Employee Owners

Erika Attebery is passionate about creating comfortable, efficient spaces that bring engineering to life. As a Mechanical Engineer at BranchPattern, she specializes in HVAC and plumbing design, ensuring that every building system she works on is optimized for both performance and sustainability. For Erika, it’s not just about designing systems; it’s about crafting solutions that truly impact the lives of those who rely on them every day.

With a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a Minor in Mathematics from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Erika brings a strong analytical approach to each project. Her technical expertise is complemented by her enthusiasm for collaboration, making her a valued team member who fosters meaningful relationships along the way. Whether tackling complex design challenges or fine-tuning details, Erika is dedicated to ensuring every space she works on feels just right.

Outside of work, Erika enjoys spending time with friends, family, and her two distinct German Shepherds—one black and one white. Their playful personalities bring joy to her life, and she loves taking them on walks and on adventures. Erika also enjoys reading, particularly romance and mystery novels, with vacations serving as the perfect opportunity to dive into a good book.

Jessica Kampmeier is a Mechanical Engineer at BranchPattern, known for her relentless pursuit of excellence in every project she touches. Whether she’s designing mechanical or plumbing systems, her attention to detail ensures that each project is completed to the highest standards.

Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Engineering from the University of Kansas, Jessica relishes the ever-evolving nature of her work, which keeps her on her toes and fuels her love for learning. Her commitment to excellence is highlighted by her achievement of earning her Professional Engineer (PE) license in Kansas while eight months pregnant—a true testament to her determination. As a dedicated member of ASHRAE and the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), Jessica is passionate about advancing her field and continually seeks opportunities for growth.

Beyond her engineering expertise, Jessica is deeply committed to making a positive impact in her community. She volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and the Red Cross, living by the belief that “everything happens for a reason,” and finding beauty in the growth that follows life’s challenges. Jessica is also a whiz with Excel coding, adding another layer of efficiency to her work.

Outside of work, Jessica finds joy in traveling, gardening, and creating things with her own hands. She’s passionate about exploring new cultures and sampling local cuisines, with Bali being the next destination on her travel list. When she’s at home, Jessica enjoys the satisfaction of nurturing her garden, where the taste of homegrown vegetables far surpasses anything store-bought. Her DIY projects include designing and building a chicken coop for her mom, crocheting, painting, and decorating cakes, but her proudest creation is her daughter.

Jon Brolhorst is the Electrical Quality Control Manager at BranchPattern, where his wealth of experience and passion for variety drive his success. Jon’s role is as dynamic as it is impactful; he thrives on the challenges that come with reviewing design drawings for QAQC and mentoring staff with insightful, experience-driven feedback. His expertise is a cornerstone for resolving complex project issues, guiding teams to achieve excellence across a diverse portfolio—from small tenant improvements to large-scale hospitals and data centers.

With an Associate degree in Architectural Engineering from Southeast Community College-Milford as his foundation, Jon has cultivated deep expertise in power and lighting design, code research, and specification creation. His knowledge and hands-on approach ensure that every project he touches is innovative and compliant, with meticulous attention to detail.

Outside the office, Jon finds joy in fostering kittens from the Kansas City Pet Project and nurturing his garden. His passion for home food canning and pickling, especially his popular dill pickles, is well-known among friends and family. Jon also takes pride in cultivating Missouri native plants and flowers, which support local habitats and promote biodiversity in his community.

Nathan Castillo is a Building Technology Consultant at BranchPattern, where he specializes in designing and implementing intuitive, high-performance systems. With over 20 years of experience design for diverse industries, Nathan is committed to client collaboration and transforming complex challenges into elegant, functional solutions. His work distinguished by a balance of historical insight and forward-thinking innovation, ensuring that the systems he develops are both technologically advanced and socially responsive.

Nathan’s academic foundation in philosophy and history informs his approach to system design, allowing him to contextualize technological advancements within broader social and cultural frameworks. His career highlights include designing culturally significant spaces for performing arts centers, educational institutions, and museums, as well as establishing and expanding AV departments at two universities. He has also managed thousands of live events, seamlessly integrating technical expertise with creative vision.

