Meet Our Teams
Leadership
The members of our Leadership Team set high standards to ensure the success of your construction project. They are dedicated to exceeding your expectations for quality and service while guiding the company with vision and integrity.
Diana Skellenger is the founder & CSO of Skelly Build. She strives to maximize quality & minimize loss of time or resources through organization, creative solutions and meticulous quality control. As a female contractor, Diana brings a unique perspective to construction. She believes that construction should be held to the same standard of efficiency, organization, timely communication & project management as any other industry. Across the board, Diana's passion for quality work, synergy & integrity can be seen in her team management, operations, client relations and renovation processes.
Weekly, Diana leads her team in progress report meetings to discuss any obstacles or victories occurring on current job sites. Together, obstacles are brainstormed & the best solution is put into place. "Victories" (as the Skelly team calls them) are discussed & integrated into daily practice when possible.
Diana is a Longhorn Alum and enjoys spending her free time with her three children, traveling, trying new recipes, attending Austin events or reading a great book.
Sean’s role within Skelly Build is to provide support and other vision necessary to ensure that the company has the proper operational controls, administrative procedures, and team members in place to effectively grow the organization and to ensure financial strength and operational efficiency.
Sean graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Master's in Profesional Accounting and a Minor in Finance. At UT, he developed a strong foundation in business and management. Sean has since honed his skills through years of hands-on experience in the construction industry, where he has worked in a variety of roles and gained a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with building and growing a successful business.
Outside of work, Sean enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, traveling, and exploring new places in Austin.
Moving to Austin from Las Vegas, Nevada over 7 years ago Josh, his wife, son, two dogs, one cat, and a bearded dragon have acclimated well to the city of Austin. He brings to the table over 20+ years of experience in the Multifamily, Commercial, and Residential Construction industries. He has managed many projects of different calibers from ground-up hotel builds, to 100,000 sq ft commercial space renovations, to extremely high-end luxury home remodels. Josh comes from humble beginnings, growing up working in his father's cabinet shop, manufacturing and installing high-end custom kitchen and bathroom cabinets for luxurious homes. Josh takes great pride in craftsmanship, quality, and accurate timelines. He brings his high level of detail to work every day as our Operations Manager, fine-tuning our processes and policies with the Skelly Build Team. Josh believes in the power of teamwork and is vigilant in making sure excellent communication exists between clients, designers, architects, engineers, material managers, & project managers. Most importantly, Josh brings a very high level of energy and positivity to any situation and is dedicated to troubleshooting and problem-solving. For his personal time, Josh enjoys spending time with his wife and son, remodeling his home, working on his 63 Nova SS, dirt bike and ATV riding, playing football with his son, and hanging out with friends.
Lily Harpham is our dynamic and passionate senior project manager who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every project she leads. As a graduate of the University of Texas, Lily has always had a keen eye for beautiful spaces and an innate talent for managing complex construction projects.
Lily's natural inclination for project management has earned her the reputation of being an all-star PM, consistently delivering outstanding results on every project she touches. Her commitment to excellence is exemplified by her achievement as a NARI Certified Remodeling Project Manager, an elite group of remodeling professionals who have been vetted and tested to the highest industry standards. In 2023, Lily was honored as the Home Builders Association of Austin's "Project Manager of the Year."
When Lily is not leading construction projects to success, you can likely find her enjoying the great outdoors with her loyal companion, Boone.
With Lily Harpham at the helm of your construction project, you can rest assured that every detail will be meticulously managed, and your project will be completed to the highest standards of quality and excellence.
Preconstruction
The key to the success of your showcase space lies in the expertise of our Preconstruction Team. With a track record of over 200 successfully completed projects in Austin, you can trust our estimators to provide you with precise and reliable estimates for both pricing and timeline.
Lalita is Belarusian born with a background working in the housing industry in Silicon Valley and Austin. She has a love for helping people find new ways to fall in love with their homes and spent a year flipping houses in Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas. In her spare time she loves trying new food spots, hanging out with her cat, and exploring Texas with her sister and their Chow Chow mix.
South-African born Edgar’s skill set includes an extensive sales background selling building finishing products to big box stores in Western Africa. Being in the industry is where his love came for construction and lead him into project management where he finally made the move to the USA in 2018 to move into construction full-time as a project manager and later as a COO of a construction company in Minnesota. Edgar and his family recently relocated to Austin, Texas after Edgar accepted the opportunity to be employed as a project manager for Skelly Build – a reputable high-end commercial and residential construction firm. He loves playing golf and mountain biking and spending time with his wife, Shannon, his 4-year-old daughter, Bailey, and their 10-year-old Sharpei/Labrador mix, Fred.
