Leadership Blueprints

We occasionally feature guests on our show who specialize in the transition from the Department of Defense to Architectural Engineering and Construction (DoD to AEC). In the industry, there are notable talent and leadership gaps that persist, and the DoD to AEC program aims to address these by tapping into the skills of military personnel who transition to civilian roles. 

Joining BJ on the show today is ‘Colonel-soon-to-be-retired’ Adam Sawyer. Adam has over 23 years of experience successfully leading and transforming diverse teams in organizational development, education, program management, and strategic planning. He has achieved objectives in complex environments; both domestically and globally. 

Adam is a member of our skill-bridge program. He discusses his previous active-duty assignment as the Director of the Department of Military Instruction at West Point. He also shares his thoughts on the synchronization between the leadership talent pool and the built environment and the highlights and lessons learned from the skill-bridge program. 

To hear more of his viewpoint on leadership development and much more, don’t miss out on this episode of Inspiring People & Places. 

Key Points From This Episode:

•   Why Adam thinks Cadet Leadership Development Training (CDLT) is one of the best things they do at West Point.

•   Adam’s thoughts on the difference between leader development and leadership development.

•   His belief on how leaders are both born and made. 

Quotes:

“The special sauce of our leader development recipe, — is [that] every cadet has to serve in a leadership position in the summer.” — Adam Sawyer 

“If there’s two things that the Army has prepared me to do it’s leadership and problem-solving.” — Adam Sawyer

“What’s great about the United States Army is that we empower down to the lowest level.” — Adam Sawyer

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Adam Sawyer on LinkedIn

West Point

Department of Military Instruction (DMI) at West Point

Camp Buckner

CLDT at West Point

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: 15th Anniversary Infographics Edition

Center for Servant Leadership

Inspiring People & Places Podcast

MCFA

MCFA Careers

BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

In this episode, we sit down with Adam Stark, Special Forces Veteran and Co-Founder of Jet.Build. Jet.Build is a provider of cloud-based project management solutions created specifically for real estate developers and construction professionals.  

With a background in the Special Forces, Adam brings a unique perspective to the table. He combines his military expertise with his skills in project management and technology. He is also committed to holistic leadership, personal development, and making a positive impact in his industry and community.  

In our conversation, we unpack transitioning from a military to a professional career, the skills that cross over, and the ways the military and construction are similar. We also dive into his path to starting a tech startup, how Jet.Build is driving innovation, and the range of services the company offers.  

Join us as we explore how Adam and his company are paving the way forward in the built environment. Tune in now! 

Key Points From This Episode: 

• Adam’s journey from construction to founding a tech startup. 
• Learn how the Jet.Build is revolutionizing the sector with technology. 
• Adam’s advice and valuable lessons for other leaders in construction. 

Quotes: 

“[Jet.Build] is going to provide you with modern technology that is easy to understand and easy to use.” — Adam Stark [0:14:55] 

“[Jet.Build] has the ability to implement at a pace that these legacy companies cannot even fathom.” — Adam Stark [0:15:38] 

“Not only does [Jet.Build’s technology] protect you as you build your project, [but] it allows productivity for all of your stakeholders and prepares you for the future.” — Adam Stark [0:18:56] 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: 

Adam Stark on LinkedIn 

Jet.Build 

The Veterans Who Build Show on Apple Podcasts 

The Veterans Who Build Show on YouTube 

Primavera 

Procore 

Autodesk 

Trimble 

Never Split the Difference 

The Power of Now 

Inspiring People & Places Podcast 

MCFA 

MCFA Careers 

BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn 

To be an effective leader, you must believe that other people matter and, as a result, that leadership is a relationship.  

This is the belief of today’s guest, Mike Erwin. A soldier, educator, author, non-profit founder, veteran advocate, and Executive Director at Team Red, White & Blue (RWB), America's leading health and wellness community for veterans. Mike is also CEO of the Character & Leadership Center and co-founder and president of The Positivity Project, a non-profit organization that aims to empower America’s youth to build positive relationships.  

As you’ll learn in this episode, Mike is an exemplary leader who has dedicated his life to serving his nation and empowering people to become more resilient. Mike shares his perspective on leadership development, how Positive Psychology has influenced his personal and professional outlook on life, and why it’s important to not just coexist but learn to collaborate with others.  (even when they have radically different personalities from you).  

Mike and BJ also discuss the books that have profoundly impacted Mike’s life, the people who inspire him most, his definition of legacy, and much more! To find out why the leaders who put people first tend to be more successful (and memorable), be sure to tune in today.

Key Points From This Episode:

•   Steps to cultivating a leadership mindset and a “relentless focus on other people.”

