CEO PHILOSOPHY

There is always a better way. Whether trying to distill strategic objectives, to accomplish goals, to improve processes or to achieve success for our clients, our profession and our firm, a solution that more successfully addresses multiple agendas can invariably be discovered. When the options seem too restrictive, innovation and creativity can be employed to find solutions that bring a higher level of success to everyone involved. People, values and attitudes are the critical factors in our ability to resolve challenging issues. With open minds and a willingness to explore ideas that at first seem implausible, the best that each of us has to offer can be combined to create something even better.

WHAT’S ON MY MIND

For NAC|Architecture, Spokane’s business climate has remained strong through the present, but there are certainly many signs that suggest opportunities will be less robust in the short-term future. Spokane has proven resilient throughout its history; as such, I expect business will remain relatively stable during the short-term future and again gain strength as the country’s overall economy improves.

What have you done in your career that you are most proud of?

Three things stand out for me. First, I have had a part in developing an organization that is exemplary by many measures. With the recent recognition of receiving the AGORA award, being named one of the Top 25 Best Architecture Firms to Work For in the nation and being recognized as the No. 1 Educational Design Firm in the Pacific Northwest, we’ve had our own beliefs reinforced. Second, I have led the American Institute of Architects to redefine itself as a knowledge-based organization, restructuring the institute through creation of AIA’s Knowledge Communities, which has had a positive effect for architects across the nation. Finally, I recently led the U.S. delegation that successfully negotiated an agreement among architectural accreditation associations from eight nations to accept architectural degrees as being substantially equivalent. It increases professional mobility for architects from the U.S. throughout much of the world.

What’s the most valuable lesson you have learned in business?

Virtually everything comprises shades of gray, and every conviction that I hold is viewed slightly differently by others, so don’t believe yourself too deeply before you study the views of others. Only after that exploration will a more accurate perception of reality emerge, and it will likely be something quite different—and often better—than all had imagined.

What business advice have you found doesn’t work for you?

I have found erroneous the belief that only things that can be quantified and measured can lead to advancement. Often the less quantifiable turns out to be the real jewel in life and in business.

Who is the most influential person you’ve never met?

Almost everyone I meet becomes an influence, so it is difficult to choose one. One well-known figure whose insights on leadership impress me is Cal Ripken Jr. Probably I am positively biased by the personalized baseball he sent after working in a leadership conference together a few years ago.

What is your favorite gadget?

I am forever latched on to my laptop and BlackBerry. Unfortunately, neither is a favorite—just a necessity!

ON A PERSONAL NOTE

Where were you born?

Bigfork, Minnesota.

What’s your favorite local diversion or activity?

Disappearing into the wildernesses of the Pacific Northwest.

What would you do with your time if you didn’t work?

The same thing I am doing now: creating change for the better, and loving every minute of the challenge.

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