THE COOPER TEAM

Jim Cooper graduated from Auburn University in 1981 with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering degree. In 1991, Jim founded Cooper Construction with a focus on personal relationships and satisfaction for every client. Cooper Construction operates as a general contractor specializing in industrial, warehouse/distribution, and multifamily projects. Cooper Construction’s expertise in private sector development has allowed for continued expansion and successfully completed projects throughout the United States.

Jim values a team oriented mindset with a focus on thoroughness, clear communication and urgency throughout the organization. He is heavily involved in achieving the organization’s vision, and through his relentless efforts has grown Cooper Construction into a $200 million plus national company.

LEADERSHIP & ACCOLADES

• 2019 Cornerstone Award Winner
• Associated Builders and Contractors Board of Directors, Federal Legislative Chairman
• Vistage Key Executive Program
• Rotary Club of Birmingham
• Auburn University College of Engineering, Alumni Board (Life Member)
• 1856 Society Auburn University
• Samford Society – Auburn University
• Auburn University – Department of Civil Engineering Advisory Board
• The Church of the Advent, Curate Committee, Mission Committee
• Tocqueville Society – United Way of Central Alabama
• Kidney Foundation – Kidney Walk Chair, 2016
• Camp Bridges Foundation

EDUCATION

• Bachelor of Civil Engineering, Auburn University

Paul graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Building Science degree and joined Cooper Construction in 2002.  Through the years he has worked his way up through the ranks of Estimator, Project Manager, Senior Project Manager, and Director of Operations. Through his hard work, loyalty, and dedication, Paul holds the title of Executive Vice President.  Paul has unwavering drive and tenacity, and his great efforts has been responsible for some of the largest and most successful projects that the company has completed. Paul oversees all Project Management, Operations, and Office Staff with a dedication to maintaining a level of excellence that elevates Cooper Construction above others in the construction industry.

LEADERSHIP & ACCOLADES

• Associated Builders and Contractors, Future Leaders in Construction
• American Subcontractors Association of Alabama, Project Manager of the Year, 2014
• Monday Morning Quarterback Club
• Canterbury United Methodist Church, Church Council, Building and Grounds Committee
• Vistage Key Executive Program

EDUCATION
Bachelor of Building Science, Auburn University

Charlie Wendel has been with Cooper Construction since 2005.  He joined the company as Controller then promoted to CFO in 2014 and in 2019 became VP of Finance.  He has over 45 years of experience in accounting and has applied those skills to the construction industry for 25 years.  Charlie has been an instrumental part of Cooper Construction’s remarkable growth and success with his extensive experience in finance and risk management.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Certified Public Accountant

EDUCATION
Bachelor of the Arts in Accounting, Catawba College

With over a decade of industrial and commercial design experience, Justin enables Cooper Construction to provide services above and beyond others in the industry. Justin leads the in-house design team providing architectural design services, project code analysis, and assistance with the permitting process during preconstruction on in-house projects. 

LEADERSHIP, ACCOLADES, & PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

• National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
• American Institute of Architects
• Registered Architect in 15 States
• Boy Scouts of America, Eagle Scout
• Rotaract Club of Birmingham
• NAIOP Commercial Real Estate Development Association
• International Council of Shopping Centers

EDUCATION
Bachelor of Architecture, Auburn University

Jeff Garner graduated from the University of Louisiana - Monroe with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management and a Minor in Business Management.  Jeff brings over 30 years of construction industry experience to Cooper Construction, and we are proud to have him lead our Dallas office. His exceptional skills and ability to lead a high performing team ensure that he always delivers success and exceeds client expectations. His experience in the industrial, retail, commercial, and multifamily markets total a valuation exceeding $1 billion.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

• National Association of Industrial & Office Parks (NAIOP)
• International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC)
• Associated General Contractors (AGC)
• Construction Specification Institute (CSI)
• Sigma Lambda Chi (Scholastic Building Construction Fraternity)

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Building Science, Construction Management & Minor in Business Management, University of Louisiana-Monroe

Taylor Brown graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelors degree in Building Science. Over the past 20 years Taylor has both managed and estimated a wide range of projects that include governmental, institutional, medical, multi-family, professional office, and industrial facilities in both the private and public sectors.  His involvement with so many facets of construction along with his attention to detail has made Taylor the perfect fit to run our preconstruction department.  As Vice President of Preconstruction, Taylor’s responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of the estimating process, managing the estimating team, and ensuring our clients receive the best service possible.  His experience is a valuable asset to the Cooper Construction team, as well as our clients.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

• Licensed Florida General Contractor (CGC1510282)

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Building Science, Construction Management (Cum Laude) with Co-op, Auburn University

Ryan Ferris brings over 20 years of experience in construction project management and supervision to the Cooper Construction team.  His knowledge and expertise in effectively managing complex projects along with his strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction led to his current role as Vice President of Operations.  Ryan oversees all Project Managers and Superintendents within the Cooper Construction organization. 

LEADERSHIP & ACCOLADES

• LEED Accredited, 2000
• Member Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC)
• ABC Board of Directors, 2007-2009
• DBIA South Central Region Board of Directors, 2011-Present
• American Subcontractors Association of Alabama, Project Manager of the Year, 2006 & 2013
• OSHA 30 Hour Certification
• Director of Recreational Soccer, Vestavia Hills Soccer Club, 2010-Present

EDUCATION

• Masters Degree Building Science, Auburn University
• Bachelor of Science, Business Management, Birmingham Southern College