As COO of Alair, Duane oversees operations, implements strategic plans that align with the company’s vision, and ensures the entire organization is communicating and functioning at a high level. He works closely with the executive team and department leaders on research and development and systems optimization. Duane joined Alair in 2016 as a Builder/Partner and became a Regional Partner in 2017. He was instrumental in incorporating EOS into the Alair culture. Duane entered the construction industry over 30 years ago working on oceanfront estates in The Hamptons on Long Island, New York. In 1996 he moved to Charlotte, North Carolina and started a general contracting business. As a builder, remodeler, coach, consultant, and COO, he is dedicated to elevating professionalism in the construction industry by promoting continuous learning, strategic planning, collaboration with like-minded peers and the elimination of egos. He believes that if you fail to do these things the industry will reduce you to a commodity and leave you alone on an island. When he is not talking shop you will most likely find him outdoors. He and his family love to travel, hike, explore, and discover new places and new things.

Brandon Edwards is a Partner for Element Construction and has more than 25 years of experience in the residential construction industry. A 2001 graduate of Clemson University, he holds both Residential and Commercial General Contractor licenses and has built a career focused on operational excellence, quality craftsmanship, and delivering successful construction projects.

Brandon has a long history of leadership and service within the home building industry at the local, state, and national levels. He is a Past President of the HBA of the Lowcountry and currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Home Builders Association of South Carolina. He represents the HBA of the Lowcountry as a Delegate to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and serves as an NAHB State Representative for South Carolina. Nationally, Brandon serves on the NAHB Resolutions Committee and is Chair of the NAHB Custom Home Builders Committee.

 In recognition of his leadership, service, and commitment to the industry, Brandon has twice been named Builder Member of the Year by the HBA of the Lowcountry.

 As an educator, builder, and industry advocate, Brandon is passionate about sharing practical strategies and real-world experiences that help construction professionals improve operations, strengthen their businesses, and better serve their clients and communities.

Greg Hardwick, P.E., is President and Owner of Hardwick General Contracting, a nationally recognized custom home builder serving Central Florida. With 35 years of experience in the multimillion-dollar construction industry—including leadership roles with Fortune 500 companies—Greg is dedicated to delivering high-performance, luxury homes tailored to each client’s lifestyle. He is a Past President of the Master Custom Builder Council and the Greater Orlando Builders Association.  He currently serves on the Leadership Council for the National Association of Home Builders, the Builder 20 Executive Committee, and as 2^nd Vice-Chair of the Custom Home Builders Committee.  Greg has been honored with multiple industry awards, including NAHB Project of the Year, Builder of the Year, and Remodeler of the Year at local and state levels.