Certified in Agile Project Management, WiredScore, and SmartScore, Nathan brings a deep understanding of project management and technology systems to every engagement. He stays at the forefront of industry trends as a member of the Audio Engineering Society (AES), AVIXA, and the Society of U.S. Intellectual History.

Passionate about lifelong learning, he mentors early-career professionals, fostering the next generation of industry talent. Beyond his professional work, Nathan volunteers as a business consultant, offering strategic guidance to small businesses in his community. He is also an artist and experimental musician, drawing inspiration from the Bauhaus movement to create visual art and modular synthesizer compositions.

Rich Compton is BranchPattern’s Building Automation and Controls (BMS) expert and commissioning trainer, recognized for his ability to tackle the most complex commissioning projects across the nation. Specializing in data centers, hospitals, labs, and other high-stakes facilities, Rich serves as the go-to problem-solver for intricate building systems and integrated sequences. Whether he’s troubleshooting a challenging BMS setup or training the next generation of commissioning professionals, he thrives on bringing decades of hands-on experience to every project. For Rich, it’s not just about systems; it’s about creating environments that perform flawlessly, regardless of the complexities involved.

Rich holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Atlantic Southeastern University and boasts a comprehensive toolkit of certifications, including LEED AP, NEPP T&B, and factory training on over 20 different Building Management Systems, such as Tridium, Siemens, and Johnson Controls Metasys. Renowned for his ability to dive deep into commissioning challenges, he consistently ensures even the most difficult systems run smoothly.

Rich’s impact extends beyond building performance. As the founder of Green Pirates, a non-profit dedicated to cleaning up Florida’s waterways and islands, he channels his passion for sustainability into meaningful action. At BranchPattern, he is a mentor and guide, eager to share his knowledge with younger team members. For Rich, it’s not just about what you build; it’s about the legacy you create both in the field and in the lives you uplift along the way.

In his personal time, Rich expresses his creativity through painting landscapes, referring to himself with humility as a "struggling artist." When he’s not immersed in art, you can often find him out on his boat, fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. A former boxer and Golden Gloves Champion, he brings the same determination and grit from the ring into every aspect of his life. An avid traveler, Rich is currently converting an old school bus into an RV for cross-country adventures.

For Sean Butler, the secret to success is simple: “Do the hard thing first and make life easier for future Sean.” As a Senior Associate and Project Executive on BranchPattern’s Commissioning Team, Sean lives by this mantra, tackling challenges head-on so that every project runs seamlessly from start to finish. Whether guiding his team or mentoring new engineers, he believes in getting the toughest tasks out of the way early to pave the road for smooth, successful outcomes later.

Sean’s technical expertise, supported by a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of North Dakota and an Associate’s degree in Computer Programming from Pittsburgh Technical Institute, allows him to dive into complex mechanical systems with confidence. As a Certified Commissioning Authority (CxA), Sean knows that addressing challenges early leads to efficient, high-performing systems down the line. And while he's focusing on the present, he’s also planning for the future—working toward accreditation from the Uptime Institute to expand BranchPattern’s reach in data center commissioning. Sean applies this same forward-thinking mindset to sustainability. In his work with Pittsburgh’s 2030 District, he focuses on reducing carbon emissions in existing buildings, knowing that the hard work done now will yield long-term environmental benefits. For Sean, every project is not just about immediate results but about laying the foundation for a more sustainable future.

When Sean’s not guiding projects, you’ll likely find him in the gym, pursuing his passion for competitive powerlifting. It’s in the weight room where Sean thrives, pushing himself to hit new personal records and overcome physical and mental barriers. For him, powerlifting is a way to continually challenge himself and build resilience—both qualities that mirror his approach to life and work. Sean also brings this philosophy to his community work, co-leading the stewardship committee at the Pittsburgh office. Through volunteer efforts with organizations like the Pittsburgh Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, and TreePittsburgh, Sean is committed to building a better future, one step at a time.

Leading the LEED Volume team at BranchPattern, Kateland brings the energy needed for running our at-scale LEED certification program. Her experience and leadership contributes to our clients’ portfolio level ESG achievements. But what truly sets Kateland apart is her passion for sharing that expertise—not just as a leader, but as a mentor who’s dedicated to elevating her team and inspiring the next generation of green building professionals.

