People

Alex Tinsley

Senior Consultant

With a background delivering software solutions which transform business' planning and scheduling processes, Alex leverages that experience to address the needs of the Systems Optimization practice's clients.

Alex has a Bachelors of Science in Applied Computer Science and enjoys applying a blend of his technical and consulting skill set to a broad range of problems.

Outside of work, you might find Alex creating a playset or a piece of furniture for his family, trail running, or cycling.

Alisa Peterson

Consultant

Over the course of her career, Alisa has honed her skills in managing projects and performing deep data analytics and technical analysis. She is both a project leader and an accomplished data analyst, giving her the rare ability to dive in to details while understanding the overarching project. Alisa has a strong background in energy, public housing/services, and construction gained through her experience working in both the public and private sectors. Alisa holds a Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering from Washington State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Physics from Whitworth University.

When she's not at work, Alisa loves being in the great outdoors, whether she's camping, hiking, or simply enjoying time with friends and family in her own back yard.

Alyssa Mummey

Financial Controller

Alyssa Mummey is our Financial Controller, responsible for managing Sapere’s day-to-day financial and accounting operations.

With over 10 years of experience in both the private and governmental sector, Alyssa brings a diverse range of knowledge to Sapere.

In her free time, Alyssa is spending time with friends, family and dog.

Alyssa holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting, Finance & Management from Eastern Washington University.

Andrew Bulmer

System Development Practice Lead

Andrew leads our Digital Transformation Practice leveraging his desire to explore the potential, demonstrate the possibility, and realize the value of new technology products. Our clients seek out Andrew to lead transformation of an idea into an implementable solution. Andrew drives solutions that harness the power of data, analytics, and AI and use technology to evolve how businesses operate and interact with customers. Clients value Andrew’s unique ability to truly listen to their pressing business problems, effortlessly understand their requirements, and find technical solutions, to successfully guide them through integration and implementation. To be effective, translations like these require Andrew to understand his clients’ needs and limitations, which he achieves with deftness and precision. Andrew holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Chicago and is a certified Scrum Master.

Andrew has used his expertise to guide government, non-profit, utility, telecommunication, technology, and education through digital transformations of their organizations.

When he isn't innovating, Andrew seeks out remote travel locations to explore around the globe, challenging hikes, and delicious restaurants.

Arjun Mahanty

Consultant

Arjun joined Sapere with a background in data analytics. Working at a start-up he improved processes and built KPI dashboards. He has also worked at global companies where he focused on standardizing reports and improved operational processes. Arjun applies the skills he has learned to create thoughtful data – driven solutions as part of the Digital Transformation Team.

Arjun holds a BA in Supply Chain Management and Business Analytics as well as a Master’s in Business Analytics from the University of San Diego. Outside of work he can be enjoys getting outside and hiking, playing golf, and going to the beach.

Bayunt Ollek

Energy Solutions Acting Practice Lead

Bayunt is a consultant in Sapere’s Organizational Transformation practice and brings with him a service-oriented mindset. His recent experience in Namibia as a physics and mathematics instructor for the Peace Corps embodies that quality.

His holistic approach to his work allows him to take a deep dive from a technical perspective while maintaining a project’s overall objectives.

Bayunt attended Case Western Reserve University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

After work he is outside where he enjoys climbing, camping, snowboarding or the occasional game of ultimate frisbee. When not outside, he is working on home projects.

Beth Miles

Senior Consultant

Beth joins our Sustainability team bringing extensive experience from the apparel/industrial design and manufacturing world, applying innovative approaches to materiality and space and how we adapt practices to meet modern-day environmental challenges. Beth has helped to develop and expand the process and engagement of regenerative fiber systems which contribute to greater soil health and sequestration of atmospheric carbon; and increase the pathways toward stronger and more connected domestic supply chains which contribute to lower carbon footprints and greater sustainability. She has been engaged with the Design/Build community to propel the circular economy on projects that deliver equity and sustainability to underrepresented communities. She has developed marketing/branding campaigns to enhance the programs that she guides. With her work within Apparel Manufacturing for key brands as Ralph Lauren and Esprit, Beth worked internationally developing programs for the wholesale and D2C markets. As a small business owner, Beth has experience building brands from the ground up—aligning mission with their execution and growth.

Beth paints daily, loves experiencing music, art and serves as Vice Chair of Women in Design, San Francisco, part of the Industrial Design Society of America. She is often found in the waters of West Marin, long boarding with her daughter and friends.

