People

I wanted a career that encouraged creativity, so I decided to study architecture. I found my passion in design, and I love that it allows me to use my imagination. When working on a project, I enjoy looking at the big picture and working through the major aspects of the design. I also like to examine how the design interacts with people and nature.

Aside from designing, I am most happy when I am traveling and eating food. I love visiting new places, learning about their culture, and of course, trying their unique cuisine.

Read more about Alejandra in her employee spotlight.

I enjoy the process of architectural management; getting a project from idea to completion, with various parties involved feeling good about the end-product, is really rewarding. I am a very technical person – I could detail drawings all day, but I think I thrive best when I am leading teams and managing client relationships.

Outside of design work, my interests are wide ranging. Anything to do with water interests me. Sailing, diving, boating – you name it, I love it. Prior to being an architect, I was an actor and theatrical lighting designer for 15+ years, so I also enjoy live performances – especially live theater.

Read more about Andrew in his employee spotlight.

When I was younger, I gravitated toward art, science and history. Exploring art was always the “what” I wanted to do. With science, understanding light, form and geometry taught me the “how.” History gave me an interest in traveling and learning the relationship of things – the “why.”

At Bray, these interests are represented through a position that’s a perfect culmination of the three. In my role, I create graphics and visuals to support marketing efforts including branded collateral, proposal pursuits and referendum communication, just to name a few.

Outside of the office, I spend my time experimenting with new recipes, creating illustrations, and anticipating my debut on Jeopardy ­– until then, you can find me at Wednesday Night Trivia.

Read more about Angelo in his employee spotlight.

While my parents were designing a new house, I got to witness first-hand how a building transformed from drawings to construction. From that point forward, I was hooked. I became particularly interested in how buildings influence the areas around them, which lead me to study urban planning alongside architecture.

At Bray, I enjoy producing plans and renderings and working through the specifics of space design with building layouts. When I am away from the organized mess on my desk, I love to go disc golfing, compete in curling tournaments, and enjoy outdoor activities.

Read more about Austin in his employee spotlight.

I have always known I wanted to be an architect. I enjoy creating spaces that enhance how people interact, and architecture allows me to do that. I assist architects in making digital models and renderings of buildings along with creating graphics to aid in the design process. Helping clients visualize their spaces before construction even begins is both exciting and rewarding.

When I’m not at work, I’m looking for new places to travel…that is if I’m not looking for my keys, which I frequently misplace. I love spending time outdoors and am always up for a new adventure.

When I was in elementary school, whether I realized it or not, I fell in love with design and architecture. I would build dollhouses made of cardboard and interiors filled with colored paper. Fast forward to today, I have the same enthusiasm for design but now apply it to real-world spaces. I love how design and space can influence daily life, especially for those at a young age and the role it plays on their fundamental development.

Outside of work, I enjoy shopping, swimming, picnicking, and brunching with friends. I also like snuggling with my cats – a lot.

Read more about Britani in her employee spotlight.

Since a young age I have enjoyed designing and drawing; I always carry a sketchbook just in case inspiration hits. With architecture, I have found a field where I can use my passion and design skills to shape the spaces people inhabit. Working alongside our team, I help coordinate facility needs assessments and conduct field verifications. The most satisfying part of my role is transforming this information into a visual representation, such as a 3D model, to help clients better understand their spaces.

In my free time you will find me sketching, enjoying time with my friends, or indulging in peanut butter – do you prefer creamy or crunchy?

I am so lucky that Bray Architects allows me to connect with people and bring them the resources they need to be successful. Our architectural services have a breadth and depth that includes much more than designing a beautiful building. I love delivering the message that we help strengthen communities. It’s satisfying knowing that my efforts benefit people far beyond my personal little world.

My “personal little world” is pretty great, though!  I can’t keep up with my husband’s triathlon efforts, but I am the better lap swimmer.  While he trains, I pretend to garden and try to keep up with my voice lessons.

When I was five I really enjoyed puzzles and would build airports from blocks, including the parking structures. Now I thoroughly enjoy detailing a building from the ground up and use the planning and puzzles of my youth to figure out how the pieces fit together.

