This blog covers a range of critical construction leadership and mindset topics from company systems to contract requirements to cultural shifts and delivers one clear message, we need to rethink how we think.
Let’s break it down:
1. Discipline and the Builder’s Code
Discipline isn’t about rigidity it’s about preparedness. In difficult moments, our strength is determined by our training and how well we stick to solid processes. Construction professionals must continually refine their internal systems and stick to them, especially when under pressure.
2. Career Advice: What to look for in a Construction Company
when considering your next move, skip the branding hype. Instead, look for:
- A strong field engineer program.
- Solid preconstruction planning.
- Well-run projects (don’t start on a failing job).
- Self-perform capabilities (be a builder, not a broker).
- Cultural alignment.
- Continuous training.
Big logos and glossy presentations don’t build careers real systems and real people do.
3. Stop Saying Supers Can Run Jobs However They Want
This one hit hard: the idea that every superintendent can run a job however they want is anti-lean and deeply flawed. You’d never see Toyota allow a line manager to redesign production on the fly. Why? Because systems matter. If construction companies want to build like pros, they need standard operating systems and leaders who buy in.
4. CPM Isn’t Sacred It’s Just Old
Let’s get real about scheduling. Yes, CPM (Critical Path Method) might be in your contract, but most GCs never even redline that requirement. They blindly accept it. And even when they use it, it’s rarely optimized. Can you strategically analyze flow with it? Zone effectively? Sequence functionally? Probably not. If you’re not using a system to gain insights or accelerate performance, then it’s not a scheduling tool it’s paperwork.
5. In Construction, Nobody Wins When Projects Go Bad
When projects go sideways, people don’t try to win they just try to lose less. That’s the truth. Owners, GCs, and trades all dig in, get defensive, and start covering their tracks. Nobody actually wins. Instead of waiting for a court case that never comes, we should be trying to build projects right the first time.
Final Thought:
If something feels wrong, reframe it. Question how the issue is presented. Is the logic built on fear, habit, or ego? Or is it grounded in purpose, system thinking, and true value for the team?
Key Takeaway:
Construction success hinges less on tools like CPM and more on leadership clarity, cultural alignment, and standardized systems. When teams stop relying on outdated habits or personal preferences and start thinking strategically with discipline and shared processes projects run smoother, faster, and with far less risk.
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
