Our partnership with Boys Hope Girls Hope goes back more than 5 years. This organization nurtures and guides motivated young people in need to become well educated, career ready men and women for others. Our teams enjoy supporting their mission by different efforts including renovating their spaces to create a safe and comfortable living environment that they can call home.
Reflecting on your years at Buch, what has been one of your favorite days working at Buch?
One of my favorite days working at Buch was my first day. When I first walked into the Buch office, I remember this feeling of opportunity; that I was going to get the chance to grow and learn here. Everyone went out of their way to greet me and treat me like I was a part of their family. From my first day, I knew Buch was going to be a good place for me to grow, surrounded by supportive coworkers.
What is one place you haven’t traveled to yet that is on your list?
Japan. My daughter is fluent in Japanese and studied Asian history so getting to go there with her is definitely on my list.
What is it like to work in the Buch office?
Everyone here cares about one other and it shows. Being in this supportive atmosphere makes me truly love coming to work. I see my coworkers as family, and we care for one other as a family does. The dynamic between the accounting team is fun but hardworking. We have become a close-knit team where I am pushed to learn more and take on more responsibility. Working in the Buch office I know I am surrounded by people who want to see me succeed.
What inspired you to go into the Construction Industry?
Prior to working at Buch, I worked in accounting, and later I was a manager at a restaurant near the Buch office. I would see Buch employees come in every day, and I began talking with them and learning about their company. Carl Buch offered me a position in accounting, and I jumped on the opportunity. I never imagined I would be in the construction industry, but it has given me an environment where I can continue to learn new things.
What is something about your job other people might not know about?
One of the most challenging and time-consuming parts of being an accounting clerk is check runs. Each week I process the checks that Buch sends or receives. We have several different subcontractors working for us under each project, meaning many checks for me to process.
What is your why?
My coworkers are my motivation to come to work. We all depend on one other to do our part in this company. I appreciate the Buch family and all the opportunities they have given me. To show my gratitude I do my part as an accountant in order to see this company thrive.
How do you envision the future of retail?
The retail industry continues to adapt to the growing online presence and technological innovation. It will remain our job to provide quality spaces to help our clients best fulfill their customers’ needs. We will continue to adapt to hyper local markets; whether it means downsizing the footprint of sales floors, increasing storage capacity and order pick up locations, or building new distribution centers.
What does Beyond What’s Expected mean to you?
To me, going beyond what’s expected means doing the right thing on our jobs even if we aren’t contractually obligated. It’s being adaptable and looking out for everyone involved and not just looking out for ourselves.
What do you enjoy most about working in the construction industry?
I enjoy building lasting relationships throughout the project lifecycle and beyond. We finish several projects every month, but the relationships and friendships created with our trade partners, design teams, and clients last forever.
What is your favorite 90’s movie?
The Mighty Ducks
Name a time that you have pushed yourself towards a goal.
A few years ago I wanted to prove to myself that I could complete a Spartan Race, Marathon, and Triathalon all in the same year. With the help of my friend and coworker, Zach, I was able to accomplish my goal!
What is your earliest memory of building something?
In high school shop class, I built a wooden toolbox that I still use to this day!
Is there anyone in particular that has impacted your career in construction?
Without a doubt my grandfather, Ray Cook. He was an incredible master craftsman and I am truly grateful he recommended I attend apprenticeship school and join the Union back in 1999.
What would you tell a young professional aspiring to become a superintendent?
Ask questions. You aren’t expected to know everything, and it is important to continue learning. Surround yourself with experience and soak in as much as you possibly can. It is also important to be a good leader. As a superintendent, people are looking at you, therefore do the right thing even when no one is looking.
What does Beyond What’s Expected mean to you?
To me, going Beyond What’s Expected means to take the absolute best care of our clients regardless of the situation at hand, deliver a polished product and develop relationships that last well into the future.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
This one is tough because everyone loves food. However, I would have to say a big plate of buttery scallops with Old Bay.
What is your Why?
My reason to working safely each and every day is my family, my wife Michelle, and two sons, Johnny and Kevin.
What motivated you to get into this industry?
