Meet Jim Michael, our Project Executive at Peak Construction.
With almost 20 years of industry experience, Jim Michael brings a wealth of knowledge to Peak Construction Corporation, overseeing large-scale projects and fostering collaboration across teams. His goal is to contribute to the success of the company by leveraging his vast experience in project management, problem-solving, and leadership.
Tell us about your role at Peak Construction.
I’m a Project Executive here at Peak, and I’ve had the privilege of being part of the team for nearly 20 years. I started as a Project Engineer and worked my way up, gaining experience across various roles. Today, I oversee project teams, manage large projects from start to finish, and guide our project managers and engineers. My role involves everything from helping with estimates and subcontractor selections to overseeing client relations and project execution. I’ve worn many hats during my time at Peak, which has given me a comprehensive understanding of our business and projects.
What inspired you to pursue a career in the construction field?
I grew up in the construction industry. My father was a field superintendent, and I spent weekends on job sites with him, helping out in small ways and learning from a young age. One memory that stands out is working on a hotel project with my dad when I was about 13, and later, as a Project Engineer, I found myself working on a similar project with the same foreman I had met years earlier. That experience, combined with my love for creating and building, drove me to pursue a career in construction. Every project is different, and I enjoy the challenge of seeing an idea go from concept to completion.
What do you enjoy most about working at Peak?
The culture here is what sets Peak apart. Even as we’ve grown from a small team of about 15 people to the larger company we are today, we’ve maintained a family-oriented environment. Everyone, from the leadership to the interns, knows each other, and there’s a real sense of camaraderie. I also appreciate that everyone here treats the company like it’s their own, which creates a strong sense of ownership and pride in the work we do.
What skills do you think are the most critical for success in your role?
Problem-solving is key. In my role, I need to handle challenges as they arise and find solutions that keep the project moving forward. I also believe in taking responsibility rather than passing the buck. Being a good mentor and leader is essential, too—helping our younger team members grow and succeed is something I take pride in. At Peak, we foster an environment where anyone can come to any of us with questions, and that openness is vital for our success.
Can you share a memorable experience you’ve had while working at Peak?
One of the most memorable projects I’ve worked on was the Hyatt House Hotel in Evanston. It was one of our first zero lot line projects, which meant we had to carefully coordinate every delivery and manage materials in a very tight space. It was an eight-story hotel with no room for staging, and every aspect of the project required meticulous planning. It was challenging, but also rewarding, and I learned a lot from that experience.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career in construction or at Peak?
Ask questions—no question is a bad one. I’ve seen that the people who ask for help or look for more work tend to succeed and have more opportunities for growth. It’s also important to take initiative. The more you learn, the more valuable you’ll become. Construction is all about problem-solving, so being curious and proactive will take you far.
What are your interests and passions outside of work?
Outside of work, I love being outdoors. I spend a lot of time working around my house and yard. We live on a small lake, so you’ll often find me out on our boat. I also love traveling with my wife—we’ve been to Ireland, the UK, Italy, and Germany in recent years. Being outdoors and exploring new places is a big part of what I enjoy when I’m not at work.
