KOMA is a place filled with passionate, creative individuals who are committed to both our clients and each other. Our architects, structural engineers and interior designers build lasting, trust-based relationships with each client through careful listening, thoughtful ingenuity, disciplined execution and a fundamental dedication to our clients.
Meet Our Team
Alisha Simones, Assoc. AIA
Architect
asimones@komainc.com
651.789.4139
Alisha graduated from North Dakota State University in 2012 with a B.S. in Environmental Design and a Master’s degree in Architecture. Soon after graduating, she packed up and moved to the Twin Cities where she joined Krech, O’Brien, Mueller & Associates.
Why architecture?
I think our 3 fields have this in common – We’re hired to solve a problem. There’s no better feeling in the world than to see something take shape, and to see & hear how that impacts your client for the better.
Your travel bucket list includes…
Lots of places in the US that I have yet to see – Bourbon Street, the Twin Tower Memorial, Grand Canyon, Seattle Space Needle, etc. And then more of Europe – Norway, Germany, Italy (again, please), Spain.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve gotten?
Pick the most successful person you know, study them, and do what they do!
When I’m not at work I like to …
Run!
Alisha Simones
Architect
Ashley Riley
Marketing Coordinator
ariley@komainc.com
651.789.4135
Ashley is a 2007 graduate of Colorado Christian University with a liberal arts degree in English. She began her journey at Krech, O’Brien, Mueller & Associates in 2007 handling receptionist and office manager duties and in July of 2012 created a marketing coordination position.
Favorite project?
It’s hard to pick just one…but each year I always look forward to doing our Christmas card. I love the creativity and collaboration behind it and even though it is a lot of work, nothing is better than opening that box and seeing the finished product for the first time.
Your travel bucket list includes…
Greece, Israel, Ireland, Italy and a safari in Africa.
Your favorite place to eat?
I love trying new places, new foods, new drinks. But Cafe Latte has been a go-to favorite since I was a young kid – they have the BEST desserts!
Favorite movie?
I’ve seen Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Pride & Prejudice a thousand times and they only get better.
Ashley Riley
Marketing Coordinator
Brady Mueller, AIA
Founding Partner | Architect
bmueller@komainc.com
651.789.4122
Brady graduated cum laude from St. Olaf College in 1969 with a degree in art and with distinction from the University of Minnesota in 1977 with a degree in architecture. He became a partner in the firm in 1987.
What do you enjoy most about KOMA?
I enjoy the people that I meet every day. It’s the attitude and personality of our employees, our consultants, and our clients that make me strive to make KOMA an interesting and fun company for which to work. Each day is different and unique.
Favorite restaurant ?
Gordo Le Le’s in Cabo San Lucas……..it’s a “hole in the wall” restaurant where you normally have to bring your own beverages, but it has the best tacos in the world.
Favorite movie/quotes:
I love all spaghetti western movies, especially their music, from the 1960’s. But my most favorite movie is “Pretty Woman” with Julia Roberts. Our family has watched this movie at least a hundred times over the years. My daughter, Lindsay, has every scene and word memorized from this movie. Some famous quotes are: “Oh look honey, I’ve got a run in my pantyhose! Oh wait! I’m not wearing any!” and “Well color me happy there’s a sofa in here for two!”
Best advice:
Never take yourself too seriously. Laughter will get you over a lot of pain and stress in your life.
Brady Mueller
Founding Partner | Architect
Brian Riley
Managing Principal | Structural Technician
briley@komainc.com
651.789.4134
Brian graduated from Northwest Technical Institute with an Associates in Applied Science and started in career in 1995. After 4 years of battling it out in the trenches of Engineering vs Architecture, he found a home with KOMA in May of 1999. KOMA offered both disciplines for him to practice and succeed.
What led you to pursue a career in structural engineering?
