We’re a creative team with big ideas and a passion for doing things well.

Leadership

SAM KALER, FOUNDER

Sam brings over 15 years of professional construction experience and a proven track record managing complex projects across commercial and residential environments. Throughout his career, he has directly managed more than $250 million in construction scope and contributed to developments with total budgets exceeding $1 billion.

He earned a degree in Construction Management from Auburn University’s College of Architecture, Design, and Construction and began his career gaining hands-on experience in residential building projects on Long Island.

After relocating to San Francisco, Sam joined Truebeck Construction, where he managed commercial construction projects for some of the Bay Area’s fastest-growing technology companies. One of his largest clients ultimately recruited him to join their internal Construction and Real Estate team, where he led the development of award-winning spaces across multiple continents.

With the arrival of his first child, Sam chose to shift into a more entrepreneurial role and founded JAWA Builders, focusing on residential construction and renovations where he can build lasting, rewarding relationships with homeowners across the Bay Area.

NAT CISNEROS, SUPERINTENDENT

A Bay Area native, Nat has spent his entire career working in construction and brings deep hands-on experience to every project. As Superintendent, he oversees daily operations in the field, manages crews, and ensures work moves efficiently from start to finish. Known for his problem-solving mindset and strong relationships with trades, he has a talent for getting things done and keeping projects on track.

Whether coordinating subcontractors, sourcing vendors, or navigating the inevitable surprises that come with construction, he approaches every challenge with practicality and persistence. His local knowledge, work ethic, and commitment to quality make him an essential part of delivering successful projects.

BROOKE TAYLOR, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Brooke brings a sharp operational mindset and a proven ability to solve complex problems quickly. She began her career supporting the executive team at a fast growing startup, where she was quickly recognized for her organization, initiative, and ability to get things done. She was soon promoted to the workplace team, where she helped support the development of thoughtfully designed office and retail environments as the company scaled.

Over time, Brooke became deeply involved in the planning and execution of award-winning spaces, coordinating vendors, managing budgets, and helping guide projects from early planning through completion. Her work required balancing design, construction, and operational needs while ensuring projects stayed organized and on schedule.

At JAWA Builders, Brooke oversees operations, bids, finances, and project coordination. Her attention to detail, strong vendor relationships, and ability to keep complex projects moving make her an essential part of delivering successful builds.

Q & A with Sam

  • One of my main strengths is my ability to ask questions to understand your goals, timeline, and budget. From there, I help scope the work, offer design and material guidance, and create a detailed plan. Through this process, I will help ensure your project meets your goals while staying within budget.

  • I am fully licensed by the California State Licensing Board. I am also bonded and insured. I have a bachelor's degree in Construction Management and over a decade of hands-on experience managing large-scale commercial construction and high-end residential renovations.

  • I've always had a passion for building and problem-solving. My professional career started in commercial construction, but I shifted toward residential work to have more personal, creative, and rewarding client relationships.

  • I've worked with homeowners, real estate investors, Airbnb hosts, and property managers—everyone from first-time buyers to seasoned remodelers. I love helping clients at any stage of homeownership.

  • We recently completed a full bathroom renovation that took four weeks from demo to final finishes. We took the space down to the studs, installed new tile, quartz surround, a custom vanity, and updated fixtures. The transformation was dramatic, and the client was thrilled.

  • Look for someone who's communicative, transparent, and takes pride in their work. A great contractor should not only execute but also guide you through the process with integrity and expertise.

  • Think about your goals, budget range, timeline, and how involved you want to be in the decision-making process. It's also helpful to collect inspiration photos and prioritize must-haves vs. nice-to-haves.