Pre-Conference Workshop
Join us for a pre-conference workshop on the fundamentals of
Construction in Indian Country!
October 21, 2026
9am-4pm
Gila River Resorts and Casinos-Vee Quiva Resort - 15091 S. Komatke Ln. Laveen Village, AZ 85339
(Located 13 miles from Wild Horse Pass)
Construction 101 – Turning an Idea Into a “Shovel-Ready” Project
Course Description
A successful construction project depends on a well-planned and carefully managed process. This course provides an overview of the three major phases of building construction: preconstruction, construction, and post-construction.
Participants will learn how projects move from concept to completion, including land acquisition, project financing, strategic design, budgeting and estimating, surveys and permitting, and the selection of professional teams during the preconstruction phase. The course will also cover key construction activities such as site preparation, excavation, framing, roofing, and interior and exterior finishes, followed by post-construction activities including final inspections, walkthroughs, and project handover.
Special attention will be given to the unique considerations involved in developing projects on Tribal lands, including coordination among stakeholders such as owners, Tribal representatives, architects, consultants, contractors, and specialty trade subcontractors.
Construction 102 – Applying the Process: A Case Study
Course Description
Building on the concepts introduced in Construction 101, this course applies the construction process through a real-world case study. Participants will follow a project from initial planning through completion, examining how decisions made during preconstruction, construction, and post-construction phases affect project outcomes.
The course will explore project coordination, budgeting, scheduling, stakeholder communication, procurement, permitting, and construction challenges commonly encountered during development. Through practical examples and discussion, participants will gain a clearer understanding of how successful teams manage risk, solve problems, and keep projects moving toward completion.
Emphasis will also be placed on the unique opportunities and challenges associated with construction projects on Tribal lands, including regulatory considerations, cultural awareness, and community engagement.
Registration is $100 and includes lunch.
Attendees registered for the CIIC Conference should have a code for 25% off.