Meet The Team
Our Expert Staff
QRSE, LLC is a firm dedicated to set your mind at ease by ensuring projects are handled with the highest quality service. Our expertise encompasses centuries of combined experience in engineering, design, and construction on both large and small scale projects. In addition, we have seasoned managers that have lead large government organizations of 280 to 1,200 people. These management experts provide training on teambuilding and leadership skills, as well as recruiting and hiring advice to help organizations build collaborative teams that get results. As a company, one of our main focuses is creating a sustainable and better future for our keiki, ‘ohana, and for Hawai’i, our home.
Our Executive leadership Team
Our group of professionals pride themselves in providing the quality service our clients expect. Founded in January of 2013, our staff has combined experience in design, construction, and project management. Our focus remains steady in providing project and construction management services for government entities; specializing in federally funded projects. This has been our principal’s background with a consistent reputation to drive a project to completion.
KAI NANI KRAUT, PE, CCM
Principal in Charge
Kai Nani Kraut, our Principal Engineer, Founder and President, is a licensed Professional Civil Engineer and a Certified Construction Manager. A University of Illinois graduate, she began her career in the bridge office with the Illinois Department of Transportation. She has formerly held the positions for the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation, Deputy Director of Transportation Services (DTS) for the City & County of Honolulu, and Transportation Engineer with FHWA Hawaii Division office. With her direct involvement and management oversight, Ms. Kraut’s broad range of experience and knowledge has benefitted projects state-wide. She has established a broad spectrum of construction management experience with specific understanding of federal projects including Federal Highway Administration, Federal Transit Administration and Department of Defense along with the extra scrutiny associated with stimulus and high profile projects.
KATHLEEN MCNULTY, RA, NCARB
Principal in Charge
Kathleen is a strong professional who combines decades of construction and project management leadership with architectural design experience. Her project management portfolio spans commercial, institutional, and government design and construction, and her approach relies on understanding challenges and opportunities through the eyes of all involved parties, so that she can most effectively drive to solutions that are in line with the team’s objectives. She brings extensive knowledge to project teams, having spent most of her career managing teams focused on the execution of design-build projects on behalf of construction companies. As a result, she has developed a strong understanding of how to exceed the needs of building owners and can negotiate with construction companies and contractors very effectively.
JOEL THOMAS, CCM
Construction Manager II
Joel is a Certified Construction Manager with a specialization in inspection services and over 10+ years of construction management experience. Some of his certifications and qualifications include American Concrete Institute (ACI) Field Testing Technician – Grade I, Hawaii Department of Transportation Field Sampling and Testing Qualification (Asphalt, Soils), Construction Management Best Practices, and NPDES MS4 Plans Reviewer. Joel was also one of the lead Change and Claims Engineers for the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) Project on the West side of the program, helping mitigate millions of dollars in delay claims. He is currently the Lead Office Engineer for HART on the East side of the program, on the island of O’ahu, Hawai’i.
Walter Michel
Principal In Charge
Walt’s 12-year career as an Army engineer merged easily into 21 years of civilian federal engineering and facility management, with his military assignments in the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) as a Regulatory Project Manager and a Deputy Resident Engineer. He operated in their “cradle to grave” project management business process (PMBP), which trained him for electrical planning and design work, and managing consultant design projects, as an Electrical Engineer at Tripler Army Medical Center (TAMC) Facility Management Branch (FMB). As Chief of Engineering and Planning, he managed programs for all new and repair construction. As Facility Manager, he executed an annual $21M facilities management operational budget, over $150M in construction and renovation projects, and represented the Commander in implementing and executing over $500M in TAMC recapitalization projects.
Our Project Leads
Our group of professionals pride themselves in providing the quality service our clients expect. Founded in January of 2013, our staff has combined experience in design, construction, and project management. Our focus remains steady in providing project and construction management services for government entities; specializing in federally funded projects. This has been our principal’s background with a consistent reputation to drive a project to completion.
