We Are DES: Meet Stanley Zielinski
This is a part of our featured story series “We Are DES.” These stories will introduce you to an individual at DES and the work they do to help fulfill the DES mission — you’ll also learn some fun details about how they spend time outside of work.
Name: Stanley Zielinski
Division: Real Estate Services
Job title: Architect 2
What year did you start at DES? 2021
What year did you begin working for Washington state? 2021
In two sentences or less, describe what you do at DES. I collaborate with state agencies and lessors to realize the agency’s vision for their new leased space. I also oversee construction to ensure our high-quality standards and design intent are met.
How do you believe your role supports the DES mission of strengthening the business of government? I believe my role is to be the eyes and ears of the taxpayer to ensure that tax dollars are being spent as intended — responsibly and reasonably in service of the public interest.
In what ways do you experience DES values in your everyday work? (respect; integrity; excellence; diversity, equity & inclusion) I work with a diverse team of individuals who respect each other’s differences and value the diversity that brings. Everything we do in Real Estate Services demands integrity and excellence in every aspect of our jobs.
What did you do before working at DES? I worked in private practice as an architect, mostly delivering projects through the design/build process, including casinos, hotels, resorts, retail, K-12 schools and assisted living facilities.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work? I love the outdoors and enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, and boating to the islands in the Salish Sea and the Columbia River. I also love climbing mountains and hiking with my family. I’m a sculptor who works in glass, metal and wood.
What is a fun fact about you? I’m fascinated by science and math. We are fortunate to live during a scientific renaissance. My favorite book is “The Road to Reality: A Complete Guide to the Laws of the Universe” by Roger Penrose, which is way over my head, but I learn something from it every time I revisit it.
