About Aptitude

Managing Director

Sam Holt

The founder and managing director of Aptitude, Sam draws from his more than 18 years of leadership experience in building systems design and construction leadership to steer the company’s business strategy and operations. As managing director, he supports the entire Aptitude team in the pursuit of our purpose.

Prior to joining Aptitude, Sam led teams in complex, mission critical healthcare projects in a diverse range of roles that span the entire design and construction life cycle. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgia Tech and a master’s degree from Auburn University. When not in the office, Sam enjoys a range of outdoor activities including wood working, coaching youth soccer, and leading Scouts.

Design and Preconstruction Director

Chris Andrews

With more than 27 years of industry experience, Chris is an invaluable leader at Aptitude, helping clients identify the right systems and technologies for their unique needs. As the Design and Preconstruction Director, he is responsible for developing technologically sound integration solutions and their implementation on schedule and within budget.

Originally from Washington D.C., Chris settled in the Atlanta area where he spends time with his family and a newly discovered camping hobby. When he’s not working, Chris serves as the bass player for his local church.

Midwest Region Operations Director

Derek Seitz

As the midwest operations director, Derek leads business development and strategy for our midwest region and key national verticals. He brings a valuable perspective to the team, having lead sales, business operations, and strategy across the building technology systems landscape including access control, lighting, HVAC, and iOT. He has a keen understanding of the complex systems that are required in commercial properties and is dedicated to helping clients achieve their technology and user experience goals.

Originally from New Jersey, Derek studied mechanical engineering at College of Morris and business management at Fairleigh Dickenson University. He settled in the Kansas City area in 2007 where he and his wife raised a family and have been active in their community through church, youth sports, and volunteering. Derek enjoys playing guitar, exploring the mountains of Colorado in all the seasons, and spending time with family and friends.

Western Region Operations Director

Mike Kettleson

Mike has more than 27 years of experience in designing, estimating, managing and implementing low voltage systems. He participates in developing the project scope, schedule, and budget in the preconstruction phase.

As the company’s primary contact during construction, he manages project costs, prepares subcontracts, approves billings, facilitates planning meetings, implements processes and documents progress. He ensures that division 27 and 28 trade partners are kept informed with the latest project information, and takes part in scheduling and coordination meetings.

South-Central Region Operations Director

Sean Graham

Sean leads a team of dedicated technology professionals across the south-central region, bringing 26 years of experience in the Federal and commercial markets to Aptitude. He has directed teams in all phases of planning, design engineering, project management and construction implementation.

Sean has in-depth knowledge and experience in the overall construction process, and specialized expertise in engineering design services and construction. Throughout his career, he has managed projects from the concept stage through construction and turnover. He has been involved in complex design-build technology projects and has worked closely with clients to ensure that the systems are cost-effective, functional, and ready for day one operations.

Eastern Region & Healthcare Operations Director

John Cooper

John brings more than 15 years of industry experience to the Aptitude team. He specializes in high-rise hospitality, high-rise residential and mixed use, and large healthcare facility projects.

As the eastern region and healthcare operations director, he leads a team of project managers and supervisors that oversee the entire construction process, from concept through owner occupancy and post-warranty support. His team’s focus is the on-time delivery of world class facilities that are fit, functional, and ready for use on day one.

Prior to joining the Aptitude team, John worked for a technology systems integrator and focused on large, complex projects that implemented multiple, integrated technology systems. He lives in Spring Hill, Tenn. where he enjoys spending time with family and weekends at the baseball field.