Leadership at Thomas Construction

Guiding Excellence in Every Build

Meet the Visionaries Behind Your Projects

At Thomas Construction, our leadership team is not just at the helm of our operations; they are deeply involved in making every client’s vision a reality. With a blend of industry expertise, forward-thinking, and a commitment to client satisfaction, our leaders take great care in developing a team that will be committed to our projects and our purpose of producing quality homes and businesses for years to come.

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Leadership That Builds More Than Structures

Our leaders are dedicated to creating environments that enhance and inspire the lives of those who use them. They are not just building structures; they are building relationships and communities. At Thomas Construction, leadership means setting the standard for excellence and integrity in every project we undertake.

Chad Nugent

Chief Executive Officer

Experience: 18 years Commercial/Residential Construction
Education: B.S. Construction Management, Missouri State University

During his extensive tenure at Thomas Construction, Chad has assumed various roles within the company, including contract administration, estimating, field supervision, and project management. As CEO, he develops the company’s long-term strategies, shapes the vision of Thomas Construction, and provides organizational leadership. Chad’s commitment to serving our esteemed clients permeates every aspect of the company, aligning with our core values and shaping our approach to every project. He views Thomas Construction not merely as a construction firm, but as a platform for employees to achieve their career aspirations, support their families, and assist clients in realizing their dream home or building enduring business assets.

Ryan Gibson

Chief Operating Officer

Experience: 18 years Commercial/Multi-Family Construction
Education: B.S. Construction Management, Missouri State University

Ryan is responsible for overseeing and coordinating all day-to-day business and construction operations, personnel, administration, and marketing. He’s also responsible for our Preconstruction Services team, providing oversight on estimating, scheduling, subcontractor qualification, value engineering, contract negotiation, and ensures a smooth transition to the construction team. Ryan is committed to surpassing Owner expectations and instills a culture of teamwork and operational excellence. Additionally, he oversees the recruitment and training of construction teams, offering invaluable career guidance and leadership. With extensive expertise in multi-family and hospitality construction, Ryan demonstrates excellence across various sectors including commercial, residential, and publicly funded projects.

Matt Stephens, AIA

Vice President of Residential Operations

Experience: 20 years Architectural & Commercial/Residential Design-Build
Education: Bachelor of Architecture, Drury University

Matt became part of Thomas Construction in 2014, bringing with him a wealth of expertise as a licensed architect. With a diverse portfolio spanning commercial and residential sectors, his designs range from multi-family residences and hotels to office buildings, restaurants, and custom lake-front homes. As the Vice President of Residential Operations, Matt oversees all aspects of residential projects and serves as the architect for Thomas Construction’s design-build ventures, ensuring excellence in both commercial and residential endeavors.

Travis "Buck" Rogers

Vice President of Business Development

Experience: 35 years Commercial/Residential Construction
Education: United States Navy Construction Battalion (Steel worker “A” School, Rapid Runway Repair, Leadership 2 & 3)

Buck has been an integral part of Thomas Construction since 1992, showcasing unparalleled knowledge and leadership within the organization. Utilizing his background in field supervision and project management and collaborating closely with leadership, Buck assumes a pivotal role in driving business growth and development – cultivating new project opportunities, nurturing ongoing client relationships, while also spearheading client outreach initiatives. His extensive experience extends beyond Thomas Construction, having served in the United States Navy’s Construction Battalion for six years. Buck’s diverse construction career has seen him undertake projects not only across the United States but also in international locales such as the Middle East, Far East, and the Caribbean.

Chad Nugent

Chad Nugent

Chief Executive Officer

Experience: 20 years commercial/residential construction
Education: B.S. Construction Management, Missouri State University

During his extensive tenure at Thomas Construction, Chad has assumed various roles within the company, including contract administration, estimating, field supervision, and project management. As CEO, he develops the company’s long-term strategies, shapes the vision of Thomas Construction, and provides organizational leadership. Chad’s commitment to serving our esteemed clients permeates every aspect of the company, aligning with our core values and shaping our approach to every project. He views Thomas Construction not merely as a construction firm, but as a platform for employees to achieve their career aspirations, support their families, and assist clients in realizing their dream home or building enduring business assets.

Ryan Gibson

Ryan Gibson

Chief Operating Officer

Experience: 18 years commercial/multi-family construction
Education: B.S. Construction Management, Missouri State University

Ryan is responsible for overseeing and coordinating all day-to-day business and construction operations, personnel, administration, and marketing. He’s also responsible for our Preconstruction Services team, providing oversight on estimating, scheduling, subcontractor qualification, value engineering, contract negotiation, and ensures a smooth transition to the construction team. Ryan is committed to surpassing Owner expectations and instills a culture of teamwork and operational excellence. Additionally, he oversees the recruitment and training of construction teams, offering invaluable career guidance and leadership. With extensive expertise in multi-family and hospitality construction, Ryan demonstrates excellence across various sectors including commercial, residential, and publicly funded projects.

Matt Stephens, AIA

Matt Stephens, AIA

Vice President of Residential Operations

Experience: 20 years architectural & commercial/residential design-build
Education: Bachelor of Architecture, Drury University

Matt became part of Thomas Construction in 2014, bringing with him a wealth of expertise as a licensed architect. With a diverse portfolio spanning commercial and residential sectors, his designs range from multi-family residences and hotels to office buildings, restaurants, and custom lake-front homes. As the Vice President of Residential Operations, Matt oversees all aspects of residential projects and serves as the architect for Thomas Construction’s design-build ventures, ensuring excellence in both commercial and residential endeavors.

Travis "Buck" Rogers

Travis "Buck" Rogers

Vice President of Business Development

Experience: 35 years commercial/residential construction
Education: United States Navy Construction Battalion (Steel worker “A” School, Rapid Runway Repair, Leadership 2 & 3)

Buck has been an integral part of Thomas Construction since 1992, showcasing unparalleled knowledge and leadership within the organization. Utilizing his background in field supervision and project management and collaborating closely with leadership, Buck assumes a pivotal role in driving business growth and development – cultivating new project opportunities, nurturing ongoing client relationships, while also spearheading client outreach initiatives. His extensive experience extends beyond Thomas Construction, having served in the United States Navy’s Construction Battalion for six years. Buck’s diverse construction career has seen him undertake projects not only across the United States but also in international locales such as the Middle East, Far East, and the Caribbean.

Ready to Work with Leaders Who Care?

Contact Thomas Construction today to start your project with a team that is dedicated to delivering excellence with a personal touch.