In the dynamic world of construction management, experience is not just a measure of time but a testament to expertise and adaptability. Meet Dayton Pierce, a seasoned professional with 17 years of rich industry experience and a track record of successfully steering projects worth over $125 million to completion. With a comprehensive skill set encompassing project management, procurement, cost control, and team leadership, Pierce is not just a project executive; he's a visionary shaping the landscape of construction.
With a master's degree in civil engineering from the New Jersey Institute of Technology under his belt, Pierce combines technical acumen with managerial prowess, offering a holistic approach to construction management. His expertise spans various sectors, including life sciences, residential, corporate, commercial, and industrial, each presenting unique challenges that he tackles with precision and finesse.
But Pierce's impact extends beyond project management; he's a leader who inspires, motivates, and mentors those around him. Known for his ability to elevate and empower teams, he fosters a culture of collaboration and excellence, driving innovation and exceeding expectations.
Early Beginnings
Dayton Pierce shared his journey into the industry as he expressed a sense of inevitability about his path, recounting a childhood filled with building and tinkering, citing Legos as a foundational influence. He reminisced about his early fascination with outdoor activities, particularly observing and assisting garbage collectors. However, it was a pivotal moment at the age of seven that left an indelible mark on him.
He vividly recalled spending an entire day watching road resurfacing work near his home, accompanied by his supportive mother, whom he credited for shaping his character and achievements. It was during this experience that he forged a connection with one of the heavy equipment operators on the site. This operator, recognising Dayton's enthusiasm, extended an invitation for him to accompany them to a soccer field grading project over the weekend. This gesture marked the beginning of Dayton's deeper involvement in the world of construction, setting him on a path towards project management.
Dayton Pierce reflected on his journey, tracing it back to formative childhood experiences that ultimately guided his educational path and career trajectory. Pierce recounted how his upbringing in a traditionally blue-collar family, with relatives in various professions, led him to gravitate towards the construction industry. Despite starting with an associate degree in accounting, he pursued a bachelor's in finance while working in site work during the day. This foundation in finance equipped him with essential skills in budgeting, forecasting, and financial controls, which proved invaluable as he transitioned into construction management.
Furthering his education, Pierce obtained a master's in civil engineering while still working in the field, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of nuanced aspects such as soil mechanics and structural foundations. He emphasized the importance of having well-rounded experience in construction, noting that success in the industry doesn't necessarily require a construction-specific degree.
Career Progression from Operation Associate to Project Executive
Dayton Pierce embarked on his journey in the construction industry at the age of 15, starting with humble tasks such as sweeping floors and digging holes for small residential general contractors. Throughout high school, he continued this work, gradually gaining experience while pursuing his collegiate education. Transitioning to a role with a site work company, Pierce began as a general labourer, participating in various infrastructure projects, including those for telecom companies and concrete works.
Over four years with the site work company, Pierce climbed the ranks, eventually becoming a crew foreman and operations associate. This period offered valuable insights into streamlining processes and improving efficiency within a small business environment. Concurrently, while pursuing his master's degree at NJIT, Pierce attended a career fair where he stumbled upon an opportunity with Hollister Construction.
Although initially drawn to a different exhibit, Pierce's decision to approach Hollister proved fortuitous, as he quickly made a connection with the HR team and secured a position as a junior scheduler. Within months, he was promoted to a management role as an assistant project manager (APM), signalling the start of his tenure with Hollister.
After a fruitful period as an APM, Pierce transitioned to Sordoni Construction, where he assumed the role of project manager. Reflecting on his career trajectory, Pierce expressed gratitude for the opportunities afforded to him by both companies, particularly highlighting the positive experiences and growth he experienced at Sordoni. He remains appreciative of the support and experiences that have shaped his career thus far, eagerly anticipating future opportunities and challenges.
Financial Acumen in Architecture
When discussing his role as a project manager in commercial construction, Pierce underscored the significance of financial acumen in managing project finances effectively. His understanding of finance, including capital formation and debt financing, has been instrumental in optimising project profitability and leveraging financial resources for development purposes.
