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Our Mission
Quality. Value. Trust
At HBI Commercial Construction Inc., our mission is to deliver exceptional value, enduring quality, and unwavering trust in every project we undertake. We are committed to building long-term relationships with our clients by consistently delivering excellence, instilling confidence in our ability to meet project deadlines with the highest standards of quality and cost efficiency.
Guided by these principles, every member of our team—from field to office—dedicates themselves to upholding this commitment in all aspects of our work, including project administration, scheduling, quality assurance, and cost control. We stand as a trusted partner, ensuring that each client’s vision is brought to life with precision, integrity, and care.
Our Story
HBI Construction was founded on the principles of integrity, quality, and innovation. We are dedicated to providing top-notch construction services that exceed our clients' expectations. Our team is committed to delivering excellence in every project, and we take pride in our ability to bring our clients' visions to life. With a focus on efficiency and sustainability, we aim to set new standards in the construction industry. Our unique approach and attention to detail make us a preferred choice for all construction needs.
At HBI Construction, our leadership team brings decades of combined experience in the construction industry. Their expertise and unwavering commitment to quality ensure that every project is executed with precision and excellence. We take pride in our team's ability to navigate complex construction challenges and deliver superior results. Our dedication to continuous improvement and innovation sets us apart and enables us to consistently exceed client expectations.
Experienced Leadership
Our Leadership
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Andrew Last
President
HBI Commercial Construction
Andrew Last joined the company in 1994, marking the beginning of a long and dynamic career with the organization. Over the years, his role has evolved considerably, as he gained experience in virtually every department and function within the organization. His contributions have ranged from overseeing on-site construction operations and project supervision to more strategic roles, such as project estimation and business development. Andrew has also been deeply involved in the company's legal matters, offering insight and guidance on contracts, compliance, and other legal issues.
Now serving as President of HBI Commercial Construction, Andrew is responsible for overseeing the company’s overall management. His leadership extends across both the day-to-day affairs of the company and its long-term strategic direction, ensuring that all areas, from project inception to final completion, align with the company’s goals and values.
Andrew’s academic background is equally well-versed. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Southern California, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the Marshall School of Business. His studies emphasized real estate development, a focus that complements his work in construction and business management. Building upon his foundation in business, Andrew pursued advanced degrees from Chapman University, earning both a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Argyros School of Business & Economics and a Juris Doctor (JD) from Chapman University School of Law. This combination of business acumen and legal expertise uniquely equips Andrew to navigate the complexities of running a construction company, balancing operational needs with legal considerations.
In addition to his role as President of HBI Commercial Construction, Andrew remains an active member of both the California and Arizona Bar. His dual qualifications as both a business executive and attorney allow him to bring a well-rounded perspective to the management of the organization, blending industry knowledge with legal proficiency to guide the company’s continued success.
Steve Knoell
Vice President - Estimating
HBI Commercial Construction
Steve Knoell has been a vital part of HBI Commercial Construction since joining the company in 1985. Over his long and successful career, Steve’s role has expanded across multiple facets of the company’s operations. Early in his tenure, he focused on estimating and budgeting, contributing to project pre-planning and ensuring competitive bids. As he gained more experience, Steve took on greater strategic responsibilities, including overseeing the entire estimating process and refining the company's approach to market-driven, hard-bid estimates.
In his current role as Vice President of Estimating, Steve manages all aspects of the company’s estimating function, ensuring the accuracy and competitiveness of bids submitted for projects. His leadership has been integral to HBI's success, overseeing the estimation of every project the company has secured, amounting to over one billion dollars in total project value. His focus on accuracy, efficiency, and strategic thinking has helped HBI maintain its competitive edge in the industry.
Steve’s ability to cultivate strong relationships with subcontractors throughout the western United States has been a key asset in his role. He has developed a comprehensive subcontractor database and created a sophisticated estimating program that allows for precise analysis of project costs. These tools have been essential in the completion of more than 1,500 construction projects, enhancing the efficiency of the bidding process and improving the company’s project outcomes.
