Elzie Higginbottom founded Burling Builders, Inc., as a full-service General Contractor in 1978. Mr. Higginbottom has been involved in real estate financing, construction, development and management of single, multifamily, and commercial real estate for over thirty years.

Respected among his peers for both his commercial and residential work, Mr. Higginbottom has been recognized in numerous trade and news publications as a major developer and contractor within the Chicago Metropolitan Area. He received the coveted “Minority Entrepreneur of the Year” Award from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development in 1984. Mr. Higginbottomwas the first recipient of that prestigious award. In 2000, he was inducted into the Chicago Association of Realtors (CAR) Hall of Fame for his work in redeveloping numerous Chicago communities.

Elzir Higginbottom is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin with a major in Economics.

John Girzadas graduated from Purdue University with a Master’s in Structural Engineering and a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering & Construction Management degree. With over 30 years of construction management experience, John holds a diversified project portfolio and has overseen the successful completion of all company projects over the last 24 years. A few of John’s corporate clients are ComEd/Exelon, CVS Pharmacy, JP Morgan Chase, United Airlines, East Lake Management & Development, Turnstone Development, University of Chicago, University of Illinois Systems, Chicago Department of Aviation, and a multitude of City of Chicago Agencies.

Bachelors Degree Civil Engineering Purdue University

Bachelors Degree Construction Management
Purdue University

Masters Degree Structural Engineering Purdue University

Joe’s construction career spans decades. Since joining Burling in 1999, Joe has been a key member of the company’s executive leadership team directing project team, operational and administrative initiatives. In addition to providing strategic direction of Burling’s preconstruction and project management functions, Joe also directs internal controls and collaborates on decisions relating to safety, project management systems and technology. He is responsible for the strategy and operations of Burling’s residential, office, industrial and retail markets. He has personally overseen construction projects totaling more than $600 million across practically every major market.

Bachelor Degree Building Construction Technology | Purdue University | FMI Leadership Institute Certification | Construction Management Association of America | Construction Financial Management Association

Kim Walker brings over 30 years of financial leadership, including 20 years with the firm, to steer strategy, liquidity, and risk for the general contracting business. She partners with operations to deliver profitable, on-time projects while leading budgeting and multi-year planning, cash flow management, and project finance (job costing, WIP, change orders, subcontractor profitability). Kim ensures accurate revenue recognition and GAAP reporting, maintains strong internal controls, and oversees banking, bonding, and capital structure. She manages data integrity, and acts as a strategic advisor helping to bring scalable growth.

Chicago State University, Bachelors of Science – Business Administration

Dustin is an experienced Construction Manager with a 30-year successful track record of managing residential, commercial and public-sector capital improvement projects. As a Project Executive Dustin’s responsibilities include the coordination of estimates and cost breakouts, negotiation and execution of all subcontracts. During construction, Dustin ensures job meetings are taking place and schedules are staying on track. Dustin also reviews Burling’s quality assurance and safety programs with senior management. During project close-out, Dustin reviews documentation required from subcontractors and suppliers for operations and maintenance manuals and manages the punch-list to ensure conformance with contract documents.

Bachelors of Science- Building Construction Technology | Hampton University Builders Association (AGC Chicago Chapter) U.S Green Building Council (USGBC)

Kris Reberg, a seasoned Project Superintendent, with 20 years of experience in construction brings a diverse portfolio including experience in Infrastructure, Institutional/Recreational, Hospitality, Multi-Unit Residential developments, and Industrial facilities. Kris ensures that every project is completed safely, according to construction documents, on time, and within budget. He helps to supervise subcontractors ensuring the project is built with the utmost quality and efficiency. Kris assumes the responsibility for productivity, efficient use of material, and contractual performance for each project.

Safety Trained Supervisor | Construction® (STSC®) | OSHA 30 | First Aid/CPR | Electrical Safety | Silica Awareness | Scaffold Safety | Excavation Safety | Fall Protection | HazWoper Certified | Purdue Construction Site | Supervision Certified

Gerald’s broad knowledge, hands-on management skill, and client relations expertise enable him to streamline processes, increase productivity, conserve resources, and deliver work on time and within budget. He oversees all aspects of construction planning and development, including analyzing specifications, conducting value-added engineering studies, and constructibility reviews. Gerald prepares project documentation and reports, selects subcontractors, purchases materials, creates and maintains schedules, and coordinates budgets. An expert estimator, Gerald manages both lump sum and competitively bid projects.

Purdue University Calumet Architectural Technology, AS Construction Technology & Management, BS | Master of Business Administration, MBA | Red Rocks Community College OSHA Safety Management | North Idaho College U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Todd Guse is a seasoned construction industry professional with extensive experience in estimating, project management and project supervision. Todd’s experience in these disciplines includes general building construction & renovations projects with in the commercial & government markets. He has expert knowledge of self-performed labor management, coordination of project scope with subcontractors and suppliers, procurement of subcontractors and materials, and in providing value engineering criteria and costs. His experience also includes field operation and executive management of water and waste water projects and project scopes including all major trades. He has fostered lasting subcontractor relationships and is proficient in subcontractor scope coordination.

