Category: Communications

Celebrating the Women of Ross & Baruzzini: Government & Accounting

Posted on by Shanna Evans

The women of our Government and Accounting teams are skilled pros at leading teams, managing deadlines, and keeping projects on track for success. Read what motivates these teams in the series finale of the Women of R&B:

Cassie Thiele    

Role: Senior Project Coordinator

Location: St. Louis Office

Cassie Thiele is a Senior Project Coordinator in our Government Market. She has been with the firm for over 9 years and is a great team player!

Alicia Smith, MBA

Role: Senior Project Accountant

Location: Houston office

Alicia Smith is a Senior Accountant in our Accounting department supporting our Medical Equipment Planning team. Alicia recently earned her MBA!

Tonya Gammon

Role: Senior Project Accountant

Location: St. Louis Office

Tonya Gammon is a Senior Project Accountant with an impeccable attention to detail.

Brandi Frierdich 

Role: Senior Project Accountant

Location: St. Louis

Brandi Frierdich as a Senior Project Accountant with our Accounting team. Brandi is detail orientated and a pleasure to work with.

Samantha Caselton    

Role: Project Accountant

Location: St. Louis

Samantha Caselton is a Project Accountant in our Project Accounting team. She enjoys the high level of detail her role requires, as well as working with project managers and clients to ensure each part of the project financials are correct. 

Her favorite hobbies include spending time with friends and family, boating, concerts, traveling to new places, and reading. Her top bucket list goal is to visit Greece. 

Mary Grib  

Role: Senior Electrical Engineer

Location: St. Louis

Mary Grib is a Senior Electrical Engineer with our Government Market. She enjoys working with a team to achieve a successful project. Mary says, “that team includes my amazing co-workers who I have been so lucky to work with for all of these years and talented teaming partners and clients. It sounds cliché, but it truly is the people who make the difference.” Her work is inspired by her mentors: Jim, Harry, Maurice, Carl, Bill, Mike, Scott, and Gary.

Outside of work, she is most proud of her teenage daughter and says “being her Mom is the most incredible gift of my life.” Mary loves watching her daughter play beach volleyball across the country. Her bucket list goals are to travel to each state in the U.S to see the sights and try new foods. In one word, she would describe herself as “well-meaning.”
 

Diane Reim, NCIDQ, LEED AP

Role: Senior Registered Interior Designer

Location: St. Louis

Diane Reim is a Senior Interior Designer in our Government market. She enjoys working in a collaborative, yet flexible team environment. She is a registered Interior Designer with the state of Missouri, and she is also NCIDQ and LEED-AP certified. 

She is most proud of working on amazing and diverse projects across the country. As her family has grown and changed, she is proud that she has maintained a healthy balance between work, family, faith, and friends that has led to a fulfilling life. Her work is inspired by analyzing the needs vs wants of a project; then providing a project that practically combines both. Her hobbies include spending time with family, traveling, and enjoying new experiences. Her top goals are to raise her children to become competent and confident adults. Also, she wants to travel across Europe! In one word, she describes herself as “pragmatic”.

Cindy Cates

Role: Director of Operations

Location: Atlanta Office

Cindy Cates is our Director of Operations with our Accounting Team. Cindy knows Deltek Vision inside and out!

Monica Lewis    

Role: Project Accounting Manager

Location: St. Louis

Monica Lewis leads our Project Accounting Team. Monica started her career with Ross & Baruzzini as a Project Coordinator over 16 years ago. She has grown with the organization and is a trusted partner to her internal clients.

Theresa Martin 

Role: Accounting Specialist

Location: St. Louis

Theresa Martin is a Project Accountant with our Accounting Team. She has over 20 years of experience in accounting. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and hiking.

Michelle Clemons    

Role: Senior Construction Administrator     

Location: St. Louis

Michelle Clemons is a Construction Administrator and Project Manager in our Government Market. Michelle has over 20 years of experience in the AEC industry. She is doing great work, and we are proud to have her on our team!

Celebrating the Women of Ross & Baruzzini: Business Development and Marketing

Posted on by Shanna Evans

The women of our Business Development and Marketing teams continue to make their mark across a diverse range of industries. Learn what drives their passion and success:

Sherry Ingram

Role: Business Development Operations Manager

Location: St. Louis Office

Sherry Ingram is our Business Development Operations Manager. She is passionate about doing whatever it takes to help our employees and clients! Sherry came to Ross & Baruzzini as a retired grandmother who wanted to stay busy. As a lifelong learner, she enjoys working and growing with “some of the best folks around!” 

