On a construction site, we often talk about blueprints, materials, timelines and safety. But behind every structure that rises, there’s an invisible yet essential element: team cohesion. And at the heart of that cohesion, there’s a key role that often works behind the scenes with skill, firmness, and a whole lot of heart: the foreman.
Much more than a supervisor
At AGF, the foreman is not just the one who organizes the work or ensures deadlines are met. He’s the bridge between management and the teams on the ground. He translates corporate goals into concrete actions but most importantly, into human connections.
As Jean-Sébastien Richer, a foreman at AGF, puts it: “When a foreman takes care of his team, it creates a more pleasant atmosphere”. That concern for well-being goes far beyond technical tasks. He knows everyone’s names, strengths and challenges. He can tell when someone is tired, frustrated or losing motivation. He celebrates team wins, eases tension and acts as a steady anchor. Thanks to him, teams don’t just move in the same direction, they move forward together.
Building a climate of trust
Team cohesion on a job site doesn’t happen by decree, it’s built and it starts with trust. Jean-Sébastien emphasizes:
“It’s important to create a climate of trust where every employee feels comfortable speaking up if they notice something unusual or don’t feel well”.
A good foreman listens, especially when it comes to safety. He makes sure every worker knows they’ll be heard and supported. He provides clear communication and takes the time each morning to walk through the day’s plan so that “they know where they’re headed” . That clarity reduces misunderstandings and promotes collaboration.
He also makes a point of recognizing good work: “I always say thank you to my employees at the end of the day” . This small gesture has a big impact, Jean-Sébastien notes; it strengthens trust and fuels motivation within the team.
A hands-on leadership style
What sets a great AGF foreman apart is his presence. He doesn’t lead from a distance, he’s on-site, working at the same pace as his crew. He walks the site, chats with the team and makes sure everything is running smoothly. As Jean-Sébastien puts it:
“It helps maintain a close connection with every team member”.
This hands-on leadership style creates a respectful and human work environment. He coaches without judging, sets high standards without crushing people. When mistakes happen, he prefers a calm, constructive approach: what matters isn’t the error itself, but how the team learns and adapts.
The invisible engine behind collective performance
In an industry facing labor shortages, tight deadlines and uncompromising safety standards, the foremen play a strategic role. They’re the ones who create the right conditions for teams to stay united, engaged and productive.
“A team that feels good on the job site is a team that’s more willing to lend a hand”, Jean-Sébastien explains and this positive energy extends to the client. A well-run, calm, confident site inspires trust.
“We look motivated and in control. Not burned out or panicked”.
Builders of people
People often say foremen build structures but what’s sometimes overlooked is that they also build strong, united teams. Through their listening, presence and leadership, they shape more than concrete and steel, they bring the company’s culture to life.
At AGF, every well-executed project carries the subtle yet decisive mark of a construction foreman like Jean-Sébastien, who knows how to bring the right people together, at the right time and move them in the same direction.
Because in the end, that’s what true teamwork is all about: moving forward, knowing you can count on one another.