Category: Team
SCHRADERGROUP Welcomes to the team, our newest Regional Manager!
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) is delighted to introduce the newest addition to our team! Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Thomas Wippenbeck as he joins our SG family!
Thomas Wippenbeck
Regional Manager
Kent State University – Bachelor of Architecture
Thomas brings a wealth of expertise to our team with his 26 years of experience. He has been extensively involved in all facets of the architectural design and management process, ranging from client pursuits and retention to overseeing the design and construction administration process. Additionally, he has played a key role in producing marketing proposals and public relations. Thomas has gained extensive experience working with various architectural firms, in addition to running his own practice. While overseeing his own practice, he successfully managed the construction of a hotel, an 8-story office building, and the renovation of a farmhouse. For 14 years prior, Thomas was a Senior Associate and Project Manager in the K−12 education design studio within Stantec/Burt Hill where he was responsible for leading the internal design team, as well as maintaining client relationships and expectations.
At SG, Thomas plays a vital role as the point of contact for clients and projects located in western Pennsylvania. Through his dedicated efforts in establishing and nurturing client relationships, Thomas actively contributes to the development and maintenance of strong connections. His role is instrumental in facilitating smoother project management and fostering enhanced collaboration with clients. By effectively bridging the gap between SG and its western Pennsylvania clients, Thomas ensures seamless communication, increased responsiveness, and a higher level of client satisfaction.
“-the projects we work on are helping to create and stimulate the next generation…” – Thomas
Welcome, Thomas! We are thrilled to have you on board the SG team. Our team is excited to share our company culture and practices with you, and we are eager to support you in your path to success.
Interested in working with us? Visit our Careers page to see what opportunities are available at SG here.
THANK YOU TO THE SCHRADERGROUP 2023 SUMMER INTERNS!
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) extends its gratitude to the exceptional summer interns, both new and returning, for their unwavering dedication and hard work during their time at our firm. We would like to express our sincere appreciation and thanks to the architectural internees, Wiley Muck, Isaac Buxton, Allyson Everlof, Josh Pontell, and the interior designer internee, Gianna DeLorenzo! We wish you the best in your future studies and profession!
Before they head back to school, the SG family would like to highlight each of these great interns:
Wiley Muck
Graduate Student
Temple University – Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Architecture
Wiley is an accomplished individual who is set to achieve a significant milestone this year, as he will be completing his Master’s degree in Architecture. Wiley is a returning intern here at SG and throughout his time here, he has actively participated in various projects that have encompassed every phase of the process. This hands-on experience has proven to be invaluable, enabling him to gain extensive knowledge and expertise.
At SG, Wiley worked on facility assessments, primarily focusing on modeling the existing structures of multiple schools within various school districts. In one District’s case, Wiley has modeled the existing conditions of twelve different schools. Wiley is now able to go on facility assessment walkthroughs to see what he has been modeling all summer.
In the future, Wiley aspires to design a house that perfectly captures his vision, creating a space he can proudly call home. Additionally, he is driven by the desire to design environments that will become cherished and significant parts of other people’s lives, making a positive impact on their daily experiences.
“Being able to see something that I worked on get built and then used is something that I think about a lot and what keeps me on this path.” – Wiley
We are excited to report that Wiley has just accepted a full-time offer for employment at SCHRADERGROUP and will continue his professional life with us!
Isaac Buxton
Undergraduate Student
Philadelphia University – Bachelor of Architecture
Isaac is a fourth-year student of a five-year Bachelor of Architecture degree offered through Jefferson University’s College of Architecture & the Built Environment. Looking ahead, his aspiration is to accumulate a wealth of work experience while embracing the opportunity to travel. Currently, Isaac is preparing to embark on a six-month internship with Olson Kundig, which involves relocating to Seattle. This exciting opportunity will not only provide him with valuable professional exposure but also allow him to explore a new city.
Isaac’s passion for architecture blossomed during his formative years. As a creative and imaginative child, he found joy in crafting various creations, whether it was constructing structures out of cardboard and duct tape, piecing together intricate designs with Legos, or expressing his ideas through pencil and paper. This early affinity for hands-on creativity laid the foundation for his enduring love for architecture.
“This creativity eventually turned into the love of designing buildings and the passion of the design process.” – Isaac
While at SG, Isaac actively contributed to several major projects, including some of the largest school districts in the region, various Auditorium projects, and a new state-of-the-art elementary school. Furthermore, Isaac recently concluded conceptualizations for a potential higher education, demonstrating his ability to engage in forward-thinking and innovative design processes.
