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In this episode, I speak with Vince Hafeli, MBA, president of Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, about an often overlooked but critical issue: suicide in the construction industry. Sadly, construction workers have a suicide rate that is significantly higher than the national average, as highlighted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In our discussion, we examine the vital role that transformational leadership can play in addressing this issue and implementing preventive measures, such as creating a supportive work environment and promoting mental health resources. With leadership support, we can help to make a meaningful impact and improve the well-being of construction workers.
***You can view the video version of this episode here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Vince:
- Can you explain what transformational leadership is and how it differs from other leadership styles?
- In what ways can transformational leadership improve the mental well-being of employees?
- How does creating a safe and supportive work environment impact the mental health of team members, and why is it important?
- What factors contribute to the high suicide rate in the construction industry?
- Did you have a particular experience that motivated you to prioritize creating a safe and supportive work environment, or was it a gradual realization over time?
- What steps do you propose to address mental health in the short and long term, and what message would you like to communicate?