As a design-build professional, you’re no stranger to the pressures of delivering quality results in an industry increasingly driven by cost-cutting, tight timelines, and a race to the bottom. Yet, despite these challenges, the core values that once defined our work—quality, craftsmanship, and pride—are what ultimately elevate our projects and set us apart. But today, many of these values are at risk of being overshadowed by lower standards, subpar materials, and corner-cutting techniques.
So, how do we bring pride and meaning back to our work in a way that not only delivers superior results but also helps build a stronger, more cohesive society? The answer lies in raising our standards—standards that promote lasting beauty, meaningful craftsmanship, and a sense of pride in every aspect of what we do.
The Rhetoric of Rising: A Meritocracy That Fails the Workforce
In his book The Tyranny of Merit, Michael Sandel critiques the meritocratic system that has shaped much of our modern society. He explains how the “rhetoric of rising” encourages individuals to succeed based on their effort and abilities, but it fails to acknowledge the societal structures that limit growth and opportunity. This, Sandel argues, has led to deep divides, with many people feeling undervalued and without purpose.
This critique resonates strongly with what we see in the design-build industry today. We often frame success as the responsibility of the individual worker without recognizing the limitations placed on them by an industry that hasn’t kept up with the demands of modern construction. Too often, workers are left without the proper training, tools, or respect for their craft, leaving them feeling disillusioned and underappreciated.
But this isn’t just a moral failure—it’s a practical one, too. When we fail to raise our standards, we strip workers of the meaning and importance that are critical to their well-being and job satisfaction. A lack of pride in one’s work can lead to disengagement, burnout, and, ultimately, poor results.
Rebuilding with Elevated Standards
At Spengler Industries, we believe that the path forward lies in elevating the standards of our industry—standards that go beyond just the basics of safety and functionality. We’re talking about a commitment to excellence, craftsmanship, and beauty. The materials we choose, the way we design, and the attention to detail we apply in every project all contribute to the bigger picture of what we leave behind.
Consider this example: A master roofer in Germany works on a well-constructed scaffolding system—an expensive and labor-intensive setup designed to ensure both safety and efficiency. Compare that to the U.S. worker balancing on a flimsy ladder, with limited support and equipment. This isn’t just a difference in technique—it speaks volumes about the priorities of the industry. One system tells workers that their safety and dignity matter, and that repairs should be infrequent, permanent solutions should be the goal. The other normalizes impermanence, quick fixes, and constant repairs.
This is where we can make a change. By elevating our standards, we show our workers that their efforts are valuable. We equip them with the training, tools, and systems they need to perform their work to the highest standards. And when we do this, we can restore pride in the craft.
Beauty, Pride, and Social Cohesion
What does this mean for the design-build industry as a whole? It means that when we invest in beauty and craftsmanship, we don’t just create stunning structures—we create a sense of pride in the work that is done. This pride is crucial for fostering social cohesion, which our country desperately needs now more than ever. When workers feel valued and their contributions are respected, it goes beyond the project at hand—it helps build stronger communities, a more skilled workforce, and a more cohesive society.
At Spengler Industries, we see ourselves as part of a movement—one that pushes for higher standards in every aspect of design and construction. By embracing beauty, elevating craftsmanship, and restoring pride to the workforce, we can help drive the industry toward long-term sustainability, innovation, and excellence.
How Spengler Industries Is Leading the Way
Spengler Industries is committed to helping design-build teams achieve this vision. We provide tailored solutions for high-end metal roofing and cladding systems, ensuring every project meets the highest standards of durability, beauty, and performance. Our products are made to order, ensuring a perfect fit for each unique project. We also offer consulting services and training programs to help teams raise their skills and standards, ensuring that every part of the process is handled with expertise.
When you partner with Spengler Industries, you’re not just choosing a supplier—you’re choosing a company that believes in elevating the industry. Together, we can help you overcome the race to the bottom and redefine what success looks like in the design-build world.
The Path Forward: A Call to Action
As design-build professionals, we have the power to shape the future of our industry. By elevating standards, prioritizing craftsmanship, and investing in beauty, we can build a better, more sustainable world. It starts with a commitment to raising the bar—for our workers, for our communities, and for the industry as a whole.
Let’s work together to elevate the design-build industry and create a legacy of excellence.