Not A Desk Job: Leading From the Field

Not a Desk Job Series | Joel Goodenough

For Joel Goodenough, transportation construction administration has never been about sitting behind a desk. It's about being in the field, embracing challenges in real time, and helping others grow along the way.

After graduating from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville, Joel began his career through internships with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, gaining experience in civil design and construction. While he appreciated the work behind the plans, he quickly realized his passion was in the field. More than 25 years later, that still drives his work as a senior project manager, partnering with contractors, clients, and project teams to deliver transportation improvements across Wisconsin and South Dakota—and creating opportunities for young professionals to learn, grow, and succeed along the way.

Where Problem Solvers Thrive

Construction administration sits at the intersection of planning, design, and construction. It requires technical expertise, communication, sound judgment, and the ability to bring people together when challenges arise. Whether evaluating field conditions, coordinating with contractors, or working through unexpected challenges, Joel enjoys helping teams find practical solutions that keep projects moving forward.

Every project is different and every challenge presents a new opportunity to learn. For professionals who enjoy thinking on their feet and seeing projects come to life, construction administration offers a rewarding and impactful career. It provides the opportunity to work closely with contractors, clients, designers, and communities while helping deliver infrastructure people rely on every day.

Mentorship Happens in the Field

Some of Joel's most valuable career lessons came from experienced professionals who invested in him early on, teaching him surveying, construction practices, and field operations. Those experiences shaped the professional he became and continue to influence how he leads today.

Now, Joel is committed to creating those same opportunities for others. Interns, recent graduates, and early-career professionals work alongside experienced team members on active transportation projects, gaining firsthand exposure to project delivery, contractor coordination, and field decision-making. For Joel, mentorship is not something reserved for a scheduled meeting, he builds it into everyday work.

One of the things Joel enjoys most is helping team members build confidence and discover their strengths. By sharing lessons learned, providing context, and encouraging questions, he helps people understand not just what to do, but why it matters.

That commitment to development extends beyond project work. Joel was selected for ISG’s Leadership Acceleration Program (LeAP), where he continues to strengthen his coaching and leadership skills through intensive development experiences and one-on-one coaching.

“Leadership isn’t just about delivering projects,” Joel said. “It’s about helping people grow, build confidence, and reach their potential.”

Building Infrastructure + People

More than two decades into his career, what continues to motivate Joel is the opportunity to make a difference—both through the infrastructure being built and the people helping build it. Whether mentoring a young professional, solving a field challenge, or delivering a transportation improvement that serves a community for years to come, he finds purpose in helping others succeed.

For those looking for hands-on work and meaningful mentorship, construction administration offers a rewarding way to help build the communities they serve.