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Month: February 2024

What Is The Leading Cause Of Death In Construction?

Posted on by Team Jason Schroeder
Read 7 min

What is the leading cause of death in construction? It may surprise you. But in this blog post, we’re going to talk about that. And in this blog post, once you know the leading cause of death in construction, we can do something about it. 

It’s so important, you’ll know the main causes, you’ll know the contributing factors, and you’ll specifically know what we can do about it ourselves. And I’ll give you some references for some tools that you can use to help me fix it. All of us fix it tomorrow. So if you’re into that, if you’re into making a difference in this industry, then stay with us on this blog post. 

You know what I really like about construction, I really, and sometimes I lose people with this, but stay with me. Construction is a whole lot more like war than we think. Right? If you think about it, in war, you’re fighting for a cause. We do the same thing in construction. 

In war, we’re protecting the innocent, those wonderful women and men in the services are protecting the innocent, guess what? We get to do the same thing. In construction. In war, you get to work with a band of brothers or sisters, a team and really form a cohesive unit. 

Guess what, we get to do that same thing in construction, the passion, the drive, the difficulty, the experience, the excitement of construction is so awesome. And the only thing we’re fighting against and construction is waste, disrespect, and variation. We don’t have to kill anyone. It is a wonderful industry,

What Is The Leading Cause Of Death In Construction?

this industry also has some contributing factors that lead to the leading cause of death. And so I’m going to tell you right now, what is it? And let me ask you a question. If 1000 people die in 2023, or four, whenever you’re reading this blog post, are five if 1000 people in the US in construction die by electrocution, caught between falls, confined space accidents, electrocution, if 1000 people die, how many people die from mental illness, or specifically, death by suicide?

How many people, just take a guess. If you guessed five times, or gave me the number 5000. That is the number of people that will die by suicide in construction in a year in the US. 

And so this is tragic. We and this is not a dig at all, you go to a construction project, I bet you they’re going to have a toolbox talk on safety, they’re going to have a safety stand down, they’re going to have a lot of training and fall protection week, they’re going to have their safety manual, they’re going to have their site safety rules, they’re going to have their zero tolerance rules.

And yet, only 1000 People will die, which is way too many in construction in 2023, but 5000 people and that’s not extended, that’s not our friends and neighbors. That’s us, that’s people in construction, us, 5000 of us will die by suicide in the year 2023. It is the leading cause of death that I know of.

So one thing I like to say the concepts that we talked about on the elevate construction blog post on are YouTube channels, and specifically this channel are specifically designed to improve the environment for the women and men in this industry so that we don’t have this problem. 

And so I would invite you please like so that we can share this content far and wide. Please subscribe so that you can stay with us. And please join us in doing what we can all together to prevent an environment that would cause our add to the contributing factors of such hard numbers to understand. That’s my invitation to you. Let me just say a couple of things here

What To Understand About Death By Suicide

real quick. I am not advocating any kind of social stance or any kind of political stance, I’m telling you, I say death by suicide, because there is evidence that suggests that when somebody dies by suicide, there are contributing factors that may lean in the direction of that person not being in a balanced and well thought state of mind, meaning that not sure that it’s entirely the person’s fault. Not sure that hormonally and from a biochemical standpoint, that these people that fall victim to this horrible tragedy in all cases can prevent this.

And so when we say the word commit, that is a much different story than death by the contributing factors when compounded, meaning all of the things that a person experiences can put somebody into such a hopeless scenario.

And when they start to feel like it’s hopeless, and that other people would be better off without them, then that’s when death by suicide looks like a viable option. And so death by suicide, understanding that these people can be or are victims is a very important perspective to come from when we talk about this. So let’s talk about this in depth in further, let me give you some specific numbers.

Per the 2021, National Veteran Suicide Prevention Report, the Suicide Rates For Veterans & The Construction Industry

suicide rate for veterans was 31.6 per 100,000, the adjusted suicide rate for the same year in the US was 16.8 per 100,000. Everyone would agree that the numbers for the US as a national average, and veterans specifically are way too high. And that it is a tragedy. It’s hard to comprehend. Let me give you another statistic. The Centers for Disease Control, the CDC, has stated that their construction suicide rate is 53.2 per 100,000.

It’s even higher than that of veterans, regardless of how you feel about the comparison to the construction industry, and veterans whom I respect and love and appreciate. And again, I would say thank you for your service. Regardless of how you feel about the comparison, we would have to admit that both of these numbers are staggering. It is an absolute tragedy. And it’s heartbreaking. So let me tell you specifically

Leading Causes Of Death By Suicide In Construction

some of the leading causes. In some specific studies about the contributing factors that lead to death by suicide, it was listed that some of the specific causes ranged from working overtime shift work working out of state or away from home, meaning mobile, or more transient workforces, or leaders, meaning when you have to work away from home.

