The Owners' Manual | Issue 21 | Spring/Summer 2021

BRIAN GLEASON CHARLOTTE | ENGINEERING 02.22.21

What made you decide to come to BL Companies? I was recruited by a former co-worker, Robert Burke. Tell us about yourself I am an Architect by training. I grew up in Ohio, the youngest of 7, and attended The Ohio State University where I got my Bachelor of Science. I practiced for 8 years in Columbus, Ohio before moving to North Carolina to get my Master of Architecture degree. I’ve been in Charlotte 18 years now. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? I love live music and sitting on patios. What is a good piece of advice you’ve received? Never buy your underwear at a garage sale. It’s good advice for sure!! Do you have a talent or hobby? I am really pretty good at trivia. I know a little about a lot. It’s also great for breaking the ice and finding something to talk to nearly everyone about. What did you want to be when you grow up? I was groomed to be an architect by my father and grandmother. My great grandfather dropped out of

school in fourth grade back in the 1880s and eventually became a design/builder. What is a favorite vacation or dream destination? Domestically, I love Chicago. Internationally I love Italy and Germany. I still want to get to Australia. What is one of your favorite quotes? I have several, most of them are song lyrics that resonate with men. If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? I secretly want to have bartender skills so I could throw amazing parties and serve amazing cocktails to wow my guests. If you won the lottery, what’s your splurge? An old JeepGrandWagoneer with wood paneled sides. Fancy isn’t it. I would also to travel. Who’s your celebrity look alike?

least of which is amazing adult children who are accomplished and respectful! Have you ever had something happen to you that you thought was bad but it turned out to be good? Many times, often when I was young and dating the wrong person! What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done? Parenting! Lots of second- guessing! What do you miss most about being a kid? The innocence of the world before Adam Walsh and being able to roam my neighborhood freely. Kids these days are sort of on lock-down. Do you have a TV binge/Movie/Book/Music worth recommending? I read historical fiction and there are some great authors in that genre: Steve Berry and Katherine Neville are 2 great ones! What is the nerdiest thing you do in your spare time? Read “reference” type materials. When I was little I used to literally read encyclopedias! What is something you learned in the last week? Or since joining BL? The value of teamwork is very strong within our discipline.

I’ve been told a very young Ronald Reagan (when he wore glasses). Who inspires you and why? My oldest

sister

has and accomplished a lot, not the persevered