Chief of Commercial Operations
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
Chief of Field Operations
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.


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.

Byron Hughey
Project Manager
Byron brings over 15 years of dedicated experience in the water and wastewater industry. He currently holds B-level licenses in both water and wastewater operations, along with a C-level license in surface water. Byron’s impressive credentials also include certifications in Customer Service Inspections, On-Site Sewer Facilities, Emergency Preparedness Plans, and several others. Beyond his professional achievements, Byron is a devoted father and an active mentor to high school and college athletes. He is passionate about giving back to his community and lives by the motto: “Work hard to play harder.”

Leonardo Ruiz
Senior Superintendent
Leo brings over a decade of experience in the underground utilities construction industry, serving as an invaluable Field Superintendent for Branch Construction Group. Known for his sharp attention to detail and strong leadership, Leo plays a key role in managing field teams and scheduling projects to ensure seamless execution.
He has successfully overseen the installation of numerous water infrastructure and sewer line projects, along with a wide variety of other construction initiatives. Leo prioritizes safety and timely project completion, holding certifications including Confined Spaces, TWIC, and Basic Plus.
Outside of work, Leo enjoys grilling and spending quality time with his family.

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

Earl McCreight Jr.
Superintendent
Earl McCreight Jr. brings over 35 years of experience in heavy equipment operation, specializing in dirt and utility work, to the Branch Construction Group management team. With more than 16 years dedicated to water and sewer projects within city and municipal systems,
Earl has developed deep expertise in public infrastructure. He has spent 14 years in supervisory roles and currently serves as an active superintendent for a city water department, where he manages inventory, oversees ordering, and is responsible for balancing the department’s annual budget.
Earl’s background includes certifications and training in water systems, TWIC, confined space safety, traffic control, carpentry, and blueprint reading. Known for his hands-on leadership and strong commitment to safety and efficiency, he ensures projects are completed on time and with care.
Outside of work, Earl enjoys hunting, fishing, and drone photography.

Duane Luther
Superintendent
Duane Luther 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

Anthony Benge
Asst. 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.

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.

Bryan Dudley
Safety Director
Bryan Dudley is a proud U.S. Navy veteran with a distinguished background in the submarine community. A confident leader and skilled project manager, Bryan brings a wealth of experience in workflow development and team coordination. His service as a Navy Diver instilled in him the values of teamwork, safety, and meticulous attention to detail—qualities that have defined his career. With over 13 years in the industrial safety sector, Bryan has developed deep expertise in OSHA compliance and personnel management, establishing himself as a reliable and effective team leader.
Bryan holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and remains deeply rooted in his Texas heritage. A devoted husband of 30 years and father to four grown children, he lives by the principles of Character, Honor, and Valor.

Melissa Freeman
Controller
Melissa is a seasoned financial leader with over 20 years of experience in accounting, payroll, budgeting, and job costing.
As Controller at Branch Construction Group, she drives operational efficiency, enforces strong internal controls, and ensures regulatory compliance while maximizing profitability. Known for her expertise in AP/AR, payroll and financial reporting, Melissa delivers strategic insights that support long-term growth.
Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her husband and children.

Maria Plante
Human Resources 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. She loves her work, being a mother of 4, travel and being a grandparent.

Christy Priddy
Accounts Receivables Specialist
Christy has worked in accounting most of her life. She also has over 10 years’ experience in the medical field. Her caring, nurturing, patient demeanor comes in handy in the fast paced construction world. She enjoys their 4 grandchildren and 3 children and relaxing and camping with her husband and fur babies.