Jon Friedrichsen

Project Executive

HCC

Jon attributes his appreciation of craft and hard work to working as a carpenter for a Spokane-based general contractor while earning a BS in Construction Management from Washington State University. Since joining GLY in 1999, he’s honed his expertise as a healthcare and high-tech office project manager and team builder. When he’s not piecing together complex logistics plans, you’ll find Jon cheering on the Seattle Sounders or casting a line. If he could talk his wife into selling everything and living in a trailer down by the river, he’d be there already.

Joaquin Aburto

General Foreman

Joaquin approaches each day on the jobsite with a people-first attitude, emphasizing the importance of a collaborative team culture in finding efficient solutions and creating a learning environment for everyone. One of his favorite aspects of construction is that he leaves each workday having learned something new from his teammates. When he’s not out in the field, you can find Joaquin adventuring in the PNW with his 5 kids.

Professional portrait of GLY employee Garth Stoppard.

Garth Stoppard, Jr.

Superintendent

As a second generation carpenter, Garth turned out to be a Jr. in more ways than one. Today Garth is a hard-working Superintendent who enjoys building challenges across sectors, from housing to commercial construction. Garth takes a very thorough, caring approach to getting things done on his projects, and enjoys the outdoor life in his spare time—especially riding dirt bikes, camping or doing anything on or near the water.

Cassie Withrow

Executive Administrator+Administrative Services Manager

Excellent customer service comes naturally to Cassie, who approaches every task with a can-do attitude. As Executive Administrator, she enjoys working with people that encourage her and test her limits but allow her to have fun along the way. She manages her time—and many others’—with extraordinary ease and keeps things running like a well-oiled machine. Outside the office, you’ll find Cassie hiking, exploring the city, and when the sun comes out, boating on Lake Washington—all with her husband and pups by her side.

Ryan Thompson

Project Manager

Danielle Sessler

Senior Project Manager

Associate DBIA™

Construction was always part of the plan for Northwest native Danielle, having grown up in a family that owned a contracting business. She took a few detours first, earning a BFA in Metalsmithing and Art History from Central Washington University and working as a Senior Estimator focused on honing her preconstruction services skills. When she landed at GLY in 2013, we quickly recognized her background would be perfect for Design-Build projects. Outside of work, Danielle enjoys hiking, bouldering, climbing—and collecting “odd things that most people scratch their heads over.”

Chris Mela

Accounting Manager

Chris leads GLY’s Accounting department with an enthusiasm for a supportive and tight-knit team culture. He views accounting as a new puzzle to solve each day and enjoys working through the challenges that accompany them. In his spare time, you can find Chris continuing to exercise his mind while reading, writing, and playing board games and video games.

Steven Li

Senior Estimator

With a 30+ year career in the construction industry, Steven is an Experienced Senior Estimator known for his expertise in Value Engineering, Integrated Project Delivery, Project Engineering, CPM Scheduling, and Constructability. Holding a Master of Engineering in Construction Management and Management Information Systems from the University of British Columbia, as well as an MBA from the University of Singapore and a Bachelor's degree in Building Construction from Shanghai Jiaotong University, Steven brings a wealth of global knowledge to every project. Outside of work, Steven is passionate about staying active and enjoys hiking, jogging, cycling, and other outdoor activities. He’s also training in Filipino martial arts, focusing on Arnis, and is preparing for his black belt test — a journey that combines physical skill with cultural heritage. He is dedicated to promoting human health and wellness, with a personal interest in biology and neuroscience, particularly in areas like weight management and mental well-being. A Seattle resident for over 22 years, Steven roots for the Seattle Seahawks and cherishes time with his wife and teenage daughter.

Spencer Eble