"Once the project is approved and up-and-running, typical milestones include pouring concrete and setting the foundation, framing the building, and installing plumbing and electricity. A milestone near the end of the project is interior finishing, and finally, the project's completion. In my last project, I had the plumbing and electric installations done before the deadline, which helped move the project to an early completion."

"Once zoned areas are blocked off, I ensure that nets, catch platforms, and scaffolding are installed. One project I worked on had holes in the structure, so I had the area cordoned off and assigned one specific team to work the area. The biggest potential hazard in any construction project is falling. I ensure that transportation zones are marked and adhered to, equipment is monitored and maintained, and personal safety equipment required to be worn on site. I schedule safety meetings, ensure stringent safety protocol, and develop a safety culture on site."

"Every day I spend time keeping up with industry news and developments by reading our top industry publications, listening to regular podcasts, and attending yearly educational conferences. I also attend the Building Show conventions, BuildEx conferences and follow Buildings Conference publications. I stay current on the National Research Council Canada NMS, have served on various task groups, and remain active in the Canadian Construction Association."

"There are different types of conflict, and I don't think there is one way that works for every situation. I look for ways to foster resolution, stay calm, address issues, combine empathy and honesty, approach the issue logically, and reason with insight. Most important is to resolve the issue to all parties' satisfaction, align the goals, use collaboration, increase goodwill, and not delay the project."

"I have used mobile data collection and Fieldwire to develop daily reports with management apps. With current construction technology, I can input weather conditions, define work completed, track progress and expenses, and implement automatically organized and dated daily reports. I attach files and photos with the daily reports. In the dailies, I include job site physical conditions, personnel, delays and disruptions, inventory checklist, incidents, any future delays, risks, or concerns."

"I stay up-to-date with the National Building Code and make sure to identify and fix any building issues in advance of an official inspection. In previous projects, I have dealt with building code variances and interpretations with various code authorities. In all instances, issues were resolved, minimal time was lost, and the projects came in on time and budget. I study proposed changes to Codes Canada publications for building codes, fire, plumbing, and energy codes and hold National Construction Safety Officer Certification."

"In my previous position, I handled two projects at once by prioritizing tasks based on deadlines, the importance of each task, and setting expectations of others. I ensured that high-priority tasks were done first as well as delivering reports and analysis. I always use time blocking for each project to stay focused on tasks and assess my workload for each project regularly by reviewing to-do lists, project schedules, critical tasks and allotted time. I delegate when needed and use construction management software to overlay both projects plans to see major milestones and phases of work for each."

"I choose my vendors wisely, examining the strengths and weaknesses of each. When I have the right vendor at the right price, I ensure frequent and ongoing communication during the project, including changes in timelines, troubleshooting, the quality of materials, deadlines. I also work with suppliers to plan for contingencies. I know my accountabilities are in the process and recognize that my decisions, project changes, or delayed timing can impact the supplier. I make sure my company pays on time, and I use supplier management software that interfaces with accounting."

"I particularly like the self-healing concrete that will save millions of dollars repairing and restoring our roads, bridges, tunnels, and buildings. Transparent aluminum, which is bullet-proof, is attractive because of all its applications and is created through laser technology. Aerogel insulation has four times the power of foam. There's so much more, with many presenting solutions such as vertical cities and pollution-fighting buildings. My other favourites are smart bricks, robotics, and 3D printed houses."

"I perform a value analysis to identify hidden and unnecessary costs in services or materials and eliminate them. Whenever possible, I buy in bulk to reduce procurement, labour, and disposal costs, and fix quantities at a point where the cost of materials and the cost of carrying inventory is minimum. If possible, I use local vendors to lower shipping fees, decrease material handling, and take advantage of eProcurement. Other possible cost reduction tools are prefabrication and modular construction, a reduction in scope and complexity in the project, and multipurpose labour."

"In my experience, the construction superintendent's responsibilities include planning, creating work schedules, and inspecting labour and work sites. Most tasks fall under HR matters, supervising all construction activities, implementing all accounting functions, and coordinating all onsite activities."

"During my previous job, I managed one of my company's largest projects which included keeping track of over 40 contractors. I created a system to determine each contractor's duties and used a management software program for tracking and performance."

"A budget should always include contingency funds. If I realize a project needs more funds, I contact the company, analyze costs, provide recommendations, and discuss more affordable alternatives. By close tracking of budgets and work progress, I can identify ahead of time what budget changes may be needed."

"In my previous position, every time we reached a milestone, I threw a celebration dinner with a theme, games, and prizes. For a monthly reward, I would have pizza brought in for lunch or dozens of donuts. The long-term celebrations and holiday parties were worth every dime to keep the team motivated. The short-term rewards were inexpensive and inspirational to the team."

"First off, unforeseen delays such as the weather should be built into a contract based on the location of the project, research, and site-specific risk assessments. Proactive safety measures are needed, for instance, harmful substances should be put away when not in use, all loose objects and materials securely fastened down when not in use, and suitable drainage channels dug around the project. Preparedness checklists and plans should be in place for wind hazards, rain, fog, hurricanes, and other storms. I use..."