Recorded on location at the SMPS Amplify Conference in Las Vegas, this special episode of The Building Better Podcast brings together four voices from across the architecture, engineering, and construction industry to explore how marketing, business development, and leadership are evolving in a rapidly changing AEC landscape. Bartlett Cocke General Contractors sits down with Marci Thompson, CEO of SMPS; Chris Martinez, SMPS Chief of Member Engagement & Development; Stacy Sanders, Director of Marketing & Business Development for EMA; and Melinda Hepp, Founder & Principal at Studio PR to explore how firms are adapting to a rapidly changing AEC landscape. The discussion examines how marketing teams are moving beyond traditional communications to become more closely aligned with growth strategy, client relationships, and business outcomes. The guests share perspectives on what is changing inside AEC firms, how marketers can earn a stronger voice at the leadership table, and why collaboration between marketing, business development, technical teams, and executives has become increasingly important. The episode also explores the role of SMPS in advancing the profession and supporting the people responsible for driving visibility, relationships, and growth across the industry. From professional development and leadership to evolving client expectations and new technologies, the conversation highlights how AEC marketers are adapting to a market that demands greater strategic thinking, stronger differentiation, and more measurable impact. Looking ahead, the group discusses the future of business development, the skills the next generation of AEC marketers will need, and how firms can build stronger brands while staying focused on authentic relationships and client value. The conversation also touches on the changing ways firms communicate expertise, compete for work, and position themselves in increasingly crowded markets. Whether you work in marketing, business development, communications, leadership, architecture, engineering, or construction, this episode offers practical insight into the forces reshaping how AEC firms grow and connect with their audiences. Topics discussed: The role of SMPS in the AEC industry The evolution of AEC marketing and business development Marketing's growing role in firm strategy Building stronger alignment between marketing, BD, and leadership Client relationships and changing buyer expectations Brand differentiation in competitive AEC markets Leadership and professional development for marketers Emerging technology and the future of AEC communications The skills future marketing and business development leaders will need What's next for the AEC industry Tune in from SMPS Amplify in Las Vegas for a conversation about where AEC marketing and business development are headed, and what firms can do today to prepare for what comes next.

Austin has become one of the most closely watched economic success stories in the United States. Fueled by innovation, population growth, business investment, and a highly skilled workforce, the region continues to attract national attention as a hub for opportunity and development. In this episode of The Building Better Podcast, Bartlett Cocke General Contractors sits down with Susan Davenport, President and CEO of Opportunity Austin, to explore what comes next for one of America's fastest-growing metropolitan areas.

As Austin enters a new phase of growth, the conversation examines the opportunities and challenges that accompany rapid expansion. Susan shares insights into Opportunity Austin's role in driving economic development across Central Texas and discusses how regional leaders are working to attract investment, support business growth, and position Austin for long-term success in an increasingly competitive landscape.

The discussion explores critical topics including infrastructure, mobility, workforce development, housing, and regional planning. As growth places new demands on transportation networks, utilities, and public services, Susan offers perspective on how Austin can continue to expand while preserving the qualities that have made it one of the nation's most desirable places to live and work.

The episode also dives into the evolving relationship between economic development, public policy, and the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. From major capital investments and advanced manufacturing projects to technology expansion and reshoring initiatives, the conversation highlights the collaboration required between business leaders, developers, public officials, and community stakeholders to deliver sustainable growth.

Looking ahead, Susan shares her perspective on the industries poised to shape Austin's future, the workforce strategies needed to support continued expansion, and the economic signals leaders should be watching across Central Texas. The discussion provides valuable insight into what distinguishes cities that grow with intention from those that struggle to keep pace with change.

Whether you're involved in economic development, construction, commercial real estate, business leadership, urban planning, or public policy, this episode offers a strategic look at the forces shaping Austin's future and what they mean for the broader Texas economy.

Topics discussed:

• Austin's next phase of economic growth 

• Regional competitiveness and economic development strategy 

• Infrastructure, mobility, and long-term planning 

• Public-private collaboration and city building 

• Workforce development and talent attraction 

• Advanced manufacturing, technology, and reshoring 

• Capital investment and regional growth opportunities 

• Policy, regulation, and development alignment 

• The future of Central Texas and Austin's evolving role in the national economy 

Tune in for a forward-looking conversation on Austin's future and the leadership, investment, and collaboration required to sustain growth in one of America's most dynamic markets.

Release Date: August 2026

As Houston continues to grow into one of the most economically diverse and rapidly expanding regions in the country, the demand for skilled workers is increasing across construction, manufacturing, healthcare, technology, logistics, and other critical industries. In this episode of The Building Better Podcast, Bartlett Cocke General Contractors sits down with Dr. Brenda Hellyer, Chancellor of San Jacinto College, to discuss how higher education institutions are evolving to meet workforce demands while preparing students for the jobs that will drive Texas' future economy.

With one of the nation's leading community college systems at the center of workforce industry leaders to align programs with real-world workforce needs, create career pathways, and ensure graduates are equipped with the skills required in a rapidly changing labor market.

From workforce shortages and technical education to economic development and regional growth, this episode examines the critical role community colleges play in supporting employers, strengthening local economies, and creating opportunities for students. Dr. Hellyer also discusses the importance of investing in facilities, technology, and innovation to support both current and future workforce demands.

The discussion highlights the intersection of education and construction, including how campus development projects help institutions expand capacity, enhance student experiences, and respond to the evolving needs of employers across Texas. As industries continue to transform, the conversation offers valuable insight into how educational institutions and business leaders can work together to build a stronger, more resilient workforce.

