TJ is no stranger to EAPC, having previously served as an Architect from October 2009 to March 2014. His return brings fresh excitement as he steps into his new role as Senior Architect.
“I have known TJ for a lot longer than his tenure at EAPC. He has always been a consummate professional and takes his obligations to the client and his team very seriously. It is so great to have him back again, to infuse his passion and care into our projects!”, says Alan Dostert, Senior Architect and President.
With over 30 years of experience, he has contributed to numerous projects in Minnesota and North Dakota and holds licenses in 15 states, including Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. He is also an active member of the AIA and NCARB.
TJ’s expertise spans various project types, and he thrives on finding the unique aspects of each one. Building and maintaining client and contractor relationships are integral to his approach. According to TJ, “The successful delivery of a project is in the details!”
TJ’s career has been marked by diverse experiences, with one of his standout projects being the rebuilding of the Grand Forks Herald building after the 1997 flood. He relished the challenge of integrating the flood’s historical significance into the building’s design, and it remains a cherished milestone in his career. “It really was trial by fire… like ‘Let’s just do this.’ That project will forever be a jewel milestone in my career.”
Since departing EAPC in 2014, TJ has held several senior architect and project manager positions, including Co-Founder and Partner at Kaizen Architectural Group LLC. In this role, he not only helped build the business along with his two business partners, but he also primarily oversaw document development and guided design concepts from inception to completion. In his return to EAPC, TJ is eager to mentor our young professionals and interns, helping propel EAPC’s design to new heights. “It truly excites me,” he affirms.
Outside of work, TJ and his wife Laura have become empty nesters, with their three sons successfully launching their own careers. TJ’s interests include distance running, recently completing his first full marathon alongside his son Jonah.
“After weeks of intensive preparation, physically and mentally, to endure a 26.2-mile marathon, the moment you cross that starting line with thousands of fellow runners is nothing short of amazing! Running alongside my son was an extra blessing, providing mutual encouragement and support. Having my wife, daughter-in-law, and friends cheering us along the course added even more fun to the experience. While the race was far from easy, with muscle issues and exhaustion setting in at mile 23, we persevered and crossed the finish line after 6 grueling hours. As for the question of whether we’ll do it again, we’re taking a break to relish this accomplishment and give our legs some much-needed rest. Perhaps in 2024, we’ll consider the future of our long-distance running careers. At age 54, this marathon has had a profound impact on my life, extending beyond the physical aspect. The training, discipline, determination, and perseverance have enriched my life in many ways. It has taught me the value of teamwork, encouragement, adaptability, goal setting, and hard work, all of which I can apply to my career as an architect, ensuring a more fulfilling and meaningful journey.”
In addition to running, TJ is also an avid traveler, having visited all 50 U.S. states. In his leisure time, he cheers for the Twins baseball team. “Go Twins!”