Volunteers are the brain and backbone of KC Rising. President of Legal, Risk Management and Government Affairs at Black & Veatch, Tim Triplett, believes in KC Rising and shares several thoughts on what he thinks will be the most significant outcomes.

 How will the KC region know that KC Rising is a success?

We will know the Design + Construct efforts for the region are successful if we can measurably determine that this industry sector has grown, and has also increased the level of employment in the regional area at all levels. This will require growth for the entire industry sector and thus, everyone wins.

What is one thing your Work Group is working on that the rest of the volunteers should know about?

We are starting by working on our communications plan to outline what the Kansas City region currently has in this industry sector – and how it is already mature, vibrant and growing. Then, we want to get this message disseminated through industry and other and non-governmental associations both within the U.S. and internationally.

What compelled you to get involved with KC Rising?

Steve Edwards, Chairman and CEO of Black & Veatch, was on the KC Rising Steering Committee and mentioned the Globally Competitive Section (GCS) work to me. He knew of my interest in international markets so he asked if I wanted to become involved. This GCS initiative led to my current work on the Design + Construct effort.

What advice do you have for the KC Rising volunteers to get the most out of their experience in the process?

It is important to be as involved as your time will allow. The professional staffs at KC Rising and the sponsoring agencies are incredible at helping use everyone’s time as efficiently as possible, and all of the volunteers bring to the table a wealth of experience and understanding of our industry sector.

Please contact Angela Orr at 816.374.5626 if you are interested in sharing your thoughts for a future edition of KC Rising Voices.