SIUE’s Construction Leadership Institute Recognizes Mike Hayes

March 2025 - Mike Hayes, BJC vice president of Planning, Design and Constructions, is the recipient of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s (SIUE’s) 2025 Construction Leadership Institute (CLI) Alumni Leadership Award. The award recognizes an outstanding graduate who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and service to the St. Louis area building community. The recognition coincided with the program’s March 7 graduation.

“I’m very honored to be recognized by SIUE and the CLI program, which was integral to my growth as a professional early in my career,” says Hayes, who graduated from the nine-week program in 2011. “As a career development opportunity, our PD&C team members have participated in the program for many years, where they can collaborate with other professionals in the architecture, engineering and construction industry. In addition to it being a unique and valuable learning opportunity, I made numerous connections that continue today.”  

Mike earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering at Missouri S&T in 2007, was an SIUE CLI graduate in 2011 and earned an MBA from Webster University in 2015. He holds Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) and Project Management Professional (PMP) certifications, sits on multiple philanthropy boards and was part of the Regional Business Council Leadership 100 Cohort of 2020-21. Mike spent his early career with SM Wilson working in Springfield, IL, followed by 10 years with BJC PD&C and three years with PARIC Corporation before returning to BJC in his current role in September 2023. 

Laura Thomas graduates from SIUE Construction Leadership Institute

Laura Thomas, BJC Planning, Design & Construction (PD&C) senior project manager, graduated from the SIUE Construction Leadership Institute on March 7. The nine-week program is an executive education program jointly developed by the SIUE School of Business and the Department of Construction in the School of Engineering.

“What a tremendous learning experience,” says Thomas. “Each week, we learned from industry leaders and SIUE faculty, who also mentored and guided us throughout the program. Weekly topics and homework assignments were forward thinking and geared toward developing each participant, as well as the local industry. We also participated in exercises that reinforced communications and team-building skills. I’m grateful for our department and BJC for supporting me in furthering my education.”

The program is designed and continually updated by the Construction Leadership Institute Advisory Board to ensure alignment with the latest industry needs in a rapidly changing environment. Students collaborate and build relationships that continue after graduation, and incorporate that knowledge into their respective organizations. Vince Nutt, BJC PD&C director of project management, is a member of the board.

Pictured with Laura is Chris Gordon, PhD, Associate Dean, SIUE School of Engineering.

The 2025 Southern Illinois University Construction Leadership Institute Graduates. BJC's Laura Thomas in pictured standing in the center.