Lincoln Tejada
Construction Engineer I
Lincoln has 15 years of cumulative experience, spanning a multitude of construction projects throughout his career, 10 of which, have been spent coordinating Federal projects for Federal Defense installations on Oahu. Federal entities include Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam, Schofield Barracks, Fort Shafter Army Base, Kaneohe Marine Corps Base, and Tripler Army Medical Center. Lincoln started out as an Electrical Apprentice, before moving through Electrical Foreman-Journeyman, Superintendent, Quality Control, and Project Manager roles. After completing his last project at Tripler Army Medical Center with AECOM, a $30M USACE-Huntsville MRR Project, he began pursuing Contractor/Electrical contractor work on his own. Lincoln now brings his experience & past performance to QRSE where he looks forward to his next project.
Marshall Gray, CCM, EIT
Construction Engineer I
Marshall is a Project Engineer with over 13 years of construction and civil design experience. He graduated from the University of Hawaii with a degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering and worked as civil design engineer for over 8 years. His project experience was mainly on large hotel developments and public improvement projects here in Hawaii. Marshall then transitioned to general construction where he was an assistant project manager on various large-scale commercial construction projects. He has experience estimating and managing many aspects of vertical construction as well as civil and utility projects. Marshall is currently an Assistant Resident Engineer, Assistant Structural Engineer, and Office Engineer for the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Project (HART), on O’ahu, Hawai’i. He has extensive knowledge in computer software including AutoCad Civil 3D, HydroCad, Microsoft Project and other Management Software. He is also an ACI Concrete Special Inspector.
Chord Medeiros
Field Engineer II
Chord is a well-rounded individual who has received his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering student from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. He is a prompt, organized, and creative individual who is eager to learn and give back to the community. Chord has displayed his passion as he assists multiple teams with their tasks.
Jean Baptiste
Senior Administrator
Jean brings a wealth of expertise and experience to her role as our senior administrative assistant. With a background spanning over two decades in administrative roles within the construction industry, Jean’s proficiency and insights are invaluable assets to our team. Her seasoned leadership and comprehensive understanding of administrative operations make her an indispensable resource in enhancing the efficiency of our administrative team.
Our Engineers & Inspectors
Our group of professionals pride themselves in providing the quality service our clients expect. Founded in January of 2013, our staff has combined experience in design, construction, and project management. Our focus remains steady in providing project and construction management services for government entities; specializing in federally funded projects. This has been our principal’s background with a consistent reputation to drive a project to completion.
benjamin garde, PE
Construction Manager II
Ben Garde is a licensed Civil Engineer, specializing in bridge design, construction and rehabilitation having spent the majority of his career with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). He has continued this work as a private consultant with Fehr Graham, formerly Coombe-Bloxdorf, a civil engineering, structural engineering, and land surveying company ins Springfield, Illinois. Ben is excited to move to Hawaii to begin using his skills and experience on HDOT projects. He is certified by the American Concrete Institute as a Concrete Field Testing Technician – Grade I.
Robert Drescher, PE
Construction Manager II
Rob is an experienced Construction Manager with 26 years of design and construction contract administration for heavy civil projects. He recently joined QRSE after spending the last 10 years on the HART project, on the Kamehameha Guideway and Airport Guideway and Stations contracts. He is detail-oriented with a strong skill set for researching technical issues and bringing them to closure.
James Anderson, PE, CCM
Construction Manager I
Leon Kraut III "Tre", MBA, PE
Project Manager II
Allyn Tabata, PE, CCM
Project Manager II
Arlene Kocher, PE
Project Engineer II
Arlene is a registered professional engineer, based in Illinois with 35 years of experience in leading transportation programs at the state and federal level. She has demonstrated expertise in leadership, project and program management, process improvement, technical training, and problem solving while ensuring state and federal requirements are met in the sixth largest transportation program in the nation.
Danilo Cabalang, PE, CCM
Construction Engineer I
Danilo is a licensed Professional Engineer and Certified Construction Manager, specializing in roadway construction, reconstruction, and resurfacing having spent the majority of his career with the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT). He has continued this work in the private sector as a Construction Manager with a geotechnical solution company in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Chan Ahn, PE
Construction Engineer I
With a strong background in construction and environmental management, Chan brings a wealth of experience to the table. As the Environmental Manager at Dededo, Guam, Chan has overseen the renovation of military training facilities on a vast 2200-acre property, ensuring compliance with local and federal environmental regulations. Prior to this role, Chan served as a Project Engineer, adeptly managing subcontractors, negotiating change orders, and maintaining meticulous project schedules. Chan’s dedication to quality control was evident during his tenure as an Assistant Quality Control Manager on a $350 million project in Maui, HI, where he oversaw daily activities, inspections, and the creation of 3D models to monitor job progress. Chan’s commitment to excellence and their ability to effectively coordinate with diverse stakeholders make them a valuable asset to any construction project.
