- Reflecting on your time at Davis Graham, what was the most valuable lesson you learned?
- I learned many valuable lessons, and one that stands out is: how to effectively communicate with clients. The partners in the Oil & Gas Group were great models, and I continue to use the tools they gave me today.
- What are some pro bono or community service experiences that have had a significant impact on your career? What did you learn from these opportunities, and how have they influenced your path?
- I have been actively involved with the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation since I started practicing law. It’s a wonderful organization; at its core, the mission is to find a cure for CF. It’s been amazing to see the progress towards this in the last 15 years. When I started volunteering for the foundation the average life span of a person living with CF was 35, due to advances in treatments, it’s now 61. It’s taught me that if you stay focused on a mission, you will see results.
- What is the biggest difference between working at Davis Graham and being in-house counsel?
- For me the biggest difference has been the diversity of work. Working at a law firm, you tend to focus on one piece of the client’s business, i.e. transactions/contracts, regulatory, litigation, etc. Now that I am in-house, I touch every aspect of the business, which has been both fun and fast-paced. Every day is different, and I’m enjoying the challenges and opportunities each day brings.
- What is your favorite memory of working at Davis Graham?
- Aside from all of the wonderful people, I loved doing deal work. There’s always an adrenaline surge when a deal gets close to signing/closing and inevitably, there will be some roadblock that needs a workaround. When the deal is complete, you feel a real sense of accomplishment.
- Who are some of the people at Davis Graham that had the greatest influence on you and why?
- Everyone in the Oil & Gas Group! Gene Lang was instrumental in improving my commercial contract skills, specifically drafting and reviewing master service agreements and drilling contracts. I still call him every now and then when I have a question about a certain vendor or want to share a funny story. Greg Danielson, Craig Gleaton, Sam Niebrugge and Lamont Larsen were also great influences. Each took the time to explain why we do certain things the way we do them, and all were available whenever I had questions. I know I am a better lawyer for my time spent at Davis Graham under the guidance and leadership of the Oil & Gas team.
