Employee Owners

At BranchPattern, Marcel Harmon serves as the Research & Development Team Lead, where his work is guided in part by Ruth Benedict’s belief that “the purpose of anthropology is to make the world safe for human differences.” This guiding principle shapes everything Marcel does, from his efforts to engage key stakeholders throughout the design process to developing tools that enhance the sustainability, wellness, and inclusivity of the built environment.

Marcel's academic journey began with dual Bachelors of Science degrees in Architectural Engineering and Anthropology from Kansas State University, followed by a Master’s in Anthropology from the University of New Mexico, where he also earned his Ph.D. His unique blend of expertise in engineering and anthropology, coupled with credentials as a P.E., WELL AP, and LEED AP O+M, allows him to approach projects with a holistic mindset, ensuring that the environments BranchPattern creates are sustainable, healthy, and welcoming for all.

Marcel’s career is marked by significant achievements, including helping develop post-occupancy evaluation processes for both the New Mexico Public Schools Facility Authority (NMPSFA) and Princeton University. He also spearheaded the creation of the Facility Infection Risk Estimator (FIRE), a critical tool for building safety during the pandemic. Marcel’s innovative spirit extends to his work on BranchPattern's human-centered design approach, the D.I.V.E. Project Framework®, which underscores his dedication to understanding everyone’s needs, allowing voices to be heard, celebrating differences, and verifying performance.

When he’s not shaping the future of sustainable design, Marcel channels his creativity into writing essays. He also enjoys taking to the trails for some mountain biking, kayaking with his family, and catching metal concerts with his oldest. Beyond his professional life, Marcel is committed to education, currently serving as a board member of the Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education (KACEE) and previously as a board member of his local public school district.

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.

Scott Koelzer is the kind of leader who believes in doing what’s right, even when no one is watching. As the Department Manager at BranchPattern, Scott leads his electrical team with a focus on excellence and integrity, ensuring that every project not only meets but exceeds expectations. He takes pride in seeing designs, projects, and people grow, and his commitment to using his talents to their fullest is reflected in every aspect of his work.

With a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from Kansas State University and a Professional Engineer (PE) license in five states, Scott is a seasoned problem-solver who thrives on collaboration. He enjoys working with diverse teams to tackle unique challenges, especially in the fields of medical research and development. His ability to craft intelligent solutions is driven by a deep-seated commitment to making the most of the opportunities he’s been given.

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 Bertonaschi combines his dedication to sustainability with his natural leadership skills as a Team Lead and Project Executive. He oversees a team of sustainability consultants, guiding them through intricate projects like datacenters and life science facilities to achieve green building certifications. Adam's commitment to sustainability and fostering a collaborative, innovative team dynamic makes him a leader who drives impactful change.

Adam's strengths lie in project management, which he has been honing since his early days at BranchPattern. He holds credentials such as CPHC, CxA, LEED AP BD+C, and RESET AP, and is affiliated with the North American Passive House. His professional journey is marked by significant achievements, including being the first employee hired to work in the Pittsburgh office and leading the Children's Museum Lab project to achieve LEED v4 Gold certification.

A versatile individual, Adam enjoys cooking and takes pride in experimenting with new recipes. Outside of work, his two young children keep him busy. He aspires to become a better people manager and aims to positively impact BranchPattern by sharing his extensive project management knowledge with newer employees, fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence.

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.

As a Project Executive at BranchPattern, Andres Rodriguez-Burns leads a team of skilled project managers, overseeing projects and ensuring exceptional quality control. His dedication to his team's success and his clients' satisfaction is matched by his reputation for effective communication, accountability, and empathy.

With dual Bachelor's degrees in Energy Technology and Spanish and Hispanic Studies from Creighton University, Andres brings a unique blend of technical knowledge and cultural awareness to his work. Accredited as a LEED AP BD+C, WELL AP, and WELL Performance Testing Agent, Andres is actively involved in the USGBC, continually pushing the boundaries of sustainable consulting. His impressive career includes certifying over 50 projects and delivering captivating presentations at various conferences, inspiring diverse sustainability professionals around the world and fostering new perspectives in the industry.

Outside the professional sphere, Andres is active and engaged. He coaches club volleyball and volunteers with Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado and Denver City Mission, where his leadership and team spirit continue to shine.

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.

Austin Hinners strives to create meaningful and purpose-driven work. As a Technology & Acoustics Consultant at BranchPattern, Austin brings innovative ideas to life, designing safe, comfortable spaces filled with the latest technology. Working with a forward-thinking team, he enjoys implementing strategies that make buildings both functional and cutting-edge, ensuring his work has a lasting, positive impact.

Austin holds certifications such as CTS-D, CTS-I, RCDD, and PSP, and is actively involved in AVIXA, BICSI, and ASIS, contributing to the AVIXA Sustainability Advisory Group. His academic background, including a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management along with an MBA from Lee University, enhances his expertise in strategic decision-making and project management. He leverages these qualifications to create purpose-driven solutions, exemplified by his significant project experience designing collaboration, learning, and immersive environments.

Living by his guiding principle, Austin ensures his career is balanced with meaningful contributions to the community. He dedicates time to volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and Fellowship Denver Church, demonstrating his commitment to making a difference. Outside of his professional and volunteer work, Austin nurtures his passion for music and technology. His high school and college years were filled with playing in bands and mixing audio for music festivals.

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.