Western Illinois University, Macomb, IL

Abdul is a project manager with 6 years of diverse experience in the commercial and public general construction markets. His project market experience includes; oil & gas facilities, commercial construction, hospitality, residential building projects and office. Abdul is proficient in all phases of the project construction processes including scheduling, QA/QC, budgeting, contracts and site supervision.

Master of Science In Construction Management | Bradley University | Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) In Construction/Civil Engineering | Osmania University | LEED Green Associate | Blue Beam | REVU 2020 | Primavera | ETABS | Autocad

Joe Malatesta has 6 years of experience as a project manager in the area of general contracting. His market experience includes new construction and renovation of recreation, financial, municipal, retail, office, and airline projects. In his role as project manager he has helps to maintain the project budget, project safety and the schedule by monitoring project progress and coordinating activities. He also manages the QA/QC process by reviewing the specifications, and plans, and recommending actions.

Bachelor of Science, Business Management, Loyola University

As an experienced Project Manager Bhagya oversees the construction projects from inception to completion, while also partnering with project superintendents to establish operational priorities. He is proficient in projecting, monitoring, and reporting project costs and revenue. Bhagyais experienced in resolving issues related to labor disputes, staffing, construction materials, construction equipment, and contracts/subcontracts administration. He ensures efficient communication among the project team, owners/representatives, architect, and subcontractors, leading to the projects’ streamlined construction.

At Burling, Toni works along side the project team in procurement, quality control, and payment applications while assisting the project manager and project team in creating an organized, structured project. She collaborates with project managers and executives, reviews contracts and budgets, manages change orders, coordinates site visits, and contributes to project meetings. In experience as a Civil Engineer she designed with MicroStation, AutoCAD, and ArcGIS, developed cost estimates, and performed QA/QC across aviation, tollway, drainage, erosion control, and site civil work.

BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois at Chicago

Anthony is an experienced project superintendent with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in overseeing construction projects. With a deep understanding of construction methods, materials, and building codes, Anthony excels in coordinating and supervising all aspects of a project with precision and efficiency. His foresight and communication skills enable him to collaborate effectively ensuring that the project progresses smoothly and is completed on time and to the highest quality standards. Anthony’s proficiency in scheduling and problem-solving equips him to tackle any challenges that may arise during the construction process, guaranteeing the successful and timely completion of the project.

Carpenters Apprentice Program | O.S.H.A. 30 Hour Training | Aerial Work Platform, Forklift Certified, QA/QC Management | SOFTWARE: Primavera, Procore, CPM Scheduling, Microsoft Project

Joe has construction experience as a project engineering, field laborer, construction estimator and superintendent. He has delivered project estimates, submittals, and quantity takeoffs, managed subcontractor tasks and more. As a project superintendent he has strong experience in all areas, assisting delivering a seamless project build experience for our clients.

Bachelor of Engineering (B.E) in Construction | Purdue University | OSHA 30 | Procore Certifications: Core Tools, Project Management, Quality Control, Safety

Nicholas is an assistant project superintendent with a proven track record in overseeing a variety of projects, ranging from recreation facilities and corporate offices to mid-rise office buildings and multi-family residential complexes. Committed to ensuring the success of every project he undertakes, Nicholas leverages his extensive experience in commercial construction to deliver exceptional results. With a diverse skill set acquired through his tenure he effectively manages contractors in compliance with construction specifications, and within the designated timeline.

Carpenters Apprentice Program | O.S.H.A. 30 Hour Training | Aerial Work Platform | Forklift Certified | QA/QC Management | SOFTWARE: Primavera, Procore, CPM Scheduling, Microsoft Project

Collin is a motivated Project Engineer with experience in managing document control processes, and in ensuring compliance with project specifications and standards. Collin is diligent in coordinating submittals, RFIs, and change orders, fostering strong communication between stakeholders to facilitate project progress. Additionally he is adept at utilizing project management software to track schedules, budgets, and resource allocation, while implementing best practices for quality assurance and risk management. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive projects to completion on time and within budget, demonstrating a commitment to safety and excellence in all aspects of construction management.

Bachelor Degree Building Construction Technology | Purdue University | Missouri State University B.S. in Construction Management | Software: Bluebeam Revu; Microsoft Programs; Procore; PlanGrid; Primavera P6; Navisworks: Revit | Certifications: OSHA 10, OSHA 30

Erron supports the Project Manager and assists with oversight of most major aspects of construction work, including; organizing the acquisition of materials, equipment coordination, generation and organization of RFI’s and submittals, constructibility reviews, and permit processing. He also assists with the inspection of all work to assure compliance with plans and specifications. Erron also aid in communicating technical information to project supervisor to ensure work complies with applicable codes, drawings, and specifications.

