TEAM
The Trenchline Civil team is composed of a talented group of operators, superintendents, and administrative specialists with over two centuries of combined experience. We are all united by our commitment to serve our clients and our Core Values.
Jim Prial
Chief Executive Officer
Jim Prial brings over 15 years of leadership and management experience across a diverse range of roles. He began his career as an Infantry Officer in the United States Marine Corps, where he completed two tours of duty. Following his military service, Jim transitioned to the private sector, joining Truland Homes, a 68 Ventures portfolio company. During his tenure, he served as Director of Finance and later as Division President, playing a key role in the company's growth and operations.
Before co-founding Trenchline Civil, Jim led the strategic effort to acquire its platform company, leveraging his expertise in finance, operations, and acquisitions.
Jim holds a Bachelor’s degree from the United States Naval Academy and an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth.
He currently resides in Fairhope, AL, with his wife, Maura, and their two children, Maeve and Connor. In his spare time, Jim enjoys coming up with witty lines for his professional bio—though, regrettably, this is the best he could do.
Grant Nichols
Vice President of Operations
Grant Nichols’ roots in construction run deep. Raised by a lifelong carpenter, Grant developed hands-on skills and a strong work ethic from a young age—foundations that would shape his future career.
Choosing to pursue real-world experience over a college education, Grant began working full-time in construction at just 17 years old. It was during those early years he embraced a principle that still guides him today: “A quality product at a fair cost is the name of the game.”
At 29, Grant founded Grant Nichols Construction, Inc., a company he owned and operated for 19 years. Under his leadership, the business successfully executed a wide range of civil development projects, earning a reputation for reliability and craftsmanship. In 2024, as the industry evolved, Grant sold a portion of his interest to help co-found Trenchline Civil, LLC, where he continues to bring his deep field knowledge and leadership to the table.
Grant lives in Orange Beach, Alabama, with his wife Tara, their son, and the family dog. A passionate outdoorsman, he spends much of his free time hunting and fishing—and during deer season, you’re likely to find him perched in a tree stand soaking in the peace of the woods.
Known for his strong community spirit, Grant is always ready to lend a helping hand to neighbors and local causes.