Meet the Van Nuys Awning Team
For over 100 years the Van Nuys Awning Co. has been creating superior shade products for our neighbors throughout southern California. Learn more about the friendly faces behind our shade products below and contact us today to schedule a no-cost on-site consultation and estimate.
Don Powell, Co-Owner
Hi, I’m Don Powell! I am the 4th generation of the Powell family that started Van Nuys Awning. I am an IFAI Master Craftsmen, served on the board of the WCPA and now CEO of Van Nuys Awning. I worked my way through Van Nuys Awning learning how to install, design and manufacture awnings for the last 48 years. I handle the sales for most of our large and corporate accounts. I take great pride in our client’s happiness and successful installation and manufacturing to our client’s design. One step I take to maintain our company’s quality and client’s request will align is to personally oversee each project’s work order. Thanks for taking time to view, read, and consider working with Van Nuys Awning.
Rick Limeres, Project Engineer and CAD Designer
Hi, I am Rick Limeres! I have over 40 years in the awning business designing custom shade solutions and honoring the highest standards of quality. I am so grateful that I was able to find a company that meets and exceeds my own standards. As Van Nuys Awning’s Project Engineer and CAD Designer, I find myself fortunate to collaborate with 4th generation Artisans like myself, staying dedicated to the details of manufacturing and producing an amazing product and being committed to assisting new and returning “happy customers”.
Dan Gibbs, Project Sales Manager
Hi I am Dan Gibbs! I bring my collaborative career in sales from the food industry, auto industry, and home improvement industry to Van Nuys Awning. I pride myself from learning from the best master, my mother, Nereda Gibbs, who mentored me for 3 years at Lexus of Beverly Hills. Listening, respecting, giving thanks, and keeping integrity while doing business are just a few of the habits that have given me success as a Manager. I am excited to work with VAN NUYS AWNING and the best artisans in the industry that share my work habits and principles of taking care of clients.
Nancy Leonhardt, Outside Sales
Hello! I’m Nancy Leonhardt, and I’d love to collaborate with you to create the perfect shade solutions for you, your business, and your family. I have come to Van Nuys Awning from a background of over 12 years designing and making custom jewelry in Santa Monica. What I loved most about working with my clients was learning about what they wanted to commemorate or achieve and then working with them to make their dreams, desires, and ideas come to life in precious metals and stones.
I take the same approach to awnings and shades. It is an honor to be invited into your home, business, and life to help you make those spaces fulfill your dreams. I am also proud and delighted to be working with the best artisans using the best materials here at Van Nuys Awning to create beautiful, luxurious, and comfortable shade solutions for my clients. I’d love to hear from you and create a work of art with you and our team of over four generations of the best artisans to be found.
Ernie Martinez, Outside Sales
Hi, I’m Ernie Martinez! I was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley. I have 25 years of construction experience which I use here at Van Nuys Awning to help my clients find the best shade solutions. When I am not working I spends time with my two sons, wife Gabbie married for 24 years and my three dogs.
Tino Contreras, Outside Sales
Hi, I am Tino Contreras, I have worked for Van Nuys Awning for 25 years. I started out installing awnings and worked my way into Sales, learning from the bottom up the awning industry. I am very client oriented and want my clients to be happy with our service and products. I am committed to giving my customers the best shade solutions and meeting their design needs!
Arley Chavez, Outside Sales
Hi, I’m Arley Chavez! I am 2nd generation of Van Nuys Awning ownership. I have worked with and around awnings my whole life. I have watched my dad, Eliaquin Chavez , half owner of Van Nuys Awning growing up building and manufacturing awnings. For eight years I worked in our welding department, assembly department, and installation department, learning the ins and outs of the awning industry. I have firsthand knowledge of the awning manufacturing process throughout. I received my bachelor’s degree in business at Cal State University Northridge CSUN and came back to work at Van Nuys Awning in the outside sales department. I am here to help you with all of our shade solutions and to provide you with the awning that will best suite your needs
