Employee Owners

Mikaela Lewandowski is a Green Building Consultant who approaches sustainability like a dynamic puzzle—always shifting, always evolving, and always striving to create something better. For her, it’s about weaving together high-performance building strategies that make a difference, from optimizing mechanical systems and improving water conservation to choosing eco-friendly materials that elevate projects beyond the basics. Every challenge is just another chance to think bigger, bolder, and greener.

With a B.A. in Environmental Science from Franklin & Marshall College and certifications as a LEED AP BD+C and ActiveScore AP, Mikaela’s got the credentials to back up her passion. But it’s her hands-on approach and collaborative mindset that really make her stand out. She thrives on partnering with architects and designers to bring sustainable visions to life and believes that the best solutions come from working together. Her knack for simplifying complex green building strategies means clients don’t just hit their certification targets—they understand the “why” behind every decision.

If you blink, you might miss it—Mikaela can finish a book in the time it takes some people to read the back cover. Her bookshelf ranges from deep dives into green building design to quick detours into historical fiction, proving there’s no topic she won’t explore. When she’s not extracting new ideas, insights, and perspectives in record time or strategizing how to optimize building performance, she’s out living her green values in the community. As a proud member of BikePGH and P3R, she’s a strong advocate for eco-friendly transportation and active lifestyles, believing that creating sustainable spaces extends beyond buildings—it’s about shaping healthier, more connected communities, one ride or run at a time.

Mike O'Connell brings a wealth of field expertise to his role as a Technology Designer at BranchPattern, serving as a trusted subject matter expert for telecom, security, audiovisual, and low-voltage systems. His passion lies in tackling tough challenges head-on, using creative, outside-the-box solutions to deliver high-impact results at every stage of the project.

Mike’s expertise is built on a foundation of hands-on experience, backed by an Associate’s degree in Information Security and Assurance from North Iowa Area Community College. A dedicated member of BICSI, he’s committed to continuous learning, always pursuing new certifications to stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of technology. Over the course of his career, he’s worn many hats—from owning a successful telecom business for five years to leading a nationwide technician team and expanding its size by 50% during the COVID lockdown. His journey from small-town North Iowa to a career in technology consulting taught him the value of self-reliance, but joining BranchPattern revealed the true power of teamwork. Today, Mike is focused on building smarter, more connected environments that benefit everyone—one project at a time.

Beyond his technical expertise, Mike is passionate about coaching and refereeing high school volleyball. He officiates varsity matches and coaches an AAU 18U team, where he shares his love for the game while helping young athletes develop their skills. Known for adding humor to the mix with his knack for impersonations and sound effects, Mike believes in fostering connections that go beyond the technical, whether he’s volunteering at his children’s school booster club or bringing a smile to his team at work.

With a keen eye for quality and a talent for project management, Mitch Waring is taking BranchPattern’s LEED Volume projects to the next level. As he transitions from managing certifications to ensuring quality control, he’s focused on tightening standards and refining processes to deliver better results across the board. It’s a shift that lets Mitch apply his problem-solving mindset to elevate the program’s impact and consistency.

His expertise is backed by a Bachelor’s in Biochemistry from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a Master’s in Business Administration from Bellevue University. Combining a scientific foundation with business strategy, Mitch is well-equipped to balance technical complexity with practical solutions. His shift into quality control is a natural progression, allowing him to apply his skills to a broader impact across the volume program.

Beyond the office, Mitch’s focus on refinement extends to his hobbies. A lifelong waterskiing enthusiast, he spent much of his youth perfecting his technique—learning how to adapt, stay agile, and make the most of every moment on the water. Whether he’s tackling a challenging project or carving through a wave, Mitch is all about precision, balance, and pushing the envelope.

Rachel Fenn is a Building Enclosure Specialist at BranchPattern who thrives on the complexity of building science. One day she’s at her desk pouring over design documents; the next, she’s out in the field climbing scaffolding to conduct a thermographic inspection. She combines a sharp eye for detail with a passion for hands-on problem-solving, ensuring every building she touches is ready to face the elements. Her commitment to making each project as durable and efficient as possible makes her a trusted ally to designers and builders alike.

Backed by an M.S. in Architectural Engineering and a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Colorado-Boulder, Rachel’s technical foundation is paired with a LEED Green Associate credential and a Level 1 Certified Infrared Thermographer certification. Aiming to deepen her expertise even further, she’s attended numerous Passive House Institute events and is working toward her BECx certification. With her specialized skills and collaborative approach, she’s become the go-to resource for owners, architects, and designers looking to build more resilient, energy-efficient buildings.

