Construction Vibes: Why Culture and Communication Drive Jobsite Success

Episode Description

In this second episode with Hannah Misch, Quality Manager at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), we dive deep into a topic that doesn’t make it into most project plans—vibes.

We explore how the intangible—energy, attitude, communication—has tangible impacts on construction outcomes. From quality management to conflict navigation, Hannah shares real-life stories that reveal how good (and bad) vibes influence safety, trust, and success on site.

Topics Include

• Recognizing and addressing low-morale moments
• Creating space for psychological safety and learning
• How owners can reinforce positive culture
• When “chill” backfires (yes, a Super Bazooka is involved)

Key Takeaways

• Culture is Contagious: Energy—good or bad—spreads quickly on job sites. Intentional planning and communication help set the tone.
• Process Drives Vibes: Poor planning leads to bad vibes. Start with clear documentation, expectations, and knowledge transfer.
• Chill Can Be a Risk: Even positive cultures need balance. Too relaxed, and critical warnings (like potential unexploded ordnance) might be ignored.
• Trust Fuels Progress: Teams that self-report issues early, call before problems escalate, and lean into feedback loops succeed more often.
• Empathy is a Tool: Noticing someone’s bad day, offering a water break, or just being human goes a long way.
• Quality is Human: You’re not just checking specs—you’re checking culture. Be the calm in chaos, and people will rally around you.