Although Dayton does not engage in development directly, Pierce emphasised the importance of understanding how money works in his line of work. He explained that having a basic grasp of financial concepts is crucial when communicating with clients or owners, especially when dealing with proforma calculations or pre-construction assignments. Pierce noted that this rudimentary understanding, though not at an expert level, has been instrumental in his success.
He elaborated on the diversity of his clientele, ranging from private owner developers to institutional clients, and highlighted the significance of being able to converse with those involved in deal-making and financing. While his expertise lies in building construction, Pierce emphasised the value of being able to comprehend the broader financial landscape, particularly in the current challenging economic climate.
Pierce stressed the importance of understanding the underlying fundamentals of financial matters, emphasising his inclination towards grasping the "nuts and bolts" of how things work. He credited this mindset with his ability to adapt and succeed in his role, advocating for continuous learning and broadening one's knowledge beyond their immediate specialisation.
Pierce also underscored the essential role of business acumen in any professional field. He emphasised that while individuals may specialise in particular areas, having a foundational understanding of business principles is invaluable for overall success. Pierce encouraged ongoing education and diversification of knowledge, recognising the interconnectedness of various aspects of life and work.
Projects and Challenges
When asked about his proudest projects and the unique challenges and successes involved, Dayton Pierce shared his journey. As a project manager (PM), he dedicated two years to the grind, bringing several noteworthy projects to fruition with meticulous attention to client needs and garnering positive feedback. Recognising his contributions, the company promoted him first to project director, a hybrid role bridging PM responsibilities with executive duties, and later to an executive position. Dayton attributed his rapid ascent to the support and confidence of Sordoni's management and leadership, alongside his own dedication and hard work.
Dayton holds a special attachment to a project at Sordoni, undertaken for a confidential client in the pharmaceutical sector. This project involved the construction of a seed formulation facility for flu vaccines, comprising a 24,000 square foot building with intricate MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) systems and process components. As the project manager, Pierce and his team successfully delivered the project seven weeks ahead of schedule, resulting in significant cost savings for the client. Pierce attributes this achievement to the dedicated efforts of the team, who worked tirelessly, including seven-day-a-week shifts, over eight months.
Reflecting on his approach when pitching clients, Pierce emphasised Sordoni Construction's commitment to providing institutional-level construction management with personalised, "Mom and Pop" level service. He illustrated this ethos with examples from his own experience, highlighting instances where Sordoni secured projects from major global companies like Turner and Tishman. Despite competing with larger firms, Pierce stressed Sordoni's unique selling point: unwavering dedication to customer service. He emphasised the company's focus on building strong client relationships and delivering exceptional service, even in the face of stiff competition.
Another aspect of construction that Pierce appreciates is its tangible nature; the buildings he constructs leave a lasting legacy. He cited a recent project in West New York, Hudson County, where his team is developing a 15-story high-rise multifamily tower alongside a precast parking garage. This garage, providing 506 parking spaces, addresses the significant parking shortage in the densely populated area, making it a legacy project with lasting impact. Pierce's progression from project manager to director and finally executive on this project symbolises a full circle moment in his career.
Pierce's narrative underscores the importance of maintaining a client-centric approach and prioritising personalised service, even in a competitive industry dominated by multinational corporations. His commitment to delivering results and building trust with clients reflects Sordoni Construction's ethos, positioning the company as a reliable partner for clients seeking individualised attention and superior project management services.
Sordoni Construction's Employee-Owned Model and Diversified Portfolio
Sordoni's transition to a 100% employee-owned company several years ago comes with several benefits of this ownership structure, foremost being that every employee now has ownership in every business decision made. Unlike some companies where there is a controlling interest, Sordoni's employees are all equitable owners. This shared ownership fosters accountability and encourages everyone to deliver better service, as each decision directly impacts the success of the company.
