The Secret to Earning Respect - Admit What You Don't Know
Welcome back to another episode of Leadership Blueprints as we continue our special DoD to AEC series for November, honoring veterans who have transitioned from active duty into the built environment.
In this episode, BJ Kraemer sits down with MCFA senior project leader and former Marine Corps infantry officer Brian McGrath to explore his journey from platoon commander in Afghanistan to leading complex construction and development projects across diverse markets. Brian shares the realities of counterinsurgency operations in Helmand Province, what he learned from his time in the Marines, and how those lessons translate directly into project leadership and day-to-day decision-making around scope, schedule, and budget. Brian unpacks how he uses structure, communication, and AI tools to stay ahead of the chaos, why teamwork and humility sit at the core of his leadership philosophy, and how books and mentors continue to shape his mindset.
Whether you’re a transitioning veteran or a leader in the built environment, this episode offers powerful insights into what is possible when discipline, thought, and purpose collide. Tune in now!
Key Points From This Episode:
- Hear how lessons from the Marine Corps inform his work in the construction industry.
- His Marine Corps career journey and experience serving as a platoon commander.
- How he got his first job in construction and worked his way up to estimating.
- Leadership lessons he carried from the Marine Corps into the private sector.
- Explore his approach to building professional relationships and teams.
- Discover what it takes to be an ideal team member: humble, hungry, smart.
Quotes:
“Thinking means planning better and making sure that you're getting up and you're going to projects knowing what you're talking about, what they need to know, [and] the documentation, the information is all set and prepped.” — Brian McGrath
“I always loved construction. I always thought there was a connection between military and construction.” — Brian McGrath
“I'm not successful in anything without the people around me.” — Brian McGrath
“Until thought is linked to purpose. There's no intelligent accomplishment.” — Brian McGrath
“Obstacles in your life are your life.” — Brian McGrath
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