Outside of work, she is dedicated to her family. Sherry also loves the outdoors, crafting, party planning, cooking, reading, and laughing whenever possible. 

Octavia Johnson

Role: Proposal Specialist

Location: Houston Office

Octavia Johnson is a Proposal Specialist primarily supporting our Government Market. Octavia is a positive team player who always has warm words of encouragement.

Rochelle Moore

Role: Creative Manager

Location: Houston Office

Rochelle Moore is a Creative Manager with our Marketing Team supporting our creative and design initiatives. Rochelle is positive, upbeat, and a great team player.

Elizabeth Graff, LEED GA

Role: Business Development Director

Location: St. Louis Office

Elizabeth is our Business Development Director for the Midwest for Higher Education, Healthcare, and Utilities. She enjoys connecting with people and promoting our team. She is LEED GA certified, a board member for SMPS St. Louis, a member of CREW St. Louis, and SLC3. Outside of work, she is proud of her daughter, Dylan. 

Her work is inspired by her teammates, and she feels excited to represent our company. Her favorite hobbies are reading, gardening, and traveling. Her top bucket list goal is to buy an Airstream and hit the open road. In one word, she would describe herself as “energetic”. 

Jen Wanick

Role: Proposal Specialist

Location: St. Louis Office

Jen Wanick is a Proposal Specialist supporting our Healthcare, Security, and Utilities Infrastructure teams. She enjoys collaborating with different experts, building winning proposals, and working on projects for some of the world’s most notable buildings. Her work is inspired by each day’s new challenges. Each proposal brings a different set of solutions, and she loves finding ways to make our proposal process more efficient. She is proud to be part of the Ross & Baruzzini proposal team for over 20 years. 

Outside of work, she is most proud of her son, and she enjoys puzzles with her family, movies, and hanging out with friends. Her top bucket list goal is to visit Buckingham Palace. In one word, she would describe herself as “dependable”.

Shanna Evans

Role: Content Marketing Specialist

Location: St. Louis Office

Shanna Evans is our Content Marketing Specialist. She loves being creative, writing content, and learning about marketing and business trends. Outside of work, she is proud of her family and she is looking forward to getting married next year.

Her hobbies include writing, reading, photography, music, and traveling. Her top bucket list goal is to to live in another country for at least a year. In one word, she would describe herself as “reliable”.

Celebrating the Women of Ross & Baruzzini: Mobility and Security

Posted on by Shanna Evans

The brilliant women of our Mobility and Security teams bring limitless intelligence and innovation to their careers. Read what inspires their ongoing success:

Kelly Sinyato 

Role: Associate Designer

Location: Hamden Office

Kelly Sinyato is an Associate Designer with our Security team and a Revit expert. She enjoys working on exciting projects with a great team. Kelly holds a certification on 3d Max software, and she is proud of achieving her professional degree. Her work is inspired by learning from top professionals and gaining more knowledge each day. 

Outside of work, she likes to hike with her husband and friends. Her top bucket list goal is to visit new places around the world. In one word, she would describe herself as a “perfectionist”.

Carrie Hawkins Charlton

Role: Project Coordinator

Location: Philadelphia Office

Carrie Hawkins Charlton is our Project Coordinator for our Philadelphia office and also provides graphic design support for the entire company. Outside of work, she is proud of watching her ten-year old son play baseball. She pushes herself out of her comfort zone to try new things like becoming an elected official, starting her own graphic design business, and traveling to new places around the world.

Delighting others inspires her work; she loves helping people solve problems. Her hobbies include traveling, watching her son play baseball, playing poker, and meeting new people. Her top bucket list goal is to swim with the great white sharks off the coast of South Africa! In one word, she describes herself as “passionate”. 

Lindsey McCarthy 

Role: Project Coordinator

Location: Hamden Office

Lindsey McCarthy is a Senior Project Coordinator who supports our Security team and does a great job keeping us organized!

Megan Huff, PfMP

Role: Vice President – Managing Principal

Location: Philadelphia Office

Megan Huff is our Vice President and Managing Principal of our Mobility Systems/Communication Division. She enjoys working with different agencies, learning how they operate, discovering their pain points, and helping them move toward their goals. She has a PfMP certification – as of March 2020 there were 864 in the world and 322 in the US. She is also a member of Chief, the private network focused on supporting women leaders.