Moreover, Pierce highlighted the employee retention benefits of this ownership model, describing it as a free retirement plan tied to the company's success. For those, like himself, who envision a long-term career with Sordoni, this ownership stake serves as a motivating factor to contribute towards the company's prosperity.
Moving beyond the buzz phrases, Pierce provided insight into Sordoni's identity and offerings. He described the company as a small to midsize shop with approximately 100 employees, offering high-level service across a diversified range of construction segments. While Sordoni's roots lie in the biotech triangle in New Jersey, its adaptability and skilled personnel have enabled it to venture into various sectors. These include residential, higher education, industrial, sports and entertainment, as well as small commercial and interior renovation projects. Despite the diversity in project scope and scale, Sordoni prides itself on consistently delivering exceptional service across the board.
He underscores the importance of collective strength within the industry and reiterates his commitment to representing the interests of owners faithfully. For Dayton, being an advocate for owners is a responsibility he takes seriously and endeavours to fulfil to the best of his abilities each day.
Synergy and Mentorship in the Team and Client Relations
Dayton Pierce acknowledges the fortunate trajectory of his career at a relatively young age in the industry and recognises the challenges of being the youngest individual in many professional settings, surrounded by senior colleagues with decades of experience. He emphasised the importance of effective communication and setting clear expectations to ensure cohesion within diverse teams. He recounted instances of leading teams comprising both seasoned professionals and recent graduates, highlighting the need for equitable treatment and consistent standards across the board. Dayton emphasised the value of learning from experienced colleagues, particularly those approaching retirement, and the responsibility of passing on accumulated wisdom to the next generation. In his experience, taking the time to engage with team members on a personal level, and demonstrating genuine interest in their well-being beyond work responsibilities, has yielded the most significant benefits in fostering team cohesion and productivity.
His mind is always active, constantly seeking ways to improve processes and empower his team members to take on greater challenges. Dayton recognises the value of continuous improvement, both for individuals and for the company as a whole. Reflecting on the significance of nurturing talent, he envisions a dynamic environment where employees can ascend to higher roles, contributing to the company's overall success.
Pierce describes himself as a type-A personality who leads by example, demonstrating his commitment by being the last to leave the job site. Despite his family commitments, he ensures his dedication to the job remains unwavering. He believes in instilling positivity in his team, recognising the challenges of the construction industry and the importance of maintaining enthusiasm and morale. Pierce's leadership style is characterised by positivity and resilience, qualities that he believes contribute to team productivity and motivation.
Internally, Dayton Pierce begins by emphasising his unwavering support for his team, expressing his readiness to protect and defend them in any situation. He believes in leading by example and demonstrates this by willingly taking responsibility, even in challenging circumstances. Pierce values the trust and loyalty that this approach fosters among his team members, recognising that not everyone operates in the same manner. He acknowledges that while reprimands may be necessary behind the scenes, publicly, he always stands by his team, ensuring they feel supported and valued.
Externally, Dayton reflects on his interactions with clients, expressing confidence in his ability to connect with them despite potential reservations due to his youthful appearance. He attributes his success in client relations to his enthusiastic personality and high energy, which he believes are contagious and uplifting. Pierce demonstrates his commitment to his clients by going the extra mile, whether it's sending emails late at night or ensuring tasks are completed promptly. He believes that actions speak louder than words, reinforcing his sincerity and dedication through his work ethic.
Pierce's aspirations extend beyond personal success; he seeks to set a high standard for future generations, offering them opportunities for growth and excellence. His dedication to fostering positivity within the construction industry is evident as he advocates for reshaping its image to attract young talent. For Pierce, exceptional service and unwavering integrity are the cornerstones of this transformation. For him, leadership extends beyond mere instruction; he desires the growth and development of those under his guidance. Dayton emphasises the importance of personal and professional advancement, seeing it not just as a responsibility but also as a source of fulfilment.
Foundations of Effective Leadership
Reflecting on the industry's impending transition to younger generations, he emphasised three key traits essential for leadership success. Foremost among these, he highlighted the significance of accountability. Pierce recognised the discomfort of admitting mistakes but underscored its vital role in professional growth. As a leader, he stressed the importance of personal responsibility, steering clear of blame-shifting.