When construction workers are disrespected in harsh conditions, which leads to the abuse and sometimes damage of their body, which then leads to opioid addictions, which then leads to marital problems, which then leads to divorce, which then leads to child custody battles, which then leads to financial difficulties, which then leads in addition to the myriad of other things that can happen in our industry, because of failed systems and failed planning and a lack of respect for workers.

If you want to learn more we have:

-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here) 
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here) 
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.

On we go!

Posted in All

How To Be A Successful Construction Project Manager

Posted on by Team Jason Schroeder
Read 7 min

In this blog post, you’ll know how to be more effective, focus more, and get distracted less. So here’s a question, what are the three things that every project manager must do? How can you make sure you don’t get distracted from your role? 

Where should your focus be doing or leading? And what is your most important meeting for the day or week? And what are the three things that you must take time to do in your role, we’re going to talk about all of these in this blog post now. Alright, so this is my jam. I love this. And just so you know. 

Common Challenges Construction Project Managers Face

The biggest plague that’s affecting our project managers and construction today is email, back-to-back meetings, and batching work and being distracted, I literally go around the country and like, see PMS, God bless them. 

They’re such good people, but they are victimized by back-to-back meetings, never being able to get things done, victimized by too many emails and becoming professional email answers and victimized by distractions. I don’t want that for you. And so, I have shown you the key concepts of how to be a successful project manager and another blog post, we’re going to take a little bit different spin on this one today and cover some very specific things that you can do to be successful.

Importance Of Having The Right Systems

So first and foremost, I want to bring your mind to something that’s brilliant that we don’t talk about a lot in our industry, you must have the systems that create the capacity for you to gain additional capability. And it’s really a cycle, meaning if you get additional capability and training, then you’re able to have a better system, more capacity, more capacity to learn to get capability, better systems, and then it just keeps running. 

And so you must have the right systems, you must have the right schedule, you must have these things that I’m about to tell you and place to even be able to implement on your project. So here are the three.

3 Things Every Project Managers Must Do & Have

The three things that every project manager must do and must have, number one personal organization, it’s got to happen. We’ll talk to you about that a little bit later. But you have to have a way to keep a to-do list and to track your Leader Standard Work and plan those in day tight compartments and to really organize your day in an effective manner.

Using one piece flow with buffers. Second, you must have good team health. That means that your project team is able to work together cohesively, everyone knows where the project is headed, the plan and schedule is visible for all and everyone covers for each other so that not one single person who gets burnt out. Third, you got to get that team rallied behind that team balance and health effort.

Importance Of Having A Personal Organization System

Which means step number one, remarkable team meetings. If I can get and you can get your team in a meeting focused with the right agenda, you can do anything you can conquer the world, all you got to do is get the right team and the right meetings, and you can jam out. 

So every week, weekly team meeting, here’s what you’re going to want to do, you’re going to want to build that team, really engage that team in the five behaviors, and you’re going to want to rally them around a specific milestone. With that, then you’ll make all planning systems scheduled procurement logistics zone maps, everything visual on the wall, according to the last planner system. 

So, they see as a group, knows as a group and act as a group. Now that the team has rallied behind that you’re going to have conversations every week about PTO, about coverage about filling in for each other about keeping on schedule and keeping ahead of the deliverables and milestones that you have on that schedule. And that is the only way to get everybody working in the same direction to where everything doesn’t fall only on you.

If I had to go build a house, or do some crazy effort, or clean up an entire like church activity at the gymnasium, I wouldn’t start doing it myself. I would organize a team. Many hands make light work. So you have to have the personal organization and organize yourself.

You have to have team balance and health and organize the team, you have to have the plan in the alignment to get the whole team working together collaboratively because many hands make light work that will give you additional capacity to do your job as a project manager. Those are the three key components that every project manager must ensure is implemented on their projects. 

And so we have blog posts on this channel about how that will link you to that teach you how to have a personal organization system but let me say this, if you don’t keep it to-do list that’s going to hurt. If you don’t have leaders down Your work every week, that’s going to hurt. If you’re not time blocking your days to focus, do one piece flow that’s going to hurt.

If you don’t have buffers between meetings and tasks, that’s going to hurt, you are going to waste 1 to 4 and sometimes, in some cases six hours a day by batching work and losing time, from context switching, that means you’re going to feel at the end of the day that you can’t go home, because you’re behind schedule, and your family and your health is going to suffer. 

