Curt Brannon is the Founder, President and owner of Sympateco. A native Nebraskan, Curt founded Sympateco in 1985 after selling his successful distribution company. Brannon’s expertise as both a barber and product distributor gave him unique insights into both design and functionality in franchise environments. Using this expertise, he created a team that has developed Sympateco to be the expert in creating successful and cutting edge national clients with franchise buildouts. Brannon oversees Sympateco’s growth and expansion.

Laverne Drake, PHR, SHRM-CP is the Vice President. Laverne has been with Sympateco since 2012. With over 23 years' experience in Human Resources management, Laverne manages and oversees all employee programs including payroll, benefits, and the performance management system. She also manages the corporate insurance plans which includes P&C and Worker Compensation. She is a co-chair of the company's Safety Program. She is a Navy Veteran with 10 years of service.

Gillian Massie is Senior Project Manager and works with several partners on streamlining and automating processes to improve efficiency at Sympateco. Gillian’s background in our Architectural Services Department offers that unique legacy knowledge that is paramount to fine tuning each process in the workflow from concept to post-delivery. Her tenacious drive and discipline coupled with effective client communication, superior attention to detail and quality, and extensive design & construction knowledge have enabled her to manage hundreds of projects for Sympateco. Gillian brings to our team more than 19 years of experience in the construction industry, including her career with Sympateco since 2002. She received her Bachelors of Science in Design from the College of Architecture & Environmental Design at Arizona State University.

Deb Spaeth, Sympateco’s Lead Designer has been a member of the Sympateco team since 1991. As its first full-time designer, Deb has diligently worked with clients through all aspects of the design process, including space planning, finish selection and fixture design. Her professional experience aided Sympateco in transitioning from custom design to franchise design. As Sympateco expanded beyond the salon industry, Deb has been invaluable in consulting and designing franchise industries in retail, medical and hospitality.