A convergence of a thriving market and complex building projects in South Florida are among factors affecting workforce supply. To address this issue, Tuffo says, Suffolk looks to both accurately manage workflow through its central purchasing department and recruit the best candidates by offering diverse training and highly-coveted benefits.

"Suffolk takes pride in our on-site Trade Partner Experience. We want to ensure that our trade partners have an enjoyable experience working on our sites, including amenities like picnic table eating areas, clean restroom facilities, hand wash stations, and fans/cooling stations. Additionally, our Trade Partnership Series assists certified trade partner firms in fostering long-term relationships and developing their industry skills. Over the past few years, we've held the program in Miami and Tampa with over 20 graduates."

Suffolk's Career Start program rotates new employees throughout the company's main operational areas over a two-year period, helping them gain a complete understanding of daily responsibilities of each team member and department. The program offers new employees a distinct advantage, according to Tuffo, helping them understand how all the pieces come together to create a successful and profitable construction project. To help recent grads, Suffolk recently launched a student loan reimbursement program. Suffolk contributes $100 per month toward qualified student loans for eligible employees.

Tuffo says Suffolk's diversification strategy will focus on expanding services beyond its core construction capabilities. The company sees the biggest opportunities in real estate funding, design, technology investment and research and development.

"As part of the strategy, we also launched a contemporary brand positioning and identity that reflects Suffolk's forward-thinking outlook, reflects our broader future ambitions, and differentiates us and our unique business model and capabilities," he says. "As a result of this diversification strategy and rebranding, Suffolk will be positioned to add value across the entire lifecycle of a building, from investing at the earliest stages of development to design, materials purchasing, risk management, construction management and self-perform services during the design/construction stage and facilities management after the building is completed and operational."