Design and Construction Go Hand in Hand

Jason Himick introducing his son Henry to the beauty of the outdoors

Meet Project Manager Jason Himick

What is your name and job title? Jason Himick, Project Manager with the Denver Service Center (DSC) Transportation Division.

What experience and education do you have? I have a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from West Virginia University. I'm new to the Nation Park Service (NPS) as of July 2019. I have 21 years of experience working as a landscape architect and project manager in the private and public sector. Approximately half of my career has been working as a licensed landscape architect for design consulting firms on projects ranging from commercial real estate development to recreation based infrastructure. The other half of my career has been with municipal parks and recreation departments in Colorado, primarily managing the design and construction of capital improvement projects.

What is a typical day like? A lot of my time is spent in the office managing the administrative aspects of design and construction contracts, which isn't particularly glamorous. But the parts of the work I really enjoy are going to the parks to meet the staff and to understand the project site and their needs, and then helping them determine the scope of work needed to accomplish their goals. I also enjoy guiding the design process, making important decisions related to the project cost, schedule, and/or scope of work (all focused on the benefit to the park and visitors), and overseeing construction. I believe the National Parks are America's greatest legacy and delivering projects to the Parks for the continued enjoyment of the American people is something I find tremendously rewarding.

What career advice would you give to someone who wants to follow a similar path? I think the most effective project managers have extensive experience in design and construction, so I would recommend anyone in the design professions gain a strong understanding of construction, and vice versa. And the value of experience can't be understated, so I would advise people to practice patience and humility in their career growth. That said, I also recommend not waiting for opportunities to arise when you're ready for the next step - actively pursue the projects and work you're passionate about.

What is one of the bigger projects you are working on and what about that project might surprise people? The first project I was assigned is the repair and rehabilitation of the Hyde Street Pier at San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, which is estimated to cost approximately $10 million dollars. I think people might be surprised to learn the Park manages five ships that are designated national historical landmarks, among many other historic sailing vessels, that are docked at the pier.