TEPM 048: How Trust Can Turn the Tables for Successful Project Management

In this episode, I talk with Kabri Lehrman-Schmid, project leader at HENSEL PHELPS and co-founder of Build With Pride Seattle, about the crucial role of trust in successful project management, the responsibilities of general contractors in creating a safe and supportive work environment, and how integrated delivery principles can lead to successful projects. ***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.*** Engineering Quotes: Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Kabri: How does trust influence the dynamics and outcomes of engineering projects? How does the general contractor act as a gatekeeper for building psychological safety in projects? What industry metrics or indicators can measure psychological safety and its impact on a project's success? How can we effectively show the benefits and value of an action to motivate people in a results-driven world? How does the physical job site influence industry-wide changes, particularly in inclusivity and mental health? What are integrated delivery principles, and how have they shaped your project management approach? How does understanding construction processes enhance teamwork and project success for design engineers? What final advice would you give to engineering professionals aiming to excel in project management? Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How Trust Can Turn the Tables for Successful Project Management: Trust improves engineering project dynamics and outcomes by promoting clear communication, aligning goals, and ensuring commitment to safety and value recognition, which are essential in sectors like aviation and higher education where public safety and stakeholder expertise are critical. The general contractor acts as a gatekeeper by promoting open communication and transparency, allowing team members to freely share ideas and admit mistakes without fear. This creates psychological safety, enhancing collaboration and improving project success and efficiency. Psychological safety on construction projects can be gauged by team communication, problem-solving collaboration, and resource sharing. These factors impact project success by improving productivity, safety, and innovation, crucial for achieving client satisfaction and long-term success. To motivate people in a results-driven world, clearly show how actions contribute to measurable outcomes such as productivity, efficiency, quality, or client satisfaction. Use data and examples to highlight the action's value in achieving goals and making a meaningful impact. The physical job site influences industry-wide changes in inclusivity and mental health by demonstrating practices that support these values. This sets a standard for other projects and organizations, encouraging them to prioritize supportive environments and inclusive practices across the construction industry. Integrated delivery principles prioritize teamwork, respect, and communication to enhance project outcomes and support craftworkers. These principles guide a project management approach focused on building trust, improving communication, and making decisions that benefit the well-being and effectiveness of those performing the work, ultimately improving project success and industry sustainability. Understanding construction processes helps design engineers collaborate effectively with construction teams, ensuring designs are practical and integrated well with project execution, leading to improved teamwork and project success. For engineering professionals aiming to excel in project management, prioritize both technical skills and emotional intelligence. Creating a supportive environment where team members feel understood and valued promotes trust and collaboration,