Celebrating 25 Years: Construction Executives Association Marks Milestone

Fort Lauderdale/Miami, FL – March 17, 2025 – The Construction Executives Association (CEA) is commemorating its 25th anniversary, celebrating a quarter-century of fostering collaboration, leadership, and innovation within South Florida’s construction industry. Since its inception in 2000, the CEA has been a cornerstone for executives in the construction field, serving as a platform for exchanging knowledge, discussing industry trends, and accessing high-level business coaching and resources.

Founded by visionary leader John Bennett, the CEA was designed to bring together C-suite level executives from across the construction sector, creating a space where industry leaders could share best practices, address emerging challenges, and influence the future of the construction industry. Over the years, the association has grown into an indispensable resource for executives seeking to navigate the complexities of a constantly evolving field and drive impactful change within their organizations.

For the past 25 years, CEA’s tagline, Building a Better South Florida, has been a guiding force behind its mission, symbolizing the association's commitment not only to advancing the growth of individual businesses but also to enhancing the region’s construction landscape as a whole. This anniversary serves as a testament to the powerful network of leaders CEA has fostered and its enduring impact on the industry.

In 2023, CEA marked a historic milestone with the appointment of Joy Lynskey from Jewel Toned Interiors as its first female president. Lynskey’s leadership brought a fresh perspective to the organization, continuing its legacy of progress and inclusivity. Her appointment underscores CEA’s commitment to breaking barriers and ensuring representation from all corners of the industry.

As CEA continues to evolve and grow, it remains focused on fostering the next generation of leaders within the construction industry. Mindy Szarowicz, current president of CEA and representative from Baker Construction, emphasized the association’s ongoing commitment to succession planning and industry growth. “We are focused on our growth and preparing for the future of our industry,” Szarowicz stated. “Our commitment to engaging next-generation professionals and welcoming a diverse range of businesses ensures that CEA will continue to serve as a strong foundation for South Florida’s construction community for years to come.”

Looking ahead, CEA plans to expand its programming, providing new opportunities for networking, education, and leadership within the construction industry. With the goal of continually offering valuable resources and enhancing its members' ability to lead effectively, CEA remains dedicated to shaping the future of South Florida's construction sector.

The organization is also committed to creating opportunities for diversity, inclusivity, and collaboration within the industry. Through its strong network, CEA plans to expand its reach, providing more services and support for businesses of all sizes, from established firms to up-and-coming companies looking to make their mark.

Key Programs and Initiatives

Leadership Development

‍CEA continues to offer high-level coaching, workshops, and seminars designed to hone leadership skills and equip executives with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of today’s construction industry.

Networking Opportunities

‍By connecting industry leaders with peers, clients, and partners, CEA remains a vital resource for fostering meaningful business relationships and collaborations.

Next-Generation Professionals

‍CEA’s ongoing efforts to engage emerging leaders and provide mentorship programs ensures that the industry’s future is in good hands, with the next generation of executives stepping into leadership roles equipped with valuable industry insights and practical experience.

As the construction industry continues to evolve, CEA remains steadfast in its mission to support its members and contribute to the ongoing development of South Florida’s construction community.

CEA’s ongoing success and growth are driven by its commitment to adaptability in a rapidly changing construction environment. From addressing technological advancements to tackling sustainability challenges, the association continuously explores ways to keep its members ahead of the curve. As part of this commitment, CEA has started exploring cutting-edge topics such as smart building technologies, energy-efficient construction, and the integration of artificial intelligence in project management.

Looking to the future, CEA’s 25th anniversary is just the beginning of a new chapter for the organization, and it is poised to become an even more influential voice in shaping the future of the construction industry in South Florida. By building on the strong foundation of leadership, innovation, and collaboration, CEA continues to be the go-to association for construction executives striving for success in an increasingly competitive market.

Through this milestone, CEA reaffirms its mission to build not just better buildings, but a better community of leaders who are committed to making a positive impact on South Florida’s built environment for years to come. For more information about the Construction Executives Association, including membership opportunities and upcoming events, visit www.ConstructionExecutives.org.

Originally reported by South Florida Business Journal.