Leadership isn't built in boardrooms—sometimes it's constructed right alongside pole barns and treehouses. Meet Isaac Maser, who at just 19 became Sherman Buildings' youngest foreman in history before taking over as crew manager five years later. His leadership philosophy began taking shape during homeschool lessons where "go outside and build stuff" was literally part of the math curriculum, complete with blueprint drawings and material lists.

"Without goals, we are lost souls," Isaac shares—a quote he crafted himself that perfectly captures his approach to both life and leadership. While most young adults are still finding their footing, Isaac was already married at 18, buying a house, and embracing the uncomfortable challenges that forge exceptional leaders. As he puts it, the toughest experiences—from relocating away from everyone he knew to managing crews of seasoned builders—became his greatest teachers.

What makes Isaac's leadership approach so effective is his perfect balance of genuine care and unflinching honesty. He sees people's potential and believes part of caring means respectfully pointing out areas for growth. When asked how new crew members earn respect, his answer is refreshingly simple: "Listen." And when faced with a crew that wouldn't stop complaining? Rather than lecture them, he offered each person $100 to go a day without complaints—a creative solution that not only worked immediately but continued working weeks later as team members became more self-aware.

From falling off a roof into snow banks (turning into an impromptu game) to navigating the transition from building physical structures to managing people and emergencies, Isaac's journey reveals how true leadership is built through relationships, resilience, and the courage to step up when challenges arise. As his mother always told him, "You can either roll with the big dogs or sit on the porch"—words that still echo in his mind whenever he faces difficult decisions. For anyone looking to strengthen their leadership foundation, Isaac's story provides both blueprint and building materials.