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FORGE, an alliance of locally owned small businesses dedicated to fostering a sustainable and skilled construction workforce pipeline, proudly announces its inaugural Construction Leadership Summit, set to take place on Friday, February 23, 2024.

The summit aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the region, with a specific focus on middle and upper management, including foremen and superintendents. The goal is to nurture their development as successful individuals and, ultimately, as effective leaders within our companies and community.

“After successfully guiding 2500 8th graders through our Career Expo last October, FORGE recognized an opportunity to further nurture industry leaders, not only in the Golden Triangle Region but across Mississippi,” says FORGE Executive Director, Melinda Lowe. “Our dedication lies in fortifying partnerships and involving every facet of the pipeline to actively contribute to the educational and professional advancement of Mississippi’s future workforce. Thus, we’ve meticulously crafted an event that goes beyond the ordinary – it’s a milestone in leadership evolution. This summit demonstrates our dedication to driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and empowering the next generation of construction leaders.”

The leadership summit will unfold in the historic and charismatic setting of the Lyceum at Lee in Columbus, MS. This gathering isn’t just another conference; it’s a convergence of ideas, expertise, and visionary thinking.

Wally Adamchik, founder and president of Firestarter Speaking & Consulting, known for his dynamic and engaging speaking style, will deliver the keynote address. With unmatched expertise in construction leadership and communication, Wally promises invaluable insights that will not only inspire but also invigorate all participants.

In addition to the keynote, the summit will feature eminent speakers exploring essential topics such as optimizing productivity through improved sleep, effective wealth management strategies, and leadership development nuances.

“As a founding member of FORGE, I’m incredibly proud to see the Construction Leadership Summit come to fruition,” says Nic Parish, Vice President of Operations + Contracting at Burns Dirt. “This event marks a pivotal moment in our industry, where seasoned leaders and emerging talent converge to redefine leadership in construction. It’s a testament to FORGE’s collaborative spirit and our commitment to driving positive change.”

Attendees will not only network but also gain practical insights, actionable strategies, and access to resources to navigate the dynamic construction sector.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our sponsors, partners, and participants, especially Thompson Machinery, this year’s Title Sponsor,” adds Lowe. “Together, we are shaping the future of the construction industry.”

For more information about FORGE and the Construction Leadership Summit, please visit https://forgeyourpath.org/.