So, you have to have a personal organization system, it’s a must for every project manager. Okay. And so one concept of alignment is like we can all be aligned around these blog posts and like and subscribe. I mean, the more we do that, the algorithm then spreads that to more people, more information, and the entire industry starts to have more and better standards on how to execute work. Wouldn’t it be cool, like and subscribe right now.

Benefits Of Takt Planning For Master Schedules

From a scheduling standpoint, always you will have a tax plan for your master schedule. This allows you as the project manager to not only see the flow of the project, your contractual commitments, how to manage the team, when billing should be done, labor counts, but it also says when you’re going to need certain information and certain materials to the project site, you as a project manager will always encourage and want your superintendents to implement the last planner system, which means that your trades are now bought in to the direction of your project. And now requesting the key things they need to feed that short interval scheduling process.

How To Use A Scrum Board Productively As A Project Manager

As a project manager, you will always have a scrum board with columns that say backlog sprint backlog in progress and complete that board is where you garner roadblocks and to do this that was for the team so and the project engineers can enable the field. So as your last planner system is where I love this, this is great as your last planner system is working.

If you want to learn more we have:

-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here) 
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here) 
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.

On we go!

Posted in All

How to Document Project Risks

Posted on by Team Jason Schroeder
Read 4 min

In this Blog, we’re diving into a habit that can transform your approach to project management – documenting risks. While the topic might seem mundane, the insights shared in this post could save your project. Join me in exploring this specific aspect that often gets overlooked. 

The Key to Excellence in Construction

The cornerstone of excellence in any business or operational endeavor lies in the ability to identify, discuss, and solve problems. This principle, often abbreviated as IDs, is particularly crucial in the realm of construction. Unfortunately, human behavior tends to incentivize keeping problems hidden. However, on a construction project, avoiding problems doesn’t make them disappear; it only ensures they’ll resurface later, impacting the project’s outcome.

A great construction project thrives on transparency, bringing all problems and mistakes to the surface. This includes identifying risks, discussing them openly as a team, and collectively finding solutions. This blog post will guide you on the habit of using IDs – a practice that can significantly contribute to the success of your construction project.

How to Identify Risks While Doing Your Daily Habits

The three habits of a successful builder – studying drawings, reviewing schedules, and conducting project walks – form the foundation of daily routines. Beyond their apparent purposes, these habits are designed to trigger actions and, importantly, identify risks. Let’s explore how each habit contributes to the overall risk management process.

  1. Studying Drawings: This habit is not just about understanding the project’s visual aspects but also triggering actions. Risks identified during drawing study sessions should be promptly addressed and logged.
  2. Reviewing Schedules: Scheduling is not merely about understanding timelines; it’s about triggering actions related to labor, equipment, and potential pre-construction meetings. Risks found in the schedule should be acknowledged and documented.
  3. Project Walks: On-site walks are not just for exercise; they serve to trigger actions. Whether it’s instructing a trade partner or addressing a specific issue, project walks can uncover risks that need documentation.

How to Create & Use a Risk & Opportunity Register

To effectively manage risks, it’s essential to have a centralized location for documentation. The risk and opportunity register, created during pre-construction, acts as the repository for identified risks. This register should be regularly reviewed in team meetings, with clear ownership assigned to each risk for mitigation or removal.

How to Document Risks in Your Schedule

Your project schedule is not just a timeline; it’s a tool for proactive project management. Risks identified during the planning phase can be logged directly into the schedule. This ensures that the entire team is aware of potential challenges and can work collaboratively to address them.

How to Document Risks in Your Budget

Financial considerations play a significant role in risk management. Risks, especially those with potential financial impacts, should find a place in your budget. By forecasting and projecting these risks, the team gains a clear understanding of their consequences, fostering motivation for proactive risk mitigation.

How to Document Risks in Your Exhibits

Exhibits accompanying GMP submissions and bid packages are valuable communication tools. Including risks in these exhibits ensures that all stakeholders are aware of potential challenges associated with the project. This transparency encourages collaborative problem-solving.

How to Document Risks in Your List of Assumptions & Clarifications

In addition to standard assumptions and clarifications, consider creating a dedicated section for risks in your project documentation. Clearly state the assumptions around risk mitigation, making it an integral part of the overall project plan.

How to Document Risks in Your Planning Boards

Visible planning boards in your conference room serve as daily reminders of project status. Risks identified during daily huddles can be prominently displayed on these boards, fostering regular discussions and collaborative solutions.

In conclusion, understanding where and how to document project risks is a critical aspect of successful construction project management. Embracing the habit of identifying, discussing, and solving risks as a team will contribute to a more transparent, collaborative, and ultimately successful project outcome.

