Employee Owners

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.

Daniela Perez is a Project Manager at BranchPattern, where she partners with clients and multidisciplinary project teams to achieve LEED certification through thoughtful planning, technical analysis, and coordinated project delivery. She reviews design and construction documentation, performs certification calculations, and develops tailored strategies that help each project meet its unique sustainability goals while maximizing opportunities for success.

Known for her dedication, organization, and solutions-oriented mindset, Daniela enjoys finding the right path for every project rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. As a LEED AP BD+C, she is passionate about helping clients navigate the certification process with confidence while advancing high-performance buildings that benefit both people and the environment. She is committed to continually expanding her expertise in green building and looks forward to supporting an even broader range of sustainability certifications in the future.

Daniela's passion for sustainability extends beyond her project work. She has volunteered with organizations including Habitat for Humanity, Open Door Mission, The Ayin Project (TAP), and Greenbuild, reflecting her commitment to creating positive change both within the industry and in the communities she serves. Earning her master's degree in the United States remains one of her proudest accomplishments and continues to inspire her dedication to lifelong learning and professional growth.

At BranchPattern, Daniela is valued not only for her technical expertise but also for the positivity and encouragement she brings to every team. She believes that achieving exceptional results starts with strong collaboration, and she strives to create an environment where both colleagues and clients feel supported. Guided by the philosophy of appreciating each day as "one more day," Daniela approaches every project with gratitude, optimism, and a commitment to making a lasting impact.

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.

Austin Oliver is a dynamic Commissioning Agent and Project Manager at BranchPattern, primarily leading Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) projects aimed at achieving various Green Building Certifications. His impressive portfolio includes WELL Performance Testing and IEQ testing for clients such as Highmark Health and Valmont, and commissioning projects for Carnegie Mellon University targeting LEED v4 certification.

Austin holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from West Virginia University, which he leverages to bring a building science perspective focused on people’s well-being. As a WELL Performance Testing Agent and RESET AP, he channels his passion for healthier environments into providing data that validates building designs and operations. His dedication to healthier buildings drives him to pursue his WELL AP certification, ensuring he always puts clients first, delivering outstanding service and impactful results.

Outside the office, Austin’s talents are just as impressive. He’s a skilled handyman who fully renovated his father's childhood home, where he now resides. Adding to his list of accomplishments, Austin recently completed his first marathon, with many more likely on the horizon.

Emily Kim is a Project Manager and Volume Project Administrator at BranchPattern, where she coordinates documentation for industrial projects, develops LEED certification strategies, and partners with project teams to advance sustainable, high-performance design. She enjoys diving into the unique characteristics of each project, from regional climate considerations to innovative design solutions, and helping architects and engineers better understand the purpose and value behind LEED requirements.

Drawing on interdisciplinary backgrounds in architecture, landscape architecture, urban design, and Chinese studies, Emily brings a thoughtful, research-driven perspective to every project. Her academic work explored the relationship between the built environment and human health, giving her a strong foundation for evaluating how design decisions, building materials, and construction practices influence both environmental performance and occupant well-being. She is passionate about translating complex sustainability concepts into practical strategies that help project teams achieve their goals.

At BranchPattern, Emily is known for her curiosity, collaborative spirit, and eagerness to learn. She approaches every project with the mindset that there is always something new to discover, whether it's a unique design challenge, an emerging sustainability practice, or an opportunity to share knowledge with colleagues. As she continues pursuing her LEED credentials, she remains committed to expanding her expertise and helping clients create healthier, more sustainable built environments.

Outside of work, Emily enjoys expressing her creativity through music and the arts. She plays piano and clarinet, sings, and enjoys sewing, painting, and drawing. She also speaks Mandarin Chinese and has studied Spanish, Japanese, and Korean. Passionate about lifelong learning and community engagement, Emily looks forward to becoming more involved in local volunteer efforts while continuing to explore ways to improve the health and sustainability of the communities where we live and work.