Kenneth Santana, PE
Construction Engineer I
Kenneth Santana brings over three decades of expertise as a Senior Civil Engineer and Project Manager, boasting a stellar career trajectory. Registered in Hawaii, Kenneth has spent 23 years with Mitsunaga & Associates, Inc. (MAI), where his leadership has driven the success of numerous projects spanning resorts, schools, and transportation hubs. His proficiency in site design, water systems, and sustainable practices has been instrumental in shaping Hawaii’s infrastructure. Notably, Kenneth has also served as a Construction Manager for key state projects and contributed to academia as a former lecturer at the University of Hawaii. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, Kenneth Santana continues to leave an indelible mark on civil engineering in Hawaii.
William Rapisura, PE
Construction Engineer I
Willie brings over three decades of experience in construction and engineering. He began as an Estimator and Project Engineer at Fuku’s Interiors and Group Builders Inc., handling drywall and acoustic ceiling projects. From 1993 to 1997, he worked as a Construction Inspector for the City and County of Honolulu, ensuring compliance with project plans for wastewater facilities. At the State of Hawaii’s Department of Transportation (1997-2018), he administered highway construction contracts and managed key projects like the Kamehameha Highway Rehabilitation. As a Resident Engineer (2018-2023), Willie oversaw the Salt Lake Field Office, supervised staff, and led major projects, including the Kapolei Interchange Complex and Moanalua Freeway Lighting Improvements.
Andy Brinkerhoff
Project Engineer I
Andy Brinkerhoff built a diverse transportation career across multiple states, gaining experience in engineering and program implementation. Known for his initiative, adaptability, and effective communication, he consistently delivered high-quality work while taking on increasing responsibility. His leadership style emphasized collaboration and influence over authority.
Rolando Belong
Field Engineer III
Rolando is an accomplished engineer with over three decades of experience in managing and overseeing construction projects. From 1996 to 2016, he served as a Project Engineer for the State of Hawaii’s Department of Transportation, handling major highway construction projects and the Honolulu Rail Transit Project. He then worked as a Construction Representative and General Engineer for the Saudi Arabian National Guard Modernization Program, supervising multi-million dollar projects and training junior engineers. Most recently, Rolando managed two significant construction projects in Saudi Arabia for the US Army Corps of Engineers, ensuring compliance, quality, and safety. His expertise spans project management, contract administration, and engineering supervision.
Joshua Abutin, EIT
Field Engineer II
Josh has experience in Construction working with Albert C. Kobayashi, Inc as a Project Engineer preparing estimates, proposals, contracts, project document processing, and subcontractor coordination. Josh also has 4.5 years of Construction Management experience. Josh was a Change Specialist for The Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) on the West Side of the program helping to centralize and document the many changes throughout the project and processed ongoing changes. Josh currently works as the Office Engineer for HART’s Airport Guideways and Stations Project and oversees numerous incoming and outgoing documents and ensures that they are correctly submitted, processed, reviewed and approved through the appropriate workflows.
Dominick Lasquero, EIT
Field Engineer II
Dominick is currently an Office Engineer on HART’s Airport and Guideway Stations project. Before joining QRSE, Dominick spent six years with local construction contractor, Grace Pacific. He is now leveraging his experience in construction management to represent an owner. His roadway construction experience has largely been with the City and County of Honolulu.
Cameron Michel
Field Engineer II
Cameron is a motivated and quick learner with Safety and Construction related experience from working during his college years and continuing with QRSE. As a member of the company Safety team, he reviews and adjusts Job Safety Analysis (JSAs) for construction management activities, and ensures personnel have the appropriate personal protective equipment for their field. Cameron is also the company Information Technology (IT) manager and trouble shooter, supporting staff and clients in setting up their systems and navigating the various software and Microsoft (MS) Teams environment. He has achieved the OSHA 30 hr. certification and the EM 385 1-1 40 hr. certification.
