James Phaneuf
[SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT]
Do cool work. Do it with good people. And solve problems that make an impact.
Blazing New Trails
Transformational leadership is rooted in the pursuit of a better future. When I joined Mortenson, my goal was to deeply understand our customers’ businesses and help revolutionize what and how we deliver to meet their needs.
This hands-on approach has guided our entry into new, uncharted markets like Engineering Services and Energy Storage. We saw a customer need and knew we had the team capable of redefining what’s possible.
Unlocking Great Leaders
At Mortenson, we hire great people who truly care about the work at hand – which stands out to me every day. Their commitment to solving our customers’ problems is through the roof and it’s reflected in our unique project approaches.
We focus on empowering great people to become exceptional leaders by providing leadership opportunities and complex work through apprentice-style training. I would put our people against the best people in any other industry.
Investing to Progress
In the next 20 years, our country needs to convert most of its energy to independent, renewable sources. The only way to achieve this is by equipping our teams with the skills they need to drive progress and bring this concept to reality.
The success we've had in delivering our customers' projects on time and online from day one is a direct result of the investments we've made to expand our capabilities.
PERSONAL PASSION
At a macro level, I believe we need to create more equitable opportunities for women in the workforce. As a member of Mortenson’s Women’s Business Resource Group (BRG), which includes over 900 women and allies across the company, I’ve gained insights into the challenges women face in our industry and beyond. This experience has made me a better ally and advocate. I want to create a workforce where both my son and daughter can thrive.
MORTENSON MOMENT
Delivering one of the largest solar plus storage projects in the world – Edwards & Sanborn Solar and Energy Storage.
INTERESTS
- Family time and kids’ activities
- NCAA Tournament
- Video games
- Running
- Biking
- Golf
HOME STATE
- Wisconsin
INDUSTRY TENURE
- 10 years
BOARDS & MEMBERSHIPS
Energy Storage Council of American Clean Power Association
Member