MEP Look Back: Practical Lessons on Scope Creep

This week’s MEP Look Back highlights one of the most talked-about sessions from the 2025 MEP Innovation Conference: Managing Scope Creep, led by Steve Whitmer (ACCO Engineered Systems) and Jared Christman (Big State Electric).

One of the biggest challenges facing contractors today is scope creep—the gradual expansion of project requirements without corresponding adjustments in budget or schedule. Steve and Jared drew on real-world experience to break down how contractors can set expectations with owners, identify red flags early, and use communication strategies to protect both the schedule and the bottom line.

Attendees walked away with practical steps they could apply immediately, reinforcing a core strength of the MEP Innovation Conference: sessions built by contractors, for contractors.

These kinds of lessons are why the conference continues to grow in importance. As projects become larger and more complex, and as technology changes how we plan and execute work, learning directly from peers about what’s working in the field has never been more valuable.

You can watch Steve and Jared’s full clip from MEP 2025 here: Setting Expectations – Managing Scope Creep from PM to VDC

Looking ahead, MEP 2026 (January 26–28 in Austin, TX) will build on this momentum. We’ll bring together contractors from across the country to share strategies, showcase new tools, and talk openly about both the challenges and solutions shaping our industry.

Registration is now open. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the conversation: mepconference.com.