Building Blocks

In this episode of the Building Blocks Podcast, host Brad Coleman sits down with Andy Shingledecker, a Quality Control Engineer deeply rooted in the pipeline industry. Andy shares his unique career journey from welding pipelines to his current role in emissions control, highlighting the pivotal moments, challenges, and lessons learned along the way. This episode delves into the intricacies of the natural gas industry, leadership development, and the evolving landscape of energy production and environmental consciousness.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Introduction to the Building Blocks Podcast

• Host Brad Coleman introduces the podcast, focusing on career paths and leadership in the energy utility and construction fields.
• Emphasis on understanding habits, routines, and mindsets of successful industry leaders.

1. Guest Introduction: Andy Shingledecker

• Andy's background and introduction to the pipeline industry through family ties.
• His career progression from welding to quality control and emissions management.

1. The Pipeline Industry and Career Path

• Insights into the small, interconnected world of pipeline work.
• Andy’s transition from fieldwork to management and the importance of self-awareness in career development.

1. Environmental Impact and Emissions Control

• Discussion on methane mitigation and the environmental aspects of natural gas production.
• Andy's role in ZVAC and the technology used to prevent venting and flaring of natural gas.

1. Leadership and Knowledge Transfer

• The importance of mentoring and knowledge transfer in the industry.
• Challenges and strategies for integrating younger generations into the workforce.

1. Balancing Tradition and Innovation

• The need for a mix of experienced field knowledge and modern technological skills.
• Examples of successful mentorship and the dual-directional benefit of mentoring relationships.

1. Industry Trends and Future Outlook

• The evolving natural gas ecosystem and its role in the future of energy.
• The impact of technological advancements and the importance of environmental consciousness.

Key Takeaways:

• The significance of self-awareness and adaptability in career development.
• The value of mentorship and knowledge transfer in fostering industry growth and innovation.
• The critical role of environmental sustainability in the future of the natural gas industry.

Connect with Us:

• Host: Brad Coleman - Find Brad on LinkedIn for more insights and updates on the podcast.
• Guest: Andy Shingledecker - Connect with Andy on LinkedIn to continue the conversation and explore his work in emissions control.

Call to Action: If you found value in this episode, please leave us a review and reach out to Brad Coleman on LinkedIn with your thoughts and feedback. If you know someone who would be a great guest for our show, let us know! We are always looking to connect with industry leaders and share their stories.

Episode Summary: In this episode, we are joined by Steve, a seasoned professional from Washington Gas, who also founded the Pipeline Safety Management Systems (PSMS) Group. Steve shares his extensive experience in safety and quality management, discussing his career progression and the pivotal moments that shaped his journey. We explore the importance of continuous improvement, the role of leadership at all levels, and the impact of AI and technology in the industry.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Steve’s Career Journey:

• Transition from Homeland Security to Washington Gas.
• Roles in occupational safety and quality management.
• Founding the PSMS Group on LinkedIn.

1. PSMS Group Insights:

• Purpose and growth of the PSMS LinkedIn group.
• Importance of engaging all levels of the industry, from field crews to executives.
• Channels for education and engagement within the group.

1. Leadership and Continuous Improvement:

• The value of continuous improvement and quality management systems.
• Importance of buy-in from all organizational levels for successful implementation.
• Creating value and finding champions within the organization.

1. AI and Technology in Utilities:

• Steve’s personal exploration of AI tools and their potential applications.
• The cautious approach of organizations towards adopting AI due to security concerns.
• The future of AI in enhancing efficiency and decision-making in the industry.

1. Career Advice and Personal Growth:

• Taking ownership and responsibility for outcomes.
• The importance of connecting with people and breaking down silos.
• Protecting and enhancing one’s professional reputation beyond organizational walls.

Quotes:

• "You can lead from anywhere in the organization and make a difference."
• "Taking ownership means constantly evaluating what more you could have done to achieve a better outcome."
• "The future of AI in our industry is promising, but we need to be mindful of security and data integrity."

Connect with Us:

• Brad Coleman on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile
• Steve on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile
• Join the PSMS LinkedIn Group: PSMS Group

Guest: Nathan Henson, Vice President of Business Operations, Energy Worldnet

Introduction:

• Welcome to the Building Blocks Podcast, hosted by Brad Coleman.
• The podcast explores career paths and leadership habits in the energy, utility, and construction fields.
• Brad's goal is to identify common traits of successful leaders to provide listeners with the tools needed for their own success.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Brad Coleman interviews Nathan Henson, Vice President of Business Operations at Energy Worldnet. Nathan shares his career journey, insights into the software industry, and the importance of understanding one's strengths and leveraging them for personal and professional growth.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Nathan Henson’s Background:

• Nathan has been in the software as a service (SaaS) industry for nearly 15 years.
• He transitioned from a potential career in veterinary medicine to business and software.
• Experience with various roles in customer service, product management, and account management.

