“I Knew I Had Come to the Right Place”: LeAnne Carstens on Her KA Career

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1691697966815{margin-bottom: -20px !important;}”]Senior Project Coordinator LeAnne Carstens has tackled a lot of interesting challenges in her 32 years at Kraus-Anderson. Her first day on the job was the day of the infamous Twin Cities Halloween Blizzard of 1991; that morning she left home very early to make it to work on time, and she’s taken on the diverse challenges of our industry with positivity and determination ever since. This week we share some insights into her 32-year KA career.

You switched career paths to join KA. What made you interested in coming here?

LEANNE CARSTENS: 100 percent, it was KA’s reputation. While I had no background in construction, at the time it was well known that if you worked at KA you would be treated well, with respect and kindness.

You were new to the project coordinator role. How did you learn the ropes?

LEANNE CARSTENS: There was no formal training. “Here’s your desk, here’s your computer, here is a manual of forms.” Getting to know your co-workers was the way to learn the ropes.

Who were your early mentors at KA? What did they teach you?

LEANNE CARSTENS: Curious by nature, I looked for every opportunity to learn about construction- understanding the trades work, construction jargon, blueprints. I have been very fortunate to have project managers who willingly shared their expertise- Chris Dokken, Lyn Ringold, Dave Rollins, John Solberg, Jim Beckwith, Craig Francois. And let’s not forget our field. With the knowledge and friendship of some of the best– Dennis Feela, Dave Brostrom, Barry Dahlin, Brian Kobow, Ben Mergens, Dan Rothbauer– I have completed many home repair and improvement projects on my own. I have skills!

What was your impression of then-KA Chairman and CEO Lloyd Engelsma?

LEANNE CARSTENS: I had the privilege of being introduced to Lloyd early on. Intimidating in stature but one of the most genuine people I have ever met. In my first week at KA, Lloyd called me by my first name and asked how I was doing. “Are they treating you right?” I knew I had come to the right place.

Over the years, you’ve worked with 38 project managers, 37 owners, 37 superintendents, 12 accountants, 23 architects, and numerous government agencies, subcontractors and other stakeholders. What have you learned about collaborating successfully and communicating effectively?

LEANNE CARSTENS: Success on projects is always a team effort; and not just within KA internally but with all of the stakeholders from concept through occupancy of any project.

You’ve worked with some very high-profile clients and projects. What were some of the distinctive challenges or considerations of these projects?

LEANNE CARSTENS: I worked on numerous jobsites for about 10-12 years. Some Construction Career Highlights:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”30680″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” css=”.vc_custom_1691697889232{margin-bottom: -20px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1691698065362{margin-bottom: -20px !important;}”]

Viking Lakes— This is a very high-profile client in Minnesota as well as nationwide. Many NFL League and team representatives visited throughout the construction process, looking at design and performance features. The corporate offices, the training fields, the performance stadium, and the museum all had their unique features, many one-of-a-kind. Branding was a really big deal. PR and media coverage was ever-present. KA’s image and our core values were always on display.

FBI Minneapolis Field Office— The confidentiality and security clearance requirements were significant for each and every person that worked on or visited the job site throughout the project. We interacted with agents and government officials daily. It was a little intimidating at first, and it took some time to establish trusted relationships.

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430 Oak Grove— Minneapolis- KA built the original building in the 1920s and was instrumental in making sure the historical integrity was preserved while renovating to current standards and repurposing to residential apartments.

You’ve been assigned to work directly on job sites for multiple projects. What is rewarding to you about being on the job site? What have you learned about that environment that inspires you?

LEANNE CARSTENS: It takes full commitment and collaboration of your team. Job sites present challenges and joy. Challenges- porta potties, mud and dirt, cold trailers with not many comforts of home. Joys- engaging with owners and subs regularly, earning their trust and respect. As you’re representing KA, they know you will always do the right thing and get it done. Another joy and a key to success is our FIELD PERSONNEL. I cannot say enough. You get up close and personal with their distinctive habits and perspectives, and friendships flourish.

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As you were mentored, you have also paid it forward. Talk about the importance of mentorship.

LEANNE CARSTENS: Hard skills are a given, so I try to focus on soft skills. Be engaging. Learn to talk to people face to face and relate to them on a personal level. Be a good listener. Be reminded that mistakes and criticism are self-confidence builders, not detractors. Be open to sharing your knowledge, and most of all, be kind.

Tech tools come and go, and continuing education and training are part of our routine. But beyond these levels of expertise, what are the essential qualities a person must have or develop to succeed at the PC’s work?

LEANNE CARSTENS: You have to be a mother, a teacher, a multi-tasker, a self-starter, have the patience of Job, and keep a positive attitude when meeting challenges.

Looking back at your entire career, what advice would you give your younger self just as you were coming into this career path?

LEANNE CARSTENS: From my dad— Do your best, and when you think you have done that, do a little more. Always be the first to raise your hand.

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