Outbuild is online scheduling software to work together on connected project schedules and look-aheads, enabling everyone to move faster.
Key Takeaways
- Schedules, Lookaheads, and Weekly Work Plans within one integrated platform.
- Real-time insights and project analytics through automated dashboards.
- Easier, streamlined plan management through a user-friendly interface.
Table of contents
- Starting a Journey in Construction
- Friendly Competition Turns into a Life Long Career
- Lessons Learned Along the Way
- Leadership in Construction Management
- Embracing the Job
Steve is a seasoned construction professional with an impressive 47-year career in the industry. Beginning as an Apprentice, he climbed the ranks to become a Superintendent, overseeing hundreds of projects, including highly complex initiatives for prestigious clients like Disney and Stanford University. Now retired, Steve’s decades of expertise and leadership have left a lasting mark on the industry.
We asked Steve a bit about his background...
Q: How did your career in construction begin?
A: "I got started when I was at UC Irvine on a partial baseball scholarship, but the financial support wasn’t enough to cover everything. To make ends meet, I took extra campus jobs like handing out towels and working as a dispatcher for the UCI Police Department.
On top of that, I worked a graveyard shift at a carpet mill from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., then went to school, practiced baseball for four hours, and started it all over again. It was exhausting, and eventually, I realized this wasn't sustainable.
Around that time, my neighbor, who was a lather (someone who installs black paper and wire for plastering), offered me a job. The next day, I was working with him, learning the basics like nailing wire for plaster prep.
I'll never forget that first day of work I hit my finger so hard I split it in half basically...blood everywhere. My boss told me to get a bandaid on it and get back to work.
He also told me "act like you want to get where you're going when you're on site, meaning, get there and get there quickly. That was my introduction to Construction. "
That experience got me started in carpentry, and I realized I loved working with my hands and building things. I also loved the competition of it all but wasn't sure I would cut it long term. Over time, I gained more experience and responsibilities, which set me on my career path."
Steve was drawn to the fast-paced, competitive nature of residential construction.
When he first started, he and his teammates set a daily goal: wrap about 200 yards of lath. It became a friendly competition—everyone pushed themselves to work faster, racing to see who could finish first. For someone as competitive as Steve, that kind of challenge made every day exciting.
Beyond the thrill of competition, working outdoors was a huge bonus. Steve had once dreamed of becoming an architect, but the thought of being stuck inside all day didn’t sit right with him. He thrived in the open air; tackling hands-on projects that kept him moving.
"Once you get the hang of lathing, it’s rewarding," Steve shared. And he didn’t just get the hang of it—he mastered it. He quickly climbed the ranks, advancing from Apprentice to Journeyman, then Foreman. A few years later, he stepped into the role of Superintendent, where he proved to be a natural leader.
But Steve’s journey wasn’t just about career growth—it was also about family. At just 20 years old, he married Val, and decades later, they’re still going strong. Together, they raised two sons, Matt and Luke.
One of the biggest perks of being a Superintendent? The early hours allowed Steve to spend quality time with his family. He cherished every moment coaching his sons on the baseball field, making memories that mattered just as much as his success in construction.
Throughout his career, Steve has learned many valuable lessons. One of the most important lessons he shared was the importance of building trust within a team.
"It’s all about trust and respect," said Steve.
"You can train someone to do something, but you can’t change their personality or work ethic. You need to earn their trust and respect by leading by example."
He stressed that being a leader at a general contractor requires humility. You must be ready to work alongside your team.
Another valuable lesson Steve learned was the importance of prioritizing safety. Reflecting on earlier days, he recalls how poor safety standards were. In fact, Steve suffered a serious accident that left him unable to work for six months just 13 days after marrying his high school sweetheart, Val.
When he returned, safety goggles became non-negotiable, and he gained a deep appreciation for the role of personal protective equipment (PPE) in construction.
His experience highlights the need for proper safety protocols in the construction industry.
Steve grew up in the trades by listening to mentors that were roughly 20 years older than him and who had a lot of knowledge to share.
He understood quickly that he could learn from other team members and then pass on that crucial information.
He was a natural coach on and off the job site.
Steve understood the difference between leadership and management and was well-respected by anyone who encountered him.
According to Steve, a strong desire to solve problems is what makes a great field employee. He also emphasized the importance of building strong relationships across the project team. Collaborating effectively with Architects and Engineers, for example, can be a decisive factor in a project’s success.
"There has to be pride in what you are doing, honor in what you are doing and respect for others," said Steve.
We dove in a bit deeper with Steve:
Q: What was the biggest reason you stayed in Construction?
A: "In the early days, wages soared, and we received substantial raises. The pay was excellent, and I loved working outdoors. It kept me in great shape while allowing me to enjoy my work. It was fun to watch the construction project progress.
I often finished early, giving me time to spend with my family and even coach baseball. It was a fulfilling and rewarding experience."
Q: What have been some of the highlights of your career as a superintendent?
A: "I've had the opportunity to work on some really exciting projects, including building for Disney and managing construction at Stanford University.
There are challenges during certain construction management phases. However, it is always rewarding to see a project come together. You can feel proud knowing you played an important role in making it happen."
Q: What advice do you have for new professionals entering the construction industry?
A: "My advice would be to embrace the job and do your best every day. Construction can be tricky, but if you approach it with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, you will go far.
And, don't be afraid to make mistakes. They are chances to grow. No one expects you to know how to manage a construction site perfectly on your first day."
Q: Any final thoughts or words of wisdom for construction professionals still in the industry?
A: "Construction is a rewarding industry, but it requires hard work and dedication. There are different aspects of the project that are challenging and always a bunch of moving parts. But, ultimately it pays off!
No matter where you are in your career, tracking progress and always striving to improve is key. And in construction, one thing is for sure — teamwork makes all the difference.
Take Steve, for example. He started as a carpenter and worked his way up to Superintendent, proving that hard work, adaptability, and trust can take you far in this industry.
His biggest lessons?
✔ Trust your team—you can’t do it all alone.
✔ Be adaptable—every project brings new challenges.
✔ Teach others—take the time to mentor those that are eager to learn.
So next time you're on a job site, remember Steve's words of wisdom - embrace the job and do your best every day.
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