Employee Spotlight: A Q&A with DeLauter Senior Superintendent Dan Setterstrom

Meet Dan Setterstrom, Senior Superintendent at DeLauter

At DeLauter, growth doesn’t happen by accident. It is built by people who show up, adapt, and lead. Dan Setterstrom is a perfect example of that.

From starting on residential job sites to now overseeing projects across multiple states, Dan’s journey reflects both the evolution of DeLauter and the kind of leadership that drives it forward.

How long have you been with DeLauter, and what first brought you to the company?

“I’ve been with DeLauter for just over 13 years. I was looking for work in home remodeling, responded to an ad for a carpenter, and was hired and on a jobsite within 48 hours.”

You started as a Construction Manager and are now our Senior Superintendent. What has that progression been like for you?

“I started in home renovations and within six months moved into a Construction Manager role, overseeing 6–8 homes at a time. As we transitioned out of remodeling, I shifted into commercial construction and was promoted to Senior Superintendent in 2022. I’ve been fortunate to grow, adapt, and move up over the years.”

Your role has expanded from managing local Illinois projects to overseeing work across the Midwest. What has been the biggest change or challenge with that shift?

“The biggest challenge has been managing teams spread across multiple states. Much of the work now happens over the phone rather than face-to-face, which is an adjustment for someone who prefers being hands-on and on-site.”

What does a typical day look like for you now as a Senior Superintendent?

“Most days involve checking in with our Midwest construction managers, helping solve issues, and planning. I may also be setting up job trailers, attending meetings, walking punch lists, or spending time in the office. No two days are the same, which I enjoy.”

What do you find most rewarding about your role and the projects you work on?

“I enjoy being able to look at a project and say, ‘We did that.’ It’s rewarding to be involved at different stages and to help construction managers learn, grow, and succeed.”

How has DeLauter evolved since you first started, and what has kept you here over the years?

“When I started, we were a small home remodeling group with just a few managers. Today, DeLauter operates nationwide with multiple offices and teams across 30+ states. Through all the growth, I’ve always been treated like family, which is why I’ve stayed.”

What’s one project or accomplishment you’re especially proud of during your time at DeLauter?

“One standout project was a high-end corporate boardroom and office buildout for Methode in Harwood Heights, IL. The entire space was designed around the board table, with curved soffits and walls to match. The level of detail and craftsmanship makes it a project I’m especially proud of.”

What qualities do you think are most important for success in field leadership roles like yours?

“Trust is the most important quality. Trust within the team, from leadership, and with clients. Everyone needs to know they can rely on one another to ask questions, get support, and deliver quality work.”

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in construction or new to DeLauter?

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions. No one knows everything, and asking is how you learn. At DeLauter, we rely on shared knowledge and teamwork. If I don’t have the answer, I’ll help find it.”

When you’re not on the road or on a jobsite, how do you like to spend your time?

“Most of my free time is spent with my family at youth sporting events or coaching. I also enjoy fishing and being on the water, especially when I can share that time with my wife and kids.”

Interested in joining the DeLauter team? Head to our careers page to learn more.