Avnee Patel is an HR Coordinator at BranchPattern, where she brings a burst of energy and enthusiasm to recruiting, onboarding, and employee engagement. As the CEO of First Impressions, Avnee takes pride in welcoming new hires, making them feel valued and supported from day one. She is passionate about fostering a positive and inclusive work culture, finding joy in connecting with employees across different offices and supporting them throughout their journey at BranchPattern.

Avnee’s educational background, featuring a Bachelor of Science degree from Louisiana State University in Shreveport, fuels her strengths in organization, problem-solving, empathy, and adaptability. Her active membership in SHRM underscores her dedication to professional growth. Avnee’s relentless pursuit of skill enhancement and her commitment to setting a positive example contribute to a thriving and supportive work environment.

Avnee's creative side shines through in her love for cooking, DIY projects, and drawing. She delights in experimenting with new recipes, crafting unique projects, and expressing herself through art. Her creativity and passion for life infuse every aspect of her work and personal life, making her a dynamic and inspiring presence at BranchPattern.

Eric McGowan doesn’t just hear the difference, he makes the difference. As an Acoustics Consultant, he helps projects hit all the right notes by fine-tuning sound isolation, room acoustics, MEP noise control, and environmental noise. Whether troubleshooting a rattle or dialing in the perfect reverberation time, Eric works closely with architects, engineers, and clients to turn acoustic challenges into smooth, sound solutions. His secret? A mix of technical precision, easygoing collaboration, and the ability to explain decibels without giving anyone a headache.

With deep expertise in architectural acoustics and membership in the Acoustical Society of America, Eric has made waves on major projects like the NFL Headquarters in Inglewood and Sirius XM Studios in Hollywood. But perhaps the most meaningful sound to him is progress in his hometown of Kansas City, where he hopes to leave a legacy, one building and one well-balanced soundscape at a time.

When he’s not solving noise mysteries, you’ll likely find Eric strumming his guitar and enjoying life’s quieter joys. Music runs in his veins, as does his support for the Tourette Association of America. Whether tuning an instrument or consulting on a concert hall, Eric brings heart, humor, and harmony to everything he does.

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Bayly Holl is a Project Manager at BranchPattern, where she collaborates with project teams to achieve LEED certification for their buildings. She thrives on working with diverse teams, providing expert guidance on the best environmental and customer-focused strategies. Her passion for solving technical and complex problems makes her an invaluable asset in the pursuit of sustainable solutions.

Certified as a LEED AP BD+C and ActiveScore AP, Bayly possesses a deep understanding of green building practices standards. These certifications, combined with her unique skills such as conducting waste audits, underscore her commitment to comprehensive sustainability practices. Bayly continually seeks to expand her expertise, aiming to work on a broader range of building certifications and further her impact on sustainable development.

Bayly is driven by a deep commitment to the environment. She is always striving to be the best team member possible, continuously seeking opportunities to help the environment through increased volunteering efforts. Bayly’s dedication to environmental stewardship and teamwork exemplifies her unwavering commitment to creating a sustainable future.

When she’s not driving sustainable initiatives at work, Bayly embraces the great outdoors—whether skiing, backcountry skiing, climbing, or hiking through serene forests, her loyal dog is always by her side, sharing in every adventure. Bayly’s passion for environmental stewardship extends to reducing waste, particularly in improving construction and demolition waste practices. At home, she enjoys composting, turning kitchen scraps into rich soil that fuels her garden’s growth.

Gillian Lauter is a Sustainability Consultant at BranchPattern, where her energy and precision shine in every project she undertakes. Specializing in Life Cycle Assessments, she delivers detailed reports, material studies, and presentations that emphasize embodied carbon and reduction strategies. Her passion for sustainability is matched by her commitment to a data-driven approach, particularly in the careful selection of Environmental Product Declarations (EPD).

Gillian’s background in supply chain and procurement gives her a unique perspective on the life cycles of materials, informing her work with a deep understanding of their environmental impact. Currently working towards her LEED GA certification, she is dedicated to advancing her expertise in green building standards and sustainable practices.

