What If We Built People First? A Radical Construction Approach | Devon Havenaar | TEDxMechanicsville
The construction industry faces declining productivity due to a lack of workforce investment. By prioritizing Respect, Investment, Support, and Education (RISE), we can build stronger leaders, improve efficiency, and create a more sustainable industry. When we invest in people, we build a better future for everyone. Devon has been immersed in the construction industry since he was 18, quickly rising through the ranks with a strong work ethic and passion for craftsmanship. By the age of 22, he earned his carpentry license, and by 25, he stepped into a leadership role, overseeing projects and guiding teams to success. Together with his wife Taylor, Devon flipped two homes early in their twenties and built their dream home from the ground up. Career highlights include representing Local 93 at the prestigious apprenticeship competition in 2018, working on landmark projects in Canada’s capital, and completing leadership training in Las Vegas. Despite these accomplishments, Devon’s greatest pride is in his family—his wife and three children, with a fourth on the way. An avid reader and hardcore music enthusiast, Devon is passionate about helping fellow construction workers unlock their potential through self-development, aiming to transform not only the workforce but the lives of those in it. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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