Alan Elger
Field Engineer II
Rodney Janicki
Electrical Special Inspector
Rodney is an experienced electrical utility inspector with experience in the electrical distribution and construction industry. Prior to working with QRSE, he was a Senior Project Construction Inspector for Hawaiian Electric Company. Currently, he is a lead High Voltage Electrical Inspector for the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation Project (HART), on O’ahu, Hawai’i.
Todd tavares
Electrical Special Inspector
Todd is an experienced electrical utility inspector with experience working with Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO). While at HECO, he was a Construction Project Manager, Construction Inspector, Aerial Lineman and Working Forman. He has participated in numerous inspections for the Koapili Infrastructure and Ka Makana Shopping Complex Infrastructure projects.
EC Ogu
Field Engineer I
Ephraim C. Ogu, LEED GA, is a highly skilled construction management professional with extensive experience in civil, structural, and environmental engineering. He earned a B.S. in Construction Management from the University of Wyoming, where he graduated in the top 5% of his class. Ephraim has worked in various roles, including internships as a Civil/Structural Project Engineer and Structural Steel Project Manager, where he gained valuable hands-on experience in project management, design, and construction processes. His work on the senior Capstone research project, focused on the multi-family residential building Prospect Station II, was well-received by industry professionals and faculty, highlighting his ability to handle complex projects.
JD Stevenson
Engineer III
With an impressive career spanning over 28 years at the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), JD is a seasoned transportation professional with a wealth of expertise and accomplishments. Throughout his tenure, he played a pivotal role in shaping and implementing key programs in the transportation sector. His vast experience encompasses various areas, including project management, policy development, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning. Known for his exceptional leadership skills, dedication, and ability to foster collaborative relationships, JD has consistently delivered impactful results in complex, high-stakes projects. With an unwavering commitment to advancing the field of transportation, he continues to promote sustainable, efficient, and safe transportation systems for the community.
Dereck Togiai
Inspector III
Dereck Togiai is an experienced construction inspector with expertise in roadway and infrastructure projects, specializing in traffic signal installations, pavement resurfacing, and roadway improvements. He has contributed to high-profile projects such as the Pleasant Grove and North County Boulevard upgrades, SR-52 & SR-114 intersection improvements, and major UDOT initiatives like I-15 southbound expansion and the I-80 westbound truck lane and wildlife bridge. His responsibilities have included material testing, signal and traffic control inspections, documentation, managing pay items, and coordinating third-party testing. Dereck is committed to ensuring compliance with federal and state standards while enhancing transportation infrastructure and safety.
Don Nicholson
Engineer II
Brandi Lasconia
Inspector II
Jared Lorenzo
Inspector II
Jared Lorenzo is a resourceful and skilled professional whose expertise spans construction, telecommunications, and military operations, making him an outstanding candidate for construction management inspection roles. His journey began in the realm of construction, where he mastered cement masonry and emergency freeway concrete repair, along with proficiently operating heavy machinery like bobcats and dozers. This experience laid a solid foundation for his attention to detail and project management capabilities.
Heaven Ruiz
Inspector I
Heaven is a skilled technician adept at managing large-scale R&D projects, ensuring data integrity, and delivering compelling presentations. Skilled in data validation, troubleshooting, and project documentation, they excel in collaborating with cross-functional teams. With a background in Geography and Environment, Heaven brings analytical prowess to their work. Outside of their profession, they actively contribute to community service and environmental restoration efforts.
Mady White
Inspector I
Madeline White is a detail-oriented employee with a strong accountancy and client services background. She has a history of providing meticulous oversight in various roles, including her work as an accountant at Johnny Campbell, LLC, and as a Client Services Specialist at Maine Street Wealth Management. Mady’s academic foundation in accountancy, with an associate’s degree from John Wood Community College and further studies at Southern Illinois University, equips her with analytical skills and precision. Her ability to manage tasks effectively and ensure compliance with standards makes her a valuable asset in inspection roles.
Mila Sapolu
Inspector I
Mila is a skilled Field Inspector with experience in e-construction management systems. He efficiently utilizes various software platforms for real-time reporting, data documentation, and communication, ensuring smooth project execution. Mila specializes in monitoring on-site activities and ensuring compliance with project plans and safety guidelines. He has worked on projects like the Interstate Route H-1 from Miller Pedestrian Overpass to Kapiolani Interchange, where he managed daily reporting and communication between contractors and engineers. Previously, as a Field Technician with Grace Pacific, Mila handled asphalt compaction testing to meet specifications. He also has a background in logistics, data, and video production.