If you want to learn more we have:

-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here) 
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here) 
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.

On we go!

Posted in All

What Is A Foreman On A Construction Site?

Posted on by Team Jason Schroeder
Read 7 min

In this blog post, we’re gonna give you an overview so you know exactly what a foreman is and how to utilize their unique capabilities. One of the main things I want you to get out of this blog post is why this role is so crucial and important.

By the end of this blog post, you will know the main focus of a foreman on the project site, what the most important skills are for foremen in general, and some of the things you should never do as a foreman. So I’m gonna go on a little bit of a rant here, you’re gonna love it. So let’s get this going. Let’s go through the content. 

What Is A Foreman On A Construction Site?

Known as crew leaders, foremen are, in my opinion, the most valuable role on a construction project. Superintendents plan and prepare work, project managers lead the overall project, and engineers do their thing. But the rubber meets the road with foremen because they are the sometimes most senior but the most experienced leader, worker in the group that has the leadership capabilities to plan and prepare work and make sure that the work of the crew is cohesive and going in right the first time. 

This role is crucial. I’ve always said that. Yes, superintendents add value. Yes, engineers enable the work. Yes, the project manager leads but that project rises or falls based on the ability of the foremen; they are our heroes. They are the people that get it done. This is where it starts and stops. They are amazing.

Think about it like this. Who else makes money on a construction project? For the superintendents out there, shout out to y’all over on the left side. Right. Okay. So all of you, would anybody pay for your schedule? Would anybody pay for your daily reports? If it wasn’t for the work? No. Okay. All right.

So tell you project managers, project engineers on the right side over here. Okay. So all of you, would an owner pay for a pay application by itself or an RFI by itself or submittal by itself not going to happen, you get where I’m going, all the foremen that are everywhere on our project, supervising work, they and the workers they oversee, make the money.

When they’re putting in the work, you can just hear that touching that like, you can just see dollars just falling from the sky. The rest of us are non-value-add but necessary overhead. Like that’s just it. I mean, I love you. And I’m glad you’re here with me.

How Foremen Plan & Remove Roadblocks In Construction Projects

Foremen look ahead. So a lot of the foremen in our construction industry will be like, “Oh, I come to the job site or I’ll start doing my work with the crew. Oh, I hit a roadblock. I’m out see a piece I’m out.” That’s not how we do it. Everybody, the work of the foreman and the work of the crew leaders happen weeks and months before the activity ever happens. 

With the pull plan, the pre-construction meeting, the Make ready look-ahead schedule, the Weekly Work Plan, and the day planning of the work itself. If a foreman came to the project site and just started then and went home and there was a roadblock, why did that roadblock happen? A foreman and the superintendent should be looking out ahead. That is their role. That is how a good foreman does work. They prepare and plan the work.

Here’s something I want to tell you average workers. And I will say the average of the bottom 25% of workers in our industry, if you take the average of their production are more productive than our bid units, and the top 25% of workers in our industry are usually at least two times as productive if not four as productive as the lower 25%. 

So if that’s true Jason, why aren’t making production to my numbers? It’s because of stops and restarts, it’s because of roadblocks that weren’t seen or removed out ahead of time. And so once we get supers and foremen out from behind the eight ball where they can’t do anything, out from being a victim of circumstance and being a planter and the lowercase g, god of their world, that’s when the construction industry is really going to take off and we’re gonna have floatable work and really make production. 

So what we have to do is get Foremen from this reactive mode out to the proactive mode. You can tell a good foreman when it’s no longer a response to circumstance, but a creation of circumstance.

How Foremen Are Teachers In Construction Projects

Foremen are teachers. Like I hear everybody in the industry was super sad for him to be like, “We don’t have any trained workforce anymore. Like nobody knows what they’re doing well, who was supposed to train him? Do we think some magic fairy from someplace was gonna go to train him for that it would just magically pour into their brains? All of us old timers, I’m only 41. But I consider myself an old tire.

But all of the old timers I go when I was younger, I figured it out. No, you didn’t. We all had people mentoring us, or at least we had somebody yelling at us. Now we just ignore people. Like we don’t even yell at him. Because we’re not allowed to. Like, we just ignore people. And I think some people were like, well forget it. I can’t even yell at him. So I might as well not say anything. Well, nobody’s getting taught.

So superintendent foreman, foreman, you are the main teacher, you should have the ability, whether it’s to train your crew, or to give a presentation or to give a talk, we’re gonna teach a university class, you are a professional teacher, and you are a professional communicator.

