Ozarks Profile - John Oke-Thomas

What is your job, and what is your educational background?

John Oke-Thomas is president and owner of Oke-Thomas + Associates, Architects, at 1972 E. Chestnut Expwy. The firm is licensed in Missouri, Kansas and Tennessee. Oke-Thomas began his architectural education at the Polytechnic of Northern London in England. He later move to Springfield to continue his education at Drury University, where he got his architecture degree. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards.

Tell us about your company.

The firm started in 1996, "soon after I left my contract position as the construction manager for Springfield Public Schools," Oke-Thomas said. "Our office provides full-service architecture, planning and construction management services. We are involved in commercial and institutional projects ranging from new facilities to building additions and renovation work. We primarily serve public and private entities, and collaborate with larger architectural firms on joint venture partnership projects."

What are some of the changes you've experienced in your field?

"The more things change in the field of construction, the more they stay the same," Oke-Thomas said. "The advancement in technology has introduced us to all kinds of inventions which has allowed us to be more creative and innovative in our design solutions, yet, construction methods and materials have remained constant through the years. Our profession continues to find ways to stay at the cutting-edge of technology, materials and construction methods without losing focus on the human scale.'"

What is the most unusual project you've worked on to date?

"So far the most unusual project for me will have to be the reconstruction of the Historic Washington Avenue Baptist Church. To disassemble an existing structure and reassemble, brick by brick, to the exact scale and detail was an awesome undertaking. Of course this is not just a building; it (is) a structure with history, heritage and emotions. It has served as a refuge to the African American community for generations; through worship, birth, baptism, marriage, joy and sorrow. It is the one place that gives solace and comfort to a people. It was our responsibility to reconstruct this historic structure with dignity, respect, sensitivity and reverence, and I believe that's exactly what we did," Oke-Thomas said.

What do you most enjoy about your work?

"The challenge that each project brings, and the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. Also the friendships and professional relationships I have developed with my clients, contractors and business associates."

Tell us about your family.

"My wife Helen, a family nurse practitioner, and I have been married for 11 years. We have three children; Wesley, 8, Philip, 4, and Mariah, 11 months. I also have a 13- year-old daughter, Amanda. They keep us grounded and focused."

What are your favorite leisure time pursuits?

Oke-Thomas is a member of the Planning Review Board for the city of St. Robert and a Professional Advisory Council member for Hammons School of Architecture at Drury. "I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling and an occasional game of tennis," he said.

by Maria Hoover