She is proud of a part of the team that opened the first light rail (the Blue Line) in Charlotte, NC. Her work is inspired by her love of public transportation and how it impacts local communities. Outside of work, her favorite hobby is paddle boarding. Her top bucket list goal is to have a comfortable retirement down the road, preferably at a nice lake house. In one word, she describes herself as “controlling”.
 Summer Raya 

Role: Technician

Location: Hamden Office

Summer Raya is a Security Technician with our Security Division. She has a passion for drawing and creativity, which transfers well to her design skills!

Celebrating the Women of Ross & Baruzzini: Indianapolis and Kansas City Offices

Posted on by Shanna Evans

Our Women of R&B series continues with the talented women of our Indianapolis and Kansas City offices. These teams are lifelines to project success across diverse markets as they continue to build value for our clients. Learn what drives their hard and dedication:

Michelle Wehmeyer 

Role: Mechanical Engineer

Location: Kansas City Office

Michelle Wehmeyer is a Mechanical Engineer in our Kansas City office. Michelle joined us in summer of 2017 as an intern in St. Louis. She has grown with our firm over the years and relocated to our KC office. 

Jaime Abshier

Role: Senior Fire Protection Engineer

Location: Kansas City Office

Jamie Wilson is our Fire Protection Engineer in our Kansas City office. She is a licensed Fire Protection Engineer, and we are proud to have her on our team!

Delaney McNichols

Role: Plumbing Technician

Location: Indianapolis Office

Delaney McNichols is a Plumbing Technician in our Indianapolis office. One of her favorite hobbies is playing guitar!

Brenna Morris

Role: Mechanical Engineer

Location: Kansas City Office

Brenna Morris is a Mechanical Engineer in our Kansas City office. She enjoys working on a variety of projects across industries. Brenna is also a part of the ASHRAE branch in Kansas City.

Her inspiration comes from the “other women of within R&B, specifically Jaime Abshier and Michelle Wehmeyer. They have been amazing role models and mentors for me.”

Her hobbies include making her own lightsabers from scratch along with collecting them. She also enjoys playing basketball, fishing, and playing guitar. Her top bucket list goal is to take part in the television show Survivor. In one word, she describes herself as “confident”. 

Emma Parker

Role: Mechanical Engineering Intern

Location: Kansas City Office

Emma Parker is a Mechanical Engineering Intern with our Kansas City office and a student at KU! We look forward to having her grow with us this year.

Celebrating the Women of Ross & Baruzzini: Medical Equipment Planning

Posted on by Shanna Evans

From department renovations to complex medical centers, the women of our Medical Equipment Planning team use future-forward tech while providing the highest quality of service. 

As we continue our Women of R&B series, meet our team of expert Medical Equipment Planners:

Medical Equipment Planning: 

Jessica Lunardi

Role: Procurement Manager 

Location: Chicago (Northbrook) Office 

Jessica Lunardi leads our Procurement Team in our Medical Equipment Planning Division, and she recently celebrated her 10 year anniversary!

Mary Niles 

Role: Senior Procurement Project Manager 

Location: Chicago (Northbrook) Office 

Mary Niles is a Senior Procurement Project Manager with our Medical Equipment team. Mary joined Mitchell Planning more than 45 years ago and was the first employee of Mitchell and Associates.

Kelly Kirkpatrick 

Role: Procurement Project Manager

Location: Florida

Kelly Kirkpatrick is a Procurement Project Manager with our Medical Equipment Planning Team.

Mischelle Keenan 

Role: QC Database Manager

Location: Chicago (Northbrook) Office

Mischelle Kennan is our QC Database Manager with our Medical Equipment Planning team and expert on our internal planning tool!

Lisa Charrin 

Role: Vice President of Medical Equipment Planning

Location: Texas

Lisa Charrin is a Vice President with our Medical Equipment Planning Team, and she leads our MD Anderson client and team!

Robin Freiberger 

Role: Vice President of Medical Equipment Planning

Location: Florida

Robin Freiberger is a Vice President with our Medical Equipment Planning team for our Southwest Region. Robin is an expert in the healthcare field and known for building client relationships.

Jennifer Lieb 

Role: Senior Manager

Location: Colorado

Jennifer Lieb is a Senior Manager with our Medical Equipment Planning team.

Laura Pinkonsly 

Role: Senior Project Manager

Location: Chicago

Laura Pinkonsly is a Senior Project Manager with our Medical Equipment Planning team.

