Passing the Hard Hat: Succession Planning Lessons for Family Construction Businesses | The Family Biz Show Episode 120

Jerry Aliberti, construction industry veteran and founder of Pro-Accel, joins Michael Palumbos to reveal what it really takes to design a smooth succession plan in family-owned construction businesses—and why most founders wait too long to start. With two decades of experience leading complex projects and advising second- and third-generation owners, Jerry brings grounded, practical wisdom to one of the hardest transitions in business: handing over the hard hat. He unpacks how family construction leaders can shift from doing the work to building people, delegate without losing control, and create a professionalized structure that lasts long after the founder steps back. Jerry and Michael dive into: ◽️ The emotional side of letting go — and learning to trust the next generation ◽️ Why clear expectations and accountability define great culture ◽️ How to track cash flow, labor, and profitability for long-term stability ◽️ Bridging generational gaps between “grinders” and “system builders” ◽️ Why leadership is about service, not control ◽️ The biggest mistakes construction founders make during succession ◽️ How to professionalize your business without losing family values Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 01:42 – Why construction succession is different from other industries 04:15 – How to build a tech and financial stack that supports clarity 07:33 – Cash flow vs. profit vs. revenue: what really matters 10:18 – Setting expectations and accountability in the field 13:27 – Building trust and culture through hard conversations 16:48 – The emotional roller coaster of succession and letting go 19:36 – Bridging generational gaps: from doers to builders 22:51 – Professionalizing leadership and empowering decision-makers 26:09 – The “11th Commandment”: Thou shall not fool thyself 29:20 – Why succession is a multi-year process (not a moment) 32:44 – The power of outside, unbiased advisors in family business 35:26 – Leadership as service: how real leaders empower their teams 38:17 – Key takeaways for construction founders planning their exit 41:03 – Closing thoughts and next steps