Category: Spotlight Content

If you could give advice to someone just starting out in your field, what would it be? I was once told by a colleague, “Don’t let them know how smart you are, you’ll end up with more work.” Several years into my career, the advice I’d give is the opposite: Let them see you are curious, determined, and eager to learn.

If you could give advice to someone just starting out in your field, what would it be? My advice would be simple: dig in and learn. This is a tough industry, and the amount of knowledge required can seem immense early on. Take every opportunity to absorb as much as you can, whether it’s through hands- on experience, asking questions, or learning from the people around you.

What’s one challenge you’ve overcome in your career so far, and what did it teach you? One of the significant challenges I encountered in my career was entering the workforce at the end of the pandemic. The new normal was a hybrid workstyle. While this transition was difficult for everyone, it was particularly daunting as a newcomer trying to establish meaningful professional relationships.

What’s one challenge you’ve overcome in your career so far, and what did it teach you? As a litigator, one of the greatest challenges I’ve faced is navigating the wide range of personalities involved in real estate disputes. These matters often require not only legal acumen but also the ability to manage differing perspectives and diffuse tensions.

What’s one challenge you’ve overcome in your career so far, and what did it teach you? Early in my career, I observed some initial hesitation from executive clients when working with younger project managers. Understandably, these leaders often oversee high- stakes initiatives and naturally prefer experienced leadership, which can sometimes be associated with age.

Who has played a pivotal role in your development, and how have they influenced you? I can’t point to just one person who significantly impacted my professional development. I’ve been fortunate to learn from many experienced and wise individuals at Chapman.

Who has played a pivotal role in your development, and how have they influenced you? First and foremost, my parents have been my greatest supporters, through every challenge and success! They’ve helped shape the person I am today. Outside of family, the incredible team at ROI has been instrumental in my professional growth.

What recent professional milestone or project are you most proud of, and why? Building Science has been a career interest for the last 14 years of my career. Gaining an intricate understanding of how air and moisture move through different building materials is important in making educated design decisions.

What recent professional milestone or project are you most proud of, and why? As architects, we shape how people live and work, but meaningful change often starts at home. I’m proud to have led Amenta Emma to achieve the WELL Equity Rating for our Boston and Hartford offices – a roadmap for meaningful DEI action.

What recent professional milestone or project are you most proud of, and why? The renovation of MBTA Symphony Station (Boston) marked my first large- scale project at DHK Architects, beginning nine years ago. Completed, the station will feature critical accessibility upgrades with four new elevators; a major station expansion; full architectural and structural renovations; and mechanical and electrical improvements.

What recent professional milestone or project are you most proud of, and why? Over the last three years, I have worked as a project manager and designer on a new corporate headquarters for Mutual of Omaha in Omaha. Once complete, the office tower will be the tallest building in Nebraska. The project is centrally located in downtown

If you could give advice to someone just starting out in your field, what would it be? If you’re just starting out in the construction field, my advice is to actively seek knowledge and mentorship while building strong professional relationships. Focus on learning the fundamentals, understanding safety protocols, and being a willing learner.