Transitioning to confidence, Pierce recognised its pivotal role in leadership effectiveness. While acknowledging its potential for growth over time, he emphasised the necessity of investing effort to cultivate confidence in one's abilities. Drawing from personal experience, he emphasised the power of self-assurance in earning trust from clients, subcontractors, and team members alike.
Finally, Pierce reflected on the impact of his upbringing on his leadership style. Influenced by his father's outgoing persona and mentorship, he internalised the value of confidence and integrity. Despite the challenges of being a young achiever in his industry, Pierce remained steadfast, guided by his father's wisdom to persevere and maintain confidence in his abilities. Grateful for the recognition and opportunities afforded to him by his company's leadership, he remained committed to upholding the values of accountability, confidence, and integrity in his professional journey.
Mentoring the Next Generation: A Commitment to Growth
Dayton Pierce is deeply committed to mentoring, coaching, and teaching within his professional sphere. He emphasises the importance of starting early, particularly for young professionals just embarking on their careers. Whether they're fresh out of college at 24 or climbing the ranks to become a principal, Pierce advises them to initiate business development endeavours as soon as possible.
In reflecting on his journey, Dayton Pierce underscores the importance of mentorship in nurturing the younger generation within the construction industry. Having navigated the challenges of college himself, Pierce acknowledges that higher education may not be the ideal path for everyone. He emphasises the need to engage with younger professionals, recognising the negative stigma often associated with the industry. Pierce advocates for trade schools, urging high school students to explore alternative avenues if they possess a passion for hands-on work.
In guiding his team, Dayton Pierce stresses the importance of understanding individual learning styles. Recognising the diversity in how people absorb information, he emphasises the role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership and management. Pierce advocates for investing time in building rapport with young professionals, fostering an environment where they feel supported and empowered to seek guidance without fear of reprimand.
Reflecting on his own leadership approach, Pierce underscores the significance of leading by example. He shares instances where publicly advocating for his team has strengthened trust and camaraderie. By demonstrating a commitment to their growth and well-being, Pierce aims to instil confidence in his team members, encouraging them to speak openly about areas where they may need assistance.
Pierce acknowledges the challenges that young professionals may face in transitioning from educational to practical experience. He emphasises the importance of creating a culture of trust and openness, where individuals feel comfortable acknowledging their limitations and seeking help when needed. Through genuine support and mentorship, Pierce aims to empower his team to excel in their careers, recognising that their success ultimately contributes to the collective success of the organisation.
As part of his commitment to mentorship, Pierce expresses a desire to expand outreach efforts within his company. This includes attending job fairs at colleges and visiting technical schools to identify promising talent. He highlights the benefits of such programs, noting that they often attract highly skilled individuals who excel in their respective fields.
However, Pierce recognises that mentorship extends beyond recruitment. He emphasises the importance of investing time in teaching and guiding new hires, acknowledging the challenges of balancing mentorship with the demands of a fast-paced business environment. Pierce stresses the value of providing personalised guidance and sharing insights from his own experiences to help individuals navigate their career paths effectively.
Building Leaders: Approach to Networking
One key piece of advice Dayton Pierce imparts to his team is the power of passive networking. Rather than attending numerous networking events or actively seeking out connections, Pierce stresses the significance of delivering excellent results for clients. He believes that by consistently performing well, individuals can naturally attract opportunities for advancement in the future.
For young professionals, Pierce acknowledges that networking events and galas may not always be feasible or appealing. Instead, he encourages them to focus on the small actions they can take now, knowing that these efforts will pay off in the long run. Building relationships, establishing contacts, and navigating industry dynamics are essential components emphasised by Pierce.
Reflecting on his own journey, Pierce recognises the role of timing and connections in his career trajectory. While he may not consider himself the pinnacle of success, he celebrates the achievements of his colleagues and the company as a whole. Ultimately, he emphasises the importance of being in the right place at the right time, leveraging connections, and maximising networking opportunities to propel one's career forward.
