Spotlighting Our XLers in the Field: Angelica Agulto

At XL Construction, we take pride in celebrating the incredible people who help shape our projects, our teams, and our industry. Our XLers In the Field series is a dedicated team member spotlight, offering unique insights into our projects and the people who help make them possible.

In this installment, we’re talking with Angelica Agulto, Learning & Development Specialist.

You studied communications, what inspired you to pursue a career in Learning and Development (L&D)? What do you enjoy most about it?

“I actually started my career in Human Resources, and I’ve always had a passion for connecting with people and building relationships, which ultimately led me to the L&D world. One of the things I enjoy most about L&D is watching people learn from one another. We’re all experts in our own subject matters, and there is always something new to learn from someone else’s experiences. Even the experts don’t know everything. Seeing XLers come together to share ideas, teach one another, and grow professionally is one of the most inspiring parts of my job.”

How are the Learning and Development efforts different at XL and in the construction industry than other industries you’ve worked in?

“The L&D efforts at XL are different because of how collaborative they are. In other industries, training programs are often developed by a small group behind the scenes. At XL, our programs are truly a team effort. We partner with subject matter experts, field leaders, project teams, and employees at all levels to ensure our training is practical, relevant, and valuable. Everyone brings a unique perspective, and that collaboration helps us create great learning experiences.”

Who’s someone at XL (or in the industry) who’s had a real impact on you — and how?

“The person who has had the greatest impact on me is Miki Crittenden (and no, she did not tell me to pick her because she’s my manager haha!). From day one, Miki has taken me under her wing and taught me so much about L&D and XL’s culture. She has challenged me to grow in areas where I often thought, “This should really be a two-person job… let’s do it together,” only to help me realize I was capable of more than I thought. Miki is incredibly selfless, hardworking, and supportive, and I’m grateful for the impact she’s had on my professional growth.”

What’s something about your role or XL as a company that would surprise people outside the construction industry?

“I think people outside the construction industry would be surprised by how much learning and development happens behind the scenes, off site. When most people think of construction, they think about the buildings being built, but they may not realize how much time and effort goes into developing people. We’re always creating opportunities for employees to learn new skills, share knowledge, and grow in their careers. It’s exciting to be part of an organization that invests so heavily in its people because we know that great projects start with great teams.”

What does “We build to improve lives” mean to you personally?

“Our purpose, We Build to Improve Lives, means a lot to me both professionally and personally. While I may not be physically building structures, I have the opportunity to help build programs, experiences, and learning opportunities that support the people who do. If I can create a training program, resource, or event that helps someone do their job more effectively, grow in their career, or feel more connected to the company, then I’ve played a small part in improving their experience.”

What’s one word your team would use to describe you — and do you agree?

“I think my team would probably describe me as enthusiastic, and I’d have to agree. I love getting involved, bringing energy to what I do, and finding ways to make work both productive and enjoyable. Whether it’s supporting a training program, planning an event, or participating in a team activity, I’m usually all in.

For example, at our annual holiday party karaoke competition, my partner and I were determined to win! So, I volunteered to take the mic and fully committed to the karaoke performance. Was it outside my comfort zone? Absolutely. Did we win? Heck yea we did! Sometimes being enthusiastic means stepping up when the moment calls for it. But no more singing for me please… just kidding!”

Stay tuned for the next installment of the XLers In the Field series!