Learn GMP with the Bros

In this episode, we’re joined by Chelsea Burkett, Deputy Program Director with AECOM [00:01:13] Meet Chelsea Burkett Chelsea introduces her role with Aecom and the scope of Austin ISD’s massive bond program. [00:02:29] GMP 101 A foundational look at GMP pricing and how it supports collaborative delivery models. [00:03:37] Early GC Involvement Why selecting general contractors early creates synergy and reduces surprises. [00:05:23] Community-Driven Design = Scope Creep? How community input shapes schools—and complicates budgets. [00:06:38] What’s in a GMP? Chelsea walks through what the contract amendment includes and how it’s executed. [00:08:49] Staying in Budget The bond book, voter expectations, and how cost alignment is maintained. [00:11:13] Supply Chain Chaos Material pricing, long lead times, and how GCs manage risk today. [00:15:24] The Open Book Advantage Full transparency into sub bids, contingencies, and value engineering. [00:17:02] The Grading Game How GCs and subs are evaluated—points, interviews, and all. [00:20:28] Risk, Clarifications & Allowances Unpacking who owns what risk in complex multi-GMP projects. [00:24:07] Liquidated Damages & Deadlines Why hitting school opening day is non-negotiable—and risky. [00:30:12] The Art of Negotiation Navigating owner–GC–architect dynamics for long-term project health. [00:34:08] Tariffs & Steel Shockwaves The ripple effects of global politics on your jobsite. [00:36:09] Fee Strategy How GCs compete on cost and credentials—and when they ask for more. [00:37:03] Chelsea’s Pain Points Why early communication is everything in GMP negotiations. [00:41:19] Use the PMIS! Advice to subs: use project management systems to get seen and heard. [00:43:14] People Matter How staffing and turnover shape success across multiple projects. [00:46:00] Smart Strategy ≠ Low Bid The delicate dance of rewarding excellence while staying fair. [00:48:35] Megaphone Moment Chelsea’s call to the industry: prioritize relationships over ego. Go build something awesome! CHECK OUT THE PARTNERS THAT MAKE OUR SHOW POSSIBLE: https://www.brospodcast.com/partners FIND US ONLINE: -Our website: https://www.brospodcast.com -LinkedIn: / constructionbrospodcast -Instagram: / constructionbrospodcast -TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@constructionbrothers?lang=en -Eddie on LinkedIn: / eddie-c-057b3b11 -Tyler on LinkedIn: / tylerscottcampbell If you enjoy the podcast, please rate us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to us! Thanks for listening!