Building Leaders in Construction: Insights from Brian Brogen

Construction Champions Podcast

5 days ago3 min read

The Leadership Gap in Construction

The construction industry has long struggled with hiring and retention. But what if the real issue isn’t just about finding workers, it’s about developing leaders? In the latest episode of the Construction Champions Podcast, Brian Brogen, founder of Build Consulting, sheds light on the critical role leadership development plays in the future of construction. His message is clear: if you don’t develop your people, someone else will.

The Hidden Cost of Poor Leadership Development

Many construction companies operate under the assumption that employees will train and grow themselves. Unfortunately, this mindset often results in high turnover, as employees leave for companies that invest in their growth. According to Brian, expecting workers to "figure it out" is one of the biggest mistakes leaders make.

Leadership isn’t just about managing a team; it’s about setting a vision, creating an engaging work culture, and fostering an environment where employees can see a future for themselves. If companies fail to provide clear career paths and leadership development opportunities, they risk losing valuable talent.

Key Takeaways from Brian Brogen

Brian Brogen shares practical strategies for developing strong leaders in construction. Here are the key takeaways from his conversation on the Construction Champions Podcast:

1. Stop Micromanaging, Set Guardrails and Give Autonomy

Micromanaging stifles creativity and slows productivity. Instead, construction leaders should establish clear expectations (guardrails) and trust their teams to operate within those parameters. Empowering employees with autonomy leads to better decision-making and a stronger sense of ownership over their work.

2. Rebrand Construction as a Career, Not Just a Job

The construction industry is often seen as a temporary or unskilled career path. Brian emphasizes the importance of changing this perception by showcasing the long-term growth opportunities available in the industry. Companies should highlight success stories, mentorship programs, and leadership pathways to attract and retain talent.

3. Invest in Leadership Development to Keep Employees Long-Term

Leadership development should be a structured part of every construction company’s strategy. This includes formal training programs, mentorship, and opportunities for advancement. Employees who see investment in their future are far more likely to stay and contribute to the company's success.

4. Help Employees See Their Career Path Before They Look Elsewhere

If employees can’t visualize their future at your company, they’ll start looking elsewhere. Construction firms must create clear career roadmaps and communicate them effectively. This helps workers see how their current role fits into a long-term growth plan, reducing turnover and increasing engagement.

The Blueprint for Better Leadership

Brian Brogen’s approach to leadership in construction is simple: Build people first, and success will follow. Companies that prioritize leadership development will not only retain employees but also create a more engaged and productive workforce.

Are you ready to take your leadership development to the next level?

Listen to the full episode of the Construction Champions Podcast featuring Brian Brogen

How BuilderComs Can Help

At BuilderComs, we understand that leadership development is crucial to the success of any construction business. Our platform provides tools to streamline team management, improve communication, and support leadership growth. Contact us today to learn how BuilderComs can help you build a stronger, more resilient workforce.