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A Different President in 2025

By Eddie Sprecco, CEO

Unless you have been living in a cave, you are aware of the chaotic national political scene that won't get any calmer before November. From the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump to the Republicans unifying behind their nominee at the GOP convention, to President Joe Biden dropping out of the presidential race under unusual circumstances and with pressure from his own Democratic party – it’s been a historic week. 

Part of the deal for Biden to step aside is that he would be hailed as a hero and lionized as an all-time great president. While the nation’s media has been compliant in this bargain today, a more sober analysis of his years in office would point to a middling effort with a lot of lost opportunities left on the field.

President Biden came into office on the promise of governing as a moderate, unifying presence that would be a bridge to a future generation of leaders. That is why the Democratic party cleared the field in 2020 and underwent a similar effort in 2024 to make Biden their nominee. Unfortunately, Biden’s policies and rhetoric in office deepened the divides he promised to mend. Even on issues like infrastructure investment – a topic near and dear to our hearts at AGC – Biden was able to achieve a rare bipartisan win on an overwhelmingly popular topic, only to hamstring that success with tag-along policy mandates, executive orders and other handouts to his narrowing coalition of supporters.

Biden’s governing style, and decision to run again in spite of past promises to be a “transitional figure,” had already fractured his base and had him badly trailing in crucial polls – BEFORE his disastrous debate performance of June 27. Biden’s debate performance cemented the idea that his 2024 chances of success were slim to none, based on polls and his obvious inability to turn the trends around. This led to the three-week pressure campaign by Democratic insiders for Biden to drop out, which culminated in yesterday’s announcement.

So, in 2025, we will have a “different” President. I say that because it might be the old President in Trump or a shiny brand-new President such as current Vice President Kamala Harris. 

Whoever the victor in November, they should realize that campaigning is easier than governing. Stick to the important things – infrastructure, national defense, education, the economy – and leave the fringe fights to those at the fringes. Otherwise, whoever wins (or their chosen successor) will be out on their ear again in another four years. 

Thanks to all who attended our Get to Know AGCSD Member Luncheon!

By Katie Hammock, Director of Meetings & Events

Over 50 people made their way to our AGCSD Lakeside Headquarters to get to know us on Thursday. AGC President Gita Murthy welcomed our members to the event and CEO Eddie Sprecco and the rest of the AGC staff recommended members get involved to get the most out of their membership. 

Veteran members also spoke about their experiences with us, encouraging members to attend events and join councils/committees. A special thanks to Corey Klinke, West Coast Group Benefits; Chris Conte, Alliant Insurance Services; Brooke Velazquez, Bright Sky Recruiting; and Specialty Council co-chair David Blackston, D.A. Whitacre Construction, Inc.

AGCSD touched on everything from login help, councils and committees, PAC, board members, and events, to plan room, education classes and safety training, social media, and staff contacts.

Members got to know us, and we got to know them. Especially those who participated in our two raffles! Lance Deines of Foundation Pile Inc. won our staff directory raffle and took home a golf bag that he can bring to Affiliate Day Golf August 9. 

Aubrey Aldinger from Soltek Pacific won the social media challenge, channeling her favorite pump-up song, "Don’t Stop Me Now," as we were all having a good time. 

A surprise drawing had random attendees winning swag: Lynne Murtha of D.A. Whitacre Construction, Inc.; Chris Conte of Alliant Insurance Services; Brian Boek, Christian Brothers Flooring & Interiors, Inc.; Sara Salinas, Casper Company; and Matt Mendenhall, Nixon-Egli Equipment Company.

Those who stayed with us until the end were well fed and got the chance to tour our facility with Eddie. 

Miss out and wish you would’ve made it? Don’t worry. We’ll hold another one. That way, you can get in on the fun! Keep your eye on Tuesday's events emails.

Thanks again to all who attended and we’ll see you at our next event, meeting, or class!

Caltrans Procurement Fair Coming in August: Come Say Hi to Us!

