Daniel Merkt

Architectural Deisgner

VJS Constuction Services

I grew up in Oconomowoc, WI. moved to Milwaukee in 2012 to pursue my degree in architecture from UWM. After completing that I moved to West Allis for 6 years before moving back to Lake Country this past year. I enjoy all things outdoors and am always looking for an excuse to travel.

Q) What do you enjoy the most about commercial real estate?
A) What I enjoy most about commercial real estate is that every day is something different. There are so many different types of buildings, properties, and projects. Every day is a chance to learn something new.

Q) What is the best piece of advice you have received?
A) The best advice I have received is to pursue every opportunity presented to me.

Q) What is your favorite quote?
A) “If you ain’t first, you’re last” Ricky Bobby

Q) Where did you grow up?
A) I grew up in Oconomowoc Wisconsin

Q) What was cool when you were growing up but isn’t cool now?
A) Pogs and Slammers Game

Q) What’s your favorite place to travel to?
A) My favorite place to travel is Moab Utah. My wife and I enjoy camping, Mountain biking, and offroad activities. So it is a great place for all of those activities.

Q) Which projects are you involved in/most excited about?
A) I am currently the Project architect on the VJS Design Build team for the Re-Imagining Sherman Park project. This project is an ongoing project involving the collaboration between VJS Construction Services, Milwaukee County Parks, and The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee. We are working to re-vitalize the park in a community that will greatly benefit from the enhancements. The two-phase project will include a number of improvements including new site lighting, pathways, splashpad, waste management area, and employee parking lot. These projects will bring new life to an important park in the city. I enjoy working on multi-faceted projects that will truly benefit the community.

Q) If you could have lunch with anyone in the world, who would it be?
A) Rob Dyrdek

Q) What made you choose Commercial Real Estate?
A)  I began my career designing and constructing cemeteries. This experience sparked my desire to broaden my knowledge and skillset, leading me to transition into the commercial real estate market. Joining the CRE industry has enabled me to apply my experience across a diverse range of projects, aligning with my goal of expanding my expertise in design and construction.

Q) What is a goal you would like to accomplish within your Commercial Real Estate career?
A) I would like to be involved in a project from start to finish. Land acuisition, design, and construction.

Q) What do you hope to get out of your NextGen Experience?
A) I hope to learn more about the industry in Wisconsin and grow my network with other like minded individuals.