Being A Young Construction Superintendent

Being a young construction superintendent can be both exciting and intimidating. You’re stepping into a leadership role in a high-stakes environment, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—this blog is here to guide you through the early stages of your career, offering key tips on what to do (and what not to do) to set yourself up for success.

Whether you’re new to the role or training others, the principles shared here will help ensure that you’re starting on the right foot and building the foundation for a rewarding and successful career.

What NOT to Do

1. Do Not Get Stuck on Bad Projects

As a superintendent, it’s crucial that you avoid being associated with multiple bad projects. Sure, you might find yourself on one difficult project—after all, it happens. But getting caught up in a string of them can cause something called “learned helplessness,” where you begin to expect mediocrity and believe things can’t improve. 

One bad project is enough; if you’re asked to take on another, consider moving on to protect your mindset and career trajectory. You should be loyal to doing what’s right, not to a company that could replace you in a heartbeat.

2. Do Not Rush the Process

Patience is key. As a young superintendent, you might be eager to advance quickly, but slow down. Spend ample time as an assistant superintendent, gaining experience in planning, safety, and working with trades. The skills you develop now will set you apart in the long run. This is a long game—learn the trade deeply before moving up.

3. Do Not Settle for a Poor Mentor

Choosing the right mentor is critical. Avoid mentors who are stuck in outdated methods, neglect technology, and don’t prioritize planning or teamwork. Look for someone who is experienced, forward-thinking, and supportive. The right mentor will guide you toward innovation and success.

4. Do Not Ignore Training

Learning on the job isn’t enough. It’s vital to actively seek out the best training and education available. Relying solely on experience without formal training often results in learning bad habits. Instead, invest in your growth through structured training that provides you with the tools to excel.

5. Do Not Adopt a Negative Mindset

It’s easy to blame others or make excuses, but avoid this mindset. Stay positive, believe in the work you’re doing, and commit to making a difference in the industry. A passionate and positive approach will keep you motivated and help you inspire others on the job site.

What You Should Do

1. Learn Key Field Engineering Techniques

Start by mastering fundamental field engineering techniques. These skills are the foundation of effective project management. For example, the Construction Surveying and Layout Manual is a great resource. Understanding these techniques will serve you well throughout your career.

2. Read Recommended Books

Books like How to Win Friends and Influence People, Two Second Lean, and How Big Things Get Done are essential reads for any superintendent. These books will help you develop leadership skills, improve efficiency, and understand the importance of planning and continuous improvement.

3. Focus on Planning and Scheduling

Effective planning is crucial to success. Use tools like pull plans and quality pre-construction meetings to stay ahead of your project. Additionally, get comfortable with scheduling in a time-by-location format, which will help you see the big picture and keep your projects on track.

4. Master the Quality Process

Learn and implement the quality process specific to your company. By mastering this, you’ll ensure that your projects meet the highest standards, from pre-construction all the way through final inspection.

5. Keep Your Area Clean and Organized

A clean job site is a productive and safe job site. Take pride in maintaining an organized workspace—it will help you and your team work more efficiently and produce higher-quality results.

6. Build Strong Relationships with Your Workforce

Connect with your workers daily. Take time to shake hands, ask how they’re doing, and genuinely care about their well-being. A happy, respected workforce is a productive one. Make sure they have clean facilities, a decent lunch area, and that they feel respected.

Conclusion

Building a successful career as a young construction superintendent requires patience, the right mindset, and a commitment to learning and growth. 

By avoiding the common pitfalls outlined here and focusing on continual improvement, you can set yourself up for long-term success. Remember to invest in your training, choose the right mentors, and always keep the work environment positive and organized.