![Young Professionals: Built in NoVA — Data Centers & the Workforce Behind the Boom [Panel & Networking] 4/28 NV](https://www.abcva.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/NV-YP-Data-CentersWorkforceAPR28z-1080x675.jpg)
by Katie Gregg | Mar 25, 2026
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS: Built in NoVA — Data Centers & the Workforce Behind the Boom [PANEL & NETWORKING]
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 | 4:30PM – 7:00PM
Data centers are driving unprecedented growth across our region and the nation – fueling everything from cloud computing and AI to the digital infrastructure we rely on every day. As demand accelerates, so does the need for skilled labor to design, build, and maintain these complex facilities.
At the same time, the construction industry continues to face a critical workforce shortage, creating both challenges and opportunities for the next generation of professionals.
Join us for an engaging panel discussion featuring industry leaders who are at the forefront of the data center boom. We’ll explore how rapid growth is reshaping the construction landscape, what the labor shortage means for project delivery and innovation, and how young professionals can position themselves for success in this evolving market.
The program will include a moderated discussion followed by an interactive Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to gain insights, ask questions, and connect with peers navigating similar career paths. After the panel, head over to Honor Brewing next door to ABC-VA Dulles for fun networking over drinks and appetizers!
PANELISTS
Kylie Brewis, Construction Trade Account Manager | Aerotek | Moderator
Matt Hopke, President | William B. Hopke Co., Inc. | Panelist
Collin McShane, Senior Project Manager, Mission Critical | E.E. Reed East Coast | Panelist
Mike Veltri, Field Recruiting Manager Engineering & Construction | M.C. Dean, Inc. | Panelist
Anna Carter, Senior Project Manager | HITT Contracting | Panelist
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Commitments needed by April 16 COB
Event $150 – includes one (1) comped registration, signage at event, logo/name on marketing materials
SPONSORS – THANK YOU!
LOCATION
Panel Event: ABC-VA Northern Virginia Training Facility, 42680 Trade West Drive, Dulles, VA 20166
Post-Event Networking: Honor Brewing, 42604 Trade West Drive, Dulles, VA 20166
COST
Members – $50
Non-Members – $75
Includes panel discussion, heavy apps and two (2) drink tickets
SUBSTITUTION/CANCELLATION POLICY
Substitutions are welcome at any time if the originally registered individual can no longer attend. Please note that a reservation constitutes a financial commitment unless cancellations are made 48 hours in advance.
Questions?
Contact Katie Gregg
by Jessica Gillette | Mar 18, 2026
ALL HANDS ON DECK — BUILDING A CULTURE THAT NAVIGATES CONFLICT TOGETHER
Wednesday, May 13, 2026 | 8:30AM – 10:30AM
Strong teams don’t avoid conflict—they learn how to work through it. Using powerful nautical stories, including the contrast between the ill-fated HMS Bounty and Shackleton’s legendary Endurance expedition, this interactive session explores how teams succeed when communication, trust, and shared responsibility are in place.
Participants will be introduced to the Four Winds of a Unified Culture (Shared Purpose • Mutual Respect • Clear Expectations • Collective Accountability) and how these principles support healthier conversations and stronger teamwork.
What you’ll gain:
• Practical tools for handling workplace conflict with confidence
• Strategies for improving communication and team alignment
• A better understanding of your own team’s culture
• Takeaways you can apply immediately on the job
Who should attend:
Young professionals and team members looking to build stronger working relationships, communicate more effectively, and contribute to a positive, collaborative workplace.
INSTRUCTOR
Jim Davis, Speaker, Trainer, Facilitator – For over 25 years, Jim Davis has been developing leaders in the environments where America’s real work gets done – manufacturing plants, shipyards, construction sites, and government facilities. His approach is different because his audience is different. No corporate buzzwords. No flavor-of-the-month theories. Just timeless leadership principles delivered in language that frontline supervisors and emerging leaders actually understand and can apply immediately.
LOCATION
ABC-VA Hampton Roads Training Facility
530 Independence Parkway, Suite 500, Chesapeake, VA 23320
COST
Members — $95
Non-members — $125
Breakfast provided
CANCELLATION POLICY
Please note that a reservation constitutes a financial commitment unless cancellations are made 48 hours in advance. Substitutions are welcome at any time if the originally registered individual(s) are no longer available.
COURSE CONTACT
Contact Meredith Strahan
by Jessica Gillette | Mar 17, 2026
DMV INTERNS-ONLY MEETUP @ BOWLERO
Tuesday, June 30, 2026 | 1:30PM – 3:30PM
You’ve got one foot in the door with your internship — what’s next? Building your network.
ABC-VA is excited to debut our exclusive Interns-Only Networking Mixer at Bowlero Tysons! This event is a great opportunity to connect with fellow interns from across the construction industry while building valuable networking skills. You’ll gain practical techniques and strategies to feel more confident in professional settings—skills that can help set you apart and accelerate your career growth.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES **OPEN TO MEMBERS ONLY** | Will close June 24 @ 5PM
Strike (Event Sponsor) – $500 – includes two (2) comped registrations, signage at event, logo/name on marketing materials
Spare (Food & Beverage Sponsor) – $250 – includes one (1) comped registration, signage at event, logo/name on marketing materials
Kingpin (Lane Sponsor) – $250 – includes one (1) comped registration, signage at event, logo/name on marketing materials
Select during registration or email Katie Gregg to register as a sponsor!
LOCATION
Bowlero Tysons
2001 International Dr Suite 1695G, McLean, VA 22102
COST **INTERNS ONLY of ABC-VA MEMBER FIRMS**
$75 per intern
Online registration will close Monday, June 29, at 5PM
SUBSTITUTION/CANCELLATION POLICY
Substitutions are welcome at any time if the originally registered individual(s) can no longer attend. Please note that a reservation constitutes a financial commitment unless cancellations are made 48 hours in advance.
Questions?
Contact Katie Gregg
by Jessica Gillette | Mar 17, 2026
STEEL-TOED SLUGGERS: A NIGHT OF BASEBALL & NETWORKING FOR ALL IN CONSTRUCTION
**Online registration is closed. Please email Maddy Goulden for availability.**
Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 5:30PM – 8:30PM | Game starts at 6:35PM
Come straight from the jobsite – boots and all! The Inclusion, Diversity & Merit (IDM) and Young Professionals Committees are excited to host an evening of baseball and networking! On April 22, join ABC-VA at the Harbor Park Party Deck to watch the Norfolk Tides take on the Memphis Redbirds. This event is open to all who play a part in the construction industry. Registration includes a ticket to the game, networking, food and two (2) drink tickets. Come and enjoy a great evening at the ballpark!
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES **OPEN TO MEMBERS ONLY**
Event Sponsor $500 – includes two (2) comped registrations, signage at event, logo/name on marketing materials
Bar Sponsor $300 – includes one (1) comped registration, signage at event, logo/name on marketing materials
Select during registration or email Maddy Goulden to register as a sponsor!
SPONSORS – THANK YOU!
LOCATION
Harbor Park
50 Park Avenue, Norfolk, Virginia 23510
COST
Members — $50
Non-Members — $70
SUBSTITUTION/CANCELLATION POLICY
Substitutions are welcome at any time if the originally registered individual(s) can no longer attend. Please note that a reservation constitutes a financial commitment unless cancellations are made 48 hours in advance.
Questions?
Contact Maddy Goulden
