The Morning Huddle: Recent Episodes
Chad Prinkey
A construction industry interview show. The Morning Huddle is a platform for people who are creating positive change in the building industry. We hold short-form interviews that are entertaining and educational so our guests can share their message.
While many construction companies focus on technology for efficiency and transparency during construction, significant opportunities remain in applying advanced tools to the preconstruction phase. Michael Ho, CEO of Bespoke Metrics Inc., will discuss the importance of tech stack integrations, growing concerns around data ownership and security, and the role of prequalification in preconstruction. We’ll also explore the pros and cons of free prequalification services and the potential impact of AI on the future of technology adoption in construction.
In this episode, we’re joined by Scott Arias, CEO of ACE Consulting, and guest host Tom Hughes, VP of Construction Operations at Genesis AEC, to tackle the vital topic of construction scheduling. Scott breaks down the essentials of time impact analysis (TIA), explains the importance of "frag nets," and dives into how the critical path influences scheduling. With real-world examples and actionable advice, Scott makes it easy to understand how accurate scheduling drives productivity and protects your business.
In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Estelle-Marie Montgomery, Executive Director of the FH Faunteroy Community Enrichment Center. Over the past four years, Dr. Montgomery and guest host Mark Drury have collaborated on workforce development initiatives, and today, she shares her inspiring journey to Deanwood along with her vision for Washington DC’s first Resilience Hub. We’ll dive into how resilient communities benefit employers seeking talent, the importance of candidate vetting in construction bootcamps, and how the construction community can support this exciting project. Don’t miss this insightful conversation!
Whether you are a minority contractor or not, this episode delves into what new opportunities exist within the electric vehicle industry and infrastructure. Specifically, our guest, Larry Bullock from the US Minority Contractors Association discusses how minority contractors can capitalize on the growing EV industry, and what partnership opportunities may exist for non-minority contractors.
Military veterans possess a unique skill set that can significantly impact white-collar and blue-collar roles in the construction industry. Their transition from military service to construction is seamless, and they bring valuable experience. In this episode, Zach Scheel, co-founder and CEO of Rhumbix, and Scott Friend, founder of The Construction Veteran, discuss their experience being Veterans in construction. They'll explore tools that enhance efficiency and address the frustrations field employees face. Additionally, they share insight into how hiring veterans mitigates labor shortages and enriches the industry. Tune in to discover how transitioning veterans can embark on a rewarding construction career!
Join Greg Sizemore, Joe Xavier, and Haley Moyers from Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) as they delve into the critical topic of mental health in construction. Discover how ABC is revolutionizing industry attitudes and explore their transformative initiatives like the Total Human Health Initiative and the pioneering Vital Cog program. Gain actionable insights into implementing mental health support within construction companies while hearing inspiring stories of contractors championing worker wellness.
How a small business owner built a roofing and metal panels company from scratch into a respected middle market firm through the successes and setbacks of construction cycles. In this episode, Gregory A. Malcolm, owner of IronShore Contracting, will share the key factors that helped him to navigate his business through the trials and tribulations.
Join Mark Erlich, the Wertheim Fellow at The Center for Labor and a Just Economy at Harvard Law School, for a thought-provoking episode as we discuss strategies for safeguarding worker integrity. We will explore what constitutes cheating, why it matters, and how roadblocks have made unethical practices less viable. Mark, author of The Way We Build: Restoring Dignity to Construction Work, will address open shop contractors' concerns about wage scales and explore the alliance of responsible contractors.
In an industry plagued by burnout and rigid structures, Matthew DiBara of The Contractor Consultants steps forward with a visionary approach to hiring. This episode unravels the truth behind construction’s high burnout rates and introduces a dynamic hiring model that revitalizes the workforce. Join us as we dissect the need for flexible org charts and learn about the innovative, affordable solutions reshaping the AEC industry’s future. Don’t miss out on these game-changing strategies that promise a more sustainable and efficient work environment.
Tune in for an insightful episode in which Ricky McLain, Growth and Innovation Program Manager at WoodWorks, delves into the evolving landscape of mass timber. We’ll discuss the challenges to broader adoption, the critical need for skilled labor, and scenarios where mass timber may not be the ideal choice. With a focus on educating the next generation, Ricky’s expertise positions him as a pivotal authority in the field, steering the industry toward innovative solutions amidst market fluctuations.
