John Banks has built a distinguished career spanning more than two decades in commercial and institutional construction across the Southeast region. Following his graduation from Presbyterian College in 2001 with a bachelor’s degree in political science, Banks entered the construction industry with Bonitz Contracting.

Over 13 years at Bonitz, Banks specialized in modular interiors and became manager of sales and marketing. He provided essential on-site support to project managers while overseeing interior upfits with high-quality materials and innovative building systems, including the cutting-edge DIRTT modular products. Banks played a pivotal role in building and leading sales and design teams, successfully expanding the company’s coverage across South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, D.C. and Maryland.

In 2015, Banks joined The Boardman Group as a partner. In this role, he oversees various aspects of project execution and sales for the company’s commercial and institutional construction projects. His expertise in construction, sales and marketing continues to drive the firm’s success in the Southeast market.

Ben Barfield leads Brasfield & Gorrie’s Greenville division as Vice President and Division Manager for the construction company with 4,500 employees. Barfield earned a Bachelor of Science in Building Science from Auburn University.

His construction career began in high school, working hands-on in the field where he learned the value of hard work, teamwork and the satisfaction of seeing tangible results from physical effort. These early lessons continue to shape his leadership approach today.

In early 2025, Barfield oversaw the relocation of Brasfield & Gorrie’s Greenville office to The Field House overlooking Fluor Field, doubling the square footage to accommodate the team’s continued growth.

Barfield’s extensive community involvement includes service on the Greenville Chamber Board of Advisors and Clemson University Corporate Partners Board. He is also actively engaged with NAIOP, Associated General Contractors, Our House, Upstate Alliance, Hope Church, C12, American Heart Association, Urban Land Institute and March of Dimes. He participated in the 2017 Leadership Greenville Class 44.

“Success means building people first — helping others grow, achieve, and lead well,” Barfield said.

Jordan Behringer leads BEHKO Group, a 20-person construction firm undergoing a comprehensive brand transformation. The rebrand reflects the company’s evolution from a traditional design-build firm to an integrated, innovation-driven partner.

Behringer holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master’s degree in civil-structural engineering, both from Clemson University. His construction career began at 15 as a laborer, sweeping floors and hauling materials. He advanced to become an electrician and eventually managed electrical contracting projects while completing his college education.

At BEHKO, Behringer has built a culture centered on accountability and follow-through. “Do what you said you were going to do,” he said, describing the foundation of trust in the construction business. The firm defines success as consistency: delivering excellence on every project and earning client trust that generates repeat business.

Behringer brings a creative approach to industrial construction, focusing on branding, vision-building and problem-solving. He emphasizes that success in Charleston’s fast-paced construction environment requires more than technical skill — it demands strong culture, clear communication and effective collaboration.

Chris Bowen brings more than three decades of construction expertise to his role at Hogan Construction Group, LLC, where he helps guide a 105-person team. A graduate of The Citadel with a degree in civil engineering, Bowen’s career trajectory began at age 14 working for a marine services company near Lake Keowee, where he gained hands-on experience in carpentry, electrical work and project management.

Bowen serves on the Anderson University Board of Visitors and the Oconee Economic Alliance Executive Board, demonstrating his commitment to regional development. He was recognized on the 2024 Construction Power List.

“Success means building meaningful relationships and finding ways to lift up the people around me,” Bowen said. “If I can help others grow, learn, and feel valued—and we all become a little better together—then I feel like I’m succeeding.”

Beyond construction, Bowen nurtures an appreciation for art and architecture, often incorporating museum visits and architectural tours into family travel. His leadership philosophy emphasizes treating everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of position or role.

Matt Brewer brings more than 20 years of construction expertise to his role as president and CEO of Choate Construction Co. Previously serving as division manager of Choate Charleston, Brewer has been with the company since 2004, providing leadership in personnel management and business strategy.

Under his leadership, Choate has constructed more than 17.5 million square feet of space seeking third-party sustainability certification. The company established its Sustainability department over 20 years ago and is consistently recognized in ENR’s Top Green Contractors list.

“As demand for more adaptive, resilient and high-performance buildings rises, we continue looking for new, innovative solutions to enhance structures and better both the environment and our clients’ bottom line,” Brewer said.

As a 100% employee-owned company, Choate offers programs including LaunchPoint, a rotational program for new hires and recent graduates, and a Leadership Development Program supporting career advancement.