Growing up, being in the engineering field was never on my radar. I had a desire for design, for buildings and for creating functional spaces. I had an artistic mindset that led me to pursue a degree in drafting and design. With degree in hand, my first “foot in the door” job had nothing to do with that. I was drafting steel tank fabrication documents that included welds, bolts, beams, concrete and math! It turns out, I liked it!
Your travel bucket list includes…
My Mother land of Ireland, of course – Slainte! Oh, also… One of those sweet cabana huts that are suspended above clear blue ocean water. I’ve always wanted to vacation in one of those.
What is your favorite movie quote?
Dumb and Dumber : Harry Dunne: I can’t believe we drove around all day, and there’s not a single job in this town. There is nothing, nada, zip! Lloyd Christmas: Yeah! Unless you wanna work forty hours a week.
Brian Riley
Managing Principal | Structural Technician
Chris Fix, E.I.T.
Structural Designer
cfix@komainc.com
651.789.4137
Chris joined Krech, O’Brien, Mueller & Associates in 2015. He graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth in 2015 with a degree in civil engineering and energy engineering.
What about structural engineering led you to pursue a career in this field?
I enjoy puzzling out the challenges that come with putting things together. It’s also nice to see those things actually take shape in the real world.
Favorite restaurant?
7 West Tap House in Duluth. There are so many different burgers and flavors of fries, and the locally brewed beer isn’t bad either.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot that I’ve been to is Alaska. I really like how wild and untouched everything is. Everywhere you look, there is more to see and explore.
When you’re not at work you like to…
Get outdoors and do something active. I really enjoy hiking, camping, hunting and fishing.
Chris Fix
Structural Designer
Chris Lemke
Architectural Technician
clemke@komainc.com
651.789.4142
Chris graduated in 2012 with an Associates degree in Applied Computer Science. He added a drafting degree from ITT technical institute and has been drafting ever since.
Why Architecture?
The thing that drew me to architecture is being able to explore my creativity in a way that can be used and appreciated by others and being able to see it become a reality.
Favorite Food?
I can never turn away some of Olive Garden’s alfredo sauce.
Favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot would have to be Duluth because I love the scenery and the historic feel of the whole town.
When you’re not at work, you’re usually….
When I’m not working I am spending time with my family or messing around with anything that has wheels.
Chris Lemke
Architectural Technician
Cindy Nagel Douthett, CID
Associate Principal | Interior Designer
cnagel@komainc.com
651.789.4124
Cindy received her interior design training from the Colorado Institute of Art in Denver, graduating in 1984. She became a Certified Interior Designer in 1994 (the first year certification was offered in the state of Minnesota). She has been practicing commercial interior design for over 24 years and joined Krech, O’Brien, Mueller & Associates in 1997.
What is your favorite project you’ve worked on?
I have been very fortunate to work on many amazing projects over the years and I really love the clients. Recently 3 projects stand out in my mind – the combination of client, design opportunity and finished product. CHS 6th floor and lobby remodels, City of St. Louis Park City Hall remodel and Great Clips corporate offices in the 2 Market Pointe building.
Favorite restaurant
Don’t really have one favorite – I love trying new places, but LOVE the Cadillac margarita at Rojo and the lobster mac and cheese at BLVD!
What is your favorite vacation spot?
I have loved our European travels – especially Spain. I love England, having lived there and have great spring break memories with my daughter in Mexico.
When you’re not at work you like to…
Since I no longer have children – the days of being hockey and ballet mom are over – I really love having the time to spend with friends and family, I love yoga, walking around Lake Calhoun drinking wine and shopping of course!
Cindy Nagel Douthett
Associate Principal | Interior Designer
Dan Jaeger, S.E.
Structural Engineer
djaeger@komainc.com
651.789.4132
Dan joined KOMA in June, 2011, after graduating from the University of Minnesota with a bachelor of civil engineering degree with an emphasis in structures and a minor in architecture.
What inspires you?
People and imagination. I really enjoy helping others and I’ve always believed that we were created to use our imagination, especially as we are older!
