An Interview with Charles Wholey Construction Superintendent

Charles Wholey is a dedicated construction superintendent based in Reno and Carson City, Nevada, with a strong background in construction management, safety compliance, and customer service. Raised in a family with deep roots in the construction industry, he learned the value of hard work and leadership from his father, Byron Wholey, who owned and operated Wholey Construction.

A graduate of North Valleys High School, Charles pursued higher education with a focus on construction and applied sciences. He earned an Associate of Science from Truckee Meadows Community College in 2020, an Associate of Applied Science in Technology from Western Nevada College in 2021, and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Construction Management in 2023, graduating summa cum laude.

Professionally, Charles Wholey began as a Safety Officer and SWPPP Manager at CC Builders before advancing to his current role as Construction Superintendent at LT Builders. Beyond his career, he is an active community member, volunteering for local organizations and environmental initiatives. A passionate outdoorsman, he enjoys camping, golf, and snowboarding. His commitment to excellence, leadership, and community involvement makes him a respected figure in the construction industry.

What inspired you to pursue a career in construction management? 

Growing up in a family where construction was a way of life, I was drawn to it from an early age. My father, Byron Wholey, owned and operated Wholey Construction, and I spent countless hours watching him manage projects, solve problems, and create something tangible from the ground up. That sense of building—not just structures, but a reputation for quality and integrity—stuck with me. It wasn’t just about laying bricks or pouring concrete; it was about the process, the leadership, and the satisfaction of completing something that would stand the test of time. As I got older, I realized I wanted to take what I learned and apply it on a broader scale, ensuring projects run smoothly, safely, and efficiently.

How did your athletic upbringing influence your work ethic in the construction industry? 

Sports taught me discipline, teamwork, and resilience—qualities that are essential in construction management. My brothers, Tim and Ryan, were college athletes, and competition was always a part of our lives. Whether it was a pickup game in the backyard or a serious match, we pushed ourselves to be better. That mindset carried over into my career. Construction is a team effort; no project is completed alone. You have to trust the people you work with, communicate effectively, and push through challenges when things don’t go as planned. Just like in sports, success in construction is about preparation, execution, and being able to adapt in real time.

You’ve pursued multiple degrees in construction management and applied sciences. What motivated you to keep advancing your education? 

I’ve always believed that knowledge is one of the greatest tools you can have. While hands-on experience in construction is invaluable, understanding the science, technology, and management strategies behind it gives you an edge. Earning my Associate of Science from Truckee Meadows Community College was a great foundation, but I wanted to take it further, which led me to an Associate of Applied Science in Technology at Western Nevada College. Still, I knew I could push myself more, and that’s why I pursued my Bachelor of Applied Science in Construction Management, graduating summa cum laude. My motivation was simple—I wanted to be the best version of myself, not just for my career but for the teams I lead and the projects I oversee.

What are the biggest challenges you face as a construction superintendent? 

Every project presents a new set of challenges, but I’d say the biggest ones are time management, unforeseen obstacles, and maintaining safety standards while keeping the job moving forward. Construction sites are dynamic environments—weather conditions, supply chain delays, or unexpected structural issues can all throw a wrench into even the best-laid plans. It’s my job to anticipate these problems, find solutions, and ensure that everything stays on track. Another major challenge is balancing the needs of multiple teams—contractors, engineers, and clients—while keeping communication clear and effective. The key is staying adaptable, keeping a cool head under pressure, and ensuring that safety remains the top priority.

You’ve worked as a Safety Officer and SWPPP Manager. How do these roles impact your perspective on job site management? 

Safety is the foundation of everything we do. Before I stepped into my role as a superintendent, I spent time as a Safety Officer and a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Manager. That experience gave me a deep understanding of the importance of compliance, risk mitigation, and proactive problem-solving. When you’re managing a construction site, you’re responsible for more than just deadlines—you’re responsible for lives. Those roles taught me that safety isn’t just about following regulations; it’s about creating a culture where every worker feels accountable and empowered to maintain a secure environment. Now, as a superintendent, I bring that mindset to every project, making sure that safety and efficiency go hand in hand.

What’s the most rewarding project you’ve worked on in your career so far? 

There have been many projects I’m proud of, but one that stands out involved revitalizing a commercial space that had been abandoned for years. The building was structurally unsound, and most people saw it as a lost cause. But our team took it as a challenge. We reinforced the structure, modernized the facilities, and transformed it into a vibrant, functional space. Seeing that project go from near demolition to a thriving business center was incredibly rewarding. It wasn’t just about building something new—it was about breathing life back into a space and knowing that we had a direct impact on the community.

How do you balance your demanding career with your passion for the outdoors and community involvement? 

It’s all about prioritization. Work will always be demanding, and in construction, the days can be long. But I make sure to carve out time for the things that keep me grounded—camping, golf, snowboarding, and giving back to the community. Whether it’s participating in the Lake Tahoe Cleanup, coaching basketball at Mendive Middle School, or helping set up at the Carson Tahoe Regional Medical Center farmers market, these activities bring balance to my life. I also find that being outdoors resets my mind and gives me clarity, which helps me approach work with a fresh perspective. When you love what you do, making time for both career and personal fulfillment becomes second nature.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in construction management? 

Never stop learning, and never be afraid to ask questions. Construction is an industry where experience is invaluable, but knowledge is just as important. If you’re starting out, surround yourself with people who have been in the field for years and learn from them. Ask why things are done a certain way, seek out mentors, and take advantage of every opportunity to expand your skill set. Also, be adaptable—construction isn’t predictable, and the best managers are those who can think on their feet and make informed decisions under pressure. Lastly, always respect the trade. Construction isn’t just about buildings; it’s about creating spaces where people will live, work, and make memories. Approach it with the same level of dedication and passion that you would any other craft.

If you weren’t in construction, what career path do you think you would have pursued? 

That’s a tough one because construction has always been a part of me. But if I had to choose, I think I would have ended up in something related to environmental conservation or engineering. I’ve always had a deep respect for nature, and I think I would have enjoyed a role focused on sustainability and environmental impact. Even in construction, I make an effort to integrate eco-friendly practices whenever possible, whether it’s through responsible site management or promoting sustainable building materials. At the end of the day, whether it’s construction or conservation, my goal would be the same—creating something lasting that benefits both people and the environment.

What legacy do you hope to leave in the construction industry? 

I want to be remembered as someone who led with integrity, passion, and a commitment to excellence. More than just completing projects, I want to inspire the next generation of builders and managers to take pride in their work, prioritize safety, and understand that construction is more than just a job—it’s a craft. If, at the end of my career, I can look back and know that I helped build not just great structures but great teams, then I’ll consider that a legacy worth leaving.

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