2026 Building Connections Event

March 4, 2026 — The Construction Association of Michigan (CAM), in partnership with Scouting America, is proud to announce the selected location for the 22nd Annual Building Connections Construction Networking Event, one of Michigan’s premier gatherings for leaders across the construction industry. 

 The Building Connections Construction Networking Event annually brings together 400+ professionals from across the construction ecosystem. Last year, we raised a record $314k to support Scouting America’s Michigan programs, which equip youth with leadership skills, real-world experiences, and exposure to the skilled trades.

This year’s event will be held on September 17, 2026, at the newly renovated Bonstelle Playhouse on Woodward in Detroit. Nestled in Detroit’s historic Brush Park, the Bonstelle Playhouse stands as a century-old landmark of culture and creativity. Originally built in 1902 by architect Albert Kahn as Temple Beth El, the synagogue transformed in the 1920s into one of Detroit’s most celebrated performance venues. Today, its historic heart still resonates with every celebration and special event, creating unforgettable experiences for audiences and guests alike.

In addition, we are pleased to announce Jay McKee of Sachse Construction and Nick Kuelske of Turner Construction as the 2026 event Co-Chairs.

Jay McKee, Sachse Construction

As a longtime supporter of Scouting and a former Scout himself, McKee brings both personal passion and professional leadership to this role. “As Co-Chair of this fundraising effort, I am proud to support Scouting, an organization that had a lasting impact on me as a young Scout and continues to shape future generations. Scouting provides meaningful opportunities for growth and leadership that build character, confidence, and connections to the skilled trades. Having watched both of my sons earn the rank of Eagle Scout, I’ve seen firsthand the positive, lasting good this program delivers, and I’m grateful for the chance to give back.

Nick Kuelske, Turner Construction

Returning as Co-Chair, Kuelske continues to champion the event’s mission of uniting industry professionals while supporting youth development. “I’m excited and honored to serve once again as a Co-Chair for this event, which brings together industry leaders in partnership with the Construction Association of Michigan and Scouting America to support local Scouting programs. As a former youth Scout and now the parent of a young daughter in Scouting, I’ve seen firsthand how these programs build leadership, character, and practical skills. With our industry facing a growing shortage of skilled talent, supporting this event is an investment in both our youth and the future workforce of the construction industry.”

Industry Impact

CAM President Kevin Koehler emphasized the importance of the partnership and its long-term value to Michigan’s construction sector: “The Construction Association of Michigan recognizes that Scouting America is a powerful pipeline of future talent for our industry. By co-hosting the Building Connections event, we’re proud to align with our strategic goal of strengthening Michigan’s construction workforce and inspiring the next generation of builders and leaders.”

About the Event

In the last 21 years, the Building Connections Construction Networking Event has raised over $3 million to support Scouting programs in Michigan. Since 2014, Michigan Scouts have earned over 63,000 merit badges related to design and construction, making this partnership a key pipeline of industry talent. 

For more information, visit: https://michiganscouting.org/buildingconnections/.

Click here to view photos from 2025
Click here to view 2025 attendees

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About Scouting America

Scouting America helps build the future leaders of this country by combining educational activities and lifelong values with fun. Scouting provides unique, life-changing experiences you can’t get anywhere else.

For more than a century, Scouting has been an ongoing adventure that teaches a powerful set of real-life skills and develops fundamental qualities that help young people become “Prepared. For Life.®”