As Ivy Tech Indianapolis continues to transform its campus through the Ivy Tech Indy Reimagined for the Future project, it’s essential to recognize the dedicated professionals who are making this vision a reality. One of those key players is Clay Langebartels, senior project manager of operations at Pepper Construction. With over a decade of experience in construction project management, Langebartels brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table, ensuring that the project not only meets but exceeds expectations.
Langebartels’ journey into construction management began at a young age, inspired by his father. After earning his degree in construction management from Ball State University, Langebartels joined Pepper Construction, where he has spent the last 10 years managing a variety of high-profile projects, including healthcare facilities, university buildings, and now, the Ivy Tech Indy Reimagined project. His work on this project is particularly meaningful, as it aligns with Ivy Tech’s mission to create a student-centered environment that enhances the educational experience. This isn’t Langebartels’s first time working with Ivy Tech—he’s also contributed to projects at the Ivy Tech Columbus and East Chicago campuses, giving him a deep understanding of the College’s mission and needs.
In this month’s Reimagining Ivy Tech Indy Spotlight, we sit down with Langebartels to learn more about his role, his excitement for the project, and the challenges of managing a large-scale construction effort on an active college campus. From his focus on collaboration to his commitment to providing the “ultimate experience” for both Ivy Tech and its trade partners, Langebartels’ insights offer a behind-the-scenes look at the work shaping the future of Ivy Tech Indianapolis.
Can you tell us a little about your background and how you got into construction project management?
I grew up helping my dad with projects around the house—he was a designer for a structural engineering firm, so I was exposed to the construction world early on. I started my college journey at Ivy Tech, which holds a special place in my heart, and then transferred to Ball State, where I graduated with a degree in construction management. I’ve been with Pepper Construction for almost 10 years now, working on everything from healthcare facilities to university projects, including the new veterinary hospital at Purdue University and now the Ivy Tech Indy Reimagined project.
What does your role as senior project manager of operations at Pepper Construction entail, and how does it apply to the Ivy Tech Indy Reimagined project?
As the senior project manager, I’m the point person for the project. I handle everything from budgeting and bidding to managing contracts, schedules, and change orders. I also work closely with the on-site team, including the superintendent and project engineer, to ensure everything runs smoothly. For the Ivy Tech project, I’ve been involved since the early stages, working with the pre-construction team on budgeting and design, and now overseeing the day-to-day operations on-site.
What has been your biggest focus in managing the Ivy Tech Indy reimagined project so far?
Well, our company's motto at Pepper Construction is to provide the ultimate experience. That's always our goal. We want to provide the ultimate experience not just for the owner but also for our trade partners. We focus on building strong relationships and ensuring everyone involved has a positive experience.
What excites you the most about this project, and what do you think will have the greatest impact on Ivy Tech students and faculty?
What excites me most is Ivy Tech’s focus on the student experience. The entire redevelopment plan is designed to make things easier and more accessible for students, from consolidating student services in one location to creating state-of-the-art teaching spaces. For example, the new nursing simulation labs and mock operating rooms will provide students with hands-on learning environments that closely mimic real-world settings. I have been part of the construction team for actual hospitals and have done mock operating rooms for Ivy Tech Columbus, so I know that what we’re building here on the downtown Indianapolis campus is as close as you can get to the real thing, which makes it an even better educational experience for the students. It’s rewarding to be part of a project that directly impacts students’ education and future careers. It’s awesome.
What are some of the biggest challenges in managing a capital project of this scale on an active college campus?
Communication is key. We have to be mindful of the fact that this is an active campus, so we work closely with Ivy Tech Indy’s facilities team to coordinate shutdowns, provide clear signage, and ensure safety. The most challenging part will be the North Meridian Center (NMC) building, where we’ll be sharing space with students and faculty. But with proper planning and communication, we will minimize disruptions and keep everyone safe.
How do you collaborate with Ivy Tech leadership, faculty, and staff to ensure the project aligns with their needs and expectations?
Collaboration is critical, especially when unexpected issues arise. We work closely with the design team, who have met with each department to understand their needs. When challenges come up, we bring them to the table quickly so we can find solutions that align with the project’s goals. Ivy Tech has been great at adapting and finding creative ways to stay within budget while still delivering a high-quality finished product.
What’s one thing you wish more people understood about large-scale construction projects like this?
I wish people understood just how much collaboration goes into a project like this. From the design team to the subcontractors to Ivy Tech’s leadership, there are so many people involved in making this vision a reality. It’s a complex process, but it’s also incredibly rewarding to see it all come together.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
