Leadership in construction is often measured in concrete terms—schedules met, budgets held and structures built. For William Bowie, the measure extends beyond the job site. As president and chief executive officer of Empower Construction LLC, Bowie leads with a vision that elevates people alongside projects. His company is grounded in the belief that the trades can be a gateway to transformation—not only for cities, but for the individuals shaping them. A 2025 Titan 100 Honoree, Bowie is recognized for turning that belief into lasting impact.
The story of Empower Construction is inseparable from Bowie’s own journey. His early career in construction management exposed systemic barriers that limited access for underrepresented groups. Rather than work around those barriers, he built a company designed to dismantle them. What began as a passion project has evolved into a force within the industry—known for its excellence on public and private infrastructure projects and its unwavering investment in its people.
In just three years, Empower Construction tripled in size, both in workforce and operational capacity. Bowie expanded the firm’s project scope, launched a hands-on training program and integrated leadership development into the core of company culture. These initiatives haven’t just improved performance—they’ve unlocked upward mobility for dozens of workers, many of whom had never seen themselves as leaders before.
That empowerment is intentional. Bowie’s own leadership style thrives on mentorship and proximity. He stays connected to his team’s daily experience, taking time to listen, guide and challenge when needed. His energy is fueled not by status, but by service—ensuring every employee feels seen, valued and capable of more.
The skill he most wishes to master instantly speaks directly to this purpose: the ability to inspire and motivate others to realize their full potential, no matter the challenges they face. For Bowie, inspiration is more than encouragement—it’s the spark that unlocks belief, courage and self-determination. Whether helping someone overcome doubt, take on new responsibility or navigate personal obstacles, he views this ability as the highest form of leadership. The impact, he believes, ripples outward—driving stronger teams, inclusive cultures and a more resilient community.
Bowie’s long-term vision for Empower Construction is bold. Over the next five years, he aims to scale operations while deepening the company’s workforce development efforts. This includes new partnerships with vocational programs, expanded mentorship pathways and a blueprint for replicating Empower Construction’s inclusive hiring model across the industry. The company’s success will be measured not just in contracts, but in lives changed.
What makes Bowie a Titan in construction is not just what he builds, but how he builds it. He’s led Empower Construction to double-digit growth, secured high-visibility contracts and spoken publicly on equity in the trades. Yet among these accomplishments, his greatest pride lies in helping others find success they didn’t know was possible. For Bowie, every foundation poured is a symbol—not just of progress, but of promise.