By Mike McManus, Director of Engineering Construction & Industry Relations

For the 20th year, the Caltrans San Diego regional office, in partnership with the San Diego Public Agency Consortium, is hosting a Procurement and Resource Fair. Over 70 public agencies will participate in an event geared toward giving small businesses a chance to make networking connections with agencies, prime construction contractors, and engineering firms.

AGC prime contractors usually have a strong presence at the annual event. These are good opportunities to make new connections, particularly with potential disadvantaged business enterprises (DBEs) or small business partners. AGC is planning to have an exhibit at this year’s event. 

Come visit with us on Wednesday, August 14 from 9 a.m. to Noon at the Caltrans offices at 4050 Taylor Street in Old Town. If your company is interested in participating, register here.

There is a virtual pre-meeting for companies who plan to have an exhibit at the fair on Tuesday, July 30 at 9:30 a.m. via Webex. Register for the meeting by clicking here.

CLC Hosting Sip n’ Social for Interested Committee Members 

AGC Construction Leadership Council (CLC) is looking for a few good industry members…

Are you an early to mid-career professional in the construction industry? 

Would you like to meet some of your fellow colleagues across the industry? 

Want to tour high-profile projects in San Diego? 

Do you like free food and drinks?

AGC San Diego has the committee for you: the CLC! Members build connections with fellow construction professionals, creating opportunities to enhance their industry knowledge through relevant programs. 

Interested? Join us for the CLC Sip n’ Social on Thursday, July 31, at The Golf Bar in Rancho Bernardo from 5 - 7 p.m. Limited spots are available; please register here. 

Apply for Project Management Scholarships

The AGC San Diego Chapter is offering five full scholarships for the 2025 AGC San Diego Construction Project Management Certificate Program. Each scholarship covers the $3,250 tuition. This transformative 26-week program is going into its 20th anniversary of producing rising stars!

Do you have an employee who you are looking to promote? This program is a great jumping-off point for their careers. Take a look at the detailed weekly program by checking out the Syllabus. 

Scholarship Applications are due no later than Friday, September 6, 2024. Make sure you get yours in here.

AGC of America Needs Your Help: Take This Survey on Construction Labor Shortages Today

Survey closes August 16 

AGC of America wants to understand how labor shortages, supply chain challenges, and inflation impact the construction industry. That is why we are asking you to take a few minutes to complete the following workforce survey.

The more people understand the scope and consequences of current labor market conditions, the more likely they are to enact measures to help meet the industry’s needs. The more members who take the survey, the better able we all will be to describe labor market conditions where you operate.  

2024

July 26, 2024 - Day at the Races - Del Mar Racetrack - SOLD OUT

August 9, 2024 - Affiliate Day Golf - Singing Hills Golf Resort - Sycuan - SOLD OUT / Sponsorships available

September 19, 2024 - Public Agency Showcase - San Diego Yacht Club

October 7, 2024 - AGC Fall Golf - Country Club of Rancho Bernardo

October 17, 2024 - CLC Cool Cars & Tech Tools Expo - AGC HQ Lakeside

October 30, 2024 -TECH TALK: Digital Transformation - AGC HQ Lakeside

December 14, 2024 - Christmas in Coronado - Hotel Del Coronado

JULY MEETINGS

July 23 - 11:30 a.m. - Affiliate Council - Lakeside

July 24 - Joint Safety Committee Meeting with AGC of California @ Skanska/Riverside office

July 24 - 11:00 a.m. - Airport Liaison @ Airport Design & Construction office 

July 31 - 5:00 p.m. - CLC Sip 'n Social - Click here to register

About Monday Morning Quarterback

AGC San Diego Chapter's Monday Morning Quarterback is a "hot off the press" and to the point Monday morning briefing on the important issues facing San Diego's construction industry. It is prepared by AGC Chief Executive Officer, Eddie Sprecco, and Vice President Government & Industry Relations, Dustin Steiner.

Please contact Eddie Sprecco or Dustin Steiner with your comments, or with information that should be conveyed to the industry through this service. Well over 3,000 individuals employed by AGC member firms are part of this system.

AGC San Diego Chapter, Inc.

The VOICE of Construction

(858) 558-7444

agcsd.org

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