Allyson Everlof
Undergraduate Student
Pennsylvania State University – Bachelor of Architecture
Allyson will be a fifth year architecture student at Pennsylvania State University and also a returning Intern here at SG. Allyson stands as an accomplished individual, having maintained her esteemed role as the student representative for her class over the span of four years. Her consistent dedication and commitment to serving her peers exemplify her strong leadership skills and unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive academic environment.
Since Allyson was a child, she dreamed about being a designer and creating spaces for people that not only suit their needs but exceed them in ways that benefit them from within.
“Our environments are extremely involved in our wellbeing, and I am happy to be a part of creating those spaces for people, especially students and educators.” – Allyson
At SG, Allyson engaged in various tasks such as attending job conferences and groundbreaking ceremonies, assisting with building modeling, visiting project sites, and aiding photographers in documenting completed projects.
Upon her graduation in May of 2024, Allyson is eagerly preparing to embark on the initial stages of her journey towards becoming a licensed architect. Her ambitions are set on attaining her professional license within five years of completing her college education. This goal reflects Allyson’s strong determination and dedication to honing her skills, acquiring practical experience, and fulfilling the rigorous requirements to establish herself as a qualified and accomplished architect.
Josh Pontell
Undergraduate Student
Pennsylvania State University – Bachelor of Architecture
After completing his education in a year, Josh is eager to pursue a full-time career as an architect. Simultaneously, he plans to commence studying for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) to accelerate the process of obtaining his professional license. Josh’s determination to swiftly achieve licensure highlights his commitment to professional growth and demonstrates his dedication to fulfilling the requirements necessary to establish himself as a licensed architect.
At SG, Josh actively contributed to several key areas of architectural work. This included engaging in tasks such as producing existing conditions drawings, developing schematic plans, conducting surveys, and utilizing 360 building imaging techniques. His involvement in these aspects showcased his diverse skill set and proficiency in different facets of architectural design and documentation.
Since he was young, Josh has been inspired by the places we inhabit. When he was a kid, he went to a few schools that were undergoing major renovations and reconstructions and was fascinated by all the structures in progress and how they go together. He specifically was fascinated with school buildings.
“I am so thrilled to be interning at a firm in which educational architecture is a focus!” – Josh
Gianna DeLorenzo
Undergraduate Student
Thomas Jefferson University – Bachelor of Interior Design
Gianna is currently on track to complete her studies in 2024 with the goal of obtaining her professional license as an interior designer upon graduation. Her aspirations highlight her determination to pursue a successful career in the field and her commitment to meeting the necessary requirements to become a licensed professional.
While at SG, Gianna has acquired extensive knowledge and skills in various aspects of interior design. She has gained a deep understanding of different materials and their applications, honed her expertise in casework and proper detailing techniques. Additionally, Gianna has developed strong abilities in comprehending and fulfilling client needs and desires while effectively collaborating with them. She has also gained valuable experience in navigating the project process. Notably, Gianna has contributed to projects such as a major elementary school and an elementary school library, utilizing software tools like Revit and Enscape to enhance her design work.
“While working at SG I was able to see the impact their work has on school districts and it’s really inspiring the difference it makes.” – Gianna
Thank you so much to Wiley, Isaac, Allyson, Josh, and Gianna. We truly appreciate the dedication, determination, and exceptional work ethic you all brought to the firm. As you continue your studies, we wish for nothing but the very best in all of your future endeavors. We eagerly anticipate hearing about your remarkable achievements and successes in the times to come.
Interested in working with us? Visit our Careers page to see what opportunities are available at SG here.
SCHRADERGROUP: Next-Generation Learning Environments Presented at A4LE NE Region Conference Talk & Tours
The A4LE Northeast Region Conference is an annual event bringing together professionals from the education and design communities to discuss innovative ideas, research, and best practice to create effective learning environments. The conference typically features keynote presentations, workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. This year, SCHRADERGROUP (SG) had the pleasure of attending and presenting our latest project, Upper Merion Area High School. SG also gave tours of UMAHS as well as other projects; Springfield High School, Enfield Elementary School, Phoenixville Area Early Learning Center/Manavon Elementary School.
David Schrader, SG’s managing partner, along with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John Toleno and Building Principal Johnathan Bauer, presented a session titled “This is so meant for us! Student Focused Design to Inspire Personal Achievement, The Next Generation High School”. This session profiled a very unique learning environment constructed in King of Prussia, PA to support 21st Century learning styles. The building was designed to reflect current business model practices and provides opportunities across multiple grade levels for advanced course offerings and unique learning styles. The presentation also offered a comparison of students’ reflection on their learning experience in traditional post-industrial environments versus the learning spaces designed in the new facility centered around self-directed learning environments.
