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June 16-17, 2010 | Indianapolis, Indiana This year's program will build upon the previous series of successful meetings and will cover standardized practices, definitions and terminology in an effort to create a unified understanding of the four steps to successful project delivery, plus the ability to use Project Delivery Systems, definitions, selection and implementation. To register click here!

The Summer 2010 BIMForum will focus on the primary principles involved in Lean design and construction and how building information modeling (BIM) can best be integrated into Lean construction practices. Anyone interested in learning more about BIM or developing the knowledge and competency needed to successfully implement BIM in your organization is encouraged to attend. Early registration is encouraged.The BIMForum has grown into an industry-leading user's group focused on the application of virtual design and construction for the AEC industry, and includes more than 1,800 members from across the commercial construction industry. BIMForum membership is NOT required to attend the Summer 2010 BIMForum.Registration: $375 if registered by May 19, 2010Additionally, participants are invited to take advantage of these additional BIMForum events: BIM 101: An Introduction to Building Information ModelingBIM TechnologyBIMForum Tours See complete details here.

Presented in partnership with Autodesk, Inc. | TODAY 1:00-2:30pm ETIn recent years, new technologies and practices have fundamentally changed how building projects are delivered. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a prime example. When effectively implemented, it allows contractors to gain insight into cost, schedule and potential coordination issues-before work begins in the field.Construction companies that have embraced a model-based approach to construction have quickly realized that a successful BIM deployment can deliver exceptional value and ROI. Join us to Learn how the Autodesk BIM Deployment Plan can help you gain a competitive advantage and capitalize on the benefits BIM delivers. Register here.

The Specialty Contractors Council Executive Committee approved the final 2010-2012 SCC Strategic Plan at the recent Â鶹´«Ã½ Annual Convention.  The Â鶹´«Ã½ Executive Board also approved the 2010-2012 Â鶹´«Ã½ of America Strategic Plan.

Hotel deadline ends today!Join key players in the building construction industry at the Â鶹´«Ã½ Building Contractors Conference in Midway, Utah, June 9-12, 2010. This Conference consistently offers a worthwhile and constructive experience to industry leaders who gather to network, exchange ideas, and hear presentations offering timely guidance and best practices. The Â鶹´«Ã½ Lean Construction Forum will feature several sessions, including Lean Construction: A Basic Refresher and case studies.Highlighted Sessions Include:Lean Construction: A Basic Refresher - George Zettel, Turner Construction Co.Lean Construction Case Studies - Linbeck Group, Baker Concrete Construction, Burt Hill and The Weitz CompanyEffluent Limitation Guidelines (ELGs) and the Construction Industry - David G. Oshinski, The Home Depot; Jennifer Hildebrand, Weis Builders; and Richard S. Davis, Beveridge & Diamond P.C.ROI of Sustainable Designs - Robert Middlebrooks, AutodeskMaterials Prices: Spiking, Side-Stepping or Sliding? - Ken Simonson, Â鶹´«Ã½ of AmericaChallenges of Growth in Construction - José L. Fernández-Solís, PhD, Texas A&M UniversityLook for more information at www.agc.org/bcc.Travel discounts are available!  Please refer to the Â鶹´«Ã½ Building Contractors Conference Travel Assistance Guide for more details.

[[{"type":"media","view_mode":"media_large","fid":"3937","attributes":{"class":"media-image size-full wp-image-295 alignright","typeof":"foaf:Image","style":"","width":"94","height":"120","alt":""}}]]Â鶹´«Ã½ Specialty Contractor Council (SCC) member Tim Sinclair of Pal's Glass/Sinclair Masonry in Wichita, Kansas has been appointed to the SCC Executive Committee.  Prior to his current role as owner and President of Sinclair Masonry and Pal's Glass for the last eight years, Tim served as a general contractor at Key Construction and served as vice president of operations.  Tim began as an estimator and project manager for Key Construction after five years of experience as an estimator-project manager with Conco, Inc.Tim received his MBA from Wichita State University in Wichita, Kansas and his bachelor's degree in Construction Engineering Technology while attending Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas.

The Â鶹´«Ã½ Specialty Contractors Council (SCC) held a roundtable discussion at Â鶹´«Ã½'s 91st Annual Convention and Pavilion held in March in Orlando, Fla.  SCC Chair Jim Slack, Jr. provided an update on Â鶹´«Ã½ and SCC activities and attendees participated in a roundtable discussion focused on "Â鶹´«Ã½'s Value to You."  Attendees shared what is important to them and their company from a specialty contractor's perspective.  Please click here to review a summary of some of the major Â鶹´«Ã½ of America activities of the past year on behalf of Specialty Contractors.The SCC also held a Specialty Contractors Reception, which was attended by more than 50 members and guests.   A special thank you to the reception sponsors: Slack & Co. Contracting Inc.; Gabriel Fuentes Jr. Construction Co.; Concrete Frame Associates Inc.; MarCon Inc.; Current Electrical Construction Co.; Pal's Glass Service Inc.; and McGraw-Hill.Along with professional development sessions and other programs, the Convention proved to be a worthwhile experience for those who made the trip to Orlando.  Mark your calendar for Â鶹´«Ã½'s 92nd Annual Convention that will be held March 21-25, 2011 at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev.

Unit 2: BIM Technology, the second course in the Â鶹´«Ã½ Building Information Modeling (BIM) Education Program, is now available. BIM Technology covers the common characteristics and differences of BIM applications in use today and specific processes for planning, organizing and deploying BIM tools throughout the life of a project.Developing a solid understanding of the available BIM solutions, their functionality and how they relate to the various construction phases before purchasing software will significantly aide contractors with overall BIM implementation efforts and increase return on investment.Â鶹´«Ã½ BIM Education Program courses are offered by Â鶹´«Ã½ Chapters around the country. Interested individuals can visit the Â鶹´«Ã½ national course calendar for information on upcoming BIM Technology course offerings at www.agc.org/BIMEP or contact Amy Fields at (703) 837-5360 or curriculum@agc.org.

An updated version of the popular Contactor's Guide to BIM. This new edition includes up-to-date information on the process of incorporating BIM into your company, collaborating with other stakeholders as well as a detailed matrix of the varied types of software tools that comprise building information modeling.Topics Include:Intro to BIM conceptsManaging the BIM processContracts and legal issuesSelecting and implementing BIM tools and resourcesCriteria for selecting BIM consultantsItem No. 2928 Retail Price: $75.00 Member Price: $50.00To order go to www.agc.org/bookstore or call 1-800-244-1767.

A recent Engineering News-Record article examines how firms have reacted to the recession, and what steps they are taking to adjust and survive.  The current economic recession is offering firms numerous challenges to re-think their strategies to keep their heads above water and to continue to do so in the post-recession economy. While the stimulus has greatly benefitted some firms, other have not been affected by it at all.  Firms are recognizing the importance of creating new ways to keep employees, maintain morale, and remain flexible towards the current market challenges. For the complete article from Engineering News-Record, please click here (ENR subscription required).