Construction Owners Association  of Alberta
On the Job Coaching

Purpose of coaches

The purpose of a coach is to inform, guide, advise, and show industrial construction foremen the best way to supervise and lead.

The coach is the bridge between those who are learning the job and those who seek effective performance for the company. Coaches provide the “glue” that makes the teachings from the classroom stick. With the help from a coach, a foreman can apply new knowledge to practical application in the field. They can develop their classroom skills into on-the-job skills with the assistance of a more experienced co-worker, peer, or senior supervisor.

Quite often good coaching is visible in the person being coached. The person being coached tends to be more positive, shows improvement and learns from their coach. A strong coach is respected and seen as a leader.

An effective coach will:

  • Transfer knowledge and skills from an experienced, capable senior supervisor to a less experienced foreman
  • Help foremen improve skills, both technical know-how and soft skills, such as managing people issues (e.g., safety, running meetings, communication, resolving conflicts, work planning and teambuilding)
  • Ensure that foremen correctly complete applicable company-specific paperwork and understand the importance of this task
  • Help foremen administer company policies and procedures in a constructive manner
  • Foster a positive and constructive attitude towards safe work practices