Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Affiliations
Interests
Timeline
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Swingen Cory

Grand Forks

Summary

Dynamic VP of Construction Operations at Swingen Construction Company, adept at process improvement and risk management. Successfully led cross-functional teams to enhance efficiency and client satisfaction, while championing talent development initiatives. Proficient in decision-making and operations management, driving significant cost savings and optimizing business performance.

Overview

21
21
years of professional experience

Work History

VP Construction Operations

Swingen Construction Company
01.2020 - Current
  • Cultivated strong relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, vendors, regulators, and community leaders to promote collaboration and long-term success.
  • Led cross-functional teams for the successful completion of major projects, resulting in increased efficiency and client satisfaction.
  • Demonstrated proficient leadership skills to motivate employees and build competent teams.
  • Collaborated with senior management to develop strategic initiatives and long term goals.
  • Identified opportunities to improve business process flows and productivity.
  • Leveraged technology to automate workflows and streamline processes, resulting in increased productivity and cost savings across the organization.
  • Enhanced company profitability by implementing strategic business plans and optimizing operational processes.
  • Built high-performance teams through effective recruitment practices focused on competency alignment coupled with ongoing performance management processes.
  • Championed talent development programs, promoting employee engagement and retention while enhancing overall workforce capabilities.
  • Spearheaded organizational restructuring initiatives, streamlining operations and reducing overhead costs.
  • Established and directed successful programs focused on [Area].
  • Represented organization at industry conferences and events.
  • Monitored key business risks and established risk management procedures.
  • Managed financial, operational and human resources to optimize business performance.
  • Created succession plans to provide continuity of operations during leadership transitions.
  • Led recruitment and development of strategic alliances to maximize utilization of existing talent and capabilities.
  • Communicated business performance, forecasts and strategies to investors and shareholders.

Safety Officer

Swingen Construction Company
01.2020 - Current
  • Responded to any emergencies as instructed and with utmost efficiency.
  • Conducted regular safety inspections and audits to identify potential hazards and prevent accidents and injuries.
  • Ensured adherence to OSHA regulations, leading to a safer work environment for all employees.
  • Conducted safety training and education to employees to increase awareness of safety hazards and empower employees to work safely.
  • Reduced accident rates with consistent monitoring of employee compliance to safety protocols.
  • Provided guidance and resources to employees to maintain safety procedures and enhance protection.
  • Increased employee awareness of potential hazards by creating informative signage throughout the facility.
  • Inspected worksites, practices, and gear for compliance with established safety standards.
  • Communicated safety performance and progress to management and employees to provide up to date information.
  • Promoted a culture of safety through engaging workshops and training sessions for employees on various topics such as hazard identification, PPE usage, and incident reporting.
  • Developed and implemented safety policies and procedures to establish clear guidelines for safe work practices and comply with regulations.
  • Investigated incidents thoroughly, identifying root causes and implementing preventive measures accordingly.
  • Conducted regular safety audits, identifying potential hazards and implementing corrective actions promptly.
  • Enhanced emergency response times by developing and executing comprehensive evacuation plans.
  • Collaborated with other departments to integrate safety in all aspects of organization.
  • Collaborated with management to develop site-specific safety policies, ensuring alignment with federal and state requirements.
  • Conducted safety equipment inspections, ensuring all gear met highest standards of quality and effectiveness.
  • Developed emergency response plans, ensuring preparedness and swift action in critical situations.
  • Initiated safety-first mindset among employees, resulting in significant reduction in accidents and near-misses.
  • Coordinated with external safety consultants to stay updated on latest safety standards and best practices.
  • Enhanced workplace safety culture by conducting regular training sessions on safety protocols and emergency response procedures.
  • Facilitated cross-departmental safety committees, fostering collaborative approach to workplace safety.
  • Responded promptly to safety incidents, providing immediate support and coordinating follow-up investigations.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of applicable laws and regulations.
  • Conducted periodic compliance audits and reviews to identify areas of improvement.
  • Warned violators of infractions or penalties.
  • Maintained composure in stressful situations, confrontations, interviews and records searches.
  • Evaluated and monitored supplier and partner relationships to support compliance.

AutoCAD Drafter

Swingen Construction Company
04.2010 - Current
  • Created, printed, and modified drawings in AutoCAD
  • Worked with engineers, and customers to efficiently resolve planning and construction issues.
  • Created drawings using AutoCAD for Falsework systems.
  • Used computer-aided design software to prepare blueprints and schematics.
  • Maintained organized digital filing system, enabling efficient retrieval of archived drawings when needed.
  • Supported value engineering and architectural review processes.
  • Reduced material waste by optimizing component layouts in AutoCAD designs.
  • Improved communication among team members with clear and concise annotation of design elements in drawings.
  • Facilitated smooth handover of projects to construction teams through thorough documentation of all design specifications in AutoCAD format.
  • Collaborated with engineers to develop accurate 2D models for structural and geotechnical systems.
  • Elevated the quality of final drawings by maintaining a high level of attention to detail throughout all stages of the drafting process.
  • Assisted in developing company-wide drafting guidelines, promoting consistency across all projects and increasing overall professionalism of deliverables.
  • Streamlined design processes and improved team productivity through consistent drafting standards.
  • Minimized errors during construction phase through rigorous quality control measures applied to final draft submissions.
  • Reviewed specifications to generate complex details of individual system components.
  • Managed drafting and design for over 100 projects from concept through delivery.
  • Assisted in winning new contracts by providing professional and accurate proposals based on AutoCAD drafts.
  • Developed CAD drawings from hand sketches, verbal instructions, and site visits.
  • Supported project team in design process to update details of each project.
  • Followed strict safety guidelines when producing drawings.