At Bray I take building projects from inception to completion: design, detailing, documentation, coordination and client contact. But the detailing is what I enjoy most. It really is the small pieces that matter most.

Outside of work I love my family most of all, and the outdoors, skiing, movies, travel and baseball. My son’s middle name is Nolan, after Nolan Ryan. I tried (unsuccessfully) to name my daughter Cal, after Cal Ripken.

Read more about Chris in his employee spotlight.

I thought my 7th grade teacher Mr. Smith was so cool because he would draw house floor plans on graph paper during his free time, so, always interested in being cool, I became an architect.

Like most architects, I believe I’m good at everything. I specialize in schools, which are complex building types and always provide the challenge I value. In addition, I’d like to take a moment to plug my band, Labware. We rock.

As the Office Manager at Bray, I get to do what I love most, engage with a variety of people and help them out on a daily basis. The team said it seemed I’d been here for years when it had just been a few weeks. Suddenly I was supposed to be the person with the answer to office questions no one else seemed to know, like, what happened to the recycling bin next to the copier?

When not managing the office, I’m hanging out with my family or shopping for more cardigans.

At a young age, I fell in love with the arts, sciences, and built environment. This passion led me to pursue a career in history and architecture. Being able to create clear details that translate a project from design into actualized structures inspires me, especially knowing the work I’m doing will impact generations to come. Seeing the positive influence great architecture can have on the daily lives of others, motivates me to keep growing and learning.

When not at the office, you’ll find me practicing Brazilian jiu-jitsu, camping or backpacking. I love to spend time visiting friends around the country and seeking out new cultures and adventures. At home, DIY projects, my piano, baking, books and my rescue dog – Butter Bean – keep me busy.

My fascination with Lincoln Logs and Legos as a child stimulated my passion for design as a career. Now, I assist architects and designers by creating graphics and building renderings to support the design process. I love that my position allows me to help create something that can impact a child’s learning experience, and an entire community, in a positive way.

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and spending most of my time outdoors with my friends, family and dog. In the summer, you can find me boating, hiking or fishing, but in winter – I like to hit the ski slopes.

I knew that the building industry was for me since a very young age. I have done several different types of work throughout my career in architecture. I enjoy all phases of the architectural design process including construction. When I am on site at a building project, my coworkers always know because I have a very loud voice and an even louder laugh. Many people think I am shouting when I am just speaking at my normal level. It comes in handy when I am trying to communicate over the sound of construction equipment!

When I’m not working, I enjoy camping and woodworking. I also enjoy working on home improvement projects, and I have renovated every building I have lived in.

Growing up, I enjoyed looking at floor plans. My older brother suggested I take a basic drafting class, which I excelled at. After, I decided to take an “architectural” drafting class and was hooked. The rest, as they say, is history.

At Bray, I am a people-oriented person and enjoy working with clients and the team to deliver successful projects. Outside of work, I love spending most of my time with family, as well as cooking and golfing. There is no better way to unwind than golfing in the morning, then throwing steaks on the grill for a nice family dinner.

Read more about Jeff in his employee spotlight.

After 14 years in the apparel and fashion industry, I decided to branch out into commercial interior design which has provided the opportunity to work on hospitality, senior living and educational projects. I appreciate design challenges that require me to find creative solutions – from how clothing will fit and feel on a customer, to how a building will look and function for its inhabitants. I enjoy collaborating with clients and our architects to create inspiring environments for children and teachers to thrive in, which is very rewarding.

Aside from design, my passion extends to my apparel line – Mas Mama, gardening and distance running. I also enjoy spending time with my husband, Matthew, and our two children.

Read more about Jennifer in her employee spotlight.

At an early age, I knew the architecture field was for me – it encompasses all my passions: art, problem-solving, coordinating, and being technical. I enjoy working closely with team members to implement clients’ needs into drawings. I’m always up for a challenge of finding unique solutions to difficult problems.

Outside of the office, I’ll most likely be ice fishing in the winter or riding motorcycles in the summer – that’s if I’m not doing my new hobby of quilting!

