Decision Makers: Chad F. Poultney of Clark Nexsen

New position: principal in charge, Richmond office of Clark Nexsen architecture and engineering firm

Previous position: principal at Clark Nexsen, Norfolk headquarters office

Birthplace: Wilmington, Del.

Education: bachelor's degree in civil engineering, University of Delaware

Career: 1994-95, project manager, RC Peoples Inc. (general contractor); November 1995-present, started as a structural engineer in training at Clark Nexsen, then moved through the ranks

Best advice ever received: "From a high school football coach after a great win: 'Be happy with your achievement, but don't be satisfied.' From an old contractor friend of mine: 'You catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar. . . . So be nice to people.' From my father: 'You can't soar with the eagles if you're hanging out with the turkeys.'"

What motivates him? "Duty and the burning desire to please. My professional passion is to create a project environment where my staff and my clients enjoy the entire experience."

Family: wife, Kristen; children, Kyle, Brett and Leigh Ann

Pastimes: "Coaching youth football and wrestling."

Most memorable movie: "I have always been a big 'Rocky' nut. The whole idea of struggle and achievement . . . risk and reward . . . runs deep in my core."

Favorite food: "I like food that surprises me."

Ideal vacation: "Vacations for me need to be simple and involve the natural beauties of this land."