Q: How did you get involved with SHYFT? How long have you been with us?
A: Arriving at SHYFT felt a bit like coming home. I grew up in southern Iowa, graduated from Iowa State in ’04, then moved to Phoenix, Arizona to try something completely different. 15 years, a couple of offices (and lots of projects) later, I was fortunate enough to reconnect with an old friend, Zane Muntz. Zane reached out, looking for individuals interested in joining the upstart Phoenix office and things started to fall into place. Joining SHYFT a few years ago felt like a very natural transition in my career and enables me the opportunity to work with fantastic people and reconnect with my Midwest roots.
Q: What are some projects you are currently working on?
A: Building up an office in a new market is no small task and necessitates being nimble, scrappy, and resilient. Sometimes lacking all these traits, I rely greatly on the resources of the Des Moines and Columbus offices to assist me daily. We have been fortunate enough to add to our growing Arizona team and are taking on a wide variety of work, but I can safely say that there is no sense of boredom in my role. Right now, I’m involved with projects in 7 states, running the spectrum from restaurant and hospitality and community master planning. Throughout my career, I have endeavored to tackle something different every day…so my project portfolio is just as varied.
One current project that I would have to single out is a complex remodel for a non-profit in Phoenix, Arizona. The renovation of a 40-year-old building to enclose an exterior courtyard, modernize the facility, and create an adaptable venue for any client is a rewarding challenge. Solving all those variables, while guiding the client through visioning, fundraising, construction, and operations; all so they can provide an even greater impact to youth in need? That’s the kind of scenario which bridges the gap between career and passion.
Q: What is the one thing you are most proud of since joining SHYFT?
A: I’m going to be selfish here…my growth. Over the years, one of my main drivers has been to work well in any team, despite all challenges. Since becoming a part of SHYFT, it truly feels like I’m able to mentor individuals into leveraging their talents as a more effective team, growing their strengths, while taking on challenging new tasks in uncharted waters. Perhaps it’s the grey hair that’s growing in, but the personal and professional growth that has been spurred on via the support of our whole organization is something that I am very proud of.
Q: What are a few of your career highlights?
A: There are always good moments, but I can’t really quantify them against one another. I remain hopeful that the best is yet to come.
Q: A favorite SHYFT memory you'd like to share?
A: I couldn’t single out a favorite, but really, it’s a collection of them. Maybe it’s just me, but when I think of a person…any person, I get a picture in my head (and an expression on their face). I can honestly say that when I think of those I’m privileged to work with, I picture them smiling or laughing. We do work very hard on some extremely challenging projects, but those little moments of shared humor make it all worth it.
Q: Tell us something unique about you.
A: Unique is a word that I have heard consistently throughout my life, and I wear it like a badge of honor. I consider myself to be akin to a platypus, with an ongoing evolutionary process to suit my needs and environment. If you’re reading this and laughing a bit…we’ve met. If you’re confused or curious about the personification of an architecturally inclined platypus, I would be happy to make your acquaintance.
Thank you, Asa, for all you do for the SHYFT Team!