In this episode of The Morning Huddle, our guest Mark Zweig, founder of Zweig Group, and guest host Matt Verderamo, Senior Consultant at Well Built Construction Consulting, discuss the complex world of Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) in the AEC industry. They will cover the basics of M&A, its evolution over the past two decades, and future trends. They will also provide insights on preparing your business for sale or what to look for when buying. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn about M&A from industry experts; tune in and join us for an insightful session!
AI and automation are reshaping the construction landscape. Technology enhances efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness by optimizing equipment usage, predicting maintenance needs, and streamlining processes. Companies that stay at the forefront of technological advancements position themselves strategically, ensuring they are well-prepared to address the evolving needs of future owners. Tune in to this engaging conversation with Adam Stark, CEO of Jet.Build, where we discuss how a top-down approach driven by construction owners, combined with contractor readiness, can shape the future of sustainable construction.
In this episode, we delve into the private side of the public-private discussion. We're joined by Neal Rackleff, Attorney at Law at Rackleff LLP, to uncover the challenges faced by professionals dealing with government entities. We’ll explore process-oriented reasons behind the distinct behaviors of government employees versus their private sector counterparts. Neal dispels common notions about the public and private sectors, sharing his unique experiences. Tune in to understand Neal’s impactful journey—from private roles to federal government positions and back again.
Join us on The Morning Huddle as Jeremie Harrison, Senior Project Manager at Leebcor Services, LLC, and guest host Tom Hughes, Vice President of Genesis AEC, delve into the pressing need for proficient Project Managers (PMs) in construction. Discover how the Project Management Professional (PMP) program provides a transformative solution, equipping PMs with vital expertise in contract language, project scheduling, and construction sequencing. Tune in to explore the impact of skilled PMs on project completion, efficiency, and innovation in the industry.
Join The Morning Huddle for an insightful conversation with Jennifer Todd, President of LMS General Contractors, as she explores the nuances of unconscious bias and its impact on the construction industry. Drawing from her experiences, Jennifer reveals how these underlying attitudes shape the industry, potentially impeding efforts toward inclusivity and diversity. Discover strategies for cultivating a more equitable future in construction as Jennifer uncovers the effects of unconscious bias and shares her insights.
In this episode, Pat McGettigan, Vice President of Excellerate Manufacturing, joins us to share his unique insights into modular construction. From UPS data centers to driving innovation in off-site manufacturing, Pat's expertise sheds light on the pivotal role of modular solutions amid labor shortages. Throughout the discussion our guest host, Tom Hughes, Vice President of Genesis AEC, also shares his valuable knowledge, enriching the conversation on the convergence of manufacturing and construction.
In this episode, join Chuck Rakich, Superintendent Safety Manager at Henley Construction Co., Inc., as he reveals the keys to running projects that meet OSHA standards and cultivate a culture of safety excellence. Chuck passionately emphasizes the transformative power of viewing OSHA inspections as collaborative partnerships rather than dreaded encounters. Tune in as Chuck shares invaluable strategies for establishing a robust safety culture from the highest echelons of management down to the frontline workers, setting your job sites up for unparalleled success. Don't miss out on this episode packed with essential insights that will empower you to navigate OSHA inspections seamlessly and turn them into catalysts for improvement and collaboration.
As the economy goes, so too will the construction industry. It always helps to learn about economic trends and their likely impact on construction. Niladri Sannigrahi is the Senior Director of Product Management at Liberty Mutual Surety, and his passion is economics. He'll join The Huddle to talk about interest rates and their impact on developer-driven construction, the likely impact of the 2024 election on the construction economy, and many more topics to help you plan for what's ahead.
Traditional leadership programs often overlook the hurdles obstructing women's path to leadership in the construction industry. During this interview, we'll confront these barriers head-on. By identifying the real issues holding women back, we can lay the foundation for genuine transformation.
One of the challenges is the double bind - Women are told to be more assertive and confident if they want to advance to leadership roles. Then they’re reprimanded for being too bossy or called aggressive.
We often hear from well-intentioned men who want to contribute but are unsure how. During this interview, we'll talk about how to shift the burden of change off of women’s shoulders and create a shared responsibility for change across your entire organization. We'll also share evidence-based strategies that you can use to accelerate the path to leadership for the women in your company.