With a deep heritage in the construction industry, Tori brings a familial passion for building, shaping, & connecting spaces. Construction isn't just a profession for her—it's a legacy that has spanned generations. For over 15 years, Tori has honed her expertise in sales, cultivating relationships with discerning clientele seeking not just structures, but tailored solutions that reflect their vision. Tori understands that every project is a unique tapestry of aspirations, and her commitment is to weave them seamlessly into reality.
Tori’s journey in sales has been marked by her relentless pursuit of excellence and a keen eye for understanding the intricate needs of high-level clients. Tori thrives on the challenge of not just meeting expectations but exceeding them, ensuring that each partnership is not just transactional but a collaboration grounded in trust. Tori is excited to partner with you in crafting a future where construction is more than an industry; it's a legacy, a story, and a testament to the art of bringing dreams together.
Materials
Our specialized Materials Team is here to assist you throughout the material selection process, ensuring that both your budget and timeline remain on track. With their expertise, you'll receive valuable guidance on choosing the right materials that align with your project's timeline and financial considerations.
Born and raised in Austin, Britt has seen the incredible evolution of Austin and is excited to grow with Skelly. She is a Texas State graduate with a degree in Interior Design. Britt has worked with commercial, residential designers/home builders and worked in construction. Britt flipped homes in Austin and truly enjoyed the construction process of seeing the project transform from start to finish. She doesn't mind getting her hands dirty and doing the work herself if it means getting the project done. In Britt's downtime, she spends time with her family, including her daughter, Brinley, and 3 dogs, she loves to travel, photography, cook, and dine at all the fabulous new restaurants in Austin!
Ashton grew up in a family full of craftsmen and contractors which instilled in her an eye for detail and eventually pushed her into interior design. She loves having a hand in the process of curating products and materials which allow people to feel at ease in their homes so that it is a place of flourishing, rest and connection. Outside of work, you’ll most likely find her at a coffee shop people watching with a book in hand or working on her charcuterie board skills with friends.
Payton is an accomplished design professional originally from Portland, Oregon, who has been living in Austin for the past two years. Payton holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Arizona and is currently completing a graduate degree in Interior Design from UCLA.
Prior to joining our team, Payton gained valuable experience at an interior design firm, where she excelled in collaborating with clients to create beautiful, functional spaces and bringing projects to life. With a strong proficiency in drafting and 3D renderings, Payton possesses the technical skills necessary to transform design concepts into reality. She is eager to expand her knowledge in the construction side of design and looks forward to growing with Skelly Build.
In her free time, Payton enjoys spending time outdoors with her rescue dog, Nora, traveling to new destinations, and attending country music concerts.
Project Management
Our award-winning Project Management Team takes charge of the execution process and ensures smooth communication with you at every step of the construction journey. Rest assured, with these experienced professionals leading the way, your showcase space will be managed expertly and efficiently to deliver exceptional results.
Greg Herman is an experienced construction project manager with over 20 years of experience in the industry. Starting right out of high school, Greg has worked his way up through the ranks and has been in project management for the past 9 years. His extensive experience in all aspects of construction, combined with his excellent leadership and communication skills, make him a valuable asset to any project.
Coming from a family of construction professionals, Greg has always had a passion for the industry. As the youngest of three boys who all work in construction, he has a deep understanding of the value of hard work and dedication. He brings this same work ethic to every project he manages, ensuring that each job is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
In his personal life, Greg is a devoted husband and father to a daughter and son, as well as a proud owner of a boxer. He enjoys spending time with his family and taking them to fun places around town.
Tiffany was born and raised in Chicago, Il. Construction has been her family's business for generations. Her parents owned a masonry company as well as her grandparents. After attending college for Interior Design, Tiffany went into real estate for several years. After getting married and having kids, she switched gears and moved to Austin in 2011 to open a motorcycle shop. While running the shop her passion for design and construction never ceased as she helped countless friends and family with home renovations. Finally in 2018, Tiffany dove back into construction selling custom closets for a bit then joining a remodeling company as a project manager for 3 years in Northwest Austin. She is thrilled to be a member of the Skelly team and is looking forward to all the beautiful projects in her future.
