Leadership That Builds More Than Structures: How One Superintendent is Multiplying Leadership Across Mortenson
John Ellis is building trust, safety, and emotional intelligence—one project site at a time.
At Mortenson, building for the greater good is about more than what we build—it is integral to how we lead, support, and grow together. That belief comes to life through people like John Ellis, a Senior Superintendent whose 10-year journey reflects the heart of our culture.
We believe leadership is a mindset—and when practiced with emotional intelligence, it multiplies across teams and transforms outcomes.
Leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about listening, showing up for your team, and creating the conditions for others to thrive.
Listening to Our People
John’s story is one of continuous growth. Early in his career, he recognized the power of communication and psychological safety on the project site —but it wasn’t until participating in Mortenson’s LeadBLU Pathways Program, our leadership development experience available to all eligible people leaders across the company, that he found the tools to name, practice, and share those values, unlocking a new level of leadership in himself and those on his team.
From stepping up during critical moments in the field to mentoring younger engineers, John consistently models what it means to lead with empathy and care. His ability to listen and elevate others has made him a trusted voice on his project sites—and a force multiplier for leadership across the company.
LeadBLU gave me language for what leadership really is—active listening, coaching, and being intentional with how you show up.
For the Team, by the Team
Through John’s involvement in Pathways, and his commitment to growth and development, he has sparked a groundswell, building leaders at all levels companywide, that’s taking root across Mortenson. This isn’t about a one-time training or even a one-year program. It’s about equipping every team member—from field to office—to speak a shared leadership language. The result? Greater trust. Stronger teams. And a culture that truly lives our values.
- John actively mentors new engineers on site.
- He promotes safety not just as a policy, but as a personal responsibility.
- He reflects and shares openly, demonstrating vulnerability as a form of strength.
His actions remind us that great teams don’t happen by chance. They’re built with intention.
Amplifying Impact
John’s story is just one example—but it’s emblematic of something larger: Mortenson’s commitment to developing the organization through leadership. We’re investing in tools, training, and shared experiences to ensure every team member—regardless of title—is empowered to lead with purpose. When emotional intelligence becomes the norm, not the exception, we create a ripple effect that improves jobsite culture, project delivery, and long-term growth.
Everyone brings purpose to the team. The goal is to build a culture where every person feels that, believes that, and leads from that place.
From high-stakes moments in the field to day-to-day collaboration on job sites across the country, John’s impact reminds us: Leadership isn’t a title. It’s how you show up—consistently, intentionally, and for others.