Why the Last 10% of Construction Projects Always Break Down

Construction projects often break down in the final phase—and finish trades are the ones expected to save the schedule.

In this episode of the ConTech Exec Podcast, Robert Zimmerman sits down with Rocky Cherry, CEO of Cherry Coatings, to discuss what really happens at the end of a job when trade stacking, schedule compression, and workflow breakdown collide.

Rocky shares stories from the field, lessons from growing a national coatings contractor, and why culture and execution discipline matter more than most companies realize.

Topics include:

• Why finish trades absorb the pressure of schedule delays
• How technology is helping contractors document disruption and cost impacts
• The role of culture and servant leadership in scaling construction companies
• Why safety and planning actually improve production
• Preparing construction teams for the next wave of digital transformation

Rocky also shares an unforgettable story about retiring Derek Jeter at the final game in Old Yankee Stadium—and the leadership lesson it revealed about preparation and opportunity.

If you're a construction executive, contractor, or operations leader navigating workflow complexity, this conversation delivers practical insight into execution clarity in modern construction.