Combating Labor Shortages in Construction with David Mcneil

Combating Labor Shortages in Construction with David Mcneil

Author: Andrew Brown April 18, 2024 Duration: 34:45

Today’s episode titled "Combating Labor Shortages in Construction with David McNeil" we delve deep into the transformative world of lean management and its impact on the skilled trades.

Joining us is David McNeil, a veteran of the construction industry and the mastermind behind On Point Lean Consulting.

Despite initial skepticism, David became a believer in the power of lean management, finding success in his region and beyond, though not without facing the challenges of replicating this success across different divisions.

David and I will explore the nuances of project overruns and cost increases ingrained in construction work—issues like poor coordination and communication, and their ubiquity regardless of the project's location.

The current supply chain disruption, exacerbated by the pandemic, has reshaped our industry, leading to staggering lead times and forcing tradespeople to strategize for extended project timelines.

David and I discuss the current labor shortages and the need for proactive and efficient operations to attract and retain quality workers.

Listen in as we also emphasize the critical role of mentorship in perpetuating the skilled trades to younger generations, addressing the career misperceptions often presented to new workers and their guardians.

We'll also take on the challenges and gratifications associated with outdoor construction work, celebrating the dignity and honor woven into the fabric of every tradesperson's uniform.

So, let's get ready to flip the script on the blue-collar narrative and discover how trades are not just a choice but a proud and prosperous way of life.

Stay tuned as David shares his insights and his story of ascent from a hands-on construction worker to a lean management guru. It's time to understand why the skilled trades are more than a lost art—they’re a forward-thinking path not to be overlooked.


Follow Andrew Brown

  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Toolfetch
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-brown-b1736a5/
  • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andrew.l.brown
  • Website: https://www.andrewbrown.net

lean management, David Mcneil, regional implementation, divisional challenges, team empowerment, Great Recession, construction projects, overruns, cost increases, flow coordination, supply chain issues, Andrew Brown, lead times, COVID disruptions, planning, temporary generators, cost-benefit analysis, labor shortages, retention of labor, mentorship in trades, career path information, outdoor construction benefits, pride in trades work, blue-collar representation, skilled trades podcast, On Point Lean Consulting, University of Cincinnati construction management, lean construction, last planner system, retirement and succession planning, workforce training and coaching, special forces model, perception of trades, trade education, non-college career paths.


There's a quiet revolution happening in the workforce, one built on the sound of a hammer, the hum of a saw, and the satisfaction of a job done with your own hands. The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades is a conversation about that shift, guided by Andrew Brown. This isn't just a technical manual; it's a deep exploration of the craft, business, and profound personal fulfillment found in skilled trades. Andrew draws from his own journey through hands-on work and entrepreneurship to frame discussions that are as much about building a life as they are about building things. Each episode connects the dots between practical skill, viable career paths, and the entrepreneurial mindset needed to thrive independently. You'll hear from seasoned professionals who share their hard-won wisdom, alongside discussions on navigating the business side of trades, from client relations to financial stability. The goal is to elevate the conversation around these essential careers, moving beyond stereotypes to highlight the creativity, critical thinking, and dignity inherent in skilled work. Tune into this podcast for honest stories, actionable advice, and a renewed appreciation for the foundational crafts that shape our world.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 88

The Lost Art Of the Skilled Trades
Podcast Episodes
What the Trades Don't See (But We Do) | Aaron Witt, BuildWitt [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:54
What the Trades Don't See (But We Do) | Aaron Witt, BuildWittAaron Witt of BuildWitt has visited job sites on 5 continents. His take: the trades' biggest problem isn't negative perception — it's invisibility.Most people…
What Happens After 30 Years in the Trades? | Herb Sargent [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:42
What if the real workforce problem isn't recruiting — it's that we're handing young people tools before we've taught them how to live? Herb Sargent, recently retired CEO and Board Chair of Sargent Corporation, has spent…
300,000 Welders Short and It's Getting Worse [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:01
The welder shortage has never improved in 30 years. Kris Scherm of ESAB explains why — and what it will take to fix the pipeline.When Kris Scherm entered the welding industry in the nineties, the American Welding Society…
Sarah Stork Started Welding at 32… Now She Builds Steel Sculptures [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 38:21
Welder and metal artist Sarah Stork went from farm chores to SkillsUSA national champion — and built a thriving sculpture business on her own terms.When the guys on her SkillsUSA team laughed her off on the spot, Sarah d…
Why the Best Tradesmen Never Cut Corners with John Henderson of ESAB [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:52
Brazing best practices, nitrogen purge brazing, and air fuel vs oxy fuel system decisions all reveal the same principle: the best tradesmen never cut corners.Host Andrew Brown sits down with John Henderson, Sales Directo…
Why Some People Succeed in the Trades — And Others Don’t [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:14
Skilled trades careers offer another path. Tony Bertolino explains plumbing apprenticeships, on-the-job training, and why apprenticeships aren’t “less than” college.Host Andrew Brown sits down with fourth-generation plum…
What Actually Separates the Best Plumbers (Character Over Skill) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:20
Before skill, before technology, trades careers are built on responsibility and showing up.Andrew Brown and Dan Callies, President of Oak Creek Plumbing, break down what actually sustains blue-collar careers: character,…
Why Welding Is Losing Young Talent (And How to Fix It) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:39
Welding careers, welding apprenticeship programs, and the welding skills gap—Arc Junkies host Jason Becker breaks down what today’s welders need to know.Host Andrew Brown sits down with Jason Becker, Marine veteran, long…