Employee Owners

Mike Parker is a dedicated Project Manager at BranchPattern, specializing in managing MEPT projects, fostering client collaboration, and coaching his team to achieve their goals. With a passion for delivering buildings that not only meet but exceed performance expectations, Mike is committed to cultivating growth and success within his team. He believes that a fulfilling life hinges on striking the right balance between work and personal priorities. His philosophy is straightforward: love what you do, but never at the expense of life's most meaningful moments. By focusing on continuous improvement in his professional endeavors while cherishing life's important events, Mike effectively navigates the intersection of professional excellence and personal fulfillment.

Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University, Mike’s expertise is further enhanced by his certifications as a Professional Engineer (PE), a Project Management Professional (PMP), and an Agile Certified Practitioner through PMI. Additionally, he is a trained service provider for Energize Denver. His active involvement in organizations such as ASME, ASHRAE, and ASHE reflects his unwavering commitment to continuous improvement. Throughout his career, Mike has tackled impressive projects, including serving as the Owner's Mechanical Engineer for the University of Nebraska Medical Center Davis Global Center and managing the installation of massive air handling units with near-zero leakage. What truly distinguishes Mike is his relentless pursuit of improvement; whether refining processes, enhancing systems, or optimizing operations, he consistently seeks innovative ways to drive efficiency and engagement—believing that continuous improvement is essential for personal and professional happiness.

When he’s not immersed in work, Mike is an enthusiastic sports fan, eagerly catching every game he can. He enjoys traveling, particularly to National Parks, where he and his wife can bask in the wonders of nature. Their adventures also include overseas cruises, allowing them to discover new cultures and landscapes together. A lover of puzzles, Mike finds joy in tackling jigsaw, crossword, and sudoku games, relishing the challenge and satisfaction of problem-solving.

As Associate Principal and Electrical Engineer, Omar Tlamcani leads teams in designing complex electrical one-lines for a range of projects, with a focus on K-12 schools and civic infrastructure. He manages projects from inception to completion, ensuring that each one reflects a balance of sustainability, innovation, and technical excellence. His role is deeply rooted in making a positive impact, and he takes pride in knowing that his work directly benefits the communities these projects serve.

Omar approaches his work with a simple but powerful philosophy: "Don't wait for opportunities, make them." It’s this mindset that drives him to take on challenging projects, balancing the demands of culture, flexibility, and client needs. One of his career highlights is the thought that one day, his own children might attend a school he helped build.

Omar’s journey reflects his personal philosophy. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the Metropolitan State College of Denver—while mastering English as his third language—he didn't wait for success to come to him. He pursued it with determination, becoming a LEED Green Associate through USGBC and continuously advancing his career as he works toward PMP and PE certifications.

Beyond the world of engineering, Omar still finds ways to craft his own opportunities for creativity. His love for making desserts, especially crème brûlée, reflects the precision and patience that also define his professional life. For Omar, every challenge, whether it’s engineering a building or perfecting a recipe, is an opportunity waiting to be seized.

Ryan Baumgart is a Project Executive at BranchPattern, where he leads with energy and passion, managing teams, building strong client relationships, and providing top-notch technical support. He thrives on the variety of projects he gets to tackle, the excitement of travel, and the unique opportunities to work directly with building owners—making him feel like a true building scientist. Ryan’s enthusiasm shines through in every aspect of his work, whether he’s coordinating teams, overseeing commissioning, or driving building certifications to success.

With a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from New Mexico State University, Ryan combines his solid technical foundation with a zest for innovation. As a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) and a certified LEED AP BD+C, CxA, and WELL AP, he’s always pushing the envelope in the industry. His involvement with organizations like the USGBC and ACG further showcases his commitment to making a difference. Ryan’s career highlights are as impressive as they are varied—from performing building envelope spray testing at 14,000 feet above sea level on Pikes Peak to commissioning an office space for a prominent Silicon Valley firm and passing the PE exam with flying colors.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ryan is the go-to guy for car shopping—everyone knows he’s got the best advice. In the kitchen, he’s been turning up the heat since age five, perfecting his cooking skills with a passion for spicy food that’s as bold as his personality. His adventurous spirit fuels his love for travel, where exploring cultures from around the globe inspires his culinary creations.

