In 2002, I started working on my B.S. in Architecture at Lawrence Technological University on a full-academic scholarship. My time at LTU provided a solid base of graphical, construction, and digital knowledge, while simultaneously stimulating profound theoretical discussions.

After graduating Suma Cum Laude, I returned to my hometown of Lansing and joined the ASL [design studio]. My graphical, technological, and creative skills immediately put me in a position to work independently on the full spectrum that encompasses architecture ranging from proposals, to designs, and built projects. While I learned a lot from my experienced colleagues about the reality of the profession, I also had many opportunities to bring the office up to speed regarding the opportunities that currently exist, or are on the horizon, of digital design and fabrication.

In 2007, while continuing to work at ASL, I returned to school at the University of Michigan to start my Masters. My prior interest in digital processes came to fruition as I focused my research on digital fabrication, prototyping techniques, visualization, parametric design, and the ethical implications of digitally-oriented architecture. While at Michigan, I was a graduate student instructor for an undergraduate digital design course that was divided into lectures on the state of the current digital discourse and lab sessions to teach fundamental drafting, modeling, and graphical skills. The culmination of my work was my thesis entitled append[digis] that questioned the responsibility with which technology is being used in the architectural profession. Drawing parallels to fashion, I made a case for why and how we might move the Haute Couture digital practice of today into a usable Prêt-à-Porter before the style simply becomes cliché.

My thesis attracted the attention of Dean Monica Ponce de Leon who invited me to join a research project after graduation to design a sustainable, transforming home. My role in the project was to develop a parametric roof system that could be adapted to any location or site orientation.

After rejoining ASL full time, I began the process to complete the A.R.E. In late 2012, I became licensed in Michigan. I’m currently continuing strings of my own research in architecture, graphic design, and urban placemaking. As I take the next step of my career in Tulsa, I hope to apply my research back to academia while also continuing to practice professionally.

 

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