Robins & Morton recently celebrated the graduation of 11 construction professionals from its Rocky McMichen Field Leadership Program during a November ceremony in Homewood, Alabama. The milestone represents the sixth graduating class since the program’s inception in 2017, bringing the total number of graduates to 66.
The Rocky McMichen Field Leadership Program is a comprehensive 15-month mentorship initiative that transforms experienced craft professionals into construction management leaders. The program combines classroom instruction, hands-on field experience, and structured mentorship to develop managerial skills and broaden participants’ understanding of construction management beyond their specialized trades.
The primary goal is to provide graduates with long-term career opportunities within Robins & Morton while addressing the industry-wide shortage of qualified construction management professionals.
The program takes a unique approach to talent development by recognizing that leadership potential extends beyond traditional educational backgrounds. By investing in experienced craft workers, Robins & Morton addresses critical workforce challenges while increasing diversity within its management ranks. The program’s benefits also extend to the mentors, instructors, and project teams involved in the development process.
“You’re building a future for yourselves and for Robins & Morton,” President and COO Robin Savage told attendees during the ceremony.
This cohort began training in Birmingham on August 8, 2024, and included professionals from various construction specialties. Field Superintendent Francisco Sanchez, who participated both as a graduate and mentor, reflected on the program’s impact: “The Rocky McMichen Field Leadership Program has been one of the most impactful experiences of my career. As a trainee, it pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me how to lead with confidence, clarity, and accountability. Returning as a mentor was just as meaningful because I had the chance to support the next group of future leaders.”
The graduation ceremony featured keynote speaker Jason Schroeder, author of “Elevating Construction Superintendents: A Principle-Based Leadership Guide.” Schroeder, who traveled from Canada specifically for the event, praised the program’s approach to workforce development.
“What you’re doing here is the way to fix construction,” Schroeder told attendees. “To see a company that will take that time and invest in people is phenomenal. The workers and foremen in our trades are our heroes, and it’s our job to support them.” He encouraged the graduates to support and respect craft workers in their new roles as general foremen and to continue growing through continuous learning.
The Rocky McMichen Field Leadership Program demonstrates Robins & Morton’s commitment to developing talent from within and creating sustainable career pathways in construction management. As graduates transition into their new roles as general foremen, they carry forward the program’s emphasis on supporting craft workers, continuous learning, and leadership development — principles that strengthen both individual careers and the construction industry as a whole.