Kateland graduated with a B.A. in Biology & Environmental Science from the University of San Diego in 2004 and was working at the Nature Conservancy when she volunteered for a Green Building Tour for Earth Day in 2005.  Intrigued, she started working for a small commercial TI contractor and got her LEED AP in 2007.  With LEED really gaining ground, she gained experience in LEED for Homes, Building Science testing, and participated in LEED Retail and LEED ND pilot programs.  Following this, Kateland segued to the real estate sector, certifying existing office assets under LEED Operations and Maintenance.  Directly prior to joining BranchPattern, Kateland worked on a large retail volume portfolio as well as complex institutional projects doing LEED BD+C.  All of this experience over the last 18 years has informed a breadth of experience in the built environment, and Kateland has become a process champion for delivering clients' sustainability goals at scale.  

When she’s not navigating sustainability certifications, you might catch Kateland singing along to the 90's country, possibly while line dancing, and getting in the water whenever she can for scuba and free diving.  Whether she's exploring new depths or charting new paths in sustainability, Kateland's always on the lookout for her next adventure.

Lou Markovic is all about building better—both in design and in relationships. As Team Lead for Building Enclosures at BranchPattern, Lou leads the charge in providing Building Enclosure Commissioning (BECx) and Consulting services, helping clients create durable, high-performing buildings that are as impactful for people as they are for the planet. For Lou, the fun is in the details—he loves the technical challenge of figuring out how things fit together and how to make them work even better. Every day brings a new project, a new puzzle to solve, and that’s what keeps him energized.

Lou’s journey began with a B.A. in Architecture from the University of Minnesota, followed by a Master of Architecture from Clemson University, establishing a foundation for over two decades of architectural expertise. As a registered architect and Certified Passive House Consultant (CPHC), Lou brings a passion for sustainability and high-performance design to every project. Leading a project to achieve Passive House certification stands as a proud achievement, demonstrating his commitment to turning ambitious goals into tangible results. Lou thrives on collaboration, using his deep understanding of building science to help teams create innovative, energy-efficient buildings. In addition to his CPHC certification, he’s a Building Enclosure Commissioning Process Provider (BECxP) and an active member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), always pushing for better, more sustainable solutions in the built environment.

Outside the office, you’ll find Lou guarding the net as an ice hockey goalie, a lifelong passion that’s been with him since childhood. Known for his quick reflexes and cool composure on the ice, Lou plays with the same determination and focus he brings to his work. Even after all these years, he still hits the rink twice a week, relishing the competition and camaraderie the sport offers. For Lou, it’s the perfect way to stay sharp, energized, and connected to a sport he loves.

Quinn Thakur is a Project Manager and Sustainability Consultant with a diverse background that enables her to approach projects from the perspectives of both design and construction teams. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Interior Architecture (BIArch) from Chatham University and spent eight years working as an architectural designer on large commercial projects. Additionally, Quinn gained hands-on experience in the construction industry as a rigging grip in TV and film.

At BranchPattern, Quinn is known for her ability to bring clarity, organization, and energy to complex subjects. Her multifaceted viewpoint helps teams integrate sustainability into every aspect of their projects. She is an engaging speaker, having presented at Build PGH 2024, where she showcased her talent for making technical discussions dynamic and accessible.

Quinn holds several credentials, including LEED AP Neighborhood Development, Fitwel Ambassador, and ActiveScore AP. She also earned a certificate in Healthier Materials and Sustainable Buildings from Parsons School of Design. Actively involved in her professional community, she connects with organizations such as the USGBC’s National Capital Region and the Urban Land Institute, and she represents BranchPattern in the Fitwel Provider Program and Stewardship Committee. Passionate about mentorship, Quinn is dedicated to supporting the next generation of professionals.

Outside of work, Quinn enjoys photography, yoga, picnics, and watching historical documentaries. Her favorite aspect of her role at BranchPattern is the sense of community and the shared commitment to continually improving the built environment.

Robin Kozisek is the financial cornerstone of BranchPattern, ensuring every project is set up for success from the very start. As Finance Coordinator, she oversees project setup, contract verification, and the entire invoicing process with unwavering precision and expertise. Robin leads revenue forecasting efforts, guiding Project Executives through key financial steps to keep projects on track and maintain momentum. With nearly two decades at BranchPattern, she’s earned a reputation as a trusted financial strategist and problem-solver, providing the highest level of support to both internal teams and clients.

