Highlands Construction is a commercial general contractor located in the Houston area. We have experience in commercial, retail, office and industrial projects, from new interior build-outs to renovations to ground-up construction. We have developed an exemplary reputation with our customers and always seek to meet and exceed their expectations. Every project is a partnership between customer and contractor and our detailed and professional approach to each customer need leads to projects that are on time and under budget, every time.
Assem Mourad is a cofounder of Highlands Construction with more than 14 years in the construction industry. Assem has managed local commercial projects as well as large-scale oil and gas construction projects. Assem previously worked at two of the largest global construction companies and helped to manage some of the most complex projects in the industry.
Assem holds a degree in business management and supply chain management from the University of Houston and an Architecture technology degree from DTC. He is an Active member of the ACCEI and ULI. Assem is currently pursuing an MBA from the University of Houston.
Shaz Butte is the CEO and co-founder of Highlands Construction. A graduate from the University of Texas in Austin, Shaz has more than 10 years of career experience that encompasses a wide range of project types: retail, restaurants, education, light industrial, corporate interiors, medical, and hospitality. Through his work with Highlands, he has spearheaded numerous projects that breathe new life into old structures, and his visionary approach and dedication to excellence help to turn them into vibrant establishments.
Shaz is certified with OSHA, the City of Houston Minority Business Enterprises (MBE) program, the State of Texas Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) program, and the University of Texas Economic Development program.
In addition to his time with Highlands Construction, Shaz is active in community and philanthropy work as well. In 2023, Shaz and his wife co-chaired the annual Houston Area Women’s Center luncheon, where they successfully helped raise $500,000 to support the center’s vital services. Shaz is also the founder of the CORE Mentorship Program, a pioneering initiative that connects mentors and mentees from construction, architecture, engineering, and real estate to foster growth and professional development. Currently, Shaz is a member of the University of Texas Economics Recent Alumni Committee.
Shaz is an honoree of the 2024 Houston Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” award which recognizes his achievements and leadership, and he has also completed the Goldman Sachs “10,000 Small Businesses” program, further honing his skills and expanding his impact in the construction industry.
Shaz lives in Houston with his wife and their three children. His wife’s strength and support have been instrumental in balancing their family life and professional endeavors. Together, they continue to build a legacy of excellence and community impact.
