Synergy’s 2026 Field Supervisors Forum brought 58 members to Philadelphia from April 12–15 for a few days focused on leadership, communication, team development, and the day-to-day challenges that come with leading from the field.
The session opened with Gregory Tall, who led his workshop, “Shift Happens: Stepping Into Leadership and a Future of Constant Change.” His session focused on what changes when someone moves from being a strong individual contributor to leading others. Attendees worked through topics like setting clear expectations, communicating with confidence, making decisions, and learning how to delegate so others can grow.
The group also spent time with Scott Adams, who helped facilitate discussions around the people side of leadership. Field supervisors talked through real-life scenarios, difficult conversations, accountability, feedback, and how to build stronger trust with their teams.
A major theme throughout the forum was the balance between doing the work and leading the people doing the work. Members discussed billable vs. non-billable time, how they measure success with their teams, and what it looks like to step away from the tools so others can learn.
One of the highlights from Day 2 was a Synergy Share from Mike Barnard of Cox Engineering, who talked about their Apprentice Team Lead program. Cox created the role to give apprentices more consistent support and coaching as they develop in the field. It was a practical example of how one member company is building structure around training and developing the next generation.
Of course, the real value of a Synergy session often comes from the conversations around the tables. As Joe Haywood from LMS shared, “Being able to hear from other Field Supervisors and realize we have similar challenges was the best part.”
Chris Comito from Baker Group echoed that same idea, saying the best part was “getting to meet some great folks, discuss real situations, and get their experienced, seasoned opinions.”
The forum wrapped with conversations around onboarding, developing future leaders, burnout, and what field supervisors can do to better support both their teams and themselves. Attendees left with practical ideas, new connections, and a better understanding of how others are approaching similar challenges in their companies.
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If you’re a mechanical contractor looking for a peer group that brings real value, real sharing, and real relationships, learn more about becoming a Synergy member.