Carolyn Carey

Role: Project Manager

Location: Chicago (Northbrook) Office

Carolyn Carey is a Project Manager with our Medical Equipment Planning Team. Carolyn is passionate about employee engagement and leading teams to help make our clients successful.

Alexandra Faugeras 

Role: Senior Project Manager

Location: Florida

Alexandra is a Project Manager with our Medical Equipment Planning Team in the Miami area. Alexandra is passionate about leadership development, organization, and exceeding expectations.

Catherine Gambacorta 

Role: Senior Medical Equipment Planner

Location: Chicago (Northbrook) Office

Cathy Gambacorta is a Senior Medical Equipment Planner, and fun fact, a former nurse!

Michelle Briggs 

Role: Project Coordinator

Location: Florida

Michelle Briggs is a Project Coordinator with our Medical Equipment Planning team.

Cheryl Swanson 

Role: Project Coordinator

Location: Chicago (Northbrook) Office

Cheryl Swanson is a Project Coordinator with our Medical Equipment Planning Team and the go-to contact for our Chicago office.

Emma Topor 

Role: Senior Project Coordinator 

Location: Arizona

Emma Toper is a Senior Project Coordinator with our Medical Equipment Planning team.

Maria Gonzalez 

Role: Senior Medical Equipment Planner

Location: Texas

Maria Gonzales is a Senior Medical Equipment Planner with our Medical Equipment Planner. She enjoys the diversity across projects and clients. In her words, “No two clients are the same. Each have their own set of challenges.” Her work inspiration comes from making an impact in people’s lives through facilitating healthcare with medical equipment. 

Outside of work, she is most proud of her two boys. Her favorite hobbies are home decor, running, and spending quality time with her family. Her top bucket list goal is to learn how to meditate. In one word, she describes herself as “dedicated.” 

Kim Wells 

Role: Procurement Project Manager

Location: Chicago (Northbrook) Office

Kim Wells is a Procurement Project Manager with our Medical Equipment Planning Team. She enjoys the variety; learning about medical products, the healthcare industry, and developing relationships with clients. Her work is inspired by the patients who will benefit from the equipment.

She is most proud of her family, especially her and her husband, who have raised two compassionate and hard working young adults. She enjoys traveling, hiking, yoga, and reading. Her top bucket list goal is to go on an African Safari. In one word, she describes herself as “genuine”.

Shelby Giesler  

Role: BIM Planner

Location: Missouri

Shelby Gielser is a BIM Planner with our Medical Equipment Planning Team and is a DIY/crafting guru!

Mary Menard 

Role: Senior Manager

Location: Chicago (Northbrook) Office

Mary Kelly Menard is a Project Manager with our Medical Equipment Planning team. Mary Kelly is organized and does what it takes to lead the team and her clients.

Kim Dufrene 

Role: Senior Procurement Project Manager

Location: Houston Office

Kim Dufrene is a Senior Procurement Project Manager with our Medical Equipment Planning team. She enjoys meeting new clients and building long-lasting relationships with them. Her team and coworkers inspire her. 

Outside of work, she is most proud of her family and grandchildren. Her favorite hobby is gardening. In one word, she is described as “dependable”. 

Deborah Costanza 

Role: Senior Procurement Project Manager

Location: Pennsylvania

Debbie Costanza is a Senior Procurement Project Manager with our Medical Equipment planning Team. At work, she likes building relationships with clients and vendors while being self-sufficient. Debbie’s work is inspired by knowing the end result of a project will help others.

Outside of work, she enjoys ice skating. Her top bucket list goal is to help all animals in need. In one word, she describes herself as “kind”. 

Dale Palmer 

Role: Regional Director

Location: Atlanta

Dale Palmer is a Regional Director in our Medical Equipment Planning team.

Haiyan Zhang 

Role: BIM Planner

Location: Houston Office

Haiyan Zhang is a BIM Planner with our Medical Equipment Team.

Billie Brush 

Role: Business Development Director

Location: Washington

Billie Brush is our Business Development Director for the Northwest Region for our Medical Equipment Planning Team. Billie is one of the newest members of the R&B team. Billie is a go-getter and we are excited to have her!

Karen Ventura 

Role: Senior Manager

Location: Minnesota

Karen Ventura is a Senior Manager with our Medical Equipment Planning Team.

Karen Nimon 

Role: Director of Production Resources

Location: Houston Office

Karen Nimon is our Director of Production Resources with our Medical Equipment Planning Team. When it comes to her role, she is passionate about building a team and making work more rewarding. She is proud of her upcoming 30 year work anniversary, and her work is inspired by her coworkers, especially the extra teamwork during the pandemic. 

