Group Created with Sketch. !
Honolulu Office: Our team is fully operational while our building is temporarily closed.
Learn More

John Thielst

Principal Advisor, SVP

Honolulu

Vertical silver beams used in a civic and government project for Coffman Engineers

Meet John

John is a senior vice president and principal advisor for the Honolulu and Guam offices. Following his transition from General Manager and Managing Principal in 2026, he now supports the General Manager with business development, project management, and office operations, helping position Coffman as a preferred local engineering firm. John’s approachable leadership style focuses on empowering staff and encouraging multidiscipline collaboration to develop thoughtful and innovative ways to execute projects and schedules that focus on client success.

During his tenure as General Manager, John helped guide the growth and success of Coffman’s Hawaii and Guam operations while strengthening relationships with clients, staff, and community partners. In his current advisory role, he continues to provide strategic leadership, mentorship, and operational insight to support a seamless transition for the long-term success of the Honolulu and Guam offices.

Prior to his roles at Coffman, he was a client in the oil and gas industry. John found Coffman’s employees walked the talk by developing lasting relationships and striving to exceed client expectations. This eventually attracted John to Coffman, and it has been his focus to continue to deliver this experience ever since.

As a long time Hawaii resident, John brings an intimate knowledge of the local business environment to guide and grow the Honolulu office. His experience includes more than 20 years of corporate management and consulting, and 30 years as a commercial diver in the oil and gas industry. John has managed projects and clients in more than seven countries, and throughout the Pacific Rim and is committed to building relationships with clients and the community.

Professional Organizations

  • Founding Member of the Executive Network Council Of Honolulu Since 2015.

Publications or Awards

  • Building Industry Hawaii, “Pacific Construction Heating Up,” 2019.
  • Pacific Business News Social Capital, “John Thielst on the Business of Engineering,” 2014.
  • Honolulu Business News, “Pau Hana with John Thielst,” 2013.

Community Affiliations

  • Blood Bank of Hawaii – 0 Negative blood type donor giving every 8 weeks for over ten years.