The Construction Hall of Fame

In this episode, Tony Calvis, the president of Calvis Wyant Luxury Homes, shares his career journey, starting as a construction worker and eventually becoming a successful custom home builder. He emphasizes the importance of learning from experience and the transition from being in the field to running his own business. He also discusses the factors that contributed to the growth and success of his company, including building a strong team and establishing a reputation. He shares his leadership philosophy, focusing on treating employees as equals and creating a culture of accountability. Tony highlights the significance of planning in building high-level homes and the evolution of design-build in the industry. In this conversation, Tony Calvis discusses the transition to an in-house design team and the benefits of working with other architectural firms. He also shares considerations for building high-end homes and the importance of collaboration between architects and designers.Tony highlights the significance of a maintenance business and the role of the maintenance department. He emphasizes the benefits of a maintenance program and shares his lessons learned in the construction industry. Finally, Tony discusses future initiatives and projects at Kalvis Homes.Takeaways:• Learning from experience is a valuable way to develop skills and knowledge.• Building a strong team and establishing a good reputation are key factors in the growth and success of a business.• Treating employees as equals and creating a culture of accountability are important aspects of effective leadership.• Planning is crucial in building high-level homes and ensuring coordination among various consultants and contractors. Collaboration between architects and designers is crucial for creating unique, beautiful, and functional homes.• Having an in-house design team allows for better coordination and support for architectural and design projects.• A maintenance program is essential for ensuring the longevity and functionality of high-end homes.• Apologizing quickly and taking responsibility for mistakes builds trust and strengthens relationships with clients.• Treating people well and empowering them leads to successful teams and businesses in the construction industry.Thank you for listening! We hope you enjoyed this episode and would like to encourage you to subscribe, rate, and review. Feedback from you is extremely valuable to us.Stay connected with us on social media and listen to more fascinating stories from construction industry trailblazers. As we approach our next episode, keep nurturing greatness!

Welcome to another episode of the Construction Hall of Fame Podcast, where we delve into the remarkable journeys and narratives of outstanding individuals in the construction industry. This episode features a captivating guest, Terry Paterson, President of Paterson Project Management.In this episode, Terry takes us through the chronicles of establishing and nurturing a thriving high-end luxury home construction business. He shares his profound insights, starting from his background in construction, and the founding of his company, to the formidable challenges confronted during the tumultuous 2008 recession.Key Takeaways:Building a successful construction business takes time and perseverance.Trust and reputation are crucial in the high-end luxury home construction industry.During challenging times, it is important to prioritize retaining key staff and maintaining strong relationships with clients and banks.Exceptional service and clear communication are essential for success in the construction industry. Passion and dedication are essential for success in any industry.Building relationships and networking are crucial for business growth.Adapting to market changes and diversifying can help mitigate risks.Investing in leadership development and delegation is key to scaling a business.Involvement in charities can provide networking opportunities and contribute to the community.If you found this episode insightful, we encourage you to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your feedback is invaluable to us.For more enthralling tales from the construction industry’s trailblazers, visit our podcast channels, and stay connected with us on social media. Until our next episode, keep fostering greatness!

Welcome to another episode of the Construction Hall of Fame Podcast, where we celebrate the journeys and stories of remarkable individuals in the construction industry. On this episode, we have an inspiring guest joining us, Josh Levy, the CEO of Document Crunch.In this episode, Josh takes us on a captivating journey from being a construction manager to pursuing law, eventually co-founding Document Crunch, a construction-tech company. His story is one of transformation and innovation, highlighting the importance of bridging gaps in contract understanding within the construction industry.Key Takeaways:Josh describes his transition from a construction manager to a lawyer and the genesis of Document Crunch, aiming to simplify the complexities of construction contracts.Learn about the challenges involved in understanding construction contracts and how Document Crunch addresses these complexities.Explore the impact of Document Crunch’s software solution, enabling easier comprehension of contracts and empowering non-experts to navigate them effectively.Discover how relationships play a pivotal role in the construction industry and how Document Crunch values customer feedback to improve their technology-driven solutions.Understand the integration of technology, including AI and language models, in solving real business problems within the construction sector.Josh Levy’s journey showcases the power of innovation and adaptation in revolutionizing an industry. Document Crunch’s commitment to simplifying contracts, leveraging technology responsibly, and fostering strong relationships underscores its dedication to transforming the construction landscape.Thank you for joining us for this insightful episode of the Construction Hall of Fame Podcast.Feel free to subscribe, rate, and leave a review after watching this episode. Your feedback is extremely valuable to us. Follow us on social media to learn more about enthralling stories from prominent figures in the construction industry. I look forward to seeing you next time!

