How Slowing Down at the Start Saves Time and Money on Complex Projects

Melissa Drew is the Founder and President of InSite BUILD, a construction management firm based on Maryland's Eastern Shore that specializes in complex state-procured projects. After 20 years with national contractors including Holder Construction and Gilbane, she started her own firm to bring big-project experience to a smaller, more relationship-driven model. In this episode, she shares how she manages complex projects, builds trust with contractors and owners, and leads a growing startup in a tight-knit market. Key Takeaways: Two extra weeks of planning at the start of a multi-year project can prevent months of rework Superintendents need permission to slow down. That permission has to come from leadership Trust is built in small moments, not just when the big problems hit Hiring for a startup construction firm means finding people who love the work, not just the structure When your team is full of introverts, pressure makes them go quiet. A leader's job is to keep the conversation going Connect with Melissa Drew: LinkedIn | insite-build.com