Our member-exclusive events offer member companies and their employees the perfect opportunity to further establish their network within the construction industry.
These social and networking events represent a huge added benefit to membership, with exciting and varied events to participate in and show your support for MBEX.
All of our events are sponsored in part
by The Builders Group (TBG). Thank you, TBG!
Join MBEX, The Builders Group (TBG), the Minnesota Concrete Council and the Electrical Association for a casual gathering with food, drinks, and networking with great company.
DATE: Wednesday, March 11
TIME: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
LOCATION: Crooked Pint Ale House (58 Division St, Waite Park, MN 56387)
COST: Free!
Invite colleagues, members and non-members alike, to learn how we serves the commercial construction sector, what membership entails, and meet staff.
While this event is 100% free, we do request that attendees register so we have an accurate head count for food and drink orders.
WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND
Our Partners
Learn the basics, refresh yourself on the plan room's offered tools, or explore if our digital platform would benefit your business.
DATES:
• Thursday, March 19- Registration Now Open
• Thursday, April 16
• Thursday, May 21
TIME: 9:00am - 10:00am
COST: Free
LOCATION: Online via Zoom
From the Deskpad to setting up filters, to project information to bidders lists, this one-hour session is a great introduction to our Online Plan Room. Time is reserved at the end of the presentation for questions and answers. Registrants must sign up by 2:30pm the day before (Wednesday, March 18) to receive the Zoom link and other information.
About MBEX's Online Plan Room
MBEX's modern and innovative Online Plan Room is designed to bring its members the latest in Minnesota's commercial construction project news and bidding opportunities as well as opportunities from Iowa, Wisconsin, North Dakota and South Dakota. MBEX reporters work hard behind-the-scenes to post complete project details along with viewable files (dependent on a members' level of access). They coordinate project details with the architects, engineers, project owners, and construction managers to create a smooth viewing process. Once a project is posted, members can easily access its scope, view its plans, specs and addenda, download its files, and see who might be bidding on the project. Members can also manage email notifications for timely notices of newly posted projects, new filter results, and addenda notifications on tracked projects.
Hit the ground running, sharper, faster, and more confident than ever in 2026!
Join instructor Troy DeGroot, UChapter2, for an introduction to each upcoming Bluebeam Revu course in 2026 and its learning objectives.
DATE: Thursday, March 26
TIME: 3:00pm - 4:00pm CST
LOCATION: Virtual Webinar
PRICE: Free
With functionality for Design Review, Estimation, Field Data collection, and other common tasks, Bluebeam Revu is not your average PDF software. Don’t miss this opportunity to see an introduction to each upcoming course and its learning objectives with instructor Troy DeGroot from UChapter2. Get your questions answered to ensure you’re in the appropriate courses for your skillset and workflows.
Here's what others have to say:
Great estimators know that to be competitive and competent in the current market, their companies must continually be in search of an edge, answering the questions, “How can we approach this project differently than our competition?”
DATE: Tuesday, April 14
TIME: 12:00pm - 4:00pm CST
LOCATION: Online
INSTRUCTOR: Troy DeGroot, UChapter2.com
PRICE: $362 - MBEX Members | $506 - Non-MBEX Members
This virtual interactive training workshop is scheduled in one half-day session.
This half-day virtual training, crafted by the industry experts at UChapter2, is built for estimators who want to sharpen their approach and gain a competitive edge. This course encourages attendees to ask the critical questions: “How can we approach this project differently than our competition?”
Viewpoint 1 – The Estimating Principles Behind Every Bid
This open-forum discussion, led by a panel of experienced estimators, explores advanced concepts and current industry models. Participants will examine their own processes through the lens of modern estimating principles.
Viewpoint 2 – How Technology Can Produce Faster, More Accurate Estimates
In today’s visual-first world, simply showing your understanding of a project can help win the work. This portion of the course demonstrates how digital tools, particularly Bluebeam Revu, can replace highlighters, rulers, and calculators with clear, repeatable workflows. The result? Estimates that are consistent, predictable, and fast, regardless of who’s doing the work.
