The Construction Veteran Podcast

Send us a Message!

Ever caught yourself belittling a co-worker, or perhaps, been at the receiving end of such treatment? It happens more than we'd like to admit, especially in our industry. In this candid conversation, we dig deep into the uncomfortable realities of how people in the building industry treat each other - and it's not always pretty. We talk about the hierarchy that seems to permit those higher up to talk down to subcontractors, or an owner to a GC, and share a gut-wrenching story about a drywall guy being publicly berated. 

But it's not all doom and gloom. Change is brewing, and respect is slowly finding its way back into our workspaces. As a product of this industry who started in my mid-20s, I share how learning to respect those older and more experienced than me has profoundly shaped my professional journey. We also emphasize the importance of treating everyone as part of the same team, irrespective of their role or status. Ending on a hopeful note, we invite you - our listeners - to extend a heartfelt apology to someone you may have disrespected. Let's remember, we're all here for the same mission - to make the world a better place. And that starts with a little more respect for each other.

If you're a military veteran in the construction industry, or you're in the construction industry and support our military vets, and you'd like to be a guest on the podcast you can find me at [email protected] , or send me a message on LinkedIn. You can find me there at Scott Friend. Let's share the stories and motivate others!

Aerial Resupply Coffee
Support and premium coffee for Americans, Veterans, and First Responders.

Benchmark Abrasives
Benchmark carries a complete line of flap discs, as well as blades and surface conditioning.

Memorial Ranch
Serving our veterans and first responders by providing a place of relaxation through resiliency.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

• TCV Email:          [email protected] 
• TCV Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/constructionvetpodcast/

Send us a Message!

We're doing something a little bit different this episode. Hop on over to the "On Grade" podcast and take a listen to Episode 16!

If you're a military veteran in the construction industry, or you're in the construction industry and support our military vets, and you'd like to be a guest on the podcast you can find me at [email protected] , or send me a message on LinkedIn. You can find me there at Scott Friend. Let's share the stories and motivate others!

Aerial Resupply Coffee
Support and premium coffee for Americans, Veterans, and First Responders.

Benchmark Abrasives
Benchmark carries a complete line of flap discs, as well as blades and surface conditioning.

Memorial Ranch
Serving our veterans and first responders by providing a place of relaxation through resiliency.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

• TCV Email:          [email protected] 
• TCV Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/constructionvetpodcast/

Send us a Message!

Imagine a path paved with practical insights and motivational tips, guiding you towards a successful career in the construction industry. That's what you'll find in today's episode as we demystify the significance of education and certifications in this sector. Your career aspirations will influence the type of education and certifications you need, be it project management, safety, or field leadership. We'll walk you through the importance of choosing the right program and how to leverage resources like the GI Bill.

We also address common excuses people use to dodge furthering their education. Balancing a busy life while chasing your educational goals isn't a myth; it's a reality we have lived and will share with you. We'll also touch on how to sail through the sea of educational programs and certifications, so you invest your time and money wisely. You'll leave this episode with a clear roadmap to navigate your way to a successful career in construction. Don't let excuses hold you back. Tune in, and let's chart a course for success together!

If you're a military veteran in the construction industry, or you're in the construction industry and support our military vets, and you'd like to be a guest on the podcast you can find me at [email protected] , or send me a message on LinkedIn. You can find me there at Scott Friend. Let's share the stories and motivate others!

Aerial Resupply Coffee
Support and premium coffee for Americans, Veterans, and First Responders.

Benchmark Abrasives
Benchmark carries a complete line of flap discs, as well as blades and surface conditioning.

Memorial Ranch
Serving our veterans and first responders by providing a place of relaxation through resiliency.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

• TCV Email:          [email protected] 
• TCV Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/constructionvetpodcast/

Send us a Message!

Imagine a battlefield training and a construction site. Seem worlds apart? Not quite. In the latest episode, we welcome Ryan Brence, a West Point grad, former Army Special Operations officer, and currently, a safety crusader in the construction industry. A man with a mission, Ryan shares how his military training has honed his skills to tackle safety issues in construction, creating environments that are not just physically safe but also emotionally supportive.

Get ready to challenge your preconceptions as we delve into the parallels between construction and military service, the significance of a simple, consistent, and scalable safety system, and the role of substance abuse and mental health in construction. We’ll hear from Ryan on how to foster a culture of learning and understanding at the workplace, where mistakes are stepping stones rather than stumbling blocks. We also talk about the power of coaching, leading with empathy, and building a strong foundation of respect and accountability at the job site.