Carley is a proud Longhorn and University of Texas graduate. She made her way back to Austin after living abroad in Asia for 2 years. Carley has a passion for design and all things creative. She enjoys getting to be a vital part of the construction process behind the scenes leading up to the end result of a project. When Carley is off the clock you’ll find her traveling, anywhere there is live music, country dancing, or spending time with family and friends
Nelson is an experienced and dedicated construction project manager. Born and raised in Austin, Texas, Nelson brings a deep understanding of the local community and its unique construction needs. With a background of 6 years in the industry, Nelson has honed his expertise in overseeing the successful completion of new build projects, encompassing both custom and production style homes. Nelson is fluent in Spanish, which allows him to effectively communicate with a diverse range of team members, subcontractors, and clients.
While Nelson is passionate about construction, he also loves the outdoors. During his free time, you can find him exploring the natural wonders of Texas alongside his family. With twin boys who keep him on his toes, Nelson understands the importance of balance and family values, which he brings into his professional endeavors.
Originally from San Angelo, Texas, Beth has been part of the Architectural, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry since 2015. With a double major in Architectural Engineering and Plan II from the University of Texas at Austin, followed by a master’s in Structural Engineering, Beth brings a wealth of expertise and academic excellence to Skelly Build. Before transitioning to general contracting earlier this year, she worked as a licensed Structural Engineer on a wide range of large commercial and boutique residential projects.
Beth's passion for construction lies in its tactile and integrated nature, where planning, problem-solving, and execution all come together. Beth thrives in the preconstruction and planning phases, ensuring projects are organized from start to finish.
Since joining Skelly Build, Beth has valued the opportunity to learn quickly from an incredibly knowledgeable team. Drawn to Skelly Build's reputation for unmatched craftsmanship, excellent communication, and organizational standards, Beth is proud to contribute to a company that sets the bar high in the residential construction industry.
Outside of work, Beth enjoys spending time with her two fluffy cats, baking delicious scones, swimming at Barton Springs, attending concerts and movies, and exploring the creative art of stained glass. She brings the same dedication and attention to detail from these hobbies into every project she manages.
Skelly Built Cabinet Team
Our talented Skelly Built In-House Cabinet Team crafts custom cabinetry exclusively for Skelly Build clients, combining expert craftsmanship with innovative millwork solutions. With our cabinet shop acquisition, we enhance the quality, efficiency, and customization of every project, delivering sustainable, detail-driven results that exceed client expectations.
Originally from Madison, Wisconsin, Matt grew up surrounded by architecture and home building, thanks to his architect father. This early exposure fostered a lifelong appreciation for design and craftsmanship. After moving to New York City to pursue a music career, Matt discovered cabinetry as a way to support himself, igniting a passion that has spanned 26 years. Along the way, he met his wife while working in a cabinet shop!
As a cabinet specialist, Matt thrives on transforming ideas into tangible, enduring pieces. He finds joy in the intricate details and craftsmanship that go into creating something lasting. Over the years, Matt's work has been featured in Fine Home Building, Dwell, the Austin AIA Tour, and the Tribeza Homes Tour, reflecting his dedication to quality and artistry.
Lately, Matt has been exploring the design and drafting side of cabinetry but continues to find happiness in hands-on work. What drew him to Skelly Built was the collaborative team environment, where teaching, learning, and growing together are at the forefront.
Outside of work, Matt combines his love of music and craftsmanship by collecting, playing, and repairing vintage audio equipment and musical instruments.
Lilly brings two years of experience in construction and remodeling, with a focus on both commercial and residential projects. In her various roles, including technical cabinet designer, design assistant, and rendering specialist, Lilly has honed her skills in creating tailored cabinetry solutions. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Home Furnishings Merchandising from the University of North Texas.
Originally from New Braunfels, Texas, Lilly’s passion for design was nurtured by her family, who supported her love for rearranging furniture and visiting furniture stores. Outside of work, Lilly enjoys spending time with her boyfriend, Cole, and their two cats, Casper and Zuzu.
Lilly’s expertise lies in cabinetry design, particularly creative space-saving solutions and incorporating current trends into her projects. She is proficient in drafting programs like AutoCAD, SketchUp, 2020, and Chief Architect, and is well-versed in the materials used in construction and remodeling.
Her favorite part of construction is connecting with passionate people and learning from their diverse perspectives. Lilly was drawn to Skelly Built’s inspiring, woman-owned leadership and its innovative approach to project management. Being part of the team from the ground up has been one of her favorite experiences. She thrives in the design phase of cabinetry, transforming designer and clients’ visions into detailed, functional plans that perfectly align with their spaces and lifestyles.
