Growing up near the south coast of Oregon, on the edge of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness, Q’s family owned a farm. It was a mostly self-sufficient farm, relying on gravity-fed spring water and boasting a vast garden. They raised and harvested chickens and cows, and most notably, did not have electricity. As a consequence, the Q acquired a knack for resourcefulness from an early age. His days were often occupied with tinkering using spare parts salvaged from a nearby junkyard, constructing forts in the surrounding forest using scrap wood and a trusty pocket knife. It was an idyllic childhood thot fostered creativity at and early age.

In 1985, Q’s family relocated to Eugene, Oregon. At the tender age of 14, while attending high school and taking drafting classes, Q found employment in the construction industry during the summer break between school years. Following graduation from South Eugene High School in 1992, Q embarked on a full-time career with local construction companies. His skills flourished, specializing in framing and finish carpentry for custom, high-end residences.

Over time, a profound passion for residential and commercial architecture emerged. In 1994, Q established his own Design and Construction business, focusing primarily on residential projects. In 1996, Q applied for, and was accepted into the School of Architecture at the University of Oregon. In June of 2001, Q proudly obtained his accredited bachelor's degree in Architecture. Even before graduating, Q caught the attention of a local Commercial Architecture firm who promptly hired him. For the subsequent 13 years, Q had the privilege of learning from highly talented and respected Architects within the firm, while honing is aesthetic and craft.