Your iTunes library includes…
Death Cab for Cutie, MisterWives, Twenty One Pilots, Macklemore, Lecrae, Walk the Moon
What is your favorite movie and/or movie quote?
“What we do in life echoes in eternity” – Gladiator
What is the best piece of advice you’ve gotten?
“Bad company corrupts good character.” – Proverbs “Don’t let your happiness depend on something you may lose.” – C.S. Lewis
Dan Jaeger
Structural Engineer
Dan O’Brien, AIA, CID
Founding Partner | Consultant Architect
In 2012, Dan O’Brien ended one chapter in his career with Krech, O’Brien, Mueller & Associates… and began another one.
Since announcing his retirement in March, 2012, Dan has followed his plans to disappear “up north” to his beloved cabin, travel and spend time with his wife, kids and grandkids. And while his full-time, day-to-day involvement with KOMA ended when he announced his retirement, he still provides occasional architectural consulting services on an as-needed basis.
Dan graduated from the University of Minnesota with distinction in 1977 with a professional degree in architecture. He is a licensed architect and certified interior designer in Minnesota where he has practiced since 1980. He remains a member of the American Institute of Architects.
Dan founded Krech, O’Brien, Mueller & Associates, Inc. in 1985 along with Jim Krech and another business partner. His practice areas included commercial and industrial projects, with a specialty in veterinary medical facilities.
Dan continues to remain active in community organizations. He is a founding member of Progress Plus, a public/private non-profit economic development agency and has continuously served as board member since 1989, including two terms as chairman. He is active with the Boy Scouts of America and is a Den Leader with his grandson’s pack. He has served on the Dakota County Restorative Justice program, and was a member of the Board of Directors for the Dakota Center for the Arts.
Dan enjoys furniture making, pottery, canoeing, and golfing.
Dan O’Brien
Founding Partner | Consultant Architect
Jim Krech, PE
Founding Partner | Consultant Engineer
jkrech@komainc.com
651.789.4120
Jim graduated from the University of Minnesota with distinction in 1972. He has enjoyed practicing structural engineering for the last 38 years. Prior to being a founding partner of Krech, O’Brien, Mueller & Associates, Inc. in 1985 he was manager of the A/E Department at Cenex. In his early career years he was mentored at Horty, Elving & Associates and Meyer, Borgman & Johnson.
What do you enjoy most about KOMA?
The personal relationships with clients and employees (the donuts are good too)
Favorite movie?
Man From Snowy River & Lord of the Rings
When you’re not at work you…
In the summer I play golf and use my sawmill, in the winter it’s puzzles and reading.
Favorite vacation spot?
My front porch with my wife. It overlooks the woods and lake I grew up on.
Jim Krech
Founding Partner | Consultant Engineer
Jim Pluth
Office Manager
jpluth@komainc.com
651.789.4125
Jim is a Winona State graduate with a B.A. in psychology and additional degrees in design and drafting, accounting, and IBM system administration. In addition to living in Japan for four years – where he taught English – James served as system administrator for Community Banks, where he provided broad network and technical support.
What do you enjoy most about working at KOMA?
I enjoy the variety of duties that come with being an Office Manager and being able assist clients, vendors, and project managers with their questions.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
I’ve only been to the Big Island of Hawaii twice but I love the different climate and terrain of the island.
When I’m not at work I like to…
Find a beautiful place or park and practice photography. I forget any worries I may have by searching for the beauty in nature.
Best piece of advice you’ve gotten?
Turn your face towards the sun and shadows will fall behind you” – Maori Proverb
Jim Pluth
Office Manager
Kevin Dummer, LEED AP BD+C
Associate Principal | Architect
kdummer@komainc.com
651.789.4136
Kevin graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree. He then continued his education at Drexel University’s Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design, graduating in 2008 with a Bachelor of Architecture degree.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve gotten?
Always keep your mind open to learning new things.
What inspires you?