Mike Henderson has served the construction industry as a part of the Associated Builders and Contractors for over 30 years. In his role as the President of ABC Baltimore, his sights have turned to positively impacting the minority contracting community as well. Chad and Mike will discuss an innovative approach they're both working on in the city of Baltimore to create profitable growth for the minority contracting community and the good of the overall construction industry.
In this episode, we'll debunk myths around government contracting, navigate the challenges of transitioning from commercial to government work, and uncover hidden opportunities in this dynamic sector. The stories and insight provided by Eric Coffie, founder of Govcon Giants, promise a thought-provoking journey into the world of government contracts. Join us for an enlightening conversation that might reshape your business strategies!
In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of social media strategies and transformative tactics in the commercial contracting sector. We'll examine the strategic collaboration where marketing, sales, and business development should converge, making "collaboration" a vital force in content creation. Our guests, Matt Graves, founder of Construction Yeti, and Jonathan Cor, founder of Customer Growth, share unique insights and uncover out-of-the-box approaches for securing optimal coverage and selecting the most impactful social channels. Join the conversation as we dive into innovative strategies to up your game in the competitive commercial contracting world.
In this episode of The Morning Huddle, explore the role of schedulers, debunk misconceptions, and delve into the necessity of schedules for all projects. Gain insights into software preferences, critical paths, and the complexities of delayed claims. Discover the evolving trend of a proactive scheduling model focused on efficiency, execution, and the challenges subcontractors face with CPM schedules. Uncover the value of a two-week look ahead and pull planning in this concise discussion on construction scheduling intricacies.
In this episode, we dive into the captivating world of Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) with our guest, Ben Nichols, President of Harkins Builders, Inc. With over two decades of experience, Ben sheds light on the inner workings of Harkins' ESOP, dispelling myths and highlighting its role as a robust accountability and culture-shaping tool in the construction industry. We explore the tax benefits, recruitment strategies, and value-maximization tactics employed by Harkins, showcasing how being an ESOP isn't just a retirement plan but a key to empowering employees and building lasting wealth. Tune in for an engaging conversation as Ben passionately advocates for broader adoption of the ESOP model and shares Harkins Builders' success story beyond traditional retirement planning.
In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week, we have designed a special episode that focuses on the recruitment of seniors and recent graduates into the electrical industry.We'll explore the benefits of choosing a career in the electrical industry, debunk common misconceptions, and uncover the vast opportunities that exist within this exciting field. Our guests will share their personal journeys, providing firsthand accounts of the hands-on training, career growth, and job satisfaction that can be found within the electrical industry. From apprentice success stories to the mentorship and support offered by contractors, you will hear inspiring narratives that showcase the rewards of pursuing a career in this dynamic trade.
As governments and school districts recognize the massive need for employees in the construction industry and the phenomenal opportunity that need presents to their students and constituents, many are finally investing time, money, and energy in developing successful CTE programs. Our guest, Catherine Schoenenberger, joins us to share a time-tested and proven methodology she has been overseeing for years.
In this episode, we delve into the fascinating dynamic of semi-rivalry and discord between contractors and engineers. Join us as we explore each profession's crucial roles, uncover the valuable lessons they can glean from one another, and discover how they can unite to drive success as a cohesive team. Our guest, Sol Rosenbaum, owner of SR Engineering and Consulting, is a seasoned mechanical engineer who supports due diligence firms and building owners in the CRE world. The founder of https://lnkd.in/eunc5kG, Sol, sets an excellent example for younger engineers by inspiring them through mentorship. Join us as Sol lends his insights to this insightful discussion.Connect with Sol on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/solrosenbaum/
It has been proven that exposure to the construction industry for school-aged kids inspires many to join the industry upon graduation. By the time kids are in high school, many have preconceived notions about the industry that make them hard to reach. In this episode, Mr. Jarrett joins us to share his story about the first CTE Program in Middle School in Philadelphia and the impact it's making on young lives.
With over 20 years of experience and certifications across multiple trades, Jason Blackwell was in a wreck that changed the projectory of his life. Approached with the opportunity to teach, Jason found ways to inspire and support his students through his CTE program. In 2022, as the high school industrial maintenance teacher at Escambia Career Readiness Center in Brewton, Alabama, Jason was named a grand prize winner of the 2022 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence, winning $30,000 for himself and $70,000 for his program. That then led to his current role with the Alabama State Department of Education and dreams of running for Governor. Join us to uncover what it takes to master craft training in and out of the classroom.