An optimizer at heart, Ryan Tushner infuses his role as Associate Principal at BranchPattern with vibrant enthusiasm and a relentless pursuit of efficiency and excellence. In every project, Ryan's passion for optimizing processes and outcomes drives his work as a LEED subject matter expert, account manager, and Technical Lead for the Volume Department. Collaborating with a talented team, he’s dedicated to creating positive environmental impacts and enhancing lives through sustainable practices. He believes that the better they accomplish their work, the better the world becomes.

Ryan’s academic journey, which includes a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Arts in Architectural Engineering from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, has equipped him with a robust foundation in sustainability consulting, commissioning, project management, and engineering. He is a registered Professional Engineer, a certified Commissioning Authority (CxA), and holds multiple LEED accreditations, including LEED AP BD+C and LEED AP ID+C. His career achievements include leading the certification of over 300 LEED-certified projects worldwide and authoring LEED Volume Programs for 12 of the world’s largest industrial real estate developers. His role as the primary commissioning authority for the 1.2 million square foot renovation of the John C. Kluczynski Federal Building in Chicago, Illinois, speaks to his commissioning and complex project management abilities.

A lifelong learner, Ryan has been an avid skill collector since his teenage years. His diverse talents span welding, automotive repair, real estate investment, plumbing and electrical work, piano, whipping up gourmet dishes, conversing in three languages, and savvy world travel on a budget. His drive to continually grow and refine his abilities is a testament to his commitment to making the most of every opportunity, both professionally and personally.

Stu is dedicated to transforming design to help people and organizations thrive. He collaborates closely with customers to craft solutions that align with both environmental goals and the evolving needs of the real estate sector. As a licensed architect with broad technical expertise, Stu is a trusted resource in the industry.

Stu specializes in high-performance building design and indoor environmental quality, always keeping occupant well-being at the forefront. Internationally, he has presented on engineering the occupant experience for CIBSE. He has degrees from the Illinois Institute of Technology and the University of Nebraska and has taught systems integration to architecture students at the latter. Stu believes that the design and construction industry should reflect the community, and has mentored in public schools through STEM programs for fifteen years.

Learning is core to Stu, who loves exchanging ideas and fostering professional growth within BranchPattern. His curiosity and openness to fresh ideas drive his approach to complex problems. Stu believes that nature enriches our lives and is working to integrate biodiversity into the design process. When not working, Stuart enjoys perpetual home improvement projects and playing GO. He lives in Omaha, Nebraska with his partner Dana.

Adam Westman brings a dynamic blend of technology and sustainability to his role as a Commissioning Agent at BranchPattern. His adeptness at setting up and analyzing building data remotely, combined with a solutions-focused attitude, makes him a leader in driving innovative and efficient building performance solutions. Adam's philosophy of building on innovative programs and leveraging AI analysis keeps BranchPattern at the forefront of the building sciences field, continually pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Adam holds a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and Physics from the University of Mississippi and is affiliated with BIG, demonstrating his dedication to continuous learning and professional growth. His career highlights include joining BranchPattern's commissioning team, managing Bluerithm software, creating automated commissioning A3 Status Reports, and building a robust monitoring-based commissioning program with SkySpark and Switch.

Outside of work, Adam is a multifaceted individual with a wide range of interests. He enjoys playing the piano, 3D printing, indoor gardening, knife throwing, and crocheting. A dedicated volunteer, he contributes his time to Habitat for Humanity and the Denver Botanical Gardens.

A skilled Electrical Engineer, Alex Egley, is known for transforming complex challenges into innovative electrical solutions. Embracing unique projects, Alex thrives on designs that demand creativity and thoughtful approaches. His significant projects reflect a passion for community enhancement, with his team's creativity and dedication ensuring buildings that offer comfortable and meaningful experiences for all building occupants.

Alex's academic journey, earning both a Bachelor's and a Master of Science in Architectural Engineering from the University of Kansas, has given him a strong foundation in the measurable aspects of engineering design. Inspired by Louis Kahn's idea that a great building "must begin with the unmeasurable," Alex focuses on a human-centered design approach. This philosophy, paired with BranchPattern's mission of "Improving Life Through Better Built Environments," motivates him to create solutions that are both innovative and impactful.

Beyond his professional achievements, Alex is an avid golfer, disc golfer, and soccer player. A lesser-known talent is his ability to play the piano.

