduct giveaways,” Worke said.

The Member 100 Tour has been especially helpful at connecting AGC with its members in Greater Minnesota, where member companies are less likely to have frequent interaction with the association.

To fund centennial activities, AGC looked primarily to its affiliate members for sponsorships. They offered tiered sponsorship levels to give affiliate members the opportunity to honor and thank their contractor customers. This support has enabled the association to deliver high-quality events, keep costs to attendees at a reasonable level, and make events accessible to a greater number of participants.

As Worke thought back on the centennial planning process, he offered some advice to other associations interested in doing something similar. “It takes planning (sometimes years), and it can be difficult to do with just your own staff. Consultants can be key to pulling elements together.”

To learn more about AGC of Minnesota’s centennial, visit www.agcmn.org/centennial.

6