Behind the Build – Sean Riley

Go Behind the Build with Sean Riley, Carpenter Foreman at Riley, as he shares how work ethic and mindset in the field have evolved over time and driven his career forward.

How has the job changed since you first started?

When I first started, I had no idea what I was doing. I knew nothing about working on a construction site, I just did what I was told and tried not to mess it up. As time went on and I gained experience, I started to think ahead instead of just reacting. The more experience I built, the easier it became to handle my daily tasks. Eventually, I moved into training apprentices and running my own jobs. As I’ve grown as a leader, my level of care for the company, my coworkers, and the quality of my work, has grown as well.

What’s a mistake you made early in your career that helped you later on?

You could ask anyone I’ve worked under about mistakes I’ve made, and they’d all be able to name at least one. I’ve learned something from every single one of them, and they’ve helped shape who I am today. I still make mistakes; it’s part of the job. What matters is how you adapt and overcome those mistakes. That’s what makes you better.

How do you handle pressure differently now than you used to?

Honestly, the way I handle pressure hasn’t changed much. I’ve always been able to keep my cool in high-pressure situations. I take a step back, assess the issue, and start working toward a solution. Sometimes that means bringing in other team members for input. I’ve never come across a problem that didn’t have a solution. The real challenge is choosing the best one. That’s what keeps the job interesting, and it’s where the most valuable learning happens.

When do you feel confident walking away from a job site?

I feel confident leaving a job site at the end of the day when I know I’ve done everything needed to prepare for the next one. As a leader, you have to be looking several weeks ahead, if you’re only thinking about tomorrow, you’re already behind. The key indicators are simple: your crews are working efficiently and in good spirits, the customer is happy, and your subcontractors are on the same page. When all of that lines up, I sleep well at night.

What would you tell someone just starting out in this field?

Never stop moving, always stay busy. If you finish a task, grab a broom until your field leader gives you the next one. Show up prepared with the right tools and the right clothing, ready to perform. Carry yourself like you mean it. If you’re unsure about what tools you need, ask. If you don’t understand a task, keep asking questions until you do. There’s no substitute for effort and a willingness to learn.