Outside of work, she enjoys watching the sunset, star-gazing, and walking on the beach. Her top bucket list goal is to see the Aurora Borealis. In her own words, she describes herself “hopeful”. 

Pamela Stemen 

Role: Database Specialist

Location: Kentucky

Pamela Stemen is a Database Specialist with our Medical Equipment Planning Team. She is a wiz at building databases!

Brooke Fairbank 

Role: Project Manager

Location: Atlanta

Brooke Fairbank is a Project Manager with our Medical Equipment Planning Team.

Megan Patronella 

Role: Medical Equipment Planner

Location: Houston Office

Megan Patronella is a Medical Equipment Planner and loves the moment when a project is complete and her clients walk through the new space with smiles like “little kids on Christmas morning”. She holds a Certification of International Business Practices, and she is most proud of her recent promotion to Medical Equipment Planner.

Her work is inspired by her family, specifically her hardworking mom teaching her the value of dedication and crushing your goals. Outside of work, her favorite hobbies are working out and exploring new places to eat in the Houston area. Her top goal is to become a CEO one day. In one word, she would describe herself as “goofy”.

Dawn Leyendecker 

Role: Senior Manager

Location: Houston Office

Dawn Leydecker is a Senior Manager with our Medical Equipment Planning Team.

Joan Warrick 

Role: Medical Equipment Planner

Location: Tennessee

Joan Warrick is a Medical Equipment Planning with our Medical Equipment Planning Team.

Tae’lor Lackey     

Role: Project Coordinator

Location: Florida

Tae’lor Lackey is a Project Coordinator with our Medical Equipment Planning Team. She is very creative and enjoys sketching and painting in her free time.

Allison Foster

Role: Project Coordinator

Location: California

Allison Foster is a Project Coordinator with our Medical Equipment Planning Team. A fun fact about Allison is she loves to bake and has mastered making sourdough bread. Yum!

Joseline Rodriguez 

Role: Project Coordinator

Location: Texas

Joseline Rodriguez is a Project Coordinator with our Medical Equipment Planning Team.

Alexandra Gambacorta 

Role: Project Coordinator

Location: Chicago

Alexandra Gambacorta is a Project Coordinator with our Medical Equipment Planning Team. Fun fact about Alex: she’s a triplet!

Karen Atilano    

Role: Project Coordinator

Location: Houston Office

Karen Atilano is a Project Coordinator with our Medical Equipment Planning Team.

Patricia Saenz 

Role: Senior Medical Equipment Planner and Project Manager 

Location: Houston Office

Patricia Saez is a Senior Medical Equipment Planner and Project Manager supporting our Government clients.

Joanne Worman 

Role: Project Coordinator

Location: Illinois

Joanne Worman is a Project Coordinator with our Medical Equipment Planning Team.

Celebrating the Women of Ross & Baruzzini: Technology & Aviation

Posted on by Shanna Evans

We are proud to continue our Women of Ross & Baruzzini series by highlighting our Technology & Aviation teams. These dedicated women bring their ‘A’ game to each project while creating opportunities for others to succeed. 

Technology

Sara Ann Holloman

Role: Senior Project Accountant

Location: Atlanta 

Sara Ann Holloman is a Senior Project Accountant in our Technology group. She is also a passionate member of our employee engagement team. Sara Ann is an industry veteran, with over 30 years experience in the field. Her inspiration at work comes from knowing she contributes to our company’s success. 

Fun Facts: Outside of work, Sara Ann enjoys classic films and baking cheesecakes. Her top bucket list goal is to travel more. If she had to describe herself with one phrase, it would be as a good friend. 

Samantha Glass, EIT

Role: Associate Consultant 

Location: Atlanta

Samantha Glass is an Associate Consultant with our Technology team. Problem solving is what draws Samantha to engineering; she enjoys finding solutions to ever-changing challenges. With a constant desire to learn more, Samantha holds a BSAE degree and EIT certification. 

Fun Facts: When she isn’t at work, Samantha enjoys kayaking and would like to learn how to fly a plane. In one word, she describes herself as independent.

Stephanie Anderson, CTS

Role: Associate Consultant

Location: Denver

Stephanie Anderson is an Associate Consultant with our Technology Team. She enjoys engineering because it gives her the ability to create, work with a team, and bring designs to life. Stephanie is inspired by her healthcare projects and making the best space possible for patients and staff.

She recently received her Certified Technology Specialist certification earlier this year.