My interest in architecture started while sketching tree houses as a kid – the fascination of having tree houses connected with bridges and ladders and the result of small-scale design elements formulating a larger, complex system was always satisfying to me.  At Bray, I get to channel this sense of exploration and creation. I’m involved in many aspects within planning and design, and I have the opportunity to work with a great team. 

Outside the office, I’m an avid camper. I’ve visited about a dozen national parks across the country, with my top three being Olympic National Park in Washington State, Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota, and Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. I can’t forget Acadia in Maine, so I guess that makes it top four.

While studying for my master’s in architecture, I focused on historic preservation which opened my eyes to the design strategy of reusing our built environment and the sustainability of it – that’s where my passion lies. At Bray, I work on the pre-design team analyzing existing buildings for future projects. I’m always pleased by a hyper-realistic rendering; even as architects, we can still bring a little movie magic to the office.

With a great interest in all forms of design, I fill my free time with projects in animation, film, and other digital art – all things to keep my ideas fresh.

I’m an Architect. Just like Mr. Brady, except with less wood paneling and fewer kids. The sexy staircase and the masonry oven in the kitchen can stay, and Alice, of course.

After more than two decades in the profession, I find increased joy and satisfaction in all aspects of this work (ok, maybe not all), with a profound appreciation of our clients, peers and the builders of architecture. Currently, my focus is on administering the construction of our projects. I love being at a project site. It’s where words and lines on paper finally make sense. Mr. Brady would approve.

Throughout my architecture career, I’ve grown to love the ability to work a variety of roles — I get to be a designer, an orchestrator, a salesman, and more. As former owner of BHMM Architects, I work on growing and expanding Bray project opportunities within the Illinois and Iowa region. The greatest joy comes from getting to work with our clients, helping them arrive at solutions for their building needs.

Outside of work, my family is my greatest joy. My wife and I enjoy exploring new places, hanging out in kayaks, and trying new restaurants. I also enjoy mountain biking, playing drums, skiing, and brewing beer.

Read more about John in his employee spotlight.

As an architect, I enjoy creating spaces that will stand the test of time. Helping clients realize their vision and seeing their ideas come to life is the most rewarding part of my job. At Bray, I work in all project phases and produce drawings that ultimately lead to a completed project.

Outside of the office, I enjoy being a great role model for my three kids and have a blast raising them. I love living a healthy lifestyle and spending my time up north at the lake. I’m also a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, but don’t worry, I’m the nice kind and am a big fan of all other Wisconsin sports!

Read more about Jordan in his employee spotlight.

With a strong passion for writing and content creation, I knew the communication field was for me – as I always say, “I like using my creative brain.” At Bray, I get to do both of my passions to produce proposal and communications materials that support the firm in gaining new projects, all while working with a dynamic marketing team. I enjoy learning and am always looking for ways to advance my communication skillset.

If I’m not working, I’m most likely playing with my cats (I might have a slight obsession with them). I also enjoy visiting museums, antiquing, and traveling – ask me about my travels, I love giving recommendations!

If it wasn’t for my high school art teacher who gave me architecture magazines to look at, I don’t know if I would have found my passion – being an architect. I love the connection between the technical and creative side of architecture and finding that balance between both to come up with a beautiful design. Taking a clients idea and making it come to fruition is a rewarding experience.

Besides my passion for architecture, I’m also passionate about art, traveling, and staying active – hiking, running, and skiing are just a few of the activities I enjoy. I’m always planning my next travel excursion as there’s so much to see and experience in the world.

My passion for writing led me to communications, and my strong desire to strengthen and build my community led me to Bray. I’ve worked in government, political campaigns, nonprofits, and professional sports; working for Bray challenges me to draw on all those experiences.

I lead Bray’s awesome and talented Marketing team. As the director, I love bringing together everyone’s strengths and abilities to move our work forward.

My spouse and two young kids fuel me – they’re my partners in outdoor treks, imaginary adventures, and long drives in pursuit of good coffee and a lake view. I firmly believe that all weather is beach weather, and I do not mind testing that theory in any circumstance.

