After graduation, Steve started his career serving as an Intern Architect in the offices of M. Wayne Stoffle and Ehlinger & Associates.  His duties included preparing presentations, drafting construction drawings, and performing research studies. He began interning under Russell in 1977, and advanced to Associate Architect after earning his license in 1979. Russell and Steve formed Burgdahl & Graves Architects in 1982, a firm that has grown steadily for the past 28 years under their direction.

As Vice-President of Burgdahl & Graves, Mr. Graves serves as Principal-In-Charge of Production, Construction Methods, and Specifications, in addition to managing Construction Administration for the firm.   He has been responsible for the production and construction administration of projects of varying scope and complexity.