Strong Projects Require Strong Field Leadership

Built Through Experience

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

“I’ve been with DeLauter for nearly four years. I was brought on to help recover a challenging project, where I could use my experience to get things back on track. What stood out was that the company valued my background and made it clear I’d be trusted in my role. Combined with the family-oriented culture and a genuine interview process, it made the decision easy.”

Stephen’s experience and ability to step into demanding situations quickly made him a strong fit for DeLauter’s growing field operations. That trust and leadership continue to show across the projects and teams he supports today.

Adapting Across Regions and Teams

You began in the Midwest Division and transitioned into the Southeast Division, supporting work nationally. What has been the biggest change or challenge with that shift?

“The transition hasn’t been too difficult since I’ve spent about 10 years as a traveling superintendent. The biggest adjustment has been the Southeast itself—mainly the heat and humidity. From a work standpoint, trade quality can vary at times, so it requires staying proactive. Overall, I’ve really enjoyed the team and growth opportunities.”

Traveling construction leadership requires adaptability. Different regions, climates, subcontractors, and project environments all bring unique challenges, making communication and problem-solving critical on every project.

How has working across different regions influenced your approach to managing projects and leading teams?

“It’s reinforced the importance of relationships and adaptability. You don’t always have the same crews, so strong communication and the ability to quickly align teams are key. It’s also pushed me to share knowledge and help bring new teams together effectively.”

Construction is ultimately a people-driven industry. Strong leadership often comes down to building alignment, trust, and accountability across constantly moving parts and changing teams.

Leading Projects Day-to-Day

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

“No two days are the same, but I typically start by walking the job and coordinating with subcontractors. From there, it’s about planning ahead, keeping inspections and materials on track, and staying ahead of issues. Maintaining strong relationships is a big part of keeping everything moving.”

Field leadership requires balancing immediate problem-solving with long-term planning. Staying proactive and maintaining communication across teams helps projects continue moving efficiently from one phase to the next.

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

“I enjoy working with people and seeing a project through from start to finish, especially when overcoming challenges along the way. Bringing different teams together and delivering a successful project is what makes the work rewarding.”

Every project comes with obstacles, adjustments, and unexpected challenges. Successfully navigating those moments as a team is often what creates the strongest sense of accomplishment in construction.

A Culture That Feels Personal

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

“It’s become more personal over time. The relationships I’ve built, and the close-knit culture make it feel like more than just a job. That sense of connection is a big reason I’ve stayed.”

Strong company culture plays an important role in long-term success. The relationships built across teams, projects, and regions continue to help shape DeLauter’s growth and reputation.

Projects That Stand Out

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

“My first project in the Southeast stands out. I stepped into a multifamily job that needed to be turned around, built new relationships with subcontractors, and successfully closed it out. It helped establish me in the region.”

Successfully recovering and stabilizing a challenging project requires leadership, communication, and trust across every level of the jobsite. Experiences like these often define both projects and careers.

What Makes Strong Field Leadership

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

“Beyond experience, it comes down to people skills, communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building. Keeping teams aligned and investing in developing others is key to long-term success.”

Strong field leadership goes beyond technical knowledge. The ability to communicate clearly, lead teams effectively, and maintain strong working relationships often has the biggest impact on project success.

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

“Stay curious and learn from everyone around you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or lean on past relationships. At the same time, be decisive — problems need to be addressed quickly.

Most importantly, build strong relationships and treat people with respect.”

Construction is an industry built on experience, teamwork, and continuous learning. Developing strong relationships and maintaining a willingness to learn are often some of the most valuable tools someone can bring into the field.

Life Outside the Jobsite

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

“My family travels with me, so work and personal life blend together. We take advantage of that by exploring new places, trying new food, and experiencing different parts of the country. That’s one of the biggest perks of the job.”

Traveling construction work brings unique experiences both professionally and personally. Being able to experience different regions, communities, and projects across the country is one of the aspects of the industry many field leaders value most.

At DeLauter, strong projects are built by strong teams, and strong teams are built by leaders who understand the importance of communication, accountability, adaptability, and relationships.

Thank you, Stephen, for the leadership, professionalism, and commitment you continue to bring to DeLauter every day.