Andrea Zugelder is a Senior Associate and Project Coordinator at BranchPattern, where she plays a crucial role in ensuring the engineering team meets all project deadlines and milestones. Reflecting Fred Rogers' insight that "successful people delight in what they're doing," Andrea brings genuine joy and passion to her work. She is always looking to remain teachable, seeking ways to enhance her skills, company processes, and team happiness.

As a driving force behind optimizing processes, Andrea has significantly enhanced review times and team collaboration by streamlining BranchPattern's Construction Administration process. With a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from the University of Phoenix, she has a solid foundation in project coordination and systems administration. Her dedication to continual improvement is evident in her ability to develop and maintain effective processes that boost project deliverables and communication.

Her vibrant life outside the office matches her professional enthusiasm. Andrea possesses an impressive depth of knowledge about true crime, cults, and the beloved Mr. Rogers. She channels her passion into community service, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, NourishKC, and KC Pet Project, making a tangible difference in her community. When she's not volunteering, Andrea enjoys spending time with her family and her rescue dogs, and she finds joy in exploring and sharing new music, which reflects her love for creativity and expression.

In his role as IT Manager at BranchPattern, Anthony Peters is responsible for enabling technology across the company, managing the Help Desk, overseeing costs, and collaborating with leadership to solve complex problems. One of his favorite lines, "All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost," from J.R.R. Tolkien, resonates in his day-to-day work, reflecting his blend of innovation and thorough due diligence as he navigates the tech landscape with both adventurousness and reliability.

Anthony holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from Friends University. His academic journey provided him with a solid foundation in business principles, while his career has further honed his skills, instilling in him a meticulous attention to detail and a knack for asking insightful questions. His strength lies in his ability to understand and optimize complex processes and systems, ensuring seamless workflows and clear communication for all users. This unique skill set, paired with his passion for tackling challenges, makes him an invaluable team member and a cornerstone of the team's success—proving that the true gold often lies where others don't think to look.

When he gets to escape from behind the screens, Anthony finds joy in woodworking. He enjoys a strong connection to the creative process of taking raw materials to completed pieces and the satisfaction that comes from attempting to realize his vision.

Ben Prescott’s approach to commissioning can be summed up in his go-to phrase: “Do good always”—because if you’re going to do something, you might as well do it right. As a Project Executive and Commissioning Agent at BranchPattern, Ben dives headfirst into complex projects, ensuring that building systems are not just up and running, but operating at their absolute best. Known for his technical expertise and ability to tackle unexpected challenges with a calm demeanor (and a touch of humor), Ben keeps everything on track while making sure his clients feel supported from start to finish.

Backed by a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering from the University of Nebraska, Ben pairs technical depth with a dedication to professional growth. He’s certified as an EIT and CxA, and is a committed member of ASHRAE and ACG, staying active in these industry organizations to stay on top of the latest developments in building performance and sustainability. Ben has led successful commissioning efforts on high-profile projects like Joslyn Art Museum Hawks Pavillion Expansion and the Nebraska State Capitol HVAC upgrade. His strength lies in anticipating potential issues before they become real problems, while maintaining a positive outlook that keeps the team motivated—even when things get complicated. Ben’s mix of technical depth, project management expertise, and easygoing attitude make him a trusted partner in every project he takes on.

After hours, Ben keeps things simple—whether he’s out tossing discs or catching up with friends over a game of bags, it’s all about unwinding and enjoying the moment. He’ll be the first to crack a joke or encourage someone else’s shot, keeping the mood easygoing and fun. For Ben, it’s less about the game and more about connecting with the people around him.

Bev keeps the financial gears of BranchPattern going, ensuring the organization’s operations run smoothly and efficiently. With a keen eye for detail, she excels at setting up new clients and projects, managing billing, and ensuring seamless workflows through Deltek, ClickUp, and TEAMS. Bev’s extensive experience spans Engineering, Building Science, and Finance, showcasing her adaptability and eagerness to tackle new challenges head-on.

Her team-first attitude and willingness to lend a hand make her an invaluable asset to the BranchPattern family. Bev thrives on the variety of tasks her role encompasses, relishing the flexibility it offers and the opportunity to contribute wherever needed.

Outside of work, Bev cherishes spending quality time with her family, cheering on her favorite teams, particularly Husker Volleyball and Husker Football. A creative spirit, she enjoys crochetin and cooking, especially desserts. Her chocolate chocolate chip Bundt cakes are always in high demand. Whether she’s at a game, crafting a new crochet piece, or whipping up a sweet treat, Bev brings warmth and joy to everything she does.

