UPWARD ARCHITECTS - Key Persons


Craig Smith

Job Titles:
  • Project Architect
Craig comes to Upward with over 40 years' experience in architecture; specializing in documentation, quality control and construction administration. He retired from full-time work in 2019, joining Upward in 2021 as a part-time Project Architect. Originally from Northern Nevada, Craig moved to Arizona to attend Arizona State University and has a Bachelor of Architecture from ASU. He views every project as a team effort between the design team, contractor, city officials and owner. In his spare time, he enjoys camping and hiking, as well as spending time with family.

Daniel Lerma

Job Titles:
  • Job Captain

Jaime Gregonis

Job Titles:
  • Office Coordinator

Josh De Joya

Job Titles:
  • Architectural Drafter

Justin Gregonis - CEO

Job Titles:
  • Managing Partner

Leann Suen

Job Titles:
  • Accountant
A dedicated accounting professional, Leann joined the Upward team in 2022. Leann enjoys building relationships with vendors and clients to ensure a smooth process on all projects. Her attention to detail and knowledge of the architecture industry are the perfect combination for her role. Managing the different stages of a project and ensuring accurate accounting at each step keeps Leann busy. In her free time Leann enjoys spending time with family and friends. She can be found skiing, hiking, traveling, playing ping pong, watching movies, listening to music, and reading.

Richard Sander

Job Titles:
  • Project Manager
Rick graduated from the State University of New York- Alfred in 1977 with a degree in Architecture and obtained his architectural license in NY in 1988. He brings over 45 years of architectural experience in retail, office, industrial, medical, educational, religious, and commercial projects. Since relocating to Arizona he spent close to 9 years with Arizona State University in the Office of University Architects Office as a Sr. Design Manager.

Sergio Valencia

Job Titles:
  • Project Manager
Sergio was born in Tucson, AZ and raised in Hermosillo, Mexico. He graduated with a degree in architecture in Mexico, and relocated to the valley in 2018. He has worked on a variety of project types including restaurant, office, storage, religious, as well as residential. When he is not working Sergio enjoys spending time with his wife and dogs. He also likes playing and watching all kind of sports.

Stacy Bolen

Job Titles:
  • Project Captain

Trish Flower

Job Titles:
  • Partner
  • Project Architect