Employee Owners

Growing up in India with limited resources, Ravi developed a deep understanding of the profound impact humans have on the planet. This early realization inspired his lifelong dedication to creating energy-efficient, environmentally conscious, and human-centric buildings. In the 1970s, Ravi and his future business partners designed and built his passive solar house, complete with a trombe wall, solar collectors, and a solar chimney—a groundbreaking project that showcased his forward-thinking approach to sustainable design.

After earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Ravi went on to accumulate a host of certifications, including PE, LEED AP BD+C, CXA, and HBDP. These credentials, combined with his technical expertise and vision, have made him a respected leader in sustainable design and building systems engineering.

As the Principal and CEO of BranchPattern, Ravi leads with a commitment to sustainable, high-performance building design. Co-founding M.E. GROUP in 1991, known as BranchPattern today, Ravi brought his vision of high-performance and environmentally conscious buildings to life. His work in the late '70s established him as an expert in sustainable design, and over the course of his 50-year career, Ravi has worked on more than 100 LEED-certified projects, including seven Platinum certifications and four verified Net-Zero energy buildings. Two of his projects have been recognized in the prestigious AIA COTE Top Ten.

Ravi's influence extends beyond his impressive portfolio of projects. He served as an advisor to the General Services Administration (GSA) Office of Federal High Performance Green Buildings, where he helped shape key sustainability initiatives like the GSA Guiding Principles and Deep Energy Retrofit programs. As a professor of Integrated Design for Master’s Architecture students, Ravi has also shared his expertise with the next generation of architects. His passion for sustainability has even landed him on national television, further amplifying his voice in the industry.

Today, Ravi continues to advocate for buildings that are not only high-performing and energy-efficient but also healthier and more resilient for the people who inhabit them. His vast experience, versatility, and commitment to “finding a better way” make him a trusted leader in the field.

Away from his professional life, Ravi loves spending time with his family and grandchildren, cherishing those moments of connection and joy. When he's not revolutionizing the building industry, you can find him on the golf course, indulging in his love for the game. Ravi’s passion for sustainability, family, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures makes him a true advocate for creating a healthier and more resilient future for everyone.

Abhinav Pandey is a Principal, Practice Lead, and Electrical Engineer at BranchPattern, where he manages projects and mentors his team to ensure high-quality outcomes and innovative solutions. His work philosophy is rooted in BranchPattern's "People First" and "Human Centered" approach, which he extends beyond consulting to define how they operate and interact. Abhinav's professional journey includes over 12 years of experience working alongside the Defense Health Agency (DHA), where he has been instrumental in building and renovating healthcare spaces for the Armed Forces.

Specializing in electrical engineering and renewable energy systems for the built environment, he is a licensed Professional Engineer (PE), a Legacy LEED AP, and notably, the first Certified Renewable Energy Professional (REP) in the state of Kansas.

Outside of his professional achievements, Abhinav enjoys cooking and experimenting with fusion cuisines, even if his family sometimes offers mixed reviews.

Anand Parthasarathy is a Practice Lead and Registered Architect specializing in building performance modeling, commissioning, and green building certifications. As an advocate for sustainability, Anand oversees our LEED Volume Programs, leveraging his expertise to help developers achieve their environmental goals while respecting cultural and historical considerations.

Brad Lewis is a Principal at BranchPattern, where he leads the Engineering team, including the MEP and Tech + Acoustics teams. Known for his technical expertise and collaborative spirit, Brad plays a key role in consulting on technology and acoustics issues, ensuring that projects are designed with both precision and the client’s needs in mind. As the client lead for many of BranchPattern’s higher education and workplace projects, Brad’s passion for these sectors has been a driving force behind his success.

With a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from the University of Kansas, Brad brings decades of experience and a design-centered approach to the table. He’s often praised for his ability to find solutions that balance technical scope with the owner’s vision. His credentials include BICSI RCDD certification, and he remains actively involved with professional organizations like Avixa and BICSI. Over the course of his career, Brad has worked on over 300 different higher education campuses, a niche he finds particularly rewarding.

