#Duckumentary - Brendon Potts

Is there a jobsite you’ve worked on that stands out to you? Why?

I’d say the first major project I ran for my previous company. I was only 22, so I was both nervous and excited. I ended up doing a great job on the project, and it taught me that with proper preparation, communication, and hard work, anything is possible.

What’s one thing that helps a jobsite run smoothly?

Organization and communication. There are always different trades working around your work areas, and staying organized while communicating effectively not only helps other trades, but it helps your own workers too.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about your job?

It’s definitely more than meets the eye. From the outside looking in, people might think it’s easy or that a foreman just walks around all day. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. We’re always thinking 10 steps ahead, prioritizing safety while trying to be as productive as possible. There’s a lot of planning during and outside of regular work hours. Even when the workday ends, foremen are still mentally engaged.

What’s your go-to sandwich or lunch order?

I’m a sandwich guy. A good cheesesteak or Italian hoagie does it for me.

What motivates you on the job?

Really, just running the best jobsite I can and being the best leader possible, whether that’s through safety, production, or creating positive site morale. When my career is all said and done, I want people to say, “That guy was special.”

What’s one tool you couldn’t live without?

At this point in my career, my tablet or iPad is my most important tool. Being able to access hundreds of print pages and jobsite drawings is huge. Everything is digital now. I can send emails, handle toolbox talks, upload site photos, and more. It’s amazing having that much power at your fingertips.

Who’s someone at EDA who makes your day better?

There are a ton of great people at EDA, but a few names come to mind. Daryl Mathews, my labor foreman, is always looking out for me and knows how to make me laugh no matter how bad the day is going. My second hand, Mike Bosch, always helps keep the job running smoothly and is someone I can fully rely on. John Forbes has also been a great mentor and has shared a lot of valuable knowledge about the trade. Lastly, Russell Miller, my operator, is the hardest-working guy I know. He’s always positive no matter the situation and always has the best interests of the job in mind. He’s the type of person who would give you the shirt off his back.

What’s one musical artist or podcast you couldn’t live without?

Doesn’t really matter to me. I can go from '80s metal to country. Good music is good music no matter the genre.

What does Successful Together look like on a jobsite?

It’s not just about focusing on your own scope. You have to be versatile. Helping other trades by communicating and coordinating schedules is important. Not being selfish is a big part of it too. My crew always tries to look out for other EDA trades and help however we can. For example, making a lull pick for another EDA trade to help them be more productive. It goes both ways too. There have been plenty of times I’ve leaned on other EDA crews for help or borrowed equipment. We’re all in this together. That’s what One EDA is all about.

If you weren’t in construction, what would you be doing?

I’d probably be a realtor. I enjoy helping and interacting with different people. Plus, with my construction background, I know a lot about how homes are built.