1. Career Journey and Learning:

• Nathan emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and staying in roles where growth is possible.
• He shares how his roles evolved within organizations and the significance of understanding customer needs and software functionality.
• Transition to product management and the impact of bridging analytical skills with company needs.

1. Personal Growth and Self-awareness:

• Discussion on the value of self-awareness and identifying personal strengths and weaknesses.
• The role of CliftonStrengths in understanding and leveraging individual strengths.
• Nathan’s approach to career decisions, focusing on learning and alignment with core values.

1. Organizational Growth and Opportunities:

• Nathan's journey at Energy Worldnet, including roles in business analysis, product management, and leading a project management office (PMO).
• The importance of creating consistent project management approaches and metrics.
• Transition to leading multiple teams within the business operations unit.

1. Adopting EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System):

• Implementation of EOS at Energy Worldnet to align the organization with common goals and vision.
• The role of leadership and management in driving accountability and growth.
• Importance of communication and the 555 framework for coaching and employee development.

1. Generational Differences and Technology Integration:

• The impact of having multiple generations in the workplace and the lessons each can teach.
• Emphasis on the younger generation’s proficiency with technology and its integration into work processes.
• Nathan's perspective on the value of remote work and maintaining effective communication.

Closing Remarks:

• Nathan shares his thoughts on being vulnerable, making decisions, and the importance of adding value in any role.
• He highlights the significance of leadership in nurturing growth and the evolving work environment.

Connect with Nathan Henson:

• LinkedIn: Nathan Henson

Call to Action:

• Brad encourages listeners to reach out on LinkedIn with feedback and suggestions for future interviews.
• Listeners are invited to leave a review and connect with Brad and other guests on LinkedIn for ongoing discussions about leadership and career growth.

Guest: M.G. Govia, Education & Outreach Liason at OKIE811

Episode Overview:

• Brad is joined by M.G. Govia from OKIE811.
• Discussion on M.G.'s career journey and his role in promoting excavation safety and damage prevention.
• Insight into OKIE811's processes and the importance of public outreach for excavation safety.

Key Points:

1. M.G.'s Background:

• M.G.'s career journey at OKIE811, starting as a contact center representative and transitioning through various roles.
• Experience in GIS, member services, and now leading education and outreach initiatives.
• M.G.'s passion for public speaking and his transition into a more people-focused role.

1. Career Growth and Challenges:

• M.G.'s reflections on imposter syndrome and overcoming self-doubt.
• Importance of having a growth mindset and being open to learning and new opportunities.
• The role of mentors and key advice that shaped his career.

1. Public Outreach and Safety Education:

• The mission of OKIE811 and the significance of damage prevention and excavation safety.
• M.G.'s initiatives in public outreach, including the "Digging Deep" podcast and other educational programs.
• Challenges in raising public awareness about 811 laws and safety protocols.

1. Practical Advice and Recommendations:

• M.G.'s advice on developing a safety culture and the importance of communication and training.
• Recommendations for professionals dealing with imposter syndrome.
• Books that influenced M.G.'s mindset, such as "The Obstacle Is the Way" by Ryan Holiday.

1. Future Aspirations:

• M.G.'s vision for his future career and the continued growth of OKIE811's outreach efforts.
• The importance of staying present and focusing on current opportunities while being open to future possibilities.

• Guest: Kyle Nitchen
• Senior Project Manager at Layton Construction
• Active writer and thought leader on LinkedIn

• Kyle's Career Journey:
• Early years as a landscape laborer and field engineer with Kiewit
• Transition to project engineer and project manager at Layton Construction
• Importance of self-exploration and finding one’s lane in the industry
• Balancing Passion and Skill Development:
• Shift from seeking passion to becoming highly skilled
• Finding fulfillment through leadership and team management
• Growth Mindset and Continuous Learning:
• Influence of mentors and thought leaders like Jocko Willink
• Importance of reading, self-improvement, and setting ambitious goals
• Industry Insights and Advice:
• Opportunities in the construction industry for young professionals
• The need for improved knowledge transfer and less siloed working environments
• Implementation of lean methodologies for better efficiency

