November 7, 2023 - The Construction Association of Michigan (CAM) is excited to announce the nominees for the upcoming Board of Directors election. We are pleased to introduce you to these exceptional candidates who are dedicated to steering the direction of the Association and shaping the future of the construction industry. Through a member voting process, three will be selected and installed during the 138th CAM Annual Meeting on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. Board members serve a three-year term.
Each member firm receives ONE ballot via USPS. Ballots must be returned by December 8, 2023. Participation in this important process will help determine the direction of CAM and its continued commitment to the construction community.
Let's get to know the candidates:
Nominees
Nicole M. "Nikki" Csont-Schram, Blaze Contracting
Background: Nicole, also known as Nikki, has been a part of the construction industry for 25 years. She currently serves as the Senior Project Manager at Blaze Contracting, a Detroit-based, employee-owned heavy civil union contractor.
Experience: Nikki has an extensive history in the field, working on high-profile projects like Little Caesar's Arena, Comerica Park, and GM Design Build. She holds an Associate's degree in General Business from Henry Ford Community College, completed coursework in Construction Management at Lawrence Technology University, and received a Heavy & Industrial Construction Certificate from Monroe Community College.
Community Involvement: Outside of her career, Nikki is dedicated to her family and community. She coaches her son's baseball team and volunteers at the Children's Center of Wayne County. She enjoys travel, home remodeling, woodworking, and painting.
Elmer H. Dixon, Dixon, Inc.
Background: Elmer Dixon is the President of Dixon, Inc. and Dixon Construction Services, Inc. He has been a prominent figure in the construction industry for over two decades.
Experience: Elmer's career began as a cement sales rep for Lafarge Corp in 1993. He founded Dixon, Inc. in 1999, specializing in commercial construction, masonry, restoration, and more. In 2019, Elmer established Dixon Construction Services, Inc., a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) company.
Community Involvement: Elmer's dedication extends beyond his businesses, as he has served on the Presbyterian Villages of Michigan Foundation Board and contributed to senior citizens' welfare in the community. He values family and enjoys activities like golfing, fitness, and boating.
Randal B. Pagel, Bumler Mechanical, Inc.
Background: Randal Pagel is an owner and Vice President of Bumler Mechanical, Inc., a family-owned mechanical contracting business with over 75 years of experience in the Detroit area.
Experience: Randal has been with the company since 1997, starting as a CAD designer and now managing the company's overall operations, engineering design, and cost analysis. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan State University.
Community Involvement: Randal is active in SMACNA Detroit and has contributed to various committees. He is also involved in the Selfridge Air National Guard Base Community Council, the Michigan Parkinson Foundation, and is a member of the Detroit Athletic Club and The Old Crowd of Mt. Clemens.
Carl J. Paine, National Specialty Contractors (NSC)
Background: Carl Paine is the President of National Specialty Contractors (NSC), a Division of National Construction Enterprises, Inc., specializing in rough and finish carpentry, millwork, fiber cement panel systems, and more.
Experience: Carl grew up in the industry, following in his father's footsteps as a carpenter. He has worked in various roles within NSC and Denn-Co Construction in Detroit. He received a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Northwood University and served as a Combat Medic in the U.S. Army Reserve.
Community Involvement: Carl is involved in various industry associations, including the Architectural Contractors Trade Association, the Architectural Woodwork Insitute, and the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry. He enjoys outdoor activities with his family, including baseball coaching, kayaking, fishing, and camping.
Tom G. Thompson, R.S. Dale Company
Background: Tom Thompson is a founding member and current Vice President of the R.S. Dale Company, a construction supplier servicing contractors in the industrial and commercial building industry.
Experience: Tom has worked his way through the ranks, managing various aspects of the business, from warehouse and delivery to inventory management and sales.
Community Involvement: Tom is actively involved in industry associations, including STAFDA and Sphere 1, the industry's leading Co-Op. Outside of work, Tom enjoys golfing, cooking, and spending time with his family. He is a member of the Huntsman Hunt Club in Dryden.
Milford E. "Ted" Woodbeck, Overhead Conveyor Company (OCC)
Background: Ted Woodbeck became the President of Overhead Conveyor Company (OCC) in 2021, a turn-key material handling and installation company that specializes in the integration of material handling equipment, automation, tooling, and robotics for the automotive and general industrial markets.
Experience: Ted started his career as a structural steel estimator before becoming Vice President of OCC in 2007. He holds a BS in Building Construction Management from Michigan State University.
Community Involvement: Ted is a Board member of the Michigan Conveyor Manufacturers Association and Great Lakes Fabricators and Erectors Association. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, golfing, and spending time with his family.
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