From planning and design to full project delivery, Jarod Andrews has seen every phase of construction. His journey from project management to leading our preconstruction team has shaped his belief that every successful build begins with strong planning, communication, and teamwork.

In this Q&A, Jarod shares what continues to inspire him and his advice for new construction professionals:

What inspired you to pursue a career in construction, and what keeps you motivated in this field?

• I was drawn to construction because of its tangible effect of turning plans into structures. What keeps me motivated is the opportunity to solve complex challenges, deliver projects that are on time and under budget, and continuously learn from each unique build. The sense of accomplishment when a project is completed, coupled with the dynamic nature of the industry, keeps me motivated every day.

How has your transition from Project Manager to Preconstruction Manager shaped your perspective on building successful projects? 

• Moving from Project Manager to Preconstruction Manager allows me to focus on the importance of early planning. As a Project Manager, I focused on execution and problem-solving during construction, but in preconstruction, I’ve learned how critical it is to align budgets, schedules, and constructability upfront. The project starts with a strong foundation in preconstruction with clear communication and risk mitigation to ensure smoother execution and successful outcomes.

What advice would you give to someone interested in starting a career in construction or project management?

• Start by building a strong foundation in the basics.  Learn the technical aspects, like reading plans and understanding construction processes, but also prioritize communication and problem-solving skills.  Seek experience through entry-level roles to understand the industry’s dynamics and challenges. Askquestions and stay adaptable.  Construction is ever-evolving, soembracing new technologies and methods will set you apart.

What do you find most rewarding about being part of a team that brings complex projects to life?

• The most rewarding aspect is seeing a collective vision come to life through collaboration. Each team member brings unique expertise, and watching those efforts converge into a finished project is very satisfying. 

How does collaboration between project management and preconstruction influence the success of a build?

• Collaboration between project management and preconstruction is critical to a project’s success. Preconstruction lays the groundwork by defining scope, budget, and schedule, while project management ensures those plans are executed effectively. Open communication between the two phases minimizes surprises, aligns expectations, and mitigates risks. When both teams work closely, it streamlines the build process, reduces costs, and delivers a higher-quality project on time.

His story reminds us that collaboration between preconstruction and project management is key to exceptional project delivery.

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