At Raymond, we have outstanding employees, so we decided to feature some of them on our blog. Our next Employee Spotlight features Jace Johnson, Project Manager in our San Diego region. Recently promoted, Jace is currently overseeing two Raymond projects: Legoland Big Shop in Carlsbad with Clark Construction and Kimball Highland in National City with Consolidated Contracting. Jace began his journey in the construction industry after earning a bachelor’s degree in construction management from Boise State University (Go Broncos!).
What do you like most about working in construction? What I like most about working in construction is the camaraderie; working alongside coworkers and other companies to achieve the shared goal of delivering a safe and successful project.
Three words to describe Raymond: Loyal, Motivating, Elite.
What has been your favorite project with Raymond and why? My favorite project with Raymond was SDSU Aztec Stadium (Snapdragon Stadium). It was my first project after being hired, and as someone who grew up playing sports, it was really exciting to be part of building a college stadium. It’s a staple in the San Diego community and provided me with valuable learning experiences to kick off my career at Raymond.
What’s the best thing about your job? Both the people I get to work with and being a part of challenging projects.
What is the most challenging part of your job? The most challenging part of my job is when multiple tasks need to be completed at the same time. We had an in-office training a while ago on prioritizing what is important versus urgent, and it’s been really helpful in managing those situations.
What is the best advice anyone ever gave you? Control what you can control.
What advice do you have for prospective Raymond candidates? Raymond is the best company to work for. If you get the opportunity, take it!
What inspires you? My wife, Francesca (we just got married!), and my family. I try to improve a little everyday and strive to be the best version of myself.
Favorite thing to do? I enjoy spending time with family and friends, going for walks on the beach with my wife, playing sports like basketball and golf, listening to music, and staying active at the gym.
What show/book are you currently binging? Reading the Red Rising series and watching Survivor.
What music artist do you never get tired of? Classic Rock – Some of my favorite bands are Pink Floyd, Beatles, Gregg Allman, Jimi Hendrix, and Neil Young.
Before working at Raymond, did you have any other interesting jobs? Before working with Raymond, I worked as an EMT and Volunteer Firefighter. I experienced a wide range of people and emergencies, and I learned a lot about staying calm under pressure and how to handle people who are under extreme stress.
What are some things you’ve done that everyone should try at least once? Snowboarding/Skiing: “I wouldn’t even call snowboarding a sport. For me it’s just a way of life. It’s a chance to finally shut your brain off and live within the moment.” – Travis Rice (Professional Snowboarder)
What’s one thing you couldn’t live without? One thing I couldn’t live without is competition. I love playing sports, games, cards, trivia. Anything that challenges me and keeps me engaged.
What is the best place you have traveled to and why? The best places I’ve traveled to are Norway and Iceland. My family is Scandinavian, so experiencing my heritage and homeland was incredible. Traveling through the fjords of Norway was breathtaking. Pictures just can’t capture the feeling of being there in person.
What country do you want to visit but haven’t? When I get a chance to go to Europe again, Switzerland and Italy are next on the list.
What meal could you eat every day? Breakfast sandwich – Toast, avocado, bacon, cheese, fried eggs. Hits every time!
What’s your idea of a perfect day? Hit the golf course early, while it’s still cool and calm. Perfect drives, a few clutch putts, and maybe a little friendly competition. Then relax outdoors with family and friends. Maybe a backyard barbecue or poolside hangout, soaking up the sun and good vibes. Then watch a Washington Huskies football game with everyone!
How do you balance your career and your family? My family is all from Washington, so I visit them as much as I can, and they come to San Diego when they get the chance (or when the Seattle rain gets too much)! We also have a close group of friends here in San Diego that I like to call family, which helps me balance work and home life.
