Andrew Lake

Andrew Lake is a recent graduate who works as a Research and Development Manager at Lakefront Development Group. In this role, he conducts market research and provides in-depth analysis for commercial real estate development projects across the Pittsburgh and South Florida markets. His work focuses on creating and implementing strategies that allow the company to identify new opportunities and pursue promising investments in a structured and efficient manner.

He applies a range of skills to this position, including financial analysis, market research, quality management systems, client relations, and project management. These abilities allow him to make meaningful contributions to the team and to manage responsibilities in both research and client-focused areas of the business.

Academic Experience

Andy Lake completed his undergraduate education at the University of South Florida, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Entrepreneurship with a concentration in Finance. His academic performance was recognized when he received the Green and Gold Scholars Award in 2020. This award provided tuition assistance to first-year out-of-state students who demonstrated strong academic results.

In addition to his academic focus, he was actively involved in student and community life. He spent four years as a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity, where he contributed to the organization’s events and programs. As Ritual Chair, he was responsible for upholding the organization’s traditions and values while also leading fundraising activities for the Huntsman Cancer Institute. These efforts showed his dedication to service and his ability to take on leadership responsibilities within a community setting.

His Earlier Education

His commitment to excellence was visible from an early age. At Marshall Middle School, Lake was placed on the Honor Roll during the 2014–2015 academic year, laying the foundation for his future accomplishments.

During high school, he continued to balance his studies with his athletic pursuits. He received several Scholar Athlete Awards from the North Allegheny Unified Boosters Organization, recognizing his participation in football (2014–2015, 2015–2016), basketball (2014–2015), and lacrosse (2017–2018).

He also attended Summer’s Best Two Weeks Camp, a program designed to support the development of athletic and leadership skills. Counselors consistently recognized his positive outlook, willingness to work hard, and ability to encourage others. By adopting the camp’s “I’m Third” philosophy, he placed importance on serving others and demonstrated qualities that made him a respected teammate and role model for younger campers.

He graduated from North Allegheny Senior High School in Wexford, Pennsylvania, with a GPA of 3.6. He was recognized as a multi-year Scholar-Athlete and was named a finalist for the John Rullan Lacrosse Scholarship in 2020.

Professional Experience

Before graduating from college, Lake gained valuable professional experience that shaped his career path. At SRI Quality System Registrar in Wexford, he completed an internship where he earned the ISO 9001 Lead Auditor Certificate for Quality System Management. This certification required him to complete a demanding two-month training program with SAE International, and he became the youngest individual in the company’s history to achieve it.

In this role, he participated in quality management system audits for a range of clients. The experience enabled him to closely observe business processes and understand the importance of quality control. He also assisted in developing and implementing communication systems to improve coordination between customers and the scheduling team.

In addition to his time at SRI, he held positions at The Toy House and Emporio Restaurant. These roles helped him strengthen his abilities in customer service, communication, and adaptability. Working in these environments also taught him the importance of problem-solving and teamwork.

Technical Skills

Andrew is proficient in Microsoft Office applications and has a basic foundation in Python programming. In addition, he has basic Spanish language skills, which support his ability to connect with a broader range of people in both academic and professional settings.

Community Service

Community involvement has been a meaningful part of his journey. Through his role as Ritual Chair with Sigma Chi, he helped organize fundraising campaigns that supported the Huntsman Cancer Institute. His service extended beyond this organization, as he also volunteered with the Miracle League. The Miracle League provides opportunities for children with mental and physical disabilities to enjoy playing baseball. His efforts supported the creation of an inclusive environment where children could experience the game without barriers.

Personal Life

Andrew was born in Marietta, Georgia, and remains close with his family. He has four siblings and enjoys spending time with his niece and nephews. His role as an uncle is an integral part of his personal life, and he values the time he spends with them.

Sports continue to be a central interest for him. He is an avid golfer with a 14 handicap and often plays with his siblings. In addition, he enjoys both basketball and football, sports that have been part of his life since his school years.

Outside of athletics, he enjoys traveling, fishing, and cooking. He also pursued aviation during high school by taking flying lessons, which allowed him to explore another area of interest.

As he looks toward the future, he is preparing to obtain his commercial real estate license, with an emphasis on pursuing opportunities in the South Florida market. His background in Finance, combined with his entrepreneurial education and professional experiences, provides him with a strong foundation for a career in this field.

Andrew Lake is dedicated to applying his skills and experience to continue growing in his profession while maintaining a focus on leadership, service, and steady progress toward his long-term objectives.