Tim Barnes has been a cornerstone of McKinley Building since 2015. Before joining our team, Tim successfully ran his own commercial construction company, Bradley Barnes Construction for close to 20 years. Over the years, he has led projects such as the Wilmington Trade Center 1-3 and dedicated himself to mentoring the next generation of construction professionals.
About Your Career and Work
What inspired you to pursue a career in construction, and how did you get started?
“My older brothers were masonry contractors in Pender County, and when I wasn’t working on the farm, I’d join them on job sites. At just 10 years old, I fell in love with the work, and by 14, I was a mason. That hands-on experience shaped my passion for construction.”
What do you find most rewarding about being a superintendent?
“The most rewarding part has always been the same: transforming a group of individuals into a cohesive team. Watching everyone align around a shared goal and produce a quality product together is incredibly fulfilling.”
What is one project you’ve worked on that stands out as a favorite and why?
“It’s hard to choose just one. The parking deck for the hospital is especially memorable. I had retired when Ken and John Murray with BMH Architects reached out and asked me to come back for that project. Ken and John are two of my favorite people; their humble confidence is inspiring, and I couldn’t say no to them. That project was logistically complex but went smoothly and was rewarding to be part of.
“Another standout is the Corning Credit Union Regional Headquarters building on South 17th Street. That project was a true test of teamwork and resilience. It involved high-end finishes and complicated installations, and we had to overcome 100 inches of rain in 2018 and Hurricane Florence, which shut down the town for weeks. Even with those challenges, we finished ahead of schedule. It’s a handsome building and a testament to the dedication and skill of the entire team.”
How do you ensure a project stays on schedule and within budget while maintaining quality?
“Momentum is everything. Everyone, from subcontractors to suppliers, must know exactly what’s expected and when. I treat subcontractors like part of the team, communicating and leading them to success. It’s about setting them up for success and managing personalities to keep the schedule moving.”
About Mentorship and Team Leadership
What’s your approach to mentoring newer team members?
“Mentoring is about understanding personalities. I build trust by praising strengths and subtly addressing weaknesses through storytelling and encouragement. When a team member feels confident enough to admit when they don’t know something, that’s when real growth happens.”
Can you share an example of a time you helped a younger team member overcome a challenge?
“Chase Jarrett comes to mind. He joined us fresh out of college and initially struggled to be assertive in tough situations. Over time, I saw his confidence grow, and now he’s a strong project manager who knows when and how to stand firm. Watching him blossom has been incredibly rewarding.”
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in construction?
“Be fair, honest, and consistent. These traits will earn you respect and trust, and with that, success will follow.”
About Your Skills and Perspective
What skills or qualities are most important for a successful superintendent?
“A superintendent needs to anticipate potential issues, act with urgency, and remain solution-focused. Staying proactive is key.”
What’s a piece of advice or lesson you’ve learned that has stuck with you throughout your career?
“Construction is tough. If you don’t give it your all, it will overwhelm you. The only way to succeed is to bring your best every single day.”
Personal Insights
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
“I prioritize spending time with my family and God. I’ve been married for 42 years, and we’re blessed with five children and eight grandchildren. Outside of family, I enjoy hunting, fishing, flying, and playing golf—though my back limits how much I play these days.”
Who has been the most influential mentor in your career, and what did you learn from them?
“My wife. We married when I was 20, and everything I do is to make her proud and provide her with the life she deserves.”
What motivates you to come to work every day and give it your best?
“I love what I do, and the people I work with—both at McKinley and among our subcontractors—are some of the best I’ve ever encountered.”
Looking Forward
This has been great. Anything else you want to leave us with?
“I feel blessed beyond measure, and I attribute my happiness and joy to my faith in the Lord. Battling Stage 4 kidney cancer since 2001 has shown me that everything is in God’s hands. I’m also excited about the future of our industry and the innovations shaping construction. For anyone considering a career in this field: working with your hands and creating something tangible is deeply rewarding.”
