When choosing a company for your project, we know how important it is to learn about the people you will work with. Our most valuable asset at Mardena Construction has always been our team of skilled professionals. Whether they are consultants, independent contractors or full-time employees, everyone here is focused on one goal: client satisfaction. I am pleased to introduce the team that works together to transform buildings and create lifelong clients.
Founder/Senior Project Manager
Stephen Mardena has been working on construction sites since he was fourteen years old. Stephen began his career cleaning construction sites in New York City. He quickly progressed from simple janitorial duties to experimenting with tools, the first of which was a jigsaw used to cut a formica countertop for a kitchen sink. (old, right? lol)
Stephen got a job as a Carpenter Apprentice and then became a Carpenter after working at various job sites over the summer. He worked his way up to the position of Jobsite Foreman, where he was in charge of his projects and labor crew. Stephen rose through the ranks after a few years to become a Superintendent, then a Project Manager.
Stephen’s construction resume grew over the years to include high-quality commercial and residential projects. His diverse construction experience fueled his desire to learn more. This desire eventually drove him to leave the family business and establish his own, which he owned and operated for over ten years. Stephen was thrilled at the prospect of being his own boss in his hometown but was also eager to gain new skills and experience. In 2018, he relocated to the west coast, beginning a new chapter in Los Angeles.
Working as the Vice President of Operations for a Downtown Los Angeles company specializing in high-end restaurants helped Stephen learn the ins and outs of the local construction industry. He was responsible for developing new clientele and enhancing the company’s standing in the hospitality sector. Stephen was able to network with some of the most well-known subcontractors, architects, and designers in Los Angeles’ downtown area and gain insight into the ins and outs of the design-build process.
Stephen’s local experience also includes working for one of the largest restoration firms in the country, where he gained a wealth of knowledge about the insurance industry and property damage and restoration processes. He quickly developed a passion for this sector and began training and schooling to provide this emergency service to his valued clients.
Stephen founded Mardena Construction because he recognized a market need for a company whose primary objective is to realize the client’s vision. Now that he has full company and creative control, he can provide clients with the construction experience they expect and value.
In his spare time, Stephen enjoys spending time with his family, watching basketball, golfing, and volunteering in his community. He also enjoys watching cooking shows and experimenting with new recipes, though his skills do not yet rival those of Gordon Ramsey.
Lead Project Manager/Graphic Artist
Peter is a seasoned construction professional with over 15 years of experience in the industry. With his unwavering passion for building and creating, Peter has cultivated a remarkable skill set and an exceptional eye for detail. Throughout his career, he has successfully managed a wide range of construction projects, from residential properties to commercial spaces. Peter’s expertise lies in project planning, budgeting, and ensuring seamless execution from start to finish. His commitment to delivering high-quality workmanship and exceeding client expectations has earned him a stellar reputation in the construction community.
Architectural Designer/Project Manager
Valentina is a talented architectural designer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. With years of experience in the industry, she has developed a unique approach that combines innovation, sustainability, and practicality. Valentina’s designs are a reflection of her ability to blend creativity with functionality, resulting in spaces that are not only visually stunning but also highly efficient. Her dedication to delivering exceptional results and her ability to understand and exceed client expectations have earned her a reputation as one of the top architectural designers in the field. Whether it’s residential, commercial, or public spaces, Valentina’s designs are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Head of Security/Lead Therapist😆
Imelda “Melsy” Shepherd was born in March 2023 on a beautiful Norcal ranch to two lovely purebred German Shepherd parents, Pam and Yuri. Melsy is a happy and healthy puppy girl who likes to play fetch, lay in the grass, and chew on sticks and socks. Melsy is learning the ropes as an apprentice at Mardena Construction, where she will eventually hold the titles of chief happiness officer, security boss, and general laborer. Melsy spends her free time walking, running, sniffing, and licking faces and toes. Melsy is currently attending Zoom Room classes and plans to graduate in Fall, 2024.