Fun Facts: Stephanie loves the outdoors. Hiking, rollerblading with her dog, camping, and gardening are just a few of her hobbies. Her top bucket list goal is to visit New Zealand and see where Lord of the Rings was filmed. She would describe herself as “passionate”.

Tish Brown

Location: Denver

Role: Senior UC Consultant

Tish Brown is a Senior UC Consultant with our Technology Division. As a self-described right-brain thinker, she finds joy in working the typically left-brained world of Information Technology. Tish enjoys how IT is always changing and keeps her engaged. As a member of SCTC (Society of Communications Technology Consultants), she is part of an organization that follows a strict code of ethics. 

Fun Facts: Outside of work, Tish is proud of her family. Her favorite hobbies include reading, entertaining, sewing, and home décor. Her top bucket list goal is to travel, and she would describe herself as an optimist.

Sara Frisbie

Role: Staff Designer 

Location: Seattle

Sara Frisbee is a Staff Designer with our Technology team. She compares engineering to solving problems; she enjoys finding solutions to different challenges and situations. Knowing how things work inspires her work as well as being a woman in a male-dominated workplace. She is excited to see more women across engineering fields. 

Her career goals include earning her RCDD, FOA, and CAPM certifications. 

Fun Facts: Pre-pandemic, Sara and her husband loved to play pinball machines. Now, she enjoys playing video games at home, which she purchased her first house last year. She wants to travel more, and she might even want to try a caged shark-dive one day. How would Sara describe herself in one word? “Gnarly.”

Aviation 

Carolyn Hughes

Role: Project Manager

Location: St. Louis

Carolyn Hughes is a Project Manager in our Aviation Market and recently celebrated 25 years with the firm. She is also an Army veteran! When it comes to engineering, she loves learning about new technology and finding smarter ways to get the job done. Carolyn is a member of PMI, and she is proud to have been involved with a dog rescue group in Texas. She adopted three wonderful rescue dogs from this organization, and she is delighted she can provide her dogs with a loving home. 

Fun Facts: When she isn’t working, she loves finding ways to repurpose old items. Her top bucket list goal is to spend time traveling through Italy. 

Maria Chen

Role: Senior Security Tech Consultant

Location: New Jersey

Maria Chen is a Senior Security Technology Consultant with our Aviation Team providing expert consulting for some of our largest Northeastern clients.

Michele Young

Role: Principal Consultant

Location: St. Louis

Michele Young is a Principal Consultant in our Aviation Market and has a wealth of knowledge and experience. We enjoy having her on our team.

Ann Barry

Role: Principal Consultant

Location: Delaware

Ann Barry is our Security Director in our Aviation Market. She is dedicated and provides exceptional service to our clients!

Celebrating the Women of Ross & Baruzzini: Healthcare, Higher Education, and Human Resources

Posted on by Shanna Evans

Happy Women’s History Month 2021! Every March, the United States celebrates women’s contributions to history and culture.

Our firm is dedicated to supporting the women who make Ross & Baruzzini successful. From aviation to accounting, the women across our diverse teams are extraordinary examples of talent, experience, and perseverance.

Join us as we salute trailblazers from the past while celebrating our wonderful talent. This week, we’re featuring the women of our Healthcare, Higher Education & Research, and Human Resources teams.

Healthcare

Tori Gillespie, P.E.

Role: Director of Operations 

Location: St. Louis

Tori Gillespie is our Director of Operations for our Healthcare Market. She is dedicated to ensuring our clients receive the best quality in our Healthcare projects. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s in Business Administration. Tori is also registered as a Mechanical Engineer in four different states.

In addition, she serves as the Chair of our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee. Outside of Ross & Baruzzini, she has served on the executive board for the National Society of Black Engineers St. Louis Gateway Alumni Chapter as the former Treasurer and the former Program Chair.

Fun Fact: She was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Missouri – St. Louis in 2018.

Marissa Sexton

Role: Electrical Engineer 

Location: St. Louis

Marissa Sexton is an Electrical Engineer with our Healthcare Market. She joined Ross & Baruzzini as an intern in the summer of 2017 and has grown exceptionally over the years.

She loves to take on challenges and has great leadership skills. She serves as the Co-chair for the district level of Illuminating Engineering Society.

Fun Fact: She earned an honorable mention for Eaton student lighting design competition from the 40th annual SOURCE Awards.