Brad Stiles thrives on transforming designs into reality and witnessing mechanical systems come to life. As a Mechanical Engineer at BranchPattern, he excels at diving into complex system designs and then stepping into the field to see them in action. His favorite aspect of the job? Leaving the office to hit the job site and observe how everything comes together. For Brad, there’s nothing quite like seeing how all the components fit and operate as planned—and making real-time adjustments to ensure each project runs smoothly.

With a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from Kansas State University, Brad has developed a strong foundation in technical precision and energy-efficient systems. He is a licensed Professional Engineer (PE), Certified Energy Manager (CEM), and LEED AP. His commitment to sustainability and innovative mechanical designs is matched by a dedication for continuous learning—currently, he is pursuing his Certified GeoExchange Designer certification. As an active member of ASHRAE, Brad stays abreast of industry trends and developments, ensuring his designs deliver exceptional performance and tangible impact. Whether overseeing a geo-exchange system installation or managing a large-scale multi-family project, he eagerly tackles each challenge with passion and precision.

Outside of work, Brad embraces the great outdoors through kayaking, camping, and fishing, always on the lookout for new adventures. Whether he’s paddling on a serene lake, setting up camp under the stars, or casting a line in a tranquil stream, Brad finds joy in exploring nature and creating lasting memories. His love for adventure keeps his spirit refreshed and fuels his drive to tackle any challenge.

Brian Blacka is a Project Executive and Team Lead at BranchPattern, where he manages a team of project managers overseeing sustainability certifications for large portfolio clients. With a passion for problem-solving and a drive to find the best solutions, Brian plays an integral role in guiding his team and clients toward achieving their sustainability goals. His background in engineering gives him a unique edge, particularly when it comes to interpreting drawings and commissioning mechanical systems.

Brian holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and is a Certified Commissioning Authority (CxA), LEED AP BD+C, and ActiveScore AP. His expertise in sustainability certifications and his involvement with the USGBC Central Plains further fuel his commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable design. A highlight of his career has been contributing to a team responsible for a large portion of the LEED certifications being pursued globally, a testament to his impact in the field. With plans to earn his WELL AP certification, Brian continues to grow in his field, contributing to BranchPattern’s pioneering efforts in the sustainable building industry.

Outside of work, Brian’s adventurous spirit truly comes alive. An avid mountain biker and skier, Brian doesn’t let living in the Midwest limit his love for the great outdoors—he’s always on the hunt for new trails to tackle and slopes to conquer. His dedication to adventure mirrors the perseverance and leadership he honed as an Eagle Scout, qualities that have shaped both his personal and professional journeys. Whether navigating a challenging downhill course or leading a project team, Brian’s enthusiasm for overcoming obstacles and embracing new experiences drives him to excel in all areas of his life.

Jeff Teel brings over 25 years of experience in architectural acoustics to his role as Acoustics Team Lead at BranchPattern, where he is guiding the firm’s acoustical consulting practice into a new era of integrated, occupant-focused design. Formerly Director of Acoustics at his previous employer, Jeff has long been regarded as a respected expert in sound and vibration control across complex building systems. His approach balances deep technical knowledge with a commitment to practical, project-specific solutions that enhance well-being and elevate the built environment. 

From Olympic venues and arenas to educational campuses and healthcare facilities, Jeff’s portfolio spans national and international work, always focused on optimizing acoustic comfort in spaces where people live, work, and connect. His expertise includes community noise studies, feasibility testing, and extensive field verification—ensuring every recommendation performs as intended, in real-world conditions. 

Now leading BranchPattern’s Acoustics Team, Jeff is focused on streamlining consulting processes and embedding acoustics more deeply into sustainability and building science strategies. As Principal Brad Lewis puts it, “Having Jeff lead our acoustics practice is a game-changer.” His leadership is accelerating the team’s growth and impact across BranchPattern’s national practice. 

Jeff is a longtime member of the Acoustical Society of America (ASA) and the Institute of Noise Control Engineering (INCE). He has presented at major industry events like NoiseCon, contributed to peer-reviewed publications, and served as an adjunct instructor at the University of Kansas School of Engineering, where he helped mentor the next generation of engineers. 