A former competitive figure skater, she knows a thing or two about discipline and grace under pressure, which she now channels into every project she touches. And when she’s not on the ice or on-site, Rachel is giving back through volunteer work with organizations like Habitat for Humanity and The Gathering Place, committed to making a positive impact wherever she can.

Ricky Duarte brings a people-first mindset to his role as IT Help Desk Specialist at BranchPattern, always guided by the belief, "Do to others as you would have them do to you." Whether troubleshooting a stubborn device or guiding a new hire through onboarding, Ricky handles every task with quiet determination and a bit of good-natured charm. He knows that even the smallest tech fix can brighten someone’s day, and he’s always happy to be the one making it happen.

With a Bachelor of Arts in Business Leadership from MidAmerica Nazarene University and certifications in cloud computing, IT systems analysis, and mobile device repair, Ricky combines technical expertise with a people-first approach. His passion for technology is driven by a genuine love for helping others, creating strong connections with coworkers, and fostering a collaborative work environment. For Ricky, it's not just about fixing problems—it's about doing so with patience and positivity, treating every request as he'd want his own to be handled.

Outside of work, Ricky’s rhythm extends beyond the IT world. You might find him dancing or singing, channeling the same energy and creativity he brings to his job. For Ricky, whether troubleshooting an issue or finding the perfect beat, it’s all about uplifting others and creating joyful moments. He believes that with a little rhythm and the right attitude, any obstacle can be overcome. When he’s not at his desk or on the dance floor, Ricky gives back to his community through volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity KC and Women Build Kansas City, always striving to make a positive impact.

Sam Blanchard understands that great things take time, but with focus and intention, everything falls into place. As a Commissioning Provider at BranchPattern, she applies this philosophy to her work, guided by the mantra "Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished." Her ability to collaborate seamlessly with colleagues across departments is a key strength, as she’s always looking for ways to optimize processes and better support her team.

With a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s in Energy Systems from Illinois Institute of Technology, Sam takes on a wide range of commissioning projects, driven by the belief that patience and intentionality lead to lasting impact. One of her career highlights was working on one of the first LEED v5 certifications in the world, a testament to her commitment to pushing boundaries while ensuring projects stay on track and on target. She’s especially focused on optimizing BranchPattern’s commissioning approach for ILFI and MBCx projects, where precision and care are key.

Sam’s thoughtful, intentional approach extends beyond her professional life. She enjoys pottery, a craft that echoes her work philosophy—where patience, care, and steady progress result in something meaningful. When she’s not at work or the pottery wheel, Sam dedicates her time to volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, knowing that small, consistent actions can make a big difference over time.

Scott Conner believes the key to success is thoughtful preparation. As a Project Executive at BranchPattern, he ensures LEED Volume projects stay on track from design through construction. Scott thrives on guiding his team and clients through the certification process, knowing that the effort put in early leads to lasting impact. Over the years, Scott has certified over 3 million square feet of LEED Volume projects nationwide, with a special focus on those that balance environmental sustainability with human health and well-being.

With a B.S. in Environmental Studies from the Catholic University of America, Scott’s expertise as a LEED AP BD+C and WELL AP equips him to dive deep into the intricacies of sustainability certifications. He’s always improving processes, developing tools that streamline workflows, and delivering exceptional results to clients. Scott is also committed to making a difference beyond his professional work. He’s an active member of USGBC Nebraska Flatwater and regularly volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and The Big Garden in Omaha, believing that investing in his community is key to creating a ripple effect of positive change.

When he's not working, Scott enjoys making the most of each season. In the summer, you’ll often find him playing sand volleyball or hitting the golf course, soaking up the outdoors. During the colder months, he switches gears, spending time indoors playing board games like Clue or catching up on his favorite TV shows—Survivor and NFL football, where he’s a dedicated Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Scott also has a love for reading, engaging in thoughtful conversations with friends, and reflecting on life’s deeper mysteries, always eager to explore new perspectives.

Sussan Jarvis leads with purpose, bringing innovative thinking and a passion for sustainability to every project she takes on. As a core member of BranchPattern’s Materials Team, she manages projects and serves as Project Executive, always focused on delivering impactful results. Sussan plays a key role in driving Carbon Accounting efforts, developing systems that make sustainability measurable and effective. Known for tackling challenges head-on, Sussan thrives on finding creative ways to streamline processes and enhance building sustainability. She’s constantly exploring new methods to push sustainability to the forefront and make a lasting difference through her work.

