Robert Daverman, AIA
Mid Summer Conference Chair
Why do a significant number of building team members set aside their
work-a-day world and trek 300 miles north for the Annual Mid Summer
Conference? The Conference began 65 years ago when gas was rationed
and people drove on bald tires on a two lane road, only some of
which was paved, to catch a ferry boat to the island. Is it because
Mackinac Island is beautiful and steeped in history? Maybe,
architects and constructors have a heightened sensitivity to
aesthetics. Is it about the recreation? Golf is great. Tennis
anyone? Croquet and bocci, the whole family can play. Education?
There is enough to keep the brain engaged and to garner some CES
credits.
It is all of the above
but it is the intangible spirit of comradery that pervades this
event that keeps generations coming back - bringing their children
and then their grandchildren. It is a connecting link to the
disparate professions that make up the construction industry.
Mentoring happens. Contacts are made among and between leaders.
Lingering problems are solved. Lifetime friendships are made. The
built environment is better in Michigan for it.
This has always been
something of an industry wide event. Four years ago, AIA and AGC of
Michigan combined resources to put on this conference. Both
organizations are better for it.
After 65 years, the Mid
Summer Conference has developed its own rhythm. Board meetings on
Thursday followed by a reception on the front porch and dinner in
the dining room. Thursday Night will be a time to spend with your
family at our traditional Family Night.
The bocci tournament
and golf scrambles begin in earnest on Friday. Friday’s golf is a
competitive scramble paired by handicap but golf on Saturday is an
informal event. Bocci winds up with a glorious reception in the Tea
Garden.
Friday is also the day
for business meetings and legislative updates. Friday morning’s
speaker is Kenneth D. Simonson, Chief Economist with the Associated
General Contractors of America. He is a respected economist, author,
TV personality who has served on presidential commissions and is
frequently quoted in the Wall Street Journal. He will share his
knowledge of what is happening in the economy and what it implies
for construction. Don’t miss this one.
The Saturday morning
speakers are John Boehms AIA, LEED® AP, Technical Specialist,
Autodesk “Looking for the “I” in BIM? Model Information Sharing.”
John Boehms will discuss a practical approach to integrated project
delivery & BIM. Next is Ginny Baxter from Herman Miller presenting
“Topography: Viewpoints from the World of Work.” She will explore
the changing dynamics of the workplace and discuss the major
influences and business drivers that should be considered when
designing places to work. Saturday morning ends with a cottage tour
that you won’t want to miss!
Please join us on the
porch of the Grand Hotel. It will be a memorable experience.
Mackinac Island is a unique destination and we have a wonderful
tradition on the island. |
