What do you enjoy about working for Synergy? Why did you choose to work in the industry?
I enjoy solving difficult problems, learning about new technologies, and talking with our clients. It is very exciting to see a project come together, and staffing our projects in a manner which accents the individual’s strengths is satisfying. Being in a place where the people truly have a passion for technology and strive for excellence makes Synergy fun.

I believe that this industry choose me, not me choosing it. All roads through my life always lead back to this industry, and I have been blessed with presented opportunities that were a progression within our industry.

What is a memorable moment that has stuck with you since you joined the Synergy team?

"You guys tell me when I am doing something crazy or completely against your experiences, whereas your competitor would just do what I ask and send me the bill”

Most memorable moment was working late evening with a new client.  This individual stopped our meeting to take a break and made the following public statement to the entire group.  “You know what I like about you guys?  You guys tell me when I am doing something crazy or completely against your experiences, whereas your competitor would just do what I ask and send me the bill”.  This event solidified our client centric approach, and continues to drive our employee relationship training focus.

What do you wish everyone knew about the industry?
Engineering and Automation are very exciting.  People don’t realize how much is involved behind the products they buy and the energy they use. I think everyone would have a greater appreciation of the contribution made by the American industry if they learned more about it.  Needless to say I am fanatic about History, Discovery, and National Geographic channels.

This industry has allowed me to see the world – I have been able to travel to places which typical people would never have access to visit.

Can you describe your management philosophy?

My role and responsibility is to be the client advocate to our project team – challenge them to do things better, smarter, and faster – enabling individuals to come up with their unique solutions – providing a life line when things get overwhelming.

"My role and responsibility is to be the client advocate to our project team."

I have a personal responsibility to develop all of our people to be their very best.

What about Synergy’s future excites you?
First of all, the people at Synergy are the key to why our future is bright.  We have a “killer” team that is working like a high performance engine.  Our hiring practice is to gain individuals that are passionate problem solvers.  Our people have the true American spirit and can-do attitude needed to get the job done.

Secondly, I believe that Synergy has the experience and knowledge to make a real difference within American industry.  Recently, our society has begun to refocus on making products and improving our general infrastructure.  Industry is now welcoming new ideas to save energy, along with innovative solutions to make gains in productivity in order to be competitive on the world stage.

What are your hobbies/interests outside of work?
I enjoy golfing, though I don’t get out nearly enough.  If I had to leave this industry today, I would most likely have a horse ranch somewhere – there is calmness to being around these animals and personal satisfaction that comes from this physical work.  I enjoy traveling to locations that we can try new things such as mountain biking through the desert.

Is there a place you have always wanted to travel to but have not had the chance yet?
I have always wanted to go on safari in Africa with some extra time in South Africa to watch the New Zealand All Blacks play at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

What is the best advice anyone has ever given you?
Focus on the big picture and don’t fret the bumps in the road.

When involved in an “apples to apples” comparison, be the orange.

Who do you look up to as your role model or mentor?
Many different people for a variety of reasons:

• Gerry Raino & Glen Mazur: for their guidance and encouragement to get into this industry and education direction
• Dr. Carlos Helou: for his mentor ship, support, and trust
• Billy Graham: for his leadership
• Theodore Roosevelt: for his progressive views and integrity
• John D. Rockefeller: for his driven purpose and charity
• Warren G. Bennis: for his insight and analysis