MGM Springfield hosted a design and construction vendor information session at the MassMutual Center in downtown. The session attracted more than 400 professionals interested in pursuing design and construction opportunities with MGM Springfield. Attendees included contractors, vendors, construction suppliers, local business owners, labor leaders and trades personnel. The event began with a presentation that featured MGM Resorts International executives and MGM Springfield team members. That presentation discussed a range of topics including the economic impact of the project, MGM's commitment to minority hiring and purchasing, and how to pre-qualify for construction workforce jobs. Participants were given a detailed project overview and construction timeline for the $800 million development.
Throughout the event, MGM representatives stressed their commitment to contracting with diverse suppliers and minority businesses, and highlighted the importance of diversity supplier certifications.
Hunter Clayton, executive vice president of MGM Resorts Development said, "As we begin to ramp up activity on the site, our goal is to educate people on what will be required of them to become part of our construction workforce. We take great pride in the fact that MGM Springfield is a vital economic driver for Springfield and the region. So we are making every effort to fully engage the community so that people may maximize all opportunities."
Gerri Harris, executive director of diversity and contracts for MGM Resorts International Design, said, "All over the world, MGM makes every effort to have our suppliers and workforce reflect the communities in which we reside. Springfield will be no different. Outreach efforts such as today's event create equal access and information for interested bidders."
Immediately following the half-hour presentation, attendees were welcomed to a networking session. The networking hour featured local organizations, state qualifying agencies and Building Trade Representatives with whom MGM Springfield has partnered with to help connect the community with useful resources as the project moves forward and prepares for its development phase.
MGM Springfield will bring 3,000 permanent jobs and 2,000 construction jobs to downtown.