With three decades of experience in engineering, design and construction, Joel Klahn brings a uniquely comprehensive perspective coupled with considerable sensitivity to long-term client needs and wants with IPD/PDC integration for successful project implementation. Joel has successfully held roles and responsibilities in self-perform trade execution, design, preconstruction, operations and business unit start-ups. Project types and sizes span the gamut: $750M replacement hospital, pharma/higher education lab science projects, senior living, community centers, K-12 and performance contracting. During his journey,
Joel has developed a seasoned and sound understanding of real-world competition of scarce resources vs. needs and wants as projects evolve: initial conception through project startup/activation or first patient treated. Joel has successfully led large project teams for multi-year assignments in IPD environments as well played the role of Superintendent and PM on micro projects. This diverse set of project experiences has allowed Joel to embark on a unique and experienced-based journey into the arena of Lean Construction. Having spoken before regional and national audiences for prestigious organizations such as COAA, Tradeline, Midwest Real Estate, AIA and many institutions of higher education such as Northwestern University, University of Chicago, and Northern Michigan University, Joel has contributed to creating and nurturing a collaborative mindset wherein the best in all team members can be brought to bear on project endeavors.
Since the early 2000’s, Joel has developed an experience-based perspective on applying Lean principles and practices within a wide range of project types and delivery models, with trade contractors of all sizes and sophistication. He has pioneered the application of Pull Planning in the high-end luxury residential market consulting for firms of the highest caliber and reputation domestically and abroad.
Joel has held successful senior leadership roles at three national, top-of-the-market builders and construction managers as well as served in keys senior executive roles overseeing operations for Midwest-based builders. He has led firm-wide quality management and regional training programs in the days when programs were practitioner-led with internal and external subject-matter experts. He has led penetration teams into new markets and geographies as well as completed operations in remote locations as a result of missed performance expectations.
