Voice of Construction Podcast

The Voice of Construction Podcast is the official podcast of the Associated General Contractors of San Diego. Every two weeks, our host and CEO, Eddie Sprecco will bring you real talk from the jobsite to the Capitol, and everything in between.

Together with our construction partners, we’ll break down the big issues shaping our industry, from politics and policy to workforce development and safety, to the latest from your general contractor peers and AGC members. Whether you’re in the field or at the helm of the business, this is where we talk about what matters most to construction in San Diego.

Every other week kicks off with a deep dive into the headlines called Punchlist the News, or a quick MMQB Post-Game Breakdown to give you the insight you didn’t know you needed. Then, we’ll sit down with a guest for an interview, where we’ll jump into real challenges, wins, and innovations shaping your work and ours.

We’ll also feature stories from workforce, education, committees, and our liaison efforts with public officials, so you know what AGC is doing for you behind the scenes and on the front lines.

Get the most from us by listening in! And remember, it’s good business to do business with an AGC member.

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Podcast Episodes

Episode 24: Building a Stronger Workforce | Training, Safety & What’s Next at AGC San Diego - October 1, 2026 - LISTEN

What does it take to build a safer, smarter, and stronger construction workforce? Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner sit down with AGC San Diego’s Director of Workforce Development, Becca Schaffer, and Safety Compliance Manager, Stephanie Ballew, to explore the training and resources available to today’s construction professionals.

From hands-on safety courses, CPR certification, and prevailing wage compliance; to AI training, leadership development, and the new Field Ready Construction Foundation certificate program, the conversation covers how AGC is responding to the industry’s evolving needs. Plus, meet Stephanie and hear how her decades of safety experience will support San Diego’s construction community.

This episode is sponsored by Milwaukee Tool, an AGC San Diego Diamond Sponsor, delivering innovative, trade-specific solutions that drive safety and productivity on jobsites nationwide. Visit https://www.milwaukeetool.com/ for more information.

Episode 23: Building Smarter and More Sustainably | Mass Timber Construction with Timberlab - September 17, 2026 - LISTEN

How can construction become faster, smarter, and more sustainable? On this episode of Voice of Construction, Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner welcome Christopher Evans, President, and Sam Dicke, Manager of Client Development, from Timberlab to explore the growing world of mass timber construction. They discuss engineered wood products, prefabrication, BIM coordination, and how early collaboration can reduce waste and accelerate installation.

The conversation also covers evolving building codes, fire-performance testing, domestic manufacturing, and Timberlab’s new cross-laminated timber facility in Oregon. Plus, hear about notable mass timber projects and the opportunities this innovative approach brings to the construction industry.

This episode is sponsored by West Coast Group Benefits, helping contractors manage benefits, compliance, labor costs, and prevailing wage strategies. Learn more at westcoastbenefits.com.

Episode 22 - Inside AGC San Diego’s Online Plan Room with Lisa Lovelace - September 3, 2026 - LISTEN

On this episode of the Voice of Construction, Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner sit down with Lisa Lovelace, Director of Plan Room Services for AGC San Diego, to explore one of the association’s most useful member resources: the Online Plan Room.

Lisa explains how the Plan Room connects contractors with public and commercial construction opportunities, delivers plans, specs, addenda and bid results, and helps members track projects and understand the competition. They also discuss advertising opportunities, the evolution from physical plans to today’s digital platform, and Lisa’s 19 years with AGC. Whether you’re a GC or subcontractor, there’s plenty to discover.

This episode is sponsored by one of your Diamond Sponsors, Finch, Thornton & Baird, LLP, your partner in building success on site and in court. Visit ftblaw.com or call 858-737-3100 for more info.

Episode 21 - Safety is Coaching with Vince Hundley - August 20, 2026 - LISTEN

In Episode 21 of the Voice of Construction podcast, Dustin Steiner sits down with Vince Hundley, President and CEO of SMART Safety Group, to explore a career built around protecting people and strengthening safety culture. Vince shares his journey into occupational safety, his experience leading AGC San Diego’s Safety Committee, and lessons from the industry’s response to COVID-19.