And I was like, what did you do yesterday? Well, I helped the crew installed, what nail did you hammer? And what screw did you screw? And what thing did you build? Well, I didn’t build anything. I don’t pound nails anymore. I supervise the crew. Okay, well, well, then what did you do?

 Well, I talked to him and I gave it, did what you do what you, you cook, you communicate? What was that? You know. And so like, I make the point, you are a professional communicator, you are a professional teacher, that is your job. 

Not only do you plan and prepare work, but you communicate, you are a professional teacher communicator. And those are the main roles of a construction foreman or a crew leader. And that is something that if we get our minds wrapped around, everything would change around us. 

If you want to learn more we have:

-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here) 
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here) 
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.

On we go!

Posted in All

How To Do Takt Planning

Posted on by Team Jason Schroeder
Read 4 min

In this blog post, we’re going to delve into the intricate world of Takt planning – a method revolutionizing the construction industry. First and foremost, let’s understand what Takt planning entails. Derived from the German word “Takt,” meaning rhythm or baton, Takt planning involves breaking down project schedules by location and zones, timed to a rhythmic beat. But why is Takt planning essential, and how can you get started? Let’s explore. 

What is Takt Planning?

Takt planning is the heartbeat of construction projects. It involves breaking down schedules into zones and orchestrating the flow of work in a rhythmic manner. Picture a train of trades moving seamlessly from one zone to another, synchronized to a predefined time beat. This systematic approach ensures work flows smoothly, leading to enhanced productivity and efficiency on construction sites.

How Zoning Works in Takt Planning

Zoning lies at the core of Takt planning. Imagine a construction site divided into distinct zones – each representing a phase of the project. From structural work to interiors and exteriors, every phase consists of zones through which trades move in a synchronized manner. By organizing work into zones and defining Takt times, project teams ensure a steady flow of work, minimizing delays and maximizing productivity.

General Process for Takt Planning

To embark on a successful Takt planning journey, understanding the process is crucial. It begins with identifying project milestones and phases, followed by delineating zones within each phase. Sequentially arranging trades to move through these zones according to takt times forms the backbone of Takt planning. By networking phases and conducting regular evaluations, project teams can harness the power of Takt planning as a production tool.

Importance of Takt Planning in Construction

Takt planning isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a game-changer in the construction realm. Unlike manufacturing plants where materials move through fixed stations, construction involves trades moving through zones. Takt planning ensures these trades flow seamlessly, preventing bottlenecks and optimizing productivity. By maintaining a balance between trade movement and zone allocation, takt planning safeguards project timelines and enhances overall efficiency.

How to Get Started with Takt Planning

Ready to embrace Takt planning? Begin by acquainting yourself with its fundamental principles. Sign up for training courses, explore resources, and engage with industry experts to kickstart your Takt planning journey. Start by focusing on interior spaces, level your zones based on work density, and ensure the right number of zones for optimal efficiency. Remember, Takt planning isn’t just a tool; it’s a mindset shift towards streamlined construction practices.

Important Things to Remember When Takt Planning

As you delve deeper into Takt planning, keep certain key considerations in mind. Avoid common pitfalls like rigid Takt times, unlevelled zones, and inadequate buffers. Embrace the concept of trade flow and zone optimization to unlock the full potential of Takt planning. Remember, successful Takt planning isn’t just about scheduling; it’s about fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration within project teams.

Benefits of Takt Planning

The benefits of Takt planning extend far beyond improved project timelines. By streamlining workflows and optimizing resource allocation, Takt planning empowers construction teams to deliver projects more efficiently. From cost savings to enhanced project management, the advantages of Takt planning are manifold. Embrace Takt planning today and embark on a journey towards construction excellence.

In conclusion, Takt planning isn’t just a methodology; it’s a paradigm shift reshaping the construction landscape. By embracing its principles and harnessing its potential, project teams can elevate their efficiency, productivity, and ultimately, their success in the dynamic world of construction. So, let’s march to the beat of Takt planning and pave the way for a brighter future in construction.

If you want to learn more we have:

-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here) 
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here) 
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.

On we go!

Posted in All

What Are The Benefits Of Being A Construction Worker?

Posted on by Team Jason Schroeder
Read 4 min

In this blog post, we’re going to delve into the numerous benefits of pursuing a career as a construction worker. While society often emphasizes the importance of a four-year college education, the construction industry offers a wealth of opportunities that shouldn’t be overlooked. Let’s explore why becoming a construction worker could be the pathway to a fulfilling and successful career. 