Steve’s expertise is backed by a solid academic foundation. He holds a degree in Construction Management from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, which provided him with the technical knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in the construction industry. His combination of academic training and extensive practical experience has made him a recognized leader in the field of construction estimating.
Outside of his work at HBI, Steve remains an active participant in industry organizations such as ICSC, NAIOP, and SSA, where he contributes to the advancement of best practices in the construction industry. His dedication to both his profession and his community is a testament to his commitment to excellence in all areas of his work.
Glenn Whitacre
Vice President – Construction
HBI Commercial Construction
Glenn Whitacre is widely regarded as a master builder, a title that speaks to his exceptional expertise and deep experience in the construction industry. With over 40 years of dedicated service to the organization, Glenn has gained comprehensive knowledge of nearly every aspect of the field. His tenure as VP of Construction reflects a leadership role where he takes full responsibility for the successful and safe completion of every project. His ability to foresee challenges, provide solutions, and manage complex construction tasks has made him a cornerstone of the company's field operations.
Glenn’s hands-on experience spans over four decades, during which time he has seen and dealt with virtually every challenge the construction industry can present. His career began even before joining the company in 1983, when he worked as a pipefitter for Chevron Oil. That early experience in industrial settings laid a strong technical foundation, which he has built upon throughout his time at HBI Commercial Construction. In his current role, Glenn’s responsibilities include ensuring that all construction projects are executed with the highest standards of safety, quality, and efficiency. His deep understanding of construction processes and his attention to detail elevate the overall strength and performance of the company.
In addition to his extensive practical experience, Glenn holds a range of certifications and specialized training that further enhance his capabilities. His qualifications include being a Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP) and a Certified Erosion, Sediment, and Storm Water Inspector (CESSWI), both of which reflect his commitment to environmental compliance and sustainable building practices. Glenn has also received LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) training, equipping him with the knowledge to oversee projects that prioritize energy efficiency and eco-friendly construction methods. His dedication to safety is further demonstrated by the countless hours of OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) training he has completed, ensuring that every job site he oversees adheres to the strictest safety standards.
Glenn's leadership, experience, and technical expertise make him a highly accomplished and respected member of the HBI Commercial Construction team. His ability to manage complex projects while prioritizing safety and sustainability is invaluable, and his guidance has been instrumental in shaping the company's reputation for excellence in the construction industry.
Sr. Project Manager
HBI Commercial Construction
Phil Mayer has been a vital part of HBI Commercial Construction for seven years, serving as a Senior Project Manager. With 20 years of experience in the construction industry, he ensures projects are executed efficiently and meet the highest quality standards.
His strong background in commercial construction, coupled with a strategic approach to project management, fosters collaboration among teams, clients, and subcontractors. Phil’s commitment to clear communication and problem-solving drives projects to successful completion on time and within budget.
Prior to joining HBI, Phil held Project Manager roles with two other general contractors and served as an estimator and Vice President of Operations at a custom window and door manufacturer. His hands-on experience includes techniques learned as a superintendent on various projects.
Phil holds an MBA in Business with a focus on Organizational Leadership, and his expertise in overseeing complex construction projects makes him an invaluable asset to our team.
Karla Talisse
Business Development Manager
HBI Commercial Construction
Karla Talisse serves as the Head of Business Development at HBI Commercial Construction, bringing 15 years of comprehensive experience in government relations, government contracting, operations, real estate development, and project management. Renowned for her strategic acumen, Karla plays a pivotal role in shaping business initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and drive growth. Her commitment to exceptional client communication ensures that every stakeholder is informed and engaged at each stage of the project.
Karla has managed a portfolio of renovation and ground-up construction projects across San Diego, Los Angeles, and Orange County. With a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and certifications in Project Management, Construction Technology, and OSHA 30, she effectively navigates the complexities of construction.
Her responsibilities include market analysis and client relationship management, and ensuring client needs are prioritized. Karla's commitment to excellence and innovation drives HBI Construction forward, ensuring superior results in every project.