David Vepraskas is a veteran of the construction and mechanical contracting fields in Lakemont, Georgia. He serves on the board for the Mechanical Contractors Association of Georgia and graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in mechanical engineering. He values the mix of technical thinking and people-focused work that the industry offers. He also appreciates the freedom that comes with his career, giving him time to go on off-roading trips with his sons and participate in their many athletic pursuits.
Q: What first pulled you toward the construction and mechanical contracting world?
David Vepraskas: I was attracted to the concept of working in a field where you can see your impact directly. I liked that the work involves both technical thinking and everyday practicality, which keeps things interesting. Over time, I’ve realized how much the people in this industry impact the experience, and that has encouraged me to stay committed to it. I’ve built strong relationships throughout my career, and I appreciate the sense of teamwork that develops on long projects. The combination of real-world results and long-term connections has always made the work feel meaningful.
Q: How has your engineering background impacted how you lead?
David Vepraskas: My time at Georgia Tech pushed me to consider how problems form before thinking about how to fix them. That method stayed with me and still helps me lead teams through complicated situations. I find that people appreciate it when a leader asks thoughtful questions instead of jumping ahead too quickly. It encourages better communication and gives everyone a chance to feel included in the process. My engineering background also helps me mentor young professionals who are learning to balance technical details with practical decisions.
Q: How do you balance your career with participating in all your family activities?
David Vepraskas: I really value being present for my sons and watching them build their skills and their characters, whether it’s through basketball, soccer, or dirt biking. Sports bring out a lot of growth moments, and it’s great to be able to witness that up close. The travel soccer program we joined in Georgia, Rapids FC, gives us a lot of excitement, something to look forward to, and lets us explore places we wouldn’t normally visit. We get long car rides filled with real conversations that might not happen otherwise. Those experiences help us stay close as a family.
Q: You have a lot of outdoor hobbies. Where did that start?
David Vepraskas: It started when my boys and I started looking for more active and memorable ways to hang out together. Whitewater kayaking became one of our first shared hobbies, and it opened the door to more outdoor activities. Dirtbike riding soon followed and turned into something we look forward to when the weather is nice. Days outside tend to slow everything down nicely, which is something I value. Being in those environments helps us reconnect and enjoy time that feels real and unhurried.
Q: What sparked your interest in collecting Land Cruisers?
David Vepraskas: I’ve always appreciated vehicles that feel sturdy and dependable, and the Land Cruisers fit that perfectly. Collecting them became a hobby that grew slowly and naturally over time. Overlanding with them gives my family a chance to enjoy the mountains and forest roads in a relaxing way. My boys and I have so much fun riding together. Camping in the national forests adds more fun and gives us weekends we will always remember.
Q: When life slows down a bit, how do you prefer to relax?
David Vepraskas: It’s tough to beat a round of golf. It gives me a quiet place to reset away from the hustle of my job. I appreciate that the pace encourages patience and helps me unwind after a long workweek. Even a short round feels helpful when I need a break. It also gives me a chance to catch up with friends or enjoy time outdoors without a tight schedule. It’s become one of the ways I bring balance into my everyday routine.
