Brandon Anderson serves as the Vice President of Safety at the Associated General Contractors of Missouri (AGC of Missouri). With over 27 years of experience in the construction industry, he has held a variety of roles ranging from field leadership to senior-level safety and employee development positions. A lifelong construction professional, Mr. Anderson is also a passionate advocate for total worker wellbeing. His strategic focus areas include mental health, suicide prevention, and substance misuse—issues he champions with both professional commitment and personal conviction. In 2022, he co-founded and now co-chairs the AGC of America’s National Task Force on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention. His leadership in this area has garnered national and international recognition, including honors from the United Kingdom’s Houses of Parliament for his leadership addressing mental health, suicide prevention and substance misuse in the construction industry. __ Title: “Building HOPE Through ACTION - Mental Health & Suicide & The Construction Industry” Description: The construction industry has long battled a silent crisis—mental health struggles, suicide, and substance misuse. AGC of America and key partners have taken bold steps to lead the efforts of awareness, and to take ACTION! Attendees will embark on a journey breaking down the current state of the industry as we discuss the stigma surrounding Mental Health, Suicide Prevention and Substance Misuse. By doing so a challenge to prioritize self-care will be made. From the onset the underlying focus will become clear, that we all are capable of the transformative potential of “Building HOPE Through ACTION”. This audience engaging discussion emphasizes the significance of compassion, support and the daily opportunities presented to you; as you embark on your own journey to “Build HOPE Through ACTION”. Upon completion participants will be have a better understanding of what is plaguing the industry - What are the contributing circumstances and/or root causes - Potential upstream intervention - Signs someone may be experiencing a struggle up to crisis - How to engage that individual - How to become more knowledgeable of available resources - Proven best practices that can be implemented immediately