While Bluebeam Revu software may be referenced during the session, this is not a pics-and-clicks tutorial; it’s a deep dive into the mindset and methodology of successful estimating.
About UChapter2
MBEX has partnered with UChapter2 to provide workflow-based Bluebeam Revu training courses for design and construction professionals. Bluebeam Revu transforms PDFs into data-rich documents, supporting everything from markup and measurement to takeoffs, estimates, and field collaboration. All training is developed and delivered by uchapter2.com and led by Troy DeGroot, a Bluebeam Certified Instructor (BCI), recognized worldwide for helping teams improve accuracy, speed, and software adoption through customized, real-world workflows.
REFUND POLICY
All training course sales are final. However, we do understand that unexpected situations can occur. For that reason, cancellations made at least 48 hours before the class start time are eligible for a refund. Due to the resources involved in preparing our courses, cancellations made less than 48 hours before the class start time are not eligible for refunds. Student substitutions will not be allowed less than 48 hours before the class start time.
All construction professionals, regardless of working in the field or in the office, must know how to read blueprints, specs, and construction plans.
• DATES: Wednesday, April 15 & Thursday, April 16
• TIME: 1:00pm - 4:00pm CST
• LOCATION: Online
• INSTRUCTOR: Troy DeGroot with UChapter2
• PRICING: MBEX Member - $362 | Non-Member - $506
Please be registered by noon on Tuesday, January 14
Whether you're on the jobsite or in the office, reading construction documents is a solid first step toward better project collaboration.
Designed to quickly build confidence, this course covers the fundamentals of how to read and understand construction documents. From identifying title block information to reviewing floor plans, elevations, and combing through specification sections, participants will learn how to navigate a full set of drawings and interpret material and construction requirements with clarity.
Learning Objectives
This two-part online course, developed by the certified instructors at UChapter2, is ideal for apprentices, tradespersons, project coordinators, estimators, specialty sales reps, entry-level architectural or engineering designers, or anyone in career transition looking for a practical refresher.
Attendees will use Bluebeam software in the course delivery, but this is not Bluebeam functionality training.
*Work for a Member Company? That makes *you* an MBEX member and qualifies you for the member pricing. Not sure if your company is an MBEX member? Email Ashlee and she can verify your company's status.
Meet the Instructor
With over 20 years in the industry, Troy DeGroot has cultivated a deep understanding of the requirements of customers, the needs of end users, common goals of management, and the capacities of the technology. He had led many companies through successful software implementations and training. Having served as the BIM Manager for a large multi-discipline engineering firm, he provides a broad understanding of the industry and the evolution of technology. Read Troy's full bio
About UChapter2
MBEX has partnered with UChapter2 to provide workflow-based Bluebeam Revu training courses for design and construction professionals. Bluebeam Revu transforms PDFs into data-rich documents, supporting everything from markup and measurement to takeoffs, estimates, and field collaboration. All training is developed and delivered by uchapter2.com and led by Troy DeGroot, a Bluebeam Certified Instructor (BCI), recognized worldwide for helping teams improve accuracy, speed, and software adoption through customized, real-world workflows.
REFUND POLICY
All training course sales are final. However, we do understand that unexpected situations can occur. For that reason, cancellations made at least 48 hours before the class start time are eligible for a refund. Due to the resources involved in preparing our courses, cancellations made less than 48 hours before the class start time are not eligible for refunds. Student substitutions will not be allowed less than 48 hours before the class start time.
At the annual spring social, this MBEX event provides members the opportunity to mingle, network, and deepen their connections with other industry professionals.
• DATE: Wednesday, April 15
• LOCATION: Midland Hills Country Club (2001 Fulham St, Roseville, MN 55113)
• SCHEDULE: 3:00pm - Doors open, drinks & networking | 5:00pm - Program begins | 5:20pm - Speaker | 5:45pm - Raffle winners & door prizes
• TICKETS: $55 per person (Early Bird) | $65 per person (After April 1st) | $70 per non-member
• SPONSORSHIPS: Become a Platinum, Gold, Silver, or Bronze sponsor of the event! Other opportunities include sponsoring the Wine & Spirits Pull and door prizes. View further details inside the registration form.
