Intentional Culture. Exceptional Work.
April 29, 2025
Culture shouldn’t just be a part of what a construction company does – it should be the foundation of everything they do. In addition to schedules and blueprints, job sites run on people. When you believe this, then you focus on hiring people who are rooted in honor and productivity. Individuals who take pride in their craft. Craftsmen who are intentional about the way they work and the way they treat each other, because that intentionality shows up in the finished product, in client relationships, and the overall atmosphere of the team. We believe this philosophy is what has shaped Penn State Construction and how we are building for tomorrow through three fundamental values.
Family First. Always.
No matter how our team grows or where the evolving construction industry takes us, one thing stays constant: family comes first. Project Manager and Estimator, Matthias Miller, has been with Penn State Construction for more than 9 years and shares, “Family comes first. That’s never an issue. We encourage our people to have a healthy family life.” Flexibility around family events and personal needs isn’t an exception for us, but rather a priority.
We know that when people feel supported in their personal lives, they show up stronger and more engaged at work. Our teams know that beyond being employees, they are people with lives outside of the job site, and we respect that. That mindset is foundational to who we are. When we say we have a family atmosphere, it’s about more than camaraderie. Being a part of a family means having genuine care for each other’s well-being.
Respect is Expected.
Our sites are productive, focused, and full of collaboration. That’s not by accident. We’ve created a culture where respect is not just encouraged, it’s expected. Whether we’re working side by side in the dirt or planning out the next phase of a project, the attitude is always the same: we’re in this together, and we treat one another considerately.
With decades of experience and generations of craftsmen on our team, we know not to take for granted the culture of respect at Penn State Construction. There have been times when members of our team have worked alongside other contractors and been struck by the negativity and disconnect between people in the field and those in the office. That’s not our way. We lift each other up. Every person on our team has a name, not a number, and everyone plays a role in our success.
We’re also aware of how we present ourselves. Our tools and equipment are well-maintained, organized, and ready to go each day. That level of professionalism sets the tone for the entire project and reinforces an atmosphere of care, discipline, and excellence in the work we do.
The Impact of Culture on Quality
At the end of the day, quality is everything. It’s what we’re known for and what we demand of ourselves. We’ve seen too many job sites where corners are cut, punch lists go on forever, and warranties become the cleanup crew. Connecting operational and cultural expectations has a direct impact on the level of craftsmanship brought to every project.
One person on the Penn State Construction team who knows the onsite culture more than most is Site Superintendent, Jamie Weaver. According to Jamie, “We have a saying, ‘Good is not good enough. You do your best.’ If you're not doing your best work, then it’s not Penn State quality.”
We expect everyone to show up ready to bring their best, every time. That mindset doesn’t come from pressure - it comes from engagement. When our people are happy, feel respected, and invested in what we’re building, the quality naturally follows. It shows in the final product, in the lack of re-works, and how our team celebrates their contributions when a job is complete.
We’ve also been intentional about sharing our vision. Since becoming part of EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System), we regularly ensure that everyone understands where we’re headed and how they fit into the bigger picture. That clarity has strengthened our team dynamic; made us a more effective organization; and allows us to attract better talent. People want to be a part of something they believe in. When they see our job sites, meet our teams, and experience our culture, they recognize something different.
We arrive with a plan. We take care of our people and our equipment. We work with purpose and pride. This is who we are. This is Penn State Construction. And we’re BUILT FOR TOMORROW.