Cade Brown

Consultant

Cade joined Sapere's Organizational Leadership practice in 2023 after graduating from Yale University, earning a degree in Environmental Engineering Sciences. Alongside gaining experience working in a laboratory setting on significant projects, like conducting COVID-19 wastewater surveillance, he also competed as a three-sport varsity athlete for the Yale Cross Country and Track & Field (Indoor and Outdoor) teams, serving as the elected Men's Cross Country Captain in his senior season.

He strives to apply his skills in teamwork, communication, critical thinking, leadership, problem solving, and attention to detail to help clients reach their goals.

Outside of work, Cade continues to enjoy running, cycling, finding the next electronic dance hit to add to his playlist, and cheering on Seattle and national sports teams.

Carolyn Farnsworth

Senior Consultant

Carolyn joined Sapere with a background in healthcare leadership, with a strong focus in supply chain and project management. Having never met a difficult problem she wasn’t committed to solving, she is passionate about helping others through the process of change management and process improvement. Her experience navigating the recent pandemic and post-pandemic climate of healthcare and supply chain have strengthened Carolyn’s resolve to always remain agile and innovative when leading dynamic projects.

In her free time, Carolyn enjoys spending time in the beautiful Pacific Northwest outdoors, including hiking, biking, and paddle-boarding. She also loves to spend time with her Australian Shepherd and is a voracious reader.

Carolyn holds a Master of Business Administration from Gonzaga University, as well as a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

Connor Gall

IT Support Specialist

Connor Gall joined Sapere in 2023 as an IT Support Specialist. He attended Cheney High School and invested most of his time in school understanding technology. He took part in a wide variety of cyber competitions which resulted in him placing top in the world. Along with competitive success he has proved his knowledge with a tapestry of certifications including his CCNA, A+, and a list of various Microsoft certs. His tech-based background allows him to quickly comprehend new problems and troubleshoot them accordingly. Connor is now attending Eastern Washington University where he will be obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Cyber Operations.

Outside of work and school, you might find Connor playing a game of tennis, attempting to cook, building a Lego set, or enjoying time with family and friends.

Dan Arai

Senior Consultant

Dan joins Sapere after 14 years with General Electric’s Aeroderivative Gas Power and Hydro Power businesses. His experience with GE included roles as a Project Director, Sales Manager, and Service Manager covering both international and domestic projects/customers. Prior to GE, Dan spent 2 years in the Residential Glass Industry and 5 years on Active Duty in the Army as a Combat Engineer Officer.

Dan holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from West Point and an MBA from Gonzaga University. He is an avid spectator – mostly SF Giants games and Mead HS wrestling matches – a slow swimmer/biker/runner, and an aspiring golfer. Primarily, he can be found spending time with his wife, 4 children, 3 grandchildren and his Rottweiler, Von Qui-Qui – “Queenie.”

David Wells

Senior Consultant

David is a senior consultant in our Digital Transformation Practice. He joined Sapere after 30+ years of independent consulting, and brings a wealth of experience in needs assessment, project scoping, database architecture, and team/project leadership. David's greatest satisfaction is seeing the power, productivity, and employee satisfaction that come out of well-executed projects. His communication skills, particularly the ability to engage deeply with both business and technical teams, have resulted in lasting client relationships and success project execution.

Over the course of his career, David personnally delivered full scale solutions, designing, developing, delivering and then providing long-term system support. Projects have been wide-ranging and include everything from shop floor mangement and inventory control to project contracting and invoicing. His work has been in industries such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing and with companies ranging in size from just a few employees to leading Fortune 500 corporations. David earned his Masters of Business Administration from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Ancient Languages from Wheaton College.

When he isn't working, David enjoys time with family and friends, reading, and travel.

Hallie Buse

Senior Consultant

Hallie joined Sapere with a background in commercial interiors project management and now applies her technical and management skills to Sapere's clients focusing on leading projects, making change, and achieving excellent outcomes. Hallie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Whitman College.

In her free time, Hallie can be found attending all sporting events in Seattle, most notably the WNBA team - Seattle Storm. She also has a passion for cooking and can be found creating a “new Sunday recipe” for friends and family.

Jared Dirks

Consultant

Jared holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business and Sustainability from Western Washington University, where he gained a deep understanding of the importance of sustainability in the business world. He is passionate about using his knowledge to make a positive impact on the world, and he brings this passion to his work every day. His expertise lies in developing effective strategies that help organizations reduce waste and operate more sustainably. At Sapere, Jared is applying his creativity and analytical skills to support clients as they plan for the future.

