About David
David joined Barton in 2026 as a Senior Architectural Lighting Designer in our State College office. He holds a Master of Architectural Engineering from Pennsylvania State University with a concentration in lighting and electrical systems, as well as a Bachelor of Architectural Engineering with a focus in the same disciplines. David is a registered Professional Engineer in Pennsylvania, Lighting Certified (LC) through the NCQLP, and an active member of the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES).
When asked what being part of an ESOP mean to him, David stated, “It means that I know everyone I work with has a shared investment in the success of the company, and the success of the company directly benefits us!”
Tell us a little about your family/home life.
I live in an 1859 Victorian with my wife (Shannon) and three kids – Sons Charlie (9), Eddie (7), and daughter Drew (3). We have 2 dogs.
What’s your hometown?
Born and raised in Harrisburg.
What was your first job in engineering like?
Very similar to what I currently do. I interned for Shawn Good while in college and have been working alongside Shawn and Ben since then. I started by running lighting calculations, pulling fixture cutsheets, drafting lighting fixture schedules, sketching lighting concepts, and creating renderings – things I still do today.
What was the first job you got a physical paycheck?
I worked as a maintenance person and then a lifeguard at two community pools near my home in Harrisburg.
What do you like most about the ESOP?
I like the employee engagement activities that I’ve been hearing about, and I can’t wait to participate. The lunches and birthday cupcakes have been a welcomed benefit as well.
How does the ESOP impact you the most?
It gives me more confidence and security in my ability to save for retirement.
What do you love most about your job?
Playing my role in creating inviting, exciting, relaxing, comfortable spaces – whatever the project calls for – for people to experience!
If I wasn’t a Lighting Designer, I’d be?
Unemployed, a homesteader, musician, or a landlord.
What’s your favorite sport (professional, college, or other)?
Baseball – professional – followed by college and pro football.
I’m seldom without?
Headphones.
When I’m not at work I’m doing……
Skiing in the winter, gardening in the summer, home improvement projects year-round, and chauffeuring my kids around.
Favorite Pizza Topping?
Mushrooms.
What’s your hidden talent?
It used to be drumming, but I haven’t been able to keep up with that for a long time now.
What’s the one movie you can watch over and over again?
Stripes.
What’s on your bucket list?
Probably a 5 gallon – they seem to work the best for capacity vs. weight.
When I go to a cookout I hope there’s __ to eat.
Pasta and potato salads.
What’s your favorite holiday and why?
Thanksgiving – an excuse to remind us of all the things we should be grateful for, and time with family around a dinner table.
Have you ever met your idol or someone famous? If so, who?
Can’t say that I have!
Best book you’ve ever read?
Shop Craft as Soulcraft.
What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve ever been given?
Always try to create an attitude of gratitude.