Managing Partner
John Ashworth
John has over 40 years of experience in mechanical piping solutions, plant operations, testing, inspection, and certification. A highly accomplished senior executive with domestic and international experience in operations, business development, sales and marketing, acquisition purchase and sales integration, technology development, geographical leveraging, and strategic market planning in developing and emerging geographies.
John is a results-oriented, decisive leader with proven success while holding high-level roles with recognized industry leaders in the industrial and TIC space with SGS, Intertek, Furmanite, Team Industrial Services, and T.D. Williamson. John has spent his entire career in the service and product industry providing solutions to difficult problems within piping systems and processes. He understands the importance of the customers' issues being our problems at Branch Construction Group and providing high-quality, timely solutions. John leads the commercial side of the business.
Meet The Team
Managing Partner
J.W. Gordin
JW has over 20 years of management experience specific to Underground Utilities and Commercial Construction. He has headed up the installation of numerous multi-million dollar water infrastructure projects for many municipalities including those located in Harris, Brazoria, Fort Bend, Galveston, Chambers, Liberty, and Montgomery counties in Texas. He has built out and restored water systems in the cities of Bellaire, Laporte, Channelview, Richwood, Clute, Galveston, Huntsville, Bay City, Jamaica Beach and many others.
He has also managed the installation of new piping systems for many privately held corporations including Petco, Academy, WalMart, CVS, Autozone, and others as well as the new construction of several shopping malls, restaurants, and movie theatres. JW is fully OSHA certified and holds an Underground Fire Protection License qualifying Branch Construction Group for underground fire protection repair and installation. He has significant training in safety for all aspects of our field operations. JW is well recognized within the industry and has a strong network of advocates within municipalities, engineering, and new construction arena. JW leads the field operations side of the business.
Melissa Freeman
Controller
Melissa Freeman is an accomplished financial leader with more than 20 years of experience guiding organizations through growth, operational change, and increasing financial complexity. Her expertise spans accounting leadership, budgeting, payroll oversight, financial reporting, forecasting, cash flow management, and performance analysis across dynamic, fast-paced industries.
As Controller of Branch Construction Group, Melissa oversees financial reporting, job costing, cash flow management, forecasting, and process improvement initiatives that enhance project visibility and profitability. Her ability to translate financial data into actionable insights supports informed decision-making across the organization.
Known for her collaborative leadership style, Melissa works closely with executives, project managers, and external partners to strengthen financial controls, improve efficiency, manage risk, and support long-term business growth.
Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her husband and children.
Maria Plante
HR and Accounting Manager
Maria brings with her over 25 years of comprehensive experience in Human Resources, recruitment, and business development.
Throughout her career, she has successfully led talent acquisition initiatives, implemented HR strategies that support organizational growth, and built strong partnerships that have driven business success. Her ability to balance strategic planning with a personal touch has made her an exceptional leader and a trusted advisor within the company.
Her wide-ranging expertise and proactive approach have made a significant impact on our operations and team culture, contributing to the continued growth and success of the firm. Whether she's navigating complex HR challenges or mentoring team members, her commitment to excellence and people-first mindset shine through.
Maria loves her work, being a mother of 4, travel and being a grandparent.
Rhea Garcia
Business Support Specialist
Rhea plays a vital role in managing the company’s daily administrative operations and digital workflows with precision and efficiency. Detail oriented and highly organized, she oversees key tasks such as estimate coordination, expense and fuel reporting, and the optimization of office systems to keep operations running smoothly.
Beyond her operational expertise, Rhea is deeply committed to lifelong learning and personal growth. She recently celebrated a major academic achievement, earning her Associate of Arts in General Studies, and is already preparing for her next milestone: pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology to further expand her knowledge and ability to support others.
Outside the office, Rhea enjoys a vibrant and fulfilling home life centered around family, caregiving, and community. A devoted wife, mother, daughter, and Gigi, she brings warmth and dedication to every role she holds. She is also a proud animal lover, often found tending to her beloved dogs and her lively flock of chickens.
Whether at work, at home, or in her studies, Rhea approaches each day with energy, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to those around her.
Brian Kramer, P.E.
Construction Manager
Brian brings over 25 years of engineering and construction experience to Branch Construction Group. A licensed Professional Engineer, Brian has a proven track record in project management, cost estimating, engineering, and detailed construction oversight. His strong attention to detail and deep technical knowledge makes him an invaluable asset. Brian’s strength lies in his ability to build and maintain strong client relationships—successfully bridging communication between owners, architects, engineers, and contractors.
