SMRT - Key Persons


Andrew Bradley

Job Titles:
  • Senior Principal, Senior Structural Engineer
Andrew Bradley has over 25 years of experience analyzing, designing and detailing project solutions for clients in his role as both a structural engineer and as a project manager. Fascinated by the expression of structure in objects all around us, Andrew strives to blur the lines between engineering and art. Andrew appreciates a holistic approach to solutions, capitalizing on the expertise of his team and his experience in brining complex multidisciplinary projects to completion. He finds graceful solutions by blending programmatic needs and aesthetic goals, while exposing the strength and beauty of the structure.

Andrew Tyner

Job Titles:
  • Senior Principal, Science, Technology, & Manufacturing Project Management Leader
When he graduated college with a biology degree, Andy envisioned a career in biochemistry research. Changing course, he instead earned a Master of Architecture from Syracuse University and joined SMRT in 2006.

Arthur Thompson - Founder

Job Titles:
  • Founder
  • Senior Architect
Arthur has been with SMRT since 1982 and has been an architect since 1962. As an undergraduate psychology major at Harvard, Arthur assisted with a therapy group in the Concord facility of the Massachusetts prison system. There, he became interested in the impact of the traditional correctional environment on inmate and officer behavior. Arthur's education continued with an architectural degree at Columbia. His career has focused on building designs that positively impact behavior and that incorporate contemporary principles of justice design. He applies those principles to his work across a broad spectrum of project types and sizes, and frequently shares his expertise as an instructor at the National Institute of Corrections. In addition to his work, Arthur loves photography, fishing, gardening, music and art. Education Columbia University, Masters of Architecture; Harvard University, Bachelor of Arts, Psychology

Ben Halleck

Job Titles:
  • Associate Principal, Senior Mechanical Engineer
Ben has skillfully parlayed 10 years as a U.S. Navy division officer aboard a nuclear submarine into his second career as a senior mechanical engineer in our science and technology sector. High stakes in both environments have shaped Ben's ingenuity, focus on safety, calm composure and deep technical competencies. Ben has worked successfully with Fortune 500 clients in the semiconductor, aerospace, IT, pharmaceutical, and food and beverage industries by understanding their business models and industry workings. His quiet demeanor belies a quick wit and friendly, collaborative work style. In his spare time, this father of young twins enjoys hiking, running, music and reading. Education Old Dominion University: Master of Engineering Management, Oregon State University: Bachelor of Science, Nuclear Engineering

Bill Heil

Job Titles:
  • Member of the Institute of Electrical
  • Senior Principal, Electrical Engineering Discipline Leader
Bill leads SMRT's Electrical Engineering Group and serves on the Board of Directors. He has designed systems for an array of projects across market sectors including healthcare facilities, pharmaceutical and medical laboratories, military bases and multi-building campuses -and a major league ballpark. Bill is an active member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) and the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES), where he has served as president of the Portland Section for the past two years. Bill also serves on the board for the Gorham Arts Alliance, a local non-profit founded by his wife, Amy. When he isn't preparing technical drawings and performing power studies, he may be found on (or in) the water enjoying paddle-boarding and sailing. But Bill's favorite leisure activity remains fly fishing for Maine native brook trout, Rocky Mountain cut-throat trout and Atlantic Coast striped bass. Education Pennsylvania State University: Bachelor of Science, Electrical Engineering

Brad Baker

Job Titles:
  • Sustainability Leader, Senior Architect
As SMRT's Sustainability Coordinator, Brad works with SMRT's Sustainability Council to continually develop benchmarks, oversee our analysis workflow, and provide education on design implementation. His experience and passion for sustainable practices brings innovative technologies and solutions to each of our projects, delivering to clients the most forward-thinking and best performing buildings possible. Brad has received multiple design awards for his work, most recently a 2020 AIA Maine Design Award in the Unbuilt Category. Outside of the office, Brad enjoys spending time outdoors with his family, cycling and fine woodworking. Education Boston Architectural College: Master of Architecture Wentworth Institute of Technology: Bachelor of Science / Architecture

Bradley Hodges

Job Titles:
  • Senior Principal, Director of Science, Technology, & Manufacturing Practice

Chris Dufel

Job Titles:
  • Facilities Manager

Craig Piper - Chairman

Job Titles:
  • Chairman of the Board
  • Senior Principal
  • Chairman of SMRT 's Board
Since joining SMRT in 1997, Craig has managed some of the firm's most complex projects. He is particularly proud of his contributions to the MaineGeneral Medical Center Alfond Center for Health. As Chair of SMRT's board, Craig helps guide the firm's collective vision for the future. He also serves on the board of Community Partners, a local nonprofit helping people with disabilities. Craig lives in South Portland, where he chairs the Comprehensive Plan Implementation Committee and enjoys running city trails. Craig earned a Master of Architecture from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a Bachelor Degree in Landscape Architecture from Syracuse University/SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry. Education Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Master of Architecture; Syracuse University/SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Landscape Architecture

Dennis Morin

Job Titles:
  • Architect
  • Principal
  • Senior Principal, Justice Project Management Leader
Dennis joined SMRT in 1994 straight from college, and his career trajectory has taken him from architectural drafter to principal, responsible for co-leading our architectural practice. Dennis is an integral part of SMRT's justice team with a strong background in construction that fosters working relationships in the field, while ensuring project quality. Dennis balances work deadlines with family and his love for woodworking and cars. When not in the stands watching his son play football or lacrosse, he spends free time on DIY projects at home, including yardwork while piloting his John Deere tractor.

