DAKE WELLS - Key Persons
Education
Master of Architecture from University of Kansas
Aaron is an all-around hoopy frood* who enjoys diving into the details, from the first review of the building code to the final punch list. Aaron's upbringing in rural Kansas cultivated in him an inherent hands-on pragmatism that has strongly shaped his contributions to a broad range of experiences, including the award-winning design-build Studio 804 program at the University of Kansas; custom residential, multi-family, and commercial projects working in the Roaring Fork Valley of Colorado; and now educational, civic, and community projects since joining Dake Wells Architecture in 2020. This diversity in design is one of the many attributes that makes Aaron a remarkable asset to our team. Aaron is a licensed architect.
Education
Master of Architecture degree from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University with a minor in Fine Arts and Design Arts.
During the 2016-2017 academic year, Addision worked as a student architectural intern at Dake Wells while completing his degree at Drury University. While in school, Addison participated in several architectural internship programs in Springfield, including an architectural intern volunteer for The Gathering Tree, where he helped the non-profit in developing a tiny house village called "Eden's Village" for the homeless. Through this experience, he not only helped a great cause but also provided design work, developed presentations, renderings and assisted with fundraising.
Addison completed his Master of Architecture degree in 2017, and joined the Dake Wells team as a full-time design associate! We are excited to have him back.
Education
Master of Architecture from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University with a minor in Graphic Arts
Alex aspired to be an architect from a young age. When his grandparents took him to see House on The Rock in Wisconsin at age seven, the experience showed him the power to inspire people through built environments. He explains the atmosphere was "beautiful, yet frightening", and from that day forward he set out to see what creativity he could bring to design - first with Legos, and now with architecture.
A graduate of Drury University's Class of 2017, Alex completed his master's degree in Architecture cum laude with minors in Graphic Design and Fine Arts with an emphasis in Sculpture. He joined Dake Wells Architecture in 2019 and serves as a project architect and project manager on a variety of projects for civic and K-12 clients.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture degree from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University
Andrew has an extensive portfolio of education, commercial, and cultural projects, and he is the firm's market leader for higher education. As a thoughtful and passionate designer and teacher, Andrew was elevated to the American Institute of Architects College of Fellows. His work has received numerous awards for design excellence, including national recognition for the Davis-Harrington Welcome Center by the Chicago Athenaeum of Architecture and Design and for Liberty United Methodist Church by the AIA/IFRAA.
Andrew is passionate about the power of architecture to strengthen relationships and enrich the human spirit. He is frequently invited to share this passion as a lecturer, panelist, and moderator; and he has served as jury chair and jury member on numerous design awards juries all over the country.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture degree from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University
Bethany is an accomplished project manager with a broad portfolio of project experience, including the design of buildings and spaces for performing arts, athletics and recreation, workplace, retail and hospitality, teaching and learning, and community engagement. Her projects encompass planning and predesign, additions and renovations to existing facilities, and new facilities.
Bethany joined Dake Wells Architecture in 2010. In her role as a project manager within the firm, Bethany brings a depth of applied knowledge, skill, and talent, all delivered through a kind, conscientious demeanor.
Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Bethany received her Bachelor of Architecture from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, and she studied abroad in Paris, Vienna, Berlin, and Rome.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture degree from Kansas State University
Brandon is the K-12 market leader at Dake Wells Architecture and inspires 21st century learning and teaching spaces for his educational clients. Brandon graduated from Kansas State University in 1994 and co-founded Dake Wells Architecture in 2004. His leadership on the Reeds Spring Middle School and Exeter School have received national acclaim, including a national Honor Award for Interiors from the American Institute of Architects.
Brandon has a passion for architecture and the future of education, and at the root of this passion lies a deep-seated commitment to helping people. This is evidenced in Brandon's exceptional ability to bring entire communities together around a strong unified vision and in his involvement with people-centered organizations like Victory Mission, World Serve International, and Habitat for Humanity, among others.
