Curiosity, Culture, and the People Side of Construction with Jonathan Cinelli
August 27, 2025
In an industry often defined by deadlines, specifications, and bottom lines, the human element of construction can sometimes take a back seat. However, as Jonathan Cinelly, Founder of People First Leadership, reveals, the key to transforming construction culture lies in something far more fundamental than project schedules or technical expertise. In this episode of Beyond the Build: Innovation in Construction, Jonathan speaks with hosts Scott Lowman and JP Scott about culture, resilience, and the people side of construction.
In an industry often defined by deadlines, specifications, and bottom lines, the human element of construction can sometimes take a back seat. However, as Jonathan Cinelly, Founder of People First Leadership, reveals, the key to transforming construction culture lies in something far more fundamental than project schedules or technical expertise. In this episode of Beyond the Build: Innovation in Construction, Jonathan speaks with hosts Scott Lowman and JP Scott about culture, resilience, and the people side of construction.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to bridge generational gaps in construction teams
- Why being a "thermostat" rather than a "thermometer" is crucial for effective leadership in construction
- How to foster mental wellness in construction while maintaining productivity and project success
- The right way to implement new technology in construction
- Why listening to learn and giving 100% effort are the two essential keys for young professionals entering the construction industry
- How to build trust through consistent behavior and clear expectations rather than forced initiatives
- The importance of understanding both physical and digital technology adoption in construction environments
Jonathan Cinelli is the founder of People First Leadership and a Project Management Professional (PMP) with over two decades of experience in the construction industry. As a certified coach and advocate for mental wellness in construction, he specializes in integrating people-centric leadership principles with practical construction expertise to transform team dynamics and organizational culture. With a background as an electrician and extensive experience in project management, Jonathan brings unique insights into fostering intrinsic motivation, building trust, and addressing uncomfortable but crucial workplace challenges.
Tune in for a look at the hidden costs of construction and the unique approaches that can help solve for them!