Our team just doesn’t stop growing! Richard Lewis recently joined Sebago Technics as a Senior CAD Technician on our Project Delivery Team. Rich has a degree in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design from Great Bay Community College and most recently worked for a CAD/BIM consulting firm here in Maine. He has experience in Revit and AutoCAD in areas including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plan design. Prior to that, he worked for more than 20 years at Hussey Seating where he was integrally involved in the drafting, design, and engineering process.
Lots of exciting things are in the works here at Sebago Technics, and this could not be more perfect timing for Richard to join us! Learn more about his background and hobbies below.
Where did you grow up and what other places have you lived in throughout your life?
I grew up in an Air Force family, which meant moving from airbase to airbase in various states – Texas, New York, Indiana, and New Hampshire. The years in New Hampshire felt the most like home, and I’ve lived in Maine since 1999. So yes, I’m from away.
Favorite place(s) to go in Maine?
One of my favorites is Harris Farm in Dayton. In the winter they have a terrific system of groomed cross country ski trails. Skiing out there is fun and challenging with a wide variety of terrain.
What three traits define you?
3 traits might include patience, focused, and trusting.
What was your very first job, and what did you learn from it?
My first job was working on a farm. A summer of weeding, planting, and picking outside in the sun. I quickly learned the importance of staying hydrated.
What is your favorite part of the type of work that you do?
My favorite part of my current job is developing drawings. I enjoy working with my teammates to develop plans that clearly express ideas and data for our customer’s use. I try to make sure the design intent is easy to understand.
What was your journey like to get where you are?
On the work side of life, I’ve run in a long loop. I started drafting in the 90s, then migrated into an estimating career that lasted several decades. I chose to go back to my roots as a drafter recently. In a sense I’m starting over, but with the experience working with a lot of different trades and personas.
What are your hobbies outside the office?
I enjoy cooking and baking. Pulling a loaf of homemade bread out of the oven is almost always rewarding, though the loaf disappears in a few days.
What inspired you to work for Sebago Technics?
The tone of the job description on LinkedIn got my attention. Normal job descriptions seem a bit intimidating, while the Sebago description read as a friendly invitation. A wide range of experiences was welcomed to apply. I felt I could be myself instead of trying to play a role. So glad I fit in here.
Favorite thing to do in Maine?
Right now, my favorite is bicycling. Maine has such a wide range of conditions to enjoy year-round. The quality of the outdoors here is extraordinary and leaves me happy every time I go out and ride.
If you had to eat one meal, every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
I was going with coffee ice cream but the daily fat content might shorten my lifespan. Since this is a trick question, my final answer is guacamole.
Top three life highlights?
My marriage with my wife Joan. I’ve learned a lot of life lessons in our time together. We support each other in every way I can imagine.
If you were an animal, what would you be and why?
If I was an animal, I would be a bird…ah no, a dog. A bird dog! Say a Lab. Easy to train, loyal, and food motivated. I just need to learn to swim better.
Where would you like to go on a dream vacation?
Alaska. The impressions that friends have shared when they come back leave me wanting to experience it too.
Favorite Holiday and why?
No surprise here that it’s Thanksgiving (per answer to animal type above). A lot of happy memories for this one, sometimes improvised (grilled turkey anyone?)
What is the best concert you attended?
My favorite concert was a rave under the Brooklyn Bridge. I think it was called Voyager 3. What could be more fun than an all-night dance party complete with multiple DJs?
Tell us something that might surprise us about you.
I’ll listen to techno music in the background while working.
What are your favorite ways to enjoy the outdoors with friends and family?
Nowadays I enjoy relaxing and dining outdoors with friends and family. I love the long conversations and hearing all the different views on life we have.
When you think about working at Sebago Technics, what makes you proudest or most excited?
I’m proudest of the camaraderie. I see my coworkers gladly helping each other out, sharing their expertise, and getting the whole team through the workload.
