Stefan VanHorn

PROJECT MANAGER

I grew up in Puyallup, Washington, in the Pacific Northwest, and first came to Montana for the skiing and hunting. I still remember the exact moment I decided I wanted to move here. It was a July night, I was looking up at the stars, and I felt like I finally understood the meaning of “Big Sky Country.”

At Malmquist, I work as a superintendent, helping keep each project moving and making sure everyone has what they need to succeed. A good job site doesn’t happen by accident. It takes communication, teamwork, organization, and people who care about the work they’re doing. My goal every day is to keep things running smoothly, solve problems before they become bigger issues, and help our team deliver a home that exceeds our clients’ expectations.

What I enjoy most about Malmquist is the camaraderie. From our office staff and field team to our trade partners and homeowners, there is a genuine sense of teamwork and mutual respect. The relationships built throughout each project often extend well beyond the completion of the home, and that is something I truly value.

Building in Northwest Montana is special because we get to work on some of the finest homes in the country without losing that small-town feel. Whether it’s a lake view, a mountain backdrop, or a sunrise over the valley, the scenery never gets old. But what stands out most is the community. You can leave a job site and run into a trade partner, client, friend, or neighbor within a few minutes. Everyone knows everyone, and relationships matter.

Outside of work, you’ll usually find me outdoors hunting, traveling, exploring new places, or spending nights under the stars. I also founded a lifestyle apparel brand called Work To Live, built around the belief that we should all be working toward something meaningful. That philosophy guides both my personal life and my career: work hard with purpose, care about the details, and make time for the experiences that matter most.

I’m grateful to be part of Malmquist because the people I work with don’t just become coworkers — they become lifelong friends. My approach to every project is simple: everything matters. I believe in organization, accountability, strong communication, proactive problem-solving, and showing up with a positive attitude. Most importantly, I believe building exceptional homes should be rewarding and enjoyable for everyone involved.

MY WHITEFISH TIP

Piggyback BBQ for lunch, summer nights at Gunsight in C Falls for drinks and good music!