My Journey in Construction

With over 25 years of experience in the construction industry, I’ve climbed the ranks from a laborer to various leadership positions, including president of Elevate Construction and Lean Tact. My journey demonstrates that success in construction is not limited by the absence of a college degree but rather fueled by dedication, hard work, and a commitment to learning.

The Choice Between College and Experience

In a society that often prioritizes college education, it’s essential to recognize the value of gaining practical experience in the construction field. While college offers valuable opportunities, the construction industry provides an alternative pathway to success that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Opportunities for Advancement

Unlike traditional career paths, construction offers a dynamic range of opportunities for advancement. Starting as a laborer, you can progress through various trades and positions, including field engineering, project management, and even business ownership. The construction industry rewards those with a growth mindset and a dedication to learning.

Comparing Career Trajectories

Comparing the timelines and earning potentials between college-educated professionals and construction workers reveals compelling insights. While college graduates may face years of education and internships before entering their chosen field, construction workers can quickly advance and earn substantial incomes through practical experience and skill development.

The Security of a Trade

One of the most significant advantages of entering the construction industry is the security of having a trade to fall back on. In an ever-changing job market, possessing valuable skills in construction ensures stability and opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities.

Physical Fitness and Hands-On Experience

Working in construction offers the opportunity to stay physically fit and engaged in hands-on work. Unlike sedentary office jobs, construction workers enjoy the satisfaction of building tangible structures and making a visible impact in their communities.

Embracing the Opportunities in Construction

The construction industry has provided me with countless opportunities for growth, learning, and personal fulfillment. I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of pursuing a career in construction and encourage others to consider it as a viable and rewarding option.

Continued Learning and Growth

Whether you choose to pursue a college education or enter the construction industry directly, the key is to prioritize continuous learning and personal growth. By remaining open to new opportunities and experiences, you can unlock the full potential of your career in construction.

Exploring Resources for Construction Careers

To further explore the possibilities within the construction industry, I’ve included links to valuable resources below. These resources offer insights into construction management, field engineering, and career development strategies that can help you succeed in this dynamic field.

In conclusion, I urge you to consider the opportunities available in the construction industry and keep an open mind as you explore your career options. Whether you’re drawn to the hands-on nature of construction work or the potential for advancement and growth, the construction industry offers a pathway to success that is both rewarding and fulfilling.

If you want to learn more we have:

-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here) 
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here) 
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.

On we go!

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What Are The Duties Of A Construction Superintendent?

Posted on by Team Jason Schroeder
Read 3 min

In this blog post, we’ll dissect the multifaceted role of a construction superintendent, shedding light on their core responsibilities and key areas of control. Whether you’re a seasoned superintendent or aspiring to become one, understanding these duties is paramount to success in the construction industry. 

Controlling the Flow: Flexible Scheduling

The cornerstone of a superintendent’s role lies in maintaining a flexible schedule that facilitates seamless workflow for trades. Whether employing PM tact, last planner, or Scrum methodologies, ensuring trade flow is paramount. A superintendent’s ability to master scheduling techniques is instrumental in optimizing productivity and project efficiency.

Prioritizing Safety Above All

Safety isn’t just a priority; it’s a core value that supersedes all other considerations. As a superintendent, ensuring a safe and secure work environment for all personnel is non-negotiable. From enforcing PPE protocols to conducting regular safety inspections, the superintendent serves as the guardian of workplace safety.

Upholding Standards of Quality

Quality is the bedrock of every construction project, and superintendents play a pivotal role in upholding these standards. From meticulous inspections to overseeing installations, maintaining quality control is central to the superintendent’s duties. Delegating responsibilities in this realm is not an option; it’s a mandate that demands personal oversight and accountability.

Mastering Material Procurement

Effective procurement of materials is essential for project success, and superintendents bear the responsibility of ensuring timely delivery and availability of resources. Collaborating with project managers and engineers, superintendents must navigate the supply chain to eliminate bottlenecks and streamline procurement processes.

Empowering Execution in the Field

Execution in the field is where the superintendent’s leadership truly shines. From planning and preparation to on-site coordination, the superintendent sets the tone for project execution. By fostering a culture of accountability and excellence, superintendents empower their teams to deliver results that exceed expectations.

What Superintendents Should Never Do

Fighting fires and micromanaging are antithetical to effective leadership. Superintendents must resist the temptation to intervene in every detail and instead focus on empowering their teams to excel independently. Delegating responsibilities wisely and maintaining a strategic focus are hallmarks of effective superintendent leadership.

Resources for Superintendents

In the description below, we’ve curated a selection of books and resources tailored specifically for construction superintendents. These invaluable resources cover a range of topics, from scheduling techniques to leadership principles, providing indispensable guidance for professionals at every stage of their career.

