Author of The Lion Attitude | Attacker+Connector | Leadership Top Voice | AEC Leadership Development | Technical Sales Leadership | MEP Engineer & Energy Specialist | 3rd Generation HVAC | Keynote & Motivational Speaker
Early Beginnings
Kirby Lee’s journey began with a solid foundation in education. He attended Lenoir Community College from August 1996 to May 1998, where he earned an Associate of Science degree in Pre-Engineering. He then transferred to North Carolina State University, where he completed his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering in December 2000.
Key Takeaways
- Kirby Lee’s journey is a testament to the power of education, experience, and leadership.
- His innovative approach to leadership development in the AEC sector is truly inspiring.
- Kirby’s Lion Attitude system is a unique contribution to the field, demonstrating the potential of purpose-driven leadership.
Stepping into the Professional World
In January 2001, Kirby started his career as an HVAC Designer at Engineering Source of NC. Here, he honed his skills in load calculations, equipment sizing, ductwork and pipe layout with AUTOCAD, and equipment selections and schedules.
Building a Legacy in HVAC Engineering
Kirby’s career trajectory took him to various roles in the Architecture/Engineering/Construction (AEC) world, specifically focused on HVAC. His family’s three generations of HVAC Contractors and business owners provided him with firsthand experience about the challenges people in the design and construction world face on a daily basis.
Leadership and Innovation
Kirby’s passion for taking the AEC community to new levels led him to solve a specific problem: Leadership Development. He developed a process-oriented Leadership Development system called the Lion Attitude, built specifically for the AEC sector. The core competencies of the Lion Attitude are built on IMPACT: Intention, Motivation, Purpose, Attack, Connect, Triumph.
Leadership Lessons
- Clarity of Vision: Define your objectives and the influence you aspire to have. This clarity acts as a beacon, guiding your journey forward.
- Driven by Purpose: Comprehend your underlying ‘why’. This sense of purpose infuses our actions with meaning and propels us to strive for excellence.
- Proactive Approach: Embrace a proactive stance and seize the initiative. Don’t wait for opportunities to come knocking; instead, create them for yourself.
- Power of Connection: Cultivate robust relationships and encourage teamwork. It’s about uniting people, fostering a sense of camaraderie, and working towards a shared objective.
- Commitment to Learning: Champion the cause of lifelong learning. The readiness to learn and adapt is what keeps a leader pertinent and effective.
Editorial Notes
Kirby Lee’s story is a powerful example of how technical expertise, combined with strong leadership skills, can lead to significant contributions in the AEC sector. His journey serves as an inspiration for many in the field, demonstrating the potential of purpose-driven leadership and innovation.
