MEET OUR TEAM
JAKE WALSH | Owner
Jake Walsh is the founder and owner of JT Builders, a premier custom homes design-build company serving the Durango community since 2006. With decades of experience across various construction fields, Jake's expertise and commitment to excellence have solidified JT Builders' reputation for delivering exceptional craftsmanship and personalized service.
A member of both the Homebuilders Association of Southwest Colorado and the National Homebuilders Association, Jake remains at the forefront of industry standards and best practices, ensuring that JT Builders consistently delivers projects of the highest quality.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Jake is deeply invested in the well-being of the Durango community. He actively supports local initiatives and organizations, including his contributions to the Durango Area Youth Hockey Association. With his extensive experience and deep roots in Durango—he has lived here since 1998—Jake has the capacity to help people integrate into the community seamlessly.
When he's not personally overseeing construction projects or engaged in the community, Jake cherishes spending quality time outdoors with his wife, Lori, and their daughter, Madi, embracing the vibrant spirit of the Durango community.
ELI STREED | Construction Director
Eli is an experienced carpenter, woodworker, and project manager. With nine years of experience in the construction industry (from woodworking in Tennessee to framing in California), Eli has developed comprehensive knowledge in fine home building. When he is not building your next custom home, he can be found fly-fishing in the rivers of the Southwest, skiing in the San Juans, and caring for his farm.
ABBY VENCI | Pre-Construction Director
Abby has a bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management from Stephen F. Austin University (2015) and a master's degree in Organizational Leadership with a focus in Project Management from the University of Denver (2017). Abby discovered her passion for custom homes at a young age while visiting construction sites with her dad, who owned a custom home-building company in West Texas. After moving to Denver for her master's degree, she and her husband, Adam, bought a school bus and transformed it into a tiny home on wheels. The bus sparked her love for remodeling and design, leading to house flipping projects and a ground-up construction project that brought them to Durango. Outside of work, Abby enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, and snowboarding!
DYLAN JACKSON | Project Manager
Dylan has earned a bachelor's degree in Marketing from Fort Lewis College (2020), located in Durango, Colorado. He joined JT Builders because of his love for craftsmanship and his experience in the field of marketing. Dylan's ultimate goal is to continually gain knowledge in all aspects of life. In his free time, you will find Dylan in the trees, either skiing or mountain biking. When he is not there, he is playing hockey, building, or fixing something, as he cannot sit still.
CHRIS NICHOLS | Finance Director
Chris has a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Fort Lewis College (2008). He is a Durango native. In his time outside of the office, Chris enjoys spending time with his amazing wife and two children. You will find him in the mountains whenever he has a free moment.
SANTIAGO PAREDES | Administrative Director & Carpenter
Santiago has a bachelor's degree in biology from Grinnell College (2015). During his childhood, Santiago spent time woodworking and creating art. His love for learning and designing more efficient processes brought him to his position at JT Builders. He is an avid trail runner who loves to run in the mountains and spend time with friends and family.
SHANE DIMITRO | Carpenter Apprentice
Shane is a carpenter with three years of construction experience and a background in heavy equipment operation. Originally from Phoenix, Shane's passion for craftsmanship was ignited by his father, a log home contractor. His eager attitude and willingness to learn make him a valuable asset to our team. In his free time, he enjoys biking, fishing, and camping.