We are so happy to recognize a significant career milestone for our colleague, Nick Andrews. As a Senior Project Manager, Nick just celebrated 25 years of committed service and engineering excellence at HEAPY.
Nick specializes in electrical engineering, lighting design, and project management. He has a dedicated focus on the education market, including higher education institutions, K-12 schools, and career readiness and training facilities, as well as sports fields, arenas, performing arts venues, and airports.
Nick’s exceptional leadership on numerous projects, from conception to execution, has been instrumental to our firm’s growth. His passion for the industry is evident in the quality of work he delivers, and his positive attitude and strong work ethic have made him invaluable to HEAPY.
Read Nick’s Q&A about his project management expertise and project portfolio.
What are the strengths and skills you leverage to be an effective project manager?
“I leverage a combination of extroversion, friendliness, and a willingness to approach people without fear. However, listening to the owners and clients is equally important. By paying attention to their concerns and difficulties, I can gain valuable insights and offer solutions that best fit their needs. Taking the time to ask questions and listen attentively can significantly enhance the level of support provided to clients, fostering trust and long-term relationships. Ultimately, being a successful project manager requires striking a balance between communication skills and empathy, so that you can help clients overcome challenges and achieve their goals.”
Tell us about one of your greatest achievements or favorite projects at HEAPY.
“My favorite project over the last 25 years is the recently finished design and construction of a new Maintenance Hangar at Dayton International Airport. The size and scope of that one building was massive. A C7 can be parked in the hangar. As part of that project, we visited a recently built hangar that the owner wanted to replicate. On that visit they had two AC130 gunships parked in that hangar while we were there. It was fantastic to see. We replicated that space at Dayton International Airport, and it turned out great. It’s an impressive space.”
What aspect of your job do you find most fulfilling?
“The most rewarding aspect of my job is witnessing the end result of a project’s construction when I can visit a building or space. One particularly surreal experience was attending a game at the University of Dayton Arena, which I helped design. Driving up I-75 at night and seeing the Montgomery County building illuminated in a spectrum of colors was also a memorable moment. Another remarkable experience was walking through Sinclair Community College’s campus at night to observe the transformation of 4th and 5th streets. Witnessing the culmination of our team’s efforts in shaping these spaces fills me with the greatest sense of professional satisfaction.”
What is one piece of advice you would offer to new project managers?
“For new project managers, my suggestion would be to stay true to yourself. It’s important not to try and emulate someone else or wonder how another person might handle a situation. Instead, strive to be your authentic self when interacting with clients and owners. This approach will be appreciated, as it demonstrates honesty and transparency, which are valued in any professional setting.”
Read more about Nick Andrews, Senior Project Manager, Principal.