Read more about Karina in her employee spotlight.

My favorite aspects of being an architect are tied between facilitation and schematic planning. At Bray, I guide our clients through, what for some, is a once in a lifetime opportunity to help shape the environments they work, teach and learn in. I enjoy following each project from start to finish and find satisfaction when a plan comes together seamlessly. Each project is different, which makes each one unique.

I love going on adventures with my husband and our two boys: we enjoy taking trips and hanging out on the lake at our cabin up north. I usually have my camera in-hand to capture fun family memories, which usually end up on our annual photo calendar.

Read more about Kate in her employee spotlight.

I knew the world of architecture was the place for me at a very young age. My love for being creative coupled with an interest in problem solving made my career path a no-brainer. Here at Bray, I assist with virtual modeling and graphics to help clients visualize their projects, which also aligns with my love for drawing.

Aside from architecture, I have a passion for antiquing, camping, and exploring the City of Milwaukee with my husband. If you know of an antique shop with unique furniture and art prints, you know where to find me – I am always up for a road trip across Wisconsin!

Working as a handyman during college, I fell in love with working on the built environment. I find fulfillment by creating spaces that evoke happiness and give a sense of wellbeing. My role allows me to gain experience in the creation of construction documents, schematic designs, client presentations, and selecting finishes and furniture. I am excited to bring my technical know-how and past experiences to the table!

My time away from my desk is largely spent working with my hands. I believe design should always have an appreciation for the craft. I love to work on my house (from small repairs to detailed renovations), cook, and garden. I also have high hopes to build a green wall!

Read more about Kevin in his employee spotlight.

I love the new challenges each project brings and the feeling you get when you see a building go from lines on a page to a built structure. I knew I wanted to be an architect since I was about 10 years old building structures with Legos.

Besides golfing, hiking and doing home remodeling projects, I love to travel with the my family – I have visited all 50 states! My next goal is to visit all seven continents and as many different countries as I can!

I have always been fascinated with the built environment. My passion for knowing how we interact with the spaces we create, and the emotional response that comes with it, ultimately led me down the path to architecture. At Bray, I assist in project construction document creation, which allows me to utilize my technical focus.

Outside of work, you can find me out at local restaurants or in my kitchen trying out all different foods. I also love anything outdoors. In the winter, I instruct snowboarding at Devil’s Head Resort and in the warmer months, I enjoy kayaking, backpacking, and rock climbing.

Read more about Kyle Downing in her employee spotlight.

As a kid, I always had an affinity for drawing and creating. On Sundays, I would grab the newspaper just to trace over the comic strips until I could draw every character from memory. After taking art classes as I got older, I learned the ways art can be used in everyday life. As a designer, I love being able to take a client’s concept and show them my graphic interpretation of it.

Even outside of work, I still love drawing, painting, creating graphics, and constantly filling sketchbooks. I also collect records, go to hotrod and motorcycle shows, see live music, and restore antiques from time to time.

Read more about Kyle in his employee spotlight.

Being able to create spaces that positively impact communities and the next generation in immeasurable ways is why I love what I do. At Bray, I assist delivery teams in executing interior design tasks from the design process all the way through to project completion – with the most intriguing part being the conceptual development and research in the early stages of the design phase. Getting a deep understanding of the client – who they are, what they need – and creating a concept that embodies them and their goals and carries through every design decision throughout the entire project, is a rewarding experience.

When I’m not in my interior design element, I enjoy playing sports, reading, writing, and traveling. There are a million things I can’t wait to try and explore to better myself, and the people around me!

Twenty years ago, a friend recruited me for an admin position at a design firm. Ever since, I’ve found myself in the construction industry. In my role, I organize workflow and process documents to maintain efficiency. It is rewarding to see the finished project knowing I had a part in it. My father and grandfather worked in construction for over 30 years and I think they would have loved hearing about the different projects I have been involved in.

Outside of work, long road trips with my family are one of my favorite traditions — driving up the Pacific Coast Highway tops the list. It is also when I fell in love with California and why I visit there any chance I get.

