With over 15 years of experience in recruiting, human resources, and workforce development, Hernando has used his passion for people and their careers to support organizations across various markets prior to coming to Barton Malow. Hernando is also a veteran of the United States Army and a current Army Reserve member. Learn more about the work Hernando does at Barton Malow and how he supports other veterans and service members below.
What is your role at Barton Malow?
As a Workforce Development Manager, I oversee and coordinate the efforts helping to bring more people into the trades at Barton Malow, and the industry as a whole. This includes outreach, storytelling, and engaging with governmental and non-governmental organizations to assist with those efforts. I also play a role in our Diversity, Equity, + Inclusion (DE+I) strategy by engaging marginalized communities and underutilized pipelines to meet our workforce needs.
How did you end up choosing a career in the construction industry?
I used to work on houses with my grandfather when I was younger. Still, to this day, I’m the handyman among my family and friends. Barton Malow’s placard has been present everywhere in Detroit for as long as I can remember, so it wasn’t a difficult decision to want to be a part of this legacy.
What stood out to you the most about Barton Malow compared to other available opportunities?
The people. Everyone I talked to before, during, and after my interview process had nothing but nice things to say about Barton Malow. In fact, when I talked to people outside the industry, they heard nothing but positives as well. That’s hard to come by and reflects positively on the culture and their commitment to taking care of people.
Just For Fun
What’s your favorite sports team?
University of Michigan Wolverines (Football and Basketball…GO BLUE!!!)
Favorite board/card game
Spades…I’m slamming Jokers and breaking tables!
Does pineapple belong on pizza?
That’s Blasphemous…NO!!!
NFL or College Football?
College Football…They play with more passion and the crowds are hyper
If you were a pro ball player, what would your batting walk-up music be?
Probably something Young Jeezy related…gets me hype and motivated!
What is your favorite thing about your job?
Seeing the lightbulbs go off for students and adults during the outreach events. For the longest time, the perception and push was for college to be the primary and only way to prosperity. Being part of that paradigm shift of presenting options and exposing others to opportunities is refreshing. Additionally, seeing familiar faces and them remembering you for something positive is a plus.
If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing and why?
Employee Relations in a Human Resources (HR) Department, or back to my Army HR role. I enjoy taking care of people because they are an organization’s most valuable asset. The better you take care of people, the better they’ll take care of you. I love adding value that way.
How would you describe your career path at Barton Malow?
Insightful. Transitioning from Human Resources + Labor Relations to Community Engagement was a welcomed change that would allow me to reach a wider audience, influence more people, and add more tools to my kit bag. As I continue to progress, I’m looking forward to helping grow the organization and make a difference in people’s lives.
What’s a hidden talent you possess?
I don’t think it’s hidden at this point, but I’m a pretty good dancer. I used to be on a Hip Hop dance team at the University of Michigan and haven’t lost my rhythm too much. Funk Music, Hustle Songs, Detroit Club Mixes…That’s how you get me started. And yes…I know the Tamia Hustle!
Prior to getting into construction, what experience do you feel prepared you the most for your current role at Barton Malow?
All my Human Resources and Army experiences. My role requires a lot of interpersonal skills to deal with and meet people where they are, network, and to build rapport. There’s the project management component with coordinating events and with various offices and agencies.
Do you participate in any communities or groups within Barton Malow outside of your assigned job duties?
Absolutely! I’m a member of the Veteran Team Member Network and the Skilled Trades DE+I Council. Both have been great for allowing me to network with other like-minded team members across the enterprise.
Are you involved with any professional or community organizations?
A few! I serve on a few Workforce Development and DE+I-related boards and committees at the city, state, county, and organizational levels. I’m the Treasurer of Autism and Us, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide a nurturing and Inclusive space for parents and caregivers of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). I’m a member of numerous fraternal organizations, including Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and St. Mary’s Lodge #4 under the auspices of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Michigan. I’m a Field Grade Officer in the United States Army Reserves.
What is something you geek out about?
Anime and U-M Football. I watch both a lot so I get very excited about both topics.
What is the most interesting fact that you know?
Registered Apprenticeships play a huge role in providing paths toward high-paying career opportunities and creating a pipeline of new talent in construction.
Technical Sales Manager:
Amanda Pacheco
After starting at Barton Malow as an Intern, Amanda Pacheco has held various roles ranging from Preconstruction to Project Manager. In her current role, she works to help identify new projects and new markets for Barton Malow.
Construction Management Intern:
Joe Holland
One of the many interns Barton Malow welcomes each summer, Joe Holland was placed on the Football Operations Center project at the University of Virginia. As a student-athlete playing as an outside linebacker on UVA’s football team, Joe will use the end product bringing his internship full circle.
Safety Manager:
Steve Sisler
Steve has worked in residential construction and as an operator prior to joining Barton Malow in 2020 as a Construction Safety Manager. With nearly a decade of experience, Steve helps provide guidance to make sure everyone makes it home safely.
Project Engineer: Abi Richardson
Abi started her career at Barton Malow in 2018 as a LEAPS intern while completing her degree at the University of Virginia (UVA). Since graduating, she’s worked on projects at her alma mater and throughout the Charlottesville community.
Superintendent Octavous Crosby
Octavous has been with Barton Malow for over 20 years, starting his career as a Carpenter Journeyman before transitioning into a role as Construction Superintendent.
