Shane McCullough

How did you get into the construction industry?

As a kid I loved Lego, puzzles, and math (mostly baseball statistics) – in addition to typical “kid” stuff like video games, soccer, and reading. I was accepted to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (SLO) for Business, but before leaving for college, I worked part-time for my uncle - a general contractor in San Diego - performing home remodels, commercial improvements, and apartment renovations. I returned home during summer and school breaks and quickly realized I was solving problems and putting pieces together much like the Lego and puzzles I enjoyed as a child. Fortunately, Cal Poly also had a Construction Management program, yada, yada, yada, I graduated with bachelor’s degrees in business and CM. Ultimately, I’m still that dorky kid, but now I build multimillion dollar puzzles as my profession.

What do you like most about being a Senior Project Manager?

At this stage of my career, I truly enjoy mentoring and teaching, acting as a bridge between generations, and encouraging the next wave of builders. At my last company, I helped with college recruiting for intern and new-hire candidates and volunteered by assisting construction management competition teams at my alma matter, reviewing their presentations and proposals, offering input, and helping students to network and grow in the industry. With that said, there’s not a day that goes by where I don’t learn something new myself. This arena is constantly evolving, and every project is unique; different design consultants, authorities having jurisdiction, subcontractors, and project teams. In short, I like leading, teaching, and mentoring, and I enjoy the dynamic nature of our work and the constant learning opportunities it presents.

What piece of advice would you give to those looking to get into the construction industry?

The built environment touches every facet of our daily lives: where we live, work, shop, and play. There is a place (and a need) for people of all skillsets and backgrounds in this industry. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; reach forward to those with experience, and always reach back to help those who follow. Be transparent in admitting mistakes and leveraging lessons learned to ensure you - or your coworkers - don’t make the same mistake twice. Lastly, try new things, my experiences to-date have been in multifamily construction – building over 1500 units throughout California - but a big reason I chose Chesapeake was the opportunity to gain exposure to new product types: automotive, retail, industrial, storage, grocery, etc.

You recently joined the Chesapeake team, what do you like most about working at Chesapeake so far?

Leaving California was not an easy decision for our family, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the genuine compassion and care offered by everyone at CCG (and Maryland writ large). Additionally, I enjoy that CCG emphasizes employee wellness and a positive work environment. The company has a strong industry reputation and I like that I’ve been able to involve my family in events (Company picnic and hikes). All told, it’s been a good fit professionally and personally.

What do you enjoy doing when you're not at work?

With three children (Bryn - 11, Dean – 9, and Jack – 7), and a spouse in ministry, we’re constantly juggling schedules and activities. I personally am a bit of a homebody; I collect (and play) vintage Nintendo games, I love baseball – watching my San Diego Padres and volunteer coaching with my son, and I enjoy reading immensely. I’m an avid craft beer drinker and look forward to exploring the Mid-Atlantic breweries. I like comedy (TV-series, sketch, and stand-up), the occasional musical theater, riding the Peloton, and taking naps.