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Building a Foundation

In an industry increasingly shaped by compressed schedules, evolving technology, and constant demands, John J. “Jack” Bruce believes the fundamentals of construction have not really changed at all.

People still want to be heard. Projects still depend on trust. And problems are still solved through communication and relationships.

As Director of Projects at Shannon Construction, Jack brings decades of experience leading complex commercial, healthcare, higher education, and corporate projects across the construction industry. Over the course of his career, he has overseen major projects valued in the hundreds of millions of dollars for organizations including Dick’s Sporting Goods, UPMC, CONSOL, and Mylan. Yet ask him what matters most, and his answers rarely begin with buildings.

Jack’s perspective was shaped early through his family’s construction business, where he spent summers around machinery, tradespeople, and job sites long before entering the industry professionally.

“At that time, a lot of learning came through experience, repetition, and touch rather than technology,” Jack reflected. “I developed an appreciation for the trades and the people doing the work.”

Initially, Jack believed his career path would lead toward design and the creative side of construction. But while working alongside a commercial real estate developer early in his career, he discovered where he felt most fulfilled: collaborating with teams and solving complex problems that bring projects to life.

Construction in a Changing World

While construction has evolved dramatically over the years, Jack believes some of the industry’s biggest challenges today are rooted less in technical ability and more in communication.

Technology has transformed the pace of the business and created access to more information than ever before. At the same time, the fundamentals of construction remain unchanged, making communication and collaboration as important as ever.

“Listening is one of the most important skills people can develop,” Jack said. “When it comes down to it, we all want the same things. We want to provide for our families and do meaningful work.”

Leadership Through Mentorship

That philosophy has shaped not only the way Jack approaches projects, but also how he approaches leadership.

Known for his direct but thoughtful communication style, Jack places a strong emphasis on mentorship, accountability, and helping younger professionals grow within the industry. Rather than solving every problem for his teams, he prefers to guide people toward solutions and encourage critical thinking.

“The two best questions you can ask are ‘why?’ and ‘why not?’” he said.

“There’s nothing wrong with being wrong…You just don’t want to keep making the same mistakes over and over.”

He credits much of his leadership approach to lessons learned from his late brother, Tom, whom he deeply admired. From Tom, he learned the importance of being direct, honest, and assertive when communicating, particularly in high-pressure situations where clarity and accountability matter most.

Preserving the Old While Embracing the New

A trip to Baku with his wife Shelley of 40 years and their two sons left a particularly lasting impression on Jack. While there, he was struck by the city’s ability to preserve its historic architecture and cultural identity while embracing modern development around it.

“You had these ancient buildings and history preserved right alongside modern development,” Jack reflected. “It showed that progress does not have to come at the expense of experience or tradition.”

That balance between experience and new perspectives is something Jack values both within the construction industry and at Shannon Construction, where experienced professionals and younger team members continue learning from one another.

Trust, Integrity, and Responsibility

At the center of Jack’s leadership philosophy is trust.

“Nothing is more destructive than losing trust,” he said. “Integrity matters. Telling the truth matters, even when it is not what people want to hear.”

Jack also views leadership through the lens of stewardship and accountability. In discussing project management, he often returns to a simple philosophy: protecting the trust, resources, and investment of both the client and the Company.

“My responsibility is to be a good steward of the project and the people involved,” Jack said, referring to the accountability he feels toward both Shannon Construction and its clients.

Jack believes success in construction is finding the right balance between price, quality and the client’s long-term goals.  “There’s rarely one perfect answer in construction.  It’s all about finding the right balance.”

A Project With Purpose

Throughout his career, one project that remained especially meaningful to Jack was the John G. Rangos Sr. Research Center in Pittsburgh’s Lawrenceville neighborhood. The 300,000-square-foot facility adjacent to UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh is home to one of the nation’s fastest-growing pediatric research programs.

At the time, Jack was early in his career and had recently become a father. The project left a lasting impression on him not simply because of its scale or complexity, but because of what the facility represented for children and families.

“It was rewarding knowing the work could help people and make a difference,” Jack reflected.

Today, the project carries even deeper meaning for Jack. Years later, his son is now completing a fellowship in pediatric cardiology, creating a full-circle connection to the work that once left such a lasting impression on him early in his career.

For Jack, construction has always been about more than buildings. It is about trust, communication, problem-solving, and helping people grow along the way.

As a Senior Project Manager with Shannon Construction, Patrick leads complex projects while supporting team development and contributing to how projects are executed across the company.

A Promotion Built on Growth

Patrick Bruce’s promotion to Senior Project Manager represents years of steady growth, hard work, and a commitment to improving his craft.  “It’s the reward and payoff of years of hard work, dedication, and continued learning,” Patrick said.

From starting in estimating to moving into an Assistant Project Manager role and now leading larger, more complex projects, Patrick has built a strong foundation and expanded his impact over time.

“Patrick brings a level of passion, but it’s controlled,” says Jack Bruce, Director of Projects at Shannon Construction. “He’s not reactive. He takes the time to think through situations and make the right call.”

