Episode #8
Better Over Bigger: Inside Concord Projects with Nolan Ploegman
Nolan Ploegman, President and CEO of Concord Projects, joins Nathan to talk about how a Winnipeg-based general contractor founded in 1978 has grown into one of Manitoba's most trusted builders by choosing quality over scale. Nolan shares how he stepped into leadership after a career start in finance at Great West Life, why Concord moved its headquarters to 127 Bannatyne in the Exchange District, and what it takes to build a company culture that scales without losing its small-firm feel. The conversation covers the realities of the current construction market, why so many housing projects only pencil out with CMHC or provincial support, where private developers are finding an edge, and how technology like Procore and AI-driven job site tools (including hard hat cameras) are changing how buildings get built. Nolan also opens up about the Concord Projects Foundation, his conviction that Winnipeggers need to build Winnipeg, and why he chose to be the best rather than the biggest. Building Manitoba is a podcast for entrepreneurs and business leaders who care about creating something that lasts. Hosted by Nathan Maertins, the show explores the decisions, trade-offs, and systems behind real growth in Manitoba. Want the key insights in your inbox? The Building Manitoba Review provides practical takeaways and ideas from recent episodes that you can put into action. Subscribe at buildingmanitobapodcast.beehiiv.com
