We’re pleased to welcome several new team members to CRA. Each brings a unique set of skills, perspectives, and experience that will strengthen our practice and support our commitment to thoughtful, innovative design. We’re excited to have them on board and look forward to the contributions they’ll make across our projects!
Matt Baker joins us as a Construction Administrator in our Mechanicsburg office. Matt has over 10 years of experience focusing mainly on primary and higher education. For the last four years, Matt was employed as a Mechanical/Plumbing construction manager. “I enjoy being in the field, seeing these projects come to life, and troubleshooting problems along the way” he says.
Matt attended Penn State Harrisburg where he earned a degree in Civil Engineering with a focus in Construction Management. He is also an Army veteran that deployed to Afghanistan and earned a Combat Infantry Badge with the 101st Airborne in 2010. He then deployed again to Afghanistan with 10th Mountain Division as a Medic in 2013, earning a Combat Action Badge.
In his free time, Matt enjoys riding his motorcycle, hiking, skiing, watching movies, and spending time with his growing family. “I am looking forward to this next step in my career and meeting the team at CRA.”
Shandy DeGuzman joins CRA as a Senior Interior Designer. Shandy brings over 15 years of interior design experience, having worked with IKEA, Giant, and Cushman & Wakefield. “I love the balance of big-picture planning and the small design details that make a space feel just right” he says. Shandy studied Computer-Aided Design at I.T.T. Technical Institute and earned his BFA in Interior Design from the Art Institute of Atlanta.
Outside of the office, Shandy is with his wife Katie, their two boys Hudson and Bennett, and their dog Cooper. “Whether it’s coaching Hudson’s travel soccer team, staying active in the gym, or just hanging out with family, they keep me grounded and inspired. I’m excited to bring that same energy and perspective to the team here at CRA.”
Zac Herrick has joined CRA as a Construction Administrator in our Charlottesville office. Zac has been working in project and construction management for the last six years. Previously, he was managing a wide range of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing projects for commercial clients, including schools, hospitals, and federal buildings. He graduated from Virginia Tech and later earned his law degree from the University of Dayton.
Zac says “I enjoy collaborating with teams and I love the problem-solving and strategic thinking that comes with each project. I find seeing a project come together—from concept to completion—very rewarding.”
Outside of work, Zac loves running and cooking. “I’m excited to join CRA and bring my experience and energy to new projects and collaborations.”
Declan Gatchell is our newest Architectural Project Coordinator. Declan has 3 years of prior experience working on various types of projects ranging from master planning, renovations, historic preservation, additions and new construction. “As a designer, I love finding creative solutions to problems and building new things from collective ideas.”
Declan graduated from Pennsylvania College of Technology in 2022 with a degree in architectural building science and sustainable design. In his free time, he enjoys reading, spending time with family, playing soccer and other outdoor activities.
Jillian Smith joined CRA as an interior designer. Jillian studied Interior Design at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in 2024. “I have a passion for design, creativity, and to make every space have a positive impact on individuals.”
Her hobbies include going to the gym, cooking, traveling, and going to museums and concerts. She also enjoys watching sports, especially football – “I do support both Pittsburgh and Philly!” she claims.
“I am very excited for this next step in my career and expanding my knowledge as a designer.”
Christopher Thompson is a Senior Architectural Project Coordinator for CRA. Christopher has over 30 years of experience in various project types including, but not limited to retail, healthcare, education, and commercial construction. “I enjoy all aspects of the design and development of projects from initial sketches and studies through detailing and construction documents” he says.
Christopher attended Pittsburgh Technical College where he earned degrees in both Computer Aided Design and Systems Management.
“I live in Altoona, PA with my wife Marissa, daughters Maura and Lydia, and several four-legged children. We are kept busy with plays, band concerts, dance recitals, and gymnastics meets. I also enjoy reading, cooking, and model building.”
Christopher is looking forward to becoming a part of and contributing to the CRA family!
