Get to Know: Kelley Hicks

August 16, 2019

 

Kelley Hicks, AIA, NCARB, joined JAI in 2015.

 

What is your role at JAI?

Project manager.

 

What three words best describe you?

Kind, dedicated and funny (well, maybe in my mind).

 

What is your favorite aspect of being on the JAI team?

Learning new things from the creative group. I really enjoy seeing interactions and designs by others in the office. Maybe one day it will rub off on me.

 

What three terms best describe the culture at JAI?

Honest, humble and good people.

 

What has been your proudest moment to date working at JAI?

The partners took a chance and hired me, even though I made a wisecrack about not liking Aggies (sorry, Eric Bowen). But honestly, every day at JAI makes me proud.

 

How has working at JAI enhanced your professional development?

Where to start! I feel like I am fresh out of school (15 years later) learning all kinds of new things each day. Thinking through design, unique materials and working with an imaginative group of people really has helped me professionally and will continue to help me grow as an architect.

 

What or who is your go-to source for work inspiration?

Emily Haire. She is creative, decisive and has a good vision.

 

If you could switch places for a day with any JAI team member, which one would you choose?

Receptionist Linda Mollica. I love to greet and talk to people so I can use my Texas accent. Maybe that can be my next career.

 

Before joining JAI, what was the most unusual job you held?

I always had fun and awesome jobs, from teaching gymnastics, to working in a jewelry store, and driving a small bus for summer school.

 

What do you look most forward to at the end of a workday?

Hanging out with my husband and fur babies.

 

If you were stranded alone on an island, what three material possessions would you hope to have with you?

Hammock with bug net, matches and Swiss Army knife (with nail clippers) – and my husband so I won’t be alone!

 

What is your secret talent?

I am a second-degree black belt.

 

What is your favorite place in the world?

Any beach.

 

What are you currently watching?

It is too embarrassing to admit to the public, my husband says I watch TV like a teenage girl.