Welcome to another episode of the Construction Hall of Fame Podcast, where we celebrate the journeys and stories of remarkable individuals in the construction industry. On this episode, we have an inspiring guest joining us, Chris Gutkes, the President of Island Elevator.In this episode, Chris takes us on a journey from adversity to triumph. When a sudden tragedy struck his family, Chris found himself in a position he hadn't anticipated - running Island Elevator, a family business with deep roots. With determination, resilience, and a commitment to learning the necessary skills, he not only kept the company afloat but also set it on a path of remarkable growth and success.Key Takeaways:Chris shares his emotional journey of stepping into the leadership role at Island Elevator after a family tragedy.Learn how he proactively acquired the executive skills required to manage a thriving construction business.Discover the entrepreneurial insights and strategies that have been instrumental in Island Elevator's success.Chris discusses his passion for elevating the standards of the elevator industry and embracing innovation.Gain valuable lessons on leadership, resilience, and seizing opportunities, even in challenging times.Chris Gutkes' story reminds us that even in the face of adversity, with determination, resilience, and a commitment to self-improvement, we can overcome challenges and achieve remarkable success. Thank you for joining us for this inspiring episode of the Construction Hall of Fame Podcast.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your feedback is essential to us. To explore more captivating stories from the construction industry's finest, visit our website and follow us on social media. Until next time, keep building greatness!

In this episode of the Construction Hall of Fame Podcast, we are honored to welcome Jeffrey Nesbitt, a distinguished guest who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in driving technological advancements within the construction industry. Join us as Jeffrey shares his remarkable journey, leading to his current role as a Construction Technologist and Sr. Manager of Global ERP Alliances & Partnerships at Procore.Topics Covered:Quick Introduction: Our host provides an overview and introduces Jeffrey, setting the stage for an insightful conversation.Pioneering a Career in Construction Tech: Jeffrey elaborates on his path to becoming a Construction Technologist and discusses the pivotal moments that shaped his journey.Evolution of Construction Technology: With over two decades of experience, Jeffrey delves into the transformative changes he has witnessed in the construction industry due to technological integration, particularly focusing on AI's impact.Procore's Unique Approach: Learn how Procore sets itself apart in the industry as more than just software, and discover the benefits of their platform-centric philosophy.Enhancing Mental Health through Technology: Jeffrey discusses Procore's initiatives to improve mental health and create healthier work environments through technology integration.Alleviating Project Pressures: Discover how technology aids in reducing stress and making construction projects more manageable, ultimately leading to smoother project planning and execution.Integrating AI for Employee Satisfaction: Jeffrey offers insights into incorporating AI and technology to enhance employee satisfaction, streamline workflows, and improve team leadership.Navigating Global ERP Alliances & Partnerships: Jeffrey explains how Procore's platform-focused approach influences their collaborations with global ERP alliances and partnerships, enriching the client experience.Exciting Transformations: Gain insights into Jeffrey's perspective on the most exciting and transformative innovations within the construction tech landscape.AI's Role in Better Work-Life Balance: Jeffrey shares practical ways technology and AI can contribute to not only a more profitable construction company but also a more balanced and fulfilling work environment.Advice for Emerging Construction Tech Professionals: For newcomers to the field, Jeffrey provides valuable advice on embarking on a successful career in construction technology, particularly in collaboration with innovative platforms like Procore.Future Endeavors at Procore: Get a sneak peek into Procore's upcoming projects, initiatives, and technologies that are set to shape the industry's future.Don't miss this episode featuring Jeffrey Nesbitt if you're keen on exploring the intersection of technology and construction. Tune in to gain unparalleled insights into the evolving landscape of construction technology and its potential to revolutionize the industry.