Brewer served in the Marine Corps, continuing his family’s military service tradition spanning generations, including ancestors who served in the American Revolutionary War.

Allen Bridgers began developing his work ethic early, cutting grass for neighbors at age 11 and managing multiple yards throughout his school years. After earning a Bachelor of Arts from Wofford College, where he served as Student Body President, Bridgers joined Nestlé USA at age 21, working in a Stouffer’s and Lean Cuisine plant in Gaffney.

As President of McCrory Construction, Bridgers leads a 115-person team that has significantly expanded its regional footprint across the Southeast. Under his leadership, the company has sharpened its focus on design-build industrial and commercial projects while maintaining deep relationships with long-standing clients.

“For me, success is about legacy,” Bridgers said. “It’s about living and leading in a way that has a lasting impact on my family, my team and the people that we serve.”

An Eagle Scout, Bridgers serves on the boards of Ezekiel Ministries and Carolina Children’s Home. He previously chaired T1D and the Leadership Columbia Alumni Association.

David Caldwell leads Caldwell Constructors, a construction firm with 47 employees. A Clemson University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Science and Management and a minor in Business, Caldwell began his career path as a line cook at 16, where he learned the value of hard work, teamwork and financial responsibility.

Caldwell’s approach to construction was shaped by advice from his grandfather, who told him, “If a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing right.” This philosophy has helped Caldwell build lasting client relationships, with many returning to the company and referring others — a measure he considers the strongest indicator of success.

He currently serves as chair of Clement’s Kindness Advisory Board, an organization particularly meaningful to him after being diagnosed with cancer at age seven. He previously served on committees for Habitat for Humanity, Poinsett Club and First Presbyterian Church.

Caldwell identifies the aging workforce and shortage of skilled tradesmen as the biggest challenge facing the construction industry today.

Gary Caldwell earned a Bachelor of Science in Construction Science Management with a minor in business from Clemson University in 1976. He began his career as a project manager and estimator at Brittain Constructors before advancing through leadership roles at Threatt-Michael Construction, where he served as vice president of estimating. Caldwell later joined Beers-York Construction Co., rising to senior vice president, and served as vice president at Trehel Corporation. In 2005, he founded Caldwell Constructors, which employs 46 people in Upstate.

Beyond his professional achievements, Caldwell has supported Habitat for Humanity, served as chair of the YMCA Verdae Branch Board and contributed to the Greenville Chamber of Commerce through mentoring and workforce development initiatives. He remains active with the Downtown Rotary Club, Poinsett Club and Clemson Advancement Foundation for Design + Building.

“Above all, be honest in everything you do,” Caldwell said when asked about the best advice he has received.

Caldwell defines success as progress toward a worthy goal and identifies workforce development and effective communication as the construction industry’s biggest challenges.

Joel Davis began his construction career at age 17, hiring his first employee to work for local farmers in Westminster. In 1997, he founded J. Davis Construction with a high school friend, starting with fencing and barn projects. Known for honoring commitments and reliable delivery, the company’s portfolio expanded as projects evolved from light to heavy construction.

Davis purchased heavy equipment and established in-house crews for grading services. After identifying an industry need for facility maintenance support, the company diversified into industrial services.

Today, J. Davis Construction operates from two Upstate offices with three divisions: General Contracting, Industrial Services and Civil. The company serves commercial, industrial, educational and healthcare clients with over 90 employees. In 2018, the firm worked on more than 50 facilities across three states. The company has earned recognition as one of South Carolina’s Fastest-Growing Companies and Best Places to Work while maintaining its commitment to community giving.

Bret Estridge leads M. B. Kahn Construction as President, a position he assumed in September 2024. The company manages projects across healthcare, commercial, industrial and K-12 education sectors with 360 employees worldwide.

Estridge earned a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management with a minor in Business Administration from East Carolina University. His career in construction began with early lessons in work ethic from his first job at a Winn-Dixie grocery store at age 15, where he learned the importance of punctuality and hard work.

He has served on multiple boards including the American Red Cross Charlotte Chapter, Carolina Raptor Center and as a lead mentor for the ACE Mentor Program of America. He participated in Leadership Charlotte Class 36 and received the Charlotte Business Journal 40 under 40 Award in 2014.

“My definition of success has evolved over time,” Estridge said, explaining that he now focuses on contributing to company success by providing guidance and leadership that empowers others.

Estridge met his wife in high school. They have been married 21 years and have two sons.

Adam Ferrara leads Ferrara Buist Contractors, a construction firm with 31 employees serving clients across the Carolinas. Ferrara earned a Bachelor of Arts in Corporate Communications with a minor in Business Administration from the College of Charleston in 2000.

After beginning his career in nonprofit sponsorship and grant writing, Ferrara discovered his passion for construction, where he could escape desk work and engage directly with projects. He now defines success by how effectively he builds relationships and teaches clients to develop their future buildings.

Ferrara Buist has secured significant projects recently, including a design-build contract with the Town of James Island for a Cultural Arts Community Center in August 2025, the Ingleside Storage project launching in North Charleston in March 2026, and four Early Childhood Education Centers in North and South Carolina.

Ferrara serves on the Town of Mount Pleasant Planning Commission. His early experiences in foster care and a children’s home developed his ability to navigate the uncertainty inherent in construction.

Chad Frampton began his construction career working part-time at his father’s construction company while still in high school. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Newberry College before advancing to lead Frampton Construction as president and CEO, which employs 101 people.

Under Frampton’s leadership, the company has achieved key milestones at projects including MUSC Bluffton Medical Pavilion, Le Creuset and Wegmans Ballantyne. The organization has strategically expanded its manufacturing and healthcare project portfolio across the Southeast, with recent leadership appointments including Josh Schlechty as chief operating officer and Dave Florence as chief strategy officer.

Frampton prioritizes workforce development through company programs including the Frampton Scholars Fund and Empowers Leadership Development Program. His civic contributions include serving as a Roper St. Francis Foundation Fellow and raising $214,000 as Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Lowcountry Man of the Year in 2017.

“You don’t have to be the smartest person in the room, but you should make sure they’re sitting next to you,” Frampton said, sharing advice from his father that guides his leadership approach.

A Leadership Charleston alumnus, Frampton is passionate about waterfowl hunting and finds reflection time outdoors.

Andrew Fuller has built a career centered on innovation in foundation repair and structural solutions. In 1996, Fuller founded Claycor Contractors, Inc. in Ridgeville, specializing in residential repairs, settlement issues, structural failures and foundation work. His expertise extends to micro piles and deep pile foundations for residential, commercial and industrial applications.

Fuller’s inventive approach led to development of the Fuller Pile System, earning him recognition as Innovator of the Year in Charleston in 2008-2009. Between 2008 and 2011, he served as principal and inventor at Global Moisture Management, expanding his technical expertise.

In May 2016, Fuller established Fuller Pile, LLC in Walterboro, a patent-holding manufacturer producing advanced micro-pile technology. The company delivers structural solutions for foundation challenges across residential, commercial and industrial sectors. Fuller holds an associate degree in science from the University of South Carolina Aiken, providing the technical foundation for his three decades of entrepreneurial and engineering achievements in South Carolina’s construction industry.

Andre Harris joined A M King at its inception 21 years ago and was promoted to vice president in January 2025. Based in the company’s Greenville office, he manages complex design-build manufacturing projects and facility services programs throughout the region.

Harris earned a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from The Citadel after a career-ending ankle injury during his senior year redirected him from professional basketball aspirations. He became the first person in his family to graduate from college.

His recent project portfolio includes managing completion of a chemical manufacturing facility for MÜNZING North America in Clover, initiating design and construction of a 315,000-square-foot food processing facility for nonprofit MANA Nutrition near Savannah, Georgia, and overseeing ongoing projects for GE Vernova, Honeywell and ZF Transmissions in the Upstate region.

Harris serves on advisory boards for the South Carolina Manufacturing Conference & Expo and Clemson University’s Nieri Department of Construction and Real Estate Development. He volunteers regularly with Ronald McDonald House in Greenville as a guest chef.

He holds a general contractor license.

Todd Horne leads Clayton Construction Company, Inc., a 61-employee firm that recently relocated to a new corporate office at 316 West Main Street in downtown Spartanburg. Horne earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of South Carolina Upstate.

