September 17, 2026
By Jennifer Bullard, Vice President, Construction
Construction Appreciation Week is a chance to recognize the people who make our industry strong. While the projects we deliver are important, it’s the individuals behind them who drive success every day.
Throughout my career, I’ve learned that trust is one of the most important foundations of any team. If we expect our teams to trust us as leaders, we have to trust them in return. That means empowering people to make decisions, take ownership of their work and continue growing through experience. When people know they’re trusted and supported, they’re more confident stepping up, solving problems and leading others.
One of the most rewarding parts of leadership is investing in others. I enjoy helping people grow, recognizing their strengths and celebrating their accomplishments. At the same time, growth requires honest conversations. The best teams are built when people feel supported enough to hear the hard things and respected enough to learn from them.
I’ve found that respect isn’t about avoiding difficult conversations. It’s about being willing to have them because you care about the success of the people around you. Some of the most valuable lessons in my career have come from honest feedback, and I believe the same is true for the next generation of leaders in our industry.
Construction has always been a people business. We build infrastructure that serves communities, but none of it happens without dedicated professionals who show up every day ready to solve problems, support their teammates and deliver for clients.
This Construction Appreciation Week, I’m grateful for the people who make this industry what it is. Their dedication, expertise and commitment to one another are what truly make a difference.
At the end of the day, construction isn’t just about what we build. It’s about the people who make it possible.