Sadly, too many construction projects fail to meet schedule and budget expectations and more than a few come completely off the rails in every mark in every year. Owners, architects, general contractors, and subcontractors alike retreat to their corners and focus only on protecting their selfish interests. In this episode, construction attorney Michael Wagner joins us to explore what happens to cause a project to become derailed, what behaviors worsen the situation, and what to do if it happens to you.
Great leaders are formed through their experiences. From the interactions they have with bosses, colleagues, and mentors to the education they receive from books and classes, our construction leaders are a product of the development they’ve received. In this episode, Vice President of Construction at Foulger-Pratt, Brett Harton, joins us to share his own leadership development journey and advice for current and future leaders alike on how we can build a better leadership culture in the industry.
A significant number of our field employees do not speak English as their first language. This language barrier has contributed to thousands of injuries and even deaths each year. In this episode, two-time Morning Huddle guest, Oscar Garcia, joins us to discuss how he is using artificial intelligence to breakdown language barriers and create safer job sites for Hispanic workers.
Countless women in construction have been sacrificing comfort and jeopardizing their safety for years by adopting PPE designed for male bodies. Dave Rosenbluth National Sales Manager for Utility Pro Wear will join us to discuss a manufacturer’s perspective on Equity and Access to Safety Apparel for women. This episode contains a discount code for apparel, so be sure to tune in!
While Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been a part of our lives and work for many years now, the release of ChatGPT in 2022 has brought the possibilities of this advancing field to the forefront. People like Morning Huddle guest, Stjepan Mikulić dedicate themselves to researching the latest advancements and exploring the most viable technologies AEC firms can implement in the near term. He joins us to simplify the topic and help our audience understand how they might apply AI in their construction businesses.
For any business, cash is crucial to health and success. Employees and vendors must be paid, or the whole thing comes to a halt. Contractors, in particular those who must purchase materials for installation, face a high-risk environment dependent on their customers’ timely pay. Scott Peper from Mobilization Funding has a front-row seat to the unique cashflow challenges faced by contractors, and he joins The Morning Huddle to discuss the topic and share strategies for maintaining a healthy cash position.
Most construction companies recognize opportunities to improve their business. Few have a track record of capitalizing on those opportunities and driving positive change. In the fast-paced environment of designing and building, companies become accustomed to their problems and focus on getting their work done instead. In a first for The Morning Huddle, host Chad Prinkey will become a guest and share his experience driving organizational change as a consultant for the construction industry over the past 15 years. We’ll discuss why companies get stuck and what employees and executives can do to get better today.
The spaces we occupy for our work can make a world of difference in profitability. Our guest, Nitin Govila, is the head of Sales and Marketing for global textile manufacturer Serge Ferrari. Their materials are integral to a wide array of construction products, ranging from acoustical panels to PT concrete. He’ll share insights on constructing workplaces with sustainability and profitability in mind from the start.
America's top-performing contractors in every field have certain things in common. One of those things is a strong culture that allows them to maintain consistent results for customers and employees as they grow. Few contractors have done this more effectively than Ruppert Landscape. With over 2,000 employees across 8 states (and rapidly growing!), Ruppert has built a culture of success.Our guest, Phil Key, is the President of Ruppert Landscape. He joins us to discuss how Ruppert has built and maintained their culture and why it has worked so far!
New construction laws are passed virtually every session, leading to challenges and opportunities for contractors to navigate. Join us and our guest, construction attorney Jackson Nichols to discuss the 2023 construction legal landscape so you can learn about the legal changes that may impact your business.
Many construction Project Managers have never received an education in their craft. Finding the time to travel to a training facility and sit for hours can be challenging for the average PM. We have so much going on and limited time, but quality professional development creates efficiency and reduces stress. In short, it is always worth investing time in training that will elevate your performance. Join me, Stacey, and our guest Jim Rogers, a LinkedIn [In]structor who dedicates his time to delivering top-quality, easy-to-attend, online training programs for construction professionals right here on LinkedIn.
Virtual design and construction (VDC) as a tool for building better spaces is quickly becoming the norm, but our guest for The Morning Huddle's 47th episode, Darren Young, believes in taking things a step further. What if your VDC efforts were aimed at reducing waste, creating scalable and resilient technical frameworks, increasing data quality, and leveraging opportunities to generate new revenue? Join us as we discuss aligning proven VDC technology with compelling business goals to build a better future!