As we wrap up, we journey into the exciting opportunities the construction industry offers and the importance of initiative and ownership. Ryan shares his insights on the cyclical nature of work in the industry and its potential impact on mental health and safety. Join us for an open and honest conversation about life post-military service, the challenges and rewards of the construction industry, and the paramount importance of people-centered safety practices. Grab your hard hat, and let's build a safer and more understanding workplace together!

This episode is brought to you buy Aerial Resupply Coffee. Aerial Resupply delivers bold flavor with every sip. Their beans are expertly roasted for peak freshness and a smooth, invigorating taste. Elevate your coffee game by using code CONSTRUCTIONVET10 at checkout to receive 10% off every order. Stay caffeinated with Aerial Resupply Coffee.

 For precision that sets the standard, choose Benchmark Abrasives! Their high-quality discs and pads deliver unbeatable performance and durability. Get the job done right—every time. Benchmark Abrasives, where excellence meets efficiency.

BENCHMARK ABRASIVES

This episode is brought to you by Memorial Ranch; A place where for our veterans and first responders to find rest and relaxation while they prepare for their next mission: LIFE

Memorial Ranch

If you're a military veteran in the construction industry, or you're in the construction industry and support our military vets, and you'd like to be a guest on the podcast you can find me at [email protected] , or send me a message on LinkedIn. You can find me there at Scott Friend. Let's share the stories and motivate others!

Aerial Resupply Coffee
Support and premium coffee for Americans, Veterans, and First Responders.

Benchmark Abrasives
Benchmark carries a complete line of flap discs, as well as blades and surface conditioning.

Memorial Ranch
Serving our veterans and first responders by providing a place of relaxation through resiliency.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

• TCV Email:          [email protected] 
• TCV Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/constructionvetpodcast/

Send us a Message!

Ever wondered about the intricate dance between project managers and superintendents in the construction industry? Brace yourselves as your host, Scott Friend, delves into the nitty-gritty, sharing personal anecdotes from his time as a project manager in El Paso, Texas. He unpacks the complexities of these essential roles, shedding light on the unique challenges and the crucial responsibilities that come with managing construction projects. Experience a captivating journey that takes you from the bidding stage to project completion, unraveling the fascinating dynamics between the field and the office along the way.

Learn from Scott, as he candidly addresses power struggles and emphasizes the importance of a harmonious environment between these two pivotal roles. He highlights the significance of understanding the project in detail, from interpreting the fine print in contracts to handling sudden schedule changes. A testament to the value of mentorship, Scott stresses the responsibility seasoned professionals carry to educate the next generation. Whether you're a project manager, a superintendent, or just interested in the construction sector, this episode promises valuable insights. So, pull up a chair and join Scott, and remember to leave your review on your favorite podcast platform!

If you're a military veteran in the construction industry, or you're in the construction industry and support our military vets, and you'd like to be a guest on the podcast you can find me at [email protected] , or send me a message on LinkedIn. You can find me there at Scott Friend. Let's share the stories and motivate others!

Aerial Resupply Coffee
Support and premium coffee for Americans, Veterans, and First Responders.

Benchmark Abrasives
Benchmark carries a complete line of flap discs, as well as blades and surface conditioning.

Memorial Ranch
Serving our veterans and first responders by providing a place of relaxation through resiliency.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

• TCV Email:          [email protected] 
• TCV Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/constructionvetpodcast/

Send us a Message!

Ever wondered how the discipline and structure of the Marines can create a successful career in the industrial real estate sector? Calvin, a Marine Corps veteran, walked me through his unique journey from the military to the construction industry. Fueled by the transformation of his experience in service after the 9/11 events, he reflects on how his military skillset combined with his education became instrumental to his career growth.

A twist of fate led Calvin to transition into industrial real estate, and he generously shares his experiences in his current role with Stag, carved out of his prior experience in construction management at Stream Realty. We navigated through the rippling impact of COVID-19 on the industrial sector, the surging demand for warehouse space, and the crucial role of having boots on the ground. Calvin also took a moment to reflect on how he harnessed resources such as Tuition Assistance to further his career and education.

As we wrapped up our enlightening conversation, we explored the array of opportunities within the construction industry. Calvin shared essential advice for those considering a similar path, emphasizing attitude, motivation, and risk-taking as key factors. He painted an evocative picture of the pride that accompanies the achievement of being able to say, "I built that," urging veterans and young people to consider this transition. We also touched on the importance of taking risks for career growth, using skills honed in the military to navigate the civilian world. Tune in and be inspired by Calvin's journey from the Marines to making waves in the industrial real estate sector.

https://www.stagindustrial.com/

This episode is brought to you buy Aerial Resupply Coffee. Aerial Resupply delivers bold flavor with every sip. Their beans are expertly roasted for peak freshness and a smooth, invigorating taste. Elevate your coffee game by using code CONSTRUCTIONVET10 at checkout to receive 10% off every order. Stay caffeinated with Aerial Resupply Coffee.

