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We are very proud of our reputation within the community and feel privileged to live in a place with such abundantly beautiful scenery and the community’s dedication to maintaining it.
Kyle Welch Owner and Production Manager
Kyle Welch is the Owner and Production Manager at Lake James Custom Homes, where he has been leading projects since 2018. As a licensed Unlimited General Contractor with over 20 years of construction management experience, he brings a hands-on, creative, and detail-driven approach to every build.
A graduate of James Madison University with a degree in Business Management and a minor in Religion, Kyle combines strong organizational and leadership skills with extensive field experience. His strengths include managing job sites and schedules, multitasking across multiple phases of construction, and coordinating the many layers required to successfully deliver complex projects. Known for his creativity and problem-solving abilities, Kyle has a natural talent for working through details and bringing visionary, custom projects to life. He also enjoys building relationships and friendships with clients that last for years after the conclusion of the build.
Kyle lives in Morganton with his wife, Erin, who supports the team in the office, their son Kaden, and their dog Gus—who’s often seen alongside Kyle on job sites. He enjoys mountain biking, spending time on the lake with his family and friends, and sharing new outdoor adventures with his little sidekick.
Rick Tozier Managing Partner and Project Manager
Rick joined the LJCH team in 2021, bringing more than two decades of experience as a licensed general contractor in North Carolina. Rick previously owned and operated an award-winning custom home building company serving the Piedmont region.
A native of New England, Rick holds a degree in economics and business administration. He spent 14 years in manufacturing and corporate America before pursuing his lifelong dream of entrepreneurship in 2005. Rick is deeply involved in every project, working closely with clients, architects, designers, and trade professionals. He values the trust clients place in him and considers it a true privilege to help bring their vision to life.
Rick and his wife, Jen, love living in western North Carolina, which is where Jen grew up. Outside of work, Rick is active in his community, volunteering with local organizations and serving as a Deacon in his church. He has also contributed to Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, specifically in repairing homes impacted by the storm. He and Jen have four grown sons and two daughters-in-law, and their family shares a love of the outdoors, especially mountain biking and hiking when they’re all together.
Jason Phillips Site Manager
Jason joined LJCH in September 2018. He brings 20 years of experience in hardwood flooring and general carpentry with him, along with an exceptional eye for detail. Jason is heavily involved in the finishing stages of each project. He and his wife Rebecca live in Lenoir with their two dogs Silas and Sadie. They have two adult daughters Jennifer and Lyndsay.
Don Birchfield Project Manager
Don joined the Lake James Custom Homes team in 2021 and brings more than 50 years of experience in residential construction. A licensed general contractor and graduate of Blanton’s Business College, he has owned and managed three successful construction businesses over the years. Don lives in Fairview with his wife, Dianna, and their cat, Luna. When he’s not on the job, you’ll likely find him on the golf course or serving his community as a pastor, a role he’s proudly held since 2000.
Roger Beane Site Manager
Roger joined the Lake James Custom Homes team in May 2022. He has an associate degree in business management from CCC&TI. Roger brings 25+ years of residential construction experience to the team. He will be heavily involved in the building process working alongside our project managers. Roger proudly served in the US Army, 82nd Airborne Division. He and his wife, Krista, reside in Lenoir. They have three adult daughters and have been blessed with seven grandchildren. When not on the job site, you can find Roger enjoying his favorite sport, NASCAR, or relaxing on a boat on the coast with a line in the water.
Talon Wakefield Project Manager
David Tomasiewicz Project Manager
David joined the Lake James Custom Home team in 2025. With over 36 years in the construction industry, David Tomasiewicz, founder of Traditional Home Inc., has provided remodeling and general contracting services since 2000. After many years of working on the North Shore of Chicago, David relocated to NC and now lives and works in the Lake James area where he built his own custom home.
His experience includes all phases of construction, with a strong focus on remodeling, custom millwork, cabinetry, framing, and full project management. He is known for his craftsmanship and attention to detail which he brings to every project.
Supported by his wife Terri, daughters Madison and Megan, and son Kyle, David takes pride in transforming homes and building lasting relationships with his clients. Outside of work, he loves working on muscle cars, driving fast cars, and going to car events with his son.
Ashley Mills Bookkeeper/Office Manager
Ashley Mills joined the team in 2025 as the bookkeeper and office manager. She brings years of administrative experience, supporting the team with strong organization, clear communication, and careful attention to detail. Ashley keeps daily operations running smoothly, manages billing and invoices, handles confidential information, and ensures the office functions seamlessly to support both the team and clients.
When she’s away from her desk Ashley enjoys hiking to many of the areas beautiful waterfalls, nature photography and family rides in their side-by-side. She loves calling Marion, North Carolina home for its small-town charm, friendly community, and easy access to the mountains. Ashley and her husband, Nick, have been together for 21 years and blissfully married for 16. They’re also proudly managed by their beautiful daughter, Paisley Pearl, the true CEO of their home.
Karen Davis Selections Coordinator
Karen Davis joined the Lake James Custom Homes team in 2026 with a passion for helping others and a natural ability to connect with people. With degrees in Human Services and Business from Lenoir-Rhyne University and Gardner-Webb University, she brings a people-first approach supported by strong organizational skills.
Karen is the proud mother of three grown children and a loving grandmother to one granddaughter. She also has a dog named Willis. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, photography, staying physically active, and spending time with family and friends. An avid sports enthusiast, Karen loves cheering on her favorite teams — Go Heels! Go Bears!