Questions for a Newcomer to Construction, Feat. Charles McKenna

Three Keys to Thriving in Construction: Lessons from the Field

Charles McKenna’s journey into construction wasn’t the typical straight line from school to jobsite. After serving a decade in the military, traveling the world, and gaining leadership experience, he transitioned into the construction industry, working with general contractors on federal projects and later in commercial construction. His unique perspective blending discipline, leadership, and adaptability sets the stage for a deeper discussion about how to grow in this demanding field.

1. Grind and Commit to the Long Game

No matter where you start, success in construction requires persistence. The ability to “grind” showing up, putting in the work, and sticking with it is a game-changer. Jason Schroeder emphasized that age or starting point doesn’t define your future. Whether you’re 25, 40, or even 50, there’s time to grow if you stay consistent and focused. Many top-tier superintendents and project managers reached those positions later in their careers because they invested time building skills rather than rushing titles.

2. You’re Not Too Late Build Your Tool belt First

Construction rewards those who build a complete skillset before moving up. Rushing into management roles without solid field, technical, and people skills can stall your career. Take the time to gain experience in layout, project engineering, scheduling, and leadership. The slow, steady accumulation of these “tools” often leads to faster acceleration later in your career.

3. Become Addicted to Learning

The best in the industry are always learning reading, training, and seeking mentorship. Schroeder’s challenge: aim for a book a week, or at least one a quarter. Invest in courses, certifications, and industry events. The more knowledge you have, the more value you can bring to your team.

Dealing with People: The Most Overlooked Skill

Technical skills are essential, but interpersonal skills are what make or break careers in construction. Schroeder admitted that one of his biggest early mistakes was not knowing how to deal with people. Books like How to Win Friends and Influence People helped him transform his approach. Whether you’re interacting with subcontractors, owners, or senior leadership, emotional intelligence and communication are crucial.

If you have ideas for improvement, especially early in your career, first focus on mastering existing systems and earning trust. Once people see you as competent and reliable, they’ll be more receptive to your suggestions.

Adapting to the Culture

Transitioning from a highly structured environment like the military into construction can be like stepping into the “wild west.” The culture can be messy, resistant to change, and lacking in standardized systems. The key is to integrate before innovating learn the language, processes, and relationships before trying to change them. Respect for people and their existing ways builds the foundation for introducing better methods down the road.

Technology’s Slow but Steady March

While tools like BIM, VDC, drones, and AI have the potential to revolutionize the industry, adoption is often slow due to budget constraints, cultural resistance, and the steep learning curve for veteran leaders. The most successful future superintendents will combine old-school builder knowledge with cutting-edge technology and lean principles. If you’re passionate about innovation, seek companies that encourage experimentation and are willing to invest in tech driven solutions.

Key Takeaway:

Success in construction comes from a combination of grit, continuous learning, and people skills. Master the basics, adapt to the culture, and build trust before introducing change. The leaders who thrive are those who balance traditional craftsmanship with modern technology and never stop sharpening their skills.