September 2024 - Page 4 of 11 - Elevate Constructionist

How Do You Lead Yourself?

Posted on September 24, 2024September 24, 2024 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 9 min

In today’s fast-paced world, self-leadership is essential for accelerating your career. Understanding the type of leader you want to be, how you want to show up, and becoming receptive to feedback will not only help you grow but also enable your team to thrive. Let’s dive into the core concepts of self-leadership and how you can implement them to push your career forward.

What Being a Leader Really Means

Leadership isn’t just about guiding others; it starts with leading yourself. True career growth stems from serving and giving to others. It’s not about telling people what to do, but rather showing them the way through your actions, creating a positive environment, and fostering a culture of growth and energy. If you notice your team’s inefficiencies, they might reflect the habits of leadership. Your mindset shapes the culture around you. The best part? You can change it anytime by leading yourself first.

How to Lead Yourself

Being a leader to yourself means taking ownership of your personal growth. It involves setting clear goals, making key decisions for your future, and cultivating habits aligned with your values. Below are 11 actionable steps to become a better leader and accelerate your career:

1. Set Clear & Achievable Goals

Your career goals should be big, bold, and audacious, but break them down into achievable short-term milestones. A good starting point is setting 90-day goals. SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Relevant, Time-based) will keep you on track and provide a clear direction.

2. Develop Self-Awareness

Self-awareness is the foundation of growth. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses helps shape your leadership style. Personality profiles or feedback from trusted mentors and family can give you insights into areas where you need improvement and confirm where you already excel.

3. Take Initiative

No one will hand leadership to you; it’s something you have to take. Show your willingness to learn, grow, and push through challenges. Taking initiative means pushing through discomfort, seeking new skills, and striving for breakthroughs.

4. Practice Self-Discipline

Discipline is the key to mastering the small tasks that add up to big achievements. Whether it’s time management, personal organization, or self-care, the small habits you build extend into every area of leadership.

5. Develop a Learning Habit

Learning doesn’t stop after school. Leaders constantly update their skills, attend certifications, and stay informed about industry trends. Set aside time to read, attend conferences, or pursue further education to stay current.

6. Prioritize Your Well-Being

As a leader, you need to set an example by prioritizing your health. Make time for regular doctor’s visits, exercise, healthy eating, and stress management. A well-balanced leader leads a well-balanced team.

7. Set Clear Boundaries

Setting boundaries around work hours, personal time, and professional interactions ensures that you and your team maintain a healthy work-life balance. Demonstrate respect for your own limits, and your team will follow suit.

8. Ask for Feedback

Leaders improve by seeking regular feedback. Ask your team, mentors, or even family members where you can improve. Regular feedback keeps you grounded and aware of areas for improvement.

9. Stay Resilient

Resilience is essential to leadership. Emotional resilience and adaptability will help you recover quickly from setbacks. Learn to process feedback and hard situations in a way that helps you grow stronger.

10. Lead by Example

If you want something done, do it yourself first. Whether it’s adopting new systems, following policies, or cultivating habits, your team will mirror what you do. Be the leader you want your team to be.

11. Build the Team, Not Just the Task

As a leader, your priority should be developing the team, not just completing tasks. When you invest in the growth and development of your team, the outcomes will naturally follow.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a great leader starts with leading yourself. Prioritize your personal growth, model the behavior you want to see in others, and cultivate habits that align with your goals. The better you lead yourself, the more your team and career will benefit. If you need further guidance on leadership, feel free to reach out for additional resources and training. Embrace the journey of self-leadership and watch your career soar!

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!

What Education Do You Need For Construction?

Posted on September 24, 2024September 24, 2024 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 8 min

Are you curious about how to break into the construction industry and what kind of education is necessary? This blog will guide you through the essential steps to kickstart your construction career, as well as the importance of experience and the key to ensuring long-term career growth. Stay tuned to discover more!

How Can You Get Your First Break in Construction?

One of the most common questions I receive is, “How do I get my first shot in the construction industry?” Many people wonder what kind of education or experience is required to enter this field. Let’s take a look at the current state of the construction industry to better understand the challenges and opportunities available.

The Current State of the Construction Industry

The construction industry is facing significant challenges. Due to economic shifts, population changes, and global supply chain issues, North America needs to increase its production capacity. However, we are struggling with a massive labor shortage. For every five people retiring from the construction sector, only one person is entering. This shortage is creating a high demand for workers, yet the industry isn’t recruiting or training effectively enough to fill the gap. Despite this, many companies still have stringent hiring requirements, often demanding years of experience and advanced qualifications, which don’t always align with the current labor market. The reality is, if you’re interested in construction, companies need you, but the industry’s approach to hiring might not reflect that yet.

What Education Do You Need for Construction?

