In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with Angie Eger, President, and Tom Eger, Chief Operating Officer, of TRE Construction for a candid conversation about building a family-owned, woman-owned construction company and the role of organized labor in its success.

Angie and Tom reflect on launching TRE in 2022 from a basement office and the unexpected opportunities that fueled its rapid growth. From assembling a team of more than 25 union carpenters for a major hospitality project to navigating the demands of a $5 million project at the U.S. Naval Academy, they share the experiences that have shaped their approach to business and leadership. They also discuss the importance of strong union partnerships, investing in skilled tradespeople, and maintaining a commitment to quality as the company expands into general contracting. Looking ahead, Angie and Tom share their vision for TRE's future and why creating opportunities for their employees remains central to their success.

https://treconstruction.net/

Episode highlights:
(02:30) From Basement Startup to Rapid Business Growth
(07:48) Taking Risks, Securing Business Loans, and Managing Payroll
(16:03) Building a Family Business as a Husband-and-Wife Team
(18:14) Managing Growth, Hiring Leaders, and Maintaining Quality
(22:54) Women-Owned Business Certification and Opportunities in Construction
(27:35) The $5 Million U.S. Naval Academy Project and Lessons Learned
(33:33) Building Strong Relationships and a People-First Company Culture
(39:12) Union Apprenticeships, Workforce Training, and Developing Future Leaders
(46:09) The Benefits of Self-Performing General Contracting
(48:18) TRE Construction's Future Growth and Expansion Into New Markets

In this special episode, Labor Lounge Podcast goes live from the 12th Annual Women Business Leaders Forum by NJBIA. Hosts Anthony Abrantes and Cyndie Williams are joined by Lauren Nathan-LaRusso, Arlene Q. Perez, and Maggie Moran for a candid conversation about building a career in leadership.

Drawing from their experiences across public affairs, law, government, organized labor, and major-event management, the panel explores the qualities that have shaped their careers, the mentors and allies who opened doors along the way, and the importance of preparation, relationships, reputation, and knowing when to take the lead.

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

Episode highlights:
(3:49) What helped these leaders stand out early in their careers
(7:10) Saying yes to major opportunities before feeling fully ready
(11:30) Staying grounded in your values while building your career
(15:14) Leadership, fear, accountability, and creating a lasting impact
(18:40) Mentors who open doors and create opportunities
(27:56) Why allies and strong relationships matter
(28:48) Career advice for anyone ready to advance
(33:18) Stop asking for permission and start taking action
(35:52) Reputation, integrity, and keeping your word
(36:56) Audience Q&A on fear, confidence, and knowing you are ready
(40:21) How preparation builds confidence and courage
(41:55) Taking control of your own career and future

Morris County Commissioner John Krickus joins Anthony and Cyndie to talk workforce development, infrastructure investment, and the role skilled labor plays in strengthening communities across New Jersey. Krickus reflects on his time serving on the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, highlighting efforts to reduce property taxes while expanding investment in public infrastructure and career-focused education. He shares updates on the expansion of the Career Training Center and the upcoming Center for Health Professions, emphasizing the growing demand for vocational training and skilled trades careers. Krickus also discusses the success of project labor agreements in delivering cost savings and high-quality workmanship on major county projects, while underscoring the broader importance of workforce training to economic stability, national security, veteran support, and combating issues like homelessness and opioid addiction.

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

https://www.morriscountynj.gov/Home

Episode highlights:
(2:31) Commissioner John Krickus on public service and the skilled worker shortage
(7:08) Why investing in infrastructure and people creates long-term value
(14:03) Workforce development, manufacturing, and County College of Morris
(17:36) Project labor agreements and major Morris County construction projects
(22:20) Union apprenticeship training and career education opportunities
(27:34) Rebuilding American manufacturing and protecting domestic workers
(35:42) Investing in workers as a solution to affordability challenges
(40:51) Apprenticeships, college credits, and debt-free career paths
(48:01) How union construction can deliver quality work under budget
(52:16) Veteran homelessness, opioid recovery, and community support