Preston's professional career began with the start of a residential design/build business in June of 1978 at the age of 22. This business continued for seven years. The return of the economy brought new vitality to the construction industry at which time he focused on his architectural internship. He became well versed in the various tools needed for design in the modern age. Building systems technology, structural engineering, cost estimating, construction inspections, AutoCAD drafting - 2D & 3D, computer software and networking systems and the almighty pencil and paper. Preston's project experience includes and is not limited to: residential, commercial, retail, educational, religious and engineering projects, equipping him with a diverse record of achievements.
After several architectural internships a new firm was created Airoom Architects. As President & Chief Architect Preston helped lead and manage the architectural teams to achieve record results. The highest and most recognized in the Design/Build industry at that time. Recognized by Cranes Chicago Business to be the largest design build firm in Illinois with Carol Ross Barney, a former professor, following second.
Airoom Architects, Inc. is a division of Airoom, Inc. which serves the greater Chicagoland area; architects and builders specializing in home renovations & remodeling, home additions, custom homes, teardowns, interior design, kitchens, baths and more. Airoom Architects Inc.
Preston went on to gain commercial experiences at TOKI & Associates, Inc., Consulting Engineers & Architectural firm located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This venue provided a variety of other project types as he was hired by TOKI to start up their new architectural division.
Preston's responsibilities included marketing, supervision of architectural and structural projects along with construction inspection services. Further experience gained extended or continued client relations, marketing, consulting, schematic design & design development, construction documentation, estimating, contract administration, permit processing, material and color selection, construction observation, contract administration, punch lists for job close-out, general administrative duties, supervision, service, final product & customer satisfaction. All of this while gaining exposure to TOKI's engineering operation. Toki provides a full range of engineering services including, civil, surveying, material testing, MEP & structural.
Skills and Accomplishments:
• 5 year Professional Bachelor of Architecture in Design from the University of Illinois.
• An accomplished problem solver.
• Exceptional communications and relationship management talents.
• Expertise in managing strategy, planning, development, and the deployment of innovative design, building methods and systems.
• Accomplished motivator and team-builder, consistently leading highly focused teams to meet and surpass company goals.
• Management of a diverse variety of project types across a wide range of commercial and residential building codes in Wisconsin, the Chicagoland area, Michigan and other locations.
• A proven track record in the implementation and completion of design, construction contracts, budgets, drawings and specifications while monitoring the contractors compliance, progress and quality during construction.
• Uncanny technical expertise in the examination, repair and modification of existing structures.
• A trained Autodesk/AutoCAD manager with emphasis on AutoCAD and Architectural Desktop.
• Proficient in multiple software applications including Chief Architect, Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Design Suite, Beam Check, LP Software, REScheck, etc.
• Expertly skilled at pencil sketching and hand drafting in both pencil and ink pen, a dying art.
Key Projects:
ARCHITECT OF RECORD FOR OVER 2,000 COMPLETED PROJECTS THROUGHOUT N.E. ILLINOIS, S.E. WISCONSIN & MICHIGAN 1986-2013: Project responsibilities: Initial marketing & consultation through design, development, contract/permit/construction documents, specifications, structural design, lighting, administration, punch list, actual construction and close-out.
MASTER PLAN for OLD CASE TRACTOR PLANT - RACINE 2008-2009: Project Manager, Architect and Designer for the Master Plan. A historic Racine site. A Self contained, self sufficient Community.
ADA COMPLIANCE - MILWAUKEE PUBLIC SCHOOLS 1995-1996: Supervision and coordination of construction inspectors for 67 schools.
MILWAUKEE COUNTY ZOO - RHINO/ELEPHANT RENOVATIONS 1996: Rework of existing exhibit areas to accommodate more elephant space and relocate the rhinoceros. Prime consultant for Milwaukee County, which included design, design development, CD’s, contract administration, and job close-out. Supervising Architect.
GENERAL MITCHELL AIRPORT CANOPY WALK EXTENSION 1996: Extend and add canopies for existing sidewalks and passenger drop off areas. Prime Consultant for Milwaukee County, which includes design, design development, CD's, contract administration, job close-out. Supervising Architect.
