Employee Spotlight: Jack Rogers

We’d like you to meet one of MKSD’s architectural designers, Jack Rogers. Jack joined the MKSD team in June of 2021 and has been working on several commercial and healthcare projects. Jack received his Associates degree from Northampton Community College and went on to earn his Bachelors of Architecture at Philadelphia University (now known as Jefferson). Thank you to Jack for taking the time to answer a few questions. We hope you enjoy getting to know a little bit about him.

What does a typical day look like?

In at 8, out at 5. Kidding. I’ve been fortunate enough to participate in all aspects of a project.  It’s hard to put a finger on a “typical” day, but for the past couple of months I’ve been drafting and detailing for the most part.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The ability to be creative and solve problems. From the initial kickoff to the finite details of a project, there are pieces of a puzzle in front of you and there’s a million ways they can fit together. Watching it come to life is pretty cool too.

What was your first job and what did you learn from it that influences the way you work today?

This wasn’t exactly my first job but It’s one that I learned a few things which I carry to how I work today. Funny enough I was security guard at a mall (yes, I was a mall cop). Biggest thing it taught me was patience. Also, take a step and take a deep breath, the situation may not be as bad as it seems.

What are three things you can’t live without in your workspace?

This one is tough. If had to pick. Headphones, sketchbook (although been trying out iPad digital sketching), and a good cup of coffee.

What brought you to the Lehigh Valley, or why did you decide to stay?

Some would say it’s the “small town curse,” but it is home for me. I enjoy living here and the opportunities I’ve had since finishing college.  I’ve also never been a city person, so I was definitely not moving to Philly.

What inspired you to pursue this career?

Honestly, I really didn’t know I would end up in architecture. It really wasn’t until my first or second year of college that I knew I wanted to stick with it. However, I always loved to draw and growing up I always said, “I want to draw for a living”. Who knew I would end up drawing buildings.

What are some of your favorite hobbies?

Fishing, cooking, gaming, and over the past couple of years trying out wood working.

Where is your favorite place to eat/visit/hang out in the Lehigh Valley?

Love going to the Lost Tavern tap room on Main Street in Bethlehem. Not just for the beer, but the small sushi joint in the back, Randevoo, has some great food.

What are some of your career goals?

Next big step/goal is licensure. I’ve been studying on and off to pursue it. It’s great to have a supportive and understanding team behind you when it comes to achieving this goal. And the occasional “did you schedule your test yet?” is a nice little jab if I’m ever being lazy.

What piece of advice do you have for anyone interested in your career path?

Take your time. Don’t rush just to have something “done”.