Sharon Albritton

Role: Senior Project Coordinator 

Location: St. Louis

Sharon Albritton is a Senior Project Coordinator with our Healthcare team. She enjoys helping others and seeing our MEP/FP groups bring projects to fruition, fitting all aspects of design together like a puzzle. She is proud that her family, friends, and colleagues can depend on her help through life’s endeavors.

Fun Facts: Always wanting to give back, Sharon plays Mrs. Clause for our annual Breakfast with Santa company event. Her top bucket list goal is to make the world a better place. She also loves to sing.

Sarah Wilson

Role: Intern

Location: St. Louis

Sarah Wilson is a Mechanical Intern with our Healthcare team. She is currently enrolled in the UMSL/Wash U Joint Engineering Program. Her eagerness to learn and can-do attitude has been a tremendous help to the team. From 2019-2020, Sarah served as the President of the Pierre Laclede Honors College Student Association.

Fun Fact: In 2017, she won a STEM Award for Mathematics from the American Association of University Women.

Higher Education & Research

Annie Smith, PE, CEM, LEED, BEMP

Role: Director of Energy Services

Location: St. Louis

Annie Smith is our Director of Energy Services. Annie began her career at Ross & Baruzzini as a Mechanical Intern in May 2011. As a Certified Energy Manager with a LEED AP BD+C accreditation, she is passionate about energy services and efficiency.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. Annie was recently named to Engineered Systems magazine’s list of Top 20 to Watch: Women in HVAC and hosts our Energy Efficient Facilities during COVID-19: Webinar Series.

Fun Fact: Real estate is her second passion, and she enjoys discussing current prices, investing strategies, and financing methods.

Amy Counts, CPA

Role: Senior Project Coordinator

Location: St. Louis

Amy does a great job providing support as a Senior Project Coordinator for our Higher Education & Research team. She is a Certified Administrative Professional who enjoys following our projects from a drawing to completion. Each building’s unique design inspires her work.

Fun Facts: Amy always has great ideas for our company RBQ’s and other traditions! Outside of work, she enjoys reading and wants to travel the U.S. by RV. She is also very proud of her son, and she loves watching him grow.

Niki Partney

Role: Senior Mechanical Designer

Location: St. Louis

Niki Partney is a Mechanical Designer with our Higher Education and Research Market. Niki has been with the firm for over 27 years. Passionate about giving back, Niki spearheads our annual Poverty Lunch. She finds her work as Mechanical Designer unique, interesting, and challenging.

Fun Facts: She is most proud of her two amazing daughters, her favorite hobby is stained glass, and she would love to visit Hawaii.

Human Resources

Jessica Goeke

Role: HR Manager

Location: St. Louis

Jessica was recently promoted to HR Manager and will be leading HR initiatives.

Her passion for employee wellness and engagement is demonstrated through her PHR certification. She is inspired by the women of Ross & Baruzzini who made their way in an industry traditionally dominated by men.

Fun Facts: Outside of work, she loves to cook and read. Her top bucket list goal is to visit her ancestral home of Scotland. Jessica is also proud of her three, independent daughters.

Sarah Ontiveros, PHR

Role: HR Generalist

Location: Dallas

Sarah Ontiveros is an HR Generalist and has been with the organization for over 20 years! Sarah has earned PHR, DallasHR, and NTXSHRM certifications. She loves how data and analytics help her work smarter.

Fun Facts: At work, she is proud to be a part of our Leadership Development Program. Outside of work, she is proud her two daughters, Ryan and Kori. She is inspired by the other amazing women within Ross & Baruzzini as well as her oldest daughter, who knows what she wants in life and works hard every day to achieve her goals. Her hobbies include gardening and watching her kids play sports. Her bucket list top goals are to visit Ireland, Romania, and Dracula’s castle.

Black History Month 2021: A Recap of Iconic Engineers and Inventors

Posted on by Shanna Evans

Black History Month is an important time to honor Black figures and their contributions to science and engineering. The origin of this important event can be traced back to Carter G. Woodson, also known as the Father of Black History Month. His legacy includes the creation of Negro Week, which led to a month-long celebration of achievements of Black Americans.  

As we establish greater diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our organization, we’re also looking at sharing innovations from a variety of diverse backgrounds throughout the year. A diverse workplace with different perspectives creates better solutions for clients and partners.

