With global construction output projected to grow by 2.5% this year, the industry is evolving at a remarkable pace. In response to these dynamic conditions, Kaisar Onlaybayev, CTO of SemArco, has effectively managed high-profile projects with revenues exceeding $350 million. Recognized for implementing BIM modeling and strategic engineering solutions, Onlaybayev has not only enhanced project execution but has also driven company profitability and expanded operations into new sectors. We sat down with him to gain insights into the specific leadership strategies and innovative technologies shaping the future of construction.
Aligning Strategy with Results
Success in construction begins with aligning strategies to achieve well-defined project goals. This principle becomes especially critical as industry projects grow in size and complexity. Onlaybayev demonstrated this when he implemented a register system to track engineering, construction, and quality issues in real time. This not only provided the management team with instant insights but also streamlined decision-making, which was essential for keeping projects on track.
“Every project is a living organism,” Onlaybayev explained. “Anticipating challenges and addressing them quickly is like giving it the care it needs to thrive — it’s deeply satisfying to see everything come together smoothly.”
Another fundamental strategy Onlaybayev implemented was using Building Information Modeling (BIM) to catch construction issues before they escalated preemptively. This approach allowed his team to control costs and maintain schedules effectively. Altogether, these strategies enabled them to deliver quality results within both time and budget expectations consistently.
The Strength of Interdisciplinary Expertise
Innovation does not happen in isolation — it grows from a combination of technical expertise, practical experience, and strategic thinking. Leaders who drive meaningful change often begin by understanding the limitations of existing systems and seeking better ways forward.
Onlaybayev’s career began with a strong foundation in mechanical engineering at Czech Technical University in Prague, where he gained the degree of bachelor of mechanical engineering. While already working in the industry, he obtained a Master of Technical Science in chemical technologies of organic substances. Extensive knowledge in both fields shaped his expertise. Early roles, such as Field Project Engineer, provided firsthand experience of the inefficiencies in traditional construction workflows, inspiring him to seek innovative solutions.
“Even in my first roles, I noticed how much time and effort were wasted on issues that could have been avoided with better planning,” he recalls. “It was clear to me that we needed tools that could predict and prevent problems rather than just react to them.”
Years into his career, Onlaybayev pursued an MBA at AlmaU in 2022 to complement his technical background with strategic management skills. This decision allowed him to bridge the gap between engineering and business, ensuring that his innovative approaches aligned with organizational goals.
“I went back to school because I realized innovation isn’t just about technology—it’s about making a case for change and getting others on board,” he says. “The MBA helped me speak the language of leadership.”
Time as a Key Resource
In an industry where delays can cost millions, managing construction timelines efficiently has become a crucial focus. Onlaybayev’s leadership at BI Group has been transformative. Under his direction, the company expanded its reach into new sectors and modernized workflows. His implementation of BIM significantly reduced project delays, saving an average of 28 days per project — a finding highlighted in his influential research, Optimizing the Timeline of Residential Complex Construction.
“I wasn’t just looking to save time—I wanted to make the whole process smoother for everyone involved,” he explains. “Seeing those 4 weeks reclaimed gave me a real sense of accomplishment, knowing it could be replicated across projects.”
These findings highlight the critical role of digital tools like BIM in enhancing project efficiency and delivering measurable financial benefits in today’s competitive construction industry. His efforts didn’t just benefit the company’s operations; they enhanced its reputation as a forward-thinking industry leader, driving profitability and client satisfaction.
Cultivating Tomorrow’s Leaders
The future of construction lies in the hands of adaptable and digitally proficient professionals. Recognizing this, Onlaybayev has focused beyond his direct work at BI Group and SemArco.
His findings on optimizing timelines and resource management are now integrated into training programs for future engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) professionals. As a mentor, he emphasizes adaptability and digital proficiency as critical skills for young engineers.
“Seeing young engineers evolve is like watching the seeds of tomorrow’s breakthroughs take root,” he reflected. “It’s energizing to know that their growth will drive the industry forward in ways we can’t yet imagine.”
Looking Forward: A Vision for Progress
The integration of BIM with AI is poised to redefine construction management, offering unprecedented levels of precision and efficiency. Onlaybayev believes that this fusion will enable more sustainable, high-quality projects, ensuring the industry’s relevance in an increasingly fast-paced world.
“The future feels brighter than ever,” he concluded. “It’s about creating spaces that inspire, foster community, and stand as testaments to innovation and purpose.”
Onlaybayev’s story underscores the power of vision and adaptability in navigating the challenges of modern construction. Through his leadership, he demonstrates how aligning strategy, technology, and talent can transform not only individual projects but the industry as a whole.
“We’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible,” he concludes. “If we can combine the best of technology with a commitment to sustainability, we’ll not only transform construction but also make a lasting impact on our world.”
Members of the Coastal Real Estate Guide Newspaper were not involved in the creation of this content.
