Lindsey Hohler

On the Job with Superintendent Ben Meyer

Throughout October, we are highlighting a few of the people and roles that bring our commercial construction projects to life. Meet Ben Meyer, a Commercial Project Superintendent.

Read our Q&A below to learn more about Ben, his role, and his experience working in construction.

What was your path to becoming a construction superintendent?

I worked construction jobs throughout high school and college. After college, I worked in a home builder’s warranty department before moving into a superintendent role.

What is your role on the job site, and how do you work with project managers and subcontractors?

My role is to keep the job site safe, clean, organized, and on schedule. A lot of that involves managing tasks and making sure the site is ready for subcontractors. I also communicate with project managers about what’s coming next and what materials need to be ordered.

What is the first thing you look at when you arrive on-site each morning?

I look at whether the site is clean and organized. Perception is reality. People see a clean job site as a sign of quality work. It positively influences the customers’ impression of the project and the subcontractors working on it.

What is the most challenging part of managing day-to-day construction? Most rewarding?

The most challenging part is managing the unpredictability that comes with coordinating so many people. One small error can affect several other parts of the job.

The most rewarding part is building structures and relationships you can be proud of. If you treat people like family, they’ll treat you like family.

What would you tell someone who is considering a career in construction?

If you enjoy a fast-paced environment, can adapt to changing schedules, and like working with others toward a common goal, construction could be a good fit. You also get to see the physical results of your work every day, and that is one of the most rewarding parts of working in construction.

If you could have one construction-related superpower, what would it be?

I’d want to predict the future so I could prevent delays and keep projects moving ahead of schedule.