About Us

Lead Estimator

Ashley Fox joined our team in 2020 and quickly became a key member of our estimating department. As Lead Estimator, she brings strong analytical skills and a commitment to accuracy that support successful project planning

Estimator

Matthew is an Estimator with four years of experience in construction estimating, bringing a strong analytical foundation and practical field knowledge to every project. Prior to his work in estimating, he gained hands-on experience in agricultural engineering and site demolition, which informs his understanding of project logistics and execution. He holds a bachelor’s degree in physics with concentrations in Oceanography and Coastal Engineering from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.

Estimator/Assistant Project Manager

Since beginning her construction career in 2018, she has advanced to Assistant Project Manager with a focus on civil infrastructure. At Funston Company for the past 1.5 years, she has supported project delivery through coordination, scheduling, budgeting, permitting, and documentation, while ensuring strong communication across teams and stakeholders.

Jr. Estimator

Thomas Ballard is a Junior Estimator at Funston Company, where he supports the Estimating team by assisting with project takeoffs, cost analysis, and proposal preparation. A 2024 graduate of the University of North Carolina Wilmington, he brings a strong foundation in construction principles and a commitment to accuracy and efficiency in every project he contributes to. Originally from Ashe County in the mountains of North Carolina, Thomas grew up with a love for the outdoors and enjoys hiking, playing golf, and staying active through various sports. He is also a dedicated member of his hometown Baptist church. Proud to be part of the Funston team, Thomas looks forward to growing his expertise and contributing to the company’s continued success.

Project Estimator

Jim Daniels is a Project Manager at Funston with more than 11 years of construction industry experience, including 9 in project management. He oversees civil projects from planning through completion, managing schedules, budgets, subcontractors, and communication with owners and stakeholders while supporting field crews to maintain quality and safety. With expertise in heavy civil construction, roadway paving, and NCDOT transportation projects, he has delivered successful work across Southeastern North Carolina. Jim holds degrees in Construction Design and Construction Management from the Pennsylvania College of Technology and, since moving to North Carolina in 2018, has built a coastal life with his wife and two children. Outside of work, he enjoys fishing, hunting, and spending time at the beach.

Accounts Receivable

She has been with Funston Company for over nine years, primarily handling accounts receivable billing and collections. She also assists with financial tasks related to the owner’s other entities.

Accounts Payable

She began working at Funston Co. in November 2023 and has approximately six years of Accounts Payable experience across three roles. Her responsibilities include collecting, entering, and paying invoices for Funston Co. and Funston Farms, reconciling credit card statements, and handling filing and organization tasks.

Payroll Clerk/Office Admin Assistant

Lex is a Payroll Clerk and Administrative Assistant at Funston, joining the company in 2021. Her role has grown to support payroll, timekeeping, purchasing, equipment tracking, and safety, providing essential assistance to the entire office and helping keep operations running smoothly.

Payroll Manager

Ginger is the Payroll and HR Manager at Funston, having been with the company for over five years. In addition to managing payroll, she oversees onboarding, benefits enrollment, and workers’ compensation. She enjoys interacting with employees and is dedicated to supporting the team, ensuring that everyone is well cared for.

Project Accountant

She spent three years in public accounting before joining the company as a Project Accountant earlier this year. In her current role, she manages the monthly close process, prepares financial statements, and analyzes project performance to ensure accurate reporting. Her background provides a strong foundation in accounting principles and attention to detail.

Accounting

Originally from Gates, North Carolina, Shelley attended the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where she earned both her undergraduate degree and a Master of Science in Accountancy. Throughout her career in construction accounting, she has played a key role in several major infrastructure projects that have helped reshape the state, including the I-540 extension, Surf City Bridge, CATS Light Rail system, and the Hampstead Bypass. Shelley takes pride in contributing to the growth and development of her home state and is excited to bring her expertise to Funston Company. Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband and two children, traveling, and relaxing at the beach.

He began his construction career in 1998 and has since gained 27 years of experience across a wide range of projects, including civil construction, heavy highway, airports, bridges, wetland mitigation, residential developments, earthen dams, and municipal work. His responsibilities have included managing multiple crews and equipment across various job sites, coordinating meetings, scheduling subcontractors, procuring materials, and leading projects through to completion. In 2023, he and his wife relocated, and he continued his career with Funston Company.

Superintendent 2019

John Williams has over 20 years of experience in grading and civil construction, rising from laborer to superintendent through hard work and hands-on knowledge. For the past 10 years, he’s been with Funston, leading site development projects for the last six. He focuses on efficient planning, strong team coordination, and maintaining high standards for safety and quality. Known for clear communication and dependable results, John values client relationships and takes pride in staying active on-site to ensure problems are solved early and work is done right the first time.

Gary Hayes began his career with a strong technical foundation, graduating from a vocational high school in 1983 with a focus on mechanical engineering, followed by an associate degree in mechanical engineering from the National Education Center in 1986. For more than 40 years, he has been a committed member of the Heavy Highway Union, advancing to foreman and supervisor roles while gaining extensive experience in utilities, grading, footings, and finish work. Since 2018, Gary has brought his leadership and expertise to Funston Co., where he serves as a road supervisor overseeing multiple project sites.

Equipment Manager

With two years at Funston Company and six years in construction equipment management, they bring extensive experience with all general contractor equipment, including rail and cranes. Skilled in overseeing repairs, technicians, training, equipment logistics, asset replacement, and planning. Previously spent 15 years in automotive dealership service and management.

Safety Operations Manager

“With 16 years in law enforcement, I brought leadership, risk assessment, and incident response skills into the construction industry, focusing on DOT compliance and heavy civil projects for both civilian and military sectors. I’m dedicated to building a proactive safety culture, ensuring regulatory compliance, and working hands-on with teams to implement practical safety solutions. At Funston Company, I’m proud to support a strong safety record and committed to enhancing training, compliance, and workforce well-being.”

Drone Operator

Jesse Scopa is a UAS & GPS Operations Manager at Funston Company with expertise in drone-based surveying, GIS workflows, and geospatial data integration. He holds an M.S. in Geological and Earth Sciences from UNC Wilmington and specializes in delivering high-accuracy aerial mapping products that support construction, infrastructure, and environmental projects. He is passionate about displaying and leveraging the full capabilities of drone technology to change the typical geographic approach to global issues.