The conversation also tackles practical heat safety strategies, worker acclimatization, mental health, substance use, and suicide prevention in construction. Vince emphasizes the power of coaching, leadership, and simply checking in with coworkers, because creating a safer jobsite starts with people looking out for people.

This episode is sponsored by Casper Company, a leader in safe, innovative demolition solutions.

Episode 20 - Building Connections: Kellie Quinn on Growing AGC San Diego's Membership for the Centennial - August 6, 2026 - LISTEN

This week on The Voice of Construction Podcast, host Dustin Steiner sits down with AGC San Diego's Membership Director, Kellie Quinn, for her first appearance on the podcast. Kellie shares her journey from supporting small businesses and international communities to helping grow one of the region's strongest construction associations.

Together, they discuss AGC San Diego's ambitious goal of welcoming 100 new members ahead of its Centennial, the many benefits available to members, and why every employee in a member company can take advantage of AGC's education, networking, advocacy, and industry resources. Whether you're a longtime member or considering joining, this episode is full of valuable insights.

Special thanks to Alliant Insurance Services for sponsoring this episode. Alliant Insurance Services helps general contractors grow with specialized construction insurance, surety bonding, and risk management solutions tailored to the construction industry.

Episode 19 - The Engineering Marvel of the Pine Valley Creek Bridge - July 23, 2026 - LISTEN

What makes the Pine Valley Creek Bridge one of California's greatest engineering achievements? This week on the Voice of Construction podcast, hosts Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner welcome AGC San Diego Director of Engineering Construction & Industry Relations Mike McManus for a look at the history, design, and construction of the iconic Interstate 8 bridge. From innovative balanced cantilever construction and post-tensioning techniques to the political decisions that shaped its location, this conversation explores why this 450-foot-tall bridge remains a landmark in engineering excellence more than 50 years later. It's a must-listen for contractors, engineers, infrastructure enthusiasts, and anyone who's driven across this incredible structure.

This episode is sponsored by Milwaukee Tool, an AGC San Diego Diamond Sponsor, delivering innovative, trade-specific solutions that drive safety and productivity on jobsites nationwide. Visit https://www.milwaukeetool.com/ for more information.

Episode 18 - Mike Furby on 100 Years of AGC San Diego and the Celebration Ahead - July 9, 2026 - LISTEN

As AGC San Diego prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2027, hosts Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner sit down with Mike Furby, President of Marathon Construction Corporation, to reflect on a lifetime in construction and a century of industry leadership. Mike shares stories from more than 45 years in heavy civil and marine construction, his family's deep ties to AGC, and why he's passionate about giving back to the industry. He also offers an exclusive preview of AGC San Diego's Centennial Celebration aboard the USS Midway, including family-friendly activities, sponsorship opportunities, and why this promises to be the biggest event in chapter history.

Join our sponsor/supporter list and get in on the festivities here!

This episode is sponsored by West Coast Group Benefits, helping contractors manage benefits, compliance, labor costs, and prevailing wage strategies. Learn more at westcoastbenefits.com.

Episode 17 - Election Recap, Infrastructure Outlook & Building the Next Generation of Construction Leaders - June 25, 2026 - LISTEN

In Episode 17 of Voice of Construction Podcast, AGC San Diego CEO Eddie Sprecco and Executive Vice President Dustin Steiner break down the latest local election results and what they could mean for infrastructure, public policy and the construction industry. They discuss key races, ballot measures, Sacramento developments and workforce issues, including cumulative trauma claims. The conversation also highlights AGC’s community involvement, from the Future Construction Leaders Camp and industry fundraisers to regional events and workforce initiatives. Plus, they preview upcoming AGC programs, share insights on San Diego’s infrastructure challenges and look ahead to the November election.

They also remind listeners about upcoming events and to take the Health & Welfare/Benefits Plus Trust Survey.

This episode is sponsored by one of your Diamond Sponsors, Finch, Thornton & Baird, LLP, your partner in building success on site and in court. Visit ftblaw.com or call 858-737-3100 for more info.

Episode 16 - Building Readiness: Leadership, Infrastructure & National Security with Rear Admiral David Boone - June 11, 2026 - LISTEN

What do military readiness, infrastructure investment, workforce development, and construction have in common? More than you might think.