Currently my infant daughter Adalyn inspires me. In watching her develop I realize she is seeing everything for the first time and for each new experience she stops to take it all in. She will smile at a twinkle in the ceiling, a bird flying by or running her fingers thru a ribbon. Through her I can re-open my eyes to the world and also enjoy the small things and better appreciate the world we all live in.
Favorite restaurant?
Buster’s on 28th in South Minneaoplis is one of my favorite bars and my wife and I love Chevy’s mexican restaurant next to the Mall of America.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Boundary Waters
Kevin Dummer
Associate Principal | Architect
Kong Xiong
Structural Technician
kxiong@komainc.com
651.789.4138
Kong is a Wisconsin native who graduated with an associates in drafting from Chippewa Valley Technical College.
What do you enjoy most about working at KOMA?
The people here are great and the projects challenge my abilities.
Favorite food?
I cannot say no to a thick burger and a hoppy IPA.
Favorite quote?
Remember the past, plan for the future, but live for today.
What are you up to when you’re not at work?
When I’m not in the office I’m hanging out with my family or down by the river with a rod and reel in my hand.
Kong Xiong
Structural Technician
Laura Bauer
Interior Designer
lbauer@komainc.com
651.789.4128
Laura graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in 1988 with a degree in business and a concentration in interior design. She began her career in residential design and after five years moved into the commercial design field where she has remained since. Laura joined Krech, O’Brien, Mueller & Associates in 2000.
Why Interior Design?
As a kid I was always rearranging our furniture. My mom signed me up for a class at Dayton’s design studio and I decided that is what I wanted to do when I grew up.
Favorite restaurant?
Las Tortillas – they have the best margaritas and chimichangas!
Favorite movie quote?
The Big Chill – I love the line from the Rolling Stones song “you can’t always get what you want, you get what you need.” And “Yo Adrian” from Rocky.
When you’re not at work you…
Run, golf, snowshoe, eat out, and relax with family and friends
Laura Bauer
Interior Designer
Leanne Freed
Interior Designer
lfreed@komainc.com
651.789.4131
Leanne graduated with a BFA in Interior Design from the University of Wisconsin Stout. “When I was younger and told people I wanted to get a degree in Interior Design, I heard a resounding response: ‘Well then you’ll go to Stout – right!?!’ It seemed clear to me that the local reputation was there and once I toured the campus I knew the program was a good fit for me.” Leanne joined the KOMA team in early February of 2015.
What inspires you?
Art always inspires me. Whether it is fine art or the simple art of nature. I tend to gravitate to whatever creates an emotional reaction. Interior design evokes a response and forms an identity within a building. Being an Interior Designer, I find satisfaction in seeing enthusiastic responses of others interacting in a well-designed space.
Your travel bucket list includes…
I have an extensive travel bucket list that I’ve been dreaming up since I was in elementary school – I was fascinated by different cultures. I have had the opportunity to visit countries and monuments you see in movies – like the Eiffel tower. I have also been to far away countries that I knew little of – like Djibouti, Africa. The more I see, the more I wish to discover!
What’s next?
First and foremost next on my list – Buenos Aires! Restaurants, romance, nightlife and artistry are commonly the main elements I seek out for any destination. However, it is a particular sculptural piece, “Floralis Generica” – or Steel Flower as it is typically called, that I am most interested in viewing. The gigantic flower sits in the center of the city and its large petals operate as a live flower; they move to open in the morning and close at night.
When you’re not at work you like to…
When I’m not at work I am most likely checking out a new restaurant, art exhibit, brewery or winery (depending on the season). In the summer I love anything water related. Even though winter isn’t my favorite, I am trying to enjoy the season more and like to ice skate & snowboard. I’ve been ice skating since I was little and feel pretty confident on a pair of skates. However, I have learned that it’s a little more painful trying to master snowboarding! I always tell myself there’s next year…
Leanne Freed
Interior Designer
Luke Smith
Architectural Technician
lsmith@komainc.com
651.789.4121
Luke started his professional career learning HVAC design at Dunwoody Institute in Minneapolis. After two years of working primarily on Education and Healthcare facilities he moved to western Wisconsin and migrated to the architectural design side of the industry. Since 2000 he has been working on the architectural design for commercial, industrial, residential, with a strong emphasis on healthcare design. Luke also has an AAS degree in Information Technology from Globe University, 2013.
