Construction

ARCHITECTURE

NATHANAEL SCALES

President and CEO

Garden Doctors

Scales founded his company in 2005, and the onetime one-man operation has since grown into a diverse landscape, maintenance and consulting firm. In 2019, Garden Doctors was a part of the inaugural cohort of the InvestNOLA program, designed to foster and grow small businesses owned by entrepreneurs of color into enterprises with $10 million in annual revenue.

Education: University of Phoenix (BSBM), Harvard Executive Business Program Advice: “Your network will determine your net worth.” — Ronnie Burns Notable Clients: New Orleans Fair Grounds, Entergy, Xavier University, Dillard University Snoball Style: Ice cream Hidden Talent: Fashion

ARCHITECTURE

ANDY STERNAD

Vice President

Waggonner & Ball

As a registered architect and certified planner focused on collaborative, holistic solutions for climate adaptation, Sternad works to reveal the character of place and integrate issues of nature, culture and economy through building designs and urban plans. “I’m grateful to be able to make an impact on some of the greatest urban and environmental challenges of our time,” he said.

Education: Yale University (MArch), Washington University (BA) Hidden Gem: “A market and café called the Rabbit’s Foot in the Lower Garden District.” Advice: “My dad always said, ‘It’s nice to be nice,’ which I believe is true in any scenario. Kindness and empathy always come back around.” Nonprofit Cause: Ripple Effect

ARCHITECTURE

TREY TRAHAN

Founder

Trahan Architects

Trahan founded his architectural firm in 1992 with the belief that “humility and awareness” in the design process help create “authentic spaces that elevate our lives.” This philosophy has informed some of Trahan’s upcoming New Orleans projects, including the Chapel of St. Ignatius and the Gayle and Tom Benson Jesuit Center at Loyola University New Orleans.

Education: Louisiana State University (BArch) Highlight of Leadership: “Learning from my colleagues” On the Horizon: “Our pursuit of spatial qualities that support and promote equity” Nonprofit Cause: The Cultural Landscape Foundation (TCLF) Go-to Restaurant: “My mother’s kitchen!”

ARCHITECTURE

CHIP VERGES

Owner

VergesRome Architects

VRA is an architectural firm known for renovation and recovery projects, such as the Saint Joseph Abbey and Seminary College and the Energy Centre. Verges joined the company in 1983, working his way up to his current leadership position in 2006. He manages a staff of architects, interior designers, cost estimators, specification writers and administrative support.

Education: Louisiana State University (BArch) Go-to Restaurant: Venezia’s Hobby: Golf Best Part of the Job: “Every project is different.” Hero: “My dad” Nonprofit Cause: Bridge House Grace House Best Fest: French Quarter Festival Hidden Gem: Golden Lantern

ARCHITECTURE

EMILIE TAYLOR WELTY

Architect Colectivo

Part of the Colectivo team that’s created spaces for French Truck Coffee, Pluck Wine Bar and Galaxie Tacos, among others, Taylor also has worked on various public interest projects as a faculty member at the Tulane School of Architecture. One of her favorites is the Grow Dat Youth Farm in New Orleans City Park. She is currently working on a book about design-build education.

Education: Tulane University (MArch), University of Southern Mississippi (BS) On the Horizon: “We’re working with a research and conservation group in Ecuador called FCAT and that’s been exciting.” Fave Jazz Fest Food: “I like the excitement of looking at the wide field of booths and then second guessing my choices.”

CONSTRUCTION

MINDY NUÑEZ AIRHART

President and CEO SSE Steel Fabrication

Airhart leads a structural steel fabrication contractor that has contributed to largescale projects such as repairs to southeast Louisiana hurricane levee protection systems. She is the chairwoman of the New Orleans Chamber and the outgoing chairwoman of the St. Bernard Parish Chamber. She’s active on other boards and has earned several business awards.

Education: Tulane University (BA) Go-to Restaurant: Venezia’s Hidden Gem: Crave restaurant in Meraux On the Horizon: “We’re installing climate control in our fabrication facility.” Work Highlight: “I love making sure that our employees are happy and fulfilled. Focus on the people first and the profits will follow.”

