True Connection, Feat. Coralee Beatty

Mental Health in Construction

In today’s blog, we dive into a conversation with Coralee Beatty about a topic that cannot be overlooked in construction mental health.

Coralee has decades of experience in the industry, from working as a building envelope technician to co-owning and leading businesses with her husband. After selling their business, she went on a journey of rediscovery and eventually became a business coach, consultant, and fractional COO. Her focus today is helping people and companies grow by developing strong cultures and training leaders at every level.

The Human Side of Construction

Coralee’s passion for the industry is clear, but so is her concern. She shared that her own son is currently working as an HVAC technician, and every day she reminds him to stay safe on the job. That tension between pride in the industry and worry for those who work in it fuels her mission.

She explained that construction has long been focused on projects and production, often overlooking the human connection that workers crave. For decades, it was enough to show up, do your work, and collect a paycheck. But times have changed.

“People need to feel like they’re part of something bigger than punching a clock.”

Leaders who don’t understand this end up leading with frustration, yelling, or indifference. This lack of connection contributes to a toxic cycle and the alarming suicide rates in construction prove the stakes are far too high.

Redefining Leadership

When asked how she defines leadership, Coralee’s answer was powerful:

Leadership is about creating other leaders not just followers.

True leadership means helping others make decisions, think strategically, and grow into their full potential. It’s not about control, but about equipping people with tools and confidence to succeed.

What the Industry Is Missing

So what’s the blind spot? Coralee believes it’s a failure to recognize that the needs of workers have evolved. Many leaders are so consumed by project demands that they forget the bigger picture: the people who make the work possible.

Simple acts of connection greeting team members, asking about their weekends, knowing their goals and aspirations go a long way. As Coralee puts it:

“If you’re more interested in helping your people be successful than you are in your own success, that’s when you’ll truly succeed.”

The ROI is undeniable. Companies that invest in people development often see up to four times the return through productivity, engagement, and retention.

Building the Future Together

The construction industry can’t afford to ignore mental health. If we want to attract the next generation, reduce turnover, and lower the heartbreaking suicide rates, we need to lead differently. That means:

• Fostering human connection on jobsites and in offices.
• Prioritizing people development, not just leadership titles.
• Helping team members reach their personal and professional goals.

When we shift our mindset from chasing projects to building people, we elevate the entire industry.

Key Takeaway

The construction industry’s greatest opportunity isn’t just in projects it’s in people. By creating connection, developing leaders at every level, and prioritizing mental health, we build a safer, stronger, and more sustainable future.