The Crucial Role of Project Managers: Guardians of Gray's Success and Culture

For Caldwell, construction was in his blood. Coming from a family with deep roots in the industry, he was introduced to the jobsite at a young age. Joining Gray in 2018, Caldwell navigates the complexities of coordinating subcontractors, managing schedules, and ensuring clear communication to keep projects on track.   

After spending 16 years with another company, Hammon sought new opportunities and found a home at Gray in 2021. As a senior project manager, he emphasizes the importance of planning and the ability to look ahead.   

Phillips, with a background in electrical engineering, spent years working on data centers and other large-scale projects. Her career took her from Atlanta to San Diego and everywhere in between, before she found her place at Gray in 2023. As the senior project manager for Gray’s MEP division, her work is focused on translating design into reality.  

DeVore’s journey began in the US Navy, followed by a long career in manufacturing before transitioning to construction. Joining Gray in 2021, DeVore now focuses on technical proposals, a role that blends his engineering background with the demands of project management. 

Tools of the Trade 

Across their varied roles, these project managers rely on a mix of traditional tools and modern technology to keep their projects on track. From Procore for project management to Excel for data processing, the right tools are essential.  

Phillips mentioned that she uses another layer of technological integration in the form of Revit and BIM (Building Information Modeling) software.  

“In the MEP division, accuracy is everything,” she says. “Revit allows us to create detailed 3D models that help in visualizing the entire project before construction even begins. It’s a tool that helps bridge the gap between engineering and construction, reducing the chances of errors, and ensuring that we meet the customer’s expectations.”  

However, technology alone isn’t enough. DeVore underscores the critical role of interpersonal skills in successful project management.  

“Interacting with people is 90% of our job,” he points out. “You can have all the technology in the world, but if you can’t communicate effectively, none of it matters.”   

Caldwell echoes this sentiment, adding, “The human element drives the project forward. Being able to pick up the phone and have a candid conversation with a subcontractor or a customer can resolve issues faster than any email or software ever could.” 

Communication isn’t just a component of project management—it’s the glue that holds everything together.  

“Every interaction is an opportunity to either reinforce or weaken a relationship,” Hammon says. “That’s why I prioritize direct communication. Those touchpoints build the trust that’s essential for a successful project.” 

Part of the Job 

Every project comes with its own set of challenges, from managing schedules to aligning with customer expectations. For Caldwell, the key is to stay organized and focus on the most critical tasks. “If everything is treated as a priority, then nothing is a priority,” he says. 

Hammon adds that being proactive and addressing potential problems before they arise is essential to avoiding delays and cost overruns. For DeVore, success is not just about meeting goals but also about ensuring that everyone involved feels proud of the outcome. 

Despite the challenges, all four project managers agree that the best part of their job is the people. Whether it’s the diverse teams they work with or the strong relationships they build with customers, it’s the human connections that make the job rewarding.  

“I love the relationships that I get to build along the way,” Phillips says. “There’s nothing like working together to complete a project and being proud of what you did as a team.” 

DeVore agrees, noting how he feels the open office setting encourages teamwork and breaks down silos. 

“I enjoy the collaborative atmosphere at Gray,” he says. “Being around others in the office energizes me and promotes building relationships.” 

Living Gray’s Core Values 

Each of these project managers exemplifies Gray’s core values in their day-to-day work, making them more than just guiding principles—they are the foundation of every decision, interaction, and outcome. Safety, integrity, and a commitment to excellence aren’t merely slogans; they are the bedrock upon which every project is built. 

“Gray’s core values are integral to everything we do,” says Hammon. “These values guide our daily interactions and every decision we make.” 

Caldwell shares a similar perspective, emphasizing that these values aren’t just for show—they’re put into practice every day.  

DeVore echoed this sentiment, saying, “What makes Gray different is that we don’t just talk about our values—we live them,” he notes. “Every decision we make, no matter how big or small, is filtered through the lens of our core values.” 

Phillips notes how Gray’s core values foster trust and respect among team members and customers alike.  

“Integrity is about being honest and transparent in all our dealings,” she says. “It means owning up to mistakes, being upfront with challenges, and working together to find solutions. This approach not only builds stronger relationships but also ensures that every project we deliver is something we can be proud of.” 

For those new to project management, these seasoned professionals offer valuable advice. “Dive in and take on more than you think you’re capable of,” Caldwell encourages. “You will have all the support you need to be successful.” 

Phillips advises new project managers to be quiet and listen, learning from the wealth of knowledge within Gray, while Hammon reminds team members that asking questions and seeking guidance is welcomed at Gray. 

The role of a project manager at Gray is about more than just overseeing construction projects—it’s about being a leader who ensures that every project is completed with integrity, safety, and excellence. Project managers each play a vital role in maintaining Gray’s reputation as a company that exceeds customer expectations.