Outside of work, Brian enjoys playing Texas Hold'em, hunting, fishing, and spending quality time with his family.
Travis Smith
Account Manager
Travis Smith has been a dependable and customer-focused member of our team, bringing professionalism, strong communication skills, and a commitment to exceptional client service in his role as Account Manager. Drawing from his diverse background in healthcare administration, engineering, operations, and public service, he consistently demonstrates accountability, responsiveness, and a solutions-oriented approach while building and maintaining strong client relationships.
Travis’ diverse professional experience allows him to approach challenges with a practical, solutions-oriented mindset and adapt quickly to changing priorities. His strengths in organization, time management, and process-driven thinking help support successful project execution and client satisfaction.
As a trusted member of the team, he contributes to the company’s reputation for reliability and service excellence while helping foster positive relationships that support long-term customer retention and business growth.
Outside of work Travis enjoys life on the farm with his family.
Ronald "Ron" Duff
Superintendent
Ronald “Ron” Duff, Superintendent is a seasoned public works leader with extensive experience overseeing water, wastewater, drainage, and infrastructure operations. Known for his strong organizational skills and hands on management style, he excels in field operations, crew supervision, and project coordination. His background includes working closely with city officials, engineering firms, and community members to ensure high quality service and timely project completion.
With a proven record in worksite safety, quality control, and customer service, he brings a dependable, solutions focused approach to every challenge. His technical certifications—including Texas water and wastewater licenses and a Class A CDL—strengthen his ability to support complex municipal systems while leading teams with professionalism and integrity.
Outside of work Ron loves spending all the time he can with his grandson.
Savanah Holcomb
Project Manager
Savanah Holcomb brings a blend of drive, organization, and leadership to every job she supports. With a degree in Process Technology from College of the Mainland—earned with honors—along with multiple certifications, she has a strong foundation in operations and project coordination. Savanah plays a vital role in keeping field teams and subcontractors aligned, ensuring that work progresses smoothly, on schedule, and to company standards.
Her positive energy, hands-on leadership style, and commitment to getting the job done right make her a standout member of the team.
Outside of work, Savanah enjoys cooking, fishing on the bay, and spending quality time with her family—especially when they’re cheering on the Houston Astros. Her passion for teamwork and excellence carries through from the field to her everyday life.
Anthony Benge
Project Manager
Anthony brings over a decade of experience in underground utilities, along with 10 years in management roles. His strong work ethic, leadership skills, and keen attention to detail make him a valuable asset to the Branch team. As an Assistant Project Manager, Anthony is committed to ensuring project efficiency and success from the
ground up.
Outside of work, Anthony enjoys quality time with his family and loves spending time outdoors camping, fishing, and hunting. He’s also an avid bowler with a true passion for the sport.
Gary McMorris
Superintendent
With over 35 years of experience in heavy civil construction, Gary brings deep expertise and leadership to every project. He has served as a Supervisor and Superintendent for more than 25 years across a wide range of construction disciplines, including pipeline services, bridge and road construction, storm and sanitary sewer systems, treatment plants, flood gates, ditch liners, and pile driving.
Gary also operated his own successful construction business for over five years, demonstrating strong business acumen and hands-on project management.
Outside of work, he enjoys fishing, boating, and spending time at the beach
Duane Luther
Superintendent
Duane with over 20 years of experience operating heavy equipment, brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to the Branch Construction Group team. Holding a commercial driver’s license for the duration of his career, he has played a key role in a wide range of underground utility projects.
For the past 15 years, he has specialized in operating sewer vacuum trucks, with extensive experience in sewer system cleaning, maintenance, and inspection. In addition to his fieldwork, Duane has spent three years focused on the rehabilitation of lift stations and wastewater treatment plants.
Known for his dependability and work ethic, he’s committed to delivering safe, high-quality results on every project.
Outside of work he enjoys fishing, barbecuing, and spending time with friends and family
Clifford “Snapper” Toner
Superintendent
Snapper is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in the underground utility and pipeline services industry. He has built strong, lasting relationships with municipalities and public works departments across South Texas, consistently delivering quality work in demanding environments. Earning a reputation for reliability and results.
In his spare time, he likes playing pool, hunting, fishing and playing with his grandchildren.