Craig Shults, a seasoned finance professional and Controller and CFO at JSL Construction, exemplifies the qualities of resilience, adaptability, and dedication to lifelong learning. Originally from the picturesque Mohawk Valley in Upstate New York, Craig’s journey has been one of consistent growth and reinvention. With multiple degrees, certifications, and diverse career experiences—from insurance and home improvement to construction finance—Craig has built a reputation as a results-driven leader who prioritizes people, innovation, and community impact. Outside of work, Craig is passionate about fitness, cooking, and giving back through organizations like the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Make-A-Wish Foundation.
What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?
My typical day starts early, often with a morning workout. It’s my way of clearing my mind and setting a positive tone for the day. Once I’m in the office, I prioritize my tasks by identifying what’s most critical and tackling those first. I also make it a point to communicate with my team—whether it’s through quick check-ins, meetings, or collaborative problem-solving. Keeping the lines of communication open ensures we’re all aligned and working toward the same goals. Productivity for me comes from staying focused, breaking tasks into manageable parts, and maintaining momentum throughout the day.
How do you bring ideas to life?
Bringing ideas to life starts with identifying a gap or need and brainstorming solutions. I approach this with a mix of creativity and practicality. Once I have an idea, I test its feasibility by discussing it with colleagues, gathering feedback, and considering potential challenges. I believe in starting small, implementing a pilot version, and refining it based on results and feedback. Execution is just as important as ideation, so I make sure to follow through and adapt as necessary.
What’s one trend that excites you?
The growing emphasis on sustainability in business excites me. From eco-friendly construction practices to renewable energy solutions, companies are finding innovative ways to make a positive impact on the environment while driving growth. It’s a trend that aligns with my belief in balancing profit with purpose.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
I’ve developed the habit of daily reflection. At the end of each day, I take a few minutes to assess what went well, what didn’t, and what I can do better tomorrow. This habit keeps me focused on continuous improvement and helps me prioritize what truly matters.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self to embrace challenges sooner and not fear failure. Every setback is an opportunity to learn, grow, and build resilience. I’d also emphasize the importance of building relationships and investing in personal development early on.
Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?
I firmly believe that work-life balance isn’t about dividing your time evenly but about being fully present wherever you are. Some people argue for strict boundaries, but I think it’s more about integrating the two in a way that works for you and your priorities.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
I recommend making time for physical activity, no matter how busy you are. Whether it’s a gym session, a walk, or a yoga class, exercise is not just good for your body—it clears your mind, boosts energy, and helps you approach challenges with clarity.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
Meditation is my go-to when I feel overwhelmed. Just 10-15 minutes of mindfulness or deep breathing helps me center myself and regain focus. It’s a simple practice that has had a profound impact on my productivity and decision-making.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Prioritizing relationships has been my most effective strategy. Whether it’s building trust with clients, mentoring team members, or collaborating with colleagues, strong relationships are the foundation of any successful career or business.
What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?
One of my early career failures was underestimating the importance of clear communication in a team project. The project faced delays and setbacks because I didn’t take the time to align everyone’s expectations. I overcame it by reassessing the team’s goals and implementing regular check-ins. The lesson I took away is that clarity and communication are non-negotiable in any collaboration.
What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?
A mentorship platform that connects seasoned professionals with aspiring entrepreneurs in niche industries. It would include tools for scheduling, goal-setting, and tracking progress, making mentorship accessible and impactful for both sides.
What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?
Trello is my go-to productivity tool. I use it to organize projects, delegate tasks, and track progress. Its visual format helps me stay on top of priorities and ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
Simon Sinek’s Start with Why had a big impact on me. It reinforced the importance of aligning your work with a clear sense of purpose and communicating that purpose effectively to inspire others.
What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?
I recently watched The Social Dilemma, and it really made me think about the role technology plays in our lives and how we can use it responsibly. It’s a thought-provoking reminder to approach innovation with ethics and intention.
Key learnings
- Reflection is a powerful tool for growth: Craig emphasizes the importance of daily reflection to improve both personally and professionally.
- Prioritize relationships: Building trust and strong connections with clients, colleagues, and teams is central to Craig’s success.
- Adaptability and continuous learning are essential: Craig highlights the value of embracing challenges and using them as opportunities to grow and innovate.