In July, Jeff Tobin rejoined Schuchart as Chief Operating Officer. Having left the role in 2022, we’re thrilled to welcome him back to the firm as a leader in driving efficiencies, individual and organizational growth initiatives, and a culture of engagement and passion for our craft. We took a moment to sit down with Jeff for a Team Member Spotlight Q&A—read more about his life and career below.
Q: Can you tell us about your personal and professional background?
A: I grew up in Bellevue, Washington, and have deep roots in the Pacific Northwest. My wife and I still call the area home, and it’s been rewarding to build both a career and a life in the same community where I was raised.
My path into construction wasn’t a straight line. I started working in residential construction when I was 15 with a neighbor who was a contractor. Through high school, I spent my vacations and summers learning and working in varying capacities in construction. I attended Boise State University and Central Washington University, where I initially planned to study architecture. Along the way, I considered a path in education, and I developed a passion for mentorship, coaching, and helping others grow. After college, I continued in construction as a carpenter apprentice before moving into building engineering and facilities management, later pursuing additional education in construction and facilities management.
Over the past 25+ years, I’ve had the opportunity to lead high-performing teams, deliver complex projects, and help organizations grow. What I enjoy most, however, is developing people and helping others advance in their careers. That’s something I’m excited to continue doing with my return to Schuchart.
Q: What’s your role at Schuchart? Can you tell us about your career trajectory here?
A: My role at Schuchart is Chief Operating Officer. I joined the firm originally in 2012 as Division Manager and was promoted to VP of Operations and then Chief Operating Officer. I left the company in 2022, and here we are in 2026 with me rejoining in the COO role. After leaving in 2022, I’m excited to be back with Schuchart for “round two” to support our teammates, clients, and projects.
What drew me back here is the people. Schuchart has always had an exceptional team and a culture built around collaboration, accountability, and a genuine commitment to doing things the right way. It’s a place where people care deeply about each other, our clients, and the work we deliver. In my role, I’m focused on supporting our teams, strengthening our operations, and helping position the company for continued growth and long-term success. I’m excited to build on the strong foundation that’s already in place and contribute to the next chapter of Schuchart’s story.
Q: What personal values motivate you in your career? How does your role at Schuchart allow you to pursue that motivation?
A: I’m motivated by people and helping them succeed. I’ll be the first to say “people first” is a term that is overused but not always approached authentically. For me, it means making sure employees feel supported, heard, and equipped to do their best work. When people thrive, the organization thrives too.
One of the things I enjoy most about leadership is creating opportunities for others. Early in my career, I benefited from leaders who invested their time, trust, and energy in me, and that had a lasting impact. I’ve always felt a responsibility to pay that forward. As COO, I have the opportunity to help shape the systems, processes, and culture that support our people and position them for success. That’s one of the most rewarding parts of the role.
Q: When you think about your time with the firm, what is your favorite memory or moment?
A: It’s difficult to pick just one memory because I’ve been fortunate to work with great people and be part of some really cool projects. One accomplishment I’m especially proud of is helping launch the CORE PLUS Construction Program through the AGC of Washington Education Foundation. The program gives high school students an opportunity to explore careers in construction through hands-on learning and industry-focused curriculum, all while earning graduation credits through career and technical education programs. It’s the kind of program I wish existed when I was growing up.
What makes it particularly meaningful is that its impact continues today. Students across Washington are being introduced to careers in our industry, developing practical skills, and entering the workforce with a better understanding of the opportunities construction can provide. It’s helping build the next generation of talent not just for Schuchart, but for the entire construction industry.
Schuchart’s commitment to industry involvement and workforce development made that work possible. The company encourages leaders to invest time in programs that benefit the broader industry, and I’m proud to have been part of an effort that continues to create opportunities for young people while strengthening the future of construction.
Q: When you’re not at work, how do you spend your time?
A: When I’m not at work, you can find me with family. Our first granddaughter is a little over three months old, and since she was born, a lot of my time has been spent with her. She’s laughing now, so trying to get her to crack a smile is a primary goal these days. I also play bass in a family band. We play a few shows a year, and our jam is reimagined covers, 90s grunge, and punk.
Aside from being with family, I like to spend my time being active. If I’m not sleeping or working, I’m probably outside. I enjoy all the classic Pacific Northwest pursuits—flyfishing, hunting, mountain biking, hiking. We’re lucky to call this place home.