Education
Master of Architecture degree from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University
Born and raised in Colorado, Brandon's fascination with architecture grew from his proximity to the mountains. He longed to provide the same surprise and discovery that the natural environment could create, while also designing for the human scale. Brandon left the Rockies and moved to Springfield to study architecture at Drury University where he earned a Master of Architecture degree.
Brandon joined Dake Wells in 2018. While much of his experience is with the K-12 and FEMA safe room markets, his portfolio also includes healthcare, commercial development, higher education, and library work.
Even outside of the office, Brandon is professionally and academically interested in design. He has participated in international design competitions, freelance design work, and even the design and construction of a memorial garden in Joplin after the 2011 tornado.
Education
Master of Architecture degree from Drury University
Cale first joined Dake Wells Architecture in 2020 for a year-long student internship while completing his Master of Architecture degree from Drury University. Following graduation, he spent two years at a firm in Washington D.C., returning to the Midwest in 2023 where he was welcomed back to DWa with rousing enthusiasm.
As a student, Cale's list of accomplishments and awards were long, perhaps most notable among them being the 2021 Henry Adams Gold Medal & Certificate of Merit from American Institute of Architects, which he received in recognition of excellence in his work as a graduate student. As a designer, he seeks inspiration from world beyond drawing and building, in which architecture opens a discourse with the way we live and what it means to be human. His belief is that to practice architecture is not only to make, but to think and rethink. Through his work at Dake Wells Architecture, he is expanding his journey of continual learning, thinking, and making for public and private clients.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture degree from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University
Cara is an experienced, tenacious project architect whose work reflects her deep commitment to excellence in all facets of the discipline. Her rigorous research into material compositions and assemblies yields technically sound, beautiful buildings and spaces for her clients. Cara's growing portfolio of work includes several award-winning projects for higher education institutions.
Cara joined Dake Wells Architecture in 2012 after graduating summa cum laude from Drury University's Hammons School of Architecture. She is an active member of the AIA, is a member of the Young Architects Forum, and regularly serves as a design critic at Drury University Hammons School of Architecture.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture degree from Kansas State University
Chris joined Dake Wells Architecture in 2021, bringing with him nearly two decades of experience working on projects of varying scales, typologies, and complexities. After receiving his Bachelor of Architecture degree from Kansas State University in 2002, Chris headed east, settling in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, where he led and contributed to projects for high-profile clients like Williams College, Expedia, and the Pennsylvania State University, to name just a few.
A registered architect, Chris's problem-solving approach to design centers on analyzing each project's unique challenges and opportunities and then delivering thoughtful, inspiring, well-executed design solutions. His passion for building science and technical detailing motivates him to explore dynamic and structured resolution to the most challenging of projects.
Chris joined Dake Wells Architecture as one-half of a dynamic, husband-wife architect duo with his wife, Renee. When he's not burning the midnight oil on projects, he can be found spending time with his family and carving up the local mountain biking trails.
Education
Master of Architecture from Tulane University
Dan has been practicing in the Kansas City market since 1989, focusing on straightforward, resourceful solutions to innovatively defined problems. Dan is the Civic market leader at Dake Wells Architecture, and in his role as Director of the Kansas City office he leads a wide variety of project types including community, civic, educational, and residential.
Dan's goal on all projects is to create authentic places for people to gather and connect that are deeply rooted in their site and context. His pursuit of design excellence for his clients has resulted in numerous local, regional, and national AIA awards.
Education
Doctorate of Educational Leadership, Saint Louis University
Specialist of Educational Leadership, Saint Louis University
Masters of Administration, Southwest Baptist University
Bachelor of Science, Missouri State University
Dr. Shawn Randles is passionate about his service to education and youth. Starting out as a teacher and athletic coach, his mentors along his journey noticed his leadership qualities and encouraged him to pursue administration. His educational journey led him through various roles as he took on more responsibilities, eventually becoming a Superintendent where he spent almost half his 31-year career in district administration. His family life is a mirror image of his passions. Alongside his wife, who is also a career educator, they have over 50 years' experience honing their craft. It's who he is and what they do!
