St Johns Chamber Member Profile – Mike Koppenhafer, AIA

How long have you or your organization been a member of the Chamber?

Since 2012

How have you, or your organization benefited from membership in the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce?

Yes, we have. It is a great introduction to the business community.

What advice would you give a new chamber member to maximize their membership?

Start to get active in the Chamber. The old saying, you get out what you put in to it really holds true. There are many programs and activities offered and  would expect many would be of interest to new members.

What career advice do you live by?

Be honest, have a great attitude, and never quit.

What are the biggest challenges facing St. Johns County today?

The rapid expansion of residents in the county has been a blessing and a curse. Affordable housing needs to accommodate new workers entering the county such as school teachers and first responders. Also, the additional traffic and growth are stressing the current infrastructure which needs to be expanded to accommodate the larger population.

How do you define success?

By friendships, family and resources.

What past experiences or roles have led you to where you are today?

I have been a county resident for over 30 years and in the last 20 years have I been actively involved in the county volunteering for various boards (Planning and Zoning Agency, Friends of Guana, Architectural Review Committees, coaching…) to serve. I am committed to doing what I can to improve the county for my family and friends.   

What is a fun fact about you?

I enjoying coaching my sons flag football team where we have won 5 championships back to back.