I enjoy being a part of cross-functional teams to create communication plans and realize our goals from start to finish. In my role at Bray, I specifically lead client communication strategies. I engage clients and their communities at all stages of the design and construction process, from pre-referendum to the building’s completion.

At work, you will probably find me hunting down a coffee refill. Outside of work I enjoy adventures with my family, creating custom laser engraved gifts and anything crafty.

When I was young, I drew floor plans on graph paper, designed cardboard houses for my Barbies, and built Lego cities. However, it was not until high school that I realized I wanted to pursue a career in design. As an architect, I am involved in, and enjoy, all phases of a project – from space planning through building completion.

When I am not working on the next set of construction documents, I love traveling and exploring new places. I have traveled to 25 states and 21 countries and enjoyed learning about their history, cultures, and architecture. I am also a big Disney fan – I love that their theme parks and movies bring out the beauty and magic of imagination.

Read more about Maren in her employee spotlight.

I’ve wanted to work in architecture for as long as I can remember. Here at Bray, I participate in many aspects of a project, from schematic design through construction documents. This allows me to finesse and detail the design at all scales.

When I am not working, I am MAKING. You can find my hand-crafted jewelry and hand painted accessories on my etsy shop, The Nouveau Co. When I’m not creating, I am refinishing furniture, growing baby house plants, or doing other DIY projects.

I also enjoy spending time outdoors with my husband Tom, and my naughty little Blue Heeler Bindi.

Read more about Maria in her employee spotlight.

Watching my father enjoy his architect career, coupled with my own passion for drawing and problem solving as a kid, led me to my career today. As a full-service architect, and former owner of BHMM Architects, I find all phases of a project to be fun and interesting (except door and hardware shop drawings). The projects I enjoy most are mainly religion-based.

In my free time, my wife and I tend to our 1906 American four square house that always needs love, attention, and of course, money. Playing the clarinet in the Bettendorf Park Band is one of my favorite hobbies.

Read more about Mark in his employee spotlight.

As a designer, I get excited about the chance to help someone craft their ideas into a physical reality. I enjoy that each project presents unique challenges and that design has the potential to positively influence how people feel in a space.

In the office, I work on renderings quite a bit, but I also try to experience everything I can and help wherever I’m needed. Outside of work you can find me being active, enjoying nature, and hanging out with friends and family. I love exploring Milwaukee’s diverse food scene and learning new things – I’m always up for an adventure!

Read more about Mark in his employee spotlight.

Formerly known as Overbudgetmark, I now proudly take on the mantle of Underbudgetmark. (My co-workers are just jealous, they know I’m the go-to around here.)

After more than 30 years as an architect I would say my area of expertise is air-tight Construction Documentation. My wife and I have five kids, which apparently wasn’t quite enough, hence the exchange student from New Zealand … sorry, I’ve got to get back to work.

Architecture wasn’t on my radar until my senior year of high school when I had completed all of the pre-engineering electives offered. Against the advice of my school counselor, I signed up for an architectural studies class. It took all of one day for me to realize that this is what I wanted to do. I really enjoy the design process and how it allows one to explore various solutions rather than trying to prove a known result. Seeing a design from conception through construction while staying on budget is what drives me.

Outside of work, I enjoy coaching football at Catholic Memorial High School and being the President of my local Little League and coach of the Junior/Senior baseball teams.

Read more about Mark in his spotlight.

Years of creating graph paper floorplans of my childhood house sparked my interest in becoming a designer. I have always been intrigued by the built environment and how people interact within different spaces. What I love about design is the ability to influence these interactions through my work. In my eclectic designs, I pull inspiration from nature, buildings, spaces, and even Pinterest.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outside, whether I’m biking, gardening, playing beach volleyball or building a campfire. I also enjoy traveling to exotic places where I get to experience what local life is like. When I am not outside, I spend time working on house renovations or upcycling projects.

Read more about Mary in her employee spotlight.

There is nothing formulaic about what we do. I love that every client, every project and every process is unique and challenging in its own way. Client engagement, facilitation and public communication are my strengths, yet over the years I’ve done a little bit of everything for the firm.

