In this episode, we’re joined by Chelsea Burkett, Deputy Program Director with AECOM

[00:01:13] Meet Chelsea Burkett
Chelsea introduces her role with Aecom and the scope of Austin ISD’s massive bond program.

[00:02:29] GMP 101
A foundational look at GMP pricing and how it supports collaborative delivery models.

[00:03:37] Early GC Involvement
Why selecting general contractors early creates synergy and reduces surprises.

[00:05:23] Community-Driven Design = Scope Creep?
How community input shapes schools—and complicates budgets.

[00:06:38] What’s in a GMP?
Chelsea walks through what the contract amendment includes and how it’s executed.

[00:08:49] Staying in Budget
The bond book, voter expectations, and how cost alignment is maintained.

[00:11:13] Supply Chain Chaos
Material pricing, long lead times, and how GCs manage risk today.

[00:15:24] The Open Book Advantage
Full transparency into sub bids, contingencies, and value engineering.

[00:17:02] The Grading Game
How GCs and subs are evaluated—points, interviews, and all.

[00:20:28] Risk, Clarifications & Allowances
Unpacking who owns what risk in complex multi-GMP projects.

[00:24:07] Liquidated Damages & Deadlines
Why hitting school opening day is non-negotiable—and risky.

[00:30:12] The Art of Negotiation
Navigating owner–GC–architect dynamics for long-term project health.

[00:34:08] Tariffs & Steel Shockwaves
The ripple effects of global politics on your jobsite.

[00:36:09] Fee Strategy
How GCs compete on cost and credentials—and when they ask for more.

[00:37:03] Chelsea’s Pain Points
Why early communication is everything in GMP negotiations.

[00:41:19] Use the PMIS!
Advice to subs: use project management systems to get seen and heard.

[00:43:14] People Matter
How staffing and turnover shape success across multiple projects.

[00:46:00] Smart Strategy ≠ Low Bid
The delicate dance of rewarding excellence while staying fair.

[00:48:35] Megaphone Moment
Chelsea’s call to the industry: prioritize relationships over ego.

Go build something awesome!

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