In conclusion, the role of a construction superintendent is as demanding as it is rewarding. By mastering the duties outlined in this blog post and leveraging the resources provided, superintendents can navigate the complexities of the construction landscape with confidence and competence. Here’s to the success and prosperity of all construction superintendents, past, present, and future.

If you want to learn more we have:

-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here) 
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here) 
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.

On we go!

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How To Reduce Waste On A Construction Site

Posted on by Team Jason Schroeder
Read 5 min

Waste is everywhere on a jobsite: waiting crews, extra trips, rework and dumpsters full of offcuts. Here’s how to see it and cut it, using Lean and a few practical site habits.

Short answer: Learn the 8 wastes, level the work to remove unevenness and overburden, and plan materials tightly: prefab where you can, order to size, sort and recycle scrap, track inventory, and run quick reflections after each task.

Waste not only harms the environment but also impacts our economy and sustainability efforts. Excess waste translates to lost resources, increased costs, and diminished productivity, making it vital to address waste effectively.

Understanding the Eight Wastes and Beyond

To begin, let’s explore the concept of waste in construction. Waste manifests in different ways, but broadly, it can be categorized into eight types:

  1. Overproduction
  2. Excess inventory
  3. Defects
  4. Motion
  5. Transportation
  6. Over-processing
  7. Waiting
  8. Underutilizing the genius of the team

Recognizing these eight wastes is paramount in Lean construction principles. By memorizing and understanding them, construction professionals can develop a keen eye to spot inefficiencies and take proactive measures to address them.

Overcoming Unevenness

Unevenness, another form of waste, pertains to disruptions in workflow and productivity. It encompasses issues like stops and restarts, delayed work, unlevel zones, and uneven crews. Addressing unevenness requires fostering a seamless flow of work, minimizing interruptions, and optimizing resource allocation across different stages of the project.

Tackling Overburden

Lean names three kinds of waste: muda (the eight wastes), mura (unevenness) and muri (overburden). Overburden happens when teams or resources are overwhelmed with tasks beyond their capacity. Signs of overburden include excessive overtime, fatigue, and lack of resources. Mitigating overburden involves prioritizing workload, providing adequate resources, and fostering a supportive work environment conducive to productivity and well-being.

Strategies for Waste Reduction

To effectively combat waste in construction, several strategies can be employed:

  1. Forward Planning: Proactive planning allows for the identification and mitigation of potential waste before it occurs.
  2. Consistent Communication: Establishing regular huddle sessions facilitates real-time feedback and collaboration among team members to address waste promptly.
  3. Post-Work Reflection: Conducting reflections after completing tasks enables teams to assess performance, identify waste, and implement corrective measures for future improvements.
  4. Monitoring Progress: Keeping a close watch on project timelines and milestones helps identify deviations and take corrective actions to minimize waste and ensure project success.

Practical Tips to Reduce Material Waste on Site

Here are some essential strategies for reducing material waste on your construction site:

  1. Proper Planning: Implementing proper planning through prefabrication and modularization can significantly minimize waste. By bringing pre-assembled components to the site, you reduce the amount of material that might otherwise be wasted. For instance, ordering drywall in lengths that match ceiling heights can help avoid unnecessary cuts.
  2. Material Selection: Choose materials with less packaging, more sustainable options, and those that are durable and require less maintenance. This not only helps reduce waste but also supports a more sustainable construction practice.
  3. Conducting Waste Audits: Perform waste audits to identify areas where waste is generated. By observing the flow of materials and pinpointing inefficiencies, you can create a feedback loop to enhance project management and minimize waste in future tasks.
  4. Sorting Waste: Implement a system to sort waste effectively. Create separate bins for recyclable materials, such as wood, metal, and drywall. Sorting allows for better recycling and reuse, ultimately leading to less waste. Plus, recycling scrap metal can even provide funds for team refreshments!
  5. Reuse and Repurpose Materials: Look for opportunities to reuse materials, particularly from renovations or demolitions. This might include salvaging bricks, fixtures, or historical elements that can be integrated into new projects, thus reducing the amount of waste produced.
  6. Effective Inventory Management: Ensure your inventory management is on point. Often, materials are lost on site, leading to unnecessary reorders. Maintaining an organized and accurately tracked inventory means you’ll order only what you need, reducing excess and waste.
  7. Training and Awareness: Invest in training and awareness programs for your team. Regular huddles can educate workers on sustainable practices and the importance of waste reduction, fostering a culture of responsibility towards resources.
  8. Continuous Communication: Effective communication is crucial. Regular updates about waste management practices can empower your team to identify wasteful behaviors and suggest improvements.