•   The origin story of Team RWB and how it connects veterans with their communities.

•   How The Positivity Project started and the five areas of leadership it promotes.

•   Practical advice for balancing a busy calendar by doing each task to your best ability.

Quotes:

“For the most part, we go through life with other people. How we understand other people is [hugely important].” — Mike Erwin

“Understand yourself – Start there, then prioritize and be able to understand other people. In other words, leading yourself first matters because it allows you to lead other people and build relationships well.” — Mike Erwin

“I’m inspired by people who’ve got a good character and who treat other people well, regardless of their circumstance.” — Mike Erwin

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Mike Erwin

Team Red, White & Blue

Lead Yourself First

Leadership is a Relationship

Mike Erwin on LinkedIn

Mike Erwin on Instagram

Mike Erwin on Facebook

Mike Erwin on X

Character & Leadership Center

Positivity Project

United States Military Academy West Point

Atomic Habits

The Psychology of Money

The Benedict Option

The Devil and Bella Dodd

The Alchemist

The Fourth Turning

Ascension with Father Mike Schmitz

Inspiring People & Places Podcast

MCFA

MCFA Careers

BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

During this episode, we’re turning the tables; the guest becomes the host, and the host becomes the guest! 

Jon Nehlsen is the Chief Financial Officer at MCFA, and he joins us to interview BJ Kraemer. You’ll hear all about BJ’s formative experiences, from his childhood experiences to his early career in construction before joining MCFA. 

Getting into his West Point journey, we explore what it was like to continue his father’s military legacy, and BJ shares how he has drawn inspiration from a veteran who didn’t make it home. 

We also discuss the reading list that has shaped his thinking and unpack the methodology that keeps his reading habit alive. 

We wrap the episode by delving deeper into BJ’s identity in the business world, how he launches his skill of synthesizing emotions and logic, and how he manages his deficiencies to be effective. 

Join us for an inspiring conversation today!

Key Points From This Episode:

•   Reads that have shaped BJ’s philosophy and worldview and the cons of reading a lot and how to combat them.

•   Creating a culture that allows people to become the best version of themselves. 

•   How to synthesize emotions and logic.

•   Habits that shape BJ’s approach to life. 

Quotes:

“When you’re a leader among leaders, and it is obvious, you know there’s something special there.” — BJ Kraemer

“Profits are important. People are more important.” — BJ Kraemer

“Whatever your platform is, try to do as much good with it as possible.” — BJ Kraemer

“If you read too much and don’t have a methodology for implementation, it turns into infotainment.” — BJ Kraemer

“In the professional services space, you’re an idiot if you can’t say that your people are your brand or your people are your biggest asset.” — BJ Kraemer

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Jon Nehlsen on LinkedIn

The Knock at the Door

Never Eat Alone

Think and Grow Rich

4 Hour Work Week

How to Win Friends and Influence People

Skin in the Game

Inspiring People & Places Podcast

MCFA

MCFA Careers

BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

If you’ve ever taken on a tough project or struggled with a demanding client, then this episode is for you! In today’s episode, you’ll hear BJ Kraemer share the details of his most recent project, the challenges he encountered, and what he learned from the experience. 

You’ll learn about the reservations he had regarding his most recent project, why it was so challenging (despite his good relationship with the client), and the seven key lessons any good project manager needs to know — especially if they’re responsible for a tough project or a demanding client. 

Join us today to hear the full scope of BJ’s hard-won insights, what it takes to execute an excellent project, and how he helped his client navigate the impossible!

Key Points From This Episode:

•   Taking on a demanding project or client, and the challenges you’ll need to navigate.

•   How to manage scope creep and why it’s so difficult to navigate.

•   The art and science of balancing a positive attitude with the realities of a situation.

Quotes:

“Scope Creep is the easiest thing to say yes to when you're a project manager, [but] it's the hardest thing to navigate.” — BJ Kraemer

“Sometimes we just have to take ourselves out of the emotion of trying to make the impossible happen, take a deep breath, and look realistically at the equation to say ‘Where are risks? And how can we mitigate, manage, navigate or accept them?’” — BJ Kraemer

“I challenge all of you to be the glue that keeps it together, but also be the maestro of when to use art and when to use science to maintain the spirit and the camaraderie that it takes to have a great project.” — BJ Kraemer

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

How to Win Friends & Influence People

Inspiring People & Places Podcast

MCFA

MCFA Careers

BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

Buckle up folks because today is going to be an adventure with our guest, Jimmy Vreeland. Join in and get to know more about who Jimmy Vreeland is, what he does, and how he got there. 

