Each month I do a simple COWS review—Challenges, Opportunities, Wins, Support. It keeps me honest about where I spent my time, what actually helped crews, and where you can grab quick wins for your team. I thought I'd share some highlights with you...

Challenges: The noise around budgets and approvals is still a drag on planning. The ongoing government shutdown adds uncertainty to permitting timelines, funding decisions, and supplier lead times. We are watching developments closely and will share clear, practical updates as they land so you can adjust schedules and cash plans without guesswork. Inside companies, I also saw the usual friction points: administrivia crowding out coaching time, fuzzy communication that slows jobs, and onboarding gaps that leave new hires guessing. The fix is not brute force. Tighten the structure, make lanes visible, and keep a steady cadence with short huddles, clear updates, and a simple 30-60-90 for every new hire.

Opportunities: The biggest opportunity right now is education. Early in the month, time in Washington with NAHB leadership underscored how steady advocacy strengthens the programs that prepare the next generation. Back home, I facilitated a panel of skilled trades owners at the Maine CTE (Career and Technical Education) Conference on moving students From Classroom to Crew. We aligned on a simple path: hire for dedication, discipline, and drive, then provide a clean on-ramp. Core Values are the backbone of work ethic, resiliency, and coachability. When students practice safety, honesty, and respect in school, it shows up on site as being ready, communicating clearly, taking feedback, and following simple standards. Our part is to meet that effort with structure, including a buddy mentor, weekly skills checklists, and a clear 30-60-90 so willingness to learn turns into productive work.

Support:  I’m closing October with a local ask. The government shutdown is affecting families in real ways, from furloughs to benefits running out. If you’re in Southern Maine and able, please consider supporting the South Portland Food Cupboard. Cash stretches the farthest, and shelf-stable staples are always needed: canned proteins, soups, peanut butter, pasta, rice, cereal, baby formula, diapers, and basic toiletries. If it’s easier, bring a bag to our next meeting and I’ll deliver it. You can also give online or volunteer for a morning shift to sort and pack. Small, steady help makes a real difference for our neighbors heading into the colder months.

Looking ahead: November is about finishing the year strong and setting up 2026 with intention. We will focus on a short list of priority goals, scoping projects that truly move the needle, and building simple routines to keep them on track. The aim is a confident January and the most profitable year yet in 2026.

Many thanks!

Your Partner in Success - 
Priscilla