Blog Entries

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a member of the Miron team? Below is some insight into what makes our team members tick.

Q: How long have you been a project manager?

A: About 13.5 years; I started with Miron in 2005.

Q: What did your training/education entail?

A: I earned my degree in civil engineering with an emphasis in construction management from the University of Wisconsin.

Q: What time does a normal workday start for you? What time does a normal workday end?

A: My day starts at 3:15 a.m. I set my alarm for that early so I can check and organize my emails without the interruption of a regular work day. I do that for about 90 minutes, then get myself and my family ready for the day. I typically arrive to the office by 7 a.m. and am home between 5-6 p.m. Getting up that early wasn’t always easy for me, but the benefits are great; I come into work organized and able to accomplish a lot without emails getting in the way, and my evenings are freed up to spend with my kids.

Q: What are the constants of your workday (what are things that always happen)?

A: Typical meetings and paperwork – those things you can always count on!

Q: What are the variables of your workday (what are things that change from day-to-day or project-to-project)?

A: Every day has its “emergencies.” It might be that a subcontractor didn’t show up, or some incorrect building materials were delivered. It’s my job to help fix those mistakes so work can continue.

Q: How would you describe your job to a five-year-old? What are your responsibilities?

A: My job is to keep the project moving forward. The ultimate goal is to keep all of the workers on the project site working, so I answer any questions and make sure they have all of the materials needed to do their work.

Q: What kind of equipment and materials do you use every day?

A: My computer, camera, and a phone. Very often we are taking photos to help troubleshoot an issue when people aren’t on-site.

Q: What kind of equipment or materials do you wish you had that haven’t been invented yet?

A: An easy button!

Q: What was the most challenging thing you’ve learned for your job?

A: It’s the human factor. Everyone has a different personality and goal/path to reach the end of the project.

Q: What is the best part of your job?

A: The best part is the variety I get in my day and from job to job.  Also, I love the end of a project; when we turn it over to the owner and see the building used as he or she intended, we can see the community impact. It’s very rewarding.

Q: What is the most challenging part of your job?

A: Time management. Like I said, those “emergencies” always creep up. Prioritizing all the priorities is a full-time job!

Q: What is something about your job that would surprise someone outside of your industry?

A: There’s a perception that construction has become very technical and automated, but in reality it’s still people putting work in place. A mason still lays blocks the way masons laid blocks 50 years ago. There’s still a lot of rich tradition rooted in the trades.

Q: How has your field changed over the years?

A: Immediacy – what we used to call “fast track” has become the norm. Some of that comes from reliance on technology; everything is able to happen so fast now because of advancements.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add or any advice you’d like to give to someone who is considering going into your field?

A: My advice would be to get any related experience that you can. If you understand the jobs of the people around you, it will make you that much better at your own job.

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