CONSTRUCTION

TRAVIS BANKS

Principal and Project Manager

Gravel Road Builders and Construction Services

In 2016, this New Orleans native (and sixth generation construction pro) followed his childhood dream and launched his own company. Services offered include general contracting, project management, construction consulting and historic renovations. He’s trained to remove concrete and install green infrastructure that will help manage rainwater and reduce flooding risk.

Education: Louisiana State University (MS), Southern University at New Orleans (BS), Delgado Community College (AAS) Go-to Restaurant: Barrow’s Catfish Hidden Gem: Shaolin Institute, which offers martial arts classes Nonprofit Cause: Louisiana Green Corps, a job training program

CONSTRUCTION

ROBERT BOH

President and CEO

Boh Bros. Construction Co.

Boh and his brother, Stephen, are the third generation of the family to lead a privately owned heavy construction company that claims an average of 150 projects annually. Boh is a past campaign cabinet member for United Way of New Orleans and past president of the Boy Scouts of America. He serves on the board of the Ochsner Health Foundation.

Education: Tulane University (BS, MBA) Company Founded: 1909 Claim to Fame: In addition to working on many regional highway and bridge projects, Boh Bros. drove the pilings for the Superdome. Did You Know? Boh Bros. founded Broadmoor in 1973 in order to focus on commercial building projects.

CONSTRUCTION

ARIELLE BURKS

PR and Marketing Manager

RYCARS Construction

Burks has helped this family-owned company complete more than $10 million in commercial roofing and construction projects. “In the construction industry, there are a myriad of challenges that arise,” she said. “It’s imperative to work together to overcome obstacles.” She’s a member of National Women in Roofing and donates her time to Second Harvest Food Bank.

Education: Georgetown University (MS), Syracuse University (BS) Go-to Restaurant: “GW Fins has delicious food, great service and sophisticated ambience.” Advice: “Focus on how you can add value to yourself personally and professionally. By adding value to yourself (internally), you can then add value to others (externally).”

CONSTRUCTION

CHRIS COMBS

Owner

C M Combs Construction

Combs founded his company in 2011, applying an “open-book, collaborative and energetic” approach to the construction process. The firm has become a go-to contractor for many public entities, including the National WWII Museum. There, Combs helped create the American Spirit Bridge, Andrew Higgins Plaza, the Monument Stairs and other features.

Education: Louisiana State University (BS) Go-to Restaurant: Irene’s Advice: “Be accountable for your actions and decisions.” Best Fest: “Saints in the Super Bowl!” Heroes: “People who demonstrate courage and don’t waiver under pressure.” Nonprofit Cause: CAC - Hope House

CONSTRUCTION

JOHN DONAHUE III

President and CEO

DonahueFavret Contractors

Growing up in the family business, Donahue first worked on a construction project when he was just 12 years old. In 1990, he officially joined the family firm as a project manager and estimator, and from there he worked his way up to become the company’s chief executive and owner. Since 2007, he has managed day-to-day operations and led the entire organization.

Education: Louisiana State University (BS) Notable projects: Court of Two Sisters renovations, Tulane’s Richardson Hall, Mercantile Hotel Charity Involvement: “DonahueFavret is hosting the first Driving FORE Charity Golf Tournament.” Awards: National Eagle Awards for Excellence, National Awards of Merit

CONSTRUCTION

PAUL FLOWER

CEO

Woodward Design+Build

With more than 50 years of experience, Flower has developed deep expertise in construction management, civil engineering and real estate development in the construction industry. Among his most notable accomplishments is overseeing the $530 million conversion of the former World Trade Center into the Four Seasons New Orleans Hotel and Residences.

