Subcontractors USA is presenting its third annual E.C.O. Summit & Expo, embracing its three pillars of Expansion, Collaboration, and Opportunity with this year’s theme of “Adapt and Overcome.”
“When I was in the military, things were always changing quickly, and one thing that we lived by was to always follow the motto ‘Adapt and Overcome,’” President & CEO of Subcontractors USA Keith Davis Sr. said. “To Adapt and Overcome means to adjust to a new situation or problem and then find a way to succeed in spite of it. It’s a mindset of resilience and resourcefulness, encouraging individuals to make necessary changes and find solutions to overcome challenges.”
In the constant-growing and ever-changing business of construction, it can be daunting to know where to begin, let alone know how to expand. That very feeling is why Keith “Mr. D-Mars” Davis Sr. developed the yearly summit.
With the recent tariffs, increased cost of doing business, and constantly changing permit processes, all aspects of this industry are learning how to navigate these new obstacles. It’s unprecedented for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you have to stop, and that doesn’t mean you can’t grow. Working together, we can expand our reach and learn from one another, because now more than ever, you need someone you can depend on.
No matter where you are, who you are, or what you do in the construction industry, you are not alone. This event serves as an opportunity for industry leaders, prime contractors, subcontractors, local agencies, suppliers, vendors, and much more to gather in one room and reach a common goal: developing the infrastructure of this great state. If you’re in the field of architecture, construction, education, engineering, technology, oil and gas, safety, transportation, TxDOT, energy, and utility and infrastructure, you need to be here.
Now is your chance to Adapt and Overcome. At the Summit & Expo, we’re providing you all the resources you need, so what will you do with them?
Adapting
– Keith “mr. D-Mars” Davis
This involves making changes to your plans, strategies, or approaches to align with the current situation. It’s about being flexible and willing to adjust your course of action when necessary.
Overcoming
This means finding a way to succeed despite the challenges or obstacles you face. It’s about finding solutions, overcoming adversity, and achieving your goals.
In essence, “adapt and overcome” is a call to action to embrace change, be resourceful, and find ways to succeed even in the face of difficult circumstances.
New & Established Businesses
Last year, Shurronda Murray, Manager, Outreach for METRO’s Office of Economic Business Opportunity, had no reservations to say “shame on you” to anyone involved in construction who did not attend this event.
Whether you’re new or established in this industry, you’ll be in a room filled with everyone you need. This ranges from those who can help you begin with the vital things like the permitting process, suppliers looking to equip you with the latest technology and innovations, and some of the biggest agencies in Texas.
Prime Contractors and Subcontractors
The relationship between Prime and Subcontractors is the lifeblood of the construction world. This symbiotic relationship provides both entities an opportunity to prosper, create contacts, and bolster their reputation.
Here, prime contractors will be able to meet with a plethora of subcontractors from all sectors to find the ones that best suit their needs. What better way to get to know who you’ll be trusting your business with than meeting someone face to face?
As a bonus benefit for subcontractors, they will also learn how to get certified to work for the biggest agencies in Texas.
“(The Summit) is a tremendous opportunity for small businesses to establish relationships with prime contractors and public entity owners across multiple business sectors.” Michael D. Bryant, Civil Rights Division, TxDOT said.
Agencies and Organizations
Workshops will be held throughout the day by industry professionals and agencies like Regional Hispanic Contractor Association, MD Anderson, Port Houston, UT Health, Subcontractors USA, Texas A&M University, Noble Texas Builders, and more, teaching you how you can bolster your business, gain exposure, keep up to date with industry standards, changing permit processes, and even upcoming opportunities where you can do business with them.
Panels will be held intermittently, featuring key agencies and organizations, while moderated by some of the most prominent figures in construction. Thought-provoking and productive discussions held by the panels in the past include topics like collaboration and opportunity for major projects like Airport and Medical Center Expansion, doing business as a MWBE, and future growth and expansion.
Small, Minority, and Women-Owned Business Enterprises
Subcontractors USA built its entire reputation on raising the most underrepresented groups in our trade. If you’re an owner of a small, minority, or woman-owned business, we’re looking to get you an equal part of the game.
Not only will we teach you how to do business as an SMWBE, but we’ll also teach you how to prosper and put you in direct contact with prime contractors and agencies to do business with.
Dedicated Networking Time
Aside from finding the right people, we understand that having a conversation or even introducing yourself can be one of the most difficult parts about networking.
We will have booths and dedicated time for networking, including breakfast and lunch, that allows everyone to meet each other in a comfortable and safe environment. On top of that, everyone at the summit has the expectation that we’re all here to make valuable connections and do business. No need to fret; large agencies want to do business as much as the startup company, so stop by and give them your card.
Suppliers, Vendors, and Services
From permits and temps to storage and paint, we have booths for everything you need to get started on your latest project. Not only are they looking to supply you with everything you need, but they want to educate you on how to do your job efficiently, reliably, and safely.
See You There
The third annual E.C.O. Summit & Expo will be held on Wednesday Oct. 15.
Where: Bayou City Event Center. Address: 9401 Knight Rd. Houston, TX 77045.
Time: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
What to bring: plenty of business cards, notepad and pens, and anything you believe best represents your business.
