Constructing Careers: How Shiel Sexton Creates More Than Buildings Through Upskilling

Shiel Sexton has been shaping Indiana’s skyline since 1962, when founders Andy Schiel and Tim Sexton launched the company as a small construction management and general contracting firm. Today, the employee-owned organization has grown to nearly 480 employees and six offices in Central Indiana. Beyond building iconic projects like Gainbridge Fieldhouse renovations, the new downtown Ritz-Carlton Hotel and Live Nation music venue, and Purdue’s Academic Success Building, Shiel Sexton is also building something equally important, careers.

From the very beginning, Shiel Sexton has embraced upskilling as a core part of its culture. “The only way we were going to be able to grow and retain our clients is if we continue to train our employees and build on their skills,” says Ali Wuensch, Marketing Director at Shiel Sexton. What began informally decades ago is now a robust, structured program. Employees have access to onboarding tracks, mentorship opportunities, and a learning management system with 99 courses, plus leadership development programs, safety training, and monthly Power Skills workshops focused on soft skills like growth mindset.

The company offers clear career paths, from internships to executive roles. Interns participate in hands-on projects and presentations, often leading to full-time positions. For employees, upskilling directly impacts advancement and compensation. “The internship program gave me the chance to explore different divisions and discover what I truly wanted to do,” says Brandon Kail, now a Project Engineer Intern. “Those experiences, and the trust my mentors placed in me, made it clear Shiel Sexton was the right place to grow.”

The impact is clear: Shiel Sexton promotes an average of 45 employees each year, and many of its leaders began in entry-level roles, including the current CEO who started as an intern. Long-term loyalty is another benefit. 43 employees have been with the company for over 25 years, and 20 for more than 30 years. Upskilling has also strengthened client relationships, as retention improves when clients work with familiar, experienced teams.

For companies considering similar initiatives, Wuensch offers clear advice: “I don’t see any downside. The cost of hiring new people is astronomical compared to investing in the people you have.” Upskilling not only reduces turnover but also ensures employees stay engaged and adaptable in an industry that spans both old-school craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology.

At Shiel Sexton, building careers is just as important as building structures, and that commitment is laying the foundation for long-term success.

To learn more about Shiel Sexton, visit shielsexton.com.

Power Up Indiana is a new incentive program rewarding employers to grow wages, build stronger teams, and turn talent development into a long-term business advantage. To learn more about Power Up Indiana, visit powerup.dwd.in.gov.