Expanding the Definition of a Construction Career

Finding His Path: From Jobsite to Boardroom

At 18 years old, Brandon Visser entered the construction industry, not out of long-term ambition, but simply as a means to help fund his university education. His sights were originally set on a career in architecture, intending to pursue that path after completing his Industrial Design degree at Emily Carr University of Art + Design (ECUAD). Fast forward four years, Brandon’s journey took shape in a woodshop, where he worked as a carpenter building and installing millwork. From there, he transitioned into both commercial and residential construction, gradually honing his craft and broadening his skillset.

His path to Kindred Construction was shaped by the company’s strong reputation and a connection with a long-standing employee, an introduction that ultimately led to the next chapter in his career. “I wanted to be situated where I could grow, personally and professionally, over a long period of time. I’ve had three jobs my entire life, and Kindred is where I plan to stay,” says Brandon. He quickly experienced Kindred’s commitment to the professional growth of its people, steadily working his way up from carpenter to foreman, and eventually to assistant superintendent. Along the way, he’s contributed to high-profile mixed-use, multi-family, and institutional projects, such as 50 Electronic Avenue and Vienna House, gaining valuable experience on jobsites while building a meaningful career.

The excitement and challenge of bringing order to the dynamic, and at times “chaotic”, nature of a construction site is what Brandon enjoyed most. There’s a unique sense of pride in turning what some might see as hard, dirty work into a place people genuinely want to be. “It’s a special and gratifying feeling,” he says, “to create an environment where people feel valued, appreciated, and part of a team.” Construction can be tough, physically demanding work, but Brandon believes that with the right leadership and culture, it can transform into a positive, energizing space that people are proud to be part of.

For him, contributing to the built environment is both meaningful and rewarding. Watching a design concept evolve into a physical space, and witnessing the positive impact it has on communities and the lives of those who live there, is one of the most impressive and fulfilling aspects of the work.

Stepping into Corporate Culture: Becoming a Business Development Manager

The move from site to head office was sparked by Brandon’s natural curiosity and forward-thinking mindset. He found himself constantly thinking about what was next for Kindred’s portfolio, and more specifically, which new projects he wanted to help bring to life. Driven by a genuine interest in what was coming down the pipeline, he began sifting through drawings and reviewing the various projects Kindred was pursuing or bidding on.

Encouraged by Bryan Reid, Kindred Construction’s President and Head of Business Development, Brandon opened himself up to a new challenge, stepping into a client-facing, sales-focused position as business development manager. “I saw this transition as a chance to grow within what I had thought to be a very linear career progression,” he reflects.

That decision exposed Brandon to a new side of the business. He was given the opportunity to be part of early conversations on prospective projects, contribute to the proposal process, and observe firsthand how new work is brought onto the Kindred team.

Though the settings are drastically different, Brandon recognizes the transferable skills from his time as an assistant superintendent, particularly in creating urgency, maintaining momentum, and coordinating diverse teams toward a common goal, that continue to serve him in his role as business development manager. “When you’re in the driver’s seat on site, you set the cadence that the broader team works to keep pace with,” he explains. “I’m trying to recreate that same experience for myself by helping move projects forward through the proposal process. It’s still early, and I’m very much in a space of learning, but I’m excited by the challenge.”

Alongside the new responsibilities, Brandon found a deeper connection to the meaning behind the work. “I think the idea of ‘home’ is one of the most deep-rooted human experiences,” he remarks. It is the ability to be directly involved in creating that sense of home, particularly for vulnerable individuals seeking affordable housing, that excites him most about his new position in business development. This opportunity has given him a renewed sense of gratification and perspective, not just on his own work, but on the industry, as he has had the chance to engage with varying groups, each exploring different ways to address the idea of “home.”

Brandon credits his approach to business development to the experience he gained on the ground. Having worked hands-on in the field, he brings a practical understanding to the conversations he now has with prospective clients, many of whom are envisioning the very types of projects he once helped build.

“That experience resonates with people,” he says. “I think it creates something tangible. I’m not a salesman, I’m a carpenter.”

Lessons in Leadership

Working closely alongside Bryan Reid, Brandon is learning to navigate the different dynamics that come with the new role. Most importantly, success in client acquisition and relationship-building lies not in volume, but in alignment. It’s about recognizing when there’s potential for a meaningful partnership, one that reflects both partners’ values, supports a long-term vision, and contributes to the sustainable development of the communities it serves.

To guide his approach, Brandon focuses on asking thoughtful questions like, “Does this project or relationship align with our goals as a company?” “How can we add value to the client’s vision and experience?” and “Will it positively impact the community or help advance standards in sustainable construction across BC?”

Brandon also acknowledges that leading yourself can be just as challenging as leading others. He’s come to recognize the importance of self-direction and accountability in this new position, noting that self-leadership has been one of the steepest learning curves so far. He now has the autonomy to shape the role around his strengths and what he believes will support both his success and the company’s growth.

“Kindred’s #teambuilt culture is all about putting people first,” Brandon explains. It creates space for employees to grow and take ownership of their careers in ways that align with both individual strengths and company goals.

Guidance for Emerging Construction Professionals

From the outside, construction is often misunderstood as little more than hard, dirty work. Brandon encourages people to challenge this misconception and instead see the industry through the lens of being a stakeholder in shaping and improving the communities around us.

“Being able to tangibly witness the efforts you’re putting into your work, from the start to the final build of a project, is extremely rewarding,” he says. Those who step into the industry will quickly discover groups of like-minded individuals who are passionate about architecture and the art of building, communities where the work is approached with thoughtfulness, creativity, and a level of care that far exceeds the stereotype.

As we navigate a time marked by population growth, economic pressure, and aging infrastructure, the construction industry is only becoming more dynamic, and more valuable. Brandon believes that for the next generation, construction offers meaningful opportunities to be part of real solutions that shape our cities. It’s a career path that not only provides financial stability but also delivers a strong sense of purpose and self-worth.

The industry is constantly evolving, whether through emerging technologies or innovative construction methods, which makes adaptability essential. Brandon emphasizes the importance of approaching construction with the mindset of a lifelong student: staying curious, open, and willing to learn in order to succeed in this transformative space.

“We’re currently in a very volatile period, but that’s part of the job,” Brandon says. “A key aspect of business development is shaping Kindred’s project portfolio in a way that positions us to navigate these turbulent waters effectively.”

As Brandon settles into his role in business development, he continues to draw on the same practical mindset and hands-on experience that first brought him into the industry, focused on supporting strategic work, building strong relationships, and contributing to projects that matter.