While this list only highlights a small number of Black pioneers, we salute all trailblazers who help inspire future generations of innovations: 

  • Dr. Wendy A. Okolo is an aerospace engineering researcher in the Intelligent Systems Division at NASA Ames Research Center. Her focus is in the area of systems health monitoring and control systems design with applications to air and space components, vehicles, and systems. 
  • Elijah McCoy “The ACTUAL Real McCoy” invented a lubrication device to make railroad operations more efficient. Many tried and failed to copy his design, creating the expression “the Real McCoy.”
  • Garrett Augustus Morgan Jr. improved the traffic signal by creating a t-shaped design, adding a third position halting all traffic. This would allow the intersection to clear before a light turned green. Vehicle crashes decreased significantly, and we still use this innovative safety technology in traffic control today.
  • Dr. Walt W. Braithwaite helped develop computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems for Boeing, which led the way for airplanes and, eventually, many other products designed entirely through software. Goodbye pen and paper drafting!
  • Marie Van Brittan Brown, a nurse and inventor, created the first home security system and first closed-circuit television.
  • Lewis H. Latimer worked closely with Thomas Edison and Alexander Graham Bell, in addition to designing his own inventions including an early air conditioning unit.
  • Charles Richard Drew was a surgeon and scientist who organized America’s first large-scale blood bank and trained the next generation of Black physicians at Howard University.
  • Daniel Hale Williams is known for his achievements in surgery and advancing medical care. He was one of the first physicians to perform a successful open-heart surgery and founded the first interracial and black-owned hospital.
  • Katherine Johnson was a mathematician who calculated and analyzed the flight paths of many spacecraft during her more than three decades with the US space program. Her work helped send astronauts to the Moon.

Celebrating National Engineers Week 2021

Posted on by Shanna Evans

Ross & Baruzzini is proud to celebrate National Engineers Week 2021. Founded by the National Society of Professional Engineers in 1951, Engineers Week is dedicated to promoting a diverse and well-educated future engineering workforce by increasing interest in engineering and technology careers.

More than 70 engineering, education, and cultural societies, and more than 50 corporations and government agencies take part in Engineering Week. Ross & Baruzzini believes this is a critical opportunity to share the importance of technical education throughout our communities.

From Vision to Reality

“Imaging Tomorrow” is this year’s theme for Engineers Week. This theme is personal. What will our future look like?

Exciting technology like augmented reality (AR), smart cities, and 3D printing are more than trends; these technologies are improving our lives. AR is now utilized in CAD applications and for hand-on training experiences. Smart cities use technology to improve how citizens and businesses connect with resources. Advanced 3D printing creates custom orthopedic implants and other enhanced medical tools.

Looking to Tomorrow

Engineering is vital to answering global challenges. Through our internship program, we support STEM students beginning their careers, providing mentorship and hands-on skills for success. Ross & Baruzzini is also looking forward to participating in the College Engineering Mentorship Program launched by the Engineering Center of St. Louis. This mentorship program focuses on providing opportunities for freshman and sophomore students to gain insight into the day-to-day lives of engineers while exploring tomorrow’s technology.

“Technology affects every aspect of our lives and drastically shapes how we work, live, and communicate”, said Trista Stahr, vice president of human resources. “Ross & Baruzzini is excited to work with tomorrow’s engineers while supporting our dedicated teams working to solve today’s challenges.”

For more information on Engineers Week 2021, please visit the National Society of Professional Engineers website.

Ross & Baruzzini Welcomes Billie Brush as Business Development Director

Posted on by Shanna Evans

Ross & Baruzzini welcomes Billie Brush, MHA as the business development director for its Northwest region.

Subject Matter Expert Business Development
Billie Brush, MHA

Brush joins Ross & Baruzzini with over 20 years of healthcare leadership and customer relations management. She will be responsible for developing new business relationships and overseeing various go-to-market strategies to ensure client success.

“Billie is an outstanding addition to the team and brings an impressive level of experience to her new role at Ross & Baruzzini,” said John Desch, chief commercial officer.

Subject Matter Expert Business Development
John Desch – Chief Commercial Officer

“Her proficiency in healthcare operations will help us continue driving brand awareness and qualified sales leads. With Billie’s skill sets covering several aspects of business, marketing, and technology, we’re excited to have her on the team.”

Brush has held management positions for other healthcare technology companies such as Philips, Siemens, and Lumicell. She holds a master’s degree in health administration from University of Oklahoma and a bachelor’s degree in radiologic science from Midwestern State University.

“I am excited to join Ross & Baruzzini and look forward to working with the largest medical equipment planning team in the industry to grow our business in the Northwest,” added Brush. “I am pleased to join such a respected company that prides itself on client success.”