The truth is, you don’t necessarily need a degree to be successful in construction. Many individuals in this field are highly successful without formal education. However, having a diploma or certificate can sometimes be the key to getting hired by a company. Here’s a breakdown of your options:

High School Diploma or GED: At a minimum, most construction jobs will require a high school diploma or GED. This is an essential qualification to get your foot in the door.
Associate’s Degree: If you want to demonstrate that you can handle challenging work and meet academic expectations, an associate’s degree can be beneficial. It can help show potential employers that you’re capable of completing tasks and following through on commitments.
Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree in construction management or a related field is often preferred for higher-level roles, such as project engineers, assistant project managers, or assistant superintendents. This degree can open doors to internships and entry-level positions, which can lead to career advancement.
Certifications and Apprenticeships: Professional certifications and on-the-job training, like apprenticeships, are invaluable for gaining practical experience. If you choose not to pursue a college degree, apprenticeships or certifications are a great way to learn hands-on skills while working your way up in the industry.

How to Present Your Experience

If you have relevant experience, whether from another industry or from informal work like building with your family, make sure to present it in a way that aligns with the construction field. For example, if you led a construction crew or managed a project, describe those roles with industry-relevant language on your resume and LinkedIn profile. This ensures recruiters understand the full scope of your experience.

Key Tips to Succeed in Construction

Get Your Foot in the Door: Whether through an apprenticeship, internship, or even an entry-level position, the key is to get into a construction company. Once you’re in, work hard, take on additional responsibilities, and impress your supervisors to climb the ranks.
Keep Learning: Construction is an ever-evolving field. Make sure you’re always learning, whether through formal education, certifications, or self-directed learning. If your company isn’t offering training, seek it out yourself.
Be Persistent: Whether you’re starting out as a laborer or an assistant, persistence is key. By consistently volunteering for new tasks and showing a strong work ethic, you can position yourself for promotions and greater opportunities.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

How To Be A Great Foreman

Posted on September 24, 2024September 26, 2024 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 10 min

In this blog, we’re going to discuss key soft skills that are essential for becoming an outstanding foreman. If you’ve been following our previous blogs on the processes that foremen should follow, you’re already on the right track. Today, we will dive into what it takes to truly excel as a foreman and highlight 11 things that should be avoided at all costs.

Whether you’re looking to improve your skills or become a more effective leader for your team, you’ve come to the right place!

My Experience as a Foreman

Before we get started, I want to let you know that I’ve been where you are. I worked my way up in the trades without formal schooling, starting as a craft worker and later moving into roles like field engineer and superintendent. My career has revolved around working with foremen, and I understand the ins and outs of the role. We’ve even co-written a book, Elevating Construction Foreman, with industry experts, which compiles advice from foremen on the ground. So, rest assured, the advice I’m sharing with you is based on real-world experiences.

Your Role as a Foreman Matters

First things first, this blog is about YOU. It’s not a criticism—it’s a rallying cry. As a foreman, you hold the most crucial role on a construction project. The success of a project rises or falls with your performance. You deserve the training, support, and mindset to excel. So, let’s dive into the steps that will help you become a better leader.

Step 1: Establish Your Identity

Many people get into construction by chance, but you should never feel like you’re “stuck.” Construction is a field that requires excellence. Leading a team through complex job sites and navigating new environments is no small feat. So, think about your identity as a foreman—do you want to stay in this role, or are you aiming to become a superintendent? Either path is fine, but you need to frame your mindset around being excellent at what you do. Embrace your leadership role, and know that you are amazing!

Step 2: Map Out Your Goals

Where do you want to go in your career? Do you want to be a general foreman, superintendent, or even lead your own company? Whatever your goal is, it needs to be mapped out clearly. Knowing where you want to go provides the intrinsic motivation to excel in your current role. When you understand your career path, everything else—like planning, worker training, and team connection—will fall into place.

Step 3: Mindset is Everything

Your results are a reflection of your mental setpoint. In The Secrets to a Millionaire Mind, it’s explained that your income, position, and even project success are tied to your mindset. Whether you feel stuck or are thriving, your mindset plays a crucial role. If you want better results—whether it’s a higher wage, cleaner job site, or more respect in your role—it all starts with how you think. Adopt a growth mindset, and surround yourself with people who push you to be better.

Step 4: 11 Things to NEVER Do as a Foreman

If you’re serious about becoming the best foreman possible, here are 11 things you should avoid:

Never hide mistakes. Be transparent and honest.
Don’t harass anyone. This includes inappropriate jokes or comments. It’s unprofessional and beneath you.
Avoid telling racist or inappropriate jokes. It will cap your success.
Never act disrespectfully. Respect and connection are key to your leadership.
Don’t show up late. Punctuality is a sign of professionalism.
Avoid working intoxicated. Always be alert and focused.
Never bully or haze anyone. Psychological safety is essential for your team’s success.
Work safely, always. Follow all safety guidelines and ensure your team does the same.
Don’t lie or act without integrity. Your word and actions matter.
Avoid unethical or immoral behavior. This will impact your long-term success.