In this episode of the Voice of Construction Podcast, hosts Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner sit down with David Boone, President and CEO of the San Diego Military Advisory Council (SDMAC) and retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral.

David shares stories from his remarkable 30-year Navy career, including serving in the White House during 9/11, leading military installations around the world, and overseeing a $9 billion annual budget supporting more than 70 Navy bases worldwide.

Whether you're in construction, engineering, public policy, or simply interested in leadership and military affairs, this episode offers a unique perspective on the people and projects helping keep our nation ready for the future.

This episode is sponsored by Casper Company, a leader in safe, innovative demolition solutions.

Episode 15 - Future Construction Leaders: Empowering Youth Through the Trades - May 28, 2026 - LISTEN

On Episode 15 of the Voice of Construction Podcast, Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner sit down with Azahalia Valdez Rosas and Alex Phillips from Future Construction Leaders (FCL) to discuss how they’re introducing the next generation to careers in construction through hands-on learning, mentorship, and workforce development programs.

From sold-out girls construction camps and middle school programs to industry expos, scholarships, and new AI/BIM-focused initiatives, Azahalia and Alex share how FCL is creating opportunities for youth to discover rewarding careers in the trades and construction industry.

The conversation also highlights the growing demand for skilled workers, the importance of breaking stereotypes around careers in construction, and the impact these programs are having on students, families, and the future workforce across San Diego County.

Whether it’s building lemonade stands, wiring electrical projects, operating heavy equipment, or learning drafting and design, FCL is helping students build confidence, practical skills, and career pathways that can last a lifetime.

Special thanks to Alliant Insurance Services for sponsoring this episode. Alliant Insurance Services helps general contractors grow with specialized construction insurance, surety bonding, and risk management solutions tailored to the construction industry.

Episode 14 - Unapologetically Pro-Business: Chris Cate on Advocacy, Infrastructure & San Diego’s Future - May 14, 2026 - LISTEN

In Episode 14 of the Voice of Construction Podcast, we sit down with Chris Cate, former San Diego City Councilmember and current CEO of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, advocacy, and the future of the region.

Now about a year into his role at the Chamber, Chris shares how he’s reshaping the organization with a clear and bold philosophy: being “unapologetically pro-business.” From taking a more proactive stance on policy issues to strengthening the Chamber’s voice across local, state, and federal levels, Chris discusses what it means to lead one of the largest chambers in the country during a pivotal time.

The conversation dives into key priorities impacting the construction industry and broader business community, including infrastructure funding, the Otay Mesa East crossing, housing development, and major regional projects like Midway Rising and the Convention Center expansion. Chris also highlights the importance of San Diego’s advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C., where relationship-building and long-term strategy drive results.

Plus, hear his insights on supporting small businesses, strengthening regional collaboration, and why maintaining strong relationships, even across political differences, is critical to getting things done.

This episode is sponsored by Milwaukee Tool, an AGC San Diego Diamond Sponsor, delivering innovative, trade-specific solutions that drive safety and productivity on jobsites nationwide.

Episode 13 - 100 Years of Building San Diego: Jason Mordhorst, Hazard Construction and AGC San Diego President - April 30, 2026 - LISTEN

Episode 13 of the Voice of Construction Podcast features Jason Mordhorst, President of Hazard Construction and 2026 President of AGC San Diego. With over two decades at Hazard, Jason shares the story behind one of San Diego’s longest-standing infrastructure contractors and the evolution of the industry over the past century.

The conversation covers everything from major transportation projects and workforce development to the realities of public funding challenges and shifting agency budgets. Jason also outlines his priorities as AGC President, including growing membership, strengthening industry programs, and preparing for the chapter’s centennial. This episode offers a grounded look at leadership, legacy, and what lies ahead for construction in San Diego.

This episode is sponsored by West Coast Group Benefits, helping contractors manage benefits, compliance, labor costs, and prevailing wage strategies. Learn more at westcoastbenefits.com.

