Jason Harvey serves as Chief People Officer for Prus Construction, a fifth-generation, family-owned heavy civil contractor headquartered in Cincinnati. He oversees Safety, Human Resources, and Learning & Development for approximately 300 employees across multiple divisions. An Eagle Scout and lifelong advocate for workforce development, Jason is passionate about building both infrastructure and people.
Under his leadership, Prus has expanded apprenticeship pathways, strengthened safety culture, integrated mental health initiatives into OSHA training, and deepened partnerships with local high schools, career technical programs, and universities throughout Southwest Ohio.
Jason currently serves on curriculum advisory boards for twelve high schools and trade schools, as well as a regional university, helping align classroom instruction with real-world workforce needs. He works closely with educators to ensure students graduate with both technical skills and career readiness. He holds a Master of Science in Executive Human Resource Development from Xavier University and is an NCCER Master Trainer. Jason frequently speaks on workforce development, safety culture, and leadership at regional and national conferences. His mission is simple: improve the lives of employees and their families while building a stronger Cincinnati. Find a Q&A with Jason below.
Why are you passionate about the Workforce Council and our work?
“I believe strong communities are built the same way strong jobsites are built — intentionally, collaboratively, and with a long-term vision. The Workforce Council plays a critical role in aligning education, industry, and opportunity. In construction, we see firsthand how transformative meaningful employment can be, not just for individuals, but for entire families. When we connect someone to a career path, whether through apprenticeship, co-op, career tech, or adult upskilling, we are changing generational trajectories. I’m passionate about the Workforce Council because this work isn’t just about filling positions. It’s about building futures.”
What was your first job?
“I grew up in a family business. My parents owned a veterinary practice, and my father is a retired veterinarian. From a young age, I worked in every part of that practice — assisting with procedures, cleaning kennels, organizing supplies, answering phones, and doing whatever needed to be done. More importantly, I learned that your work is a direct reflection of your character. My parents taught me that what you do when you think no one is watching defines who you are. Integrity isn’t situational; it’s habitual. They instilled in me a simple belief: if you consistently do the right thing and take pride in your work, good things follow. That foundation has shaped how I lead people, build teams, and approach workforce development today.”
What professional advice have you received that has stuck with you throughout your career?
“’Take care of your people, and the numbers will take care of themselves.’ That advice has guided my entire career. Whether in safety, HR, or workforce strategy, I’ve learned that when you invest in people — their development, their well-being, and their families — performance follows.”