In this episode of the Construction Hall of Fame Podcast, we have the privilege of welcoming Kyle Grandell, the CEO at Dell Management. Join us as Kyle shares his inspiring career journey, leading up to his current role at Dell Management, and provides invaluable insights into building a successful business as an employee-turned-entrepreneur in the construction industry.Topics Covered:Quick Introduction: Matt introduces Kyle and invites him to share his career story up to becoming the CEO at Dell Management.Founding Dell Management: Discover what inspired Kyle to start Dell Management and the vision behind the company.Setting Dell Management Apart: As a relatively new construction management firm, Kyle explains what differentiates Dell Management from others and the company's goals in the industry.Building a Positive Company Culture: Learn how Dell Management fosters and maintains a positive company culture and its impact on the company's success.Overcoming Industry Challenges: Kyle discusses the biggest challenges faced as a business owner in the construction industry and how they address them.Highlighting Successful Projects: Kyle shares a standout project completed by Dell Management and the factors that made it exceptional.Embracing Industry Trends: Looking ahead, Kyle discusses emerging trends in the construction industry and how Dell Management plans to adapt and stay ahead.Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Kyle offers valuable advice for those aspiring to start their own construction management firms and the key qualities for success in this field.Spotlight on Upcoming Initiatives: Kyle sheds light on upcoming initiatives and projects at Dell Management.Walking in His Shoes: Kyle gives advice to construction professionals aiming to reach a leadership position like his.Join us for an insightful and informative conversation with Kyle Grandell if you'd like to learn valuable insights about becoming an entrepreneur in the construction industry. Don't miss this episode of the Construction Hall of Fame Podcast!

In this episode, we welcome Scott Staton, Business Unit Director at Harris Company.Scott's journey in mechanical contracting began on a path of uncertainty, leading to a successful career commanding his own business unit at the renowned Harris Company. With his background, he brings a unique perspective and invaluable insights to our discussion.In this episode, we delve into:• Scott's background and his entrance into the mechanical contracting world, along with the inspirations that led him to head up his own business unit.• His strategies on setting his business unit apart from other mechanical contractors in the crowded Bay Area market.• Challenges that Scott has faced in the mechanical contracting industry and his strategies for overcoming them.• Proven practices Scott has utilized for attracting and retaining top talent within the industry.• Scott's view on crucial qualities for any successful business unit leader.• The evolution of the industry since Scott's early days and how his company has adapted to these shifts.• Practical advice Scott would offer to a newcomer to the mechanical contracting industry.• Parting advice for young professionals in the construction industry who aspire to walk in his shoes one day.And much more…If you are keen to hear an inspiring journey from uncertainty to success, gain firsthand insights from a mechanical contracting leader, or garner valuable advice for career progression within the industry -- this episode with Scott Staton is not to be missed!

On this episode, we are joined by Craig Jones -- Principal at Skyline Construction.Craig's success story began after finishing his collegiate baseball career and received a job offer with Turner Construction. Fast forward to today, after 30 years with Turner, Craig is now focused on Sales, Business Development and DE&I initiatives as the Principal for Skyline Construction.In this episode, we discuss:• How Craig's experience as a college athlete shaped his approach to work and leadership.• Some of the biggest challenges Craig has faced over his career in the construction industry, and how he overcame them.• What Craig believes are the most important qualities for success in business development in the construction industry (plus tangible prospecting examples).• How Craig approaches his team's DE&I initiatives and some of his most successful initiatives in this area.And much more…If you want to hear a story about a college athlete turned construction executive, learn cutting-edge business development advice from an industry leader, or hear about DE&I best practices in the industry -- you're in for a gem with this episode!

