About San Juan Tuff

Daniel Vernon – CEO & Visionary
Daniel Vernon, born in Montrose, is the co-founder and CEO of San Juan Tuff Demolition, where he serves as the company’s visionary leader, setting business strategy, shaping culture, and driving growth. In addition to his role as CEO, Daniel also serves as Sales and Marketing Manager, overseeing client relationships, business development, and brand positioning. His leadership blends strategic thinking with a hands-on understanding of the demolition and construction industries.

A committed Christian, Daniel is devoted to his wife, Danielle, and their daughter, Sage, who are central to his life and inspiration.

Daniel’s entrepreneurial drive runs deep. A high school dropout, he committed himself early to learning through experience, books, and courses, with a particular focus on marketing, sales, and leadership. He cut his teeth in business through involvement in multiple startups, making sales as a subcontractor, and purchasing his first small apartment complex at age 22, which he has successfully operated ever since. His inspiration for San Juan Tuff came from his great uncle, who owned Black Bear Demolition in Denver, where Daniel gained early industry exposure. Over the years, he has built an extensive skill set through diverse work in the trades—serving as an asbestos supervisor, performing mold mitigation, flood recovery, rebuilds, framing, carpentry, finish work, and even hard rock mining. His career also includes work in his stepfather’s specialty CNC metal shop and alongside his father, a professional horse trainer—both roles he began as a child.

To Daniel, San Juan Tuff is more than a demolition company—it’s a means of creating opportunity. He envisions growing the business into an employee-owned enterprise, giving skilled blue-collar workers the chance to rise through the ranks into ownership. Outside of work, Daniel is passionate about Brazilian jiu-jitsu and fitness, disciplines that reflect his dedication, focus, and drive.

Austin Hemphill – Co-Founder, COO & Integrator
Austin Hemphill, born in Cortez, is the co-founder, Chief Operating Officer, and Integrator at San Juan Tuff Demolition, where he ensures the company’s vision is executed through strong operational systems, efficient processes, and team coordination. A natural leader with a passion for business ownership since childhood, Austin has always been driven by the desire to provide for his family and create opportunities for others.

Austin has worked in many roles across the construction and mining industries, experiences that gave him a deep understanding of hard work, teamwork, and problem-solving. These years in the trades inspired him to join with Daniel Vernon to launch San Juan Tuff Demolition, combining their skills and vision to build a company that stands for excellence and opportunity.

A committed Christian, Austin is devoted to his wife, Tashawna, and their three children—Ayla, Johnny, and Winnie—who inspire his work and values every day. He trains in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and is deeply committed to personal growth and discipline. Beyond the business, one of Austin’s greatest passions is using his skills and resources to offer guidance, support, and opportunity to those who are less fortunate.

Austin’s leadership at San Juan Tuff reflects his dedication to building a company that not only delivers excellence in demolition but also makes a meaningful difference in the lives of its employees, clients, and community.

Jonathan Howell – CFO & Office Manager
Jonathan Howell is a co-owner and Chief Financial Officer of San Juan Tuff Demolition, overseeing all finances, HR, and office management. As the first employee hired by San Juan Tuff, Jonathan worked his way up through dedication and excellence to become an owner—embodying the company’s vision of creating real opportunities for its team members.

A follower of Christ, Jonathan is committed to personal growth both inside and outside the workplace. He trains in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and has earned multiple certifications in bookkeeping through his own initiative. He continues to study industry safety practices and the skills required to excel in office management.

Jonathan credits San Juan Tuff with giving him the opportunity to learn deeply about business and people. Proud to be part of this fast-growing company and industry, he remains optimistic about the future, believing that continued hard work will bring even greater success.