Shawn's experience and passion has led him to a second career as an Educational Specialist with Dake Wells Architecture, where his impact on future generations will continue to make a positive impact on education.
Education
Master of Architecture, Minor in French, Kansas State University
As a licensed architect and K-State alum, Emily's design approach is primarily driven by a desire to help people through problem solving. With a broad portfolio ranging from childcare to affordable housing, Emily enjoys working with clients to help them actualize their visions and achieve their goals.
Education
Master of Architecture degree from Kansas State University
Inspired by the opportunity to enrich the lives of those who frequent public and civic spaces, Harison brings a unique combination of poetry and problem solving to Dake Wells. Before earning a Master in Architecture degree from Kansas State University in 2018, Harison spent a year in Christchurch, New Zealand rebuilding homes after the 2011 earthquake. It was through this reconstruction that he realized a special relationship between design and the built environment; Harison aims to manifest good design through minute problem solving in the construction documentation and administration process.
He has a wide range of design experience through his work on the University of Iowa, various residential development projects, and community spaces.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture, Kansas State University
With two decades of practice in the architectural profession, Jacob's experience is defined by his ability to create value for clients through design while executing successful and efficient outcomes. Jacob is a project team leader, guiding the teams through all phases of planning, design, and construction. His success in this role is evident in his successful track record of repeat clients.
Jacob is known for his extraordinary client reviews and has served as project architect on several notable projects. His fine-tuned attention to detail, ability to coordinate complex consultant teams and historic renovation expertise have ensured the success of many adaptive reuse projects. Jacob's vigilance regarding budgetary and performance requirements is equally matched by his uncompromising design aesthetic.
Education
Master of Architecture degree from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University
James joined Dake Wells Architecture in 2022 after earning a Master of Architecture degree, along with a minor in Philosophy and Religion, from Drury University. In his work, James is drawn to the part of the design process where form meets function, exploring how different elements engage one another to create environments that strike a balance between beauty and function.
James is motivated by architecture's ability to alter how we perceive the world. Known to colleagues and peers as an observant, detail-oriented, and passionate designer, James is honing his professional skills toward a goal of creating architecture that leaves a lasting positive impact on all who engage it.
Education
Bachelors of Architecture degree from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University and Bachelors of Art History degree with an emphasis on Architectural History
Jason first began working with Dake Wells Architecture in 2005 as a sustainability consultant, and he formally joined the firm in 2012. An experienced and highly capable project manager and project architect, Jason leads a wide variety of projects within the office and serves as the firm's Sustainability Director. A hallmark of Jason's work is an elegant marriage of sustainability and design excellence.
Jason's expansive knowledge and experience related to sustainable design elevates the performance of all projects within the firm. To his projects he brings more than 20 years' experience with a wide range of projects in the US and abroad. Jason is a former member of the USGBC's LEED Faculty, and he remains very active in promoting sustainable design and development through professional organizations locally as well as nationally. His passion and experience led to his elevation to LEED Fellow in 2013.
Job Titles:
- in 2020 As a Licensed Project Architect
Education
Bachelor of Architecture degree from Fay Jones School of Architecture at the University of Arkansas with a minor in Sustainability and a concentration in Built Systems
Jessica joined Dake Wells Architecture in 2020 as a licensed project architect with boots-on-the-ground experience designing projects for both public and private clients. Known for her diligence and determination to find compelling design solutions within even the tightest constraints, Jessica brings unflagging optimism and positivity to her work.
