Building Stronger Partnerships (Construction Partnering)

Building Stronger Partnerships: Insights from Brian Down at the ENR LA Infrastructure Forum

At the recent ENR LA Infrastructure Forum, we had the chance to hear from Brian Down of Granite Construction, who shared thoughtful insights on what makes construction partnering so impactful. His perspective highlighted the importance of communication, trust, and having the right facilitator to guide the process.

Why Partnering Matters

In construction, challenges are inevitable. But as Brian put it, the key to success is addressing potential issues early—before they escalate into bigger problems.

“The whole idea of partnering is: let’s talk about these issues before they become hard issues,” Brian explained. “We know we’re going to run into them, so how do we create an environment that allows us to work through them together?”

This proactive approach not only helps resolve conflicts but also fosters a sense of collaboration and shared ownership. It’s about building a foundation where every team member feels empowered to contribute and problem-solve together.

The Facilitator’s Role in Partnering

Facilitators play a pivotal role in bringing teams together and keeping projects on track. Brian described them as the bridge between project teams—someone who’s approachable and engaging, yet firm enough to address difficult topics head-on.

“A good facilitator can build rapport with both sides of the team,” Brian shared. “They create an environment where tough issues can be brought forward and resolved, ensuring everyone is focused on solutions.”

This ability to balance empathy with accountability is what makes facilitators so essential to successful partnering.

Reflections from the ENR LA Infrastructure Forum

This interview was part of an inspiring day at the ENR LA Infrastructure Forum, where industry leaders came together to share insights and best practices. Events like these remind us of the importance of collaboration—not just within project teams but across the entire industry.

At Global Leadership Alliance, we’re passionate about fostering the kind of collaboration that makes every project more successful, whether it’s a bridge, a highway, or a partnership itself.

Looking Ahead

Partnering isn’t just about resolving conflicts — it’s about creating a framework for success from the start. As we look forward to future events, we’re excited to keep learning, connecting, and contributing to an industry built on trust and collaboration.