Due Diligence: Getting to Know Jon Stukálin
We’re thrilled to share the next spotlight in our “Due Diligence: Getting To Know…”: Senior Project Manager Jon Stukálin in New York.
Macro: Tell us a bit about yourself, Jon.
Jon: I grew up in Queens, NY, and attended CUNY Baruch and City Tech College. Currently I live in Manhattan with my wife and our dog. I got into construction as a career change back in 2012, and learned the business through long hours on the job and night classes at NYU. I’ve been with Macro since late 2020.
Macro: What do you love most about your work?
Jon: It’s hard to single out one thing, but a big reason I love my job comes down to the people I work with. I enjoy working with such a range of project stakeholders from different backgrounds—clients, designers, consultants, CMs, and more—and being the bridge between them is awesome. I love working towards a common goal with a project team that is greater than the sum of all its parts.
Macro: What is your favorite part of the project life cycle?
Jon: Construction. Prior to Macro I spent most of my career working for General Contractors. I enjoy watching months (or even years in some cases) of planning and design come to life as a tangible asset.
Macro: What is the one thing you couldn’t make it through the day without?
Jon: Family.
Macro: What are your tried-and-true “work hacks?”
Jon: Don’t take anything personal, always have a Plan B and C, treat everyone with respect regardless of title, and keep a sense of humor.
Macro: What hard and soft skills do you use most in your day-to-day work?
Jon: Technical knowledge of design, construction, and estimating, computer software including various scheduling programs, and math when it comes to cost management and financial aspects of the project. For soft skills, I often lean on leadership, communication, organizational skills, and the ability to relate to people.
Macro: What surprises people about your job?
Jon: A lot of people think that in our industry you get things done by pounding your chest and yelling. In most instances however, it actually takes a soft touch, finesse, and strong relationship building.
Macro: If you could give one piece of advice to a young professional, what would it be?
Jon: Never stop learning and recognize when a good opportunity presents itself—then go after it.
Macro: Describe yourself in 5 words or less.
Jon: Efficient.
