What does it take to build a construction company where people want to stay, grow, and lead?

In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin sits down with Omar Rawji, President and CEO of Prism Construction, a second-generation construction firm delivering complex projects across Canada. Omar shares how Prism has built a strong culture rooted in humility, ownership, and care, and why those values guide every hiring, firing, and leadership decision.

You’ll hear how Prism approaches structured onboarding that lasts months, not days, why mentorship has to be intentional to work, and how leaders can hold people accountable without operating from fear or scarcity. Omar also breaks down what real leadership looks like in construction today and why emotional intelligence matters more than technical skill when developing future leaders.

If you’re struggling with retention, leadership development, or onboarding in construction, this episode will challenge how you think about people, culture, and long-term growth.

Episode Takeaways 

• 00:01 – Why culture and onboarding matter more than ever in construction.
• 02:39 – Omar’s journey as a second-generation construction leader.
• 05:36 – How to interview for humility, ownership, and care.
• 07:30 – Why accountability builds trust instead of pushing people away.
• 10:17 – The role of emotional intelligence in construction leadership.
• 12:25 – Why mentorship is critical as the workforce continues to age.
• 14:12 – What a structured onboarding plan really looks like in construction.
• 18:54 – How Prism prepares onboarding before day one even starts.
• 22:40 – What’s next for Prism Construction and why employee growth matters.

Connect With Omar:

Website: https://prismconstruction.ca/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omar-a-rawji/

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