The West End Home Builders Association U40 Committee welcomed members and industry professionals to the 2026 U40 Professional Development Breakfast, Building From the Ground Up: The Journey from the First Project to a Thriving Business in a Changing Market.
Held on September 10, the event brought together emerging and established leaders from across the construction and development industry for an engaging discussion on entrepreneurship, growth, and navigating an evolving marketplace.
The morning featured a panel discussion moderated by Michael Bonomo, U40 Chair and Employee Benefits Specialist with C2 Employee Benefits. Michael guided a candid conversation with three respected industry leaders who shared their experiences building successful businesses from the ground up:
Panelists reflected on the realities of launching and growing a business, discussing the challenges they faced in their early years, lessons learned through market fluctuations, and the strategies that helped them adapt and succeed. Topics ranged from securing early opportunities and building client relationships to managing growth, developing strong teams, and maintaining resilience during periods of economic uncertainty.
A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the importance of persistence, reputation, and continuous learning. The speakers emphasized that while every entrepreneurial journey is unique, long-term success is built through consistent effort, strong relationships, and a willingness to evolve alongside industry and market changes.
The U40 Professional Development Breakfast continues to provide a platform for meaningful conversations, professional growth, and connection among the next generation of construction industry leaders. Thank you to our moderator, panelists, sponsors, and attendees for making this year's event a success.