Episode 12 - Solving the Housing Crisis: Policy, Politics, and Building More Homes in San Diego - April 16, 2026 - LISTEN

Episode 12 of the Voice of Construction Podcast features Aimee Faucett, CEO of the Building Industry Association of San Diego. With a background at City Hall and as former Chief of Staff to Mayor Kevin Faulconer, Aimee brings a unique perspective on the region’s housing challenges. She explains why today’s housing crisis is really a policy crisis, and how regulation, CEQA, and local decision-making continue to impact affordability and supply. This conversation dives into the importance of educating elected officials, increasing housing inventory, and reshaping public perception of the building industry. Aimee also shares how BIA is mobilizing the next generation of advocates to push for meaningful change across San Diego.

This episode is sponsored by one of your Diamond Sponsors, Finch, Thornton & Baird, LLP, your partner in building success on site and in court. Visit ftblaw.com or call 858-737-3100 for more info!

Episode 11 - Building the Future: Infrastructure, Policy, and the Path Forward in SoCal - April 2, 2026 - LISTEN

In Episode 11 of the Voice of Construction Podcast dives into the future of infrastructure in Southern California with guest Jon Switalski, Executive Director of Rebuild SoCal Partnership.

From his roots in a working-class Detroit community to leading major advocacy efforts across California, Jon shares how policy, funding, and collaboration shape the built environment. This conversation explores critical regional challenges including water infrastructure, stormwater capture, transportation funding, and the realities of getting projects approved and delivered.

Jon also breaks down how shifting voter sentiment and economic pressures are impacting future ballot measures. This episode offers valuable insight into the intersection of construction, politics, and long-term planning across San Diego and beyond.

This episode is sponsored by Casper Company, a leader in safe, innovative demolition solutions.

Episode 10: Leadership and Advocacy in Construction - A Conversation with Ilka De León - March 19, 2026 - LISTEN

In Episode 10 of the Voice of Construction Podcast, we welcome Ilka De León for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, advocacy, and the importance of industry engagement. Ilka shares insights from her experience working at the intersection of government, infrastructure, and construction, highlighting how relationships, communication, and policy awareness shape the future of the industry.

The discussion explores how contractors and industry leaders can more effectively engage in the public process, build stronger partnerships, and help drive decisions that impact construction across the region. It’s a candid conversation about leadership, influence, and the evolving role of the construction industry.

Episode 9: AGC in the Community - Leadership, Infrastructure and What’s Ahead - March 5, 2026 - LISTEN

In Episode 9 of the Voice of Construction Podcast, Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner recap a busy start to the year and highlight AGC San Diego’s growing presence across the region. From partnerships with the Deputy Sheriffs' Association and SDMAC’s WEST Conference to Chamber leadership transitions and renewed momentum at the Taxpayers Association, Eddie and Dustin break down why relationship-building matters for contractors.

They also cover major Monday Morning Quarterback updates, including EPA vehicle emissions changes, SANDAG PLA guidance, Pure Water progress, SDSU’s Reno competition success, and key upcoming federal contractor events.

This episode is sponsored by Milwaukee Tool, an AGC San Diego member and Diamond Sponsor, delivering innovative, trade-specific solutions that drive safety and productivity on jobsites nationwide.

Episode 8: Infrastructure Funding Then and Now - February 19, 2026 - LISTEN

This week, while Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner recover from their respective illnesses, we’re bringing back a timely ‘best of’ episode of the Voice of Construction Podcast. In this re-release of Episode 5, Eddie and Dustin take a deep dive into more than 30 years of infrastructure ballot measures - from the origins of TransNet to SANDAG reforms, shifting voter thresholds, and lessons learned from past transportation initiatives.

With major new funding conversations already shaping 2026 and 2028, this episode provides important historical context on what works, what doesn’t, and what construction leaders should be watching next.

Episode 7: Building a Legacy - A Conversation with Thomas L. Brown - February 5, 2026 - LISTEN

In Episode 7 of the Voice of Construction Podcast, hosts Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner sit down with Thomas L. Brown, President of Sierra Pacific West, Inc. and immediate past President of AGC of America. Tom shares his journey from young contractor to national industry leader, highlights landmark San Diego projects, and reflects on decades of involvement with AGC, workforce development, and apprenticeship programs. He also offers insights on national construction trends, advocacy, and the value of industry engagement. The episode wraps with the Monday Morning Quarterback recap covering workforce trends, infrastructure funding, AGC updates, and industry news.

