Biggest Challenges Faced By A Construction Project Manager At LAX
Early in Sebastian's career, the biggest challenge was "trying to prove that [they] deserved a seat at the table," stemming from imposter syndrome; however, mentorship and increased confidence mitigated this. More recently, navigating "different personalities" and numerous stakeholders at LAX, requiring careful negotiation and ensuring fair treatment of all, has become the primary challenge.
Project Management, Communication, Teamwork, Overcoming Challenges, Leadership
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Sebastian Potes
Construction Project Manager
Los Angeles World Airports
USC
MBA UCLA Anderson
Engineering - Civil
Aerospace, Aviation & Defense, Architecture, Construction & Design
Operations and Project Management
First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt early in his career by seeking mentorship.
2. Navigating diverse personalities and stakeholder relationships in a complex bureaucratic environment like LAX.
3. The evolving nature of challenges faced throughout a career, from self-doubt to interpersonal dynamics and stakeholder management.
Transcript
What is your biggest challenge in your current role?
It's a good question. Early in my career, the biggest challenge I faced was trying to prove that I deserved a seat at the table. I felt I needed to show that I belonged there, which was probably a bit of imposter syndrome at the time.
Over time, as my confidence increased and I got better at my job, that feeling lessened. Reaching out to others in the office and finding a mentor who could guide me through those situations really helped.
Early in my career, I often felt the need to prove I was good, smart, and deserved to be there. As my career has progressed, the answer to that question has changed.
More recently, the biggest challenge is dealing with different personalities in the workplace. This is especially true at LAX, where many stakeholders are involved and interested in our project's daily operations and how it impacts their agendas.
It's a big challenge at the airport; it's very bureaucratic. Navigating personalities, behaviors, and different roles while ensuring everyone is treated fairly and equally is key. You don't want any stakeholder to feel left out of the process.
So, right now, the biggest challenge is negotiating and dealing with all the different people interested in the project.