THE Team
Ekiah Pickett
Project Thirteen was founded by Ekiah Pickett, inspired by a deep connection to Vermont, its history, and the timeless architecture of New England. Raised in a 1779 Grist Mill in South Woodstock, Ekiah grew up surrounded by craftsmanship and character, an experience that shaped his passion for preserving the old while thoughtfully designing for the new. "I truly love renovation. It comes with many challenges but when you successfully blend the past and present the results are amazing."
Now based between Vermont and Southern California, Ekiah remains hands-on with each project, returning to Vermont monthly to meet with clients and collaborate with his team.
Outside of his professional work, Ekiah enjoys traveling with his wife and daughter and pursuing his passion for fly fishing, maintaining his deep-rooted connection to nature and craftsmanship.
Steve Smith
Steve was born in Vermont and grew up in Woodstock, where he developed an early interest in construction. he began his career in high school through the building trades program and has now accumulated nearly 30 years of experience in the construction industry.
Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for strong problem-solving skills and a commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. While he enjoys all aspects of construction, he has a particular passion for kitchen projects, where design and functionality meet.
"What I appreciate most about working in construction is the diversity, no two projects or clients are ever the same. Each job presents new challenges and opportunities, making the work continually rewarding." Steve takes great pride in seeing a project through from concept to completion, knowing the lasting value of what has been built.
Outside of work, he enjoys fishing and smoking barbecue, activities that, much like construction, require patience, precision, and a passion for the craft.
Douglas Alexander Jr.
DJ was born and raised in Vermont, where a strong appreciation for the outdoors and a dedication to craftsmanship were instilled early on. He enjoys spending free time hunting, fishing, and making memories with his family.
His passion for carpentry began during high school, working summers alongside his father’s construction crew. Those early experiences laid the foundation for his career in the industry and taught him the importance of hard work, precision, and pride in every project.
He has a passion for finish carpentry, where attention to detail and quality craftsmanship make a lasting impact. "One of the most rewarding parts of my work is seeing the satisfaction and excitement on a client’s face when a project is completed" , a moment that reflects the care and commitment invested in every build.
He is dedicated to delivering exceptional results, creating spaces that are not only beautiful but built to stand the test of time.