This episode is sponsored by West Coast Group Benefits, helping contractors manage benefits, compliance, labor costs, and prevailing wage strategies. Learn more at westcoastbenefits.com.

Episode 6: Ask an Engineer - Lessons from 36 Years at Caltrans - January 22, 2026 - LISTEN

In Episode 6 of the Voice of Construction Podcast, Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner welcome Mike McManus, AGC’s Director of Engineering Construction and Industry Relations, for the debut of the new segment, “Ask an Engineer.” Mike draws on his 36-year career at Caltrans to share behind-the-scenes insight on major San Diego freeway projects, missing on-ramps, agency decision-making, and what contractors really want from public owners: prompt payment, fair change orders, and collaborative dispute resolution.

The episode also includes a full Monday Morning Quarterback recap covering new state construction laws, PLA grievance procedures, work zone safety updates, and AGC’s 2026 construction outlook.

Episode 5: Ballot Measures, TransNet & the Future of Infrastructure Funding - January 8, 2026 - LISTEN

In Episode 5 of the Voice of Construction Podcast, Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner take a deep dive into San Diego’s history of infrastructure ballot measures and what they mean for the future of construction funding. From the origins of TransNet to shifting voter thresholds, SANDAG reforms, and the evolving role of citizen-led initiatives, the discussion breaks down why passing transportation and infrastructure measures have become both easier and harder at the same time. They also take a look at lessons learned from recent failed measures and what to watch as the region looks ahead to 2026 and beyond.

Plus, tune in for a full Monday Morning Quarterback recap with key industry updates.

Episode 4: Fixing Housing & Transit with Circulate San Diego - December 4, 2025 - LISTEN

In this episode of the Voice of Construction Podcast, Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner sit down with Colin Parent, CEO of Circulate San Diego, for a discussion on San Diego’s biggest infrastructure and housing challenges. Colin breaks down the barriers slowing transit projects, the permitting gridlock driving up costs, and the smart policy solutions needed to make building homes easier across California.

Eddie and Dustin also cover highlights from the latest issues of the Monday Morning Quarterback, including updates on PLA myths, zero-emission vehicle mandates, and key industry policy shifts.

This episode is sponsored by one of your Diamond Sponsors, Finch, Thornton & Baird LLP, your partner in building success on site and in court. Visit ftblaw.com or call 858-737-3100 for more info!

Episode 3: Voice of Construction - Military Impact, Political Shifts & Industry Growth - November 20, 2025 - LISTEN

In this episode of the Voice of Construction Podcast, Eddie Sprecco and Dustin Steiner break down a full slate of news shaping San Diego’s construction industry. We recap Monday Morning Quarterback, celebrate the Marine Corps’ 250th birthday, and analyze the impacts of recent off-year election results, including how Prop 50 could reshape California’s congressional map.

Then we cover SDSU’s newly endowed Jim Ryan Chair of Construction Management, Caltrans’ updated safety requirements, AGC’s community partnerships, liaison committee updates, and insights from the Military Economic Impact Report. Plus, reminders on AGC’s Holiday Toy Drive and upcoming events.

Episode 2: Voice of Construction - Defects, Density & Labor - November 6, 2025 - LISTEN

In Episode 2 of the Voice of Construction Podcast, AGC San Diego CEO Eddie Sprecco recaps the latest construction headlines, from California’s stalled defect litigation reform to Governor Newsom’s zoning shakeup under SB 79. He also highlights the 2025 Build San Diego Awards, key policy updates from the Joint Legislative Meeting, and upcoming industry events.

Then, meet Adrianna Lopez, AGC’s new Director of Labor Relations, as she shares insights on PLAs, prevailing wage compliance, and supporting both union and open-shop contractors through training, trust fund guidance, and hands-on member support.

Episode 1: Voice of Construction - Building Connections - October 22, 2025 - LISTEN

In the premiere episode of the Voice of Construction Podcast, AGC San Diego CEO Eddie Sprecco and VP of Government Affairs Dustin Steiner break down everything you need to know about what’s happening across the industry, from project labor agreements and federal DBE updates to Prop 50’s redistricting debate and the latest local events.

They also highlight standout AGC member achievements, community involvement, and how advocacy, leadership, and teamwork keep San Diego’s construction industry moving forward.