I am blessed with a wonderful wife, Hilary, who fought for years to bring us Sam and Ben, the greatest twins in the world. Getting to do something I love that also supports them drives me to succeed and is truly gratifying. That, and the fact that it truly isn’t work to me.

At an early age, I was introduced to different design elements as I watched my father work in the cabinetmaking business. Working alongside him inside beautiful architectural buildings, I became more involved with the design and documentation process which is when I found my passion for the built environment. I enjoy engaging with clients and being involved in their design discussions to create construction documents.

Being born and raised in Wisconsin, my family’s cabin in the Northwoods is home for me in the summers. Hunting, fishing and watersports takes up most of my time – that’s if I’m not on the greens, of course!

I take part in many facets of the planning and design process, collaborating with team members and clients throughout all phases. I really enjoy working in Revit^® and jump at the chance to help others further explore the ins-and-outs of the program. When it comes to the details, there is nothing like the zen-esque experience of redlining architectural drawings. Although it can be a repetitive process, the best part is knowing you’ve done something worthwhile.

In my free time, I love exploring dive bars, listening to music, and going to museums. I love how museum exhibits are like giant dioramas. Someone had to think of a way to design an environment that tells a story but doesn’t distract from the display – it’s the ultimate design challenge.

Read more about Michael in his employee spotlight.

When I started to doodle re-designs of the dairy farms I worked on while growing up, I knew I was meant to be an architect. Construction Administration allows me to utilize my 20 years of experience with a wide variety of project types. I thrive on detecting problems and formulating solutions. At Bray, I oversee the construction of our designs and make technical adjustments as needed. I also enjoy performing technical reviews of drawings, contractor submittal reviews, and field observation.

When my wife and I are not busy renovating our home, I enjoy spending time with her, our three children, and leading a men’s Bible Study group at our church. I also enjoy classic car restoration, especially on my 68 Chevy Impala I occasionally have time to tinker with.

Read more about Michael in his employee spotlight.

After my first year in architecture, I realized that I had found the right fit for myself. Architecture provides me the opportunity to explore new concepts, techniques, and processes. Seeing these efforts materialize from an idea to reality: priceless! Architecture lets me embrace my appreciation for engineering while allowing me to pursue my artistic side through design.

My daughter and son are the light of my life and contributing to their well being always takes priority for me. When I do have spare time, I enjoy home improvement projects, gardening, traveling, collecting and reading. With a personal library currently standing at over 5,000 books, the latter two have become synonymous.

Read more about Michael in his employee spotlight.

From an early age, I knew I wanted to work in the design field. Now, I review project submittals, conduct site visits, and meet with contractors to make sure that projects go along smoothly. I enjoy the construction process because I can see a thought on paper transform into a finished project. I also like that I am able to work with people from all walks of life, from construction workers, to architects, to designers and more.

Outside of the office, I love getting my hands dirty. I enjoy woodworking, gardening, and working on my collection of AMC Javelins. I’m a collector – not a hoarder!

Designing pages and spreads in my high school yearbook class sparked my interest in graphic design. I love using typography, color and imagery to create pieces that portray the message and desired result for a client. As part of the marketing team, I collaborate with coworkers and clients to create internal and external marketing collateral – proposals, presentations, brochures, social graphics, etc. – you name it, I design it.

When I’m not matching my coffee tumbler to my work outfit every day, I love to spend time with my family and friends. I also enjoy listening to Lady Gaga, going shopping, staying fit and playing volleyball. Even though I’m 5’5”, I’ve got hops!

Read more about Mindy in her employee spotlight.

I am responsible for the coordination of employee benefits and administrative functions, as well as assisting in the development of company policy and procedure. My goal is to develop organizational structure balanced in a flexible environment that streamlines processes and brings positive results. Whether assisting with employment related questions or just lending an ear, I enjoy interacting with each and every team member.

Outside of work, I am my son’s greatest sports fan. Baseball, football, rugby – if he’s playing it, I am there! Heading toward empty-nest status this year, I am excited about shedding the roles of laundry lady, brown bagger, and taxi driver; but already miss the childhood milestones.