Her global perspective, built on a Bachelor of Architecture from the National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia and a Master of Science in Technical Architecture from Sheffield Hallam University, fuels her expertise in building science and whole-building life cycle assessments. Sussan doesn’t just improve workflows—she transforms them, helping organizations rethink how they approach sustainable practices. Certified as a LEED AP ID+C and Green Classroom Professional, Sussan is constantly expanding her skills and is already preparing for the LCACP exam. She’s an active member of The American Center for Life Cycle Assessment (ACLCA), staying ahead of industry trends and innovations.

As Volume Project Administrator at BranchPattern, Teresa Kooima leads sustainability projects across the US, Mexico, Brazil, and Italy, ensuring that each project prioritizes environmentally-friendly solutions. Her passion for collaboration fuels her day-to-day work, and she credits the support and expertise of her Volume team for driving success. Teresa thrives in a positive, productive environment, knowing that teamwork enhances the quality of every project. She is dedicated to delivering results and building strong relationships with clients, helping them navigate sustainable solutions and greener paths forward.

Teresa holds a B.S. in Sustainable Energy from Creighton University, equipping her with a deep understanding of energy systems and sustainability practices. Her education provides the foundation for her work on international projects, where she ensures sustainability is a core focus at every stage. In the past year alone, Teresa’s expertise in LEED Volume and LEED for New Construction led to the certification of eight LEED Silver projects and one LEED Gold project. She also showcased her leadership by hosting a workshop on Biophilic Design in October 2023.

Fluent in Spanish and currently learning Portuguese, Teresa has successfully certified several LEED projects while collaborating with international teams. Her language skills and in-depth knowledge of sustainability make her a key figure in advancing sustainable design across borders.

Outside of work, Teresa is an avid outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking, paddle boarding, and camping—anything that gets her outside and connected to nature. She also loves to travel and explore new places, often seeking out local craft breweries to try unique, small-batch beers. Teresa has a particular interest in breweries that focus on sustainability practices, from eco-friendly brewing techniques to locally sourced ingredients, making each visit not just about great beer, but also about supporting responsible, community-focused businesses.

Thomas Vite is a Sustainability Consultant at BranchPattern, where he specializes in whole building life cycle assessments and embodied carbon reduction strategies. With a background in architecture and sustainability, Thomas excels at synthesizing comprehensive sustainable strategies with precise technical details, driving impactful and creative solutions. His expertise lies in optimizing designs to reduce environmental impact and crafting compelling visualizations that make complex data accessible and actionable.

Committed to continuous learning and innovation, Thomas focuses on advancing his technical knowledge and researching new materials and methods to elevate sustainable design. His work reflects a dedication to creating meaningful impact, both within BranchPattern and in the broader community. Among his notable achievements are contributions to key industry resources, including BranchPattern's Benchmark Study for U.S. Industrial Real Estate (Version 2).

Outside of work, Thomas enjoys exploring the world around him through long bike rides, runs, and walks, often discovering new perspectives and inspiration along the way. He also brings a creative touch to his personal life, constantly refining the art of pizza-making in his quest for the perfect dough and sauce recipe.

Vickie Thurgood thrives on driving change. As a BIM Specialist at BranchPattern, she’s the engine behind setting up design projects, drafting MEP systems, and offering essential support to engineers. Vickie sees each project challenge as a chance to push boundaries, streamline processes, and be the change she wants to see in the engineering world. With her commitment to excellence and passion for innovation, she ensures that progress is always within reach, leaving a lasting impact on every project she’s a part of.

With an Associate’s degree in Manufacturing Technology from Mesa State College, Vickie’s technical expertise is second to none. She’s played a crucial role in high-profile projects like the Jackson County Detention Center, City of Thornton Community Center, City of Boulder Pavilion, and DCSD Legacy Campus. But what really sets her apart is her drive to shake things up—Vickie thrives on pushing the envelope and making processes smarter, faster, and more efficient.

And Vickie’s passion for change doesn’t stop at the office. Outside of work, she’s constantly on the move—literally! She teaches tap dance, leads group fitness classes, and holds a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Whether she’s dancing, teaching, or training, Vickie is always finding ways to inspire and transform those around her.