What does it take to build a hospital that will serve Detroit for the next 50 years? In this episode of The BOBcast, Bob Riney sits down with Ryan Maibach, president and CEO of Barton Malow. Ryan represents the fourth generation of his family to lead the firm, whose team is constructing Destination: Grand and the Henry Ford Health + Michigan State University Health Sciences Research Center. Ryan shares how a 1996 summer internship at Henry Ford's West Annex launched his career, why a more diverse trade workforce is strengthening the industry, and how AI could become a powerful equalizer for the people doing the hands-on work. He also talks about other projects his construction company is behind, including Little Caesars Arena and the new Detroit City Football Club stadium in Corktown, and why he's confident patients will walk through Destination Grand's doors on time in 2029.

Time Stamps

Introduction
:22- Bob Riney introduces us to Ryan Mailbach, CEO of Barton Malow

Career and Family Legacies
2:29- Ryan talks about the family history of starting the company dating back to 1924
3:12- Ryan describes construction as rewarding because it produces tangible results and said leadership was not assumed, despite his long-standing interest in the industry

Detroit Projects
4:10- Bob and Ryan discuss Destination: Grand, the largest investment in Henry Ford Health history, which will greatly improve patients’ lives
Workforce and Innovation
6:31- Bob and Ryan discuss how the construction workforce is becoming more diverse, including greater participation by women and people entering through varied pathways.
7:27- About 25% of Barton Malow’s work is in Southeast Michigan, less than half is elsewhere in Michigan, and most is outside the state.
8:37- Ryan highlights his all-time favorite project being Little Caesars Arena, where fans see the Pistons, Red Wings, and concerts
9:14- Bob asks Ryan if his children are leaning into working for the company
9:33- Bob and Ryan discuss how advancements in AI and digital are impacting the construction industry
11:33- Ryan talks about how excited Barton Malow is in building Detroit’s first-ever soccer-specific stadium in Corktown

Community Commitment
12:34- Ryan linked his board service and civic involvement to a family, company, and regional culture of responsibility
13:20- His advice to his younger self was to recognize that organizational growth and personal fit can be messy but rewarding