Outside the office, Brad is full of surprises. He’s toured 42 states in a rock and roll band, takes on daring technical mountain climbs, and even races bikes when he’s not crashing. A true jack of all trades, Brad’s diverse interests and skills often leave people saying, “Wow, I didn’t realize you knew about that.” Whether he’s solving complex design challenges or scaling a peak with an ice ax, Brad’s dynamic approach to life and work keeps things interesting.

Carrie Nakamoto is the spark of energy behind BranchPattern’s Commissioning Department, where she doesn’t just lead—she energizes everything and everyone around her. As the Department Lead, Carrie is the ultimate advocate for both projects and people, driving her team of commissioning agents to be the best in the game. Whether it’s staying on top of the latest technology or nurturing the growth of her team’s technical skills, Carrie ensures that everything runs smoothly and with a dash of fun.

Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Idaho and a Master of Science in Engineering Management from the University of Colorado, Carrie’s expertise is as vast as her enthusiasm. Her credentials—CxA, CCP, LEED AP BD+C, BCxP, and TCP N4—are just as impressive as her approach to commissioning, energy audits, and facility assessments. Carrie doesn’t just follow the rules; she reinvents them, making sure every building not only meets the mark but sets a new one. She’s on a mission to ensure buildings aren’t just environmentally friendly, but also a better place for people to thrive. She’s all about those moments when buildings come alive and impossible problems are met with brilliant solutions. Carrie finds inspiration in the people around her, collaborating with teams that make every project a masterpiece.

But it’s not all work and no play for Carrie. When she’s not steering projects to success, she’s indulging in her love for travel. Having visited 15 countries, Carrie is the ultimate travel guru, always ready with insider tips on hidden gems and must-try dishes. Travelling is one of the few ways to spend quality time with her family—her husband and two kids—while soaking up new cultures and savoring all the culinary delights the world has to offer.

And if you think that’s adventurous, wait until you hear about her rugby days. Carrie spent nearly a decade on the rugby field, starting at 19, where she played with fierce determination. Despite two surgeries—a torn ACL and a shoulder injury—Carrie’s resilience never wavered. Her rugby days taught her the power of grit and tenacity, lessons she carries into every aspect of her life. Whether she’s tackling a project or planning her next adventure, Carrie’s love for people, connection, and a good challenge make her not just a great leader but a true powerhouse in everything she does.

Debbie Swanson is a Principal and Corporate Secretary at BranchPattern, and one of the founding members of the company in 1991. With over four decades of experience, Debbie has truly been the backbone of the firm, helping it to grow and thrive with her unwavering commitment and can-do attitude. Her adaptability and deep knowledge of the company's history have made her an indispensable part of BranchPattern's foundation. For many at BranchPattern, Debbie is more than a leader—she’s like family, often described as the “mom” of the office, always caring for everyone and ensuring that everything runs smoothly.

With a Bachelor of Science in Math & Physical Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Debbie’s problem-solving skills and attention to detail have been key to her success. Over the years, she has handled everything from finance and marketing to managing contract compliance and accounts payable, as well as registration, licensure, and benefit administration. Whatever was needed to keep the company going strong. Her positive attitude and belief in “always looking for the positive in people” has set the tone for BranchPattern’s welcoming, community culture. Debbie’s impact reaches far beyond daily operations—she has served as an Affiliate member of AIA and spent eight years on the Nebraska Board of AIA, making her influence felt in the broader industry as well.

Outside of work, Debbie’s positive energy continues to shine through in her hobbies, whether she’s cooking, woodworking, or exploring new crafts. She embraces every opportunity to learn something new, bringing the same sense of curiosity and enthusiasm to her personal interests as she does to her work. Through it all, her unwavering belief in the power of positivity has been the guiding force behind her long and rewarding career.

