Incorporated in 1959, the Builders Exchange of Northwest Michigan is a member-owned organization. It operates as a non-profit, sustained by annual dues and service fees, and is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of nine members, along with an Executive Director.
Our primary goal is to promote the advancement and development of the Northwest Michigan region. We strive to uphold exemplary standards of workmanship, encourage the growth of trade schools, and support the education of skilled artisans in the community, fostering the exchange of ideas.
David Dudley
President
D&W Mechanical | David Dudley is a Project Manager/Estimator in the Commercial Department at D&W Mechanical. He holds a Mechanical Engineering Degree from Michigan State University. David spent his early Career in the Chemical Industry focusing on maintaining plant assets allowing for uninterrupted production. He now brings this mechanical engineering and maintenance knowledge to D&W where he focuses on Commercial HVAC and Plumbing Design and Installation for long-term longevity and success. David is excited to be back in Traverse City where he hopes to promote innovation in the Construction Industry.
Jessica Novack
VICE PRESIDENT
Windemuller | I am excited to serve on this Board of Directors and see if I can help other contractors and companies in the building trades. I have been with Windemuller for 10 years, I have worked in different positions, from the receptionist to electrical designer to now project manager. I am originally from Traverse City and received my Associate’s Degree in Construction Management and Accounting from Northwestern Michigan College. When I am not working at Windemuller, I am either helping my mom at her party store, coaching volleyball, or spending time on the beach or other outdoor activities with my family.
Ted Nelson
TREASURER
Spence Brothers | I have been in the construction industry for 20 years, and during this time have worked in multiple, different positions. Beginning my career in the field as a carpenter gave me the experience and knowledge that is invaluable to my role now as a Director for Spence Brothers. I live in Kingsley with my wife, Andrea, and our three kids. When not at work, I am usually camping, hunting or supporting my kids at one of the several sports and activities they participate in.
Ryan Fedorinchik
SECRETARY
Jim Rose
Past President
HighPoint Electric | Jim Rose has worked as an electrical and technical contractor in the northern Michigan construction and service industry for nearly 30 years. His current role has him leading the way for expanding HighPoint Electric’s geographic service area throughout northern Michigan. Professionally he is active in supporting efforts to help grow the construction workforce by participating in outreach and education programs that include non-traditional construction job candidates, such as women in construction, and other minority factions. Jim resides in Traverse City his wife Katie where they have raised their two children.
Lisa Leedy
Executive Director
Builders Exchange of Northwest Michigan | Lisa Leedy accepted the role as Executive Director in 2022. Lisa has a BS in Organizational Leadership and Master’s in Education in Community Engagement and Government Affairs. She is also a Certified Economic Developer from the International Economic Development Council. Lisa has worked throughout the region in public, private and non-profit sectors including her service as an elected township supervisor. Lisa enjoys spending time with her daughters, son-in-law and with her grandchildren.
JAROT KARCHER
Board Member
MacAllister Rentals | Born and raised in Central Michigan to a family with several generations in the construction industry, Jarot began his career with 20 years at a family-owned lumber and building material retailer. During this time, he filled roles in all aspects of labor, transportation, sales & fleet and facilities operations management. He has an additional 12 years in a heavy civil and utility construction operation where he performed purchasing, fleet & facilities operations management functions that supported construction projects from Canada to Brazil. In 2021, after years as a customer, Jarot became part of the team at The MacAllister Family of Companies (including MacAllister Rentals and Michigan CAT) supporting customers and projects throughout Michigan and Indiana. Outside work, Jarot enjoys a hobby in antique machinery restoration. He also enjoys spending time with his wife, Laura, their two grown daughters, their husbands and especially their first grandchild! Jarot looks forward to the opportunity to serve the industry as part of the Builders Exchange of Northwest Michigan.
Jerry Tomczak
Board Member
Cunningham-Limp | Jerry Tomczak has worked in the construction business for over 30 years. Originally from Flint, Michigan, Jerry has multiple years of experience formally as a Zoning Administrator, Building Official and then moved into the general contracting arena. Professionally, he is active with the “Build Your Life” committee to help facilitate and promote the trades working in the construction fields. Jerry resides in the Village of Elk Rapids with his wife and both have raised 4 children who frequent back home from remote areas throughout the US. Jerry intends to continue his passion for construction and promote the need for trades in the construction industry.
Mike Briggs
Board Member
PCS Constructors | Mike began his construction career as an apprentice, then quickly moved to journeyman running retail renovation projects and new store interior build-outs throughout Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. In 1994, Mike transitioned from the field into the office as an Assistant Project Manager. In 1995, he was promoted to Project Manager and later to Branch Manager at a large firm. Mike recently ventured into a new role as the owner of PCS Constructors, and looks forward to his new role in his company, as well as participating as a board member.
Glenna Wood
BOARD MEMBER
Gosling Czubak Engineering | Having grown up in Traverse City, I am excited to serve on the board and help grow and support the building trades in the region. I received my Civil Engineering Degree from Michigan State University and after a brief period working downstate, I moved back to Traverse City in 2012 and began working for Gosling Czubak Engineering. When I’m not at work, you may see me enjoying all the fun the region has to offer with my husband, Kent and our 4 kids.
