The Morning Huddle

Join Herb Sargent, CEO of Sargent, and Eric Ritchie, President & COO, as they delve into the intricacies of executing a successful succession plan. Drawing from their firsthand experiences, they discuss the challenges and strategies involved in leadership transitions within a legacy-driven, employee-owned company.​

Jonte Hawkins, Director of Safety at West Shore Home, and Roberto Gomez, Executive Director of Cornerstone Craftsman, dive into how the trades changed their lives—and how they're now using that power to change others'. From second chances to workforce pipelines, they're tackling the construction labor shortage by investing in the next generation.

In this episode, Jason Schroeder, Founder and CEO of ELEVATE Construction, LLC, explores what it truly means to elevate the field in construction. Tom Hughes, PE, VP of Construction Operations at Genesis AEC, joins as guest host to help guide a conversation on integrating field leaders into preconstruction, developing great superintendents, and bridging the gap between field and office. Packed with practical insights and industry perspective, this episode challenges how we think about planning, leadership, and respect for the craft.

Retention is where companies struggle. Ryan Englin, COO of Core Matters, breaks down what it takes to keep employees, strengthen the company's reputation, and make the trades a top career choice. From HR and marketing collaboration to standout job ads and talent pipelines, we're covering the real keys to becoming an employer of choice.

What does it take to keep a construction project running smoothly? Eric Van Why, Jonathan Fox, and Megan Ross from Coakley & Williams Construction (CWC) break down The Build Mindset—covering site logistics, safety, scheduling, financials, and the power of clear communication. Learn how CWC's expertise, technology, and strong trade relationships ensure seamless execution from start to finish. Whether you're in the industry or just curious, this episode is packed with expert insights. Tune in and build smarter with CWC!

How can we recruit, retain, and advance more women in construction? Jennifer Wilkerson, VP of Innovations & Advancements at NCCER, joins us to unpack the In Her Own Words research and its game-changing impact on the industry. We discuss key findings, workplace improvements, and why job sites with women perform better. Plus, we dive into the ROI of training, the return of trade education, and the rise of the Tool Belt Generation.

We're talking salary transparency with Hannah Williams, founder of Salary Transparent Street! From the impact of new salary transparency laws to why it's crucial—especially in construction—Hannah breaks down the benefits of pay openness, what she's learned from interviewing trade workers, and how we can bridge the massive labor gap. Plus, hear all about STS's new job board and salary database, designed to help job seekers and employers alike. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation!

Join Alex Kablanian, General Manager at ServiceTitan, as we dive into the exciting opportunities and challenges shaping the construction industry in 2025! From rising optimism and growth goals to tackling labor shortages and supply chain issues, Alex shares the must-know trends and strategies for contractors this year. Don't miss it!

Stanley Stoll, PE, CEO and principal engineer of Knott Laboratory, uncovers the hidden flaws that compromise buildings—from water damage to foundation cracks. Learn how cutting-edge tech like drones and digital twins is revolutionizing inspections and how to prevent costly failures before it's too late!

Join Ruchir Shah, Founder & CEO of SkillCat, as he shares how SkillCat is revolutionizing trade education—offering affordable, online certifications in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and more. Learn about their new nonprofit, GRIT Foundation, and how they're tackling the skilled worker shortage.

Discover how William Mandara RA, CEO of Mancini Duffy, is disrupting architecture with patented tech, cutting-edge VR, and a sharp growth strategy. Hear how he scaled the firm from 40 to 130 people, diversified into high-stakes sectors like aviation and life sciences, and redefined architect-GC partnerships for game-changing project success.

In this episode, Joe Wilson, CEO/Founder of PROJEXION, reveals how contractors can finally unlock the power of their data. Learn how to identify problem projects, predict profitability, and make data-driven decisions using dashboards and KPIs. Joe explains why Projexion is the key to solving the construction industry's data crisis and how it can help you stay ahead in an ever-changing workforce. Tune in to discover the future of construction data!

Leaders who prioritize humanity create workplaces where people feel valued and supported, fostering loyalty, innovation, and growth. In this episode, Edward DeAngelis, CEO of EDA Contractors, shares how a people-centric approach builds cultures rooted in safety, respect, and alignment with organizational values. When leaders serve their teams with intention, they unlock the full potential of their people—and their businesses.