Robin holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business from Doane College and is a LEED Green Associate, underscoring her commitment to both business excellence and sustainability. Her organizational skills and ability to balance independent work with collaboration have been instrumental in BranchPattern’s growth and ongoing success.

Robin's personal passions reflect the discipline and focus she brings to her professional life. As a First Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo, she embodies perseverance and precision, applying the same dedication to her training as she does to her work. Beyond martial arts, her creative side shines through her past musical performances at weddings, showcasing her versatility and love for expression. Whether at work or in her personal pursuits, Robin is driven by a passion for growth and a commitment to excellence in all she does.

Brandon Frey is a Mechanical Team Lead at BranchPattern who thrives at the intersection of systems, strategy, and teamwork. With a strong background in mechanical, plumbing, electrical, fire protection, and fire alarm systems, he’s led work on everything from government buildings to multi-family developments, always with an eye for detail and a steady hand when things get complicated.

He’s not just a technical expert. He’s a team builder. Known for his calm leadership and collaborative mindset, Brandon has become a go-to mentor for younger engineers, helping them find their footing and grow their confidence project by project. He’s a licensed professional engineer and an active member of the American Society of Plumbing Engineers, always ready to dig into the technical weeds while keeping the bigger picture in view.

Outside the office, Brandon swaps floor plans for fresh air. As a proud girl dad, he spends his downtime exploring the outdoors with his daughters, whether it's a hike or a quiet backyard full of imagination. And while family time keeps him grounded, one of his long-term goals is to explore Japan, taking in its architecture, traditions, and culinary culture. But not through the lens of an engineer, but as someone who values how design shapes experience, emotion, and memory.

Susan Thomas is on a mission to create lasting, sustainable change. As a Project Executive for LEED Volume projects at BranchPattern, she’s the driving force behind certification efforts, leading a talented team of Project Managers to ensure every project meets the highest environmental standards. With her deep expertise as a Sustainable Building Consultant, Susan partners with clients to navigate the complexities of LEED and other sustainability certifications, offering technical guidance every step of the way. Her work doesn’t just reshape spaces—it inspires the people she works with, proving that sustainable change can be both impactful and transformative.

With a Master of Science from the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Susan brings a wealth of knowledge in sustainable practices. She’s a powerhouse in LEED Certification Consulting and Material Transparency, and her credentials—LEED AP BD+C and Active Score AP—back it up. Susan has already spearheaded the certification of 16 LEED v4 Volume Projects, showing her unstoppable drive to create greener, more sustainable spaces. As a member of USGBC Washington, she’s constantly pushing the envelope in sustainable building, helping shape a better future for the environment and the people in it.

Susan’s talent extends beyond sustainability—she’s also an accomplished singer, trained in Indian classical (Carnatic & Hindustani) and Western classical music. Her passion for music infuses her work with creativity and flair, giving her a unique approach to problem-solving. Whether she’s leading a project or carrying a tune, Susan is all about hitting the right notes—both in her work and in her musical pursuits!

Tu Le believes that success comes from embracing new opportunities, and as an Electrical Engineer at BranchPattern, he’s always looking for the next chance to improve. Tu specializes in creating detailed electrical system designs and selecting equipment that enhances system performance. The constant evolution of the industry keeps him engaged, offering plenty of moments to learn and grow.

Tu holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and while his technical expertise is key, his openness to collaboration and creativity is what drives him forward. He thrives on working with his team to explore new ideas and solve problems in innovative ways. Looking ahead, Tu is focused on earning his Professional Engineer (PE) license in the coming years. Always striving for growth, he knows that success comes from being ready to seize the right opportunities at the right time. His forward-thinking mindset keeps him on the path of continuous improvement, ensuring he’s prepared for whatever challenges come next.

