ABOUT US

Shawn Kuhle

Chief Executive Officer & Owner, Turner Strategic Technologies

Shawn Kuhle is the owner and CEO of Turner Strategic Technologies (TST), bringing over 35 years of construction and business experience to the helm of a dynamic, growing family of companies. Since launching TST 18 years ago, Shawn has served in nearly every role, including Estimator, Superintendent, Project Manager, CFO, COO, and President, giving him a deep, firsthand understanding of every facet of the business. 

As CEO, Shawn provides executive leadership across all TST companies, driving long-term strategy, growth, and innovation. A serial entrepreneur at heart, he is passionate about building businesses that create meaningful careers and lasting impact. For Shawn, the most rewarding part of his role is watching the company, and its people grow—fueling a culture of opportunity, excellence, and trust.

Motivated first by his own family and second by our TST work family, Shawn is committed to ensuring the success and stability of the company so that every team member can continue to thrive, support their loved ones, and pursue their goals.

Outside of the office, Shawn lives life to the fullest. He enjoys flying, riding his Onewheel, e-foiling, snowboarding, or simply relaxing in the sunshine. He and his wife, Julie, have been married for 32 years and have three sons—Aiden, Max, and Turner—as well as their beloved Australian Shepherd, Coby.

John Trant, II

President, TST Construction

With over two decades of experience in the construction industry, John Trant leads TST Construction with a sharp eye for quality, a deep commitment to team development, and a strong vision for strategic growth. As President, John oversees the overall management and strategic direction of the company, working closely with team members, clients, and partners to deliver a truly unmatched standard of service.

John has been with TST Construction for 16 years, advancing through the roles of Project Manager, Senior Project Manager, and Vice President before stepping into the role of President. His hands-on leadership is backed by experience managing complex projects across both the private and federal sectors, ranging from $1 million to $100 million.
Guided by a deep passion for people and operational excellence, John thrives on collaboration and takes pride in shaping a culture where integrity, high standards, and customer satisfaction come first. He is driven by a desire to create the best possible experience for every customer and to lead a company where people love to work.

John holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the Virginia Military Institute and a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from North Carolina State University. He is also a long-time member of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), having served as Chair of the ABC Hampton Roads Young Leaders and the ABC Hampton Roads Leadership Committee, as well as on the ABC Virginia State Board of Directors.

Outside of work, John is actively involved in his community. He’s a member of Tabernacle United Methodist Church and a dedicated volunteer with the Poquoson Athletic Association Youth Wrestling Club. A proud husband and father of two, he enjoys spending time outdoors and participating in all kinds of sports. Fun fact: John is the twin brother of Reuben Trant, President of Retro Insulation and AIM Services.

Jamie Vanek

President, Etolin Strait Development Group

Jamie Vanek brings nearly two decades of experience in the construction industry to her role as President of Etolin Strait Development Group, an Alaska Native 8(a) company. With a career that began in 2007 and has spanned roles in project management, administration, and executive leadership, Jamie’s journey has been rooted in a passion for team development and a drive to deliver excellence across the federal contracting sector.  

Jamie has been part of the Turner Strategic Technologies (TST) family since 2013 and has led Etolin Strait since 2022. In her current role, she is responsible for securing 8(a) contracts, building high-performing teams, and overseeing the company’s financial performance. Her leadership is shaped by her PMP certification, a deep knowledge of federal contracting, and a unique ability to mentor and empower others — a skill she considers the most rewarding part of her work.

Over the course of her career, Jamie has led projects and teams across the country in support of a wide range of federal agencies, including NAVFAC, USACE, FBI, NIWC, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Department of Veterans Affairs, and the U.S. Air Force. 

An alumna of Temple University and Arcadia University, Jamie is committed to lifelong learning and community impact. She chairs the Management Education Committee for the Virginia Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC-VA) and supports Here for the Girls, a nonprofit serving young women with breast cancer. Outside of work, she enjoys tapping into her artistic side through creative projects with her children, including painting ballet shoes that are always the first to sell at fundraisers!

Jamie is also the proud founder of Adminnovate, where she facilitates workshops and delivers keynotes with a focus on the AEC industry. As an author, facilitator, and TEDx speaker, she has been featured in Construction Business Owner, Construction Executive, ThriveGlobal, and other outlets as a thought leader advocating for women in construction.

Brian Clifton

Director of Operations, TST Construction

Brian Clifton serves as Director of Operations at TST Construction, where he oversees the day-to-day operations of the company and provides guidance and leadership to the project management team. A dedicated construction professional with more than 28 years of industry experience, Brian brings deep expertise in both residential and commercial building, with a strong focus on project execution and relationship-building.

