In recognition of National PTSD Awareness Day, we must prioritize mental health in the construction industry. Kabri Lehrman-Schmid, a respected thought leader in this field, has played a significant role in promoting well-being and psychological safety among construction teams. This article compiles a collection of thought leadership articles authored by Kabri, offering invaluable insights and perspectives on the importance of mental awareness and addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) within our industry. With extensive experience as a superintendent and active involvement in industry initiatives, Kabri’s expertise shines through as they advocate for the creation of psychologically safe and supportive work environments.
This article brings together five exceptional resources from Kabri Lehrman-Schmid, shedding light on the crucial importance of mental health in our industry.
A Superintendent’s Case for a Psychologically Safe Jobsite
The article discusses the importance of psychological safety in the construction industry, highlighting the role of superintendents in creating a safe and inclusive work environment. Psychological safety fosters open communication and support among team members, leading to increased innovation, productivity, and physical safety. The article emphasizes the need to challenge traditional dynamics that perpetuate biases and contribute to mental health issues in the industry, such as racism, sexism, and isolation. It also suggests that addressing these issues can help attract and retain skilled workers, mitigate the impact of labor shortages, and prevent incidents like suicide. The author calls on superintendents to take action, educate themselves, and implement strategies to promote psychological safety within their teams.
Hensel Phelps superintendent values soft skills in construction
In this article, Kabri Lehrman-Schmid discusses the importance of soft skills in the construction industry. She shares her experience in various roles and projects, including her current position overseeing the construction of the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building at the University of Washington. Lehrman-Schmid emphasizes the significance of team communication, customer service, and partnership with clients and neighbors. She explains how her career path led her to construction, highlighting her strengths in visualizing and communicating logistics and her passion for problem-solving and teamwork. Lehrman-Schmid also mentions her involvement in mental health initiatives within the industry and offers advice to young women considering a career in construction, emphasizing the power of curiosity, kindness, attention, and thoughtfulness in achieving success and making a positive impact.
A Chat with Kabri Lehrman-Schmid, Project Superintendent at Hensel Phelps
Kabri Lehrman-Schmid discovered her passion for construction during an internship at the Pentagon Renovation, where she witnessed the meaningful work and collaborative nature of the field. She leverages technology to enhance constructability and communication on projects, using tools like CPM schedules tied to Revit models and Sketchup 3D site utilization models. As a role model for women in the industry, she encourages them to find team pride and personal empowerment in the skilled trades. Lehrman-Schmid has managed various airport projects, including the North Satellite Modernization Project at Sea-Tac airport, and she actively addresses labor shortages by creating a positive work environment. She is also involved in the Seattle Construction Suicide Prevention Task Force, aiming to raise awareness and provide resources to combat mental health issues in the construction industry. Looking ahead, she sees herself continuing to prioritize workforce health.
(Youtube) Episode 18: Mental Health Awareness Feat. Kabri Lehrman-Schmid
The Lean Builders Hoots on the Ground podcast features an interview with Kabri Lehrman-Schmid, a superintendent for Hensel Phelps with extensive experience in the aviation and higher education sectors. Lerman-Schmidt discusses her role in identifying phasing requirements and communicating with high-risk stakeholders. She shares her journey from an office management role to becoming a lead superintendent involved in design management. Currently working on a university project in Washington, Lerman-Schmidt highlights the challenge of prioritizing tasks and emphasizes the value of early involvement in projects. The conversation also touches on her commitment to supporting underrepresented groups in the construction industry. Overall, Lerman-Schmidt’s insights reflect her practical experience and dedication to improving the field of construction.
HammerTech Talks with Kabri Lehrman-Schmid, Project Superintendent, Hensel Phelps
Kabri Lehrman-Schmid, a Project Superintendent at Hensel Phelps, discusses the importance of psychological safety and its role in Hensel Phelps’ safety programs in an interview with HammerTech. She emphasizes the need for creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable bringing their full selves to work, as it impacts their ability to contribute and stay safe. Kabri also highlights the significance of addressing mental health and bias in the construction industry, noting the high suicide rate and the lack of resources specific to the industry. She shares her efforts in implementing programs and collaborating with organizations like CIASP and the Associated General Contractors of America to promote psychological safety, diversity, equity, inclusion, and mental health in construction. Kabri believes that these initiatives not only improve well-being but also enhance productivity and project outcomes.
Kabri’s thought leadership articles serve as a guiding light in the construction industry, emphasizing the significance of mental awareness and well-being. Through their extensive experience as a superintendent and commitment to initiatives promoting inclusivity and diversity, Kabri brings a grounded and humble approach to the topic. The summaries of these articles provide a glimpse into Kabri’s expertise, highlighting the need for psychological safety, effective communication, and support systems within construction teams. As the industry continues to evolve, Kabri’s insights offer valuable perspectives for fostering a culture of mental well-being and driving positive change in the construction community.