Above all, Debbie cherishes time with her grandbabies, who are the light of her life. Whether she's spoiling them with love, baking special treats, or enjoying simple moments together, they bring her boundless joy. For Debbie, family is everything, and spending time with her grandkids is one of her greatest treasures.

Kristy Walson is a Principal and Building Science Practice Lead at BranchPattern, where she is dedicated to advancing sustainable design and decarbonization. Her mission is to leave a more healthy, renewable energy-friendly, and equitable planet for future generations. Kristy collaborates with partners to envision cutting-edge Building Science services that propel the industry toward a decarbonized built environment. Her guiding philosophy—balancing her mantras "go with the flow" and "make waves"—reflects her belief in the power of holistic carbon reduction to drive innovation, inspire change, and lead towards a regenerative and equitable future.

Kristy’s academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and a Master of Science in Architecture & Marine Engineering from the University of Michigan. These degrees have equipped her to develop deep expertise in sustainability, specializing in decarbonization strategies, energy modeling, auditing, and commissioning across the U.S.

As the manager of BranchPattern’s Analytics Department, which encompasses the Building Performance Modeling and Materials teams, Kristy is dedicated to measuring and reducing both operational and embodied carbon emissions from buildings—an opportunity she refers to as working with "all the carbons." Her extensive credentials, including LEED Fellow, LEED AP BD+C, LEED AP O+M, and ASHRAE Building Energy Modeling Professional (BEMP), underscore her expertise and commitment to the field.

Kristy has been a frequent speaker at industry events and has been involved with the U.S. Green Building Council since 2006, where she currently serves as the Chair for the Energy and Atmosphere Technical Advisory Group and is a member of USGBC Florida's Market Leadership and Transformation Board (MLAB). Throughout the years, she has served on the national committee for Women in Green and the Central Florida Board of Directors. Additionally, she is a core National MEP2040 Steering Committee member and really enjoys volunteering as a juror for various industry accolades, like AIA's COTE Top 10, DOE's Solar Decathlon, Project Stasio, and LEED Fellow. As the immediate past Chairperson of the University of Florida’s Green Building Learning Collaborative, she avidly supports the “Sustainability in the Built Environment” degree program. She also serves on ASHRAE's SSPC for standard 228 and the Florida Solar Energy Center's Advisory Board.

Kristy’s remarkable leadership and advocacy for sustainability in decarbonization have earned her several awards, including being named a LEED Fellow in 2020 and receiving the USGBC Florida Community Rockstar Award in 2021. Her project accomplishments include completing 82 Certified LEED® projects across six LEED® rating systems and serving as the building performance modeling consultant for over six million square feet of commercial real estate space.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Kristy enjoys yoga, paddle boarding, playing volleyball, and making music with her large, musical family. She is also an avid woodworker, a hobby she has cherished throughout her life. Kristy’s optimism and drive to create meaningful change are fueled by her desire to contribute to a better future for our younger and future generations, including her three children.

Nate Maniktala is a servant leader who thrives at the intersection of strategy, sustainability, and people. As a Principal and Director of Building Science at BranchPattern, Nate is a master at taking projects to the next level, blending his deep expertise in green building and organizational development. Whether he’s guiding strategy or guiding the design of cutting-edge green buildings, Nate is always focused on creating solutions that elevate both performance outcomes and the people working to achieve them.

Armed with more than 25 years of experience, Nate combines deep expertise in business strategy, human behavior, and building science. As a board member and advisor to several organizations, he’s not just part of the green building movement—he’s actively pushing it forward through his involvement with great partners like NAIOP, USGBC, ACEC, IWBI, and the Center for Active Design.