Site Supervision
Our experienced Superintendent Team works on-site to manage the day-to-day activities, trades, and material deliveries at our larger construction projects. They help to ensure our quality standards are met while maintaining an efficient schedule.
Jose originally hails from Los Angeles, although his life story weaves through the cities of LA, Las Vegas, New York, and most recently Austin, due to the arrival of his first grandchild. He is the father of six and a proud grandparent. Jose and his wife now call Leander home, where they share their lives with their two dogs, Coco and Miley.
With a construction career resume of building custom homes with budgets from $10 to $60 million, Jose's construction expertise shines through every detail of his job sites. Skelly Build's fusion of commercial and home remodel projects captured Jose's interest, driven by the growth opportunities of the construction industry in Austin, Texas. Jose's dedication to managing projects of any scale underscores his commitment to surpassing client expectations and always ensuring quality work with clear communication.
Darrell is a seasoned construction professional with over 20 years of experience in the industry, having transitioned to full-time construction work in 2013. Originally from Belton, TX, his journey started with a degree in wildlife management, but his true passion lies in construction, particularly in hands-on building.
Darrell’s expertise lies in residential construction, where he enjoys the dynamic challenges and personal touch involved in creating homes. He was first attracted to Skelly Build’s diverse project portfolio and efficient project management structure and is excited to bring his extensive knowledge to the team.
Outside of work, Darrell cherishes spending time outdoors, especially hunting and fishing with his faithful companion, Chili Dog. These activities not only fuel his hobbies but also inspire his approach to craftsmanship and dedication in construction.
Shane brings 25 years of construction expertise to Skelly Build and excels at managing the entire building process, from overseeing multimillion-dollar custom projects to developing lock-and-leave garden homes. Throughout his career, he has developed comprehensive knowledge of building practices by continually staying updated on new building trends and technologies. Shane is well-versed in the latest building codes, scheduling, and time management.
What Shane enjoys most about building is the process of creating beautiful spaces. He also thrives on collaborating with clients, architects, and engineers to achieve clients' goals.
Outside of work, his hobbies include running, golfing, fishing, and spending time with his family.
Originally from the Netherlands, Douwe found his way to the heart of Texas at a young age and has since become a vital part of the construction community in Austin. After moving to central Texas to pursue his education at Texas State University in 2010, he has called Austin home for the past 8 years.
With over a decade of experience in the construction industry, Douwe brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Skelly Build. His journey began as an electrician, and over the years he has honed his skills through various construction-related roles, and has developed a strong foundation in scheduling, time management, and exceptional customer service. Douwe is passionate about the dynamic nature of construction, relishing the challenges and problem-solving opportunities it presents. His transition to Skelly Build was inspired by a friend's recommendation, and he values the team-oriented atmosphere and transparent communication that defines our company culture.
Beyond the construction site, Douwe finds joy in family life with his wife and two sons, Jaxon and Rowan. When he's not managing projects, you can find him exploring the outdoors through mountain biking, motorcycle rides, and rock climbing adventures
With 22 years of experience in the construction industry, David brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to Skelly Build. A graduate of Texas State with a degree in Criminal Justice, David grew up in the Galveston area and has called Round Rock home for the past 20 years.
David's favorite aspect of construction is the opportunity to build lasting relationships with customers and tradespeople. He thrives on the unique challenges each project presents, finding excitement in the fact that no two are ever the same. His expertise in scheduling and product knowledge sets him apart, particularly in residential construction, where "out of the box" solutions are often required.
Drawn to Skelly by the energetic and forward-thinking attitude of the team, David appreciates how the company breaks away from the traditional, often outdated, approaches seen in the industry.
Outside of work, David and his wife Jaclyn are proud parents of two daughters who are actively involved in sports. Both girls play fast-pitch softball and participate in cheerleading. When he's not on a job site, you can find David watching baseball, especially cheering on his favorite team, the Houston Astros.
With 20 years of experience in construction, Josh brings a wealth of knowledge to the Skelly Build team. His background as a carpenter covers everything from framing to finish and millwork installations. He spent six years managing subcontract crews and has held roles as a superintendent, project manager, and foreman, accumulating around ten years of construction management experience. Josh’s time in the Army, where he trained as a Special Forces Engineer, has also given him a strong foundation in problem-solving and technical expertise.
Josh’s diverse upbringing, moving between California, Hawaii, Texas, and Ohio due to his family's military background, eventually led him to settle in Austin after living in San Antonio. Now a father of two, he enjoys spending his free time at home with his kids, working on his truck, exploring new tools, and going shooting.
