In an industry facing a workforce shortage, Haskell is taking a proactive approach to ensure the next generation of field leaders will continue to elevate jobsite excellence.
A 2023 report from the Associated General Contractors of America states that more than 85% of construction firms struggle to find qualified workers, particularly those ready to step into leadership roles. Enter Haskell’s 5-Minute Leader program.
Designed to meet field leaders where they are – on the job and in motion – Haskell’s 5-Minute Leader program delivers bite-sized, actionable leadership development. Built around two core components: short, monthly video lessons and practical, on-the-job application, this six-month program helps emerging leaders gain confidence, improve communication and strengthen their performance in real-time.
Michael McLauchlan, Haskell’s Director of Field Tech Training, developed the program in collaboration with his team and Breslin Strategies. Together, they adapted foundational leadership concepts into a practical, accessible format tailored for dynamic field environments.
“Participants apply what they learn immediately,” McLauchlan said. “The program targets Foremen, Assistant Superintendents and Assistant Construction Project Managers (APM-C). They’re leading safety huddles, running subcontractor meetings and building scopes of work. These are already part of their daily responsibilities, but by improving these soft skills, we’re helping them lead to the best of their abilities.”
Participants receive two short video lessons each month covering key leadership principles, like accountability, listening and collaboration. These are followed by a one-on-one session with a mentor, known as a “connection point,” to explore how the lessons apply to their current jobsite challenges. They’re then given real-time exercises to complete, such as facilitating conflict resolution, developing short-interval schedules or running project meetings, to practice and refine their skills.
Participants form lasting professional relationships through regular feedback and collaboration with their connection points. As they rotate through projects, the network expands. “Connection points” from past assignments remain engaged, while new ones offer fresh perspectives. The result is a network of support that accelerates learning, deepens field expertise and reinforces a culture of shared leadership across job sites and regions.
“Having strong leadership is the foundation of our success,” McLauchlan said. “You can see the difference between those who’ve participated in the program and those who haven’t. Participants run more efficient meetings, are more engaged with their teams and are more likely to anticipate and address challenges on the jobsite.
“We have many talented individuals who have yet to fully realize their leadership potential. This program is straightforward and accessible, and we've seen people adapt it to suit their team members and specific use cases.”
In the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, the program has been customized to fit the structure of international teams. Rather than one-on-one meetings, APAC participants engage in group-based discussions led by a “team captain,” often a program graduate or a senior leader, like a Director of Construction. Participants complete leadership exercises, submit reflections and receive direct feedback from McLauchlan and his team.
Active leadership engagement is vital to the program’s success. When supervisors participate directly – observing exercises, celebrating wins and offering coaching – participants respond with greater enthusiasm and commitment. The 5-Minute Leader program builds trust, momentum and a support network for participants and their leaders by making success attainable and reinforcing support through consistent mentorship.
“Opportunities are free,” McLauchlan added. “What costs is missing them. This program uses bite-sized lessons and quick wins to create opportunities for our field leaders. The exchange of expertise that comes with growing this network will continue to expand and enhance performance and standards across job sites and borders.”
Haskell is hiring! Explore the many options available to join a growing company committed to educating and developing team members, enabling them to have the BEST job of their lives.
