Welcome back to #WeAreGreenKey, where we shine a spotlight on our powerhouse recruiting team.
We met up with Chianté Vidal, Recruiting Manager on the Green Key Architecture, Engineering, & Construction team. With previous experience in AEC recruitment, Chianté has been with Green Key going on two years, with a focus on construction management. She elaborates on her recruitment journey and the process of familiarizing herself in the world of construction.
How did you get into AEC recruitment?
I recruited for three years at my previous employer, where I was primarily handling the labor side of construction and then transitioned to construction management. I came to Green Key in September 2021.
Are there any hiring trends in AEC right now?
For the past couple months, I’ve noticed a lot of companies have become more specific in regard to the candidates they want to hire. It’s not just a “let’s bring them on” mentality anymore. They’re looking for professionals who will really bring value to their company. As recruiters, it’s been more challenging to find qualified candidates, but even more difficult to convince them to make a move.
Which cities or territories are you seeing the most employment in?
In terms of in-demand positions, Austin has needed more Superintendents and Dallas is big on Project Managers right now.
How does your team collaborate, despite working all across the country?
Sean [Coyne] does an awesome job of holding individual meetings with us, but also scheduling team calls three times a week to go over our forecast, run down all active candidates, and discuss positives and negatives for the week. It’s helped us to maintain a steady momentum with each other. Sean is a manager who definitely cares. Personally, I have two kids, and he always considers what I’m going through in my personal life.
What advice would you give someone trying to break into or succeed in AEC recruitment?
Architecture, Engineering, and Construction recruitment is very technical. Putting in the years in the game teaches you a lot. You have to start small and aim bigger on a gradual scale. For instance, I started in laborers. So, I got to learn the terminology and logistics of professionals who are building these buildings, and then I transitioned to those who are managing those projects. I got the exposure from the beginning. It also helps to create LinkedIn connections, where you’re constantly having conversations with people about the market and learning your territory.
