Faces of Cornerstone: Meet Our Senior Project Manager

In the dynamic landscape of the commercial construction industry, the role of an experienced project manager is paramount in ensuring the successful execution of complex projects. With a keen understanding of construction plans, a knack for effective leadership, and the ability to navigate unforeseen challenges, an experienced project manager becomes the linchpin in delivering projects on time and within budget. In this blog, let us introduce Mike Theisen, a seasoned Senior Project Manager with a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in the commercial construction sector. Mike's journey through diverse projects and his commitment to continuous learning have not only contributed to the success of numerous ventures but also positioned him as a guiding force in the ever-evolving realm of construction management. His unique blend of expertise, leadership skills, and a passion for innovative solutions make him an exemplary figure in the field, embodying the crucial role that experienced project managers play in driving excellence and efficiency in commercial construction projects.

Can you provide a brief overview of your role as a project manager and your key responsibilities within the company?

As the Sr. Project Manager for the company I am responsible for the training and oversight of other Project Managers as well as the site superintendents. I also work closely with the Project Coordinators to get new and approved projects set up to start and acquire acceptable pricing from subcontractors and suppliers.

How did you enter the field of project management and what motivated you to pursue this career path?

As a retail company's Layout Supervisor I worked closely with contractors and company PM's to complete store remodelings and opening of new store locations.  After I completed my 4 years in this role I moved to the construction dept as a Jr. Project Manager assigned to remodelings and the rollout of the companies electronic register conversions for the western region.

Could you share some pivotal moments in your career that have led you to your current position as a project manager?

As a youngster I would visit my grandfather's TVA project job sites building bridges throughout Kansas and Missouri.  He would take the time to review construction plans and methods during the course of construction and I found that very interesting and challenging.

What specific skills and qualities do you believe are critical for success in the role of a project manager?

Being able to read and interpret construction plans and specifications, the ability to discuss and provide direction to the field assets (contractors and site personnel) to complete the work as outlined in the construction documents.

How do you continuously enhance your project management skills and stay up-to-date with industry best practices?

I stay in contact with PM's that I have worked with in the past as well as outside professionals who are assigned with projects similar to what is being assigned to the company that I work for.

Can you walk us through a typical day in your role as a project manager? What tasks and challenges do you encounter on a regular basis?

Start of the day is to review the previous day's project reports and photos to verify that the project is moving forward as reflected in the issued project schedule.  Touch base with the field personnel to make sure that they are aware of any issues and changes to the work scope of a project.  Work with the project coordinators to see if they have any issues or are in need of any assistance for them to keep new and ongoing projects viable.

The nature of this position is that there are always new challenges and issues arising every day.  If the PM stays on top of the workflow and project status tasks are seldom duplicated in manner from job to job as they should have been addressed previously so as not to become an issue. 

Could you share some of the most memorable projects you've managed? What were the highlights and challenges of those projects?

The most challenging project that I was assigned to was when I worked for a local developer.  We were tasked to redevelop an existing car junk yard which was down stream from an EPA superfund site.  The most challenging portion of the project was making sure that the site was cleaned up according to EPA regulations and that the adjacent superfund site runoff did not impact the local waterways during and after completion of the development.

How does collaboration with different teams and stakeholders factor into your role as a project manager?

It allows me to keep abreast of the latest practices and programs as it pertains to my position.

What leadership strategies do you employ to ensure successful project outcomes?

Staying in touch with the field personnel and most importantly listening to their issues and allowing them input into a possible solution which gives them a feeling of ownership of the overall project.

Share an instance where you faced a significant roadblock during a project. How did you approach and resolve the issue?

I had a project where the contractor took his third payment then shut down his business without advising me and prior to paying the subcontractors.  I had to call in all of the subcontractors and pay them directly in order to complete the remainder of the work and complete the project.  We eventually sued the general contractor and recouped the extra funds.

What advice would you offer to those who aspire to become successful project managers?

Listen and learn from the experienced associates, stay fully involved in a project from its inception and research best practices and procedures for each applicable subcontractor.

In what ways has your role as a project manager contributed to your personal and professional growth?

It has taught me to be more patient with my team members as well as my family and to stay calm in times of dispute to resolve any potential conflicts.

From your perspective, how has the project management landscape evolved over time, and what trends do you foresee shaping its future?

The advent of electronic communication and planning has changed the industry to the point that printed plans and specifications are no longer needed on site.  This will continue to change the way construction projects are planned and completed to the point that a PM does not have to make frequent site visits to check on the status and flow of a project.

What aspects of being a project manager do you find most enjoyable and rewarding?

Learning new procedures and my favorite is teaching younger team members about the practices utilized in the field.

Managing projects can be demanding. How do you maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life?

I take my responsibilities as a PM quite seriously but I make sure that I do leave enough time during my day to connect with my family including school functions as well as making sure my spouse has my attention during after office hours.

How does the company's culture and values align with your role as a project manager?

Our company's culture encourages free thought and sharing of ideas on a weekly basis.  These round table discussions allows all team members to not only learn new practices and methods but also provided new and younger PM's the ability to learn from more experienced members of the team.

What motivates you to excel in your role and keep pushing your professional boundaries?

I am always open to new methods of construction practices as there is always something different on new projects that I may have not encountered on previous assignments.

Share a fun or interesting fact about yourself that your colleagues might not be aware of.

I have training as a Red Cross lifeguard and during my younger years I also joined a Colorado based ski club and raced downhill slalom courses.

Is there anyone you'd like to acknowledge or express gratitude to for their support and guidance throughout your journey as a project manager?

My biggest mentor was a PM that I trained under when I originally assumed the PM position.  I also credit my grandfather for showing me the in's and out's of the construction industry and taking the time to explain practices and responsibilities of the position.

The integral role of an experienced project manager, exemplified by professionals like Mike Theisen, cannot be overstated in the dynamic landscape of commercial construction. As the industry continues to evolve, the expertise and leadership provided by seasoned project managers become the cornerstone of successful project outcomes. Mike's journey, marked by a commitment to learning, effective problem-solving, and a passion for collaboration, underscores the significance of experienced individuals in navigating the intricate challenges posed by construction projects. Their ability to adapt, innovate, and maintain a proactive approach ensures the timely and efficient completion of projects, shaping the industry's future. In the ever-changing realm of commercial construction, the value of experienced project managers like Mike extends beyond individual projects, leaving a lasting impact on the industry as a whole.