Evolving Beyond Execution

As Patrick has grown in his role, his focus has shifted beyond simply managing tasks to improving how projects are planned and executed. “I’ve become more involved in shaping how projects are run,” Patrick explained. He approaches each project with structure and consistency, maintaining core weekly processes such as schedule updates, budget reviews, and team coordination, while remaining flexible enough to adapt to the unique challenges of each job.

That balance between structure and adaptability has become a defining part of how he leads projects.

Leading Through Communication

At the core of Patrick’s approach is one simple principle: communication drives success. “Communication with everyone is the most important factor. Everyone must know the expectation and be reminded of it constantly,” he said.

He has seen firsthand the impact of poor communication and how quickly it can create larger issues. This mindset carries through in how he builds relationships with clients, subcontractors, and his team, emphasizing clarity, consistency, and accountability.

Navigating Complexity with Confidence

Patrick has demonstrated the ability to lead through challenging and complex projects, including those that require navigating unforeseen conditions, delays, and difficult conversations. A recent project that stands out is the Chitwood Hall project at West Virginia University, where the historical nature of the building introduced unexpected challenges.

“It created some uncomfortable conversations with the owner which had to be worked through,” Patrick said. Despite those challenges, the project was ultimately recognized with the MBA’s Building Excellence Award for Renovation Construction Under $4 Million.

“He doesn’t overreact. He works through it and keeps things moving,” said Jack Bruce, Director of Projects. His ability to remain steady and solutions-focused in these moments has been a defining part of his growth.

Expanding Perspective and Ownership

As part of his transition into a senior role, Patrick has developed a stronger understanding of the financial and strategic side of construction. “He’s starting to think more like an owner,” Jack said. “Understanding cost, value, and how decisions affect the bigger picture.”

This broader perspective, combined with his willingness to support other project managers and help solve challenges across teams, reflects what sets a Senior Project Manager apart.

Technology as a Foundation

Technology plays a central role in how Patrick manages projects, with Procore serving as a key tool in his day-to-day work. “It’s the base for everything I do,” he said. From communication and documentation to scheduling and financial tracking, Procore helps ensure transparency and accountability across all stakeholders.

“Everything is shareable and trackable. It gives you backup and increases accountability,” Patrick explained. This level of visibility helps keep projects aligned and reduces the risk of miscommunication.

A Commitment to Continuous Improvement

One of the most important factors in Patrick’s growth has been his approach to feedback and learning.

“He takes criticism well and actually applies it,” Jack said. “That’s a big part of why he’s grown as much as he has.”

Rather than avoiding challenges, Patrick leans into them, using each experience as an opportunity to improve and refine his approach.

A Team and Family Focus

Patrick values the culture at Shannon and the emphasis on both professional and personal growth. “It’s a family company that cares about their employees and their development,” he said.

Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, along with playing softball and golf.

Looking Ahead

Patrick’s promotion reflects both his contributions to date and the potential he brings moving forward. With a strong foundation in project management, a commitment to communication, and a growing strategic perspective, he is well positioned to continue delivering successful outcomes for Shannon and its clients.

After decades working in the trades, Project Engineer Kimm Naugle now helps coordinate complex construction projects at Shannon Construction. Her career journey highlights the value of field experience, adaptability, and lifelong learning in the construction industry.

A Foundation in the Trades

Construction has been part of Kimm’s life from the beginning. The daughter of a New Jersey residential contractor, she grew up around job sites, tools, and building projects. By age 18, her father handed her the responsibility of running a full gut renovation. It was a “sink or swim” moment that helped cement her path in the industry.

Kimm went on to build her career through the trades and spent years as a member of the Drywall Finishers and Allied Trades union. She later continued her work in Hawaii, where she spent nearly a decade refining her skills.

While working on a project at a VA hospital, a conversation with a project manager shifted her perspective. The manager encouraged her to consider project management and pointed out that her field experience could translate well into leadership roles.

Bridging the Gap Between Field and Management

Kimm decided to pursue that path and earned her degree in Project Management in 2017 while continuing to work full time. She later joined Shannon Construction in 2024.

Today she supports the Commonwealth Charter Academy (CCA) project in Moosic, Pennsylvania and also assists with several other CCA sites across the region.

As a Project Engineer, Kimm helps coordinate the many moving parts of a construction project. Her responsibilities include managing documentation, maintaining daily logs, tracking progress with a 360-degree site camera system, and helping resolve issues that arise during construction.

“Coming from the trades, I used to focus on the work right in front of me,” Kimm says. “Now I see the full picture. I understand how scheduling, documentation, and communication all impact the crews on the ground.”

Watching a Vision Take Shape

One of Kimm’s favorite parts of the Moosic project has been watching the building’s central atrium take shape.

During construction, crews removed sections of the existing floor slabs to create a dramatic three-story open space with communicating stairs, a skylight, and a chandelier centerpiece.

“You start with drawings, and then suddenly it’s real,” she says.

A Supportive Team Environment

Kimm says one of the things she values most about working at Shannon Construction is the team environment.

“They let you spread your wings and figure things out, but there’s always a safety net if you need help,” she explains.