In addition to the presentation, SG provided tours of 4 of our schools for A4LE attendees. The schools that were toured included: Upper Merion Area High School, Springfield High School, Enfield Elementary School, Phoenixville Area Early Learning Center/Manavon Elementary School. You can read more about each school below.
Photography By Halkin Mason
Upper Merion Area High School offers students dedicated spaces for career exploration and advanced education, promoting 21st-century learning activities such as research, development, and presentation. The school is committed to providing students with state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support their academic and professional growth. These purpose-built spaces are specifically designed to facilitate research, encourage innovation and creativity, and enable students to effectively present their findings and projects. UMAHS recognizes the importance of preparing students for the evolving demands of the modern world, and its design reflects this commitment to fostering a dynamic learning environment.
Check out more information about Upper Merion Area High School here.
Photography By Halkin Mason
Springfield High School is strategically located within proximity to a significant portion of the town, thanks to the dense nature of this community. This intentional placement enables many residents to conveniently walk to the school. Furthermore, the design of the school reflects deep consideration for the community it serves. Every aspect of the school’s architecture and layout has been thoughtfully planned to align with the needs and values of the surrounding community. By keeping the community in mind throughout the design process, Springfield High School aims to foster a strong sense of connection and collaboration between the school and its residents. This facility was designed in partnership with Perkins and Will Architects.
Check out more information about Springfield High School here.
Photography By Halkin Mason
Enfield Elementary School is thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of young learners, creating a welcoming community atmosphere that focuses on both public and academic spaces. The school’s layout revolves around a serene courtyard, symbolically embracing the children and fostering an optimal outdoor learning environment. Surrounding this peaceful central area, classroom wings are strategically placed to enhance the overall learning experience.
Check out more information about Enfield Elementary School here.
Photography By Matt Wargo
Phoenixville Area Early Learning Center and Manavon Elementary School have been purposefully designed to accommodate two distinct grade structures, following a unique “school within a school” format. The ELC is dedicated to nurturing and educating students in grades K-1, providing them with a specialized learning environment tailored to their early educational needs. On the other hand, the ES focuses on grades 2-5, offering a comprehensive curriculum and resources specifically designed to meet the developmental requirements of older elementary students. This innovative design ensures that each grade structure receives the appropriate educational support and fosters an optimal learning experience for all students.
Check out more information about Phoenixville Area Early Learning Center and Manavon Elementary School here.
If you want to learn more about SG, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. To see our latest projects, please visit our website sgarc.com
SCHRADERGROUP Committed to Student Engagement and Mentorship to the Architectural Design Community at PSU
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) has consistently demonstrated its unwavering support and continues to express commitment to both Pennsylvania State University (PSU) and the architectural design community within it. Some of the ways that SG provides opportunities and community engagement with the architectural design students at PSU includes career fairs, internship opportunities, alumni speaking engagements, and more.
Here are some of SG’s most recent experiences:
PSU Spring Career Day
Photography by Natasha Kravchenko
The Stuckeman School had its 37th annual Career Day hosted alongside the University’s “Spring Career Days” at the Bryce Jordan Center. The SG team was represented by Jeremy Ross (PSU Class of 2016), Paige Faria (PSU Class of 2018), and Jillian Kreglow (PSU Class of 2021). The SG team spoke to many curious design students about SG as a firm, our projects, and our internship opportunities.
Photography by Natasha Kravchenko
SG is always thrilled to catch up with familiar faces, meet up-and-coming designers, and network with talented colleagues. The Stuckeman School Career Day is an annual event that allows professional firms to interact directly with PSU’s award-winning students. This year, 90 architectural offices attended and over 230 students attended the fair. This exciting event provides students with an opportunity to network and explore potential career fields in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Graphic Design. SG has a diverse team of talented employees, some of whom are also graduates of the Penn State Stuckeman School.
Another example of SG at PSU recently includes our Architectural Designer Paige Faria speaking about her current experience working at SG.
“10 Things I Wish I Knew or Did Differently”
Photography by Natasha Kravchenko
Paige Faria, PSU alumni of 2018, presented with the PSU Architecture Alumni Group (AAG) their “10 Things I Wish I Knew or Did Differently” at the Stuckeman Family Building Jury Space. The presentation covered lessons learned over many years of combined professional experience in the architecture field by PSU AAG.
The PSU AAG provides a connection with alumni to promote interaction between alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends for the benefit and ongoing improvement of the PSU Architecture department. The PSU AAG board of directors acts as an informal advisory group to the PSU Architecture department. Paige Faria serves on the board as the communications committee chair, keeping alumni updated on current events via social media, newsletters, and more.
