EMJ’s people are the building blocks of the company. Their personalities, skills and past experiences are large parts of what make the company great. We are proud of each member of the team and enjoy sharing their stories.
When first speaking to EMJ while serving as a reference for a former colleague, Steve Rice was asked what type of opportunity would interest him if he ever decided to switch gears. His response: “I would be excited about an opportunity to focus on building people and teams.”
Two months later, EMJ’s Boston office needed a Vice President of Construction, and as Steve says, “The rest is history.”
After nearly 30 years in the construction industry, Steve Rice feels confident that he can “build any project with the right team.” Steve’s dedication to mentoring struck Neil Pratt, Boston’s Executive Vice President.
“It was clear from the first interview that Steve was devoted to building people, not just buildings,” Neil says. “I knew that his eagerness to coach, paired with his experience, would make him a great leader for our team.”
Since joining EMJ, Steve has focused on working with the account executive team to expand Boston’s scope into the senior living sector and gain large project awards in retail.
“I feel lucky to be part of a leadership team that ‘walks the walk’ when it comes to believing that our people are our biggest asset,” Steve says. “I am encouraged to develop and invest in my team every day, and I try to do that every day—while building some great projects.”
Steve also serves his community, instilling his passion for construction into local college students as an adjunct Construction Management professor at Three Rivers Community College.
“I have been fortunate enough to work with some great people who taught me along the way,” says Steve. “I see myself in so many of my students, and I am most proud of seeing people I have helped develop and mentor excel in their careers.”
When asked what advice he gives the young construction managers he works with, Steve says, “I always tell them not to be afraid to ask questions, especially to the Tradesmen in the field. Those guys have a lot of knowledge to share, and we can learn so much from working with them.”
Learn more about our EMJ team and how to become a part of it here.
