As INTEC Group wraps up the celebration of its 40th anniversary, we took a moment to reflect on the journey that has shaped who we are today. To close out this milestone year, we sat down with our President/CEO, Keith Switzer, and Vice President, John Mang, for a special Q&A, where they reflect on the projects that left a mark, the risks that paid off (or didn’t), and what "people" and "design" really mean to them. From career-defining moments to favorite team memories, get ready for an inside look at the passion, leadership, and maybe even a little wisdom that’s fueled INTEC for four decades—and counting.

Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BE AN ARCHITECT/INTERIOR DESIGNER?

A: (Keith Switzer): I feel like I always knew. When I was in 7th or 8th grade, I was interested in details and technical drawing. I wasn’t necessarily passionate about architecture, but drawing was a creative outlet for me. It still is.
A: (John Mang): I've always been a problem solver and, if I may say so, skilled at critical thinking. I loved working with my hands but knew I didn’t want to be a contractor—or end up with a bad back by the time I was 60. To put myself through college, I started a small construction company, which fueled my entrepreneurial spirit early on.

Q: HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS IN YOUR ROLE?

A: (KS): Fundamentally, success means bringing out the best in every individual at INTEC—challenging them to go beyond what they believe they’re capable of. It’s not about doing more tasks but about breaking through personal and professional barriers; people can inevitably always do more than they think they’re capable of. True success is reflected in the growth of those I mentor and lead, as they step confidently into new roles and responsibilities.

Q: WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST MEMORABLE OR MEANINGFUL PROJECT YOU'VE WORKED ON DURING YOUR TIME AT INTEC?

A: (KS): It would have to be Lockheed Martin’s memorial to fallen employees, located at Lockheed’s headquarters in Bethesda, MD. On the 11th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Lockheed dedicated this memorial to honor six employees who lost their lives as a result of that tragic day — one during the attack on the Pentagon, and five while serving in the Middle East. The project was not just about creating a physical space but about memorializing the people and fostering a sense of human connection that transcends the built environment. That was really special moment for me and our team.

A: (JM): For me, it would be the Haywood Boutique in Asheville, NC. It’s remarkable for what it represents — a story of resilience and community. This boutique hotel, noteworthy for both its unique concept and “cool” site, faced numerous challenges to come to fruition. Initially planned to begin construction in 2019, the project was delayed first by COVID-19, followed by zoning changes. Then tragically, our client and the visionary behind the project, John Stevens, passed away suddenly early this year (2024). But in a remarkable effort to honor his legacy, John’s (Stevens) friends came together to continue the project. Construction finally began in mid-September (2024), only to then be tested by Hurricane Helene just two weeks later. It felt like we couldn’t catch a break but despite the storm, the site, located at the highest point on Haywood Street, remained largely unscathed. Once complete, the Haywood Boutique will stand as a testament to perseverance and the enduring impact of John’s (Stevens) vision, symbolizing for me how things live on even after we’re gone.

Q: WHAT IS THE MOST SIGNIFICANT RISK YOU'VE TAKEN, AND WHAT WAS THE OUTCOME?

A: (KS): Buying INTEC in 2011. I had just gone through a divorce and had no money, yet I took out a $2 million loan to make it happen. It was the hardest decision I’ve ever made, but also the most exhilarating. Today, that loan is paid off, and INTEC’s doors are still open—a risk that definitely proved worthwhile.

Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY WITH THE INTEC TEAM?

A: (KS): It was during one annual strategic planning meeting in the penthouse of our Fairfax office on Jermantown Road. Nearly 50 of us sat in a huge circle, and I remember looking around, thinking, This is something we’ve built together. I felt an overwhelming sense of joy and excitement leading such an incredible group—but also a bit of fear, knowing the responsibility that came with it.

Q: WHAT IS A FUNDAMENTAL LEADERSHIP PRINCIPLE YOU HOLD?

A: (KS): I’m a people person, and my goal is to always do right by others. At the end of each day, I rest easy knowing I’ve acted in alignment with my heart. I strive to make decisions that benefit both the firm and its people, always leading with empathy, authenticity, and sincerity.

Q: WHAT COMES TO MIND WHEN YOU HEAR THE WORDS "PEOPLE" AND "DESIGN"?

A: (KS): When I think of "people," I immediately think of INTEC—family, community, and support. People always step up for their neighbors and team members, driven by a deep passion for what they do. As for "design," it’s all about creativity. Everything you interact with in life has been designed by someone, and design has endless possibilities to impact both lives and spaces. Every project, no matter how small, offers an opportunity to leave your mark on the design.

Q: LAST BUT NOT LEAST, WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO SEE FROM INTEC IN THE COMING YEARS?

culture to remain deeply rooted in strong relationships—within our team, with our clients, and in the communities we serve. I envision INTEC as a place where talent thrives, ideas flourish, and diverse perspectives drive innovation. As human-centric design continues to evolve, I see INTEC at the forefront—leading with purpose, pushing boundaries, and staying true to the values that brought us here. Forty years from now, I want us to look back with pride, not only at what we’ve built but at the lasting impact we’ve made.

exciting to think about the future and all the new opportunities to innovate, collaborate, and continue to build something meaningful together. Here's to the next 40!

As we close out this Q&A, it's clear that the journey of INTEC Group is one filled with passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to both people and design. From the bold risks that have shaped the firm to the unforgettable moments that define our culture, every chapter has contributed to the story of who we are today. Keith and John’s reflections remind us that leadership is about empowering others, embracing challenges, and making an impact that lasts. As we celebrate 40 years of INTEC, it’s exciting to think about the future and all the new opportunities to innovate, collaborate, and continue to build something meaningful together. Here's to the next 40!