SBCX Focuses on Creating Opportunities for Small Business


By Carol Eaton N


early 300 individuals repre- senting small businesses, prime contractors, owners/


agencies and others in the construction industry turned out for the inaugural Small Business Construction Expo (SBCX) at the Oakland Marriott on March 22, 2019. Co-hosted by AGC of California, the Expo featured 50+ exhibitors and offered a full day of networking, two educational panels, a keynote address and other knowledge- sharing opportunities geared towards the small business community. AGC of California CEO Peter


Tateishi kicked off the event acknowl- edging the important role small businesses have played in the state. “Construction is vital to the success of California,” he commented. “We understand that our state doesn’t exist without the work that all of you do every day, so it is important to build up our small contractors and small businesses to help them realize the opportunities across the state to create work for you and your employees. We’re excited today to bring this vision


to life as we continue to create conver- sations and opportunities to connect not just small businesses but really the entire construction community.” Tateishi introduced keynote


speaker Nataline Lomedico, CEO and president of Giroux Glass, a successful Los Angeles-based glass, glazing and architectural metals contracting company. Lomedico shared lessons from her 28-year journey in the industry and offered advice on how


“Networking is a full- time job if you are going to be a government contractor. It is a continuous thing you must do in order to know what is going on out there.” - Kofo Domingo, chief procurement officer, BART.


Keynote speaker Nataline Lomedico


small businesses can achieve success in California’s competitive construction marketplace. Among her tips: be prepared for whatever comes your way, focus on long-term goals, communicate well and often, and take time to plan. “No matter what stage you are in


your business, you have to prepare,” she commented. “You never know everything, so always seek out advice and don’t be afraid to ask questions.” Lomedico also urged the small business attendees to “remember that perception is reality. We may think we’re wonderful but what other people see is what really counts.” She added, “If you’re a vendor or supplier, what are the needs of your subs or your GCs? You have to reach out to them and ask, ‘How can I do better?’” Lomedico emphasized the impor-


tance of networking and joining industry associations such as AGC, ASA or CFMA. “One of my biggest regrets is that I didn’t start networking and join associations sooner,” she said, noting that interacting with both clients and competitors at industry gatherings is invaluable. “I encourage all of you to meet the person sitting next to you and learn from them,” she said. “Tose are your mentors.”


Angel Cardoz (right) moderates the panel session, “Small Business Toolbox.” www.AGC-CA.org Continued on page 8 Associated General Contractors of California 7


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