Outside of her professional life, Gillian finds solace in the great outdoors, especially in the Pacific Northwest, where she grew up. With cherished memories of backpacking through the Cascades and camping on the coast, she continues to explore nature whenever possible. However, her love for the city is just as strong, often spending weekends visiting art museums, galleries, or working on her own paintings. And when the opportunity arises, you’ll likely find her at a karaoke bar with friends, belting out ABBA classics.

Caitlyn Ziegler is an energetic Proposal Coordinator at BranchPattern who fully embraces the mantra to "find joy in the ordinary." By being present and engaged, Caitlyn creates deep connections, and values the unique experiences each person and task brings. Her favorite moments are when she's collaborating with the technical team and their combined efforts lead to more cohesive and responsive materials. This collaboration fuels her creativity, resulting in compelling proposals and qualifications packages that consistently win new projects and make a real impact.

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With a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Marketing, Management and Business Administration, from Bethany College in Lindsborg, Kansas, Caitlyn combines her communication prowess and creative flair to shine in her role. She is an active member of SMPS, and is currently pursuing her CPSM certification. She is committed to continually growing and learning within her field. Beyond her professional growth, Caitlyn excels in interpersonal skills, fostering positive relationships with coworkers and clients alike. Her empathy and gift for creating meaningful connections leave a lasting impression, and her infectious positivity is simply unforgettable.

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When she's off the clock, Caitlyn’s zest for life takes center stage. Caitlyn’s creativity comes to life through DIY projects, coloring, and crocheting. She’s also an avid reader and has an uncanny talent for remembering movie lines and lyrics verbatim. A true adventurer, Caitlyn has traveled to 34 states and 7 countries, with more journeys ahead.

Chinonye Uche is a dedicated Project Manager at BranchPattern, where she approaches every project with the mindset that "every race is an opportunity." Whether she's navigating complex ESG frameworks like LEED O+M, LEED Zero, GRESB, CHPS, Fitwel, or Fitwel Sites, Chinonye sees each new challenge as a chance to push boundaries and create meaningful change. She excels in project kickoffs, client communications, and documentation management, all while staying committed to her larger goal of bettering the planet through sustainable practices.

With a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability from Cornell University, Chinonye’s expertise is backed by strong technical writing and research skills. She has a talent for managing projects with moving scopes, ensuring that even the most novel programs stay on course. A standout moment in her career was serving as the project manager for the 2022 Embodied Carbon paper and helping BranchPattern achieve its first GRESB submission—a perfect example of how she seizes every opportunity to drive success.

In her free time, she channels her love for puzzles into mastering sudoku, seeing each puzzle as a chance to sharpen her problem-solving abilities. She also brings this outlook to her personal development, always looking for ways to grow and refine her skills. Whether it's at work or in her hobbies, Chinonye embraces every challenge with focus and enthusiasm, ensuring that no opportunity is left unexplored.

Jason Farka is a Project Manager at BranchPattern, specializing in guiding LEED volume projects to successful certification. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Jason excels in technical aspects of project management, including calculations and document reviews across architecture, civil engineering, MEP engineering, landscape architecture, and general contracting. His approachable nature and readiness to assist colleagues make him a valuable team member.  

Since joining BranchPattern in January 2024, Jason has swiftly made his mark, achieving certification for his first project and tackling challenges in inherited projects with ease. His commitment to sustainability is underscored by his LEED Green Associate credential and his focus on improving coordination and efficiency in green building practices. Jason's professional interests extend to sustainable infrastructure and exploring various green building rating systems such as LEED, WELL, and BREEAM. He is particularly passionate about water efficiency and conservation.  

Outside of work, Jason is dedicated to community service, volunteering with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, Relay for Life, Keep Omaha Beautiful, and Feed My Starving Children. He also enjoys spending time outdoors, whether hiking, skiing, golfing, or enjoying moments with friends. Recently, Jason has taken up photography, aiming to enhance his skills in capturing the world around him.

Jenna Schufeldt thrives behind the scenes, keeping the LEED Volume program running smoothly. As an Executive Assistant at BranchPattern, she supports the team by coordinating everything from project tracking and client reporting to billing logistics and LEED Online registrations. Her knack for organization and natural ability to anticipate needs help streamline complex processes and make life easier for those around her. For Jenna, it’s all about enabling the team to work smarter and focus on the big picture.

