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Steve Hall CEO
More than thirty years ago, Steve Hall recognized the growing demand for rehabilitation and renovation construction services in the multi-family and commercial real estate industries. In 1979, He founded Empire Corporation of Tennessee, Inc. Steve has been the driving force behind Empire’s growth and success, positioning the company to be a key player in numerous additional markets, including energy efficiency construction, assisted living, and new construction. Today, he plays an active role in all aspects of the business, including strategic planning, business development, and project management.
Rick Cheverton President
Rick joined the Empire team in June 2001 and has a degree in architecture from the University of Tennessee. He has been involved in design-build for 24 years, including multi-unit residential, commercial and industrial properties. He is experienced in all facets of project management including site planning, zoning and permitting, facilities and space planning, final drawings and building construction. Prior to joining Empire, Rick was Vice President of a design firm for 5 years and owner of his own design-build firm for 23 years.
Dan Johnson Director of Business Development
Dan Johnson joined the Empire team in April of 2001, bringing with him over 20 years of sales and marketing experience gained from working for a variety of companies, including several of his own. During his first 3 years at Empire, Dan worked as a construction manager where he built the foundation of his extensive knowledge of the multifamily industry. With this knowledge, he is now responsible for Empire’s strategic planning and implementation of sales and marketing in today’s ever-changing market.
Ben Tullis Director of Project Development
Ben Tullis joined the Empire team in 2001. As a Project Manager, he oversaw individual projects ranging from $2 million to $19 million throughout the southeast region. His involvement in all phases of construction and his specialization in large rehab projects paved the way for his entrance into the position of Director of Project Development. Now he oversees the estimating, design, and project development teams for all of Empire’s projects. Ben holds a BS in General Business from the University of Tennessee.
James Cudzilo LEED AP BD+C Development
James Cudzilo came to Empire in 2003 from the mechanical contracting industry. He brought over 25 years of experience in residential and commercial HVAC/mechanical project management and estimating.His background includes solar water and space heating systems and energy efficient housing. James currently holds mechanical licenses for Empire in several states along with being a LEED Accredited Professional in Building Design + Construction.
Andrew Sutherland Project Manager
Andrew joined Empire in 2001 as an Assistant Construction Manager, focusing on capitol replacement renovations on multi-family projects throughout the southeast. He was promoted to Construction Manager, and subsequently Project Manager, and shifted focus to full scope multi-family renovations, mainly in occupied units. Andrew has produced more than 20 full scope renovation projects in seven states. He is experienced in all aspects of production including estimating and scope development, negotiation, and on-site management.
Don Edens Project Manager
Don Edens has been in the construction industry since 2001 and joined Empire in June of 2005. During his tenure as an officer in the Marine Corps, Don built a strong background in leadership, logistics, management, and training. He received a degree in Business Administration from The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, and is also a commercially rated pilot. Don uses his expertise as a pilot to extend the reach of Empire from its corporate office in Knoxville, TN.
Peter Hall Project Manager
Peter joined Empire in 2005 as an Assistant Construction Manager. He has been responsible for production and design-build aspects of multiple projects, and he puts a tremendous amount of emphasis on owner relationships and serving Empire customers with integrity. His growing experience in the multifamily, commercial, and residential markets led to his promotion to Project Manager in 2011. Peter holds a degree in Business Management from Thomas Edison State College.