DBE Officer

Swingen Construction Company
01.2017 - 05.2021
  • Collected, arranged, and input information into database system.
  • Monitored DBE participation on projects
  • Reviewed DBE quotes for accuracy
  • Maintained records, kept track of certified DBEs, DBE participation on projects, and other program-related data
  • Ensured compliance with Federal Regulations
  • Conducted outreach to DBE's and other stakeholders
  • Provided training to other DBE's and stakeholders
  • Served as the primary contact for DBE's

Construction Estimator

Swingen Construction Company
04.2010 - 01.2020
  • Increased project accuracy by diligently reviewing plans and specifications for construction projects.
  • Enhanced client satisfaction by providing detailed cost breakdowns and accurate estimates for various project scopes.
  • Streamlined the bidding process by managing multiple subcontractor quotes and ensuring timely submissions.
  • Reduced estimation errors through thorough site visits and consultations with clients and architects.
  • Earned repeat business from satisfied clients due to attention to detail, professionalism, and exceptional communication skills during the estimation process.
  • Collaborated effectively with project teams to ensure smooth transitions from estimating to construction phases.
  • Contributed to company growth by consistently winning bids through competitive pricing strategies and strong negotiation skills.
  • Developed strong relationships with suppliers and subcontractors, negotiating favorable pricing agreements to reduce overall project costs.
  • Ensured compliance with all relevant building codes and regulations while preparing cost estimates.
  • Reviewed project plans and specifications to understand project requirements and accurately estimate cost and resources needed.
  • Participated in pre-bid meetings and site visits to understand project scope and identify potential issues or challenges.
  • Used specialized software to create estimates quickly and accurately and make estimates easily understandable and shareable.
  • Prepared material orders to complete projects on time and within budget.
  • Analyzed designs and performed accurate cost analysis.
  • Tracked project costs and expenses to monitor progress and identify and mitigate deviations from original estimate.
  • Gathered cost and material data for accurate and up-to-date information on material and labor costs.
  • Identified areas for cost saving to help increase profitability and lower client costs.
  • Prepared bids and proposals to submit to clients and secure new business.
  • Analyzed plans and specifications to identify scope and cost of projects.
  • Provided accurate estimates by defining scope, timelines, potential setbacks, and limitations.
  • Conducted site visits to gather information and data on project locations, infrastructures and conditions.
  • Monitored project progress to identify and address changes in project scope or budget.
  • Utilized cost-estimating software to streamline estimating processes and produce accurate and reliable estimates.
  • Stayed current with industry regulations and standards to produce cost estimates in compliance with all relevant laws.
  • Gathered data on materials, labor and equipment costs to determine total costs of projects.
  • Readied and presented cost reports to keep stakeholders informed of job progress.
  • Collaborated with project managers and contractors to obtain necessary information for preparing cost estimates.
  • Assessed risks and uncertainties to identify potential challenges and prepare contingency plans.
  • Delivered consulting services to advise clients on cost-saving strategies and best practices.

Yard Manager

Swingen Construction Company
04.2007 - 04.2010
  • Managed a team of yard staff, delegating tasks effectively for optimal productivity and performance.
  • Enhanced yard efficiency by implementing streamlined processes for inventory management and organization.
  • Established clear lines of communication between the yard and office staff, fostering a collaborative work environment.
  • Maintained an organized system for tracking inventory levels, tools, equipment, and vehicles used throughout daily operations.
  • Collaborated with other managers on company-wide initiatives aimed at enhancing operational excellence across all locations.
  • Performed weekly groundskeeping and building maintenance for multiple satisfied customers.
  • Mentored junior employees, promoting professional growth and development within the organization.
  • Increased safety standards in the yard by conducting regular inspections and ensuring compliance with all regulations.
  • Reduced equipment downtime through regular maintenance checks and timely repairs.
  • Proactively identified opportunities for process improvements within the yard operations.
  • Supervised loading and unloading activities on-site to ensure accuracy in shipments while minimizing potential hazards.
  • Optimized space utilization within the yard, maximizing storage capacity without compromising safety or accessibility.
  • Coordinated successful shipment deliveries through meticulous planning and communication with transport companies.
  • Streamlined daily operations by introducing time-saving procedures that improved overall workflow efficiency.
  • Trimmed around trees, flower beds, and other yard features.
  • Landscaped yards by planting flowers, grass, trees, and bushes.
  • Updated maintenance and repair records and reported on notable incidents and accidents during daily routes.
  • Adapted routes and schedules based on weather conditions to prevent delays and alerted supervisors of changes.

