Experience to Build, Dedication to Quality
Since the company began, SWENSON has sought and retained highly skilled and qualified people who possess the experience, integrity and dedication to navigate the constantly changing construction and development environment. Among the many fine professionals at SWENSON, here are some of our key people:
C. Barron “Barry” Swenson – Chairman
Barry is involved with every project at SWENSON. As Chairman of the Board, he takes an active role in the development of projects and provides insight and guidance for each project team. Barry’s experience in the area of investment, financial planning, construction and real estate development extends over the last 35 years.
During the past three decades, Barry has become a recognized leader in the San Jose business community, well known for his ability to create successful projects by structuring innovative partnerships and joint ventures. Barry graduated from San Jose State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Business and Industrial Management) and is a native of San Jose, California.
Case Swenson - President & CEO
Prior to joining SWENSON in 2013, Case managed his own construction company, Swenson Development & Construction (SDC) for over two decades. Throughout his career, Case has successfully managed the construction of all building types, including residential, commercial, educational, financial projects and multiple public works jobs.
As president of SWENSON, Case is responsible for the operations as well as project development and construction, real estate development, property management and accounting. He provides executive support throughout the life cycle of each project from contract negotiations, pre-construction planning and design with clients and project team to construction feasibility, monitoring cost and schedule through the final stage of project completion.
He graduated from the University of Colorado and is an active member of various community organizations such as San Jose/Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce, First Tee of San Jose and is chairman of the Metro A Trust.
Craig Cameron – Chief Financial Officer
Craig oversees financial operations for SWENSON. His responsibilities include accounting and financial reporting, as well as managing company bonding and banking relationships, participating in contract negotiations, and assisting with project financial management. Prior to joining SWENSON, Craig held various corporate titles in accounting and FP&A. He is a graduate of San Jose State University where he earned a B.S. degree in Accounting.
David A. Gibbons – Senior Vice President Construction & Development
David is currently licensed as both a general contractor and a real estate broker. For over 32 years, he has been responsible for hundreds of projects with Swenson, totaling in excess of $1 billion. He has developed expertise in historical renovation and new construction of commercial, industrial, residential, retail and medical facilities. David manages a team of skilled project managers and superintendents.. He graduated with honors from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo with degrees in construction and structural engineering.
David E. Meads – Senior Vice President Architecture
David leads the Architecture Department at Swenson Builders. He joined the department 19 years ago after graduating from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo with a Bachelor of Architecture degree. David has been involved with numerous mixed-use, commercial, residential, assisted living, office, and retail projects of various scales. One of which, The Grad SJ, a 19-story student housing project received the 2021 Golden Nugget Award and 2022 The Multifamily Executive Award for best student housing project. David manages a team of skilled architects and project designers and takes great pride in his team’s ability to design, problem solve, and craft unique building designs for their clients.
Bill Ryan – Senior Vice President Development
Backed by over 30 years in real estate, Bill has directed more than 5 million square feet of construction and development projects, including office, research and development, industrial and warehousing construction, and the renovation of historic buildings. His development group is responsible for land selection and acquisitions, tenant negotiations, entitlements, financing, construction and property management. Bill has worked with every type of client and project, from the Park View Apartment Towers in San Jose to the Skyline at Tamien Station.
Bill’s department also acts as liaison with governmental agencies and community and client relationships. He is a graduate of the University of Southern California with a degree in Business Administration.
JOHN CANTLEN – Vice President of Construction
John embarked on his journey with the Swenson team in 1996, fresh off earning his degree in Construction Management from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. His bond with the Swenson family construction team runs deep, reflecting his unwavering dedication to the company's success and reputation. With a fervent commitment to excellence, John consistently delivers successful projects to clients, embodying the essence of the Swenson legacy.
Throughout his tenure, John has ascended through the ranks, donning various hats and honing his skills to proficiently manage diverse tasks both in the field and in the office. His leadership role has seen him spearheading the accomplishment of a wide spectrum of projects, from the earliest inception stages of design to the final stages of occupancy and warranty.
Jeff Huff – Vice President, Santa Cruz Office
Overseeing the SWENSON Santa Cruz Office, Jeff is involved in business development, pre-construction, and active construction projects within the Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito counties. Jeff thrives on team building and helping clients obtain successful results throughout the project lifecycle. Jeff has extensive experience in mixed-use, commercial, hospitality, and remodel projects and excels in bringing people together in collaboration to build great things. Jeff earned a Construction Management degree from Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo and has been with SWENSON in Santa Cruz since 2008.
Mark Pilarczyk – Vice President of Development
Mark is responsible for new development and acquisition activities for industrial, retail, multifamily and mixed-use product lines. Mark has a background in market rate and affordable housing opportunities throughout Northern California, where he has developed over 2,200 multifamily units. Prior to joining Swenson, Mark was a Partner with Fore Property and Development Manager at ROEM Development.
James “Jim” Shydlowski – Vice President of Construction
Jim has worked in construction for over 35 years and has been with Swenson since 2000. Jim has worked on a variety of projects from residential housing to apartment and townhouse complexes, from tenant improvements to large commercial projects such as a skilled nursing centers, hotels, and university buildings, from small renovations to large historic renovations. Jim’s focus is getting his Swenson team, the design team, the subcontractors, and the Owner’s team all on the same page to ensure project success. He brings the ability to get the project finished to the client’s satisfaction, completed on time, and done within budget. He graduate with honors from Loyola University of Chicago.