This industry requires you to pull from all aspects of your background. Sometimes, it requires you to delve deep into the technical details of an issue, while other times it involves fostering interpersonal relationships. As I grow in my career, I appreciate the fact that there are constantly new challenges to face, but at the same time, can continue to develop and tap into a network of contacts to help with solving them along the way.
What inspired to join Buch Construction?
It was easy to recognize the great culture within Buch immediately. From executive leadership on down, everyone is dedicated and passionate about the work we do. It is truly a family-oriented company that you feel a part of from day one.
How has your educational background helped you in where you are today?
Having a background in Civil Engineering and Engineering Management has helped me communicate much more effectively. In an industry, and obviously world altered by Covid, being able to communicate through emails and virtual meetings has become increasingly important. Gone are the days where everyone would meet onsite in person to put eyes on an issue. Instead, it is increasingly important to be able to describe issues clearly so that the appropriate parties have all the information necessary to make decisions in a timely manner.
What has been the most exciting project during your time with Buch?
The phased, major repositioning and expansion of the Greenspring Village Town Center Senior Living Community was one of our most exiting projects to date. The phased approach and interconnection of the MEP systems turned the job in a complex puzzle, where we needed to make sure our work in one area would not affect the functions of another area. Often, we would close one section of the facility for construction while reopening another all in a single night shift.
What does “Beyond What’s Expected” mean to you?
“Beyond What’s Expected” means to add value in everything we do. It’s taking the extra time to attempt to understand clients, coworkers, and partners motivating factors and expectations. This includes everything from the larger project as a whole to the individual day-to-day tasks. Acknowledging these factors helps to provide value added service tailored to specific individuals and circumstances.
What’s the best career advice you have ever received?
The best two pieces of career advise I’ve received go hand in hand. The first is to get over the fear of asking questions. There is so much to learn in this industry and the best way to do that is by asking those that have been living it. The second is to try and have a specific goal or outcome from your daily events. For example, walk the project with the intention of reviewing a specific detail instead of simply wandering through the site.
What do you do for fun?
In my spare time, I enjoy attempting to play golf and rooting on Penn State.
Over the past years the Buch team has been dedicated to support our local communities. Not only during the holiday season but also in the summertime when often times supplies are needed most. In 2022 we donated a ton (literally) to the Howard County Foodbank! This is a testament to our caring and driven people that want to make a hands-on difference in our local community!
What is the best way to explain what your job is about?
My job is to help everyone navigate an ever-digitizing world. I understand that many struggle with IT so it’s my job to find intuitive software and hardware solutions that are easy to use and make us more efficient. I also balance convenience and ease-of-access with a secure infrastructure to protect against cyber threats which become more prevalent and sophisticated every year.
Why did you decide to work for Buch Construction?
Before working full-time for Buch, I was an IT consultant working with many other companies in the area. When I made the transition, it was exciting to me that Buch was willing to make a good investment for quality hardware that is fast and reliable and keeps our employees working efficiently.
How do you apply your knowledge of technology to a construction company?
Construction brings a lot of specific challenges. We need constant access to our data which can be difficult for remote or underground jobsites. By implementing various hardware devices and using multiple carriers I’m able to provide a fast and reliable internet connection for all employees. In this industry, there are varying degrees of technical skill between employees. I use my wealth of experience working with people from all backgrounds to make sure they know how to properly use the technology they’re given.
What most excites you about your work and the contribution that you make?
I love finding better ways to do things and streamlining our operations. In the past, lots of our processes required the use of multiple software packages that didn’t speak well together. When I see an outdated process, I look for newer, better software that meets all of our needs in a single package. This drastically reduces data duplication which reduces errors and simplifies our workflow. When people come up to me and praise something I’ve implemented, it tells me I’m making an impact within the company.
What does “Beyond What’s Expected” mean to you?
To me, this means keeping the company’s IT Infrastructure up and running no matter what. As the IT Manager of a 200+ employee company that’s spread across multiple regions, and with 24/7/365 jobsite hours, this means lots of late nights and weekend work to keep things running. It also means being proactive instead of reactive. Many IT professionals simply fix problems as they occur and move on. I go out of my way to research and test multiple software solutions before deciding on what works best for our company.