ABOUT THE EVENT
An afternoon out with other local construction business owners, executives, and industry professionals, and gain several chances to win exciting door prizes or indulgent bottles of wine or spirits.
WINE & SPIRITS PULL
Attendees can purchase a mysteriously-wrapped package where inside they'll find either a bottle of wine or spirits that is potentially of much greater value than the purchase price. All funds from the pull go to support the MBEX / TBG Construction Scholarship.
50/50 RAFFLE
We will also have our traditional 50/50 cash raffle where the winner takes home half of the winnings and the other half goes directly into the MBEX Scholarship Fund. Remember, we give out ~$200,000 to students annually through out scholarship program!
Photography Notice
Please be advised that by registering for our events, you consent to the possibility of being photographed. These images may be used for promotional, marketing, and community engagement purposes. If you wish to opt out, we kindly ask that you inform us directly in advance. We will make every effort to respect your preference.
The Minnesota Construction Teacher Conference engages secondary and post-secondary Career and Technical Education (CTE) educators of the construction trades in cutting-edge professional development supported by the industry.
• DATE: Thursday, April 30 and Friday, May 1
• LOCATION: The Builders Group (2919 Eagandale Blvd, STE 100, Eagan, MN 55121)
• SCHEDULE: APRIL 30: 9:00am-5:00pm - Networking Sessions, Industry Speakers and more. Breakfast and lunch included. | MAY 1: Site visit and Closing Session
• TICKETS: $115 per person (early bird, til March 20)
Conference Organized by:
Please email info@projectbuildmn.org for additional information.
Whether you’re opening Bluebeam Revu software for the first time or you’ve been using it for years, this essential Bluebeam Revu course ensures everyone is starting from the same strong foundation.
DATE: Tuesday, May 5
TIME: 10:30am - 12:30pm CST
LOCATION: Online
COST: MBEX Member - $121 | Non-MBEX Member - $182
INSTRUCTOR: Troy DeGroot, UChapter2
REGISTRATION CLOSES: Monday, May 4 @ 12:30pm
Whether you’re opening Bluebeam Revu software for the first time or you’ve been using it for years, this essential online Bluebeam Revu course ensures everyone is starting from the same strong foundation.
Developed by the certified instructors at UChapter2, this session teaches you how to navigate menus, toolbars, panels, shortcuts, and key settings.
Learning Objectives:
• Interface Navigation
• Calibration & Measurements
• Introduction to the Markups List
Attendees will also get hands-on with markup and measurement tools, plus insider tips that boost speed, accuracy, and proficiency.
ABOUT UCHAPTER2
MBEX has partnered with UChapter2 to provide workflow-based Bluebeam Revu training courses for design and construction professionals. Bluebeam Revu transforms PDFs into data-rich documents, supporting everything from markup and measurement to takeoffs, estimates, and field collaboration. All training is developed and delivered by uchapter2.com and led by Troy DeGroot, a Bluebeam Certified Instructor (BCI), recognized worldwide for helping teams improve accuracy, speed, and software adoption through customized, real-world workflows.
REFUND POLICY
All training course sales are final. However, we do understand that unexpected situations can occur. For that reason, cancellations made at least 48 hours prior to the class start time are eligible for a refund. Due to the resources involved in preparing our courses, cancellations made less than 48 hours before the class start time are not eligible for refunds. Student substitutions will not be allowed less than 48 hours before the class start time.
Offered by the certified instructors at UChapter2, this course introduces standard measurement tools and markup customization potions to help convert your highlighters into powerful takeoff tools.
