LEADERSHIP SPOTLIGHT

Steven Gobac | Skanska USA Building

Name: Steven Gobac

Title: Senior Preconstruction Engineer

Age: 30

Company, City: Skanska USA Building, Blue Bell, PA

Years in field: 7

Education: Drexel University, Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering and University of Washington, Master of Science, Construction Management

What is your business motto?

It might seem intimidating to network with new people, make new connections, establish your footing in the industry or ask for help and advice. But I always remind myself - the worst thing they could tell you is “no”. If that’s the worst thing, then you can prepare yourself for any situation. A large majority of the time, you won’t hear the word “no”. People are generally welcoming enough to connect, make relationships and guide you. They were all in your shoes at one point in time.

When did you first become interested in your career path?

I have always had an interest in the built environment. I didn’t fully know in what capacity, but I knew I wanted to be involved in constructing things. I pursued my undergraduate degree in civil engineering, and gained a thorough understanding of how things are built. Yet, I wanted more exposure to physically building them. Finding “preconstruction” was seemingly the perfect balance – using my engineering background but being able to be a part of how they get built.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? Least rewarding?

It is always extremely rewarding to see a project transform from a mere concept to a fully built structure. Knowing that I had a part in that happening is still something that doesn’t fully resonate. I am at a point in my career where I have seen a project from its infancy to now being fully operational and you can drive by that project and say “I had a part in that” – it’s a great feeling.

The least rewarding part of my job is when we spend a lot of time on a competitive pursuit and turn out not to be successful. That is the nature of the business – you won’t win them all. But it motivates you to work hard on the next project and maybe approach it a little differently. We’re in the business of constant evolution and growth.

What is your biggest daily challenge?

Working in preconstruction, I could have multiple projects on my plate at one time. It can be a challenge sometimes to navigate the workload and switch your brain from one project to another. But with good communication amongst your team and verbalizing when and where you might need some help, it becomes less of a challenge.

How do you inspire your colleagues?

I’d like to think that I inspire my colleagues to see the best in all situations. There are times when things can get frustrating, or situations might be difficult to deal with. I strive to find the silver lining in those moments. It’s important to take those moments, handle them the best you can, and develop ways to avoid or mitigate them in the future.

What goal are you currently striving to achieve?

I just recently finished my Master of Science in Construction Management degree from the University of Washington. It was a goal of mine for a while, and I finally took the leap in January 2022, completing it entirely online. Finding that balance of going back to school and working full time was tough, but I developed a routine and received great support from my colleagues.

What project are you currently working on?

I touch multiple projects at a time and throughout the year working in preconstruction. In our local Philadelphia market, we work on mainly higher education, life sciences and healthcare projects. I do have the opportunity to collaborate with other Skanska teams across the country and assist in the preconstruction process as well.

Do you have a life motto? If so, what is it?

Mine is definitely “life is too short”. I almost use it as an excuse to do anything, and it’s intentionally open-ended. Life is too short, reach out to that friend. Life is too short, take that trip. I don’t want to live life with any regrets, so I remind myself life is too short and to just go for it.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career?

I’ve learned that mistakes happen – and it’s how you react to them that means more than the mistake itself. Making a mistake means you’re human – which was something I struggled with being a self-proclaimed perfectionist. Once you make that mistake, you feel bad about it, you do your best to fix it and you learn from it. That is the lesson itself – take ownership and learn and grow from those mistakes. Feeling bad about the mistake and finding ways to rectify it shows you care, and that tends to go a long way in the end.

What is/was your favorite CLC event?

My favorite CLC events are the Hard Hat project tours. I think they’re a great way to not only see some local projects, but projects that some of your fellow CLC members have contributed to. They’re also a great way to connect with other people and learn about some projects you may not have been exposed to otherwise.

How do you find that participating in CLC activities benefits you?

It’s refreshing to know that there are other people just like you in the industry. It is a built-in network of like-minded individuals who also want to expand their network, establish new relationships, and connect with one another. It helps you gain confidence through natural networking and intentional learning opportunities. I’ve been able to expand my network while making some new friends along the way.

Do you have any advice for other CLC members/ young professionals who are looking to advance their career?

I have heard many people say to get involved and put yourself out there – which is definitely true. But I would take it a step further and say to be a sponge. It’s one thing to attend events but it’s another to be engaged and absorb as much as you can. Ask questions, show interest, and really take pride in learning about the industry you work in. You’ll be surprised at how many people are extremely receptive to that.

What is your favorite thing about being a member of GBCA?

Although it’s great to be a part of the CLC and expand my industry network, GBCA takes it the extra mile and truly wants to invest in our professional development and offer professional resources. They’re a great resource to developing yourself with many soft skills but also expose you to the latest knowledge and trends in the industry.