Adam J. French

I have experience managing project teams, including consultants, and successfully completing projects within budget and on time. This required an understanding of the responsibilities for coordinating project teams, an understanding of consultant services as they relate to systems, building design, and obtaining agency approvals. I have a successful history demonstrating the methods for developing design solutions collaboratively with clients, users, and stakeholders; an understanding of the drawings and documents needed for agency approvals and an awareness of specific design concerns in California.

My 18 years of experience in architecture started while in high school and as is the case with many skills, the earlier the better. There I enrolled in courses in manual drafting, mechanical drawing, architectural CAD drafting, and entered competitions. By senior year I had obtained a Regional Occupational Program training certificate in CAD drafting. In my first job I inspected and documented construction defects in the field. This experience provided me with a solid understanding of detailing and the prevention of water intrusion preparing me for the legal aspects of the construction industry. Throughout college, economic conditions necessitated working in the field of architecture 15-20 hours per week and full-time during breaks and over the summers. Complementing practice with academics led to a full day of architecture every day of the week. Fabrication, tooling, and construction were also part of the work experience as I worked in the metal and wood shops before
progressing to sculptural metal fabrication in a merit shop and subsequently general construction.

After graduation I worked for iconic San Diego architects where I was entrusted with progressive levels of responsibility. When something came up I was often the first to find a solution to the matter at hand with a can-do attitude. Looking to build the firm and contribute, I stayed until I was the last man standing before the office went into semi-retirement. That position was followed by a consulting relationship for some time. At various times I have worked for an architect/developer with a focus on development feasibility. Continuing these relationships and initiating new contractual enterprises under the direct supervision of registered architects, the demand for my services followed a model of practice common to construction where the work was project-based and changing in location.

I have also had some very interesting opportunities to work on intriguing and innovative projects which used the skills I developed in my architectural training. Since these were not in the building industry and were in various, at times concurrent, duration, I will mention them here for clarity instead of in the resume. I produced concept illustrations, simulation models, patent drawings, and renderings for Gyronautics Corporation which has patented and is developing a low-cost, high-speed gyro-stabilized computer operated Vertical Take Off & Landing passenger vehicle intended to revolutionize air transportation. Gyronautics Corporation was working with NASA through its Revolutionary Aerospace System Concepts division which funded development and testing of the Vertical Take Off & Landing engine system. I have also worked on conceptual design for Innovative Transportation Systems Corporation which develops and implements technological advances in transportation including electric conversion, upgrades of existing rail systems, high-speed magnetic levitation trains, and induction charging for electric drive vehicles. While this has been some very interesting side work it has not side-tracked me from becoming a professional architect as I often find inspiration to drive the creative process from outside the field of architecture.

When economic indicators were declining I completed the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards license exams and started a family. In addition to being an entrepreneur and parenting, I give my time as a juror for design critiques. I look forward to hearing from you. When are you available to meet with me to discuss your needs and objectives?