When he's not working, Jared can often be found at the local record store, expanding his vinyl collection. He is also a talented artist, spending his free time painting tattoo flash. Jared is committed to sustainability beyond the workplace, advising sustainability projects at his alma mater and working on projects on his family's property on the Olympic Peninsula.

Jeff Smyth

President

For the last 25 years, Jeff Smyth has provided leadership for teams that add value to some of industry’s most dynamic private-sector businesses and the federal government. Since 2003, Jeff has served as Sapere's President. Jeff is a strategic, visionary thinker with a proven track record for devising creative action plans and implementing solutions efficiently at a variety of scales. He serves as a trusted adviser to our clients after thoroughly understanding how they work and their challenges. His best work has come from crafting innovative organizational and technical solutions that help clients make big changes. Jeff’s projects have had profound impacts on their respective organizations, often resulting in millions of dollars in cost savings, revenue increases, or risk mitigation.

Not only does Jeff assist at the strategic level, but he also has practical experience providing a wide range of management consulting services directly. From business and strategic services, asset investment decisions, systems analysis and technical facilitation to risk management, policy analysis and engineering, Jeff has the expertise and will to drive large organizations to enact positive change. When he isn’t thinking about making companies better, Sapere included, he is talking to strangers to learn what makes them tick, sharing a glass of whiskey with an old friend, or flying to see one of his seven children.

Jeff holds a Master of Science in Water Engineering and Bachelor of Arts in Agricultural Engineering from Oregon State University and is a Professional Engineer licensed in Civil Engineering in Washington.

Jennifer Gutierrez

Senior Consultant

Jenny brings more than 20 years of business experience contributing to local and global initiatives. She is a powerful leader who excels in project management, business process analysis, technical writing, and developing requirements for complex systems all while bringing people together. She knows how to get to the bottom of issues and drives projects forward under any circumstance. Her technical acumen allows her to bridge the gap between the business-minded users and decision makers, and the technical-minded designers and developers. She is an invaluable asset from the conception of a project all the way to its implementation.

Jenny's experience with technology and telecommunications make her an expert in serving customers with technical solutions. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Computer Information Systems from James Madison University.

When she isn’t pushing a project forward, you can find Jenny tending to the best veggies around, reading historical fiction, and cheering on her talented daughters.

Josh Khazanov

Senior Consultant

As a member of the Digital Transformation Team, Josh brings a history of optimizing the decision making process for business leaders across multiple market sectors. His approach leverages data analytics to keep leaders informed.

He is passionate about coupling data-driven strategies and technology to support a project’s success.

Josh holds a Master of Science in Analytics from Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Science in Materials Science & Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

When he’s not analyzing data, Josh enjoys hiking, traveling, quality time with family, and is a fan of the Chicago Bears.

Joshua Lakey

Consultant

Joshua joined Sapere after having held various client-facing roles in the legal industry for over five years. His diverse work experience has equipped Joshua with the skills necessary to tackle clients’ most complex challenges with a creative approach. Clients’ value Joshua’s meticulous attention to detail, promptness, and strategic planning . Being a part of the Organizational Leadership team, he now applies his skillset to assist organizations rejuvenate and transform its operations to meet today's challenges.

Joshua holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Virginia. Outside of work, you can find Joshua attending sporting events in DC, visiting art museums, and traveling to historic locations. He also enjoys yoga, hiking, and going on adventures with friends and family.

Kevin Kytola

Senior Consultant

Kevin Kytola has spent nearly three decades helping private enterprises and public agencies adapt their organizations and business processes in response to changing regulations; evolving technology; and the need to improve performance. Kevin is an experienced facilitator of multi-party decision making and excels in situations where success hinges on collaboration between decision-makers, stakeholders, and the implementing workforce. Kevin’s experience encompasses defining data needed to make decisions, assessing business risk, and guiding projects in the energy, environmental restoration, and natural resource fields. Kevin holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Washington State University.

Kevin’s personal interests include spending time with his family, water skiing, snow skiing, and getting outdoors as much as possible.

Kirsten Gable

Organizational Leadership Practice Lead

Kirsten leads our Organizational Transformation practice with her thoughtful insight and practical understanding of how to design and implement change to re-direct, improve, or create organizations. Our clients value her extensive experience in using facilitation, project management, strategic planning, and decision analysis to guide transformation of their organizations. They seek out Kirsten to help their organizations embrace digital transformation; guide the creation of new project management organizations; re-invigorate underperforming organizations and large capital projects; and create new companies. Kirsten has led transformations in electrical utilities, federal, state and local government and contractor organizations and in smaller, diverse companies seeking to improve. Kirsten holds a Master of Business Administration from Gonzaga University and a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Whitman College.

