Employee Owners

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

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

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

Candyta Vowells is the Regional BIM Lead at BranchPattern, where she works her magic in preparing and packaging drawing deliverables while assisting with various project design tasks. Known for always showing up for others, Candyta ensures every deliverable is top-notch quality, from sheet formatting to functional coordination of the entire MEP system as a whole. Guided by her belief, "Always give 100%. Even if you only have 50% in you. Give 100% of that 50%," she epitomizes relentless dedication and enthusiasm. Candyta is all about ensuring her clients have a great experience while keeping the workplace lively and engaging.

With a knack for Revit/CAD model management and electrical design, Candyta is a powerhouse of skills. She’s especially proud of her work as a lighting designer and Facility Data expert for numerous MATOC Air Force Base Hospital projects, where her meticulous attention to detail and expertise truly shine. A quick learner, particularly when it comes to mastering new software, Candyta dreams of one day leading her own team and fostering an environment that’s both positive and fun.

Volunteering is a big part of Candyta’s life. She frequently rolls up her sleeves with Habitat for Humanity, helping to build houses and make a tangible difference in her community. Beyond her professional and volunteer work, she’s also a whiz in the kitchen, and enjoys spending time on her backyard water garden.

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.

Erin Murman is a Finance Coordinator at BranchPattern, where she brings precision to billings and reporting. With a knack for numbers and a passion for problem-solving, Erin excels at balancing accounts and resolving complex reporting issues, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in all financial operations. Since joining BranchPattern in 2007, she has built strong, familial bonds with her colleagues, making her role all the more rewarding.

Erin holds a B.A. in Business Management from the University of South Dakota, which has provided her with a strong foundation for her role. One of her standout achievements was successfully transitioning BranchPattern from its old accounting platform to Deltek Vantagepoint during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges, she ensured a seamless data migration process, showcasing her determination and expertise.

Beyond her finance role, Erin's enthusiasm shifts to the volleyball court, where she cheers passionately for her Husker volleyball team. Her love for travel has taken her to 9 countries and 28 states, filling her life with rich experiences and cultural insights. Erin’s hobbies and interests highlight her dynamic and adventurous spirit, making her a vibrant part of the BranchPattern team.

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.

Leading the LEED Volume team at BranchPattern, Katy 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 Katy 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.

Katy 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, Katy segued to the real estate sector, certifying existing office assets under LEED Operations and Maintenance.  Directly prior to joining BranchPattern, Katy 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 Katy has become a process champion for delivering clients' sustainability goals at scale.  

When she’s not navigating sustainability certifications, you might catch Katy 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, Katy's always on the lookout for her next adventure.

Kevin Campbell brings a bright energy and analytical edge to every project he touches. As an Energy Modeler at BranchPattern, he’s passionate about using his expertise to shape more efficient designs that leave a lasting impact. Whether it’s running iterative energy models, conducting operational carbon analysis, or diving into utility audits, Kevin’s work helps ensure buildings not only perform better but contribute to a greener future.

With a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from the University of Nebraska Omaha, Kevin pairs technical know-how with a love for problem-solving, making him a key player in optimizing project outcomes. His expertise has made a mark on major projects like the GSA Region II Energy Audit, National Grocery Chain Energy Audits, and the Xylem System Energy Performance Study, where his insights have guided better energy performance and cost savings.

But it’s not all about crunching data—Kevin’s competitive streak comes out in full force at the office ping pong table, where his lightning-fast reflexes and relentless spins make every game a showdown. For Kevin, it’s all about precision, whether it’s in a match or a model.

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.

Mike Galyardt’s guiding principle, "Continue to push for excellence in our design standards and challenge our clients to pursue sustainable systems and novel approaches to building design," defines his work as Mechanical Team Lead and Project Manager. Known for his dedication to project delivery and team advocacy, Mike ensures each project meets the highest standards while integrating sustainable, energy-conscious solutions. He excels at navigating complex technical challenges, pushing the boundaries of innovation in HVAC design, and collaborating closely with stakeholders and consultants. With a focus on human comfort and sustainability, Mike drives his team to exceed expectations, consistently challenging both himself and his clients to embrace cutting-edge, energy-efficient systems.

Mike holds a B.S. in Architectural Engineering from Kansas State University, a solid foundation that has supported his rise in the engineering field. His professional journey is marked by significant contributions to notable projects, such as the technical leadership in transforming an old sugar factory into an award-winning children's museum in the Houston suburbs and spearheading the HVAC design for a children's inpatient psychiatric hospital in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Additionally, he has played a pivotal role in the development of a highly sustainable municipal building for the City of Boulder. A member of ASHRAE and the Kansas City Area Healthcare Engineers (KCAHE), Mike is deeply involved in professional circles that advocate for advancing engineering standards and practices, especially in sustainability.

Outside of work, Mike finds joy in traveling and exploring new landscapes, often capturing his adventures through photography. An avid hiker, he loves immersing himself in the great outdoors, where he can appreciate the beauty of nature while staying active. Whether he's on a mountain trail or wandering through vibrant city streets, Mike's passion for discovery and connection with the environment enriches his life and inspires his professional endeavors.

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.

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

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

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

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.

Allison Palmer is a Volume Project Administrator at BranchPattern, where she excels in guiding projects toward LEED certification under the LEED Volume Program. Her role allows her to blend her passion for green building with her technical expertise and to explore the AEC world's relationship to the environment and people's well-being.

Allison's academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Design Engineering with a focus on Community Development and a minor in Public Affairs from the Colorado School of Mines. She was actively involved in the Humanitarian Engineering department and McBride Honors Program. As a LEED AP BD+C, Allison contributes to sustainability initiatives through her work and attending various USGBC events. Her goal of earning WELL and Fitwel credentials underscores her dedication to continuous learning and professional excellence.

In her personal time, Allison enjoys golfing, reading, hiking, and painting landscapes. Her creative side is further expressed through her love of live theatre and music. Her commitment to service is evident in her volunteer efforts with Habitat for Humanity, Denver Botanical Gardens, and Miners Alley Performing Arts Center.

Guiding projects toward greener, more sustainable outcomes is where Andre Porras truly excels. As a Project Manager at BranchPattern, he serves as a sustainability champion for initiatives pursuing Green Building certifications, ensuring clients achieve their environmental goals from design through construction. Andre’s expertise and passion shine at every stage, translating complex standards into actionable strategies that yield tangible results.

Armed with a BEng in Civil Engineering and an MSc in Energy Management and Renewable Sources from Tecnológico de Monterrey, Andre holds certifications as a LEED AP BD+C and EDGE Expert. More than just a consultant, he’s a committed advocate for green building practices. Active in the USGBC, Andre also regularly participates in volunteer initiatives, reinforcing his dedication to shaping a more sustainable future for the industry.

Outside of work, Andre leads an active lifestyle filled with outdoor adventures—whether snowboarding, hiking, or enjoying time with his mini Australian Shepherd. He relishes grilling delicious meals and gathering around bonfires with friends, creating cherished memories in nature. A passionate traveler, Andre delights in discovering new places, cultures, and cuisines. When he’s not exploring the world, you can find him strumming his guitar, ukulele, or bass, sharing his love for music with those around him.

Austin Campbell 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.