Why This Matters
For the third year in a row, one of my images was selected for ENR Magazine's annual photo competition issue. That alone is an honor - ENR is the voice of the architecture, engineering, and construction industry, reaching 60,000+ professionals worldwide. Their contest received over 1,100 submissions this year.
But this year is different. For the first time, I'm one of 10 finalists being considered for the cover.
And of all years for this to happen, it's happening in 2026 - the year the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library opens.
I would have been excited about this in any year. But the timing feels almost too perfect to ignore.
Why This Image
I submitted eight images to the contest. This is the one that made it.
It's not a sweeping landscape. It's not the building itself. It's one craftsman, focused on his work, sparks flying as he shapes HVAC ductwork that will serve this building for the next hundred years.
To me, this image represents every welder, carpenter, concrete finisher, ironworker, crane operator and laborer who has poured themselves into this project. Seventy-five percent of them are North Dakota contractors. Many have told me personally that this is their once-in-a-lifetime project.
This image is my tribute to all of them.
What's in it for me? Honestly, nothing. No prize money, no licensing fee. I'm already being featured in the issue regardless.
I just want to see this project and its people get the recognition they deserve - especially in the year it opens.
How To Vote
- Click the button below
- Find the TR Library / ductwork sparks image on ENR's poll page
- Cast your vote (one vote per device)
- Spread the word!
You can vote once per device. If you happen to vote on your phone and your laptop, I won't stop you :)
Voting closes January 22 at 11:59pm Eastern.
Thank you.
I've had images published in national magazines, major newspapers, even billboards. So this isn't about adding another line to my resume.
It's about honoring the hundreds of people who made this project possible - and bringing attention to this world-class project in its most important year.
Your vote means a lot. Thank you.