From MMA Fighter to Foreman: Chris Barrera’s Journey of Leadership and Safety

EAGAN, MN – July 2025 – Chris Barrera, a former professional MMA fighter turned general foreman at ECSI, recently shared his inspiring story on the Beyond the Breaker podcast. From the adrenaline-fueled world of mixed martial arts to leading construction teams with a focus on safety, Chris’s journey is one of transformation, resilience, and a commitment to helping others.

A Life-Changing Moment

For 12 years, Chris lived the life of a professional MMA fighter, traveling the world and running his own gym. But a single comment from his son changed everything.

“My son said, ‘Dad, I wish we could stay home one weekend so I could show my friends how good you are at freestyling,’” Chris recalled. “It hit me hard. I realized I was chasing the wrong dream. My dream should be for my kids to be more successful than I could ever be.”

That moment led Chris to close his gym and transition into the construction industry, where he found a new purpose. “I’ve always loved building things and seeing projects through from start to finish,” he said.

Safety as a Core Value

Now a general foreman at ECSI, Chris brings the same discipline and focus he honed in MMA to his work on job sites. His leadership philosophy centers on safety and teamwork.

“When I walk onto a job site, the first thing I do is assess potential hazards—fall risks, ladder heights, anything that could lead to an accident,” Chris explained. “Preventative safety is key. It’s about thinking ahead and eliminating risks before they even become a possibility.”

Chris also emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of care. “If your behavior is unsafe, it doesn’t just affect you—it affects everyone around you. We all have families to go home to, and that’s what drives me to make sure everyone stays safe.”

A Crisis on the Job

Chris’s commitment to safety was put to the test during a recent incident on a job site. Early one morning, a colleague collapsed, and Chris immediately sprang into action.

“I ran to the scene, stabilized his neck, and started asking questions to assess his condition,” Chris recounted. “It was dark, and we had limited access to the area, so I had to think quickly. I instructed my apprentice to kick down a plywood door to ensure emergency responders could get in.”

Thanks to Chris’s quick thinking and calm demeanor, the injured worker received the care he needed. Reflecting on the experience, Chris said, “In moments like that, you have to stay calm and focus on the outcome. The goal is to get the person to safety and into the hands of professionals.”

Leadership Through Empathy

For Chris, leadership is about more than managing tasks—it’s about understanding and supporting his team. “You have to read people’s emotions and check in with them,” he said. “If someone’s had a rough morning or is distracted, you need to address it. It’s about being a psychologist as much as a foreman.”

Chris also credits his safety training at ECSI and through the union for preparing him to handle emergencies. “Knowing how to perform CPR or stabilize someone in an emergency can make all the difference,” he said.

A Call to Action

Chris’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of safety, not just on job sites but in everyday life. He urged listeners to take safety training seriously and to be prepared to help others in need.

“Whether you’re on a job site, at church, or at a ball game, you should be ready to step up,” he said. “Even if you’re not comfortable getting directly involved, you can still call 911, direct traffic, or guide emergency responders. Everyone can do something.”

At ECSI, safety is more than a priority—it’s a core value. The company offers regular CPR and first aid training for employees and encourages everyone to take advantage of these resources.

A Legacy of Leadership

Chris’s journey from MMA fighter to foreman is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to helping others. “I’ve needed help before, and I hope that if my kids ever need help, someone will be there for them,” he said.

His story serves as an inspiration to leaders, workers, and anyone striving to make a difference in their community.