Welcome to the podcast where we talk to leaders who are making a difference in their field. Today, we’re joined by Adrian Russell, a construction executive who is passionate about breaking barriers down and increasing diversity in the industry.
Breaking Barriers in Construction
Adrian talks about his background growing up in inner-city public schools and how many black kids, including himself, dream of becoming pro athletes or entertainers. He shares a story from a kid he mentored who pointed out that even though teachers encourage them to consider other careers, the truth is that becoming a pro athlete or entertainer feels more achievable because they see people who look like them at the top of those industries.
Adrian explains that lack of representation is one of the reasons why many black kids aren’t interested in pursuing careers in construction, despite it being a viable and rewarding option. He shares his own journey of breaking into the industry and how he’s using his position as an executive to create more opportunities for underrepresented groups.
Adrian emphasizes the importance of having diverse perspectives and experiences in the workplace and how it can lead to better decision-making and innovation. He encourages listeners to challenge their assumptions and biases and to actively seek out opportunities to learn from and work with people from different backgrounds.
Thanks for listening to this episode of the podcast. We hope you enjoyed hearing from Adrian Russell and learning about his mission to break down barriers in construction. Join us next time as we talk to another leader who is making a difference in their field.
ABOUT HOOTS ON THE GROUND PODCAST:
The Lean Builder’s absolutely, positively NO Bullshido podcast. Join Host Adam Hoots and his guests as they dig deep into the topics that are relevant to those of us who “get it”: the men and women with the dirty boots, the ones who work in the field, doing the hands-on business of construction each day. Listen in as we keep it real while stories from the trenches are shared along with lessons learned and some laughter along the way.
RESOURCE LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
- theleanbuilder.com | Our main blog, book, resources, news & events website
GUESTS FEATURED IN THIS EPISODE:
- Adam Hoots | linkedin.com/in/adam-hoots-4645519/ | podcast host for “Hoots on the Ground” and Lean Construction Shepherd with ConstructionACHEsolutions
- Adrian Russell | https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-russell-b9951966/
- Russell’s Building Camp Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/russellsbuildingcamp/
Adam Hoots, Construction ACHE Solutions
Adam began his career in the construction industry as a plumber's helper and then as a red-line architect’s helper while attending the University of South Florida. Over the past 20 years, he has steadily advanced his career and has held a variety of roles within the industry. Adam has successfully completed more than $1.5 billion in pre-construction and construction services for a diverse group of industries, including: healthcare, higher education, industrial, life science, retail, and hospitality. Most projects (~$1B) were in life sciences and high-tech laboratory construction for clients. A highly technical builder, Adam excels in efficiency, action, visual communication, and continuous improvement using Lean principles. He serves on several community boards, including Skilled Trades Alliance (www.skilledtradesalliance.net), kidSney (www.kidSney.org), National Kidney Foundation (www.nkf.org), RECAB (Regional Education Center for Advisory Board - Greenville, SC) and SC Career Kids (www.sccareerkids.com). Adam is proud to continue his service to the construction industry through his coaching business Construction ACHE Solutions.
