Jeff MacIntyre, President of the Grand Valley Construction Association, will speak about the housing crisis through the lens of a construction industry undergoing rapid transformation.

He notes that the sector is evolving faster than anyone expected — from who enters the workforce to how projects are designed, priced, and delivered.

The traditional image of construction is giving way to one that’s more diverse, inclusive, and reflective of today’s society.

Jeff will explore how supply-chain volatility, shifting timelines, and new client expectations are reshaping how projects are priced and managed. The emphasis on risk mitigation, safety, and project management has led to more efficient and sustainable business practices.

At the same time, the integration of renewable energy solutions and sustainable building materials reflects both environmental responsibility and economic opportunity.

As regulations and standards continue to evolve, the industry’s capacity to stay compliant and innovative will determine its long-term success. Jeff argues that adapting to change is not just a necessity but a pathway to resilience and leadership — ensuring construction firms remain trusted, forward-thinking partners in community building.

Finally, he will reflect on the Grand Valley Construction Association’s 50-year history of supporting members through training, advocacy, and partnerships. Looking ahead, the next 50 years will depend on collaboration — connecting with educators, governments, and other sectors to fill knowledge gaps, create sustainable growth, and prepare the industry for the future.

As Jeff reminds us, construction remains one of the great industries: it builds careers, strengthens communities, and quite literally shapes the world we live in.

PERSONAL VIGNETTE: Also in this meeting, a member will be delivering his personal vignette.

LUNCH BUNCH: After the meeting, all members are invited to have lunch (at their own cost) at a local restaurant. A great way to get to know your fellow members.

Dr. Christopher DiCarlo is a philosopher, educator, author, and widely respected speaker on critical thinking, ethics, and the future of artificial intelligence.

As Principal and Founder of Critical Thinking Solutions and Senior Researcher and Ethicist at Convergence Analysis, he brings both academic depth and real-world insight to one of the most important issues of our time.

His work spans bioethics, cognitive evolution, public education, and AI governance, and he is also the author of several books, including Building a God: The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and the Race to Control It.

In his presentation, Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity, Dr. DiCarlo explores the astonishing speed at which AI has advanced and why this has forced researchers, ethicists, and policymakers to confront urgent questions much sooner than expected.

He begins by explaining key AI concepts so audiences can better understand the technology and engage in informed discussion. He then examines both the promise and the peril of AI, from breakthroughs in medicine, education, efficiency, and scientific discovery to risks arising from misuse, poor governance, or systems that fail to align with human values.

Finally, he highlights the important role the public can play in shaping the future of AI through critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and active participation in discussions about how these technologies should affect our lives.

PERSONAL VIGNETTE: Also in this meeting, a member will be delivering his personal vignette.