The Massachusetts Building Congress (MBC) brings together decision makers from all corners of the design and construction industry in Massachusetts. MBC’s 2013 president Ben Goldfarb sat down with High-Profile to help provide insight into the workings of this popular association.
HP: For those less familiar with MBC, can you tell us breifly what is unique about the MBC membership?
Goldfarb: The one thing that I believe sets the MBC apart from other organizations is the welcoming culture of our members. I am frequently told by new members and guests that they find the people to be very approachable and that the overall chemistry of our events is inviting. So when you combine this network-friendly environment with our industry rich membership coupled with well-planned events – relationships are more naturally formed and new business opportunities are developed. Also the diversity of our members has flourished not only in terms of firm type, i.e. subcontractors and bonding agents enjoying breakfast with construction managers and architects, but a balanced mix of up and coming professionals who are rubbing elbows and enjoying a beer with seasoned principles and presidents.
HP: What’s new with MBC?
Goldfarb: I am very excited and proud of three new initiatives that were recently rolled out which include the Women’s Network: Building Leaders, the 20:30 Club, and the MBC Scholarship Fund.
The Women’s Network’s mission is to connect women to women for business development; to mentor and promote women in construction; and to grow women membership within the MBC.
The 20:30 Club seeks to provide emerging A/E/C leaders and their peers with casual, educational, and fun events for building professional relationships.
The MBC Scholarship Fund is the MBC’s own scholarship designed to support the future leaders of the A/E/C industry.
HP: How do you select the speakers for your breakfast meetings?
Goldfarb: The MBC Program Committee is charged with identifying relevant topics and interesting
speakers. Both are developed through a standardized process, vetted by the Committee and voted on for approval before formerly announced as future MBC programs. Our Program Committee members volunteer their precious time to conceive of industry significant topics while leveraging their network to secure guest speakers who are generally leading experts in their field of work.
HP: We’ve noticed frequently changing venue’s for “Congress Unplugged” events, will this continue?
Goldfarb: Congress Unplugged events are designed for pure networking. No agenda, no speakers, just good old fashion face-to-face conversations. Due to this highly social format – fresh, new and fun venues are a priority for Congress Unplugged events and this will continue to be the trend in the future.
HP: Will you explain how the MBC Hall of Fame awards help the design and construction community?
Goldfarb: The MBC Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding legacy organizations from the design and construction industry — including clients — that consistently demonstrate high integrity, project innovation, community support and employee investment. This event provides a forum for the building industry to recognize, celebrate and publicize the work of exemplary companies whose longstanding contributions have lasting impact on the industry, the community, and the clients we serve.
HP: What has contributed to the success of the MBC and what’s needed to sustain it?
Goldfarb: MBC’s leadership including the Executive Director, Officers, Board of Directors, Committee Chairs and Committee Members are the lifeblood of this organization. These are the people behind the scenes who volunteer time, resources and expert advice that help the organization navigate through economic and industry changes, implement internal operational enhancements that provide more value to our members and future direction to thrive as a professional association. The continued success of the MBC rests on the strength of the MBC leadership. I believe MBC’s leadership roles will evolve necessitating greater involvement both in and outside the Organization to build deeper alliances within the A/E/C industry and business community at large. In doing so, MBC leaders will continue to realize even greater benefits from volunteering their time with industry colleagues.
HP: How has your involvement with MBC assisted with the role you play at Nauset Construction?
Goldfarb: My involvement with the MBC began virtually at the same time we launched Nauset Construction. As a founding member of a young firm, I found the relationships and visibility gained through my involvement with the MBC helped to grow Nauset’s business and visibility in the industry.
Ben Goldfarb is Vice President at Nauset Construction Corp. in Needham, Massachusetts.