Brent Darnell
Owner
Brent Darnell International
About Brent Darnell
Brent Darnell is undoubtedly a transformative figure in the construction industry, pioneering the integration of emotional intelligence and critical people skills into a traditionally male-dominated and technically focused field. His journey from being a third-generation construction guy to becoming an influential educator and thought leader reflects his deep understanding of the industry’s needs and challenges.
Starting his initiatives in 1999, Brent was ahead of his time in recognizing the importance of emotional intelligence in construction long before it became a mainstream concept in the industry. His accolades, such as the Engineering News Record’s Top 25 Newsmaker award in 2012 and the Volunteer of the Year award for AGC Georgia in 2017, underscore the significance and impact of his work.
Brent’s programs have not only transformed individual leaders but have also had a global reach, spanning across 21 countries. His impressive client list includes some of the biggest names in the construction sector, indicating the widespread recognition and adoption of his methodologies.
Furthermore, Brent’s involvement in education spans decades, from a Wolf Trap artist in residence teaching Head Start classes to his role as an adjunct professor and guest lecturer at prestigious universities such as Auburn, Penn State, Northwestern, Clemson, Purdue, Georgia Tech, University of Cincinnati, North Dakota State University, KTH Royal Institute of Technology (Sweden), and Virginia Tech, where he imparts essential people skills to the next generation of industry professionals. His books and e-learning courses further extend his influence, reaching thousands of individuals worldwide and providing valuable resources for personal and professional development.
Beyond his professional achievements, Brent’s diverse talents and interests reflect his status as a Renaissance man. He is a mechanical engineer and the first person in his family to graduate from college (Georgia Tech 1981). He is also an actor, writer, musician, and certified yoga instructor. He embodies a holistic approach to life and work and does his best to walk the talk.
In essence, Brent Darnell’s legacy lies not only in his groundbreaking work in emotional intelligence but also in his tireless efforts to cultivate a more compassionate, skilled, and resilient workforce in the construction industry.