Step 5: You Are the Average of Your Closest Friends

The people you surround yourself with influence your thoughts and actions. If you’re aiming for success, align yourself with people who will elevate and support you.

Step 6: Own Your Career

No one else is responsible for your success—you are. If you want a promotion, more training, or opportunities, you must ask for them. Showcase your skills and take charge of your career path.

Step 7: Build Great Habits

Successful foremen cultivate habits that lead to great results. From punctuality to clear communication, habits are the foundation of your professional life.

Step 8: Stay Organized

A well-organized foreman is a productive one. Keep a to-do list and prioritize tasks to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Step 9: Improve Your Communication and Appearance

People often judge based on appearance, handwriting, and how you speak. Improving these aspects of yourself will propel you forward in your career.

Step 10: Have a Great Attitude

Positivity is contagious. A foreman with a positive attitude inspires their team and gets the best results.

Step 11: Take Care of Your Health

Your health directly impacts your ability to lead. Make time for exercise, doctor appointments, and wellness routines to stay at the top of your game.

Conclusion: Becoming a Great Foreman

By following these steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can elevate your career and become a truly great foreman. Remember, these concepts are just the beginning—implement them, and you’ll see remarkable growth in both your personal and professional life.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

What Is A PDCA/Deming Cycle?

Posted on September 24, 2024September 24, 2024 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 9 min

In this blog, you’ll learn the keys to implementing a continuous improvement system and why it’s vital for your organization. There are two essential components every continuous improvement program must have to truly succeed, and you’re going to love hearing about them. So stick around for a fantastic breakdown because we’re about to dive right in. First, let me start by saying there’s a lot of discussion in the industry about continuous improvement, and that’s a great thing! We’re hearing terms like “lean” and how it’s all about eliminating waste and focusing on continuous progress. However, there are some crucial details that can elevate your approach. So, if you want to go beyond general ideas and understand how to actually apply these principles, you’re in the right place.

What is Continuous Improvement?

Continuous improvement isn’t just about making small, incremental changes—though that’s part of it. It’s also about making strategic changes and building a mindset, a habit, and a way of operating. It’s essential for staying ahead in the market, delighting your clients, and improving your processes, which in turn boosts your profits.

Respect for People: A Core Principle

A successful continuous improvement system starts with respect for people. It’s not just about leadership making decisions and forcing them on the workforce. Continuous improvement involves engaging with your team, particularly those on the front lines, who are most familiar with the work processes. The best ideas often come from the ground up. So, respect their feedback and ideas, and consider their input seriously. Continuous improvement should always be collaborative.

Go to the Place of Work

Another important principle is “Gemba,” a Japanese term meaning to go to the place where work is being done. By observing the process in real time, you’ll gain a better understanding of the real issues and areas for improvement. Taiichi Ohno’s method of standing in an “Ono Circle” for hours or days until the true issues become apparent is a perfect example of this.

Stability is Key

To implement a continuous improvement system, your work environment must be stable and organized. Nothing can be improved in chaos. As Paul Akers teaches, stability is foundational for progress. Without a stable environment, any attempt to improve will likely fail.

Standardization: The Foundation of Improvement

Alongside stability, you need standards. Standardization ensures that everyone knows how things should be done. This clarity allows for more effective improvements and easy identification of what’s working or not. Continuous improvement is built on a foundation of standardized processes.

Eliminate Wastes

With stability and standardization in place, you can focus on eliminating waste—whether it’s overproduction, excess inventory, or motion. Recognizing and removing these inefficiencies is crucial for improving your systems and adding value.

Follow PDCA: Plan, Do, Check, Act

PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act) is a cyclical process for continuous improvement. You start with a plan, execute it, check the results, and then act on what you’ve learned to improve further. Empower your employees to follow this process themselves, giving them the autonomy to make improvements without waiting for top-down directives.

Focus on the Customer

All improvements should be aimed at enhancing customer satisfaction. Continuous improvement is not just about making changes for the sake of it; it’s about delivering what your customer needs and aligning your improvements with their expectations.

Keep a Long-Term Focus

Finally, keep a long-term focus. Continuous improvement is about making steady progress over time, not solving everything overnight. Break big goals into smaller, manageable tasks, and you’ll be amazed at how much progress you make over time.

The Two Keys to Continuous Improvement

Without a stable environment and a customer focus, continuous improvement will fail. These two elements are the bread in your continuous improvement sandwich. Without them, no matter how hard you try, your system won’t work effectively.

