Today we’d like to introduce you to Angel Brooks.
Angel, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
One of the first big words I knew how to spell was “Architecture”. I was around eight or nine years old and I was so proud. It was one of the vocabulary words for a test that week. Since then, that word stuck with me. Growing up in Egypt, Texas, I had no idea what the term truly meant. I knew it was a building but I had no idea of the detail, beauty and affect it has on its environment.
I went to Prairie View A&M University on a track scholarship. My initial major was computer engineering, but I figured out quickly that I was a hands-on & creative learner. So I switched to architecture. Spending so many years in a design studio classes, I became heavily interested in designing with purpose – which led me to go back to school for my Masters in Community Development. This program was the best program that I had ever taken. I learned so much about architecture, historic preservation and even finance.
After that, I worked in a few engineering, architecture and construction firms, but my energy just wasn’t in it. I felt I had a greater purpose.
Now I am a teacher at Alief Taylor High School, teaching architecture & engineering.
Ambient Drafting is one of the many businesses I launched as an entrepreneur. It is merely a stepping stone to where I want to end up. I learned so much about design, drafting and construction, I felt that it was only right to utilize all the skills God has given me. I am so thankful that I have so many job hats and talents. Its what truly makes me, me.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Being a teacher and entrepreneur is never a smooth road. Managing 100+ students, client jobs, etc. takes alot of energy. Trying to find time for my partner and dogs seems impossible sometimes. But, I never expected a smooth ride to success. I have a “Go with the flow” mindset. Thats how I function and manage my mental. It has helped me create more opportunities and still have time to enjoy with my family.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Ambient Drafting & Design – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Ambient Drafting & Design is a full-service computer-aided design service. I partner with contractors, companies, and homeowners to develop concepts and drawings for residential building and bids. In construction, the market is very competitive. A contractor basically has to win over their client. Thats where I come in. By providing clients a visual usually that helps them seal the deal.
I specialize in Computer Aided Renderings using software: Autodesk AutoCAD & Revit.
Ambient Drafting & Design was started by just knowing architecture software. I knew that knowing software and technology (especially in the emerging world of architecture & engineering) had some type of payoff–but it took a while to get started.
My ultimate goal is to use this startup as my stepping stone to designing my own custom affordable homes for minorities, veterans, entrepreneurs & recent college grads.
My biggest achievement so far is just executing my vision. It takes a lot to finally put your business out there. It’s almost a vulnerable state. When people feel that, it’s like they are almost there- but that hesitation of fear stops that forward progress. Being someone with anxiety, that was a big step. I put myself out there and I am growing!
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
I am very excited for the next phase in my startup. Currently, I am working on a blog, docu-series, YouTube channel and eBook called “Vellum Design Workshop”. My overall goal is to start a workshop blog where I can educate students, peers, minorities & recent grads on architecture, tools & techniques, and creating prefab homes.
Ambient Drafting & Design helps be build the capital to launch and build my first custom prefab home. That makes me so excited!
Contact Info:
- Email: info@ambientdrafting.com
- Instagram: @vellumcad
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