Kirsten gets inspiration from serving on boards at Whitman College and Spokane Public Library Foundation, exploring new and emerging indie music, skiing extreme slopes, and generally enjoying outdoor activities.

Macleod Morehouse

Consultant

Macleod Morehouse joined Sapere in 2023 having previously worked in controls engineering, manufacturing engineering, and commercial fishing. He brings a strong technical background driven by his deep interest in the energy industry and the surrounding public policy landscape.

Macleod holds a Master of Science in Public Policy and Management from Carnegie Mellon University where his studies were focused on public policy, the US energy industry, and data analytics. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Montana State University. Macleod excels at formulating and optimizing models for decision makers, and possesses the ability to effectively communicate technical information to a wide variety of audiences.

In his free time Macleod enjoys spending time outdoors. Some of his favorite activities include backcountry skiing, mountain biking, climbing, hunting, and fishing.

Marissa Steketee

Sustainability Leadership Practice Lead

Throughout her career, Marissa Steketee has helped private companies, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies alike execute difficult projects in complex environments. Her 15 years of experience as a project analyst, manager, and process improvement consultant give Marissa the perspective to proactively identify technical and regulatory hurdles before they strike, allowing her clients to complete projects on time and within budget.

As her proficiency across multiple sectors suggests, Marissa excels in collaborative work environments where she can help diverse teams better understand one another. Marissa has proven especially effective in bridging the gaps between operational groups as she assists organizations struggling to implement new processes. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Marissa offers her clients the flexibility to communicate in either language. To recharge, Marissa can be found running, working with clay, watching sunsets at the beach, and hanging out with family (including the pooches). She gives back to her community if a variety of ways, including as the Chair for the Carlsbad Youth Baseball (CYB) League's snack bar and as a grant writer for the Garden Committee at Magnolia Elementary to support the school's garden.

Marissa is a certified Project Management Professional. She holds a Master of Arts in Marine Affairs from the University of Miami and a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Policy & Behavior from the University of Michigan.

Meredith Newman

Consultant

Meredith joined Sapere with experience in habitat conservation fieldwork and sustainable urban planning. She now applies her critical thinking and research skills to client projects focused on adapting for the future. Meredith holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Environmental Studies from Bucknell University, where she was also a 4-year varsity rower.

In her free time, Meredith enjoys spending time with friends and family, planning her next travel adventure, trying out new recipes, and getting outdoors. Since moving from Connecticut to Washington D.C., Meredith plans to continue pursuing her passion for rowing on the Potomac.

Mick Smoot

Consultant

Mick joined Sapere after working in a diverse range of industries. While working for a non-profit, Mick helped develop strategies to improve the sustainability of waste and water systems. He has also worked for multiple years as a commercial fisherman in Alaska, where he has honed skills in communication and risk management. Mick applies his background and skills to his clients as part of the Organizational Transformation Team at Sapere.

Mick holds a BA in Environmental Studies from the University of Washington. Outside of work, you can find him rock climbing, running, and learning how to surf.

Pat Sheehy

Senior Consultant

Pat came to Sapere with over 14 years of experience in Civil Engineering. As a Professional Engineer he has worked in both the public and private sectors. In addition to managing capital projects for the City of Puyallup, WA for 6 years, he has been a consultant for every level of Government from Town to Federal as well as private commercial and residential development. That experience and exposure gives Pat unique insight and understanding into an array of diverse organizations. From abandoned mine reclamation to City Parks, Pat’s work experience has trained him to be an expert at bringing diverse groups together to get things done. He’s passionate about using process improvement and smart change to set people and organizations up for success.

Pat's personal interests include; golf, woodworking, metalworking, fixing things that may or may not be broken, lounging at the lake, and most of all, spending time with his wife and two kids.

Pat holds a BA in Civil Engineering from Carroll College in Helena, MT and an MBA from the University of South Dakota. He’s a licensed Professional Engineer in Washington and Montana and he is a LEED Accredited Professional.

Scott Smyth, PhD.