Education: Tulane University (MS), Georgia Institute of Technology (BS) On the Horizon: “Woodward will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2023.” Nonprofit Cause: Colors of the Mind Advice: “Tom Benson used to have something in his office that said, ‘Money lost, nothing lost. Courage lost, everything lost.’ That’s stuck with me.” BIZNEWORLEANS.COM

CONSTRUCTION

DAVID GALLO

CEO

Gallo Mechanical

In 1945, brothers August and Louis Gallo pooled their money and came up with $800 to start a business. Gallo Mechanical has been family-owned and operated ever since. Under David Gallo’s leadership, it’s become a large mechanical construction company with operations in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Pensacola, Charlotte and Raleigh.

Education: University of New Orleans (BS) Go-to Restaurant: Commander’s Palace Nonprofit Cause: BGC of Metro LA On the Horizon: “We continue to grow by adding great people throughout all of our geographies!” Who’d Play You in a Movie? Larry David Best Fest: Oak Street Po-boy Festival Hidden Gem: Cafe Minh

CONSTRUCTION

RYAN GOOTEE

President and CEO

Ryan Gootee General Contractors

Gootee started his company in 2004, building on a family legacy that spans four generations. The firm has delivered educational facilities, athletic complexes, restaurants, apartments, retail developments, historic renovations and more to the greater New Orleans area. The $45 million Sazerac House on Canal Street was a 2020 award winner.

Education: Louisiana State University (BS) Go-to Restaurant: Clancy’s Best Fest: Jazz Fest Hidden Gem: The Franklin Advice: “Regardless of your experience level or seniority, never be afraid to speak up when you feel that something is wrong and will result in an unfavorable outcome.”

CONSTRUCTION

KATIE JENSEN

Co-Founder and CEO

Triton Stone

This family-run, women-owned company debuted in 2006 in Harahan. Now, it has 25 showrooms and four distribution centers in the Southeast and Midwest. In 2019, Jensen was elected to the board of the Natural Stone Institute, where she’ll be president in 2023. “I am so blessed to be able to travel and procure the most amazing products while working with the best team,” she said.

Education: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Hidden Gems: Patois and Erin Rose On the Horizon: “We are continuing to grow and invest in our team. The more that we can give back, the more success we’ll achieve.” Heroes: “My parents for instilling in me and all my siblings the value of hard work and giving back”

CONSTRUCTION

ANNE TEAGUE LANDIS

CEO

Landis Construction Co.

Landis got her start working as an assistant at her family’s business during her summer breaks as a young student. When she took over as CEO in 2015, she became the thirdgeneration Landis to run the construction company famous for Jax Brewery, the Aquarium of the Americas, many buildings created for the 1984 World’s Fair and other iconic projects.

Education: Tulane University (MBA), University of Washington (BS) Hidden Gem: Longue Vue House and Gardens Nonprofit Cause: Silence Is Violence Advice: “Show up! You don’t know what opportunity is waiting.” Hero: Eliza Hamilton Best Fest: Jazz Fest

CONSTRUCTION

WILLIAM LEMOINE

President Lemoine

This U.S. Army veteran runs the commercial construction side of his family’s business, which provides construction management and general contracting for everything from interior renovations to large-scale commercial projects. Of note: The Garage, a $52 million mixed-use development in downtown New Orleans. The company has branched out into disaster recovery services as well.

Education: Louisiana State University (BS) Hidden Gem: Luvi Best Fest: Jazz Fest Advice: “Be cautious of overestimating what you can get done in a year versus underestimating what great things you can achieve with a good plan over the course of 10 years!” Heroes: Essential workers

CONSTRUCTION

LOUIS LIVERS JR

Owner and President Livers Construction Inc.

Livers founded his company in 1990, when the city was in “grave need of residential rehabilitation contractors.” There was a large supply of blighted homes, yet not enough qualified contractors to improve them. Over the years, LCI expanded its scope to include multifamily and commercial construction. Livers has partnered with some of the region’s largest contractors.

Education: New York University (MS), Xavier University (BS) Notable Projects: LCI has completed work for the Louis Armstrong Airport, W.H. Smith Inc. (an airport and hotel concessionaire), Xavier University of Louisiana, the Archdiocese of New Orleans, State Farm Insurance Company, Tulane University, University of New Orleans and more.