She also credits the strong collaboration with the Commonwealth Charter Academy team for helping keep the project moving smoothly.

Looking Ahead

Kimm continues to build experience coordinating complex projects and learning more about the behind-the-scenes work that keeps construction projects moving forward.

Her goal is to continue growing in the industry as a Project Manager.

Outside of work, Kimm enjoys staying active and spending time outdoors. In the summer she enjoys relaxing by the pool and playing recreational sports like horseshoes.

While his connection to Shannon spans a lifetime, Christian brings more than legacy to the role. With a background in engineering and a decade of experience in the medical device industry, he steps into this new chapter focused on stewardship, engagement, and strengthening the service-first culture that defines Shannon.

In this conversation, Christian shares what this transition means to him, how outside experience has shaped his leadership perspective, and what he believes sets Shannon apart. Continue reading “Introducing Christian Schultz – Four Generations of Leadership”

We’re excited to welcome Tony Kozak to the Shannon Construction team. Tony brings a diverse background, a passion for operational accounting, and a leadership style rooted in communication and continuous improvement. Here’s a quick introduction as he steps into this key role.

Q: Can you tell us a little about your professional background and how you got started in accounting and finance?
A: I actually started out as a psychology major, but an organizational behavior course sparked my interest in business and accounting. With some guidance from my advisor, I decided to pursue that direction and concluded my education through obtaining my MBA. While I was building a career in banking and finance, I was offered the opportunity to join the lead team at Alcoa, where I helped consolidate their North American accounting operations in Pittsburgh. That experience really solidified my path in the field.

Q: What industries have you worked in prior to joining Shannon Construction?
A: I’ve worked in municipal finance, banking, manufacturing, and retail, including owner-related construction experience. For the last eight years, I’ve been with family-owned general contractors and subcontractors.

Q: What attracted you to this opportunity with Shannon?
A: Shannon’s strong industry reputation, and the genuine family-business atmosphere. During the hiring process, the company’s thoughtful succession planning really stood out and showed a long-term commitment to its people. I also hadn’t had the chance to work in a union environment, and that was something I found interesting as well.

Q: What are some of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned in your career so far?
A: I’ve learned the importance of having strong mentors. I’ve also found that taking on the jobs no one else wants can lead to the best opportunities for improving processes. And honestly, I’ve discovered that I tend to like being uncomfortable – it keeps me learning and growing. Lifelong learning and new challenges have always been important to me.

Role & Responsibilities

Q: As the new Controller, what will your main priorities be in your first few months?
A: My priority is to learn Shannon’s processes, systems, and culture. I want to understand the current state of our financial controls and identify efficiencies that will support long-term growth.

Q: You’ll be taking over for Angela, who has been a key part of the company. How are you approaching this transition?
A: I’m approaching it with a lot of respect for the work Angela has done. My goal is to listen, learn from her experience, and ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition.

Q: What aspects of financial management or reporting are you most passionate about improving or streamlining?
A: Operational accounting is where all the details live, and I enjoy digging into that. Focusing on improving processes in these areas allows us to provide timely, accurate information for leadership and strategic decisions.

Q: How do you see your role supporting the project management and operations teams?
A: My role is to make sure project management and operations have clear, reliable financial information at their fingertips so we can work together efficiently and stay ahead of potential issues.

Leadership & Vision

Q: How would you describe your leadership or management style?
A: I tend to approach leadership like coaching. Accountability and communication are at the center of everything. I believe in creating an environment where we can challenge one another constructively.

Q: What’s your approach to fostering collaboration between accounting, operations, and project teams?
A: For me, it starts with open communication and ensuring everyone understands how our roles connect. When teams share information freely, we solve problems more efficiently and make better decisions.

Q: Are there any financial or process innovations you hope to implement in the next year?
A: Right now, I’m focused on observing and understanding the current systems. I like to use the balance sheet as a checklist to identify where improvements can be made. Shannon already has well-thought-out processes, so I want to make sure I prioritize the right areas.

Q: What metrics or goals are you most focused on to measure success?
A: Consistency, accuracy, and the usefulness of the information we provide. When accounting becomes a dependable and insightful resource, the entire organization benefits.

Personal Insights

Q: How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
A: My wife and I have four kids and two dogs which keeps us busy. I also play hockey which is my favorite stress reliever. I’ve been playing with many of the same guys since 2009, and the sense of community and camaraderie is something I really value. I also coach my son’s hockey, which keeps me grounded and connected to my family.

Q: Do you have a personal motto or piece of advice that guides your work?
A: Don’t have your cake before the party. To me, that means embracing delayed gratification – planning ahead saves a lot of time and headaches down the road.

Q: What are you most looking forward to in joining the Shannon team?
A: I’m excited to be part of a strong, collaborative team and contribute to Shannon’s continued growth.

Closing Thoughts

Q: Any words of appreciation for Angela as she transitions into retirement?
A: I truly appreciate the extra effort she’s put in to help me get off on the right foot. I wish her all the best in this next chapter of her life.

I’d also like to say thank you to the accounting team for walking me through their processes during a busy time – “year end!”