**Today on the blog we’re featuring Richard Dorr, Personal Builder III to highlight Careers in Construction Month! Richard has worked for Veridian for several years and most recently led the impeccable construction on The Generous Home. Let’s get to know him more!

October is Careers in Construction Month, and we wanted to take a moment to recognize the vital role that our team of construction professionals play each day in both our company, and our communities. From our talented team of Personal Builders to our skilled trade partners, the construction process is a cornerstone of building award-winning, quality homes here at Veridian.

So, what does a typical day look like in the (mud-caked) shoes of a Personal Builder? We interviewed Richard to find out how he got to a place where he felt confident leading the construction on a $1.7 million home, and what his favorite part of working at Veridian is.

Tell us a little bit about your work history. What made you decide to get into Construction?

During my childhood we moved often, my family would buy a home and make improvements to the home to suit our needs. From simple kitchen updates to entire home remodels. I was exposed to a little bit of everything from carpentry, electrical, to landscaping.

During my time in the military, I found that I had a ability for moving people and processes. Through my early (before Veridian) careers in landscape design, roadway management, building restoration I built on a foundation of project management. When I applied to Veridian Homes I was “green” in residential construction. But with the mentorship of the other Personal Builders, I soon gained the experience and confidence needed to be at the Veridian Homes level.

What does a typical day working at Veridian Homes look like for you?

I tend to start my day bright and early in the morning to ensure the trades are working on their assigned projects and making sure that I am available for any concerns or questions that might arise. Throughout the day I stop at multiple jobsites and check the status of our trade partners’ work. I also have homeowner meetings to discuss the progress of the home builds and to answer any questions along the way.

What has been a favorite accomplishment/memory working at Veridian Homes?

Getting to know the customer on a personal level, even if it is just during the construction process. We can share one of the greatest milestones a person will experience in their lives. It gives me great pride to turnover a house that will soon become a customer’s home.

Being requested on a customer’s second home build or be referred by a customer to build a friend or family member’s home. This affirms that the homeowners feel that I did the best possible job with their home and were happy with my work.

How do you think your assistance in the Construction process is a benefit to our customers?

I feel that having the Personal Builder is key to maintaining the quality and timeline of construction on the home. Also helping customers navigate complex decisions and choosing the ideal outcome for their needs.

What advice would you give to those just starting out in the Construction field?

Learn about the trades, whether your overall goal is to be in project management, plumbing, electrical work, or another specialty, focus on mastering your specific trade. Continuous learning will help you advance. Keep track of tasks, deadlines, and materials. Good organizational skills can help you manage projects effectively.

How does the Construction process at Veridian Homes differ from other companies?

Veridian Homes is built upon the methodology of continuous improvement. It is all about adjusting as we learn how to build smarter and more efficiently. The Veridian Home build schedule is an excellent example of this, over the past 20 years we have modified the schedule to reflect the changes in how we build our homes based upon labor, materials and market trends. This allows Veridian to give a closing date to a homebuyer at the time of contract signing and guaranteeing we will have the home ready at that determine date.

The experiences Richard highlighted above showcases not only the journey into construction but also the impact that building quality homes can have on families for years to come. Whether you’re considering a career in construction or looking to learn more about the industry, there has never been a better time to get involved. In fact, we’re currently hiring! Interested in joining our team? Apply here!