Hensel Phelps is committed to supporting and investing in the long-term success of its trade partners. As part of that commitment, the company will host a virtual information session featuring guest presenter Patti Olds, President of Kuniklo Corporation. This session will focus on the evolving compliance requirements affecting many small businesses in the construction industry, including disadvantaged business enterprise (DBE) reevaluation.
This complementary 90-minute session will provide practical insight into regulatory changes tied to DBE certification and what those changes can mean for trade partners moving forward.
- Title of Session: DBE Reevaluation: From Presumption to Proof
- When: April 1, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM ET
- Guest Speaker: Patti Olds, President of Kuniklo Corporation
- Cost: Free (registration is required)
- Where: Register here
This session will not be recorded, so reserve your seat today!
Understanding the Shift in DBE Reevaluation
In 2025, the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) issued an Interim Final Rule (IFR) that changed DBE status eligibility requirements and mandated that all currently certified DBEs be reevaluated to maintain their certification. Firms must provide documented proof of social and economic disadvantage.
For many trade partners, this shift may impact how they:
- Demonstrate and maintain DBE eligibility
- Prepare Personal Net Worth Statements
- Develop and present Personal Narratives
- Maintain supporting documentation
- Plan for future certification reviews
This information session is designed to help trade partners understand these changes and prepare strategically.
Featuring Guest Speaker, Patti Olds, President of Kuniklo
Hosted by the Hensel Phelps Supplier Diversity Department, the session will be led by guest speaker Patti Olds. Olds is the president of Kuniklo, a nationally recognized firm specializing in DBE compliance strategy, certification support and regulatory guidance.
Olds has extensive experience advising DBE firms, state transportation agencies and industry stakeholders on DBE eligibility, documentation standards and audit preparedness. Her work focuses on helping firms move from assumption to defensible proof, strengthening compliance practices while positioning businesses for long-term success.
Her insight into the IFR and the DBE reevaluation process provides trade partners with practical, experience-based guidance rooted in real-world application.
What Attendees Will Learn
During the session, Patti Olds of Kuniklo will provide guidance on:
- Key elements of the IFR
- What to expect during a DBE Reevaluation
- Documentation best practices
- Common compliance challenges and how to address them
- Steps firms can take to strengthen their position
The presentation will focus on education and preparation. Whether a firm is currently certified as a DBE or is evaluating certification, the session will offer actionable insights to support informed decision-making.
Supporting DBE Trade Partners
Hensel Phelps continues to advance opportunities through its Supplier Diversity initiatives and outreach efforts. The company works to build strong, compliant partnerships with small businesses and DBE firms nationwide.
Trade partners interested in learning more about working with Hensel Phelps can visit:
DBEs and other small business trade partners are encouraged to register early and share the invitation with leadership and compliance team members. Hensel Phelps looks forward to facilitating this important discussion and continuing to strengthen partnerships across its trade partner network.