Roger Krulak is “The OG in Modular” and a visionary shaping the future of urban development whose solution lends itself to multi-family, student housing, hotels, and much more. Like your recent guests, Roger is a pioneer who is continuously looking to create positive change in the building industry within his professional career. As a major advocate for wanting to meet the needs of today's world, Roger guest lectures on the subject at Yale, Harvard, and MIT sharing his success strategies as well as his lessons in the business. The FullStack Modular method resembles the Lego concept – it all clicks together, stack it up, and add a roof! The company relocated its headquarters in Hamden, CT, and continues to house its factory in Oregon. Roger can contribute to the conversation of manufacturing, construction, multi-family housing, and the business aspect within the industry.

In this episode, we dive into the challenges and opportunities of attracting and retaining women in the construction industry. We're joined by Emily Soloby, MA, JD, founder of Juno Jones Safety Boots, and Sally M., product creator of Spectra Supply Inc. As founding members of the AWSAM (Alliance of Women's Safety Apparel Manufacturers), they are at the forefront of a vital movement dedicated to transforming the construction industry. AWSAM is committed to rethinking industry policies and practices to better align with women's priorities, ensuring that the workplace is inclusive and empowering. Join us as we discuss practical strategies and the impactful initiatives AWSAM is spearheading to create a supportive environment for women in construction.

What does the workplace look like nearly five years after COVID-19 flipped everything upside down? Mariela Buendia-Corrochano, Founder and CEO of estudioMBC LLC, explores how companies are redefining hybrid work, balancing full-time office mandates with flexible remote options. As leaders grapple with designing spaces and policies that boost productivity and retain talent, Mariela shares strategies to create in-office experiences that employees actually want to return to. She also dives into key trends shaping the future of work and what companies can do to thrive in this evolving landscape.

With jurisdictions stepping up enforcement all over the country, contractors need to get smart about protecting their business from wage theft claims. Our guest, Matthew DeSarno, CEO of Verfico Technology, will tell us about current market trends around the country and discuss innovations to employee compensation that both satisfy the law and improve profitability.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Neil Agarwal, President and CEO, and Benjamin Britten, Director of Operations and Special Services at Frisco Woodline. In this episode, we explore the inspiring growth story of Frisco Woodline, a small business making waves in the lumber industry. Neil and Ben share their experiences navigating the challenges of expansion, detailing the strategic decisions that positioned them for success. We'll dive into how they broke into the prefinishing and custom profiling markets, what inspired their bold moves, and the lessons they learned while overcoming the hurdles that come with growing a business. Whether you're a business owner looking to expand or simply curious about the inner workings of a thriving company, this episode offers valuable insights into Frisco Woodline's journey.

AI is obviously on everyone's mind. For those of us who are busy building all day, it can be hard to wrap our heads around it, which means we often miss out on practical applications. That's where our guests, the Sousa Brothers—founders of Scalit AI—come in. They break down ChatGPT and other commonly known AI tools, sharing practical use cases for contractors that you can start using tomorrow.

Chad and Matt dive right into the question of the day: Why is growth necessary for construction companies? Growth means many different things, and they start by clarifying that growth doesn't always mean higher revenues—sometimes, it means developing process and adding stability. Meanwhile, other times, it has everything to do with increasing revenue and profits. Either way, central to the need for growth is the fact that great people want to have something to strive toward; with grow comes opportunity. In the X vs. Y section, Matt and Chad argue about whether you should show your team your org. chart. We hope you enjoy and learn how to grow your business effectively through this month's episode.

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. 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.

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, at least in our opinion. Check it out.

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 leadership and culture! You will walk away from this episode with some tools to better retain great people, and be a company where people want to work. After that, the guys debate whether it's feasible to hire executives from outside, or if you need to promote from within. Let us know who you think won the debate in the comments!

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 pressure on a single owner. They need an executive team. In this episode, we talk about how and why owners should create an executive team. Also, we fight about work-from-home arrangements in the construction industry in our XvY segment.

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 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.

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 industry veteran or just starting out, this podcast offers valuable insights to enhance your construction journey.Subscribe to be notified when new episodes are released on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or LinkedIn. And if you're looking for more ways to engage with the wider construction community, check out our affiliate podcast, The Morning Huddle Classic, hosted by Chad Prinkey and Stacey Holsinger from Steel Toe Communications. Tune in every Tuesday morning at 9 A.M. EST for discussions with A/E/C experts, advancing the construction community.

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.