Michael D. Novakoski

Mike Novakoski is a visionary leader, entrepreneur, and culture architect with nearly four decades of experience in the construction, staffing, and leadership development industries. As President and CEO of EV Construction and EV Group, he has transformed these companies into nationally recognized organizations celebrated for their dynamic growth, unique innovations, and operational excellence. Mike has a special gift for innovative thinking, visioning, communication, culture building, and motivation in his organizational leadership roles. The company has been named one of “West Michigan’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For” for 18 years and has earned over a dozen Elite Awards—a rare accomplishment highlighting excellence in the ten categories in which they are judged. These accolades reflect Mike’s unwavering focus on cultivating a culture of care, innovation, and accountability.

In addition to a B.S. in Construction Management, Mike has an MBA in Finance, and is a graduate of Harvard Business School. He also holds an Innovation Management Certification after 240 hours of intensive study, where in his capstone project, he created the concept of uMap™, now an internationally recognized software. In addition to authoring three books, Mike is an internationally recognized speaker on the subjects of oddities, a unique embrace of the employer/employee dynamic, innovation at all levels, and “right-brain-justified” leadership.

An active member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) since 2007, Mike has served on its International Forum

Committee and contributed to global training programs. He integrates peer support principles into his organizations, fostering trust and vulnerability to build cohesive teams. His leadership philosophy centers on creating meaningful connections by creating trust through vulnerability, engaging team members, and delivering unmistakable experiences.