The discussion included insights such as ‘putting failure into context’, ‘professional practice is not just a class’, ‘invest in your internship’ and more. Students participated in a discussion afterward and were able to meet up with alumni one-on-one for further insight.
Some of the other speakers include alumni Alex Donahue (B.Arch ’12, M.Arch II ’13), Kyrie Martin (B.Arch ’15), Daniel Lopatka (B.Arch ’22), Matthew Graham (B. Arch ’12), and LewYong Gerbrandt (M.Arch I ’22).
To learn more about the PSU AAG, please visit this site.
Photography by Natasha Kravchenko
SG is always grateful for the opportunity to connect with the future graduates of PSU and the design community. We look forward to continuing to engage with the future architectural designers at PSU!
If you want to learn more, be sure to follow SG on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. To see our latest projects, please visit our website sgarc.com
SCHRADERGROUP Attends 36th Annual DVASBO Trade Show
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) recently attended the Delaware Valley Association of School Board Officials (DVASBO)’s 36th Annual Trade Show on Wednesday, November 9th at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA.
SG was proud to attend and exhibit at this conference once again. It was great to return to the trade show this year and to see so many friendly and familiar faces. SG was proud to assist in DVASBO’s mission of developing and supporting leaders in school business operations for the counties of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery.
The Trade Show was attended by Managing Partner David Schrader and Associate Devin Bradbury. The day included prize drawings, seminars, exhibitions, breakfast, and lunch.
It was great to be at a trade show again and to physically see everyone and talk to people face-to-face. We had great fun connecting with school business officials and we look forward to attending again next year!
DVASBO is a regional chapter of the Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials (PASBO). For nearly five decades, DVASBO has been supporting school professionals in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties. The organization currently has over 1,000 members and is devoted to providing members with education, training, professional development, and timely access to legislative and policy news. The SG team would like to thank the DVASBO staff for organizing this trade show. To learn more about DVASBO, click here.
To learn more about SCHRADERGRPOUP’s commitment to educational facilities, click here.
SCHRADERGROUP Recognized as an EPiC Firm by American Institute of Architects Pennsylvania Chapter
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) is proud to announce that the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) has recognized SG for our support and development of emerging professionals in 2022.
The AIA Pennsylvania Emerging Professionals Committee (EpiC) was established to improve the network, role, and impact of Emerging Professionals throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The committee distinguished SG for successfully supporting the emerging professionals on our staff and for demonstrating a commitment to the development of Pennsylvania’s emerging professionals.
We would like to thank the PA AIA and we are honored to be included on this list of esteemed firms. You can view the full list here.
To learn more about SCHRADERGROUP, please click here.
SCHRADERGROUP Presents at the 2022 EDspaces Convention in Portland, Oregon
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) attended the EDspaces Education Conference from Wednesday, November 2nd to Friday, November 4th, 2022 at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland, OR. SG Managing Partner David Schrader and SG Associate Danie Hoffer represented SCHRADERGROUP at the conference.
EDspaces is a place where innovation transforms learning environments. Attendees learned about industry trends, fresh perspectives, and innovative case studies. Professionals from across the country attended to contribute to collective industry knowledge and to add their own voices to the conversation surrounding the future of learning.
EDspaces featured a curated, multi-track educational and professional development series of 60+ education sessions conducted in classrooms designed by visionary A+D firms that competed to share their innovative ideas for the future of learning.
David and Danie were joined by Upper Merion Area School District (UMASD) Superintendent Dr. John Toleno and Upper Merion Area High School (UMAHS) Principal Jonathan Bauer for a special “EDsession” focused on UMAHS. The session, titled, “Student-Focused Design to Inspire Personal Achievement – the Next Generation High School,” explored how technology, space, and pedagogy converge to impact student success. The session profiled how local businesses and industries inspired the design of the new High School in King of Prussia, a suburb of Philadelphia. The session included a discussion on the educational limitations of the existing traditional high school designed in the 1960s as compared to the design of the new high school. The new facility provides higher education level spaces to engage in interactive learning activities of “research, develop, and present!” Spaces integrated throughout offer opportunities in flexible spaces to complement how different students learn.
The presentation visually immersed participants in the design of the school with a fly-around of the building. Using 3-D modeling technology, this tool is used throughout the design process to engage the client and allow the end user to experience the space design from the very early design stages to the full design development including the interior finishes. Participants will experience the volume of the spaces and how students will move through the building.
