Thought Leadership: Beth Duyvejonck & Kate Johnson on Commercial Construction in Minnesota

Beth Duyvejonck, Executive Vice President of Construction, and Kate Johnson, Associate Project Manager, were among the panelists who participated in Minnesota Real Estate Journal’s 18th Annual Commercial Construction Summit. Beth was on a panel discussing current industry challenges and opportunities, and Kate was on a panel discussing women in construction.

Beth spoke about the lack of institutional capital invested in new development projects in Minnesota over the last two years, noting, “In a typical year, roughly 70 percent of our construction revenue is connected to a development project. With institutional capital sidelined, we’ve more or less endured a recession in commercial real estate.”

As a result, Beth’s advice to owners and subcontractors planning for the next few years in Minnesota is to invest locally, something we’re doing with Arcadia, the speculative office building and our new headquarters currently under construction in Edina. “Support local economic growth by investing in local economic growth,” she said, adding, “Arcadia is a very visible example of faith and investment in our local community.”

Kate shared that while women are making strides in the male-dominated construction industry thanks to stronger networks, increased visibility and women supporting women, challenges around advancement, representation and long-term leadership pathways still remain.

One solution she endorses is to balance the scales. “We need to expose young women to the construction industry earlier and introduce it as a viable career option,” she said. “We need to normalize women in the industry by helping young women make connections that not only raise their awareness but give them the confidence to see themselves in the industry.”

Her advice to women who may want to enter the construction industry is to seek out mentors, ask questions without hesitation and don’t wait to feel “ready” to step into opportunities. “Growth comes from experience, curiosity and surrounding yourself with people who support your success and your development,” she said, sharing how fortunate she is be growing as a member of our team.