1. Does the future leadership program contribute to HITT Contracting's competitive advantage in the construction industry? Why or why not?

2. What important business outcomes are likely influenced by the program?

EXERCISING STRATEGY Leadership Development at HITT Contracting It is difficult to attract Millennials to the construction industry because of long work hours, hazardous worksites, intense clients, and stressful schedules. But as one of the largest general contractors in the United States. HITT Contracting is providing development and growth opportunities that are making it an attractive employer for the best and brightest talent. For example, HITT's Futures leadership program has four phases: Cornerstone, Foundation, Integration, and Acceleration. In the Cornerstone phase, construction interns are assigned a sponsor who has three to five years of experience working at HITT. Interns get hands-on experience regardless of whether they are working in the office or at a job site. Sponsors provide the interns with specific tasks and responsibilities. They also participate in social activities and training courses throughout their internship. In the Foundation phase, returning summer interns and new full-time project engineers work on-site and have the site superintendent serve as their mentor. All project engineers are given a curriculum they must complete before they can be promoted. The courses are offered through HITT Institute. HITT also has a generous tuition reimbursement program that project engineers can use to pursue advanced degrees, engineering certifications, and other courses. At the end of their first year, project engineers can choose one of five career paths: project management; site operations; safety; preconstruction; or mechanical, electrical, or plumbing specialties. The Integration phase involves engineers developing their skills in the track they selected. The engineers often continue to contact their superintendent mentor, and they themselves serve as mentors for construction interns who they are responsible for coaching and training. In the Integration phase, engineers still have opportunities to cross-train through working on new projects or work teams. They also have the opportunity to attend social events where they can network with HITT leaders and industry professionals. In Acceleration, the final phase of the program, engineers have the opportunity to take management and leadership roles. As mid-level managers, they oversee their own projects and supervise other team members