Lean starts in the field—and evolves with it. Join an experienced panel of field leaders as they share real-world insights, lessons learned, and game-changing strategies that are reshaping how we build. From proven Lean tools to boots-on-the-ground practices, this conversation dives deep into how field teams are not just adapting to change—they’re driving it. Discover how continuous improvement, collaboration, and innovation at the site level are pushing the entire industry forward. If you’re looking to unlock practical ways to improve the whole by starting where the work happens, this panel is your blueprint.

Informal Happy Hour to follow immediately after.

Speakers:

Joe Blake – ArchKey
Joe joined ArchKey in 1999 and serves as a field leader and General Foreman on local, regional, and national projects of various sizes.  He has deep experience leading technology construction teams in commercial, mission critical, industrial, distribution, and a heavy emphasis on complex hospital installations.  Key hospital projects in his career include:  OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, IL; HCMC Bed Tower in Minneapolis, MN; Sanford Hospital in Fargo, ND; and most recently the $22 million technology installation and integration for the Essentia Vision Northland Hospital in Duluth, MN. 
 
Jim Gerres – Ryan Companies
Jim Gerres has dedicated 20 years to Ryan Companies, beginning his career as a union carpenter straight out of high school. Through hard work and leadership, he progressed through various levels of field management to his current role as a Field Coordinator. He has played a key role in executing the company’s largest high-rise projects, emphasizing team collaboration, structured debriefing, and trade partner engagement. By learning from both successes and challenges, he continually drives jobsite improvements and operational excellence.
 
Roy Buttermore - Mortenson
Roy started out as an electrician in the small commercial and large residential markets. He worked his way through large commercial and manufacturing projects until finding his niche in healthcare facilities. He was part of his company’s initial kickoff into exploring prefabricated assemblies. After 22 years as an electrician, he found an opportunity to extend his support for the craft as a superintendent for a GC. He started out in their Data Center Group and has since been foundational to implement Takt Planning across multiple mega-projects.

Refreshments will be provided.