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Jeremy Bexten: From young project manager to AGCMO and industry leader
For eight years, Estimating Manager Jeremy Bexten has been a driving force at Emery Sapp & Sons (ESS). He’s worked on large, complex projects like the KDOT 69Express Project, MoDOT Improve I-70 Program, Warrenton to Wentzville and the I-44 bridge rebuild – but his influence extends far beyond the jobsite.
Jeremy has worked for Associated General Contractors of Missouri (AGCMO) member companies throughout his entire two-decade career in construction. Recognizing the value of networking with contractors and subcontractors, suppliers and MoDOT representatives, he got involved with AGCMO at the start of his career.
Now he’s chair of the AGCMO Highway & Transportation Division, helping shape the future of the heavy civil construction industry. He shares the importance of getting involved early in your career to build connections, gain industry insights and make a lasting impact.
Making early connections
Jeremy’s first involvement with AGCMO was through the Young Executive Committee (YEC), but he didn’t just attend YEC meetings. He jumped in and actively sought guidance from experienced members, especially during design-build pursuits. “My connections through the YEC granted me an open phone line to call the ‘experts’ for any part of the project and get their opinion to come up with better ideas,” he explains.
As he learned and developed his knowledge and skills, he evolved from seeking guidance to being the one to provide it. He became a YEC mentor, speaking to AGCMO student chapters about the importance of relationship building and the benefits of YEC membership. He’s seen firsthand the impact of these efforts. Several new hires he’s connected with have joined the YEC to start growing their networks right out of college.
Evolution to leadership
His leadership involvement within AGCMO continued to grow. He served for three years as chair of the YEC, even earning a Committee Chairman of the Year recognition. After serving for two years as vice chair of the AGCMO Highway & Transportation Division, he assumed the role of chair in January 2025. He also serves on the Governmental Affairs and Political Action (GAP) committee and is co-chair of the MoDOT/AGC Bridge Committee.
Jeremy’s involvement with AGCMO, particularly the Heavy Highway Board and the GAP Committee, has provided him with invaluable insights into the political landscape of infrastructure development. He’s gained a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges of navigating government regulations and funding.
He passionately encourages active participation in AGCMO. “Leadership is part of my blood,” he states. “I don’t join organizations or teams to just sit in the back row.” He also emphasizes that leadership isn’t a prerequisite for benefiting from AGCMO.
“I see many people never take a leadership role but still reap the benefits,” he observes. He stresses that building relationships and engaging in the industry are valuable, regardless of whether someone takes on a formal leadership position.
Commitment to the future
Looking ahead, he envisions a future where he serves in a top leadership role with AGCMO as a key liaison with MoDOT. His long-standing relationships with many MoDOT leaders, formed during his early career as an inspector, position him to foster continued partnership and collaboration.
“Knowing these people on a personal level will keep the door open for partnering and collaboration for many years to come,” he says.