A Day in the Life of our Planning Manager

Meet Garret Jackson, Kapitol’s Planning Manager. Read more about what a Planning Manager does in construction and what Garret’s day-to-day looks like.

What are your role’s key responsibilities?
I manage all aspects of Construction Planning, from new business and project delivery to software innovation and growing the team.

What drew you to this type of role in the construction industry?
The unique opportunity to be involved in all aspects of a construction project’s lifecycle, from the initial planning stages to the finished product. I enjoy the fast-paced, creative nature of planning and I appreciate the ability to put my individual stamp on each project.

How do you handle changes or modifications to project plans during construction?
My approach is to stay calm, thoroughly understand and analyse the new facts, collaborate with the team, mitigate where possible, and communicate effectively to achieve the best possible outcome for all stakeholders involved.

Do you visit sites for inspections to assess project progress? If yes, what does this involve?
Site visits play a crucial role in actively supporting project teams, as the fresh perspective they offer can bring tremendous value. These visits provide a first-hand understanding of the project’s status, enabling us to offer guidance and identify any potential issues or bottlenecks. Additionally, personal site visits allow us to build relationships and establish rapport with the site team, fostering effective communication and collaboration throughout the project. Fortunately for the busier weeks, Kapitol has implemented helpful tools like OpenSpace, which allows us to walk the job virtually without leaving the office.

How do you see your role evolving with the development of technology in the industry?
I’m all for it! I believe that AI will play an increasingly pivotal and positive role in the construction industry, making a planner’s day-to-day tasks more efficient – allowing us to manage a greater workload and focus on each project’s intricacies to make better-informed, human-centred decisions. This will also mean staying sharp, with continuous learning and adaption to effectively operate the advanced technology.

What are some initiatives and/or developments that have occurred at Kapitol that has positively impacted your role?
Kapitol’s agile nature and focus on technology initiatives greatly influence me. We recognise the importance of embracing technological advancements in the construction industry. By actively promoting and investing in technology, Kapitol allows me to leverage cutting-edge tools and solutions to enhance efficiency, collaboration, and decision-making in my role as a planner. This emphasis on technology sets Kapitol apart in the industry and enables us to stay ahead of the curve.

I also recently became a member of the Reconciliation Action Group, which focuses on promoting reconciliation, cultural awareness, and creating opportunities for Indigenous communities. Being part of this group aligns with my values and allows me to contribute to initiatives that go beyond my day-to-day responsibilities.

If your role didn’t exist how would it impact the project?
Imagine you ran a marathon without any preparation for your timing or route. You manage to complete the race, but you didn’t get a good time, you injured your knee, and you didn’t get that all-important social media post! But it’s not a marathon, it’s a $200 million construction project!

What advice do you give to people looking to explore a career in construction?
It’s simple; just go for it! The construction industry has endless opportunities and is rapidly becoming a diverse and inclusive industry with a focus on environmental, sustainable, and social impact. Whether you’re interested in planning, engineering, project management, architecture, sustainability, or technology, there’s a place for you to drive projects and change.