I will offer to pursue this later today.
For now let me explain what I've observed in the building industry
in my area (Florida).
Generally in residential building the 'Developer' is the person or group who finds the land, subdivides the land, works w/ city or county on approvals for subdividing only.
Once lots are approved for construction, they're sold to either individuals or a 'builder' for homes. Most builders, depending on the size of their organization, have someone who oversees the day to day work on the homes. This may be the builder, who
probably has a residential contractor's license or they may hire
a Project Manager who has the license. Generally in most areas
a contractor's license is required to pull building permits required by the city or county where home is being built.
Some areas allow an "owner/build" to pull their own permits if
a licensed contractor is not involved.
If a Project Mgr. is employed by builder, he is really the hands on
person overseeing all the sub-contractors (trademen) who do work on the home. They may include dirt workers, concrete team, plumbers, dry wall, plasterers, roofers, electricians, etc.
The Project Manager nor builder generally do not do physical work. On some projects, if the builder or manager has special skills they may do some work ie- carpentry, finish work.
Ordinarily the foundation work would be subbed out, this includes digging- same w/ plumbing systems- septic, etc.
I doubt FD was a hands on builder, based on comments from
some subs about his coming on site in his designer clothes.
Also for 12 years ForeGroup had a full time Project Manager who
was the last employee to leave the company. He was the guy
who really oversaw the work and completion of the homes.
My opinion is FD was an admistrator, oversaw the financing,
managed the manager and made the decisions on buying lots or
rehab properties, approving plans/design/finish materials, etc.
So did FD have access to dirt moving equipment? Sure , with a phone call he would. Could he borrow or rent it and operate it?
Probably.
Hope this helps.