Howard University, Bachelor Of Science in Mechanical Engineering | Autocad | Thermodynamics | Analysis

Demarcus is a motivated Project Engineer with hands-on experience in Construction Management. He encompasses a strong background in overseeing all aspects of construction projects, from planning and budgeting to scheduling and quality control. Demarcus is dillegent in coordinating with the project team to complete daily tasks to ensure submittals, and contractor documentation is complete and efficient.

Kennedy-King College Associate of Applied Science in Construction Management | June 2026 | Tools Up Foundation Certificate of Completion in Construction Project Management Program | Apprentice Certificate of Completion in Carpentry

Raj Shah has extensive experience in the field of construction estimating. He is highly experienced in negotiating prices and organizing subcontractor bids, proficient in identifying accurate cost factors and preparing comprehensive and conceptual estimates. His coordination skills and ability to understand architectural designs, thorough knowledge of project documentation and comprehensive knowledge of raw materials makes Raj an important asset to the project team. Raj is also proficient with Auto CAD, Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, Procore and Building Connected.

Bachelor Degree Building Construction Technology | Purdue University | FMI Leadership Institute Certification | Construction Management Association of America | Construction Financial Management Association

Peter is a results-driven project team member with experience project management and estimating. Peter has managed the construction and estimating for commercial and large residential building projects. His value-ad with the Burling clients is his built experiences in managing budgets, schedules, safety and the overall quality of the project. Peter has a multitude of successful project completion where he has improved processes, created innovative solutions, and managed the project team from start to completion.

Bachelor of Architecture Civil | Masters Technical Architecture University of Pontificia De Salamanca | Project Management Professional – Certification | OSHA 30

Jan assist the lead estimator in preconstruction and estimating efforts. Jan is a highly skilled and versatile Civil Engineer with a strong background in real estate development, offering a unique blend of hands-on site experience and expertise in online project coordination and preconstruction administration. Proven ability to manage and oversee large-scale construction projects, from initial design to final delivery, while ensuring compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and budgetary constraints.

Janine is a Chicagoland AEC professional with a longstanding marketing and business development career spanning 23 years. Having mastered valuable knowledge as a marketing and business development professional, she understands the challenges many businesses face in gaining new clients and growing their brand. Janine is passionate about creating, implementing and managing successful strategies that result in growth.Taylor Business Institute | 

LCP Tracker, Headcount, AllianT WrapX, B2Gnow, E-Builder, Tririga, Procore

Micko brings a strategic and creative perspective to his role as Marketing Coordinator, supporting brand growth and strengthening market visibility across multiple platforms. He plays a key role in executing coordinated campaigns, developing digital content, and maintaining consistent brand messaging. Working closely with the Director of Marketing, Micko helps align communications with operational goals while supporting proposals, client engagement, and marketing analytics. His focus on organization, innovation, and measurable results contributes to the company’s continued growth and competitive presence across key markets.

K’Sharmel Brown has over 20+ years of experience in construction project accounting. She has worked with a diversified client portfolio: Chicago Housing Authority, Housing Authority of Cook County, Chicago Public Schools, Chicago Park District, Chicago Community Development Corp, J.P Morgan Chase, CVS, and more. Her primary responsibilities include processing of payrolls, union contributions, project accounting, preparation of AIA contracts, COI’s, tracking certified payroll and monitor compliance with project specific requirements such as wage rate, diversity, EEO and City of Chicago residency requirements.

Associate Degree in Accounting & Business Administration, Taylor Business Institute | LCP Tracker, Headcount, AllianT WrapX, B2Gnow, E-Builder, Tririga, Procore

Earnest Devine has over 16+ years of experience in construction project accounting. Mr. Devine has worked with a diversified client portfolio: Chicago Housing Authority, Housing Authority of Cook County, Chicago Public Schools, Chicago Park District, Chicago Community Development Corp, J.P Morgan Chase, CVS. Mr. Devine’s primary responsibilities include processing of payrolls, union contributions, project accounting, preparation of AIA contracts, ensure insurance certificates are aligned with Burling Builders and owner requirements, track certified payrolls and monitor compliance with project specific requirements such as wage rate, diversity, EEO and City of Chicago Residency requirements. Worked on compliance for City Colleges of Chicago, CTA, Aviation projects and IHDA funded projects.

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting Jackson State University LCP Tracker, Headcount, AllianT WrapX, B2Gnow, E-Builder, Tririga, Procore.

Christen Foley serves as an Administrative Assistant, Christen is an experienced Admins assistant with over 5 years of experience. Serving as the first point of contact for clients, vendors, and staff she manages the front-desk operations answering and routing calls. She handles paperwork and support the administrative needs of our team. In addition to her admin role she keeps daily operations organized and ensure clear communication across all departments.