About Kyle
Kyle joined Barton in 2011 and since has served as Senior Mechanical Engineer/Project Manager for over 10 years at our State College office. He attended The Pennsylvania State University where he earned a Bachelor of Architectural Engineering and a Master in Architectural Engineering.
When asked what being part of an ESOP means to him, Kyle states “The way management has approached the ESOP has really shown me that they care about their co-owners on a very fundamental level. Their recognition of our importance to the company and their desire to make that the focal point of the company’s culture I think is a key reason why employees love working at Barton.”
Tell us a little bit about your life at home.
My wife and I met at Penn State while we were attending college and married in 2016. We never thought we would find ourselves still living in the same area over a decade later, but here we are! Apparently, our two-year-old son didn’t have us feeling busy enough as we just welcomed a second son into our world, ensuring that we will be busy for years to come!
What’s your hometown?
Greenville, PA.
Where did you go to college?
The Pennsylvania State University.
What was your first job in engineering like?
My first engineering job was as an intern for an AE firm in Altoona. My experience there helped direct my career path as it taught me a lot about myself, honed my engineering skills and broadened my understanding of the industry.
What was the first job you got a physical paycheck?
My first summer job was at a nursing home in my hometown where I worked on the ground maintenance crew. The majority of my earnings that summer went to the purchase of my first car.
How long have you been with Barton?
I joined Barton right out of college, 12 years ago.
What do you like most about the ESOP?
The ESOP has allowed me to take on leadership opportunities and to interface with senior management in ways that I don’t think would have been previously possible.
If I wasn’t an Engineer, I’d be?
It is still my dream to someday be a stay-at-home dad and part-time fly-fishing guide. Someday I’ll convince my wife to let me do this! Right?
What’s your favorite sport (professional, college, or other)?
First and foremost is Penn State football! I follow other PSU/college sports and the NFL as well.
I’m seldom without?
A pocket knife. Rule #9.
When I’m not at work I’m doing……
Spending time with my family or outdoors. Ideally, spending time outdoors with my family. Fly-fishing/fly tying is my number one leisure activity, but I also enjoy hiking, hunting, and other outdoor activities.
Favorite pizza topping?
Pepperoni and bacon. A classic and BACON! How could you go wrong with this combo?
What’s your “Stranded on a Desert Island” playlist?
Noah Kahan, Vance Joy, The Lumineers, Bastille, Mumford and Son to name a few.
What’s on your Bucket list?
Fly-fishing in Alaska.
When I go to a cookout, I hope there’s __ to eat.
Asian barbequed meats. I often fulfill the role of grill master at my in-law’s cookouts.
Have you ever met your idol or someone famous?
I’ve had the opportunity to meet several local fly-fishing legends such as Joe Humphreys, George Daniel, and Domenick Swentosky. Silly to most, but big-time celebrities to me!
What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve ever been given?
The most important part of a project is a well-defined scope.