Why architecture?
From a young age I always knew that I would work in this field in one form or another. I have always enjoyed looking at structures and seeing how they work within our lives and to be able to be on a team that gets to do this on a daily basis is a pretty cool adventure
What inspires you?
I am most inspired by my daughter.
What is your favorite project you’ve worked on?
It was a pediatrics department remodel project that I was able to help out on. The motion activated floor, waterfall feature, the lights that change colors, and many of the other features made the environment one that was inviting to all kids that might have otherwise been afraid to go to the doctor. It was a pleasure to see something that I helped on impact the lives of many people, old and young.
Your iTunes library includes…
A little bit of everything, from metal to jazz and funk to the blues.
Favorite candy/snack?
Hands down fun size Snickers
What is your favorite movie?
My favorite movie is Despicable Me….gotta love those minions!!
Luke Smith
Architectural Technician
Marc DuBois, AIA, LEED AP
Managing Principal | Architect
mdubois@komainc.com
651.789.4130
Marc graduated from Clemson University with a B.A. in design in 1993 and the University of Minnesota with a Master of Architecture degree in 1995 and is a LEED Accredited Professional. He began working at KOMA in 2002.
What do you enjoy most about KOMA?
One thing that I really enjoy and appreciate about working at KOMA is that there is an implicit or even explicit understanding that our work, while important, is not the center of our lives. We work very hard, excellently, and professionally, but also make sure that work finds its proper priority amongst others. I think that’s really healthy
Why architecture?
I’ve always loved to draw what I see built and love to see what I draw be built. If I wasn’t doing this, I think I would have taken up furniture making like my dad did.
Favorite vacation spot?
Our family enjoys hiking and camping and canoeing and we make it a priority to do that yearly. Someday, I’d love to be able to travel the British Isles as well as work with my family on a Habitat for Humanity project internationally.
The best advice I’ve received?
Hard to say, perhaps: being consistent will breed dependability. How’s that for exciting?
Marc DuBois
Managing Principal | Architect
Matt Van Hoof, PE
Managing Principal | Structural Engineer
mvanhoof@komainc.com
651.789.4129
Matt graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in civil and environmental engineering and has been practicing structural engineering ever since. Matt joined the firm in 2001 after working in Chicago for four years.
What do you enjoy most about working at KOMA?
I enjoy the people I work with and our clients. I also like the variety of things I get to do every day.
Favorite restaurant/ bar?
Pier 500 in Hudson. Salt and Vinegar fries…’nuf said.
When you’re not at work you…
Walk around our house shutting off lights my kids leave on. I also try to keep my mountain bike from hitting a tree.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
I enjoy the family cottage (in Eastern Wisconsin so it is a cottage) or wherever we can set up our camper.
Matt Van Hoof
Managing Principal | Structural Engineer
Meghan Strunk
Architectural Designer
mstrunk@komainc.com
651.789.4141
Meghan graduated from North Dakota State University in 2009 with a B.S. in Environmental Design and a Master’s degree in Architecture. She did architectural design work for a construction company and on her own in St. Cloud before moving to the cities.
What do you enjoy most about working at KOMA?
The friendly team. It is a fun and collaborative environment where everyone works well together. Runner up would be the Keurig.
What led you to pursue a career in this field?
My dad is a contractor so I have always been fascinated with buildings. Seeing a completed project and knowing you were part of it is such a rewarding feeling.
Favorite bar?
Gluek’s – great food, drinks and live music.
