Tom Lawrence, Owner

My first memories of doing construction were as a child growing up on a farm. I remember helping my grandfather as he built a barn and corrals. Later, when I was nine, my uncle was building a new home. He hired me to work part-time at 20¢/hour…big bucks to a nine year old in those days! I kept the site clean, carried lumber, and occasionally pounded a few nails. In 1986, I added a sunroom to the front of a Berkeley home for a wonderful lady who would later become my mother in-law. Other small projects followed from that, leading eventually to Lawrence Construction, Inc. It has always been my goal to be part of a non-exploitive business, one that is supportive of its employees and their families. For many years, the team and I have wanted Lawrence Construction, Inc. to become an employee-owned company, and we are now in the final stages of making that a reality. I am looking forward to becoming a co-owner together with the other dedicated employee-owners.

JOBSITE

Michael Boland, Lead Carpenter

I began my career with Tom and LCI as an apprentice in 2000. Working on many diverse and complex projects with knowledgeable and skilled mentors provided me with invaluable building experience. I am now a Lead Carpenter and will become a co-owner when we transition to an employee-owned company later this year. As a Lead Carpenter, I enjoy collaborating with the LCI team, clients, architects and tradesmen to create a transparent and open building process. I believe that attention to detail, combined with great relationships with our clients, listening to their needs and ensuring they are well taken care of, are the values that result in a successful project.

I studied at NYU’s College of Arts and Science, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Urban Design. I also train and teach in the martial arts.

Chris Boland, Lead Carpenter

I joined Lawrence Construction in 2000, not long after my brother Michael. My brother and I are both Lead Carpenters and future co-owners. As a Lead Carpenter I love to do tile work and finish carpentry. I take pride in my work and am always focused on making our clients happy.

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Printmaking and Graphic Design from Massachusetts College of Art. I continue to make woodcuts in my free time. I also love to build things for my favorite client, my young daughter Flora, who recently commissioned a playhouse made from all recycled materials.

Ricardo Lopez

I have been working with Tom since 1990! I am originally from El Salvador, where I was working in agriculture and with cement. I started working with LCI when I first moved here, and have been here ever since. I enjoy working at each unique jobsite. Each day varies and allows me to use different skills. I especially like doing carpentry work, and love working with the other employees to accomplish a task efficiently. Chatting with my coworkers during lunch or at a party is always fun!

In my spare time, I enjoy playing soccer and going fishing. In general, I love spending time with my coworkers, my family, and friends.

OFFICE

Maia Small, Project Manager

I joined the LCI team in 2011 after running a mother and infant program for pregnant inmates. Interestingly enough, many of the skills I used in program management are similar to those needed to manage a home construction project! I love working directly with our clients and making sure they feel supported through the remodel or addition experience. My goal is to work with our team, the architects, and any other professionals, to ensure our clients’ needs are met and expectations are exceeded.

I have a Master’s of Public Health in Health Promotion and Women’s Health. I love to cook and to feed people healthy and tasty food. I love to travel off the beaten path and to learn about the food culture in the different places I visit.

Taleen Tchobanian, Office Administrator

I have been the Office Administrator since 2012. I love being the first voice that our clients and partners hear when they call the office. I also enjoy helping my coworkers with various tasks, managing the timesheets, and keeping all paperwork organized to maintain an efficient workplace. I have an Associate’s Degree in General Studies and am proud of my ability to manage finances and business administration.

I love dogs and have raised two puppies, one wiener dog named Otto, and one Toy Australian Shepherd named Evie. Evie recently took over as Office Mascot and entertains us everyday!

Cindy Valentine, Bookkeeper

I have been the bookkeeper with Lawrence Construction since 2006. I ensure that all of our employees are paid, our clients are invoiced, and all of our bills are taken care of. I have never worked for such an honest and ethical company, and I enjoy coming to work every day!

What I love most these days is traveling the world. Last year I traveled to Vietnam and this year, I’m off to Machu Picchu…while I still have the breathing capacity for 12,000 feet!