In this episode of Build America, host Kerry Smith Buck speaks with Angie Lovatto, VP of HR, and Tony Roderman, Field Operations Manager at KCI Construction, about the evolving strategies for recruiting and retaining both office and field talent in the construction industry.

They discuss the power of employee referrals, mentoring future superintendents from within, reaching untapped talent pools like reentry programs and technical schools, and balancing tech tools with human connection. Whether it’s finding top-tier project managers or loyal tradespeople, this episode offers real-world insights on building a strong, people-first workforce.

Is your construction company's brand attracting the talent you need?

Host Kerry Smith-Buck and branding expert Liz Campbell from the Atlanta Electrical Contractors Association reveal why strong organizational branding is critical for recruitment and retention. Discover how to combat industry stigma, appeal to Gen Z's demand for authenticity, and successfully rebrand for a massive boost in apprenticeship applications and overall success. Learn practical tips, proving it's about "ownership," not just big budgets, to transform your company's future!

In this episode, host Kerry Smith Buck speaks with Pete Wisnom and Kyle Hullmann of AllSearch Recruiting to tackle one of the industry’s most pressing concerns: hiring and retaining talent in construction.

They dive into how demographic shifts, like the aging workforce and the rise of Gen Z, are impacting the hiring landscape. From salary expectations and counteroffers to culture, training, and long-term career paths. This conversation explores the real reasons candidates stay or walk away.

In this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith sits down with Amelia Dicks, Director of Business Development at Wind River Built, to unpack the urgent issue of America’s housing shortage and why diversifying housing stock is a critical part of the solution. From the rise of single and two-person households to outdated zoning regulations, Amelia explores how offsite modular construction could pave the way for more financially viable small homes. The conversation challenges conventional building practices and advocates for smarter housing options that better reflect today’s market needs and life stages.

In this episode of BUILD America, Kerry Smith Buck interviews Lutalo Webb, Vice President of Guarantee Electrical Company, who emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey, not just focusing on the finish line. They discuss how leaders can balance delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality work while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and people-first values. The conversation also highlights the power of data-driven decision-making and the importance of understanding how different individuals interpret goals and challenges on the job.

In this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith-Buck talks with safety experts Joe Shyrock and Drake Zappia about top construction hazards, including OSHA’s “Fatal Four” and the rising concern of mental health in the industry. They share real-world prevention strategies, the role of safety tech, and how their work with the Southern Illinois Builders Association helps promote a stronger, more supportive safety culture.

In this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith sits down with Yvette Paris, president and majority owner of Lauer Facility Planning in Collinsville, Illinois. With nearly two decades of experience in interior design and a background rooted in functionality and wellness, Yvette shares her inspiring journey—from a fresh design graduate to running a woman-owned business that blends design expertise with community impact.

In this episode, Kerry Smith sits down with Adam Stark, a Special Forces veteran and host of "The Veterans Who Build Show" - a podcast dedicated to sharing stories of veterans transitioning from military service to the construction industry. The conversation explores the natural synergies between military experience and construction careers, highlighting how the team-based environment, physical demands, and need for adaptability make construction an excellent fit for veterans.