Our Team

Luke Whyte

  • Luke Whyte is the CEO of Whyte Oak Homes, overseeing all business operations across custom home building and home renovation in Waco and Central Texas, with a focus on excellence and growth. A 2010 graduate of Baylor University with a BBA, Luke has been instrumental in founding and managing several successful businesses, including Waco Tours, currently ranked #4 among all U.S. tours. He brings expertise in business strategy, effective communication, strategic delegation, and exceptional customer service to the team. Additionally, Luke is fluent in Spanish, a skill that proves invaluable in the industry.

  • Rachel Whyte, our Chief Creative Officer, leads the design team with innovation and expertise. A seasoned entrepreneur, she founded a photography company contracted by HGTV and excels in creative design, brand management, and photography. Rachel has managed commercial and residential design projects across Waco and Central Texas, and she designed the Whytes' award-winning wedding venue, Old Bethany Wedding and Events, named the #1 Wedding Venue for multiple years.

  • As Vice President of Operations and Finance at Whyte Oak Homes, Jeff oversees all financial and operational systems that keep every project accountable, on budget, and built the right way, from contract review to the daily decisions that support our team in the field. Jeff brings over thirty years of experience in accounting, finance, and operations across the construction, government contracting, and oil and gas industries.  Jeff's approach is grounded in the same values that define Whyte Oak: integrity, accountability, and a long-term view of the work.   Outside the office, he enjoys spending time with his family, being outdoors, and playing guitar.

  • Kriste is our Finance & Operations Coordinator, bringing over 15 years of experience in accounting and business operations to the team. With a strong background in financial reporting, contract management, and vendor coordination, she has built a career around optimizing systems and improving fiscal efficiency. Certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and supported by over 350 hours of professional training, Kriste approaches every project with both precision and purpose. Kriste is committed to ensuring smooth financial processes throughout every aspect of a project.

  • As Director of Construction at Whyte Oak, Josh oversees project execution with a strategic, hands-on approach. A 2012 graduate of Texas A&M with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Science, he brings extensive experience in both commercial and residential construction. 

    Today, Josh oversees all Whyte Oak projects — from home remodels and restorations to custom home builds across Central Texas—while personally managing select builds. He ensures that processes, timelines, and quality standards are consistently upheld, aligning field operations with Whyte Oak’s commitment to precision and craftsmanship. Known as a trusted industry expert, Josh is committed to delivering craftsmanship and excellence at every stage of the build.

  • Ben Edwards is a Superintendent at Whyte Oak Homes, bringing five years of new-home construction experience from his time as a Superintendent with Omega Builders. He holds an Associate of Science in Building Construction Technology from Texas State Technical College in Waco, with a focus on blueprint reading and construction estimating. At Whyte Oak, Ben runs the day-to-day on the job site, keeping projects on schedule and our craftsmanship standards intact from foundation to final walkthrough.

  • As Billing Administrator at Whyte Oak, Melissa manages project billing and keeps the financial side of each build running smoothly. She processes invoices, coordinates with vendors and trade partners, and supports the team wherever needed to help projects stay on track. Her attention to detail and organizational skills help ensure every project runs efficiently behind the scenes.

  • Brooke is one of our skilled Project Managers, overseeing all our home renovations and remodels. With over a decade of experience transforming homes through flipping projects, she has gained extensive hands-on knowledge of construction and design. Driven by her passion for home remodeling and her keen eye for detail, Brooke excels at bringing new life to every property she works on.

  • Brynn is an Interior Designer at Whyte Oak, specializing in residential design. She creates 3D renderings, detailed floor plans, and elevations while working closely with clients to bring their vision to life. Brynn earned her Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from Baylor University and combines creativity with technical expertise to develop thoughtful, functional, and beautifully designed spaces.