Forge Construction

“It’s not about what it is, it’s about what it can become.” Dr. Seuss

Recognizing and celebrating the future leaders of the world: Interns!

This year, Forge Construction has had the pleasure of working with two interns: Lukas Dudek and Milam Strick.

Lukas is attending Iowa State University, expecting to graduate in the spring of 2026 with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. His personal goal this summer was to “gain real-world knowledge and professional experience in the engineering field”.

Milam, who is the son of Forge associate Michael Strick, will be a junior in high school next year. The experience of working on various job sites has given Milam a glimpse into the construction world as he determines his future career goals.

Under the watchful eyes of our expert superintendents and project managers, both Lukas and Milam have gained experience and skills that only a job site can provide.

Thank you and we wish you both success as you continue your educational path. We can’t wait to see where your paths lead you!

“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Today, Kevin Dresnick celebrates his three-year anniversary with Forge Construction.

In his role in our estimating and preconstruction arena, it’s difficult for Kevin to name a “favorite” project, but he particularly enjoyed working on the Alphapointe Warehouse Expansion project. “It’s always satisfying to have the opportunity to work on projects for organizations with meaningful missions.”

With over 12 years of experience in construction, Kevin enjoys working on projects from the beginning. “I enjoy the people I work with and building new relationships. I enjoy showing and receiving respect, and learning constantly from those who are experts in their field.”

With their two children, Kevin and his wife Brittany continue to split their summer weekends between the city and the lake. On a recent weekend excursion, they were adopted by an orphaned puppy, Ozzy, who is now part of their family.

Thanks for being an integral part of our team, Kevin! Happy Work Anniversary from all of us!

Our Checklist

✔Get together with family and friends
✔BBQ cookout
✔Fireworks celebrating freedom

“There are two pains in life. There is the pain of discipline and the pain of disappointment. If you can handle the pain of discipline, then you’ll never have to deal with the pain of disappointment.” – Nick Saban

Today we are recognizing Greg Slaton on his one-year anniversary with Forge Construction.

Greg and his wife Kimberlie are avid sports fans and enjoy traveling and spending time with friends and family. They also keep busy with their two active dogs, Bentley and Alfie.

As one of our project managers, Greg has successfully completed several projects in the short time he has been with us. He has experience in both project management and estimating and has been a great addition to our team. Another favorite quote of Greg’s, by Vince Lombardi, “The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary”, transfers easily to his work life.

Thanks for joining our team, Greg! Happy Work Anniversary from all of us!

To all the amazing dads, thank you for all you are and everything you do!

Our team is excited to host the KCASA happy hour this Thursday, June 13th. Please join us to sip, schmooze & win! Everyone in attendance will have the chance to win 4 Diamond Club tickets to Royals vs. Tampa Bay Rays and 2 tickets to Chiefs vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Monday night football . West Bottoms Whiskey will be in attendance serving their famous Old Fashioned cocktails. Light appetizers will be provided by Salumi Rose. It will be a great event and we look forward to the camaraderie.

In memory of many. In honor of all.

THANK YOU.

Your bravery and service will never be forgotten!

REINVENTING THE WHEEL

Sunday was a monumental day in the historic West Bottoms as we watched the controlled demolition of the former Weld Wheels building located at 933 Mulberry.

Mechanical demolition of the surrounding structures and pre-implosion demolition of the nine-story building began in February after 2 years of preconstruction and planning. Our team has had a front row seat to the work, watching from our office in addition to the staff on site.

Originally serving as a grocery warehouse between 1910 and 1919, the former home of Weld Wheels (1978-2003) has been vacant since 2003. The unfortunate byproduct was a dilapidated, unsafe building.

Forge Construction is proud to partner with Somera Road, Remco Demolition, and CDI on this exciting project. We look forward to being a part of the changes to not only our view, but the entire landscape of the West Bottoms in the coming months and years.

It was Saturday Night Fever on a Thursday night at the Kansas City American Subcontractor Association Industry Awards event. The theme was 70’s disco, and our team showed up in full spirit and attire at Eagle’s Landing at Lake Olathe!

We are humbled and proud to be voted as General Contractor of the Year, and our very own Brandon Buck as Superintendent of the Year. Congratulations to all the winners!

Thank you to the entire KCASA team for hosting such a fun industry event.

“I never want to let a day go by without having done something to get a little better.” J.J. Watt

Cori Clanton is in our spotlight today as she celebrates her one-year anniversary with Forge Construction! In her role as office administrator, Cori assists our project coordinators and project managers in many aspects of project administration. She enjoys the challenge of learning new skills and seeing new projects from development through completion.

