As VPCS celebrates its 30-year anniversary, we are taking time to reflect on what has sustained our work across three decades. While project delivery methods have changed over time, our commitment to our team has not.
Each quarter, we bring our team together for in-person CM/PM 101 training sessions. With team members located throughout California, these gatherings give us the opportunity to step away from our day-to-day responsibilities, strengthen relationships and invest in professional development together. They are as much about team connection as they are about learning, and both are essential to doing our work well.
This quarter’s session created space for reflection and connection across project coordinator, program manager and construction manager cohorts. Each cohort was encouraged to discuss their roles and identify what they do well and where they can improve. Regardless of the cohort, the goal was the same: understanding how each role contributes to our success as a whole.
A few themes were discussed throughout the day, all of which reinforce an important balance that shows up in strong teams:
- Ownership does not mean doing everything alone. Take initiative while also knowing when to delegate and ask for help.
- A growth mindset supports learning and long-term success.
- Team members thrive when proactive, direct communication is paired with clear expectations.
- Confidence in a role grows through clarity. Understanding responsibilities helps people work more effectively and make better decisions.
- Consistency builds trust.
As we look ahead, our focus remains the same as it has been for the past 30 years. We will continue investing in our people, strengthening our teams and showing up for our clients and communities with care and intention. That commitment is at the core of The Van Pelt Way, and it is what has carried us this far. Here’s to 30 years of doing the work together, and to many more ahead.
January 30, 2026