What does it take to lead IT for a billion-dollar construction powerhouse? For Ryan Hale, it’s not about being the most technical person in the room: It’s about solving problems, fostering collaboration and turning data into a game-changing advantage. 

In this IT Trends With IT people, we dive into Ryan Hale’s remarkable journey. He is the current CIO of Lithko Contracting, the second-largest concrete construction company in the U.S. But that’s not where our story begins. 

Keep reading to uncover insights from his journey and don’t miss the full story in the video above!

A Path Shaped by Curiosity and Leadership

Ryan Hale’s career trajectory is a unique blend of high-tech manufacturing and professional services, culminating in his current role as chief information officer. For Ryan, success isn’t about being the most technical person in the room. Instead, it’s about solving problems and empowering his team.

As he puts it, “Simple things like hard work, being curious and being nice to people will get you further than not doing those things. That’s stayed with me throughout my career.”

His leadership philosophy centers on these values, which have propelled his career and shaped the way Lithko Contracting operates.

Revolutionizing IT for a Growing Enterprise

Under Ryan’s leadership, Lithko’s IT department has evolved in tandem with the company’s explosive growth. Over the past decade, Lithko has expanded its budget from $300 million to nearly $1.8 billion, demanding a complete overhaul of its IT systems.

Supporting 2,000 technology users across 500 mobile job trailers is no small feat. Ryan’s team has embraced flexibility and adaptability, designing IT solutions that meet the challenges of an ever-changing construction landscape. Their work ensures operations run seamlessly, no matter where the next job site may be.

The Power of Data in Construction

Lithko Contracting was ahead of the game in making decisions that were data-driven. By gathering precise time and quantity data from job sites daily, the company has created a culture of informed decision-making.

This commitment to data allows Lithko to refine operations and maintain a competitive edge in the construction industry. Ryan’s vision for leveraging data exemplifies how IT can serve as a powerful tool for innovation and efficiency in traditionally non-technical industries.

Building a Collaborative Culture

Ryan attributes much of his success to fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. By prioritizing relationships and understanding the needs of his team, he has helped create a culture that values people as much as performance.

This approach has paid off. The IT team at Lithko has minimal turnover and high levels of employee satisfaction. Both of which are rare achievements in construction and IT. Ryan’s leadership exemplifies how empathy and collaboration can drive organizational success.

A Vision for IT Leadership

The journey of Ryan Hale from high-tech manufacturing to CIO of Lithko Contracting is a shining example of how leadership, adaptability, and innovation can transform not just a department but an entire organization. His emphasis on data-driven strategies, team support and problem-solving offers valuable lessons for IT professionals in any industry.

To learn more about Ryan’s inspiring approach to leadership and how IT drives success at Lithko, watch the full interview now. It’s a must-see for anyone navigating the dynamic world of technology and leadership.