I had a great drafting/architecture teacher in high school, which is really what influenced my career path. I enjoy working on the conceptual massing and layout of the building while also figuring out how people occupy, move through, and interact with spaces. As an architect, I lead projects through design and into construction, helping problem solve any challenges along the way. Striving for client satisfaction is always my goal!

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family. My wife and I are blessed to have two children.

Read more about Nate in his employee spotlight.
 

Prior to my start in architecture, I worked as a programmer. During that time, I developed a range of skills that were in short supply within the architectural industry. As a BIM Manager, I enjoy working with new technology and collaborating with project teams. Here at Bray, I lead the evolution of BIM workflow by working with our team members to resolve issues and develop innovative solutions to improve our productivity.

Outside of work, my wife, Bonny, and son, Ben, are the best company. I enjoy tinkering with electronics, programming, and 3D printing. I also love cooking, fishing, hunting, and spending time with friends and family.

Read more about Nathan in his employee spotlight.

From cantilevering blocks off the countertop to helping my grandma in her wood shop, I have always had an interest in design and construction. At Bray, I study schools in the pursuit of designing them for current and future needs. When working on renovation projects, I have the mindset that every building has some great aspects and that they should be highlighted. I especially enjoy working on educational buildings as they often have a large impact on their communities.

Outside of work, one of my favorite activities is putting on music and dancing around the kitchen while cooking with my significant other, Katie. The rest of my free time is usually spent wood working, playing sports, and relaxing with friends. I am a Minnesotan at heart, but after enjoying everything from craft breweries to baseball tailgates – I have become a true Milwaukeean!

Read more about Nathan in his employee spotlight.

I believe that the built environment is both a reflection of and framework for the community that grows within it. As an architect, I have a hand in shaping that framework to foster a healthy and sustainable community.

Outside of work I spend time with my growing family and work on carpentry and computer based projects.

Read more about Nathan in his employee spotlight.

From an early age, I had an innate curiosity and an abiding interest in the technical and artistic potential of architecture. As an experienced architect, I focus on supporting clients’ aspirations with respect for colleagues and context, with an emphasis on both design and technical issues.

A typical weekend includes trips to the YMCA and cooking projects at home – sometimes successful, sometimes a learning lesson.

From a very young age, I’ve enjoyed the construction and deconstruction of objects, appliances, and machines. As a senior project specialist, I am involved in all the phases of an architectural project development process. I enjoy using my advanced knowledge in project setup, layout, and problem solving to teach and learn from others – everyday provides the opportunity to learn something new!

Traveling is a big part of my life, especially going to visit my family in Mexico. I have traveled extensively around the country as well as to many foreign countries. When I’m not traveling, I’m most likely restoring classic motorcycles and cars or competing alongside my sons in archery.

At the age of 16, I participated in a foreign exchange student program and had the opportunity to tour some of the magnificent buildings in Europe, which inspired me to become an architect. I found my passion in design and strategic planning, and here at Bray I get to incorporate both my passions in my work. I enjoy partnering with clients and communities to understand their hopes and dreams, and craft them into real, tangible, and aspirational spaces.

Outside of work, I enjoy being active, hiking, biking, playing tennis, and hurling – I’m a member of the Milwaukee Hurling Club! In the winter months, I enjoy working through my book/film/game backlog.

My undergraduate degrees are in Anthropology and Sociology, and I grew up riding and caring for horses. I recently added breeding and showing dogs to my current hobbies.

Becoming a CPA set my career path and after over 20 years at Bray, it’s a decision I’ll never regret. My husband is a horse trainer and we have up to 30 horses on our farm near Haven.

When I was a kid I loved to design video game levels. The joy of seeing people use spaces I had designed, even if only in a virtual world, had a lasting impression on me. Now, in the real world, I do a little bit of everything – from design to documentation and research. Although, problem-solving and collaborative design charrettes are what I enjoy most.

When I am not cleaning up my desk which can become a whirl of pens and Post-its with impressive speed; I enjoy hiking, reading, writing, and playing music. You may also find me delving into bizarre topics, usually science or future of technology related.

