We might have a similar origin story. In 2007, I graduated from Prairie View A&M University with a degree in Construction Science, ready to start my career. Then I got into the real world…and realized how much I didn't know. I had the degree. I knew the terminology. But understanding how drawings, people, processes, and the actual work in the field connected was completely different. About 90 days into my first job, I received a rough performance review. A few months later, I was let go. One comment from my coworkers stuck with me: “The work actually goes better when Byron is not around.” Imagine reading that at the beginning of your career. But that experience is a big part of why you're here today. It took me years to connect the dots. Over nearly 20 years, I've had the opportunity to work as a: • Project Engineer • Assistant Superintendent • Estimator • Assistant Project Manager • Quality Control Manager I've worked in the field, preconstruction, estimating, project management, construction technology, and quality. Eventually, construction started making sense differently. I wasn't just completing tasks anymore. I understood WHY we were doing them. I could open the drawings and know where to look. I could connect what was happening in the field to what I saw on the plans. I knew better questions to ask. And with that came confidence. That's why I built this community. I want to help shorten that learning curve for you. This isn't about memorizing a bunch of construction terms. We're going to use real drawings, real projects, real situations, and real conversations to help you develop the instincts that usually come from years of experience. Think of me as one of your mentors in the industry. Ask questions. Participate. Get things wrong. Learn from other members. And most importantly, take what you learn here back to your job. My goal is for you to eventually become the person on your team who understands what's happening, knows where to look, asks the right questions, and has the confidence to contribute.