Employee Owners

Jeremy Mazas is a LEED Consultant and Commissioning Agent at BranchPattern, where he expertly integrates sustainable building practices with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every building system operates flawlessly. A proud graduate of the University of Kansas with a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering, Jeremy leverages a strong academic foundation to advance his career in green building.

Despite being early in his professional journey, Jeremy has already earned his LEED AP BD+C credential, showcasing his commitment to environmental stewardship and excellence in the built environment. His proficiency with the LEED v4 system, combined with active involvement in the Midwest chapter of the USGBC, positions him as a rising leader in the field of sustainable design.

Outside of work, Jeremy enjoys immersing himself in the strategic world of board games and tabletop RPGs, where he channels his analytical skills into creating immersive experiences. A former violinist, Jeremy's appreciation for harmony extends beyond music into his passion for nature, particularly through camping adventures that allow him to reconnect with the outdoors.

Kanchana Anand’s passion for sustainable design is matched only by her drive to help clients reach their highest green building goals. As a LEED Sustainable Consultant and Project Manager at BranchPattern, she dives into LEED consulting and energy modeling with precision and enthusiasm, constantly collaborating with colleagues and guiding peers through technical challenges. It’s not just about achieving certifications—it’s about pushing projects to their fullest sustainable potential, always with a focus on the details that make a lasting impact.

Armed with a Bachelor’s in Architecture from Madurai Kamarajar University and certifications like LEED AP BD+C, she brings a solid foundation and a wealth of experience to every project. Her work speaks volumes—over 60 LEED projects certified and counting! A proud member of the Indian Institute of Architects (AIIA) and USGBC, she blends technical savvy with a mentor’s heart, always eager to help others grow and succeed.

But Kanchana’s impact extends beyond the blueprints. Through her involvement with Habitat for Humanity, she’s dedicated to making a tangible difference in the community. With an eye for detail and a focus on the bigger picture, Kanchana’s mantra is simple: always do your best, lead with empathy, and let your work speak for itself. For her, it’s not just about what’s built, but about building a future that’s greener, healthier, and more connected.

Lance Childress thrives at the intersection of design and technology, where logistics meet occupant experience to shape smarter, more efficient spaces. As a Technology Designer, Lance takes on multiple roles—whether leading as a Discipline Lead, where project management and deadlines are the name of the game, or diving deep into BIM modeling and technical specifications as a Designer. His adaptability and focus ensure that no detail is overlooked, delivering exceptional results regardless of his role.

With a strong background in electronic security systems and physical door hardware, Lance has a unique ability to bridge the gap between trades, coordinating seamlessly to create streamlined access and management solutions. His expertise is backed by his AVIXA CTS-I certification, bringing an extra layer of technical depth to each project. But for Lance, the real highlight is the collaborative process—working side by side with others to navigate the complexities of a space and how design can be influenced by its usage.

Outside of project work, Lance is no stranger to lending a helping hand. He’s volunteered with The Gathering Place, serving in the kitchen and connecting with the community, as well as pitching in with Habitat for Humanity on new home builds. These experiences, along with his participation in national industry meetings, are a testament to his dedication to making a real-world impact.

Whether he’s playing tennis, hitting the golf course, kayaking on a serene lake, or unwinding with video games, Lance finds joy in staying active. His perfect weekend day includes an early morning workout to energize him for the day ahead, soaking up some sun, and ending with a relaxing evening of cooking dinner at home.

As Project Manager, Markus Hurd is the driving force behind sustainability, creating impactful LEED certification strategies that go beyond the basics. He develops tailored plans that not only meet LEED goals but weave energy efficiency and sustainability into every stage of a project. With his hands-on leadership, Markus ensures progress stays on track, from site inspections to quality control, all while anticipating risks and overcoming challenges with ease.

With a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical from the University of Denver, Markus combines technical expertise with a deep passion for sustainability. His mechanical engineering expertise allows him to craft solutions that meet the highest standards of energy efficiency, ensuring every LEED project exceeds expectations. Beyond his technical skills, Markus is a natural leader and communicator, facilitating regular project meetings to keep teams aligned on LEED goals, engaging stakeholders to ensure transparency, and providing training on sustainable building best practices.

Dedicated to continuous improvement, Markus stays updated on the latest LEED standards and innovations to enhance the effectiveness of future certifications. One standout moment that showcases his leadership was coordinating 38 site visits in just two days, all within a tight two-week deadline. His ability to mobilize teams, streamline logistics, and pull off a seemingly impossible feat left the client in awe. It’s this level of precision, drive, and leadership that sets Markus apart.

When Markus isn’t managing sustainable building projects, he’s out on the mountain, pushing limits on his snowboard. Whether launching off cliffs or carving through tricky terrain, snowboarding fuels his drive for adventure. It’s the perfect balance to his work, keeping him focused, energized, and always ready for the next challenge.

Mike Meyers believes that there’s always room for improvement—whether it’s refining a project’s technical design or strengthening client relationships. As a Building Technology Account Manager at BranchPattern, he tackles each challenge with a mindset that “our work is never really done.” From Project Management and Technology Design to Business Development, Mike brings an eye for detail and a passion for creating spaces that don’t just work—they excel.

With a B.S. in Management from Metropolitan State University of Denver, along with RCDD and CTS certifications, Mike’s expertise encompasses structured cabling design and electronic security solutions. Earning his RCDD certification in his early thirties is one of his proudest professional achievements, but he knows that success is just the first step. He’s an active member of industry organizations like BICSI, AVIXA, SMPS, and A4LE, always striving to deepen his understanding and keep moving the goalposts forward.

When he’s not navigating complex technology challenges, Mike’s likely hitting the slopes, on the golf course, or casting a line in a quiet river with family and friends. Even outside the office, his philosophy of “never really done” shines through—he’s always looking to hone his skills, embrace new adventures, and enjoy the journey along the way.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.