Since joining TST Construction in 2013, Brian has held several key roles, including Superintendent and Project Manager. His leadership is shaped by more than a decade with the company and a commitment to operational excellence. In every position, Brian has built a reputation for delivering high-quality work while fostering strong partnerships with clients, subcontractors, and teammates.

What Brian finds most rewarding in his role is the daily interaction with like-minded colleagues, subcontractors, and customers. He thrives in collaborative environments and is motivated by the shared energy of a team working toward a common goal.

Outside of work, Brian is an avid surfer who enjoys chasing big waves during hurricane season and traveling to remote surf destinations. He lives with his wife, Annamarie, and their two Labradors, Murphy and Charlie. When he's not in the water or on a job site, you’ll likely find him enjoying time at the beach with his family.

Kevin Jamerson

Chief Financial Officer, TST Construction

Kevin Jamerson serves as Chief Financial Officer at TST Construction, where he leads the company’s accounting and finance operations with a strategic focus on growth, stewardship, and long-term stability. With 15 years of industry experience and a strong background in financial leadership, Kevin oversees all core financial functions, including treasury management, capital investment, financial planning and analysis, and regulatory compliance.

Since joining TST in December 2024, Kevin has played a vital role in fostering strong relationships with external partners, including banks, bonding and insurance agencies, auditors, tax professionals, and governmental agencies. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the Commonwealth of Virginia, he brings both technical expertise and a mentorship mindset to the organization.

Kevin is driven by the opportunity to support and develop his team and finds purpose in working for a company that values its people above all else. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Old Dominion University and remains an engaged supporter of his alma mater.

In addition to his professional work, Kevin has served as a firm representative for Volunteer Hampton Roads and has participated on the United Way of South Hampton Roads Financial Review Panel.

Outside of the office, Kevin enjoys spending time on the golf course and cheering on his favorite teams—Old Dominion University Athletics and Liverpool FC.

Mike Strawhand

General Superintendent, TST Construction

Mike Strawhand is the General Superintendent at TST Construction, bringing more than four decades of experience in the commercial and government construction industry. Since joining TST in 2012, Mike has worn many hats, including Site Superintendent, Quality Control Manager (QCM), and Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO), and served as the company’s Corporate Safety Officer for over seven years. In every role, he has remained dedicated to project excellence and field team development.
In his current position, Mike plays an active role in both launching and completing projects while mentoring field and management staff to improve performance, safety, and execution. He thrives on problem-solving, team leadership, and takes pride in helping others grow through experience, guidance, and hands-on support.
For Mike, few things are more rewarding than seeing a job come to life. He finds fulfillment in watching production progress, seeing team members grow in their roles, and delivering a quality product to our clients. His career is driven by a deep sense of satisfaction in resolving challenges and seeing projects through to completion. 
Outside of work, Mike is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys boating and spending time with his family. He’s a longtime supporter of 4-H in his community and is an unofficial, but enthusiastic, member of his local booster club. Mike is married to a wonderful wife and is a proud father of two grown sons. With decades of experience behind him, Mike isn’t slowing down, he continues to seek new opportunities to learn, grow, and help build what’s next.

Stephenie Collins

Director of Human Resources, TST Construction

Stephenie Collins serves as the Director of Human Resources across TST Construction, Etolin Strait Development Group, and RetroAIM, where she leads strategic HR initiatives that support employee development, organizational growth, and a positive workplace culture. Since joining the TST family five years ago as a Contract Administrator, Stephenie has advanced through multiple roles, including HR Manager for both ESDG and TST, before taking on her current leadership position.

Stephenie is a dedicated human resource professional with a growing background in employee relations, performance management, and supporting people-focused initiatives that align with business goals. She holds dual certifications as a SHRM-Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) and a Professional in Human Resources (PHR), and is dedicated to cultivating a supportive, engaging workplace culture across all companies. 

Stephenie holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Business Administration from the University at Albany, SUNY. A proud member of the Society for Human Resources (SHRM) and The Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), she remains actively engaged in the HR community and is passionate about continuous improvement and collaborative leadership.

For Stephenie, the most rewarding part of her role is knowing that she plays a part, no matter how small, in positively impacting people’s lives and contributing to a thriving workplace. Her work is driven by a genuine desire to create environments where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow.

Outside of work, Stephenie enjoys spending quality time with her husband, James, and their two daughters, Gabriella and Brooklyn. You can often find her practicing yoga, hiking, reading, or exploring local events with family and friends.