She brings a calm, focused presence to a fast-paced environment, with strengths in communication, coordination, and problem-solving. One of her proudest accomplishments has been digging into legacy contracts to help bring the LEED Volume program into a cleaner, more organized system. Passionate about refining processes, Jenna is always looking for new ways to boost efficiency and clarity. Outside of work, she volunteers weekly with youth at her church, extending her commitment to support and structure beyond the office.

When she’s not immersed in client data or smoothing out systems, Jenna lives somewhere between serenity and adrenaline. She’s equally at home creating mixed media art or riding her dirt bike through rough terrain, reflecting a balance of creativity and boldness that mirrors her approach to work: methodical when needed, fearless when it counts.

David Pitts is a Mechanical Engineer at BranchPattern, where he excels in system design, load calculations, ductwork and piping design, and equipment selection. He prides himself on being an excellent team player, fostering a positive work environment through effective communication, collaboration, and support. Always willing to lend a helping hand and share knowledge, David has been invaluable in helping his team navigate challenges and achieve their goals.

With a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Kansas, David brings a robust set of skills to his role, including communication, problem-solving, time management, and adaptability. A member of ASHRAE, he is committed to ongoing professional development and is currently studying to take his FE exam.

David lives by Sam Levenson's mantra, "Don't watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going." This philosophy fuels his relentless drive, whether he's pushing through a tough workout at the gym, battling it out on the soccer field, or savoring the thrill of a Sporting KC game. Off the field, David turns into a culinary adventurer, constantly discovering new ways to prepare his favorite ingredient—chicken. Whether he's grilling, roasting, or experimenting with a wild new marinade, David’s kitchen has seen more chicken than a barbecue joint on a Friday night.

Klaudio Uruci is a Mechanical Engineer at BranchPattern who brings the same thoughtful, optimistic mindset to his work as he does to life. Grounded in the belief that “there’s no such thing as a hopeless situation,” he approaches every challenge as an opportunity to think differently and uncover smarter solutions. Whether designing high-performance HVAC and plumbing systems or fine-tuning load calculations, Klaudio works with precision, curiosity, and a commitment to sustainability—making buildings greener, more efficient, and more comfortable for the people who use them.

Originally from Albania, Klaudio’s journey has taken him through Montreal, Toronto, Waterloo, and now Kansas City—gathering new perspectives (and winter coats) along the way. He’s currently pursuing his FE certification and staying active with ASHRAE YEA to continue learning and growing his professional network. With a mind built for engineering and a heart set on progress, Klaudio is already making a meaningful impact on the spaces where people live, work, and breathe.

When he’s not deep in drawing sets or optimizing systems, Klaudio’s swapping schematics for stories—diving into Dostoevsky, Camus, and Kafka one existential crisis at a time, chasing soccer balls and volleyballs, or finding new ways to turn everyday moments into small adventures.

Davis Misloski is a Business Development Specialist at BranchPattern, where he leverages deep expertise in sustainable development practices to identify opportunities, cultivate partnerships, and deliver value-driven solutions for clients. With a strong foundation in LEED Volume Certifications and a passion for human-centered design, Davis excels at relationship-building that promotes innovation and empathy. 

During his time with the LEED Volume Team at BranchPattern, Davis certified more than 20 LEED projects as a project manager, where technical understanding and thorough problem-solving became his strengths. Then, as a Project Executive on that team, Davis exemplified authentic client communication alongside the project managers on his team. Holding credentials such as LEED AP BD+C and ISSP SEA, Davis brings a unique perspective that bridges technical knowledge with business acumen. This background enables Davis to foster long-term relationships and champion initiatives that create measurable impact. 

Fascinated by the intersection of design, sustainability, and human experience, Davis draws creative inspiration from science fiction classics like Arthur C. Clarke’s Childhood’s End and Aldous Huxley's Island, using these narratives to envision bold, future-ready solutions. To recharge and refocus outside of work, Davis spends his time visiting independent theaters to catch a movie or finding a local band playing a live show.