Staff Spotlight: Jake Standerwick

Being able to create new processes & teach our team new things every day has made this endeavor very fulfilling, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.

—Jake Standerwick

Background and Career Journey

Jake Standerwick is a survey technician working alongside our Boise construction staking and surveying teams. After spending nearly six years in pipe-laying and utility construction, Jake discovered his true calling in surveying. With a background in computer science and 3D modeling, he wanted to utilize the skills he developed in a more technical position.

Prior to FOCUS, Jake helped build the infrastructure for the longest zipline in North America. It was cut through an incredibly steep mountain in southeast Alaska, requiring materials to be flown in by helicopter. Although the construction for this project encompassed some of the most treacherous six months of his life, Jake reflects on the experience as one of his favorite stories to share with coworkers.

Preserving the Outdoors

When he is not working, Jake enjoys skiing and hunting, engaging in creative outlets that allow him to unwind and experience nature in exciting ways, “Whether it is standing at the top of a mountain in a snowstorm or fighting through thick brush in a creek bed, I love experiencing the outdoors.” He appreciates spending time with family and friends outside, breaking routines and embracing the beauty of the natural world.

As a nature enthusiast, Jake is committed to giving back to his community in ways that help preserve the environment for future generations. He participates in wildlife rehabilitation efforts whenever possible, and he demonstrates his passion for the wilderness through garbage cleanup and trail rehabilitation projects.

Future Goals and Vision

Reflecting on the influences that have shaped his career, Jake highlights the tenured contractors and detail-oriented surveyors who have taught him valuable tricks of the trade, as well as the morals and ethics surrounding construction and development. He emphasizes the importance of these lessons, stating, “As a young professional, these seeds of wisdom are not only important in understanding the business, but also aid in comprehending the impact that our work can have on our communities.”

Jake aims to become a licensed surveyor in the state of Idaho and acknowledges the efforts of his teammates who are working to fulfill state board requirements. He holds high hopes for his team, expressing, “I envision a group that supports and mentors each other to achieve our collective goals.” Jake continues to prove himself as a key member of the team and integral to the growth of FOCUS teams as they navigate the local landscape of Idaho.