Building a Stronger Future: HBW is Shaping What’s Next for DC-Metro Construction

At HBW Construction, building a stronger future isn't just about what goes on a jobsite. For us, it's about what we build behind the scenes: enduring relationships, efficient processes, stronger teams, and thriving communities. 

Representing over five decades of commercial construction experience in the DC-metro region, HBW leaders sat down to talk about growing the business, having a lasting impact on our community, and anticipating change.

Inside Our Vision for Growth and Excellence

For HBW, building a stronger future is as much about people as it is about projects. 

"Progress comes from building lasting relationships with new clients and organically growing HBW to create real opportunities for our people," says John Leach, President.

Eric Whitman, Chief Financial Officer, Partner, adds, "It's about refining our processes and accountability to improve client relationships while investing in our team through training, support, and a positive work environment that attracts and retains high-performing employees."

Andre Chin Wing, Executive Vice President, Partner, emphasizes HBW's client-centered mindset: "We're always striving to serve clients better and forge new relationships in emerging market sectors."

For Patrick Foley, Vice President, Principal, future strength means resilience: "We're continually expanding our customer base and diversifying our services, so HBW thrives through changing trends and market conditions."

And as Kelly Jones, Assistant Vice President, Pre-Construction, notes, "It's about delivering spaces that perform flawlessly, sustaining client satisfaction and community value long after turnover."

Investing in Construction Technology, Innovation, and People

Behind HBW's steady growth is a deliberate investment in innovation and talent.

Kelly Jones explains that there’s no need to guess how HBW handles growth. The "HBW Way" is a mindset that pairs advanced project technology with process discipline, helping the company weather industry changes and capitalize on opportunities:

• Data + project technology: Like using Professional Management Software  and Power BI to unite cost, schedule, and field data for faster, better decisions.
• Process discipline: Including formalized constructability reviews, CPM scheduling, and field audits with ongoing training.
• People and pipeline: Dedicated project teams stay connected to clients long after closeout, fueling HBW's high rate of repeat business.

John Leach added that hitting goals involves "adding employees to our project management teams for more capacity and exploring AI tools to make us more efficient."

Eric Whitman emphasizes HBW's tech-forward mindset: "We're upgrading our IT infrastructure and partnering with consultants to adopt technology that makes sense. At the same time, we're cultivating culture-supporting staff personally and professionally."

"Technology constantly evolves-and so does HBW," summarized Andre Chin Wing.

Relationships are an integral part of how HBW does business. "Partnerships have always been the foundation of our success," says Leach. "From owners and tenants to design teams and subcontractors, every project is a team effort."

Foley adds, "People like to work with people they like. Doing what you promise, consistently, makes you the first call in a crowded industry."

Jones agrees: "Partnerships are the engine of our growth. We collaborate closely from design through turnover to minimize costs and delays, staying engaged well beyond completion."

Lessons From Recent Years Help Shape our Future

In a changing market, adaptability is key. Like the rest of the construction industry, HBW faced unprecedented disruption during COVID, from supply chain breakdowns to shifting client priorities. Construction didn’t stop so much as it evolved. That time strengthened our teams, refined our processes, and revealed smarter ways to build in a changed world.

"Our shift from primarily office interiors to a more diverse portfolio-restaurants, healthcare, retail, and base building-has demanded deeper planning and coordination," says John Leach.

"As projects grow more complex, so does the need for knowledge, accountability, and oversight. Having the right people, and supporting them, is everything," adds Whitman.

For Foley, diversification is the lesson: "We have to stay ready for change and spread expertise across sectors so that when one slows, others sustain growth." Chin Wing agrees. "Tracking market changes and adjusting our strategy-what projects we pursue and how we bid-has helped HBW stay aligned with the market."

Building Stronger Communities

HBW's mission extends beyond construction. It's also about connection.

"At HBW, we don't just build buildings. We build better neighborhoods," says Jones. Through the company's Giving Back Initiative, teams have:

• Volunteered in local park clean-ups.
• Donated food and school supplies.
• Refreshed community shelters, like Stepping Stones Shelter in Montgomery County.

"Showing up matters. It's more meaningful when our people roll up their sleeves and make a difference," says Foley.

"Our community events committee is led by employees," says Whitman. "They're the driving force behind our involvement." Jones adds: "Our staff identifies local needs and leads initiatives, from food drives to neighborhood clean-ups. It fosters pride and connection to the places we live and build."

On the project side, HBW's work has helped transform communities. From the Total Health Care facility in Odenton, MD, to revitalization projects in historic Anacostia, our construction work can be a catalyst, inspiring others, or the final piece that fits just right.

Jones says: "We maintain a strong business foundation so we can invest in our communities. Sustainability isn't optional, it's part of doing the job right."

Indeed, business growth and social responsibility go hand in hand for HBW. "We actively participate in LEED and green projects," notes Whitman.

Foley adds, "Most of what we build today is sustainable and user-focused: clean air systems, energy-efficient lighting, recycled materials. Staying current keeps us relevant."

Our 2026 Construction Outlook

We closely monitor industry markers and market trends to anticipate shifts before they happen. By aligning foresight with our core strengths, we’re prepared for what’s next before it arrives.

As 2026 approaches, HBW leaders are focused on readiness and resilience. 

"The big challenges remain: lengthy permits, competition, and attracting top talent," says Leach.

Whitman sees technology as both an opportunity and a disruptor: "We're watching closely to see how AI and automation reshape our workflows and client interactions."

Foley anticipates cautious optimism: "We expect a rebound in office leases, steady retail investment, and renewed growth in education and life sciences."

Jones adds, "We're not waiting for change to hit. We're positioning HBW to adapt, compete, and lead." Her advice to clients? "Start early, partner smart, and design for resilience. The most successful projects in 2026 will be those that are planned thoughtfully, executed collaboratively, and built with flexibility for whatever comes next."

For HBW Construction, building a stronger future means combining innovation with integrity, technology with teamwork, and growth with giving back. Those mindsets, over 50 years in the making, continue to shape every project, partnership, and community for HBW.