In this guided workshop, you will take your AI skills to the next level by exploring how AI is being used in the construction industry. In this 1-hour virtual session, attendees will explore AI tools, platforms, and practices to better understand their potential impact on construction workflows. Attendees will: Take their AI knowledge to the […]
In this class, Kevin Estevez from Holden Willits takes participants through the lifecycle of the two most common legal proceedings in the construction industry: (1) civil lawsuits and (2) arbitrations. The goal is to equip attendees with a clear understanding of both types of dispute resolution, helping them know what to do and what to […]
For those who have an established business development career and are experts in networking, come share some best practices on relationship building and how these relationship can work best for you and your company. This class partners well with Training Your Advocates session on November 6th, also taught by Danielle Feroleto. Taught by Danielle Feroleto, […]
This class provides attendees with an understanding of how civil plans define how the building fits on the site and how land grading, access, and stormwater will be managed. Attendees will learn: How to read site layout and topography Grading, drainage, and utilities Site improvements and paving plans The Plan Reading series consists of these […]
Your professional relationships are essential for securing work and winning projects. Your clients, colleagues, and industry connections can also be considered your advocates. In this class, Danielle Feroleto of Small Giants will teach attendees effective ways to keep your advocates informed in your company’s areas of expertise as well as new services and offerings. […]
This Academy session provides attendees with the knowledge to interpret drawings that show how a commercial building stands up—the skeleton of the structure. Attendees will learn: The purpose and types of structural plans How to understand structural symbols, notes, and line types (“reading the code”) Foundation plans and footing layouts Structural framing plans Sections, elevations, […]
Career advancement has the foundation of drive, eagerness, commitment, and a desire to learn. After establishing themselves at a company that matches priorities and goals, professionals often find that a growth mind-set prepares them for opportunities and leadership. Clarify your professional goals, pursue new opportunities, and better understand how you receive feedback. For those already […]
This Academy session teaches attendees the important aspects of how buildings are designed from a functional and spatial perspective. Attendees will learn: How to communicate the design intent, layout, and aesthetics of a building How to define interior and exterior spaces, finishes, fixtures, and spatial relationships How to coordinate with structural, MEP, and civil plans […]
This Academy session introduces the fundamentals of professionalism that shape how you present yourself in the workplace. Attendees will explore key elements such as dress, communication style, eye contact, and overall presentation — building the confidence to make a strong and lasting impression in any professional setting. This class is part of the Young Professionals […]
This session launches the Academy's Grasping the Fundamentals series. In this class, taught by Anthony Jeffers of Hensel Phelps and Danielle Feroleto of Small Giants, with a combined 50+ years experience, participants learn the structure and interconnectedness of the industry of commercial real estate. In this 2.5 hour introduction class, attendees will learn about important […]
Grasping the Fundamentals – Full Program Registration Build a solid foundation in construction by enrolling in the full Grasping the Fundamentals series. This eight-class program introduces attendees to the essential elements that shape every construction project, helping participants understand how each discipline and process fits into the larger picture of the industry. By registering […]
This Academy session teaches attendees how to read and interpret the systems that provide heating, cooling, and ventilation throughout a building. Attendees will learn: How mechanical (HVAC) systems are designed and routed How to ensure functionality, code compliance, and coordination with other trades How to guide installation of ductwork and equipment The types of mechanical […]
This Academy session helps participants approach conflict with confidence and clarity. Through guided discussion and practical strategies, attendees will learn how to manage discomfort, reduce stress, and communicate effectively in challenging situations. Attendees will explore how to prepare their mindset before tough conversations, deliver feedback constructively, and navigate the stages of escalation with professionalism and […]
Your Personal Brand and Unique Value is designed for professionals seeking to elevate their personal brand in a competitive market. Attendees will walk through the essentials of crafting a unique and impactful personal brand. Attendees will learn to define their strengths, articulate their unique value, and present themselves consistently across social media platforms. Attendees will […]
This Academy session teaches attendees how to read and interpret the systems that provide water supply and drainage throughout a building. Attendees will learn: How plumbing systems are designed and routed How to ensure functionality, code compliance, and coordination with other trades How to guide installation of piping and fixtures The types of plumbing drawings, […]
Learn how construction firms pursue and secure work. Understanding the Proposal Process explains proposals, interviews, and the selection process — essential context for anyone seeking a full understanding of how the industry operates, even if you’ll never write a proposal or sit in an interview. The Academy for Construction Excellence presents an 8-class series for […]
This Academy session provides an introduction to reading and understanding electrical plans. Attendees will learn: How to interpret electrical symbols, notes, and abbreviations How to read lighting plans How to understand branch power layouts How to follow single-line (one-line) diagrams How to use panel and fixture schedules How special systems are shown on plans (audio-visual, […]
Communication is the foundation for all relationships, both professional and personal. In this class, attendees will explore important components for effective and confident interactions. Attend this class to learn how to speak with confidence as you share your ideas in a variety of settings. What attendees will learn: The importance of eye contact Various speaking […]
This session walks through how a construction project takes shape — from planning and execution to completion and facility management. Attendees will explore each phase of a project, including early project planning, construction execution, and the post-construction steps involved in facility management. Learn how each stage connects, what happens at key milestones, and who’s involved […]
This Academy session teaches attendees how to read construction drawings related to low-voltage systems that support building operations, safety, and communication. These systems are increasingly critical in commercial buildings and often require coordination across trades. Attendees will learn: What is considered a special system Fire alarm systems Security systems (CCTV, card access, intrusion detection) Data/telecom […]
Attending a networking event can be intimidating for new professionals. In this class, attendees will learn to navigate these social interactions, resulting in meaningful conversations and connections. Attendees will learn: How to prepare for an industry event How to enter a room confidently How to determine which “must-airs” make an industry event productive The various […]
This class introduces the development process for land prior to vertical construction. Using a real project case study, attendees will explore the critical preparation steps that make commercial construction possible — including zoning, surveying, and engineering. Hear directly from experts who navigate these early stages to set projects up for success. The Academy for Construction […]
This class introduces how finances work in the construction industry and why understanding them is essential to every project’s success. Attendees will gain a foundational understanding of the accounting process in construction, learn key financial terms, explore concepts like underbillings and overbillings, and see how financial management impacts each phase of a project. The Academy […]
Career advancement has the foundation of drive, eagerness, commitment, and a desire to learn. After working so hard to secure a first job, young professionals are wise to shift their disposition to one of humility and open-mindedness. Being a self-advocate means communicating areas of desired growth and interest, and a young professional of this disposition […]
This Academy session introduces the connection between contract structures and the monthly payment application process, helping attendees understand how general contractors and subcontractors are paid throughout a project. Attendees will learn about the various contract types, how pay applications work and the role they serve, how construction companies manage payments, and how these elements work […]
This Academy session introduces the fundamentals of lien law and bond claims — key tools that protect financial rights in construction projects. Attendees will learn how to send Preliminary and Supplemental Notices, understand the basics of Arizona Lien Waivers, and know how to file Mechanics Liens, Bond Claims, and Leasehold Interest Liens. The session also […]
This Academy session walks attendees through the lifecycle of the two most common legal proceedings in the construction industry: civil lawsuits and arbitrations. The goal is to equip attendees with a clear understanding of both types of dispute resolution — what they are, how they differ, and what to expect if a dispute arises. Attendees […]