$7M in baby boomer businesses will sell by 2030. Many of those will be building contractors. Whether you’re in the market to sell or potentially buy one of these firms, or you simply want to understand the changing ownership landscape of the construction industry, join us for this episode. We have Eric B. Pacifici, Partner with SMB Law with extensive experience with acquisitions joining us for the discussion. He is leading small to mid-sized businesses to get smart about buying and selling in this dynamic market.
Ryan Lanser, the Dirt Jedi, joins our podcast to talk about how his company has applied GPS and Drone technology to revolutionize how site work contractors estimate and plan their projects. We'll talk about how it works, what value it adds, and the future of this exciting tech.
If you've ever been a part of a project team that doesn't communicate and where every entity acts selfishly, you may have thought, "there must be a better way." You're not alone with that thought, and you're right. There is.
The Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) method is a teamwork-based approach to construction. Imagine pulling the GC, architect, engineers, and specialty contractors together to work collaboratively throughout preconstruction and construction. Kevin Hollenbeck has experience with real-world applications of IPD and joins us to share his story to help bring more attention to this game-changing approach.
Economic uncertainty has become normal for all of us. Contractors who are busy today are just waiting for the music to stop. While nobody can predict economic conditions with certainty, smart companies pay attention to the trends and plan accordingly. Nobody may be better at reading the tea leaves for the construction economy than our guest, Anirban Basu.
Anirban joins The Morning Huddle a second time for a fun and enlightening discussion about the latest economic trends impacting the construction industry.
The Morning Huddle gets a jump start on Women in Construction Week with this episode featuring three successful women working in construction. Each of our guests has their own unique story to share. Through their stories, we’ll explore what can be done to draw more women to the industry and inspire women in construction everywhere to follow their passion.
Every contractor needs an accountant, but certain relationships have the potential to become trusted advisors. As a contractor, you may want to be asking more of your accounting provider. Tim was a trusted advisor for several contractors during his time working for an accounting firm. He joins us on The Morning Huddle to share the principles that made his relationships so strong and strategic with his contractor clients, and what contractors can do to find and develop this kind of partnership with their accountant.
Advances in construction materials and methods are allowing us to achieve amazing levels of sustainable building. Passive house design is one of the latest advances toward net zero and net positive buildings. In this episode, we’ll speak with Trey Farmer, architect and owner of a passive house himself! He’ll walk us through the passive house design approach and demonstrate how it is more attainable than we may realize for residential and commercial applications.
There’s a demand for qualified leaders in the construction industry, and our guest for this episode has dedicated herself to meeting that demand by unleashing the potential of women in leadership positions. Mentors guide up-and-coming professionals, using their experience to help develop a (usually younger) mentee. Sponsors, on the other hand, advocate on behalf of their mentees and help them advance in their careers by being proactive with those in positions of power. In this episode, we learn how to be an effective sponsor for up-and-coming leaders in the construction industry to help eliminate the leadership shortage.
When most small to midsized construction companies think about Human Resources, they think of employee handbooks, PTO policies, and managing employee files. When people like Kathy Humm think of HR, they think about how investing in human capital becomes a strategic advantage for a business.
In this episode, we hear about how leading construction companies leverage their HR departments to become better places to work, minimize legal exposure, and increase productivity. Kathy has valuable experience from her time as the HR Director for Harkins Builders for 9 years before starting her new business, NTP HR.
Real estate developers drive a staggering amount of construction in the US today, and like all construction project owners, they have unique needs. Whether you are a design firm, general contractor, or specialty contractor, some or even most of your projects have a developer as your ultimate customer.
In this episode, we hear from a VP of Construction for an affordable housing developer, but Meade Rhoads has been on both sides of the table and brings a well-rounded perspective to the discussion. Join us to improve your understanding of developers as a customer and how you can improve your strategy for winning more developer-driven projects and building lasting partnerships regardless of your role in the industry.
Lean stands for reducing inefficiencies and removing waste wherever Lean principles are applied. Lean has been a buzzword around the construction industry for decades, and while some segments of the industry have fully embraced it, others have only a vague sense of what Lean is all about. Regardless of where you fall on that spectrum, this episode will invite you into the discussion in an approachable way.