Quick Tips to Get Started:

Clarify Accountability: Ensure every employee knows what they’re responsible for in the value chain to the customer.
Lead by Example: If you want a culture of continuous improvement, demonstrate it yourself as a leader.
Reward Innovation: Recognize and celebrate employees who innovate and contribute to improvement.
Issue Challenges: Set specific challenges for teams to solve and improve processes.
Follow the Paul Akers Method: Start each day with a quick 5S process, where at least one person shares their daily improvement.
Tie Innovation to Promotions: Make continuous improvement a criterion for raises and promotions.

By applying these principles, you’ll not only implement a continuous improvement system, but you’ll also foster a culture that continuously strives to do better.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

What Is Percent Plan Complete In Construction?

Posted on September 24, 2024September 24, 2024 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 8 min

In this blog, we’ll explore the concept of Percent Plan Complete (PPC) in construction, how to use it correctly, where it fits into the construction process, what the real target should be, and how to achieve that target. If you’re here to learn about optimizing PPC, you’re in the right place.

Essential Components of the Last Planner System

In the Last Planner System, there are three core components: deliverables, meetings/huddles, and behaviors.

Deliverables: These include the master schedule, pull plan, six-week make-ready look ahead, weekly work plan, and percent plan complete tracking. Each component helps track how well commitments are being met.
Meetings and Huddles: Weekly trade partner tactical meetings, look-ahead planning sessions, and daily planning huddles are crucial to ensure that work stays on track.
Behaviors: Collaboration, commitment, and respect among trade partners and foremen are key to the success of the Last Planner System. The foremen, as the last planners, play a vital role in maintaining the workflow.

What is Percent Plan Complete?

Percent Plan Complete (PPC) is derived from the weekly work plan. It measures how well commitments were met. In simple terms, it’s the percentage of planned activities completed as promised. For example, if you have 10 tasks planned and complete 8, your PPC would be 80%. This metric reflects how well the construction project aligns with its planned commitments.

Common PPC Targets in Construction

In typical Last Planner System practices, the target PPC is around 80-85%. While this might seem like a reasonable target, I strongly believe that the goal should be 100%. Here’s why: Many believe that hitting 100% means trade partners are sandbagging, or padding their schedules to ensure success. However, I argue that aiming for 80% creates variation, chaos, and distraction. If we’re going to build trust within the team, we should target 100% and rely on accurate planning.

Why We Should Target 100% for PPC

The ideal target for PPC should be 100%. If you’re using the Takt production system (which I recommend), you’ll have properly sequenced zones, a clear plan, and minimal risk of sandbagging. With the right pull planning, trade flow, and phase planning, 100% PPC becomes achievable. By doing so, you remove unnecessary variation, and the system works more smoothly. Missed activities should be rare, and any missed targets should be tracked as variances for future analysis.

Common Variances in PPC

When activities don’t go as planned, it’s important to track variances. Common causes for variances include:

Scheduled Delays
Scope Changes
Resource Issues
Unforeseen Conditions
Work Interruptions
Poor Productivity
Quality Issues

Tracking these variances helps identify the most frequent issues, enabling teams to take corrective actions and countermeasures to improve project outcomes.

How to Track Variances and Create Countermeasures

If an activity was not completed as planned, mark it as a variance. Over time, you’ll notice patterns in these variances, which can be documented in a chart to identify the most frequent challenges. Conducting root cause analysis on these issues is crucial for improving future performance.

Common Roadblocks and Constraints in Construction

Roadblocks are issues that can be anticipated and removed to ensure a smooth project flow. These include:

RFI not answered
Layout issues
Missing materials or equipment
Crew not ready
Miscommunication
Safety concerns

On the other hand, constraints are permanent or semi-permanent challenges that must be worked around. Examples include:

Lack of proper work sequencing
Unleveled labor counts
Site constraints
Logistical bottlenecks

By identifying and addressing both roadblocks and constraints, you can create a more efficient workflow.

How to Effectively Prevent Problems

PPC is a lagging indicator, meaning it tells you how well you performed after the fact. To prevent issues before they occur, you need a robust roadblock removal system and a constraint optimization system. Looking six weeks ahead and creating weekly work plans are vital steps to avoid these problems and improve your PPC.

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

What Is A Project Milestone?

Posted on September 24, 2024October 16, 2024 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 9 min

In this blog, we’re going to dive into the concept of project milestones—what they are, why they are essential, and how to effectively manage them. Project milestones are often just as crucial as the final completion date, providing checkpoints that guide you through the process.

We’ll explore the different types of milestones, their significance, and how to ensure each milestone is properly structured to keep your project on track. So, let’s get started.

What Are Project Milestones in Construction?

In the context of construction, milestones are critical points in a project’s timeline where significant events or tasks must be completed. These could range from topping out a structure, achieving a key handoff, or celebrating a major team accomplishment. Milestones serve as markers to track progress, similar to running a race where you check your pace every mile.

