This feature is in our weekly Monday Morning Report newsletter, which showcases our highest-level members. Leaders You Should Know highlights community leaders who are making a notable impact in the Nashville region.
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Tell us about yourself?
I’m the CEO of Pinnacle Construction Partners and a real estate developer by trade. Recognizing the opportunity to drive greater impact, we expanded the company to include a real estate development arm, allowing us to not only build but also create and invest in transformative projects. My journey began as a commercial real estate broker, where I gained invaluable insight into how deals are structured, financed, and executed. That experience provided a strong foundation in market dynamics, deal flow, and investment strategies. Over time, and after earning my master’s in real estate development from Georgetown University, I transitioned into development, enabling me to play a more direct role in shaping communities and creating lasting value.
Today, I lead Pinnacle Construction Partners in delivering high-quality projects across the Southeast and Midwest, specializing in hospitality, healthcare, industrial, and municipal developments. With our integrated approach, we’re able to take projects from concept to completion, ensuring they drive both economic and social impact.
Beyond development, I’m committed to increasing wealth creation in real estate. By leveraging strategic partnerships and innovative financing, I aim to create opportunities that diversify the industry and empower underrepresented professionals.
In Nashville, I’m actively involved in projects that enhance the city’s growth and economic landscape. Whether leading large-scale developments, securing financing for complex deals, or mentoring the next generation of industry leaders, my work is rooted in vision, integrity, and a drive for excellence.
Tell us about your business/industry?
Pinnacle Construction Partners is a full-service construction firm that has expanded to include a real estate development arm. As both a builder and developer, we take a comprehensive approach to projects, from concept to completion, ensuring efficiency, quality, and long-term value. Our expertise spans hospitality, healthcare, industrial, and municipal developments, with a focus on delivering projects that drive both economic impact and community growth.
The construction and real estate development industries are rapidly evolving, with increasing demand for innovative solutions, sustainable building practices, and strategic financing. In today’s market, success requires more than just technical execution—it demands a deep understanding of market trends, risk management, and value creation. At Pinnacle, we leverage our industry expertise, strong financial partnerships, and development capabilities to identify and execute high-impact projects across the Southeast and Midwest.
One of the key differentiators in our approach is our ability to control both construction and development, which allows us to mitigate risk, streamline execution, and ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget. Additionally, we’re committed to fostering diversity in the industry, creating opportunities for minority-led businesses, and positioning Pinnacle as a leader in equitable and inclusive development.
Looking ahead, we see significant opportunities in urban redevelopment, infrastructure, and public-private partnerships. By staying ahead of industry trends and forging strong relationships with municipalities, investors, and private sector partners, Pinnacle Construction Partners is positioned to continue its growth and impact in the years to come.
What should we know about you?
I’m a Midwest kid—born in Chicago but having lived in cities like Indianapolis and Pittsburgh. I’ve done real estate deals in 11 different cities across the country, including Puerto Rico, and I’m passionate about projects that create lasting impact in communities. Outside of real estate, I’m a history buff and a huge music fan. My vinyl collection reflects that, with records passed down from my grandparents, parents, friends, and family members, spanning generations and different eras of music.
How did you get to your current position?
I started my career in real estate and gained valuable experience working for a top construction firm, where I learned the ins and outs of construction and development. My mentor, Michael Carter, later asked me to start a development firm with him, giving me the opportunity to help build something from the ground up. Soon after, he asked me to become CEO. It wasn’t something I planned, but through hard work, vision, and trust, I embraced the opportunity to lead and grow the company.
What value do you see in Chamber involvement?
The Chamber of Commerce is a powerful platform for business growth, collaboration, and advocacy. It connects me with key leaders, decision-makers, and potential partners who are shaping the economic landscape. Through the Chamber, I can stay informed on policies affecting business, gain access to resources, and contribute to initiatives that support local development. It’s also a great way to mentor and uplift other entrepreneurs, particularly small businesses, by creating opportunities for networking and growth.
What is your leadership style? How does that motivate yourself and your team?
My leadership style is all about empowerment—I’m my employees’ biggest cheerleader. I believe that when people feel supported, valued, and challenged, they do their best work. That’s why I invest in their growth, both professionally and personally. I take the time to understand their goals, their vision for the future, and what truly motivates them. Whether it’s developing new skills, advancing in their career, or achieving personal milestones, I work to put them in a position to succeed.
I push my team to strive for more—not just for the company, but for themselves. I set high expectations because I see their potential, often before they see it in themselves. But I don’t just push; I provide the tools, mentorship, and opportunities they need to meet those expectations.
Leadership isn’t just about directing—it’s about listening, guiding, and removing obstacles so people can reach their full potential. When my team wins, we all win. That’s what drives me as a leader.
What makes Nashville a great place to do business?
Beyond the numbers, Nashville’s collaborative business community truly sets it apart. It’s a city where leaders support each other, partnerships form organically, and new ideas are welcomed. Unlike in more competitive or closed-off markets, there’s a spirit of shared success here—people want to see each other thrive. Whether you’re a startup, a growing company, or an established business, there are countless opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals who are willing to collaborate and help open doors.
The Chamber of Commerce plays a key role in fostering these connections, providing a platform for businesses to network, advocate for policy changes, and gain access to valuable resources. The city’s business leaders are engaged and invested in the community, making it easier to find mentorship, strategic partnerships, and growth opportunities.
Nashville’s quality of life is another major draw. It attracts top talent from across the country, offering a mix of big-city opportunities with a strong sense of community. With a booming economy, a thriving creative scene, and a welcoming environment for entrepreneurs, Nashville is a place where businesses don’t just survive—they thrive.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? What is the best part of working in your field?
The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the tangible impact of our work—taking a project from an idea to a finished building that serves a purpose in the community. Whether it’s a hotel, a healthcare facility, or a mixed-use development, knowing that our work contributes to economic growth, job creation, and community development is incredibly fulfilling.
The best part of working in real estate and construction is the ability to create something lasting. Every deal, every project, and every partnership is a chance to shape the future of a city. I also love the problem-solving aspect—no two deals are the same, and each one presents unique challenges that push me to think creatively and strategically.
Beyond the projects, it’s the people that make this industry special. Working alongside talented professionals, mentoring the next generation, and helping my team grow—both personally and professionally—is what keeps me motivated every day.
What is the best advice you have received?
The best advice I ever received was, “Life is about wins and losses.” It stuck with me because it’s a reminder that you’re not going to win every time—and that’s okay. Some deals don’t go through, some projects hit roadblocks, and sometimes things just don’t work out. But the losses teach you just as much, if not more, than the wins. What matters is how you bounce back, learn from the experience, and keep pushing forward. That mindset has helped me stay grounded, focused, and always ready for the next opportunity.
