The Evolution of Character in the Construction Industry

After 40 years in construction, the author reflects on the industry's shift towards embracing character and professionalism.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Brian T. King, the founder and CEO of A M King, a leading integrated Design-Build firm, reflects on his 40-year career in the construction industry. He recalls how the industry was once perceived as lacking in character and integrity, but has since undergone a significant transformation towards embracing professionalism, collaboration, and the importance of individual character.

Why it matters

The construction industry has long struggled with a reputation for dishonesty and a lack of integrity. However, as the industry has evolved, there has been a concerted effort to improve its image and emphasize the importance of character and ethical behavior. This shift has implications for the types of projects that are awarded, the way teams collaborate, and the overall professionalism of the industry.

The details

When King was a college student in the 1980s, he was told by a professor that the construction industry had an "image problem" and that contractors were often perceived as dishonest and untrustworthy. Over the course of his career, King has witnessed a significant shift in the industry's approach to character and integrity. He attributes this change to a few key factors: a desire for greater collaboration and team-building, the proliferation of construction management education programs, and a growing recognition that a lack of character can negatively impact a company's bottom line. Today, King sees an industry that is more professional, better educated, and less tolerant of individuals who exhibit poor character.

  • In the fall of 1985, King was a student at the University of Florida, just weeks away from completing his degree in Building Construction.
  • January 2026 marks 40 years since King started his professional construction career.
  • Over the past 40 years, King has had the opportunity to manage hundreds of individuals in the construction industry.

The players

Brian T. King

The founder and CEO of A M King, a leading integrated Design-Build firm with offices in Charlotte, NC, Greenville, SC, and Chicago, IL. An employee-owned company, A M King provides multiple services required of highly complex facilities in niche markets throughout the United States.

University of Florida

The university where King earned his degree in Building Construction in the 1980s.

A M King

The leading integrated Design-Build firm founded by King, which provides multiple services required of highly complex facilities in niche markets throughout the United States.

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What they’re saying

“When you tell people you are a contractor, most of them will immediately assume that you are dishonest and can't be trusted.”

— King's professor, Retired contractor (University of Florida)

“Character skills enable you to transcend that tendency to be true to your principles. It's not about the traits you have, it's about what you decide to do with them. Talent sets the floor, but character sets the ceiling.”

— Adam Grant (Hidden Potential)

The takeaway

The construction industry has undergone a significant transformation over the past 40 years, shifting towards a greater emphasis on professionalism, collaboration, and the importance of individual character. This shift has implications for the types of projects that are awarded, the way teams work together, and the overall reputation and success of the industry.