2/25/2013

TKDA has named Kenneth Johnson, AIA, to the newly-created position of vice president of architecture. He will oversee an expanded division that includes architects, interior designers, and landscape architects in both the St. Paul and Duluth offices.

“As a company, we are looking to a future that includes inspired architectural design and will be pursuing projects that celebrate our built environment,” said Johnson, who has more than 40 years of architectural experience and is considered a leader in design excellence. “I am proud to lead this new division as our company once again makes a strategic move to better serve its clients,” he added.

Johnson joined TKDA in 2012 when the firm acquired SJA Architects in Duluth, where he had been a founding principal. Johnson’s firm has been involved in the design of many buildings, including the LEED Gold Civil Engineering Building, Swenson Science Building, Weber Music Hall and the Campus Library, all on the campus of the University of Minnesota Duluth; the new 4th Street Residence Hall and Dining Facility, and the Mechanical Engineering Building on the campus of the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities; the LEED Silver Amsoil Arena, and the new Duluth International Airport terminal in Duluth.

“With Ken leading the new Architectural Division, we are providing our clients with innovative, inspired, and sustainable design solutions in addition to the fully integrated services TKDA is known for,” said CEO William Deitner. “Our firm has a history of looking forward and with a continued emphasis on architectural excellence, TKDA is well-positioned to serve our existing clients and pursue new markets.”

TKDA announced two other staff promotions to new leadership positions.

Peter “Rusty” Steitz, PE, a mechanical engineer with 12 years of experience with public and private clients, will now lead the corporate/industrial market. His background largely encompasses energy generation projects.

Brett Morse, PE, a senior structural engineer with more than 18 years of experience serving primarily public entities and government agencies, will now lead the government market. His expertise covers transit, industrial facilities, and public infrastructure projects. He is also an expert in the field of demolition engineering.

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