As a Crew Chief in the Construction Staking department, Michael Miller brings precision, perseverance, and a people-first mindset to his role at FOCUS Engineering & Surveying. His path to surveying is a journey that highlights how curiosity and adaptability can lead to a fulfilling career.

As the sixth of 11 siblings, Michael is a natural team player. When he’s not in the field, Michael enjoys time with his family and friends. Whether it’s golfing with buddies, gaming with his brothers, collecting Pokémon with his kids, or exploring new places with his wife, Michael finds joy in staying connected with the people who matter most.

A Career Sparked by Service

Michael’s introduction to surveying came during his time in the Army National Guard. “My unit was disbanded, and I was told to pick a new job,” he recalls. “I asked them to give me something I could apply in my civilian life, and they made me a surveyor.” At the time, he barely knew what surveying entailed but it didn’t take long for him to realize he’d found something he genuinely enjoyed. “I quickly fell in love with the problem-solving aspect of the job,” he says.

Today, Michael brings that same curiosity and critical thinking to every project he tackles, constantly looking for solutions that move the needle forward. Michael credits much of his professional development to his mentors. “They’ve had tough conversations with me when I’ve missed the mark, but they’ve also been a consistent source of encouragement,” he says. One of the most valuable lessons he’s learned? Tackling challenges, especially interpersonal ones, by seeking guidance and creating actionable next steps. At FOCUS, he’s embraced the idea that relationships are foundational to success. “That’s one of the most critical lessons I’ve learned here. Relationships are the cornerstone of what we do,” he says.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Michael has his sights set on becoming a Professional Land Surveyor and continuing to grow both personally and professionally. “I want to build our team and take advantage of the growth opportunities here at FOCUS,” he says. He also draws inspiration from large scale engineering feats like the transcontinental railroad. “Everything from the innovative problem solving to the economic drivers behind the project helped shape our country,” he notes. This is a parallel to the work he does every day, shaping communities through precision and purpose.

For Michael, what sets FOCUS apart is the culture. “I value the opportunities for growth and the team mentality. I’m surrounded by people who dig deep and make things happen for each other and for our clients.” It’s that shared commitment to progress and partnership that makes Michael such a valued part of our team. We’re excited to support his continued growth and are proud to spotlight his journey.