Earlier today I enjoyed the opportunity to welcome nearly 1,200 participants of the 29th annual State Construction Conference at the McKimmon Center. Through the State Construction Office, we provide a forum for industry leaders – and hopefuls – to gather each year to brainstorm ideas and discuss mutual concerns about the built environment.
I cannot overstate the importance of the attendees, who are vital to North Carolina’s ability to preserve and create jobs. Their diverse efforts will help to position the state for economic recovery as well as increase the transparency of our efforts so that citizens understand and value the hard work that goes into building a better future for North Carolina.
It takes considerable creativity and dedication to achieve energy efficiency, functional practicality and eye-pleasing design in a field that is so directly affected by the economic downturn. I told the group how very much we appreciate their efforts to streamline costs without sacrificing quality. And I told them they are not alone.
Under the leadership of Director Greg Driver, the State Construction Office itself has changed the way it does business in the past year. The once-separate major review and inspection processes have been combined under one roof, increasing efficiency, coordination and consistency.
I pledged to attendees that more steps will be taken this year and in the future to further improve our processes. Our goal is for design and construction to readily translate into well-paying jobs and quality facilities for citizens and our employees.