Dayton Pierce is an active member of niop New Jersey and takes pride in his role in developing leaders. Being under 35, he considers himself fortunate to qualify for this opportunity. Niop, a prominent industrial networking platform with a strong presence nationwide, particularly in New Jersey, provides him with a unique avenue for professional growth.
In addition to standard networking events, Dayton's company participates in specialised conferences like the ICSC conference, tailored for retail designers and owners, to stay relevant and engaged in the industry. However, he emphasises that his ultimate sales pitch is the quality of his work. To showcase his expertise, he invites prospective clients to visit his job sites, where they can witness the cleanliness, organisation, and productivity firsthand.
Establishing Trust through Consistent Delivery
Dayton Pierce emphasises the importance of integrity in his line of work. As he reflects on his role, he acknowledges the critical need for trust, especially when dealing with significant financial investments. Pierce poses a crucial question: How does he inspire confidence in clients entrusting him with substantial sums, such as $100 million?
He believes that trust is cultivated through demonstrated competence and consistent delivery. Pierce asserts that his track record of reliability has been instrumental in securing repeat business. In his industry, where timely delivery is paramount, Pierce emphasises the significance of meeting expectations. He underscores the importance of honouring commitments and ensuring clients can rely on him to fulfil promises.
Reflecting on his experience, Pierce notes that his approach has earned him a roster of loyal clients. Through consistent performance and a commitment to excellence, he has established a reputation for reliability and quality. Clients who have experienced Pierce's dependable service are inclined to return, confident in the outcomes he consistently delivers.
Dayton firmly believes that actions speak louder than words. By demonstrating the efficiency and professionalism of his team, he aims to instil confidence in his clients. In an era where decisions often boil down to numbers, he acknowledges the importance of offering competitive pricing. However, he prioritises delivering exceptional service and timely completion above all else, allowing clients to make informed business decisions based on their priorities.
Balancing Responsibility and Reputation in Construction Business
As a shareholder of the company, Dayton Pierce recognises the importance of responsible business practices. He understands that keeping employees busy while losing money is detrimental to everyone involved. With Sordoni's established reputation in the industry, they have the luxury to decline work that doesn't align with their business objectives. While they prioritise delivering excellent service and quality buildings, Pierce emphasises the underlying reality that Sordoni is a business with shareholders to consider.
Regarding pricing, Pierce acknowledges that Sordoni may not always offer the cheapest rates. However, he emphasises the exceptional level of service clients receive in return. Positioned as moderately priced, Sordoni remains competitive while catering to owner preferences. Pierce ensures that clients understand the value they receive, often leading to long-term relationships built on trust and reliability. He shares that problem-solving, proactive engagement and expert craftsmanship address challenges on the job site.
Pierce's commitment to client satisfaction extends beyond regular business hours. He is readily available to address client concerns, even late into the night. This level of accessibility and dedication underscores his personal investment in every project. By maintaining a visible presence within the company, Pierce embodies the values of the Sordoni brand, fostering trust and loyalty among clients.
In navigating the evolving landscape of the construction industry, Pierce remains optimistic about the future. Despite recent challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and fluctuations in financing climates, he believes that Sordoni's steadfast commitment to professionalism and client service will ultimately lead to continued success. As construction activity gradually resumes, Pierce anticipates that Sordoni's proactive approach to client relationships will position them for growth and opportunity.
Shifting focus to business cycles, Dayton acknowledges the current downturn in the office sector but remains optimistic about future prospects. Recognising the cyclical nature of the industry, he highlights the importance of strategic preparation and engagement with office brokers to capitalise on emerging opportunities, such as housing conversions in New Jersey. Leveraging their company's reputation and brand recognition, Dayton emphasises the significance of securing large residential projects to solidify their position in the market and attract potential clients for office renovations, thereby reinforcing their product and brand.