Nate’s career is a series of groundbreaking moments. He coauthored pioneering Post-Occupancy Evaluation Methodologies for School Facilities, consulted on the first WELL Certified and LEED Platinum industrial buildings in the world, and created the first-ever LEED Volume Program for commercial real estate developers. Most recently, he has been working to shape new standards for health-focused design as a WELL Advisor to the International WELL Building Institute and collaborator with the Center for Active Design on the development of the Fitwel program for Commercial and Industrial Sites.

But Nate’s influence extends beyond his work. Outside the office, his purpose is clear: serve others and make every moment count. Whether he's volunteering at Lydia House, swinging a hammer for Habitat for Humanity, or belting notes on the karaoke mic with friends and family, Nate’s energy and passion are contagious. His ability to connect with people and turn everyday moments into extraordinary experiences leaves a lasting impact wherever he goes. Nate is not just a builder of spaces; he’s a builder of communities, always striving to make the world a little brighter, one project, one interaction, at a time.

Within BranchPattern, Pete Jefferson stands as a beacon of innovation and leadership. As a Principal and Building Science Practice Leader, Pete's journey is one of relentless dedication and transformative impact. His role encompasses organizational management, coaching, and business development, all while serving on the Board of Directors, where he shapes the strategic direction of the company. For over two decades, Pete has found profound fulfillment in his evolving journey with BranchPattern.

Pete's story begins with a solid foundation in Mechanical Engineering, earned with a Bachelor of Science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His credentials, including PE, NACD.DC, LEED AP, HBDP, and CxA, are not just letters after his name but symbols of his unwavering commitment to sustainability. Pete has led groundbreaking decarbonization initiatives, creating spaces that are both environmentally responsible and safe. Yet, his true passion lies in mentoring the next generation, guiding emerging professionals as they bring fresh perspectives to the industry.

Under Pete's visionary leadership, BranchPattern has transformed from a modest engineering firm into a sustainability powerhouse in North America. In 2024, he furthered his influence by earning Certified Director credentials from the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD), driven by his mission to embed sustainability in corporate boardrooms across the nation. His leadership style, characterized by inclusivity and innovation, has been instrumental in shaping the company's culture and success.

Beyond the professional realm, Pete's zest for life takes him outdoors. Whether mountain biking, skiing, or adventuring with his three kids, Pete embraces every challenge with enthusiasm. His commitment to the environment extends beyond his work, as he volunteers with Trail Pittsburgh, helping to build and maintain trails in Southwestern Pennsylvania. Pete's love for adventure and his dedication to making a positive impact in the world make him a true leader, both personally and professionally.

Rick Maniktala is the President of BranchPattern, where he brings the company's Purpose and Vision to life through servant leadership, culture-building, and technical excellence. He is passionate about empowering people to develop their skills and cultivating a culture that unlocks hidden potential, creating lasting impact and driving accelerated growth. Rick’s leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that serving others and fostering an environment of continuous learning and collaboration can achieve extraordinary results.

With a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Kansas, an MBA from Baker University, and a Professional Engineer (PE) license, Rick blends technical expertise with strategic insight to guide BranchPattern’s growth. His dedication to strategy, skill-building, and ongoing learning has been instrumental in shaping the company’s success.

Having started his career at BranchPattern as an intern, Rick deeply understands the value of nurturing talent and fostering growth. He takes immense pride in watching interns evolve into accomplished engineers, just as he did, and in contributing to the improvement of the built environment. Over the years, he has seen countless engineering solutions come to life through the collaborative, science-based efforts of his team. Whether mentoring young professionals or overseeing complex projects, Rick’s leadership is defined by his commitment to excellence and his unwavering dedication to servant leadership. For him, success is measured not only by outcomes but also by the incredible team at BranchPattern—people who rise to challenges with grace, character, and the drive to make a positive impact on the world.