Throughout his career, Jeff has stayed grounded in what matters most: helping clients solve challenges, mentoring young professionals, and experiencing the tangible outcomes of thoughtful acoustic design. Whether testing an arena at 2 a.m. ahead of the Winter Olympics or navigating a barefoot marsh adventure for a noise study in the Cayman Islands, Jeff approaches his work with equal parts precision and humor. 

Outside the office, Jeff channels his passion for music, having toured for decades with his bands across 42 states. As a former college football player, he brings the same team spirit and resilience to his work. Driven by a commitment to growth and leadership, Jeff is focused on listening—both to the science of acoustics and the people behind each project. His goal is clear: to ensure that acoustics are not just heard, but deeply felt, in every successful endeavor.

Carlos Kelly is a Building Performance Modeler at BranchPattern, where he’s dedicated to helping clients reduce their environmental footprint through innovative energy modeling. He approaches every project like a detective, thriving on unique challenges and transforming data into engaging stories—because to Carlos, sustainability should be anything but boring.

With a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from Mexico's Valley University, Kelly has a solid foundation in design and sustainability principles. His credentials include Fitwel Ambassador, LEED AP BD+C, O+M, and ActiveScore AP. Actively involved with the Young Architects Forum and USGBC, Kelly became the youngest professional in Mexico to achieve his credentials and contributed to several first-in-region LEED certifications, giving him a broad understanding of diverse approaches to sustainability within the AEC industry. During his time in Mexico, Kelly also led the LEED Lab program at Monterrey Institute of Technology’s Guadalajara campus for two years. He sees this experience as a pivotal opportunity to pass the torch, helping to shape a new generation of professionals poised to lead the sustainability industry.

Carlos sets a high bar for himself, aiming to present at least one local, national, and international event each year. This year, he had the privilege of speaking at the ASHRAE International Decarbonization Conference in Madrid, where he presented the City of Boulder’s new headquarters project—a perfect fit for the conference’s focus on low-carbon strategies, blending passive and active systems. He also spoke at Build PGH 2023 about ESG at both the project and portfolio scale. For Carlos, presenting is more than just sharing knowledge; it’s about making connections, stepping out of the box, and seeing what others are doing. He’s grateful that BranchPattern supports and encourages Employee-Owners to seize such opportunities.

Known for lightening the mood with his jokes, Carlos brings a vibrant energy to his work environment. Always eager to earn new credentials and continually grow within the organization, he’s committed to supporting his peers. Guided by the philosophy, "Everything you do is something you chose not to do," Carlos is determined to make intentional, impactful choices in his career.

When he’s not at work, Carlos is all about the outdoors. Whether it’s dining on the terrace, grilling on the deck, reading at a picnic, or staying active with tennis, skimboarding, kayaking, or skateboarding, Carlos is up for anything that gets him outside. His hobbies include exploring new places, trying new things, diving into good books, and during the winter, indulging in more TV than he probably should. A fan of fresh food, his top favorite will always be mariscos, especially ceviche.

Julia Wattick is a Registered Architect and the Materials Team Lead at BranchPattern, specializing in sustainable design with a focus on reducing embodied carbon and advancing material sustainability. Julia combines her expertise in architecture with a passion for creating solutions that improve environmental performance, enhance occupant well-being, and celebrate the unique stories of the communities she serves. She excels in integrating the built and natural environments to deliver innovative, client-focused results. 

In her role, Julia manages the Materials team, leads business development, and serves as a subject matter expert in sustainable materials and carbon accounting. Her team employs Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology to measure and analyze the environmental impact of building materials, supporting clients in achieving meaningful sustainability outcomes. Known for her problem-solving skills and ability to distill complex challenges into clear, actionable plans, Julia inspires growth both within her team and the broader AEC industry. 

As a co-lead for the Pittsburgh HUB of the Carbon Leadership Forum and a member of its Regional Policy HUB, Julia is a recognized advocate for climate-conscious design. Her professional achievements include becoming a Registered Architect, earning her LEED AP credential, founding BranchPattern’s Materials Team, and becoming a sought-after speaker on embodied carbon in Pittsburgh. She has also led integrated design workshops for notable projects such as Cambridge Crossing and the Esplanade. 

Outside of work, Julia dedicates her time to community service with organizations like 412 Food Rescue and the Pittsburgh Food Bank. She is driven by a philosophy of continuous learning and collaboration, embracing the belief that while she may not have all the answers, she can always find them. Julia envisions a future where sustainable development meets the needs of today’s generation without compromising those of future generations, a goal she champions both professionally and personally.