My journey started in the private sector, where I became my firm’s principal and senior partner by age 30. Eventually, I made a significant shift for a better work-life balance. I joined the U.S. Coast Guard Facilities Design and Construction Center in Norfolk, Virginia, as a civilian architect and project manager. That role launched my federal-sector career.

I later worked in similar roles with the U.S. Navy at Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command Mid-Atlantic (NAVFAC MIDLANT) and NAVFAC Atlantic. In 2008, I returned to private practice with one of the world’s largest architecture and engineering firms to re-engage with the creative and technical side of architecture. I had the opportunity to design a wide range of buildings, campuses, structures, and objects — more than I ever imagined.

Shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic, I began reflecting on where I wanted to focus for the remainder of my career. I realized that while I’ll always love design, the part I enjoyed most was engaging with clients and becoming their trusted advisor to help guide the work.

In the summer of 2020, a recruiter contacted me about a position at GFT. I wasn’t familiar with the company, but I was intrigued by the opportunity to combine project management with business development in the federal market. I started that August and dove right in. That role has since evolved into my current position as federal account manager for civilian agencies.

The opportunities that GFT has created energize me. The depth of talent, resources, and brand strength we have as one company has boosted our industry recognition. With our connected expertise and national footprint, GFT is uniquely positioned to deliver ingenuity that shapes lives across the federal sector and beyond. This momentum positions us to earn a greater market share and do more of the work we’re passionate about.

What’s most fulfilling to me is being part of a people-centric, forward-thinking company that leads creatively and delivers agile, high-value solutions for our clients and communities. The future is incredibly bright at GFT.

Currently, I serve as chair of the Society of American Military Engineers Architecture Practice Community of Interest (AP COI) and hold a seat on the SAME National Leadership Assembly. I’m grateful for these opportunities and encourage others to connect with me or any of our GFT SAME members to explore how SAME can support their professional growth. 

I’ve also authored content for the AP COI Journal, including this article on industry and government innovations and worked on white papers supporting SAME’s Industry–Government Engagement initiatives. 

Leaders must lead by example. I encourage team members to share creative ideas. When they do, I listen closely and strive to understand their perspective before responding. Even when an idea doesn’t move forward, it often sparks a new solution through collaborative thinking.

I also aim to strike a balance in communication. I share enough to empower people to do their jobs well, but not so much that it burdens their schedules. I minimize excessive meetings, which can drain energy and reduce creativity. Just as important, I make sure team members feel comfortable reaching out with questions and ensure that I respond supportively and promptly. That keeps momentum going.

One of the highlights of my career was serving as lead design architect for phase three of the renovation of the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in Washington, D.C. The renovation included historic restoration of the interior and exterior, security upgrades, complete replacement of the HVAC and electrical systems, structural repairs, and technology enhancements. The U.S. General Services Administration recognized the project with a design award in 2014. 

The design for a custom-patterned wood floor in one of the meeting spaces followed my original napkin sketch and reached installation without significant changes. The end users originally planned to place a large rug in the space, but once they saw the finished floor, they decided not to use one. Seeing the spaces I designed or contributed to used successfully for the business of our nation’s government brings me great pride and satisfaction. 

Don’t wait. Step forward. Talk to your supervisor. Reach out to people in practice areas you’re interested in. Ask how you can support them. In my experience, many opportunities come from volunteering for something that aligns with your interests and committing to excellence in that effort. That’s how you become your area’s go-to person or subject matter expert.

Spending time outdoors helps me stay grounded and balanced, especially after hours in front of a screen. I live on top of a mountain in southwest Virginia, where I hike the trails and ravines, maintain the property, enjoy time by the ponds, build campfires, shoot targets, and enjoy riding my tractor and Gator.

I’m also passionate about graphic design. I sketch, draw, and work on digital compositions whenever I can. And, I am a hobby photographer, always looking for the next great shot to post on Instagram. These hobbies fuel my creativity and problem-solving — skills I bring back to every project.