Horne’s civic engagement extends across numerous organizations throughout the region. He chairs the board of Ten at the Top and serves on the Commission for Higher Education at the University of South Carolina Upstate. His board positions include Chapman Cultural Center, Trees Upstate, South Carolina Charities and the Huntington Bank Carolinas Advisory Board. He is a board member and past chair of One Spartanburg Inc.

Horne’s commitment to community service was shaped by his upbringing as the son of a Methodist pastor. “Being a pastor’s kid didn’t just influence my beliefs—it helped form my character, my desire to serve, and my commitment to living a life rooted in purpose,” Horne said.

His first job waiting tables at a local restaurant taught him multitasking, communication and customer service.

J. Mark Hylton is a natural leader and professional in the construction industry. With expertise that spans a variety of sectors such as commercial, governmental, aviation, transportation, and others, he’s known for his execution of large-scale projects and ability to fast-track schedules. Hylton is also skilled in subcontractor coordination, document control, field personnel supervision, health and safety management, materials and equipment oversight, and project cost control.

With more than three decades of hands-on experience working on projects like high-volume storm drainage, environmentally sensitive site conditions, waste management, and more, Hylton has seen incredible success in taking Gulf Stream Construction to new heights as the president. In his role here, Hylton manages all activities and daily operations to achieve strategic goals and reach deadlines. Whether it’s bidding process contributions, evaluating project proposals and plans, coordinating with engineering or project teams, Hylton has a laser-focused vision that he works to execute for each client.

Looking at the future, Hylton plans to continue to hone is experience and use his passion for leadership to ensure each project is executed with precision and excellence.

Peter A. McKellar IV leads Harbor Contracting as president and owner, a 26-employee construction firm he joined as a high school laborer and never left, working his way through every level of the organization.

A Clemson University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in building science and management, McKellar recently promoted his sons Andrew and Alex to vice presidents, continuing the family’s leadership tradition. The company relocated to new headquarters at 835 Lowcountry Boulevard in Mount Pleasant.

“The best advice I’ve ever received is to stay in your lane and do a few things very well,” he says, emphasizing focus over chasing every opportunity.

McKellar identifies labor shortages, aging workforce, and supply chain issues as industry challenges, noting these cycles recur and require adaptability.

His community leadership includes serving as president of Center of Birds/Avian Conservation Center and board member of Detyens Shipyard and ServisFirst Bank. A 22-year Rotary Club of Mt. Pleasant member, he earned the Service Above Self Award and previously led the Charleston Contractors’ Association and Charitable Society of Charleston.

McKellar defines success through honoring promises and client satisfaction rather than awards or recognition.

Reed Jones serves as Director of Business Development at Quantum Commercial, a construction industry company with 20 employees operating in South Carolina and Georgia.

Jones began his professional journey in supply chain sales, where he developed foundational skills that continue to shape his career. He learned early on how important communication, patience and problem-solving are when dealing with people — lessons that still influence how he approaches relationships and challenges today.

His professional philosophy centers on active listening. “Listen more than you speak-you’ll learn twice as much,” Jones said, reflecting advice that guides his approach to business development.

In his role at Quantum Commercial, Jones has been part of the company’s growth trajectory. In 2024, the company expanded by opening a second location in Savannah, Georgia, strengthening its regional presence. The construction sector faces ongoing challenges, particularly project budgets and financial constraints impacting project starts, issues Jones navigates in his business development responsibilities.

Jones defines success as achieving meaningful goals while maintaining balance, integrity and growth both personally and professionally. This holistic perspective informs his work as Quantum Commercial continues to expand.

Outside the office, Jones holds a preference that might surprise colleagues: he prefers the lake over the beach.

Will W. Huss Jr. leads Trehel Corp., a construction company with 60 employees, bringing architectural design expertise from his Clemson University background to the CEO role. His leadership approach centers on workforce development, which he identifies as the construction industry’s most pressing challenge.

Huss’s influence extends well beyond his company through extensive civic engagement in the Greenville community. He currently serves on boards for GAPS (Greenville Area Parkinson’s Society), United Ministries, FCA Upstate Leadership and the Greenville Chamber of Commerce Foundation. His leadership credentials include serving as chair of the Greenville Chamber of Commerce in 2022 and chair of Greenville Technical College Foundation in 2021.

His impact has earned recognition as a Carolinas Groundbreaker in 2025 and placement on Greenville’s 50 Most Influential list three times in 2021, 2023 and 2024.

Huss’s first job cropping tobacco in Dillon taught him foundational lessons about punctuality and hard work. He defines success simply: “When people around you flourish and grow.”

Robert C. Pulliam Jr. leads Pulliam Restoration as president and owner, guiding the 37-employee property restoration company through industry challenges including skilled labor shortages, increasing operational costs and complex regulatory requirements while expanding across South Carolina.

A University of South Carolina graduate with a bachelor’s degree in science, Pulliam opened new offices in Charleston and Greenville in 2025, deepening the company’s commercial restoration and remediation capabilities including water damage, fire damage, mold removal and storm damage services.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding,” he says.

His first job operating a neighborhood candy stand and mowing lawns taught him to work through difficult moments and honor commitments.

Pulliam serves on multiple boards including Pursuit Discipleship School as director, AUSA supporting soldiers and families, and South Carolina Emergency Management Association. His global philanthropy includes Blue Missions projects connecting Latin American families to clean water.

He defines success as progress rather than perfection, avoiding excessive focus on current circumstances.

Father to five children and holder of an instrument pilot’s license, Pulliam previously served as president of Midsouth Cleaning and Restoration Association.

Carson Knizevski brings more than 25 years of construction industry leadership to his role at Samet Corporation, where he has served as senior vice president since May 2018. He oversees market share growth and strategic positioning in South Carolina while managing daily operations for the national contractor.

Knizevski spent 19 years with HITT Contracting Inc., progressing from project manager to senior vice president. In his final role there, he managed a $70 million regional business unit, overseeing profit and loss, resource allocation and contract negotiations. He established bid strategies, conducted risk management training and guided career development for direct reports.

Throughout his career, Knizevski has delivered projects for dozens of Fortune 500 companies across diverse sectors including K-12, higher education, hospitality, government and defense, healthcare, aviation, manufacturing and historic renovations. He studied at California State University, Fresno.

Lang began her career at Tindall Corporation in 1990 as controller before advancing to vice president and chief financial officer. She later served as senior vice president of administration and was promoted to president in January 2023. In July 2024, Lang was appointed CEO, where she oversees daily operations.

Lang earned a Bachelor of Science in accounting from East Tennessee State University and a Master of Business Administration from Clemson University. She was inducted into the ETSU College of Business and Technology Alumni Hall of Fame in 2007 for outstanding contributions to community, profession and the college.

She received the South Carolina Association of CPAs Outstanding CPA in Business and Industry Award in 2008 and later served on their board of directors and governmental affairs committee, chairing the board in 2017. Lang currently serves on the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute’s board of directors, business performance council and investment committee.

Brandon Linden brings more than 20 years of construction industry experience to his role leading one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing construction companies. His comprehensive expertise spans every facet of the field, developed through hands-on work in positions including field superintendent, project manager, project estimator and operations manager before assuming the presidency.

Linden has successfully managed construction projects across residential, commercial, institutional and historical building types. His portfolio demonstrates proficiency in complex, multifaceted developments that require intricate coordination and planning.

A strong advocate for collaborative approaches, Linden prioritizes building partnerships with clients, designers, consultants, architects, engineers and subcontractors. He maintains accessibility to clients and focuses on serving their best interests throughout each project.

Linden studied business at the University of Delaware and resides with his wife Sarah on Wadmalaw Island, where they spend weekends with their two sons and two dogs exploring the Lowcountry.

Nick Luffman leads Landmark Builders of South Carolina’s Columbia market, overseeing commercial construction projects across health care, hospitality and industrial sectors. Since joining the company in 2007, he has advanced through roles including project engineer, assistant project manager, project manager and director of preconstruction before assuming his current leadership position in January 2024.

Luffman brings specialized expertise in health care construction and sustainable building practices, holding LEED AP BD+C certification. The company portfolio includes notable projects such as Prisma Health Children’s Hospital in Columbia, Lexington Medical Center and University of South Carolina College of Nursing in West Columbia, and multiple hospitality developments including Wyndham properties and Holiday Inn Club Vacations locations.

A graduate of Appalachian State University with a bachelor’s degree in construction technology and a minor in business, Luffman has spent nearly 18 years with the Landmark organization. He helps continue the company’s 50-year legacy of delivering quality commercial construction while building lasting client relationships across the Southeast.