At Shannon Construction, Construction Management Agency is more than a delivery method — it’s a partnership. This month, we’re putting the spotlight on two of the people who make our CMA projects successful from start to finish.
At Shannon Construction, Construction Management Agency is more than a delivery method — it’s a partnership. This month, we’re putting the spotlight on two of the people who make our CMA projects successful from start to finish.
Nicky Rosky, Senior Project Manager, oversees CMA projects from planning to punch list, ensuring every detail stays aligned with the client’s vision, budget, and timeline.
Superintendent, Shawn Bulsak, is on the ground (and on the road), managing site operations, coordinating trades, and making sure the work happens safely and efficiently.
Together this dynamic duo leads our team of Project Engineers and Site Supervisors. Their leadership brings the construction experience that makes CMA work for our clients — especially our longtime partner, Commonwealth Charter Academy (CCA). Here’s what they have to say about what it takes to succeed in Construction Management, what they enjoy most about working with CCA, and more.
Nick Rosky
Project Manager
Shawn Bulsak
Superintendent
From your perspective, what are the keys to success in Construction Management?
Rosky:
Clear communication, early alignment on expectations and proactive problem-solving are the cornerstones to success. In CM work, our value comes from anticipating issues before they impact schedule or cost. Establishing strong relationships with the client, design team and specialty contractors allows us to work collaboratively instead of reactively, which is where real efficiency is gained.
Bulsak:
Clear communication, strong planning, and trust between the field and project management teams are crucial. Everyone needs to be on the same page — from the office to the site — so we can keep things moving efficiently and safely. Being proactive and adaptable on-site also makes a big difference.
What is your favorite part about working with CCA on CMA projects?
Rosky:
CCA brings a client-focused mindset to every project. They trust our process and understand the importance of collaboration, which makes decision-making quicker and more informed. It’s not just about managing contracts and schedules, it’s about building something together with a partner who’s equally invested in the outcome.
Bulsak:
CCA brings a real team mentality to the table. They’re involved, supportive, and willing to collaborate to solve problems. It never feels like we’re on separate sides — we’re all working toward the same goal, and that makes the job run smoother.
What’s one challenge you’ve encountered on a CMA project, and how did you and the team overcome it?
Rosky:
On one project, the automatic transfer switch (ATS) for the emergency generator power was delayed by several months due to supply chain issues. Rather than let the schedule slip, we worked with the design team and electrical contractor to modify the electrical design so the building could operate off the utility service in the interim. This allowed us to pass inspections, secure a temporary occupancy permit and turn the space over to the owner for use while we waited for the ATS delivery. That flexibility kept the project on track and the client’s operations moving forward. Once the ATS arrived, we planned a multiple day installation and inspections over the Client's holiday break so that their operations were never affected.
Bulsak:
On one job, we had a delay in materials that could’ve thrown off the whole schedule. Instead of pointing fingers, the team — including the client — worked together to resequence the work and keep the project moving. That kind of collaboration only works when there’s trust and open communication, which is what CMA is all about.
What’s one thing you wish more clients understood about Construction Management Agency?
Rosky:
Construction Management is not just oversight and handling paperwork, it’s active, daily hands-on leadership of the project from concept to closeout. The best results come when the CMA Team is brought in early, before design is finalized, so we can help shape the budget, schedule and logistics with real-world input. That early involvement almost always saves time and money in the long run.
Bulsak:
That it's not just a way to build — it's a partnership. The more involved and responsive the client is, the better the outcome. Construction Management gives clients more control and insight, but it also works best when they’re engaged throughout the process.
What’s your go-to must-have when you’re on site or traveling for a CMA job?
Rosky:
My phone, a charger and a backup charger. In this business, information moves fast and if you miss it, you’re chasing it for the rest of the job.
Bulsak:
My cell phone — it’s my lifeline for everything from site coordination to quick problem-solving.