On this episode, we are joined by Rey Altamirano -- Director or Life Sciences and Healthcare at Peacock Construction.Rey's success story began working for his father's construction company, and initially deciding construction wasn't for him. Then, he found a professor in college who led him to fall back in love with construction. Fast forward to today, Rey is a prolific Project Leader focused on Healthcare and Life Sciences who also has done an incredible job winning work for Peacock Construction.In this episode, we discuss:• What Rey enjoys about being a part of the team at Peacock• How his experience has differed going from larger GC’s to a smaller GC• How his experience at the “big boys” helped him improve the systems and processes at Peacock• How he has helped add a significant amount of backlog work to Peacock through relationships and business developmentAnd much more…If you're looking to hear a story about a construction leader who fell out of love and back into love with construction, how Rey has significantly increased the backlog for their team during the pandemic, or how a Healthcare and Life Sciences construction leader has taken their experience at larger GC's to impact a smaller GC -- you're in for a gem with this episode!

On this episode, we are joined by Aaron Witt-- Chief Executive Officer at BuildWittAaron's success story began in high school working as a laborer for a construction company after a project popped up in his neighborhood. This led him to going to school for construction engineering, interning with 5 construction companies throughout college. As he graduated, he decided to build his online brand around his love for the industry as a young engineer. Fast forward to today, Aaron is the CEO at BuildWitt where he's built a media and marketing company specifically focused on the Dirt World.In this episode, we discuss:• What it's been like building and scaling BuildWitt since day 1• How his visits to construction job sites around the US has helped improve his business overall• Common challenges the industry faces when it comes to attracting and retaining skilled workers and how we can attack those challenges head on• How construction companies can adapt their training programs to better engage and retain younger workers who may have different learning styles and preferencesAnd much more…If you're looking for new ways to level up your ability to train and develop your team, you want to hear a couple passionate guys talking shop about chipping away at the talent shortage in construction, or you want to hear how industry leaders are implementing outside the box marketing and training for the team -- you're in for a gem with this episode!

On this episode, we are joined by Adrian Russell -- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Director at Shiel Sexton.Russell's success story began as a young child working on construction related projects around the house. This led him to study construction in college. Once he graduated, he worked with a few construction companies who made Adrian question if he made the right choice with construction for his career. Fast forward to today, Adrian believes construction changed his life for the better and he helps "Spread the good word of construction" to the younger generations while being a champion for DE&I at Shiel Sexton.In this episode, we discuss:• How he first realized that he was in environments that weren’t inclusive, and what that felt like for him• The difference between being in non-inclusive construction environments -- and finding the culture that was inclusive which changed his perception about what’s possible in the construction industry• What a special mentor did for him that gave him hope for the industry, and what made this person stand out as one of his most impactful mentors of his career•  How Shiel Sexton prioritizes and promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion within the company, and what steps they have taken to create a more inclusive workplaceAnd much more…If you're looking for new ways to improve DE&I in the construction industry, you want to hear a triumphant success story in the construction industry, or you want to hear how industry leaders are promoting DE&I -- you're in for a gem with this episode!

On this episode, we are joined by Martin Selca -- Talent Acquisition Recruiter at Consigli.Martin's success story began after graduating college when he joined a B2B energy sales company. Within a couple short years, he built out one of the company's largest books of business. From there, he moved into recruitment working on the agency side with Spencer Ogden as a 360 recruiter focused on the engineering space. Today, Martin represents Consigli, a Top 100 ENR firm growing like wildfire throughout the Northeast, as an Internal Talent Acquisition Recruiter.In this episode, we discuss:• What inspired Martin to become a recruiter in the construction industry -- and how  being in a heavy sales environment in his first job helped contribute to his success as a recruiter• The strong culture and values they have in place at Consigli -- and how they contribute to their company’s success• The biggest challenges they face when working to attract and retain top talent in the construction industry -- and how they address them•  How they articulate their Employee Value Proposition to attract top talent who "aren't actively looking for new opportunities"And much more…If you're looking for new ways to recruit passive top talent, you want to learn about Consigli's strong Employee Value Proposition, or you want to hear the journey of a successful construction recruiter for one of the nation's fastest growing construction teams -- you're in for a gem with this episode!

