By Jamie Watkins, Southeastern Regional Compliance Manager. -

As Regional Compliance Managers we have opportunities to meet many of our partners at networking events. These occasions have allowed us to introduce ourselves, share what we do and build relationships. Most people are intrigued by our organization and want to know more. Networking is critical with the work we do and here are three reasons why:

1. WE CAN SHARE OUR KNOWLEDGE WITH PEOPLE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

When we have the chance to attend network-meeting events, we are able to share what exactly CIFAC’s mission and purpose is and how our organization can help make sure state and local government agencies are complying with the Public Contract Code. We share the importance of following the code and how it creates more job opportunities, fair bidding and transparency. Most people are not aware of the legislation CIFAC has passed and how we have countlessly influenced agencies to abide with the code. We are also able to share the different ways agencies violate the Public Contract Code, which then leads to more conversations on how we, here at CIFAC, can counteract that.

2. NETWORKING LEADS TO REFERRALS

Oftentimes when we meet people at construction industry associations, many contractors and labor unions share with us issues they have had with the bidding process. We are able to discuss face-to-face concerns and share how we can help. Our partners are our eyes and ears in the field and they see firsthand the problems in the community. We are able to explain the process with each investigation we conduct and what the next step is in resolving the problems.

3. ESTABLISH MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS FOR THE FUTURE

When the CIFAC team connects with people in our construction industry, we are able to have conversations on the importance and significance of the work we do developing strong relationships with our supporters. The more we network and get our name out, the more we can help when our partners see something that is out of compliance and refer to us to investigate. Our ultimate goal is transparency with our supporters and hold the public works industry accountable for code compliance.