My passion for the A/E/C industry was ignited at a very young age. My grandfather was a carpenter, and our family often spent vacations helping build small churches in underserved communities. By the time I was 10, I knew I wanted to become an architect. After high school, I pursued that dream by studying Architecture at Louisiana Tech University, and soon after graduation, I began working at a firm in East Texas.

There, I had the privilege of learning under Shirley Simon – whose father was the second registered architect in the State of Texas. Working alongside the Simon brothers gave me the kind of hands-on mentorship and real-world experience that no classroom could offer. It taught me how to detail a set of construction documents and helped develop a deeper passion for building, designing, and managing projects. I’ve always been drawn to the problem-solving aspect of architecture and the precision it demands. This industry has allowed me to turn that passion into real-world impact, creating built environments that serve and inspire.

Every project brings its own set of challenges and rewards, so choosing a single favorite is no easy task. Each one leaves its mark in a different way. That said, a few stand out as especially impactful.

One of the most rewarding projects of my career was the four years I spent on the $4.8 billion BRAC Realignment at Fort Bliss. It was a pivotal experience that firmly rooted me in the world of Federal Government Construction Management. The pace was intense, and leading a large team of engineers overseeing the USACE Area Office Group taught me how to manage at scale. We coordinated contract modifications across a vast portfolio of work, and the collaboration and alignment across the team made it truly memorable.

Since joining AFG, the GSA Mary E. Switzer Federal Building in Washington, D.C., has been a personal highlight. I took over the project in 2017 after relocating and had the opportunity to work closely with Fred Clements. His depth of knowledge in federal construction management, paired with the project’s complexity, helped me grow both technically and professionally. It was a defining experience in my time with AFG.

The most challenging project I’ve managed was the DOS Warehouse at Miami International Airport. It presented a perfect storm of issues, from persistent contractor challenges to internal staff turnover, which ultimately led me to relocate to Miami to rebuild the entire team on the ground.

The technical complexity was high, and the project tested my leadership, resilience, and problem-solving skills on a daily basis. But through determination, flexibility, and assembling the right team, we were able to see the project through successfully. It was a hard-won success, and it stretched me professionally in ways I hadn’t experienced before.

When I’m off the clock, you’ll often find me under the hood of my Polaris Slingshot or Jeep Wrangler, two machines that serve as both a hands-on hobby and a creative escape.

I also have a passion for travel, with favorite destinations ranging from the vast landscapes of U.S. National Parks to the vibrant culture of Argentina. Looking ahead, we’re excited to ring in the New Year of 2026 with a special trip to Sydney, Australia, an adventure that promises both inspiration and unforgettable memories. Exploring new places and working with my hands allows me to reset mentally and bring a fresh perspective back to my professional life. I believe that maintaining balance outside of work is key to long-term success and well-being, and I try to stay active and engaged in both spheres.