January 8, 2026
Thank You Sustaining Sponsors!
Lean Construction Institute CEO Brian Perlberg Shares His Vision for 2026
Watch as Brian Perlberg, Esq., CM-Lean, CEO, shares his vision for 2026 and the future of Lean across the built environment. Brian will deepen LCI’s impact and expand its reach in order to relentlessly pursue LCI’s mission — Drive transformational change in the design and construction industry through better outcomes for all.
Shannyn Heyer Named LCI’s First-ever CFO
The Lean Construction Institute (LCI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Shannyn Heyer, MBA, a long-time consultant for the organization, as its first-ever Chief Financial Officer. Heyer assumes expanded executive leadership responsibility for financial strategy, planning, and organizational sustainability.
Small Communities Changing a Big Industry
A Message From Denise Erminger, Manager, Communities of Practice Relations
The New Year invites reflection. It’s a time to look back on what we’ve accomplished, recognize the people who made it possible, and use those insights to set intention and direction for the year ahead. It’s also a season for gratitude and appreciation for the many ways others strengthen our work and our communities.
The Communities of Practice (CoP) organization had a meaningful and impactful year in 2025. Across the communities we serve, we created opportunities to connect, learn, and lead. From Lean-themed golf outings and hands-on training workshops to sharing insights from LCI Congress presentations at the local level, our events continued to highlight strong Lean thinking and practical application. Through our Lean Coffee, Brew, and Cocktail gatherings, we exchanged experiences, built relationships, and enjoyed the simple value of being together.
One of the greatest joys of my role continues to be working alongside our CoP leaders and core group members. I learn from each of you, and I am better because of our shared efforts, conversations, and friendships. Thank you for generously contributing your time and talent, and for supporting LCI’s mission to lead the building industry in transforming its practices and culture. Your commitment does not go unnoticed, and it is deeply appreciated.
As we look ahead to 2026, I am excited to welcome both returning and new core group members across our CoP organization. I am also grateful for the continued leadership of our National Practice Team Core Group, whose dedication and guidance help keep our work focused and impactful. A special thank you to John Zachara, Integrated Facilities Solutions, for his leadership of our National Practice Team Core Group in 2025 and supporting the transition in 2026 as Tom Weathers, RNGD takes the lead.
Wishing you happiness, good health, and continued success in 2026.
Member Connections
Join Us Tomorrow for the Owners Lean Coffee
There’s still time to register for the Owners Lean Coffee happening tomorrow, January 9, from 12:00–1:00 pm EST!
This session, open exclusively to the employees of LCI Owner member companies, is a valuable opportunity to connect, discuss shared challenges, exchange best practices, and explore new Lean ideas in an open, collaborative setting.
Provide Your Feedback on LCI Education & Certification Programs!
As part of our annual PDCA cycle, we’re checking in to understand how our education and certification programs are being used and where we can improve. Your feedback directly informs what we build next. Please take a few minutes to share your experience so we can continue to make our resources work for you.
Share Your Design Story at the 2026 LCI Lean in Design Forum!
Share your design story with your Lean community at the 2026 LCI Lean in Design Forum on April 29 in Chicago. The call for proposals opens next week on January 16, and we invite you to submit a presentation proposal to become a speaker.
Abstract Submission Deadline: Thursday, February 5
This year’s theme is Aligning Expectations: Clarity Upstream, Confidence Downstream. We’ll dive into Lean tools and tactics for aligning expectations to create clarity upfront, confidence going forward, and project success as the ultimate outcome.
We look forward to including your inspiring story about the design project phase at this year’s event! Stay tuned for the submission link on January 16.
Questions about the Lean in Design Forum program? Email Joan Piccariello for more information.
Interested in sponsoring or exhibiting at this year’s program? Email or call Ilene Goldberg at (703) 785-9087.
Start 2026 With Your Lean Career Goals in Motion!
Kick off the new year with meaningful progress toward your professional growth. LCI Certification verifies both your Lean knowledge and your applied project experience, helping you stand out on high-performing teams. For a limited time, save $100 on your application using code 2026Cert100 and begin your certification journey today.
Upcoming Webinars
Lean Assessments
How strong is your Lean knowledge? Take a Lean assessment to determine your current state so you have a baseline for improvement. Lean assessments are available for individuals, teams, and organizations alike. Whether you’re new to Lean or are an experienced Lean practitioner, Lean assessments are a great way to get started at LCI!
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