The Morning Huddle Construction Show

In this episode, Michael Fortinberry , co-founder and COO of Protiv , discusses whether it's time to rethink the hourly pay system in the construction industry. Together, we'll explore innovative compensation models to boost productivity and efficiency, offering valuable insights for those looking to improve workforce performance through new pay structures.

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...

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...

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...

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.

In this episode of The Morning Huddle Well Built Series, Chad and Matt discuss why so many contractors “can’t find good people” and what must be done to end that cycle in your business. In the X v Y segment, there’s also a lively discussion about firing slow or fast that leads to excellent lessons for anyone struggling with how to handle underperformers. As always, the episode is fun and engaging,...

Has this happened to you? A high-potential employee with a bright future shows up one day and tells you, “Sorry, but I got a job offer for more money. I’m leaving.” If you’re like most contractors, the answer is a resounding YES! In this episode, Chad and Matt discuss if and when employees really do leave for money, and what other hidden factors are at play. Here’s a hint: it often comes down to l...

Construction company owners are often highly capable sellers and doers. They built their business from scratch to where it is today for a reason! This all works fine until one day, they wake up and realize they've created a time-eating, stress-producing monster with themselves at the center. What they need is a team of trusted leaders inside their business to help them take control and reduce the...

Are you tired of the bidding game? Don't fall into the never ending race to the bottom, this episode focuses on how to pivot out of a low bid mindset and win deals with healthy GM. In this episode Matt Verderamo & Chad Prinkey cover: - Strategies to pivot away from price-centric thinking - How to maintain healthy client relationships - Real-world success stories from industry experts

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...

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 healt...

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 addr...

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 solutio...

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 pivota...

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 prep...

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 i...

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...

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,...

The Well Built Series is a special podcast designed for decision-makers in the construction industry, as well as those aspiring to be leaders. Hosted by Chad Prinkey and Matt Verderamo, this series delves into the best practices perfected by successful contractors. Join us as we explore the “Do’s” and “Don’ts” that transform good companies into truly “Well Built” organizations. Whether you’re an i...

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 cultivati...

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 share...

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 strate...

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...

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...