Life Outside Work
Reflecting on family, Dayton Pierce emphasises its paramount importance in his life. He begins with heartfelt gratitude for his supportive wife, Danielle, acknowledging that her unwavering encouragement has been instrumental in his success. With deep appreciation, he recognises the sacrifices made by his family to bolster his career, underscoring the indispensable role they play in his journey.
Pierce's devotion to his two young children, a cherished son of just over two years and a beloved daughter nearing her first birthday is unmistakable. They represent his world beyond the confines of work, driving him to strive for a better tomorrow with every endeavour. His unwavering commitment to building a brighter future, one project at a time, is rooted in his profound love for his family.
Despite the demands of his roles as a construction executive, father, and husband, Pierce finds solace in his love for sports, particularly his fervent support for the New York Rangers. Balancing professional obligations with personal interests, he navigates the complexities of life with determination and resilience. In the midst of his multifaceted responsibilities, Pierce remains optimistic about the future, embracing opportunities to merge business with leisure.
Reflecting on his industry experience, Pierce shares his discontent with those who prioritise low costs over quality, recognising the impact such decisions have on the world he aspires to create for his children. He rejects the notion that the construction industry is inherently flawed, attributing his success to the unwavering support of his family and the value of positive experiences. As he continues to nurture the talents of the next generation at Sordoni, he finds moments of respite in the camaraderie of recreational activities, seamlessly blending work and pleasure.
Technological Advancements
In discussing the technological landscape of their business, Dayton Pierce emphasises the vast potential for technology to support various aspects of their operations. He notes that the level of technological advancement and the willingness to invest play crucial roles in determining the implementation of such innovations. Looking ahead, Dayton anticipates numerous exciting conversations in the coming years centred around enhancing efficiency and productivity within the workforce.
At a macro level, Dayton Pierce acknowledges the burgeoning growth of the construction technology field. He believes that embracing advancements such as AI integration and capabilities holds great potential for the industry as a whole. While Building Information Modeling (BIM) has been touted as the next big technology for decades, Dayton recognises its value and actively implements it across his projects.
Despite the industry's historical resistance to change, Dayton sees a promising future where technology unlocks efficiency and enhances competitiveness. He anticipates that embracing these innovations will revolutionise the construction landscape, making processes more streamlined and effective.
Sustainability and Success in Construction
Discussing the importance of sustainability in their business, Dayton Pierce highlights its significance, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector where clients often demand a comprehensive sustainability plan for engagement. While not directly involved in policy creation, Dayton ensures implementation and adherence to the company's sustainability policy by overseeing his team's execution.
He explains that sustainable practices on construction sites align with industry best practices and promote both sustainability and safety. Dayton emphasises the paramount importance of job site safety, viewing it as an integral component of sustainability efforts. He underscores the goal of ensuring that everyone leaves the job site safely, acknowledging the inherent challenges in achieving this goal entirely.
Dayton identifies three key metrics for project success: schedule adherence, budget management, and risk mitigation. He emphasises the importance of delivering projects on time, within budget, and without exposing the company or clients to significant risks. Additionally, he stresses the importance of a robust exit strategy and effective closeout procedures to conclude projects successfully. For Dayton, the ultimate measure of success is receiving final payment and completing closeout procedures seamlessly, signalling the project's successful conclusion and readiness to move on to the next endeavour.
Dayton Pierce expresses his aspirations to become a leader in the construction industry, particularly within the state market, for the foreseeable future. He emphasises his willingness to assist young individuals or anyone in need of guidance and answers, aiming to be remembered as someone who can provide valuable assistance. Looking ahead, Pierce expresses optimism about the future, buoyed by the achievements of the past year. He sees continued growth and success on the horizon, fueled by a culture of support, mentorship, and collaboration within the team.
In Dayton Pierce's story, we find not only a testament to individual resilience and determination but also a blueprint for success built on the pillars of integrity, mentorship, and innovation. As he continues to lead and inspire, Dayton Pierce embodies the essence of effective leadership, paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable future in the construction industry.
