Our Leadership
Built on a foundation of trust, understanding, and synergy with both our clients and dedicated employees
We pride ourselves on being more than just service providers—we are an extension of your team, dedicated to realizing your vision with the same passion and precision as if it were our own.
Meet the Leadership Team
Edward Silva
Founder & President
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Ed Silva is the visionary founder and owner of family-owned Silva Contracting, who established the Baltimore-Washington region's most distinguished healthcare contracting firm in 1978. Bringing nearly four decades of unparalleled experience in remodeling and construction, Ed's expertise encompasses meticulous planning, innovative design, and construction execution.
It’s under his guidance that Silva Contracting has flourished, securing its position as the go-to construction partner for many of the area's foremost healthcare institutions. A proud alumnus of the University of Maryland, Ed holds a bachelor's degree in Marketing. His leadership and passion for excellence are foundational pillars upon which Silva Contracting stands tall today. Ed finds the most fun in life within the laughter and adventures he shares with his 12 grandchildren, 3 sons, 1 daughter, and loving wife. His love for fishing and playing golf are more than hobbies; they are extensions of the joy he finds surrounded by his family.
Ryan Silva
Executive Vice President
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Ryan Silva serves as the Executive Vice President at Silva Contracting, bringing over 20 years of industry expertise to the role. A proud alumnus of the University of Maryland - College Park and Western Carolina University, Ryan holds a BS in Marketing and Logistics, Transportation, and Supply Chain Management, as well as a Master's in Construction Management. His dedication to ensuring the safest and most efficient practices is reflected in his certifications, which include Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC), ASHE Infection Control Certificate, OSHA 30, and Procore.
Ryan plays an integral role at Silva Contracting, overseeing the corporate functions of accounting, human resources, business development, marketing, preconstruction, and construction. When he isn't steering the company to new heights, Ryan cherishes moments with his wife Caroline and their children Annalise, Eliza, Nick, and John. He's also an avid golfer, traveler, and dedicated fan of the Commanders, Terps, and Orioles.
Jon Hancher
Vice President, Operations
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Jon Hancher has served as the Vice President of Operations for Silva Contracting since 2022. Jon's impressive academic credentials, including a Bachelor of Science in Construction Engineering and Management from Purdue University, are complemented by a suite of professional certifications such as CHC (Certified Healthcare Constructor), LEED Green Associate, OSHA 30, and Procore — an arsenal equipping him for excellence in operational leadership. Prior to his tenure at Silva Contracting, Jon honed his skills at DAVIS Construction, where he was the VP of Healthcare, followed by a strategic role as Director of Operations at Howard Shockey & Sons.
At Silva Contracting, Jon is known for his keen construction knowledge and timely decision-making. His leadership not only drives projects to completion but also upholds the highest standards of operational integrity. Married for nearly three decades and a first-time grandparent, he cherishes family gatherings that often center around the shared passion for cooking. With their three children, love for the outdoors manifests through camping, fishing, and hunting — activities that bond them in the beauty of nature.
Matt Silva
Project Executive
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With over 15 years of experience, Matt Silva has been a cornerstone of Silva Contracting's evolution and growth. As a Project Executive, he brings a wealth of expertise and an vision to the forefront of the company’s operations. Matthew’s educational foundation in Construction Management, earned with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Nevada Las Vegas, has been further solidified by obtaining his Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC) certification, preparing him to excel in the complexities of healthcare construction.
Matt's primary focus as Project Executive is on business development and leading his team to not only deliver successful projects but to construct spaces that facilitate healing—a noble pursuit that transcends the traditional objectives of the construction industry. Outside the office, Matthew is an avid snowboarder, golfer, and live music enthusiast. He is dedicated to his family, committed to staying active, and enjoys embracing the outdoors.
Paul Bodnar
Senior Project Manager
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Paul Bodnar serves as Senior Project Manager at Silva Contracting and has been an essential part of our team since 2011. An Ohio transplant and a proud graduate of Kent State University, Paul earned his Bachelor of Science in Construction Management. His commitment to excellence is evident through his impressive certifications, including Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC), OSHA 30, ASHE Infection Control, and Procore Project Manager.
Paul is deeply rooted in the Silva family culture and takes immense pride in mentoring the next generation of Silva Project Managers. This sense of community and dedication extends beyond his professional life; when he's not leading projects, Paul enjoys quality time with his wife Julia, their two sons Taylor and Brady, and their Weiner dog, Archie. An avid traveler and golfer, Paul's enthusiasm is also evident in his devoted support for Ohio State Football and the Tottenham Hotspur Football Club.
Brett Silva
Service Manager
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Brett Silva brings practical knowledge and a hands-on approach to his role as Service Manager at Silva Contracting. Brett earned his Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Western Nevada College, where he cultivated the expertise necessary to manage and execute complex projects. His technical proficiency is complemented by an OSHA-30 certification, ensuring safety and compliance are at the forefront of all his endeavors.
At Silva Contracting, Brett is instrumental in managing small projects and work orders, ensuring that the needs of all clients are met with precision and care. His role is crucial in maintaining the company's reputation for delivering exceptional service and fostering lasting client relationships. In his free time, Brett has a passion for raising farm animals, a hobby that reflects his appreciation for community and sustainable living.