Your travel bucket list includes…
New York City and Australia. I would also love to go back to Venice, Italy.
Favorite candy/snack?
My favorite candy is milk duds. I also never pass up ice cream.
Meghan Strunk
Architectural Designer
Mike Lisowski, PE
Managing Principal | Structural Engineer
mlisowski@komainc.com
651.789.4123
Mike graduated in 1992 from the University of Minnesota with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He joined KOMA in 1995 and is regularly involved in all aspects of daily company life.
Why structural engineering?
The wonder and curiosity of how building parts and pieces come together.
Your travel bucket list includes…
Europe, just generally Europe.
What is your favorite movie quote?
Hello. My name is Anigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
The cabin.
When you’re not at work you like to…
Spend time with my family.
Mike Lisowski
Managing Principal | Structural Engineer
Samantha Baierl
Architectural Designer
sbaierl@komainc.com
651.789.4143
Samantha graduated from North Dakota State University in May of 2016 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Architecture and went on to complete her master’s degree in 2017. She spent the summer of 2016 as an intern at KOMA and returned in June after her masters program as a full time employee.
What do you enjoy most about working at KOMA?
I enjoy the collective personality of KOMA. I appreciate the friendly and positive group of people I work with; they make a fun and encouraging environment. Something I realized as a recent graduate entering the workforce is the fact that I spend more of my day with coworkers than I do with my family. The funny thing is I’m ok with it, because of the supportive and positive environment created here at work.
What is your favorite project you’ve worked on?
My favorite project I have worked on so far would have to be Lino Lakes Elementary. I came into the project with much of the design already decided on besides a few details, but I got to participate in group charrettes, put together idea boards for the clients, create renderings, and go to site visits. Now that the project is being built I am able to go see the construction process from the beginning to end. It was just fun to see a lot of the development from when I started to where it is now.
Your travel bucket list includes…
The number one place I would like to visit would be Greece. I have seen it in movies and read about it in books; it seems like a beautiful place with interesting people. Everything from their food to their architectural design to their fabrics intrigues me and I cannot wait to go someday.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot is Seattle WA, no question, it has everything I love when on a vacation. Most importantly it has mild weather all year round but it also has ocean, mountains, and city all within a short drive. I love the camping and hiking but I also love the city life, it truly is the best of both worlds in my eyes.
Samantha Baierl
Architectural Designer
Sean McFarland
Architectural Technician
smcfarland@komainc.com
651.789.4133
Sean migrated from central Wisconsin and graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture. Sean joined the KOMA family in April of 2019 and brought with him his structural and architectural experience in wastewater, industrial, commercial, residential, mixed-use, and education markets.
What about design led you to pursue a career in this field?
I’ve love sliding between structural and architectural realms of the diamond absolute and the tactile; I think that is partly why I enjoy visiting cathedrals where there is a merging of the two. What makes my day is when I am able to help develop a client’s and colleague’s vision into built form.
Your iTunes library includes…
iTunes, what’s that? More often than not I am dialed in to SoundCloud discovering new robot music or FIP radio for its eclectic playlists. However, if you peek into my music library you’re going to find goodies like Stuart Dempster, Richard D. James, Cliff Clavin, Anna Moffo, Lead Belly, and Ben Webster, and a lot of other weird stuff.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
Generally anytime I can get out and rely on human powered transportation instead of a car is a vacation. Loch Lomond, Scotland (ancestral stomping grounds), Copenhagen and Malaga have been my favorite walkabout spots. I had great fortune to visit each for a day or three, and I would love to return and explore some more.
Where else would you like to travel…
Japan, the greater US to see different flora / fauna (I have yet to see a paw paw, a pecan grove, or an orange grove in bloom), Toronto, Montreal, Scandinavia and other cold places
When you’re not at work you like to…
I enjoy board games, birding, biking, getting outdoors in general, and sometimes I like to pretend I can cook.