In addition to the speaking opportunities, attendees were also invited to tour nearby next-generation learning facilities and to attend a symposium on educational disruption. Thank you to Discovery High School, James Faubion Elementary School, and Vancouver Innovation Technology & Arts Elementary School for letting us tour your wonderful schools!
SG was proud to attend this conference again and we are very excited to attend in Charlotte, NC in 2023!
To learn more about EDspaces, click here.
To learn more about SCHRADERGROUP’s commitment to creating 21st Century learning environments, click here.
SCHRADERGROUP Thanks Ed Kirkbride for Helping Shape SG Careers
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) would like to extend the sincerest “Thank You” to Edward E. Kirkbride, NCARB, REFP for the considerable impact he has had on multiple SG employees in their career.
Ed is an educational architectural consultant who had similar involvement in the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE), formerly the Council of Educational Facility Planners International (CEFPI). His work with the organization has brought cutting-edge educational facility concepts and programs to fellow professionals across the globe and he has been involved in the design and construction of a significant quantity of school facilities in his career.
“A very good friend and fellow architect, Ed Kirkbride, mentored both David and me in our careers as architects. I first interned with Ed when I was 18 years old while finishing my senior year in High School. Ed’s firm designed the addition to my High School – East Senior High School in West Chester. My mother very creatively set up a meeting for me to meet Ed since I had expressed an interest in architecture. I ended up working for him the summer following my senior year. I also worked for him a couple of other times while going to college and during my career. David and I started working together around 1992 for Ed while he managed the L. Robert Kimball Office in West Chester. We are both very grateful to have such a great friend and mentor in our lives!” said SG Project Manager Mark Hitchcock.
“My greatest business mentors have been friends who run other types of businesses. I enjoy seeing diverse business models and learning about their challenges and experiences. A mentor in the K-12 planning business, Ed Kirkbride, introduced me to the Association for Learning Environments and promoted me within that organization. I hope I left the organization just a little better off than when I joined it. Thank you, Ed Kirkbride,” said SG Managing Partner David Schrader.
Click here to learn more about SCHRADERGROUP’s work with K-12 school districts.
Click here to learn more about the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE).
Be sure to follow SG on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter for updates on all things SCHRADERGROUP!
SCHRADERGROUP Attends the 2022 IACP Annual Conference and Exposition!
The SCHRADERGROUP team attended and exhibited at the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Annual Conference and Exposition this year from October 15th to the 18th at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas.
SG Principals Tom Forsberg and Harry Pettoni represented SCHRADERGROUP at the bustling conference. While there, the team attended educational sessions supporting the planning, design, and construction process of police facilities. Speakers presented information about the impact of technology on law enforcement agencies as wells as the future challenges police & law enforcement agencies may encounter. The SG team discovered new techniques of leveraging technology to enhance public safety in neighborhoods and schools.
The IACP is the world’s largest and most influential professional association for police leaders. With more than 32,000 members in over 170 countries, the IACP is a recognized leader in global policing, committed to advancing safer communities through thoughtful, progressive police leadership. Since 1893, the association has been serving communities worldwide by speaking out on behalf of law enforcement and advancing leadership and professionalism in policing worldwide.
The IACP Annual Conference is the largest and most important law enforcement event of the year, with more than 16,000 public safety professionals attending to learn new techniques, advance their knowledge and careers, and equip their department for ongoing success. The conference focuses on the three tenants of training, networking, and exposition hall education, with more than 175 workshops offered each year on a variety of topics important to the profession.
Learn more about SCHRADERGROUP’s public safety and mission critical facility work here.
Learn more about IACP Annual Conference here.
SCHRADERGROUP Managing Partner David Schrader Receives the A4LE Lifetime Achievement Award!
The SCHRADERGROUP (SG) team is proud to announce that the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) has awarded the 2022 A4LE Lifetime Achievement Award to SG Managing Partner David Schrader!
The Lifetime Achievement Award is the most distinguished professional award bestowed to an A4LE member. This award is intended to honor an individual who has distinguished him or herself by making significant lasting contributions to the educational facility planning industry throughout their career.
David was nominated for the award by Larry Levato, immediate Past President of A4LE’s Northeast Region. His nomination was based on his extensive career of engaging clients and communities in the development of next generation learning spaces, for leading the Association for Learning Environments at each stage of his career, for inspiring a design team in the mid-Atlantic region to create academic environments that support future educational initiatives, and for involving students in the formation of their future learning environments.
David received this prestigious award at the 2022 LearningSCAPES Conference in San Antonio, Texas in October. Winners of this award receive a special insignia lapel pin and extensive news media coverage focused on the educational facility planning and construction industry.
To learn more about A4LE, please click here.
To learn more about SG, our team, and the work we do, please click here.