Q&A - Are Trades The Right Path? Where To Start Out In Concrete, What to Focus on Once You Become A Foreman

In this episode of the Blue Collar Future podcast, hosts Jaden Robison and Jessie Demler discuss the challenges and rewards of working in the construction industry, particularly in masonry. They share personal experiences about navigating the apprenticeship phase, finding passion in their work, and transitioning into leadership roles. The conversation emphasizes the importance of communication, documentation, and teamwork in construction, as well as the value of learning Spanish to improve interactions with diverse crews. The hosts also provide advice for aspiring project managers and discuss how to find reputable companies to work for in the industry.

Takeaways

• Navigating the challenges of commercial construction requires effective communication.
• Finding passion in your trade can lead to greater job satisfaction.
• Documentation is crucial in the construction industry to protect yourself and your work.
• Transitioning to leadership roles involves learning to empower and enable your team.
• Understanding different personalities on your crew is key to effective management.
• Learning Spanish can significantly improve communication on job sites with diverse teams.
• It's important to check your ego and be open to learning from others.
• Finding a reputable company to work for can set the foundation for a successful career.
• Enjoying your work can lead to better performance and fulfillment.
• The construction industry offers measurable progress, making it easier to see personal growth.

Chapters

(00:00) - Introduction and Current Workload

(05:58) - Apprenticeship Reflections and Career Path

(11:52) - Navigating Family Business Dynamics

(18:08) - Measuring Progress and Enjoying the Journey

(30:23) - Effective Communication in Construction

(36:06) - The Importance of Delegation

(47:54) - Finding Reputable Companies