Construction Worker

Swingen Construction Company
04.2004 - 04.2007
  • Utilized hammers, saws, squares, levels, and fastening devices to complete projects.
  • Maintained clean and organized job sites, contributing to a safe working environment for all employees.
  • Loaded, unloaded, and moved material to and from storage and production areas.
  • Worked independently in fast-paced environment while meeting productivity and quality expectations.
  • Gathered and disposed of worksite debris to remove safety hazards.
  • Worked with more knowledgeable professionals to grow understanding of principles and construction standards.
  • Brought materials and tools from trucks and storage facilities to work site locations and organized for expected needs.
  • Completed construction projects on time by adhering to strict deadlines and prioritizing tasks appropriately.
  • Operated power equipment to move materials and promote job efficiency.
  • Demonstrated safe and proper operation of equipment and tools to prevent harm to team members.
  • Assisted with successful, time-sensitive renovations of various structures.
  • Adapted quickly to changing project requirements, demonstrating flexibility and resourcefulness in adjusting schedules and priorities accordingly.
  • Exhibited exceptional problem-solving abilities under pressure by employing critical thinking skills to overcome complex challenges on job sites.
  • Operated heavy machinery efficiently, ensuring timely progress on construction projects while minimizing risk of accidents or damage.
  • Enhanced project efficiency by coordinating with team members and managing resources effectively.
  • Reduced material waste by accurately calculating requirements and optimizing usage throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Contributed to a positive work culture by fostering teamwork among staff through open communication channels, which led to higher overall productivity levels during projects.
  • Improved client satisfaction by delivering high-quality workmanship consistently, following up on feedback, and addressing concerns promptly.
  • Adapted to rapidly changing weather conditions and schedules, ensuring project continuity and efficiency.
  • Oversaw daily site operations, ensuring all tasks were completed according to plan.
  • Managed inventory of construction materials, minimizing waste and reducing costs.
  • Utilized advanced tools and machinery to expedite construction processes, meeting tight deadlines.
  • Improved project delivery timelines by efficiently coordinating tasks among crew members.
  • Led team in high-pressure environments to meet strict deadlines, ensuring project completion on time.
  • Cleaned and maintained tools, equipment and worksites.
  • Loaded and unloaded materials onto trucks and trailers.
  • Loaded and unloaded materials and equipment onto and off construction sites.
  • Followed instructions and safety protocols to prevent accidents and injuries.
  • Mixed and poured concrete for variety of projects.
  • Provided labor support to carpenters, masons and other skilled trades.
  • Assisted in digging, trenching and backfilling trenches and foundations.
  • Operated forklifts and boom lifts to complete various tasks.

Education

No Degree - Industrial Engineering

University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND
05-2009

Associate of Arts - Residential Construction

Northland Community And Technical College
East Grand Forks, MN
05-2007

Associate of Arts - Liberal Arts And Sciences

Northland Community And Technical College
East Grand Forks, MN
01-2005

Skills

  • Decision-making
  • Critical thinking
  • Staff recruiting and retainment
  • Risk management
  • Process improvement
  • Operations management
  • Scheduling

Accomplishments

  • Documented and resolved Safety Compliance which led to lower insurance premiums.
  • Supervised 6-7 teams with a total of 100+ staff members.
  • Designed a Static Load Test Frame to complete multiple Static Load tests within a weeks time.
  • Awarded AGC of North Dakota 1st Place Safety Award Heavy-Municipal Division '22, '23, '24.
  • 100% success rate in overseeing operations in completing multiple bridge structures, heavy foundations, box culverts, retaining walls, flood walls.
  • Took over Operations in 2020 and lost multiple Key personnel due to retirement and COVID all while sustaining previous revenues and profit margins with less experience and personnel.
  • Founding Steering Committee for the North Dakota Construction Leadership Committee

Affiliations

  • AGC of North Dakota Safety Committee
  • Grand Forks Builders and Traders
  • North Dakota Construction Leadership Committee
  • North Dakota Safety Council

Interests

  • Embracing outdoor adventures such as kayaking, skiing, camping, biking, and just being outdoors
  • I enjoy cooking for friends and family gatherings
  • Personal Development and Self-Improvement
  • DIY and Home Improvement
  • Photography
  • Baseball and Football
  • Spending time with my Nieces and Goddaughter teaching them life skills

Timeline

VP Construction Operations

Swingen Construction Company
01.2020 - Current

Safety Officer

Swingen Construction Company
01.2020 - Current

DBE Officer

Swingen Construction Company
01.2017 - 05.2021

AutoCAD Drafter

Swingen Construction Company
04.2010 - Current

Construction Estimator

Swingen Construction Company
04.2010 - 01.2020

Yard Manager

Swingen Construction Company
04.2007 - 04.2010

Construction Worker

Swingen Construction Company
04.2004 - 04.2007

No Degree - Industrial Engineering

University of North Dakota

Associate of Arts - Residential Construction

Northland Community And Technical College

Associate of Arts - Liberal Arts And Sciences

Northland Community And Technical College
Swingen Cory