 For precision that sets the standard, choose Benchmark Abrasives! Their high-quality discs and pads deliver unbeatable performance and durability. Get the job done right—every time. Benchmark Abrasives, where excellence meets efficiency.

BENCHMARK ABRASIVES

This episode is brought to you by Memorial Ranch; A place where for our veterans and first responders to find rest and relaxation while they prepare for their next mission: LIFE

Memorial Ranch

If you're a military veteran in the construction industry, or you're in the construction industry and support our military vets, and you'd like to be a guest on the podcast you can find me at [email protected] , or send me a message on LinkedIn. You can find me there at Scott Friend. Let's share the stories and motivate others!

Aerial Resupply Coffee
Support and premium coffee for Americans, Veterans, and First Responders.

Benchmark Abrasives
Benchmark carries a complete line of flap discs, as well as blades and surface conditioning.

Memorial Ranch
Serving our veterans and first responders by providing a place of relaxation through resiliency.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

• TCV Email:          [email protected] 
• TCV Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/constructionvetpodcast/

Send us a Message!

Listen up, folks! Ever wonder how a building site manages to deliver a quality product to a client? We're going behind the scenes of quality management in construction on the Construction Veteran Podcast. I'm your host, Scott Friend, and I'm here to guide you through the maze of what quality managers do in this challenging industry. We're busting the myth that quality control and quality assurance are interchangeable. We'll clarify these terms and their unique impacts on a project.

Quality managers are more than just office personnel. They are the critical bridge between office and field work, walking hand-in-hand with superintendents and project management teams to ensure the approved standards are met. They're the guardian angels of a project, ensuring that what the customer bought is exactly what they're getting. Moreover, their significance amplifies during the final stages of a project when it's time to hand over the building to the client. So, whether you're considering a career in quality management, or just intrigued by the technicalities of the field, this episode is guaranteed to satisfy your curiosity. Remember, a good attitude and a willingness to learn can make a big difference in this industry. Tune in and join the discussion!

Amazon Gift List: https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/3121FBIRPGU0E

If you're a military veteran in the construction industry, or you're in the construction industry and support our military vets, and you'd like to be a guest on the podcast you can find me at [email protected] , or send me a message on LinkedIn. You can find me there at Scott Friend. Let's share the stories and motivate others!

Aerial Resupply Coffee
Support and premium coffee for Americans, Veterans, and First Responders.

Benchmark Abrasives
Benchmark carries a complete line of flap discs, as well as blades and surface conditioning.

Memorial Ranch
Serving our veterans and first responders by providing a place of relaxation through resiliency.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

• TCV Email:          [email protected] 
• TCV Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/constructionvetpodcast/

Send us a Message!

Ever wonder how a naval background can shape success in the construction industry? This intriguing episode brings together two former naval officers turned tech entrepreneurs, Zach and Drew, to shed light on their innovative labor tracking platform for the construction industry. Built on their experiences in the US Navy Civil Engineer Corps and the submarine force, they've crafted a platform that is revolutionizing labor tracking in construction, and their journey is nothing short of fascinating.

During our insightful conversation, we delve into the unique set of skills that veterans bring to the construction sector. A background in the command and control structure and a bias towards action are just some of the invaluable traits that translate from military service to the construction industry. We also discuss how tech is becoming the cornerstone of work-life balance in construction, and how companies increasingly recognize the need to ensure their employees have this crucial balance.

Wrapping up, Zach and Drew share their thoughts on transitioning from the military to the construction industry. The physical results seen at the end of the workday in construction, they say, are incredibly rewarding. They also offer up some advice to companies on how to attract more veterans to their ranks, emphasizing the need to establish a veteran community within the business for diversity and support. Whether you're in the construction industry, considering a career switch, or simply fascinated by unique career paths, this episode is packed with insights and stories that you won't want to miss.

https://www.rhumbix.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/rhumbix/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zscheel/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewdewalt/

This episode is brought to you buy Aerial Resupply Coffee. Aerial Resupply delivers bold flavor with every sip. Their beans are expertly roasted for peak freshness and a smooth, invigorating taste. Elevate your coffee game by using code CONSTRUCTIONVET10 at checkout to receive 10% off every order. Stay caffeinated with Aerial Resupply Coffee.

If you're a military veteran in the construction industry, or you're in the construction industry and support our military vets, and you'd like to be a guest on the podcast you can find me at [email protected] , or send me a message on LinkedIn. You can find me there at Scott Friend. Let's share the stories and motivate others!

