Construction Genius

Construction companies don't go out of business because they lack work. They go out of business because they take on too much work and lose discipline.
In this episode, Eric Anderton talks with DPR Construction leaders Camilo Garcia and Mike Humphrey about how DPR built the discipline that carried the company through multiple boom-bust cycles—from early hypergrowth to market volatility in the 2000s, the 2009 downturn, and today's AI-driven data center surge.
They explain how DPR protects its culture through disciplined hiring, empowers teams with freedom within a framework, stays selective with customers and markets, and scales using operating ranges based on people—not just revenue.
If you're leading a construction company in a high-demand market, this episode shows how DPR stays disciplined while growing.
 
Resources:
DPR Construction: https://www.dpr.com/
Connect with Camilo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camilo-garcia-pineros-79172ba/
Connect with Mike on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-humphrey-b589695/

The Inflation Reduction Act is driving massive investment into construction—but the registered apprenticeship requirements tied to those tax credits are creating confusion and risk for many contractors.
In this episode, Eric Anderton talks with Andy Seth, founder of Apprentix, about a smarter approach to complying with Inflation Reduction Act apprenticeship requirements—one that reduces risk, protects margins, and supports business growth.
They break down how IRA apprenticeship compliance really works, why sponsorship matters, and how contractors can get compliant quickly without disrupting operations.
If Inflation Reduction Act projects are affecting your bids or backlog, this episode will give you clarity and confidence.
 
Connect with Andy
Apprentix: https://www.apprentix.io
Apprenticeship Launch System (Book): https://a.co/d/1Lxl0rX
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyseth/
X: https://x.com/mraseth
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +1 (303) 900-2215
Restaurant Mentioned: https://www.altenorestaurant.com/

Doug Ransom began his construction career at 18 as a union carpenter apprentice. Thirty years later, he serves as General Superintendent at JP Cullen & Sons, a fifth-generation commercial construction company.
Learn more: https://jpcullen.com/
In this episode, we discuss:
Transitioning from foreman to superintendent

Managing construction field teams

Leadership development in commercial construction

Field vs. office conflict

Multi-generational construction company succession

 
Related episodes on construction succession planning:
Episode 170
https://www.constructiongenius.com/podcast/how-to-run-a-successful-family-business-with-george-cullen-ep-170/
Episode 186
https://www.constructiongenius.com/podcast/secrets-of-a-successful-multi-generational-company-with-the-cullen-clan-ep-186
Connect with Doug:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-ransom-a58018285/
Restaurant recommendation:
https://www.fairchildrestaurant.com/

What does it really take to become a high-performing construction leader?
In this episode of Construction Genius, Eric Anderton talks with Katharine Hamer, Project Manager at DPR Construction (San Diego), about leadership development, accountability, and culture in the field.
From her background as a Division I lacrosse athlete to managing complex projects across higher education, healthcare, data centers, parking structures, and life science / biotech, Katharine explains how DPR develops leaders through discipline, humility, and real field experience.
You'll hear how accountability works without blame, why psychological safety matters on tough projects, and how young professionals can grow fast without skipping critical steps.
Links:
DPR Construction: https://www.dpr.com/
Restaurant Recommendation (San Diego, CA): Dirty Birds Bar & Grill
Restaurant Link: https://www.dirtybirdsbarandgrill.com/

Estimating isn't just math—it's how contractors decide which risks they're willing to own.
In this episode of the Construction Genius Podcast, Eric Anderton talks with Chris Clausing, Director of Program and Curriculum Innovation for Construction at Colibri Group, about why estimating is still more art than science—and why contractors consistently miss the risk margin that protects profit.
Drawing on 25 years as a commercial general contractor, Chris explains how regional differences, niche discipline, poor handoffs, and earned value blind spots quietly erode margins. They also discuss how AI can help identify estimating risks—if it's adopted thoughtfully.
If you've ever won work that you later wished you hadn't, this episode will change how you think about estimating.