An interesting concept from the book How Big Things Get Done is the idea of tracking “inch-stones” or shorter increments toward milestones. This allows for a more detailed and effective management approach, helping to ensure that smaller tasks are completed as part of the larger project plan.

Key Attributes of a Project Milestone

Each milestone should have the following key attributes:

Clear Definition: Each milestone must be explicitly defined, detailing what is being measured or achieved.
Integration Into the Timeline: Milestones should be strategically placed throughout the project timeline, showing their relationship to other phases.
Dependencies: A milestone is considered complete when its dependent activities are also finished.
Measurement Criteria: How do you know when a milestone is reached? Each milestone should have measurable criteria to determine success.

Milestones are essential because they help track progress, allocate resources, manage risks, communicate project status, and often, tie financial incentives or payments to their completion. They are a critical element in effective project management.

How to Establish Milestones in a Construction Project

A good practice is to start by sketching out the different phases of your project. This creates a clear structure for your project and identifies where milestones naturally occur. These phases often take on a specific shape in your project management tools, like Excel or specialized software, forming a roadmap for your construction timeline.

Each phase should have its own milestone. For example, a milestone could be “permanent power installed” or “air handlers operational.” Some companies also use 1/3 and 2/3 milestones to track the completion of specific portions of the project, providing a more detailed view of progress.

What Is a Phase in Construction?

Phases in construction typically include different components like sequence, pace, and buffer time. The sequence outlines the order of tasks, the pace refers to the rate at which work is being completed, and the buffer allows for flexibility in case of delays. Each phase has its own milestones, which should be tracked closely.

The path of critical flow is the longest sequence of tasks that must be completed on time for the entire project to stay on track. This path is crucial for identifying where milestones need to be placed and how progress can be managed efficiently.

Things To Do Ahead of Time To Manage & Achieve Milestones

Pull Planning (3 Months Ahead): Collaborate with trade partners to vet the sequence of activities and adjust as needed.
Pre-Construction Meeting (2-3 Weeks Ahead): Ensure that all stakeholders understand the quality standards and expectations.
Look-Ahead Planning (6 Weeks Ahead): Continuously monitor for potential roadblocks and make the necessary preparations.
Monitor Buffers: Keep an eye on your buffer time to absorb any delays or variations within the project.

By following this structure, you can report milestone progress more accurately and identify issues early. This proactive approach helps ensure that your project stays on track and that each milestone is met successfully.

Helpful Tips To Achieve Project Milestones

To summarize, here’s a quick list of things you should do to ensure project milestones are hit:

Pull plan the sequence three months ahead.
Prepare the work with your pre-construction meetings.
Monitor the progress using look-ahead planning.
Use buffers effectively to absorb variations.
Maintain a correct line of balance in the project.

If you follow these steps and use these tools, you’ll be well-equipped to manage your project milestones effectively.

At Lean Takt, we can help you create your macro-level plan, establish your phases, and teach your team how to manage milestones. Our team of engineers is always ready to assist you.

Milestones are critical for project success, and when defined and managed correctly, they can be the key to hitting your targets and ensuring smooth project completion. Let’s make sure your project is set up for success!

If you want to learn more we have:

Discover Jason’s Expertise:

On we go!

How Does A Superintendent Get Fired?

Posted on September 24, 2024September 24, 2024 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 8 min

How Superintendents Get Fired: Understanding the Causes

In this blog, I’m diving into a topic that might make some people uncomfortable but is crucial for understanding how things really work in the construction industry: how superintendents get fired. While I’ve covered why or whether they should get fired in the past, this post breaks down the reality of how it happens. If you’re wondering whether you’re at risk or just observing this process from the sidelines, this information will be invaluable.

The Simple Truth: Value vs. Difficulty

At its core, a superintendent gets fired when the value they bring to a company is perceived to be less than the difficulty of keeping them employed. This may sound harsh, but it’s the reality. The deciding factor often comes down to whether the superintendent’s performance, attitude, or behaviors outweigh the effort it takes to deal with them.

