President’s Message – Latest Scoop 2026 Issue 3

I am a tag-along sports fan, pulled into the world of sports by my wife and son. In fact, what is likely the Phillies’ last game of the season is playing in the background as I write this article! Sports are not an area of my expertise; however, I do know that many sports name an MVP, or Most Valuable Player, at the end of each season. From what I understand, it’s not about whose contract or investments have the most value, but about recognizing the player whose actions had the most positive impact on the team over the past season.

Construction companies typically don’t name an MVP at the end of each season, though you might find some that highlight an Employee of the Month or other recognition. At Brubacher, we like to celebrate team members ‘Caught in the Act’ of living out our values or going the extra mile to help others. Even if we named a Most Valuable Player each season, only one person can achieve that honor.

I propose a different idea: that we strive to be a Most Valuable Peer. Now don’t get any ideas that this is based on the notion that everybody should get a trophy! Rather, the impact on a whole company or group of people is multiplied when we each seek to be of value and help to those around us.

Our peers have valuable insights about strengths and gaps in our character, skills, and experiences that can help us grow…if we have the humility to listen. And on the flip side, we need the courage to share the truth with others in ways that both encourage and challenge them.

This can happen in many ways and at many levels, and the principles apply to every area of life, not only our work life.

• Group Conversation – With a co-worker or friend by the tailgate, track, water cooler, or over coffee.
• Individual Conversation – Seeking or offering input on a specific task or situation.
• Peer Groups – Most often we think of these as a group of business owners or professionals, often with a paid leader who guides the conversation. However, anyone can invite a few others they would like to learn from about any area of life into a discussion about the wins, challenges, decisions, and growth areas they’re each facing.
• Traits of a Most Valuable Peer

• • Builds relationships with team members (friendships not required)
  • “Rules without relationship lead to rebellion. Truth without relationship leads to rejection. And discipline without relationship leads to bitterness.” – Josh McDowell
  • Asks for feedback from team members (ex., “What do you need more of from me? Less of from me? How can I improve? What should I continue doing that is helpful?”)
  • Is grateful for feedback and thanks those who provide it
  • Cares enough about the success of others to speak the truth
  • Speaks the truth in helpful ways and in the right setting (Praise in public, correct in private)
  • Is aware when team members need encouragement or correction
  • Takes action to make helpful changes
  • Isn’t worried about someone else being better than they are at a task

As I reflect on my own growth and overcoming challenges in business and personal life, I am grateful for the benefit of peers. They help me see things from a different viewpoint, speak the truth in love, clarify my thinking, and instill hope in situations that look hopeless.

The narrative around us, combined with our own pride, discourages us from being real, seeking and accepting insight from others, or having the courage to add value to those around us. If we are committed to being a valuable team player in any area of life, we need to take a risk and overcome these barriers to being an MVP – Most Valuable Peer. I encourage you to take a few minutes and think about how you would score yourself on the Traits of an MVP. Better yet…ask a few people closest to you how well you’re living out each trait!

Proverbs 15:22: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisors they succeed.”