As the mom of two busy teenagers, Cori enjoys music bingo, concerts and traveling to visit family and friends in Arizona. She is looking forward to a trip “home” later this month.

Although she enjoys the variety of her position, the process of closing out projects and bringing them to completion is one of her favorite aspects. She also enjoys her interaction with trade partners and developing ongoing relationships with them.

Thank you for being a part of our team, Cori! Happy Work Anniversary from all of us!

Thank you Clean Eatz, Kansas City for the shout out! Congratulations on the new location and we are looking forward to your Grand Opening this Thursday!!

We want to give a big shout out to Forge Construction that is handling our build out. They have been great to work with! We would highly recommend them to any of our friends and followers that may be looking for a strong general contractor for all of their business needs.

Today is a day to celebrate all the moms out there and let them know they are special – today and always!

From our Forge Family to yours – Happy Mothers Day!

Here’s to sunshine, chocolate, and springtime!

"Empowering people with vision loss to achieve their goals and aspirations." Alphapointe

Alphapoint is the region's leader for vision rehabilitation, career training, employment services, education and advocacy, providing help to anyone experiencing vision loss.

Our team is humbled and excited to be a partner with Alphapointe, Project Advocates and ACI Boland Architects on this incredible project that will continue to make a positive impact in our community.

“Never follow your passion, but always bring it with you.’” – Mike Rowe

Today, Joe Lust is celebrating one year at Forge Construction.

Joe is a superintendent working on various projects in and around the Kansas City area. He is an integral part of keeping projects on schedule and we appreciate all his hard work.

In his spare time, Joe enjoys time with family. He and his wife have two young children who keep him busy and on his toes! He also enjoys being outdoors, and any activity that gives him that opportunity.

Joe has had a fast-paced first year with us. One thing he is most proud of is “the obstacles we were able to overcome during a recent project”, adding that we don’t always know the challenges of a project until work begins. When asked to share what he enjoys most about his position at Forge, “I like the satisfaction that comes from providing our clients with a new space they are happy with, and we can be proud of!”

Thank you, Joe, for a great first year! We can’t wait to see your accomplishments in the coming years!

“Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth...’” – Mike Tyson

Today, Derek Cox is in our spotlight as he celebrates his one-year anniversary with Forge Construction! As Vice President of Project Development, Derek fills many roles. “I truly enjoy the variety of my position, from meeting with clients to developing proposals, mentoring associates, and everything in between.”

“I like the above Tyson quote because it’s easy to become complacent. It’s a reminder to be prepared for the unexpected punches this industry has to offer and to stay resilient in the face of adversity.”

Derek and his wife Kelli have two children who keep them busy with various activities. He recently started shooting trap with his son, and enjoys the opportunity to golf, when time permits. Derek loves sports, whether it’s watching a game live or on TV, music, and enjoys attending concerts with friends and family.

We’re proud of your accomplishments, Derek! Thank you for your leadership and being a part of our team. Happy Work Anniversary from all of us!

“Don’t count the days, make the days count.’” – Muhammad Ali

Today, Hannah Buck celebrates her two-year anniversary with Forge Construction! In her role as project coordinator Hannah works on many different project types and wears many hats, but most of all she enjoys the diversity of her position and working on special projects.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, attending sporting events, concerts, and any outdoor activity. As a busy mom of three, Hannah lives by the motto “I run on caffeine, chaos, and cuddles.”

When asked to share some of her favorite projects or components of her position at Forge, she is quick to respond “It is the people. I am surrounded by highly driven and successful people who genuinely care about who they work with and the results of our work.”

Thank you for being a part of our team, Hannah! Happy Work Anniversary from all of us!

"Keys to the Future"

Women in Construction Week is a chance for us to recognize and appreciate the women in our industry. At Forge Construction, we appreciate all our associates and trade partners. Today, we welcome the opportunity to thank the women who join us on our job sites, in our office and the offices of our partners every day. We know their contributions are an integral part of the success and diversity of our projects.

Thank you to all Women in Construction!

"For one thing we know beyond all doubt: Nothing has ever been achieved by the person who says, 'It can’t be done.'.” Eleanor Roosevelt

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Abraham Lincoln

Today, Forge Construction recognizes Brent Lewis’ one-year anniversary.

Brent is one of our respected superintendents, working primarily with our Family Dollar/Dollar Tree projects. Although he is away from home during the week, Brent does enjoy seeing different parts of the country.

Brent and his wife have four daughters. He enjoys spending time with his extended family, even though he is a bit outnumbered! In his spare time, he likes any outdoor activities, including fishing and riding his Harley.