Tom Hughes is a Lean practitioner who came up as a mechanical contractor, and his experience with Lean practices has led to outstanding results. He'll share stories to help us see how and why we can use Lean principles in practical ways to create better project outcomes.
We've had on a few guests with leading views about integrating more manufacturing practices with construction. It seems like a relatively new trend to most, but to people like our guest Gerry McCaughey, offsite construction is how things have been for a long time.
Gerry has been building offsite for over 30 years between Europe and the US, and he joins the show to tell us why any other method is a mistake. Join us to hear from a true veteran in a construction space that is gaining traction.
Most people don't associate the construction industry with human trafficking, but it is happening on a large scale worldwide. In this show, we learn what human trafficking really is and how we can play a role in snuffing it out.
Meg Hughey and Miranda Nehrig from Freedom Network USA are on the front lines of the issue, working to educate owners and employees on how to spot and resolve the issue.
For companies and project teams that have embraced prefabrication and other concepts from manufacturing, the results are undeniable. To bring these ideas home to more contractors, we at the Huddle want to showcase more stories!
The Queen of Prefab, Amy Marks joins The Morning Huddle to continue her mission of advancing industrialized construction. Her role at Autodesk puts her in a position to meet and interview some of the industry's most successful leaders in Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA).
We get to hear her real-world stories of Prefab in action and hold a Q&A for practical tips for our audience.
Many construction companies develop meaningful innovations that create strategic advantages in their market in a crowded field of competitors. Perhaps they develop a tool, a fabrication method, or an operational process that gives them the upper hand only to have an employee leave and bring that information to the competition, diminishing a hard-won advantage.
When you think of Intellectual Property (IP), the industries that come to mind immediately are manufacturing and software, not construction! Greg Stone, IP Attorney with Whiteford, Taylor & Preston, joins us to see how construction companies can protect and monetize their IP.
Join The Morning Huddle for a timely discussion about laws governing how we hire and pay our construction workforce.
Workers are misclassified as 1099 when they should be legally W-2. Subcontractors are hiring labor subs to augment their workforce or, in some cases, to replace them altogether. These labor subs have a varying level of commitment to following the law, and now their prime subs and GCs are on the hook for their mismanagement.
Millions of dollars of penalties have been paid by contractors in the Metro DC region. Attorney General Karl Racine's office appears to be committed to pursuing more wage theft infractions in the city.
No matter where you live, take the time to hear from Hillary Ghent about how Davis Construction has reacted to the heightened focus on this issue and the recommendations they have for the entire subcontracting community to achieve compliance in a manageable way.
Demand for qualified workers in the construction industry is high, and supply is low. That's no surprise, but rather than accepting such a disappointing reality, people like Jennifer Sproul are working hard to solve the problem.
She is the President of the Maryland Center for Construction Education and Innovation, whose mission is to develop, promote, and connect career opportunities in the built environment.
Join us as we talk about the workforce development puzzle and the proactive steps we can take to solve it for the industry.
For most Americans, shopping online has become the norm for so many items in their lives. I mean, can you even remember what shopping was like before Amazon? As consumers, we have the ability to check pricing across platforms, read reviews, and buy the best available options with a click. Could we be seeing the same consumer experience developing in the construction industry?
Michael Wisnefski is working to foster the evolution of commerce in commodity raw materials. His company, MaterialsXchange is a digital marketplace for lumber.
During this show, we discuss the impacts of this kind of shopping experience on the construction industry. Who is for it, who is against it, and why? Join us as we reimagine the future marketplace for raw materials and beyond.
What is the difference between BD and Marketing, and how should they complement one another? Many construction companies get it wrong, and some don't even incorporate these efforts into their business.
Ronnie Brouillard and Taylor Tobin might have it figured out better than any tandem in the construction industry. These two have been a tandem with the general contractor, Chesapeake Contracting Group for five years, setting a high standard for professionalism in their crafts. Ronnie (BD) and Taylor (Marketing) are in lock-step with their efforts and will show us how to learn from their model.
We welcome them to The Morning Huddle to share their strategies with our audience in a fun and educational discussion.
The Morning Huddle is back for season 3, starting on Tuesday, September 13th! We'll be running every week for three months at 9:00 AM Eastern. Join us!!!
Improving contractor procurement must remain close to the top of the list in our search for positive change. George Nash joins us to share his personal experience in 35+ years with traditional versus alternative procurement methods. We'll talk about what has worked and what hasn't, and we hope to inspire you to lead positive change in contractor procurement wherever you are in the construction industry!