Whether you're involved in education, construction, economic development, workforce planning, or business leadership, this episode provides practical perspectives on preparing the next generation of talent and supporting sustainable growth across Texas.

Topics discussed:

• Workforce development and talent pipeline challenges
• The role of community colleges in economic growth
• Higher education's response to evolving industry needs
• Partnerships between education and industry
• Technical training and career readiness
• Houston's growth and regional workforce demands
• Campus expansion and educational infrastructure
• Building the workforce of the future in Texas

Tune in to learn how San Jacinto College is helping shape the future workforce and why collaboration between education, industry, and community leaders is essential to Texas.

Hemisfair is more than a park. It is one of the most ambitious urban redevelopment projects in Texas, reshaping how downtown San Antonio connects people, culture, business, and community. In this episode of The Building Better Podcast, Bartlett Cocke General Contractors sits down with Melissa Robinson, CEO of Hemisfair, to discuss the vision, partnerships, and long-term strategy behind one of the nation's most closely watched civic development initiatives.

As Hemisfair continues to transform the heart of San Antonio, Melissa shares insights into the challenges and opportunities of delivering large-scale urban redevelopment in a rapidly growing city. The conversation explores how public spaces can become catalysts for economic development, how thoughtful planning creates lasting community value, and why successful downtown revitalization requires collaboration among civic leaders, developers, businesses, and residents.

From mixed-use development and public-private partnerships to placemaking, housing, tourism, and economic growth, this episode examines how cities can create vibrant urban cores that attract investment while preserving the unique character that makes them special. Melissa also discusses Hemisfair's role in shaping San Antonio's future and what other cities can learn from its approach to community-centered development.

The episode also features insight from Carol Warkoczewski, Founder of I-LinCP, who

highlights the importance of bringing together diverse voices and expertise to solve complex challenges and build stronger communities.

Whether you're involved in construction, commercial real estate, economic development, urban planning, or public leadership, this conversation provides valuable lessons on creating places that deliver lasting social and economic impact.

Topics discussed:

• The vision and evolution of Hemisfair 

• Downtown San Antonio redevelopment and growth 

• Public-private partnerships and civic investment 

• Mixed-use development and placemaking strategies 

• Economic development and community impact 

• Building vibrant urban centers in Texas 

• Leadership and collaboration in the AEC industry 

• The future of San Antonio and other growing Texas cities 

Tune in to hear how Hemisfair is helping redefine downtown San Antonio and what its success means for the future of urban development across Texas.

Houston continues to set the pace as one of the most influential construction and development markets in the United States. In this episode of The Building Better Podcast, Bartlett Cocke General Contractors sits down with Kyle Holland, President and CEO of AGC Houston, to explore the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the Houston AEC industry and what they reveal about the future of construction across Texas.  

From persistent workforce shortages and skilled labor development to the growing role of artificial intelligence, technology, and data-driven decision-making, this conversation offers a candid look at how contractors are navigating an increasingly complex business environment. Kyle shares insights on the state of the Houston market, the impact of major infrastructure and commercial investments, evolving client expectations, and the strategies leading firms are using to remain competitive amid rapid growth.  

The discussion also examines how industry leaders are approaching workforce recruitment and retention, the importance of construction career pathways, and the role organizations like AGC Houston play in supporting contractors, trade partners, and future industry professionals. As technology continues to reshape project delivery, Kyle provides perspective on where AI can create real value—and where the human side of construction remains irreplaceable.  

Whether you're a construction executive, developer, owner, architect, engineer, or industry professional, this episode provides valuable insight into the economic forces, workforce realities, and innovation trends driving one of the nation's largest construction markets.  

Topics discussed: The state of Houston's construction and development market  

Workforce shortages and talent pipeline challenges  
AI adoption and emerging construction technologies  
Economic trends impacting Texas construction Infrastructure, commercial, and industrial growth opportunities  
Recruiting and retaining the next generation of construction professionals  
The role of AGC Houston in advancing the industry  
What the future holds for contractors across Texas  

Tune in for an inside look at the people, projects, and innovations shaping Houston's construction boom and the lessons that will influence the future of building across Texas. 

San Antonio is entering a defining decade, and the decisions made today will shape the region for generations. In this episode of The Building Better Podcast, hosts from Bartlett Cocke General Contractors sit down with Trish DeBerry, President and CEO of Centro San Antonio, to discuss the future of downtown San Antonio and the transformational projects driving growth across Texas. 

From the proposed Spurs arena and downtown sports & entertainment district to housing, infrastructure, economic development, and public-private partnerships, this conversation explores what it takes to create vibrant, resilient cities that attract investment, talent, and opportunity. Trish shares insights on Centro's vision for downtown revitalization, the challenges and opportunities facing urban development, and why collaboration between civic leaders, businesses, and the construction industry is essential to long-term success. 

Whether you're interested in commercial real estate, economic development, construction, urban planning, or the future of Texas cities, this episode provides an inside look at the projects, policies, and partnerships shaping San Antonio's next chapter. 

Topics discussed: 

• The future of downtown San Antonio  

• The proposed Spurs arena and entertainment district  

• Economic development and regional growth  

• Public-private partnerships and infrastructure investment  

• Urban revitalization and placemaking  

• Housing, workforce, and talent attraction  

• What Texas cities must do to remain competitive  

Listen now to learn how today's decisions are helping build a stronger, more connected future for San Antonio and the state of Texas.