“I like the cycle of the projects I work on; in that I get to see them from start to finish in a short period of time. The feeling of accomplishment in knowing you completed a project from the ground up is very rewarding.”

Thank you, Brent, from all of us at Forge! Happy work Anniversary!

“For our own success to be real, it must contribute to the success of others.” Eleanor Roosevelt

Today we recognize Conni Olvera’s three-year anniversary with Forge Construction!

As office manager, Conni is involved in many aspects of the day-to-day functions of our office. She is also one of our project coordinators, and sees many projects from start to finish. Conni’s favorite pastime is enjoying time with her family, especially her three-year old granddaughter, who is excited to welcome a baby brother this summer!

“I enjoy the variety of my position and knowing that each day brings new challenges and learning experiences. We recently transitioned to a new platform in our Human Resources department, which was a challenge that I enjoyed, although I am glad it is complete!”

With the ever-changing environment of the construction industry, we appreciate Conni’s dedication and forethought.

Happy Work Anniversary from all of us!

“The most dangerous phrase is we’ve always done it this way.” – Grace Hopper

Today we celebrate Alex O’Laughlin, Senior Project Manager, and his two-year anniversary at Forge Construction.

From superintendent, project engineer and project manager, Alex brings experience in almost every aspect of a project’s lifespan. As the recipient of the 2023 KCASA Project Manager of the Year, we are proud that his accomplishments are recognized in our industry.

Currently, Alex is working on the Restaurant Row project, a 4-acre site in Lenexa, Kansas. It has been both challenging and rewarding as this new development has evolved from a undeveloped greenfield into a new destination at Lenexa City Center. Alex is also working on the final phases of what he has deemed one of his favorite projects, Welcome House.

While pursuing an additional degree, in his free time Alex enjoys spending time outdoors and DIY projects, which “end up being more challenging than originally anticipated”. Alex and his wife Elizabeth enjoy traveling to spend time with friends and family.

We are proud of your accomplishments, Alex, and look forward to many years of sharing your successes!

“Deep in his heart, every man longs for a battle to fight, an adventure to live, and a beauty to rescue.” John Eldridge

Today we recognize Greg Mitchem on his one-year anniversary with Forge Construction! With over 20 years of construction management experience, Greg brings a high level of professionalism and expertise to our team.

Since joining Forge, Greg has been steadily focused on managing several projects in downtown Kansas City. In addition, he has recently completed a project for the Kansas City Royals in their main ticket office.

Greg and his wife Hilary have two children and love spending time with friends and family. Originally from Iowa, Greg enjoys trips back home and any opportunity to travel, especially when it includes spending time outdoors.

Thanks for being a part of our team, Greg! Happy Work Anniversary from all of us!

“If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.” Thomas Edison

Today we recognize Randy Buck, Senior Superintendent, on his two-year anniversary with Forge Construction.

Randy and his wife Megan have a large extended family, who he enjoys spending time with as well as camping, boating and time on his Harley.

Randy is a consistent leader who maintains a safe and efficient job site. By combining hard work mixed with a bit of humor, he is a favorite among our trade partners.

Forge Construction appreciates your hard work and dedication, Randy, and we look forward to celebrating your future successes!

Happy New Year!

From the Forge Family to yours - Merry Christmas!

“What if today we were thankful for everything?” Charlie Brown

Thank you to all our friends, clients, and industry partners. The Forge family wishes you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving. Have a fun and safe holiday weekend.

“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” Theodore Roosevelt

Today we celebrate Chris Hinkin’s 3-year work anniversary with Forge Construction. As project manager, Chris brings a level of professionalism and steady leadership to every project, always anticipating possible challenges that may arise.

Chris and his wife Jenny have two active boys who keep him busy. He enjoys spending time with friends and family and is usually the man behind the grill for most events. A K-State graduate, he always cheers for his Wildcats!

Thank you, Chris, for another year of dedication to the Forge team! We look forward to more celebrations with you!

"Only our individual faith in freedom can keep us free." —Dwight D. Eisenhower

Thank you veterans for your service!

“There is no substitute for hard work.” – Thomas Edison

Today we recognize Scott Murphy’s two-year anniversary with Forge Construction.
As superintendent, Scott brings his experience and commitment to every project. He manages to keep the project moving and on schedule, all while creating a safe and enjoyable work environment for everyone.

Scott and his wife Erin have two boys who keep him busy with activities. In his spare time, he enjoys hunting and traveling, and is always up for spending time with family and friends or just enjoying time outdoors.

Thank you, Scott for your dedication and hard work! We appreciate you and look forward to celebrating you for many years to come.