Senior Consultant

Scott Smyth is our in-house expert in advanced analytics / machine learning / artificial intelligence (AI) and technology development. For more than a decade, Scott has held leadership roles in teams defining long-term system architecture needs for their clients. From risk analysis and development team management, to product management and AI, Scott has both the hard and soft skills to lead technical projects from vision to execution. Specifically, Scott is a talented open source developer with a strong knowledge of storage and network configuration, system security, and efficient design. Scott’s project experience includes research and development on a number of private-sector products, from enterprise technology prototypes to consumer mobile solutions. Scott holds a Ph.D. from the School of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at Georgia Institute of Technology, and a Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences from Stanford University.

For fun Scott uses his data skills in Fantasy Football, calculates his way to the top of a peak hiking, and enjoys time with his family.

Scott Talbert

Senior Consultant

With more than 20 years of experience as both an individual software engineer and as a team leader, Scott is an expert in technology. From software and system design, development, integration and testing to advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI he helps clients stay on the cutting edge. Scott's varied background gives him the ability to lead projects from inception, through the design phase, all the way to the final roll out. In addition to software, Scott also serves as our in-house network guru. From design and implementation to debugging, Scott has handled mission critical network concerns in myriad environments. Together, his multifaceted background gives Scott the perspective to quickly break down complex systems and advise client and project teams on technical alternatives, integration approaches, and the elusive solutions to their most challenging problems.

Before coming to work with us here at Sapere, Scott spent a decade sharpening his skills as a software engineer at Lockheed Martin. He holds both a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Master of Computer Science from the University of Virginia.

Scott is an avid hiker, trekking through anywhere with a mountain. If he has to stay inside, he’s cheering on the Virginia Cavaliers.

Sena Kucukkarca

Consultant

Sena joined Sapere with a background in healthcare transformation and innovation, working with clients in Austin to promote the growth of their business through outreach and internal organizational efforts. Her experience working within healthcare to navigate through the recent pandemic reinforced her tenacious spirit, allowing her to bring a fresh perspective and excitement to any challenge.

Prior to joining Sapere, Sena built a multidisciplinary toolkit of knowledge in both STEM and political science. She is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, where she earned a Bachelor of Science and Art in Neuroscience and a Bachelor of Art in Government with a Pre-Health Professions Certification and a minor in Turkish.

In her free time, Sena can be found on the golf course, enjoying a weekend of Formula 1 racing, or planning her next adventure alongside friends and family.

Susie Pan

Consultant

Susie joined Sapere after graduating from UCLA with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biochemistry. She previously worked on the founding team of a healthcare technology start-up and applies her experience from the fast-paced, multi-disciplinary working environment to confront any problem and develop creative solutions.

Outside of work, Susie can be found trying a new recipe in the kitchen, building a jigsaw puzzle, attempting to perfect latte art, or planning her next travel adventure.

Tara Moses

Chief Financial Officer

Tara Moses is our Chief Financial Officer, responsible for managing finance and administration, the digital ecosystem, and human resources.

With over 20 years of experience, Tara fundamentally believes that every problem is solvable, especially when you have a positive attitude and a willingness to be flexible.

When not keeping busy with Sapere, Tara enjoys spending time with family and friends.

Tara holds a Master of Business Administration from Western Governors University, a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Idaho and is a Certified Public Accountant.

Jeff Smyth

President

Tara Moses

Chief Financial Officer

Alyssa Mummey

Financial Controller

Connor Gall

IT Support Specialist

Organizational Transformation

Kirsten Gable

Organizational Leadership Practice Lead

Marissa Steketee

Sustainability Leadership Practice Lead

Kevin Kytola

Senior Consultant

Pat Sheehy

Senior Consultant

Hallie Buse

Senior Consultant

Meredith Newman

Consultant

Dan Arai

Senior Consultant

Carolyn Farnsworth

Senior Consultant

Susie Pan

Consultant

Beth Miles

Senior Consultant

Mick Smoot

Consultant

Jared Dirks

Consultant

Cade Brown

Consultant

Digital Transformation

Andrew Bulmer

System Development Practice Lead

Scott Smyth, PhD.

Senior Consultant

Scott Talbert

Senior Consultant

Jennifer Gutierrez

Senior Consultant

Alisa Peterson

Consultant

Josh Khazanov

Senior Consultant

Alex Tinsley

Senior Consultant

David Wells

Senior Consultant

Sena Kucukkarca

Consultant

Arjun Mahanty

Consultant

Energy Solutions

Bayunt Ollek

Energy Solutions Acting Practice Lead

Joshua Lakey

Consultant

Macleod Morehouse

Consultant

Interested in joining our team?