On April 28, the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) San Diego Chapter Awards Gala recognized the projects, people, and partnerships shaping Southern California’s built environment. Gafcon PM-CM LLC (Gafcon) was among the honorees, receiving two awards for excellence in project delivery and industry leadership.
“Being part of the CMAA San Diego Awards Gala is always a reminder of the strength of our industry and the people behind it. Seeing our team members recognized is a testament to their dedication, leadership, and the lasting impact they make across our communities,” said Marty Glaske, Executive Vice President at Gafcon.
Best Project Over $50 Million
Gafcon was part of the team recognized with the Best Project for Buildings Over $50 Million award for the Southwestern Community College District Instructional & Discovery Complex in Chula Vista, California.
Developed through a partnership between Rudolph and Sletten, Inc. and Gensler, the 114,000 SF academic hub was designed to serve approximately 6,800 students annually. The campus features ten two-story, concrete tilt-up buildings arranged around landscaped courtyards and connected by canopied walkways, creating an open, collaborative learning environment.
A signature element of the project is its planetarium, distinguished by curved, perforated aluminum exterior panels and advanced projection and audio systems. Constructed in the center of an active campus, the project required sophisticated coordination, utility relocations, detailed structural embed installations, and disciplined schedule management.
Through innovative sequencing, advanced BIM coordination, meticulous preconstruction planning, and zero-claims delivery, the complex now stands as a sustainable, high-performance facility that will serve students and the broader community for generations.
Distinguished CM Leader of the Year
The celebration continued as Heather Skaife, Executive Vice President, Operations at Gafcon, was named as Distinguished CM Leader of the Year.
“This honor is incredibly meaningful to me because it reflects the people and partnerships that make our industry so strong. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a profession that values mentorship, collaboration, and continuous improvement,” said Skaife.
Heather’s leadership has made a lasting impact on the construction management profession through her advocacy for professional development, mentorship, and industry certification. Her continued efforts to elevate the value of credentials such as the Certified Construction Manager designation have strengthened industry standards while inspiring the next generation of leaders.
A Legacy in Education
The awards also highlight Gafcon’s extensive experience in the education sector. For decades, Gafcon has partnered with K–12 districts, community colleges, and higher education institutions across California to deliver capital improvement programs, modern learning environments, student housing, performing arts venues, athletic facilities, and campus infrastructure.
From early planning through construction closeout, Gafcon’s team understands the unique challenges of working in active educational environments, where safety, stakeholder coordination, funding accountability, and uninterrupted campus operations are critical to success.
Delivering Impact
Impact is most meaningful when it reflects trust, teamwork, and results. The awards presented at this year’s CMAA San Diego Gala reinforce Gafcon’s focus on delivering projects that strengthen communities and advance the profession.
“It highlights what’s possible when talented people come together with a shared commitment to excellence. We’re incredibly proud of our team members for the leadership, integrity, and collaboration they bring to every project and to the construction management profession,” said Bryan Benso, CEO of Gafcon.
Gafcon is a GISI Consulting Group company and a trusted Owner’s Representative providing program, project, construction management, and real estate advisory services since 1987. Contact info@gisiconsulting.com to learn more.