Jessica's portfolio of work is broad and includes projects for K-12 public school districts, higher education institutions, health care organizations, not-for-profits, and private clients. With experience in all phases of the design process, from master planning to final construction walk-throughs, she is particularly drawn to the construction phase and the process of seeing a project come to life, especially when it involves the transformation of an existing building.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture degree from Fay Jones School of Architecture at University of Arkansas
Since joining Dake Wells Architecture in 2014, Joey has spent thousands of hours executing all phases of the design and construction process, from conceptual design through construction administration. His experience includes planning, design, and construction administration for both renovations and new construction. As a Project Architect, Joey works through the many macro and micro design challenges involved with transforming design vision into buildable solutions.
Education
Bachelor of Architectural Technologies degree from University of Oklahoma
Keri joined Dake Wells Architecture in 2020, bringing with her two decades of experience in marketing and operations within the architectural industry. Presented with countless opportunities over the years to evolve as a professional and to explore her interests as an individual, Keri's experience is as broad as it is deep. She has successfully led the development of "a gazillion" (her words) SOQs; written and edited published books; led strategic planning and rebranding efforts; and coordinated photoshoots, awards entries, software rollouts, and events, among many other things.
Born, raised, and educated in Oklahoma, Keri spent her early childhood "holding the flashlight" for her industrious, DIY parents as they tackled every new challenge that lay before them. This early exposure to hard work and ingenuity taught her to know the value and deep satisfaction of persisting through a challenge until it is solved. She brings this understanding to her work.
A proud Kansas Citian since 2004, Keri leads Dake Wells Architecture's marketing and business development efforts from the firm's KC office.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture degree from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University
As a rule, Kirk strives to make architecture that he is fundamentally proud of. Whether through quality of design and construction, clarity of spatial organization, redefined expectations, or new experiences, seeing a meaningful, well-crafted, and well-received project makes the enormous effort involved in designing and constructing a building more than worth it. It is this personal connection with his work that ensures care and quality will be taken in every part of every project.
Originally from a small, rural Missouri town, Kirk is a thoughtful designer with a good sense of humor, a can-do attitude, and a level-headed outlook on life. He brings a good balance of theory and practicality to the practice, as he loves architecture as much for its big ideas as he does for its infinite detail. His inquisitive nature, passion for problem solving, and attention to detail makes him a good student of life, design, and architecture. Intellectually, Kirk is interested in the power of ordinary architecture and the potential that the built environment has to shape our understanding of the world around us. Professionally, he has been involved in a wide range of building typologies including education, commercial, cultural, and residential projects.
Education
Master of Architecture degree from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University with a Minor in Fine Arts with an emphasis in sculpture
The way that Kurtis thinks about architecture was shaped by experiences gained while growing up in Anchorage, Alaska and his exposure to the different indigenous cultures that call the natural landscape home. While studying architecture at Drury University's Hammons School of Architecture, his thesis incorporated what he had learned while living in Anchorage, focusing on the post-colonization indigenous cultures of Alaska and how architecture could act as a catalyst of giving authorship of their communities back to the rural villages of Alaska. Since graduating with a Masters of Architecture from Drury University, Kurtis has continued his research by broadening the subject of his thesis and trying to bring what he has learned from indigenous cultures and regional vernaculars into his work. In addition to the influence that living in Alaska had on Kurtis' understanding of architecture, he is also heavily influenced by sculpture and the act of making. Kurtis is a firm believer that great design happens through understanding materials on a deep level, which is only gained through the practical knowledge and experience of making things by hand.
When Kurtis is not working, he enjoys long meandering walks around downtown Springfield and camping with family.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture degree from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University
Matt joined Dake Wells in 2008 and has honed his skills as an experienced project manager and project architect on a broad range of project types. In these roles, he is responsible for project design and management, as well as information systems integration within the firm.
Matt's experience includes the design and production of numerous municipal facilities, banking facilities, corporate offices, multi-family housing, and education facilities. To each project, Matt brings his kind demeanor and a passion and diligence for project management and detail of all sorts - from communication to construction detailing.
