Behind the Build – Mike Swantz

Go Behind the Build with Mike Swantz, Superintendent at Riley, as he shares his experience and the perspective he brings to the jobsites every day.

How did you get started in construction?

“My father had his own construction business. I started working with him early in my teenage years. He did it all, from working with concrete, framing house, and finishing cabinets.”

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned working in the field?

“My biggest lesson working in the field is that you can be humbled very fast! There is so much to learn, and this comes with time and experience.”

What’s a moment on a jobsite that made you step back and say, “We did that”?

“For me, finishing the stairwells at Ascension in Racine was a great “We did that” moment. Seeing how tall and working through winter SAFELY was quite the task. Concrete stairs need to be perfect.”

What’s something you’ve learned from someone else on your crew?

“One thing I’ve learned over the years is to try and stay calm and collected under tense situations on the job site. Sometimes assessing the situation before reacting can be a better result.”

What advice would you give someone new to construction?

“In this fast-paced, ever-changing business, one should always keep an open mind. Listening and watching others explain and teach you new things can only broaden your future.”