Outside of work, Rick’s passion for strategy is equally apparent. Whether he’s perfecting his pop-a-shot skills or delving into the strategic nuances of his favorite sports, Rick enjoys anything that challenges his mind. He’s also an avid card player, always thinking several steps ahead. In his spare time, Rick immerses himself in researching businesses and markets outside of BranchPattern’s scope, driven by his curiosity to learn how strategic thinking shapes success. A lifelong learner at heart, Rick thrives on discovering new ideas, constantly seeking fresh insights and opportunities for growth, no matter the subject.

Sarah Gudeman is the epitome of "Work Hard, Play Hard" while striving to "Be the Change You Want to See in the World." As a Principal and Building Science Practice Lead at BranchPattern, Sarah brings a contagious energy and passion to everything she does. Sarah sees her role as a connector of people and ideas, a mentor, and a catalyst for change. She’s not just solving problems, she’s turning challenges into opportunities to make the world a better place. Whether she’s leading the charge on sustainability initiatives, volunteering in her local community, educating the industry, or helping her Green Building Certification team navigate complex projects, Sarah’s enthusiasm is as boundless as her expertise.

With a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University and wielding her Professional Mechanical Engineer license, Sarah is always asking "why" and "why not." She’s not just involved in industry organizations like the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) —she’s a driving force within them. Sarah has participated with USGBC her entire career, as a local chapter Chair, LEED Committee volunteer (and EQ TAG Chair), LEED Steering Committee, USGBC Faculty member, Pro Reviewer, and earning the distinction of LEED Fellow in 2021, building on her professional credentials of LEED AP BD+C and LEED AP ID+C, Sarah doesn’t just follow the rules—she writes new ones and sparks transformative change in communities everywhere.

At IWBI, Sarah’s energy and vision shine through as WELL Faculty, WELL Performance Testing Agent, and WELL AP. Her passion for creating healthier, more sustainable environments is further amplified through her work as an AIA COTE Technical Reviewer for Equitable Communities and Integration, as a Fitwel Ambassador, Certified Energy Manager, Certified Passive House Consultant, and much more. Sarah’s commitment to the industry extends even further, with active participation in organizations like ASHRAE, CREW, ILFI, PHIUS, and IAQA, where she relentlessly advances sustainability and building performance. Whether mentoring, leading community outreach, or contributing to sustainability councils, Sarah is always driving innovation and excellence in the name of staying at the forefront of industry developments for her team and clients. To say the least, Sarah is a powerhouse of innovation and impact, consistently pushing the envelope in the name of improvement.

Sarah’s passion for life doesn’t stop at the office door. She’s a former kickboxing and resistance training instructor who loves pushing herself and others to be their best, both physically and mentally. She’s also a dedicated foodie with a meticulous approach to culinary exploration. As a long-term Yelp Elite member and recovering food blogger (@SarahEatsOmaha on Instagram), Sarah elevates any interest to an engineering art form, whether its spreadsheets tracking her whiskey collection, reviewing air quality monitors on her YouTube channel, 10+ years of ranked readings for her book club, or detailed forays into nature-based scavenger hunts and science experiments for her kids. For Sarah, every experience is an opportunity to thrive, and she tackles both work and play with the same level of dedication and boundless enthusiasm.

Andrew Bridges heads BranchPattern’s Quality Management and Construction Control group, where he provides vital support to project managers and designers with design reviews, training, and standards development. A lifelong learner, Andrew's journey through various roles—intern, designer, team lead, project manager, and office leader—has given him a wealth of experience that shapes his ideal role today.

With a Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Engineering from Kansas State University, Andrew's design skills are complemented by his meticulous attention to detail, making him adept at providing thorough design reviews and research. He is a Professional Engineer and an active member of ASPE, leveraging his extensive experience in plumbing, medical gases, and mechanical systems to enhance project outcomes. Andrew also enjoys diving into new challenges and working collaboratively toward solutions that effectively serve clients and their end users. This collaboration allows him to guide and mentor his team while also learning from each talented team member.