In what has always been a high-pressure industry, now more than ever, teams in the building industry are facing breaking points and burnout. Everyone seems to be too busy, feeling overwhelmed, and can barely keep up with the fires from day to day. It's not sustainable and an industry with a poor quality of life won't attract the bright young people we need for the next generation.
Rex Miller joins the huddle to talk about creating and maintaining healthy construction teams that place an emphasis on mental health and wellness. Rex is passionate about helping leaders transform "the grind" into an inspired performance that leads to more energy rather than burnout. His experience with construction professionals in particular makes him a perfect fit for this discussion.
In the commercial, industrial, and multifamily construction segments, companies have the chance to work together repeatedly. As such, maintaining strong relationships with customers and service providers alike is a great strength for the companies that do it well.
Matt Bolyard joins The Huddle to talk about the value of strong relationships between GCs and Owners, and the service-oriented mindset he and the Southway Builders team use to create lasting partnerships with their customers.
Since most office-based workforce was forced into working from home over two years ago, many theories have been swirling around about "the future of the office". While the debate isn't entirely settled, today it at least seems clear that offices will indeed continue to exist and play an essential role for most companies.
Kelly Ennis is a workplace strategist and the Founding Principal of The Verve Partnership, an interior architecture/design firm. Kelly joins the huddle to share her expert views on the future of the office and what that could mean for the construction industry in terms of trends in the types of construction projects we'll see in the office market sector, and other related topics.
Of all the ways the building industry is innovating and evolving, the use of modular construction methods is perhaps the most practical and promising way to increase efficiency in the field.
Nancy Novak joins The Morning Huddle to talk about her experience with Modular Construction in her role as the Chief Innovation Officer at Compass Datacenters where she brings immense experience as a General Contractor to perhaps the most forward-thinking sector in the construction industry.
Nancy's passion for creating positive change in the industry will inspire you to start thinking differently about what is possible no matter what market sectors you build in.
Not many people in the construction tech community started in the industry with a shovel in their hands like Duane Gleason. After spending several years on the physical end of construction, Duane began to master the digital side of the business.
Today, he works for Trimble, an industry-leading construction technology company as the Program Director for Connected Construction. He joins The Morning Huddle to talk about how construction companies can leverage technology to build better, more profitable projects.
No pie in the sky theoreticals here, just real examples of things companies can do immediately to drive a better result using the right technology to build their projects digitally AND physically.
The construction industry needs skilled tradespeople and not enough young people are entering the workforce with the skills we need right out of school. However, training the workforce poses significant time and financial challenges.
Chris Bybee and his company, Interplay Learning, are working to address those challenges by bringing an immersive VR training platform to the trades. Chris joins The Morning Huddle to talk about what his company and others like it are doing to close the skilled trades gap in our industry.
For more than 25 years, Mark Perna has been empowering educators and employers to unlock the tremendous promise of the younger generations. He regularly speaks to audiences of CEOs about it, and he wrote about it in his best-selling book "Answering Why: Unleashing Passion, Purpose, and Performance in Younger Generations".
Inside construction companies there can be a clash between "old school" cultures and the young people joining them. This clash can lead to companies failing to retain youth and missing out on the massive potential they can bring.
Mark joins The Morning Huddle to discuss how construction companies can strike the right balance of retaining the positives of their culture while engaging the power of the latest generation entering the workforce.
Our workforce is in dire need of capable, passionate young people with technical education applicable to careers in construction. Amy Rock is one person delivering that to Prince George's County Maryland and the surrounding region.
She joins The Morning Huddle to share success stories from her school district and help the construction community understand how they can be a part of the solution.
Matching the capabilities of construction firms with the needs of the communities in which they operate can be a huge win-win. Many construction companies highlight "giving back" as a core value, but find themselves too pressed for time and energy to follow through in the way they'd like.
Maury Peterson with Rebuilding Together Mongomery County and Molly Cape with M-TECH Mechanical join The Huddle to share their success stories of contractors engaging in community service. They will inspire you to get involved and help you to envision how you and your company can get started.
As we weather the highest economic inflation since the 1980s amidst continued construction demand across many sectors, everyone is now faced with the question, "how do we handle cost escalation from contract to project completion?"
