In this edition of our “Ask the Expert” series, we’re taking a closer look at how M&M Excavating decides which projects to bid on. CEO Ken Nowicki shares his experience and perspective on why smart bidding is key to M&M’s long-term success.

Understanding the Bidding Process

M&M typically works as a “Bid-Build” contractor, which means we compete for most projects by submitting bids—often for public infrastructure work like roads or airports. “Winning the job requires the lowest bid, but that bid must be based on solid cost principles that give us a real chance to build the job profitably,” Ken explains. “Anybody can be the low bidder, but it’s better to lose a job than to lose money.”

To strike this balance, our estimating team analyzes every detail, from material costs to labor hours. This careful approach allows our management team to bid on projects efficiently while safeguarding our bottom line. 

How We Choose Projects

Not every job is a good fit. Here are the main things we look at before deciding to bid:

• Type of Work: We target projects that match our team’s skills and our equipment.
• Capacity: We avoid taking on more work than our crews or equipment can handle.
• Competition: Fewer bidders can improve our chances.
• Location: Jobs close to home lead to less travel for our crews and better collaboration.
• Subcontractors: Good partners help make projects more successful.

“We take on work that supports our good reputation and bottom line. If we see an opportunity in a soft market,” Ken adds, “that’s when we might stretch a little or grow vertically to take on more in-house.”

Choosing the Right Role

M&M takes on different roles depending on the project. Sometimes we lead as the prime contractor. Other times, we work as part of a joint venture or “team approach” where we share work and responsibility with other companies. And in some cases, we serve as a subcontractor, taking on a specific part of the job. “No matter our role,” Ken says, “teamwork is always at the center.”

Bidding with Creativity 

Creative thinking helps us stay competitive. Whether it’s using recycled materials or adjusting schedules, we always ask, “Can we bid in a way that gives us an edge and improves profitability?”

Project Types 

We often work on two main types of projects:

1. MDOT Projects: These follow strict state guidelines and are common across Michigan.
2. Design-Build Projects: These are more complex and riskier but offer bigger rewards when managed well.

From Bid to Build

Once we win a bid, we hold a team meeting to go over the budget, schedule, suppliers, and any known risks. Ongoing communication between estimating and project management helps keep everything on track.

Why It Matters to You

Every M&M crew member plays a part in building our company’s reputation. The way we plan, bid, and perform reflects on all of us. Every task you complete and every interaction on a jobsite shapes how others see M&M. We’re proud of our team and the strong relationships we’ve built—and the new ones being created every day. Thank you for being part of that.

The Project Management Process

At M&M Excavating, project management is a critical bridge from vision to reality. Once a project is awarded, it transitions from our diligent estimating team to Luke’s capable hands. “The first step in this seamless transition involves a detailed handoff meeting, ensuring everyone from superintendents to estimators and project managers are perfectly aligned,” explains Luke. This process involves assigning project numbers, saving files, and selecting project managers based on their experience and expertise with similar projects. Other important stages of a project include securing necessary permits, drafting schedules, and coordinating with vendors and subcontractors. Luke emphasizes the importance of bringing the entire team together to foster collaboration and address any concerns or potential issues.

Challenges and Solutions

Every project has its unique set of challenges, both planned and unplanned. Luke candidly shares that “50% of the job is about proactive problem-solving or ‘firefighting’ as we call it, and the other 50% is making sure we’re compensated correctly for our hard work.” While daily challenges are inevitable, the team ensures projects stay on track and adapt as necessary by employing a structured approach to tackling each issue. This involves constant evaluation and reevaluation of project details, ensuring materials are timely, and coordinating closely with all stakeholders.

Importance of Communication

“Effective communication is the backbone of successful project management,” Luke emphasizes. It is crucial not only in keeping the team on the same page but also in managing client expectations and ensuring all project facets run smoothly. “Every employee, from Laborers and Operators to project managers are frontline representatives of M&M’s values and culture, making clear and constant communication indispensable,” he adds.

Looking Ahead

As M&M continues to grow, so does our Project Management department. Luke expresses confidence in the team’s ability to handle the increasing number of projects, citing the knowledge and experience of M&M’s leadership team. While the department may be young, Luke believes in the importance of coaching and mentoring the next generation of leaders. This proactive approach to team building and leadership development not only ensures M&M Excavating remains at the forefront of the industry but also provides growth opportunities for our employees and strengthens our company’s future.

Conclusion


As an M&M Crew Member, you can take pride in our industry-leading project management, driven by Luke Gordon’s strategic leadership and our company’s commitment to excellence. Our focus on problem-solving, continuous improvement, and fostering a culture of communication and mentorship not only shapes future project management professionals but also cements M&M’s leadership in the industry, today and into the future.