SMC’s ‘Sawdust Day’ includes construction pros with industry insights
“To communicate well,” Tony Leininger said, “listen more than you talk. And talk more than you email and text. Don’t hide and say things you wouldn’t if we were together.”
Architect Tony Leininger of CARMI Design Group in Niles addressed prospective construction trades students at Southwestern Michigan College’s (SMC) “Sawdust Day” on October 25, emphasizing the importance of communication, empathy, and kindness in the industry.
Leininger, who has worked on SMC projects like the current residence halls expansion and is in his 14th year teaching at the college, stressed the value of strong communication skills.
“To communicate well,” Leininger advised, “listen more than you talk. And talk more than you email and text. Don’t hide and say things you wouldn’t if we were together. One-on-one conversation is preferable to email or text.”
Emphasizing empathy, Leininger said, “I want you to care not only about your customer or client, but your colleagues. Care equals better products.” He also highlighted the importance of kindness, saying, “We’re human, we make mistakes, and you’re going to have to ask for a favor somewhere along the way. If you’ve been kind, chances are they’ll want to help you.”
Leininger, who has been in the business for 35 years, also addressed the labor shortage in the construction industry, saying, “You could not be in a better place than construction at this time. We have a labor shortage in our industry like we have perhaps never seen as a generation retires.” He highlighted the resurgence of career technical education (CTE) programs and low interest rates as factors contributing to the attractiveness of the construction industry for young people.
Mark Schmitt, representing Watervliet’s Trident Dock and Dredge, and other industry professionals echoed Leininger’s sentiments about the demand for skilled tradespeople. Schmitt highlighted the company’s need for leadership and skilled workers, offering summer jobs as a pathway to potential full-time employment.
Ivan Alvarado and Sam Gusky of LumberJack Direct in Berrien Springs, a hardwood flooring company, spoke about the growing opportunities in their field. Alvarado, a 2023 graduate, demonstrated the sawmill at Sawdust Day in 2022. Alvarado highlighted LumberJack Direct’s starting wage of $22 an hour and the potential to earn up to $26 an hour based on skills.
Drew Ickes, a May 2024 graduate, shared his experience working at Dan Vos Construction in Ada, a larger company specializing in food and pharmaceutical projects. Ickes emphasized the company’s focus on efficiency and highlighted the lucrative nature of the construction industry, noting the high demand for young professionals.
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