Construction Employers Podcast

This episode features Jacquelyn Valek joining Jackie Ruhlin for a conversation on workforce development, Young Professionals, and the continued momentum shaping the construction industry. They also share key updates from the past quarter and discuss upcoming CEA programs, initiatives, and member engagement opportunities.

Keith Laschinger and Jayson Richardson share a quick update on Cleveland Builds, highlighting the success of the Intensive Apprenticeship-Readiness Program and the industry leaders helping train the next generation of skilled workers.
 
Special guest Renee Timberlake of the Built Environment Collaborative joins to discuss collaboration across Greater Cleveland Works, key workforce wins, and what’s next as the program gains national attention. 

In this episode of the CEA Podcast, we explore Cleveland’s construction boom, with more than $850 million in active development projects shaping the region’s future.

Host Glen Shumate sits down with Joe DiGeronimo, Diego Cortez & Tommy Farmer to discuss workforce development, contractor growth, and creating real pathways into the construction industry as Northeast Ohio works to meet rising demand.

 2025 was a year of growth, action, and measurable progress for the Construction Employers Association. 

In this year-in-review episode, Tim, Glen, Keith, and Kent reflect on the milestones that shaped the past year and set the stage for what’s ahead from the opening of CEA’s new 12,000 sq. ft. facility and podcast studio to major advancements in workforce development, advocacy, safety training, and Cleveland Builds placements across Ohio. 

You’ll hear highlights including: 

• The launch of workforce promotional training beginning in 2026
• Advocacy efforts focused on prompt pay and contracting transparency
• Over 1,000 attendees participating in safety classes and forums
• 73 career seekers placed in 13 trades through Cleveland Builds
• Expanded bargaining services in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Dayton

If you’re invested in the future of construction, leadership, and the union workforce in Ohio, this conversation offers insight into how CEA continues to deliver value for its members and what’s next.
 

 In this episode, Communications Director Myra Rosario welcomes listeners to the first CEA Podcast recorded inside the new headquarters. She’s joined by Jackie Ruhlin and special guest Joe Jurec of CultureShoc to share key updates and preview the upcoming Young Professionals Development Forum on December 4th 

On this episode of the Construction Employers Podcast, we sit down with Al Arndt of Turner Construction Self Perform and Whitney Philips, a Cleveland Builds apprentice, 2nd year carpenter, to talk about mentorship, career growth, and the real-life impact of training programs in the trades.

 To learn more about Cleveland Builds and how you can get involved, visit https://www.clevelandbuilds.com/

In this episode of the Construction Employers Podcast, Kent Cryzter breaks down Q1 safety highlights, shares details on the 13th Annual Safety Day, and talks about the latest hands-on training classes designed to help your team stay OSHA-compliant and job-site ready.

Don’t miss these important updates to keep your workforce safe and informed.

Listen in as Glen, Executive Vice President and Executive Director of the Contractor Assistance Association (CAA), dives into a jam-packed episode full of insights and updates.

🔹 Q1 2025 -End Recap:  the latest in ADVOCACY, CAA highlights, and key movements from ACE.
 🔹 What’s Next?:  what’s on the horizon for education, workforce, and inclusion programs.
 🔹 Behind the Scenes: Get a front-row seat to Glen’s work on Diversity and inclusion Committees and State and local Workforce Initiatives.

Tune in now – You won’t want to miss this one. 

In this episode, Director of Member Engagement Jackie Ruhlin sits down with Myra Rosario, our Communications Lead, for a candid conversation about everything happening in Q1 and what exciting opportunities are coming up next.

From new educational programs to upcoming events, Jackie shares key updates every member should know to get the most out of their membership.

 In this special episode of the Construction Employer’s Podcast, we celebrate Women’s History Month and Women in Construction by spotlighting the powerful women shaping the construction industry. 

Host Tim Linville sits down with three inspiring leaders: Tari Rivera, CEA Board President and CEO of Regency Construction Services; Morgen Cost, CEO of Cleveland Building Restoration; and Jackie Tesar-Valek, COO of Tesar Industrial. Together, they reflect on the progress women have made in construction, share their personal journeys, and discuss what the future holds for women entering and leading in this field. 

Tune in for a candid, insightful conversation on leadership, legacy, and breaking barriers in construction with these powerful ladies.