Drew Edwards
Industrial Evolution: Technology, Power, and New Paths in Construction
Drew Edwards serves as Vice President of Preconstruction for Enerfab Power & Industrial, where he oversees large capital project pursuits, the Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) department, and advancements in construction technology.
With 17 years of industry experience, including 10 years in the field, Drew brings a practical perspective to planning and executing complex industrial projects. His experience spans new coal-fired and natural gas-fired power plants, emissions control systems, nuclear projects, and automotive battery manufacturing facilities. His most recent field assignment was as Project Manager for Enerfab’s core and shell wet mechanical scope at Ford’s BlueOval Battery Plant, part of an approximate $6 billion development.
Drew established Enerfab’s laser scanning capabilities to support existing facility retrofits, new construction design, and modularization quality control. His work connects field experience with digital tools to improve project planning, coordination, and construction execution.
Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, Drew holds a degree in Construction Management from the University of Nebraska and worked as a construction intern throughout all four years of college. That experience shaped his career and continues to drive his commitment to student development. Today, he oversees Enerfab’s internship program for the Ohio Valley Region, helping students expand their knowledge, gain practical experience, and explore career opportunities in industrial construction.
Mitch DaDante
The Safety Myth: A Construction Case Study in What Really Works
Mitch DaDante is Director of Risk Management for Cleveland Construction, where he has led Safety, HR, and Training for over 15 years, reshaping the safety culture of a multi-state, 1,000-person workforce. He mentors 75+ superintendents across 50+ job sites nationwide, drives OSHA and company-standard compliance for Cleveland Construction team members and trade partner workers, and represents the company in OSHA meetings, jobsite visits, and negotiations.
Mitch previously served 12 years as President and CEO of a not-for-profit construction association representing 400 contractor organizations, earning repeated board recognition for team building and staff development, and forging a strategic OSHA partnership on members' behalf.
He has also held numerous leadership roles, including Director of Industrial Relations, President, and Managing Partner, at proprietary construction and trade schools, overseeing accreditation, funding, budgeting, admissions, and marketing. As Managing Partner of a workforce Development consulting firm, he built strategic alliances, ran training academies, and expanded into new markets, consistently building community and driving growth among staff, members, and clients.
Operational Excellence Workshop
Advantages of a Concrete Frame
Nick Dean is a Project Manager with Donley’s, where he assists in the management of all aspects of construction projects, including safety, cost and schedule management, quality control, productivity, document management, subcontractor and supplier negotiations, and project close-out.
Nick joined Donley’s in 2017 as a Project Engineer, bringing 10 years of experience as a cement mason. His hands-on field experience provides him with a strong understanding of construction operations, city code requirements, ADA compliance, site safety, and coordination with city inspectors, utility company officials, and other project stakeholders. In 2022, he was promoted to Project Manager and has since played an integral role in the successful delivery of complex concrete and construction projects throughout Northeast Ohio.
His project experience includes healthcare, higher education, research, parking, and industrial facilities. Notable projects include the MetroHealth Apex Garage, MetroHealth View Road Parking Deck, Cleveland Clinic LRI Innovation District, MetroHealth Glick Center and CUP, Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine, Summa West Bed Tower, and Amazon Fulfillment Center.
Nick earned a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Kent State University in 2016. He is an American Institute of Constructors Associate Constructor (AC) and has completed OSHA 30 training with Confined Spaces. He is also a member of Cement Masons Local 404.