Here are some common reasons why a superintendent might find themselves on the chopping block:

Common Reasons for Getting Fired:

Poor Job Performance:
- You’re not keeping the project clean, safe, or organized.
- You’re constantly out of role, doing tasks like running to Home Depot.
- You’re missing key project milestones or failing to finish on time.
- You’re not effectively managing the supply chain or using technology.
Violation of Company Policies:
- This could be anything from appearance and conduct issues to drug or alcohol violations.
- Harassment and discrimination, in particular, are absolute deal-breakers in any company.
Misconduct:
- Engaging in theft, fraud, dishonesty, or sexual harassment is an automatic way out.
- Companies today don’t tolerate unethical behavior, and legal departments don’t either.
Insubordination:
- If you’re not following company policies or constantly defying leadership, that’s a big red flag.
- Disobedience is a quick way to lose your job.
Poor Work Ethic:
- Not showing up on time, or simply being unreliable, will land you on thin ice.
- Even the best performers can’t survive with a lazy or disengaged attitude.
Substance Abuse:
- Drugs and alcohol are a hard line. Companies don’t mess around with behaviors that jeopardize safety on the job.
Negative Attitude:
- Even if tolerated by some, a bad attitude can eventually get you fired. Toxic behavior undermines team morale and performance.
- High-performing but toxic team members—those “high-performing a-holes”—are becoming less accepted. The emphasis is shifting toward trust and collaboration over raw individual performance.
Legal or Ethical Violations:
- Crossing legal or ethical boundaries puts your career at risk, whether it’s related to fraud, harassment, or other infractions.

What’s Not Tolerated

Here are a few superintendent behaviors I personally refuse to tolerate:

Keeping the project plan in your head and not sharing it.
Refusing to adopt a growth mindset or learn new systems.
Disrespecting the team or the company’s core values.
Ignoring safety and quality standards.

Why the Industry Tolerates Too Much – and Why That Needs to Change

One of the biggest issues I see in the construction industry is the excessive tolerance of bad behavior from superintendents. The construction industry puts up with a lot before finally deciding to let someone go. It’s time for that to change.

We need to start holding superintendents accountable, especially when they refuse to adapt to modern practices like using technology, documenting plans, or collaborating effectively. If we raised the bar for what’s expected from superintendents, we’d have a stronger workforce that’s better equipped to drive this industry forward.

What Should the Future Look Like?

The future demands a new kind of superintendent: a Superintendent 2.0. This new breed of leaders will be:

Tech-savvy.
Growth-minded.
Team-oriented.
Committed to safety and quality.
Willing to adapt to new methods like the Last Planner System and other lean construction techniques.

In conclusion, we can’t afford to tolerate poor performance, bad attitudes, or outdated practices any longer. It’s time for superintendents to step up, evolve, and lead with accountability, or risk being left behind.

Final Thoughts

I hope this blog has given you insight into why and how superintendents get fired and how to avoid that fate. If you’re in a leadership position, don’t hesitate to hold the line on performance, and if you’re a superintendent, strive to add value every day. Stay accountable, stay adaptable, and stay on top of your game.

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:

On we go

What Does An Operations Manager Do In Construction?

Posted on September 23, 2024September 23, 2024 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 7 min

In this blog, I want to dive into a key role in construction that is often misunderstood: the Operations Manager. I’ve talked before about Project Directors and Project Executives, but now it’s time to discuss what it takes to excel as an Operations Manager. Having worked at Hensel Phelps for many years, I’ve had the unique opportunity to see this role in action, and I believe I have an edge in explaining what makes it so crucial to the success of a construction company.

An Operations Manager is no ordinary position. It’s an executive-level role that requires a unique combination of skills: sales, networking, project oversight, resource management, and more. It’s like being the CEO of multiple projects, and it’s not for the faint of heart. In this blog, we’re going to break down the responsibilities of an Operations Manager, from ensuring projects stay on time to managing resources and overseeing pre-construction.

Overseeing All Projects

One of the main responsibilities of an Operations Manager is project oversight. Whether it’s managing a single project or a portfolio of projects, the Operations Manager ensures everything runs smoothly. If your projects are delayed, it’s on you to fix it. This role demands accountability at every step of the construction process. If you’re not ensuring deadlines are met, you’re not doing your job.

Managing Resource Allocation

Operations Managers also act as resource brokers. You’re not just managing people—you’re responsible for hiring the right team members, selecting trade partners, and securing resources for every phase of the project. It’s your job to make sure every project team has what it needs to succeed, just like a CEO ensures their company has the tools it needs to thrive.

Monthly Check-Ins

Great Operations Managers conduct monthly check-ins with their projects. These check-ins include financial forecasting, reviewing project status reports, and ensuring that everything is on track from a budgetary standpoint. It’s not just about cutting costs—it’s about strategically allocating resources to maximize project profitability.

Ensuring Quality and Safety

As an Operations Manager, you set the standard for quality and safety. You’re not on the job site every day, but you hold your project managers and superintendents accountable for maintaining the highest standards. If they don’t meet those expectations, it’s your responsibility to step in and correct it.

Client Relations

Operations Managers are the primary point of contact for clients. You need to be people-focused, always checking in, addressing concerns, and being available to the client whenever needed. This role requires excellent soft skills and the ability to influence and build strong relationships with both the project team and the client.

