Welcome to Autumn!
Hello Cogence Partners,
Or should I say, “Welcome to football season” (no disrespect to the many other fine fall sports). In fact, as I write this both the Guardians and Reds still have an outside shot at a wild-card spot.
We hope your fall is off to a great start – even if it hasn’t officially begun. The weather has been fantastic, but we sure could use some rain in Central Ohio. As we wrap up the summer, it’s time to “get back to school” with excellent roundtables planned by each chapter.
September Roundtables – A Look Back and Ahead
All three Cogence chapters have, or will hold, roundtables in September, so we encourage all partners and emerging leaders to attend and engage with their local chapters. If you’re unable to join, please consider sending your Alternate or another representative from your company. Guests are always welcome!
Southwest Ohio Chapter Roundtable – held September 11 at The Kleingers Group, West Chester
The Southwest Ohio Chapter held a very informative discussion on higher-ed capital projects at its September 11 Roundtable: What’s Happening on Campus? Insights on Upcoming Projects for Higher Education.
From funding strategies to preferred delivery methods – the discussion capped off with an interactive audience breakout that sparked great conversations.
This session featured a panel of owners who shared updates on current and future campus projects, interacting with the largest audience to ever participate in a Southwest Chapter roundtable.
Thank you to all participants, and especially to our outstanding panelists: Robert Bell, Miami University; Elizabeth Birkenhauer, Northern Kentucky University; David Schmidt, University of Dayton, and Tim Trucco, Xavier University.
Northeast Ohio Chapter – Wednesday, September 17 at Oswald Companies
Topic: Leadership Throughout Project Stages – Part 4: Production: Boots on the Ground
Part 4 of our ongoing leadership series, this session will focus on effective communication and leadership with field-level project team members. The discussion will include insights from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame expansion project.
Click here for details and registration.
Central Ohio Chapter – Thursday, September 18 at MA Design, Columbus
Topic: Planning for Central Ohio’s Future – A Strategic Discussion
In partnership with One Columbus, this roundtable will explore regional economic trends and how leading construction management firms are using data-driven strategies to shape their business development efforts.
Click here to register and learn more.
All three September roundtables were approved for AIA LU credits.
Cogence Panel Shines at Oswald All-Ohio Convocation
We’re proud to share that Cogence Alliance partners were once again invited to present at the Oswald Companies’ All-Ohio Convocation, held on September 4. This annual gathering brought together hundreds of design and construction professionals from across Ohio for a day of learning, networking, and forward-thinking industry dialogue.
An outstanding panel of Cogence NEO Chapter Partners led a compelling session titled “What Makes a Successful Team? Building Project Teams to Limit Risk.” The discussion centered on the expansion of the Ashtabula Regional Medical Center, offering valuable insights into how early integration of innovative building systems and collaborative planning helped the team overcome tight budget constraints.
Panelists emphasized that the project’s success was rooted in the Cogence Way—a collaborative approach that fosters trust, transparency, and shared responsibility among all stakeholders. Utilizing this method, the team delivered the project on time and under budget, while also creating a rewarding experience for all project partners.
Special thanks to moderator Jeff Meyer of DS Architecture, and panelists (l-r):
- Mike Zambo, Bostwick Design Partnership
- Armando Francisco, Lake Erie Electric
- Greg Consolo, Independence Construction
- Chris Orlando, VOC Associates, LLC
- Leonard Stepp, Ashtabula Regional Medical Center
- Ross Mitchell, T.H. Martin Inc.
It was inspiring to see this important conversation reach a broader audience and highlight the power of Cogence collaboration in a forum dedicated to risk management and team performance.
Thank you to the Oswald Companies for the invitation and continued partnership!
Clay Shoots – Bringing Partners Together While Supporting the Cogence Mission
Join Us for the First Annual Southwest Ohio Clay Shoot – October 9!
The Southwest Ohio Chapter is excited to host its first annual Clay Shoot on Wednesday, October 9 at the Middletown Sportsmen’s Club. This promises to be a fantastic day of outdoor fun, networking, and friendly competition!
We invite all Southwest Chapter partners to support the event through sponsorships and participation. Of course, Cogence partners from the Central and Northeast Chapters are warmly welcomed to join in the action!
Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a first-timer, clay shoots are a great way to connect with clients and colleagues in a relaxed outdoor setting—no golf swing required! Registration deadline is September 19.
Save the Date: 2026 Northeast Ohio Clay Shoot
Looking ahead, mark your calendars for the 2026 Northeast Ohio Clay Shoot, returning to the Hill ‘n Dale Club in Medina on Friday, June 12, 2026. Registration will open in January. More details to come.
Welcome New Partners!
Welcome to our newest partners recently joining Cogence Alliance:
- Dave Anderson, Mid-City Electric (Central Ohio Chapter)
- John Brownrigg, Premier Health (Southwest Ohio Chapter)
- Brian Teske, The Superior Group (Central Ohio Chapter)
- Chad Simms, KPFF Consulting Engineers (Central Ohio Chapter)
- Josh Stachowiak, Superior Industrial Insulation Co. (Southwest Ohio Chapter)
We look forward to working with you to improve project outcomes. Thank you for partnering with Cogence!
Get Involved – Board Volunteers Needed!
Are you ready to help shape the future of Cogence? We’re currently seeking passionate, forward-thinking volunteers to serve on both our National and Chapter Boards of Directors.
A Call for Nominations has been sent to all partners. If you’re interested in serving—or know someone who would be a great fit—please complete the Nomination/Application Form by September 30.
Serving on the board is a meaningful way to:
- Contribute to the growth and direction of the organization
- Connect with industry leaders and peers
- Grow your leadership skills and professional network
Have questions or want to learn more? Reach out to me or any current board member—we’d love to talk with you!
We look forward to seeing you at upcoming events! As always, feel free to reach out with any questions or suggestions—and thank you for your continued support of the Cogence mission.