Israil Dalere
Inspector I
Israil Delere is a dedicated and reliable general laborer with hands-on experience in the construction industry. Known for his quiet demeanor, Israil is highly regarded for his ability to follow instructions to the letter and consistently complete tasks with precision and efficiency. Whether working independently or as part of a team, he ensures that the job is always done right, no matter the challenge.
Austin Caulkins
Inspector I
Austin is an Army veteran with a background in agriculture, skilled in operating a variety of hand tools and large equipment, including excavators, backhoes, skid steers, front loaders, and telescopic cranes. He is certified by the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators and the California DMV to operate various cranes and Commercial Class A vehicles. Austin has a strong understanding of high-voltage distribution systems, holds a certificate from Northwest Lineman College, and has experience with lower-voltage systems, including well pumps. His military discipline allows him to work efficiently both independently and as part of a team, always adhering to safety protocols.
Ian Chin
Engineering Technician
David Strickland
Engineering Technician
David Strickland is a dynamic professional with expertise in QA/QC inspections, sales, and data analysis. At ExecuPOWER, LLC, he inspected transmission lines and utility construction, leveraging tools like Power BI and Power Apps to deliver detailed reports and ensure project compliance. In his current role at United Rentals, David excels in inside sales, recognized for his rapid learning and ability to convert 75% of calls into sales. With a strong background in data analysis, he is proficient in Python, Excel, and data visualization tools like Tableau, making him a versatile asset across industries.
Cole Draper
Engineering Technician
Cole is a detail-oriented engineer with a strong technical background in data analysis, software modeling, and process optimization. With a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from UC San Diego, he has applied his expertise in computational tools such as Python, MATLAB, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and Lucidchart to solve complex engineering problems. His experience includes developing simulation models for carbon recapture, conducting failure mode analyses, and utilizing software for risk assessment studies. Cole is adept at troubleshooting technical issues, analyzing system performance, and implementing efficient solutions. His ability to bridge engineering principles with software applications makes him well-suited for supporting and enhancing technical systems in a fast-paced environment.
our admin staff
Our administrative staff provides the primary support for our technical engineers and inspectors to do their best for our clients. These personable professionals help QRSE provide the quality results that you have come to expect from our firm.
Walter Michel
Finance Lead
Kristen Izumigawa-Valencia, MHRM
Human Resources Manager
Liane Fujishige
Accountant
Malia Slevin
Administrative Assistant
Malia is a friendly and enthusiastic worker. As an administrative assistant who helps with keeping track of finances, from employee expenses to invoicing, she has quickly become a valuable member of the Admin team.
Mapu Kahana
Administrative Assistant
Mapu Kahana brings a wealth of experience in project management, quality control, and customer service. With a strong background in streamlining processes, managing budgets, and implementing safety protocols, Mapu has consistently improved efficiency and reduced project defects. Her leadership skills include mentoring junior engineers and negotiating contracts, resulting in cost savings and team growth.
Mapu holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and is certified in construction quality management, OSHA, and first aid. Her commitment to excellence and organization makes her a valuable asset in any team environment.
Fionx Chin
Administrative Assistant
Fionx is an experienced e-learning specialist with a strong background in converting traditional policy and training content into dynamic, interactive learning experiences. With expertise in developing videos, quizzes, and engaging presentations, Fionx has enhanced legal, technical, and procedural understanding within an engineering firm. Fionx has a knack for crafting impactful scripts from written policies and training materials, performing voice-overs, and ensuring content accuracy. In addition, Fionx has managed and updated the Litmos learning management system (LMS), overseeing the seamless administration of training modules and collaborating with stakeholders to align learning resources with company objectives. Their focus on LMS adoption and user accessibility has helped ensure success in employee development across multiple departments.
Interested in Joining the QRSE Team?
We look forward to hearing from you!
One of our most important values is to produce Quality Results with Skillful Execution is our diversity. We are a small company that strives to partner with employees from all backgrounds because we know that people are the key to success.
We offer exciting and creative work opportunities while encouraging personal and professional growth. We are seeking driven and ambitious talent to help influence the future of QRSE and grow our company.