Mowa Haile told Leeds students that employee ownership matched the values behind Sky Blue Builders. The company founder discussed the transition during a Sept. 25 Fireside Chat as Leeds’ 2026 Civic Leader-in-Residence.
Haile said the company’s last two years were its best ever. Revenue reached $85 million in 2025 after the business moved to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan in 2023.
Mowa Haile Describes The Ownership Decision
According to the university’s account, Haile could either sell the business or transition to employee ownership. The founder chose the latter, describing the decision as consistent with employees’ values.
“It was the right thing to do,” Haile said.
Haile identified the financing debt as the model’s only disadvantage. The business must repay that debt within five years.
Beyond that obligation, Haile described employee ownership as beneficial. Employees perform better and are deeply invested in the company’s success, the founder said.
The change also affected major decisions. A six-member committee signs off on them, and 30 of the company’s 60 employee owners applied for committee slots.
Haile described a culture in which people help each other. The founder also cited tax advantages and said ESOPs become cash rich once their debt is repaid.
A Business Built Around Community
The conversation connected that decision to Haile’s upbringing. The family immigrated from Eritrea to the United States, settling in Fort Collins when Haile was age 9.
People helped the family establish its new life. Haile said both parents focused on what they could build after losing everything.
Running brought confidence, discipline, structure and perseverance. Haile earned a scholarship to Colorado State University and told students one cross-country season changed what seemed possible.
After considering law school, Haile discovered a love of business. High-tech roles preceded the launch of Sky Blue Builders with the mission: Be Good, Do Great & Inspire.
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Mowa Haile Urges Leaders To Think Ahead
Building the company required long workdays, growing pains and refinancing a home. Haile credited mentors and Colorado’s business community with helping develop the team and judgment needed for growth.
During the pandemic, Haile worked to sustain employees, revise bids and take calculated risks. The mayor also asked Haile to join Denver’s Economic Relief and Recovery Council.
The founder said the council helped streamline processes, including virtual inspections that remain in use. That experience reinforced the importance of looking ahead as a CEO.
For related Colorado business coverage, readers can see Denver business sale rankings.
Mowa Haile also discussed work with Denver International Airport to launch the Center for Equity and Excellence in Aviation this year. Haile described opening opportunities for minority business owners and leaders.
Looking forward, Haile hopes business leaders and legislators work together to avoid unintended negative consequences for Colorado businesses and communities.