Sean McFarland
Architectural Technician
Steve Iaria, AIA
Managing Principal | Architect
siaria@komainc.com
651.789.4127
Steve graduated from North Dakota State University in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in science in environmental design and a bachelor’s degree in architecture. Steve started at Krech, O’Brien, Mueller & Associates in the summer of 2000. In 2008, Steve passed his last architecture registration exam and became a licensed architect in Minnesota.
Why architecture?
Being able to contribute ideas and design to the built environment has always excited me and of course having a deep appreciation for how these things are constructed/assembled adds to this excitement.
Favorite restaurant/ bar?
La Grolla in Cathedral Hill St. Paul. It’s located just blocks away from me and my wife’s first place together and before we had kids it was a great place to eat, drink, laugh, and dream.
Your iTunes library includes…
Martin Sexton, Alabama Shakes, Beastie Boys, Bob Dylan, Iron & Wine, My Morning Jacket, Mason Jennings, Jason Isbell. Hard to pick these out since there’s so much more I could rattle off but it gives a good sense of the variety I listen to.
What is your favorite movie and/or movie quote?
Godfather I&II – such classic mob movies with so much depth to them that I never get tired of binge watching these.
Steve Iaria
Managing Principal | Architect
Vince DiGiorno, AIA
Architect + Code Specialist
vdigiorno@komainc.com
651.789.4112
Vince graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1986. While he was a student he spent a year living and studying architecture in Rome, Italy. In 1998, he earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Minnesota. Code analysis and specifications writing define the details necessary for building beautiful buildings. Since 1990, Vince has studied, applied and taught in-house the specifics of the building code with a keen understanding of the nuances and details of government regulations. In addition, he is our chief specifications writer providing product documentation and bid and construction information.
What do you enjoy about KOMA?
I most appreciate the flexibility that my job at KOMA affords me. Since August of 1994, after my oldest daughter was born, I have worked part-time. I average about 24 hours per week; some weeks 10 hours and some weeks 60 hours. I have been able to be at home with my kids and available to volunteer at school and for other activities.
On my travel bucket list..
I would really like to go to Cuba. I grew in Miami, only 96 miles away, and went to school with lots of kids whose families left Cuba after Castro took power. I hope to travel there with a good friend who left Cuba at that time and hasn’t been back since.
Best advice you’ve gotten?
When my sister and brother-in-law were expecting their first daughter he was amazed at how freely people gave unsolicited advice. He told me that the best response many times was, “To just nod and smile.” I think this is good advice in all kinds of situations.
When I’m not at work I like to…
I really like to share a meal with family and friends and we do it as many times a week as we can. I also thoroughly enjoy riding my bike all over town. I usually ride alone and ride 25 to 50 miles at a time. It is great fun to see the Twin Cities from a different perspective.
Vince DiGiorno
Architect + Code Specialist
Izzie was born in 2011, she came to KOMA (via the Muellers) from Cannon Falls to take the place of the former office companion Bimmer. Izzie’s areas of practice include business development, greeter and paw shaker. Izzie spends her days at the office either gaining additional business knowledge or sleeping. With a bed under both Brady and Jim’s desk, she is scouting out her ideal spot for the future.
What do you like about working at KOMA?
Working at KOMA has made me realize that there is more to life than just watching squirrels…….I want to be president of the company someday. I’m very good at sleeping at the office just like Jim and Brady do all day long.
Favorite restaurant?
Izzy’s Ice Cream which is located right next door to my home. I love when Izzy’s sponsors “dog days” in our neighborhood with free ice cream to all dogs.
iTunes library includes:
The only tunes that turn my head is opera music…….I love the singing fat lady. I could listen for hours to this type of music.
Favorite movie?
Marley & Me, Turner & Hooch and Old Yeller. My favorite quote is “woof woof”
Favorite vacation spot…
Marley’s house in St. Anthony, MN. I get to stay there for several weeks every time my owners go to Mexico.
Izzie
Administration