Elmer Goad
Director of Preconstruction
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Elmer Goad serves as Director of Preconstruction at Silva Contracting and joined the team in 2023. Educated across multiple institutions including Calvert College, Harford College, and the University of Maryland, Elmer brings an in-depth understanding of Engineering Technologies and Survey Technologies to the table. With impressive certifications like LEED Accreditation, ASPE Estimating, OSHA 40-Hour Safety, and SAGE Construction Estimating, he exhibits a comprehensive command of the preconstruction landscape. His expertise is further underlined by his experience at industry stalwarts like Barton Malow Builders and James G. Davis Construction.
At Silva Contracting, Elmer spearheads the Preconstruction and Estimating Department, ensuring a seamless transition from Estimating/Preconstruction to Operations while also playing an active role in Business Development. Beyond his professional accolades, Elmer boasts multiple awards for his chili-making prowess and a notable active volunteer for several addiction recovery organizations.
Rohullah Wardak
Quality Control Manager
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Rohullah Wardak serves as Quality Control Manager at Silva Contracting and has been enhancing our quality standards since 2021. Graduating with a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from Kabul Polytechnic University, Rohullah's credentials are further fortified with an array of certifications including RMS, QCS, OSHA, IT, DBA, PMP, CQM, ASTM, and ASHTO. His seasoned experience is evident, with notable stints at esteemed organizations such as NAVFAC and the USACE Army Corps of Engineers.
Rohullah's pivotal role at Silva Contracting involves crafting and implementing comprehensive quality control plans, reviewing submittals, managing QC-associated change orders, and overseeing preconstruction and progress meetings. His impeccable guidance ensures the three phases of quality control are seamlessly executed from the inception to project closeout. Beyond the construction site, Rohullah is an avid book reader, enjoys family picnics, has a love for biking and hunting, and treasures traveling during his vacations.
LaToya Waters
Preconstruction Manager
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LaToya Waters is a seasoned Preconstruction Manager with a wealth of experience in healthcare operations, logistics, supply chain, and project development. Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Project Management & Business Analysis from Towson University, LaToya brings over a decade of expertise to her role. She is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) with a solid background, having spent 12 years at Kaiser Permanente followed by 2 years at Jones Lang LaSalle. With a passion for community well-being and a commitment to delivering healthy spaces, LaToya takes pride in her Maryland roots and contributions to Silva Contracting, where she supports her team in developing detailed project budget estimates and implementing construction management tools.
Beyond her professional pursuits, LaToya is a dedicated mother who cherishes spending quality time with her two boys. She enjoys exploring the vibrant culture of the DC/Metro area and frequenting local museums, libraries, and parks. A lover of friendly competition, LaToya engages in lively card games, trivia sessions, and karaoke nights with friends. To maintain balance, she practices Bikram yoga and savors long summer days indulging in Maryland blue crabs.
Randy Goldenberg
Senior Project Manager
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With over three decades of extensive experience in construction, Randy Goldenberg stands as a pillar of expertise and dedication at Silva Contracting. Randy's journey in the construction industry spans an impressive 35 years, with a remarkable 34 of those years committed exclusively to healthcare construction. His career trajectory is a testament to his hands-on approach and deep-seated knowledge. Beginning as a laborer, Randy swiftly advanced through roles such as carpenter, foreman, and eventually to the position of Senior Superintendent. His rich background in fieldwork now informs his exceptional skills in project management.
Complementing his Associate degree from Anne Arundel Community College with a focus on construction management, Randy has further propelled his professional credentials with certifications like OSHA-30, OSHA-10, CHC, Procore Project Management, and essential First Aid & CPR training. Prior to joining Silva Contracting, Randy honed his skills at reputable firms such as Davis Construction and Twin Contracting. Outside of his professional realm, Randy is an avid enthusiast of outdoor activities. He cherishes moments spent kayak fishing, downhill mountain biking, and skiing - reflecting his dynamic and adventurous spirit.
Tyler Nielson
Senior Project Manager
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Tyler Nielson, a seasoned professional with over 20 years in the construction industry, serves as a Senior Project Manager at Silva Contracting. His journey in construction is marked by a unique blend of creativity, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to quality and process improvement. Tyler's role at Silva Contracting is not just about managing projects; it's about redefining them through innovative approaches and long-term, beneficial process enhancements. Tyler's academic journey led him to Brigham Young University Idaho, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management and honed his skills in welding, roofing, glazing, and finish trades through internships and hands-on coursework
His passion for the field is further backed by his OSHA-30 certification, ensuring a deep understanding of safety standards and practices. Before joining Silva Contracting, Tyler sharpened his skills with notable firms such as Turner Construction and DAVIS Construction. His hands-on craftsmanship and strategic management experience allow him to view projects from multiple perspectives. Apart from work, Tyler is a family man and outdoor enthusiast. He enjoys backpacking, having completed a 100-mile trek with his wife, and is passionate about downhill and backcountry skiing, often teaching his children. His carpentry skills are evident in his design-build projects at home, showcasing his practical abilities and artistic talent.