Employee Spotlight


Paul Cook, AIA, Business Manager

Congratulations on 10 years with AFG! How did you come to work with us?

I worked for Michael O’Connor and Paul Szmurlo at ANADAC back in 1998. It was my first job after retiring from the Navy after 20 years in the US Navy Civil Engineer Corps/SEABEES. It wasn’t long after Mike had left ANADAC to form what we know as AFG Group, that I left too. I then worked at Warner Construction Consultants and later Michael Baker Corporation until late 2009. It was early 2010 and that I contacted Mike in search of another job. We kept the conversation going and in April I was asked to join AFG.

What has been your favorite project?

Most of them. I have had more jobs than almost anyone at AFG. First as a project manager, then marketing support, and proposal writer and then, marketing director. I then became business development support and Deltek CRM development and Vision administrator. A short time later, Accounting started calling and additionally became responsible for computer inventory which turned into IT support. Recently, I became the business manager, which really means I do a lot of different things – I touch almost everything at AFG.

What has been the most challenging project that you successfully managed?

The last one. Once I figure out how to do something, then I move on.

Outside of your work, where can we find you?

I’ve had as many hobbies as positions held at AFG. Over the past few years, I’ve enjoyed sailing, drawing, playing the banjo, gardening, raising golden retrievers, and of course, Architecture.  Now, I’m not doing much except caring for my golden retriever, Buster.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out in AEC?

  • Have the right attitude.
  • Have an open mind.
  • Be ready to step up to do something different, when needed.
  • Learn as much as you can.

To learn about new career opportunities with AFG, visit our careers page