Leadership
The leadership team behind Nova Group and TGE Top Down℠ Technology brings together globally recognized expertise in structural engineering, real estate development, and climate-resilient construction. With decades of experience managing multibillion-dollar projects and shaping industry standards, these visionaries are redefining the future of the built environment.
Founded by three accomplished leaders—Dr. Charles H. Thornton, Jeffrey Grillo, and Daniel Esparza—TGE (Thornton, Grillo, Esparza) is the engine driving Nova Group’s innovation-first approach to urban development, high-rise construction, and sustainable project delivery.
Nova Group Company
Dr. Charles H. Thornton, PhD, PE
Chairman, Managing Member
Email: CThornton@TGETopDown.com
Dr. Charles H. Thornton is one of the most prominent structural engineers and educators in the world. As co-founder of Thornton Tomasetti and past co-chairman until 2004, his career spans over four decades and includes the structural design of Taipei 101, Petronas Towers, and many other globally significant high-rise and infrastructure projects.
He is also the Founder and Honorary Chairman of the ACE Mentor Program, a nationwide nonprofit that supports inner-city high school students in architecture, construction, and engineering careers.
Dr. Thornton has overseen the design, analysis, and construction of hundreds of billions of dollars in global projects—ranging from airports and hospitals to stadiums and special structures. His visionary thinking continues to set standards for innovation in climate construction technology and structural systems.
Areas of Expertise:
- Structural systems for tall buildings
- Educational leadership and industry mentorship
- Innovative building methodologies
- Large-scale infrastructure and design
Nova Group Company
Jeffrey Grillo
Principal, Member
Email: JGrillo@TGETopDown.com
Jeffrey Grillo is a seasoned executive with global construction leadership experience, most notably as the former Vice President of Construction for Intel’s Global Construction Team. During his tenure, he managed a multibillion-dollar international expansion of advanced manufacturing facilities, overseeing design, supply chain strategy, and project delivery systems.
At Nova Group and TGE, Mr. Grillo focuses on strategic planning, partner development, and optimizing construction workflows to accelerate project timelines and maximize investment performance.
Areas of Expertise:
- Global construction operations
- Strategic supply chain partnerships
- Manufacturing facility expansion
- Delivery efficiency for large-scale projects
Nova Group Company
Daniel S. Esparza
Principal, Member
Email: DEsparza@TGETopDown.com
Daniel Esparza is a forward-thinking entrepreneur and development executive with extensive experience in domestic and international construction management. His portfolio spans general contracting, design-build, and civil/infrastructure project delivery, with leadership over operations ranging from startup ventures to $500M market expansions.
As a co-founder of TGE and Principal of Nova Group, Mr. Esparza champions the deployment of the proprietary Top Down℠ core cantilever construction system, facilitating faster, safer, and more efficient building in dense urban environments.
Areas of Expertise:
- Design-build and vertical construction systems
- General contracting and infrastructure delivery
- Project lifecycle optimization
- Climate construction deployment
Nova Group Company
John Casolaro
Director of Design
John Casolaro brings strategic design leadership and modeling expertise to Nova Group. He has previously worked with AT&T and Fortune 500 firms across architectural, engineering, and construction roles. At TGE, Mr. Casolaro oversees the Top Down℠ design program, directing architectural collaboration, modeling, and system integration for international development initiatives.
His work includes guiding architectural visualization, modeling for MRP II systems, and ensuring compatibility across all project partners.
Areas of Expertise:
- Architectural modeling and A&E collaboration
- Top Down℠ building system design
- MRP II system development
- International program design management
A Legacy of Innovation, A Future of Impact
The Nova Group leadership team is committed to building a new standard for urban development—one where sustainable construction, technological precision, and inclusive growth go hand in hand. By blending decades of global experience with a relentless drive for innovation, they are not just leading projects—they are leading change.
Built in Tacoma. Designed for the World.
Headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, Nova Group is proud to contribute to the evolution of the Pacific Northwest’s construction sector while extending our impact nationwide. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to partnerships that align with our values—sustainability, innovation, transparency, and excellence.