Solving Problems

Finally, the Operations Manager is the ultimate problem-solver. When issues arise that can’t be resolved by the project team, it’s up to you to step in and handle them. Whether it’s a resource conflict or a major delay, you’re the one responsible for finding solutions and keeping the project on track.

Conclusion

Being an Operations Manager in construction is no small feat. It requires a deep understanding of the industry, the ability to juggle multiple projects, and the skills to manage people, resources, and relationships. If you want to excel in this role, you need to be a builder—someone who not only manages but actively participates in the success of each project.

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What Is MEP In Construction?

Posted on September 23, 2024September 23, 2024 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 8 min

What exactly is MEP in construction? For many of us unfamiliar with this trade, the term can seem daunting, especially if you haven’t had much exposure to it. So, what does MEP entail? How can you manage it effectively, and what approach should you take? Let’s break it all down in this blog.

What is MEP in Construction?

MEP stands for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. These are the core systems that make buildings functional and livable. Let’s explore each one briefly:

Mechanical systems include heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), as well as components related to climate control. These may include boilers, chillers, air handlers, fans, and ductwork.
Electrical systems involve power distribution, lighting, and communication infrastructure throughout the building. They cover everything from wiring and outlets to emergency lighting, fire alarm systems, and data networking.
Plumbing systems handle the distribution of water and the disposal of wastewater within a building. This includes water supply, drainage, and fixtures like sinks and toilets.

In short, MEP systems are fundamental to creating safe, comfortable, and functional environments in modern buildings. These systems need to be understood not just as separate components but as interconnected networks that work together to form a building’s backbone.

How to Think of MEP as Systems

When considering MEP in a building, it’s helpful to view it not in terms of individual components but as an integrated system. Here’s a way to visualize it:

Electrical and plumbing systems connect to the central mechanical systems to provide heating, cooling, and electricity throughout the building.
All these systems must be installed and maintained in a way that allows them to communicate with each other. For instance, thermostats connect to air handlers, which, in turn, connect to exhaust fans, and so on.

Rather than seeing each floor as a separate entity, it’s more useful to think of these systems as flowing throughout the building, from floor to floor and room to room. Each system’s equipment, from electrical feeders to hydronic piping, has to talk to one another, usually through a building automation system that ties everything together.

Visualizing the Connections Between Systems

Consider the connections between systems in your building:

Domestic water enters the building and branches into drinking water, firewater, and irrigation.
Water also feeds into heating and cooling systems, which, in turn, connect to air handlers to heat or cool the air.

The key takeaway here is that everything is connected. Once you start looking at the systems as interconnected networks, you’ll find it easier to understand how they’re installed and how they function.

Tips for Managing MEP in Construction

Here are some helpful tips if you’re managing MEP systems in construction:

Learn the language of the drawings: MEP drawings can be intimidating, but understanding them is key to managing your systems effectively.
Focus on one-line diagrams and schematics: These diagrams show how the systems are tied together, helping you to plan and schedule installations accordingly.
Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your foreman or trade partners about the systems. The more questions you ask, the better you’ll understand the interconnections.
Establish patterns: Every floor or system installation follows a pattern, such as overhead work first, followed by in-wall work, equipment installation, and then system connections. Once you recognize these patterns, managing the process becomes easier.
Track progress by the system, not by location: Focus on completing entire systems before moving on to other tasks. Use flow diagrams and highlight the systems as they are installed to ensure nothing gets overlooked.
Plan milestones: Create a milestone pull plan for the different systems, coordinating with trade partners to ensure everything comes together smoothly.
Create a detailed commissioning plan: Commissioning is a critical phase that ensures all systems are working as expected. Plan this phase carefully, and consider moving it up by at least six weeks to avoid delays at the end.

By following these tips and staying organized, you’ll be able to manage MEP systems with greater confidence. Remember, understanding MEP is essential to ensuring the success of any construction project.

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How To Solve Labor Shortage Problems In Construction

Posted on September 23, 2024September 23, 2024 by Danny Jiménez⁩

Read 9 min

In this blog, we’ll uncover the truth behind the labor shortage crisis in the construction industry and explore actionable solutions. What can we do as an industry? What can you do as a company? Plus, I’ll point you to a valuable resource to help you tackle this issue head-on.

The Current Labor Shortage Problem in Construction

First, let’s address the problem: We currently lack over 500,000 workers in the construction industry, just to meet current demand. For every one person entering the industry, five are leaving, especially in regions of North America. In the next five years, 20% of the workforce is expected to retire. Post-COVID-19, millions of people in the U.S. are not actively working or seeking jobs. This is a number we’ve never encountered before. Compounding this, training is scarce, leaving new entrants underprepared, and the industry as a whole frustrated.

How We Can Control the Situation

The situation may not be entirely our fault, but we are in control of it. Often, people blame the newer generation, labeling them as lazy or uninterested. While such views are common, they’re not accurate. If we resign to the idea that the current workforce is fundamentally flawed, we lose any power to improve the situation. However, by adopting a mindset of Extreme Ownership, we can begin to make real changes.

