Distinguishing Human Factors of Top-Performing Project Managers in the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Trades

Abstract

The construction trades seek strategies to overcome the labor shortages currently affecting the marketplace. One innovative tool that has gained increased attention is the application of human dimension assessments from the social sciences to the construction trades. For example, this study utilized three human dimension measures – assessments of personality, emotional intelligence, and behavioral tendencies – in the context of project managers (PMs) in the sheet metal and air conditioning trades. This preliminary study assessed 42 PMs from across the United States. The direct supervisors of each PM completed a detailed performance review which was then used to identify the absolute top performers “cream of the crop” from this nationwide pilot study. Analysis revealed several statistically significant differences between the Top-Performing PMs and the remaining participants. Such information is beneficial to the specialty trades in several ways: First, moving toward a nationwide benchmark of human dimensions for PMs from across the country (albeit on a pilot-scale), which can be used for recruitment and talent development purposes. Second, the results contributed to the distinguishing characteristics of Top-Performing PMs, which may be beneficial for internal talent development purposes.

Comparing Personality Traits and Tendencies: A Study of Facility Managers and Procurement Professionals

“…The facility management sector, highly reliant on people, depends on the collaborative efforts of its diverse workforce. Recognizing the importance of personality traits in new hires, current employees, and retirees is crucial for successful succession and project outcomes, as noted by (Atalah, 2014) and (Maali et al, 2022) in their emphasis on the impact of personality on job performance in construction. Marcus et al, (2013) suggests that personality traits largely shape a person's values, behaviors, motivations, and perceptions, implying that inherent personality attributes significantly define one's character.…”

Differences in the Human Dimensions of Specialty Field Leaders and General Contractor Project Managers

“…Beyond technical competence, [1] and [14] noted that personality characteristics are essential for the job performance of construction workers. According to [3], personality traits are largely responsible for the values, behavior, motivation, and perception of individuals.…”

Skillsets of Top-Performing Specialty Field Leaders: A Study of Site Superintendents, General Foremen, and Crew Leaders in the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Trades

“…Construction firms can implement this strategy by identifying the core competencies that drive performance. Upskilling and the development of these skills in average and below-performers have the potential to increase the productivity of the current workforce in the industry [22].…”