In this powerful Mastering Workplace Culture conversation, David Mollitor Jr. shares the remarkable journey of transforming Consolidated Electrical Contractors (CEC) from a traditionally hard‑driving construction company into a people‑first, values‑anchored organization. This episode highlights a rare behind‑the‑scenes look at a blue‑collar business choosing respect, clarity, and cultural consistency over outdated pressure tactics that once dominated the industry.
David walks us through saving 15 jobs in the mid‑90s, navigating explosive growth followed by a devastating recession, and rebuilding a company where 200 employee‑owners now contribute to a shared legacy. You'll hear how a call to Ken Blanchard reshaped the company's direction, why CEC committed to cultural accountability, and how one leader known for intensity became one of the company's strongest culture champions.
You'll also experience vulnerable reflections on leadership, organizational rebirth, employee ownership, and the deeply personal shift that led David to redefine success—not through volume or status, but through meaningful impact on people's lives. The episode closes with a heartwarming look at his newest role: becoming a grandfather and watching the next generation grow.
This story is a reminder that culture is not a slogan—it is a daily commitment, a leadership discipline, and a long‑term investment in human potential.
⏱️ Key Moments
00:00–02:30 — Introductions + David's early career
02:30–06:00 — Saving 15 employees and restarting an aging company
06:00–09:00 — Confronting entrenched construction‑industry behavior
09:00–14:00 — Rapid growth, hard lessons, and the recession crash
14:00–17:00 — The "do‑over" mindset and discovering Gung Ho!
17:00–19:00 — The pivotal call to Ken Blanchard
19:00–24:00 — Acknowledging the need for cultural reconstruction
24:00–29:00 — Managing skepticism and blue‑collar resistance
29:00–34:00 — Aligning the executive team with values and behaviors
34:00–39:00 — A major leadership transformation inside CEC
39:00–42:00 — Training breakthroughs and real‑time behavior practice
42:00–48:00 — Why culture requires intentional professional guidance
48:00–53:00 — Leadership legacy and redefining personal success
53:00–57:00 — The emotional impact of a people‑centered company
57:00–59:00 — David welcomes a new chapter as a grandfather
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