When did you realize you wanted to be an architect?

In fifth grade, when we had a project to plan a neighborhood. My teacher noticed how excited I became doing the project and said I would make a great architect. My family was always doing DIY projects around the house, so it made sense when I grew up to become an architect.

What is your favorite part about working in architecture?

The variety – there’s never a boring day. I also love getting to see the end users’ excitement after the project is completed.

What are your hobbies?

I love to travel and spend time on the water, specifically Lake Cumberland. I spend a lot of time with my kids and their sports, and I’m even coaching their running team again this year.

What kind of music and podcasts do you listen to? What kind of books do you like to read?

I listen to any music but hard rock. I enjoy crime podcasts, especially on long drives. I am finishing Scamanda right now. I love to read on my Kindle when I have the time. I tend to stick to beach reads because I’m so busy. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus is one of my recent favorites.

What are your favorite projects you’ve worked on at MSA?

The projects that are in my own community are some of my favorites, such as the Madeira school projects.

Did you co-op/intern while in college? How was that experience?

I had one longer co-op in Orlando, Florida while at Ball State University. Getting away from school was a good challenge and valuable learning experience and I recommend that if you can travel with co-ops, do it.

Any advice you would give to someone hoping to work in your field?

Soak in all of the opportunities. Don’t be afraid and do as much as you can but remember you can always go to your references and mentors for help.

What brands or tools do you swear by?

Moleskin notebooks. I used to do a different notepad per project, but that became too much of a hassle. The real leather and quality of the Moleskin notebooks never falls apart and I haven’t gone back since I switched.

As an advisor for so many young people in MSA’s office, what is your approach to mentorship?

I aim to get to know people first. A lot of my insight comes from meeting someone and understanding where they are coming from and who they are. Everyone has different mentors for different phases in their lives, and I find that I mentor by using my own experience.