Through the years I have held many types of employment positions, but none more rewarding than those in the field of Architecture. I have been blessed to participate in this prestigious craft for over 30 years while simultaneously pursuing my education. I received an AA in Architecture, a BA in Business Administration, and finally a Masters in Community Development, in the school of Architecture. As I pass different structures such as the Towne Gate Shopping Center in Moreno Valley CA, or visit my sisters’ Mediterranean-style home in the suburbs of Kansas City, Ks, it reminds me of the trials, setbacks, and triumphs experienced throughout the journey. When I look back, I would advise anyone – don’t chase the money -chase your passion. It’s easy to face opposition when you are passionate. Even so, time brings about change, and passion has to take a back seat. Some change such as political and economic disruptions, do not discriminate. Change always affects the planning & construction field and it left me un-employed for many years until I was able to transition into the field of Construction Management. In 1991, I found work for 11 years as a Project Manager at America’s Passenger Rail (AMTRAK). 

There my Architectural roots experienced a second wind as I again teamed with Architects, Engineers and Consultants in planning and remodeling Train Depots, track realignments, and ADA path of travels, making it safe for pedestrian boarding throughout Southern California. After employment at Amtrak, I experienced (5) more years of unemployment where I became self-employed. Being an unlicensed architect, I drafted home remodels, small apartment units, and tenant improvements. When that wasn’t working, at the advice of my father, I picked up odd jobs and even owned a small janitorial service for a season.   

In 2007, the Lord opened the door again, and I found employment at Riverside Community College District (RCCD), in Riverside CA. At RCCD, I was able to sharpen my architectural /construction management pencil again. I managed construction budgets and help plan Capital Projects throughout the (3) campus District. The District-wide ADA Projects, the Riverside City College /Norco Infrastructure Projects, and the Moreno Valley Network Operations Center were very detail-oriented and very labor-intensive. These projects cost millions of dollars to construct. The complexities of these projects led me to interface and consult with many State and local Regulatory agencies that control state funding, safety, and process to deliver a safe and usable environment. Exciting stuff. Believe me, the journey was exciting, informative and challenging — but it too must end.  November 9, 2018 – to be exact.   

I thank my wife of 50 years, who made the journey, and together we raised (3) beautiful children into adults. We have (3) wonderful grand-children, of whom I am very proud.