What is something you enjoy doing for fun that is not related to technology?
Spending quality time with my family is very important. When I have a few spare moments to myself, I like riding motorcycles and dirt bikes, racing cars, and shooting sports.
AUTUMN WICKSTROM · Project EngineerHow did you get involved in the construction industry?
As a child I was always fascinated by architecture and buildings. While living behind a residential development growing up, I would explore the houses that were under construction, walking through the studs, guessing what each room was going to be and what color I would paint the house. At the age of 8, I usually landed on a vibrant red/purple. I was also curious how all the electrical and mechanical systems connected.
Best memory while studying construction management at ECU?
During my time at ECU I competed in the ABC Construction competition in Long Beach, CA. We were the first team from ECU to complete a full bid proposal with little to no experience. The competition was strenuous yet interesting as I had never been in an environment with so many passionate peers that worked in the construction industry. Listening to their stories, lessons, and advice is something I will hold on to for a long time.
What does Beyond What’s Expected mean to you?
“Beyond What’s Expected” fits this company so well. I knew Buch was different when, after my interview, they gave me gas money and a Christmas ham to make me feel welcomed. I try to take the same mindset on every job, making everyone on the jobsite feel important, and aware that what they are doing matters. I want to push for respect, good communication, and honesty. I’m not here to deliver a subpar project. At the end of the day, I represent myself, Buch, and their values. Going beyond what’s expected makes everyone look good and take pride in what’s being built.
What do you enjoy most about working on a project?
I love the flexibility of working from the office to being on site and seeing our projects come to life. It excites me to be part the evolution of a space where we understand the architect’s design concept and then logistically piece the puzzle together. We put the project in motion!
Bucket list item?
One day I’d like to fix and flip my own home. I really want to be the one getting my hands dirty rather than managing the project. It would be interesting to become the designer and see it transform into my vision.
What do you like to do for fun?
I’m a NJ native and went to school in NC, so MD was a new place for me. I love being able to explore the new cities around me, trying new breweries, hiking trails, or catching an Orioles’ game. I like to bring my 1-year-old German Shepard puppy, Frankie, along on all adventures.
How did you get into this profession and what excites you about Safety?
I started my construction career building concrete structures. Impressed with my record, the Sr. Superintendent offered me an opportunity to work in their Safety Department. Since then I have grown and learned a lot about safety. I take pride in ensuring all employees return home to their families safely after a day at work.
What does a typical day at work look like for you?
I start my day at 4:00 am, I make some breakfast and get to site at 6:00 am. I typically inspect four projects a day. These safety inspections consist of analyzing the site to ensure OSHA & Buch safety regulations are in place. Whether those regulations are in regards to building safety, such as guard rails, or making sure all workers have the proper PPE, it is my job to make sure the project has been inspected and is in compliance with our safety regulations.
What is a skill you have enhanced most since working at Buch?
My communication skills have improved significantly since the time I started working at Buch. I am a native Spanish speaker, which is useful in communicating with others on site. It allows me to educate more individuals on the importance of following safety protocols. I also get to communicate with many different people which allows me to build stronger interpersonal relationships with coworkers, clients and subcontractors.
What career advice would you give graduates just starting out their career in the field?
I would advise new hires to do your job honestly, responsibly, and enthusiastically enforce regulations. At times, you may receive pushback from people but learning to effectively communicate the importance of safety is an important skill to acquire as a Safety professional.
What does Beyond What is Expected mean to you?
Going Beyond What is Expected is getting satisfaction knowing you went above what was necessary and having pride in the work you did.
What is your why?
My ‘why’ as a Safety Manager is being the invisible link between those who work on our sites and their families. It is my goal for everyone to return home uninjured each and every day!
On April 30th, we celebrated national rebuilding day by partnering up with Rebuilding Howard County. We enjoy continuing to support an organization that is hands-on and community focused. Plus, we are able to do what we love most – build🔨! Big thank you to our team members for your dedication and time and a special thanks to Matt Battaglia for being this project’s coordinator!