From Accidental Geographer to Built Environment Bureau Founder: My Journey Into Urban Planning

Have you ever stumbled into something that completely changed your life's trajectory? That's exactly what happened when I declared geography as my major halfway through college. I was looking for something "easy" to help me graduate, but what I found instead was a passion that would shape my entire career.

The Unexpected Path

It started with Geographic Information Systems (GIS). What began as just another class quickly became an obsession with analyzing spatial data and visualizing the world in new ways. Then came the transportation planning course that changed everything—seeing how our built environment shapes daily life, influences economic opportunities, and creates or destroys community connections.

I was hooked.

When Life Gives You Recessions...

Like many graduates in 2008, I faced a brutal job market. My shiny new geography degree wasn't opening doors during the economic downturn. But what seemed like a setback became my greatest opportunity—I applied to Urban Planning master's programs and discovered my true calling.

In the Trenches of City Planning

My career as a city planner allowed me to apply my passion for GIS, creating detailed maps of privately owned public spaces (POPs) that revealed how our cities balance public access with private development. These hidden gems of urban design fascinate me to this day.

Later, I joined the nation's largest transit system as a transportation planner, witnessing firsthand how mobility shapes opportunity and community. I saw how great transit systems can transform cities into vibrant, accessible places for everyone—not just those with cars.

Personal Connections to the Built Environment

I still find myself nerding out over fascinating urban details whenever I travel—from the way Copenhagen prioritizes cyclists to how Tokyo's rail stations function as vibrant community hubs. These observations spark conversations with fellow enthusiasts from around the world, expanding my perspective on what makes great places.

My personal life even intertwined with my professional passions when I met and married an architect. Our dinner conversations often revolve around walkable neighborhoods, the disappointing trend toward generic glass and steel towers, and our shared love for cities with character and soul.

Introducing Built Environment Bureau

That's why I created Built Environment Bureau—a dedicated professional community and job board connecting architects, urban planners, and developers with opportunities that matter.

Unlike generic job sites, we understand the specialized knowledge and passion that drive built environment professionals. Whether you're designing sustainable buildings with materials beyond just glass and steel, planning walkable neighborhoods with abundant transit options, or developing the next mixed-use community hub, Built Environment Bureau is the place where your skills meet meaningful projects.

Join Our Community

Whether you're looking to hire exceptional talent or searching for your next career opportunity, Built Environment Bureau bridges the gap between vision and reality in the built environment sector.

I'm constantly learning from our community members and can't wait to see how we collectively shape more livable, sustainable, and beautiful places together.