Chartwell hosted its second Employee-Owned AE Summit, bringing together leading architecture and engineering firms who recognize employee ownership as a cornerstone of their success. The Summit focused on key topics for AE firm leaders and featured exclusive peer roundtable discussions designed to encourage meaningful dialogue and connection.
Summit Session Topics
People Strategies
Employee-owned firms must develop and maintain a value proposition to compete for talent in the dynamic AE landscape. This session went beyond salary and bonus to explore the comprehensive “employer of choice” mantra many firms are seeking to build. Susan Osterberg of SSR shared her aspirational goals regarding voluntary turnover (and strategies to achieve) while Steve Margaroni of Psomas highlighted his firm’s transition to 100% ESOP ownership while maintaining compelling “skin in the game” for its former shareholders.
Developing Value Proposition for Employee-Ownership
During lunch, valuable perspectives were shared by Gayle Packer of Terracon, Steve Lefton of Kimley-Horn, and Michael Carragher of VHB. The panel made compelling arguments about why developing a successful employee value proposition is not only a “nice to have,” but also generates a sustainable long-term competitive advantage. Through a generational firm lens, these three impassioned employee-ownership champions modeled the importance of consistent and persistent communication, having a long-term mindset, and how balanced profitability makes employee-owned firms resilient.
Growth Strategies
Whether considering minority investments in passive incubators, earmarking dollars for internal technological initiatives, or weighing traditional cash or stock acquisitions, ESOP and employee-owned firms have much to contemplate as they look to the future. Doug Jaeger of Ulteig and Rich D’Amato of Brown and Caldwell shared their unique perspectives on growth strategies, including how their firms evaluate growth opportunities as a way to preserve and increase value while also stabilizing the organization through diversification.
Attendee Feedback
“This the second time I have attended and again appreciated the discussions and breakouts.”
“Great to be there with leaders of other employee-owned firms. Loved the panels.”
“It is great to have so many representatives from employee-owned companies in the same room.”
We thank all attendees for another successful event and look forward to hosting our next AE Summit in 2026. In order to maintain a valuable experience for participants, registration will be on an invite-only basis. Connect with Leah Prescott to learn more!