As a co-owner of MKE Design Build, Michelle knows firsthand what it takes to grow a small business from the ground up. When the company launched in 2016, she was doing it all—serving as the sole designer and salesperson, while also juggling project management, coordination, estimating, and accounting responsibilities.

As the business grew organically, Michelle and her partner were able to bring on key team members—many of whom are still with the company today—allowing roles to evolve and ownership to deepen. Now more than a decade into business, her days are still busy, but far more structured. Michelle remains the lead designer and sole salesperson, meeting with every new lead and collaborating closely with her team throughout the estimating and design process. She’s supported by an in-house designer, who works alongside her on every project to bring clients’ visions to life.

But beyond design and sales, Michelle places a strong emphasis on something she believes is just as critical: company culture. “When people feel supported, valued, and excited about the work they do, it shows,” she says. Through intentional team building, connection, and a focus on growth and balance, Michelle works to ensure that the internal culture of MKE Design Build is as strong as the projects they deliver.

A Truly Collaborative Design-Build Approach

What sets MKE Design Build apart is its fully integrated model. With both an in-house design team and an in-house carpentry team, the company is able to take on a wide range of work—from residential and commercial remodels to full new construction—while maintaining a streamlined, collaborative experience from start to finish.

Collaboration doesn’t stop internally. Michelle prides herself on working closely with clients throughout the design process, taking the time to understand their intent and vision before transforming it into a customized, functional space. That shared creative journey keeps the company’s portfolio fresh and the team genuinely excited about every project they take on.

Finding Community Through NARI Milwaukee

For Michelle, NARI Milwaukee has been more than a professional association—it’s been a place of connection, credibility, and growth. Through NARI, MKE Design Build has earned local, regional, and national recognition, helping establish a level of trust and distinction within the industry.

What stands out most, though, is the sense of community. “NARI creates real camaraderie,” she says. “Even among our closest competitors.” The events foster meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and mutual respect, something she finds truly unique.

Why WIN Matters

Michelle’s passion for WIN (Women in NARI) stems directly from her belief in culture and community. Last year, she was approached by a NARI staff member who asked her to serve as a keynote speaker and share her story as a woman in construction—describing her as loud, fun, vivacious, and the perfect fit for the event.

She immediately said yes.

What resonated most with Michelle was the reminder that she has stayed true to herself throughout her career. “My personality is genuine and authentic,” she says. “If I can show others that staying true to who you are goes a long way, then I’ve done my job.” Her message to women in the industry is simple but powerful: you don’t have to prove anything—be proud of who you are and show everyone your worth.

Recognition That Hits Different

One of the most meaningful moments of Michelle’s NARI journey came when MKE Design Build was awarded MKE Lifestyle Readers’ Choice. Unlike juried awards, this recognition was voted on by both peers and readers, making it especially impactful.

Seeing a project designed by Michelle and produced by her team publicly recognized was a powerful reminder of why she does what she does. “As your career grows, it’s easy to forget how exciting it is to see a design come to life,” she reflects. “Being recognized for it—by your peers—that hits different.”

Advice for New Members

Michelle encourages new NARI members to attend an event—any event. “That’s when you feel it,” she says. “The energy, the camaraderie, the realization that you’re surrounded by your people.”
For her, NARI is about shared goals, shared values, and growing together. That sense of connection is what makes the organization feel welcoming, supportive, and worth investing in.

To learn more about MKE Design Build, click here.