2025 Year in Review: Building Momentum in Offsite Construction Through Trust, Connection and Collaboration

Audree M. Grubesic | Founder, Offsite Dirt Network

As 2025 comes to a close, I reflect with deep gratitude on what this year has represented for Offsite Dirt Network and for the broader offsite construction community. What began as a platform to share honest insights and real-world experience has grown into a trusted industry voice—one grounded in education, transparency, and meaningful connection. This year was not about noise or trends; it was about substance, collaboration, and moving the industry forward together.

Our contributors and subject-matter experts continue to be the heart of everything we do. Through long-form articles, interviews, factory tours, and live conversations, they helped shape thoughtful dialogue around how we design, manufacture, and deliver better buildings. We opened the year with High Performance Truths, featuring Mark Wille, Joe Konopacki, Adam White, Aron Jones, and Shaun St. Amour. Each month, they explored what it truly means to build smarter—covering passive house principles, high-performance envelopes, building science, and the growing importance of homes that actively support the health and well-being of the people living inside them.

Sustainability remained a defining theme throughout the year. Rory Rubin of Modular Building Solutions brought clarity and depth to container construction, from individual housing solutions to large-scale community and commercial developments. Projects such as Navy Pier and the trafficking women’s home in Illinois demonstrated how thoughtful design and offsite methods can create real, lasting impact. These projects stand as powerful examples of innovation with purpose.

David Persons challenged our audience to approach modular construction with data, analytics, and clarity. His insights helped builders and developers better understand where modular construction delivers the most value—particularly in multifamily and scalable development—while cutting through common misconceptions. Complementing this perspective, Sneha Kumari provided in-depth education on lean manufacturing, ERP systems, and workflow optimization, showing how technology can bring alignment and efficiency across complex construction ecosystems.

Steve Dubin continued to open doors inside modular factories across the country, offering behind-the-scenes access to manufacturing operations, insulation strategies, and building science discussions that directly influence performance and quality. John Phillips expanded education around ADUs and accessory dwelling units, highlighting their growing impact across Colorado and beyond. Steven D. Bennett added valuable insights around lending, financing, and why now is the time for developers to lean into modular construction with confidence.

We also had the opportunity to spotlight leaders shaping housing innovation from new angles. Dale Rowse shared insights from his book The Prefab Guy and his consulting work focused on sustainable housing solutions for first-time homebuyers. Karen Benner continued to lead transformative efforts through PGH Gateways, advancing community-driven development and long-term impact.

On the media and brand side, Jessee Grubesic played a critical role in evolving OffsiteDirtNetwork.com—curating speakers, producing video content, and strengthening partnerships that support authentic storytelling across platforms. Troy Thiel broadened our lens by highlighting builders working in modular and panelized construction, showcasing how design, precision, and intention directly affect how people live and experience space.

One of the most meaningful milestones of the year was our first Offsite COOP three-day event in Chicago. Bringing together nearly 100 industry professionals from around the world, the goal was simple: build trust, create connection, and open the door to collaboration. The energy, openness, and feedback exceeded expectations, reinforcing the need for spaces where real conversations—and real business—can happen.

Our audience reach also expanded significantly in 2025. With the support of our SEO partners at StayWhizzy, our YouTube channel surpassed half a million views, allowing us to amplify diverse voices across the offsite ecosystem. A special thank you goes to Osiris Franklin, whose video storytelling and on-site coverage brought these conversations to life with clarity and impact.

This year also marked the release of The Modular Mindset: Building the Future of Construction, co-authored by David Persons and myself. The book was created as a practical guide for builders, developers, and industry professionals seeking a clearer path into modern methods of construction. It reflects the same mission as Offsite Dirt Network: education, collaboration, and progress rooted in real-world experience.

I extend heartfelt thanks to our sponsors and supporters—Wesco, The Unico System, Clark Dietrick, Sika, Merlin AI Software, Dynamic Modular Solutions, Intelligent Membranes, Leviton, SI Container Builds, Cobalt Creed, B&T Manufacturing, ATH Consulting Services, Mandeville Modular, Osiris Productions, J&J Social, Offsite Pro Directory, CG Capital Resources, and Wick Right. Their support allows us to continue providing free, high-quality content to the industry.

Most importantly, thank you to the people who make this industry exceptional. Offsite Dirt Network exists because of your trust, your curiosity, and your willingness to lead change. As we look ahead to 2026, we remain committed to educating, connecting, and inspiring the next chapter of offsite construction.

Wishing you a warm, restful, and meaningful holiday season—and an incredible year ahead filled with new connections, bold ideas, and endless opportunity.