We delve into how he got into starting a podcast with the mission to educate people, his thoughts and definitions of achievement and fulfillment, and his compelling elevator pitch on why passive real estate investments are a wise consideration. He also shares insights on how his military background shaped some of his leadership skills.

Don’t miss his answers to our rapid-fire questions, closing thoughts, inspiration, and recommended actionable steps toward fulfillment. Thanks for listening, enjoy! 

Key Points From This Episode:

•   Why do a podcast and educate people?

•   We delve into the two Hero’s Journeys: chasing achievement and fulfillment. 

•   How Jimmy defines fulfillment and desired M-state.

•   Leadership skills Jimmy gleaned from the army that transferred to his leadership in business.

Quotes:

“I feel like buying real estate without a certain amount of education is like running with scissors.” — Jimmy Vreeland

“Once I realized that there was no success without the abyss, I just started having fun with it.” — Jimmy Vreeland 

“If you are coordinating action with others, it’s a way to be fulfilled and accomplish things with other people.” — Jimmy Vreeland 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Jimmy Vreeland on LinkedIn

Jimmy Vreeland on X

Jimmy Vreeland on Instagram

Jimmy Vreeland on YouTube

Busting the Real Estate Investing Lies: Build Wealth the Smart Way: Through the Most Time-Tested, Least Volatile Path to Financial Freedom

Vreeland Capital

Combat, Cash Machines, and Cashflow: The Evolution of Jimmy Vreeland

Rise Up. Live Free.

Dude, Where's My House? (Jimmy Vreeland)

Opening Up The Tent Podcast

Word on Fire Podcast

Exodus90

West Point

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! 

The Hero's 2 Journeys

The Hero with a Thousand Faces by Joseph Campbell (1999-09-01)

Daniel Marcos

Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike

Larry Yatch on LinkedIn

How Leadership (Actually) Works: A Navy SEAL’s Complete System for Coordinating Teams

C.S Lewis

Jordan B. Peterson

Mere Christianity 

The Road Less Stupid

Inspiring People & Places Podcast

MCFA

MCFA Careers

BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

One of MCFA’s brand promises to our employees is a fulfilling career. While the responsibility for ultimately finding fulfillment is individual, today, you’ll find out how MCFA has built an environment and a culture that facilitates this brand promise and enables someone to navigate a rewarding career.  

To learn what fulfillment is, why it matters, and much more, stay tuned for some thought-provoking conversations with your host BJ Kraemer!

Key Points From This Episode: 

• Why a meaningful career is an important part of a happy and fulfilling life. 
• What makes a job rewarding, including location, compensation, and vocation. 
• Four “freedoms” that commonly motivate entrepreneurs. 
• The importance of working toward something meaningful for yourself. 

Quotes: 

“Nobody is responsible for fulfillment except for you. – While I can’t take responsibility for anybody’s fulfillment, I can be very intentional in creating a culture, environment, and systems that enable somebody to navigate a fulfilling career.” — BJ Kraemer

“There’s no magic wand [for] creating a fulfilling career.” — BJ Kraemer 

“Whether [you’re] leading somebody on their career journey or leading yourself on your career journey, fulfillment is not [something] you wake up and all of a sudden have. I think that fulfillment generally comes from working toward something meaningful for yourself.” — BJ Kraemer 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: 

'The 4 Freedoms That Motivate Successful Entrepreneurs’ 

Inspiring People & Places Podcast 

MCFA 

MCFA Careers 

BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn 

On today’s episode, BJ sits down with David Allen, author of “Getting Things Done”. David breaks down his career journey, what inspired him to write “Getting Things Done”, and how the GTD process has revolutionized project management. 

Resources mentioned: 

Find out more about “Getting Things Done” and David at: https://gettingthingsdone.com/

“Humankind” by Rutger Bregman: https://www.amazon.com/Humankind-Hopeful-History-Rutger-Bregman/dp/0316418536

Calls-to-action: 

Inspiring People and Places is brought to you by MCFA. Visit our website www.MCFAglobal.com and sign up for our weekly newsletter where we curate some of the top industry articles of the week and give you a dose of inspiration as you head into the weekend!  

MCFA IS HIRING!!  If you or anyone you know are looking to work in the Planning, Project Development, Project Management, or Construction Management field, contact us through our website. Interns to Executives...we need great people to help us innovate and inspire, plan, develop and build our nation's infrastructure.  Check out our MUST FILL positions here https://mcfaglobal.com/careers/.  We reward the bold and the action oriented so if you don’t see a position but think you are a fit...send us an email!  

