About Jimmy Matta Sr
Jimmy grew up amid the towering peaks of Idaho’s Cache Valley and in various cities in Central Washington, including Quincy, Wenatchee, and Ephrata. It was in these places that he learned the value of hard work, starting in the fields at the tender age of ten. In 1998, he relocated to Burien, WA where he steadily climbed the ranks within the United Brotherhood of Carpenters. Throughout his career, he has held a range of roles within the union, starting as President of Local 41 and progressing to positions such as Assistant to the Executive Secretary Treasurer and later International Representative under the General President. Additionally, he has served as a trustee and delegate. These experiences have significantly enhanced his leadership abilities, which, in turn, have proven invaluable in the management of Ahora.
When he was growing up, his father would say to him, “Jimmy, you’ve got to do this ahora! You can’t wait for tomorrow.” Harnessing the resilience and determination passed down from his migrant farmworker parents in Guatemala, along with a vision to establish a minority-owned, union-signatory contracting firm, he founded Ahora Construction in 2016.
At Ahora, Jimmy plays a pivotal role, spearheading sales and outreach, contract negotiations, ensuring safety and quality control across projects, and representing Ahora at diverse events and conferences. He fosters strong connections with tradespeople and prioritizes personal connections with all employees. Jimmy possesses a unique talent for mentoring apprentices, imparting essential skills, and instilling a strong work ethic in the youngest members of our team. His guidance encourages them to persevere in the construction field and never lose sight of their goals.
Jimmy’s rich background, coupled with his dedication to excellence and his genuine connections within the industry,
significantly contribute to Ahora Construction’s success and its strong relationships with employees and stakeholders. During his leisure time, Jimmy actively engages in local politics, serving as a Councilmember for the City of Burien. He indulges in his love for culinary arts, relishing the art of cooking and grilling. Exploring Burien’s diverse culinary landscape is a particular passion, as Jimmy seeks out exceptional dining experiences across the city. A few of his favorites include Classic Eats, Wah Kue, Alibertos, and El Cabrito.
