Jae was born in South Korea and moved to Alaska at a young age which he's called home since. He has worked all over the state in diverse fields such as fish processing to the oil fields of the North Slope. He has been practicing architecture in the State since 1995. You'll rarely find him without a bike helmetany time of the yearhe's Alaskan to the bone. When discussing ideas with Jae it doesn't take long before he starts sketching with a pen or digitally. He's a visual person and utilizes technology to its fullest potential. When away from work, Jae is a family man and community activist. In 2010, he and a handful of volunteers started the Spenard Farmers Market.
After graduating from West Anchorage High School, Jae earned both a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Bachelor of Architecture from the Rhode Island School of Design. Upon returning home he practiced for several years before being drawn away for a globetrotting stint. Refocused, he practiced independently for several years before joining ECI/Hyer. Since then he has led several community projects from inception to ribbon cutting. His most recent projects include the USFWS Kodiak Refuge Visitor Center, Kodiak Island Borough Community Swimming Pool, and KANA/Koniag Office Building, also in Kodiak. He enjoys collaborating with all members of a team and developing close relationships with clients and community members. His dedication to the populace fuels his interest in architecture.