Right industry, wrong goal.

As a child, when Kevin Lemens envisioned his future, one thing kept coming into focus: buildings.

His lifelong certainty that he wanted to be an architect lasted until he took an architecture class and realized – well, that wasn’t it.

A love for math and science led him instead toward mechanical engineering, and a college project applying computer programs to mechanical design sealed it.

But it really wasn’t until he found Somerville that things truly fell into place. He discovered an opportunity with a company that values details in design and recognizes it’s “the little things” that are actually the big things – details that will make or break the experience of people using a space.

Mechanical engineering. Not exactly architecture – but a component of design that is undeniably crucial to the outcome.

Modeling HVAC systems, plumbing, and piping while maximizing space to ensure everything fits and is part of a smart, efficient layout are critical “little details,” and Kevin’s ability to problem-solve within a puzzle-like configuration makes the role a perfect fit.

Just like the community he now calls home, Kevin grew up in the Washington County town of Farmington, in a four-house neighborhood surrounded by farmland. His appreciation for Green Bay’s small-town feel with big-city opportunities reflects what he values in Somerville: It’s a down-to-earth, close-knit organization designing and creating large-scale, innovative projects that significantly impact their communities.

Kevin’s love for the outdoors and family traditions has shaped his journey. Growing up with a family cottage on a lake, he developed a passion for outdoor recreation and disc golf, even competing nationally. Both he and his younger sister have followed in their mom’s UW-Madison footsteps, continuing the family legacy. From enjoying outings with his Green Bay-area family to attending Packers games, Kevin’s experiences have guided him to where he is today.

He’s on the right path now and not planning to slow down.