Major Causes of Labor Shortage in Construction

One of the major culprits is the faulty systems we rely on. We have outdated schedules that burn people out, leading to high turnover and the highest suicide rates compared to other industries. Additionally, construction sites still often lack basic amenities like proper bathrooms, handwashing stations, and decent lunch areas. These conditions deter workers, and those within the industry don’t encourage their children to follow in their footsteps. Moreover, there’s rampant disrespect toward workers, coupled with sexism and racism, which drives potential talent away.

Importance of Planning Projects Properly

One of the key steps to resolving this issue is better planning. Contracts that don’t incentivize planning lead to rushed projects, which, in turn, burden workers with overtime, fatigue, and unsafe conditions. We need to transition from outdated systems and adopt Lean Thinking and better contract methods like IPD (Integrated Project Delivery), Scrum, and Last Planner systems. These tools allow for better collaboration and more efficient project execution.

Respecting Workers is Key to Solving the Labor Shortage

Respecting workers should be a top priority. This includes providing clean facilities, organizing worker huddles to foster communication, and creating a safe, welcoming work environment where families would want their loved ones to work. Simple actions like providing lunch areas with microwaves and fridges go a long way toward retaining workers.

Stop Overemphasizing College Degrees

We need to rethink the emphasis on college degrees as the only path to success. There are many talented individuals—police officers, military veterans, and high school graduates—who can fill these roles if we provide them with the right training.

Doing More Training and Opening the Doors to Outsourcing

We must provide more training for new workers—doubling or even tripling our efforts. Additionally, the labor shortage problem cannot be solved without opening the doors to skilled workers from other countries. The U.S. needs to embrace immigration and work visa programs, especially for talented individuals from neighboring countries like Canada and Mexico.

Practical Tips for Companies to Attract Workers

Now, let’s look at what your company can do:

Create a Great Culture: Build an environment where people want to work. Focus on a strong leadership team, efficient systems, and a positive company culture.
Find Good Hiring Sources: Build partnerships with trade schools, veteran organizations, and local high schools. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box.
Referrals Work: Encourage employees to refer family and friends. The best employees often come through personal referrals.
Treat Employees Well: Focus more on employee satisfaction than recruitment. A company that treats its people well will naturally attract more talent.
Train Continuously: Invest in ongoing training programs. Build people before you build things. Continuous improvement should be a core principle of your company.
Create Career Paths: Ensure every employee knows their growth potential within the company. When workers have a clear career trajectory, they’re more likely to stay.

By following these steps, you can significantly reduce your labor shortage problems and create a company culture that naturally attracts and retains talent.

If you want to learn more we have:

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What Being a Leader Really Means

How to Lead Yourself

1. Set Clear & Achievable Goals

2. Develop Self-Awareness

3. Take Initiative

4. Practice Self-Discipline

5. Develop a Learning Habit

6. Prioritize Your Well-Being

7. Set Clear Boundaries

8. Ask for Feedback

9. Stay Resilient

10. Lead by Example

11. Build the Team, Not Just the Task

Final Thoughts

How Can You Get Your First Break in Construction?

The Current State of the Construction Industry

What Education Do You Need for Construction?

How to Present Your Experience

Key Tips to Succeed in Construction

What is Continuous Improvement?

Respect for People: A Core Principle

Go to the Place of Work

Stability is Key

Standardization: The Foundation of Improvement

Eliminate Wastes

Follow PDCA: Plan, Do, Check, Act

Focus on the Customer

Keep a Long-Term Focus

The Two Keys to Continuous Improvement

Quick Tips to Get Started:

Essential Components of the Last Planner System

What is Percent Plan Complete?

Common PPC Targets in Construction

Why We Should Target 100% for PPC

Common Variances in PPC

How to Track Variances and Create Countermeasures

Common Roadblocks and Constraints in Construction

How to Effectively Prevent Problems

What Are Project Milestones in Construction?

Key Attributes of a Project Milestone

How to Establish Milestones in a Construction Project

What Is a Phase in Construction?

Things To Do Ahead of Time To Manage & Achieve Milestones

Helpful Tips To Achieve Project Milestones

What is MEP in Construction?

How to Think of MEP as Systems

Visualizing the Connections Between Systems

Tips for Managing MEP in Construction

The Current Labor Shortage Problem in Construction

How We Can Control the Situation

Major Causes of Labor Shortage in Construction

Importance of Planning Projects Properly

Respecting Workers is Key to Solving the Labor Shortage

Stop Overemphasizing College Degrees

Doing More Training and Opening the Doors to Outsourcing

Practical Tips for Companies to Attract Workers

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