On this episode, we are joined by Cecilia Kucharski -- Vice President and Operations Leader at Webcor in San Diego.Cecilia's success story began studying Construction Management and being a part of multiple internship programs throughout her college career at Purdue University. After college, she jumped straight into the Bay Area construction industry working for a large contractor as a Project Engineer, then quickly rose into Project Management and Project Director roles. From there, she moved into estimating and Business Development, Business Acquisition, Business Strategy and Marketing. Finally, she moved back into Operations where she leads the charge for Webcor's market expansion in San Diego. It's great to hear Cecilia's passion when sharing why she loves being a part of Webcor, what makes their team culture unique, and what an EXCITING opportunity it is to be a part of their market growth in San Diego.In this episode, we discuss:• How her summer internships helped jumpstart your career in the right direction -- including what she's noticed some of the most successful internship programs have in common -- and where some miss the mark• The difference between having a mentor and a sponsor -- and what this has meant to her career• Why elite executive talent in the industry who might have a comfortable job at the moment should consider a move to the Webcor team to participate in this powerful mission they’re on to continue taking over the San Diego market•  How Webcor intentionally upskills their leaders -- and how this has driven a positive impact to their team and organization overallAnd much more…If you're looking for new ways to find strategic mentors or sponsors for your career, you want to learn about new opportunities to get on the ground floor in a growing market, or you simply want to hear the perspective of a seasoned construction leader who has worked nearly every aspect of the business -- you're in for a gem with this episode!

On this episode, we are joined by Brian Hall -- Director of Socal Markets at BCCI Construction.Brian's success story began wearing a tool bag -- framing houses and working for developers. He then decided to go to college for a bachelor's in business while he worked for a civil engineering company on the south side of Chicago. He then made a move to California and hasn't looked back since. Throughout his career, he's displayed resilience in the face of adversity, which leads him to where he is today as BCCI's Director of Socal Markets, where he's helping BCCI launch their new market build out initiative.In this episode, we discuss:• How Brian and his team approach talent acquisition when entering a new market• How Brian and his team are working to build a strong culture in the new market they're carving out• How Brian pursues and lands new contract opportunities in a brand new market• How Brian's resiliency and growth-mindset have helped him get where he's at todayAnd much more…If you're looking for insights for building out a new market, you want to hear a story of true resilience in the face of adversity, or you simply want to hear the perspective of a seasoned construction leader who's working to make waves in the Southern California market -- you're in for a fun one with this episode!

On this episode, we are joined by Mike Trulove -- Senior Project Manager at CDI Contractors.Mike's success story began chasing gold buckle dreams as a professional bull rider in Austin, TX. Along the way, he was running his own fencing company on the side, when all the sudden he suffered a career ending injury. After his bull riding career ended, he joined KB Home for about 2 years superintending 60 to 80 homes at a time. He decided he wanted to get into the commercial side of construction as the residential construction market saw a crash, which led to him joining Hensel Phelps as a field engineer. Along the way, Mike applied an impressive work ethic coupled with a growth mindset and a high self-awareness to help him grow into where he is today.In this episode, we discuss:• What lean construction means to him — and how companies can benefit by implementing lean into their organization• His experience transitioning from residential construction to ultimately working on international mega projects• His perspective on building a thriving culture by aligning the “mind, body and spirit” of the organization• His personal experience going from a construction employee, to a consultant, and back to bring an employee leading his team to successAnd much more…If you're looking for new ways to implement the Lean mentality into your construction organization, you want to build a thriving construction culture, or you simply want to hear the perspective of a seasoned construction leader who genuinely cares about pushing the industry forward -- you're in for a treat with this episode!