• 00:00 - Welcome and Introduction by Brad Coleman
• 01:00 - Kyle's unconventional career path and early experiences
• 03:00 - College years and discovering construction management
• 05:00 - First role at Layton Construction and transition to project engineer
• 07:00 - Challenges of the project engineering role and internal turmoil
• 09:00 - Finding passion through becoming skilled and leading teams
• 12:00 - Importance of self-awareness and self-exploration
• 15:00 - Transition from East Coast to West Coast and first project management role
• 18:00 - Kyle's growth mindset and driving factors
• 21:00 - Goals for the next 5-10 years, both personal and professional
• 24:00 - Recommended books and authors influencing Kyle
• 27:00 - Talent shortage in the construction industry and advice for newcomers
• 30:00 - Knowledge transfer and mentoring within the industry
• 33:00 - Implementing lean methodologies in construction
• 36:00 - Desired industry changes and reducing silos
• 39:00 - Synergy and team collaboration
• 41:00 - Final thoughts and advice for young professionals

• "Instead of trying to figure out what I was passionate about, I shifted my focus to getting really good at something."
• "Lean is just a better way of doing things. It's about being more efficient and creating more value."
• "Having a big vision of where I want to be and who I want to become drives my growth mindset."

• LinkedIn: Kyle Nitchen
• Newsletter: The Influential Project Manager

• Books:
• The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
• The Captain Class by Sam Walker

33 Strategies of War by Robert Greene

• Guest: Stefanie Reichman
• Customer Success Manager at Bluebeam Inc.
• Creator of Pivot Checklist, providing mentoring and advice on career pivots

• Stefanie's Career Journey:
• Background in civil engineering and construction management
• Transition from Assistant Project Manager to Virtual Design and Construction Manager
• Pivot to customer success role at Bluebeam
• Balancing Career and Personal Life:
• Impact of life changes such as having a baby and the COVID-19 pandemic
• Importance of finding a job that aligns with personal interests and strengths
• Career Pivots and Mentoring:
• Insights on making strategic career moves and embracing career pivots
• Importance of creativity, problem-solving, and continuous learning in career development
• Practical Advice for Professionals:
• Advocating for oneself and communicating effectively
• Leveraging LinkedIn for career growth and networking
• Developing a professional story and aligning resume and LinkedIn profile with career goals

• 00:00 - Welcome to Building Blocks: Introduction by Brad Coleman
• 01:00 - Introduction of Stefanie Reichman and her career background
• 02:00 - Stefanie's career pivots: From civil engineering to construction management to customer success
• 03:00 - Balancing career and personal life during significant life changes
• 04:00 - Transitioning to Bluebeam and leveraging previous experience
• 05:00 - Stefanie's role at Bluebeam: Customer Success Manager
• 06:00 - Importance of creativity and problem-solving in career roles
• 07:00 - Discussion on nonlinear career paths and the value of varied experiences
• 08:00 - Stefanie's approach to career pivots and mentoring others
• 09:00 - Advocating for oneself and communicating effectively in the workplace
• 10:00 - Leveraging LinkedIn for career growth and networking
• 11:00 - Developing a professional story and aligning resume and LinkedIn profile with career goals
• 12:00 - Final thoughts and advice from Stefanie
• 13:00 - Conclusion and call to action

• "Creativity is really important to me. I love the concept of being given a problem and coming up with a solution on my own."
• "Advocating for yourself is crucial. You can say anything you want as long as it's the truth and you're being respectful."
• "Finding a job that aligns with your personal interests and strengths can lead to career happiness."

• LinkedIn: Stefanie Reichman, PE

• Pivot Checklist: Stefanie's guide for career pivots, available on her LinkedIn profile

• Guest: Josh Luebker
• Project manager consultant with extensive experience
• Transition from active roles in construction project management to strategic roles as a fractional CFO

• Balancing Career and Family:
• Importance of prioritizing career before starting a family
• Challenges of balancing personal interests with family commitments
• Strategic planning for career advancements
• Project Management Insights:
• Understanding the technical aspects of project management
• Value of networking and making contacts
• Being adaptable and open to changes in career and family plans
• Advice for Young Professionals:
• Career growth and time management
• Impact of life changes on professional goals