Josh’s hands-on experience as a carpenter allows him to diagnose problems before they arise and engage in in-depth conversations about the tools, materials, and processes used in construction. He prides himself on his thorough understanding of building codes, subcontractor management, and cost controls. While he may not always have the immediate answer, he excels in asking the right questions and knowing where to find solutions, ensuring that projects run smoothly.
When it comes to construction, Josh genuinely enjoys every aspect of the field. He appreciates the unique nature of each project, the opportunity to work outside an office, and the satisfaction of creating lasting work. Josh prefers residential construction, as it allows him to collaborate with invested owners and achieve near-perfect finishes that will stand the test of time.
In-House Labor
Our dedicated In-House Labor Team brings hands-on expertise to every project, handling key tasks with precision and commitment to quality, ensuring seamless progress and exceptional results.
Business Operations
Our Business Operations Team works diligently behind the scenes to bring your showcase space to life in the most efficient and economical manner possible.
Alex strives to ensure that our company is working as efficiently and effectively as possible in her role as office manager. She is a proud Longhorn and previously worked as a 2nd-grade teacher. During her teaching career, she discovered a passion for problem-solving, organizing, and helping others. When she is not working, Alex loves to travel, explore Austin, and spending time with her nieces and nephew, Atlas, Cleo, and Bond.
Jonelle’s role as a Marketing Specialist at Skelly Build combines several of her passions: real estate, good design, and travel. Jonelle is one of our longest standing team members, and she has enjoyed contributing her marketing skills to see such growth and expansion of Skelly Build over the years. When she is not at work, Jonelle enjoys spending time with her husband and two kids, teaching a dance fitness class, and traveling the world!
Born and raised in Austin, Lexus is a Texas State student who graduated in Spring 2024 with a dual degree in English and Accounting. Both degrees combine her passions with numbers and ability to talk and meet new people everyday! During her free time, she likes to travel, read, and spend time with her corgi Daisy. Fun fact: “I’ve traveled to 4/7 continents! My goal is to hit all 7 before I turn 30!”
Born and raised in Austin, Ally brings a deep-rooted passion for sustainability and a love for animals to Skelly Build. Graduating with a degree in Sustainability from the University of Texas, Ally has embraced her role with enthusiasm, eager to be able to work in the construction industry for the first time. Outside of work, Ally enjoys the company of her four beloved cats, whom she loves dearly. She also enjoys spending time with her parents and two brothers, who also reside in Austin.
Denise is a passionate marketing professional who recently ventured into the construction industry, bringing a fresh perspective and a diverse background. With a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Houston, she has collaborated with both well-known brands and smaller companies across various sectors. Denise also works with a woman-owned bone broth company, where she combines creativity and strategy to drive success.
Originally from Chicago and raised in Houston, Denise spent three years living in Madrid, Spain, after college. Her love for baking and cooking fuels her creativity and adds a personal touch to her work. Denise's favorite part of Skelly has been collaborating with a positive, high-energy, and dynamic team, while bringing her marketing skills to a new industry. Denise loves seeing how at Skelly, our collective efforts come together like pieces of a puzzle, creating something lasting and memorable for our clients.
Brooke is passionate about marketing and is excited to contribute to the dynamic team at Skelly Build. Before joining Skelly, Brooke honed her skills as a baker and barista, and she is currently completing her associate degree with plans to earn a bachelor's in communications.
Originally from Paris, Texas, Brooke moved at a young age and has since embraced her new home. A proud cat parent to a tuxedo cat named Winston, she is an avid reader, tackling 40 to 60 books a year, and has a passion for cooking that brings her joy and creativity.
Brooke excels in time management, having successfully completed projects under tight deadlines, such as building a well in Guatemala during a short mission trip. Her favorite aspect of construction is witnessing how people's visions come to life and providing them with lasting solutions.
At Skelly Build, Brooke is drawn to the supportive community and values the trust she feels in her colleagues. She particularly enjoys the customization aspect of the cabinet process, appreciating how each project is tailored to meet the unique needs of every customer. Her enthusiasm for her work and dedication to quality make her a valuable addition to the Skelly team.
Skelly joined our Skelly Builder family in March 2019 and hasn’t looked back since! When you come to our office, Skelly (the cat) will dazzle you with her beautiful blue eyes. Her favorite activities are cuddles, being beautiful, hiding, sleeping, begging for food, and eating food.
