Notable Leaders in Architecture, Engineering, & Construction 2026 — Crain’s Chicago Business
Crain’s Notable Leaders in Architecture, Engineering & Construction recognizes professionals shaping the buildings, infrastructure and public spaces that define the Chicago area. This year’s 91 honorees lead architecture studios, engineering firms, construction companies, development teams, public agencies and civic organizations.
Scope of work: Polich leads EWP Architects’ strategic direction, design leadership and operations, overseeing workplace strategy, repositioning and tenant projects across major commercial properties.
Biggest professional win: Over the past five years, Polich expanded EWP during uncertainty in the office sector and grew revenue 250%. The firm secured and delivered Chicago-area office projects including the 80,000-square-foot IMRF headquarters and One North Franklin.
Other contributions: Polich has volunteered with Boy Scouts of America for more than a decade as cubmaster, committee chair, assistant scoutmaster and scoutmaster, mentoring youth and guiding Eagle service projects.
Read the original article in Crain’s Chicago Business here.
EWP Architects Promotes Jessica Reuther from Director of Design to Principal Interior Designer
As New Hospitality and Amenity Branch, Chronicle, an EWP Studio, Begins To Grow, So Does The Design Team That Shapes Them
EWP Architects, an architecture firm focused on innovative workplace design solutions, today announced the promotion of Jessica Reuther, NCDIQ, to principal interior designer from director of design. Jessica has been a part of the EWP Architects team for eight years and has been an integral part of leading their new hospitality and amenity branch, Chronicle, an EWP Studio. As Principal Interior Designer, Jessica joins the firm’s leadership team, overseeing design vision, team leadership and project delivery and execution. With a primary focus on Chronicle, the hospitality-focused design studio within EWP Architects, she will guide projects from concept through completion.
“I’m grateful to work alongside Jessica and excited for her and the firm as we look ahead. Her design leadership, collaborative approach and ability to elevate our work continue to have a meaningful impact across the studio,” said Brett Polich, Managing Principal of EWP Architects.
In her role at EWP Architects, Jessica has led the design and execution of recently completed hospitality and amenity projects across Chicago, including the notable lobby and amenity redevelopment at One North Franklin.
“Design has always been about people, collaboration and intention,” said Jessica Reuther. “As Principal, I’m excited to continue delivering meaningful spaces for our clients and helping shape the future of the firm.”
Jessica first started at EWP Architects as an interior designer in 2018. She was promoted to lead interior designer in 2022, and then promoted again to director of design in 2024. Her inspiration and passion for the craft have been influenced not only by her daily work, but through her opportunities to travel throughout Europe and China.
Read the original article on EIN Presswire here.
EWP Architects Promotes Two Established Leaders as Partners of the Firm
Kelly Castellano and Stephen Kent Expand Partner Group
and Set up Growing Firm for the Future
EWP Architects, a leading architecture and office design firm recognized for its innovative and client-centric approach, announced a strengthened commitment to its long-term vision by extending ownership to Kelly Castellano, AIA, Principal Architect, and Stephen Kent, AIA, Principal Architect. Both Castellano and Kent have been integral members of the firm’s leadership team for years, demonstrating consistent dedication, expertise and a shared vision for the future of EWP Architects.
This decision by Brett Polich, AIA, Managing Principal of EWP Architects, reflects a strategic move to secure the firm’s leadership continuity. Alongside Polich, Castellano and Kent will set the overall agenda for the firm, ensuring that EWP Architects continues to thrive with a strong, experienced leadership team at the helm.
“Kelly and Stephen have made an extraordinary impact on our firm’s success,” said Polich. “Their long-term commitment, leadership and the positive influence they bring to our culture and technical excellence made the decision to make them partners an easy one. Their leadership will be instrumental as we embark on the next chapter of our firm’s growth and evolution, ensuring our legacy of excellence continues well into the future.”
Leading the firm’s People and Culture Initiative, Castellano’s leadership has been pivotal in enhancing team dynamics and promoting a culture of excellence at EWP Architects. Meanwhile, as Technical Director, Kent drives the firm’s technical direction and ensures that project execution meets the highest standards of quality and innovation.
With a proven track record of delivering impactful projects and a strong, experienced leadership team, EWP Architects is well-positioned to continue building its reputation as a trusted and innovative firm in the industry.
Read the original article in Nashville Business Journal here.
The Power of Partnership: EWP Architects and Brindley Engineering Expand and Evolve Brindley’s Headquarters
Brindley Engineering, a leading firm in engineering and project services, teamed up with EWP Architects, renowned for their cutting-edge work environments, to transform Brindley’s headquarters into a hub of innovation and teamwork. The collaboration goes beyond physical space transformation; it creates an atmosphere that fosters creativity, collaboration, and a thriving employee culture. As technology advances and workplaces evolve, the enduring sense of teamwork and community remains vital. Together, Brindley and EWP have cultivated an environment where collaboration thrives, underscoring the significance of human connection in shaping the future of work.
Designing a Gen Z Friendly Office Space: A Blueprint for Recruiting Top Talent
Ten years ago, the hot topic in workplace design was creating environments for these new people — the Millennials. They were going to ruin everything.