Conclusion

Reducing waste on construction sites is a continuous endeavor that requires vigilance, collaboration, and a commitment to Lean principles. By understanding the various forms of waste, implementing proactive measures, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, construction professionals can optimize productivity, streamline workflows, and deliver projects efficiently.

By implementing these strategies, you also contribute to a more sustainable future. Reducing waste means respecting both people and resources, creating a more efficient and eco-friendlier working environment.

If you want help building these habits on your projects, our superintendent coaching and Lean training can help your teams see waste and cut it.

FAQ

What are the 8 wastes in construction?

Overproduction, excess inventory, defects, motion, transportation, over-processing, waiting, and underutilizing the genius of the team. Lean also treats unevenness (mura) and overburden (muri) as waste.

How do you reduce material waste on site?

Plan materials tightly: prefabricate where you can, order to size (like drywall lengths that match ceiling heights), choose materials with less packaging, sort and recycle scrap, reuse salvaged materials, keep an accurate inventory so you don’t reorder lost material, and run waste audits.

If you want to learn more we have:

-Takt Virtual Training: (Takt Virtual Training)
-Check out our YouTube channel for more info: (Elevate Construction on YouTube)
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Elevate Construction Podcast)
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Training Programs and Certifications)
-The Takt Book: (The Takt Book on Amazon)

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction. As the company’s Founder and COO, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.

Posted in All

What Is Contingency In A Construction Budget?

Posted on by Team Jason Schroeder
Read 4 min

In construction budgeting, contingency is your ally. It’s the cushion you rely on to navigate through unforeseen circumstances and events that inevitably arise during a project. Managing contingency effectively is crucial for the success of any construction endeavor. In this blog post, we’ll delve into what contingency means, how it’s utilized, and strategies for managing it effectively. 

What Is Contingency in Construction Budgeting?

Contingency in construction budgeting refers to a portion of funds set aside to tackle unexpected conditions or events. It serves as a safety net against uncertainties that could impact the project financially. The primary purpose of contingency is to mitigate the financial risks that may arise during the course of construction, thereby safeguarding the overall project budget or guaranteed maximum price.

During my time as a project superintendent, understanding the projected contingency use was paramount. Projects typically designate a percentage for contingency, whether it’s 3%, 5%, 7%, or 10%. It’s important to know not only the total amount allocated for contingency but also the specific risks anticipated to utilize it.

Importance of Time & Scheduling Contingencies

Just as financial contingency is crucial, so too is time contingency. Time and scheduling contingencies must be factored into project planning. Without them, projects can encounter significant delays and cost overruns. Therefore, alongside financial contingencies, scheduling buffers are essential for successful project management.

Best Practices for Creating Financial Contingency in Construction

One of the best practices for establishing financial contingency involves conducting preconstruction risk analyses. By identifying potential risks and opportunities, project teams can better allocate contingency funds. Techniques such as Monte Carlo analysis can aid in evaluating risks comprehensively, providing insights into the possible financial implications.

How to Handle Risks in Construction

Risks in construction projects can be managed through proper planning, absorption, or coverage. Contingency comes into play when risks cannot be eliminated or absorbed. It acts as a financial buffer to cover unforeseen expenses arising from project uncertainties.

Contractors often project contingency use and maintain a projection sheet to allocate funds for potential change orders or unforeseen events. However, it’s crucial to not merely focus on the total contingency amount but to understand the projected utilization based on risk analysis.

Importance of Properly Allocating Contingencies in Construction

Proper allocation of contingencies requires meticulous planning and coordination among stakeholders. Contingencies should not be used indiscriminately but should be reserved for genuine unforeseen circumstances. Having buy-in from contractors, designers, and owners is essential to ensure contingency funds are utilized effectively.

Where to Use Contingencies

Contingencies can be utilized for a variety of purposes, including unforeseen site conditions, design changes, scope adjustments, weather delays, regulatory changes, material price fluctuations, labor cost changes, and more. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of potential contingency uses and to allocate funds accordingly.

Understanding the nuances of contingency management can provide project managers, superintendents, and construction professionals with the confidence and certainty needed to navigate complex projects successfully.

In conclusion, contingency management is a critical aspect of construction budgeting. By understanding what contingency entails, how it’s utilized, and employing effective management strategies, construction projects can mitigate financial risks and achieve greater certainty in budgeting and scheduling. With proper planning and allocation, contingency becomes not just a financial safeguard but a key component of project success.

 

If you want to learn more we have:

-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here) 
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here) 
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.

On we go!

Posted in All