News
EllisDon Secures Two Spots on On-Site + Site Partners 40 Under 40 in Canadian Construction List
Mississauga, ON, September 18, 2025 — EllisDon’s Nick Thompson, Chief Estimator, and Christian Correa, Director, Operations, have been named to On-Site Magazine and Site Partners' 40 Under 40 in Canadian Construction list.
The annual 40 Under 40 awards recognize the most exceptional, progressive, and innovative young leaders who are advancing the movement of construction in Canada.
“At EllisDon, our people are our greatest strength. Nick and Christian represent the kind of leadership that defines our culture: innovative, collaborative, and deeply committed to building something better,” said Kieran Hawe, President & Chief Executive Officer, EllisDon. “Their recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the incredible teams they lead and the values we all share. We’re proud to celebrate their success and the spirit of excellence that drives EllisDon forward.”
With over 16 years of experience, Nick Thompson is EllisDon Calgary’s Chief Estimator, where he manages budgets and RFPs ranging from $1 million to $1 billion. He has progressed through six roles since joining the company in 2011, growing the estimating team from eight to 18 people and leading procurement on more than 130 projects totaling over $3.7 billion. Nick has pioneered AI-driven target-value design and labour-first estimating practices, helping to shape EllisDon’s national standards and drive innovation in preconstruction. Known for his collaborative leadership and deep operational insight, he is committed to mentorship, inclusive hiring, and building the next generation of construction professionals.
“Nick’s leadership is grounded in trust, mentorship, and a deep understanding of what it takes to build high-performing teams,” said Sean Dekoning, Senior Vice President and Area Manager, Calgary, EllisDon. “He’s grown our estimating group substantially in only a few years—not by chance, but by creating a culture where people feel empowered, supported, and challenged to excel. His ability to lead with clarity and care has made a lasting impact on our team and the projects we deliver.”
Christian Correa is EllisDon Ottawa’s Director of Operations, where he oversees a portfolio of over $1 billion and leads a team of 440 employees across 28 active projects. With over 16 years of combined trade and construction management experience, Christian has progressed through five roles since joining EllisDon in 2014. He’s known for transforming complex, resource-constrained projects into on-time, on-budget successes, including the Thunder Bay Correctional Complex and Ottawa LRT. Christian pioneered EllisDon’s first rollout of TouchPlan, now a company-wide standard, and leads a Lean Committee focused on continuous improvement. His leadership blends field expertise with operational discipline, driving innovation, mentoring emerging talent, and fostering a culture of excellence and accountability.
“Christian brings a rare combination of field experience, strategic thinking, and people-first leadership,” said Mike Armstrong, Senior Vice President and Area Manager, Ottawa, EllisDon. “What truly sets Christian apart is his unwavering commitment to his team and his belief in the power of collaboration. He isn’t just delivering major projects with precision—he’s inspiring those around him to reach higher and strive for excellence. The impact he’s made on our organization cannot be overstated. His passion and integrity have shaped not only our work but the very culture of our company. We are all better for having him lead.”This marks the sixth consecutive year EllisDon leaders have been recognized on the On-Site and Site Partners’ 40 Under 40 list. Winners are selected by a panel of judges based on professional achievements, innovation, leadership, and community involvement.
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MEDIA CONTACT
Raphaela Mandel
Manager, Communications
EllisDon Corporation
rmandel@ellisdon.com/ 416-662-1643