Outside of work, Tu enjoys spending his free time working on cars, a passion he’s nurtured over the years. He’s currently restoring and building a 1973 Datsun 240z, a project that allows him to apply his problem-solving skills in a different, hands-on way. However, his greatest joy comes from spending quality time with his family. Together, they love exploring new restaurants and trying different types of food, always on the lookout for their next culinary adventure. Whether it's tinkering in the garage or discovering new flavors, Tu embraces each experience with curiosity and enthusiasm.

As Project Executive at BranchPattern, Zabdi Valdez leads the charge on international projects, guiding Project Managers through the LEED certification process for the Volume Program. She ensures everything is on track—overseeing documentation, enforcing quality control, and communicating directly with clients and stakeholders. Zabdi thrives on collaboration, and her passion for building strong client relationships drives every project forward with energy and precision.

Zabdi earned her Bachelor of Architecture from Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey University, equipping her with both the technical expertise and leadership skills to excel in complex, fast-paced environments. With a clear focus on sustainability, she’s known for her hands-on approach, ensuring every project exceeds LEED standards while fostering collaboration among teams. Her list of accomplishments includes certifying 10 LEED Volume v4 Silver and Gold projects in Mexico and the U.S. Zabdi also improved the billing and communication process for one of the firm’s largest clients in Mexico and is the primary point of contact for all Latin American projects under the v4 Volume Program. Whether she’s streamlining workflows or driving innovation in sustainability, Zabdi is known for delivering results with energy and focus.

Outside of the office, Zabdi’s creativity knows no bounds. Her passion for pen and ink aristry brings her a unique sense of fulfillment, allowing her creativity to thrive. The precision and patience required in her art reflect her approach to managing projects—thoughtful, detailed, and always aiming for excellence. Fluent in Spanish and English, and learning Portuguese, Zabdi is constantly seeking new challenges, both professionally and personally.

As a Green Building Certifications Consultant and Project Manager at BranchPattern, Aleni Tsikhlakis is known for her expertise in guiding projects to meet rigorous sustainability standards. Her dedication to sustainability is deeply influenced by the Greek concept of "Agape," which embodies selfless love and commitment. This philosophy permeates her professional and personal life, ensuring that each project achieves its environmental objectives with meticulous care.

Aleni's professional journey is marked by rapid growth and notable achievements. Since joining BranchPattern, she has quickly advanced in her role, earning new credentials and mastering various scopes of work. She holds LEED AP BD+C and ActiveScore AP accreditations, is a TRUE Advisor, and an Engineer in Training. Aleni graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the Missouri University of Science & Technology and a TIME MBE from the University of Crete, Greece. Actively engaged with the USGBC Central Plains Chapter, ASHRAE, and CREW KC, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her field.

In her personal life, Aleni enjoys competitive equestrian sports, playing music, and experimenting with makeup artistry. Her experience living in Greece has given her intermediate proficiency in Greek and a rich cultural background.

Dylan Dropinski is a Commissioning Project Manager at BranchPattern, where no two days—and no two projects—are ever quite the same. Whether he’s crafting a Cx plan, coordinating with owners and subs, or jumping into documentation and testing, Dylan brings structure to the chaos. With a sharp eye for technical detail and a big-picture mindset, he helps buildings hit performance targets and actually work the way they’re supposed to.

Armed with a master’s in architectural engineering (with a focus in lighting and electrical systems), Dylan brings a well-rounded lens to every task, from design reviews and performance testing to guiding contractors through resolution meetings. His experience managing teams of all sizes taught him how to communicate clearly, stay organized under pressure, and get results without ever losing his cool. He’s proud of the work he’s done since joining BranchPattern, especially the chance to grow quickly, study abroad in Italy, and even win second place in the Howard Brandston Lighting Design Competition.

“Money is replaceable. Make memories.” That’s Dylan’s philosophy and he’s built a lifestyle around it. He’s surprisingly good at getting out of travel binds, thanks to years of hopping airlines and piecing together routes to far-flung destinations with a clear head and zero panic. He trains like a novice strongman, not to compete, but for functional strength that carries over into hiking, everyday life, and the occasional chance to impress the kids in his family. Speaking of which, his nieces and nephew have officially named him the world’s best uncle, and honestly, they’re not wrong. Whether he’s commissioning a building or planning his next big adventure, Dylan brings steady focus, quiet confidence, and just enough fun to keep things interesting.