Derek Veilleux

Job Titles:
  • Senior Principal, Director of Health Wellness Practice
As leader of SMRT's health and wellness practice, Derek is committed to using a data-driven design process to manage change, collaborating with stakeholders to innovate and plan for new care delivery models. He also serves on the Board of Directors. The resulting high performance facilities respond to each organization's unique culture, goals and processes. As one client put it, "Derek recognizes that healthcare design work is dynamic and encompasses unique demands from numerous constituencies, combined with a variety of regulatory pressures. His consistent delivery of high-level functioning spaces has allowed us to maximize our financial resources in delivering quality care focused on our patients." Outside the office Derek enjoys running a road race, traveling, making pottery, and appreciating great food and wine. Education Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute; Bachelor of Architecture; Bachelor of Science, Building Sciences

Ellen Belknap - President

Job Titles:
  • President
  • Senior Principal
Ellen leads SMRT using her collaborative skills to create an environment where innovation and design excellence flourish. She is passionate in her pursuit of "finding a better way," always with an eye to advancing our clients' success and thereby SMRT's. Ellen worked summers at SMRT while still a graduate student at Columbia. In 1986 she joined the firm as an intern architect and in 2004 became president. Ellen's knowledge of healthcare policy and industry trends positions her as a thought leader and business partner for our healthcare clients. She is a member of the American College of Healthcare Architects and serves on the board of visitors for the University of Maine. Ellen enjoys living in Portland and loves to explore and experience the wonders of Maine and beyond with her family. Education Columbia University Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation: Master of Architecture; Cornell University School of Arts and Sciences: Bachelor of Arts, Art History

Erin Anderson

Job Titles:
  • Senior Principal, Interiors Discipline Leader
Foodie. Artist. Biker. Skier. Director of Interior Design, Erin is all these and more. Erin's award-winning creativity leads her down roads less taken, where she frequently finds inspiration in regional materials and the natural environment. Since joining SMRT in 2001, she has perfected the art of visual storytelling, using materials, color, lighting and furnishing to reveal a client's unique vision. Fueling every project is Erin's passion to design for a positive, memorable experience. Education Norwich University: Bachelor of Science, Architectural Studies

Graham Vickers

Job Titles:
  • Senior Principal, Principal in Charge of Marketing, Director of Justice Practice
Since joining SMRT in 2011, Graham has designed correctional facilities as well as educational and healthcare facilities that enable dedicated people to help others. Architecture as social responsibility is the fundamental element in Graham's practice; the power of design to create sustainable, life-affirming environments and communities. Always one for adventure, Graham can be found cruising through the woods on a mountain bike or snowboard, but more often these days chasing his young sons around. Graham is actively involved in the AIA Academy of Architecture for Justice and currently sits on the University of Maine Augusta School of Architecture Advisory Board. Education Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute; Bachelors of Architecture

Jeana Stewart

Job Titles:
  • Associate Principal, Director of Workplace Practice
While staying on top of the latest global research informing the future of work, she believes in highly customized, people-focused solutions. Jeana balances data and empathy to help organizations overcome the uncertainty of what comes next, creating workplace strategies and purpose driven design that focuses on celebrating each client's unique culture. Jeana joined SMRT in 2007. Education Mount Ida College; Bachelor of Science, Interior Design

Jessica King

Job Titles:
  • Experiential Graphic Design Leader, Senior Interior Designer
Jessica helps clients differentiate their brand and tell their stories. Her knowledge of interiors, integrated with her deep expertise in the art and science of experiential graphics, enhances any design team's ability to create spaces that communicate both meaningfully and practically to users. A talented designer with an artistic eye, Jessica delights in making the abstract concrete through discerning choices in fabrication methods and her creative, thoughtful approach to interior finishes, signage/wayfinding, furniture, fixings and equipment (FF&E), art and donor recognition installations. In her free time, she likes to spend time with her family outdoors, on or in the water, working on various house projects and traveling. Education Hobart and William Smith Colleges: Bachelor of Arts, Architectural Studies and Studio Art

John H. Chaffe

The Chaffe Fitness Center is designed and engineered to meet the needs of military personnel and students and their families.

Jonathan Kasper

Job Titles:
  • Principal, Mechanical Engineering Discipline Leader
Jon is discipline leader for SMRT's mechanical group, and earned his engineering degree at Villanova University followed by an MBA at Boston College.

