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Avant Construction Group — Collaborative Construction

Meet the Team

At Avant, our 60+ employees are our most valuable asset, each bringing unique skills and dedication that drive our success. Our team is made up of a diverse group of individuals from foremen, carpenters, and site superintendents in the field, to accounting and administration roles in the office. Our team spans a diverse range of positions, from field operations—including skilled and general laborers, foremen, carpenters, and site superintendents—to office roles in project management, accounting, human resources, and administration. Together, they form the foundation of Avant, upholding our commitment to quality, efficiency, and excellence in every project.


Top Work Places — Avant is a 2025 Top Workplace, 3 years running

Company Culture

At Avant Construction Group, we believe the strength of our work starts with the strength of our team. Our culture is built on trust, accountability, and a shared commitment to doing what it takes—for each other and for our clients. We foster an environment where people are empowered to lead, grow, and take ownership of their impact. That dedication has been recognized three years in a row as we’ve been named a Top Workplace by the Florida Times-Union, a reflection of the respect, integrity, and purpose that shape our everyday work.

Join Our Team
Avant team members at a golf simulator
Two Avant team members talking outdoors
Avant team members gathered around a table
The Avant team at a company outing

“At Avant, work feels a lot like family. Laughs are shared as often as ideas. Whether we’re collaborating on a challenging project or in an intense game of pickleball, strong relationships and genuine connection keep our people moving forward together.”

Leadership Team

The individuals below form Avant’s Leadership Team, entrusted with overseeing company operations and driving successful team management. They lead strategic planning, financial management, business development, team performance, and subcontractor and vendor relationships. Additionally, they foster client relationships to support Avant’s growth, sustainability, and success.

  • Alan Cottrill

    President + Chief Executive Officer

  • Ellen Cottrill

    Director of Community Engagement

  • Shiri Brandenburg

    Chief Financial Officer

  • Barry Underwood

    Vice President of Pre-Construction

  • Derek Cece

    Vice President of Commercial Construction

  • Lawrence Prince

    Vice President of Residential Construction

  • Scott Callaway

    Director of Business Development and Sales

  • Tori Collins

    Director of Human Resources

  • Andrea Little

    Director of Marketing & Communications

Construction Team

Our construction team is the backbone of project execution, ensuring that each venture is delivered with precision and efficiency. Led by seasoned professionals with a deep understanding of the industry, these individuals are responsible for overseeing every phase of the construction process, from pre-construction planning to final handover. They work closely with leadership to align resources, manage budgets, coordinate with subcontractors and vendors, and maintain communication with clients, ensuring that each project is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality.

  • Tim White

    Director of Commercial Construction

  • Peter Rexroth

    Project Manager

  • Robin Barnes

    Project Manager

  • Chris Wood

    Project Manager

  • Larry Gaskins

    Project Manager

  • Lee Walker

    Assistant Project Manager

  • Clayton Todd

    Senior Superintendent

Estimating Team

Our estimating team plays a vital role in project planning and cost management by accurately predicting the resources, time, and costs needed to complete every project. They work closely with leadership to develop budgets, coordinate and quantify bid submissions with subcontractors and vendors, and maintain communication with clients. This collaboration ensures each project is accurately forecasted with appropriate scope coverage prior to project turnover.

  • Patrick Rogers

    Preconstruction Manager

  • Mason Brandon

    Estimator

  • Gauddy Santos

    Senior Project Analyst + Government Liaison

Admin Team

These individuals play a critical behind-the-scenes role in keeping our operations organized, efficient, and responsive. This group includes professionals who support nearly every facet of the business. From tracking company finances to coordinating communication and maintaining accurate project documentation, their work ensures our field and management teams have the tools and information they need to succeed.

  • Trisha Myers

    Executive Assistant

  • Sandra Ward

    Accountant

  • Gili Woodhams

    Marketing Associate