Achieving Operational Efficiency through Employee Well-Being

Coming from a long line of ironworkers, Adam House joined the industry after high school with his father and grandfather. As he progressed, he aspired to drive positive change, becoming an ironworker instructor and later developing specialized training courses. Hired as the western Canada regional talent development manager at Harris Rebar, he implemented impactful training programs, expanding leadership training across North America. House currently oversees various operations as the operations manager for the Leduc branch at Harris Rebar.

In an interview with Construction Business Review Canada, Adam House provides a significant insight into the evolutionary progress of construction engineering, highlighting the crucial aspects of safety standards and the welfare of individuals. In addition, he unveils innovative approaches that contemporary leaders can adopt to attain success.

What are some of the major pain points that a construction operations manager typically faces while overseeing multiple projects, coordinating budgets, and managing deadlines?

One of the major challenges organizations face today is a shortage of skilled manpower. This shortage affects various industries and trades, leading to difficulties in meeting schedules and putting pressure on different departments. To address this issue, we have been actively engaging with communities, including high schools and various groups, for immediate hiring purposes and also to introduce them to our trade and industry. Unlike most trades that require a four-year apprenticeship, our one-of-a-kind program only takes two years to complete. Upon finishing, individuals will be eligible to obtain a journey ticket, making their journey to becoming skilled professionals much faster. We strive to raise awareness and give a glimpse into the fulfilling and rewarding experience of working with us.

A key aspect of our approach is prioritizing safety as the core value. We emphasize the amount of support and resources we provide to every team member, starting from their initial hiring and throughout their entire career. While the market is competitive, we believe that having the best workforce and teammates will ultimately lead to success.

What are some of the trends that have been impacting the market lately, whether they are technological advancements or new processes in the market that you have observed?

The evolution of trade practices has significantly impacted the industry’s appeal and accessibility. Previously, the trades were perceived as challenging and intimidating, dissuading many individuals from considering them as viable career options. However, with advancements in operational methods and an increased emphasis on safety, more people are recognizing the feasibility of pursuing these professions. The focus on implementing robust safety measures and improved working conditions has created an environment where individuals feel empowered to pursue careers in trading, thereby expanding the pool of potential candidates.

Have you recently participated in a project initiative where you utilized specific trends or process elements to ensure success?

We have formed a partnership with CAREERS, an organization dedicated to linking young individuals to trade opportunities. Through this collaboration, we have established connections with nearby schools. As students graduate, they are introduced to trades through CAREERS’ WRAP programs. Participating in WRAP enables them to gain valuable work experience while earning school credits. This year, we have successfully engaged with WRAP programs in various schools through our affiliation with CAREERS, also known as Careers, The Next Generation. We are proud to provide these students with the opportunity to learn about our work and ensure their safety as they join us as student workers.

How do you envision the future of the industry in light of the current disruptions and transformations?

Backed by the extensive experience in the industry, I am fully cognizant of the potential hazards that come with this line of work. safety will undoubtedly become the pivotal factor.

Talent development will also play a crucial role. Those aspiring to pursue a career in any trade will naturally be attracted to an organization that prioritizes professionalism and safety, emphasizing proper training. Looking ahead, the future will witness a diverse group of construction workers and tradespeople. The companies that thrive will be the ones that demonstrate a strong commitment to investing in an open-minded and forward-thinking approach to business operations and the well-being of their employees.

What advice would you give to professionals in the industry on strategies they can implement within their organizations to effectively lead their teams and achieve success?

Prioritize people above everything else. This should be your main focus. Ask yourself and your teammates: would you want your children to work here? If even one person answers no, it means there is room for improvement. Take a deep look and understand why they feel that way. Use this feedback as a guide to make necessary changes. Your goal should be to reach a point where every single person on your team believes it’s a fantastic place to work – a place with a promising future, fair treatment, investment in personal growth, genuine care, and protection. Until you achieve that, there is work to be done. The key is to genuinely care for your team, and consistently secure their well-being.