Aerial Resupply Coffee
Support and premium coffee for Americans, Veterans, and First Responders.

Benchmark Abrasives
Benchmark carries a complete line of flap discs, as well as blades and surface conditioning.

Memorial Ranch
Serving our veterans and first responders by providing a place of relaxation through resiliency.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

• TCV Email:          [email protected] 
• TCV Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/constructionvetpodcast/

Send us a Message!

Strap in, because we're about to take you on an exhilarating journey through the world of field management in the construction industry. From the nitty-gritty tasks of a laborer to the encompassing responsibilities of a superintendent, this episode is a goldmine of insights for every construction industry enthusiast. We delve into the importance of field management, the roles it entails, the career progression paths within, and the skills crucial for each position. Plus, I'll be sharing my personal experiences and the highs and lows of this dynamic industry.

Ready for a deep dive into the life of a superintendent? Buckle up! We're talking about what a day in their life looks like, the pivotal role they play in project management, ensuring quality and safety, and the challenges they face. We'll also explore the potential career pathways in the construction industry. Yes, it's possible to go from being a laborer to a CEO! Listen in to understand the essence of field management, its pros and cons, and how you can navigate your way through this exciting industry. If you've ever wondered what it takes to thrive in the vibrant world of construction, this episode is a must-listen.

If you're a military veteran in the construction industry, or you're in the construction industry and support our military vets, and you'd like to be a guest on the podcast you can find me at [email protected] , or send me a message on LinkedIn. You can find me there at Scott Friend. Let's share the stories and motivate others!

Aerial Resupply Coffee
Support and premium coffee for Americans, Veterans, and First Responders.

Benchmark Abrasives
Benchmark carries a complete line of flap discs, as well as blades and surface conditioning.

Memorial Ranch
Serving our veterans and first responders by providing a place of relaxation through resiliency.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

• TCV Email:          [email protected] 
• TCV Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/constructionvetpodcast/

Send us a Message!

Join us for an insightful conversation with Angie Martinez, a former Navy civil engineer corps officer who's paved her way into a successful career in the federal construction industry. From her unique military background to her transition into the business of building, Angie's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Drawing from personal experiences and her father's service as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam and Army Corps of Engineer Officer,  Angie provides a heartening glimpse into her journey from Guam to Maryland, to Florida sharing how her military experience laid a robust foundation for her role in construction management.

Angie is a firm believer in the power of relationships, and she candidly talks about how these bonds have played an instrumental role in her career trajectory. We delve into how her military background and extended network have shaped her approach to business development. Angie also sheds light on her transition from the military to the construction industry, providing invaluable insights for veterans with mechanical or physical skills who are considering a similar career shift. She passionately discusses the unique attributes that military service can bring to a business owner, underscoring the importance of honesty, rule adherence, and integrity.

Lastly, Angie demystifies the various pathways for veterans to transition into the construction industry, emphasizing the importance of having a degree or certification, such as an MBA or a trade certification. She shares her experience launching her own business and the necessity of understanding the state rules and regulations when planning to set up shop. This episode is an absolute must-hear for those interested in the construction industry, and for companies who want to assist with the cost of certifications or licensing. Tune in for an enlightening conversation with Angie Martinez and a wealth of resources to help navigate the construction industry.

Angie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angie-martinez-6724235/
Martinez Construction: http://martinezconstruction.com/ 

This episode is brought to you buy Aerial Resupply Coffee. Aerial Resupply delivers bold flavor with every sip. Their beans are expertly roasted for peak freshness and a smooth, invigorating taste. Elevate your coffee game by using code CONSTRUCTIONVET10 at checkout to receive 10% off every order. Stay caffeinated with Aerial Resupply Coffee.

 For precision that sets the standard, choose Benchmark Abrasives! Their high-quality discs and pads deliver unbeatable performance and durability. Get the job done right—every time. Benchmark Abrasives, where excellence meets efficiency.

BENCHMARK ABRASIVES

If you're a military veteran in the construction industry, or you're in the construction industry and support our military vets, and you'd like to be a guest on the podcast you can find me at [email protected] , or send me a message on LinkedIn. You can find me there at Scott Friend. Let's share the stories and motivate others!

Aerial Resupply Coffee
Support and premium coffee for Americans, Veterans, and First Responders.

Benchmark Abrasives
Benchmark carries a complete line of flap discs, as well as blades and surface conditioning.

Memorial Ranch
Serving our veterans and first responders by providing a place of relaxation through resiliency.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

• TCV Email:          [email protected] 
• TCV Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/constructionvetpodcast/