Learn more at www.MCFAGlobal.com

Author: BJ Kraemer, MCFA

Keywords: MCFA, Architecture, Construction, Engineering, Public Engineers, Military Engineers, United States Military Academy, Veteran Affairs, Development, Veteran, Military, SEC

While both are important to the success of a company, what is it that differentiates a leader from a manager? Today, you’ll hear from Quatrefoil Consulting founder, veteran Marine, and MCFA’s newest team leader, Joey Fay, about some of the key distinctions between managing and leading a group of people. In 2018, Joey launched Quatrefoil, a service-disabled veteran-owned project leadership company that was acquired by and merged with MCFA in February of 2024, where he continues his career as President of Diversified Markets. Before 2008, Joey served as an officer in the United States Marine Corps and continues to serve in the Marine Corps Reserves. In this episode, you’ll learn about the synergy of values and cultures between Quatrefoil and MCFA and why the marriage of the two companies works so well. Joey also offers some insight into what led him to start Quatrefoil, his focus on leadership before skill, the importance of likability, what earned respect means to him, and much more. Be sure to tune in for this very special guest interview with MCFA’s President of Diversified Markets, Joey Fay!

Key Points From This Episode:

• The synergy between Quatrefoil and MCFA from Joey’s perspective.
• Why communication is key for successful change management.
• What this merger between the two companies says to the marketplace.
• How being a veteran and a reservist has reinforced Joey’s vision of leadership.
• An overview of Joey’s background and why he started Quatrefoil Consulting.
• Key differentiators between management and leadership.
• Insight into the mergers and acquisitions process for small business owners.
• Focusing on the future versus being stuck in the day-to-day.
• A look at the diverse portfolios of Quatrefoil and MCFA combined.
• The value of likability and its relationship to business success.
• Lessons on leadership, mentorship, and recruitment from the military.
• Positional respect versus earned respect and other takeaways from the merger.
• The challenge of leadership capacity and reasons to invest in great leaders.
• Why optimism is so powerful and Joey’s call to “be excited!”

Quotes:

“[Quatrefoil’s] mantra was don’t hire a project manager. Hire a project leader.” — @TheJoeyFay [0:12:42]

“[If you] look at the difference between management and leadership, management is important – There are a lot of things to manage. But at the tip of the spear, you want a leader; someone who is out ahead of managing problems, – looking forward at the future.” — @TheJoeyFay [0:12:52]

“Any good leader knows the difference between positional respect and earned respect.” — @TheJoeyFay [0:35:41]

“Be excited! This is exciting. I’m excited. We’re going to become a powerful company [and] we’re going to disrupt this market even more so than MCFA already has. I want you guys to be there with us!” — @TheJoeyFay [0:42:30]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Joey Fay

Joey Fay on LinkedIn

Joey Fay on X

DoD to A/E/C: Leveraging the likeability factor with Joey Fay

The Likeability Factor

How to Win Friends and Influence People

Inspiring People & Places Podcast

MCFA

MCFA Careers

BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

On today’s episode, BJ talks with Shawn Kidwell, Program Manager at U.S. Army Research Laboratory. Shawn discusses his unconventional track to working for the Federal Government, how his hunger for knowledge allowed him to grow in leadership. 

Resources mentioned: 

Colin Powell books: https://www.amazon.com/Colin-Powell-Books/s?k=Colin+Powell&rh=n%3A283155

“The Clan of the Cave Bear” by Jean M. Auel: https://www.amazon.com/Clan-Cave-Bear-Earths-Children/dp/0553250426/ref=asc_df_0553250426/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312106841178&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4094314577356298547&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9021760&hvtargid=pla-433022221374&psc=1&mcid=3944141360743e869328c98e8c1af11b&gclid=CjwKCAiAkp6tBhB5EiwANTCx1Bdrxfq-ai03yuZLheQtTt1G-Pfocc61_eHHQpVG1LcboTDWEPpc3RoCXagQAvD_BwE

Calls-to-action: 

Inspiring People and Places is brought to you by MCFA. Visit our website www.MCFAglobal.com and sign up for our weekly newsletter where we curate some of the top industry articles of the week and give you a dose of inspiration as you head into the weekend!  

MCFA IS HIRING!!  If you or anyone you know are looking to work in the Planning, Project Development, Project Management, or Construction Management field, contact us through our website. Interns to Executives...we need great people to help us innovate and inspire, plan, develop and build our nation's infrastructure.  Check out our MUST FILL positions here https://mcfaglobal.com/careers/.  We reward the bold and the action oriented so if you don’t see a position but think you are a fit...send us an email!  

Learn more at www.MCFAGlobal.com

Author: BJ Kraemer, MCFA

Keywords: MCFA, Architecture, Construction, Engineering, Public Engineers, Military Engineers, United States Military Academy, Veteran Affairs, Development, Veteran, Military, SEC