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This year, CSI welcomed Randall Lewis, FCSI, to the 2025 College of Fellows. Lewis is a principal at JH&H Architects in Jackson, Mississippi. He is one of only four distinguished professionals in the architecture, engineering, construction, and owner (AECO) industry named to the 2025 class. Lewis was nominated through a rigorous application process and then selected by the Jury of Fellows for membership, one of the top honors awarded by the CSI.
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What does being a member of the 2025 College of Fellows honorees mean to you?
My work professionally and in CSI has often been in the background. It is the way I am wired, and I love to serve. That also means that few see what is done. It is nice to know that even hidden work is appreciated. It is my great honor to be invited to join this brotherhood of outstanding leaders in our industry and I look forward to continuing to serve.
Fellowship acknowledges contributions to the advancement of construction technology. Of all your contributions to CSI, which of them are most significant to you?
Helping other chapters fix a problem they are having and showing them easier ways to serve their members. If we can make the ordinary operations of a chapter easier, we can focus on leading our industry.
What was your first job in the AECO industry?
Technically, my first job in the industry was drafting some foundation details for a local residential designer who was a friend of the family. I was a meticulous craftsman and loved learning the why of what I was drawing. During college I got the opportunity to design a minor home renovation for one of the professors. I realize now that he did not need my help but was giving me a way to earn some cash and boost my confidence. I was very honored that a professor wanted my help and he was a lot slicker than I gave him credit for. Also, during college, I began developing my interest in architectural technology. I spent many hours in the computer lab experimenting with the tools. When I got stuck and asked the professor, he pointed me to the row of 3-ring binder computer manuals and said, “Figure it out.” When I was able to do it, he hired me the next year as a teacher’s assistant.
What has been your favorite aspect of making your career in this field?
Serving clients and fellow employees. I enjoy discovering a client’s needs and desires, then producing a solution with meticulous attention to detail and innovative approach. My technical background helps me help others with software and hardware issues so they can concentrate on design, not the tools they use.
How has being a member of CSI informed your life and career?
The reality that all segments of our industry are working together on equal footing to make the industry better is a bedrock principle and fits well with my service attitude. Because of this community I have a network of trusted advisers in other fields at my fingertips.
Is there anyone you would like to recognize for supporting the work you do?
I would like to thank my family and my employer. Both have given me the time and support to serve as I have.
What advice would you give to new CSI members just entering this industry?
Find a place to serve and make it your passion. As you serve you make connections with like-minded people that can be personally and professionally influential. Because you are passionate, you will enjoy putting in the effort.
What do you think the most significant changes, or opportunities, will be in the construction industry in the next 5 to 10 years?
We are not yet sure how AI will impact our industry, but we do know that we must maintain our expertise and connections to know when it is leading us astray. I also believe that the quality and quantity of the labor pool is and will continue to be an issue. Our culture has seemed to devalue the tradesman and craftsman to the point that many do not want to pursue the trades.
Click here to learn more about the 2025 members of the College of Fellows.