Specialty contractors are feeling deeply exposed as they produce estimates today with prices that may be completely irrelevant tomorrow. Owners, of course, want price certainty in a totally uncertain market. Companies caught on the wrong side of this issue are risking devastating losses, and some companies are considering bowing out of the market right now rather than gamble on what seems like losing odds.
Michael Wagner, a construction attorney at Seyfarth Shaw LLP, joins The Huddle to talk about how contracts can protect everyone involved so we can move forward with confidence and keep America building.
America's infrastructure is at risk of cyberattacks, and private businesses are a favorite target for cyber-criminals looking to wreak havoc and line their pockets. As the second-largest global industry, construction is a definite target for hackers. Meanwhile, the average construction firm in the US is not taking the steps necessary to protect itself and its data from attack. Security Fanatic, Nick Espinosa joins The Morning Huddle to talk about why we should be worried about cybersecurity and some tangible steps construction companies can take to protect themselves.
Out of 4,779 worker fatalities in private industry in calendar year 2018, 1,008 were in construction – that is, one in five workers deaths last year were in construction. Looking into those numbers more closely, Oscar Garcia recognized the alarming number of Latin American workers. This inspired the creation of his business, Need2Say, which helps bring safety training to the Latin American Workforce in the building industry.
Oscar joins Stacey and Chad on The Morning Huddle to kick off season 2 with a discussion about the Latin American experience in construction.
In our season 1 finale, Ayo joins us with a deep background as a consultant helping owners, funders, and contractors to hash out change order disputes. Ayo has great advice for dealing with disputes and, more importantly, preventing them in the first place!
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/
In our next to the last episode of season one of The Morning Huddle, Stacey Holsinger and I are welcoming Jeremy Owens to our show to talk about contractors helping contractors to build better businesses.
Jeremy comes from a multi-generational construction company and has leaned on contractor peer networks since he started in the business. He even started one online!
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/
Eric brings his career as a GC to the conversation to talk about how he views client management in the building industry. It helps us to rethink the idea of the term "client" and provides us with some real action items to build better relationships for ourselves and our companies.
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/
The President of the IEC of Central PA, as well as the Central PA chapter of NAWIC, Marissa Bankert joins us for some straight talk about why women aren't choosing construction, why we should all care, and what to do about it.
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/
With a shortage of workers to enter the building industry and more college debt than ever, Kevin Fleming, Ph.D. comes in to talk to us about what we all can do to help both our economy and our children in the years ahead.
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/
Steve bought Bruce's 30+-year-old framing business 5 years ago. It was a great decision for both of them. In this episode, they share the story of how it came together and what made it work.
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/
In one of our biggest shows of season one, the renowned economist Anirban Basu joins the huddle to talk about construction and the state of the economy. Anirban is the Chief National Economist for The Associated Builders and Contractors, and his views are widely published around the industry. We talk about materials costs, hot and cold market sectors, and what needs to be done to deal with labor issues long term.
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/
In this episode, co-host Stacey Holsinger takes the stage as our guest to talk about trends in marketing for construction firms in the year ahead.
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/
Josh brings his depth of experience in securing bonds for thousands of contractors to this episode. We look for the common threads of the contractors that underwriters consider to be the best risks so our listeners can learn from the industry's best.
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/
Justin comes to us from a background of manufacturing and retrofitting technologies for the field. In this episode, we learn what construction companies can do to cut costs and minimize risks with their field technology plan.
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/
Small construction companies often want to pursue rapid growth, which is great but comes with risks. Mark Drury shares his experience and advice that relates to companies large and small on how to grow in a balanced way.
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/
Chris is a pro in all things construction staffing. In this episode, we talk about the trending technology roles in construction and the future norms coming to the industry.
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/
Kenny Mallick was the first guest in the history of The Morning Huddle. He provides straight talk feedback about the GC/Sub experience from the perspective of the subcontractor. This episode has been our most-watched for a reason. Kenny is no BS. Enjoy!
Join Host Chad Prinkey (Well Built Construction) and Co-host, Stacey Holsinger, (Steel Toe Communications) every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. EST. on LinkedIn as they interview top A/E/C industry experts. Follow Chad and Stacey so you see the posts on your LinkedIn feed.
Guests can participate in the conversation live!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-prinkey/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyholsinger/
https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com/
https://www.steeltoecommunications.com/