Built Through Experience: Employee Spotlight with Matt Wolf

Strong construction leadership is built through experience, adaptability, and a willingness to support the people around you. This month’s DeLauter Employee Spotlight features Matt Wolf, Midwest Senior Project Manager, whose responsibilities extend beyond successfully managing projects to mentoring others and strengthening the project management team.

We spoke with Matt about his seven years with DeLauter, the evolution of his role, and the relationships and experiences that continue to shape his work.

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

“I joined DeLauter in 2019 and am currently in my seventh year with the company. I was initially contacted about an opportunity to interview, and from the very beginning, I felt a strong connection to DeLauter’s family-oriented culture. That sense of community and shared values played a significant role in my decision to join the team.”

That initial connection has developed into seven years of growth and leadership. The family-oriented culture that first drew Matt to DeLauter continues to influence how he works with project teams, clients, and subcontractors today.

How has your role at DeLauter evolved since you first started?

“In addition to managing my own projects, my role has evolved to include mentoring and supporting members of the project management team. Drawing on my previous experience, I enjoy helping others navigate challenges, develop their skills, and contribute to successful project outcomes.”

Matt’s expanding role reflects the value of sharing experience across a growing team. By helping colleagues work through challenges and strengthen their skills, he contributes to successful outcomes beyond the projects he directly manages.

What has been the biggest change as your responsibilities have grown?

“The biggest change has been taking on a greater leadership and mentorship role within the project management team. As responsibilities have grown, I've had more opportunities to support team members, share knowledge, and help drive overall project success.”

Leadership in construction is not limited to overseeing schedules and deliverables. It also means making knowledge accessible, providing guidance, and helping other team members become more confident in their own responsibilities.

What does a typical day look like for you in your current position?

“I wish I could say there was a typical day, but every day brings something different, and priorities can shift quickly regardless of how well you plan. The day usually starts with a cup or two of coffee, followed by reviewing emails and touching base with each of my superintendents to discuss schedules, project updates, and any issues that need attention. From there, the day can include meetings, site visits, problem-solving, scheduling, paperwork, and coordinating with project teams to keep everything moving forward.”

For Matt, adaptability is part of the daily routine. Regular communication with superintendents establishes an early understanding of each project’s needs, while the rest of the day requires him to respond quickly as priorities develop.

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

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is the collaborative, open-door culture at DeLauter. We work together as a team to achieve successful outcomes for our projects, and that level of support makes a significant difference. I also value the long-term relationships I've built with clients and subcontractors, many of which have grown into lasting friendships.”

The relationships built through construction often extend well beyond a single project. Matt’s experience reflects DeLauter’s belief that collaboration, accessibility, and trust are essential to both successful work and lasting partnerships.

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

“DeLauter has grown in many ways since I joined the company. We've taken on larger and more complex projects, expanded into new market sectors, and established strong networks in regional markets beyond our home base. Internally, our team has continued to grow, bringing additional expertise and support that strengthens our ability to deliver successful projects. What has kept me here is the people, the culture, and the opportunity to be part of a company that continues to evolve and invest in its future.”

As DeLauter’s capabilities and regional presence have expanded, the company’s people and culture have remained central to its continued growth. Matt has experienced that evolution firsthand while helping the team take on increasingly complex opportunities.

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

“While I won't point to a specific project, one accomplishment that stands out is successfully delivering a ground-up building ahead of schedule and under budget despite challenging winter conditions and unavoidable weather delays. It was a testament to the hard work, collaboration, and dedication of the entire project team.”

Completing a ground-up construction project ahead of schedule and under budget is a significant accomplishment under any circumstances. Achieving it despite difficult winter conditions demonstrates the planning, flexibility, and collective effort of everyone involved.

What skills or qualities do you think are most important for success in an office-based role like yours?

“Time management and problem-solving are essential. Managing multiple projects and overseeing numerous subcontractors requires the ability to adapt quickly and prioritize effectively. Understanding the critical path of a project and focusing on the most important tasks at the right time is key to achieving successful results.”

Construction project management involves balancing multiple moving parts without losing sight of the decisions that have the greatest effect on progress. Matt’s approach combines an understanding of the larger project path with the ability to determine what requires immediate attention.

What advice would you give to someone new to DeLauter or just starting out in a corporate or office position?

“Keep your head up and stay positive. Construction can be a challenging industry, and there will inevitably be difficult days. If it were easy, everyone would do it. During those challenging moments, persistence, resilience, and a positive attitude go a long way. Remember that setbacks are temporary, and every challenge presents an opportunity to learn and grow.”

Matt’s advice reflects the resilience required to build a long-term career in construction. Challenges are inevitable, but each one can strengthen a person’s knowledge, judgment, and ability to lead through the next.

When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your time?

“Most of my time outside of work is spent with my family. Whether we're playing outside, attending a baseball game, camping, taking a ride around the neighborhood in the golf cart, or simply staying in to build a LEGO set and watch our favorite movies and shows, I enjoy making the most of our time together.”

Whether navigating the demands of a complex construction project or enjoying a quiet night at home, Matt values time spent building meaningful relationships.

Thank you, Matt, for the experience, leadership, and collaborative spirit you bring to DeLauter. Your commitment to supporting project teams, mentoring others, and building lasting relationships continues to make a meaningful impact across the company.