Meet The Team: Jeff Hyland

Jeff Hyland- Construction Manager

How long have you worked for Iconica?
13 years

What was your first position here?
Project Manager

What do you do now?
I have been the Construction Manager for three years.

What led you to the construction field?
Previously I was a Structural Engineer, but I got tired of the repetition and not seeing the projects out in the field. I realized I wanted to see things being designed and built all the way through completion.

Did you go back to school to change positions?
No, I did have my undergraduate and masters in structural engineering. When I came to Iconica I learned project management from a number of mentors. After eight years I became a Senior Project Manager and from there to Construction Manager, which means I oversee our entire team of Project Managers.

What was your favorite project to work on?
The Kalahari Resort in Ohio was most memorable. We had four weeks before we turned the project over, and the owner and newly-hired chef requested wholesale changes to the two full-sized nearly-completed commercial kitchens. It was a true effort of integrated design build to make that happen. It was difficult with mechanical requirements, orientation, hookups for equipment, and a health inspection but we got it all installed in time for the resort to open.

Favorite cocktail?
It used to be a Grey Goose press but now it’s a cold bottle of Bud Light.

How do you think we can attract more people to join the trades and construction field?
Better education on how great this profession is. We need to let kids and parents understand that the stereotypes of construction are just stereotypes and educate them on the huge variety of well-paying opportunities. Some of the smartest people I know are out in the field. This is a great profession.

How do you think we get more women to join the field?
I wish there were more women in our profession. I think it would make the workplace different in a better way. I think women are more likely to be even-keeled and better communicators compared to their male counterparts. To get them here will take education of our field, job opportunities, schools, and their parents.

Are you a morning or evening person?
Morning. I get up around 4:30 AM.

What does a regular day at work look like?
It’s different every day; there may be challenges, resolutions, and decisions. We have several new staff and I want to make sure they get the time they need to understand process, expectations, and making sure they are supported. Unfortunately I don’t get to the jobsites as much as I would like these days.

What are some of the benefits of Iconica’s integrated team atmosphere?
The top benefit is we are able to resolve and execute change quickly. Our delivery process is much more seamless due to our integration. I would also add that people in this company are learning multiple disciplines and, because of that, we are all better professionals.

What’s kind of music do listen to?
I like new country music, especially Zac Brown Band.

How does Iconica support you in your career?
How do they not? They have been supportive of my career in every way. I started as a Project Manager and have worked my way up. I think the sky’s the limit for what people want to be. My path is defined by the effort I put into it. I feel the owners support me 100 percent.

What do you like to do in your free time?
Be with my family.

How do you stay on top of building and construction trends?
I read a lot of trade magazines and online articles.

What would you say to anyone considering working with Iconica?
You would be crazy not to!