DATE: Wednesday, May 6
TIME: 10:30am - 12:30pm CST
LOCATION: Online
COST: MBEX Member - $121 | Non-MBEX Member - $182
REGISTRATION CLOSES: Tuesday, May 5 at 12:30PM
Offered by the certified instructors at UChapter2, this course introduces standard measurement tools and markup customization potions to help convert your highlighters into powerful takeoff tools.
Learning Objectives:
• Introduction to Viewports
• Measurement Tips & Tricks
• Custom Estimating Tools
With emphasis on the Markups List and workflow tips, this Bluebeam software course helps estimators improve speed and accuracy from day one.
ABOUT UCHAPTER2
MBEX has partnered with UChapter2 to provide workflow-based Bluebeam Revu training courses for design and construction professionals. Bluebeam Revu transforms PDFs into data-rich documents, supporting everything from markup and measurement to takeoffs, estimates, and field collaboration. All training is developed and delivered by uchapter2.com and led by Troy DeGroot, a Bluebeam Certified Instructor (BCI), recognized worldwide for helping teams improve accuracy, speed, and software adoption through customized, real-world workflows.
REFUND POLICY
All training course sales are final. However, we do understand that unexpected situations can occur. For that reason, cancellations made at least 48 hours prior to the class start time are eligible for a refund. Due to the resources involved in preparing our courses, cancellations made less than 48 hours before the class start time are not eligible for refunds. Student substitutions will not be allowed less than 48 hours before the class start time.
• DATE: Wednesday, May 6
• TIME: 3:00pm - 5:00pm
• LOCATION: RJM Construction (830 Boone Ave N, Golden Valley, MN 55427)
• COST: $20 per person (includes entry, drinks, and appetizers)
Who + What:
Individuals ages 40 and under who are involved in the construction industry.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
If you're interested in showcasing your company's products or services and gaining exposure to a targeted audience, consider becoming a sponsor of this event. Sponsorships can be added to your order within the registration form.
$150 - Beverage Sponsor | $150 - Appetizer Sponsor | $50+ - Door Prize Sponsor
This advanced class from UChapter2 takes your estimating to the next level. Learn to create custom columns, embed formulas, organize information, and export or live-link to Excel templates.
DATE: Thursday, May 7
TIME: 10:30am-12:30pm
LOCATION: Online
COST: MBEX Member - $121 | Non-MBEX Member - $182
REGISTRATION CLOSES: Wednesday, May 6 @ 12:30pm
This advanced class from UChapter2 takes your estimating to the next level. Learn to create custom columns, embed formulas, organize information, and export or live-link to Excel templates.
Learning Objectives:
• Custom Estimating Tools (continued from Bluebeam 2)
• Collecting Rich Data with Custom Columns
• Reports and Exporting Data
Estimators gain immediate, real-world skills they can put to work on the very next bid.
ABOUT UCHAPTER2
MBEX has partnered with UChapter2 to provide workflow-based Bluebeam Revu training courses for design and construction professionals. Bluebeam Revu transforms PDFs into data-rich documents, supporting everything from markup and measurement to takeoffs, estimates, and field collaboration. All training is developed and delivered by uchapter2.com and led by Troy DeGroot, a Bluebeam Certified Instructor (BCI), recognized worldwide for helping teams improve accuracy, speed, and software adoption through customized, real-world workflows.
REFUND POLICY
All training course sales are final. However, we do understand that unexpected situations can occur. For that reason, cancellations made at least 48 hours prior to the class start time are eligible for a refund. Due to the resources involved in preparing our courses, cancellations made less than 48 hours before the class start time are not eligible for refunds. Student substitutions will not be allowed less than 48 hours before the class start time.
The MBEX offices will be closed on Monday, May 25, 2026 in observance of Memorial Day.
We'll return to regular office hours on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
Midwest Builders Exchange
3800 American Blvd W, STE 780
Bloomington, MN, 55431
T: 612.381.2620
Mon, Tues & Thur (in-office): 7:00am-3:00pm
Wed & Fri (staff remote): 7:00am-3:00pm
Sat & Sun: closed
