Gretchen is a recognized expert in the construction industry, consulting to both “owners” to support the cost-effective planning, design, and construction of capital assets; and consulting to contractors, engineering firms, and material and equipment suppliers on how to effectively serve these clients and achieve organizational success. She works closely with construction “owners” and their construction and engineering service providers to determine strategies for more closely aligning the value chain to reduce construction costs and schedules, and improve profitability. She is a prolific writer and sought-after speaker in the construction industry.
Gretchen enjoyed an 11-year career with FMI Corporation, a Raleigh, North Carolina based management consulting and investment banking firm focused upon the construction industry. During this time, she was a member of the contractor-focused Quality and Productivity Improvement Group, initiated and provided leadership to the Owner Services Group and managed the Market Research Group. Owner clients included Intel, Marriott, Hewlett Packard, General Motors, Starbucks, and Detroit Edison, and contractor clients included Barton Malow Company, DPR Construction and Kiewit to name a few. Gretchen has a proven track record of measurable results with her clients.
Prior to joining FMI, Gretchen worked for Ralston Purina and Coca-Cola Enterprises in operations management. Most recently, Gretchen served as President/CEO of The Women’s Foundation of Colorado and Assistant Dean of the Daniels College of Business at the University of Denver.
Gretchen is a graduate of the University of Denver MBA program, and received her Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Southern Methodist University. In addition, she holds a Master of Nonprofit Management from Regis University.