Young Professional Spotlight: Cameron Gilinsky
The Spark That Started a Career
Cameron Gilinsky P.E., RCDD, CTS-D, WiredScore AP, SmartScore AP, was feeling torn during his early years of study at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. He knew he wanted to dive into the engineering world, but wasn’t sure which avenue to take. By venturing into his early studies, the answer would eventually become clear.
“I ultimately decided I wanted to pursue electrical engineering,” Cameron explained, “The amount of variability that comes with an electrical engineering degree interested me. I could work on high-voltage electrical designs for building systems, computers…I liked that it had options.”
As Cameron progressed through his studies, he sought different employment options in the local Omaha area and stumbled upon an electrical engineer opening at Alvine Engineering. After further discussing Cameron’s goals and interests, the Alvine Engineering team referred him to a technology systems engineer position with IP Design Group. The rest is history.
“I appreciated that they wanted to find me a position which aligned with my interests,” Cameron stated, “The position IP Design Group offered me was a great fit. I’m quite fortunate that I interviewed with Alvine Engineering. Otherwise, I might not have found the career I have today.”
Early Career
Cameron’s early career with IP Design Group allowed him to gain valuable experience designing technology solutions in the education market. Cameron’s early portfolio highlights include design work at Omaha Public School’s (OPS) Forest Station Elementary and the district-wide technology renovations for the Norman Public School (NPS) district in Oklahoma. Cameron also worked on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Engineering renovation project.
“It was a surreal experience, graduating from the University of Nebraska’s engineering program and immediately transitioning to work on a space that provides a significant contribution to engineering education,” Cameron explained, “The clients we work with at IP Design Group have been a part of what has made my career so special.”
His career development in the firm is highlighted by meaningful and significant projects and has been advanced through the dedicated mentorship opportunities available within the firm. IP Design Group’s industry veterans have helped Cameron develop client relations and project collaboration skills to help execute high-performing design solutions that meet client objectives. Additionally, his experience and education in electrical engineering brings added value to the firm’s low-voltage team.
“The biggest lesson I’ve learned through the mentorship and project opportunities at IPDG is that people don’t care what you know until they know you care,” Cameron Gilinsky stated, “When clients ask questions, it’s important to give them your full perspective and knowledge. Alternatively, researching their question and providing a follow-up allows our clients to feel heard. This is a number-one priority and improves their experience with us.”
Current Projects
Cameron still plays a big role in providing low-voltage designs for Omaha school districts and works on some of IP Design Group’s most technically complex and ambitious projects. Cameron’s most recent portfolio includes the Sherwin-Williams Global Headquarters, and he is also involved with our firm’s work on T3 (timber, transit, and technology) projects designed in collaboration with Hines, an internationally renowned real estate developer. T3 buildings are mass timber projects that utilize responsibly sourced timber construction materials and encapsulate Hines’ approach to mass timber construction. These projects pride themselves on their sustainability, design, and innovative features. T3 buildings are accredited by LEED, WELL, and WiredScore.
“Working on T3 projects gives us a glimpse into where the future of building design is heading,” Cameron stated, “We integrate a lot of state-of-the-art technology into these projects and adhere to the highest standards of excellence for low-voltage design.”
In addition to T3, Cameron has worked on the University of Michigan College of Pharmacy mass timber project, which touts active learning spaces, laboratories, and technologically advanced design needs. Cameron is also providing his expertise on the Mutual of Omaha Corporate Headquarters, a project slated to become the tallest building in Nebraska. Located within walking distance of IP Design Group’s location in downtown Omaha, the Mutual of Omaha project has been an exciting development for Cameron to watch unfold.
“I can go down the street and see the progress with my own eyes,” Cameron stated, “Mutual of Omaha has been a very rewarding project to work on.”
Industry Outlook
Cameron Gilinsky visualizes more technology integration to become commonplace as the future shifts towards the era of smart buildings. In addition to providing ample infrastructure, networking, and device solutions for today’s buildings, low-voltage teams must also account for the adoption of network-compliant equipment for lighting systems, HVAC integration, plumbing, and more into a project’s overall design and construction.
“In the next ten years, interior components such as light bulbs, shades, and HVAC controls are all going to be networked devices,” Cameron explains, “All these network devices are going to be required to communicate with each other. Networks will have to be able to handle the additional data transfer needs that come with all these new devices as well.”
Cameron has been exceptional in his ability to prepare for future design by staying updated on the latest trends and practices in the industry. Cameron’s education in technology design includes SmartScore and WiredScore certification and a Registered Communications Distribution Designer certification. He is also a Certified Technology Specialist Designer through the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association (AVIXA).
A Part of the Team
Cameron’s passionate dedication to learning the low-voltage industry and his unique perspective gained through earning his degree in electrical engineering make him a valuable member of IP Design Group. Cameron has enjoyed the mentorship, camaraderie, and development throughout his five-year career at IP Design Group.
“I can barely believe it’s been five years,” Cameron stated, “I love the architects and clients we work with and the projects they bring to the table. Our diverse portfolio keeps things fascinating.”
Interested in learning more about team members like Cameron Gilinsky? We invite you to view our team page and discover more of our highly knowledgeable professionals.