• 00:00 - Navigating Family, Career, and Personal Growth
• 00:33 - Advice for Future Parents: Career Focus Before Kids
• 01:05 - Finding Balance: Hobbies, Health, and Family Life
• 01:53 - Seasons of Life: Embracing Change with Kids
• 03:34 - Strategic Career Moves for Long-Term Flexibility
• 04:16 - Transitioning to Part-Time: A Personal Journey
• 05:39 - The Shift to Consulting: Leveraging Experience
• 06:08 - Crafting Your Professional Message
• 07:55 - Launching the Building Blocks Podcast
• 08:46 - Guest Spotlight: Josh Luebker's Unique Journey
• 13:02 - Project Management Insights: From Technical Skills to Leadership
• 22:36 - The Importance of Process and Trust in Project Management
• 31:28 - Looking Ahead: Proactive Project Management
• 33:11 - Navigating Construction Project Challenges
• 33:56 - The Power of Checklists in Project Management
• 34:30 - Technical Skills and Training in Construction
• 36:30 - Mentoring the Next Generation of Project Managers
• 37:47 - Career Growth and the Importance of Experience
• 45:21 - Leveraging Video Games for Leadership Skills
• 46:05 - Tenacity: The Key to Success in Project Management
• 47:46 - Effective Leadership and Ownership in Teams
• 01:02:35 - Strategic Career Moves and Personal Growth

• Guest: Jonathan Cor
• Successful construction marketing entrepreneur
• Journey from a construction family to a career in marketing

• Jonathan's Path:
• Transition from growing up in a construction family to exploring a music career
• Pivot to marketing within the construction industry
• Founding His Company:
• Assisting construction companies in establishing a social media presence
• Creation of the Construction Marketers community to educate industry professionals
• Marketing Insights:
• Importance of creativity and strategic planning in marketing
• Learning from outside the construction sector
• Power of trial and error in discovering effective strategies
• Personal Growth and Entrepreneurship:
• Creating a life and career that align with passions
• Using a 'life mapping' framework for decision-making and contributions to the world
• Combining skills, interests, and industry nuances for entrepreneurial success

• 00:00 - Welcome to Building Blocks: Unveiling the Journey of a Construction Marketer
• 00:32 - Jonathan's Path: From Construction Family to Marketing Maestro
• 03:44 - The Pivot: Music, Ministry, and the Leap into Marketing
• 05:14 - Breaking into Marketing: A Story of Mentorship and Opportunity
• 09:36 - Mastering Marketing in Construction: Strategy, Creativity, and Disruption
• 17:34 - Leadership and Innovation: Setting New Standards in Construction Marketing
• 20:01 - Navigating Career Paths: Big vs. Small Companies
• 22:04 - The Entrepreneurial Leap During the Pandemic
• 23:01 - Building a Business from Scratch
• 24:33 - Narrowing Focus for Business Growth
• 25:38 - Reflections on Entrepreneurship and Personal Growth
• 30:49 - Life Mapping: A Framework for Personal and Professional Development
• 35:40 - Embracing Flexibility in Career and Life Goals
• 40:12 - Connecting and Concluding Thoughts

• Guest: Jesse Hernandez
• Background in construction
• Transition to lean construction management and leadership
• Focus on continuous learning, serving others, and professional development

• Jesse's journey from hands-on trade to leadership role
• Personal anecdotes and experiences
• Importance of continuous learning and professional growth
• Overcoming challenges in the construction industry
• Making strategic career moves
• Taking calculated risks to open opportunities
• Insights and inspiration for professionals at all career stages
• Encouraging self-improvement and critical thinking about career paths
• Embracing opportunities to learn and grow

• Blend of perspectives from industry leaders in construction and utility sectors
• Broader discussion on career development, leadership, and personal growth
• Learning from mistakes
• Importance of being people-centered in leadership
• Emphasizing continuous learning and personal branding
• Dynamics between different generational cohorts in the workforce

Ready to get ahead in your career? Curious what moves to make next? What if you had two really good options? How do you know which is the right choice?

It took me 20 years to understand my strengths, how I work best, and the value I could bring to an organization. And much of my value was in the various career experiences (and mistakes) I had up to that point.

I landed a dream job that fits my skills perfectly, gives me the flexibility I need for the work life balance I want, and resulted from an old boss calling me out of the blue after 10 years.

It took me 20 years. This podcast will teach you how to do it in less time, with much less pain.

On this show, I interview professionals in the energy, utility, and construction fields about their career paths, successes, failures to distill the patterns of success that you can use to build the career you want, based on your goals and how you want to create your life. 

It's easy to look at polished top leaders in our industry and be intimidated by their status. We often think "there's no way I could do that" or "I don't have the training or schooling they do to get there."

The truth is, our careers are rarely carved out in a straight line. There were several years where I felt like my career was, at best, stagnant, and at worst, completely off course. The truth is that it wasn't until others began to see my value that I was able to also see the value within myself. 

Once I found my way, it gave me more confidence in my own abilities and all those years of prior experience started to be seen for the wisdom that I had been building over the last 20 years.

My goal for this podcast is to help you realize that we all have our own path, that our failures don't define our future, and you have more control over the future direction of your life than you realize. 

In these interviews you will see that even the most successful leaders have their doubts, insecurities, and mistakes along the way.