Archinect
Michael Shapiro-Barr

Michael Shapiro-Barr

Milwaukee, WI, US

 

About 

Ever since I was a child, I've grown up dreaming of becoming an Architect. It all started when I was 5 years old, playing with a building block set at my grandparents' house. I grew up in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area, and received my Bachelor's in Architecture from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. The day after graduation, I began working closely with a residential builder, which helped me to quickly gain professional experience. After many months of working with residential architecture, I had to leave the firm, due to the shaky economy, and restructuring of the firm I had worked with. Since then I've been given the opportunity to further advance other essential skills and experience within the professional world. I have been working as a Paralegal and Special Projects Assistant at a law firm in Milwaukee, while trying to get back into the world or Architecture. While I am very eager to get back into Architecture, I do not regret having been able to take this time away to further build upon many leadership skills, giving me the confidence and experience to excel within my next Architectural position.

Employment 

Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, Special Projects Assistant and Marketing Assistant/Paralegal

Responsible for administrative and paralegal duties, including document preparation, court filings, correspondence and on-going telephone contact with clients, assisting with preparation for court hearings, and research,
Responsible for launching an “Extranet” database for client and company use, as well as many other practice group websites;
Gained experience in an office environment, including taking on new projects and building successful relationships with clients, as well as experience within the marketing department.

Dec 2008 - current
 

James H. Hoffmann Builders, Intern Architect

Assisted on many aspects of design and construction planning for high-end residences,
Shadowed Project Manager, gaining a knowledge of on-site construction and documentation review, as well as experience with the process of the building schedule and communication with various contractors,
Assisted with business database development,
Participated in client development initiatives, as well as having a hands-on role in client meetings;
Review and editing of construction documents with Lead Architect to analyze and solve design issues.

May 2008 - Sep 2008
 

Education 

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, BArch, Architecture

Sep 2002 - May 2008
 

Nicolet High School, High School, Architecture

Aug 1998 - Jun 2002
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills