About Richard
Richard has been with Barton for over 11 years as a Project Manager at our Raleigh Office! He attended the North Carolina State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology.
“I would say the daily reminder that I work with like-minded individuals, all pursuing the same goal,” stated Richard when asked how the ESOP impacts him the most.
Tell us a little about your family/home life.
I live in Wendell with my girlfriend Holly, Two kids Nate and Ava, and two huskies, Loki and Luna.
What’s your hometown?
Madison Heights, Michigan.
What was your first job in engineering like?
My first job in engineering was actually Maple Engineering and I’ve been here ever since.
What was the first job you got a physical paycheck?
It was a bolt sorting job in the automotive field. No talking, just putting bolts in “good” and “bad” piles every single day.
What do you like most about the ESOP?
It allows me to take more control of my future.
What do you love most about your job?
Being able to impact the community around me and seeing the owner’s visions come to life.
If I wasn’t an engineer, I’d be?
Something in the automotive field. I’ve always had a strong passion for cars.
What’s your favorite sport (professional, college, or other)?
I’ve become a strong West Ham United fan over the years but my favorite will always be the Detroit Lions.
I’m seldom without?
Some piece of technology.
When I’m not at work I’m doing…..
Making jerky or working on some new smart home project around the house. If it’s the weekend, there’s a good chance we’re taking the dogs for a walk or at a car show.
Favorite pizza topping?
Ham and mushrooms. It’s an all or nothing sort of thing.
What’s on your “stranded on a desert island” playlist?
Bob Segar, Damien Rice, Eminem, Childish Gambino and DMX.
What’s your hidden talent?
I have a weirdly loud handclap. Haven’t found a use for this yet, but I’m optimistic the day will come.
What’s the one movie you can watch over and over again?
Anything car-related. Gone in 60 Seconds is a classic but any travel special with the Top Gear crew also gets a nod.
What’s on your bucket list?
I’d like to learn how to speak Hungarian.
When I go to a cookout I hope there’s _______ to eat.
Grilled Chicken.
Have you ever met your idol or someone famous? If so, who?
I’ve had a few run-ins over the years. I met Jelly Roll in the airport last year. I also met Russell Wilson once in the dining hall. I also knew Luke Combs throughout college.
Best book you’ve ever read?
Harry Potter for enjoyment, 1984 for depth, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance for development.
What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve ever been given?
“May the best of your todays be the worst of your tomorrows.” – Jay-Z