On this episode, we are joined by Mike Martinez -- VP of Business Management at Rossi Builders.Mike's success story began working in the media industry, rising up the ranks over the years with companies like San Diego Business Journal, San Francisco Business Times, and Bisnow. After wrapping up his media career, he decided to make the jump into the construction industry. Throughout his career, he's maintained a growth mindset and built relationships with impactful construction leaders which has allowed him to make an immediate impact on the construction teams he's been a part of, while also taking massive action to learn as much construction knowledge as possible when he officially entered the industry.In this episode, we discuss:• What the transition was like moving from the media industry into construction• Recent shifts Mike has noticed in the San Francisco Bay Area construction market• What allows Mike and the team at Rossi to perform at such a high level and consistently win multi million dollar bids throughout the San Francisco area• His personal experience as a client partner of our construction headhunting firm, Big League TalentAnd much more…If you're considering a career move into construction from another industry, you want to level up your ability to recruit and retain rockstar construction professionals, or you simply want to hear the perspective of a successful construction leader who represents a roughly $100M ARR Bay Area construction team -- you're in for a treat with this episode!

On this episode, we are joined by Leandris Weeden -- Lean Construction Advocate at Layton Construction.Leandris' success story began at around 12 years old, helping his grandfather's residential construction company. After high school, he moved from working directly in the trades to attending college as an aspiring construction management professional. Since graduating college, he's worked as a superintendent and project manager for some of America's most reputable GC's. Along the way, Leandris has maintained a growth mindset, focused on how we can consistently help push the construction industry forward in all respects.In this episode, we discuss:• How we can increase diversity in the construction industry, especially as we go up higher in the leadership ranks• How you can adopt the mindset of a building scientist to consistently execute construction projects at a more effective clip, ultimately creating happier clients and employees• How you can mentor your team to not only help them level up, but so much so that they tell all their friends what a great opportunity it is to be a part of your teamAnd much more…If you're looking for new ways to leverage a growth mindset to improve the success of your construction projects, you want to setup your new team members for success, or you simply want to hear the perspective of a seasoned construction leader who genuinely cares about pushing the industry forward -- you're in for a treat with this episode!

On this episode, we are joined by Matt Graves -- Owner's Representative at AGCM.Matt's success story began by going to college to become a custom home builder. Since then, he's continuously grown as a leader, running multiple unique types of projects while always staying curious to help him intentionally grow in his career.In this episode, we discuss how staying curious can help uplevel your construction career, how to retain your construction management talent, what it feels like to be “more than a number” in construction, potential effects of ChatGPT on the construction industry, and more…If you're looking to advance in your construction career, or you simply want to hear the perspective of a seasoned construction leader with a powerful growth mindset -- you're in for a treat with this episode!

On this episode, we are joined by Brent Kelley -- Managing Principal and Co-Sector Lead of the Aviation Team at Corgan.Brent's success story began by realizing his love real estate and architecture as a young child. Since then, Brent has risen up from "6-hour unemployed intern" to a Managing Principal over his 33+ year career with Corgan.In this episode, we discuss the value of allowing your team to self-actualize in their career, the fine line of delegating without giving away too much responsibility too soon, how to retain your team by allowing them to explore the career growth they desire, plus more...If you're looking to advance in your AEC career, you want to hear why an employee would stick with a firm for 30+ years, or you simply want to hear the perspective of a seasoned AEC Aviation Leader discussing what makes his team great -- you're in for a treat with this episode!

On this episode, we are joined by Jason Dries Daffner -- Chief Operating Officer at MBH Architects.Jason's success story begins as an architect. Since then, Jason has risen up through the AEC industry ranks on the operations leadership side of the business.In this episode we discuss the value of radical transparency in the hiring process, how emotional maturity can propel your career growth, and how to conduct a relevant reference check to learn more about your candidates, plus more...If you're looking to advance in your AEC career, you want to hire elite AEC executives, or you want to hear the perspective of a seasoned AEC Operations Leader -- you're in for a treat with this episode!