Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Brandon Fadden. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Brandon, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?

The concept of launching a general contracting firm took root while I was navigating my first year of college at Arizona State University. During that time, I worked for my then girlfriend’s father, the owner of a commercial electrical business, laboring under the relentless Arizona sun. As I surveyed the intricate projects around me, particularly a striking hospital under construction, the realization dawned that I could turn this passion into a lifelong career. Inspired by this, I redirected my educational path, moving from Arizona State University to Northern Arizona University to pursue a degree in Construction Management.

As I delved into my studies, I uncovered the vast opportunities within the construction industry. The desire to eventually helm my own company and create a lasting legacy simmered beneath the surface, yet the specifics eluded me. My focus was on acquiring the skills and experiences needed to effectively manage and execute projects when the time was right. Post-graduation, I secured an internship with Granite Construction and continued on as a Project Engineer. The exposure to large government projects and the competitive world of heavy civil construction taught me invaluable estimating and pre-construction skills. Despite the technical allure, I yearned for a more personal and relationship-centric approach to construction. This realization set the stage for my journey towards founding a company that blended technical prowess with a human touch.This led me to Wespac Construction in Phoenix, where I managed diverse projects, gaining experience in multifamily, mixed-use, industrial, healthcare, and office construction.

As the decade unfolded, I formed a friendship with Joe Ballard, a seasoned builder with a background in Design and Residential Building. Our shared passion for construction and a desire for more prompted us to explore the idea of starting our own venture. Identifying a gap in the market for quality builders catering to smaller to mid-scale projects, we saw an opportunity.

In Spring 2021, a large church approached us with a project that aligned perfectly with our skills. Viewing this as our launching point, we delved into months of preparation, obtaining a contractor license and organizing business affairs. Leveraging Joe’s established brand and creative outlet, “Constructed Matter,” we transitioned it into a full service general contractor.

Taking the leap, we worked on numerous tenant improvements for the church, and word quickly spread. Since then, we’ve expanded our clientele, taking on residential and commercial projects, experiencing steady growth year after year. The journey from envisioning a career in construction to establishing our own successful general contracting firm has been a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

This enriching journey has not only bestowed professional growth but also personal fulfillment. During the course of owning Constructed Matter, I met my wife, Lauren, and recently celebrated the arrival of our first child, Anderson Dean. Beyond the joys of family life, Constructed Matter has offered the flexibility of self-employment, bridging a crucial gap in the industry. This allows us to deliver the highest level of quality and management to our clients, typically associated with larger companies.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Constructed Matter was formed to address a critical gap in the market, where clients often found themselves with over-budget and subpar projects. Our mission is to revolutionize the construction experience by introducing a meticulously designed, linear process that ensures our clients have a clear understanding of their project scope, budget, and timeline; alleviating the burden of construction and making the project experience something you can ENJOY! We recognize the importance of building relationships founded on trust, transparency, and quality. We also understand the frustration and stress that can accompany construction projects, and we are committed to changing that narrative. Our team is driven by the belief that every construction project should be as seamless as possible. Thus, we have built a better construction experience for our clients.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

As a small business owner, I’ve found that effective team management is critical, not only for my few employees but also for maintaining positive relationships with subcontractors. One key aspect that has proven invaluable is fostering open communication. Whether it’s discussing project goals, changes, or acknowledging individual contributions, creating an environment where everyone feels heard is paramount.

Clear expectations are equally crucial in a small team setting. Defining roles, responsibilities, and expectations ensures that each team member, including subcontractors, understands their part in contributing to the success of our projects. Regular recognition of accomplishments, whether big project milestones or personal achievements, helps boost morale and emphasizes the value each individual brings to the team.

Flexibility and opportunities for growth are central to our approach at Constructed Matter. In a smaller setting, I’ve found that providing employees and subcontractors with the chance to take on new responsibilities or engage in professional development fosters a sense of empowerment and commitment. This, in turn, contributes to a positive work environment, promoting both personal and professional satisfaction.

Being a small business owner doesn’t diminish the importance of a positive work culture. Encouraging diversity, promoting work-life balance, and creating an inclusive environment are essential for maintaining high morale within the team. Additionally, leading by example and exhibiting the values and work ethic I expect from my team sets the tone for a collaborative and supportive workplace.

In the construction industry, subcontractor relationships are as vital as those with employees. Handling conflict constructively, providing clear guidelines, and promoting effective communication contribute to strong partnerships. Empowering subcontractors to make decisions within their areas of expertise and demonstrating trust in their capabilities fosters a positive atmosphere that extends beyond the immediate team.

Flexibility is a cornerstone of our management philosophy at Constructed Matter. Adapting to changes in project scopes or timelines and responding to the evolving needs of the team and subcontractors has been key to our success. Regular feedback and the willingness to adjust our approach based on the unique dynamics of our small but growing team have allowed us to build a constructive and collaborative work environment.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Absolutely, as a small business owner in the construction industry, several resources have significantly influenced my management and entrepreneurial thinking. One impactful resource has been the Dale Carnegie Training program, This timeless classic provides valuable insights into effective communication, interpersonal skills, and leadership principles. The emphasis on building strong relationships and understanding human behavior has been instrumental in shaping my management approach.

Another influential resource is the book “Leaders Eat Last” by Simon Sinek. Sinek’s work delves into the concept of leadership grounded in empathy, trust, and a commitment to the well-being of the team. The idea that true leaders prioritize the needs of their team members and create environments where everyone feels valued aligns with my belief in fostering a positive and collaborative workplace culture.

Overall, these materials have played a crucial role in shaping my management philosophy, emphasizing the importance of effective communication, empathy, and a people-centric approach in both leadership and entrepreneurship.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.constructedmatter.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/constructedmatter/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConstructedMatter
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonfadden/