This week, General Contractors across the nation celebrated Women in Construction. Colleagues from Architectural Nexus took part in Mortenson’s Women in Construction Happy Hour Event – a night of connection, conversation, and recognition. Two remarkable women from Architectural Nexus were honored with awards.

Jenny Patterson, The Industry Trailblazer

The Industry Trailblazer Award celebrates an individual who has consistently demonstrated visionary leadership and innovation in the architecture/engineering/construction industry. This award honors someone who pushes the boundaries of traditional practices, introducing new technologies, methods, or strategies that enhance productivity, sustainability, and safety. The recipient of this award is a forward-thinking pioneer, someone who challenges the status quo, sets new industry standards, and inspires others to follow in their footsteps. Through their groundbreaking work, the Industry Trailblazer shapes the future of construction and leaves a lasting impact on the industry.

Alta Calcagno, The Corporate Champion

The Corporate Champion Award recognizes an individual who consistently demonstrates outstanding leadership, dedication, and a commitment to driving the success of the company. This award honors those who go above and beyond in fostering a positive corporate culture, embodying the values of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. Corporate Champions are instrumental in championing key initiatives, supporting colleagues, and contributing to the long-term growth and sustainability of the company. Their actions inspire others and set a standard for success within the corporate community.

This week’s celebration of Women in Construction was a resounding success, and we’re honored to have many talented women on our team at Arch Nexus.

We are seeking a dynamic and results=driven Business Development Professional to lead strategic growth initiatives for our architecture firm. This key leadership role is responsible for identifying new business opportunities, cultivating client relationships, and driving revenue growth in alignment with our firm’s vision. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the architecture, engineering, or construction (AEC) industry, with proven expertise in market analysis, client engagement, and strategic planning. As a collaborative leader, you will work closely with firm leadership, communications, and marketing teams, to win high-impact projects. Responsibilities:

• Engage with Principals to help them connect and develop their market sectors and clients.
• Participate in the development and execution of a strategic business development plan to drive revenue and market growth.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities, including public and private sector projects with specific focus towards the Intermountain region.
• Research and analyze market trends, industry developments, and competitor activity to inform strategy.
• Collaborate with firm leadership to set growth targets and align business development efforts with company goals.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with clients, developers, contractors, and key industry stakeholders.
• Act as the primary point of contact for new business inquiries. Prioritize and transition these opportunities to the appropriate members of the team.
• Develop and implement client engagement strategies to foster long-term partnerships.
• Partner with design and project teams to align business development efforts with the firm’s capabilities and strengths.
• Foster a culture of collaboration across departments to support firm-wide growth objectives.
• Participate in the effort to analyze and report on business development KPIs, including pipeline progress, win/loss rates, and revenue growth.
• Attend industry events, conferences and client meetings that may be on weekends, early mornings or after hours.
• Track and report on business development KPIs, including pipeline progress, win/loss rates, and revenue growth.

 Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field (Master’s degree or MBA is a plus).
• 10+ years of experience in business development, sales, or marketing within the architecture, engineering, or construction (AEC) industry.
• Proven track record of securing new business, developing client relationships, and driving revenue growth.
• Deep understanding of architectural services, project delivery methods, and industry trends.
• Strong knowledge of procurement processes, RFQs, RFPs, and contract negotiations.
• Familiarity with local, regional, and national markets in architecture and real estate development.
• Strategic thinking and planning skills to develop and execute business growth initiatives.
• Excellent ability to identify, cultivate, and close business opportunities.
• Strong networking and relationship-building skills with clients, developers, contractors, and industry leaders.
• Proficiency in CRM software (Deltek Vantagepoint, Salesforce, HubSpot, or similar) for pipeline management.
• Comfortable using data analytics and reporting tools to track business development performance.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and results-driven with a passion for the built environment.
• Strong negotiation and persuasion skills to close deals and secure high-value projects.
• Ability to adapt to market changes and industry shifts while keeping the firm competitive.

 Benefits:

• Employee-Owned Firm (ESOP): Be part of an employee-owned company, fostering a culture of shared success and long-term investment.
• Growth-Oriented Environment: Enjoy the resources and opportunities of a large firm while benefiting from the close-knit, collaborative culture of a smaller organization.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Competitive medical and dental benefits to support your well-being.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Employer-matching 401(k) and Roth 401(k) options to help you plan for the future.
• Performance-Based Bonuses: Biannual bonus program recognizing contributions and achievements.
• Paid Time Off: Competitive holiday and vacation benefits to support work-life balance.
• Community Engagement: Paid volunteer time to give back to causes that matter to you.
• Parental Leave: Six weeks of paid leave to support growing families.

Email resumes and references to:Brian Cassil, MBAPrincipal | Director of Communications bcassil@archnexus.com

Alta Calcagno is taking on a new role as the 2025 Secretary of the Board for the National Organization of Minority Architects in Utah. Alta will support NOMA Utah in growing opportunities for diversity and inclusion in architecture. The organization empowers architects through mentorship, education, and outreach programs. By fostering a supportive environment and inspiring future generations, NOMA UT contributes to a more equitable and inclusive profession that better reflects diverse communities.

Alta is a graduate of Universidad Nacional Pedro Henriquez Ureña in the Dominican Republic; she holds a master’s in architecture from the University of Utah, is licensed in the Dominican Republic, and is an active associate of AIA.

Before joining Arch Nexus, Alta honed her skills in various sectors across the Caribbean and the United States, specializing in residential, commercial, and historic renovation projects. At Arch Nexus, she focuses on Industrial and Federal projects while actively contributing to the firm’s Social Equity Committee and supporting architect professional development.

Beyond her architectural pursuits, Alta is a passionate advocate for community well-being, serving as Chair of the Historic Preservation Commission in Grantsville, UT. Her focus on understanding people and their motivations drives her to create spaces that not only look beautiful but also enhance lives.

Alta finds joy in her family, her faith, and the natural world. She enjoys spending time with her husband Chris, exploring the outdoors, and caring for their menagerie of animals. Her creative spirit thrives through cooking, crafting, gardening, and the constant pursuit of beautiful spaces in both her personal and professional life.

Architectural Nexus is pleased to support Alta in this new role with NOMA Utah and is privileged to have her on our team. Her passion for community well-being, combined with her exceptional design skills, makes her an invaluable asset to our firm and the communities we serve.

Ninety-two-year-old Charlie Burres knows the struggle of finding affordable housing all too well. After a series of life challenges, Charlie and his wife found stability in a Mutual Housing California community. His story highlights the critical role affordable housing plays in providing hope and security for individuals and families.

The rising cost of living has disproportionately impacted many Californians, particularly seniors in Stockton, where 64% face housing cost burdens. To address this urgent need, The California Energy Commission’s Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC), Mutual Housing California, and design firm Architectural Nexus have joined forces to develop a new, sustainable affordable housing project in the city.

Mutual Housing at Fairview Terrace will be a 62,568-square-foot, all-electric senior housing development, offering 76 affordable units. This innovative project will feature a range of amenities, including outdoor bike storage, a cooling center, community spaces, and electric vehicle charging stations. By integrating seamlessly into the community, this development challenges traditional stereotypes about affordable housing and sets a new standard for sustainable, equitable living.

Architectural Nexus is pleased to announce that Erica McBride has been named a recipient of the prestigious Living Future Hero award. Living Future Heroes are recognized for their commitment to environmental advocacy, their support of Living Future projects, and their ability to inspire others. Our recent interview with Erica offers insights into her career journey.

What are the biggest challenges you’ve overcome within your role?

One of the biggest challenges I faced when starting in this role was my limited knowledge of architecture and building systems. Through hands-on experience and continuous learning, I developed a strong understanding of how to operate these systems effectively. Over time, I’ve also gained a deeper appreciation for the critical role that architects play in shaping the built environment.

Another challenge has been educating building occupants on how their daily actions within the places they work have such a large impact on the environment. Changing habits can be difficult, but with increasing confidence in my abilities, I’ve become more effective at training building inhabitants.

Can you highlight some of your most significant contributions to sustainability at Arch Nexus?

I began my career in this field with no prior experience. Despite the steep learning curve, I successfully led our Sacramento office through LBC and LEED certifications. Additionally, I’ve been managing our SLC office remotely and have navigated various challenges during our performance period, including ongoing efforts to achieve the energy petal certification. I also played a key role in certifying the Daybreak Library, Utah’s first Zero Energy commercial building. Furthermore, as a Living Future and WELL accredited professional I contribute to architectural projects seeking green building certifications.

What are your future goals and aspirations in the field of sustainability?

I aim to promote sustainable operations consulting as a valuable service for all projects. The operational perspective offers a unique viewpoint that should be integrated into every project. I hope to continue advocating for Living Buildings and educating others about their potential significant impact on the built environment. Additionally, I believe that water, as an undervalued resource, needs to be addressed in all project types.

For those interested in pursuing a career in sustainability, my advice is to start with small steps. Even minor changes can have a positive impact. Take the time to learn about sustainability and utilize the available resources and expertise. Developing a passion for understanding sustainability and its environmental implications is key.

Wednesday marked the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the Fabian Lakeside Pavilion at Sugar House Park. The new structure replaces an aging pavilion that was over 60 years old. The new pavilion offers expanded seating, power outlets, and LED lighting, making it a more functional and modern space for visitors. Additionally, the new facility is designed to be more resistant to vandalism and to provide better views of the pond and park. It’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying the scenery. Ali Smith, Job Captain at Architectural Nexus shared “It’s exciting to be a part of these long-awaited improvements at the wonderful Sugarhouse Park.”

The new Fabian Lakeside Pavilion is complete thanks to a collaborative effort between Salt Lake County, and Salt Lake City in conjunction with the Sugarhouse Park Authority. Two more pavilions are slated for upgrades soon. New bike racks have been installed, and park signage is on the way. Future plans include playground improvements, basketball court upgrades, a revitalized irrigation system, upgrades to the community garden, and an arboretum to expand the park’s impressive selection of over 1,000 trees.

When counties and cities invest in community spaces like Sugarhouse Park the return is more than what meets the eye. Enhanced quality of life, increased property value, boosted local economy, and environmental benefits are just a few of the long-term advantages that result from thriving community park spaces. Reserve the new Fabian Lakeside Pavilion for your next family reunion or corporate gathering through the Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation Website.

Related news:

KSL.com

The Salt Lake County Daybreak Library branch has achieved a historic milestone: it is Utah’s first Certified Zero Energy Commercial Building. Join us for a special celebration on October 18th at 11:30 AM on the Daybreak Library rooftop.

Holli Adams, Principal Architect for the Daybreak Branch, applauds the county’s leadership in choosing energy efficiency and water conservation. “Salt Lake County is always striving to do what’s best for its residents and staff,” she stated, noting that the superior sustainable elements of the Daybreak Branch did not exceed the project budget and the county is already seeing net savings due to the efficient design.

The Daybreak Library was shaped by extensive community input, reflecting residents’ desire for a sustainable and welcoming space. The library features walking paths, bike trails, and a rooftop garden, creating a “wild space” that supports local ecoculture.

While these features contribute to the library’s place within the natural environment, the key to its energy efficiency lies in Ground Source Energy. Ground-source heat pumps (GSHPs) harness the Earth’s constant temperature to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. The library’s exceptional building envelope further enhances its performance.

The Daybreak Library’s Energy Use Intensity of 32 kBtu/ft2 is a remarkable 78% reduction compared to a national average of 144 kBtu/ft2 for libraries. Erica McBride, Regenerative Operations Manager at Architectural Nexus, provides ongoing support to library staff to ensure the building’s continued efficiency.

The Salt Lake County Daybreak Library demonstrates the power of community involvement and sustainable design. To learn more about the unique features and design elements of this groundbreaking project, explore the full case study at the International Living Future Institute.

Architectural Nexus invites you to see sustainable design in action at our upcoming open-house events. Join us to explore cutting-edge office spaces and learn how innovative design solutions can create healthier, more efficient buildings.

Salt Lake City Open House:

Date: Wednesday, October 2nd

Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: 2505 E Parleys Way, Salt Lake City Utah

Contact: Jessica Clark, jclark@archnexus.com

Sacramento Open House:

Date: Wednesday, October 16th

Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Location: 930R Street, Sacramento California

Contact: Katy Webb, kwebb@archnexus.com

At either location, you’ll have the opportunity to:

Tour our sustainably designed offices: See firsthand how innovative design features can enhance energy efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and create a healthier indoor environment.

Learn about sustainable design principles: Discover the latest trends and best practices in sustainable architecture, from renewable energy to green materials, even rainwater capture and reuse.

Connect with industry experts: Speak with our experienced architects and designers to learn more about your project needs.

Enjoy refreshments: Network and enjoy refreshments served from 2-6 PM.

This is a unique opportunity for schools, community groups, neighbors, and anyone interested in sustainable design to see these principles in action. Don’t miss out on this chance to be inspired and learn more about the future of architecture.

Are you tired of the same old energy-saving lectures? Imagine a world where sustainable habits are rewarded like a video game. Architectural Nexus has gamified occupant behavior to help push the boundaries of what is possible in regenerative building design.

Join us for breakfast with industry experts including Lisa Carey Moore, from the International Living Future Institute, and learn how gamification can motivate your team to adopt sustainable habits. Discover real-world strategies for designing and managing high-performance buildings that conserve water and reduce environmental impact. Click here to register for this FREE event happening September 27^th.

The presentation will showcase real-life strategies for designing and managing water systems that work within the carrying capacity of the site, as outlined in the ILFI water petal, and why water is a critical design driver in Utah. Tours of the Arch Nexus Salt Lake City office showcasing these strategies will take place immediately following the presentation.

Members of the Architectural Nexus Social Equity Committee, Megan Repka, AIA, and Megan Girvan, AIA, recently shared a Comprehensive Equity Toolkit through the International Living Future Institute in a webinar attended by participants from the United States, Canada, Spain, Italy, and Finland.

The toolkit, a compilation of equity resources from organizations such as AIA, SEED, ILFI, and LEED, is designed to be a valuable resource during the pre-design phase of projects. It encourages productive conversations and meaningful community engagement to foster a more equitable built environment. An online questionnaire within the toolkit prompts design teams to reflect on their projects and identify areas for improvement in terms of equity.

Architectural Nexus, one of only three SEED-certified consultant firms in the country, recognized the need for a comprehensive equity resource as its project teams sought to implement the SEED process on more projects. The Social Equity Committee created a cohesive document that draws from various equity resources and highlights the importance of different equity aspects. Inspired by the firm’s equity charettes and case studies, the toolkit can be used by any project team for any design project.