Read more about Ryan in his employee spotlight.

An interest in cities, knack for problem solving, and attention to detail are probably what inspired my career choice. But I really knew that I wanted to pursue architecture once I was a student at UW-Milwaukee.

At Bray, I take pride in designing spaces that people utilize daily and that positively impact the built environment. I especially love seeing the excitement on students’ faces as they walk into their new or renovated buildings. 

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two kids. We love being outdoors, no matter what the weather. Our summers are full of sports and family gatherings, and in winter I gear up whenever I have the chance to go backcountry snowmobiling.

Growing up, I would always get excited seeing interesting or unique architecture — I guess that was a sign of my future career in the field. I enjoy being creative and seeing that creativity come to fruition. In my role, I’ve always enjoyed the process of creating and honing a design, regardless of size, scope, or project type.

When I’m at home, I’m a do-it-yourselfer and love to tackle various art projects from time to time. I once designed and built a cute lemonade stand for my daughter out of odds and ends I found around the house.

Read more about Scott in his employee spotlight.

I realized architecture was the path for me after I toured my high school’s CAD lab and wood shop. After seeing visionaries and constructors in one room, I was sold. Fast-forward to today, I use my diverse background and experiences to build consensus and deliver thoughtfully designed projects. I especially enjoy utilizing research and design to unlock the answers for clients. Having grown up with a father and grandfather in the construction industry, craftsmanship, creative problem solving, and continuous improvement, along with a job well done, are inherent.

When I am not working, you may find me in another state or country enjoying local art, food, music, and nature. So far, I have visited 38 states and 18 countries on four continents.

Read more about Stacy in her employee spotlight.

I enjoy collaborating with our teams, and offering guidance based on my experience in interior design. I find the early conversations with our client teams and continued collaboration with them throughout the process fun and fruitful in capturing their aspirations for their space. It is a privilege to be a part of our dedicated interior design team and have the opportunity to assist them as they navigate the unique opportunities of each project.

At home, I love to spend time with my husband and daughter, going on adventures to the pool, zoo and park.

Read more about Stephanie in her employee spotlight.

Three factors contributed to my inherent attraction to design: an odd fascination with Frank Lloyd Wright as a child, a penchant for creating cities in dirt (legos? bah!) and the fact that two uncles were architects. I’m registered as an architect, landscape architect and interior designer which bodes well in my role as Director of Design at Bray.

Outside of work I’d rather be downhill skiing than anything else, but kayaking, hiking and biking work in the off season – and visiting every art gallery possible.

Read more about Stephen in his employee spotlight.

My passion and experience in event planning and digital media lead me to a career in marketing, and my interest in design and architecture brought me to Bray as the Marketing Coordinator. As a part of the marketing team, I coordinate conferences and project photography as well as various digital media work to expand Bray’s presence.

Outside of work, I love traveling around the world (studying abroad in Italy during college didn’t help my travel itch!). When I’m not traveling, I enjoy finding new coffee shops and being outdoors; nothing’s better than boating in the summer and hitting the ski slopes in the winter!

The year I attended Crow Island Elementary School (circa 1990) was the same year as the school’s 50th anniversary, which celebrated the impact it had on how schools were designed. As a child, learning about the elements of Crow Island really piqued my interest in architectural design. In my role, I implement and produce designs into construction documents. The best part of my job is the challenge of refining my current knowledge base and continually learning beyond that.

Outside of work, I enjoy competitive sailing, ice boating, and woodworking. For the past few years, I’ve also loved making my own bread – I haven’t bought a loaf of bread since 2018!

Read more about Tim in his employee spotlight.

Beginning with Legos and drawings, I always had a desire to create from a young age. At Bray, I continuously seek to enhance the educational and built environment. From macro to micro design, I enjoy assembling the building blocks to create environments that spark enthusiasm for both the students and community at large.

Outside of work, I am fueled by adventure that comes in many forms – whether it be running, traveling or rock climbing. As a recent transplant to the Milwaukee area, I also enjoy seeking out the best coffee shops and art museums in the area.

Read more about Zachary in his employee spotlight.