Our team
Cody Oakes
Chief Executive Officer | Co-Owner
Cody is the founder and CEO of Black Rock Construction, one of Georgia’s fastest growing asphalt and site development companies. Known for his ability to identify opportunities and execute with precision, Cody has built Black Rock around a clear philosophy: vision, relationships, and execution. He believes success starts with people, focusing on hiring the right team, developing strong partnerships, and maintaining a culture grounded in performance and trust.
A lifelong entrepreneur, Cody began building businesses at a young age. At just 19 years old he secured his first major contract with the University of North Carolina valued at over $100,000, an early milestone that set the foundation for a career built around identifying opportunity and delivering results. Since launching his first company at 21, Ace Glass Tinting, Cody has gone on to build multiple multimillion dollar ventures across construction and real estate.
In addition to Black Rock Construction, Cody founded Realestate Rescue and the affordable housing initiative Buy the Door, both focused on creating practical housing solutions and revitalizing communities through smart real estate development. His companies have worked alongside developers, municipalities, and national contractors throughout the Southeast, earning a reputation for high quality work and reliable execution.
Cody attended Georgia Perimeter College, Georgia State University, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte where he studied business and entrepreneurship. Beyond construction and real estate, he has also hosted a podcast focused on entrepreneurship, business, and personal development.
A husband, father, and entrepreneur, Cody believes in bringing out the best in others and in the power of humanity to build stronger communities. His leadership is rooted in integrity, vision, and the drive to create lasting opportunity for everyone connected to his work.
Stephan Stanfill
Chief Operating Officer | Co-Owner
Stephan is the Chief Operating Officer and Co-Owner of Black Rock Construction, where he helps lead the company with a focus on operational excellence, integrity, and long-term growth. With both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Business, Stephan brings a strong foundation of strategic insight, leadership, and execution to every facet of the company’s operations.
Stephan believes a business is only as strong as the people behind it. That’s why Black Rock Construction was built on the values of respect, loyalty, dedication, and a deep commitment to treating every employee and client like family. Under Stephan’s leadership, these values aren’t just words — they’re practiced daily in the way the team communicates, delivers work, and supports one another.
His mission is simple: build great things, take care of great people, and leave a legacy of trust and quality in everything Black Rock does.
Stephan lives in Cartersville, Georgia, with his wife and two children. Faith plays a central role in their lives, and together they strive to honor God in all that they do. Outside of work, Stephan enjoys spending time outdoors, including golf, caring for the family’s horses, and working the land — a lifestyle that keeps him grounded and reminds him of the importance of hard work, stewardship, and balance.
Jess Carruth
Administrative Assistant
Jess joined the team in 2025 as an Administrative Assistant, bringing a positive, organized, and people-focused approach to daily operations. She ensures that staff have the resources they need while maintaining a welcoming and supportive work environment.
Before transitioning to construction, Jess spent 12 years in the dental field, gaining extensive experience in administration and client service. Her attention to detail, organizational skills, and friendly demeanor have made her an immediate and valued addition to the team.
Outside of work, Jess has been married for 14 years and is a dedicated mom of three, balancing a busy schedule filled with sports and activities ranging from travel baseball to cheer and dance. Her energy, commitment, and upbeat attitude make her an essential part of both the workplace and her family life.
Grant Crate
Operations Manager
Grant serves as Operations Manager, overseeing procurement, estimating, and project management across a diverse portfolio of construction projects.
With extensive experience in commercial construction, including ground-up builds, renovations, and new developments he brings both operational insight and hands-on leadership to every phase of a project.
Grant’s background includes business ownership and executive leadership roles. As a former franchisee of Steak 'n Shake and owner of Owens Ice Cream Factory, he designed and built both concepts while also consulting with other operators on their development projects. He has also worked with Chick-fil-A and previously served as Director of Operations for a large aggregate hauling company, further strengthening his expertise in logistics, construction coordination, and operational efficiency.
Originally from Jackson, Georgia, Grant studied Business Administration at Liberty University. He is a dedicated father to his two children, Emma and Georgia, and brings the same commitment and integrity to his professional life that he values in his family life.
Dwayne Robinson
Project Manager / Estimator.
Dwayne joined the team in 2024 as a Project Manager and Estimator, overseeing projects from initial planning through final completion. He manages high-level client relationships, develops estimates, leads project execution, and coordinates with general contractors to ensure successful outcomes.
Dwayne graduated from Georgia Southern University in 2016 and brings eight years of project management experience in logistics. His background equips him with strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a results-driven approach. Recognized as the company’s Employee of the Year in 2025, Dwayne is known for his outgoing personality, strong work ethic, and ability to build positive relationships with clients and colleagues alike.
Kyle Carter
Estimator
Kyle serves as an Estimator and Project Manager and is currently in his second year with Black Rock Construction. He plays a key role in developing accurate project estimates, supporting preconstruction planning, and helping ensure projects are delivered efficiently and on schedule.
Kyle is known for his commitment to high performance, clear communication, and meeting critical timelines. His detail-oriented approach and collaborative mindset contribute to smooth coordination between clients, vendors, and internal teams. In recognition of his dedication and results, Kyle was named Black Rock Construction’s Estimator of the Year in 2025.
Originally from the Dallas–Fort Worth area of Texas, Kyle now resides in Jacksonville, Florida, and regularly commutes to the company’s office in Kennesaw, Georgia. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his yellow lab, Divot, and can often be found on the golf course.
Rob Wiley
Property Management Supervisor
Rob is a results-driven leader who combines structured, process-oriented management with adaptability and innovation. He brings a strategic approach to every project, ensuring measurable outcomes while fostering collaboration and operational efficiency across teams.
With extensive experience in senior leadership roles, Rob excels in resource management, strategic decision-making, and cross-functional communication. He oversees all aspects of construction and property projects, from initial client consultation through final inspections. Rob ensures team compliance with IBC and local building codes, manages subcontractors and material vendors, and plays a key role in developing bid proposals, budgets, and project schedules. His commitment to quality, accountability, and client satisfaction supports successful project delivery from start to finish.
Howard Mills
Regional Sales Manager
Howard brings more than 30 years of experience in sales and procurement across the commercial, single-family, and multi-family sectors. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Henderson State University, graduating with honors while also competing as a collegiate football player—an experience that shaped his leadership, discipline, and team-focused approach.
Throughout his career, Howard has held leadership roles spanning multiple verticals, including construction services, market research, data, and advertising. He has extensive experience driving regional growth, developing strategic partnerships, and managing key accounts across diverse markets. For more than two decades, Howard has built lasting client relationships through clear communication, integrity, and a strong commitment to service. Known for his work ethic and personable style, he consistently delivers value while fostering long-term partnerships built on trust and results.
Clay Prater
Site Superintendent
Clay is an American-made Site Superintendent who lives his life through Jesus Christ and leads by example with integrity, knowledge, and a relentless work ethic. A God-fearing, hardworking professional, Clay takes pride in exceeding timelines, delivering quality results, and building projects that stand the test of time. Proud to love the USA, the home of the free, he is grateful every day for faith, family, and the opportunity to create something lasting.
With a proven track record in the construction industry, Clay brings strong leadership, precision, and clear vision to every project he oversees. He is known for managing teams effectively, maintaining high standards, and ensuring each build reflects quality craftsmanship and operational excellence. Backed by years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of construction processes, Clay approaches every job with confidence and a results-driven mindset.
Driven by faith, integrity, and continuous growth, Clay motivates teams through accountability, respect, and shared purpose. His goal is simple: to keep evolving as a leader while building projects—and relationships—that endure for generations.
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