In an industry where every project matters and stakes are high, a podcast like “Encourage Build Grow” is a haven for design professionals and firm leaders. Hosted by Randy Wilburn, the podcast aims to tackle the challenges and opportunities in design and construction, focusing on leadership development and effective communication.
James Hillegas: From Design to Construction Management
In a recent episode, Randy welcomed James Hillegas, a pre-fabrication manager at OCP Contractors. James opened up about his journey from the design world to construction management, citing his growing dissatisfaction with the automated and math-driven aspects of design. The construction industry, according to James, offers the immediacy and stakes that make every day exciting and different.
The Challenges in the Design Industry
Hillegas highlighted the key challenges facing design professionals today. Among the most daunting are hiring and retention. The digital age has leveled the playing field, with many professionals building personal brands via social media, making talent acquisition and retention a complex task for employers.
Nuggets of Wisdom for Young Professionals
James, who continually invests in self-improvement as evidenced by his educational background, also shared invaluable advice for young professionals. He stressed the importance of being a self-starter and continually asking questions. In the age of the internet, self-learning and networking have never been easier. James encouraged young professionals to use these tools wisely and to always stay busy to avoid pitfalls.
Staying in Your Lane and Effective Communication
“Stay in your lane,” Randy noted, emphasizing the importance of specializing, especially in fields like construction technology. He offered tips on effective communication, advocating for the strategic use of silence and slowing down one’s speech for better message absorption. The host also insisted on the importance of knowing your audience and dressing accordingly, stating that effective communication is a two-way street.
Personal Development and Efficiency
The podcast also delved into the idea of working on projects outside one’s field to gain expertise and improve efficiency. Hillegas revealed that his involvement in drones and bridge inspections not only satisfied his curiosity but also provided valuable problem-solving skills. This is a testament to the benefits of staying engaged in projects that may not directly relate to one’s full-time job but can offer growth and efficiency in the long run.
Employee Well-being and Career Growth
Discussing the often stressful processes in the workplace, Randy and James talked about the importance of understanding what employees need beyond monetary compensation. This segment underscored the need for industry leaders to question standards like the 40-hour workweek and listen actively to employee feedback.
Closing Remarks and Where to Listen
James Elias closed the episode with a heartfelt message about the power of helping others without expecting anything in return. “When you help others, good things will come back to you,” he said.
Randy expressed gratitude for James being a pioneer on the Encourage Build Grow podcast. He offered his assistance to any design firms and professionals looking to improve their leadership and communication skills. For those interested in sharing their challenges or ideas for future episodes, Randy encouraged listeners to reach out.
The podcast is available on various platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and will soon be on I Heart Radio. Randy also hinted at future plans to integrate an Alexa skill for the podcast, making it even more accessible to listeners worldwide.
In Summary
“Encourage Build Grow” is more than just a podcast; it’s a resource hub for anyone in the design and construction sectors. With leaders like James Hillegas sharing their journeys and insights, listeners are sure to find the encouragement and tools they need to build and grow, both professionally and personally.
