Spotlight: Taylor Keck

Taylor joined Gray & Fick full time in 2016 after completing a 4 month co-op as part of the Architectural Technology program at Fanshawe. She is currently in a combined role of drafting/construction administrator for projects ranging in size from small additions to large long term care and retirement homes.

Why did structural engineering interest you?

Ever since I can remember, I've always had more of a technical mindset. A mindset that "if there's a will, there's a way," always pushing to understand the how. I had a professor in college that shone a light on the structural engineering sector of the construction industry for me. I can't say structural engineering was a career I had grown up knowing I would want to be involved in, but ever since that very first day in the program, I knew it was the right path for me.

Why did you join Gray & Fick?

After a 4 month co-op with Gray & Fick, I knew they were a firm I would love to be a part of. The same professor that had shone a light for me on structural engineering was the one that introduced me to Bill and the rest of the Gray & Fick team. After being exposed to structural engineering as a student, and being exposed to the entire Gray & Fick team, I couldn't imagine myself anywhere else. They've become like family to me and here I am, five years later!

What were your first few months like?

During my first few months at Gray & Fick, I was nervous. I was nervous that I wasn't going to be able to retain all the information that I needed to be successful in my role. The senior staff was beyond helpful though and allowed me to lean on them when I needed a little industry guidance. To this day, I am always learning new things from more senior staff, which allows me to have continued success in my role.

What has been the biggest change since then?

The biggest change since I began my journey at Gray & Fick would have to be my role change from primarily drafting projects to construction administration on different scale projects. It's given me the chance to grow in my career and it's shown me how much the team believes in me and my abilities within the industry.

What has been your favourite project so far?

We do a range of different projects, and I can't say I have an all time favourite - they all showcase our talents in different ways. I do love how we've now added projects in Northern Canada to our portfolio. The unique construction techniques have always piqued my interest.

What skills are you looking to improve next?

I am always continuing to build my knowledge on industry standards and best practices in the construction industry.

What is a small thing that you like about the company?

One small thing I enjoy about Gray & Fick is how we're a family.

What does life look like for you outside of Gray & Fick?

My life outside Gray & Fick is busy! This year we were blessed with our second bundle of joy, Connor, which grew our crazy little family to four. Our firstborn, Jaxson, turned three in August. I can't believe how fast time flies. He's a busy little one who always keeps us on our toes but has the most kind and gentle soul. Connor, our second, is starting to show us glimpses of his personality. He's really easy going, but wow is he stubborn when he wants to be - I think he gets that from his Dad! The furriest member of our family is Rory, our soon-to-be 10-year old Golden Retriever. He's a companion that I couldn't imagine growing up without. He's been with me through thick and thin, including through my college years. I like to say that he's an old soul, beyond his years and absolutely amazing with our children.

We are all an adventurous bunch which makes finding family "fun" easy to do. Whether it's hiking, biking, kayaking, camping, bonfires, boating, dirt biking, snowmobiling, tobogganing - we're never short on outdoor activities! They are something that my husband and I are so excited to be able to involve our children in. But on those not so beautiful days, those days where we'd rather just be indoors, I sure am glad to have my little movie buff (Jaxson) right there by my side for a good cuddle on the couch.

If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be and why?

If I could have dinner with anyone dead or alive, right off the top of my head I would have to say Anthony Kiedis of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Learning the insights to the life he lived would be absolutely fascinating!

Where in the world would you travel if you could go anywhere?

Scotland - I would hands down love to travel to Scotland. The history speaks volumes there, and it would be an out of this world experience.

If you could be anything other than a drafter/construction administrator, what would you be?

If I could have any career in the world, rather than the one I've built - I would have to say I would love to be an Astronaut.