CONSTRUCTION

EARL MACKIE

Executive Managing Director

Mackie One Construction

Mackie is the second generation to run a roofing, gutter and siding company that began after Hurricane Betsy in 1965 and has grown significantly in the last two years because of the active storm seasons. A serial entrepreneur, he also has a background in music and television, and is the owner of Ma Momma’s House of Cornbread, Chicken and Waffles.

Education: University of Phoenix (MBA) Passion: “Mentoring underprivileged young people and inspiring them to be better” Best Fest: Essence Festival Hidden Gem: Whiskey & Sticks Advice: “Put the feelings of others before yourself and be prepared to take advantage of an opportunity when it arrives.”

CONSTRUCTION

RYAN MAYER

Owner

Mayer Building Company

Mayer created his construction company in 2009 after working as a project manager for high-end shops and luxury tower condominiums in New York City. His personal project portfolio includes work for Le Petit Theatre and Harrah’s Casino, and the company has completed projects for Michael Kors, Lush, French Truck Coffee and City Greens.

Education: University of New Orleans (BA) Nonprofit Cause: unCommon Construction Advice: “Try to work on your business, not only at your business.” Recent Projects: Mayer Building Co. delivered the new Loyola-Ochsner Nursing Simulation Lab and the city’s first izakaya on Oak Street. Best Fest: Jazz Fest

CONSTRUCTION

RYAN MOULEDOUS

President Broadmoor

In 2015, this third-generation construction pro and New Orleans native was appointed the third president of a commercial building company that was founded in 1973 by Boh Bros. Construction Co. Mouledous oversees Broadmoor’s strategic and fiscal objectives. He’s led projects for Holy Cross School, the Louisiana Air National Guard and Tulane University.

Education: The University of Southern Mississippi (MS, BS) Quotable: “We’re excited to have a person with the leadership and passion that Ryan is so wellknown for now at the helm of the Broadmoor organization,” said Robert Boh, president of the Broadmoor’s parent company, at the time of Mouledous’ promotion.

CONSTRUCTION

GREG NIXON

Co-Founder

Ubuntu Construction Company

A retired professional athlete with three world champion track and field titles in the 4x400m relay, Nixon founded his “constructotech” company alongside his wife, Nicole, in an effort to advance stormwater management. He also provides 3D-modeling services for professional clients in Los Angeles and is certified by the National Green Infrastructure Certification Program.

Education: Grambling State University (BS) Go-to Restaurant: Drago’s Seafood Restaurant Best Fest: Essence Festival Hidden Gem: J’s Creole Wings Hero: “My wife, Nicole Nixon” Nonprofit Cause: Urban Conservancy Advice: “Always bet on yourself.” Hobby/Passion: New technology

CONSTRUCTION

WESLEY J. PALMISANO

President and CEO

Palmisano

Founded in 2013, Palmisano strives to be “a new kind of company, one that will foster the next generation of leaders and build a better world.” Major projects include the Ace Hotel, the Higgins Hotel, the Besthoff Sculpture Garden and the Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy. The Palmisano Foundation undertakes a variety of service projects.

Education: Louisiana State University (BS) Go-to Restaurant: Rock-n-Sake On the Horizon: New manufacturing facility Poboy Pick: Shrimp Fave Movie: “Forrest Gump” Nonprofit Cause: Palmisano Foundation Highlight of Leadership: “Helping others realize their potential”

CONSTRUCTION

ANGELICA RIVERA

CEO

Colmex Construction

A native of Colombia, Rivera came to New Orleans in 2008 and started Colmex Construction with her husband, Roman. They shared a vision of a construction business committed to rebuilding the city following Hurricane Katrina. Their success is evidenced by multiple honors, including the Small Business Administration’s 2019 Entrepreneurial Success Award.

Education: Valencia Community College (BS) Dream Career: “I always dreamed of being a marine biologist.” Advice: “In every challenge lives a greater opportunity.” Hidden Talent: “I say singer, but my family does not think the same!” Go-to Restaurant: Golden Gate Bistro BIZNEWORLEANS.COM