Kate Everett

Job Titles:
  • Principal and Principal in Charge of Operations at SMRT Architects
  • Senior Principal, Principal in Charge of Operations
Kate is a principal and Principal in Charge of Operations at SMRT Architects and Engineers, with 29 years experience as a mechanical engineer. She serves on the Board of Directors. A whiz mechanical engineer, Kate conceives the design of cutting edge yet tested mechanical systems that operate smoothly, are energy efficient and positively impact SMRT's clients' bottom lines. She recently led the design of a complex HVAC system for a 640,000 sq. ft. facility, awarded one of the country's first LEED Gold for Healthcare certifications. Facile in multiple construction delivery methodologies, including Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), Kate is respected by clients and contractors alike. Education Union College: Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering

Kenneth Costello

Job Titles:
  • Leader of SMRT 's Site Design Group
  • Senior Principal, Site Discipline Leader
Ken holds a Master in Landscape Architecture from the University of Colorado at Denver, where his preference for the outdoors and the arc-and-tangent proved more appealing than the straighter angles of architecture.

Kristen Damuth

Job Titles:
  • Principal, Health Wellness Project Management Leader

Lura Wade

Job Titles:
  • Associate Principal, Telecommunications Design Leader, Senior Electrical Engineer

Michael Chonko

Job Titles:
  • Senior Principal, Director of Engineering, Director of Government Practice
Mike joined SMRT in 2000 and leads the Government Market Sector and Energy Group. He is a member of the Board of Directors. He brings creativity and common sense solutions, as well as over two decades of experience, to project teams.

Michael Goard

Job Titles:
  • Principal, New York Regional Market Leader
As a skilled architect and project manager, Michael brings more than 20 years of hands-on experience leading both public and private projects of varying scale and program. His in-depth knowledge of complex new construction, historic preservation, and adaptive reuse results in stress-free projects from initial planning through construction. Michael is passionate about preserving our nation's most significant landmarks, collaborating on numerous projects with the National Park Service, National Archives & Records Administration, and the U.S. Department of State. Working closely with SMRT's leadership team, Michael is actively involved in identifying opportunities to continue to grow the firm's presence in New York, western Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Vermont. In addition to his office leadership role at SMRT, he currently is serving on the Board of Fellows at Norwich University, helping to foster and advance the welfare of the university with a particular focus on supporting the School of Architecture. Education Norwich University: Bachelor of Architecture, Minor in History

Nick Vaughn

Job Titles:
  • Senior Principal, Director of Education Athletics Practice
Ask Nick what fuels his passion for education design and he'll tell you, "designing to achieve the optimal student experience both as it happens and as it's remembered far into the future." Nick brings more than 15 years of experience leading the programming, planning and design of academic, student life and athletic spaces to his role as Director of SMRT's Education Practice. Having successfully designed projects for Penn State University, Virginia Tech, The University of Oklahoma and Hyde School among others, Nick helps education clients achieve their mission to deliver a transformative campus experience for the students of today and tomorrow. Education Hampton University; Bachelor of Architecture

Nicole Rogers

Job Titles:
  • Senior Principal, Director of Architecture
Among SMRT's most versatile architects, Nicole loves a design challenge that calls on her curiosity and problem-solving skills. From project inception, she works with clients to ensure their building is designed to fulfill its mission and serve its users' needs, regardless of size, scale or cost. Her multilayered approach evokes memories or personal connections to the space, resulting in positive experiences for doctors and patients, teachers and students alike. A member of the SMRT team since 2011, Nicole co-leads the firm's architecture discipline. When not managing workflow or mentoring young designers, she's off exploring art and architecture in other cultures. Education University of Cincinnati, Masters of Architecture; Lawrence Technological University, Bachelor of Science: Architecture

Paul Stevens - Founder

Job Titles:
  • Founder
  • Senior Architect
Paul has been with SMRT for most of his 50-plus years in the business, yet the firm has always been in his blood. Long before he began his studies at the University of Pennsylvania - long before he was even born - Paul's great grandfather, John Calvin Stevens, founded the company. Paul has built on his great grandfather's vision and success, making SMRT the major force that it is in the Northeast today. Paul loves spending time on the waterfront and islands of Casco Bay with his wife and sons. An avid sailor and runner, Paul long ago set a goal of winning his age group at the Miami half marathon; he is still trying. He recently stepped down as principal and marketing director, but continues to be active in projects, marketing and the Portland community. Education University of Pennsylvania - Masters of Architecture, Wesleyan University - Bachelor of Fine Arts

Peter Rand

Job Titles:
  • Associate Principal, Structural Engineering Discipline Leader
  • Director of Structural Engineering
As a child, Peter Rand was fascinated with constructing buildings (and lots of other objects) using Legos. Today Peter puts his engineering experience - thirty years - into solving complex structural challenges and bringing a client's vision to fruition. As SMRT's Director of Structural Engineering, Peter utilizes a variety of lenses on each project including stability, constructability, budget, aesthetic impact, and future building flexibility. He passes that approach on to younger staff, as part of his passion for mentoring. Peter knows the obvious answer to a structural challenge may not be the best option. While Peter has parked the Legos, he enjoys spending his time outside the office in the great outdoors - mountain biking, snowmobiling, and exploring Maine's unique spaces. He doesn't always leave the office behind, however, as Peter is known to think about a project's structural design while mowing his back forty. Education Vermont Technical College: Bachelor of Science, Architectural Engineering Technology; Associate of Applied Science, Architectural & Building Engineering Technology