In 2021, Matt was honored with a prestigious national Young Architects Award from the American Institute of Architects. Matt was one of only 20 honorees selected from a national pool of nominees.
Education
Master of Architecture degree from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University with a minor in Environment and Sustainability
An advocate for sustainability, Meagan strives to find efficient solutions to the many design challenges she encounters in her work, and she aspires to improve sustainable design fluency in both the design industry and the larger community. Since joining Dake Wells Architecture in 2019, Meagan has channeled her advocacy through her professional work. She has served as an integral design team member on projects for K-12, civic, and not-for-profit clients.
Originally from a small, rural Missouri town, Meagan has travelled broadly, exposing her to experiences, customs, cultures, and environments that strongly influence her as a designer.
Meagan earned a Master of Architecture degree from Drury University, and she minored in Environment & Sustainability.
Education
Master of Architecture and Bachelor of Arts in Graphic and Digital Design from Drury University
A polyglot nomad born in Quito, Ecuador with a passion for making, Micaela graduated from Drury University with a Master of Architecture and a B.A. in Graphic and Digital Design and joined Dake Wells Architecture in 2019.
Growing up in different parts of her native Ecuador and later studying and interning in Italy, China, Spain, and the U.S. has broadened Micaela's perspective. She brings those experiences with her into every design endeavor. Her driving belief is in the power of human collaboration and the great things we can accomplish when we come together.
Education
Master of Architecture degree from Hammons School of Architecture at Drury University with minors in Design in Society and Fine Arts
One of Morgan's favorite aspects of architecture is the opportunity to solve problems with a creative approach. She recognizes the great value in looking at things from different perspectives, and along with that comes new, creative possibilities. Her passion for architecture started as a love for arts, and expanded into the desire to help people, and improve the community. After watching a TEDTalk by Michael Murphy, "Architecture that's Built to Heal", she realized she could combine her passions by pursuing a career in architecture.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture, Oklahoma State University
Before relocating to Springfield, MO, Nathan was a lifelong native of Oklahoma and graduate of the OSU School of Architecture. His interest in the built environment was inspired by witnessing firsthand people living in poverty or difficult life situations. Through these experiences, he learned that the smallest, humblest gestures of curated space can positively and significantly impact a community.
In addition to his work at Dake Wells Architecture, Nathan's internships in both Oklahoma and Texas have allowed him to gain project experience in K-12 schools, as well as in the commercial realm.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Missouri State University
Renae is part of the administrative team at Dake Wells Architecture, spending most of her time managing bookkeeping and Human Resources. To her work and her colleagues, Renae brings an enthusiasm for people and the Springfield community.
Renae completed her Bachelor's in Business Management from Missouri State University in 2016 and has an associate degree in Organizational Leadership. Her strong organizational skills and engagement in the community around her make Renae an asset to our team, peers, and clients.
When she isn't in the office, you can most likely find her at home working outside or trail running in the Ozarks.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture degree from Kansas State University
Born and raised in Kansas, Renee recently returned to the Midwest following a long stretch on the east coast. After achieving her Bachelor of Architecture degree from Kansas State University in 2002, Renee settled in Wilkes Barre, PA for the next 18 years. There she grew in her role as a project architect and project manager, primarily for higher education clients. Over the past two decades, Renee has provided leadership on a variety of projects for top-tier academic institutions such as Williams College, the Pennsylvania State University, and the University of Illinois, among others.
Renee is inherently collaborative in her management approach, leading projects with a focus on full-team integration and working closely with design teams, contractors, and owners to ensure thorough and open communication at every project phase. As a design team member, her technical rigor allows her to integrate complex systems into expressive architectural solutions.
Renee is one-half of a dynamic architect duo with her husband, Chris, who sits just a few desks away from her at Dake Wells. Outside of architecture, Renee enjoys cooking, exercising, mountain biking, watching one of her three children's sporting events, or just "hanging" with her family.
Education
Master of Architecture, Drury University