Andrew's teenage years were a whirlwind of a love for Star Wars, playing guitar with his best friends and making waves in the punk and emo scenes. He contributed to songwriting and even recorded three albums in a friend's basement. Now, Andrew enjoys sharing his music and love for Star Wars with his wife and 4 kids. Dispite the goodness he aims to spread, his Spades game leaves much to be desired—you definitely wouldn't want him as your partner.

“Cree en ti mismo y serás imparable.” Meaning believe in yourself and you’ll be unstoppable—that’s the mantra Carina Estrada lives by every day as an Electrical Engineer and Project Manager at BranchPattern. She brings an unshakable confidence and technical expertise to every project, whether it’s a small renovation or a massive construction effort. Carina thrives on navigating her team through complex challenges in the K-12, commercial, government, and civic sectors, always ensuring the best possible outcomes for her clients.

With a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering & Mechatronics from Colorado State University - Pueblo, Carina is a true force in power and lighting design, photovoltaic systems, emergency backup solutions, and cross-disciplinary project management. She’s unstoppable when it comes to delivering standout projects like the Pikes Peak Summit Complex, the City of Thornton Community Center, and the City of Boulder Western City Campus. And she’s not done yet—her next mission is to achieve her Professional Engineering Certification in Colorado.

Beyond her work, Carina’s passion for community shines just as brightly. She helps lead BranchPattern's Denver Office Volunteer Group, partnering with organizations like Colorado Schools, The Gathering Place, and Habitat for Humanity. Carina also donates and volunteers with Vitalant Blood Donation and serves as PTO President at Global Village Academy - North.

When she’s not engineering the future, Carina’s creativity shines through in other ways—like hand-sewing her son’s Halloween costumes every year. It’s just another example of her love for hands-on problem-solving and determination to tackle any challenge. Whether in the office, in the community, or at home, Carina’s belief in herself and her unstoppable spirit inspire everyone around her.

Dan Vencill sees BIM as a combination of precision and creativity—a way to bring projects to life through the right mix of skill and strategy. As BIM Manager at BranchPattern, Dan’s the one who navigates every project with a steady hand and a sharp eye, making sure models work just as smoothly as the systems they represent. But for him, it’s not just about getting the job done; it’s about doing it right and helping others along the way. He’s just as committed to mentoring as he is to modeling, sharing his insights with future BIM Technicians in a way that’s as straightforward as it is memorable.

Backed by an Associate of Science in Architectural Drafting from the Denver Institute of Technology, Dan’s expertise is matched only by his drive to see things done right. His influence at BranchPattern is undeniable—he spearheaded the company’s Revit rollout, establishing BIM best practices that continue to set the standard today.

Beyond his technical skills, Dan has a knack for fixing just about anything, which speaks to his resourcefulness and can-do attitude. This talent goes beyond simply solving problems; it’s a reflection of his creativity, and relentless drive to find solutions, no matter how challenging or unexpected the issue. For Dan, every problem is just a puzzle waiting to be solved, and his can-do attitude ensures he’s always up to the task.

Jessica Boesche is the Director of Human Resources at BranchPattern, where she embodies the belief that "ability is what you’re capable of doing, motivation determines what you do, and attitude determines how well you do it." Jessica excels in fostering an inclusive and supportive workplace culture, leveraging her strategic planning expertise, motivational drive, and positive attitude to lead complex HR initiatives.

Jessica holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mass Communications from Kansas State University and is an active member of SHRM and HRCI. Her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth, including earning her SHRM-CP certification, has equipped her with the skills to effectively communicate and manage HR strategies that align with the organization's goals. Whether she’s shaping policy, enhancing employee engagement, or overseeing talent management, Jessica’s philosophy that motivation and attitude elevate performance guides her every decision.

Outside of work, Jessica enjoys traveling, reading, and binge-watching reality TV, especially the Real Housewives. She’s also a true-crime enthusiast and has been playing on a recreational kickball team for 11 years. Jessica loves spending time with her fur-baby Rosa, an 80 lb black lab.

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.